Latest Records
Newest first across public DOJ and U.S. Attorney press releases.
Monday 24 September 2018
Texas Man Sentenced to 13 Years in Prison for Enticing Minors to Engage in Sexual Activity over the InternetRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that TRAVIS W. McCOY, 24, of Houston, Texas, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 156 months of imprisonment, followed by a lifetime of supervised release, for enticing minors to engage in sexual activity over the internet.
According to court documents and statements made in court, between approximately August 2015 and March 2017, while he was attending college and living in New London, McCOY used internet-based video chatting services, including Kik and Google Hangouts, and internet-based gaming systems, such as Xbox Live, to entice four minor males between the ages of 9 and 14 to engage in sexually explicit conduct over video-chatting services, such as Skype. McCOY either took screen shots of the minors engaged in sexual activity, or requested and received from the minors digital images and videos in which the minors are depicted engaging in sexual activity. McCOY also sent sexually explicit images and videos of himself to the minor victims.
The investigation revealed that McCOY initially met one of the minor victims at a summer camp in Texas where McCOY had worked as a camp counselor.
The investigation further revealed that McCOY maintained three Dropbox accounts and gave the password to one of the accounts to a person living in Los Angeles as a way to share and receive child pornography. The Dropbox accounts contained 684 images and more than 89 hours of videos of child pornography, and were accessed by people around the world. There is no evidence that McCOY distributed any of the images or videos he received from the four minor victims he enticed.
McCOY has been detained since his arrest on June 28, 2017. On June 27, 2018, he pleaded guilty to one count of enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity.
This matter was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the New London Police Department and the Houston Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nancy V. Gifford.
This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.
Tampa Man Sentenced to More Than 15 Years in Federal Prison After Road Rage AssaultRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Susan C. Bucklew has sentenced Harlem Slaughter Turner, III (41, Tampa) to 15 years and 8 months in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Turner pleaded guilty on June 12, 2018.
According to court documents, on May 30, 2017, at approximately 2:50 a.m., officers from the Tampa Police Department were on routine patrol when they observed what appeared to be an altercation among a group of people just north of 7th Avenue on 17th Street in Ybor City. The officers heard someone yell, “he's got a gun,” as Turner quickly got into his car and fled the scene. The officers learned that Turner had threatened the occupants of another vehicle after he had been involved in a traffic incident.
The officers located Turner’s car, conducted a traffic stop, and searched the vehicle. During the search, under the rear seat, the officers found a 9mm handgun that had been reported stolen, along with a magazine containing 10 rounds of ammunition. The officers also recovered a magazine containing 14 rounds of 9mm ammunition located inside a backpack behind the center console. At the time, Turner had numerous prior violent felony convictions and, was therefore prohibited from possessing a firearm by federal law. He also qualified for an increased penalty under the Armed Career Criminal Act.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Tampa Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Michael C. Baggé-Hernández and Charlie D. Connally.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. In October 2017, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorneys’ Offices to develop districtwide crime reduction strategies, incorporating the lessons learned since the program’s inception in 2001. In the Middle District of Florida, U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez coordinates PSN efforts in cooperation with various federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.
Six Paterson, New Jersey, Men Charged with Stealing $300,000 in Checks from Dozens of Mail Collection BoxesRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – Six Paterson, New Jersey, men have been charged with taking part in a scheme to break into U.S. Postal Service (USPS) mail collection boxes throughout northern New Jersey and steal the mail—particularly, checks—inside, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.
Ismael Alicea, Jr., 25, Yerrisson Garcia-Rodriguez, 23, Jerry Lake-Rodriguez, 25, Johan Lake-Rodriguez, 26, Brayan Ulloa-Ulloa, 24, and Jefersson Quezada, 21, are each charged by complaint with one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud. Each defendant, except Alicea, is also charged with one count of bank fraud. Garcia-Rodriguez, Jerry Lake-Rodriguez, Johan Lake-Rodriguez, and Quezada are additionally charged with one count of aggravated identity theft, and Alicea and Johan Lake-Rodriguez are charged with possession of stolen mail.
According to the complaint:
The defendants stole checks from USPS mail collection boxes in Passaic, Bergen, Morris, Essex, and Middlesex counties, and elsewhere, and fraudulently deposited them into various bank accounts, often within a day of being stolen. Some defendants broke into mail collection boxes using pry bars, usually late at night. Law enforcement officers have identified at least $300,000 worth of stolen checks that were deposited into the bank accounts.
Four of the defendants were arrested this morning and made their initial appearance today before U.S. Magistrate Court Judge Joseph Dickson in Newark federal court. Johan Lake-Rodriguez is in state custody and will make his initial appearance later this week. Jefersson Quezada remains at large.
The conspiracy and bank fraud charges each carry a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and a $1 million fine. The aggravated identity theft charge carries a penalty of a mandatory term of two years in prison, to be served consecutively to any other sentence imposed.
U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito credited postal inspectors of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Newark Division, under the direction of Inspector-in-Charge James Buthorn, with the investigation leading to today’s arrests and charges. He also thanked the U.S. Secret Service and U.S. Marshals Service for their assistance with the investigation.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Macurdy of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Criminal Division in Newark.
The charges and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Revere Man Pleads Guilty to Child Pornography ChargeRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Revere man pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston to possessing child pornography.
Ian Silver-Eck, 22, pleaded guilty to one count of possession of child pornography. U.S. District Court Judge George A. O’Toole Jr. scheduled sentencing for Jan. 17, 2019. In August 2017, Silver-Eck was charged by criminal complaint and arrested. He has been in federal custody since that time.
Undercover agents using Kik Messenger, a text messaging app, exchanged text messages with Silver-Eck about sexual experiences with children. Throughout their text conversations, Silver-Eck solicited images and video of the agent sexually abusing his fictitious children and Silver-Eck sent sexually explicit pictures of prepubescent boys, one of whom appeared to be as young as six-years-old, to the undercover agent.
When law enforcement officers executed a federal search warrant at Silver-Eck’s home in Revere, they found various images and videos on Silver-Eck’s phone depicting the sexual abuse of children. At the time of his arrest, Silver-Eck was serving a sentence of five years of probation following a March 2017 state court conviction for possessing child pornography.
The charge of possession of child pornography provides for a sentence of no greater than 20 years in prison, a minimum of five years and up to a lifetime supervised release, and a fine of $250,000. Due to his prior conviction, Silver-Eck faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling and Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division, made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Boston, Arlington, Newton, and Revere Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Anne Paruti, Lelling’s Project Safe Childhood Coordinator and a member of the Major Crimes Unit, is prosecuting the case.
The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by 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/.
Recent Prosecutions of Firearm and Gang-Related Offenses in Fresno Area 9-24-18Read the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — As part the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California’s strategy to reduce violent crime, U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott announced the following cases involving illegal firearms and gang-related offenses.
On Monday U.S. District Judge Dale A. Drozd sentenced Darrell Maxey, 22, to 10 years in prison and Anthony Windfield, 33, to seven years and three months in prison for conspiring to murder a rival gang member. According to court documents, Maxey and Windfield were members or associates of the Dog Pound Gang (DPG). Windfield also was sentenced to a concurrent term of prison for conspiracy to commit credit card fraud and ordered to pay over $25,000 in restitution. This case is the product of an investigation by the California DOJ’s Bureau of Investigation Special Operations Unit, the Fresno Police Department, and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kimberly Sanchez, Jeffrey Spivak and Christopher Baker are prosecuting the case.
Randy Seja, 26, of Fresno, was sentenced Monday by Judge Drozd to 10 years in prison for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Christopher Martinez Jr. 25, of Fresno, pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute methamphetamine According to court documents Seja and Martinez were members of the Bulldog criminal street gang and ranking members of the associated Malos Hechos Motorcycle gang. Martinez is scheduled to be sentenced on December 10, 2018. This case is the product of an investigation by ATF, DEA, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), FBI, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Fresno Police Department, the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office, the Mult-Agency Gang Enforcement Consortium (MAGEC), the California Highway Patrol, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation- Division of Adult Parole, the Fresno County Probation, and the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Melanie L. Alsworth and Kimberly A. Sanchez are prosecuting the case.
Kwesi Jamar Coker, 26, of Fresno, was sentenced Monday by Chief U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. O’Neill to four years and two months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to court documents, on October 5, 2016, Coker was arrested after a car chase by law enforcement officers. A firearm was found in the car with the fingerprints of Coker and co-defendant Bryan Washington on it. Both have prior felony convictions and are prohibited from possessing a firearm. This case was the product of an investigation by ATF and the Fresno Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly A. Sanchez prosecuted the case.
Robert James Guthrie, 23, of Atwater, pleaded guilty Monday to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and conspiracy to engage in the business of selling firearms without a license. According to court documents, Guthrie was a member of the A-town Locs. Between January 13 and May 10, 2017, he engaged in 13 transactions in which he sold 26 firearms, a silencer, over 1.3 kilograms of methamphetamine, and 44 grams of cocaine. Agents seized a pound of methamphetamine from his residence. Guthrie is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge O’Neill on December 10, 2018. This case is the product of an investigation by the FBI, ATF, HSI, the Merced Area Gang and Narcotic Enforcement Team (MAGNET), and the California DOJ California Highway Patrol Special Operations Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kimberly A. Sanchez and Ross Pearson are prosecuting the case.
Terry McGruder, 30, of Fresno, pleaded guilty Monday to being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to court documents, on January 3, 2017, McGruder possessed a firearm that he threw onto the roof of a hotel as he was running from police. He was prohibited from possessing a fire arm because of his prior felony convictions. McGruder is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Drozd on December 17, 2018. This case was the product of an investigation by the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly A. Sanchez is prosecuting the case.
Daniel Casares, 35, of Fresno, pleaded guilty Monday to being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to court documents, on April 13, 2017, Casares was in possession of a firearm. As a previously convicted felon, he is prohibited from possessing a firearm. He is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge O’Neill on December 17, 2018. This case is the product of an investigation by the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office and Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly A. Sanchez is prosecuting the case.
Dionne Singleton, 41, of Fresno, pleaded guilty Monday to being a felon in possession of a firearm, possession of a firearm in a school zone, and distribution of crack cocaine. On October 10, 2016, Singleton possessed a handgun as well as a 30-round magazine loaded with 28 rounds of ammunition less than 500 feet from a school zone. Singleton has prior felony convictions for infliction of corporal injury on a spouse or cohabitant and shooting at an inhabited dwelling, and is prohibited from possessing a firearm. He is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Drozd on December 10, 2018. This case is the product of an investigation by ATF, the FBI, the Fresno Police Department, MAGEC, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office, and the California DOJ California Highway Patrol Special Operations Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly A. Sanchez is prosecuting the case.
The Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) was involved in the investigation of many of these cases. The OCDETF program was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and those primarily responsible for the nation’s drug supply.
These cases are part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime.
