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24 May 2018
Felon Sentenced to More Than 8 Years for Trafficking FirearmsRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Mary Scriven has sentenced Xavier D. Stewart (39, Temple Terrace) to eight years and four months in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. He pleaded guilty on February 12, 2018.
According to court documents, over the course of several days in August and September 2016, Stewart sold undercover agents cocaine and several firearms, including a semi-automatic pistol and a .357 caliber rifle. He sold the firearms to the agents knowing or having reason to believe that they would be unlawfully resold.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Murray.
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.
Federal Robbery Charges Filed Against Two Wichita MenRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. – Two Wichita men were charged today with a robbery at a local Wichita liquor store during which one of them was shot, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said.
Raquan Hill, 18, Wichita, Kan., and Jamaryus Moore, 19, Wichita, Kan., were charged with one count of robbery. A criminal complaint filed in U.S. District Court alleges that on May 22 Hill and Moore robbed the F & K Liquor store at 902 S. Woodlawn. A store employee gave the robbers money in a plastic bag and they left the store.
The store employee saw the two men standing outside the store after the robbery and feared they would return to shoot him. When one of the robbers turned back towards him, the store employee fired two rounds from his own gun, striking Hill in the leg. While Moore fled, the store employee held Hill at gunpoint until police arrived. Moore was arrested later after police identified the car he was driving.
If convicted, they face a penalty up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000. The FBI Safe Streets Task Force and the Wichita Police Department investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Smith is prosecuting.
In all cases, defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The indictments merely contain allegations of criminal conduct.
Federal Jury Finds Mexican Nationals Guilty of Large Cocaine Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. – Two Mexican National men residing in Louisville, Kentucky were convicted of conspiracy to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine, after a three-day jury trial that concluded yesterday in the U.S. District Court in Lexington. Imanol Pineda Penaloza, 37, and Efrain Villa Villanueva, 24, were both found guilty of all charges. A third defendant, Sergio Aguilar Piedra, 25, had previously entered a guilty plea to the same drug-trafficking charge.
The proof at trial established that all three men participated in the conspiracy, which lasted from November 2015 until March 2018. In 2015, the Narcotics Enforcement Unit with the Lexington Police Department executed a search warrant at an address on Lonan Court, in Lexington, and seized nearly 19 kilograms of cocaine, approximately $400,000 in U.S. currency, and two firearms. And, during 2016 and 2017, the defendants continued to distribute kilogram quantities of cocaine and other drugs, in Louisville, Kentucky.
Pineda and Villa are both scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Danny C. Reeves on August 24, 2018. Piedra is scheduled to be sentenced on August 17, 2018. Each man faces a minimum of 10 years in prison and up to life imprisonment.
“The jury found that the defendants distributed significant quantities of cocaine over a three-year period, and they now will face significant punishment for their criminality,” stated United States Attorney Robert M. Duncan, Jr. “I want to commend law enforcement for their work on this investigation. As a result of strong law enforcement cooperation and partnerships among federal and local law enforcement, the community has been made safer and these defendants are being held accountable.”
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Darrell Christopher Evans, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Louisville; and Lawrence Weathers, Chief of Police, Lexington-Fayette County Division of Police, jointly announced the verdict.
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, local strategies to reduce violent crime.
Federal Jury Convicts Cibola County Woman on Armed Robbery, Firearms, and Witness Tampering Charges Arising out of Robbery of Route 66 Casino Xpress in Laguna PuebloRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A federal jury sitting in Santa Fe, N.M., returned a verdict today finding Sara Ruiz guilty of armed robbery, firearms, and witness tampering charges arising out of the robbery of the Route 66 Casino Xpress, located in Laguna Pueblo, N.M., on Dec. 13, 2015.
Ruiz, 41, of Grants, N.M., and her co-defendants, Lorenzo Chavez, 26, and James Montano, Jr., 24, both of Cubero, N.M., were indicted on June 30, 2016. The indictment charged the three with conspiracy to violate the Hobbs Act, violating the Hobbs Act by robbing the Route 66 Casino Xpress, a gas station/convenience store and casino in Laguna Pueblo, at gunpoint; and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence. The indictment alleged that the defendants committed the crimes on Dec. 13, 2015, in Bernalillo County, N.M. The indictment was superseded on June 13, 2017, after Ruiz’s co-defendants entered guilty pleas, and charged Ruiz with three additional counts of witness tampering.
Trial on the superseding indictment commenced on May 21, 2018, and concluded today when the jury returned a guilty verdict against Ruiz on all six counts of the superseding indictment.
Evidence at trial established that on Dec. 13, 2015, Ruiz and her co-defendants robbed the Route 66 Casino Xpress located in Laguna Pueblo. Jurors viewed surveillance footage showing Ruiz using her casino rewards card to purchase gas in the gas station area of the Route 66 Casino Xpress while the two men who later robbed the Route 66 Casino Xpress at gunpoint were in her vehicle shortly before the robbery. The jury also viewed surveillance video showing Ruiz’s vehicle as it drove around the back of the casino, and dropped off two men who exited the vehicle and entered the casino approximately a minute before the armed robbery took place.
Testimony during the trial established that in Feb. 2016, March 2016, Dec. 2016 and Feb. 2017, Ruiz attempted to tamper with and intimidate witnesses whom she expected to testify against her at trial. According to evidence presented at trial, Ruiz had numerous conversations with several witnesses during which she directed them to lie about her involvement and their knowledge of the armed robbery. Ruiz also threatened to physically hurt the witnesses if they mentioned her involvement in the armed robbery, at one point claiming she would cut the tongue out of a witness’ mouth because that’s what “she does to rats.”
At sentencing, Ruiz faces a maximum penalty of twenty years in federal prison on the Hobbs Act and witness tampering counts, and a mandatory minimum penalty of seven years in federal prison to be served consecutive to any other sentence imposed for using a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
On Feb. 23, 2017, Chavez and Montano each pled guilty to Count 2 of the indictment, charging them with violating the Hobbs Act by robbing the Route 66 Casino Xpress at gunpoint on Dec. 13, 2015. Chavez also pled guilty to Count 3 of the indictment, charging him with brandishing a firearm during that robbery.
In addition to his guilty plea to the two charges in the case involving the Route 66 Casino Xpress, Chavez also entered a guilty plea to a Hobbs Act and methamphetamine trafficking charges in a separate case. In that case, Chavez was charged in a four-count indictment filed on Feb. 24, 2016. That indictment charged Chavez with possessing distribution quantities of methamphetamine on Dec. 19, 2015, and carrying a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. It also charged Chavez with robbing an Allsups convenience store in southwest Albuquerque on Dec. 29, 2015, and with brandishing a firearm during that robbery. On Feb. 23, 2017, Chavez also pled guilty to possessing almost 61 gross grams of methamphetamine on Dec. 19, 2015, which he intended to distribute to others. He also pled guilty to robbing an Allsup’s convenience store at gunpoint on Dec. 29, 2015.
Under the terms of his plea agreement, Chavez will be sentenced within the range of 120 to 180 months in prison. Montano faces a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.
Ruiz, Chavez and Montano remain in custody pending their sentencing hearings, which have not yet been scheduled.
The case against Chavez, Montano and Ruiz, which arises from the armed robbery of the Route 66 Casino Xpress, was investigated by the Albuquerque office of the FBI and the Pueblo of Laguna Police Department, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elaine Y. Ramirez and Kristopher N. Houghton.
The case arising from the armed robbery of the Allsups convenience store and methamphetamine trafficking was investigated by the Albuquerque office of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Albuquerque Police Department, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Paul Mysliwiec and Letitia Carroll Sims.
Drug Maker Pfizer Agrees to Pay $23.85 Million to Resolve False Claims Act Liability for Paying KickbacksRead the Press Release
Pharmaceutical company Pfizer, Inc. (Pfizer), based in New York, NY, has agreed to pay $23.85 million to resolve claims that it used a foundation as a conduit to pay the copays of Medicare patients taking three Pfizer drugs, in violation of the False Claims Act, the Justice Department announced today.
When a Medicare beneficiary obtains a prescription drug covered by Medicare Part B or Part D, the beneficiary may be required to make a partial payment, which may take the form of a copayment, coinsurance, or deductible (collectively copays). Congress included copay requirements in the Medicare program, in part, to encourage market forces to serve as a check on health care costs, including the prices that pharmaceutical manufacturers can demand for their drugs. Under the Anti-Kickback Statute, a pharmaceutical company is prohibited from offering, directly or indirectly, any remuneration—which includes paying patients’ copay obligations—to induce Medicare patients to purchase the company’s drugs.
As part of today’s settlement, the government alleged that Pfizer used a foundation as a conduit to pay the copay obligations of Medicare patients taking three Pfizer drugs: Sutent and Inlyta, which both treat renal cell carcinoma, and Tikosyn, which treats arrhythmia in patients with atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter. The government alleged that, in order to generate revenue, and instead of giving Sutent and Inlyta to Medicare patients who met the financial qualifications of Pfizer’s existing free drug program, Pfizer used a third-party specialty pharmacy to transition certain patients to the foundation, which covered the patients’ Medicare copays. Pfizer allegedly made donations to the foundation to enable it to cover the copays of these patients and received confirmation from the foundation, via the specialty pharmacy, that the foundation funded the copays.
With respect to Tikosyn, Pfizer raised the wholesale acquisition cost of a package of forty .125 mg capsules of the drug by over 40 percent in the last three months of 2015. Pfizer allegedly knew that the price increase would also increase Medicare beneficiaries’ copay obligations for Tikosyn, and potentially prevent some patients from being able to afford the drug. Pfizer allegedly worked with the foundation to create and finance a fund for Medicare patients suffering from the condition treated by Tikosyn, coordinated the opening of the fund with the implementation of its price increase for the drug, and referred patients to the fund. For the next nine months, Tikosyn patients accounted for virtually all of the beneficiaries whose copayments were paid by the fund.
“Kickbacks undermine the independence of physician and patient decision-making, and raise healthcare costs,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Chad A. Readler of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “As today’s settlement makes clear, the Department will hold accountable drug companies that pay illegal kickbacks—whether directly or indirectly—to undermine taxpayer funded healthcare programs, including Medicare.”
“Pfizer used a third party to saddle Medicare with extra costs,” said United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling. “According to the allegations in today’s settlement agreement, Pfizer knew that the third-party foundation was using Pfizer’s money to cover the co-pays of patients taking Pfizer drugs, thus generating more revenue for Pfizer and masking the effect of Pfizer’s price increases. The Anti-Kickback Statute exists to protect Medicare, and the taxpayers who fund it, from schemes like these. At the same time, we commend Pfizer for stepping forward to resolve these issues in a responsible manner.”
“Today’s settlement demonstrates the FBI’s commitment to making sure patients receive, and the government pays for, health care that is not compromised by kickbacks,” said Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Boston Division. “What Pfizer is accused of doing in this case—masking charitable contributions to increase company profits—violates the basic trust patients extend to the healthcare system and threatens the financial integrity of the Medicare program.”
