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13 November 2018
British Airways and Iberia Airlines Agree to Pay $5.8 Million to Settle False Claims Act Allegations for Falsely Reporting Delivery Times of U.S. Mail Transported InternationallyRead the Press Release
The Justice Department announced today that British Airways Plc (BA) and Iberia Airlines (Iberia) have agreed to pay $5.8 million to resolve their liability under the False Claims Act for falsely reporting the times they transferred possession of United States mail to foreign postal administrations or other intended recipients under contracts with the United States Postal Service (USPS). BA and Iberia are international airlines headquartered in Harmondsworth, United Kingdom, and Madrid, Spain, respectively. BA and Iberia Airlines are both subsidiaries of the International Airlines Group.
“Government contractors, whether foreign or domestic, are required to obey the rules when billing the United States,” said Assistant Attorney General Joseph H. Hunt of the Department of Justice’s Civil Division. “The Department of Justice will ensure that government contractors meet their obligations and charge the government appropriately.”
"The U.S. Postal Service contracts with commercial airlines for the safeguarding and timely delivery of U.S. Mail to foreign posts, including the mail sent to our soldiers deployed to foreign operating bases and other locations," said Steven Stuller, Acting Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General. "The Office of Inspector General supports the Postal Service by aggressively investigating allegations of misconduct within the contract mail delivery process; in this case the falsification of delivery information. We worked hand-in-hand with the Department of Justice's Civil Division to help ensure a reasonable resolution and to hold those parties accountable for their actions. We applaud the exceptional work by the investigative and legal team and know it will have a positive impact on Postal Service operations."
USPS contracted with BA and Iberia to take possession of receptacles of United States mail at six locations in the United States or at various Department of Defense and State Department locations abroad, and then deliver that mail to numerous international and domestic destinations. To obtain payment under the contracts, the airlines were required to submit electronic scans of the mail receptacles to USPS reporting the time the mail was delivered at the specified destinations. Today’s settlement resolves allegations that scans submitted by BA and Iberia falsely reported the time the airlines transferred possession of the mail.
This matter was handled by the Civil Division’s Commercial Litigation Branch, the USPS Office of the Inspector General, and the USPS Office of General Counsel.
The claims settled by this agreement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
Brazilian National Found Guilty of Making False Statements in Naturalization ProceedingsRead the Press Release
On November 9, 2018, Etevaldo Ferreira De Souza, 47, of West Palm Beach, was found guilty by a jury of one count of making false statements in a naturalization proceeding, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1015(a).
Ariana Fajardo Orshan, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, and Mark Selby, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI), Miami Field Office made the announcement.
According to the evidence presented at trial, De Souza was charged with aggravated homicide and armed conspiracy in Brazil in 1993. According to the Brazilian charges, De Souza, although not himself a police officer, conspired with corrupt police officers to commit a murder. In or before 1998, De Souza entered the United States illegally. In 2012, De Souza applied to become a lawful permanent resident pursuant to the Legal Immigration Family Equity (“LIFE”) Act of 2000, which allowed certain people who entered the United States illegally to obtain legal status. In his application for residency, De Souza attested that had never been charged for breaking or violating any law or ordinance, excluding traffic violations. De Souza’s application was granted, and he became a lawful resident, in January 2013. In April of that year, the Brazilian charges were dismissed. On July 28, 2017, De Souza applied to become a United States citizen. On his application, De Souza attested that he had never been charged with committing, attempting to commit, or assisting in committing a crime or offense.
De Souza’s sentencing is scheduled for January 18, 2019 before U.S. District Judge Kenneth A. Marra. De Souza faces a maximum possible statutory sentence of five years in prison.
U.S. Attorney Fajardo Orshan commended the investigative efforts of ICE-HSI in this matter. She thanked the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services for their assistance. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Marc Osborne.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov.
Bookkeeper at Two West Loop Restaurants Sentenced to More Than Two Years in Federal Prison for Misappropriating More Than $600,000Read the Press Release
CHICAGO — A former bookkeeper for two restaurants in the West Loop neighborhood of Chicago was sentenced today to more than two years in federal prison for misappropriating more than $600,000 from the eateries.
RENEE M. JOHNSON worked as a bookkeeper for One Off Hospitality LLC, which owns several bars and restaurants in Chicago, including the West Loop eateries Blackbird and Avec. Johnson was a signatory on One Off’s bank accounts, and her duties included processing checks to vendors who provided food, labor and utilities to the restaurants. Johnson wrote hundreds of unauthorized checks from One Off’s accounts to pay personal expenses, including credit cards and mortgages on real estate holdings in Chicago. From 2011 to 2017, the scheme caused a loss of $604,113, mostly sustained by Blackbird and Avec.
Johnson, 61, of Chicago, pleaded guilty in July to one count of mail fraud. In addition to a 28-month prison sentence, U.S. District Judge Virginia M. Kendall ordered restitution of $604,113.
The sentence was announced by John R. Lausch, Jr., United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois; and Jeffrey S. Sallet, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
“Renee Johnson cooked the books of her employer and stole over $600,000 for over six years,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Sunil R. Harjani argued in the government’s sentencing memorandum. “Johnson abused the trust and discretion that was given to her by One Off.”
According to the charges, Johnson made fraudulent entries in One Off’s accounting system to hide the theft. She often made a check payable to a personal creditor, but deleted the entry in One Off’s system. In some instances, Johnson cut a check to pay personal expenses, and then quickly cut a new check with the same check number to pay for a legitimate corporate expenditure.
Blackfeet Nation receives grant to aid tribal, federal prosecutionsRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – The U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Blackfeet Nation announced that nearly $500,000 in U.S. Department of Justice funding has been awarded to the tribe, based in Browning, to assist with violent crime prosecutions in tribal court and in U.S. District Court.
The DOJ’s Bureau of Justice Assistance awarded the tribe $499,774 as part of the Tribal Special Assistant United States Attorney Program. The funding will be used to hire a tribal prosecutor, who also will be designated by the U.S. Attorney’s Office as a Special Assistant United States Attorney. The prosecutor, who will be required to be a law-trained attorney, will be able to work not only in tribal court but also present major criminal cases in federal court under the direction of U.S. Attorney’s Office.
The grant will assist the Blackfeet tribe’s current prosecution program.
Blackfeet Chairman Timothy F. Davis said, “This opportunity and much needed funding provided through the DOJ provides our Tribal Courts prosecution division with a professionally trained attorney who will assure timely prosecution of violent crime in Tribal Court and assist in bringing serious crimes into federal court. We are grateful for this partnership and look forward to improving public safety for the people of the Blackfeet Nations.”
U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said, “The grant will help the Blackfeet Tribe increase the prosecution of violent offenses in tribal court and assist in bringing serious crimes into federal court. The program will help reduce violent crime, including drug-related activity, and improve public safety. We look forward to continuing to work with the tribal prosecutor’s office to ensure public safety on the reservation.”
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Bay Minette Drug Dealer Sentenced in Federal CourtRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Richard W. Moore of the Southern District of Alabama announced that Chaney Darnell Thomas, 30, of Bay Minette, Alabama, was sentenced to 262 months’ imprisonment for his participation in the distribution of drugs and the use of a firearm in connection with that crime. Thomas pled guilty to three charges in June of 2018-- possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine; using, carrying, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of or in relation to a drug trafficking felony; and felon in possession of a firearm.
United States District Court Judge William H. Steele imposed the 262-month sentence this morning, consisting of 202 months and 120 months on the drug count and the felon in possession count, respectively, and ordered that they run concurrently. On the charge of using the gun in relation to a drug felony, the judge ordered that the statutory consecutive minimum mandatory sentence of 60 months run consecutively to the sentences in the other counts, totaling a sentence of 262 months. Thomas will serve a total of 6 years on supervised release following the completion of his imprisonment, and the judge ordered that he would undergo testing and treatment for drug abuse while under supervision. The judge did not impose a fine but ordered the imposition of $300 in special mandatory assessments.
The case was investigated by the Bay Minette Police Department, the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office, the Daphne Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigations. It was prosecuted in the United States Attorney’s Office by Assistant United States Attorney Gloria A. Bedwell.
Baltimore TTG Member Sentenced to 25 Years in Federal Prison on Federal Racketeering and Drug Conspiracy Charges, Including Three Murders, an Attempted Murder, and Drug DistributionRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – U.S. District Judge Catherine C. Blake sentenced Brandon Bazemore, a/k/a Man Man, age 25, of Baltimore, today to 25 years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for conspiring to participate in a violent racketeering enterprise known as Trained To Go (TTG), including committing three murders, an attempted murder, and drug trafficking, and for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin, marijuana, and cocaine.
The sentence was announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Robert K. Hur; Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; Special Agent in Charge Gordon B. Johnson of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Baltimore Field Office; Interim Commissioner Gary Tuggle of the Baltimore Police Department; Special Agent in Charge Rob Cekada of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Baltimore Field Division; Assistant Special Agent in Charge Don A. Hibbert of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Baltimore District Office; Anne Arundel County Police Chief Tim Altomare; and Baltimore City State’s Attorney Marilyn J. Mosby.
“Brandon Bazemore was a member of one of the most violent gangs operating in Baltimore City,” said U.S. Attorney Robert K. Hur. “Today’s sentence removes an armed, violent criminal from our neighborhoods and brings him to justice in the federal system, which has no parole—ever.”
According to his plea agreement, since 2010, Bazemore has been a member of Trained To Go (TTG), a criminal organization which operated in the Sandtown neighborhood of West Baltimore. TTG members engaged in drug distribution and acts of violence including murder, armed robbery, and witness intimidation. Members and associates of TTG sold heroin, cocaine, and marijuana, and worked to defend their exclusive right to control who sold narcotics in TTG territory.
Specifically, Bazemore admitted that he routinely sold “packs” of heroin at the direction of TTG leaders. Typically, a “pack” contained between 25 and 50 capsules of heroin, or approximately 2.5 to 5 grams of heroin. Bazemore also admitted that he participated in a murder on behalf of TTG or at the direction of TTG’s leadership. In July 2015, a member of another gang solicited members of TTG to murder LR, a member of the Black Guerilla Family gang, in exchange for $10,000. On July 7, 2015, Bazemore and other TTG members retrieved gloves, masks, and firearms and traveled by van to the 900 block of West Fayette Street where LR was located. Bazemore and the TTG members exited the van and fired dozens of rounds at LR, then returned to the van and fled. When police arrived, they discovered LR and two other victims, JP and GT, all suffering from gunshot wounds. LR was pronounced dead at the scene. JP and GT were transported to Shock Trauma, where they were also pronounced dead. Officers recovered 23 9mm casings, 29 .40-caliber casings, and one .45-caliber casing from the crime scene. A fourth victim was also shot, but survived.
Eight of Bazemore’s TTG co-defendants, including Montana Barronette, were recently convicted after a 24-day trial. All face a maximum sentence of life in prison for racketeering and drug conspiracies. Co-defendants Hisaun Chatman, age 31, and James Woodfolk, age 20, both of Baltimore, previously pleaded guilty to the drug conspiracy and were each sentenced to five years in prison, to be served concurrent to the state sentence each is currently serving.