Rapper Tommie Walker a/k/a “Columbia BT” charged with trafficking cocaineRead the Press Release
ATLANTA - Tommie L. Walker, a/k/a Columbia BT, and Juan Carlos Garcia-Martinez, a/k/a Carlos Garcia were arraigned before U.S. Magistrate Judge Linda T. Walker on September 21, 2018 on federal charges of drug trafficking and possession with intent to distribute cocaine. Walker, Garcia-Martinez, and Samuel Anchondo-Galaviz were indicted by a federal grand jury on September 12, 2018.
“These defendants were allegedly part of a multi-state drug distribution scheme that transported and distributed cocaine worth approximately $4 million,” said U.S. Attorney Byung J. “BJay” Pak. “Thanks to the work of law enforcement in Georgia, South Carolina and Colorado, this drug enterprise is now history.”
“This investigation is an excellent example of the working relationships that the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Atlanta-Carolinas High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) have with their law enforcement partners,” said Robert J. Murphy, Special Agent in Charge of the Atlanta DEA Field Division. “The defendants were transporting large quantities of drugs throughout our neighborhoods, and the dismantlement of this criminal organization will have a positive local impact and sends a clear message that we will not tolerate illegal drug trafficking in our communities.”
According to U.S. Attorney Pak, the charges, and other information presented in court: Agents of the Atlanta-Carolina High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area program began their investigation in August 2017 in conjunction with Drug Enforcement Administration agents in South Carolina and Colorado. Walker, who raps under the name “Columbia BT,” allegedly participated in a cocaine trafficking conspiracy that extended to Colorado, South Carolina, and Mexico.
Walker allegedly operated a warehouse in the Atlanta area where he received shipments of cocaine hidden in tractor-trailers. The shipments were sent by a co-conspirator in Colorado. Walker allegedly would then distribute the drugs to individuals from South Georgia and South Carolina. Garcia-Martinez is an alleged co-conspirator who facilitated some of Walker’s drug transactions.
Law enforcement officers seized more than 135 kilograms of cocaine from the organization, a quantity worth more than $4 million at current wholesale prices in Atlanta. Law enforcement also seized more than $220,000 in drug proceeds.
October 9, 2017, a tractor-trailer containing approximately 40 kilograms of cocaine, which was driven by Anchondo-Galaviz, was stopped on the way to Walker’s warehouse. Other seizures charged in the indictment took place on December 3, 2017 and February 21, 2018. Walker allegedly used his illegal drug proceeds to finance a lavish lifestyle that he displayed in his rap videos. Some of the property seized from the alleged drug proceeds included a 2016 Rolls-Royce Dawn and a 2013 Bentley Mulsanne.
Tommie L. Walker, a/k/a Columbia BT, 42, of Kennesaw, Georgia is charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine and three counts of possession with intent to distribute cocaine.
Juan Carlos Garcia-Martinez, a/k/a Carlos Garcia, 37, of Forest Park, Georgia, and Samuel Anchondo-Galaviz, 40, of New Mexico are each charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine and one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine. Members of the public are reminded that the indictment only contains charges. The defendant is presumed innocent of the charges and it will be the government’s burden to prove the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
This case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Atlanta-Carolina High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Georgia State Patrol, the Clayton County Sheriff’s Office, the Marietta Police Department, and the Colorado Attorney General’s Office.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nicholas N. Joy and Erin Harris and Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Brown are prosecuting the case.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Atlanta recommends parents and children learn about the dangers of drugs at the following web site: www.justthinktwice.gov.
For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at [email protected] or (404) 581-6016. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.
Project Huntington Update: Another Operation Saigon Sunset Defendant Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Another defendant netted in Operation Saigon Sunset pled guilty today to a federal drug conspiracy charge, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Malcomb Simmons, of Huntington, also known as “Mac,” 45, entered his guilty plea to an indictment charging him with conspiracy to distribute heroin and fentanyl. Stuart praised the joint investigation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Violent Crime and Drug Task Force West.
“To date, Simmons is the 13th of 15 defendants that have pled guilty to a federal indictment as a result of Operation Saigon Sunset,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Heroin and fentanyl are deadly drugs that have caused tragic deaths of so many of Huntington’s residents. Project Huntington has certainly achieved great results, but our work is not done until every death causing drug dealer is eradicated from Huntington and other cities throughout the Southern District of West Virginia.”
Simmons admitted that he conspired with Manget Peterson, also known as “Money,” to distribute heroin and fentanyl in Huntington, West Virginia. Simmons admitted that he supplied “Money” with heroin and fentanyl for “Money” to add to his heroin to sell in Huntington.
Simmons faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on January 14, 2019.
The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie S. Taylor handled the prosecution.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews
###
Postal Service Contract Carrier Sentenced for Theft of Government MoneyRead the Press Release
DENVER – Jimmie Dean Korf, age 49, of Weldona, Colorado, was sentenced late last week by Chief U.S. District Court Judge Marcia S. Krieger for theft of $92,579 as a Postal Service Highway Contract supplier in Morgan County, according to U.S. Attorney Bob Troyer and U.S. Postal Service Office of the Inspector General Acting Special Agent in Charge Steven Stuller.
Chief Judge Krieger ordered Korf to serve 12 months’ probation, requiring him to report to jail every weekend and every holiday. The defendant was indicted on September 27, 2017. He pled guilty on June 13, 2018, and was sentenced on September 20, 2018.
According to the stipulated facts contained in the plea agreement, the Postal Service contracts for over-the-road mail transportation. Korf was a Postal Service Highway Contract supplier, but not a Postal Service employee. He was required to certify the time he was on the road transporting the mail. Between June 2013 and November 2014, Korf illegally received $92,579 from the U.S. Postal Service by forging supervisory signatures on forms to pay him for services he did not provide.
The investigation into the payments began in February 2015 after an employee at the Fort Morgan Post Office alleged her signature had been forged. She looked at copies of the forms and noted that the signature on each form was not hers. She then reported the forgery to the U.S. Postal Service Office of the Inspector General. It was determined that Korf forged the signatures. A subsequent review of the Postal Service’s payment records revealed that the defendant claimed 237 extra trips totaling 53,360 miles. Postal Service documents only support 10 trips totaling 1,584 miles.
“The Postal Service Office of the Inspector General has a long history of doing superlative investigative work to ensure public trust,” said U.S. Attorney Bob Troyer. “Our office is always happy to be on their team.”
“We are gratified to have contributed to this investigation and applaud the exceptional work by the United States Attorney’s Office for both protecting the contracting process and overall program costs,” said Steven Stuller, Acting Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General. “Along with our law enforcement partners, the USPS OIG will continue to aggressively investigate those who would engage in fraudulent activities designed to defraud the Postal Service.”
This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Service Office of the Inspector General. The defendant was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason St. Julien.
Physician Charged with Illegally Distributing Controlled Substances for Internet Pharmacies and with Tax FraudRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA, PA – United States Attorney William M. McSwain announced that Dr. Charles Garo Avetian, 55, of Newtown Square, Pennsylvania, a physician licensed in Pennsylvania, was charged today by Information with illegally distributing controlled substances and submitting false individual income tax returns.
The Information charges that Avetian, while working for entities that sold controlled prescription drugs via the Internet, issued invalid prescriptions for Fioricet, which contains butalbital, a barbiturate and Schedule III controlled substance, based solely upon his review of online questionnaires completed by the customers of the websites that employed him. The defendant is also charged with failing to report approximately $363,830 of gross receipts earned during the tax years 2012 through 2014 on his federal income tax returns.
If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum possible sentence of 139 years’ imprisonment, a three-year period of supervised release, a $7,250,000 million fine, and a $1,600 special assessment.
“The conduct alleged to have occurred in this case is drug dealing – plain and simple. Although the defendant’s chosen venue was the Internet rather than a street corner, the practical effect is the same and the impact to the community is just as bad,” said U.S. Attorney McSwain. “The consequences should similarly reflect the severity of this behavior and the alleged tax fraud.”
“There are thousands of websites that claim to be online pharmacies offering controlled substance medications without a valid prescription and from an unregulated supply chain, which pose a serious risk to public health,” said Jonathan A. Wilson, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration's Philadelphia Field Division. “Dr. Avetian is accused of prescribing controlled substance medications outside of the usual course of medical practice and without a legitimate medical purpose, which are violations of federal law.”
“No matter what the source of income, all income is taxable. Each of us is responsible for filing correct and accurate tax returns,” said IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge Guy Ficco. “We will vigorously investigate those individuals who knowingly and willfully evade their tax obligation.”
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Food and Drug Administration, and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank R. Costello, Jr.
An Indictment, Information or Criminal Complaint is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Owner of Queens Pharmacies Charged in Scheme to Defraud Medicare and MedicaidRead the Press Release
Aleah Mohammed, the owner of four pharmacies in Queens, New York, will be arraigned today in federal court in Brooklyn on an indictment charging her with submitting millions of dollars in claims as part of a scheme to defraud Medicare and Medicaid. The proceeding will take place before United States Magistrate Judge Steven L. Tiscione at 11:00 a.m.
Richard P. Donoghue, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York; Brian A. Benczkowski, Assistant Attorney General of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; William F. Sweeney, Jr., Assistant Director-in-Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI); and Scott J. Lampert, Special Agent-in-Charge, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, Office of Investigations, New York Region (HHS-OIG), announced the indictment.
“As alleged in the indictment, Mohammed used her pharmacies to steal from publicly funded health care programs and fund her lavish lifestyle,” stated United States Attorney Donoghue. “This Office and our law enforcement partners are committed to holding accountable fraudsters who seek to enrich themselves at the expense of vital taxpayer-funded programs upon which so many Americans rely.”
“According to the allegations in the indictment announced today, Aleah Mohammed defrauded the taxpayer-funded Medicare and Medicaid programs by submitting millions of dollars of phony reimbursement claims, and then used the stolen money to purchase luxury items such as cars and jewelry,” stated Assistant Attorney General Benczkowski. “This case is another example of the outstanding work of the Department’s Medicare Fraud Strike Forces, which are focused on safeguarding federally funded health care programs and vigorously prosecuting those who seek to defraud them.”
“These investigations matter because the subjects are stealing money each and every one of us pays in taxes to fund these programs,” stated FBI Assistant Director-in-Charge Sweeney. “What adds insult to injury, defrauding the government and stealing money is rarely about anything more than spending money on frivolous things like pricy jewelry and fast cars. Our ultimate goal is to stop these fraudsters from wasting the millions they steal so it can go to the patients and taxpayers who depend on it.”