Pfizer has also entered into a corporate integrity agreement (CIA) with the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). The five-year CIA requires, among other things, that Pfizer implement measures designed to ensure that arrangements and interactions with third-party patient assistance programs are compliant with the law. In addition, the CIA requires reviews by an independent review organization, compliance-related certifications from company executives and Board members, and the implementation of a risk assessment and mitigation process.
“Our corporate integrity agreement promotes independence between Pfizer and any patient assistance programs to which it may donate,” said Gregory E. Demske, Chief Counsel to the Inspector General for the United States Department of Health and human Services. “Without true independence, as we have seen in this case, drug companies may use patient assistance programs as conduits for improper payments that harm Medicare.”
The government’s resolution of this matter illustrates the government’s emphasis on combating healthcare fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement, can be reported to the Department of Health and Human Services at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).
The investigation was conducted by the Justice Department’s Civil Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts, in conjunction with the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General; the Federal Bureau of Investigation: the Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General; and the United States Postal Inspection Service.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only; there has been no determination of liability.
Dominican National Pleads Guilty to Illegal Reentry After DeportationRead the Press Release
BOSTON - A Dominican national pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston to illegally reentering the United States after being deported.
Juan Confesor Lara Carmona, 29, pleaded guilty to one count of illegal reentry of a deported alien. U.S. District Court Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton scheduled sentencing for Sept. 6, 2018.
On Oct. 20, 2017, law enforcement in Lawrence encountered Lara Carmona and determined him to be illegally present in the United States. Lara Carmona was previously deported on Jan. 19, 2016.
Lara Carmona faces a sentence of no greater than two years in prison and one year of supervised release, and will be subject to deportation proceedings upon completion of his sentence.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling and Thomas P. Brophy, Acting Field Office Director, Boston, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations, made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth G. Shine of Lelling’s Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.
Darby Man Charged with Violating Gun Free School Zones Act for Possessing Firearm Near Philadelphia Elementary SchoolRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – A federal grand jury today returned a superseding indictment against Kareem Murphy, 36, of Darby, PA, for possessing a firearm in a school zone in Philadelphia, announced United States Attorney William M. McSwain. Murphy had previously been charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm.
The charges brought today under the Gun Free School Zones Act carry a maximum sentence of five years imprisonment, and this sentence must be served consecutively to any sentence for illegally possessing the firearm. Murphy had already faced a minimum sentence of 15 years and a maximum sentence of life imprisonment for the charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm.
"Congress has mandated in the Gun Free School Zones Act that people who illegally possess firearms near schools suffer a greater penalty in order to help keep our school children safe,” said U.S. Attorney McSwain. “Anyone illegally possessing a firearm near a school can expect that we will prosecute and seek that greater penalty as part of our commitment to protect our children.”
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.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Philadelphia Police Department, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Nancy Rue.
Convicted Felon Indicted on Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A federal grand jury returned an indictment today charging a Maryland man with felon in possession of firearms, conspiracy to straw purchase firearms, and making false statements to federal firearms licensees.
According to the indictment, between Dec. 3, 2017 and Jan. 6, 2018, Keith Haddock II, 26, and his co-conspirators straw purchased 27 firearms from various gun shows and gun stores using thousands of dollars of cash provided by Haddock. The straw purchasers immediately provided the firearms to Haddock. Several of the firearms have since been recovered by local law enforcement in Maryland at crime scenes or in the unlawful possession of others. Haddock was unable to purchase the firearms himself or possess the firearms because he was previously convicted of two felonies in Montgomery County, Maryland.
Haddock is charged with possession of a firearm by a felon and conspiracy to straw purchase firearms, among other crimes, and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison if convicted. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Tracy Doherty-McCormick, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Thomas L. Chittum, III, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives’ (ATF) Washington Field Division, made the announcement after the indictment was returned. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas U. Murphy II and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Williamson are prosecuting 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. 1:18-cr-236.
An indictment contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.
Cleveland man with aggravated robbery conviction sentenced to six years in prison for having rifle with obliterated serial numberRead the Press Release
A Cleveland man was sentenced to six years in prison for having a rifle with an obliterated serial number and ammunition.
Sharrieff Muhammad, 48, also known as Robert White, previously pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Muhammad possessed a Norinco SKS 7.62 mm rifle with a partially obliterated serial number and ammunition on Oct. 19, 2017. Muhammad was not allowed to possess firearms because of a prior conviction for aggravated robbery with specifications.
This case was investigated by the FBI and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brian Deckert and Michelle Baeppler.
Cleveland man indicted for having fentanyl, heroin and cocaineRead the Press Release
A Cleveland man was indicted in federal court for having large amounts of fentanyl, heroin and cocaine.
Aaron Reels, 51, was arrested on April 24 in possession of approximately 319 grams of heroin, 200 grams of a mixture of fentanyl and heroin, and 138 grams of cocaine, according to the indictment.
This case was investigated by the DEA and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Marisa T. Darden.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after reviewing factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Clayton Man Sentenced for Theft of FirearmsRead the Press Release
NEW BERN – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that yesterday, United States District Judge, Louise W. Flanagan sentenced CEDRICK JERMAINE WILLIAMS, 24, of Clayton, North Carolina, to 120 months imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release.
WILLIAMS was named in a four-count Superseding Indictment on August 2, 2018. On February 15, 2018, WILLIAMS pled guilty to the Theft of Firearms from a Federally Licensed Firearms Dealer.
On November 23, 2016, investigators with the Clayton Police Department (CPD), were dispatched to reports of a burglary at Trigger Happy Guns and Accessories in Clayton. Investigators determined that the perpetrator, later identified as WILLIAMS, gained access to the building by breaking the glass panes in the front door of the business. WILLIAMS initially entered the business, but soon left without taking any property. WILLIAMS returned a short time later carrying a cinderblock, which he used to break another glass window inside of the business in order to gain access to the firearms room. WILLIAMS stole five .223 caliber assault-type rifles from an unlocked gun rack on the wall and exited the business with the rifles. According to the owner of Trigger Happy Guns, each of the rifles had a 30-round magazine attached to it and there were additional 30-round magazines in close proximity to the rifles when they were stolen.
On December 21, 2016, officers with the Raleigh Police Department conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle being driven by WILLIAMS for a headlight violation. Once WILLIAMS stopped the vehicle, he exited the vehicle and fled on foot. After a brief chase, WILLIAMS was taken into custody. WILLIAMS refused to provide the officers with his name and declined to make a statement. During a search of WILLIAMS’ person, officers located an unloaded .25 caliber handgun. Additionally, the officers learned that the vehicle WILLIAMS was driving had been stolen on
December 10, 2016, and had fictitious tags attached. A search of the vehicle revealed a backpack containing WILLIAMS’ clothing and 41 pairs of sunglasses with the tags still attached.
In summary, WILLIAMS is accountable for the theft and possession of five semiautomatic firearms that had high-capacity magazines attached, as well as the possession of one handgun, for a total of six firearms. Additionally, WILLIAMS possessed stolen firearms; used or possessed the firearms in connection with another felony offense, namely, burglary; and engaged in the trafficking of firearms.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
In support of PSN, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina has implemented the Take Back North Carolina Initiative. This initiative emphasizes the regional assignment of federal prosecutors to work with law enforcement and District Attorney’s Offices on a sustained basis in those communities to reduce the violent crime rate, drug trafficking, and crimes against law enforcement.
The investigation of this case was conducted by the Clayton Police Department, the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office, the Raleigh Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF). Assistant United States Attorney Peggah Wilson handled the prosecution of this case for the government.
Central Falls Man Arraigned on Federal Firearms, Drug Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE, RI – A Central Falls man arrested during a Project Safe Neighborhoods investigation in Central Falls was arraigned today in U.S. District Court in Providence on federal drug trafficking and firearms charges.
Elton Andrade aka “MT Flex,”19, was arraigned on a four-count federal indictment charging him with possession with the intent to distribute 28 grams or more of cocaine base, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and two counts of possession of a stolen firearm. A not guilty plea was entered during his appearance before U.S. District Court Magistrate Judge Patricia A. Sullivan.
It is alleged in court documents that Andrade is a member of a neighborhood based street gang identified as “Money Team.” It is alleged that numerous “Money Team” members’ social media postings include repeated displays of firearms, illegal narcotics and gang signs.
Andrade’s indictment and arraignment are announced by United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch, Central Falls Police Chief Colonel James J. Mendonca, and Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division Harold H. Shaw.
According to information presented to the Court, it is alleged that on February 26, 2018, as part of an ongoing Project Safe Neighborhoods investigation, Central Falls Police and members of the FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force executed a court-authorized search warrant at a residence Andrade shared with others. It is alleged that from Elton Andrade’s bedroom, law enforcement seized two plastic baggies containing a total of 33.24 grams of crack cocaine, two stolen firearms, a .380 caliber handgun and a .357 caliber handgun, and $1,503 in cash.
Andrade was located by law enforcement and arrested on February 28, 2018. He has been detained since his arrest.
An indictment is merely an allegation and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Project Safe Neighborhoods is a federal, state and local law enforcement collaboration to identify, investigate and prosecute individuals responsible for violent crimes in our neighborhoods. Project Safe Neighborhoods has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.
This Project Safe Neighborhoods case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ronald R. Gendron.
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Carlisle Construction Company Pleads Guilty to Violations of the Toxic Substances Control ActRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Charles H. Bitner, Jr., age 45, of Carlisle, Pennsylvania, the President and Owner of Bitner Brothers Construction Company, Inc. (Bitner Brothers), located in Carlisle, entered a plea of guilty on May 22, 2018, on behalf of Bitner Brothers before United States Magistrate Judge Martin C. Carlson to violations of the Toxic Substances Control Act.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Bitner Brothers was an experienced construction contractor certified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as a lead renovator since October 2010. Charles H. Bitner, Jr. was certified as a lead renovator by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency since October 2010. The company pled guilty to violating applicable work practices enacted pursuant to the Toxic Substances Control Act governing the reduction of lead exposure during renovations at a residential facility, by conducting power grinding without a shroud or containment system equipped with HEPA vacuum of lead-based painted surfaces.
“By ignoring important rules regarding the presence of lead in older buildings, the defendant’s actions put children in the local community at risk for serious injury,” said Assistant Special Agent-in-Charge Jennifer Lynn of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Criminal Investigation Division in Pennsylvania. “Today’s plea should serve notice that anyone who fails to comply with critical environmental regulations that protect public health will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
The case was investigated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Criminal Investigation Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney William A. Behe is prosecuting the case.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is five years’ probation, and a $200,000 fine. Bitner Brothers Construction agreed not to be involved in lead abatement projects for the period of probation. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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California Man Indicted on Charges Stemming from Hoax Bomb Threats to FCC and FBI HeadquartersRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON - Tyler Raj Barriss, 25, of Los Angeles, Calif., has been indicted by a federal grand jury in the District of Columbia on two counts of making hoax bomb threats, for a threat that caused an evacuation of a high-profile Federal Communications Commission (FCC) hearing, and another threat eight days later that that targeted FBI headquarters.
