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23 July 2018
Algerian Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiring with Pennsylvania Woman and Others to Provide Material Support to TerroristsRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – U.S. Attorney William M. McSwain, Assistant Attorney General for National Security John C. Demers, and Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s New York Field Office William F. Sweeney Jr. announced that an Algerian man pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to provide material support and resources to terrorists. United States District Judge Petrese B. Tucker presided over the proceeding.
Ali Charaf Damache, 53, also known as Theblackflag, was indicted in 2011 in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania on one count of conspiracy to provide material support to terrorists and one count of attempted identity theft to facilitate an act of international terrorism. United States authorities extradited Damache from Spain in 2017.
According to the indictment, Damache, his co-defendant Mohammad Hassan Khalid, and others conspired to support, recruit, and coordinate a terrorist cell, consisting of men and women from Europe and the United States, to wage violent jihad in and around Europe. Among those with whom Damache conspired is Colleen R. LaRose, who was a resident of the Eastern District of Pennsylvania at the time of the acts alleged in the indictment. LaRose, a/k/a Fatima LaRose, a/k/a Jihad Jane, was sentenced to 10 years in prison for her involvement in this conspiracy. The indictment alleges that Damache, Khalid, LaRose, and others recruited men online to wage violent jihad in South Asia and Europe and recruited women who had passports and the ability to travel to and around Europe in support of violent jihad.
As part of his guilty plea, Damache has agreed to be sentenced to a 180-month term of imprisonment and has waived his right to appeal his sentence. Damache has further agreed that upon completing his prison sentence, he will be removed from the United States and returned to Ireland or, in the alternative, Algeria, as Damache is a citizen of both countries.
“Counterterrorism remains my office’s highest priority, and we will continue to prevent, disrupt, and defeat violent extremism at home and abroad,” said U.S. Attorney William M. McSwain. The prosecutors and law enforcement agencies who brought Damache to justice in the United States work shoulder-to-shoulder, every day, to do just that. As this case shows, our resolve to dismantle clear and present dangers to our national security is stronger than ever.”
This case was investigated by the FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Force in New York and the FBI Field Divisions in Philadelphia, Denver, Baltimore and Washington, D.C., and the IRS. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs and authorities in Spain provided substantial assistance. Authorities in Ireland also provided assistance in this matter.
The case is being prosecuted by First Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Arbittier Williams and Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah M. Wolfe of the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, and Trial Attorneys Matthew F. Blue and C. Alexandria Bogle of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.
22 July 2018
Two South Dakota Men Charged with Drugs and Stolen Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man and a Black Hawk, South Dakota, man have been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance, Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person, and Possession of a Stolen Firearm.
Antonio Siers, age 21, and Zachary Alto, age 24, were indicted on May 15, 2018. Siers appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on May 17, 2018, and pled not guilty to the Indictment. Alto appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on July 16, 2018, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty each faces upon conviction is up to 40 years in federal prison and/or a $1,500,000 fine, up to 9 years of supervised release, and up $300 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on July 12, 2017, Siers and Alto knowingly and intentionally possessed with intent to distribute a detectable amount of methamphetamine.
The Indictment also alleges that on February 1, 2017, and July 12, 2017, Siers, being an unlawful user of, and addicted to a controlled substance, knowingly received and possessed two firearms.
Finally, the Indictment alleges that on July 12, 2017, Alto, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, and being an unlawful user of, and addicted to a controlled substance, knowingly received and possessed a stolen firearm, which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce.
Methamphetamine is a Schedule II controlled substance.
The charges are merely accusations and Siers and Alto are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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.
The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the case.
Siers and Alto were remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial, which has been set for September 5, 2018.
Sioux Falls Man Convicted of Distributing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that Maksim Stefanyuk, age 27, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, was found guilty of two counts of distributing child pornography, one count of receiving child pornography, and one count of failing to register as a sex offender, as a result of a federal jury trial in Sioux Falls. The jury returned the verdict on July 19, 2018.
The charges carry a minimum penalty of 15 years in federal prison and a maximum of 40 years in federal prison, and/or a $250,000 fine, at least 5 years of supervised release, and a $400 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Stefanyuk was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 9, 2017. Law enforcement officers searched Stefanyuk’s Sioux Falls residence on February 22, 2017, looking for evidence involving the distribution of child pornography on the internet using a file sharing program. During the search, officers seized the defendant’s computer and found child pornography after a forensic examination. Stefanyuk had registered as a sex offender, but claimed to live in Minnesota, while working in South Dakota.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Homeland Security Investigations, the Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office, and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, all of which are part of the South Dakota Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
A presentence investigation was ordered. The defendant was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Pine Ridge Woman Sentenced to 25 Years in Federal Prison for Second Degree MurderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, woman convicted of Second Degree Murder and Accessory to Second Degree Murder was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Elizabeth Ann LeBeau, a/k/a Ann LeBeau, age 25, was sentenced on July 13, 2018, to 25 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund on the Second Degree Murder charge. As to the Accessory to Second Degree Murder charge, LeBeau was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison, 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. The time in federal prison and supervised release are to run concurrently.
LeBeau was indicted for the charges by a federal grand jury in January 2016. The charges related to LeBeau strangling Emily Bluebird to death. Bluebird was also struck in the head several times with a hammer. After the homicide, LeBeau and codefendant, Fred Quiver, covered up the homicide by hiding the body to prevent their apprehension, trial, and punishment.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Office of Justice Services, the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Megan Poppen and Kathryn Rich prosecuted the case.
LeBeau was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Pine Ridge Man Sentenced for Possession of a Stolen FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Stolen Firearm was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Cole Brewer, age 27, was sentenced on July 13, 2018, to 37 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Brewer was indicted for the charge by a federal grand jury on April 18, 2017. The charge related to Brewer being in possession of a stolen Sig Sauer .380 pistol in 2016 after being involved in a vehicle chase and crash.
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 Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman prosecuted the case.
Brewer was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Colorado Man Sentenced for Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition by a Prohibited PersonRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Englewood, Colorado, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition by a Prohibited Person was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Jesse Deal, age 30, was sentenced on July 17, 2018, to 48 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Deal was indicted for the charge by a federal grand jury on September 19, 2017. The charge related to Deal being in possession of a firearm and ammunition on August 12, 2017, after being stopped by the South Dakota Highway Patrol in Lawrence County. Deal is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition based on at least one felony drug conviction in Colorado.
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 South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the South Dakota Highway Patrol, the Department of Homeland Security, Missoula Montana Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen prosecuted the case.
Deal was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
20 July 2018
Wilson County Woman Sentenced to Prison for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – United States Attorney Robert J. Higdon, Jr. announced that today in federal court, Chief United States District Judge James C. Dever III sentenced CRYSTAL MARIE PATE, 32 from Lucama, North Carolina, to 138 months in prison, followed by 5 years of federal supervised release. PATE was part of a drug trafficking organization operating in the Wilson and Nash County region. On February 20, 2018, PATE pled guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess With Intent to Distribute 5 Grams or More of Methamphetamine, and a Quantity of Heroin; and one count of Possessing a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug-Trafficking Crime while Aiding and Abetting another.
In 2015, the Wilson County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) identified a drug-trafficking organization (DTO) led by PATE and her co-defendants. Shortly after identifying the suspects, the investigation into the DTO began.
The investigation consisted of the use surveillance, seizures, controlled PURCHASES of multiple types of drugs including heroin, methamphetamine, and assorted pills. During the course of the investigation, law enforcement executed a search warrant resulting in the recovery of drug packaging materials, quantities of heroin, methamphetamine, and other controlled substances.
The Court determined that PATE was responsible for the distribution of 10.38 grams of heroin and 23.81 grams of methamphetamine, and the possession of a firearm in furtherance of her drug trafficking activity – specifically a .44 Caliber Charter Arms handgun.
The case was investigated by the Wilson County Sherriff’s Office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Brad Knott prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
Virginia Man Sentenced to over 15 Years in Prison for Sex Trafficking a Minor and Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
A Virginia man was sentenced today to 186 months in prison and 10 years of supervised release for multiple crimes related to the prostitution and exploitation of a 15-year-old minor. Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney G. Zachary Terwilliger of the Eastern District of Virginia, and Assistant Director in Charge Nancy McNamara of the FBI’s Washington Field Office made the announcement after the sentence was handed down by U.S. District Judge Anthony J. Trenga of the Eastern District of Virginia.
Abdul Karim Bangura Jr. aka “AJ”, 22, of Triangle, Virginia pleaded guilty in August 2017 to all counts of an indictment charging him with sex trafficking of a minor, conspiracy to engage in sex trafficking of a minor, interstate transportation of a minor for the purposes of prostitution, and production of child pornography.
According to admissions made in connection with his plea, Bangura and his co-defendant Christian Hood conspired to recruit a 15-year-old girl to work as a prostitute and to advertise her prostitution services on Backpage.com. Bangura also transported the minor to hotels in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C. for prostitution dates, and he took a portion of the money she made from commercial sex customers. Bangura also used a phone to record a video of himself having sex with the minor. In August 2017, Hood was convicted at trial of sex trafficking and conspiracy to engage in sex trafficking of this same minor.
This matter was investigated by the FBI Washington Field Office’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force with assistance from the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Police Department and the Prince William County Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Maureen C. Cain of the Eastern District of Virginia and Trial Attorney Kyle P. Reynolds of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section are prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Vice President of Insurance Underwriting Group Charged with Fraudulently Obtaining $13.5 Million in Phony “Matching Deductible” PoliciesRead the Press Release
CHICAGO — The vice president of an insurance underwriting group fraudulently obtained more than $13.5 million from a corporate client by fraudulently issuing and collecting premium payments on “matching deductible” policies, according to federal criminal charges filed today by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Chicago.
DAVID BALLARD, 54, of Chicago, oversaw the Pennsylvania account of a large health care company. From 2005 to 2016, Ballard fraudulently issued “matching deductible” insurance renewal policies that his employer had not authorized, according to a criminal information filed in U.S. District Court in Chicago. Ballard created and submitted to the health care company phony estimates, invoices, binder letters and policies that outlined the purported terms of coverage, the charges allege. He then had the premium payments diverted to a shell company that he controlled, the information states. As a result of the scam, Ballard fraudulently pocketed more than $13.5 million, which he used to pay personal expenses, including credit card bills, expensive dinners, travel costs, and real estate for himself and his family, according to the charges.