Co-defendant Roger Taylor, of Baltimore, is still a fugitive, and the charges against him are pending. Anyone who may have information on the whereabouts of Roger Taylor is asked to contact the FBI-Baltimore Field office at (410) 265-8080.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI Baltimore Safe Streets Violent Gang Task Force, which includes FBI special agents and task force officers from the Baltimore, Baltimore County, and Anne Arundel County Police Departments. FBI Baltimore Safe Streets Violent Gang Task Force is responsible for identifying and targeting the most violent gangs in the Baltimore metropolitan area, to address gang violence and the associated homicides in Baltimore. The vision of the program is to use federal racketeering statutes to disrupt and dismantle significant violent criminal threats and criminal enterprises affecting the safety and well-being of our citizens and our communities.
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. 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.
United States Attorney Robert K. Hur commended the FBI, the Baltimore Police Department, the ATF, the DEA, the Anne Arundel County Police Department, and the Office of the State’s Attorney for Baltimore City, for their work in the investigation. Mr. Hur thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel C. Gardner and Christopher J. Romano, and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney John C. Hanley of the Justice Department’s Organized Crime and Gang Section, who are prosecuting this Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force case.
Atlanta Man Sentenced for Threatening Charlottesville-Area SchoolsRead the Press Release
Charlottesville, VIRGINIA – A federal judge here sentenced an Atlanta man today to 12 months and one-day in federal prison as a result of his October 2017 posting of threatening messages against Charlottesville-area schools that caused Charlottesville City Schools to go into a modified lockdown for two days, United States Attorney Thomas T. Cullen announced.
Michael Anthony Townes, 48, was arrested May 20, 2018 in Georgia via a federal criminal complaint. On August 20, 2018, he pled guilty to a felony indictment of one count of making threats to injure another person sent in interstate commerce.
“The defendant’s threatening communications terrified students, parents, and teachers in the Charlottesville community,” U.S. Attorney Cullen stated today. “I am grateful for the diligence and hard work of the FBI in finding this defendant and bringing him to justice. As this and other recent cases illustrate, the Department of Justice is committed to investigating and prosecuting those who use the Internet and social media to threaten violence against any individual or group. This type of activity is not protected by the First Amendment, and those who engage in it will be held accountable.”
According to a statement of facts signed by the defendant and filed with the court by Special Assistant United States Attorney Rachel Swartz, on or about October 10, 2017, Townes, while physically located in Atlanta, Georgia, posted a series of comments on the internet site Yahoo News. Those comments included but were not limited to:
“@Terry not until I pull off a copycat of vegas in charloettsville [sic] va at a all white charter school..It should’t be hard to find one…”
“Im thinking of a copycat to vegas in Charloettsville (sic) va is going to happened (sic)…Im thinking maybe a school this time though!”
In response to the postings, Charlottesville City Schools operated under a modified lockdown for two consecutive days, with increased police presence at all area schools on October 11 and 12, 2017.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Charlottesville City Police Department. Special Assistant United States Attorney Rachel Barish Swartz and Assistant United States Attorney Christopher Kavanaugh will prosecute the case for the United States.
Anti-Defamation League, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, and the Delaware Valley Intelligence Center Host Security Conference for Religious InstitutionsRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – On November 13, 2018, the Anti-Defamation League (“ADL”), the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania (“USAO”), and the Delaware Valley Intelligence Center (“DVIC”) hosted an informational event on making religious institutions and communities more secure. Over 200 clergy, staff, lay leaders, and law enforcement personnel from eastern Pennsylvania, southern New Jersey, and Delaware gathered for a half-day summit entitled “Securing Sacred Spaces and Places.” Attendees were welcomed by ADL’s Regional Director Nancy Baron-Baer, Deputy U.S. Attorney Louis Lappen, FBI Special Agent in Charge Michael Harpster, and Philadelphia Police Commissioner Richard Ross.
“After last month’s horrific synagogue shooting in Pittsburgh, religious institutions are more concerned than ever with keeping their members safe,” said Nancy K. Baron-Baer, ADL Regional Director. “In the face of surging bigotry and emboldened extremists, faith-based communities need to be vigilant and prepared. We are pleased that over 160 religious institutions from across the region were able to participate in today's important security summit, and we are so grateful to our law enforcement partners -- including the Delaware Valley Intelligence Center, the U.S. Attorney's Office and the FBI -- for their help in planning this conference, and for working to keep faith-based communities safe every day.”
“Religious freedom is one of the bedrock principles of our nation,” said U.S. Attorney William M. McSwain. “We cannot be afraid for our safety when we attend and pray during religious services, whether in a church, a synagogue, a mosque, or elsewhere. During the conference, the FBI released its annual Hate Crime Statistics report, which showed that hate crime incidents reported to the FBI increased about 17% in 2017 compared to the previous year. The United States Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners are working tirelessly to ensure the security of our sacred spaces in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. But we cannot succeed without the help of everyone in the community. If you see something that could lead to violence, you need to say something and call the authorities. And when you call, we will be there to help.”
"We are helping people to keep themselves as safe as possible,” said Police Commissioner, Richard Ross. “This collaboration is an example of federal, state and local partners working diligently to help people manage risk and prepare to know what to do should a dangerous threat arise.”
The summit focused on preparing and responding to a variety of threats facing faith-based institutions. The FBI presented on active shooter preparation and response, including a case study on the Overland Park Jewish Community Center shooting in 2014. A Senior Investigative Researcher in ADL’s Center on Extremism provided a briefing on white supremacists and their attacks against religious institutions over the past few years. The summit concluded with a panel on countering radicalization in our communities, featuring Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard Barrett, FBI Supervisory Special Agent Derek Boucher, Al Aqsa Islamic Academy School Director Chukri Korchid, and Inspector Winton Singletary of the Philadelphia Police Department.
“Just last month, a man walked into a synagogue in Pittsburgh and, driven by what most of us would consider inexplicable hate, slaughtered 11 Jewish people as they gathered for weekly prayers. It was the deadliest hate crime against the Jewish community ever committed on American soil,” said Deputy U.S. Attorney Lappen, who gave opening remarks at the conference. “Unfortunately, this attack is part of a disturbing increase in the numbers of hate crimes committed in the United States in recent years. We are all committed to working together to combat this frightening trend.”
Akron man sentenced to nearly 10 years in prison after ordering 500 grams of a fentanyl analogue from ChinaRead the Press Release
An Akron man was sentenced to nearly 10 years in prison after ordering 500 grams of a fentanyl analogue from China.
Don A. Maigari, 37, was sentenced to 116 months in prison. Maigari previously pled guilty to possession with the intent to distribute approximately 500 grams of methoxyacetylfentanyl.
Maigari ordered the fentanyl analogue online from a lab in China. U.S. Postal Inspectors intercepted the package and replaced the contents with sham product. Postal inspectors, along with Homeland Security Investigations agents and Akron Police officers conducted a controlled delivery of the package to Maigari on Oct. 13, 2017, according to court documents.
“This case is a great example of how law enforcement works together every day to reduce the flow of these dangerous drugs from hitting our streets,” U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman said. “This amount of fentanyl analogue is the same as sending a bomb through the mail.”
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron P. Howell following an investigation by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Homeland Security Investigations and the Akron Police Department.
Akron man indicted for identity theftRead the Press Release
An Akron man was indicted on charges for stealing the identities of others in relation to bank fraud.
Dante Dixon was indicted on five counts of aggravated identity theft and three counts of identity theft.
Dixon fraudulently used the identities of three individuals to commit the crimes of bank fraud and wire fraud, according to the indictment.
This investigation was conducted by the Akron Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Teresa Riley.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after a review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and, in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Acting Attorney General Whitaker Statement on the FBI's 2017 Hate Crimes StatisticsRead the Press Release
Acting Attorney General Matthew Whitaker released the following statement on the FBI’s announcement of the 2017 Hate Crimes Statistics:
"This report is a call to action—and we will heed that call. The Department of Justice’s top priority is to reduce violent crime in America, and hate crimes are violent crimes. They are also despicable violations of our core values as Americans. I am particularly troubled by the increase in anti-Semitic hate crimes—which were already the most common religious hate crimes in the United States—that is well documented in this report. The American people can be assured that this Department has already taken significant and aggressive actions against these crimes and that we will vigorously and effectively defend their rights."
Last month, the Justice Department launched a new comprehensive hate crimes website designed to provide a centralized portal for the Department’s hate crimes resources for law enforcement, media, researchers, victims, advocacy groups, and other related organizations and individuals. More information on the website and an update on Justice Department hate crimes prosecutions can be found here.
12 November 2018
Shaw University and Local Contractor Agree to Pay $316,900 to Settle Claims that They Falsely Obtained Funds from the United States Department of EducationRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – United States Attorney Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that Shaw University and Contractor Freddy Novelo agreed to pay $316,900 to settle claims that a former Shaw University official and a local building contractor made false statements and violated competitive bid requirements to obtain Department of Education grant funds in violation of the False Claims Act.
The United States’ investigation revealed that Novelo and one of Shaw University’s former Vice Presidents fabricated bids for a construction contract to evade the Department of Education’s competitive bidding requirements. They then used those fabricated bids to justify payment of federal funds.
The government’s investigation began with a whistleblower complaint filed by a private individual under the qui tam provisions of the False Claims Act. After investigating, the United States intervened to take over part of the lawsuit, and, through settlement, has now fully recovered the federal funds falsely obtained, plus substantial penalties.
“This settlement demonstrates our firm commitment to protect taxpayer money and to guard the integrity of federal grant programs,” said U.S. Attorney Higdon. “Universities, contractors, and all those seeking federal funds are required to make honest claims for payment. Those who do not will be held accountable.”
The federal False Claims Act allows the United States to recover triple the money falsely obtained, plus substantial penalties for each false claim submitted. The government can also recoup investigative costs. If the lawsuit was originally filed by a whistleblower, that person may be entitled to a portion of the government’s recovery.
It should be noted that the claims resolved by settlement here are allegations only, and that there has been no judicial determination or admission of liability. Shaw University and its current administration have fully cooperated in resolving these allegations.
The settlement was the result of coordinated effort by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina and the Department of Education. Assistant United States Attorneys Michael Anderson and Neal Fowler represented the government in this case.
Raleigh Man Sentenced for Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that, JAMES ANTHONY MACALUSO, 49, of Raleigh, was sentenced by United States District Judge James C. Dever, III for bank robbery. Judge Dever sentenced MACALUSO to 71 months’ imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release.
MACALUSO was charged in a one-count indictment on April 3, 2018, and pleaded guilty on August 7, 2018, to that indictment.
On September 23, 2017, officers with the Raleigh Police Department responded to a robbery at Peoples Bank in Raleigh. MACALUSO entered the bank and passed a note to a teller demanding money. MACALUSO stole $3,781, then fled. The Raleigh Police Department later located and arrested MACALUSO after footage from the robbery showing his face was released to the public.
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.
This case is part of the Take Back North Carolina Initiative of United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina. This initiative emphasizes the regional assignment of federal prosecutors to work with law enforcement and District Attorney’s Offices on a sustained basis in those communities to reduce the violent crime rate, drug trafficking, and crimes against law enforcement.
The investigation of this case was conducted by the Raleigh Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF). Assistant United States Attorney Erin Blondel handled the prosecution of this case for the government.
11 November 2018
Veterans Day Message from the Civil Rights DivisionRead the Press Release
At the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918, the guns fell silent and the First World War drew to an end. On this day ever since, our nation has shown its gratitude to the veterans of the United States Armed Forces. Veterans Day is an opportunity to show respect to the veterans we know as our friends, neighbors, relatives, and colleagues. The Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division remembers the fallen, and offers thanks to all the men and women who have served in the military and their families.