The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Jessie K. Liu, Nancy McNamara, Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Washington Field Office, and Kris Cline, Principal Deputy Director of the Federal Protective Service.
Barriss currently is detained in Wichita, Kansas, where he faces state and federal charges for his role in a Dec. 28, 2017, “swatting” that led to a fatal shooting by law enforcement. “Swatting” refers to a hoax intended to cause law enforcement to respond to a particular location. The federal indictment in Kansas was unsealed on May 23, 2018, and charges Barriss with multiple counts stemming from hoax calls that ultimately led to the death of Andrew Finch.
The District of Columbia case involves two events that took place earlier in December 2017. Barriss is charged in each of those events with one count of threatening and conveying false information concerning use of an explosive. The indictment was unsealed today in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia.
On Dec. 14, 2017, the Federal Communications Commission was holding a widely-reported hearing. According to the government’s evidence, Barriss made threats by phone that there were explosives in the building that were set to detonate. The threats led to the FCC Chairman halting the meeting, and the building was evacuated. Further investigation revealed that no explosives were in the building, and the bomb threats were a hoax.
Also, according to the government’s evidence, on Dec. 22, 2017, after work hours, Barriss made similar threats by phone regarding explosives placed inside and outside of the J. Edgar Hoover Building, the headquarters of the FBI. Law enforcement responding to the threat ultimately determined that Barriss’s threats were again a hoax.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed a violation of criminal laws and every defendant is presumed innocent until, and unless, proven guilty.
Each of the federal charges in the District of Columbia carries statutory maximums of 10 years in prison and potential fines.
The District of Columbia case is being investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office and the Federal Protective Service. The case is being investigated and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Luke M. Jones and Mervin A. Bourne, Jr. of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.
Butte County Man Sentenced to 33 Months in Prison for National Guard Recruiting FraudRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. —Steel A. Davis, 45, of Chico, was sentenced today by United States District Judge Troy L. Nunley to 33 months in prison for a scheme to obtain bonuses for referring individuals to enlist in the California National Guard, U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott announced.
On January 29, 2018, after an eight-day trial, a federal jury found Davis guilty of eight counts of wire fraud.
“Those who receive funds from the government have a duty to follow the law,” said Frank Robey, the director of the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command’s Major Procurement Fraud Unit. “This verdict should put those attempting to defraud the U.S. government on notice that there will be consequences for their actions. Our organization and our law enforcement partners will continue to pursue those who erode the rule of law in order to exploit others for their own greed.”
“During his time as a California Army National Guard Recruiter, Steel Davis betrayed public trust by conspiring with others to illegally obtain thousands of dollars in bonus money and kickbacks” said Special Agent in Charge Sean Ragan of the FBI Sacramento field office. “The FBI is committed to working with its investigative partners to identify and vigorously pursue those who engage in public corruption and government fraud.”
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, the United States Army contracted with a company called Document and Packaging Broker Inc. (DOCUPAK) to administer the Guard Recruiting Assistance Program (G-RAP). Under G-RAP, members of the California National Guard served as Recruiting Assistants. If a Recruiting Assistant referred a potential Guard member to a recruiting office and that person ultimately enlisted, the Recruiting Assistant was eligible to receive a $1,000 payment when a person enlisted and a second $1,000 payment when the recruit left for boot camp.
Davis was a recruiter with the California National Guard and was ineligible to participate in the G-RAP program. However, realizing the potential to make money through G-RAP, Davis gave recruits’ information to his co‑conspirators who had signed up to be Recruiting Assistants. The RAs would then file false claims with DOCUPAK that they had referred the recruits to join the Guard when, in fact, the recruits had joined on their own initiative. When the compensation was received, Davis split the proceeds of the fraud with the Recruiting Assistants.
This trial was the fourth and final trial derived from a multi-agency investigation by the Army Criminal Investigative Command Major Procurement Fraud Unit, the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation that began in 2012. In total, 10 former soldiers across the Fresno and Sacramento divisions of the Eastern District of California were convicted of criminal charges for abusing the GRAP program. Separate from the criminal cases, other soldiers agreed to repay bonuses as part of civil settlements with the United States.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Army Criminal Investigation Command Major Procurement Fraud Unit, the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Matthew G. Morris and Katherine T. Lydon prosecuted the Sacramento cases, and Assistant United States Attorney Michael G. Tierney and Trial Attorneys Alexis J. Loeb and Jacklin Chou Lem prosecuted the Fresno cases. Assistant United States Attorney Vincente Tennerelli represented the United States in civil recovery efforts.
Other National Guard members and recruiters have been charged in similar schemes in the Eastern District of California.
- 1:14-cr-109-LJO — Jimmy D. Maldonado, 37, and Mayra L. Maldonado, 31, both of Fresno, were convicted on January 29, 2018, after a jury found them guilty of three counts of wire fraud. On May 21, 2018, Jimmy Maldonado was sentenced to six months in prison, and Mayra Maldonado was sentenced to five years of probation.
- 2:14-cr-153 TLN — Brian Kaps, 44, of Chico, pleaded guilty on November 21, 2014, to one count of wire fraud. He is scheduled to be sentenced on May 31, 2018.
- 2:14-cr-152 TLN — Sarah Nattress, 30, of Paradise, pleaded guilty on October 23, 2014, to one count of wire fraud. She is scheduled to be sentenced on May 31, 2018.
- 2:18-cr-012 TLN — Jason M. Hair, of Paradise, pleaded guilty on January 18, 2018, to one count of wire fraud and one count of making false statements. He is scheduled to be sentenced on July 12, 2018.
- 1:14-cr-107 DAD — Leonardo Pesta, 49, of Mountain View, pleaded guilty on July 27, 2015, to one count of wire fraud and was sentenced to two years of probation.
- 1:14-cr-108-LJO — Nicholas Huerta, 36, of Fresno, pleaded guilty on September 14, 2015, to one count of wire fraud and was sentenced to four years of probation.
- 2:14-cr-151 JAM — Richard C. Sihner, 55, of Elk Grove, was convicted on January 22, 2016, of 18 counts of wire fraud and one count of making false statements following a seven-day jury trial and was sentenced to 30 months in prison.
- 1:14-cr-106 DAD — Joaquin Cuenca, 40, of San Diego, was convicted on February 1, 2016, of three counts of wire fraud and one count of making false statements following a seven-day jury trial. He was sentenced to six months in prison.
Buffalo Man Pleads Guilty to Selling HeroinRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Victor Felix Dejesus, 36, of Buffalo, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo to possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, heroin. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul C. Parisi, who is handling the case, stated that on four separate occasions between November 10, 2016, and May 4, 2017, the defendant sold 20 to 30 grams of heroin to an individual working with the Drug Enforcement Administration.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge James J. Hunt, New York Field Division, and the New York State Attorney General’s Office, under the direction of Barbara Underwood.
Sentencing is scheduled for September 7, 2018, at 2:00 p.m. before Judge Vilardo.Buffalo Man Pleads Guilty for His Role in Cross Country Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Jabriel Crews, 34, of Buffalo, NY, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and distribution of, 500 grams or more of cocaine before U.S. District Judge David G. Larimer. The charge carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of 40 years, and a $5,000,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura A. Higgins, who is handling the case, stated that between January 2014 and June 1, 2016, the defendant purchased multi-kilo quantities of cocaine from a source in Houston, Texas. Co-defendant Mark Ramos, an associate of the Houston source-of-supply, would mail the cocaine to addresses in Buffalo provided by Crews. The defendant would then receive those parcels and process and repackage the cocaine for distribution at 236 Katherine Street in Buffalo. In exchange, Crews would make payment to his source in Texas using some combination of a courier and U.S. mail parcels mailed to P.O. boxes set up in the Houston, Texas area.On June 1, 2016, a search warrant was executed at 236 Katherine Street. Law enforcement officers recovered a scale with powder residue, packaging materials including bags and a vacuum sealer, identification cards, and one live bullet.
Mark Ramos was previously convicted on federal charges and is awaiting sentencing. Charles Gonzalez was charged and convicted in state court.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge James J. Hunt, New York Field Division, and the Erie County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Timothy Howard.
Sentencing is scheduled for August 22, 2018, before Judge Larimer.Bronx Man Charged with Unlawful Possession of Defaced Firearms and Firearms Silencers, and Narcotics DistributionRead the Press Release
Geoffrey S. Berman, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Angel M. Melendez, the Special Agent-in-Charge of the New York Field Office of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”), Ashan M. Benedict, the Special Agent-in-Charge of the New York Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (“ATF”), and James P. O’Neill, the Commissioner of the New York City Police Department (“NYPD”), announced that RICHARD LAUGEL was arrested yesterday and charged with firearms and narcotics offenses. LAUGEL will be presented this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Katharine H. Parker in Manhattan federal court.
U.S. Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman said: “As alleged, Richard Laugel had accumulated an arsenal of dangerous weapons in his Bronx apartment, including a grenade launcher and an assault rifle. Thankfully, the local and federal law enforcement officers were able to arrest Laugel without incident, and his trove of dangerous weapons has been seized.”
HSI Special Agent-in-Charge Angel M. Melendez said: “It is important to note the collaborative efforts that went into locating and apprehending this individual. And from what was found during this investigation, he appears to be a threat to public safety and someone we don’t want on the streets. This collaboration, brought together by HSI’s Border Enforcement Security Taskforce, is paramount to finding the criminals who bring in goods from abroad to support their criminal activity in our local communities.”
ATF Special Agent-in-Charge Ashan M. Benedict said: “Laugel’s alleged conduct once again demonstrates the dangerous intersection between the distribution of narcotics, the illicit possession of firearms, and violent crime. Laugel’s alleged conduct presented an extreme danger to the community, and we are grateful that he will now face prosecution in the Southern District of New York. I would like to express my appreciation to our law enforcement partners for their work on this investigation.”
As alleged in the Complaint unsealed today in Manhattan federal court[1]:
On May 22, 2018, HSI and the NYPD executed a search warrant at LAUGEL’s home in the Bronx in connection with an alleged illegal operation to distribute controlled substances. During the search, law enforcement officers recovered from LAUGEL’s home and garage, among other items, firearms silencers, a grenade launcher, an AR-15 Rifle, three handguns, two of which had defaced serial numbers, plastic molds used to make the lower receiver of handguns, firearms barrels, drill press and milling machines, ammunition, and a teddy bear that contained approximately 30 grams of cocaine.