Ballard is charged with one count of wire fraud, which is punishable by up to 20 years in prison. Arraignment in U.S. District Court in Chicago has not yet been scheduled.
The charge was announced by John R. Lausch, Jr., United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois; and Jeffrey S. Sallet, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The public is reminded that an information is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If convicted, the Court must impose a reasonable sentence under federal statutes and the advisory U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennie Levin.
Vernon Man Charged with Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Douglas Shoemaker, Regional Special Agent-in-Charge, United States Department of Transportation-Office of Inspector General, announced that SCOTT PIERSON, 57, of VERNON, was arrested on July 19, 2018, on a criminal complaint charging him with receipt and possession of child pornography.
The criminal complaint alleges that in March 2018, the U.S. Department of Transportation-Office of Inspector General received information that PIERSON, an Administrative Officer assigned to the Federal Aviation Administration (“FAA”) Bradley Flight Standards District Office in Enfield, was using his FAA-issued laptop computer to access websites known to contain images of child pornography. Subsequent investigation revealed that PIERSON also downloaded and maintained hundreds of sexually explicit images and videos of children on his FAA-issued laptop computer and other external devices.
Investigators conducted a court-authorized search of PIERSON’s residence and his office yesterday and seized several items, including computers, cell phones and thumb drives. PIERSON was arrested during the search.
Following his arrest, PIERSON appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Donna F. Martinez in Hartford.
The charge of receipt of child pornography carries a minimum term of imprisonment of five years, a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of possession of child pornography carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years and a fine of up to $250,000.
U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by the U.S. Department of Transportation-Office of Inspector General. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren C. Clark.
This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.
U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Iowa Hosts Roundtable Discussion with More Than 20 Community Organizations on Combatting Sexual Harassment in HousingRead the Press Release
SIOUX CITY, IA – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District if Iowa and the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division hosted a roundtable today for community organizations to discuss the problem of sexual harassment in housing, United States Attorney Pete Deegan announced.
“Sexual harassment in housing is often underreported, but it is an egregious violation of a person’s right to fair housing,” Deegan said. “Through this roundtable, we hope to increase awareness of this problem and ensure there are resources available for victims of harassment. No one should have to fear being harassed or assaulted by unscrupulous landlords or superintendents who abuse the power they have over tenants.”
The roundtable included representatives from over 20 different community organizations, including the Iowa Civil Rights Commission, Iowa Legal Aid, Sioux City Human Rights Commission, Iowa Attorney General’s Office, Sioux City Housing Authority, Siouxland Community Foundation, National Association of Social Workers, Sioux City Veterans Affairs, HUD-VA Supportive Housing, Goosmann Law Firm, Briar Cliff University, Western Iowa Tech Community College, Siouxland CARES, Sioux City BOOST, Emerging Women, Disability Resource Center of Siouxland, Hope Haven, Institute for Community Alliances, Sanford Center, Warming Shelter, Foodbank of Siouxland, Goodwill of the Great Plains, Siouxland District Health, and Mary J. Treglia Community House. These organizations were invited because they often work with vulnerable populations who are most likely to become victims of sexual harassment in housing.
The Department of Justice, through the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Civil Rights Division, enforces the federal Fair Housing Act, which prohibits discrimination in housing on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, familial status, national origin, and disability. Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination prohibited by the Act.
In October 2017, the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division announced the Sexual Harassment in Housing Initiative, an effort to combat sexual harassment in housing. On April 12, 2018, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the nationwide expansion of that initiative and the formation of a joint task force with the Department of Housing and Urban Development to address this issue. The Justice Department’s initiative seeks to identify barriers to reporting sexual harassment in housing, increase awareness of the Justice Department’s enforcement efforts – both among survivors and those they may report to – and collaborate with federal, state, and local partners to increase reporting and help survivors quickly and easily connect with federal resources.
The United States Attorney’s Office is working closely with the Civil Rights Division to spread the word here in the Northern District of Iowa about options to help victims who experience sexual harassment in housing. Roundtable discussions like the one that U.S. Attorney Pete Deegan hosted today are one way to increase awareness and build strong partnerships in the community to combat this problem together.
Local community organizations, such as local law enforcement, legal aid offices, fair housing organizations, shelters, and transitional housing providers can identify the misconduct and recommend that victims report sexual harassment to the Civil Rights Division. Not only should victims of sexual harassment be aware of the Justice Department’s enforcement efforts, but people or organizations they may tell about the sexual harassment should also know where to refer these victims to report the misconduct. Local police departments or legal aid offices may be able to help victims, if the behavior is a crime or if there is an imminent eviction. In addition, organizations should recommend that the victim report the harassment to the Civil Rights Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
While most people are familiar with the problem of sexual harassment in the workplace, harassment also occurs in housing, and the Fair Housing Act prohibits it. The Justice Department brings cases each year involving egregious conduct, including allegations that defendants have exposed themselves sexually to current or prospective tenants, requested sexual favors in exchange for reduced rents or making necessary repairs, made unrelenting and unwanted sexual advances to tenants, and evicted tenants who resisted their sexual overtures.
Since January 2017, the Justice Department has filed or settled ten sexual harassment cases and recovered over $1.6 million for victims of sexual harassment in housing. Many instances of sexual harassment in housing continue to go unreported. The Justice Department’s investigations frequently uncover sexual harassment that has been ongoing for years or decades and identify numerous victims who never reported the conduct to federal authorities.
The Department encourages anyone who has experienced sexual harassment in housing, or knows someone who has, to contact the Division by calling 1-(844) 380-6178 or emailing [email protected].
Individuals who believe they may have been victims of discrimination may also file a complaint with the U.S. Attorney’s Office at /media/962046/dl?inline or 600 4th Street, Suite 670, Sioux City, IA 51101.
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Two Honduran Citizens Indicted for False Statements, Identity Theft, and Conspiracy to Defraud the Internal Revenue Service of Payroll TaxesRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – A federal grand jury has returned a superseding indictment charging Fanny Melina Zelaya-Mendez (39, Jacksonville) with making false statements to a federal agent, aggravated identity theft, and three counts of conspiracy to defraud the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) of federal payroll taxes, specifically, Social Security tax, Medicare tax, and income tax. Roger Omar Zelaya-Mendez (34, Jacksonville) has been charged with one count of conspiracy to defraud the IRS. These charges are in addition to previously filed charges. Specifically, on May 2, 2018, Fanny Melina Zelaya-Mendez was charged with three counts of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and Roger Omar Zelaya-Mendez was charged with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of illegally re-entering the United States after a prior deportation. The newly-filed false statements and tax fraud charges each carry a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison, and the aggravated identity theft charge carries a mandatory prison sentence of two years that must be served consecutively to any other sentence. Fanny Melina and Roger Omar Zelaya-Mendez are Honduran citizens who are illegally present in the United States.
The indictment also notifies the defendants that the United States intends to seek forfeiture of $1,033,485, the approximate amount of proceeds obtained as a result of the wire fraud offenses, and an additional $399,575 of seized funds, and two seized vehicles – a 2014 Dodge Ram pick-up and a 2012 GMC Yukon Denali.
The indictment alleges a fraudulent scheme in which construction contractors entered into agreements with shell companies, established by Fanny Melina and Roger Omar Zelaya-Mendez, that arranged for work crews, mostly made up of undocumented aliens, to work on the contractors’ projects. The contractors wrote payroll checks to the shell companies for the work performed by the workers. Fanny Melina and Roger Omar Zelaya-Mendez then cashed the checks, kept 4% as a fee, and distributed the remaining cash to work crew leaders, who then paid the workers. By obtaining and paying the workers through the shell companies, the contractors could disclaim responsibility for ensuring that the workers were legally authorized to work in the United States, that adequate workers’ compensation insurance was provided, and that required payroll taxes were paid.
During the period of the scheme, a total of approximately $25,837,141 of payroll funds passed through the shell companies. Neither the defendants nor the contractors remitted payroll taxes to the IRS. According to the IRS, the estimated amount of payroll taxes due on the total wages is approximately $6.5 million.
When Fanny Melina Zelaya-Mendez was arrested on May 4, 2018, she gave a false name to an immigration officer and claimed to be a U.S. citizen who had been born in Puerto Rico. She also presented a valid Florida Identification Card which she had obtained in the false name. Subsequent investigation revealed that the identity that she had adopted was for a real U.S. citizen who was born in Puerto Rico and that Fanny Melina Zelaya-Mendez had obtained the Florida ID card using a genuine Puerto Rico birth certificate and a genuine Social Security card.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed a violation of the federal criminal laws, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Arnold B. Corsmeier.
Two Charged with Violations of the Federal Controlled Substances Act and the Federal Gun Control ActRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that DUSTIN DINET, age 31, of New Orleans, and STEVEN DINET, age 44, of Jonesboro, Arkansas, who are brothers, were charged today in a seven-count Indictment with conspiracy to distribute 28 grams or more of crack and 100 grams or more of heroin, distribution of crack, possession with the intent to distribute heroin, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
According to the indictment, the DINET brothers conspired to distribute crack and heroin and sold crack on three different occasions. The indictment also charges DUSTIN DINET with possessing a gun in furtherance of drug trafficking and possessing a gun after being convicted of a felony. Each defendant faces a mandatory minimum five years up to forty years on the drug conspiracy. The possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking carries a mandatory consecutive sentence of five years up to life and being a felon in possession of a firearm carries a sentence of up to ten years.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that an Indictment is merely a charging document and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods 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.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Haller is in charge of the prosecution.
Tampa Felon Sentenced to More Than 19 Years for Unlawfully Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Kovachevich has sentenced Reginald Hollie a/k/a Reginald Bedford (35, Tampa) to 19 years and 7 months in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. The court also ordered Hollie to forfeit the firearm that was used in the offense.
A federal jury found Hollie guilty on April 25, 2018.
According to testimony presented at trial, on the evening of September 23 and into the early morning hours of September 24, 2017, a friend of Hollie’s was ejected from a bar in Ybor City by the establishment’s security team. Hollie, a convicted felon, became angry, obtained a firearm, returned to the bar, and threatened to shoot one of the security officers. Officers from the Tampa Police Department then attempted to make contact with Hollie, and ultimately found him in possession of a loaded firearm.
