Latest Records
Newest first across public DOJ and U.S. Attorney press releases.
Tuesday 7 August 2018
Illegal Alien Sentenced to Prison for Document FraudRead the Press Release
A Guatemalan man who used false identification documents to obtain a job was sentenced today to six months in federal prison.
Jose Corio-Raymundo, age 40, a citizen of Guatemala illegally present in the United States, received the prison term after a June 5, 2018, jury verdict finding him guilty of one count of unlawful use of an identification document and one count of misuse of a social security number.
The evidence at trial showed that Corio-Raymundo used a fraudulent Social Security card bearing the social security number assigned to a United States citizen, and a fraudulent State of Iowa identification card when he completed an employment form on October 2, 2013, at a business in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Corio-Raymundo also used the social security number of the United States citizen on state and federal tax forms. On the employment form, Corio-Raymundo falsely claimed to be a United States citizen. The investigation began when the Iowa Department of Transportation noticed that Corio-Raymundo was trying to register vehicles under a second social security number. Their investigation disclosed that Corio-Raymundo used the social security number to title vehicles, when he was arrested by police on traffic violations, and when he obtained employment at four businesses in Cedar Rapids.
Corio-Raymundo was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge Linda R. Reade. Corio-Raymundo was sentenced to six months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Corio-Raymundo is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel C. Tvedt and investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations and the Iowa Department of Transportation, Bureau of Investigation and Identity Protection.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 18-CR-08-LRR.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Hawaii Man Pleads Guilty to Witness TamperingRead the Press Release
HONOLULU – Jonathan Cadet, 30, pled guilty yesterday in federal court to one count of witness tampering in violation of 18 United States Code § 1512(d)(1). Cadet faces a maximum term of imprisonment of three years when he is sentenced on November 26, 2018, by Senior U.S. District Judge Susan Oki Mollway.
U.S. Attorney Kenji M. Price said that, according to court documents and information presented in court, in May 2018, Cadet directly contacted a witness in the pending criminal sex trafficking prosecution, United States v. Isaiah McCoy et al. Cadet told the woman that he knew she was a witness in the pending case, and proceeded to harass her, calling her a “rat” and other names. He admitted in Court that he made these statements to her because he was angry, and intended to dissuade her from testifying.
The investigation in this case was led by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas J. Brady and Morgan Early handled the prosecution.
Hartford Man Sentenced to More Than 9 Years in Federal Prison for Role in Drug RingRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ANTHONY SHELTON, also known as “Pretty,” 39, of Hartford, was sentenced today by Senior U.S. District Judge Alfred V. Covello in Hartford to 110 months of imprisonment, followed by five years supervised release, for his role in a cocaine and crack cocaine distribution ring.
According to court documents and statements made in court, this matter stems from an investigation headed by the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force and the Hartford Police Department that targeted a drug trafficking organization operating in Hartford’s North End. The investigation revealed that David Gil-Grande, of Manchester, received shipments of cocaine, secreted in sealed coffee cans, from Puerto Rico. He then supplied the cocaine to SHELTON, Gerard “Goldie” Brown, who is SHELTON’s brother, and Trevon “B.J.” Terry. SHELTON, Brown and Terry then converted much of the cocaine into crack and distributed both forms of the drug in the area of Barbour Street in Hartford.
Twenty individuals were charged and convicted as a result of the investigation.
On January 21, 2016, investigators conducted a court-authorized search of SHELTON’s residence and seized a loaded 9mm semi-automatic pistol, ammunition, body armor, and items used to process and package narcotics. SHELTON was arrested the next day at a hotel in Branford. At the time of his arrest, he possessed $32,673 in cash and expensive jewelry.
SHELTON has forfeited the seized firearm, body armor, cash and jewelry, and a 2006 Audi A6.
SHELTON has been detained since his arrest on January 22, 2016. On May 22, 2017, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine.
SHELTON’s criminal history includes six drug-related convictions. In 2003, he was sentenced in state court to 12 years of incarceration for a drug offense.
Gil-Grande, Brown and Terry have pleaded guilty to related charges. On January 31, 2017, Gil-Grande was sentenced to 70 months of imprisonment and, on December 18, 2017, Terry was sentenced to 57 months of imprisonment. Brown awaits sentencing.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force, which includes members of the Hartford Police Department, East Hartford Police Department, Connecticut State Police and Connecticut Department of Correction. The Hartford Police Department’s Vice and Narcotics Division and the Drug Enforcement Administration have provided valuable assistance to the investigation.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian P. Leaming.
Guatemalan Man Sentenced to Time Served for Illegal Entry into the United StatesRead the Press Release
Bangor, Maine: United States Attorney Halsey B. Frank announced that Edwin Antonio Paiz-Morales, 27, of Guatemala, pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court to illegally entering the United States and was sentenced by U.S. Magistrate Judge John C. Nivison to time served (ten days).
Court records reveal that on July 29, 2018, the defendant entered the United States from Canada in Sandy Bay Township, Maine at a location not designated for entry. U.S. Border Patrol agents located the defendant shortly after he entered. He is a Guatemalan citizen and did not have immigration documents allowing him to enter. He has been placed in removal proceedings.
He faced up to 180 days in prison and a $5,000 fine.
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Border Patrol.
Guatemalan Man Sentenced to Prison for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
A Guatemalan man who illegally returned to the United States after being deported was sentenced today to more than two months in federal prison.
Abner Velasquez-Garcia, age 28, a citizen of Guatemala illegally present in the United States and residing in Cedar Falls, Iowa, received the prison term after a guilty plea to one count of illegal reentry into the United States.
At the guilty plea, Velasquez-Garcia admitted he had previously been deported from the United States and illegally reentered the United States without the permission of the United States government.
The facts show that when Velasquez-Garcia applied for admission into the United States at the Arizona border on June 4, 2015, he provided a fraudulent Arizona driver’s license with a false name and date of birth. After questioning, Velasquez-Garcia gave immigration officials a different name and date of birth. Eventually, on June 6, 2015, Velasquez-Garcia admitted his true name and date of birth. Velasquez-Garcia was deported to Guatemala on January 18, 2016. On May 14, 2018, Velasquez-Garcia was found by immigration officers along with five other illegal aliens after their car was stopped in Cedar Falls for traffic violations.
Velasquez-Garcia was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge Linda R. Reade. Velasquez-Garcia was sentenced to 75 days’ imprisonment. He must also serve a one-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Velasquez-Garcia is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be turned over to immigration officials.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel C. Tvedt and investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 18-CR-2029-LRR.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Granite City Man Sentenced to More than 15 Years in Prison on Methamphetamine ChargesRead the Press Release
On August 7, 2018, a 31-year old man was sentenced to federal prison for possessing methamphetamine ("ice") with the intent to distribute, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Steven D. Weinhoeft, announced today. Shawn M. Judd, of Granite City, Illinois, was sentenced to 188 months in prison after previously pleading guilty to a two-count indictment in April. During the prosecution, Judd admitted that he had possessed with intent to distribute "ice" in December 2016 and again in January 2017, in Madison County, Illinois. At sentencing, the district court found that Judd had intended to distribute over 500 grams of "ice" in Southern Illinois.
Court records show that Judd had multiple prior convictions for drug-related offenses.
The United States Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation. The case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Ranley R. Killian.
Fresno Man Sentenced to 70 Months for Robbery SpreeRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. - Yesterday, Mitchell Ray Finley, 50, of Fresno, Calif., was sentenced by U.S. Chief District Judge Raner C. Collins to 70 months’ imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release. Finley had previously pleaded guilty to two counts of Hobbs Act Robbery.
On May 28, 2016, Finley and three other persons entered a Tiffany & Co. jewelry store in Tucson, Ariz., and stole a diamond solitaire ring and assaulted a security guard before getting away. Later that day, Finley and the three men entered the Nordstrom department store in Scottsdale, Ariz., and stole several designer handbags after verbally threatening a store manager. On the same day, Finley and the three men entered a Helzberg Diamond Outlet store in Glendale, Ariz., and stole several high-end watches after pepper-spraying the store employees. The watches were pawned by Finley’s co-defendant, Dwight Bivens, who previously pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 63 months’ imprisonment. The victims’ financial losses totaled more than $130,000.
The investigation in this case was conducted by Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pima County Sheriff’s Office, the Scottsdale Police Department, the Glendale Police Department, and the Fresno Police Department. The prosecution was handled by Lauren G. LaBuff, Fred A. Cocio, and Rui Wang, Assistant U.S. Attorneys, District of Arizona, Tucson.
CASE NUMBER: CR 17-01145-TUC-RCC (DTF)
RELEASE NUMBER: 2018-101_ Finley
# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.
Former TSA Officer Sentenced to 25 Years on Drug & Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – United States Attorney Andrew Murray announced today that a former Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Officer was sentenced to 25 years in prison on drug trafficking conspiracy and gun charges. U.S. District Judge Robert J. Conrad, Jr. also sentenced Jamie Blunder, 50, of Charlotte, to five years of supervised release.
According to filed court documents, exhibits entered at Blunder’s trial, witness testimony, and today’s sentencing hearing, from 2002 to 2016, Blunder was part of a drug conspiracy responsible for trafficking large quantities of cocaine and crack cocaine. Blunder and his network of co-conspirators transported and distributed the narcotics in Charlotte, Greensboro, N.C., Greenville, N.C., and elsewhere. According to court records, Blunder did not utilize the Charlotte Douglas Airport to traffic narcotics, though, at times, he relied on his TSA position to avoid law enforcement detection while travelling between and within, the Jamestown, N.C., High Point, N.C. and Greensboro areas. Over the course of the investigation, law enforcement seized at least eight firearms, more than two kilograms of cocaine and more than $150,000 in cash.
On July 7, 2017, a federal jury convicted Blunder of conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute cocaine and crack cocaine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Four of Blunder’s co-conspirators have already been sentenced. Aaron Dixon, 41, of Greenville, N.C., was sentenced to 75 months in prison and three years of supervised release; David Pate, 45, of High Point, was sentenced to 67 months in prison and three years of supervised release; Samuel Little, 60, of Greensboro, was sentenced to 60 months in prison and two years of supervised release; and Irvin Lampley, 58, of Greensboro, was sentenced to 21 months in prison and three years of supervised release.
In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney Murray thanked the FBI for leading the investigation, the North Carolina Highway Patrol, the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department, and TSA for their invaluable assistance with this case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lambert Guinn and Dana Washington of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte are in charge of the prosecution.
Former Convergex Global Markets CEO Pleads Guilty in New Jersey for Role in Securities and Wire Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – The former Chief Executive Officer of ConvergEx Global Markets Limited (CGM Limited) pleaded guilty this afternoon in federal court in Newark, New Jersey for his role in a scheme to commit securities and wire fraud from 2006 through 2011.
Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski for the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito of the District of New Jersey, Assistant Director in Charge Nancy McNamara of the FBI’s Washington Field Office, and Inspector in Charge Peter R. Rendina of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) made the announcement.
Anthony Blumberg, 53, of Short Hills, New Jersey, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Jose L. Linares of the District of New Jersey, in Newark, to one count of conspiracy to commit securities and wire fraud. Sentencing has been scheduled for Dec. 5 before Chief Judge Linares.
According to court documents, CGM Limited was a wholly owned subsidiary of ConvergEx Group LLC (“ConvergEx Group”). As part of his plea today, Blumberg admitted that clients placed orders to buy or sell securities with G-Trade Services LLC and ConvergEx Limited, subsidiaries of ConvergEx Group that offered global trading services to clients, which in turn routed orders to CGM Limited. Blumberg also admitted that traders at CGM Limited executed the orders and sometimes added a “spread,” (a mark-down on the sale of a security or a mark-up on the purchase of a security) to the prices they had obtained for non-fiduciary clients. To hide the fact that spread had been taken, on several occasions from 2007 to 2011, Blumberg and traders acting under his direction, acting in response to requests by clients for information that could reveal the existence of spread, sent false reports (known as time and sales reports) to these clients. The false time and sales reports contained fabricated details regarding the individual transactions, or “fills,” executed during the course of a day to complete a client’s orders, including false information concerning the number of shares involved in a fill, the time at which the fill was executed, and the price at which shares were either purchased or sold.