* * *
LAUGEL is charged with the unlawful possession of firearms silencers, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison; possession with intent to distribute narcotics, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; and the unlawful possession of firearms with defaced serial numbers ,which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison.
The statutory maximum penalties are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant would be determined by the judge.
Mr. Berman praised the outstanding investigative work of HSI, ATF, and the NYPD.
This case is being handled by the Office’s Narcotics Unit. Assistant United States Attorneys Alison Moe and Jacob Warren are in charge of the prosecution.
The charges contained in the Complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
[1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Complaint and the description of the Complaint set forth herein constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.
Bridgeport Grocery Store Owner Pleads Guilty to Federal Tax ChargeRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Kristina O’Connell, Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation in New England, announced that SAMIR FATTAH, 55, of Oxford, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today in New Haven federal court to one count of filing a false tax return.
According to court documents and statements made in court, FATTAH and his father jointly own Abu-Goush Market, doing business as International Farmers Market (“AGM”), a grocery store in Bridgeport. FATTAH was responsible for AGM’s day-to-day operations, including making cash deposits to AGM’s business bank accounts. During 2011, 2012 and 2014, without his father’s knowledge and approval, FATTAH deposited hundreds of thousands of dollars of AGM’s net cash receipts into his personal bank accounts. FATTAH used some of the funds to pay AGM’s business expenses, but embezzled a total of $213,086 through this scheme.
FATTAH failed to pay federal income taxes on the embezzled income for the 2011, 2012 and 2014 tax years resulting in a total tax loss of $54,067.
FATTAH is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Alvin W. Thompson in Hartford on August 16, 2018, at which time he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of three years and a fine of up to $100,000. FATTAH also has agreed to repay the U.S. Treasury $54,067 in restitution for the taxes he failed to pay, and additional penalties and interest that have accrued on his unpaid taxes.
FATTAH is released on bond pending sentencing.
This matter has been investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito.
Bozeman Man Sentenced to over 15 Years in Prison for Drug Trafficking OffenseRead the Press Release
HELENA – Edward Paul Ellington, a 38-year-old resident of Bozeman, Montana, was sentenced today to 190 months in prison followed by 5 years supervised release after pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess methamphetamine with intent to distribute. U.S. Senior District Judge Charles C. Lovell handed down the sentence.
From July 2016 to May 2017, Ellington was involved in a large drug conspiracy operating in Gallatin and Broadwater Counties. Ellington was the leader of the drug conspiracy and would sell methamphetamine to at least 12 different people. One of those individuals was Ryan Cervantes who would then sell the methamphetamine to 40 to 50 people. Ed Ellington was considered to be the biggest drug supplier in the Bozeman and Belgrade area.
The investigation showed that Ellington would often give drugs to people on a “front” and then personally collect the drug debt or send others to threaten or beat up the drug distributors to pay him the money they owed him. The investigation also showed that Ellington was in possession of firearms during his drug trafficking.
On April 15th, 2017, Ellington was driving a 2014 Chevy Cruz and was stopped near Three Forks by Montana Highway Patrol. Ellington was on his way back from Spokane to Bozeman with a drug load. Officers obtained a warrant for Ellington’s vehicle and found approximately 200 grams of methamphetamine in Ellington’s possession. In addition, the investigation showed that Ellington first started selling ½ ounce quantities of methamphetamine, but those amounts increased rapidly. By December 2017, Ellington was distributing ¾ of a pound of methamphetamine. In total, Ellington was held responsible for distributing 1,618.72 grams of methamphetamine. That converts to 12,949 individual dosage units of the drug which reached drug users in Montana.
Ellington’s co-conspirator, Ryan Cervantes was also charged, pled guilty, and sentenced on April 12, 2018 to 10 years imprisonment.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Bryan R. Whittaker and investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Missouri River Drug Task Force, and the Montana Highway Patrol.
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.
Boylston Man Sentenced on Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Boylston man was sentenced today in federal court in Worcester for possessing and distributing child pornography.
Randy Alan Chaplis, 33, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Timothy S. Hillman to seven years in prison and five years of supervised release. In December 2017, Chaplis pleaded guilty to one count of distributing child pornography and one count of possessing child pornography involving a prepubescent minor and a minor who had not attained 12 years of age. Chaplis was arrested and charged by criminal complaint on March 16, 2017, and has been detained since his arrest.
On Feb. 9, 2017, Chaplis sent two emails to an undercover law enforcement officer that included dozens of images of child pornography, including prepubescent girls engaged in sex acts with adult men. In other email communications with the undercover officer, Chaplis stated that he likes three-to-10 year olds, and that he has “fun” with his girlfriend’s five-year-old daughter when her mother is not home. Chaplis emailed graphic descriptions of the sexual acts he purportedly performed on his girlfriend’s child starting when the child was two-years-old. He asked whether the undercover officer intended to have sexual intercourse with the undercover officer’s infant daughter once she turned three or four.
A search of Chaplis’ residence on March 15, 2017, resulted in the seizure of an external hard drive and a desktop computer that included multiple images of child pornography.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling; Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Office; and Peter Fitzhugh, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston, made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Abely of Lelling’s Worcester Branch Office prosecuted the case.
The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov/.
Beachwood woman charged for collecting her mother's Social Security payments years after her deathRead the Press Release
Daphna J. Goren of Beachwood was charged in federal court for theft of public money and bank fraud.
Goren fraudulently converted to her own use, her mother’s Social Security Retirement and Survivor’s benefits that continued to be deposited after her mother died in July 2011. Goren’s theft resulted in a loss to SSA of approximately $91,403, according to a criminal information.
Goren also is alleged to have forged her mother’s signature on TIAA-CREF payment checks and deposited into her Key Bank account.
Special Agent Manuel Muniz from the United States Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General conducted the investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Payum Doroodian.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense, and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
An information is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial, in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Attorney General Sessions Meets with Croatian Interior Minister and Justice MinisterRead the Press Release
A Department of Justice official released the following statement at the conclusion of Attorney General Jeff Sessions' meetings with Croatian Interior Minister Davor Božinović and Justice Minister Dražen Bošnjaković: "Attorney General Sessions had productive meetings with Interior Minister Božinović and Justice Minister Bošnjaković, and the Attorney General reiterated his commitment to build on the strong U.S.-Croatia relationship. The Attorney General recognized Croatia's support for the regional Rule of Law training programs in the Western Balkans, for which the ministers have provided more than five years of expertise. Attorney General Sessions also thanked the ministers for their continued collaboration with the Justice Department's Office of Overseas Prosecutorial Development Assistance and Training (OPDAT) and International Criminal Investigative Training Assistance Program (ICITAP), programs that help police, prosecutors, and judges in the region fight corruption and transnational organized crime. Finally, Attorney General Sessions expressed his support for an updated bilateral extradition treaty to enhance cooperation and reflect the increasingly transnational nature of crime."
Please find Attorney General Jeff Sessions’ remarks from the U.S.-Croatia press availability here.
Attorney General Appoints Zachary Terwilliger Interim U.S. AttorneyRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced today the appointment of G. Zachary Terwilliger as Interim United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 546, effective May 25.
“Zach Terwilliger has a strong record that any prosecutor would be proud of,” Attorney General Sessions said. “He rose through the ranks in the Eastern District of Virginia, from summer intern to Assistant United States Attorney who made a name for himself successfully prosecuting MS-13 members, Bloods members, and firearm offenders and putting them behind bars. He has excelled both in the courtroom and now in some of the highest leadership roles at the Department of Justice. I am confident that he will continue to serve with distinction in this important new role.”
As the chief federal law enforcement officer in the Eastern District of Virginia (EDVA), Terwilliger will supervise the prosecution of all federal crimes and the litigation of all civil matters in which the United States has an interest. Additionally, Terwilliger will lead a staff of over 250 prosecutors, civil litigators, and support personnel located in Alexandria, Newport News, Norfolk, and Richmond.
Terwilliger began his career at EDVA as an intern in 1999, and returned in 2005 to serve as a summer law clerk. In 2008, after serving as a law clerk for the Honorable K. Michael Moore in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida, Terwilliger was appointed as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney through a partnership with the Virginia Attorney General’s Office, where he was an integral member of the Alexandria Division’s Project Safe Neighborhood initiative that focused on removing the most violent criminals from the community. Terwilliger was hired as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in 2010 and assigned to the Major Crimes Unit, where he prosecuted numerous violent crime, fraud, organized crime, and human trafficking cases, and managed law enforcement task forces focusing on human trafficking and firearms. In addition to his prosecutorial duties, Terwilliger served as a counselor to former U.S. Attorney Neil H. MacBride, providing advice on legal, ethical, and personnel issues, and served as a spokesperson for EDVA.
Since January 2017, Terwilliger has served on detail as an Associate Deputy Attorney General. In December 2017, he added the role of Chief of Staff in the Office of the Deputy Attorney General. In these roles, he has been a principal advisor to the Department of Justice leadership in areas such as corporate compliance, federal, state and local law enforcement cooperation, violent crime reduction, and other critical matters.
Terwilliger earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Government and Foreign Affairs from the University of Virginia, and graduated with the highest honors from the William & Mary School of Law.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia.
Atlanta man for indicted for assaulting a federal officer, drug trafficking and firearm violationsRead the Press Release
ATLANTA - Wendell Lamar Senior, a/k/a “Dareal Chico,” has been indicted by a federal grand jury for assaulting a federal officer, possessing marijuana with intent to distribute, possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and possessing firearms while under indictment.
“The accusations in this case are especially egregious, as the defendant allegedly shot at a house occupied by a woman and her children, struck a federal law enforcement officer while eluding authorities, and abducted two children prior to his eventual arrest,” said U.S. Attorney Byung J. “BJay” Pak. “This case is an excellent example of federal and local law enforcement officers working together to apprehend a violent and dangerous criminal.”
“This case is not only an example of the threat alleged violent offenders pose to the public while on the run, but also the threat they pose to the FBI agents and task force officers who try to apprehend them,” said David J. LeValley, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “Despite that threat, the FBI’s Atlanta Metro Major Offender (AMMO) Task Force is determined to protect our citizens by removing the most violent criminal offenders from our streets.”
According to U.S. Attorney Pak, the indictment, and other information presented in court: On February 16, 2018, a state grand jury in Fulton County indicted Senior for aggravated assault in connection with a shooting of an apartment occupied by a woman and her three children. March 26, 2018, FBI agents accompanied Atlanta Police Department officers to arrest Senior, at which time, he allegedly jumped from a two-story window, struck an FBI Task Force Officer, and fled.
On April 11, 2018, local law enforcement officers saw Senior driving two children to a gas station after he abducted them. The police arrested Senior inside the gas station, while rescuing the children from the car. The officers recovered marijuana, a scale, $2,050 in cash, and two firearms inside the vehicle. At the time of arrest, Senior was under indictment for the assault charge in Fulton County and possession with intent to distribute marijuana in Cherokee County.