The Civil Rights Division is home to the Department of Justice’s Servicemembers and Veterans Initiative, which coordinates the Department’s enforcement of laws that protect the rights of servicemembers and veterans. The Initiative also conducts outreach to the military community regarding these laws.
“It is my honor as the Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division to be entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring that the rights of the brave men and women of our nation’s armed forces, and the veterans who have served in the past, are safeguarded,” stated Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband. “The Civil Rights Division’s efforts have resulted in great benefits to our servicemembers and veterans, and we will continue these efforts during my tenure. The violation of anyone’s civil rights is a disgrace, and the Civil Rights Division will not tolerate anyone who violates the rights of servicemembers or anyone else in our nation.”
The Department of Justice’s cases and settlements under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act have resulted in $470 million in monetary relief for over 119,000 servicemembers and veterans who suffered violations of their financial and housing rights. In the past year alone, in addition to filing cases involving unlawful home foreclosures and unlawful auto repossessions, the Department brought its first case alleging an unlawful failure to refund pre-paid lease amounts to servicemembers who, due to their military service, terminated their motor vehicle leases early. The Department also brought its first two cases alleging unlawful requirements by landlords that servicemembers repay incentives offered at lease signing when terminating their residential leases early because of their military service.
The Division continues to enhance its enforcement of the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) against private, state, and local government employers, through litigation, facilitated settlements, outreach, and advocacy. Since the Division began enforcing USERRA in 2004, it has filed 104 USERRA lawsuits and favorably resolved 185 USERRA complaints. During the Trump Administration, the Department of Justice has filed five complaints on behalf of seven servicemembers and filed or negotiated private settlements in excess of $500,000. For example, on May 21, the Department filed a complaint and settlement with the Puerto Rico Police Bureau (PRPB) that resolved allegations that the PRPB violated the employment rights of Puerto Rico Army National Guard Members Second Lieutenant Wilfredo Cruz Rivera, Sergeant Jose R. Bernal Martinez, and Sergeant Angel L. Martinez Toro.
The right to vote is among our most fundamental civil rights. Protecting the rights of servicemembers and their families to vote in our nation’s federal elections, whether they are serving here or abroad, is one of our highest priorities. Through the enforcement of the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act (UOCAVA), the Department ensures that servicemembers and overseas U.S. citizens have the opportunity to request and receive absentee ballots in time to vote and have their votes counted. The Department vigilantly monitored nationwide compliance with UOCAVA for the 2018 federal elections. In 2018, the Department instituted litigation against the State of Arizona because it failed to transmit final absentee ballots within 45 days of a February 2018 special election, as required by law. The State of Arizona entered into an agreement that mandated that it provide additional time for the receipt of UOCAVA ballots to ensure that eligible military and overseas voters have sufficient time to vote in the special primary election and all future federal elections.
For our veterans with disabilities, the Department continues to vigorously enforce the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to ensure equal access to all aspects of civic and community life. In recent months, the Department resolved complaints from veterans who alleged that, because they use a service animal, they were denied access to restaurants, shops, and health care facilities. Under these resolutions, these entities must comply with and train staff on the ADA’s service animal requirements and, where appropriate, compensate aggrieved individuals.
We are grateful to be a nation defined by the bravery of the men and women who have selflessly served our country. The Department of Justice thanks our brave and devoted veterans, and commits to honor our current military members and veterans through the ongoing work of the Servicemembers and Veterans Initiative.
U.S. Attorney Trent Shores Thanks VeteransRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Trent Shores issued the following statement on Veterans Day:
“Veterans Day is a time to honor American veterans of all wars. From those brave service members who fought and died in the trenches of World War I to those who are fighting on the ground, at sea, and in the air today, we owe them our deepest respect and gratitude,” United States Attorney Shores said. "Today, on the centennial of the Armistice, we recognize the untold courage and sacrifice by veterans. We honor their selfless devotion to duty that secures the freedoms and liberties that our Founding Fathers sought to establish in America. I hope that all Oklahomans will join me in saluting our warfighters, past and present. May God bless America’s veterans.”
Acting Attorney General Whitaker Statement on Veterans DayRead the Press Release
Acting Attorney General Matthew Whitaker issued the following statement on Veterans Day: "This is the land of the free because it is the home of the brave," Acting Attorney General Whitaker said. "At the Department of Justice, we recognize that our rights depend upon public safety. Our troops risk their lives for that mission, and each of us owes them a debt of gratitude. Today, on the centennial of the Armistice, we stop as a nation to honor those who have taken up that noble mission and kept us safe and free. I hope that all Americans will join me in thanking a veteran today and honoring their heroic service not just today but every day."
9 November 2018
Williamsville Man Pleads Guilty to Stealing from A Union and Insurance CompanyRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Timothy McCluskey, 61, of Williamsville, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer to conspiracy to commit mail fraud. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Marie P. Grisanti, who is handling the case, stated that between November 21, 2014, and January 2015 the defendant conspired with another individual to defraud the International Union of Painters & Allied Trades (IUPAT).
In December 2014, McCluskey caused a backdated membership application, in the name Shawn McCluskey, to be sent to IUPAT in Hanover, Maryland. However, the application for reinstatement of union membership was sent after Shawn McCluskey’s death. In January of 2015, the defendant caused a death benefit claim form for Shawn McCluskey, an original death certificate in the name Shawn McCluskey, and a beneficiary card in the name Shawn McCluskey to be sent to IUPAT. As a result, IUPAT issued life insurance proceeds in the amount of $2,500.
In addition, between December 2014 and February 2015, in the Western District of New York and elsewhere, the defendant engaged in a scheme to defraud the Hartford Insurance Company. McCluskey claimed to International Union of Painters & Allied Trades Local District Council No. 4 in Cheektowaga, NY that Shawn McCluskey worked over 500 hours at his painting company, E&M Star Painting, Inc., between January 2014 and March of 2014, thereby making Shawn McCluskey eligible for a $50,000 life insurance policy. However, Shawn McCluskey had not worked for E&M Star Painting, Inc. during that time frame.
“The defendant’s conduct not only defrauded both the union and the insurance company but it also dishonored the good name of his deceased brother,” stated U.S. Attorney Kennedy.
“Timothy McCluskey abused his position as a former Trustee of the Painters District Council 4 Health and Welfare Fund by engaging in a scheme to defraud two separate life insurance benefit programs made available through the Health and Welfare Fund and the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades. We will continue working with our law enforcement partners and the U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) Office of Labor-Management Standards and Employee Benefits Security Administration to pursue those who defraud employee benefit plans,” stated Michael C. Mikulka, Special Agent-In-Charge, New York Region, U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General.
“The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is committed to preserving the integrity of the U.S. Mail,” stated Inspector-in-Charge Joseph W. Cronin. “We will continue to conduct investigations that seek prosecution of those who fraudulently use the U.S. Mail for financial gains. Today’s plea demonstrates our ongoing work with our law enforcement partners to stop those who are engaged in these types of fraudulent activities.”
“We thank our colleagues at the USPIS, FBI, and in our DOL Office of Inspector General as well as at the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the opportunity to collaborate on this case. We will continue to work with them to actively pursue individuals who commit crimes involving union employee benefit plans which are protected by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act,” said Carol S. Hamilton, Acting Regional Director, Employee Benefits Security Administration.
Today’s plea is the result of an investigation by the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General, Office of Investigations – Labor Racketeering and Fraud, under the direction of Michael C. Mikulka, Special Agent-in-Charge of the New York Region, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, under the direction of Inspector-in-Charge Joseph W. Cronin of the Boston Division, the Employee Benefits Security Administration, under the direction of Carol S. Hamilton, Acting Regional Director, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Gary Loeffert.
Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.
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United States Attorney commemorates Veterans Day at Fort Polk ceremony honoring Vietnam veteransRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT/LAFAYETTE/ALEXANDRIA/LAKE CHARLES/MONROE, La. – United States Attorney David C. Joseph joined Brigadier General Patrick D. Frank, the Commanding General of the Joint Readiness Training Center and Fort Polk, at Fort Polk’s Veterans Day Ceremony on November 8, 2018.
The event was sponsored by the Joint Readiness Training Center and Fort Polk to thank and honor veterans who have served our country. During the event, a special tribute was also held honoring veterans returning from the Vietnam War with a “Welcome Home" ceremony, where more than 125 veterans of the Vietnam War gathered in the 1st Battalion, 5th Aviation Regiment Hangar at Polk Army Airfield.
“It is an honor to participate in the Veterans Day Ceremony at Fort Polk,” Joseph stated. “I hope everyone takes some time this weekend to remember and thank veterans for their service. We owe a debt of gratitude to all of the men and women who serve and have served our nation and safeguarded our freedoms.”
✶ DUTY ✶ HONOR ✶ SERVICE ✶
UNITED STATES ATTORNEY DAVID C. JOSEPH RECOGNIZES WESTERN DISTRICT OF LOUISIANA VETERANS
United States Attorney David C. Joseph also recognizes staff members of the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the U.S. District Court System of the Western District of Louisiana who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces and thanks them for their service.
Western District of Louisiana employees being honored for their service are:
United States Army – George Barrows (National Guard), Ken Blanchard (National Guard), Kevin Bodden, Gerald Boutte (National Guard), Chris Cantrell, Jeremy D. Cook, U.S. District Judge Dee D. Drell, George Durling, Bryan Firmin (National Guard), Andy Fontenot, Shervonne Gallow, Kyle Greenwood, Doug Herman, Charles, Hill, Charles Huggins, Valerie Joffrion (Reserves), Matthew Johnson, Billy Jordan, U.S. Attorney David C. Joseph, C. Vincent Mangum, Joseph T. Mickel, Clint Mitchell, Sean Myrick, Chris Plants, Edward Prokopf, Cyrus Smith, U.S. District Judge Tom Stagg (deceased), Fifth Circuit Chief Judge Carl E. Stewart (retired), Warren Stutts, Michael J. Touchet (National Guard), Chris Turner, U.S. District Judge Donald E. Walter, Dennis Warwick, Terrence Webb, and Garrett Wilson.
United States Navy – Jonathan F. Hendricks, Daniel J. McCoy, Carl A. Richard, and Anthony Robert (Naval Reserve).
United States Coast Guard - Dennis K. Austin and U.S. Magistrate Judge Patrick Hanna.
United States Marine Corps – Jerry Alan Alkire, David Fero, Jerry Stanley Hayden, Angelo Iorio, Joshua Matte, Earl Peavy, and Abner K. Williamson.
United Stated Air Force – Kelly Adams (Active), Michael J. Chavis, Robert Crocker, David Ellis, Samuel W. Glass Sr., Joseph Lance Lopez, John S. Odom Jr., F. Michael O’Mara, James Savoie, William Scullin, Dean Stansbury, U.S. District Judge James T. Trimble Jr., Howard White, and U.S. Marshal Henry L. Whitehorn Sr.
United States Attorney Announces Appointment of Four New Federal ProsecutorsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox is proud to announce the appointment of four new Assistant United States Attorneys: Kristina Williams, assigned to the Dallas Appellate Division, Tiffany Eggers, assigned to the Dallas Criminal Division, Laura Montes, assigned to the Fort Worth Criminal Division, and Ann Howey, assigned to the Lubbock Criminal Division.