Blumberg also admitted that he and his co-conspirators agreed to violate a client’s instructions to provide real-time transactional data through an immediate data feed with details of trades that CGM Limited executed for the client by providing “batch fills” that hid the actual information the client sought.
Blumberg is the fourth individual to plead guilty as a result of the investigation into ConvergEx Group and CGM Limited’s practices. On Dec. 18, 2013, CGM Limited pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit securities and wire fraud before Judge Linares. On the same day, ConvergEx Group entered into a deferred prosecution agreement. Collectively, the two ConvergEx entities paid $43.8 million in criminal penalties and restitution.
The case is being investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office and the Washington, D.C. and New York offices of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorney Gary A. Winters and Assistant Chief Justin D. Weitz of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Murphy, Chief of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey Economic Crimes Unit in Newark. The Department appreciates the substantial assistance of the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Former Convergex Global Markets CEO Pleads Guilty for Role in Securities and Wire Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. - The former Chief Executive Officer of ConvergEx Global Markets Limited (CGM Limited) pleaded guilty this afternoon in Newark federal court for his role in a scheme to commit securities and wire fraud from 2006 through 2011.
U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito of the District of New Jersey, Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski for the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Assistant Director in Charge Nancy McNamara of the FBI’s Washington Field Office, and Inspector in Charge Peter R. Rendina of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) made the announcement.
Anthony Blumberg, 53, of Short Hills, New Jersey, pleaded guilty before Chief U.S. District Judge Jose L. Linares to Count One of a superseding indictment charging him with conspiracy to commit securities and wire fraud. Sentencing is scheduled for Dec. 5, 2018
According to court documents, CGM Limited was a wholly owned subsidiary of ConvergEx Group LLC (ConvergEx Group). As part of his plea today, Blumberg admitted that clients placed orders to buy or sell securities with G-Trade Services LLC and ConvergEx Limited, subsidiaries of ConvergEx Group that offered global trading services to clients, which in turn routed orders to CGM Limited. Blumberg also admitted that Traders at CGM Limited executed the orders and sometimes added a “spread,” (a mark-down on the sale of a security or a mark-up on the purchase of a security) to the prices they had obtained for non-fiduciary clients.
To hide the fact that spread had been taken, on several occasions from 2007 to 2011, Blumberg and traders acting under his direction, acting in response to requests by clients for information that could reveal the existence of spread, sent false reports (known as “time and sales reports”) to these clients. The false time and sales reports contained fabricated details regarding the individual transactions, or “fills,” executed during the course of a day to complete a client’s orders, including false information concerning the number of shares involved in a fill, the time at which the fill was executed, and the price at which shares were either purchased or sold.
Blumberg also admitted that he and his conspirators agreed to violate a client’s instructions to provide real-time transactional data through an immediate data feed with details of trades that CGM Limited executed for the client by providing “batch fills” that hid the actual information the client sought.
Blumberg is the fourth individual to plead guilty as a result of the investigation into ConvergEx Group and CGM Limited’s practices. On Dec. 18, 2013, CGM Limited pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit securities and wire fraud before Judge Linares. On the same day, ConvergEx Group entered into a deferred prosecution agreement. Collectively, the two ConvergEx entities paid $43.8 million in criminal penalties and restitution.
The case is being investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office and the Washington, D.C. and New York offices of the USPIS. The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorney Gary A. Winters and Assistant Chief Justin D. Weitz of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Murphy, Chief of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Economic Crimes Unit in Newark. The Department appreciates the substantial assistance of the Securities and Exchange Commission.
18-265
Defense counsel: Seth L. Levine Esq., New York
Felon Sentenced to 18 Months in Prison for Possessing Firearm on Hopi ReservationRead the Press Release
PHOENIX – This week, Eric Lorenzo Sanchez, 25, of Second Mesa, Ariz., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Diane J. Humetewa to 18 months’ imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release. Sanchez, an enrolled member of the Hopi Tribe, had previously pleaded guilty to possession of an unregistered weapon made from a shotgun.
On June 11, 2016, Sanchez was involved in a car accident on the Hopi Reservation. When law enforcement responded to the scene, they found a firearm near Sanchez’s car. Sanchez, a previously convicted felon, admitted that the firearm was his. The firearm was a 12-gauge shotgun, which had been modified to shorten the barrel and was not registered in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record, as is required for so-called “short-barreled” shotguns. The firearm’s serial number had also been obliterated in violation of the law.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Bureau of Indian Affairs – Office of Justice Services (Hopi Agency). The prosecution was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander Samuels, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: CR-17-08114-PCT-DJH
RELEASE NUMBER: 2018-100_Sanchez
# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.
Federal Jury Convicts Sampson County Man Who Was a Member of a Drug Trafficking OrganizationRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that, GREG BRIGHT, 32, of Turkey, NC, was convicted in federal court following a three day jury trial before Chief United States District Judge James C. Dever III. The jury found BRIGHT guilty of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute cocaine and cocaine base (crack).
The investigation giving rise to the charges faced at trial began in 2013. Multiple and extensive investigative techniques were utilized throughout this case. The evidence presented at trial detailed a significant drug trafficking organization (“DTO”) that was built and lead by Antonio McKoy who was convicted by a jury on May 30, 2018. The DTO was responsible for supplying large quantities of cocaine and cocaine base (crack) in Eastern North Carolina. The investigation resulted in the conviction of twenty-five members of the McKoy drug trafficking organization that destroyed the quality of life in the small community of Garland in Sampson County.
The case is a federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) criminal matter being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the Sampson County Sheriff’s Office, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, U.S. Probation Office, the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, and the North Carolina Departments of Revenue and Emergency Management. Assistant United States Attorneys Brad Knott and Toby Lathan prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
Fayetteville Man Sentenced to More Than 12 Years for Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW BERN – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that today in federal court, United States District Judge Louise W. Flanagan sentenced JOSEPH LUTHER LEWIS, 29, of Fayetteville, North Carolina to 151 months of imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release.
LEWIS was named in an Indictment filed on December 20, 2017. On May 15, 2018, LEWIS pleaded guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a Felon and Possession of a Stolen Firearm.
On June 25, 2017, the Fayetteville Police Department (FPD) responded to a domestic violence call placed by LEWIS’ girlfriend at the time. She stated LEWIS lost $1,000 gambling, and for some inexplicable reason, LEWIS blamed her for his loss. As a result, LEWIS, armed with a handgun, traveled from Fayetteville to Robeson Count and forcibly abducted her, and took her to a vacant house in Fayetteville, where LEWIS planned to prostitute her to recoup his money.
During his girlfriends’ abduction, and while driving through Robeson County, she jumped from LEWIS’ moving vehicle in an effort to flee from LEWIS. Nevertheless, LEWIS turned his vehicle around, pointed his gun at her, and forced her back inside his vehicle. Once they arrived in Fayetteville, LEWIS kicked and punched her in the face several times.
When the FPD arrived at the vacant residence, her face was visibly swollen. She had a chipped tooth and scrapes on her nose and mouth, as well as abrasions to her feet, legs, and arms. She stated that prior to the FPD’s arrival, LEWIS threatened to hit her with his handgun. As law enforcement approached the vacant residence, LEWIS threw his gun in a wooded area. LEWIS was taken into custody without incident. A search of LEWIS’ vehicle revealed multiple gunshot holes in the rear and front of his vehicle. His girlfriend stated LEWIS was involved in a gunfight with another drug dealer early that day in Fayetteville. LEWIS’ firearm, a stolen 9mm handgun, was subsequently located in the woods where she observed him discard it.
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.
In support of PSN, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina has implemented the Take Back North Carolina Initiative. This initiative emphasizes the regional assignment of federal prosecutors to work with law enforcement and District Attorney’s Offices on a sustained basis in those communities to reduce the violent crime rate, drug trafficking, and crimes against law enforcement.
The Fayetteville Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives conducted the criminal investigation of this case. Assistant United States Attorney James J. Kurosad handled the prosecution of this case for the government.
Edenton Man Sentenced for Armed Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
NEW BERN – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that, MICHAEL RANKINS, 55, of Edenton, was sentenced by United States District Judge Louise W. Flanagan for armed bank robbery and aiding and abetting. Judge Flanagan sentenced RANKINS to 135 months imprisonment followed by 5 years of supervised release.
RANKINS was charged in a one-count indictment on March 18, 2014, along with his co-defendant William Chadwick Twine. Twine pled guilty on July 9, 2014, and was sentenced on July 10, 2015, to 90 months imprisonment followed by five years of supervised release. RANKINS pled guilty on February 8, 2018.[1]
On January 9, 2014, RANKINS and Twine entered a Wells Fargo Bank in Windsor, North Carolina. As he entered the bank, RANKINS pulled a toboggan over his face with eye holes cut out. He pointed a BB gun at the teller, and he and Twine threatened the teller and demanded money. The teller provided them with $10,465, and the two men ran from the bank to their nearby get-away car. Witnesses relayed to law enforcement the direction the suspects had driven, and officers were soon able to catch up to the suspect’s vehicle and attempt a traffic stop. RANKINS and Twine, however, continued to flee at a high speed, eventually losing control of the car and running off the road and into a field. Both men ran from the stopped car and were quickly apprehended. Officers recovered the stolen money, mask, and BB gun from the car.
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.
The investigation of this case was conducted by the Windsor Police Department, the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF). Assistant United States Attorney Jake D. Pugh represented the government in this case.
[1] The matter was unusually delayed because of matters presented to and resolved by the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit.
Eagle Butte Woman Charged with Larceny and Failure to AppearRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Larceny and Failure to Appear.
Angel Taylor, age 32, was indicted on August 16, 2017, for the Larceny charge, and June 12, 2018, for the Failure to appear charge. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica Duffy on August 2, 2018, and pled not guilty to the Indictments.
The maximum penalty upon conviction for each offense is up to 5 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment for the larceny charge alleges that Taylor unlawfully took, with the intent to steal and purloin, the personal property of an individual that is valued at more than $1,000.
The Indictment for the Failure to Appear charge alleges that Taylor, who was required to appear before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark Moreno for the larceny charge, did knowingly fail to do so.
The charges are merely accusations and Taylor is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller is prosecuting the case.
Taylor was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Eagle Butte Man Sentenced for Possession and Distribution of a Controlled Substance and Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced on August 6, 2018, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Shaun Chayne Condon, age 33, was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, forfeiture of a 9mm Smith and Wesson pistol, $2,306 in United States currency, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200.
Condon was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 14, 2018. He pled guilty on May 22, 2018.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on May 25, 2017, when Condon knowingly and intentionally possessed with intent to distribute marijuana, a Schedule I controlled substance, in South Dakota. Found in Condon’s possession during the execution of a search warrant, was $2,306 in U.S. currency and a pistol. Condon being an unlawful user of, and addicted to a controlled substance, makes it illegal for him to possess firearms.
Drug trafficking is an inherently violent activity. Firearms are tools of the trade for drug dealers. It is common to find drug traffickers armed with guns in order to protect their illegal drug product and cash, and enforce their illegal operations.
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 and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
Condon was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Defendant Released from Local Custody Despite Outstanding ICE Detainer Pleads Guilty to Illegal Reentry following Philadelphia Conviction for Rape of ChildRead the Press Release
Philadelphia, PA – U.S. Attorney William M. McSwain announced that Juan Ramon Vasquez, a citizen of Honduras, pleaded guilty today to illegal reentry after deportation. In May 2009, the defendant was deported from the United States. Thereafter, in March 2014, the defendant was found back in the United States by U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement (“ICE”) officers. At that time, Vasquez was in the custody of the Philadelphia Department of Prisons.
The City of Philadelphia thereafter chose not to comply with a detainer lodged by ICE for the defendant, who was instead released from custody by the Philadelphia Department of Prisons. After his release, the defendant was rearrested and convicted for rape of a child and unlawful sexual contact with a minor. The defendant is currently serving a sentence of 8 to 20 years in state prison.
The defendant, having now pleaded guilty to the federal charge of illegal reentry after deportation, faces a maximum possible sentence of two years in federal prison. He is scheduled to be sentenced on November 20, 2018, by the Honorable Nitza I. Quiñones Alejandro.
“The facts of this case highlight the danger posed by the City of Philadelphia’s decision to disregard ICE detainers and release previously deported aliens from local custody,” said U.S. Attorney McSwain. “Those of us in the law enforcement business should be doing everything in our power to protect vulnerable children from predators like Vasquez. Instead, this defendant received a free pass from the City of Philadelphia and its Department of Prisons, headed straight back into our community, and committed a heinous crime he never would have had the chance to commit had the City of Philadelphia complied with the ICE detainer.”