“Ms. Mohammed’s alleged fraud scheme was motivated by nothing more than personal greed,” stated HHS-OIG Special Agent-in-Charge Lampert. “This indictment should serve as a warning to any health care provider daring to use Medicare and Medicaid as a vehicle to steal money. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to aggressively pursue those who seek to undermine taxpayer-funded health care programs intended for our most vulnerable Americans.”As alleged in the indictment, Aleah Mohammed, also known as “Aleah Haniff,” was the owner and operator of Superdrugs Inc., Superdrugs I Inc., Superdrugs II Inc. and S&A Superdrugs II Inc. Beginning in approximately May 2015 and continuing through June 2018, Mohammed executed a scheme in which she and others submitted fraudulent claims to Medicare Part D plans and Medicaid for reimbursement for prescription drugs that were not dispensed, prescribed as claimed or medically necessary. The fraudulent claims included claims for prescription drugs for the treatment of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Through this scheme, Mohammed’s pharmacies received approximately $7.9 million in reimbursements from Medicare and Medicaid. The indictment further alleges that Mohammed used the proceeds of the scheme to purchase, among other things, luxury items including a Porsche and jewelry.
The charges in the indictment are allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
If convicted of health care fraud, Mohammed faces a maximum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment.
The FBI and HHS-OIG investigated the case, which was brought as part of the Medicare Fraud Strike Force under the supervision by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York and the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section. Trial Attorney Andrew Estes of the Fraud Section is in charge of the prosecution.
The Defendant:
ALEAH MOHAMMED (also known as “Aleah Haniff”)
Age: 33
Residence: Queens, New YorkE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 18-CR-509 (ENV)
Owner of New York City Pharmacies Charged in Scheme to Defraud Medicare and MedicaidRead the Press Release
The owner of four pharmacies in Queens, New York, will be arraigned later today in federal court in Brooklyn on an indictment charging her with submitting millions of dollars in claims as part of a scheme to defraud Medicare and Medicaid. The proceeding will take place before U.S. Magistrate Judge Steven L. Tiscione at 11:00 a.m.
Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Richard P. Donoghue for the Eastern District of New York, Assistant Director in Charge William F. Sweeney Jr. of the FBI New York Field Office and Special Agent in Charge Scott J. Lampert of U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General New York Region (HHS-OIG), announced the indictment.
As alleged in the indictment, Aleah Mohammed, aka “Aleah Haniff,” 33, of Queens, New York, was the owner and operator of Superdrugs Inc., Superdrugs I Inc., Superdrugs II Inc. and S&A Superdrugs II Inc. Beginning in approximately May 2015 and continuing through June 2018, Mohammed executed a scheme in which she and others submitted fraudulent claims to Medicare Part D plans and Medicaid for reimbursement for prescription drugs that were not dispensed, prescribed as claimed, or medically necessary. The allegedly fraudulent claims included claims for prescription drugs for the treatment of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). From approximately May 2015 through January 2018, Mohammed’s pharmacies received approximately $7.9 million in reimbursements from Medicare and Medicaid. The indictment further alleges that Mohammed used the proceeds of the scheme, among other things, to purchase luxury items such as a Porsche and jewelry. Mohammed was previously arrested on a complaint in July 2018.
“According to the allegations in the indictment announced today, Aleah Mohammed defrauded the taxpayer-funded Medicare and Medicaid programs by submitting millions of dollars of phony reimbursement claims, and then used the stolen money to purchase luxury items such as cars and jewelry,” said Assistant Attorney General Benczkowski. “This case is another example of the outstanding work of the Department’s Medicare Fraud Strike Forces, which are focused on safeguarding federally funded health care programs and vigorously prosecuting those who seek to defraud them.”
“As alleged in the indictment, Mohammed used her pharmacies to steal from publicly funded health care programs and fund her lavish lifestyle,” said U.S. Attorney Donoghue. “This Office and our law enforcement partners are committed to holding accountable fraudsters who seek to enrich themselves at the expense of vital taxpayer-funded programs upon which so many Americans rely.”
“These investigations matter because the subjects are stealing money each and every one of us pays in taxes to fund these programs,” said FBI Assistant Director-in-Charge Sweeney. “What adds insult to injury, defrauding the government and stealing money is rarely about anything more than spending money on frivolous things like pricy jewelry and fast cars. Our ultimate goal is to stop these fraudsters from wasting the millions they steal so it can go to the patients and taxpayers who depend on it.”
“Ms. Mohammed’s alleged fraud scheme was motivated by nothing more than personal greed,” stated HHS-OIG Special Agent-in-Charge Lampert. “This indictment should serve as a warning to any health care provider daring to use Medicare and Medicaid as a vehicle to steal money. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to aggressively pursue those who seek to undermine taxpayer-funded health care programs intended for our most vulnerable Americans.”
The charges in the indictment are allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The FBI and HHS-OIG investigated the case, which was brought as part of the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, under the supervision by the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York. Trial Attorney Andrew Estes of the Fraud Section is in charge of the prosecution.
The Criminal Division’s Fraud Section leads the Medicare Fraud Strike Force. Since its inception in March 2007, the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, now operating in 12 cities across the country, has charged nearly 4,000 defendants who have collectively billed the Medicare program for more than $14 billion.
Organized Crime Member Pleads Guilty to Attempted Murder of WitnessRead the Press Release
Geoffrey S. Berman, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that JOSEPH DATELLO pled guilty today before United States District Judge Cathy Seibel to numerous acts of racketeering, including attempting to kill a witness against him. In May 2017, DATELLO and 18 other members and associates of the Luchese Family of La Cosa Nostra were arrested and charged in a nine-count Indictment. Since the unsealing of the Indictment, DATELLO and 12 other defendants have pled guilty, and have been or will be sentenced by Judge Seibel.
U.S. Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman said: “Witness safety is paramount to ensuring the prosecution of criminal organizations. Thanks to the FBI’s Joint Organized Crime Task Force, who uncovered Datello’s crimes without risking the security of the witness, Datello now faces life in prison for threatening a federal witness.”
According to the plea agreement DATELLO signed as part of his guilty plea, his statements when pleading guilty, the allegations in the Indictment, and statements made in related court filings and proceedings:
In 2002, an individual (the “Witness”) who had been working with DATELLO and Steven L. Crea, a leader in the Luchese Family, provided information to state and federal authorities concerning DATELLO’s and Crea’s participation in racketeering activity. That information, and other evidence, led to the successful prosecution of DATELLO, Crea, and others. In October 2016, DATELLO learned information that he thought revealed the Witness’s current whereabouts. DATELLO travelled to what he believed was the Witness’s address and waited there, trying to find the Witness. Had DATELLO found the Witness, he intended, with the blessing of Crea, to kill the Witness.
Crea is also charged with attempting to have the Witness killed, and other crimes, and is scheduled to begin trial before Judge Seibel in 2019.
* * *
DATELLO, 67, of Staten Island, New York, pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit racketeering, and as part of that plea admitted racketeering acts including the attempted murder of the Witness, narcotics trafficking, and collecting debts through the threat of violence. These crimes carry a maximum sentence of life in prison. DATELLO will be sentenced before Judge Seibel.
The allegations contained in the Indictment as to Crea and the other defendants who have not pled guilty are merely accusations, and these defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Mr. Berman praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI’s Joint Organized Crime Task Force, which comprises agents and detectives of the FBI, NYPD, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Waterfront Commission of New York Harbor.
The case is being handled by the Office’s White Plains Division. Assistant United States Attorneys Scott Hartman, Hagan Scotten, and Jacqueline Kelly are in charge of the prosecution.
Newly-Released FBI Crime Data Shows Violent Crime Decline in 2017Read the Press Release
The Federal Bureau of Investigation today released the 2017 edition of its Crime in the United States (CIUS) report, a part of the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reports (UCR). The report, which covers January-December 2017, reflects that after two consecutive, historic increases in violent crime, in the first year of the Trump Administration the nationwide violent crime rate began to decline. The report estimates that the nationwide violent crime rate decreased by approximately one percent in 2017, while the nationwide homicide rate decreased by nearly one and a half percent.
“After historic increases in violent crime in 2015 and 2016, we are beginning to see encouraging signs,” Attorney General Jeff Sessions said. “But our work is not done. While we have made progress, violent crime and drug trafficking continue to plague our communities and destroy the lives of innocent, law-abiding Americans. Under the Trump administration, the Department of Justice has restored common sense criminal charging and sentencing policies, surged resources to jurisdictions facing some of the highest levels of violence and drug abuse, targeted enforcement efforts against the most violent offenders, and developed innovative approaches to address pervasive crime problems. And we are continuing our steadfast commitment to work with our state, local, and tribal partners across the country to confront the lawlessness, deter violent crime, dismantle criminal organizations and gangs, eradicate the scourge of drug trafficking, and restore the rule of law. The American people deserve no less.”
The report released today also adjusts and corrects numbers for 2016, showing that the nationwide homicide rate actually increased by 8.8 percent (as opposed to 7.9 percent, as previously reported) in 2016. In 2017, the rate of rapes increased by 2.2 percent, while the aggravated assault rate increased by 0.3 percent and the robbery rate decreased by 4.7 percent. Aggravated assaults were 65 percent of violent crimes reported to law enforcement in 2017, while robberies and rapes were 25.6 percent and 8 percent, respectively. Murder accounted for 1.4 percent of violent crimes reported to law enforcement in 2017.
For the full report click here.New York Stock Trader Admits Paying Bribes to Broker in Exchange for StockRead the Press Release
TRENTON, N.J. - A New York stock trader today admitted making bribe payments to a broker at an investment banking firm in exchange for stock allocations, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.
Adam Rentzer, 52, of Roslyn, New York, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Michael A. Shipp in Trenton federal court to an information charging him with one count of violating the Travel Act by engaging in a commercial bribery scheme.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
Rentzer was a trader who purchased and sold securities in initial and secondary public stock offerings, including offerings marketed by two investment banking firms in New York (“Firm A” and “Firm B”). Brian M. Hirsch was an employee of Firm A and later Firm B, and was responsible for allocating initial and secondary public stock offerings to clients.
Between mid-2013 and January 2017, Rentzer and others paid cash kickbacks to Hirsch in exchange for Hirsch providing favorable allocations from public stock offerings marketed by Firms A and B. The kickback payments were based on an agreed-upon percentage of the profits that Rentzer realized from his subsequent sales of stocks that he purchased in the stock offerings. Hirsch did not disclose any of these payments to Firms A and B and took steps to conceal his corrupt arrangement with Rentzer and others. In accepting the payments, Hirsch knowingly violated various policies and procedures of Firms A and B, including policies governing stock allocations and conflicts of interest. Rentzer paid Hirsch a total of $150,000 to $250,000.
Rentzer faces a maximum potential penalty of five years in prison and a fine of $250,000. Sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 11, 2019.
On Dec. 19, 2017, Hirsch pleaded guilty to one count of violating the Travel Act in connection with the scheme. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 18, 2018.
In a separate civil action, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) today filed a complaint against Rentzer in Trenton federal court.
U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Gregory W. Ehrie in Newark, for the investigation leading to today’s guilty plea. He also thanked the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s New York Regional Office under the direction of Regional Director Marc P. Berger for its assistance in the investigation.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas P. Grippo of the Economic Crimes Unit.