As a previously convicted felon, Hollie is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. In October 2017, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorneys’ Offices to develop districtwide crime reduction strategies, incorporating the lessons learned since the program’s inception in 2001. In the Middle District of Florida, U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez coordinates PSN efforts in cooperation with various federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Tampa Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Rachel Jones and Simon Gaugush.
Tampa Doctor Pleads Guilty to Distribution of Opioids Outside His DEA RegistrationRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – Jeffrey John Abraham (52, formerly of Tampa) has pleaded guilty to distributing controlled substances not specified in his Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) registration. He faces a maximum penalty of four years’ imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000. His sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to court documents, Abraham, a Florida-licensed physician, was employed at two local Veterans Affairs (VA) hospitals where he had applied for and obtained an official federal duty DEA registration number that was "limited to official federal duties," and specifically "restricted to government personnel for official duties only." This DEA registration was "not transferable on change of ownership, control, location or business activity." Abraham resigned from the VA in June 2017 and began working at a pain management clinic in Tampa, without first obtaining a new DEA registration.
From August 2017 through March 7, 2018, while working at the pain management clinic, Abraham wrote more than 2,000 prescriptions for Schedule II controlled substances, including over 600 prescriptions for hydromorphone (commonly known as Dilaudid) and over 1,000 prescriptions for oxycodone. In March 2018, Abraham resigned from working as a physician at the clinic. During the investigation of this case, Abraham admitted that his DEA registration did not authorize him to prescribe or distribute controlled substances in a private clinic setting after the date of his resignation from the VA, and agreed to surrender his DEA registration.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kelley Howard-Allen and Greg Pizzo.
This case was investigated by the Opioid Fraud and Abuse Detection Unit located in the U.S. Attorney’s Office. On August 2, 2017, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the formation of the Opioid Fraud and Abuse Detection Unit in 12 federal districts to help combat the devastating opioid crisis ravaging families and communities. The unit focuses specifically on opioid-related health care fraud and abuse by using data to identify and prosecute health care professionals and others who are contributing to the prescription opioid epidemic.
St. Croix Man Sentenced to 19 Months for Firearms Possession Associated with a Planned RobberyRead the Press Release
St. Croix, USVI – On July 19, 2018, District Court Judge Wilma Lewis sentenced Maurice Doyle, age 27, of St. Croix, to time served of 19 months in prison for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced today. Judge Lewis also sentenced Doyle to three years of supervised release and ordered him to pay a $1,000.00 fine and a special assessment of $100.00.
Doyle pled guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon on February 22, 2018. According to evidence presented in court, on December 4, 2015, Doyle was operating a vehicle carrying two male passengers. The three men travelled to Williams Delight in order to obtain firearms in preparation for a planned robbery. The passenger in the rear seat of the vehicle obtained a pistol and a .223 rifle from someone at Williams Delight and re-entered Doyle’s vehicle with the weapons. A police chase later ensued and the passenger in the rear seat discharged shots at the police. No one was injured, and the robbery did not occur. Doyle and the two passengers abandoned the vehicle and fled. None of the three was apprehended on December 4, 2015. Doyle later reported the vehicle as stolen. He was not arrested until December of 2016.
Doyle had previously been convicted in 2012 in the Virgin Islands Superior Court of unauthorized firearm possession of a firearm.
The case was investigated by the Virgin Islands Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alphonso Andrews, Jr.
Singer man pleads guilty to bank robbery for heist of Dequincy bankRead the Press Release
LAKE CHARLES, La. – United States Attorney David C. Joseph announced that a man from Singer pleaded guilty Wednesday to robbing a DeQuincy bank of nearly $16,000.
Gordon Scott Cooper, 56, of Singer Louisiana, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen Kay to one count of bank robbery. The plea will become final when accepted by U.S. District Judge Robert G. James. According to the guilty plea, Gordon Cooper entered a bank in DeQuincy, Louisiana, with an air-powered BB gun that looked like an automatic pistol and stole $15,999 from two teller drawers. Police later learned that a maroon Honda Pilot had been seen in the area prior to the robbery and that the driver had been seen acting suspiciously. Police located Chad Allen Cooper, 39, of Singer, Louisiana, who is Gordon Cooper’s nephew and found BBs and a CO2 cartridge for the air pistol used in the robbery. Chad Cooper admitted to assisting in the robbery and directed officers on how to find his uncle. At Gordon Cooper’s residence, police located the Honda Pilot, a plastic bag containing money, and a pair of tennis shoes that Gordon Cooper identified as the ones worn in the robbery.
Gordon Cooper faces up to 25 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a $250,000 fine. The court set sentencing for October 1, 2018. Chad Cooper pleaded guilty on June 5, 2018, to one count of bank robbery and faces the same penalties as Gordon Cooper. The court set Chad Cooper’s sentencing for October 1, 2018.
The FBI and the Dequincy Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Ayo is prosecuting the case.
Sentencings for July 17 - July 20, 2018Read the Press Release
JULIO GASCA-NIETO, 30, of Denver, Colorado was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on July 19, 2018 for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and distribution of methamphetamine. Gasca-Nieto was arrested in Casper, Wyoming. He received one hundred twenty months of imprisonment, to be followed by sixty months of supervised release. The Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation, U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency, and the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency investigated this case.
CODY JAMES AHRENS, 27, of Cheyenne, Wyoming was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on July 17, 2018 for seize, confine, kidnap, carry away and hold, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. Ahrens was arrested in Cheyenne, Wyoming. He received one hundred thirty months of imprisonment, to be followed by sixty months of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $200.00 special assessment. The Cheyenne Police Department, Weld County Colorado Sheriff’s Office and US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated this case.
*** This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime.
MICAH NATHANIAL HECK, 25, of Claude, Texas was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on July 20, 2018 for sexual battery. Heck was arrested in Claude, Texas. He received twelve months of imprisonment, to be followed by twelve months of supervised release, and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $1,602.75 and a $25.00 special assessment. The National Park Service investigated this case.
AARON MICHAEL WATSON, 29, of Gillette, Wyoming was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on July 19, 2018 for interference with interstate commerce by means of robbery and aid and abet. Watson was arrested in Casper, Wyoming. He received eighty-four months of imprisonment, to be followed by thirty-six months of supervised release, and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $1,409.00 and a $100.00 special assessment. The Gillette Police Department and US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated this case.
*** This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime.
KENDAL RAY WILLIAMS, 42, with no fixed address, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on July 19, 2018 for failure to register as a sex offender. Williams was arrested in Casper, Wyoming. He received fifteen months of imprisonment, to be followed by sixty months of supervised release, and ordered to pay $100.00 special assessment. The United States Marshals Service investigated this case.
Saratoga County Man Charged with Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Robert Gibeault, Jr., age 49, of Gansevoort, New York, was indicted yesterday for distributing child pornography over the internet and possessing child pornography on a laptop computer.
The announcement was made by United States Attorney Grant C. Jaquith and Kevin M. Kelly, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
The indictment alleges that, between January 2017 through September 2017, Gibeault used a peer-to-peer file sharing network and the internet to make child pornography videos available to be downloaded by other users. It also alleges that Gibeault possessed a laptop computer containing images of child pornography, and that the images depicted prepubescent children and children under the age of 12.
The charges in the indictment are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Gibeault, who was originally arrested in June on a criminal complaint, will be arraigned on the indictment at a later date. If convicted, Gibeault faces at least 5 years and up to 20 years in prison, a term of post-release supervision of at least 5 years and up to life, and a fine of up to $250,000. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors. Additionally, if convicted, Gibeault will be required to register as a sex offender.
This case is being investigated by HSI, with assistance from the New York State Police and Colonie Police Department, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph A. Giovannetti and Emmet O’Hanlon.
This case is being prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood. Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice, Project Safe Childhood is led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), and is designed to marshal federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Saint Paul Psychiatrist Pleads Guilty to Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced the guilty plea of AVIEL LI GOODMAN, 62, to one count of receipt of child pornography. GOODMAN, who was initially charged on February 20, 2018, pleaded guilty earlier today before U.S. District Judge Joan N. Ericksen in U.S. District Court in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
According to the defendant’s guilty plea and documents filed in court, on multiple occasions between March 1, 2015, and August 27, 2017, undercover law enforcement agents downloaded numerous image and video files depicting child pornography from IP addresses connected to GOODMAN’S Saint Paul residence. On January 17, 2018, upon execution of a search warrant on GOODMAN’S residence, law enforcement agents seized a computer containing more than 20,000 child pornography files.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Katharine T. Buzicky and Carol M. Kayser.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Defendant Information:
AVIEL LI GOODMAN, 62
Saint Paul, Minn.
Convicted:
- Receipt of child pornography, 1 count
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Roxbury Man Charged with Identity TheftRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Roxbury man identified as John Doe was arrested today and arraigned in federal court in Boston.
According to the indictment unsealed today, Doe repeatedly used a Social Security number that was not his, including to obtain a U.S. passport, which he then used to enter the U.S., and in support of a claim for Massachusetts unemployment insurance benefits. The indictment also charges that Doe obtained public housing benefits worth over $65,000 by using a Social Security number that was not his. The defendant’s true identity remains unknown.
The charging statute for aggravated identity theft provides for a mandatory sentence of two years in prison, to be served consecutive with any other sentence imposed, up to one year of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. The charges of theft of public funds and using a passport obtained through false statements each provide for a sentence of no greater than 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of misuse of a Social Security number provides for a sentence of no greater than five years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. 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; Peter C. Fitzhugh, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston; Scott Antolik, Special Agent in Charge of the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General, Office of Investigations, Boston Field Division; William B. Gannon, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of State, Diplomatic Security Service, Boston Field Office; Michael Mikulka, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General, Office of Investigations, Labor Racketeering and Fraud; and Christina Scaringi, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General, Northeast Regional Office, made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christine Wichers of Lelling’s Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the indictment are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Rochester Business Owner Charged with Defrauding the Rochester School Modernization ProgramRead 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 Orville Dixon, 53, of Rochester, NY, was charged by criminal complaint with wire fraud for scheming to defraud the Rochester School Modernization Program and the Rochester Joint Schools Construction Board. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney John J. Field, who is handling the case, stated that the Rochester School Modernization Program (the Program) is a public-works project to renovate and improve various school facilities in the City of Rochester. The Program is overseen and directed by the Rochester Joint Schools Construction Board (the Board). The enabling legislation for the Program required that the Board implement a Diversity Plan for the benefit of persons deemed to be traditionally underrepresented in the construction field, specifically, minorities and women.