All four prosecutors were sworn in on November 9 before Chief U.S. District Judge Barbara M.G. Lynn.
A graduate of Texas A&M University and the University of Houston Law Center, Ms. Williams previously served as a Senior Attorney at Dykema Cox Smith, where she represented clients before the U.S. Supreme Court, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, and the Texas Court of Appeals. She also served as a Term Law Clerk under the Honorable Edith H. Jones of the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, as a Law Clerk for The Honorable Nathan Hecht of the Supreme Court of Texas, and as a Clerk for Sen. John Cornyn, R-TX, at the Senate Judiciary Committee.
Ms. Eggers joins the Northern District of Texas from the Northern District of Florida, where she spent more than 13 years prosecuting federal crimes, focusing on money laundering and fraud. Before that, she served as an Assistant State Attorney in the First Judicial Circuit of Florida’s State Attorney’s Office. Ms. Eggers received her undergraduate degree from Jacksonville State University and her law degree from Florida State University College of Law.
A graduate of Wheaton College and Northeastern University School of Law, Ms. Montes joins the Northern District of Texas from the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the District of Puerto Rico, where she prosecuted cases for the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) for three years. Prior to her work there, she spent two years prosecuting cases at the Middlesex District Attorney’s Office in Massachusetts and served as a Law Student Clerk at the United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit.
Before joining the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Ms. Howey served as an attorney advisor for U.S. District Court Clerk’s Office here in the Northern District of Texas. While there, she evaluated proposed national legislation, rules, and policy to determine impact on local civil and criminal procedure. Prior to that, she serve as Assistant General Counsel at Texas Tech University System, where she received both her undergraduate and law degrees.
“We’re delighted to welcome these talented attorneys to offices across our district,” said Nealy Cox. “I’m confident they will serve the cause of justice with honor.”
U.S. Attorney for the Middle District Salutes Military Veterans, Recognizes Service of USAO-GAM VetsRead the Press Release
Macon – In honor of Veterans Day, staff members with the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia (USAO-GAM) heard a presentation from fellow employee, and veteran, Captain Will R. Keyes. Captain Keyes is a new Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) for the Middle District of Georgia, and served in the United States Army in the JAG Corps. As a JAG, Captain Keyes deployed to Kuwait, Afghanistan and Iraq (see photo). Captain Keyes joins other USAO-GAM veterans representing the Air Force, Navy and Army, including:
- Master Sergeant (Ret.) Gregory Armes, United States Air Force
- Lieutenant Danial E. Bennett, United States Navy
- Captain Lyndie Freeman, JAG Corps, United States Air Force
- Colonel Robert McCullers, United States Army, Georgia Army National Guard, Georgia Air National Guard (see photo)
“I am incredibly proud to work beside these veterans who served our country with honor, and continue to serve and protect our great country honorably in their vocations with the U.S. Attorney’s Office,” said Charles E. Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “It is important to always be mindful of the sacrifices veterans and their families make on our behalf, and to thank these brave men and women at every opportunity for the freedom we are fortunate to enjoy.”
Illustrating the military and civilian roles many Department of Justice employees play, in October, Col. Robert McCullers, Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) for the Middle District, was called to duty following Hurricane Michael. Col. McCullers was deployed to National Guard Headquarters in Marietta, serving in the Operations Center as more than 1,000 National Guard troops mobilized to provide assistance stabilizing southern Georgia in the wake of one of the state’s most crippling natural disasters. In addition to his civilian service, AUSA McCullers is a Colonel and a Staff Judge Advocate (Headquarters) for the Georgia Air National Guard. A JAG since 2003, Col. McCullers has been deployed to both Baghdad and Tallil Air Base, Iraq. He started work as an Assistant United States Attorney in the Middle District of Georgia in 2002.
“Robert’s deep sense of duty to our country is evident in his daily work protecting citizens as a federal prosecutor,” said Charles Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “We are proud to work alongside current and former members of our armed services.”
Veterans Day is Sunday, November 11, 2018. In honor of Veterans Day, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District will be closed Monday, November 12, 2018 for the federal holiday. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Two Spirit Lake Men Change their Pleas to Guilty for the Murder of a Spirit Lake WomanRead the Press Release
FARGO – United States Attorney Christopher C. Myers announced that on November 9, 2018, Daylin Takendrick St. Pierre, Age 21, Spirit Lake Indian Reservation, ND, plead guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Robbery; Use of a Firearm in Relation to a Felony Crime of Violence; and Felony Murder before US District Judge Daniel L. Hovland Judge. Dakota James Charboneau, age 24, also of Spirit Lake, plead guilty to Second Degree Murder, Aiding and Abetting; and Use of a Firearm in Relation to a Felony Crime of Violence.
On August 23, 2016, Ms. Karla Yellowbird traveled to the Spirit Lake Indian Reservation with Suna Guy, who previously plead guilty to Felony Murder and was sentenced in this case. While on the Spirit Lake Reservation, Dakota Charboneau and Guy planned to rob Ms. Yellowbird of her money and belongings, and later recruited Daylin St. Pierre to do the robbery. In the morning of August 24, 2016, St. Pierre shot and killed Ms. Yellowbird while robbing her.
Sentencing for both Charboneau and St. Pierre is scheduled for February 25, 2019.
This case was investigated by the Mandan Police Department; North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation; Bureau of Indian Affairs; and the Federal Bureau of Investigations.
Assistant United States Attorney Janice M. Morley and AUSA Jenifer Puhl prosecuted the case.
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Two Residents of Lebanon Arrested in Seattle in Connection with Scheme to Illegally Export Firearms to LebanonRead the Press Release
HICHAM DIAB, of Tripoli, Lebanon and NAFEZ EL MIR, a Canadian citizen residing in Lebanon, were arrested yesterday after they traveled to a Seattle warehouse and began hiding firearms in a vehicle they planned to ship to Lebanon. DIAB and EL MIR appeared in federal court this afternoon, charged with conspiracy to violate the Arms Export Control Act. Both men were detained pending additional hearings.
Assistant Attorney General for National Security John C. Demers and U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Washington Annette L. Hayes made the announcement.
According to a criminal complaint unsealed today, in 2016, DIAB began communicating with a person in the U.S. who DIAB believed was willing to locate firearms for him to smuggle to Lebanon. The person in the U.S. alerted Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) about the contact. Over the course of 2017 and 2018, undercover HSI agents posed as people able and willing to supply firearms sought by DIAB in furtherance of his smuggling scheme. In October 2018, DIAB made plans to come to the U.S. and successfully wired funds for the purchase of firearms and a vehicle in which to hide the firearms. DIAB arrived in Seattle on November 7, 2018 and was accompanied by EL MIR who, according to DIAB, had experience smuggling firearms hidden in automobile panels.
On November 7 and 8, DIAB went with the undercover agents to a warehouse containing firearms that had been secured by HSI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF), and inspected the firearms, which included: twenty Glock handguns, a Smith & Wesson .50 revolver, one FN Fiveseven pistol, an AR15 rifle kit and a M203 grenade launcher. DIAB and EL MIR, during their November 8 warehouse visit, began hiding the firearms in door panels and bumper space inside a sport-utility vehicle. EL MIR also discussed ways to get the vehicle shipped to Lebanon with the hidden weapons. The men were arrested the evening of November 8 as they exited the warehouse.
Conspiracy to violate the Arms Control Export Act is punishable by up to five years in prison.
The charges contained in the complaint are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes. If convicted of any offense, the sentencing of the defendants will be determined by the court based on the advisory Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The case is being investigated by HIS and ATF. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas Woods with assistance from the U.S. Department of Justice’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section.
Two Residents of Lebanon Arrested in Seattle in Connection with Scheme to Illegally Export Firearms to LebanonRead the Press Release
Hicham Diab, of Tripoli, Lebanon, and Nafez El Mir, a Canadian citizen residing in Lebanon, were arrested yesterday after they traveled to a Seattle warehouse and began hiding firearms in a vehicle they planned to ship to Lebanon. Diab and El Mir appeared in federal court this afternoon, charged with conspiracy to violate the Arms Export Control Act.
Assistant Attorney General for National Security John C. Demers and U.S. Annette L. Hayes for the Western District of Washington made the announcement. Both men were ordered detained pending additional hearings set for next week.
According to a criminal complaint unsealed today, in 2016, Diab began communicating with a person in the U.S. who Diab believed was willing to locate firearms for him to smuggle to Lebanon. The person in the U.S. alerted Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) about the contact. Over the course of 2017 and 2018, undercover HSI agents posed as people able and willing to supply firearms sought by Diab in furtherance of his smuggling scheme. In October 2018, Diab made plans to come to the U.S. and successfully wired funds for the purchase of firearms and a vehicle in which to hide the firearms. Diab arrived in Seattle on Nov. 7, and was accompanied by El Mir who, according to Diab, had experience smuggling firearms hidden in automobile panels.
On November 7 and 8, Diab went with the undercover agents to a warehouse containing firearms that had been secured by HSI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and inspected the firearms, which included: twenty Glock handguns, a Smith & Wesson .50 revolver, one FN Fiveseven pistol, an AR15 rifle kit and a M203 grenade launcher. Diab and El Mir, during their November 8 warehouse visit, began hiding the firearms in door panels and bumper space inside a sport-utility vehicle. El Mir also discussed ways to get the vehicle shipped to Lebanon with the hidden weapons. The men were arrested the evening of Nov. 8, as they exited the warehouse.
Conspiracy to violate the Arms Control Export Act is punishable by up to five years in prison.
The charges contained in the complaint are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes. If convicted of any offense, the sentencing of the defendants will be determined by the court based on the advisory Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The case is being investigated by HSI and the ATF. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas Woods, with assistance from the Department of Justice’s National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section.
Two Branchland Men Sentenced to Federal Prison for Firearms TheftsRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Two Branchland men who were responsible for thefts of firearms from a Barboursville pawn shop were sentenced to federal prison yesterday, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Robert Lee Reid, 23, who previously entered guilty pleas to three counts of theft of firearms from a federally licensed firearms dealer and an additional count of possession of stolen firearms, was sentenced to 57 months in federal prison. Jonathan Chafin, 18, who previously entered a guilty plea to theft of firearms from a federally licensed firearms dealer, was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison. Stuart commended the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the West Hamlin Police Department.
“Unbelievably bad decisions were made by these two young men when they decided to steal guns,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “And the last thing the City of Huntington needs is for its neighborhoods to be flooded with stolen firearms.”
On three separate occasions, Reid broke into Sportsmen’s Gun and Pawn located at 6440 US Route 60 in Barboursville to steal firearms. On May 15, 2017, Reid stole a total of 164 firearms from Sportsmen’s. The firearms were subsequently sold by Reid in Huntington. On September 29, 2017, Reid stole an additional 6 firearms from Sportsmen’s which he sold in the Guyandotte neighborhood of Huntington. Finally, on December 7, 2017, Reid stole a total of 10 firearms from Sportsmen’s. Reid was subsequently picked up in a vehicle and the vehicle was stopped in West Hamlin by a West Hamlin Police Officer. During the traffic stop, the officer located the stolen firearms in the rear of the vehicle. Chafin previously pleaded guilty to assisting Reid in the December theft and was present in the vehicle when the firearms were recovered. Reid was also ordered to pay over $68,000 in restitution at today’s hearing.
Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams handled the prosecution. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentences.
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Three Sentenced for Mortgage Fraud Scheme Involving 14 Properties in Elk Grove, Sacramento, Modesto, Stockton, and ElsewhereRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Three Northern California residents were sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Garland E. Burrell Jr. for crimes relating to their involvement in a mortgage fraud scheme, U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott announced.
Surjit Singh, 72, of Dublin, was sentenced to 11 years and three months in prison, his son, Rajeshwar Singh, 44, of Pleasanton, was sentenced to 11 years and three months in prison on four counts of mail fraud, four counts of bank fraud, and four counts of false statements on loan and credit applications. Anita Sharma, 56, of Gilroy, was sentenced to three years and 10 months in prison on two counts of mail fraud, two counts of bank fraud, and two counts of false statements on loan and credit applications. Surjit Singh was ordered to pay a $2 million fine, $698,787 in restitution, and $847,000 in forfeiture. Raj Singh was ordered to pay a $1 million fine, $928,287 in restitution, and $838,399 in forfeiture. Anita Sharma was ordered to pay $603,180 in restitution and $30,000 in forfeiture.
According to court documents, in 2006 and 2007, Surjit Singh recruited individuals with good credit to act as straw buyers for residential properties owned by his family members and associates. Rajeshwar Singh, a licensed real estate agent, assisted in the scheme by submitting loan applications for the straw buyers. Anita Sharma, a dental assistant at the time, was one of the straw buyers. Because Sharma and the other straw buyers could not afford the homes based on their true incomes, the Singhs submitted fraudulent loan applications and supporting material to lending institutions that included false statements about the straw buyers’ income, employment, liabilities, and intent to occupy the homes as their primary residences.
At least 14 properties were involved in the scheme. Anita Sharma alone purchased five homes in San Jose, San Ramon, Elk Grove, Sacramento, and Modesto. Other straw buyers purchased or refinanced properties in Stockton, Modesto, Patterson, Lathrop and Tracy. All of these homes were ultimately either foreclosed upon or sold in a short sale where the bank lets homeowners sell their homes for less than is owed on the mortgage.
Sharma was paid for her involvement in the scheme. Rajeshwar Singh received financial benefits through broker commissions for the transactions and as the seller of seven of the properties. He also continued to occupy the San Ramon property at a time when Anita Sharma should have been living there. Surjit Singh benefitted through payments out of escrow directed to shell companies, such as SJR Investments and BK Investments, which were associated with his daughter and significant other, whose initials are SJR and BK respectively. These payments were purportedly for contracting services, which did not occur. He also benefitted through rental payments made to him and his significant other by the renters of the homes, as the straw buyers were not living in the homes. In addition, many of his family members received money by selling properties and had money directed to them out of escrow. According to court documents and evidence produced at trial, the defendants were responsible for the origination of more than $9.3 million in fraudulently procured residential mortgage loans.
Surjit Singh is in custody. Rajeshwar Singh and Anita Sharma are scheduled to self‑surrender on January 9, 2019.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lee S. Bickley, Kelli L. Taylor, and Kevin Khasigian prosecuted the case.
Third Real Estate Investor Pleads Guilty to Bid Rigging in Florida Online Foreclosure AuctionsRead the Press Release
Real estate investor Avi Stern pleaded guilty today in West Palm Beach, in connection with an ongoing investigation into bid rigging at online public foreclosure auctions in Florida, the Department of Justice announced. Stern is the third real estate investor to plead guilty in this investigation.
Felony charges of bid rigging were filed against Stern on November 2, 2017, in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida. According to court documents, from around January 2012 through around June 2015, Stern conspired with others to rig bids during online foreclosure auctions in Palm Beach County, Florida.
“Bid rigging at foreclosure auctions has produced enormous harm to many vulnerable communities around the country and directly affronts the values of a market economy,” said Assistant Attorney General Makan Delrahim of the Department of Justice’s Antitrust Division. “The Division will continue to prosecute similar antitrust violations, and will hold individuals who engage in such types of conduct accountable.”
“Real estate investors who think they can swindle the system to line their pockets with ill-gotten gains beware,” said George L. Piro, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Miami. “The FBI and our law enforcement partners will vigorously investigate such schemes.”
The Department said that the primary purpose of the conspiracy was to suppress and restrain competition in order to obtain selected real estate offered at online foreclosure auctions at non-competitive prices. When real estate properties are sold at these auctions, the proceeds are used to pay off the mortgage and other debt attached to the property, with any remaining proceeds available to the homeowner. According to court documents, the conspiracy artificially lowered the price paid at auction for such homes. In the past several years, the Division and its law enforcement partners have secured convictions of more than 100 individuals for rigging public mortgage foreclosure auctions in six different states, including Florida.
The investigation is being conducted by the Antitrust Division’s Washington Criminal I Section and the FBI’s Miami Division – West Palm Beach Resident Agency. Anyone with information concerning bid rigging or fraud related to public real estate foreclosure auctions should contact the Washington Criminal I Section of the Antitrust Division at 202-307-6694, call the Antitrust Division’s Citizen Complaint Center at 888-647-3258, or visit http://www.justice.gov/atr/report-violations.
The Last of 16 Corrupt Correctional Officers Convicted of Federal Racketeering Conspiracy at Maryland’s Eastern Correctional Institution is Sentenced to Six Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – Chief U.S. District Judge James K. Bredar sentenced former correctional officer Jessica Vennie, age 28, of Crowley, Texas, today to six years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, after she was convicted at trial for racketeering at the Eastern Correctional Institution (ECI) in Westover, Maryland, as well as her role in drug and money laundering conspiracies. The scheme involved paying bribes to correctional officers to smuggle contraband, including narcotics, tobacco, and cell phones, into the prison.
The sentence 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 Secretary Stephen T. Moyer of the Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services (DPSCS).
“Corrupt correctional officers rip off the taxpayers, endanger their colleagues and inmates, and undermine citizens’ faith in the justice system,” said U.S. Attorney Robert K. Hur. “The sentence imposed today confirms that, working with our state and federal partners, we will root out corruption and bring those responsible to justice.”
According to the information presented at the nine-day trial, Vennie was a correctional officer at ECI, the largest state prison in Maryland, operating since 1987, in Somerset County, on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. ECI is a medium-security prison for men built as two identical compounds (East and West) on 620 acres, and housing more than 3,300 inmates. Vennie was assigned to the East Compound.
The evidence at trial showed that from about 2015, until October 5, 2016, Vennie and other correctional officers (COs) smuggled contraband into ECI, including narcotics, cell phones, pornographic DVDs, and tobacco. Vennie used her sister and others to help her execute the scheme, including packaging contraband for smuggling in feminine hygiene products, and maintaining a Pay Pal account to receive bribe payments. Vennie used a cellular phone to communicate with inmates about what they wanted to have smuggled in and to arrange meetings with the inmates’ facilitators to receive contraband and payment for smuggling it into ECI. Law enforcement intercepted text messages between Vennie and inmates and facilitators where Vennie stated what contraband she would smuggle in, how the contraband should be packaged, the amount of the bribe she demanded in return, and when she would meet with facilitators. The “going rate” for a CO to smuggle contraband into ECI was $500 per package, although some COs charged more and others less. Inmates were able to use contraband cell phones to pay COs directly using PayPal from within ECI.
The evidence showed that Vennie smuggled narcotics into ECI, including Suboxone and synthetic cannabinoids (otherwise known as “K2”), which was distributed by inmates. Once Vennie and the other COs had the smuggled contraband inside the facility, they delivered it to: inmates in their cells; clerks’ offices, which were private offices within each housing unit where an inmate clerk worked; the officers’ dining room where officers could interact with inmate servers and kitchen workers; and pre-arranged “stash” locations like staff bathrooms, storage closets, laundry rooms, and other places where contraband could be hidden and then later retrieved by inmates. An inmate testified at trial that Vennie would leave packages of contraband for him in the bathroom of the Officer’s Dining Room, or ODR.
According to trial testimony, another inmate told Vennie that a package she brought in “wasn’t right,” meaning that it did not contain the quantity or quality of contraband that they had agreed upon. The witnesses testified that Vennie told the inmate that he had to “deal with it on his end.” Ultimately, the inmate who had picked up the package from the ODR bathroom was violently assaulted, at the direction of the inmate for whom Vennie had smuggled in the contraband.
As a result of this prosecution, 77 of the 80 defendants were convicted, including 16 of the 18 correctional officers charged. All the defendants who have been sentenced to date have been ordered to serve a term of imprisonment, ranging from a year and a day in prison to 72 months in prison.
The United States Attorney expressed appreciation to Secretary Moyer, whose staff initiated the ECI investigation and who has made the full resources of the DPSCS available to assist in the three-year investigation.
United States Attorney Hur commended the FBI, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services, the Baltimore Police Department, and the Maryland State Police for their work in the investigation. Mr. Hur thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Leo J. Wise, Robert R. Harding, and Daniel C. Gardner, who prosecuted this Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force case.
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Statement of U.S. Attorney Richard W. Moore on Attorney General SessionsRead the Press Release
As the first Alabamian to serve as the Nation’s Attorney General Jeff Sessions won the respect and loyalty of prosecutors and law enforcement officers across the Country. He was extremely active and personally invested in the work of prosecutors in 93 U.S. Attorney’s Offices and at Main Justice in Washington D.C. Under his leadership violent crime has started to go back down after several years of increases that Attorney General Sessions correctly warned could not be ignored. He motivated prosecutors and law enforcement officials to unite in an aggressive strategy to make our streets safer and he was successful in leading that effort. In addition to reducing violent crime, Attorney General Sessions led the Department of Justice’s efforts in addressing the heroin and opioid crisis, combating transnational criminal organizations and reducing illegal immigration.
Jeff Sessions is an effective and inspirational leader who motivated not only U.S. Attorneys but also the law enforcement officers who we work with every day. Having been a federal prosecutor himself he understood the day-to-day challenges that prosecutors and agents face. He continued to remind us that this work is not just a job but a “sacred task….to secure the equal rights of citizens.” Under his leadership, the Department of Justice broke records for violent crime, firearm, and illegal immigration prosecutions. In the Southern District of Alabama we have dramatically increased our prosecutions that are a direct result of AG Sessions’ aggressive policies and expectations. At the same time, survey results of employees showed that the morale of employees in U.S. Attorney’s Offices improved significantly over prior years.
On a personal level, I have had the opportunity to prosecute cases with Jeff Sessions when he was the U.S. Attorney here in the Southern District of Alabama and for the past year to serve as an advisor to him as Chairman of the Attorney General’s Advisory Committee. He has been rightly described by U.S. Attorneys as a “prosecutor’s prosecutor” because he was a skilled adversary in the courtroom and a highly principled lawyer. Above all, the most common attribute associated with Jeff Sessions has always been “integrity.” He is a mentor and friend who will be dearly missed.We will continue to pursue the rule of law priorities of President Trump and I look forward to working under the leadership of Acting Attorney General Matt Whitaker.
Statement of U.S. Attorney David J. Freed on Attorney General SessionsRead the Press Release
From the day that Jeff Sessions took office as Attorney General of the United States, he motivated law enforcement professionals at all levels to recommit to the highest ideals of community protection, public service and respect for the rule of law. AG Sessions made crystal clear to anyone who had the honor of working with him that he was leading a department that he loves.