Defense counsel: John F. Carman Esq., Garden City, New York
New York Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Conspiring to Distribute Heroin, Fentanyl and CrackRead the Press Release
Bangor, Maine: United States Attorney Halsey B. Frank announced that Denton Worrell, a/k/a “Lil D,” 21, of Rochester, New York, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court by Senior Judge John A. Woodcock, Jr. to 10 years in prison and three years of supervised release for conspiring to distribute heroin, fentanyl and cocaine base, commonly known as “crack.” The defendant pleaded guilty on May 8.
According to court records, between June 2015 and March 2017, Worrell conspired with others to acquire heroin, fentanyl and crack in Rochester and transport it to Central Maine for distribution. The defendant managed the operation and oversaw the distribution of drugs from 12 to 15 “trap houses” in Central Maine.
In imposing the sentence, Judge Woodcock noted that the defendant was a manager of a “very sophisticated” drug distribution operation based in Rochester and operating in Central Maine.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency, and the Kennebec County Sheriff’s Department, with assistance provided by the Augusta Police Department, and prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice’s Strategy to Combat the Opioid Epidemic.
New Orleans Man Indicted for Arson and Federal Firearms ViolationsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that ARCHIE MORRIS, age 40, of New Orleans, was charged Friday, September 21, 2018 with arson, possession of unregistered destructive devices, and possession of a destructive device during and in relation to a crime of violence.
According to the indictment, on or about April 2, 2018 MORRIS started fires at 2260 North Prieur Street, New Orleans, Louisiana, at two different times of the day. These fires were started using Molotov cocktails, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 844(i), 924(c)(1)(A), and 924(c)(1)(B)(ii); and Title 26, United States Code, Sections 5841 and 5861(d). The indictment further alleges that, on or about April 7, 2018, MORRIS started three additional fires at 2260 North Prieur Street, New Orleans, Louisiana, at different times of the day, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 844(i).
U. S. Attorney Strasser reiterated that an Indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
If convicted, MORRIS faces, as to Counts One, Three, Six, Seven and Eight of the Indictment, a minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum of twenty years, a fine of $250,000, three years of supervised release after imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment, per count. As to Counts Two and Four of the Indictment, the defendant faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten years, a fine of $10,000, three years of supervised release after imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment, per count. As to Count Five, the defendant faces a minimum term of imprisonment of thirty years and a maximum term of life, a fine of $250,000, five years supervised release after imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment.
U. S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the New Orleans Fire Department, and the New Orleans Police Department in investigating this matter. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Maria M. Carboni.
* * *
New Hampshire Man Sentenced to Three Years of Probation for Social Security FraudRead the Press Release
Portland, Maine: United States Attorney Halsey B. Frank announced that James Robinson, 60, of Concord, New Hampshire, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court by Senior Judge George Z. Singal to three years of probation for Social Security fraud. Robinson was also ordered to pay $45,473 in restitution to the Social Security Administration (SSA). As a condition of probation, Robinson is required to sell property that he owns in Cornish, Maine, with the proceeds to go toward restitution. On March 27, Robinson was found guilty following a two-day jury trial.
Evidence at trial revealed that Robinson received Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, which are paid to people with limited income who are blind, disabled or elderly. Between 2008 and 2013, Robinson falsely represented to the SSA that he was living alone in Cornish, and was not receiving help or money from any person. In fact, he was living in Concord with his wife who was providing him with financial assistance. Had Robinson been truthful, he would have been ineligible for SSI benefits. In 2015, Robinson also gave false statements to an SSA Special Agent investigating the matter.
The investigation was conducted by the SSA, Office of the Inspector General, and the Maine Department of Health & Human Services, Fraud Investigation & Recovery Unit.
Navajo Man from Socorro County Pleads Guilty to Federal Assault ChargeRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Zane Vicente, 26, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation who resides in Magdalena, N.M., pled guilty today in federal court in Albuquerque, N.M., to an assault charge. Vicente’s plea agreement recommends that he be sentenced within the range of 24 to 30 months in prison followed by a term of supervised release to be determined by the court.
Vicente was arrested on Sept. 29, 2017, on a criminal complaint charging him with stabbing a Navajo man with a knife. Vicente subsequently was indicted on Oct. 24, 2017, and was charged with assault resulting in serious bodily injury on July 29, 2017, on the Navajo Indian Reservation in Socorro County, N.M.
During today’s proceedings, Vicente pled guilty to the indictment, and admitted that on July 29, 2017, he stabbed the victim in the torso with a knife. Vicente acknowledged that the victim underwent surgery to repair a hernia to his diaphragm and other injuries caused by the stab wound he inflicted.
Vicente has been in custody since Jan. 2018, and will remain detained pending a sentencing hearing, which has yet to be scheduled.
This case was investigated by the Navajo Nation Division of Public Safety and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael D. Murphy.
Mission Man Sentenced for Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Felon in Possession of a Firearm was sentenced on September 17, 2018, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Carlos Eddie Charging Elk, age 26, was sentenced to 16 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, forfeiture of the firearm, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Charging Elk was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 14, 2018. He pled guilty on June 27, 2018.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on December 19, 2017, when the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services responded to a report of an individual in Mission, acting erratically and holding a firearm. Charging Elk had previously been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, making it illegal for him to possess firearms.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Charging Elk was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Man Charged with Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a ChildRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Child, Sexual Abuse, and Abusive Sexual Contact with a Child.
Elliot Brave, a/k/a Elliot Ladeaux, age 38, was indicted on September 11, 2018. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on September 18, 2018, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 5 years up to life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund for each count. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between December 1, 2017, and January 14, 2018, Brave knowingly engaged in, and attempted to engage in, sexual acts with a minor male and multiple minor females.
The charges are merely accusations and Brave is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
Brave was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Mexican National Charged with Murder Aboard Fishing Vessel 55 Miles off Massachusetts CoastRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Mexican national was arrested and charged today in federal court in Boston in connection with the murder of an individual aboard a fishing vessel off the coast of Massachusetts.
Franklin Freddy Meave Vazquez, 27, was charged with one count of murder within the special maritime and territorial jurisdiction of the United States, and one count of attempted murder within the special maritime and territorial jurisdiction of the United States. He will appear in federal court in Boston at a time to be determined.
According to the charging document, on Sept. 23, 2018, the fishing vessel, Captain Billy Haver, was sailing approximately 55 miles off the coast of Massachusetts with seven crew members aboard, including Vazquez. It is alleged that at some point in the afternoon, Vazquez assaulted another crew member on board with a hammer in one hand and a knife in the other. The victim then saw that another crewmember was lying on the deck bleeding. Vazquez then struck a third crew member. It is further alleged that Vazquez then climbed up the mast of the ship as the others onboard tried to capture him.
It is alleged that the captain of the ship placed a call on the distress channel, to which a German cruise ship, the Mein Schiff 6, responded. Two of the wounded were taken aboard the cruise ship, where one victim was pronounced dead by the ship’s doctor.
According to court documents, Vazquez is illegally present in the United States. On March 9, 2018, he was arrested in Newport News, Va., for abduction by force, intimidation, or deception, and released on bond.
The charge of murder provides for a sentence of up to life in prison, five years of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000. The charge of attempted murder provides for a sentence of no greater than 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000. Vazquez will be subject to deportation proceedings upon completion of any sentence imposed. 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; Richard D. Cox, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S Coast Guard Investigative Services Northeast Region; Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division; and Peter C. Fitzhugh, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christine Wichers of Lelling’s Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Massachusetts Man Sentenced for Receiving Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Joe Kelly announced today that Michael Correia, 30, of New Bedford, Massachusetts, was sentenced in federal court in Omaha for receiving child pornography. Chief Judge Laurie Smith Camp sentenced Correia to 66 months of imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After his release from prison, Correia will serve a five-year term of supervised release and will be required to register as a sex offender.
On August 10 and August 19, 2016 agents with the FBI Cyber Crimes Task Force noticed an IP address sharing child pornography associated with a building in which Correia was a tenant. They observed a file depicting an 8-year-old girl being sexually assaulted. A federal search warrant was served on Correia’s residence on February 23, 2017. A single video of child pornography was found on a device in the apartment. Other forensics determined that the device had been used to view other images and videos of child pornography.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
This case was investigated by the Omaha FBI's Cyber Crime Task Force (CCTF).
Mason County Woman Pleads Guilty to Theft of Veterans BenefitsRead the Press Release
Defendant fraudulently spent over 34,000 dollars
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Brandi Moore entered a guilty plea to theft of federal benefits, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Moore, 38, of Gallipolis Ferry, Mason County, West Virginia faces up to 10 years of incarceration, a 250,000 dollar fine, three years of supervised release and a 100 dollar special assessment when she is scheduled to be sentenced on January 22, 2019. She will also be required to pay restitution back to the United States Treasury. United States Attorney Mike Stuart praised the work of the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
“Despicable. Stealing veterans benefits,” United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Our veterans have served our country honorably, made tremendous sacrifices and deserve every possible benefit. Those who steal veterans benefits must be prosecuted.”
Moore had a family member who was a United States Military Veteran. This veteran died on November 9, 2011. Moore did not report his death, and the veterans benefits continued to accrue in the designated bank account. Moore knew she was not entitled to receive or otherwise spend this family member’s money. From November 2011 through April 2013, Moore accessed the veteran’s bank account and began withdrawing money on 191 separate occasions. Primarily, Moore used an ATM card to make withdrawals, though she also admitted forging a name on at least one check constituting an endorsement. The total amount of loss to the United States Treasury was 34,393 dollars. On April 4, 2017, Moore gave a detailed statement to federal investigators admitting that she withdrew the veterans benefits using an ATM card and was not otherwise entitled to the money. She also admitted to the agents that she forged an endorsement on a check associated with the VA account.
Assistant United States Attorney Erik S. Goes and former Assistant United States Attorney Eric Bacaj handled the prosecution. Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearing.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
###
Maryland Man Pleads Guilty to Armed Carjacking in Morning Rush Hour in Northeast WashingtonRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Kevin Hammond, 26, of Suitland, Md., pled guilty today to charges stemming from an armed carjacking in the Ivy City neighborhood of Northeast Washington in which he pistol-whipped the victim so violently that the gun broke into two pieces. He then fled from police before being captured a short time later at a construction site.
The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Jessie K. Liu, Special Agent in Charge Rob Cekada of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Baltimore Field Division, Peter Newsham, Chief of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), and Henry P. Stawinski III, Chief of the Prince George’s County, Md. Police Department.
Hammond pled guilty in the U.S. District Court of the District of Columbia to one count of federal carjacking, one count of the federal offense of brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence, and one count of the federal offense of interstate transportation of a stolen motor vehicle. He also pled guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon, and leaving the scene of an accident with personal injury, both District of Columbia offenses. Under federal sentencing guidelines, the charges carry an estimated 16 to 18 years in prison. Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date before the Honorable James E. Boasberg.
According to the government’s evidence, at about 6 a.m. on Monday, Aug. 14, 2017, Hammond brandished a firearm and stole a van from a handyman who was getting ready for work in New Carrollton, in Prince George’s County, Md. Hammond then drove the van into Washington, D.C. and to the Ivy City neighborhood of Northeast Washington.