According to the complaint, the defendant Dixon, a minority male, was president and owner of Journee Construction. Dixon allowed contractors, who did not meet the requirements of the Diversity Plan, to use Journee Construction as a pass-through agency on Program contracts in exchange for a fee. For example:
• On March 19, 2013, the defendant met with Witness A and told Witness A that he created Journee Construction to be used as a pass-through on certain jobs related to the Program. Dixon noted that, a business, identified as Contractor 1, had directed him to place Contractor 1’s employees on Journee’s payroll for this purpose. In subsequent recorded conversations, the defendant told Witness A that the scheme as an easy way to make money for just “pushing paper.”
• In April and May 2013, Contractor 1 submitted a bid for work on the Program at School No. 5. Paperwork was submitted falsely representing that Contractor 1 planned to utilize Journee Construction as a Minority Business Enterprise subcontractor and supplier for approximately $1,300,000 of services. Both Dixon and Contractor 1 signed the paperwork falsely representing that the defendant agreed and intended to perform the described work. The defendant also falsely claimed to be a certified Minority Business Enterprise (MBE), as required by the Diversity Plan.
• In May 2013, a business, identified as Contractor 2, submitted a bid for work on the Program at School No. 28. In connection with that bid, paperwork was submitted falsely representing that Contractor 2 planned to utilize Journee Construction as a Small Business Enterprise (SBE) subcontractor for $160,000 in supplies. Both the defendant and Contractor 2 signed the paperwork even though Dixon did not have the ability to supply parts for Contractor 2’s requirements.
Dixon did not perform any of the work for Contractor 1 or Contractor 2, nor did he perform any economically useful function as required by the Program. Instead, the defendant simply lent his name to the transactions and illegally served as a “pass through” entity.
The defendant made an initial appearance this morning before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jonathan W. Feldman and was released.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation; under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Gary Loeffert.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Repeat Child Sex Offender Sentenced to 50 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
BIRMINGHAM – A federal judge on Thursday sentenced a Birmingham man to 50 years in prison for sexually exploiting a five-year-old boy by forcing the child to perform sexual acts and videotaping the conduct, announced U.S. Attorney Jay E. Town and FBI Special Agent in Charge Johnnie Sharp Jr.
U.S. District Judge Madeline H. Haikala sentenced LARRY DEAN GARRETT Jr., 38, on one count of sexual exploitation of a child. A federal jury convicted Garrett in December. Garrett faced the potential 50-year sentence because of a previous conviction of a sexual offense against a child in Michigan in 2000. In that case, Garrett confessed to criminal sexual conduct involving a boy younger than 13, according to evidence at trial.
“There must be a standing reservation in the pits of hell for those who sexually abuse children,” Town said. “Fifty years behind the bars of a federal prison is exactly where a repeat child sex offender like Garrett needs to be. Sexual exploitation of a child is one of the most abhorrent crimes prosecuted at any level and we must do all that we can to protect our children from this sort of abuse. Thanks to the FBI’s tireless work on behalf of an innocent and particularly vulnerable victim, and to the child’s family and friends who showed great courage in their willingness to assist law enforcement, Larry Garrett will never have another opportunity to harm a child.”
“Garrett's sentence not only delivers justice for his victims, but puts an end to his opportunity to exploit children,” Sharp said. “I also hope that this 50-year sentence will serve as a deterrent and a warning to those in our communities who prey upon children that their conduct will not be tolerated, and that the FBI and our partners will work tirelessly to bring them to justice. I commend the agents who investigated Garrett for their professional and thorough investigation."
Garrett, who performs magic tricks and uses the name, “Magic,” lived in the same Birmingham apartment complex as his five-year-old victim and the child’s mother in 2016. He was known to have spent time with the child, according to evidence.
A friend of the child’s family, who also lived in the same apartment complex, testified at trial that he knew Garrett downloaded movies and requested one from him. When the man opened the files on the computer memory card that Garrett gave him, he discovered the sexually explicit video involving the child, he testified. He showed the video to members of the child’s family, and they provided the video to police.
The FBI investigated the case, which Assistant U.S. Attorney Erica Williamson Barnes prosecuted.
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Registered Sex Offender Sentenced to Twenty-Two Years in Prison for Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS, Nev. – A Henderson, Nevada man who pleaded guilty on April 17, 2018 to receipt of approximately 8,700 photos and videos of child pornography was sentenced Thursday by U.S. District Judge Richard F. Boulware to 264 months in prison and lifetime supervised release, announced U.S. Attorney Dayle Elieson for the District of Nevada.
Craig Richard Pozesky, 49, pleaded guilty to one count of receipt of child pornography. According to the plea agreement, Pozesky uploaded images of child pornography to his “Gmail” email account intending to send the images to another individual. Law enforcement officers obtained and executed a search warrant for Pozesky’s residence. Pozesky admitted that he viewed, downloaded, and possessed hundreds of images and videos of children as young as one-year-old being sexually assaulted by adults. Pozesky also admitted to trading child pornography with other individuals, to include receiving an USB drive containing child pornography from another person, as well as engaging in online sexually explicit conversations with an underage child. Pozesky was in the process of coordinating a meeting with the minor when he was arrested.
At the time Pozesky was arrested for this offense, he was already a convicted felon and registered sex offender. His sex offender status was based on prior convictions in Nevada and Florida for aggravated sexual abuse, sexual abuse, and abusive sexual conduct involving a minor offenses.
This case was investigated by the Henderson Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elham Roohani prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals, federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood and for information about internet safety education, visit www.usdoj.gov/psc.
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Recycling Executives Spearheading Scheme Involving Stolen Postal Service Equipment Sentenced to Two Years in Federal Prison and Ordered to Pay $3.4 Million in RestitutionRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – The central players in a scheme to recycle stolen postal pallets have been sentenced to two years in federal prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to convert government property and conspiracy to launder money.
Jorge Villalobos, 41, of Riverside, was sentenced in April, and Hugo Guzman, 40, of Fontana, was sentenced yesterday, both by United States District Judge Manuel L. Real. In addition to the prison time, they were ordered to pay $3.4 million in restitution, the largest restitution amount ordered for theft of United States Postal Service (USPS) property, according to the USPS. Based on court records, this restitution has been paid in full.
Villalobos is President and Guzman is Vice President of Go Green Industries in Riverside. The business is a plastics recycler, processor, and compounder. According to court records, between 2008 and 2014, Villalobos and Guzman, through Go Green Industries, knowingly acquired stolen USPS plastic pallets, shredded them, and sold the resulting plastic on the open market for corporate profit. Further, Villalobos and Guzman laundered the proceeds from this illegal activity by transferring the money to two straw-person accounts, and then using those accounts to promote further unlawful activity.
“These defendants siphoned millions of dollars from the USPS by actively seeking out stolen pallets, and pumping money from the sales into their business,” said United States Attorney Nicola T. Hanna. “They intentionally incentivized theft of government property and their sentences should deter those who would follow in their footsteps.”
“Delivering mail over 1.5 billion miles last year to over 157 million residences, businesses and P.O. Boxes each day takes many containers, pallets, carts and trays,” said Nichole Cooper, Inspector in Charge of the Los Angeles Division of the Postal Inspection Service. “Theft of this equipment feeds an industry and Postal Inspectors are dedicated to identifying and recovering postal equipment and assets, and seeking prosecution when necessary. The Inspection Service is proud at the result of this investigation and the award of over $3.4 million in restitution to the Postal Service.”
In its sentencing papers, the government argued that these executives directed the affairs of a company that “played an integral role in the black market of stolen government property in Southern California” and that the company “aggregated the efforts of multiple plastics thieves” and “created a demand for further theft.”
“Villalobos and Guzman executed a money laundering scheme whereby they used bank accounts in the names of two other individuals to hide proceeds of Go Green’s dirty activity,” said R. Damon Rowe, Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation. “We are proud to work with our law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute individuals who attempt to enrich themselves by fraudulent means and to help put a stop to this and other types of white collar crime.”
This case is being investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Puneet V. Kakkar of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Section.
Port Charlotte Woman Pleads Guilty to Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces that Lisa McLaren Janick (47, Port Charlotte) today pleaded guilty to two counts of health care fraud. McLaren Janick faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison on each count. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the plea agreement, McLaren Janick, while employed as a marketer for a home health agency, falsified documents relating to her husband’s (Dr. Janick’s) Port Charlotte medical office and created bogus referrals for the patients to receive medically unnecessary home health services. Dr. Janick previously pleaded guilty in a related case to obstruction of a federal audit. His sentencing hearing is scheduled on September 11, 2018.
This case was investigated by Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Rachel Jones.
Porcupine Woman Sentenced to 40 Years in Federal Prison for Killing ChildRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Porcupine, South Dakota, woman convicted of Second Degree Murder was sentenced on July 17, 2018, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Katrina Pauline Shangreaux, a/k/a Katrina Shangreau, a/k/a Katrina White Whirlwind, age 30, was sentenced to 40 years in federal prison, to be followed by 5 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Shangreaux was charged on August 9, 2016. The conviction relates to Shangreaux killing her own child by hitting, kicking, and biting him in July 2016 at Porcupine.
U.S. Attorney Parsons expressed great satisfaction with the collaborative investigation between federal and tribal officials. "Only by working together to vindicate the rights of victims of crime, particularly those most vulnerable among us, can we achieve results such as this," said Parsons.
"While no sentence will bring Kylen back or take away the pain from his death, we are pleased with a sentence that ensures the defendant cannot harm another child again," said Jill Sanborn, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI's Minneapolis Division. "I am grateful that the collective efforts of the Oglala Tribe's Department of Public Safety, the Bureau of the Indian Affairs, the U.S. Attorney's Office and our FBI Agents assigned to this case helped bring justice to a helpless little boy who couldn't defend himself."
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Indian Affairs Office of Justice Services, and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sarah B. Collins and Megan J. Poppen prosecuted the case.