The United States Attorneys Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania had the great fortune to host Attorney General Sessions on two visits during his tenure. During those visits Attorney General Sessions made sure to include time in his schedule to meet with members of state and local law enforcement, as well as our employees and federal partners. Attorney General Sessions truly recognized that we accomplish so much more working together. And under his leadership the Department of Justice has reduced violent crime, attacked the heroin and opioid crisis, protected our borders, dismantled transnational criminal organizations and steadfastly upheld the rule of law.
Jeff Sessions is a prosecutor at heart, a respected public servant and a true gentleman. We are proud to have served under his leadership.
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St. Joseph Man Pleads Guilty to RacketeeringRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The member of a violent St. Joseph, Mo., gang pleaded guilty in federal court today to his role in a RICO conspiracy that involved acts of murder, attempted murder, drug trafficking and armed robberies, among other crimes, as part of a criminal enterprise.
Luis Calderon-Oliveras, 27, of St. Joseph, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Roseann Ketchmark to the charge contained in a Jan. 12, 2017, federal indictment.
By pleading guilty today, Calderon-Oliveras admitted he was involved in a conspiracy to violate the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) in 2012 and 2013. The criminal enterprise engaged in acts of violence, including murder and attempted murder, armed assault, armed robbery, extortion and witness intimidation. The gang trafficked in heroin, cocaine, crack cocaine, methamphetamine and marijuana. Although members of the St. Joseph gang were often referred to as Latin Kings, the enterprise was not formally affiliated with the Almighty Latin King and Queen Nation.
Members of the enterprise enriched themselves and funded their operations with the proceeds of drug trafficking, robbery, burglary and extortion. They targeted rival drug dealers for robbery, not only to obtain the robbery proceeds, but to eliminate and deter competition in the drug trade and, at times, to extort a financial stake in future drug sales from the rival by offering “protection.” Members of the enterprise also extorted money from innocent victims by offering “protection” from future robberies and acts of violence.
Leaders and members of the enterprise promoted a climate of fear in the community through repeated waves of gunfire, beatings and destruction of property, among other crimes of violence and intimidation. The gang was based in St. Joseph but also operated in Kansas, Iowa and Massachusetts, among other places, and recruited many of its members and associates from Puerto Rico.
Calderon-Oliveras admitted that he and several of his co-conspirators agreed to physically assault and attempt to murder by gunfire the person identified in the indictment as “Co-Conspirator #3.” Calderon-Oliveras participated in the physical assault on Sept. 10, 2012, in Estherville, Iowa, and helped his co-conspirators involved in the shooting avoid arrest after the fact.
Calderon-Oliveras also admitted that he and a co-conspirator robbed Sack-N-Save grocery store in St. Joseph at gunpoint on Sept. 28, 2012, a crime for which he pleaded guilty in in 2013 in state court.
Under the terms of today’s plea agreement, Calderon-Oliveras will be sentenced to 10 years in federal prison without parole. 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. Attorneys Patrick C. Edwards, David Raskin and Emily A. Morgan. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the St. Joseph, Mo., Police Department and the Buchanan County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department.
St. Croix Man Sentenced to 180 Months in Prison for Robbery-Related Offenses Involving the Perfection Gift Store Robbery and for Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
St. Croix, USVI – Visiting Judge Anne E. Thompson sentenced Ajani Plante, 28, to a total of 180 months in prison for firearms and robbery offenses, and three years of supervised release, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced. Judge Thompson also ordered Plante to pay special assessments and restitution to the victims.
According to the plea agreement filed with the court, the defendant was one of several persons involved in the June 17, 2013 Perfection Gift Shop robbery. The defendant and others arrived with guns drawn, and one of the robbers hit the store security person in the head with the gun, injuring him. The defendant and the other robbers went behind the counter and removed several trays of gold jewelry. After the robbery, the assailants ran out of the store, got into a vehicle behind the shopping center, and left the scene. The case was investigated by the Virgin Islands Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rhonda Williams-Henry.
Judge Thompson also sentenced Plante for a separate episode during which he possessed a firearm as a convicted felon. According to the plea agreement filed with the court, on December 4, 2015, Plante was a passenger in a vehicle being chased by the police. The vehicle stopped and Plante exited the rear passenger door. He then pointed a rifle at the police and discharged several rounds, one of which struck the police unit. Plante re-entered the vehicle and the driver drove away, thereby avoiding arrest. That case was also investigated by the Virgin Islands Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alphonso Andrews.
St. Croix Man Sentenced for the Distribution of Crack Cocaine at the Sunny Isle Shopping CenterRead the Press Release
St. Croix, VI – Bruce McIntosh, 55, of St. Croix, was sentenced in the District Court on November 9, 2018, on the charge of Distribution of Cocaine, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced.
Visiting U.S. District Judge Anne E. Thompson sentenced McIntosh to 25 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release, a $500 fine, and a $100 special assessment.
A federal grand jury had previously returned an indictment against McIntosh, aka Bird, aka Butch on September 15, 2015. According to court documents, on June 12, 2014, at the Sunny Isle Shopping Center, McIntosh sold crack cocaine to a confidential informant for $300. Laboratory testing revealed that the drugs were cocaine base, a Schedule II controlled substance, with a net weight of 8.8 grams.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and Task Force Officers with the Virgin Islands Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel H. Huston.
Spring Grove Man Sentenced to over 16 Years’ Imprisonment on Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Patrick Bruce Reachard, age 53, a resident of Spring Grove, Pennsylvania was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Court Judge Yvette Kane to 200 months’ imprisonment in a child pornography case. On June 19, 2018, Reachard pleaded guilty to the sexual exploitation of children involving the production of child pornography, receipt and distribution of child pornography and possession of child pornography.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Reachard took sexually explicit photographs of at least one minor under five years of age and distributed those images online. After completing a forensic examination of Reachard’s electronic devices, investigators discovered Reachard also received numerous images of child pornography from various users. During the investigation, agents and troopers worked cooperatively to identify other individuals involved in this child pornography trading ring in other federal districts. Law enforcement arrested one perpetrator in Kentucky; he pleaded guilty and has been sentenced in federal court on similar charges.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Meredith A. Taylor.
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."
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Sioux Falls Woman Charged with Conspiracy to Distribute MethRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance.
Dixie Leigh Murphy, age 41, was indicted on November 6, 2018. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta L. Wollmann on November 9, 2018, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in federal prison and/or a $10,000,000 fine, up to life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that beginning at a date unknown, and continuing through October 10, 2018, Murphy knowingly and intentionally combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed with others to distribute a mixture or substance containing 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.
The charge is merely an accusation and Murphy is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga is prosecuting the case.
Murphy was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial, which has been set for January 15, 2019.
Serial Armed Robber Convicted of Seven Robberies and Related Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – U.S. Attorney William M. McSwain announced that Lukeen Gerald, 30, of Philadelphia, PA, was found guilty today by a jury of seven counts of Hobbs Act robbery, six counts of using a firearm during a crime of violence, one count of discharging a firearm during a crime of violence, and one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
During an approximately four-week period in early 2015, the defendant committed seven armed robberies of convenience stores and a bar in Philadelphia. During each robbery, the defendant brandished a gun and wore a mask. In one robbery of a Dunkin Donuts, the defendant accused the store employee of moving too slowly in handing over the store’s cash and fired his gun in anger.
The defendant was arrested after his seventh robbery when his car was stopped by Philadelphia Police officers for a traffic violation and, leaving the car, he fled on foot. After his arrest, the police recovered a shotgun, ski mask, and cash from the defendant’s car. After receiving his Miranda warnings, not only did the defendant admit he committed the robberies, but he also described each robbery in detail and told law enforcement where they could find evidence linking him to his crimes. The defendant has previously been convicted of a felony and therefore was prohibited by law from possessing a firearm.
“This defendant was a menace to the Philadelphia community,” said U.S. Attorney McSwain. “He has absolutely no respect for the law or for the safety of others. He terrorized seven different businesses in this City. During one robbery, he even brazenly shot his gun in the store – we are lucky that no one was killed. And we are thankful that he will now be spending many years behind bars.”
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Philadelphia Police Department and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Sarah Damiani and Roberta Benjamin.
Seattle Man Who Distributed Deadly Fentanyl Sentenced to 12 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
A Seattle man who distributed narcotics, including deadly fentanyl analogues imported from China, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Seattle to 12 years in prison announced U.S. Attorney Annette L. Hayes. GREGORY L. SMITH, 34, was arrested in August 2017, following an investigation that traced more than 70 shipments of fentanyl analogues from China to SMITH. When law enforcement searched the home SMITH shared with his wife and young daughter they found fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, thousands of pills of oxycodone and sixteen firearms strewn throughout the house. The law enforcement investigation tied an April 2017 death to the fentanyl SMITH distributed in Seattle’s Capitol Hill neighborhood. “He was a drug dealer dealing poison to people that killed them on the streets,” said U.S. District Judge Robert S. Lasnik. “He is one of the menaces to society that is peddling poison.”
“Not only was this defendant a major dealer of fentanyl and other opioids on Capitol Hill, he kept selling even after learning his drugs had caused an overdose death,” said U.S. Attorney Annette L. Hayes. “Fentanyl is a killer that regularly leaves misery in its wake. We will continue to seek long sentences for anyone who profits from selling this terrible drug in our western Washington communities.”
According to records filed in the case, SMITH used bitcoin to pay for shipments of fentanyl from China that were delivered to his home or a post office box. The toxic fentanyl was so powerful that the powder – that can be absorbed through the skin – could kill with a single touch. Following an overdose death in April 2017, the fentanyl involved was traced to SMITH due in part to its distinctive packaging and to text messages recovered that showed SMITH knew the drugs he provided were linked to the deadly overdose. SMITH continued to import and distribute the drugs even after the death. In addition to 33 packages of fentanyl recovered from SMITH’s home, law enforcement seized more than $773,000 in cash and seized cryptocurrency worth $95,000. In all, law enforcement has seized more than $1 million from SMITH in connection with his drug dealing.
“The accused was leader of an international drug trafficking conspiracy that inundated our streets with the deadliest of illicit drugs solely out of greed for personal profit. HSI is committed to doing its part, along with our law enforcement partners, to hold those who place our communities in danger accountable to the fullest extent of our federal laws,” said Brad Bench, Special Agent in Charge for HSI Seattle. “Fentanyl, 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine, often leads to overdose and death. Thanks to the collaboration between HSI, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Seattle Police Department, FBI and other local law enforcement agencies, American lives have been saved.”
SMITH was indicted in September 2017, and pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
“Battling synthetic opioids entering the US through international mail is one of the Postal Inspection Service’s highest priorities. Through the hard work and dedication of Bellevue Police Department, Homeland Security, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, a principal dealer of opioids in the Seattle region was identified, arrested, and prosecuted to the fully extent of the law,” said Anthony Galetti, Inspector in Charge of U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Seattle Division. “The U.S. Postal Inspection Service continues to pursue traffickers of all illegal substances with the goal to inhibit the spread of illegal substances and to protect the employees and customers of the U.S. Postal Service from violence related to trafficking.”
The case was investigated by U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) with significant assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Seattle Police Department, and Bellevue Police Department.
The case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Joseph Silvio and Assistant United States Attorney Marie Dalton. Mr. Silvio is an attorney with Homeland Security Investigations specially designated to prosecute cross border cases in federal court.