The van was equipped with a GPS system, and officers with the Prince George’s County Police Department and MPD were able to track and locate the vehicle. At about 7 a.m., as officers tried to stop the stolen vehicle that Hammond was driving, he fled the van and ran, jumping over a fence and running down an alleyway. Hammond then encountered another man in the 1900 block of Fairview Street NE who was parking his car to go to work. Hammond brandished a firearm to carjack this man’s vehicle. After grabbing the keys, Hammond pistol-whipped the man, striking him repeatedly in the face and head with the firearm, until the gun broke into two pieces. He then drove the stolen car down New York Avenue NE in rush-hour traffic with the police in pursuit; finally, he crashed into another car and fled on foot. Hammond was apprehended a short distance away, hiding in a construction site near Fourth Street and New York Avenue NE. He has remained in custody since his arrest.
Hammond still faces charges in Prince George’s County, and he is presumed innocent of those charges until, and unless, proven guilty.
In announcing the plea, U.S. Attorney Liu, Special Agent in Charge Cekada, Chief Newsham, and Chief Stawinski commended the work of the detectives and patrol officers of the Metropolitan Police Department’s Fifth District, the officers of the Prince George’s County Police Department, the crime scene officers from the District of Columbia Department of Forensic Sciences, and agents and DNA lab personnel from the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. They also expressed appreciation to those who worked on the case from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, including Assistant U.S. Attorney Monica Trigoso, Paralegal Specialist Jeannette Litz, Victim/Witness Advocate Yvonne Bryant, and Victim/Witness Services Coordinator Tonya Jones. Finally, they commended the work of Assistant U.S. Attorneys Dineen A. Baker and Anthony Scarpelli, who investigated and prosecuted the case.
Mail Carrier Charged with Accepting Bribes to Deliver Parcels Containing Drugs and Conspiring to Defraud the United StatesRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A U.S. Postal Service (USPS) mail carrier was indicted today on charges that he accepted cash bribes in return for intercepting and delivering parcels containing illegal narcotics and conspiring to defraud the United States, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.
Fred Rivers, 46, of Newark, was charged by indictment with receiving bribes as a public official and conspiracy to defraud the United States by interfering with and obstructing the lawful function of the USPS. Rivers will be arraigned at a later date.
According to documents filed in this case:
Rivers was a mail carrier at the USPS Springfield Station in Newark. From October 2016 through September 2017, Rivers accepted cash bribes from Glenn Blackstone, who received parcels containing illegal narcotics through the mail. While on duty, Rivers intercepted these parcels and personally delivered them to Blackstone at locations in Newark, not to the recipient address noted on the parcels. Rivers received cash payments of approximately $100 from Blackstone for each delivery.
Rivers began delivering the intercepted parcels to Blackstone in exchange for cash after another mail carrier, Leonard Gresham, asked Rivers to make the deliveries when Gresham was unavailable to do so.
Gresham pleaded guilty to his role in the scheme on Feb. 13, 2018. Blackstone pleaded guilty to his role in the scheme on April 17, 2018. They are both awaiting sentencing.
The bribery charge is punishable by a maximum potential penalty of 15 years in prison. The conspiracy charge carries a maximum potential penalty of five years in prison. Both charges carry a maximum fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain from the offense.
U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited special agents with the USPS Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Matthew Modafferi, Northeast Area Field Office, and inspectors of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, under the direction of Inspector in Charge James Buthorn, with the investigation leading to today’s indictment.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jihee G. Suh of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Special Prosecutions Division in Newark.
Defense counsel: Paulette Pitt Esq., Woodbridge, New Jersey
Local Doctor Faces Additional Charges for Illegally Dispensing Controlled Substances by Prescriptions, Money Laundering, Structuring, and Obstruction of JusticeRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced Friday, September 21, 2018 the unsealing of a second superseding indictment against WAYNE JEROME CELESTINE, age 57, a physician who practiced in Gretna, Louisiana and resided in the New Orleans area. The second superseding indictment contains charges of distribution of controlled substances, structuring bank funds, obstruction of justice, and offenses of money laundering involving a substantial sum of cash.
According to court records, DR. CELESTINE illegally dispensed and conspired with others to illegally dispense controlled substances, including oxycodone, oxycodone/acetaminophen, oxycontin HCL, oxymorphone HCL, hydromorphone, opana, fentanyl, suboxone, and morphine sulfate, a Schedule II drug controlled substances; hydrocodone/acetaminophen, a Schedule III drug controlled substance until October 6, 2014, thereafter, a Schedule II drug controlled substance; and alprazolam, diazepam, and carisoprodol, Schedule IV drug controlled substances.
CELESTINE is detained pending trial.
If convicted of the original charge (Count 1), CELESTINE will face a maximum of not more than 20 years in prison on the drug dispensing conspiracy charge, pursuant to Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 846. CELESTINE will also be subject to a fine of not more than one million dollars and a minimum term of supervised release of three years, following any term of imprisonment.
If convicted on the dispensing charges in Counts 2-5, CELESTINE faces not more than 20 years in prison, a one million dollar fine, and three years of supervised release. On the money laundering conspiracy charge, (Count 6), he faces not more than 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. On the structuring charge (Count 7), he faces 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. On the two obstruction charges (Counts 8 and 9), he faces 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine per count.
U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Special Agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, Harahan Police Department, Westwego Police Department, Louisiana State Police, St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office, New Orleans Police Department, and New Orleans District Attorney’s Office in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney John F. Murphy is in charge of the prosecution.
Knoxville Resident Sentenced to Ten Years in Federal Prison for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – On September 24, 2018, Dean Alan Treadway, 71, of Knoxville, Tennessee, was sentenced by the Honorable Leon Jordan, Senior U.S. District Judge, to serve 120 months in prison for possessing child pornography. Upon his release from prison, Treadway will be supervised by U.S. Probation for life and be required to register as a sex offender. He will also forfeit property used to commit the offense.
Treadway pleaded guilty in February 2018 to possession of child pornography. According to documents on file with the U.S. District Court, an investigator with the Knoxville Police Department Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC) received a lead from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) indicating that Treadway was involved in the exchange of child pornography. During the course of the investigation, ICAC Investigators learned that Treadway was a registered sex offender due to a 2006 conviction of possession of child pornography in United States District Court, Eastern District of Tennessee. The ICAC executed a federal search warrant at Treadway's residence, which led to the discovery of multiple computers and electronic devices that were later determined to contain images and videos of child pornography.
This investigation was conducted by the Knoxville Police Department ICAC in conjunction with the FBI, Knoxville Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Bart Slabbekorn represented the United States in court proceedings.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, PSC marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about PSC, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
###
Kewa Pueblo Man Sentenced to 18 Years for Child Sexual Abuse ConvictionRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Emery Calabaza, 50, an enrolled member and resident of Kewa Pueblo, N.M., was sentenced today in federal court in Albuquerque, N.M., to 216 months in prison followed by ten years of supervised release for his conviction on an aggravated sexual abuse of a minor charge. Calabaza will be required to register as a sex offender after completing his prison sentence.
Calabaza was arrested in June 2017, on a criminal complaint charging him with sexually abusing a Kewa Pueblo child under the age of 12 years on May 30, 2017. Calabaza subsequently was indicted on June 28, 2017. The indictment charged Calabaza with sexually abusing a minor under the age of 12 years on two occasions between May 1, 2017 and June 6, 2017, on Kewa Pueblo in Sandoval County, N.M.
On April 17, 2018, Calabaza pled guilty to a felony information charging him with aggravated sexual abuse. In entering the guilty plea, Calabaza admitted that between May 1, 2017 and June 6, 2017, he sexually abused the victim, who was under the age of 16-years-old.
This case was investigated by the Southern Pueblos Agency of the BIA’s Office of Justice Services and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph M. Spindle pursuant to the Tribal Special Assistant U.S. Attorney (Tribal SAUSA) Pilot Project in the District of New Mexico which is sponsored by the Justice Department’s Office on Violence Against Women under a grant administered by the Pueblo of Laguna. The Tribal SAUSA Pilot Project seeks to train tribal prosecutors in federal law, procedure and investigative techniques to increase the likelihood that every viable violent offense against Native women is prosecuted in either federal court or tribal court, or both. The Tribal SAUSA Pilot Project was driven largely by input gathered from annual tribal consultations on violence against women, and is another step in the Justice Department's on-going efforts to increase engagement, coordination and action on public safety in tribal communities.
Iowa Sex Offender Pleads Guilty to Attempting to Produce Child PornographyRead the Press Release
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – An Ames, Iowa sex offender pleaded guilty in federal court today to child sexual exploitation charges.
John Jordan Lundberg, 31, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Willie J. Epps, Jr., to attempting to produce child pornography.
Lundberg admitted that he responded on Sept. 3, 2017, to an online advertisement that was posted by an undercover Boone County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department detective in an effort to seek out potential sexual predators. The undercover officer posed as a mother offering her 13-year-old daughter for sex. The undercover officer also posed as the 13-year-old daughter, and Lundberg communicated with the “daughter” via text messages.
Lundberg admitted that he sent the “daughter” sexually explicit photos and video of himself as well as adult and child pornography. Lundberg also admitted that he encouraged the “daughter” to send him nude photos of herself.
In an e-mail to the undercover detective, Lundberg described himself as “a fan of incest.” He claimed to have begun sexually molesting his niece when she was 8 years old, and to have had sexual intercourse with her when she was 12 years old.
Lundberg was previously convicted on Sept. 15, 2017, for enticement of a minor for indecent purposes. Lundberg, who was granted a deferred judgment and placed on probation for three years, was arrested on Oct. 10, 2016 at the Meskwaki Bingo Casino during an undercover operation when he responded to a Craigslist advertisement and arranged a sexual encounter with a (fictitious) 15-year-old female.Under federal statutes, Lundberg is subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in federal prison without parole, up to a sentence of 30 years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley S. Turner. It was investigated by the Boone County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department and the FBI.
Project Safe Childhood
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc . For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
Inland Empire Man Surrenders to Face Charges of Filing Bankruptcy Petitions after Being Order to Stop and Found in Contempt of CourtRead the Press Release
RIVERSIDE, California – An Ontario man who worked as a bankruptcy petition preparer (BPP) surrendered this morning to federal authorities to face criminal charges of lying to the United States Bankruptcy Court about his role in preparing petitions under assumed names and overcharging his clients – actions he took after repeatedly being ordered to cease his activities.
Hernan Martin Rojas, 49, who operated H.M.R. & Associates in Ontario, surrendered to special agents with the FBI after being named in an indictment returned on September 19 by a federal grand jury.
The indictment charges Rojas with four counts of making false statements in Bankruptcy Court. Rojas allegedly filed Bankruptcy petitions on behalf of clients from 2016 through this year that failed to disclose that he was the BPP. The filed documents falsely declared, under penalty of perjury, that another person had prepared the paperwork and that the clients were charged a legally permissible $200, when in fact Rojas had charged the clients substantially more, according to the indictment.