Shangreaux was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Philadelphia Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine PossessionRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Kevin Ashley Wells, a/k/a "Big 50," 37, of Philadelphia, pled guilty today before U.S. Chief District Judge Daniel P. Jordan III to possession with intent to distribute 5 grams or more of methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Thomas M. Annello, Acting Special Agent in Charge of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans.
On October 13, 2015, Wells sold a quantity of methamphetamine to a confidential informant. The case is the result of an extensive Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation, dubbed AOperation Highlife,@ which began as an operation targeting illegal narcotics distribution in east central Mississippi area that involved the distribution of methamphetamine, cocaine and marijuana. The distribution network encompasses the States of California, Tennessee, Alabama, Georgia and Mississippi.
Wells will be sentenced by Judge Jordan on October 24, 2018, at 9:30, and faces a maximum penalty of 40 years in prison and a $5 million fine.
The OCDETF program is a joint federal, state and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking and is the nation’s primary tool for disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations, and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets.
This OCDETF case is a result of a joint investigation by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics. Assisting agencies include the Philadelphia Police Department, Neshoba County Sheriff’s Department, Neshoba County District Attorney’s Office, Scott County Sheriff’s Office, Flowood Police Department, Rankin County Sheriff’s Department, Hinds County Sheriff’s Department, Carthage Police Department, Union Police Department, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Louisville Police Department, Mississippi Highway Patrol, United States Attorney=s Office Southern
District of Mississippi and the United States Marshal Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Erin Chalk is prosecuting the case.
Omaha Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Joe Kelly announced that on July 13, 2018, Jason Edward Boonie, 40, of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced to nine years and 10 months (118 months) in prison for conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine and 500 grams or more of a mixture containing methamphetamine. Following the prison term, Boonie will serve five years on supervised release.
Information provided to law enforcement indicated Boonie was responsible for the distribution of at least 50 grams (approximately 1 ¾ ounces) of actual (pure) methamphetamine and at least 500 grams (approximately 18 ounces) of methamphetamine mixture in the Lincoln area between February of 2014 and December of 2016. On September 15, 2016, one of Boonie’s associates was stopped by the Nebraska State Patrol and was found in possession of 59 grams of methamphetamine mixture, which the State Patrol Crime Laboratory later found contained at least 53 grams of actual methamphetamine. The associate said she bought the methamphetamine from Boonie just prior to her arrest. On September 29, 2016, Boonie was arrested on outstanding warrants in Omaha. His car was searched, and over 167 grams of methamphetamine mixture was found.
In February of 2018, Boonie was sentenced to three years in state prison in Douglas County for possession of methamphetamine due to his September 29, 2016 arrest. Boonie’s sentence on the federal conspiracy charge will run concurrent with (at the same time as) the remainder of that state sentence.
This case was investigated by the Lincoln/Lancaster County Narcotics Task Force, the Omaha Police Department, and the Nebraska State Patrol.
North Carolina Man Sentenced to 105 Months Imprisonment After Pleading Guilty to Being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition Stemming from Mall StandoffRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Sherri A. Lydon stated that James Jacob Parrish, Jr., age 36, of Fayetteville, North Carolina, was sentenced in federal court to 105 months imprisonment with 3 years of supervised release to follow. Parrish plead guilty last November to being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1). Chief United States District Judge Terry L. Wooten imposed the sentence.
Evidence presented in court established that at approximately 8:00pm on Sunday, March 26, 2017, deputies with the Richland County Sheriff’s Department (“RCSD”) were dispatched to an alarm and shots fired call at Columbia Mall on Two Notch Road. The mall was closed at the time. Deputies located a vehicle registered to Parrish parked in the median of the mall parking lot with a flat front tire and noticed bullet holes in the glass door of the Sears Automotive Department with spent 9mm shell casings lying on the sidewalk in front of the door. Upon making entry into the Sears Automotive Department, deputies noticed an interior glass door had been shot out as well.
The RCSD’s Special Response Team (“SRT”) responded to the scene and ultimately located Parrish barricaded inside an interior room. SRT tried to negotiate with Parrish to surrender peacefully and during the negotiations, Parrish made threats to shoot the officers. After unsuccessful negotiations, SRT made entry into the room and encountered Parrish pointing a loaded Kahr 9mm handgun at them. SRT was able to safely apprehend Parrish and placed him under arrest. Parrish was transported to a local hospital for medical treatment for a foot injury he sustained when he fell through a ceiling while trying to escape detection. While at the hospital, Parrish attempted to take a handgun from a deputy on two separate occasions.
Parrish is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms and ammunition based upon his prior North Carolina state convictions, which include possession of marijuana (2000), carrying a concealed weapon (2002), possession of stolen goods (2003), two separate counts of possession of cocaine (2003), possession with intent to distribute a counterfeit substance (2003), sell of cocaine (2003), and second degree murder/second degree kidnapping/attempted robbery with a deadly weapon/conspiracy to commit robbery with a deadly weapon (2005). Parrish was released on North Carolina parole in 2015.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (“ATF”) and the RCSD and was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state and local Project CeaseFire initiative, which aggressively prosecutes firearm cases. Assistant United States Attorney Stacey D. Haynes of the Columbia office handled the case. Project CeaseFire is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority. In October 2017, as part of a series of actions to address this crime trend, Attorney General Sessions announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop a district crime reduction strategy that incorporates the lessons learned since PSN launched in 2001.
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Nashua Man Pleads Guilty to Fentanyl TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD, N.H. – Arthur Voutselas, 27, previously of Nashua, pleaded guilty in federal court to a fentanyl trafficking charge, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on two separate occasions in January 2018, Voutselas sold small quantities of cocaine to a cooperating individual working with law enforcement. In February 2018, a state court judge granted a search warrant for Voutselas’ Nashua residence, and the subsequent search yielded approximately 76 grams of fentanyl, over $10,000 in U.S. currency, and other indicia of narcotics trafficking, including a scale, ledgers and bagging materials. Voutselas was arrested by state authorities and has been in custody since February 21, 2018.
Voutselas, who pleaded guilty to possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute, will be sentenced on October 26, 2018. He also will forfeit $12,955 to the United States.
“The deadly impact of fentanyl trafficking is being felt each day throughout the Granite State,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to working closely with all of our law enforcement partners to protect lives and promote public safety. We will concentrate our efforts on identifying and prosecuting those who are selling this dangerous substance.”
“Fentanyl is causing deaths in record numbers and DEA’s top priority is to aggressively pursue anyone who distributes this poison in order to profit and destroy lives,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle. “Illegal drug distribution ravages the very foundations of our families and communities so every time we take fentanyl off the streets, lives are saved. This investigation demonstrates the strength of collaborative local, county and state law enforcement efforts in New Hampshire and our strong partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office.”
This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Nashua Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles L Rombeau.
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Mexican National Pleads Guilty to Federal Charges Arising out of Seizure of 9.25 Pounds of Heroin and 1.46 Pounds of Fentanyl at U.S. Border Patrol Checkpoint on I- 25 North of Las CrucesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – U.S. Attorney John C. Anderson, Special Agent in Charge Kyle W. Williamson of the DEA’s El Paso Division, and Chief Patrol Agent Aaron A. Hull of the U.S. Border Patrol El Paso Sector announced that a Mexican national has pleaded guilty to heroin and fentanyl trafficking charges. Roberto Esmerardo Lopez-Gaxiola, 35, pled guilty yesterday in federal court in Las Cruces, N.M., to charges arising out of the seizure of more than nine pounds of heroin and more than a pound of fentanyl at a U.S. Border Patrol checkpoint in southern New Mexico in March 2018.
U.S. Border Patrol agents arrested Lopez-Gaxiola on March 14, 2018, after seizing approximately 4.2 kilograms (9.25 pounds) of heroin and 661.6 grams (1.46 pounds) of fentanyl concealed in Lopez-Gaxiola’s vehicle. According to the criminal complaint, the agents found the heroin and fentanyl in Lopez-Gaxiola’s vehicle during an inspection at the U.S. Border Patrol checkpoint located on Interstate 25 north of Las Cruces near Truth or Consequences, N.M., in Sierra County, N.M.
During yesterday’s change of plea hearing, Lopez-Gaxiola pled guilty to a felony information charging him with possession of heroin and fentanyl with intent to distribute. In entering the guilty plea, Lopez-Gaxiola admitted that on March 14, 2018, U.S. Border Patrol agents found seven bundles containing approximately 4.2 kilograms of heroin and six bundles containing approximately 641.25 grams of fentanyl concealed in his vehicle during a routine inspection. Lopez-Gaxiola admitted that he intended to deliver the drugs to others in Albuquerque, N.M., in exchange for payment.
At sentencing, Lopez-Gaxiola faces a statutory mandatory minimum penalty of ten years and a maximum of life in federal prison. He remains in custody pending a sentencing hearing which has yet to be scheduled.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Border Patrol and the Las Cruces Office of the DEA. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Joni Autrey of the U.S. Attorney’s Las Cruces Branch Office is prosecuting the case as part of the New Mexico Heroin and Opioid Prevention and Education (HOPE) Initiative. The HOPE Initiative was launched in January 2015 by the UNM Health Sciences Center and the U.S. Attorney’s Office in response to the national opioid epidemic, which has had a disproportionately devastating impact on New Mexico. Opioid addiction has taken a toll on public safety, public health and the economic viability of our communities. Working in partnership with the DEA, the Bernalillo County Opioid Accountability Initiative, Healing Addiction in our Community (HAC), the Albuquerque Public Schools and other community stakeholders, HOPE’s principal goals are to protect our communities from the dangers associated with heroin and opioid painkillers and reducing the number of opioid-related deaths in New Mexico.
The HOPE Initiative is comprised of five components: (1) prevention and education; (2) treatment; (3) law enforcement; (4) reentry; and (5) strategic planning. HOPE’s law enforcement component is led by the Organized Crime Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the DEA in conjunction with their federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement partners. Targeting members of major heroin and opioid trafficking organizations for investigation and prosecution is a priority of the HOPE Initiative.
Maryland Man Sentenced to 49 1/2 Years in Prison for 2016 Slaying of His Ex-GirlfriendRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Donald R. Hairston, 51, of District Heights, Md., was sentenced today to a 49 ½-year prison term for the June 2016 slaying of his ex-girlfriend at her home in Southeast Washington, announced U.S. Attorney Jessie K. Liu and Peter Newsham, Chief of the Metropolitan Police Department.