Wendell Lamar Senior, a/k/a “Dareal Chico,” 27, of Atlanta, Georgia was indicted on May 22, 2018, by a federal grand jury for assaulting a federal officer, possessing marijuana with intent to distribute, possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and possessing firearms while under indictment. Members of the public are reminded that the indictment only contains charges. The defendant is presumed innocent of the charges and it will be the government’s burden to prove the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Atlanta Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph A. Plummer is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). In keeping with the Attorney General’s mission to reduce violent crime, the Northern District of Georgia’s PSN program focuses on prosecuting those individuals who most significantly drive violence in our communities, and supports and fosters partnerships between law enforcement and schools, the faith community, and local community leaders to prevent and deter future criminal conduct.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Atlanta also recommends that parents and children learn about the dangers of drugs at the following web site: www.justthinktwice.gov.
For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at [email protected] or (404) 581-6016. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.
Atlanta Man Who Threatened Charlottesville Schools Arrested, Facing Federal ChargesRead the Press Release
Charlottesville, VIRGINIA – An Atlanta man has been charged with posting threatening messages against Charlottesville schools that caused all schools within the City of Charlottesville to go into a modified lockdown for two days in October 2017, United States Attorney Thomas T. Cullen and Adam S. Lee, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Richmond Division announced.
Michael Anthony Townes, 48, of Atlanta, was arrested May 20, 2018 in Georgia and charged in a federal criminal complaint with one count of transmitting in interstate commerce a communication containing a threat to injure the person of another. Townes will be transferred to the Western District of Virginia where he will have his initial court appearance in the near future.
“The defendant’s alleged threats terrified students, parents, teachers, and administrators and triggered an immediate response by our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners,” U.S. Attorney Cullen stated. “We are grateful to the FBI for coordinating this rapid response and ensuring the safety of the local community. As this and other recent cases indicate, the U.S. Attorney’s Office takes these types of threats seriously and will respond accordingly.”
“The FBI stands with our schools and will vigorously investigate threats made to them – whether legitimate or a hoax. Law enforcement and other first responders have some of the most difficult jobs in our society. They encounter danger every day and keep our communities safe from violence and injury. To spread panic and fear through hoax threats to our schools – at this moment, while our nation mourns its many recent mass shooting victims – and encumber the limited resources of our first responders, is truly despicable. It’s not cute. It’s not funny and it will land you in jail,” Special Agent in Charge Lee said today.
According to the complaint and affidavit filed in the case, Townes, using the user name “mike” posted several comments in reply to a Yahoo! News story entitled “Police Issue Warrant for Black Man Beaten by White Supremacists in Charlottesville.”
Among the comments alleged posted by Townes was:
“@Terry not until I pull off a copycat of vegas in charloettsville [sic] va at a all white charter school..It should’t be hard to find one…”
“Im thinking of a copycat to vegas in Charloettsville (sic) Va is going to happened (sic)…Im thinking maybe a school this time though!”
In response to the postings, Charlottesville schools entered a modified lockdown with police presence at all schools on October 11 and 12, 2017.
The investigation of the case was conducted by Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Charlottesville City Police Department. Special Assistant United States Attorney Rachel Barish Swartz and Assistant United States Attorney Christopher Kavanaugh will prosecute the case for the United States.
A criminal complaint is only a charge and not evidence of guilt. The defendant is entitled to a fair trial with the burden on the government to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Akron man indicted for making threatsRead the Press Release
An Akron man was indicted in federal court for making threats against police and others, said U.S. Attorney Justin E. Herdman and FBI Special Agent in Charge Stephen D. Anthony.
Brian Newell, 24, was indicted on three counts of transmitting threats across state lines.
Newell made several threats against police and other law enforcement officers on Facebook in October 2017 and again in April 2018.
According to the indictment:
Newell wrote several messages over three four days in October 2017, including:
“Def feel like I can beat the vegas shooter’s high score.”
“Better prayer God with y’all cause I’m def not praying for your safety.”
“As Allah is my witness any cop or law enforcement who approaches me in any way will be fire on. Yes I’m high on them hard drugs and carrying a weapons. Just leave me alone I’ve lost everything I don’t mind losing my life #Allahuakbar #gamg”
On April 7, 2018, Newell wrote several messages, including: “Kill cops” and “I BET I KILL A COP TODAY P*****S”
On April 7, 2018, Newell threatened to kill an individual during a phone call placed from the Summit County Jail in which he said: “And I’m killing you and them kids b***h.”
Herdman said: “We take all threats seriously. People will be held accountable when they threaten violence against our police and law enforcement officers, to commit mass shootings or to otherwise harm children and other innocent people.”
"Those who serve and protect the citizenry of our communities should not have death threats against them,” Anthony said. “The FBI will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to identify threats and hold those responsible accountable."
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Bulford.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after reviewing factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Akron man charged with selling fentanyl that caused Wadsworth man's deathRead the Press Release
A superseding indictment was filed in federal court charging Akron man with selling fentanyl that resulted in the fatal overdose of a Wadsworth man.
LeTroy Vaughn, 26, was indicted on one count of distribution of fentanyl. The charge carries a potential sentencing enhancement because the fentanyl resulted in death.
Vaughn sold the fentanyl on Sept. 27, 2015, to a man identified in court documents as E.W. E.W. died after ingesting the fentanyl sold to him by Vaughn, according to the indictment
“This defendant will be held accountable selling fentanyl that killed someone’s son and friend,” Herdman said. “Law enforcement will continue to work together to disrupt the flow of deadly fentanyl into our region and hold accountable those who profit from this epidemic.”
Akron Police Chief Kenneth Ball said: "The cooperative effort of law enforcement is always at work, pursuing justice and determined to make our communities safer. The arrest of Letroy Vaughn is evidence of this partnership. I am very proud of the accomplishments of members of the Akron Police Department. I am also thankful for continued work of our local and federal partners who add so much to this process.”
“This shows the great collaboration between the County Prosecutor’s Office and the U.S. Attorney’s Office,” said Summit County Prosecutor Sherri Bevan Walsh. “We are relieved for the victim’s family that this offender will not escape justice on a legal technicality. I would personally like to thank Justin Herdman, the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, for ensuring justice for Eric Ward’s family.”
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violations. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and, in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
The matter is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Teresa Riley following an investigation by the Akron Police Department’s Narcotics Unit.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
2nd Former Newport Police Union Official Admits Guilt in Fraud CaseRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – The former treasurer of the Newport, R.I., Police Department Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), Newport Lodge No. 8, pleaded guilty in federal court in Providence today to a fraud charge, admitting to fraudulently converting more than $31,000 in FOP funds for his own personal use.
Adam Conheeny, 46 of Portsmouth, R.I., a former Newport Police Department Officer, pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud, announced Michael Mikulka, Special Agent in Charge, New York Region, U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General, and Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police Ann C. Assumpico.
Appearing before U.S. District Court Chief Judge William E. Smith, Conheeny admitted that between August 2009 and December 2014, he used an FOP debit card to pay for his own personal expenses, and wrote checks payable to himself and withdrew cash from the FOP bank account for his own personal use. Conheeny admitted to fraudulently converting approximately $31,413 in FOP funds for his own use.
As Treasurer of the FOP, Conheeny was not paid any wages or salary, nor did he receive an allowance. Conheeny had no authority to spend FOP funds for personal expenses.
In a related case, Christopher Hayes, 49, of Middletown, R.I., a former Newport Police Department Sergeant and former President of the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), Newport Lodge No. 8, was sentenced in July 2017, by U.S. District Court Chief Judge William E. Smith to a total sentence of 12 months, 6 months imprisonment followed by 6 months of home confinement, for converting approximately $71,523 in FOP funds for his personal use. Hayes pleaded guilty to wire fraud on May 1, 2017.
“Theft of union funds by union officials is a serious crime that can have a devastating impact on union members. As a police officer, Adam Conheeny’s conduct is particularly egregious because he violated the very laws he took an oath to uphold. We will continue to work with our federal and state law enforcement partners to safeguard union funds and protect the financial interests of union members,” stated Michael C. Mikulka, Special Agent-in-Charge, New York Region, U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General.
Conheeny is scheduled to be sentenced on September 14, 2018.
The case, investigated by the United States Department of Labor Office of Inspector General, United States Department of Labor Office of Labor Management Standards, and the Rhode Island State Police Financial Crimes Unit, is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John P. McAdams.
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11 Defendants Charged in Manhattan Federal Court with Multimillion-Dollar Identity Theft and Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Geoffrey S. Berman, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and William F. Sweeney Jr., the Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), announced the unsealing of an Indictment charging JAMAL SIMON, DAVID BOYD, a/k/a “Fresh,” MELVIN BROWN, a/k/a “Flint,” DARREN DAVIDSON, a/k/a “Eddie Gray,” DWIGHT FORDE, YVETTE LUBRUN, RASHAUN McKAY, a/k/a “Buster,” MEGAN MONTOYA, DEMALI MOSELY, DWAYNE NORVILLE, a/k/a “Lux,” and JILLIAN WALCOTT with conspiring to commit access device fraud and wire fraud, and aggravated identity theft. SIMON and WALCOTT also are charged with wrongfully obtaining and disclosing individually identifiable health information. Eight of the defendants were arrested on these charges yesterday in California, New Jersey, and New York. BROWN, LUBRUN, McKAY, MOSELY, and WALCOTT were presented and arraigned yesterday before United States Magistrate Judge Katharine H. Parker in Manhattan federal court. BOYD and DAVIDSON will be presented and arraigned today before Judge Parker. MONTOYA will be presented today in federal court in the Northern District of California. In addition, NORVILLE is currently in custody on state charges in Brooklyn, New York, and will be transferred to federal custody. SIMON and FORDE remain at large. The case has been assigned to United States District Judge Paul A. Crotty.
U.S. Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman said: “These 11 defendants allegedly developed a sophisticated scheme to steal from financial institutions and their customers. Through brazen identity theft and fraud, the defendants allegedly stole millions of dollars from credit card companies and banks to line their own pockets. Thanks to the skilled investigative work of the FBI, the defendants’ alleged crime spree has been brought to a halt.”
FBI Assistant Director William F. Sweeney Jr. said: “While most people are careful to secure their financial accounts and personally identifiable information, there are others who are skilled at finding this information, despite any safeguards that have been put in place to protect it, and using it to their advantage. Today’s defendants are charged with doing just that. At the end of the day, more than $3.5 million was swindled from innocent victims and financial institutions. While we work to bring these criminals to justice, the public should be reminded to remain aware and report any suspicious activity that could serve as an attempt to exploit their identity.”