The case was investigated by ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Vineet Gauri.
Danville Man Pleads Guilty to Seven Federal Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
Danville, VIRGINIA – United States Attorney Thomas T. Cullen announced today the guilty plea of Keemo Jonathan Lee to a series of federal drug and gun charges related to the sale of cocaine, heroin and illegal firearms. The prosecution comes as part of the U.S. Attorney’s Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative to reduce violent crime throughout the Western District of Virginia.
Today in U.S. District Court in Danville, Lee, 23, pleaded guilty without the benefit of a plea agreement to all seven charges returned in a February 28, 2018 federal indictment. Those charges include three counts of distribution and possession with the intent to distribute cocaine, two counts of distribution and possession with the intent to distribute heroin and two counts of sale of a firearm to a prohibited person that is an unlawful user of a controlled substance.
“As today’s guilty plea indicates, our office is committed to working with our federal, state, and local partners to make Danville a safer community,” U.S. Attorney Cullen stated. “Project Safe Neighborhoods is taking root in Danville, and I am confident that this vital law-enforcement initiative will succeed.”
According to a statement of facts read into the record at today’s hearing, should the matter have gone to trial the United States would have proven beyond a reasonable doubt that on multiple occasions officers with the Danville Police Department, utilizing a confidential source, made controlled purchases of cocaine, heroin, and illegal firearms from Lee.
One such controlled purchase, on June 29, 2017, was conducted at a gas station 326 feet from Danville Community College and 908 feet from Grove Park Preschool’s playground. During the June 29, 2017 controlled buy, Lee sold a confidential source 3.2 grams of cocaine and a Smith & Wesson M&P .40 Shield handgun, with ammunition, for $500.
On July 25, 2017, during another controlled purchase, Lee sold a confidential source .5003 grams of cocaine and a SCCY CPX-1 handgun for $400. After Lee changed locations for the transaction multiple times, the exchange ultimately took place 726 feet from Danville Community College.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Danville Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Special Assistant United States Attorney Rachel Swartz and Assistant United States Attorney Heather L. Carlton are prosecuting the case for the United States.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a federal program designed to bring 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 each community’s most violent criminals. Attorney General Sessions directed all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, and local law enforcement, as well as the local civilian community, to develop effective, targeted strategies to reduce violent crime. This case is a product of that collaborative effort.
Dade City Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Heroin and Dogfighting ChargesRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – Josue Antonio Ortega (36, Dade City) today pleaded guilty to possession with the intent to distribute heroin and to violating the animal fighting provisions of the federal Animal Welfare Act. He faces up to 20 years in federal prison on the heroin charge, and up to 5 years in federal prison on the Animal Welfare Act charge.
According to the plea agreement, Ortega participated with others in a dogfighting conspiracy. In 2016, he and his co-conspirators, operating as Boricuba Kennels, sponsored pit bull dogfighting in Pasco County. On October 19, 2016, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Ortega’s property and seized 14 pit bulls—12 of which had wounds and scarring consistent with having recently fought—along with equipment used to condition the dogs for fighting. They also seized over 70 grams of heroin.
The federal Animal Welfare Act makes it a felony to knowingly sell, buy, possess, train, transport, deliver, or receive any animal, including dogs, for purposes of having the animal participate in an animal fighting venture. Under federal law, an animal fighting venture means “any event, in or affecting interstate or foreign commerce, that involves a fight conducted or to be conducted between at least two animals for purposes of sport, wagering, or entertainment.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pasco Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christopher F. Murray.
Creative Educational and Psychological Services, Inc., A Tutoring Services Corporation, and Four Individuals Indicted and Arrested for Defrauding the Department of EducationRead the Press Release
SAN JUAN, P.R. – On August 1, 2018, a Federal grand jury returned a seven-count indictment charging Creative Educational and Psychological Services, Inc., the president of the corporation Coral Rivera-Arroyo, and three other employees with conspiracy to commit mail fraud, mail fraud, conspiracy to commit theft and conversion of government money and property, and theft of government money and property, announced Rosa Emilia Rodríguez-Vélez, United States Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico. The Department of Education- Office of Inspector General, and the FBI are in charge of the investigation with the assistance of the Puerto Rico Comptroller’s Office.
The indictment alleges that from in or about 2011 through in or around 2014, defendants Rivera-Arroyo, Frankil González-Pagán, Dennys Alfredo Soto, and Myrnaliz Navarro-Rodríguez engaged in a conspiracy and scheme to defraud by invoicing and charging the Puerto Rico Department of Education (PR DOE) for services that were not rendered or were not payable under Creative’s contract with PR DOE. The scheme included falsely reporting to PR DOE that Creative had provided Supplemental Educational Services (SES) tutoring for specific hours to specific students when, in fact, not all of the invoiced services for SES tutoring had been provided to all of the students.
The conspiracy and scheme to defraud included, but was not limited to the fabrication of false biometric attendance records; false records supporting manual attendance entries; false records supporting the notification of the post-test; and forging the signatures of students, parents, and teachers in the records.
During the duration of the conspiracy, Creative Educational and Psychological Services, Inc., through its employees and/or contractors, knowingly caused the PR DOE to issue approximately 32 checks payable to Creative totaling $24,927,125.56 in Title I funds in payment of invoices containing and supported by materially false information and forged signatures.
“Supplemental Education Services program funds provide critical resources for deserving students who seek to improve their academic performance. Individuals and businesses who choose to illegally enrich themselves at the expense of our students and the U.S. taxpayer, instead of providing the educational services invoiced, will be aggressively investigated and prosecuted by the Department of Justice,” said Rosa Emilia Rodríguez-Vélez, United States Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico. “These arrests demonstrate the combined federal commitment to combating fraud, waste and abuse”.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Seth A. Erbe. If found guilty, defendants are facing a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. Indictments contain only charges and are not evidence of guilt. Defendants are presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty.
###
Court of Appeals Upholds Former Puerto Rico Superior Court Judge Manuel Acevedo-Hernández ConvictionRead the Press Release
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – The United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit issued a 48-page opinion affirming the conviction of former Puerto Rico Superior Court Judge Manuel Acevedo-Hernández, announced Rosa Emilia Rodríguez-Vélez, U.S. Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico.
Manuel Acevedo-Hernández appealed his conviction of having participated in a conspiracy to bribe an agent of an organization receiving federal funds, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 371, and of receiving a bribe, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 666(a)(1)(B). Acevedo-Hernández challenged his conviction and sentence citing a number of alleged trial and sentencing errors.
In upholding the jury’s verdict and sentence, a three-judge panel of the Court of Appeals concluded the following: “The record reflects that Acevedo’s conviction was not tainted by prejudicial error either from the admission of Rodríguez’s testimony or in the government’s opening statement or closing argument, and the evidence of his guilt was more than sufficient to support the jury's verdict. It further shows that the court did not abuse its discretion in upholding Lutgardo’s invocation of his Fifth Amendment privilege. Finally, the record reflects that any sentencing error would be harmless. Accordingly, Acevedo’s conviction and sentence are affirmed.”
“The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Puerto Rico congratulates all the prosecutors and agents who worked tirelessly in the investigation and prosecution of Acevedo-Hernández, with great success,” said Rosa Emilia Rodríguez-Vélez, U.S. Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico.
# # #
Continued Increase in Federal Regional Violent Crime ProsecutionsRead the Press Release
St. Louis, MO – The United States Attorney’s Office will prosecute aggressively violent criminals and drug dealers. Federal prosecution is a powerful tool in the fight to reduce violent crime. At least 85% of federal sentences must be served; there is no parole in the federal system. None. Sentences are served in prisons far from St. Louis. Below is a list of defendants prosecuted federally in July as a result of the hard work of police and agents:
Lavelle Bolden, 23, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Melvin T. Cunigan, 62, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of possession with intent to distribute and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence.
Leroy Shipp, 50, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on two felony counts of possession with intent to distribute; possession of a firearm during a crime of violence; and felon in possession of a firearm.
Leontaye Combs, 23, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm or ammunition.
Norris Douglas, Jr., 26, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of possession with intent to distribute a quantity of fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Tiara Johnson, 23, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of making a false statement during the purchase of a firearm.
Addrian McKissic, 31, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of one or more firearms; possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine; and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Michael Moore, 29, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Eddie Morrow, 32, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Cristian Perez, 25, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Michael Upchurch, 34, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm and felon in possession of one or more firearms.
Alexander Williams, 25, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Kevin Carter, 60, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Mark Hayes, 45, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Josh Hudson, 28, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Jeffrey Kelly, 35, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Andre King, 20, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of carjacking and brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.
Hayward Travis McKinney, 39, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of possess with intent to distribute Fentanyl; possessing one or more firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime; and felon in possession of a firearm.
Reginald Saddler, 27, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm; possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance; and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Tra’mayne Street, 20, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of carjacking and brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.
Gregory Thompson, 38, East St. Louis, IL, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Keivin Cole, 33, Spanish Lake, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Cameron M. Bryant, 24, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm; possess a controlled substance drug; carry a firearm during a drug trafficking crime; and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
Kirk K. Darden, 24, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of possess a controlled substance drug; carry a firearm during a drug trafficking crime; and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
Jalen Sherrell, 22, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of carry a firearm during a drug trafficking crime and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
Deandre Smith, 22, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of possess a controlled substance drug and carry a firearm during a drug trafficking crime.
Jerrinon Tate, 27, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of brandishing a firearm during the commission of a federal crime of violence and carrying a firearm during a drug trafficking crime.
Drew Conley, 31, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Eric Davis, 36, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Robert Steed, 32, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl; possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime; and possession with the intent to distribute cocaine base; and felon in possession of a firearm.
Larry Weeden, Jr., 38, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm; possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl; and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Joshua J. Pollard, 20, St. Louis, pled guilty to three felony counts of possessing stolen firearms.
Jamacian Brown, 28, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Willie Curtis, 53, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Corvon Dixson, 21, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Booker Young, Jr., 50, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Arthur Garrett, 42, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Cameron Sutton, 26, St. Ann, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm and possession with the intent to distribute marijuana.
Raymond Willis, 35, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Brian O’Neal, 31, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Cecil Cooper, 30, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm and possession with the intent to distribute marijuana.
Shelton Bailey, 45, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Charles J. Jones, 45, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Demetris A. Bradley, 41, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Deron Smith, 31, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Carl Terry, 38, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Carl G. Nettles, 56, Park Hills, pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and carrying a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Carl W. Willis, 64, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
David E. Teague, 50, Jennings, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Corey Felton, 46, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm and possession with the intent to distribute cocaine.
Travis, Garner, 31, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
Clinton Murphy, 40, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Larry Belcarist, 32, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Robert Garnett, 27, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Kevin Setlzer, 34, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Tommie Lee, 67, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm and possession with intent to distribute methadone.
Deandreck Johnson, 29, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Kyle Miller, 29, St. Louis, pled guilty to possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Christopher Walter, 44, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Kevin Chattman, 41, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Marqus Shores, 35, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Justin Cordes, 42, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Dormond Hampton, 35, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Devon M. Harris, 23, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Jamare Ash, 32, Jennings, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Antoine Bonnett, 42, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Craig Allen, 20, St. Louis, pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute heroin and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
Lemario Q. Johnson, 39, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Robert E. Jones, 53, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Willie J. Mitchell, 38, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Kenneth White, Jr., 23, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Keith West, 60, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Jermayne Welch, 37, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Derrill Watt, 32, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Leo Adams, 29, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Tyrone L. Williams, 38, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Nathanial L. Archie, 43, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
William L. Owens, 27, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
James Bradley, 31, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
John H. Harvey, 34, St. Louis, was sentenced to 18 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm.
Deante Works, 39, St. Louis, was sentenced to 46 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm.
William Bowen, 39, St. Louis, was sentenced to 180 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm and possession of a controlled substance.
Melvin Pryor, 28, St. Louis, was sentenced to 180 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm.
Jerry B. Jones, 30, Belleville, IL, was sentenced to 60 months in prison for carrying a firearm during a drug trafficking crime.
Xaviaire D. Moton, 30, St. Louis, was sentenced to 24 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm.