Rojas was found in contempt of court in 2013 for failing to abide by a 2012 injunction that prohibited him from acting as a BPP. As the contempt motion brought by the United States Trustee’s Office pointed out, Rojas had actually violated two prior injunctions issued by Bankruptcy Court judges.
Rojas is expected to be arraigned on the indictment this afternoon in United States District Court in Riverside.
An indictment contains allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
If convicted of the charges in the indictment, Rojas would face a statutory maximum sentence of five years in federal prison for each count.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, which received substantial assistance from the Office of the United States Trustee.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jerry C. Yang of the Riverside Branch Office.
Indictment Unsealed Against Aaron O. Leyva as Part of Last Week’s Drug OperationRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Joe Kelly announced that Aaron O. Leyva was arrested Saturday on a federal warrant. Today, the indictment against Leyva has been unsealed. Leyva is charged with twice distributing five grams or more of actual methamphetamine in March of 2018. Last week, on September 20, 2018, several law enforcement agencies arrested a dozen people in the Grand Island area on drug trafficking charges. Leyva was part of the same investigation, but he was not located until this weekend. Leyva will have his initial appearance in front of U.S. Magistrate Judge Cheryl R. Zwart in Lincoln this week.
This case was investigated by the Central Nebraska Drug and Safe Streets Task Force, which consists of the following agencies: The Grand Island Police Department, Nebraska State Patrol, Hall County Sheriff’s Office, Kearney Police Department, Buffalo County Sheriff’s Office, Hastings Police Department, Adams County Sheriff’s Office, The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Hall County Attorney’s Office, and the United States Attorney’s Office.
Howes Man Charged with Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Howes, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer.
Roderick Dupris, age 45, was indicted on September 11, 2018. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on September 14, 2018, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on May 24, 2018, Roderick did forcibly assault, resist, oppose, impede, intimidate, and interfere with a law enforcement officer, while the officer was assisting federal law enforcement officers, and said conduct involved the use of a dangerous weapon, that is a pickup.
The charge is merely an accusation and Dupris is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller is prosecuting the case.
Dupris was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Harrington Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing Heroin and CrackRead the Press Release
Bangor, Maine: United States Attorney Halsey B. Frank announced that Owen Fickett, 31, of Harrington, Maine, pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court to possession with the intent to distribute heroin and cocaine base, commonly known as “crack.”
According to court records, on March 6, 2018, a Maine State Police Trooper stopped a vehicle in which Fickett was a passenger. During a roadside investigation, the trooper discovered that Fickett was in possession of heroin, crack and about $1,200. Fickett later admitted that he had been selling heroin and crack.
The defendant faces up to 20 years in prison, three years supervised release, and a $1,000,000 fine. He will be sentenced after the completion of a presentence investigation report by the U.S. Probation Office.
The case was investigated by the Maine State Police and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice’s Strategy to Combat the Opioid Epidemic.
Groveton Woman Pleads Guilty to Participating in Fentanyl Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
CONCORD – Meredith Willey, 38, of Groveton, New Hampshire, pleaded guilty in federal court to participating in a fentanyl trafficking conspiracy, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, as a result of an on-going drug trafficking investigation, agents and task force officers with the Drug Enforcement Administration learned that on March 1, 2018, an individual intended to travel from New Hampshire to a location in Lawrence, Massachusetts to purchase 250 grams of a controlled substance. Agents conducted surveillance in the area of the transaction and observed a known drug trafficker get in the back seat of the car and exit a few minutes later. The vehicle left Massachusetts and agents followed it directly to New Hampshire.
The agents informed a New Hampshire State Trooper patrolling Interstate Route 93 about their surveillance observations. The trooper stopped the vehicle for traffic violations. Willey was a passenger in the vehicle. Willey subsequently admitted that she and the driver went to Lawrence to buy “dope.” Willey consented to a search of the car and signed a consent to search form. The troopers found a hidden compartment containing approximately 240 grams of fentanyl. Willey admitted that she and the driver purchased fentanyl in Lawrence and resold the drug in New Hampshire.
Willey is scheduled to be sentenced on January 3, 2019.
“Fentanyl continues to pose a significant threat to our state,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “We are committed to stopping the flow of fentanyl into New Hampshire. Drug traffickers should understand that the law enforcement community is working hard each day to identify and prosecute those who are responsible for distributing this deadly drug in the Granite State.”
The case was a collaborative investigation that involved the DEA; the New Hampshire State Police; the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office; the Nashua Police Department; the Massachusetts State Police; the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office; the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Office; the Essex County District Attorney’s Office; the Internal Revenue Service; Immigration and
Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations; United States Customs and Border Protection Boston Field Office; the United States Marshals Service; the United States Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service; the Manchester Police Department; the Lisbon Police Department; the Littleton Police Department; the Seabrook Police Department; the Haverhill (MA) Police Department; the Methuen (MA) Police Department; the Lowell (MA) Police Department; and the Maine State Police.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Georgiana L. Konesky, Seth R. Aframe and Debra M. Walsh.
This case was supported by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). The OCDETF program is a federal multi-agency, multi-jurisdictional task force that supplies supplemental federal funding to federal and state agencies involved in the identification, investigation, and prosecution of major drug trafficking organizations.
###
Greenwood Man Sentenced to 100 Months for Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Sherri A. Lydon stated today that Tramain R. Anderson, age 28, of Greenwood, was sentenced to 100 months in prison after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g). United States District Judge Bruce Howe Hendricks, of Charleston, sentenced Anderson and imposed a three-year term of supervised release.
Evidence presented at the change of plea hearing established that on July 12, 2017, the Greenwood City Police Department received a report that a young woman was possibly being abused at a local motel. Officers went to Room 207, knocked, and encountered Anderson. Police smelled marijuana and Anderson admitted that he had just smoked a joint. The drug evidence gave police probable cause to search the room. Upon entering the room, they located a young female occupant who said she was being held against her will and that she had been beaten by Anderson. She explained that Anderson had a gun and that it was in Anderson’s personal bag sitting on the bed. In the bag, the officers found a Taurus .38 caliber revolver that was fully loaded.
In consultation with local authorities, the U.S. Attorney’s Office agreed to prosecute Anderson for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
The case was investigated by agents of the Greenwood City Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Bill Watkins of the Greenville office handled the case.
This case is part of a joint federal, state and local Project CeaseFire initiative, which aggressively prosecutes firearm cases. Project CeaseFire is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority. In October 2017, as part of a series of actions to address this crime trend, Attorney General Sessions announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop a district crime reduction strategy that incorporates the lessons learned since PSN launched in 2001.
#####
Garland Man Sentenced to 1½ Years for Failing to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
Bangor, Maine: United States Attorney Halsey B. Frank announced that Roger Edward Picard, 66, of Garland, Maine was sentenced today in U.S. District Court by Judge Jon D. Levy to 1½ years in prison and five years of supervised release for failing to register as a sex offender. Picard pled guilty on May 17.
According to court records, in 1983, Picard was convicted in Massachusetts of Rape of a Child, by force and beating. As a result, he was required to register as a sex offender. He did so in Hawaii on April 2, 2015 and acknowledged that he had to register if he moved to another state. On or before December 3, 2016, Picard moved to Garland but failed to register as required. He was arrested on March 1, 2018.
Prior to imposing the sentence, Judge Levy noted that the purpose of sex offender registration is to protect the public and children, in particular, from sex offenders and that the defendant’s failure to register frustrated the purpose of the act and deprived those in his community of the fact that he had a history as a sex offender.
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service.
Former United States Geological Survey Contract Specialist Sentenced for Theft of Government FundsRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss – Matthew Wathen, 49, of Michigan, was sentenced today by United States District Judge Louis Guirola, Jr. to five years probation for theft of government funds, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Michael Graziano, with the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI), Office of Inspector General (OIG). The Court ordered Wathen to pay restitution in the amount of $26,350.
Wathen, a former Contract Specialist for the DOI’s United States Geological Survey, embezzled approximately $29,092 through unauthorized personal use of his government charge card, including weekly lodging, monthly rental cars, dining, gasoline, vacations, and other expenses.
The case was investigated by the DOI-OIG Eastern Investigations and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shundral H. Cole.
Former Porter County Officer Charged with Wire FraudRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – Lawrence W. LaFlower, 42 years old, of Valparaiso, Indiana, has been charged with one count of wire fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
US Attorney Kirsch said, "Public officials who abuse their positions for personal financial gain will not be tolerated. My Office, with our law enforcement partners, will continue to pursue those who corrupt their office for self-serving motives."
According to court documents, between April 2013 and April 2018, LaFlower used his position as the treasurer of the Fraternal Order of Police Ewalt Jahnz Lodge #165’s to embezzle over $180,000 from its investment and bank accounts. The FOP is a fraternal organization in Porter County, Indiana, whose mission is to improve working conditions for law enforcement officers and serve the public by raising money for scholarships and other programs.
LaFlower has entered into a plea agreement with the government and is expected to formally enter his plea of guilty in court later this week.
The United States Attorney's Office emphasized that an Information is merely an allegation and that all persons charged are presumed innocent until, and unless, proven guilty in court.
If convicted in court, any specific sentence to be imposed will be determined by the judge after a consideration of federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
This case was investigated by the FBI and Indiana State Police and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Abizer Zanzi.
###
Former Owner of Marble Mining Company in Afghanistan Convicted for Defrauding U.S. government Agency and Defaulting on a $15.8 Million LoanRead the Press Release
The former owner of a now-defunct marble mining company in Afghanistan was found guilty today by a federal jury for his role in defrauding the Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC), a U.S. government agency, and defaulting on a $15.8 million loan.
Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR) John F. Sopko and Assistant Director in Charge Nancy McNamara of the FBI’s Washington Field Office made the announcement.
After a seven-day trial, Azam Doost, aka “Adam Doost,” “Mohammad Azam Doost” and “Mohammad Azim” (Doost), 40, most recently of Freemont, California, was found guilty of three counts of major fraud against the United States, eight counts of wire fraud, four counts of false statements on loan applications or extensions and five counts of money laundering. Doost is scheduled to be sentenced on Dec. 14 by U.S. District Judge Amit P. Mehta of the District of Columbia, who presided over the trial.
The evidence admitted at trial showed that in February 2010, while working at his company, Equity Capital Mining LLC, Doost, along with his brother, obtained a $15.8 million loan from OPIC for the development, maintenance and operation of a marble mine in western Afghanistan. The loan proceeds were paid directly from OPIC to the alleged vendors who provided equipment for the mine, as reported to OPIC by Doost or his consultant. Doost was required to deal with these companies in arms-length transactions or, to the extent any transactions were other than at arms-length, he was required to report to OPIC any affiliation he had with a vendor. Instead, Doost falsely informed OPIC that he had no affiliation with any of the vendors with whom he dealt, when in fact he had financial relationships with several of them. The evidence further showed that Doost’s business partner was listed on the bank accounts for a number of these vendors and, upon receipt of money from OPIC into the respective accounts, significant amounts of this money were then transferred from that respective account to companies and individuals with whom Doost was associated, or to pay debts Doost owed. For example, Doost’s consultant received a commission of $444,000 for his purported consulting services with the first of three disbursements from OPIC, yet $40,000 was transferred from the consultant’s account to a Doost company in California.