According to the allegations in the Indictment[1]:
From March 2017 through at least July 2017, SIMON, BOYD, BROWN, DAVIDSON, FORDE, LUBRUN, McKAY, MONTOYA, MOSELY, NORVILLE, and WALCOTT carried out a wide-ranging fraudulent scheme that involved unlawfully obtaining individually identifiable information of other individuals (including names, addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, birthdates, bank account numbers, credit and debit card numbers, and cellphone service provider account numbers); impersonating those individuals in order to obtain unauthorized access to their bank accounts, credit and debit card accounts, and cellphone service provider accounts; and then using such access to, among other things, facilitate the fraudulent transfer of funds to bank accounts controlled by members of the conspiracy and the unauthorized purchasing of merchandise and gift cards at retail stores. The defendants’ scheme defrauded financial institutions and individual victims of more than $3.5 million.
SIMON and his co-conspirators obtained individually identifiable information of prospective victims from, among other sources, WALCOTT, who stole patient information during her employment at an urgent care clinic in Manhattan, New York.
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SIMON, 30, BOYD, 29, BROWN, 33, DAVIDSON, 33, FORDE, 31, LUBRUN, 27, McKAY, 35, MOSELY, 29, NORVILLE, 30, and WALCOTT, 34, each of Brooklyn, New York, and MONTOYA, 27, of Oakland, California, are each charged with one count of conspiring to commit access device fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of seven-and-a-half years in prison; one count of conspiring to commit wire fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; and one count of aggravated identity theft, which carries a mandatory sentence of two years in prison that must be imposed consecutively to any other sentence. SIMON and WALCOTT also are each charged with one count of wrongfully obtaining individually identifiable health information and one count of wrongfully obtaining and disclosing individually identifiable health information, each of which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. The maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants will be determined by the judge.
Mr. Berman praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI.
If you believe you were a victim of this crime, including a victim entitled to restitution, and you wish to provide information to law enforcement and/or receive notice of future developments in the case or additional information, please contact the Victim/Witness Unit at the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York, at (866) 874-8900. For additional information, go to: http://www.usdoj.gov/usao/nys/victimwitness.html.
The prosecution is being handled by the Office’s Complex Frauds and Cybercrime Unit. Assistant United States Attorneys Nicholas W. Chiuchiolo and Robert B. Sobelman are in charge of the prosecution.
The charges contained in the Indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
[1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Indictment, and the description of the Indictment set forth herein, constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.
23 May 2018
Worcester Man Sentenced for Attempting to Bribe Witness Testifying in Federal LawsuitRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Worcester man was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for offering to pay a witness who was testifying in a federal lawsuit.
Jerome Smith, 40, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Chief Judge Patti B. Saris to six months in prison to be served consecutively to an 11-13 year state sentence he is currently serving. In February 2018, Smith pleaded guilty to one count of witness bribery.
Smith was the plaintiff in a federal lawsuit seeking monetary damages against the City of Worcester and others in connection with an alleged incident involving the Worcester Police Department. Smith offered to pay two witnesses in connection with their testimony in the federal court proceedings. The two witnesses each testified falsely during depositions conducted in connection with the federal lawsuit. For example, one witness stated that she saw a police officer hitting Smith with a fire extinguisher and kicking Smith, though the witness later admitted that she did not see any police officer hit Smith with a fire extinguisher or kick Smith. Smith’s lawyer attempted to introduce the deposition testimony of this witness at trial, despite the witness having told the lawyer about Smith’s offer to pay her.
United States Attorney Andrew Lelling and Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Office, made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Abely of Lelling’s Worcester Branch Office prosecuted the case.
Winnemucca Felon Arrested and Charged for Possession of an Explosive DeviceRead the Press Release
RENO, Nev. — A former felon who was arrested Tuesday in Winnemucca for possession of an explosive device had his initial court appearance today in U.S. District Court in Reno, announced U.S. Attorney Dayle Elieson for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Aaron C. Rouse for the FBI’s Las Vegas Division.
The indictment, returned last week and unsealed today, charges Terry J. Hanson Jr., 36, of Winnemucca, with one count of felon in possession of an explosive. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William G. Cobb. A jury trial is set for July 17, 2018.
According to the indictment, Hanson unlawfully possessed Thermalite Igniter Cord, an explosive material under federal law. He has a prior felony conviction in Humboldt County for possession of a controlled substance.
The maximum penalty is 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The arrest and charge are the result of an investigation by the FBI with assistance by the Nevada Department of Public Safety - NDI, Humboldt County Sheriff's Office, Winnemucca Police Department, Elko Police Department, Elko Sheriff's Office, Washoe County Sheriff's Office, Reno Police Department, and the Nevada Department of Agriculture. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Rachow is prosecuting the case.
An indictment merely alleges that a crime has been committed, and a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
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Wilmington Man Indicted on Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – Robert J. Higdon, Jr., the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, announces that a Federal grand jury in Raleigh has returned a five-count indictment charging Isai Sanchez, age 22, of Wilmington, North Carolina, with four counts of Receipt of Child Pornography and one count of Possession of Child Pornography.
The indictment alleges that, beginning at a time unknown and ending on May 4, 2017, Sanchez received at least four files containing visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. The indictment further alleges that on May 4, 2017, Sanchez was found to be in possession of digital media containing images and videos involving minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
If convicted of these charges, SANCHEZ would face a maximum of twenty years’ imprisonment and up to a lifetime of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.
This case was part of the Project Safe Childhood initiative, a national program aimed at ensuring that criminals exploiting children are effectively prosecuted by making full use of all available law enforcement resources at every level. For more information about this important national project, Project Safe Childhood, go to www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
The charges and allegations contained in the Indictment are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
The case is being investigated by the FBI Violent Crimes Against Children Task Force comprised of the FBI, New Hanover County Sheriff's Office and the Wilington Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Jake D. Pugh is prosecuting the case for the government.
Washington County Drug Dealer Headed Back to Federal Prison for Violating the Conditions of His Supervised ReleaseRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Washington County, Pennsylvania, was found to have violated the terms of his federal supervision, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
According to information presented to the Court, Darryl Lee Arnold, Jr., aka "Boulders," was previously charged with federal drug trafficking offenses nearly 10 years ago, on June 24, 2008. On January 21, 2010, Arnold was sentenced to serve 84 months of imprisonment, followed by 5 years of supervision. In 2018, the United States Probation Office filed a petition alleging that Arnold was again dealing drugs and Arnold was placed on house arrest pending a supervised release violation hearing.
At that hearing, held on May 23, 2018, United States District Court Judge David S. Cercone determined that Arnold had violated his Supervised Release and ordered the United States Marshal Service to take the defendant into custody.
The law provides for a total sentence of up to three more years in prison, and an additional period of supervision. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Arnold. The DEA joined forces with many other state and local law enforcement agencies including the Canonsburg Police Department, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Monessen Police Department and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office in an effort to address the extraordinary number of opiate overdoses since August of 2015.
U.S. Attorney Announces the Indictment of Four Individuals on Federal Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – On May 15, 2018, a federal grand jury indicted four individuals for federal drug charges. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant for the Western District of Tennessee announced the indictments today.
According to the indictments, the defendants are charged with conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute heroin, cocaine, methylenedioxymethamphetamne (MDMA), methadone, hydrocodone, morphine, oxycodone and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said: "Drug trafficking is an inherently dangerous and violent business that is often conducted by the illegal use and possession of firearms. These indictments demonstrate our commitment to remove armed drug traffickers from our streets by seeking significant mandatory sentences for selling poison in our community."
The defendants charged in the indictment and currently in custody are:
Antonio Rucker, 39, Memphis, Tennessee
Eric Crawford, 44, Memphis, Tennessee
Dewana Bogan, 38, Memphis, Tennessee
Angela Dominique Pittman, 33, Memphis, TennesseeCounts 1, 2, and 3 of the indictment charges Antonio Rucker and Eric Crawford with possession with intent to distribute 100 grams of heroin, 125 grams of cocaine, and over 100 oxycodone pills.
In another three count indictment, counts 1 and 2 charges Angela Dominique Pittman with possession with intent to distribute more than 100 grams of heroin and conspiracy. Count 3 charges Pittman with possessing a Glock 19 9mm caliber pistol in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Counts 1 through 14 of a third separate indictment charges Dewana Bogan with intent to distribute heroin, methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), methadone, hydrocodone, morphine and cocaine. Bogan is also charged with two counts of felony possession of firearms in the furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
If convicted, defendants face a mandatory minimum sentence of up to 20 years imprisonment.
This case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Memphis Police Department Organized Crime Unit and Bartlett Police Department.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Griffith is prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.
The charges and allegations contained in the indictments are merely accusations, and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Two Men Guilty of Federal Charges Related to Large-Scale Fencing OperationRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that a federal jury in Hartford has found GEORGE J. CONNELLY, JR., 48, of New Haven, and WILLIAM REIDELL, 41, of Branford, guilty of federal offenses related to their role in a large-scale fencing operation. The trial before U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea began on May 10 and the jury returned the guilty verdicts this afternoon.
According to the evidence at trial, CONNELLY and Paul Muzyka operated a licensed secondhand store, Ace Amusements, located at 42 Kimberly Avenue in New Haven. At Ace Amusements, CONNELLY and Muzyka knowingly purchased stolen property from “boosters,” who typically were shoplifters with opioid addictions. The boosters stole the goods from retail stores such as Home Depot, Target, CVS, and Lowe’s, and sold the goods at Ace Amusements for approximately one-third of their retail prices. CONNELLY and Muzyka then resold the stolen goods at Ace Amusements, and also online at websites such as eBay. CONNELLY and Muzyka also sold property to resellers, including REIDELL, who then resold the property online using online websites.
The trial evidence showed at least $1.5 million in sales on eBay from 2007 to 2016 by individuals, including REIDELL, who purchased stolen items at Ace Amusements to resell online.
The jury found CONNELLY and REIDELL guilty of one count of conspiracy to commit the interstate transport of stolen property, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years. The jury also found CONNELLY guilty of two counts, and REIDELL guilty of one count, of interstate transport of stolen property, an an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years on each count. The jury found CONNELLY not guilty of one count of interstate transport of stolen property.
CONNELLY and REIDELL are released on $100,000 bonds pending sentencing. Sentencing dates are not yet scheduled.
On March 16, 2018, Muzyka, of North Haven, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit the interstate transport of stolen property and one count of interstate transport of stolen property. He awaits sentencing.
This investigation has been conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the Connecticut State Police, U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, Connecticut Department of Correction, Connecticut Chief State’s Attorney’s Office, and the New Haven, North Haven, Milford, West Haven, Wallingford, Hamden and Orange Police Departments.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys John T. Pierpont, Jr. and David T. Huang.
Two East Idaho Men Plead Guilty in Separate Cases to Transportation of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – Monday, in separate cases, Buster Locklear, 39, of Blackfoot, and Christopher Holtry, 41, of Pocatello, pleaded guilty to transportation of child pornography, U.S. Attorney Bart M. Davis announced.