Schenectady Man Sentenced to 125 Months for Heroin ConspiracyRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Corey J. White, aka “Stacks,” age 35, of Schenectady, New York, was sentenced today to 125 months in prison, to be followed by 6 years of supervised release, for conspiring to distribute heroin.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.
As part of his guilty plea, White admitted that between August 1, 2016 and May 10, 2017, he worked with another person to distribute heroin in Schenectady. He also admitted that on May 11, 2017, he possessed, in his Schenectady residence, about 100 green-colored envelopes, each of which contained heroin packaged for sale, as well as 2 digital scales, drug packaging materials, and $4,462 in cash.
This case was investigated by the FBI and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Barnett.
Salvadoran National Pleads Guilty to Illegal Possession of a Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Salvadoran national pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court in Boston to illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition.
Juan Martinez Sola, 22, pleaded guilty to one count of being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm and ammunition. U.S. Senior District Court Judge Mark L. Wolf scheduled sentencing for Dec. 20, 2018. Martinez Sola was indicted in December 2017.
On Nov. 1, 2017, Martinez Sola, who unlawfully entered the United States in 2012, was arrested in possession of a loaded firearm in East Boston.
The charge of being an alien in possession of a firearm and ammunition provides for a sentence of no greater than 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000. Martinez Sola will also face deportation proceedings upon completion of his sentence. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling; Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division; Peter C. Fitzhugh, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston; Colonel Kerry A. Gilpin, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; Commissioner Thomas Turco of the Massachusetts Department of Corrections; Essex County Sheriff Kevin F. Coppinger; Suffolk County Sheriff Steven W. Thompkins; Suffolk County District Attorney John P. Pappas; Middlesex County District Attorney Marian T. Ryan; Essex County District Attorney Jonathan Blodgett; Boston Police Commissioner William Gross; Chelsea Police Chief Brian A. Kyes; Everett Police Chief Steven A. Mazzie; Lynn Police Chief Michael Mageary; Revere Police Chief James Guido; and Somerville Police Chief David Fallon made the announcement today. The U.S. Marshals Service has provided crucial assistance with the case.
Statement of U.s. Attorney Ron Parsons on Attorney General SessionsRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS, SD – “Jeff Sessions served as our nation’s 84th Attorney General with tremendous dignity, dedication, and distinction. He advanced the Administration’s priorities with strong leadership and purposeful expectations. He reinvigorated and motivated federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement professionals to perform at the highest levels and produce results that have greatly benefited and will continue to strengthen all communities in South Dakota. The trajectory he set in the Department of Justice will continue to serve our nation on multiple fronts – most particularly in the fights against violent crime, drug trafficking organizations, and the opioid crisis.”
“Personally, I am extraordinarily grateful for the opportunity to have served under Attorney General Sessions. He is a dedicated public servant – with decades of service as a U.S. Attorney, a U.S. Senator, and as the Attorney General of the United States. I have come to know him as a kind and gracious gentleman, sincere in his desire to make our nation an even better place. I will never forget sitting at his conference table next to the majestic fireplace in his office last year before I was nominated for this position, as Attorney General Sessions cross-examined me in his soft and courtly manner, seeking to assure himself that I would be able to live up to the high standards of the Department of Justice.”
“I look forward to working under the leadership of the next Attorney General, and will continue to pursue the rule of law as part of this Administration. As always, our office will seek to continue with the high caliber of work expected of all public servants working in the Department of Justice and to be as productive as possible in performing our collective mission.”
Rocky Point Man Sentenced for Distribution and Possession of CocaineRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that EDUARDO ROMERO MARTINEZ, 39, of Rocky Point, NC, was sentenced by United States District Judge James C. Dever III, on drug charges. Judge Dever sentenced MARTINEZ to 60 months’ imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release, in addition to 24 months for revocation of supervised release.
On January 31, 2018, MARTINEZ was charged in a three-count indictment, and on August 28, 2018, he pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine. MARTINEZ was under federal supervised release at the time of his arrest in May of 2017.
In June of 2016, deputies with the Onslow County Sheriff’s Office received information that MARTINEZ was trafficking cocaine. Deputies then conducted multiple controlled purchases of cocaine from MARTINEZ. From June 14 to July 27, 2016, a total of approximately 82 grams of cocaine were purchased from MARTINEZ.
On February 14, 2017, an undercover officer conducted a controlled purchase of 55.7 grams of cocaine from MARTINEZ for $2,700. On May 18, 2017, an undercover officer met MARTINEZ, this time purchasing 27.2 grams of cocaine for $1,400. Later that day, deputies arrested MARTINEZ, who was found in possession of 55 grams of cocaine. MARTINEZ was interviewed and admitted to distributing and possessing the cocaine.
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.
The investigation of this case was conducted by the Onslow County Sheriff’s Office, Jacksonville Police Department, New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office, and Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant United States Attorney Jake D. Pugh handled the prosecution of this case for the government.
Putnam County Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Charge of Accessing Child Pornography over the InternetRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces today that Jack Edward Armey (69, Interlachen) has pleaded guilty to accessing videos depicting child pornography using the internet. Armey faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison, and a potential life term of supervised release. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to court documents, on September 8, 2016, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Armey’s home, in connection with an undercover internet investigation during which an FBI analyst had downloaded videos of child pornography that were being shared by a computer traced to Armey’s residence. During an interview, Armey admitted that he had accessed and viewed videos depicting child pornography, that he had used certain terms to search for child pornography, and that he was specifically attracted to 12 to 14-year-old girls, but knew that viewing such material is illegal.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney D. Rodney Brown.
It is another case 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.justice.gov/psc.
Prospect Man Sentenced to 16 Months in Federal Prison for Role in Bribery SchemeRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MICHAEL USZAKIEWICZ, 52, of Prospect, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Alvin W. Thompson in Hartford to 16 months of imprisonment, followed by one year of supervised release, for his role in a bribery scheme.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Uszakiewicz was the owner of K&M Fire Protection in Southington. Javed Choudhry was employed by a construction company based in Stamford. Between approximately 2011 and 2014, Uszakiewicz and other contractors paid a total of $250,000 to $500,000 in bribes to Choudhry to receive millions of dollars in contracts on construction projects in Stamford.
On April 17, 2018, Uszakiewicz pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
As part of the resolution of this case, Uszakiewicz forfeited $1,121,106.
Judge Thompson ordered Uszakiewicz, who is released on a $100,000 bond, to report to prison on January 4, 2019.
On May 16, 2017, Choudhry, of Glastonbury, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of filing a false tax return. On September 6, 2018, he was sentenced to eight months of imprisonment and four months of home confinement, and was ordered to pay back taxes of approximately $47,500, plus interest and penalties.
This investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito.
Project Huntington Update: Felon Sentenced to Prison for Illegally Possessing AmmunitionRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. - A Huntington man was sentenced this week to 41 months in prison for being a felon in possession of ammunition, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Stuart commended the investigative efforts of the Huntington Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
“Another dangerous offender is removed from the streets of Huntington,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Rest assured we are keeping our focus on Project Huntington even as we start similar initiatives in other cities throughout southern West Virginia.”
On March 22, 2018, a Huntington Police Officer on patrol observed a Honda Accord with an expired registration sticker. The officer activated his emergency lights and began pursuing the vehicle. Landruis Boose, the driver of the Honda, admitted that he attempted to flee from the officer by speeding through a residential area of Huntington and crossing several busy intersections while not yielding or stopping for oncoming traffic. Boose further admitted that he eventually stopped at a parking lot, exited the car, and fled on foot.
Law enforcement soon apprehended Boose, and he admitted that he was carrying a backpack with a box of .45 caliber bullets. Boose additionally admitted that he had a set of digital scales and $380 cash in his pockets. Boose was prohibited from possessing ammunition under federal law because of a 2009 felony drug conviction in Cabell County Circuit Court.
AUSA Stephanie Taylor handled the prosecution. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
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Prichard Man Who Fired on Police is Sentenced to 97 MonthsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Richard W. Moore of the Southern District of Alabama announces the guilty plea and sentence of defendant Kevin V. Lucy for unlawfully possessing a firearm. Lucy pled guilty to being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm in Federal Court on July 23, 2018, before Senior Judge Callie V.S. Granade. On November 7, 2018, Senior Judge Granade sentenced the defendant to 97 months.
According to the Prichard Police Department’s offense report and the facts he admitted at his guilty plea, during the early morning hours of December 30, 2017, Kevin Lucy (24), of Prichard, Alabama opened fire on two Prichard police officers who were attempting to stop his vehicle for driving erratically. The officers believed that Lucy was possibly intoxicated and initiated a traffic stop to investigate. Lucy, however, fled at high speed, ignoring stop signs and traffic lights in a residential neighborhood. Lucy’s vehicle finally came to a stop in a residential back yard. When Prichard police officers approached the vehicle, Lucy exited and started shooting at the officers. The officers immediately took cover for their safety and returned fire. Once the shooting stopped, the officers again approached Lucy’s vehicle and found him on the ground, uninjured, crying and apologizing.
The officers recovered two pistols near Lucy, one on the ground and another on the driver’s seat. Officers also recovered a pill bottle and a baggy of marijuana between the driver’s seat and the center console of the vehicle.During later questioning, Lucy admitted he had smoked synthetic marijuana, sometimes referred to as “spice”, prior to coming into contact with police and admitted he possessed the firearms that he used to fire upon the police.
Lucy has a history of violence, evidenced by his conviction for robbery in 2014, which resulted in the death of another. State charges arising out of the same incident are still pending.
The Prichard Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Mobile Field Office investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney Christopher Baugh prosecuted for the United States.
New Orleans Man Charged in Federal Court for Hobbs Act Robberies and Possession of a Firearm during a Crime of ViolenceRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced yesterday that JAMES RAIFORD, age 25, of New Orleans, was charged in a ten-count Indictment with Hobbs Act Robberies, an Attempted Hobbs Act Robbery, and Possession of a Firearm During a Crime of Violence in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1951(a) and 924(c)(1)(a)(i).
The federal indictment alleges that JAMES RAIFORD committed armed robberies of four businesses located in the New Orleans East and St. Claude areas while brandishing a firearm.
If convicted of the violations, JAMES RAIFORD faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, a fine of up to $250,000.00, a period of up to 3 years supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment of $100.00.
U. S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser reiterated that an Indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safe for everyone. Former Attorney General Jeff Sessions made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority. In October 2017, as part of a series of actions to address this crime trend, Attorney General Sessions announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop a district crime reduction strategy that incorporates the lessons learned since PSN launched in 2001.
U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser praised the work of the New Orleans Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Brittany L. Reed is in charge of the prosecution.
Natick Man Arrested for Child PornographyRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Natick man was arrested today and charged in federal court in Boston in connection with possessing child pornography.
Joshua Bemis, 28, was charged with one count of possession of child pornography. He appeared in federal court in Boston today and was ordered detained pending a detention hearing.
According to court documents, federal authorities received information from law enforcement in the United Kingdom about an individual whose IP address was traced to Bemis’ Natick residence, who had posted child pornography on a photo sharing website. Law enforcement subsequently executed a search warrant where they seized a laptop computer and separate hard drive, both of which contained hundreds of videos of children, including some that depict the rape of children as young as seven-years-old.