Hairston was found guilty by a jury in May 2018 of first-degree murder while armed, first-degree felony murder while armed, first-degree burglary while armed, temporary protection order violation, stalking, and related firearms offenses. The verdict followed a trial in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. He was sentenced by the Honorable Danya A. Dayson.
According to the government’s evidence, on Saturday, June 18, 2016, at approximately 1 a.m., the victim, Stephanie Goodloe, was in bed in her three-bedroom rowhouse in the 700 block of Kentucky Avenue SE. Her 11-year-old daughter, who was asleep in a nearby bedroom, awoke to her mother’s cry and the sound of “Pop… pop, pop, pop.” She then then saw a man walk by her open bedroom door. The man she observed was Hairston, her mother’s ex-boyfriend. Terrified, the girl waited a few minutes before checking on her mother because she was afraid the defendant would come after her next. When she finally gained the courage to go into her mother’s room, she found her 39-year-old mother dead, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds, including one to the head. Frantic, she called 911.
Prior to the murder, according to the government’s evidence, Hairston had engaged in a pattern of domestic violence against Ms. Goodloe. She had filed for a temporary protection order against him approximately two weeks earlier after he had slashed her tires and showed up at her house pounding on the door at all hours of the night. Additionally, in the weeks leading up to the murder, he stole her house keys from her front door, threatened to kill her, and generally stalked and harassed her. They were scheduled to go to court regarding the temporary protection order on Monday, June 20, 2016, just two days after the murder.
Hairston was arrested on the day of the murder and has been in custody ever since.
In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Liu and Chief Newsham commended the work of those who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD). They also expressed appreciation for the assistance provided by the District of Columbia Department of Forensic Sciences. They acknowledged the efforts of those who worked on the case from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, including Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michelle D. Jackson, David Gorman, and Laura R. Bach; Victim/Witness Advocate Marcia Rinker; Victim/Witness Services Coordinator Katina Adams-Washington; Forensic Child Interview Specialists Karen Giannakoulias and Tracy Owusu; Forensic Operation/Program Specialist Benjamin Kagan-Guthrie; Contract Specialist Marquetta Little; Lead Paralegal Specialist Meridith McGarrity; Paralegal Specialists Kelly Blakeney and Stephanie Gilbert; Criminal Investigators John Marsh and Zachary McMenamin, and Litigation Technology Specialist Leif Hickling.
Finally, they commended the work of Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alicia Long and John Timmer, who investigated, indicted, and prosecuted the case.
Man Sentenced for Threats to African-Americans at Howard UniversityRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – An Alexandria man was sentenced today to 33 months in prison for threatening to murder African-Americans at Howard University, a historically black university in Washington, D.C.
According to court documents, on the night of Nov. 11, 2015, John Edgar Rust, 27, entered a restaurant in Alexandria, connected his laptop computer and phone to the store’s wireless Internet connection, and posted a threat online to murder African-Americans at Howard University the next day. He posted a statement on another Internet bulletin board several minutes later, under the user name “watchouthoward,” that linked to his first post. He was on probation at the time for committing another crime.
At sentencing, U.S. District Judge Liam O’Grady found that Rust’s conduct constituted a hate crime, thereby increasing his sentence, and ordered Rust to pay $6458.28 in restitution to Howard University for expenses incurred as a result of Rust’s crime.
G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Nancy McNamara, Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Washington Field Office, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Liam O’Grady. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nicholas U. Murphy and Maya D. Song prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:17-cr-290.
Man Sentenced for Abusive Sexual Contact on Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
A 35-year-old resident of Mount Pleasant, Michigan, was sentenced yesterday to 72 months in prison for Abusive Sexual Contact, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew Schneider.
United States District Judge Thomas L. Ludington also imposed 5 years of supervised release on Wayne Marshall Acuna who pled guilty on April 9, 2018.
The evidence established that in 2016 or 2017, Acuna entered the room of a minor and rubbed the victim’s vagina through the clothing while the victim was sleeping. This all occurred on the Isabella Reservation.
The case was investigated by the Saginaw Chippewa Tribal Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Roy Kranz.
Man Arrested and Indicted for Committing Three Carjackings on the Same DayRead the Press Release
SAN JUAN, P.R. – A federal grand jury returned a seven-count indictment against José Soto-Febus for committing three carjackings in the Dorado area, and firearms violations, announced United States Attorney Rosa Emilia Rodríguez-Vélez. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is in charge of the investigation with the collaboration of the Puerto Rico Police Department and the Puerto Rico Department of Justice, Dorado District Attorney’s Office.
The indictment alleges that on or about July 11, 2018, in the District of Puerto Rico, José Soto-Febus, while carrying and brandishing a firearm, did take a motor vehicle, to wit: a 2016 Jeep Cherokee, that had been transported, shipped and received in interstate or foreign commerce, from the a person and in the presence of others, by force, violence and intimidation, with the intent to cause death or serious bodily harm. This carjacking was committed after a home invasion in which Soto-Febus was shot by the male victim residing in the residence. The defendant walked down the street, stopping in front of another residence where there were people outside. Soto-Febus pointed a firearm at several of the women in front of this residence, and a man threw him the keys to a Jeep Cherokee.
Soto-Febus then departed in the Jeep, which he crashed. He then proceeded on foot and pointed a firearm at an oncoming vehicle, a 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage. The driver of this vehicle, a female, stopped the vehicle. Soto-Febus grabbed her by the hair, and threw her on the pavement. The defendant then drove away in the Mitsubishi Mirage. Later that same night, Soto-Febus arrived at a business called El Almendro, and demanded that the owner of a red motorcycle give him the keys. While making his demands, Soto-Febus brandished a firearm. The owner of the red motorcycle, a Honda Model XR, ultimately complied with Soto-Febus’s demands. Soto-Febus then drove away in the red motorcycle. During each of these events, the defendant brandished a Taurus pistol.
Soto-Febus is also facing one count for being a felon in possession of a firearm, that is, a .40 caliber, Taurus pistol, said firearm having been shipped and transported in interstate and foreign commerce.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alexander Alum. If convicted, the defendant faces up to 15 years of imprisonment for each of the carjacking charges, up to life imprisonment for three of the firearms charges, and up to ten years for possessing a firearm as a felon. Indictments contain only charges and are not evidence of guilt. Defendants are presumed to be innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Lafayette Man Sentenced to 144 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – Rafael Roman Ramirez, 37 years old, of Lafayette, Indiana, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to being an Illegal Alien in Possession of a Firearm and Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Heroin, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
U.S. Attorney Kirsch said, “The use and abuse of dangerous, highly addictive drugs like heroin have grave consequences on the community where they are present. We are working aggressively with our law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute cases involving opioids. We are focusing efforts on dismantling drug distribution networks, including those connected to Mexican cartels, that supply illegal drugs in this District.”
According to documents in the case, Ramirez was a leader and organizer of a drug trafficking organization with Mexican cartel ties who was tasked with coordinating the delivery of heroin and drug proceeds throughout the country. Ramirez was responsible for between 30 and 90 kilograms of heroin that the drug trafficking organization brought into the country from Mexico and distributed nationwide.
This case was investigated by the DEA and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Chang.
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Laconia Man Sentenced to 50 Months in Prison for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD, N.H. - Peter Dauphin, 45, of Laconia, was sentenced to serve 50 months in federal prison for methamphetamine trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on five separate occasions in April and May of 2017, Dauphin sold “ice” methamphetamine to an individual who was cooperating with law enforcement officers. All of the transactions took place at Dauphin’s automotive repair shop in Gilford, New Hampshire.
“Even in the midst of the opioid crisis, New Hampshire continues to experience problems associated with the distribution of other drugs, including methamphetamine,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Prosecutions such as this demonstrate that the law enforcement community is continuing in its cooperative effort to stop all forms of drug trafficking in the Granite State.”
“Mr. Dauphin took advantage of the addiction problem that many people are struggling with here in the Granite State, and targeting dangerous drug dealers like him will continue to be the collective focus of the FBI’s Safe Streets Gang Task Force because no one in our community should have to live in fear of the activity that drug trafficking brings to their neighborhoods,” said Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Boston Division.
This matter was investigated by the Police Departments of Gilford and Laconia, in conjunction with the FBI New Hampshire Safe Streets Gang Task Force. The Task Force is comprised of the FBI, the New Hampshire State Police, New Hampshire Probation and Parole, and the Police Departments of Hudson, Manchester, and Nashua. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shane B. Kelbley.
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Kansas Man Convicted of Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – A Lindsborg, Kansas man who traveled to the Philippines and had sex with minor females there pleaded guilty to three counts of production of child pornography.
Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and U.S. Attorney Stephen R. McAllister of the District of Kansas made the announcement.
Anthony Shultz, 55, helicopter pilot, was charged by complaint in July 2016 and pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Eric F. Melgren of the District of Kansas. Sentencing is scheduled for December 6, 2018.
According to admissions made in conjunction with the guilty plea, Shultz engaged in sex acts with minor females in the Philippines. He videotaped his sexual encounters with two minors and transported the videos to his home in Kansas. One of the girls was only 12 years old at the time; the other was 15 years old. In one of the videos, Shultz is seen giving the 15-year-old money after having sex with her. Shultz also produced child pornography of an 8-year-old girl in the Philippines by communicating on Skype with the child’s mother and directing the mother to expose the child’s genitals and live-stream it on web camera.
The FBI investigated the case. Trial Attorney Lauren E. Britsch of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Hart of the District of Kansas prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Jury convicts Cleveland man of illegally having ammunition during shootout in which two people were killedRead the Press Release
A Cleveland man was convicted of illegally having ammunition stemming from a shootout last year in which two people were killed.
Jesus Bey, 25, is scheduled to be sentenced Nov. 1. A jury convicted Bey this week of being a felon in possession of ammunition following a weeklong trial.
Bey possessed 12 rounds of .40 caliber ammunition on Jan. 25, 2017, despite prior convictions that made it illegal for him to have ammunition, including felonious assault with a firearm specification, having weapon under disability and attempted felonious assault, according to court documents.
“This defendant is a walking crime wave and our community is safer with him behind bars,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “This case demonstrates that law enforcement will work together to sort through the facts and pursue cases against those who illegally use firearms to prey on our neighbors.”