Odell A. Pickett, Jr., 20, St. Louis, was sentenced to 204 months in prison for carjacking; possessing a firearm during a crime of violence; and possession with intent to distribute.
Nicholas O. Johnson, 28, St. Louis, was sentenced to 108 months in prison for possession of a controlled substance drug and carrying a firearm during a crime of violence.
Tawana Cunningham, 28, was sentenced to 46 months in prison for Hobbs Act Robberies.
Donald Haynes, 33, St. Louis, was sentenced to 36 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm.
Clarence Bradford, 29, St. Louis, was sentenced to 72 months in prison for use of a firearm during a drug trafficking crime.
Derick Bowers, 30, St. Louis, was sentenced to 30 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm.
Demarye Briggs, 20, St. Charles, was sentenced to 27 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm.
Tyrell Reed, 32, was sentenced to 77 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm.
Kerry Caldwell, 55, Florissant, was sentenced to 15 years in prison for carjacking and brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.
Michael Lewis, 27, St. Louis, was sentenced to 57 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm.
Jermaine Lewis, 37, St. Louis, was sentenced to 114 months in prison for discharging a firearm during a crime of violence.
Luther Hall, 26, St. Louis, was sentenced to 25 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm.
Trevon McClelland, 26, St. Louis, was sentenced to 20 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm.
Marquis Gray, 28, St. Louis, was sentenced to 70 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm.
Simon Gebregziabher, 29, St. Louis, was sentenced to 72 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm.
Darrell R. Gordon, 26, St. Louis, was sentenced to 27 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm.
Teran Willis, 36, St. Louis, was sentenced to 37 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm.
Earl McNeal, 24, St. Louis, was sentenced to 27 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm.
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.
Connecticut Bank Robber Sentenced to Nearly 9 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that BRYCE ALEXANDER LAISTER, 26, formerly of Bridgeport and Stratford, was sentenced today by Senior U.S. District Judge Alfred V. Covello in Hartford to 107 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for robbing five Connecticut banks between November 2016 and June 2017.
According to court documents and statements made in court, LAISTER robbed the Webster Bank at 314 Merwin Avenue in Milford on November 30, 2016; the Key Bank at 133 East Main Street in Plainville on April 7, 2017; the Key Bank at 1328 Boston Post Road in Westbrook on May 5, 2017; the People’s United Bank located inside the Stop and Shop at 898 Bridgeport Avenue in Shelton on May 30, 2017, and the People’s United Bank located inside the Stop and Shop at 112 Amity Road in New Haven on June 10, 2017.
During the Shelton robbery, LAISTER brandished a pistol, and during the Plainville and Westbrook robberies, LAISTER threatened to kill or shoot bank employees if they did not comply with his demands.
LAISTER was located and arrested in Stratford on June 15, 2017, after he engaged in a two-hour standoff with local and federal law enforcement officers. At the time of his arrest, LAISTER possessed a .380 caliber pistol and a magazine loaded with two bullets. A subsequent search one of LAISTER’s vehicles revealed clothing he wore during the robbery on June 10, a makeup kit he used to disguise his features, and a Stop and Shop circular.
Judge Covello ordered LAISTER to make restitution of $25,279 to the victim banks.
LAISTER has been detained since his arrest. On February 22, 2018, he pleaded guilty to one count of armed bank robbery.
LAISTER’s criminal history includes felony convictions for narcotics, larceny and burglary offenses.
This investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Marshals Service, Connecticut State Police and the Milford, Plainville, Shelton, New Haven and Stratford Police Departments. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony E. Kaplan.
Co-Conspirator of Reputed “Godfather of Payday Lending” Sentenced to Prison and Ordered to Forfeit $9,621,800Read the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA, PA – U.S. Attorney William M. McSwain announced today that Adrian Rubin, 61, of Jenkintown, was sentenced to 37 months’ imprisonment and three years’ supervised release, ordered to pay a $100,000 fine and $400 special assessment, and ordered to forfeit $9,621,800 in proceeds from his crimes. Rubin previously admitted to collecting unlawful debt from payday loans and helping his sons, Blake and Chase Rubin, orchestrate a multi-million-dollar telemarketing scam.
Adrian Rubin previously pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to violate the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (“RICO”), one count of conspiracy, and two counts of mail fraud. The RICO conspiracy charge arose from Rubin’s participation in a conspiracy to collect debt from so-called “payday loans” – short-term consumer loans that typically come due on the borrower’s next payday – that had annual interest rates exceeding 780 percent. Such loans are illegal in Pennsylvania and many other states. Rubin admitted that in 2012, he collected $2,069,327 in payday loan debt.
Rubin’s RICO co-conspirators included Charles M. Hallinan, the reputed “godfather of payday lending,” and Wheeler K. Neff, who served as Hallinan and Rubin’s lawyer. Rubin admitted that he conspired with Hallinan and Neff to hide his payday lending behind a California-based Indian tribe for the purpose of circumventing state usury laws. Hallinan and Neff were both convicted by a federal jury last November of RICO and other charges. In July 2018, Judge Robreno sentenced Hallinan to 14 years’ imprisonment. In May 2018, Judge Robreno sentenced Neff to eight years’ imprisonment.
Rubin also obtained $7,552,473 in proceeds from an illegal telemarketing scheme to defraud more than 70,000 people into purchasing worthless credit cards. The credit cards were marketed as the Platinum Trust Card and the Express Platinum Card and were based on false and misleading representations that the products worked like regular credit cards and could help customers establish or improve their credit. Chase Rubin also was sentenced today to 32 months’ imprisonment, filed $100,000, and ordered to pay forfeiture and restitution. Blake Rubin is scheduled to be sentenced on August 8, 2018, and another co-conspirator, Justin Diaczuk, is scheduled to be sentenced on August 14, 2018.
In addition to the prison sentence imposed today, Judge Robreno ordered Rubin to forfeit $2,069,327 in payday loan proceeds and all $7,552,473 in proceeds from the telemarketing scam.
“The attorneys and staff in our Office work diligently to secure the criminal forfeiture of assets obtained through ill-gotten gains,” said U.S. Attorney McSwain. “The sentences and sizable forfeiture judgment we obtained in this case proves that we will do everything within our power to ensure that crime does not pay.”
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations, and the United States Postal Inspection Service. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mark Dubnoff and Joel Sweet, and the forfeiture filings were handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Carrillo.
Citizen of Mexico Pleads Guilty to Third Illegal Reentry OffenseRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JOSE DEL CARMEN HERNANDEZ HERNANDEZ, 41, a citizen of Mexico last residing in Hartford, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to one count of illegally reentering the U.S. after being deported. HERNANDEZ also admitted that he violated the conditions of his supervised release from a prior federal conviction for illegally reentering the U.S.
According to court documents and statements made in court, between 1999 and 2009, HERNANDEZ, who has never held legal status in the U.S., sustained multiple state convictions, including convictions for assault, threatening and operating under the influence. In April 2009, he was removed to Mexico. HERNANDEZ unlawfully reentered the U.S., returned to Connecticut and was subsequently convicted in state court on charges of evasion with injury, and criminal mischief. After he was arrested in Hartford, in March 2013, on breach of peace and criminal mischief offenses, HERNANDEZ was identified by federal immigration authorities and was charged and convicted in federal court of reentry of a removed alien. On September 10, 2013, he was sentenced in Hartford federal court to 12 months of imprisonment. In April 2014, he was again deported to Mexico.
HERNANDEZ illegally reentered the U.S. a second time and returned to Connecticut. In November 2015, HERNANDEZ was arrested by Hartford Police for driving under the influence. He subsequently was charged and convicted in federal court of reentry of a removed alien and, on July 15, 2016, was sentenced to 12 months and one day of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release. On July 26, 2016, he was convicted in state court of operating under the influence and was sentenced to three years of incarceration, suspended after one year. After he served his federal and state sentences, he was removed to Mexico in May 2017.
HERNANDEZ illegally reentered the U.S. a third time and, on January 11, 2018, was arrested by the Hartford Police Department for multiple motor vehicle violations, including operating under the influence. He has been detained since his arrest.
HERNANDEZ faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years for illegal reentry, and a maximum term of imprisonment of two years for violating his supervised release. Judge Meyer scheduled sentencing for October 30, 2018.
This matter is being investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Deborah R. Slater.
Chinese national living in Massachusetts pleaded guilty to distributing opioids and other drugs that were shipped from China to the U.S. and ultimately to OhioRead the Press Release
A Chinese national who had been living in Massachusetts pleaded guilty to distributing opioids and other drugs that were shipped from China to the United States and ultimately to Ohio.
Bin Wang, 43, pleaded guilty to 10 counts, including drug conspiracy, conspiracy to import a controlled substance and drug distribution. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 13.
Wang operated Cambridge Chemicals, Wonda Science, and other companies from a warehouse in Woburn, Massachusetts.
Law enforcement began investigating shipments of carfentanil, fentanyl and other opioids in August 2016, after a series of fatal overdoses in Northeast Ohio, according to court documents.
That investigation led them to several Chinese web sites, which they learned were selling kilogram amounts of fentanyl and fentanyl analogues, which were shipped via private carriers such as FedEx. One of the web sites was used to purchase acetylfentanyl that caused the overdose deaths of two Summit County residents in 2015, according to court documents.
Beginning in November 2016, undercover agents began ordering opioids and other drugs from a Chinese drug trafficking organization. The agents wired money to China using Western Union or MoneyGram. Investigators learned the Chinese drug trafficking organization sent the drugs Wang in Massachusetts, who in turn mailed the drugs domestically, including to locations in Northeast Ohio, according to court documents.
Court documents detail numerous sales and shipments of drugs from China to Massachusetts to Ohio from November 2016 through July 2017.
“Wang was responsible for receiving shipments of deadly opioids and other drugs from China and then sending them to Ohio and throughout the United States,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “We will continue to work with law enforcement to stop the steady stream of drugs from overseas that is killing our friends and neighbors.”
DEA Special Agent in Charge Timothy J. Plancon said: “The importation of opioids and other synthetic drugs from China has played a significant role in America’s current drug use epidemic. Over 60,000 people a year die from drug overdoses in this country, and halting all methods of drug trafficking, including by way of the Internet is a top priority of the DEA. This investigation makes clear that geographic and technological hurdles will not stop DEA and our partners from bringing to justice those responsible for the illegal distribution of drugs in the U.S.”
“As opioids and other dangerous drugs continue to plague our communities in Ohio, a unified law enforcement community is the only way to stem the tide of this dangerous and deadly epidemic,” said Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent in Charge Steve Francis. “In order to have a significant impact, these organizations must be attacked from the street-level dealer to the wholesale distributor.”
“This investigation is a great example of a collaborative effort of federal agencies and a local drug task force working together to identify and track down people and organizations that are responsible for the ever-increasing shipments of very powerful synthetic opiates into Ohio,” said Don Hall, director of the MEDWAY Drug Enforcement Agency.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew J. Cronin following an investigation by the DEA, Homeland Security Investigations and the Medway Drug Enforcement Agency, a drug task force serving Wayne County.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. The OCDETF Program was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking, money laundering and violent criminal organizations operating domestically and internationally. The principle mission of the OCDETF Program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, money laundering and violent criminal organizations and those primarily responsible for the nation’s drug supply.
Cedar Rapids Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine Distribution and Illegally Possessing a HandgunRead the Press Release
A methamphetamine dealer who fired his gun at a Cedar Rapids gas station pled guilty on August 1, 2018, in federal court in Cedar Rapids.
Jerry Dean Love, age 39, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, was convicted of distribution of methamphetamine and possession of a firearm by a felon.
In a plea agreement, Love admitted that on October 26, 2016, he sold an ounce of ice methamphetamine at his house in Cedar Rapids to an undercover police informant. On February 6, 2017, Love drove to the Guppy’s on the Go on Edgewood Road NW in Cedar Rapids while carrying a .45 caliber pistol. Love got out of his truck, approached the store, and fired his pistol into the street. Love was a convicted felon and prohibited from possessing guns.
Love then drove to Casey’s General Store on 33rd Avenue SW. Approximately one hour after Love fired his pistol, police officers spotted him in his truck at Casey’s and repeatedly ordered him to get out of the truck. Love stayed in his truck for over ten minutes. Officers then broke Love’s truck windows and sent a dog into the truck to get Love to leave the truck.