The evidence at trial further showed that when the time came for Equity Capital Mining LLC to repay the loan to OPIC, Doost provided purported reasons to OPIC why it was not able to make those repayments at a time when Doost had control of sufficient funds to make those repayments. Ultimately, Doost and his brother failed to repay any of the principal on the OPIC loan, paying only a limited amount of interest, and ultimately defaulted on the loan, the evidence showed.
SIGAR, with assistance from the FBI, investigated the case. The Criminal Division’s Office of International Affairs also provided important assistance in this case. Trial Attorneys Daniel Butler and Michael McCarthy of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case.
Former Omaha Tribal Council Members and Employees SentencedRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Joe Kelly announced today that former Omaha Tribal Council members Rodney Morris, (age 64), Forrest Aldrich (age 68) and Tillie Aldrich (age 49), and former Omaha Tribe employees Jessica Webster (age 48) and Barbara Freemont (age 66) were sentenced by United States District Court Judge Robert F. Rossiter, Jr., for their convictions of one count of conversion and misapplication of funds of a health care benefit program in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 669. Each of these defendants were sentenced to five years of probation and were ordered to perform 200 hours of community service. In addition, these defendants were to pay restitution in the amount they each received. Rodney Morris, Forrest Aldrich and Tille Aldrich were ordered to pay $13,404.44 apiece while Barbara Freemont and Jessica Webster were ordered to pay $89,000 apiece.
According to the Indictment and Plea Agreements, the Omaha Tribe of Nebraska had filed Contract Disputes Act claims against the Indian Health Service (IHS), an agency of the United States Department of Health and Human Services. These claims were filed in 2005 and 2012, and concerned unpaid contract support costs covering the period of 1995-2011. The total amount of the claims was approximately $8.9 million. The Indictment alleges that the defendants converted and misapplied funds of a health care benefit program by paying and causing to be paid bonuses or incentives to themselves and several other tribal employees on account of the claim filings. These bonuses or incentives were paid in October of 2012 even though the claims against the Indian Health Service were not resolved and paid until late 2015. Funds used to pay the bonuses came from carryover funds from the fiscal year 2012 contract with IHS. These funds were supposed to be used for providing health care to members of the Omaha Tribe of Nebraska through the Carl T. Curtis Health Education Center.
Four other former tribal council members have pleaded guilty and will be sentenced later in October. These council members are Amen Sheridan, Doran Morris, Jr., Mitchell Parker, and Jeff Miller.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Office of Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services.
Former Non-Profit President Charged with Scheme to Conceal Foreign Funding of 2013 Congressional TripRead the Press Release
The former president of a Texas-based non-profit has been charged in an indictment unsealed today for his role in a scheme to conceal the fact that a 2013 Congressional trip to Azerbaijan was funded by the Azerbaijan government.
Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Jessie K. Liu for the District of Columbia, and Assistant Director in Charge Nancy McNamara of the FBI’s Washington Field Office made the announcement.
Kemal Oksuz, aka Kevin Oksuz, 48, previously a resident of Arlington, Virginia, allegedly lied on disclosure forms filed with the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Ethics prior to, and following, a privately sponsored Congressional trip to Azerbaijan. According to the indictment, Oksuz allegedly falsely represented and certified on required disclosure forms that the Turquoise Council of Americans and Eurasions (TCAE), the Houston non-profit for which Oksuz was president, had not accepted funding for the Congressional trip from any outside sources. According to the charges, Oksuz in truth orchestrated a scheme to funnel money to fund the trip from the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan Republic (SOCAR), the wholly state-owned national oil and gas company of Azerbaijan, and allegedly concealed the true source of funding, which is alleged to violate House travel regulations.
The five-count indictment was returned earlier this year in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia and ordered unsealed today. It charges Oksuz with one count of devising a scheme to falsify, conceal, and cover up material facts from the Ethics Committee and four counts of making false statements to Congress.
Oksuz is considered a fugitive. A warrant for his arrest was issued earlier this year and remains outstanding. Oksuz was recently detained by authorities in Armenia.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI. The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorney Marco Palmieri of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney David Misler of the District of Columbia.
An indictment contains only allegations. A defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Former Non-Profit President Charged with Scheme to Conceal Foreign Funding of 2013 Congressional TripRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – The former president of a Texas-based non-profit has been charged in an indictment unsealed today for his role in a scheme to conceal the fact that a 2013 Congressional trip to Azerbaijan was funded by the Azerbaijan government.
Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Jessie K. Liu for the District of Columbia, and Assistant Director in Charge Nancy McNamara of the FBI’s Washington Field Office made the announcement.
Kemal Oksuz, aka Kevin Oksuz, 48, previously a resident of Arlington, Virginia, allegedly lied on disclosure forms filed with the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Ethics prior to, and following, a privately sponsored Congressional trip to Azerbaijan. According to the indictment, Oksuz allegedly falsely represented and certified on required disclosure forms that the Turquoise Council of Americans and Eurasions (TCAE), the Houston non-profit for which Oksuz was president, had not accepted funding for the Congressional trip from any outside sources. According to the charges, Oksuz in truth orchestrated a scheme to funnel money to fund the trip from the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan Republic (SOCAR), the wholly state-owned national oil and gas company of Azerbaijan, and allegedly concealed the true source of funding, which is alleged to violate House travel regulations.
The five-count indictment was returned earlier this year in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia and ordered unsealed today. It charges Oksuz with one count of devising a scheme to falsify, conceal, and cover up material facts from the Ethics Committee and four counts of making false statements to Congress.
Oksuz is considered a fugitive. A warrant for his arrest was issued earlier this year and remains outstanding. Oksuz was recently detained by authorities in Armenia.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI. The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorney Marco Palmieri of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney David Misler of the District of Columbia.
An indictment contains only allegations. A defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Former Dubuque Man Sentenced to over Twelve Years in Prison for Receiving and Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
A man who received and possessed child pornography was sentenced on September 20, 2018, to over 12 years in federal prison.
Christopher Scruggs, age 50, formerly from Dubuque, Iowa, received the sentence after an April 2, 2018, guilty plea to one count of receipt of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography. At the plea hearing, Scruggs admitted that, between 2009 and 2014, he received and possessed child pornography.
Scruggs was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by Chief United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand. Scruggs was sentenced to 151 months’ imprisonment. A special assessment of $200 was imposed, and he was ordered to make $21,500 in restitution, with most of this restitution going to several victims depicted in images he possessed. Scruggs must also serve a five-year term of supervised release, and he must comply with all sex offender registration and public notification requirements.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mark Tremmel and was investigated by the Dubuque County Sheriff’s Office, the Scott County Sheriff’s Office, the Davenport Police Department, the Dubuque Police Department, and the Clinton County Sheriff’s Office.
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.
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is CR 17-1048.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Former Callaway County Collector Pleads Guilty to Stealing Nearly $300,000Read the Press Release
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – The former Callaway County Collector pleaded guilty in federal court today to embezzling nearly $300,000 from Callaway County taxpayers.
“On more than 100 occasions, this public official stole directly from the people she was elected to represent,” said U.S. Attorney Tim Garrison. “She will be held accountable for violating the public trust and abusing her position. The government will seek a significant prison sentence and repayment of what was stolen from the taxpayers of Callaway County.”
Pamela J. Oestreich, 59, of Fulton, Mo., waived her right to a grand jury and pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Willie J. Epps, Jr., to a federal information that charges her with one count of stealing from an organization that receives federal funds.
“As Sheriff of Callaway County, I express my sincere gratitude to the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their prompt, professional, and expert assistance,” said Callaway County Sheriff Clay Chism. “Although this investigation could have been conducted on the local level, many factors made it apparent the case should be investigated by a federal agency for prosecution in the federal court system. Of most relevance, myself and Callaway County Prosecuting Attorney Christopher D. Wilson believed it paramount the citizens of Callaway County be assured this matter was handled without the slightest hint of some impropriety. Throughout the investigation, I remained in contact with the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to ensure myself, and all other local Callaway County officials, provided any needed assistance.”
Oestreich was elected as the Callaway County Collector in November 2002. By pleading guilty today, Oestreich admitted that she disbursed taxpayer funds for her personal use on 103 occasions beginning in September 2015. Oestreich deposited taxpayer funds directly into her personal bank account. Oestreich also moved taxpayer funds between Callaway County bank accounts to conceal her theft of cash deposits made by taxpayers at the Callaway County Courthouse. The total amount embezzled by Oestreich from Callaway County taxpayers was $299,387.
Oestreich resigned from her office on March 15, 2018, when confronted by the Callaway County Sheriff and FBI agents.
Under the terms of today’s plea agreement, the government and Oestreich have agreed that she will face an advisory sentencing guidelines range of 41 to 51 months of imprisonment in the Federal Bureau of Prisons. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.
Oestreich’s sentence will include mandatory restitution of the stolen funds. During the course of her theft of public money, Oestreich made payments totaling $19,430 from her personal bank account into Callaway County Collector accounts to hide her theft. Consequently, the amount of restitution due and owing to Callaway County as a result of her criminal conduct is $279,957.
This case is being prosecuted by Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael S. Oliver. It was investigated by the Callaway County Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Former CFO Pleads Guilty in Multi-Million Dollar Embezzlement and Laundering SchemeRead the Press Release
BOSTON – The former chief financial officer (CFO) of two Boston-area companies pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston for embezzling millions of dollars from his former employers.
Edward J. Abell III, 45, of Gloucester, pleaded guilty to five counts of wire fraud and three counts of money laundering. U.S. District Court Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton scheduled sentencing for Jan. 4, 2019. Abell was indicted on the charges in October 2017.
Abell served as vice president of finance and later CFO of a global integrated marketing agency based in Boston. In that capacity, Abell oversaw all aspects of the company’s finances and controlled all corporate bank accounts. Between 2006 and his departure in 2016, Abell embezzled over $3.8 million from his employer by writing company checks to Pinehurst Tax Associates – a firm Abell owned. However, Pinehurst did not provide any services to Abell’s employer. Rather, Abell used Pinehurst as a shell company through which he channeled embezzled funds to personal bank accounts.
In order to avoid detection, Abell created fake profiles for Pinehurst within his employer’s internal vendor database and attributed all the fraudulent payments to Pinehurst as “Professional Services” in the financial accounting system. Abell also filed false personal tax returns with the IRS, which failed to report the millions he obtained through Pinehurst.
In late 2016, after he was terminated from the marketing and public relations firm, Abell was hired as CFO of a Boston-based consulting and investment banking firm, where he continued his scheme and embezzled over $140,000.