According to trial exhibits and testimony:
Bey was outside Harvard Wine and Grill on Jan. 25, 2017, when a shootout began at the intersection of East 142nd Street and Harvard Avenue. When the shootout was over, two men (one wearing a ski mask) were dead and at least 60 shell casings were recovered at the scene.
Bey was previously sentenced to prison for a 2013 shooting in a bar in Cleveland Heights, according to court documents.
Da’Montais Banks was recently convicted in the Cuyahoga County Court of Common Pleas of tampering with witnesses, possessing weapons despite having a felony record and being a member of the Heartless Felons. The jury did not reach a verdict on the two deaths that resulted from the shootout and charges remain pending, according to court documents.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kelly L. Galvin and Scott Zarzycki following an investigation by the Cleveland Division of Police’s Gang Impact Unit and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from the Cuyahoga County Prosecutor’s Office.
Judge Sentences Pittsburgh Man to Probation for Distribution of OxycodoneRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 3 years of probation, a condition of which requires 75 hours of community service, on his conviction of distribution of oxycodone, a Schedule II controlled substance, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
On July 19, 2018, Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Michael C. Pegher, 47, of Pittsburgh, PA.
According to information presented to the court at the time of his guilty plea, Pegher, from April 2013 to September 2014, unlawfully distributed more than 3,000 oxycodone tablets he acquired by prescription from Alan Barnett, M.D. Alan Barnett entered a guilty plea on August 26, 2016, to unlawfully distributing prescriptions for oxycodone to Pegher and others, knowing that the recipients were drug addicts or were unlawfully distributing the drugs to others, and was sentenced to 5 years’ probation, to include 8 months of home detention, and 250 hours community service. Barnett was also ordered to pay $50,000.00 in fines.
Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Pegher.
Judge Sentences McKeesport Felon to 3 Years in Prison for Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A former resident of McKeesport, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 3 years imprisonment and 3 years supervised release on his conviction of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
On July 19, 2018, Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Edric McArthur, Sr., 49, formerly of McKeesport, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, on January 8, 2016, McArthur, a convicted felon, was in possession of two firearms and ammunition. Additionally, McArthur was again in possession of a firearm and ammunition on March 2, 2016. Federal law prohibits an individual who has been convicted of a felony from possessing a firearm.
Assistant United States Attorney Rachael L. Dizard prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Pittsburgh Police Department, and the Elizabeth Borough Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of this case.
Jacksonville Real Estate Investor Convicted of Passing Fraudulent Treasury ChecksRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – A federal judge has found Neil Andre Butler (46, Jacksonville) guilty of four counts of possessing and passing fraudulent U.S. Treasury checks. Butler faces a maximum penalty of 25 years in federal prison on each count. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for October 23, 2018.
Butler was indicted on October 4, 2017, and elected to be tried by the court, without a jury.
According to evidence presented at trial, Butler was a real estate investor who borrowed funds to buy distressed properties, intending to refurbish and “flip” them for a profit. When his business began to fail, in an effort to stave off his creditors, Butler manufactured and mailed his creditors four fraudulent checks. The checks totaled over $250,000 and were purportedly payable by the United States Treasury.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael J. Coolican.
Jackson Man Sentenced to over 17 Years in Federal Prison for Production and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Michael Gene Rushing, 58, of Jackson, was sentenced yesterday by Senior U.S. District Judge Tom S. Lee to 210 months to serve, followed by a lifetime of supervised release, for producing child pornography and possession of child pornography, announced U. S. Attorney Mike Hurst, FBI Special Agent in Charge Christopher Freeze and Mississippi Attorney General Jim Hood.
Sometime before August 30, 2017, the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics (MBN), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office (AG), and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) had been investigating Wholesale Auto Parts, located at 950 S. Gallatin Street in Jackson, for trading prescription narcotics for heroin with nurses. Periodic surveillance and other investigations revealed that Michael Gene Rushing had also been trading illicit drugs for sex with juveniles.
On August 30, 2017, state officers and federal agents executed a state search warrant at the Wholesale Auto Parts where agents seized electronic devices and illicit drugs. The forensic examination conducted on the devices revealed the presence of videos and images of child pornography. Michael Gene Rushing had been video recording himself engaging in sexually explicit conduct with a minor as young as 13 years at the business on numerous occasions.
"These criminal actions are some of the most despicable and heinous crimes in our society. We will marshal all of the resources and power of all levels of law enforcement to make sure individuals like this Defendant who prey upon our young people are not only brought to justice but also severely punished for harming our children," said U.S. Attorney Hurst.
"Child exploitation is a debilitating and degrading crime that has no place in our society," said FBI Special Agent in Charge Freeze. "In our ongoing mission to protect the American people and uphold the Constitution of the United States, the preservation of minors' rights and safety is of utmost importance to the FBI. This successful prosecution is a direct result of the strong partnerships between the FBI, U.S. Attorney's Office, Mississippi Attorney General's Office, DEA and Rankin County Sheriff's Office."
“This is a sick man, and I thank Judge Lee for placing him as far away from other children as possible,” said Attorney General Jim Hood. “It took the work of many agencies to get this pervert behind bars, and I thank them all for their dedication to protecting the lives of Mississippi’s children.”
A restitution hearing for this case will be held before Judge Lee in Jackson on August 30, 2018.
The case was investigated by the FBI Jackson Division's Child Exploitation Task Force, which is made up of agents from the FBI and the Mississippi Attorney General's Office, and officers from the Prentiss County Sheriff's Office. The DEA, MBN and Rankin County Sheriff's Office also assisted with the investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Glenda Haynes.
Houston Tax Preparer Convicted of Tax FraudRead the Press Release
HOUSTON - The owner of Crown Financial Services has entered a guilty plea to aiding and assisting in preparing false tax returns, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.
Fatai Adeniji was the sole tax preparer for Crown Financial Services. From 2012 through 2016, he admitted he prepared false tax returns for his clients which contained false income, false expenses, false education credits and false earned income credits.
Further, from 2013 through 2015, Adeniji prepared and filed false tax returns for himself which omitted most of his earned income from tax preparation and claimed false education credits.
U.S. District Judge Keith Ellison accepted the plea and set sentencing for Oct. 4, 2018. At that time, Adeniji faces up to three years in federal prison as well as a possible $100,000 fine.
He was permitted to remain on bond pending that hearing.
IRS – Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Vernon Lewis is prosecuting the case.
Houma Man Sentenced to 17 Years for Failure to Register as a Convicted Sex Offender and Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DAVID KLIMENKO (“KLIMENKO”), age 30, of Houma, Louisiana, was sentenced on July 10, 2018, for Failure to Register as a Convicted Sex Offender and Distribution of Child Pornography, announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans.
United States District Judge Jay C. Zainey sentenced KLIMENKO to seventeen years’ incarceration to be followed by 25 years of supervised release.
According to court records, the case against KLIMENKO developed as a result of a lead from the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation’s Cyber Crimes Unit (“LBI”) concerning a registered sex offender who absconded from Maryland. On April 6, 2017, special agents with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”) obtained federal search warrants for two addresses in Houma, LA. That same day, KLIMENKO was arrested during the execution of the search warrants. Agents advised KLIMENKO of his Miranda rights and KLIMENKO waived his rights and completed a written Miranda waiver. During an interview, KLIMENKO admitted to knowingly failing to register as a sex offender after fleeing from Maryland and traveling to Louisiana. KLIMENKO also admitted to distributing child pornography on multiple occasions.
Specifically, KLIMENKO told HSI agents that he was a convicted sex offender in Maryland and was sentenced to two years of probation, two years of a suspended sentence, and required to register as a Tier II sex offender in Maryland or any other state in which he resided. KLIMENKO confirmed that he signed sex offender registration forms in Maryland upon his conviction. KLIMENKO stated that out of fear that his Maryland Probation Officer would violate his probation, he cut off his court mandated GPS ankle monitor and traveled to Louisiana. KLIMENKO lived in Houma, LA.
KLIMENKO confirmed that on February 2, 2017, he used the Internet service from the next door residence and used various Facebook profiles to distribute child pornography on the Internet. Records obtained from Facebook confirmed that KLIMENKO used his Facebook account to distribute four (4) videos and eight (8) images depicting the sexual victimization of children on February 2, 2017. Facebook records further establish that KLIMENKO used another Facebook account to distribute two (2) additional images depicting the sexual exploitation of children on the same date, February 2, 2017. KLIMENKO also admitted to sending child pornography to a woman he was communicating with using Facebook.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the U. S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations and the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Project Safe Childhood Coordinator and Fraud Section Chief, Assistant U. S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba.
Hermon Woman Pleads Guilty to Heroin, Fentanyl and Crack Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Bangor, Maine: United States Attorney Halsey B. Frank announced that Harli Wells, 29, of Hermon, Maine, pled guilty today in U.S. District Court to conspiring to distribute heroin, fentanyl and cocaine base, commonly known as “crack.”
According to court records, between January 2016 and February 2017, Wells conspired with others to acquire heroin, fentanyl and crack in Waterbury, Connecticut and distribute the drugs in Penobscot County. Wells sold the drugs to customers and also delivered drugs to customers for other members of the conspiracy.
The defendant faces up to 20 years in prison, between three years and life on supervised release, and a $1,000,000 fine. She will be sentenced after the completion of a presentence investigation report by the U.S. Probation Office.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency and prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice’s Strategy to Combat the Opioid Epidemic.
Four More Members of Mexican Drug Trafficking Organization Plead Guilty to Drug Trafficking and Money Laundering ChargesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Four more of the 22 defendants charged with federal drug trafficking and international money laundering charges in a superseding indictment filed in Aug. 2017, entered guilty pleas in federal court in Las Cruces, N.M., this week
Twenty-three defendants were charged on April 19, 2017, in a 44-count indictment, as the result of a 16-month DEA-led federal investigation targeting a Mexican drug trafficking organization (DTO) responsible for importing large quantities of heroin, methamphetamine and cocaine from Mexico, and distributing the drugs in New Mexico, Texas, Kansas, Kentucky and Illinois. During the investigation, law enforcement authorities seized approximately 30 kilograms of heroin, 64 kilograms of methamphetamine, 17 kilograms of cocaine, 20 kilograms of marijuana, 24 firearms, $102,000 in currency, and three vehicles. The investigation concluded in April 2017, with a multi-agency law enforcement operation that included the execution of arrest warrants in New Mexico and Texas, and six search warrants in El Paso, Tex., Sunland Park, N.M., Belen, N.M., and Albuquerque, N.M.