During Love’s arrest, officers found 19.2 grams of pure methamphetamine and $360 in cash on him. In his plea agreement, Love admitted he intended to distribute part of the methamphetamine. Officers also searched Love’s truck and found the .45 caliber pistol, a loaded .45 caliber magazine, a methamphetamine pipe, and 11 additional .45 caliber cartridges.
Sentencing before United States District Court Judge Linda R. Reade will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Love remains in custody of the United States Marshal and will remain in custody pending sentencing. He faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of life imprisonment, an $8,250,000 fine, and at least five years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Justin A. Lightfoot and Patrick J. Reinert and Special Assistant United States Attorney Drew O. Inman and was investigated by the Cedar Rapids Police Department, Drug Enforcement Administration, Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Linn County Sheriff’s Office, Marion Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (“PSN”), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority. In October 2017, as part of a series of actions to address this crime trend, Attorney General Sessions announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop a district crime reduction strategy that incorporates the lessons learned since PSN launched in 2001.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 17-CR-12-LRR.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
California Man Indicted for Bank Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a North Hollywood, California, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Bank Fraud.
Jude Cooper, age 30, was indicted on January 17, 2018. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on August 6, 2018, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 30 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 5 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on August 24, 2015, August 25, 2015, and August 27, 2015, Cooper submitted forged wired transfer requests to BankWest Inc., and requested that the funds be wired from a BankWest Inc. account to a Wells Fargo account.
The charges are merely accusations and Cooper is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the case.
Cooper was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
California Man Arraigned on Federal Indictment Alleging Illegal Exporting of Defense Articles, False Statements and International Money Laundering ChargesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Steven J. Anichowski, 26, of San Diego, Calif., was arraigned yesterday morning in federal court in Albuquerque, N.M., on an indictment charging him with conspiring to violate the Illegal Export and Attempted Export of Defense Articles Act by scheming to illegally export defense articles to Japan, Taiwan and Hong Kong, and other charges.
U.S. Attorney John C. Anderson, Special Agent in Charge Jack P. Staton of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in El Paso and Inspector in Charge Melisa Llosa of the Phoenix Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service announced the filing of charges against Anichowski, and his co-defendants, Jonathan J. McGechie, 31, of Socorro, N.M., and Takumi Nishimori, a Japanese national.
The indictment alleges that from Sept. 2010 through April 2016, Anichowski procured, sold and shipped firearm components, defense articles and military items, which were on the U.S. Munitions List and subject to export control by the U.S. Department of State, directly and through intermediaries, to individuals in Japan, Taiwan and Hong Kong. The indictment further alleges that Anichowski did not apply for a license or authorization from the U.S. Department of State, to ship these items overseas, and did not register with the U.S. Department of State as required under the Arms Export Control Act.
According to the indictment, in Jan. 2014, Nishimori was involved in illegally procuring firearm components from Anichowski and others in the United States and elsewhere as part of an international network that allegedly trafficked in firearm components, defense articles, and military items. The indictment alleges that Anichowski exported firearm components, defense articles, and military items to individuals, including Nishimori, using the U.S. Postal Service (USPS). It also alleges that on numerous occasions between Jan. 2014 and Aug. 2016, Anichowski directed others, including McGechie, to falsify USPS international shipment forms by falsely describing items to be shipped, undervaluing the items, and mischaracterizing the end-user information.
The seven-count indictment, which was filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Mexico on Feb. 14, 2018, contains the following charges:
- Count 1 charges Anichowski and Nishimori with conspiracy to violate the Illegal Export and Attempted Export of Defense Articles Act. The statutory penalty on conviction is maximum of five years of imprisonment and a $250,000 fine.
- Count 2 charges Anichowski and Nishimori with violating the Illegal Export and Attempted Export of Defense Article Act by exporting and attempting to export defense articles to Japan without the required license or authorization from the U.S. Department of State in March 2016. The statutory penalty on conviction is maximum of five years of imprisonment and a $250,000 fine.
- Count 3 charges Anichowski and Nishimori with violating the Illegal Export and Attempted Export of Defense Article Act by exporting and attempting to export defense articles to Taiwan without the required license or authorization from the U.S. Department of State in June 2016. The statutory penalty on conviction is maximum of five years of imprisonment and a $250,000 fine.
- Count 4 charges that Anichowski and Nishimori with smuggling military articles from the United States from Jan. 2014 through Aug. 2016. The statutory penalty on conviction is maximum of ten years of imprisonment and a $250,000 fine.
- Counts 5 and 6 charge Anichowski and McGechie, respectively, with making false statements on Customs Forms in which each falsely described firearms parts as toy parts on in 2016. The statutory penalty on conviction is maximum of five years of imprisonment and a $250,000 fine.
- Count 7 charges Anichowski and Nishimori with committing money laundering by transmitting funds derived from illegally exporting defense articles from Japan to the United States through an online payment account to promote the carrying out of unlawful activity in April 2015. The statutory penalty on conviction is a maximum of 20 years in federal prison and a $500,000 fine.
During yesterday’s arraignment hearing, Anichowski entered a plea of not guilty to the charges against him in the indictment. Anichowski remains on conditions of pretrial release pending trial, which has yet to be scheduled. Nishimori and McGechie have yet to be arrested.
Charges in indictments are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent unless found guilty in a court of law.
The Albuquerque office of HSI and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service led the investigation of this case with assistance from the FBI, the U.S. Department of Commerce and the U.S. Naval Criminal Investigative Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney George C. Kraehe is prosecuting the case.
Butler Woman Charged with Defrauding Social SecurityRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Butler, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges relating to Social Security fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The three-count indictment names Amy Lynn Snow, age 50, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, Snow received and converted Supplemental Security Income benefits to which she knew she was not entitled. Snow is also charged with knowingly and willfully making two false statements material to her entitlement to receive Supplemental Security Income.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of no more than 20 years in prison, a fine of no more than $750,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Social Security Administration – Office of Inspector General, conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Burbank Man Who Allegedly Led Prescription Drug Ring Arrested on New Charges of Fraudulently Procuring U.S. CitizenshipRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – A Burbank man who operated a string of allegedly sham medical clinics – and who already faces federal charges of using the clinics to orchestrate a massive narcotics scheme – was arrested today on new charges that he unlawfully procured United States citizenship.
Armen Simonyan, 44, who was free on bond in the narcotics-trafficking case, was arrested after being named in a two-count indictment returned today by a federal grand jury. The new indictment charges Simonyan with unlawful procurement of United States citizenship and making a false statement on a passport application.
Today’s indictment outlines Simonyan’s 15-year history of securing United States immigration benefits via fraud and identity theft. Simonyan allegedly entered the United States from Armenia under a stolen identity and a fraudulent passport. Simonyan then sought asylum in the United States, allegedly concocting a false narrative that he was born in Azerbaijan to parents of supposed mixed Armenian-Azerbaijani nationality; that his family suffered ethnic violence, including the murder of both his parents; and that he fled to the United States via Russia. The indictment alleges that, in fact, Simonyan was born in Armenia to Armenian parents, that he entered the United States from Armenia, and that both of his parents were alive.
Simonyan will lose his United States citizenship if convicted of the immigration fraud charge.
The indictment also charges Simonyan with lying on his application for a United States passport after he gained citizenship. The alleged false statements related to his place of birth, his date of birth, and his claim that his mother was deceased.
Simonyan was previously indicted in August 2017 on charges that he and other conspirators disseminated more than 2 million pills of controlled prescription drugs to the black market, mostly oxycodone and hydrocodone. Simonyan is currently scheduled to go on trial in that case on February 12, 2019.
In the immigration fraud case, Simonyan is expected to be arraigned on the indictment this afternoon in United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles.
An indictment contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
If convicted of the charges in the new indictment, Simonyan would face a statutory maximum of 20 years in prison, in addition to the statutory maximum of 60 years in federal prison that he faces in the narcotics case.
The immigration investigation was conducted by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service, and was conducted under the aegis of HSI’s Document and Benefit Fraud Task Force. Substantial assistance was provided by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services’ Fraud Detection and National Security unit, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Inspector General.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Benjamin Barron and Jamie Lang of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force.
Bradley Gene Romero Sentenced to Serve 19 Years in Federal Prison on Methamphetamine Conspiracy and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
GREENEVILLE, Tenn. – On August 7, 2018, Bradley Gene Romero, 32, of Newport, Tennessee, was sentenced by the Honorable R. Leon Jordan, U.S. District Judge, to serve 228 months in federal prison for his role in a significant methamphetamine (meth) conspiracy and for possessing a firearm in furtherance of his drug trafficking.
According to the plea agreement on file with the U.S. District Court, Romero admitted that he was responsible for conspiring to distribute at least 500 grams, but less than 1.5 kilograms, of meth. He was arrested in September 2017 at a motel in White Pine, Tennessee, with co-defendant Amanda Cureton, 34, of Newport, Tennessee, after a search of the room uncovered a quantity of meth and a firearm. An additional quantity of meth was found hidden within the person of Romero after his arrival at the jail.
A search warrant was obtained and executed on the contents of Romero’s cell phone. Three clear photographs of Romero holding a firearm were found as well as a photo of Romero holding up a large amount of cash. Three other photographs show varying quantities of meth in Romero’s hands. One other photograph showed meth in various stages of the distribution process.
Others who were previously sentenced in this meth trafficking conspiracy include Randall James Stephens, 34, of Cosby, Tennessee, who was sentenced to 100 months; Christopher Justin Mixon, 33, of Parrottsville, Tennessee, who was sentenced to 110 months; Larry Michael Allison, 37, of Newport, Tennessee, who was sentenced to 98 months; and Taylor Denee Gudger, 24, of Newport, Tennessee, who was sentenced to 168 months. Cureton’s sentencing hearing is set in September 2018.
Law enforcement agencies participating in the investigation included the FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Hamblen County Sheriff’s Office, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, White Pine Police Department, Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, Tennessee National Guard Counter Drug Task Force, Fourth District Judicial Drug Task Force, Cocke County Sheriff’s Office and the Newport Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Wayne Taylor represented the United States.
This case was a result of the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s drug supply reduction strategy. OCDETF was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multi-level attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations. Today, OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and those primarily responsible for the nation’s drug supply.
###
Boston Man Charged with Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Boston man was arrested today and charged in federal court in Boston with money laundering.
Juan Peguero, 28, was charged in an indictment with two counts of money laundering.
According to the indictment unsealed today, on two occasions in 2015, Peguero transferred almost $500,000 worth of drug proceeds - over $398,000 in April and $90,000 in June.
The charge of money laundering provides for a sentence of no greater than 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of $500,000 or twice the value of the laundered funds. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling; Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New England Division; and Kristina O’Connell, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigations in Boston, made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren A. Graber of Lelling’s Narcotics and Money Laundering 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.
5 Defendants Charged in Manhattan Federal Court with Multimillion-Dollar Counterfeiting SchemeRead the Press Release
Geoffrey S. Berman, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Angel M. Melendez, Special Agent in Charge for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (“ICE”), Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”), and James P. O’Neill, the Commissioner of the New York City Policy Department (“NYPD”), announced charges today against five individuals for conspiring to traffic in more than $70 million worth of counterfeit Nike Air Jordans. Defendants MIYUKI SUEN, JIAN MIN HUANG, SONGHUA QU, KIN LUI CHEN, and FANGRANG QU are charged with importing hundreds of thousands of athletic shoes from China into the United States. Once those shoes arrived, the defendants and other co-conspirators affixed counterfeit Nike-trademarked logos to those shoes in New York, and sold the now-counterfeit Air Jordans in the United States. All five defendants were arrested this morning and will be presented before U.S. Magistrate Katharine H. Parker today.
Manhattan U.S. Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman said: “The five defendants in this case allegedly counterfeited over $70 million in fake Nike shoes and sold them to buyers on the U.S. market. I commend our law enforcement partners for helping to bring today’s charges, which send a clear message to would-be counterfeiters: ‘Just don’t do it.’”
ICE HSI Special Agent-in-Charge Angel M. Melendez said: “These five individuals are alleged to have been a part of a large scale counterfeiting scheme, importing nearly a half million pairs of knock-off Nike sneakers. These counterfeiting networks can be both detrimental to our economy and threaten our national security, and HSI will continue to take every measure in investigating and dismantling these organizations.”