Abell laundered the proceeds of his crimes by moving the funds through different personal accounts and by purchasing property and other luxury assets. Previously, the government obtained seizure warrants for several of Abell’s assets acquired with fraudulent proceeds. As part of the operation, federal agents seized a property in Fryeburg, Maine, a 2015 Porsche Macan S, a 2015 Ford F-350 Super Duty, and an E*TRADE brokerage account all owned by Abell or held in his name.
The charge of wire fraud provides for a sentence of no greater than 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000, or twice the gross gain or loss. The maximum sentence of one of the money laundering charges is 20 years in prison, three years supervised release, and a fine of $500,000, or twice the value of the property involved in the transaction. The remaining money laundering charges provide for a sentence of no greater than 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000, or twice the value of the criminally derived property. 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; Joseph W. Cronin, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Boston Field Division; and Kristina O’Connell, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigations in Boston, made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordi de Llano, Deputy Chief of Lelling’s Economic Crimes Unit, is prosecuting the case.
Former Bandidos National Vice President Sentenced to Life in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
In San Antonio today, a federal judge sentenced 59–year-old Bandidos Outlaw Motorcycle Organization National Vice President John Xavier Portillo to two consecutive life sentences, plus twenty years, in federal prison for racketeering and drug trafficking charges.
That announcement was made today by United States Attorney John F. Bash, Western District of Texas; Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Special Agent in Charge Will Glaspy, Houston Division; Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Christopher Combs, San Antonio Division; Texas Department of Public Safety Director Steven McCraw; Austin Police Chief Brian Manley; San Antonio Police Chief William McManus; and Atascosa County Sheriff David A. Soward
In addition to the prison terms, Senior U.S. District Judge David A. Ezra ordered that Portillo forfeit to the Government his motorcycle, three firearms and $17,827.20 seized from a search of his residence in 2016.
“As I have said before, this prosecution shows that the Department of Justice has the tools to strip away a veneer of legitimate activity to expose and punish underlying criminal conduct. Others—and not only those involved in violent activity—should take note,” stated United States Attorney John F. Bash.
On May 17, 2018, after a nearly three-month trial, jurors convicted Portillo and National Bandidos President Jeffrey Fay Pike, age 63 of Conroe, TX, of (count 1) conspiracy to violate the Racketeering Influenced Corrupt Organization (RICO) statute; (count 3) murder in aid of racketeering; (count 4) conspiracy to commit murder in aid of racketeering; (count 5) one count of conspiracy to commit assault with a dangerous weapon in aid of racketeering; (counts 6 and 7) aiding and abetting assault with a dangerous weapon in aid of racketeering; (count 9) discharging a firearm during a violent crime; and, (count 12) interference with commerce by threats and violence. Jurors also convicted Portillo of (count 2) murder in aid of racketeering; (count 8) discharging a firearm during a crime of violence; (count 10) conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine and cocaine; (count 11) possession with intent to distribute cocaine; and, (count 13) felon in possession of a firearm.
Jurors found Pike and Portillo guilty of conspiring to conduct the affairs of a criminal organization through racketeering acts including directing, sanctioning, approving and permitting members of the Bandidos to commit murder, attempted murder, robbery, assault, intimidation, extortion and drug trafficking. Evidence during trial revealed that in 2006, Pike and Portillo ordered other Bandidos members to murder Anthony Benesh. At the time, Benesh was attempting to start a Texas Chapter of the Hells Angels in Austin. Members of the Bandidos warned Benesh to cease his activities and recruitment, which Benesh ignored. Several Bandidos members then murdered Benesh on March 18, 2006 outside an Austin restaurant to protect the power, reputation and territory of the Bandidos enterprise.
Jurors also found that Portillo and others killed Robert Lara in January 2002 in Atascosa County as payback for killing Bandidos member Javier Negrete. Negrete, a member of the same local Bandidos chapter as Portillo at the time, was killed outside a San Antonio bar in October 2001.
Jurors also found that Pike, Portillo and others conspired to murder and assault members and associates of the Cossacks Outlaw Motorcycle Organization (Cossacks). Testimony revealed that Portillo, with Pike’s approval, declared that the Bandidos were “at war” with the Cossacks. A number of violent acts were committed by the Bandidos around Texas in furtherance of this “war,” including in Fort Worth, Gordon, Odessa, Port Aransas, Crystal City and elsewhere.
Testimony also revealed that Portillo and other members of the Bandidos were engaged in trafficking methamphetamine and cocaine and maintained an agreement with the Texas Mexican Mafia wherein Bandidos members were not required to pay the 10-percent “dime” to the Texas Mexican Mafia in exchange for permission to traffic narcotics.
“The sentencing of Bandidos National Vice President Xavier Portillo is one more step in concluding a comprehensive investigation by DEA, FBI and our law enforcement partners into the leadership structure and criminal activities of the Bandidos Outlaw Motorcycle Gang,” said Will Glaspy, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration – Houston Division. “This investigation reflects law enforcements commitment to make sure communities across Texas are safe and prevent gang members involved in drug distribution and other criminal activity from establishing a foothold in our communities.”
“The sentencing rendered today is the result of the outstanding partnership between the FBI and all our law enforcement partners,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Christopher Combs. “This effort demonstrates our ongoing commitment to prevent gang violence and criminal activity from poisoning our communities. It also sends a clear message that we will relentlessly pursue and prosecute the leaders and members of these violent criminal enterprises.”
“Gang violence is a threat to the safety and security of Texas communities,” said DPS Director Steven McCraw. “These are complex cases, but thanks to the hard work and collaboration between law enforcement authorities and prosecutors, these criminals are no longer free to prey on our communities.”
Pike, who faces up to life in federal prison, is scheduled to be sentenced at 9:00am on September 26, 2018.
The FBI, DEA and Texas DPS investigated this case together with the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Austin Police Department, New Braunfels Police Department, Seguin Police Department, San Antonio Police Department, Bexar County Sheriff’s Department, Atascosa County Sheriff’s Department, Palo Pinto County Sheriff’s Department, Ector County Sheriff’s Department, Bexar County District Attorney’s Office, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas. Assistant United States Attorneys Eric Fuchs and John Gibson are prosecuting this case on behalf of the Government.
Eutawville Armed Drug Trafficker Sentenced to Mandatory Life ImprisonmentRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina---- United States Attorney Sherri A. Lydon stated today that Joey Lamont Brunson, a/k/a “Solo Flex,” age 42 of Eutawville, Orangeburg County, South Carolina, was sentenced on all twelve of the charges in his federal indictment by United States District Judge Joseph F. Anderson, Jr. Brunson was convicted at trial earlier this year by a federal jury sitting in Columbia. After just four hours of deliberations, the jury returned verdicts convicting Brunson of being a member of a conspiracy to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine, four counts of use of a cell phone to further drug trafficking, money laundering conspiracy, possession with intent to distribute marijuana and cocaine, felon in possession of a firearm, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and perjury. Based on his two prior federal felony drug convictions, as well as his instant convictions for conspiracy to distribute cocaine, Brunson was sentenced to a statutory mandatory life sentence (without parole) plus 60 months consecutive for the firearms offenses.
Evidence presented at the trial included numerous wiretap calls between Brunson and his main source of supply Lamario Vincent Wright from June through October of 2013. In the calls, Brunson brazenly discussed beating another conspirator in an effort to recover cocaine that the conspirator had stolen from Wright. Repeatedly in the intercepted calls and texts, Brunson ordered drugs using coded language from his suppliers.
After Brunson was indicted in 2015, agents testified he went on the run and eluded capture by the FBI for almost two years. After receiving a tip from the Navy Federal Credit Union in Summerville, agents learned that Brunson was depositing between $3000.00 and $9000.00 cash regularly at multiple locations in late 2016 and 2017. On March 3, 2017, Summerville Police Officers responded to a call for service from one of the credit unions and arrested Brunson after a brief struggle. Agents searched the silver Suzuki he was driving and located cocaine, crack cocaine, marijuana and two firearms. Bank records proved that Brunson deposited over $90,000.00 in cash in multiple accounts while on the run from the FBI.
Evidence at trial also included testimony and pictures of a $30,000.00 Escalade truck that Brunson bought at the request of his supplier Lamario Wright. Records showed that Brunson used over $20,000.00 in drug money to purchase the truck and that he placed it in his name to hide the fact that the truck actually belonged to his partner Wright.
The case was investigated by agents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of the Summerville Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the United States Marshal’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Will Lewis and J.D. Rowell.
#####
Eight Individuals Indicted as Part of Fraudulent Prescription Ring in St. John the Baptist ParishRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that SHALLON DAVIS DUNMILES, age 34, together with LASHONDA MELANCON, age 37, WILFRED PERRILLOUX, age 43, DANYELLE TUCO, age 32, ANDREA STALKS, age 42, EBONY STEWART, age 32, CORTAZ WILLIAMS, age 23, and DANIELLE ANDERSON, age 36, were indicted Friday, September 21, 2018 by a federal grand jury for charges stemming from their arrest in St. John the Baptist Parish earlier this year.
Count 1 of the Indictment charges DUNMILES, a former employee at a medical clinic in Laplace, and MELANCON with conspiracy to possess and possess with the intent to distribute illicitly obtained prescription medications, including dextroamphetamine/adderall, a Schedule II drug controlled substance, and promethazine with codeine, a Schedule V drug controlled substance, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 846. Count 2 of the Indictment charges DUNMILES, MELANCON, PERRILLOUX, STALKS, STEWART, TUCO, WILLIAMS, and ANDERSON with conspiracy to acquire or obtain possession of the prescription medication by misrepresentation, fraud, forgery, deception, or subterfuge, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 843(a) and 846.
U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser reiterated that the Indictment is merely an allegation and that the guilt of the defendants must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser also praised the work of the St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Division and the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Tactical Diversion Squad (TDS) in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Shirin Hakimzadeh is in charge of the prosecution.
Eagle Butte Man Sentenced for Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by A Prohibited Person was sentenced on September 17, 2018, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Christian Kersten, age 30, was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, forfeiture of the firearm, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Kersten was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 14, 2018. He pled guilty on July 10, 2018.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on January 22, 2018, when a Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe officer made a traffic stop and Kersten was on occupant of the vehicle. Following a search of the vehicle, law enforcement recovered a firearm in the location Kersten had been occupying. Kersten had been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, was a fugitive from justice, and was an unlawful user of and addicted to a controlled substance, making it illegal for him to possess firearms.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
Kersten was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Dupree Man Charged with Assault of a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Dupree, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assaulting, Resisting, Opposing, and Impeding a Federal Officer.
John Darren Johnson, age 31, was indicted on August 13, 2018. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on September 20, 2018, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 8 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on August 2, 2018, Johnson did forcibly assault, resist, oppose, impede, intimidate, and interfere with a Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Police Officer while the officer was engaged in their official duties, and said contact did involve physical contact with the police officer.
The charge is merely an accusation and Johnson is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller is prosecuting the case.
Johnson was released to a third party custodian pending trial. A trial date has not been set.