A superseding indictment was filed on Aug. 16, 2017, that included all of the charges from the indictment but removed one defendant. The superseding indictment charged the 22 defendants with participating in a conspiracy to distribute heroin, methamphetamine and cocaine between April 2016 and April 2017. It also charged nine of the defendants with participating in an international money laundering conspiracy during that same period in time. The superseding indictment also charged certain defendants with engaging in a series of substantive drug trafficking and money laundering offenses, and using communication devices (telephones) to facilitate their criminal activities, and one defendant with a firearms offense.
The superseding indictment included 77 overt acts allegedly committed by the defendants in furtherance of the drug trafficking conspiracy, which described the expansive sweep of the DTO’s drug distribution operation and the significant quantities of drugs involved. For example, the overt acts set forth in the superseding indictment alleged that the DTO’s drug trafficking and money laundering activities extended to Kentucky, where law enforcement officers seized $15,300 in drug proceeds from a courier who was transporting the money to New Mexico in April 2016; to Oklahoma, where law enforcement officers seized 4.44 kilograms of methamphetamine from a courier in June 2016; and New Mexico, where law enforcement officers seized six kilograms of heroin and 3.56 kilograms of methamphetamine from a courier at a U.S. Border Patrol checkpoint in Oct. 2016.
The superseding indictment also included forfeiture allegations, which sought forfeiture to the United States of the proceeds of the DTO’s drug trafficking and money-laundering activities, including $56,556 seized by the DEA during the investigation.
The following four defendants entered guilty pleas this week:
- Omar Fernandez, 22, of Albuquerque, N.M., pled guilty on July 16, 2018, to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and using a communication facility in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Fernandez admitted that between June 2016 and Nov. 2016, he conspired with others to distribute drugs in New Mexico and elswhere by receiving drugs that had been transported from El Paso, Texas, and southern New Mexico to Albuquerque. Fernandez acknowledged responsibility for trafficking approximately 11.64 kilograms of methamphetamine and 5.38 kilograms of heroin while he was involved in the conspiracy. At sentencing, Fernandez faces a statutory mandatory minimum penalty of ten years and a maximum of life imprisonment.
- Joshua Jande Carmona, 24, of El Paso, Texas, pled guilty on July 16, 2018, to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and heroin, conspiracy to commit international money laundering, international money laundering, and possession of methamphetamine and heroin with intent to distribute. Carmona admitted in April 2017, he obtained drugs brought into the United States in southern New Mexico and El Paso, Texas, and transported and arranged delivery of the drugs to Albuquerque and other locations. Carmona acknowledged responsibility for attempting to traffick at least 21.99 kilograms of methamphetamine, six kilograms of heroin and $15,300 in drug proceeds from April 2016 through Oct. 2016. Carmona’s plea agreement recommends that he be sentenced to a term of imprisonment within the range of 180 and 240 months followed by a term of supervised release to be determined by the court.
- Rosa M. De Santiago, 44, of Sunland Park, N.M., pled guilty on July 16, 2018, to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and heroin, conspiracy to commit international money laundering, and possession of methamphetamine and heroin with intent to distribute. De Santiago entered her guilty plea without the benefit of a plea agreement. At sentencing, De Santiago faces a statutory mandatory minimum penalty of ten years and a maximum of life in federal prison.
- Vanessa Reyes, 27, of El Paso, Texas, pled guilty on July 16, 2018, to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, conspiracy to commit international money laundering, international money laundering, possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, and using a communication facility in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Reyes admitted that in April 2017, she worked with others to transport and distribute drugs in New Mexico and other locations. Reyes admitted that in Oct. 2017, she transported approximately 4.98 kilograms of methamphetamine from El Paso, Texas, to Albuquerque, and $32,000 in drug proceeds from Albuquerque to El Paso, Texas. At sentencing, Reyes faces a statutory mandatory minimum penalty of ten years and a maximum of life imprisonment.
To date, 13 of the 22 defendants have entered guilty pleas and are awaiting sentencing. Six defendants have entered pleas of not guilty and are pending trial. Three defendants have yet to be arrested and are considered fugitives. Charges in indictments and criminal complaints are only accusations. All criminal defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
The Las Cruces and Albuquerque offices of the DEA conducted the investigation with assistance from IRS Criminal Investigation, the U.S. Border Patrol, New Mexico State Police and Hatch Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Selesia L. Winston and Sarah M. Davenport of the U.S. Attorney’s Las Cruces Branch Office are prosecuting the cases as part of the OCDETF Program and the New Mexico Heroin and Opioid Prevention and Education (HOPE) Initiative.
The OCDETF Program is a nationwide Department of Justice program that combines the resources and unique expertise of federal agencies, along with their local counterparts, in a coordinated effort to disrupt and dismantle major drug trafficking organizations.
The HOPE Initiative was launched in January 2015 by the UNM Health Sciences Center and the U.S. Attorney’s Office in response to the national opioid epidemic, which has had a disproportionately devastating impact on New Mexico. Opioid addiction has taken a toll on public safety, public health and the economic viability of our communities. Working in partnership with the DEA, the Bernalillo County Opioid Accountability Initiative, Healing Addiction in our Community (HAC), the Albuquerque Public Schools and other community stakeholders, HOPE’s principal goals are to protect our communities from the dangers associated with heroin and opioid painkillers and reducing the number of opioid-related deaths in New Mexico. The HOPE Initiative is comprised of five components: (1) prevention and education; (2) treatment; (3) law enforcement; (4) reentry; and (5) strategic planning. HOPE’s law enforcement component is led by the Organized Crime Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the DEA in conjunction with their federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement partners. Targeting members of major heroin and opioid trafficking organizations for investigation and prosecution is a priority of the HOPE Initiative.
Former Schoolteacher Sentenced to 18 Months in Prison for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
A former Seattle schoolteacher was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Seattle to 18 months in prison and ten years of supervised release, announced First Assistant United States Attorney Helen M. Brunner. GABRIEL CRONIN, 42, a former teacher and robotics coach at Seattle Academy was arrested in November 2017, following a tip to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). When questioned by Seattle Police CRONIN admitted he had viewed child pornography on his school provided laptop. At today’s sentencing hearing Chief U.S. District Judge Ricardo S. Martinez said CRONIN is “a highly educated and highly intelligent man who understands the damage that occurs to these victims, especially in the internet age… His actions contribute to that ongoing market that creates new sex abuse victims all around the world.”
According to records filed in the case, a relative of CRONIN called NCMEC when she learned that he was in therapy for an addiction to child pornography. Because of his employment as a teacher, the relative was concerned CRONIN was a risk to children. The investigation revealed CRONIN possessed 117 images of teens engaged in sexually explicit conduct. The images were downloaded from the internet. The investigation did not reveal any instances where CRONIN pursued sexual interactions with minors.
Speaking to the court CRONIN said what he did was “extremely perverted and reprehensible…. My actions contributed to ongoing harm to kids…. I should have left teaching. My actions were sick and selfish.”
CRONIN was fired from his employment following his arrest and will be required to register as a sex offender following his release from prison. CRONIN also must pay a $5,000 fine.
Chief Judge Martinez reiterated that CRONIN had tried to do “everything possible to take the right steps” following his arrest, and noted that there was “no evidence of any kind that he had any hands-on contact with any children at the school or in his neighborhood.”
The case was investigated by the Seattle Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations. The case was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Cecelia Gregson. Ms. Gregson is a Senior Deputy King County Prosecutor specially designated to prosecute child exploitation cases in federal court
Former Maple Valley, Washington Resident Sentenced to 22 Years in Prison for Production and Possession of Images of Child MolestationRead the Press Release
A former resident of Maple Valley, Washington was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Seattle to 22 years in prison for production and possession of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Annette L. Hayes. STEPHEN SCHMIDT, 45, pleaded guilty in April 2018, admitting that he raped and molested two young children. SCHMIDT made photographic evidence of the molestation of a 7-year old child and kept the images on his electronic devices. He also molested a 13-year-old and a young child in Lewis County, Washington. When the two Maple Valley children disclosed the sexual abuse, their mother immediately reported the case to police. At the sentencing hearing, Chief Judge Ricardo S. Martinez said “His history is concerning, his repeated decisions to molest these children…. This defendant is precisely the type of offender congress had in mind when it increased the penalties.”
“This defendant stole the innocence of three children, betraying them and their families,” said U.S. Attorney Annette L. Hayes. “Congress provided for long sentences for those who produce child pornography because of the significant harm they do. I commend the work of the King County Sheriff’s Office and Homeland Security Investigations. Their joint efforts have made our district safer for everyone.”
“Schmidt’s acts are unthinkable. He robbed multiple children of their innocence and then documented his horrific actions,” said Brad Bench, Special Agent in Charge of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). “King County and HSI worked together to gather all relevant evidence to prevent him from harming anyone else. While we can’t undo Schmidt’s actions, I hope today’s sentence brings his victims and their families’ closure.”
According to records filed in the case, in early May 2017, the Maple Valley woman reported to Child Protective Services, and later to local law enforcement that her two minor children had disclosed sexual abuse by SCHMIDT. A few days after the victim’s mother alerted law enforcement, SCHMIDT contacted a King County Sheriff’s Deputy and disclosed a lengthy history of child sexual abuse, including the two Maple Valley children, and the sexual molestation of the child in Lewis County. SCHMIDT was taken into custody and has been incarcerated ever since. A search of electronic devices belonging to SCHMIDT revealed images of one of the children he molested, as well as a collection of sexually explicit images of other young victims obtained from other sources.
The federal sentence imposed today is part of a global resolution of child molestation charges in King and Lewis Counties as well as the federal charges. Under the resolution, SCHMIDT will plead guilty and be sentenced in state court to 26 years to life in prison. Chief Judge Martinez ordered the federal sentence to run concurrent to the state sentence. Chief Judge Martinez ordered that SCHMIDT be on federal probation following prison for the rest of his life.
The case was investigated by the King County Sheriff’s Office and HSI. The case was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Cecelia Gregson. Ms. Gregson is a Senior Deputy King County Prosecutor specially designated to prosecute child exploitation cases in federal court.