According to the allegations in the Complaint:
From at least in or about January 2016 up to and including in or about July 2018, SUEN, HUANG, SONGHUA QU, KIN LUI CHEN, and FANGRANG QU, the defendants, imported at least 42 shipping containers holding an estimated more than 380,000 pairs of sneakers from China. These sneakers were manufactured to resemble Nike Air Jordans. Once these shoes arrived, the defendants added trademarked logos to the shoes, rendering them counterfeit. The defendants then stored the counterfeit Nike Air Jordans in multiple storage units and warehouses in New York City and elsewhere.
On August 7, 2018, pursuant to court-authorized search warrants, federal law enforcement agents conducted searches of a warehouse, storage units, and a residence related to this scheme, and found thousands of counterfeit shoes, counterfeit trademarks, and machinery to finish counterfeit shoes. The estimated loss attributable to the defendants’ efforts amounts to more than $70 million.
* * *
SUEN, 43, HUANG, 42, and CHEN, 53, of New York, New York, and SONGHUA QU, 54, and FANGRANG QU, 31, of Hicksville, New York, are each charged with one count of conspiring to traffic in counterfeit goods, and one count of trafficking in counterfeit goods. Each defendant faces a maximum potential sentence of 20 years in prison.
The maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants will be determined by the judge.
Mr. Berman praised the outstanding investigative work of the HSI and the NYPD. He also thanked U.S. Customs and Border Protection for its assistance.
This case is being handled by the Office’s General Crimes Unit. Assistant United States Attorney Daniel G. Nessim is in charge of the prosecution.
The charges contained in the Complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
3 Gang Members Charged in Federal RICO IndictmentRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - Three members of the 11 Hunnit street gang have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of Conspiracy to violate RICO (Racketeer Influence and Corrupt Organizations), United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The indictment, returned on August 2 and unsealed yesterday, named as defendants:
Dionte Griffin, aka L Gzz, aka El Gwopo, aka Fat Boii, 22, of Pittsburgh, PA;
Sydney Pack, aka Lane, aka 018 Lane, 20, of Pittsburgh, PA; and
Richard Kelly, aka Rack Boy, aka RB, 23, of Pittsburgh, PA.
All three defendants are currently incarcerated. The initial appearances for Griffin and Pack are scheduled for August 8, 2018, at 1:30 p.m. before Magistrate Judge Robert C. Mitchell. Kelly will make his initial appearance in federal court on September 11, 2018, at 1:30 p.m., before Magistrate Judge Lisa Pupo Lenihan.
The indictment alleges that from 2015 to August, 2018, the defendants were members of the 11 Hunnit street gang who conspired to commit murder, robbery, and drug trafficking.
According to the indictment, 11 Hunnit, also known as FDT and Sneaky Gang, is a violent street gang composed primarily of individuals from the Hill District section of the City of Pittsburgh that has been functioning since approximately 2012. The 11 Hunnit gang is primarily comprised of persons from the 800 block of Memory Lane and the 300 block of Burrows Street in the Hill District section of Pittsburgh. The 800 block of Memory Lane is referred to as the “Lane,” which also encompasses the Chauncey Drive housing complex, along with the Somers Drive housing complex. The 300 block of Burrows Street is referred to as the “Rack.” Multiple 11 Hunnit gang members include “Rack” or “Lane” into their street names.
According to the indictment, 11 Hunnit members were required to commit acts of violence to maintain membership and discipline within the gang. 11 Hunnit funded their criminal enterprise from various sources, including drug trafficking and robberies. These funds were used for gang purposes, including obtaining weapons and maintaining their lifestyle. The gang spread warnings and propaganda, and bragged about its misdeeds, through rap videos. The indictment references several publicly accessible music videos published to YouTube by a YouTube user identified in the indictment as J.W. These rap videos feature appearances by 11 Hunnit gang members, including Pack and Griffin.
According to the indictment, 11 Hunnit members communicated about gang activities using mobile telephones, telephone text messages and social media.
“As alleged, these defendants are members of a violent gang whose drug trafficking and other acts of violence have terrorized law abiding residents of the City of Pittsburgh for too long: today it ends,” stated U.S. Attorney Brady. “We will use every tool, including federal RICO conspiracy, to put an end to these violent street gangs and offer justice to those harmed by 11 Hunnit and their associates.”
“This investigation is an example of ATF’s dedication to working with our state, local and federal partners in identifying, targeting, and investigating violent criminals who are involved in selling narcotics and firearms who prey upon innocent citizens and lessen the quality of life in our neighborhoods,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Donald Robinson. “Our neighborhoods deserve to exist without fear and intimidation inflicted by all violent drug gangs. We will continue to work with our partners at the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police to impact the violent crime that has done so much damage to a number of our neighborhoods in Pittsburgh.”
Allegheny County Police Supt. Coleman McDonough said, “In 2016, the Allegheny County Police initiated two homicide investigations, one in the Borough of Greentree the other in the Borough of McKees Rocks, that involved some of the same individuals. Through the course of those investigations, we developed significant intelligence information concerning the groups involved. Using that information, we partnered with the ATF and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to facilitate a larger investigation. That investigation culminated with the indictment of the people involved with the two homicides. The collaborative effort illustrates the success that can be achieved when all levels of law-enforcement interface.”
“Our citizens have the right to live in communities free from violence,” added Commander Victor Joseph, of the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police Major Crimes. “The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police will not stand for violent gangs holding our neighborhoods hostage. When traditional investigative means are not enough to hold violent offenders accountable, we think outside the box. In this instance, a RICO investigation was appropriate. Thanks to our partnerships with the ATF, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the Allegheny County Police and the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office, three violent gang members are no longer on our streets.”
The law provides for maximum total sentences ranging from up to 20 years in prison for Kelly and up to life in prison for Griffin and Pack, a fine not to exceed $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Amy L. Johnston is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Brady commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Allegheny County Police Department, and the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office for conducting the investigation leading to the indictment in this case. The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
13 Men Charged with Federal Gun Offenses Through Hartford Project Safe Neighborhoods ProgramRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney John H. Durham, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement officials, today announced that 13 men have been charged with federal offenses related to the illegal possession of firearms in Hartford. These prosecutions have been brought through Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone.
“Through Project Safe Neighborhoods in Hartford, the U.S. Attorney’s Office works closely with the Hartford State’s Attorney’s Office, Hartford Police Department, FBI’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Gang Task Force and ATF to reduce gun violence in Hartford by identifying firearm cases that are appropriate for federal prosecution,” said U.S. Attorney Durham. “All of the individuals whose cases we’re announcing today have criminal histories that prevent them from possessing guns legally. Illegal guns and the violence they bring are a plague on our cities, and our office is committed to working with our law enforcement counterparts to remove these guns and the individuals who possess them from the community into order to reduce violent crime.”
“The Hartford State’s Attorney’s Office is committed to working with our federal partners to ensure that those who cannot lawfully possess firearms are apprehended and prosecuted – whether it be in federal or state court,” said Hartford State’s Attorney Gail P. Hardy. “We are committed to making Hartford a safe place to live, work and visit.”
“The Hartford Police Department continues to work closely with our federal and state partners to reduce crime and keep our communities safe,” said Hartford Assistant Police Chief Rafael Medina, III. “We are committed to identifying and apprehending those violent offenders who are in illegal possession of firearms so they can be prosecuted to the fullest.”
“The significance of these cases on the Hartford community cannot be overstated,” said Erin Joe, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. “The use of our collective law enforcement resources has again proved to be imperative in the fight to reduce the dissemination of guns and gun violence in the community. The individuals charged through the Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative are alleged to have demonstrated their disregard for the rule of law and must now face the consequences in federal court.”
“ATF’s top priority is combating violent crime and keeping firearms out of the hands of violent offenders,” said Mickey D. Leadingham, Special Agent in Charge, ATF Boston Field Division. “These charges are another example of the importance of law enforcement partnerships and their effectiveness in protecting our communities.”
It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.
RAFAEL ARROYO, 33, of Hartford, is charged by indictment with one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin and cocaine, one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and one count of possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. It is alleged that, on July 26, 2018, a court-authorized search of Arroyo’s Broad Street apartment revealed distribution quantities of heroin and cocaine, a Star S.A. 9mm semiautomatic pistol, an H&R “Sportsman” .22 caliber long rifle revolver, a Group Industries 9mm firearm, and assorted ammunition. Arroyo’s criminal history includes state felony convictions for drug and firearm offenses. Arroyo has been detained since his arrest on July 26 and the indictment was returned today.
O’SHANE CROSS, 30, of Hartford, is charged by indictment with one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The indictment alleges that, on July 19, 2018, Cross possessed a loaded Hi-Point Model JCP .40 caliber pistol. The firearm was found in a search of CROSS’s bedroom after he discussed selling other guns to an informant. In January 2010, Cross was convicted in state court of a burglary offense. Cross has been detained since his arrest on July 19.
CRAIG GODWIN, 31, of Hartford, is charged by criminal complaint with being a felon in possession of a firearm. The complaint alleges that, on June 3, 2018, Hartford Police encountered Godwin in his car after a traffic accident on Main Street in Hartford. Godwin possessed a loaded .40 caliber Astra A75 handgun. The firearm had been reported stolen during a burglary in Hartford in September 2017. Godwin’s criminal history includes convictions in state court for weapons, narcotics, escape and risk of injury offenses. Godwin is currently detained in state custody.
RAKEEM GRANT, 29, of Hartford, is charged by criminal complaint with being a felon in possession of a firearm. The complaint alleges that, on April 23, 2018, Grant possessed a loaded .40 caliber Smith & Wesson SD40 VE handgun outside of nightclub that is a hotspot for shootings and violence on Main Street in Hartford. In April 2017, Grant was convicted in state court of possession of a pistol without a permit. Grant is currently detained in state custody.
CLETUS JONES, 38, of Hartford, is charged by indictment with being a felon in possession of a firearm. It is alleged that, on January 23, 2018, Jones attempted to hide a loaded Taurus model PT738 .38 caliber semi-automatic handgun in Elizabeth Park after being involved in a motor vehicle accident in Hartford’s West End. Laboratory analysis of the seized firearm revealed Jones’s DNA. Jones’s criminal history includes convictions in state court for narcotics, larceny, robbery and carjacking offenses. Jones was arrested federally on August 2 and the indictment was returned today. He is detained.
ENRIQUE LUCIANO, 31, of Hartford, is charged by criminal complaint with being a felon in possession of a firearm. The complaint alleges that, on June 4, 2018, Luciano pulled out a gun and pointed it at plainclothes Hartford Police detectives investigating drug activity on Cabot Street. After the detectives identified themselves as police officers, Luciano fled and discarded the firearm. Luciano was apprehended and the firearm, a loaded 9mm Taurus PT 908 with an obliterated serial number, was recovered. In August 2017, Luciano was convicted in state court of possession of narcotics. Luciano is currently detained in state custody.
AARON PEARSON, 27, of Hartford, is charged by criminal complaint with being a felon in possession of a firearm. The complaint alleges that, on March 28, 2018, Pearson appeared in a Facebook Live video brandishing a black semi-automatic handgun that had a Hoffman’s Gun Center tag hanging from its trigger. Investigators obtained documents from Hoffman’s that showed the firearm, a Taurus PT 738 .380 caliber handgun, had been purchased by another individual who also appeared in the Facebook Live video. Investigators recovered the firearm from Pearson’s residence on April 12, 2018. In February 2012, Pearson was convicted in state court of carrying a pistol without a permit. Pearson is currently detained in state custody.
ANTHONY PENA, 24, of Hartford, is charged by criminal complaint with being a felon in possession of a firearm. The complaint alleges that, on June 24, 2018, Pena placed a backpack containing a firearm into a vehicle in the vicinity of 862 Albany Avenue. A search of the vehicle revealed loaded Glock 21 .45 caliber firearm. The firearm had been reported stolen in North Carolina in 2012. In May 2012, Pena was convicted in state court of robbery in the first degree. Pena is currently detained in state custody.
NOEL PEREZ, 21, of Hartford, is charged by criminal complaint with being a felon in possession of a firearm. The complaint alleges that, on May 29, 2018, Hartford Police stopped a vehicle Perez was driving on Wadsworth Street. A search of the vehicle revealed a loaded Sig Sauer P2022 .40 caliber handgun. Perez’s criminal history includes convictions in state court for assault, burglary and larceny offenses. Perez is currently detained in state custody.