According to Locklear’s plea agreement, between February and August 2017, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children received 16 reports of child pornography being uploaded to internet utilities and websites related to two of Locklear’s e-mail accounts. In some instances, Locklear registered for the online utilities and websites in his own name. When federal agents reviewed Locklear’s Google accounts, they found 239 files containing child pornography, including 13 videos and 226 images.
Federal agents also searched Locklear’s residence and seized a number of electronic devices. Forensic analysis of the devices resulted in the discovery of additional child pornography files. When combined with the Google accounts, agents found a total of approximately 16,311 images and 306 videos of child pornography. Investigators identified 1,603 images and 24 video files from the defendant’s collection as belonging to 166 known series of child pornography images, wherein the victims have been previously identified by law enforcement.
According to Holtry’s plea agreement, Homeland Security Investigations received an investigative lead from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police National Child Exploitation Coordination Centre regarding users of a chatroom called “Tabou5.” In the chatroom, a user shared an image of child pornography and made assertions that the female child depicted in the image was his daughter. The internet protocol addresses associated with the chatroom user’s online activity were registered to Holtry at his Pocatello residence. When law enforcement agents executed a search warrant at Holtry’s residence, they seized a number of phones and computers. A forensic search of these devices revealed 134 images and 20 videos of child pornography. In an interview, Holtry admitted to uploading and receiving child pornography. He estimated having viewed and possessed approximately 1,000 images of child pornography.
The charge of transportation of child pornography is punishable by 5 to 20 years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, and a term of supervised release of five years to life.
Sentencings for both men are set for August 27, 2018, before U.S. District Court Judge David C. Nye at the federal courthouse in Pocatello.
The case against Locklear was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), with the assistance of the Blackfoot Police Department, the Bingham County Sheriff’s Office, and the Idaho Department of Correction.
The case against Holtry was investigated by HSI, with the assistance of the Pocatello Police Department and the Idaho Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
These cases were 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. As part of Project Safe Childhood, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Idaho and the Idaho Attorney General’s Office partner to marshal federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims.
For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc.
For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
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Two Boston Gang Members Plead Guilty to Distributing Drugs in and Around Public Housing DevelopmentRead the Press Release
BOSTON – Two Heath Street gang members pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court in Boston to distributing drugs in and around the Mildred C. Hailey Apartments in Jamaica Plain.
Kevin Smith, a/k/a “Works,” 27, and Javonte Robinson, a/k/a “Biggie,” and “Big Dog,” 21, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute cocaine base and to distributing cocaine base within 1000 feet of a public housing facility. U.S. District Court Judge William G. Young scheduled sentencing for July 27, 2018.
Following a two-year investigation, Smith, Robinson and seven co-defendants were charged in January 2018 in connection with illegal drug distribution and firearm possession within and near the Mildred C. Hailey Apartments, formerly known as the Bromley Heath Housing Development.
On March 25, 2017, Smith arranged a drug sale for Robinson, who sold crack cocaine to a cooperating witness near the Mildred C. Hailey Apartments. In sum, Smith and Robinson also accepted responsibility for five additional sales that were not charged in the indictment. All of the sales took place either inside or within a 1000 feet of the Mildred C. Hailey Apartments.
According to court documents, Smith served 18 months in jail after he was convicted of carrying a firearm and resisting arrest. Although Smith was on Boston Housing Authority’s No Trespass List at one time, records show that he was arrested in the hallways and courtyards of the housing development at least seven times.
The investigation and arrests sought to reduce violence and improve the quality of life for residents in and around the Mildred C. Hailey Apartments by removing individuals who trafficked drugs and who were actively involved in violence and gang disputes.
The charges provide for a mandatory minimum sentence of one year and no greater than 40 years in prison, a minimum of six years and up to a lifetime of supervised release, and a fine of $2 million. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling; Mickey D. Leadingham, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Boston Field Division; and Boston Police Commissioner William Evans made the announcement today. Assistance was also provided by the Boston Housing Authority’s Department of Police and Public Safety.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendants are presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Two Beckley Men Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug CrimesRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – Two Beckley men were sentenced to federal prison today for drug crimes, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Benjamin Payne, 51, of Beckley, was sentenced to 10 years in prison after previously pleading guilty to distributing a quantity of cocaine base. Because Payne was on supervised release when he committed the crime, he was sentenced to an additional year to run consecutively with his 10 year sentence. In a separate prosecution, Raushan W. McDougald, 38, of Beckley, was sentenced to 84 months years in prison after being convicted of distributing a quantity of cocaine base. U.S. Attorney Stuart applauded the Beckley Police Department for the investigation of Payne and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) for the investigation of McDougald.
“I commend the tireless efforts of our federal, state and local law enforcement partners to rid West Virginia communities of illicit drugs,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Cocaine is a growing threat once again. These guys are off the streets and in the federal pen they’ve earned.”
Payne admitted that on October 26, 2017, at or near Beckley, Raleigh County, West Virginia, he distributed a quantity of cocaine base to a confidential informant working with law enforcement officers. As part of his plea agreement, Payne agreed to forfeit over $23,000 in drug proceeds and a handgun.
McDougald admitted that at or near Beckley, Raleigh County, West Virginia, he distributed a quantity of cocaine base to a confidential informant working with law enforcement officer. McDougald agreed to forfeit $14,000 in U.S. Currency and a firearm.
This cases was prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and opiates. The United States Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers and heroin in communities across the Southern District.
United States District Judge Irene C. Berger imposed the sentence in the both cases.
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Two Aliens Indicted on Illegal Reentry ChargesRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON – Robert J. Higdon, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, announces that a federal grand jury in Wilmington has returned indictments charging EDGARDO GANDARILLA-NUNEZ, age 28, of Mexico, and RUBEN ESTRADA-MARTINEZ, age 38, of Mexico, with Illegal Reentry of a Deported Alien.
If convicted of Illegal Reentry of a Deported Alien, GANDARILLA-NUNEZ, found in Wake County, would face maximum penalties of two years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and a term of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.
If convicted of illegal reentry of an alien subsequent to an aggravated felony conviction (conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine), ESTRADA-MARTINEZ, found in Nash County, would face a maximum imprisonment term of twenty years, a $250,000 fine, and a term of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.
The charges and allegations contained in the indictments are merely accusations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
The cases are being investigated by ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations.
Three Waterloo Men Sentenced to Federal Prison for Selling Crack CocaineRead the Press Release
Naiqondis Maurice Spates, age 33, Devonte Denterrio Jenkins, age 26, and Gary Lind Krueger, age 71, all from Waterloo, Iowa, received the prison terms on May 22, 2018, after each pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine. Spates also pled guilty to distribution of crack cocaine within a 1,000 feet of a protected location. Jenkins and Krueger each also pled guilty to a count of distribution of crack cocaine. Evidence at previous hearings showed that the investigation by law enforcement included a wiretap that recorded numerous telephone calls related to the buying and selling of crack cocaine. Evidence also showed that law enforcement made multiple controlled buys of crack cocaine from all three men.
Spates was sentenced to 91 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve an 8-year term of supervised release after the prison term. Spates’ has previously been convicted of delivery of a controlled substance and also has two prior domestic assault convictions. Spates was also found to be an organizer or leader of the conspiracy and to have possessed a dangerous weapon.
Jenkins was sentenced to 120 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve an 8-year term of supervised release after the prison term. Jenkins’ criminal history included a deferred judgement for possession of crack cocaine with the intent to deliver in 2014.
Krueger was sentenced to 120 months’ imprisonment and fined $12,000. He must also serve an 8-year term of supervised release after the prison term. Krueger’s criminal history included convictions for delivery of cocaine base in 2003 and a conviction for pimping in 2000.
All three men were sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge Linda R. Reade. There is no parole in the federal system. All three are being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until they can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Emily K. Nydle and was investigated as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program of the United States Department of Justice through a cooperative effort of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, the Tri-County Drug Enforcement Task Force, the Waterloo Police Department, the Black Hawk County Sheriff’s Office, the Cedar Falls Police Department, the Cedar Rapids Police Department, the Iowa City Police Department, the Linn County Sheriff’s Office, and the Iowa State Patrol.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 17-cr-2043.
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Three Family Members Indicted for Bankruptcy FraudRead the Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact ELIZABETH MORSE
www.justice.gov/usao/md at (410) 209-4885
Baltimore, Maryland – On May 22, 2018, a federal grand jury indicted Patricia Mulford, age 66, and Joseph Mulford, age 67, formerly of Berlin, Maryland; and Maria Denise Gangler a/k/a “Aunt Denise,” age 62, of Essex, Maryland, on charges of conspiracy to commit bankruptcy fraud, bankruptcy fraud, and tax evasion.
The indictment was announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Robert K. Hur; and Acting Special Agent in Charge Kelly R. Jackson of the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation.
According to the four-count indictment, from July 2011 through November 2017, the Mulfords and Gangler committed bankruptcy fraud by knowingly and fraudulently concealing their assets from their creditors and trustees in bankruptcy proceedings. The assets concealed by the defendants consisted primarily of proceeds from the sale of approximately $375,000 in foreign real estate, namely their interests in a property at Sueno Escondido Estates in Costa Rica. The defendants converted proceeds from the real estate sale into cash stored in a safe deposit box and bank accounts held in relatives’ names. The Mulfords also reinvested proceeds in a second property in Costa Rica and failed to disclose their ownership of that property. The defendants’ bankruptcy fraud caused their creditors to suffer losses of more than $350,000.
The Mulfords are also alleged to have concealed assets from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) so as to avoid an outstanding tax debt. According to the indictment, beginning in 2009, the Mulfords willfully attempted to evade paying taxes for the calendar year of 2009, and did so by concealing from the IRS gold and silver coins the Mulfords had purchased after liquidating their IRAs. The Mulfords also concealed from the IRS the proceeds of the sale of real estate in Costa Rica. The Mulfords’ bankruptcy fraud allowed them to avoid paying approximately $39,000 then due to the IRS in connection with taxes for 2009.
The Mulfords and Gangler face a maximum sentence of five years in prison and fines of up to $250,000 for the conspiracy, bankruptcy fraud, and tax evasion offenses. An initial appearance for the defendants has not been scheduled at this time.
An indictment is not a finding of guilt. An individual charged by indictment is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty at some later criminal proceedings.
United States Attorney Robert K. Hur commended the IRS for their work in the investigation. Mr. Hur thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Harry Gruber and Dana Brusca, who are prosecuting the case.
Tax Preparer Pleads Guilty to Identity Theft, False ClaimsRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Bryant C. Hardnett, age 45, of Cohoes, New York, pled guilty yesterday to stealing the personally identifying information of children and using it to falsely claim the children as his own dependents on his tax returns.
The announcement was made by United States Attorney Grant C. Jaquith and James D. Robnett, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Office of Internal Revenue Service (IRS)-Criminal Investigation.