Bemis faces a sentence of no greater than 20 years in prison, a minimum of five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling; Peter C. Fitzhugh, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston; and Natick Police Chief James G. Hicks made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney David G. Tobin is prosecuting the case.
The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov/.
The details contained in the charging document are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
MoneyGram International Inc. Agrees to Extend Deferred Prosecution Agreement, Forfeits $125 Million in Settlement with Justice Department and Federal Trade CommissionRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – MoneyGram International Inc. (MoneyGram), a global money services business headquartered in Dallas, Texas, has agreed to extend its deferred prosecution agreement and forfeit $125 million due to significant weaknesses in MoneyGram’s anti-fraud and anti-money laundering (AML) program resulting in MoneyGram’s breach of its 2012 deferred prosecution agreement (DPA). In addition to the monetary payment and extension of the deferred prosecution agreement, the company must enhance its anti-fraud and AML compliance programs.
Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney David J. Freed of the Middle District of Pennsylvania, Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Chairman Joseph Simons and Postal Inspector-in-Charge Daniel B. Brubaker of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) Philadelphia Division made the announcement.
A two-count felony criminal information was filed on Nov. 9, 2012, in the Middle District of Pennsylvania charging MoneyGram with willfully failing to maintain an effective AML program and aiding and abetting wire fraud. The government agreed to defer prosecution on the information for five years provided MoneyGram complied with the DPA. Today’s amendment to the agreement will extend the term of the DPA for 30 months.
According to court documents filed in 2012, MoneyGram was involved in consumer fraud schemes perpetrated by corrupt MoneyGram agents and others. In the fraud scams, which generally targeted the elderly and other vulnerable groups, perpetrators contacted victims in the United States and falsely posed as victim’s relatives in urgent need of money, falsely promised large cash prizes, or promised items for sale over the internet at deeply discounted prices. The perpetrators required the victims to send funds through MoneyGram’s money transfer system.
According to the joint motion filed today to extend and amend the DPA, MoneyGram breached its 2012 DPA. During the course of the DPA, MoneyGram experienced significant weaknesses in its AML and anti-fraud program, inadequately disclosed these weaknesses to the government, and failed to complete all of the DPA’s required enhanced compliance undertakings. As a result of its failures, MoneyGram processed at least $125 million in additional consumer fraud transactions between April 2015 and October 2016.
Today, as a result of MoneyGram’s breach of the DPA, the government filed a motion to extend all the terms of MoneyGram’s DPA and amend and enhance MoneyGram’s compliance requirements pursuant to the DPA. In addition, MoneyGram agreed to forfeit $125 million, which the department intends to return to victims of fraud through the Justice Department’s Victim Compensation Program. Under the terms of the extension, the government has agreed to continue to defer prosecution for a period of 30 months, after which time the government would seek to dismiss charges if MoneyGram has complied with the agreement.
As part of the amendment to and extension of the DPA, MoneyGram has agreed to additional enhanced compliance obligations, including creating policies or procedures:
- to block certain reported fraud receivers and senders from using MoneyGram’s money transfer system within two days of receiving a complaint identifying those individuals;
- to require individuals worldwide to provide government-issued identification to send or receive money transfers;
- to monitor all money transfers originating in the United States in its anti-fraud program; and
- to terminate, discipline, or restrict agents processing a high volume of transactions related to reported fraud receivers and senders.
In a related case, MoneyGram agreed to settle contempt allegations by the FTC filed today in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, alleging that MoneyGram violated its 2009 order with the FTC. The FTC alleges that MoneyGram failed to implement the comprehensive fraud prevention program mandated by the 2009 order, which requires the company to promptly investigate, restrict, suspend, and terminate high-fraud agents. According to the FTC, MoneyGram was aware for years of the high levels of fraud and suspicious activities involving certain agents, including large chain agents, but failed to promptly conduct required reviews or suspend or terminate agents, as required by the 2009 order.
In resolving the FTC allegations, MoneyGram agreed to a monetary judgment of $125 million and to an expanded and modified order that will supersede the Commission’s 2009 order and apply to money transfers worldwide. The modified order requires, among other things, that the company block the money transfers of known fraudsters and provide refunds to fraud victims in circumstances where its agents fail to comply with applicable policies and procedures. In addition, the modified order includes enhanced due diligence, investigative, and disciplinary requirements.
The USPIS and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania have been investigating and prosecuting consumer fraud schemes using MoneyGram’s money transfer system since 2007. To date, the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Middle District of Pennsylvania has charged 37 MoneyGram agent owners for conspiracy, money laundering and fraud-related violations. Twenty-eight of those charged have been convicted.
USPIS’s Philadelphia Division’s Harrisburg, Pennsylvania Office investigated the case. Senior Trial Attorney Margaret A. Moeser of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section’s Bank Integrity Unit and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kim Douglas Daniel of the Middle District of Pennsylvania are prosecuting the case. The department appreciates the significant cooperation and assistance provided by the FTC in this matter.
Persons who believe they were victims of the fraud scheme should visit the Department of Justice’s victim website at MoneyGramRemission.com or call 844-269-2630 for updates on how to request compensation as a result of this action.
The Victim Compensation Program, operated by the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section, is composed of a team of experienced professionals, including attorneys, accountants, auditors and claims analysts. In hundreds of cases, the Victim Compensation Program has successfully used its specialized expertise to efficiently convert forfeited assets to victim recoveries.
The Bank Integrity Unit investigates and prosecutes complex, multi-district, and international criminal cases involving financial institutions. The Unit’s prosecutions focus on banks and other financial institutions, including their officers, managers, and employees, whose actions threaten the integrity of the individual institution or the wider financial system.
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Mobile County Man Receives 18 Months for His Role in a Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Richard W. Moore of the Southern District of Alabama announced that John Paul Willcox, a 37 year old resident of Mobile, Alabama was sentenced to 18 months incarceration after being convicted of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
On July 26, 2018, according to a factual statement Willcox signed in connection with his guilty plea, on August 9, 2017, Postal Inspectors intercepted a 2 pound 15 ounce express mail package addressed to John P. Willcox, at his home address in Mobile, Alabama. The package originated from Arizona (a source state for methamphetamine) and had a return address that was fictitious. Since it was a common practice for illegal narcotics traffickers to utilize the U.S. Mail to send narcotics from source cities with fictitious addresses, postal inspectors called in a narcotics drug dog who alerted to the package.
On August 10, 2017, a controlled delivery was made to Willcox at his home address. Once he accepted the package and took it into the residence, Mobile County deputies executed a search warrant at the address. During the search, the package was retrieved and opened. Inside of the package was approximately 857.9 grams of methamphetamine - a distribution amount of methamphetamine. Willcox was the only person at the residence at the time of the search. Willcox was read his Miranda Rights and he stated that he understood them and agreed to speak with the deputies. Willcox stated that he receive the package for “Rock”, who was his supplier for illegal pills. He agreed to receive the package because he owed “Rock” for providing him with the illegal pills. Willcox knew or had reasonable cause to believe that the package he received for “Rock” contained illegal drugs consistent with the weight of the package. Willcox intended to give the package to “Rock.”
Inspectors of the U. S. Postal Service along with deputies of the Mobile County, Alabama Sheriff’s Office investigated the case and brought it to the U. S. Attorney's Office for prosecution. The prosecutor assigned to the case is Assistant United States Attorney, Gina S. Vann.Minneapolis Felon Found Guilty in Connection with 2017 Bar ShootingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced the conviction of CORTEZ MAURICE CRUMBLE, a/k/a “Bruiser,” 30, on one count of felon in possession of ammunition in connection with a shooting at a Minneapolis bar. CRUMBLE was indicted on January 23, 2018, and was found guilty yesterday afternoon following a jury trial before Senior Judge Ann D. Montgomery in United States District Court in Minneapolis, Minnesota. One additional defendant, CEDRIC LAMONT BERRY, JR, a/k/a “Ced,” 24, pleaded guilty on July 19, 2018, to one count of felon in possession of ammunition. A sentencing hearing for CRUMBLE has been set for March 21, 2018.
Evidence admitted at trial showed that in the early morning hours of November 23, 2017, CRUMBLE and BERRY were at the Broadway Pub in Minneapolis when BERRY and other individuals got into a fight inside the bar. Security personnel broke up the fight, however; video footage captured BERRY as he ran out of the bar and appeared to retrieve something from a vehicle in the parking lot. BERRY was then seen running back into the bar with a firearm in his hand. Shortly afterward, CRUMBLE was captured on video outside the bar shooting at a vehicle as it sped out of the parking lot. BERRY was also captured on video appearing to draw a firearm from his waistband and firing at the vehicle. Law enforcement officers found 20 .40 caliber discharged cartridge casings in the area where the shooting took place.
Additional evidence admitted at trial showed that on December 19, 2017, law enforcement officers conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle that matched the car CRUMBLE and BERRY were seen driving following the shooting. CRUMBLE, who was a passenger in the vehicle at the time of the stop, was taken into custody. Following the execution of a search warrant on CRUMBLE’S cell phone and residence, officers found multiple images of firearms and ammunition.
Both CRUMBLE and BERRY have prior felony convictions prohibiting them from legally possessing firearms or ammunition at any time.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Minneapolis Police Department, and the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas Calhoun-Lopez tried the case.
Defendant Information:
CORTEZ MAURICE CRUMBLE, a/k/a “Bruiser,” 30
Minneapolis, Minn.
Convicted:
- Felon in possession of ammunition, 1 count
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
Minkler announces disability rights roundtableRead the Press Release
PRESS RELEASE
INDIANAPOLIS–Disability rights advocates met recently to learn about new resources and to share information during the second Disability Rights Roundtable convened by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Indiana. The U.S. Attorney’s office convened the first meeting of this group in March 2018, during Disability Awareness Month. Monday’s event was held at the Indiana Disability Rights offices at 4701 North Keystone Avenue, Indianapolis. The collaborative effort included more than 20 participants from advocacy organizations, state and local government and service providers.
Vicki Johnson of AWS Foundation, a not-for-profit entity in support of the disability community presented Indiana Disability Resource Finder, a new system navigator that will provide access to resources for people with disabilities and their families as well as service providers. FINDER, is designed to be inclusive and accessible, and should be available for users in the spring of 2019.
Melissa Keyes, Legal Director for Indiana Disability Rights, talked about her organization’s efforts in supported decision making and the possibility of legislation on this issue during the next legislative session. Kim Dodson, Executive Director of the Arc of Indiana, reviewed the report and recommendations prepared by the Task Force for Assessment of Services and Supports for People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. The task force, chaired by Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch, developed a comprehensive plan to implement community-based services to people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities.
Joel Boehner, Executive Director of IN*SOURCE, shared his group’s new public service announcement, which can be found at https://youtu.be/UWBg8bA7wYE. Tammy Themel, Executive Director of Access Ability, invited participants to contribute to upcoming focus groups about consumer change, to be sponsored by her organization in upcoming months.
The Disability Rights Roundtable plans to meet again in February 2019.
In October 2017, United States Attorney Josh J. Minkler announced a Strategic Plan designed to shape and strengthen the District’s response to its most significant public safety challenges. This event demonstrates the Office’s firm commitment to the enforcement of civil rights through outreach and communication with local groups, organizations and law enforcement officials. See United States Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Indiana Strategic Plan 7.3
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