KELVIN PETERS, 41 of Hartford, is charged by indictment with being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. It is alleged that, on May 9, 2018, Enfield Police stopped a car that was being operating erratically. A search of the car revealed two loaded firearms, a Bersa Thunder 380 handgun and a High Point Model C9 9mm pistol with an obliterated serial number. Peters’ criminal history includes multiple convictions in state court for drug offenses, and a 2004 federal conviction for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Peters was arrested federally on August 1 and the indictment was returned today. He is detained.
MARVIN PORTER, 26, of East Hartford, is charged by criminal complaint with being a felon in possession of a firearm. The complaint alleges that, on June 24, 2018, after officers approached a group of men in the vicinity of 862 Albany Avenue, Porter attempted to run away. After Porter was apprehended, a search of his person revealed a loaded Beretta model 21A-22LR handgun and a quantity of crack cocaine. In April 2007, Porter was convicted in state court of sexual assault in the first degree. Porter was arrested federally on August 2 and he is released on bond.
ISIAH SHIPMAN, 28, of Bloomfield, is charged by indictment with being a felon in possession of a firearm. It is alleged that, on April 14, 2018, SHIPMAN ran from Hartford Police officers that had responded to a report of a street fight in the area of Essex Street and Maple Avenue. After officers apprehended Shipman, a search of his person revealed a loaded Smith and Wesson .40 caliber handgun. The gun had been reported stolen in Hartford in August 2016. Shipman’s criminal history includes state felony convictions for narcotics and assault offenses. Shipman has been detained since his federal arrest on August 2, and the indictment was returned today.
BENICIO VASQUEZ, 32, of Hartford, is charged by indictment with one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The indictment alleges that, on July 19, 2018, Vasquez possessed a Taurus .357 caliber revolver loaded with six rounds of ammunition. Vasquez’s criminal history includes state felony convictions for drug and money laundering offenses. Vasquez has been detained since his arrest on July 19.
The charge of possession of a firearm and/or ammunition by a previously convicted felon carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years. The charge of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime carries a mandatory consecutive term of imprisonment of at least five years.
U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that charges are not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
These cases are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Gustafson, PSN Program Coordinator; Assistant U.S. Attorneys Douglas Morabito, Ray Miller, Anastasia King and Jennifer Laraia, and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney John F. Fahey of the Hartford State’s Attorney’s Office.
Monday 6 August 2018
Waterbury Man Sentenced to Prison for Distributing Heroin to Danbury Overdose VictimRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ANDRE REED, 26, of Waterbury, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to 18 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for distributing heroin to a Danbury overdose victim.
This matter stems from an ongoing statewide initiative targeting narcotics dealers who distribute heroin, fentanyl or opioids that cause death or serious injury to users.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on March 1, 2016, at approximately 11:39 p.m., Danbury Police responded to a service station on the report of a woman in medical distress in a restroom. At the location, officers observed the victim on her knees, with her face on the floor, taking a deep gasping breath every 20 seconds. The victim also was holding a syringe. The victim was transported to the hospital, where she was placed on life support. She has since recovered from the overdose.
The investigation revealed that REED supplied heroin to another individual who then sold it to the victim.
Reed was arrested on December 21, 2017. On April 4, 2018, he pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of heroin.
This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Task Force and the Torrington, Danbury and Wilton Police Departments. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito.
United States Settles False Claims Act Allegations Against Defense Contractor for $300,000Read the Press Release
Jacksonville, FL – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces that the United States has settled allegations that Pentad Corporation failed to reimburse the Department of the Navy for meals consumed by its employees at Naval Station Guantanamo Bay. The allegations resolved included liability under the False Claims Act (FCA).
Pentad Corporation is a defense contractor that provides dining-related services at various locations, including at Naval Station Guantanamo Bay. Pentad’s contract with the Navy allowed Pentad employees to eat at Navy dining facilities, but required that Pentad reimburse the Navy for meals its employees consumed. From December 2013 to December 2016, Pentad failed to reimburse the Navy for these meals, causing the Navy approximately $150,000 in damages. The settlement compensates the Navy for Pentad’s reimbursement failures.
“Protecting the integrity of services provided to our armed forces is a high priority for our office,” said U.S. Attorney Chapa Lopez. “We will work vigorously to ensure that defense contractors fulfill their contractual obligations so that our military can accomplish its mission.”
“This settlement is the result of tireless efforts by the Defense Criminal Investigative Service and its law enforcement partners to ensure integrity and compliance in all Department of Defense programs,” said Special Agent in Charge John F. Khin, Southeast Field Office. “DCIS investigations focus on fraud, waste, and abuse of taxpayer dollars in all DoD procurements for goods and services.”
Special Agent in Charge Michael Wiest stated “Fraud is not a victimless crime. In all its forms fraud siphons time, money, and resources from America’s warfighters. NCIS is committed to working with our partner agencies to help hold accountable those who put personal greed above their responsibilities to the Navy and nation.”
This case was investigated by the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, the Defense Contract Audit Agency, and Assistant United States Attorney Shea Gibbons.
The claims resolved by this settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
United States Attorney Announces the Appointment of Two New Federal ProsecutorsRead the Press Release
DALLAS — United States Attorney Erin Nealy Cox announced today the appointment of Renee Hunter and Gregory Martin as Assistant United States Attorneys. Both were sworn in today before Chief Judge Barbara M. G. Lynn.
Ms. Hunter is assigned to the Economic Crimes & Public Corruption Section of the office’s Criminal Division, where she will focus on health care fraud cases. Most recently, Ms. Hunter worked as a litigation associate at the Dallas office of Thompson & Knight, focusing on white-collar criminal defense work with former U.S. Attorney Richard Roper. Before that, Ms. Hunter worked at Sidley Austin in Dallas. Ms. Hunter received her graduate degree from SMU Dedman School of Law, and received her undergraduate degree from Dallas Baptist University.
Mr. Martin is assigned to the Asset Recovery Unit within the office’s Criminal Division, where he will focus on our Financial Crimes Enforcement Network Initiative to build asset forfeiture cases from Bank Secrecy Act data. Most recently, Mr. Martin worked as a civil litigation associate at the San Diego office of Jones Day. Mr. Martin received his graduate degree from Northwestern University School of Law, and received his undergraduate degree from the University of Illinois.
“We are proud to welcome Renee Hunter and Gregory Martin as Assistant United States Attorneys in the Northern District of Texas.” said U.S. Attorney Nealy Cox. “I am confident that they will both make a significant impact in our community and work tirelessly on behalf of the citizens of the United States.”
# # #
U.S. Attorney’s Office to Take Part in Spokane’s National Night Out Against CrimeRead the Press Release
Spokane – Joseph H. Harrington, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced that on Tuesday, August 7th, members from his office will participate in community events held as part of Spokane’s National Night Out Against Crime.
National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make our neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live. National Night Out enhances the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of community. Furthermore, it provides a great opportunity to bring law enforcement and the community together under positive circumstances.
Joseph H. Harrington said, “National Night Out Against Crime is an outstanding opportunity for neighbors to gather with their law enforcement and community partners. When such groups gather they demonstrate that battling crime in our communities is truly a collective responsibility. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington looks forward to joining others on Tuesday to help continue to spread the important message that we are all in this together.”
For more information visit https://www.spokanecops.org/events/ or https://www.spokanecounty.org/1439/Neighborhood-Watch
U.S. Attorney announces the appointment of eight new Assistant U.S. AttorneysRead the Press Release
ATLANTA – The U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia, Byung J. “BJay” Pak has announced the appointment of eight new Assistant U.S. Attorneys to support our mission to enforce the law and defend the interests of the citizens we serve in this district.
“The opportunity to represent the United States is one of the greatest honors for a lawyer,” said U.S. Attorney Byung J. “BJay” Pak. “I’m honored to lead these exceptionally talented and dedicated lawyers whose commitment to public service is unmatched.”
Angela Adams joins the office from the Department of Justice in Washington, where she served as a trial attorney in the Fraud Section of the Criminal Division. She is pleased to return to Atlanta, where she previously spent six years with Alston & Bird LLP, specializing in government investigations and white collar crime and serving as lead associate in a high-profile criminal RICO case involving school officials. Angela received her law degree from Howard University School of Law and graduated, magna cum laude, from Clark Atlanta University with a B.A. She has also clerked for Hon. Clarence Cooper, Senior District Court Judge in the Northern District of Georgia. Angela is a member of the Criminal Division.
Austin Hall returned to the office from the Georgia Attorney General’s Office, where he served as an Assistant Attorney General in the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU). Before leaving for MFCU, Austin worked as a Civil Assistant U.S. Attorney on cases involving the securitization of residential mortgages and violations of the Controlled Substances Act. Prior to that, he worked as a Senior Associate at Alston & Bird LLP, focused on federal securities fraud, SEC enforcement and insider trading cases. Additionally, he has served as a Judicial Extern for Hon. Frank Mays Hull, on the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals. Austin earned his law degree cum laude from Georgia State University School of Law, where he served as a Board Member for the Georgia State University Law Review, and graduated with a B.A. in English from the University of the South – Sewanee. Austin is a member of the Civil Division.
Theodore Hertzberg was previously an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Southern District of Georgia, where he served as the Asset Forfeiture Chief. He has experience in a wide variety of cases, including OCDETF and violent crimes. Prior to joining the SDGA, Teddy was an associate with Kramer Levin in New York City. He also clerked for Hon. Kristi DuBose, of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Alabama. He received his law degree from New York University, and his B.A., cum laude, from Amherst. Teddy is a member of the Criminal Division.
Flora Manship was previously a Senior Associate at Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton LLP in Atlanta, where she focused on labor and employment litigation. Flora received her law degree from Emory University School of Law, where she served as the Executive Managing Editor of the Emory International Law Review. She graduated magna cum laude, Phi Beta Kappa, from Drew University in Madison, New Jersey. She served as a Summer Law Clerk for California Rural Legal Assistance in San Francisco and completed an externship with The Coca-Cola Company and a judicial internship with Hon. Allison E. Accurso, Superior Court of New Jersey. Flora is a member of the Civil Division.
Leanne Marek joined the office from Alston & Bird LLP, where she was a Senior Associate focused on white collar matters. She previously served as a summer clerk in the office and as a Third Year Practice Prosecution Clinic Intern with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Western District of Virginia, where she worked on a wide variety of matters, including the first “bath salts” case in that district. Leanne earned her law degree from the University of Virginia School of Law and graduated summa cum laude from Auburn University with a B.A. in Political Science. During her time at Auburn, Leanne served as a senator in the Student Government Association. Leanne is a member of the Criminal Division.
Andres Sandoval joined the office from Sequor Law, P.A. (formerly Astigarraga Davis Mullins & Grossman, P.A.) in Miami, where he was a civil litigator, specializing in asset recovery, financial fraud, bankruptcy, and other commercial actions, recovering over $70 million on behalf of fraud victims. Prior to practice, he served as Student Extern to the Hon. Robert A. Mark of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Miami. Andres earned his law degree, cum laude, from the University of Florida, Levin College of Law, and graduated with a B.A. in political science, cum laude, from Florida International University. Andres is a member of the Civil Division.
Prior to joining the office, Noah Schechtman worked for the DeKalb County District Attorney’s Office, where he was a Senior Assistant District Attorney in the Trial Division and tried a wide range of cases, including narcotics, trafficking, armed robbery and murder. His experience includes serving as clerk for Hon. Daniel J. Yablonsky, Judge of the Superior Court – Passaic Vicinage Criminal Division, as well as an externship with Hon. David E. Peebles, United States Magistrate Judge in the Northern District of New York. He graduated cum laude from Syracuse University College of Law, received a B.S. in Business Administration from George Washington University, and currently coaches the mock trial team at Emory Law School. Noah is a member of the Criminal Division.
Erin Spritzer joined the office from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia, where she prosecuted narcotics, firearms, public corruption and child pornography cases. Prior to that, she worked as an Associate with the Law Office of Arthur W. Leach, specializing in white collar criminal and civil defensive matters. She served as a Law Fellow for Hon. Paul M. Newby, Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of North Carolina. Erin earned her law degree from Emory University School of Law, where she was managing editor of the Emory International Law Review, and graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a B.A. in American Studies and a minor in Spanish. Erin is a member of the Criminal Division.