As part of his plea, Hardnett admitted that he formerly operated a tax preparation business, BH Tax Services, from a storefront in downtown Troy, New York. Through that business, Hardnett met a woman who asked him to file a tax return in her name for the year 2013. She provided her two children’s personally identifying information, including their names and Social Security Numbers. Hardnett never filed a tax return in the woman’s name, and instead falsely claimed the two children as his nephews and dependents on his tax returns filed with the IRS in 2013, 2014 and 2015.
Hardnett faces at least 2 years and up to 15 years in prison, as well as up to 3 years of post-imprisonment supervised release, when he is sentenced on September 19, 2018 by United States District Judge David N. Hurd in Utica, New York. 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. Hardnett has also agreed to pay at least $25,000 in restitution to the IRS, and to be permanently enjoined from ever filing a tax return for anyone other than himself.
As part of the same investigation, Guy Rochelle, age 59, of Troy, pled guilty to filing false tax returns for the tax years 2011 through 2014. Hardnett prepared these returns, in which Rochelle falsely claimed two children as his nieces and dependents; Hardnett supplied the children’s personally identifying information and filed the returns. Rochelle faces up to 3 years in prison when he is sentenced on September 10, 2018 by Senior United States District Judge Thomas J. McAvoy.
These cases were investigated by the New York Field Office of IRS-Criminal Investigation, and are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael Barnett and Alicia G. Suarez.
Surveillance Photos Led to Identification of Mt. Washington Bank Robber who Pleaded Guilty TodayRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has pleaded guilty to a charge of bank robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Matthew Gallo, age 34, formerly of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that on December 4, 2017, an individual, later identified as the Matthew Gallo, robbed the First National Bank in the Mt. Washington section of the City of Pittsburgh. He fled the bank with $730.00 before authorities could apprehend him. Surveillance photos from the robbery were shown on the local news. FBI received two separate tips identifying Matthew Gallo as the individual responsible for the bank robbery. On January 10, 2018, Allegheny County Sheriff’s personnel arrested Gallo on an unrelated matter. Gallo later confessed to committing the bank robbery. Gallo was also shown a surveillance photograph of the bank robber and signed the back of a photograph identifying himself as the robber.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for October 4, 2018. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000.00, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Shanicka L. Kennedy is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation in this case.
Suburban Man Indicted on Federal Drug Charges for Allegedly Importing a Fentanyl Analogue from ChinaRead the Press Release
CHICAGO — An Elmwood Park man has been charged with federal drug offenses for allegedly importing a fentanyl analogue from China to the Chicago area.
ROLANDO ESTRADA, 42, imported furanyl fentanyl from China in the summer of 2016, according to an indictment returned this week in federal court in Chicago. Estrada arranged to have the substances shipped to the Chicago area from a Chinese chemical company, according to a criminal complaint filed against him in 2016. In June 2016, law enforcement agents intercepted and seized two packages from China that contained approximately four kilograms of furanyl fentanyl, the complaint states. The following month, authorities seized more than five kilograms of cocaine and $90,000 in cash from Estrada’s residence in Elmwood Park.
Estrada fled to Mexico in July 2016, and a warrant was issued for his arrest. He was taken into custody last month in Querètaro, Mexico.
The five-count indictment was returned Tuesday. It charges Estrada with two counts of distribution of a controlled substance, two counts of importing a controlled substance from outside the U.S., and one count of possession of a controlled substance with the intent to distribute. Arraignment is set for May 24, 2018, at 11:00 a.m., before U.S. Magistrate Judge Maria Valdez.
The arrest and indictment were announced by John R. Lausch, Jr., United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois; Brian M. McKnight, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Division of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration; Jeffrey S. Sallet, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; and William Hedrick, Acting Inspector-in-Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service in Chicago. Substantial assistance was provided by the Downers Grove Police Department, Chicago Police Department, U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Illinois State Police, and Berwyn Police Department. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Eric Pruitt and Matthew Kutcher.
The probe was conducted under the umbrella of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) Chicago Strike Force, a partnership between federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. The principal mission of OCDETF is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations.
According to a search warrant and affidavit previously filed in the case, Estrada continued to coordinate shipments of fentanyl to Chicago after fleeing to Mexico. The fentanyl was allegedly mixed with other substances before being sold to customers in the Chicago area. After the sales, Estrada allegedly directed an associate to convert some of the proceeds into Bitcoin, a virtual currency typically circulated via the internet. Estrada also allegedly instructed the associate on how to use a cellphone application to transfer Bitcoin to Estrada’s virtual wallet.
The public is reminded that an indictment 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.
The charges against Estrada carry a maximum potential sentence of life in prison. If convicted, the Court must impose a reasonable sentence under federal statutes and the advisory U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
Raleigh Man Indicted on Bank Robbery ChargeRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON – Robert J. Higdon, Jr., the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, announces that a Federal grand jury in Raleigh has returned an indictment charging DANNIE SIMON PARKER, JR., 47, of Raleigh, with bank robbery.
If convicted of this charge, PARKER would face a statutory maximum of twenty years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and a term of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
In support of PSN, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina has implemented the Take Back North Carolina Initiative. This initiative emphasizes the regional assignment of federal prosecutors to work with law enforcement and District Attorney’s Offices on a sustained basis in those communities to reduce the violent crime rate, drug trafficking, and crimes against law enforcement.
The charges and allegations contained in the Indictment are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Roanoke Rapids Police Department, and the Halifax County Sheriff’s Office.
Quebec Man Sentenced to 120 Months for Marijuana SmugglingRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Mathieu Forget, age 32, of St-Anicet, Quebec, Canada, was sentenced yesterday to 120 months in prison for conspiring to distribute marijuana.
The announcement was made by United States Attorney Grant C. Jaquith and Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Special Agent in Charge James J. Hunt of the New York Division.
Following his extradition from Canada, Forget admitted that he and his co-conspirators smuggled thousands of pounds of marijuana into the United States from Canada through the Akwesasne Mohawk Indian Reservation. The marijuana was distributed throughout the northeastern United States. Forget admitted to transporting hundreds of pounds of marijuana across the St. Lawrence River in a boat at least 20 times, and on 30 other occasions, helping transport hundreds of pounds of marijuana smuggled in vehicles to locations in New York and New England.
Chief United States District Judge Glenn T. Suddaby also imposed a 5-year term of supervised release following Forget’s term of imprisonment. Forget’s co-defendant, Allan Peters, was sentenced on February 12, 2015 to 144 months in prison for his role in the conspiracy. A third defendant, Colin Stewart, pled guilty and is awaiting sentencing on August 8, 2018.
This case was the result of a joint investigation by the DEA, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the United States Border Patrol, U.S. Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations, the New York State Police, the St. Regis Mohawk Tribal Police Department, the Akwesasne Mohawk Police Services, and the District Attorneys of Franklin and Clinton Counties.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Katherine E. Kopita and Douglas G. Collyer.
Portland Man Pleads Guilty to Gambling, Money Laundering and False Tax Return ChargesRead the Press Release
Portland, Maine: United States Attorney Halsey B. Frank announced that Stephen Mardigan, 61, of Portland, Maine, pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court to running an illegal gambling business, money laundering, and subscribing to a false income tax return.
According to court records, between 2003 and April 7, 2017, Mardigan ran an illegal multi-million dollar sports gambling business in Portland that received bets on professional and college sporting events. Mardigan used proceeds from the illegal gambling business to buy, maintain, improve, and pay expenses related to numerous real properties located in the greater Portland area. In 2015, Mardigan received substantial income from the illegal gambling business that he failed to report on his federal income tax return. On April 7, 2017, agents seized betting records; $142,974 from Mardigan’s residence; $500,000 from a safe deposit box; and $104,072.70 from a business bank account in Mardigan’s name d/b/a “Avenue Auto” that Mardigan used to launder his gambling proceeds.
The defendant faces up to five years in jail and twice the gain on the gambling charge, 20 years and twice the value of the property laundered on the money laundering charge, and three years and $100,000 on the tax charge. The defendant agreed to forfeit over $1,375,000 and 18 real properties located in Portland, Westbrook, Gorham and Cape Elizabeth, and to pay $1,338,891 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”). He will be sentenced after the completion of a presentence investigation report by the U.S. Probation Office.
This case was investigated by the FBI’s Southern Maine Gang Task Force; the Portland, South Portland, Lewiston, Westbrook, Bangor, and Cape Elizabeth Police Departments; the Maine State Police; IRS, Criminal Investigation; and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.
Pompano Beach Resident Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Being Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
A Pompano Beach resident was sentenced yesterday to 15 years in federal prison, after having been convicted at trial of being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Benjamin G. Greenberg, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, Robert Lasky, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Miami Field Office, and Scott Israel, Sheriff, Broward County Sheriff’s Office (BSO), made the announcement.
On March 6, 2018, Tedarel Preston, 44, of Pompano Beach, was convicted by a trial jury of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Yesterday, United States District Court Judge Beth Bloom ruled that Preston was an armed career criminal and sentenced him to 180 months in prison, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to the court record, including evidence presented during the defendant’s trial, in late December of 2017, BSO detectives received information alleging the Preston was going to be involved in a retaliatory gang shooting. On December 29, 2017, detectives received additional information that the defendant was in possession of a firearm and observed the defendant seated in the back seat of a vehicle. As the detectives approached Preston, they observed him remove a firearm from his waistband and attempt to hide it under the passenger seat. Law enforcement then removed Preston from the vehicle and placed him under arrest. A loaded, .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol was found in the vehicle, near where Preston’s feet had been positioned. At the time of his arrest, Preston was a convicted felon and prohibited from possessing a firearm.
Mr. Greenberg commended the investigative efforts of the FBI and BSO in this matter. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Bruce Brown.
Court documents and information related to this case may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or on http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov.
Owner of Queens Karaoke Bar Pleads Guilty to Failure to Pay Employment TaxRead the Press Release
A resident of Queens, New York, pleaded guilty today to failing to collect and pay over employment tax, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division.
According to court documents, Kae Wook Lee was the sole owner and chief executive officer of Mona Lisa 7 Corporation, through which he operated a karaoke bar in the Flushing neighborhood of Queens. Between 2011 and 2013, Lee diverted part of his karaoke business’s receipts to bank accounts in the names of shell corporations he created. Lee then withdrew funds from those bank accounts to pay employees’ wages in cash without collecting or paying over employment taxes to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Lee concealed the cash payroll from his accountant and signed and filed false tax returns that underreported employee wages. The tax loss to the IRS caused by the defendant’s conduct was $612,500.
U.S. District Judge I. Leo Glasser scheduled sentencing for September 6, 2018. Lee faces a statutory maximum sentence of five years in prison, as well as a period of supervised release, restitution, and monetary penalties.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman thanked special agents of IRS Criminal Investigation, who conducted the investigation, and Tax Division Trial Attorneys Mark Kotila and Sean Green, who are prosecuting the case.
Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts can be found on the division’s website.