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.
Tyler County man admits to connection to a drug distribution operation in Wetzel and Tyler CountiesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Boyd Williamson, of Middlebourne, West Virginia, has admitted to his involvement in methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin distribution that spanned multiple states, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Williamson, age 36, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Williamson admitted selling methamphetamine in December 2017 in Wetzel County.
Williamson faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert H. McWilliams, Jr., and Shawn M. Adkins are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol; Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Marshall County Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police; the Tyler County Sheriff’s Office; the Wetzel County Sheriff’s Office; the Sistersville Police Department; the Paden City Police Department; and the New Martinsville Police Department investigated. The Columbus, Ohio, Police Department Gang Crimes Unit assisted in the case.
The investigation was funded in part by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Three Springfield Residents Sentenced for Heroin ConspiracyRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Three Springfield, Mo., residents were sentenced in federal court today for their roles in a conspiracy to distribute heroin in Greene and Webster counties.
Demarko Hinkle, 28, Victor Walton, 29, and Kimberly Robinson, 33, were sentenced in separate appearances before U.S. District Judge Brian C. Wimes. Hinkle and Walton were each sentenced to 10 years in federal prison without parole. Robinson was sentenced to six years and five months in federal prison without parole.
Hinkle, Walton and Robinson each have pleaded guilty to participating in a conspiracy to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin in Greene and Webster counties from Jan. 1, 2012, to Feb. 25, 2016. Hinkle and Walton also have pleaded guilty to possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime.
Hinkle and Walton admitted they traveled to St. Louis, Mo., at least three times during the course of the conspiracy and transported back approximately a half ounce (12-14 grams) of heroin each trip. Hinkle was directly involved in the distribution of at least 133 grams of heroin.
Hinkle and Walton also admitted they were in possession of a Dan Wesson Arms .22-caliber revolver and an Armscor of the Philippines .22-caliber rifle on April 28, 2015, during a drug transaction with an undercover law enforcement officer.
Springfield police officers executed a search warrant at Robinson’s residence on June 12, 2013, and seized approximately .7 grams of heroin. Robinson admitted that she was selling heroin. On March 28, 2014, officers executed another warrant at two apartments associated with Robinson, where they found a large amount of cash. On Dec. 28, 2014, Robinson was arrested after she was found unresponsive in a public restroom with approximately .14 grams of heroin in her purse. Robinson admitted that she directly distributed or obtained for distribution at least an additional 50 grams or more of heroin during the course of the conspiracy.
Co-defendants Laura Brown, 25, and Brittany Jones, 26, both of Springfield, also have pleaded guilty to their roles in the drug-trafficking conspiracy and await sentencing.
This case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Josephine L. Stockard. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Springfield, Mo., Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Stockton Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison for Gun Trafficking CrimesRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Gary Loch, 29, of Stockton, and Eugene, Oregon, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Kimberly J. Mueller to five years in prison for conspiring to traffic firearms without a license, possessing an unregistered automatic weapon, and possessing a firearm with an obliterated serial number, U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott announced.
According to court documents, between January and June 2016, Loch was one of several Stockton-based conspirators who sold about 47 guns to an undercover agent. Loch personally owned and sold three of these weapons, including a machinegun with a partially obliterated serial number. Several other firearms were automatic, carried extended magazines, or had obliterated serial numbers. Agents saw Loch removing several of these serial numbers himself. In total, Loch was present as 31 firearms changed hands at 10 transactions in Stockton and Las Vegas, Nevada. During several of these meetings, the undercover agent said that he could not legally purchase weapons and that he would introduce the guns to the black market. Loch and others completed the purchases nonetheless.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Amanda Beck and Richard Bender prosecuted the case.
Loch has been in custody since October 18, 2017. Nearly all of his co-defendants have been sentenced for gun-related crimes: Jason Prom received 12 years in prison. Ronnie Dethvongsa received four years and nine months in prison. Kenny Prach received three years and six months in prison. Ariana Diaz received two and a half years in prison. Sean Chaichanhda and Hilberto Arevalos received 18 months each. Charges are still pending against co-defendant Adam Nhem, who is scheduled to appear in court on September 17, 2018. The charges are only allegations; he is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
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.
Springfield Man Sentenced for Illegal Firearms Following Police PursuitRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Springfield, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for illegally possessing firearms following a high-speed police chase that ended when he drove through a back yard and crashed into a residence.
Randall Hale, 43, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Brian C. Wimes to nine years in prison without parole.
On Jan. 9, 2018, Hale pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to court documents, Greene County sheriff’s deputies found Hale passed out behind the steering wheel of a stolen Chevrolet truck at 5092 W. Sunshine St., Springfield, on Nov. 21, 2016. Deputies parked behind the truck, got out of their vehicles and approached the truck. As one of the deputies approached the passenger window, Hale put the truck into reverse and slammed into another deputy’s patrol vehicle. Hale then drove over a sidewalk and struck a building before leaving the parking lot.
Hale fled eastbound on Sunshine Street at about 85 miles per hour with additional law enforcement officers in pursuit. The chase continued to a backyard on South Newton Street, where Hale crashed the truck into the residence. Hale ran from his vehicle and was apprehended a short distance away by Springfield police officers.
During a search of the stolen truck, officers found a loaded Springfield Arms Company .45-caliber pistol, a loaded Browning Arms Company 7mm rifle and a loaded O.F. Mossberg and Sons .243-caliber rifle, all of which had been reported stolen, as well as multiple rounds of ammunition.
Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearms or ammunition. Hale has prior felony convictions for vandalism, burglary, grand theft, petit theft, receiving stolen property, and sale of marijuana. He was on probation at the time of the federal offense.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney James J. Kelleher. It was investigated by the Greene County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department, the Springfield, Mo., Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Sacramento Man Sentenced to 8 Years in Prison for Trafficking MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Hector Jonathan Hernandez, 26, of Sacramento, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Kimberly J. Mueller to eight years and one month in prison for distributing methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott announced.
According to court documents, in May 2016, in a series of recorded calls, Hernandez negotiated with a DEA confidential source about selling methamphetamine. On May 25, 2016, Hernandez met with the source at a Lowe’s parking lot in Elk Grove and sold him one pound of methamphetamine for $3,500. The substance was tested later at laboratory, and it tested at 100 percent purity for methamphetamine.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Rochester Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing A Gun A Day After Being Released from PrisonRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Erick Arroyo-Cruz, 34, of Rochester, NY, pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, before Chief U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison, and a fine of $250,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Katelyn M. Hartford, who is handling the case, stated that on March 8, 2018, just one day after his release from prison on another offense, the defendant possessed a .22 caliber pistol which was loaded with eight rounds of ammunition. Cruz was traveling in a vehicle on North Clinton Avenue in Rochester when Rochester Police Officers stopped the car to execute an existing arrest warrant for the driver of the vehicle. The defendant, who was a passenger in the car, was searched and officers found the loaded pistol in his jacket pocket.
Cruz was released from prison on March 7, 2018, having previously been convicted in state court of 1st degree knowingly possessing dangerous contraband in prison.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Ashan Benedict, New York Field Division, and the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief Michael Ciminelli.
Sentencing is scheduled for November 14, 2018, at 3:00 p.m. before Chief Judge Geraci.
Pittsburgh Woman Pleads Guilty in Scheme to Illegally Obtain and Distribute Rx PainkillersRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – One resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of healthcare fraud and possession with the intent to distribute and distribution of opiate painkiller, oxycodone, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Marion Randolph, age 64, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Randolph participated in a criminal network of drug dealers who obtained opiate painkillers and then illegally distributed them to users in the Pittsburgh area. Randolph sold prescription pills that she obtained through a health benefit program to dealers in the criminal network and to other people. She obtained the pills under the false pretense that she intended to use the pills herself when, in fact, she intended to and did distribute some of the pills to others.
Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for November 16, 2018. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than twenty years in prison, a fine not to exceed $1,250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Allegheny County Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Randolph.
Philadelphia Man Sentenced to 35 years for Armed Robbery SpreeRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – U.S. Attorney William M. McSwain announced today that Koren Jones a/k/a “Kuron Jones,” 25, of Philadelphia, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Robert F. Kelly to 35 years’ imprisonment, followed by 5 years of supervised release. Jones pleaded guilty earlier this year to committing two armed robberies, one attempted armed robbery, and related firearms offenses—all over the course of a two day violent crime spree in November 2016.
During the first armed robbery, which occurred at a local grocery store, Jones pointed a gun directly at the cashier, threatened to shoot her, and eventually shot a customer in both legs, causing the victim severe injuries. Jones fled from the store with $200 from the cashier.
The next day, the defendant committed a second armed robbery, this time at a different local grocery store. Jones entered the store wearing a ski mask, pointed a gun at the cashier, and demanded cash. Jones fired the gun directly at the cashier and narrowly missed striking him; the cashier gave the defendant approximately $250 before Jones fled from the store. Later that same day, Jones attempted to commit an armed robbery of a deli a few blocks away; this time, the cashier wrestled the gun away from Jones, but not before it accidentally discharged.
“Senseless acts of violence like the ones Jones committed during his two-day crime spree threaten our neighborhoods and render citizens afraid to participate in the most basic activities of daily living—like shopping at a local grocery store,” said U.S. Attorney McSwain. “No one should have to live in fear like that. By seeking and obtaining a significant prison sentence in this case, we have made the neighborhoods Jones terrorized safer today than yesterday. My Office will continue to work tirelessly with local law enforcement to combat violent crime in order to keep our citizens secure.”
“In a two-day stretch of violence, Koren Jones targeted three places of business and terrorized numerous people,” said Michael T. Harpster, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Philadelphia Division. “He showed zero regard for human life—opening fire on frightened witnesses, leaving both physical and emotional scars. This lengthy sentence makes the streets of Philadelphia safer. May it also provide his victims with a measure of peace.”
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 FBI and the Philadelphia Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine Driscoll.
Owner of West Tennessee Travel Agency Sentenced to 27 Months Imprisonment for Wire FraudRead the Press Release
Jackson, TN – A West Tennessee woman was sentenced to 27 months in federal prison for wire fraud. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant for the Western District of Tennessee announced the sentence today.
According to the charging instrument, Ronda Hopkins Richards, 55, was the owner of Ronda’s Travel Corner, in Jackson, TN. From November 2016 to July 2017, Richards defrauded approximately 100 clients/victims of funds related to their travel. In some cases, Richards enticed the victims to pay cash for a trip that was never booked. In other instances, she booked air travel for victims, but did not provide lodging at the destination for which the victim had pre-paid.
On June 19, 2017, Richards convinced a client to write a $17,172.00 check to Ronda’s Travel Corner for a family trip to Disney World. The trip was scheduled for March 24, 2018, through March 31, 2018. Richards never booked the trip, but instead deposited the check into her own personal account at First South Bank and used the funds for her personal gain.
U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said: "The defendant’s greed and selfishness has victimized countless innocent citizens who trusted her, and she is now being held accountable for her dishonest and fraudulent conduct. Hopefully, this sentence will achieve justice by deterring other similar criminal conduct, and the restitution order will recover the funds stolen from the victims."
This transaction caused a wire transmission of $17,172.00 to occur in interstate commerce, between the victims’ bank, Greenfield Banking Company, Greenfield, TN, through the Federal Reserve Check Clearing Center located in Atlanta, GA, and then to First South Bank in Jackson, TN. This interstate transmission resulted in the crime of wire fraud. Over 100 of Ronda’s Travel Corner clientele were victims of similar schemes. Because of this scheme, the victims lost a total of approximately $410,280.25.
On August 3, 2017, Richards was interviewed by the Jackson Police Department. She stated that she had fallen behind in her payments and began taking money, did not keep up with what she had taken and "everything spiraled out of control."
Richards pleaded guilty to this charge on February 26, 2018. On August 3, 2018, U.S. District Chief Judge S. Thomas Anderson sentenced Richards to 27 months imprisonment; 3 years supervised release; $100.oo special assessment and restitution in the amount of $410,280.25.
For more information, or if there are other victims who have not made their losses known, please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office Victim/Witness Coordinator at 901-544-4231.
This case was investigated by the Jackson Police Department and the United States Secret Service.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Victor L. Ivy prosecuted this case on the government’s behalf.