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Thursday 12 April 2018
Ashland County man indicted for sexually exploiting five childrenRead the Press Release
An Ashland County man was indicted after having at least five children send him nude images of themselves, said U.S. Attorney Justin E. Herdman and FBI Special Agent in Charge Stephen D. Anthony.
Michael D. Nixon, 55, of Perrysville, was indicted on five counts of sexual exploitation of children, one count of receipt and distribution of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography.
Nixon coereced five minors to engage in sexually explicit conduct from June 1, 2017 through Nov. 29, 2017, according to the indictment
The parents of a 10-year-old girl contacted authorities after someone, later determined to be Nixon, contacted the girl and, posing as a young girl himself, requested her to send nude images. Nixon, posing as a young girl, sent images of a girl in her underwear and then images of nude girl, and asked the victim to reciprocate. The victim girl sent a nude photo, according to court documents.
When Nixon asked for more nude images, the victim replied she did feel comfortable and attempted to discontinue contact. Nixon said he’d be willing to discontinue contact only if the victim provided names, phone numbers and school information of her friends. Nixon then said if the victim did not comply, he would send the images to the victim’s school, according to court documents.
Terrified, the victim reported the incident to her mother, according to court documents.
Nixon also knowingly received and distributed numerous computer files that contained child pornography. Nixon also possessed two Samsung Gusto 3 cellular phones that contained child pornography, according to the indictment.
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.
The case was investigated by TFO Bryan Allen, Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Task Force, and Edward Moschella, FBI, District of Columbia. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Carol M. Skutnik.
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.
Arrests Made as Multi State Drug Trafficking Organization Is DismantledRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Six members of a drug trafficking organization were arrested this week as part of a multi-agency investigation, which included the seizure of multiple pounds of methamphetamine, heroin and cocaine in the Central Valley, Alaska, and Tacoma, Washington, U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott announced.
The arrests and seizures relate to an indictment returned by a federal grand jury on April 5, 2018, charging members of a multistate drug trafficking organization with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, including methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin. The seizures this week included 45 pounds of methamphetamine, four pounds of heroin and three pounds of cocaine.
Indicted members of the drug trafficking organization include Alecia Trapps, 54, of Manteca; Jimmy Brantley, 40, of Manteca; Carmen Conejo, 51, of Long Beach; Ernest Westley, 60, of Modesto; Sheena Taylor, 41, of Modesto; and Joseph Vasquez, Jr., 32, of Modesto.
According to court documents, between January 1, 2015, and April 11, 2018, the defendants conspired to distribute controlled substances such as methamphetamine, heroin, or cocaine in Modesto and in Juneau, Alaska.
This case is the product of a year-long investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Central Valley Gang Impact Task Force, Modesto Police Department, Manteca Police Department, California Highway Patrol, Stanislaus County District Attorney’s Office, Whatcom County Sheriff’s Department (Washington), Pierce County Sheriff’s Department (Washington), and Juneau Police Department (Alaska). Assistant U.S. Attorneys Melanie L. Alsworth and Laurel J. Montoya are prosecuting the case.
If convicted, the defendants face a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to life in prison, and a $10 million fine. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Akron men indicted for using firearms while trafficking methamphetamineRead the Press Release
Two Akron men were indicted for using firearms as part of a conspiracy to sell large amounts of methamphetamine.
Jonathan S. Wilt, 24, and Johnny R. Rollyson, 27, were both indicted on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute at least 500 grams of methamphetamine and attempted possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance. Both were also indicted on charges of possession of a firearm in relation to drug trafficking and being felons in possession of firearms.
Wilt on March 12 had a Kahr Arms 9mm pistol, despite convictions for felonious assault and attempted felonious assault that made it illegal for him to have a firearm. Rollyson on the same date had a Smith & Wesson .38 revolver, despite convictions for burglary that made it illegal for him to have a firearm, according to the indictment.
They had those firearms in relation to drug trafficking. Both men attempted to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine on March 12, according to the indictment.
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.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Akron Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Henry F. DeBaggis.
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.
Wednesday 11 April 2018
Woman Who Schemed to Collect Insurance Money by Burning Down a House in Martelle Sentenced to 12 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A woman who participated in a scheme to submit a fraudulent insurance claim when her boyfriend intentionally set fire to his vacant house was sentenced today to 12 years in federal prison.
Beth Galloway, age 42, from Camanche, Iowa, and formerly of Olin, received the prison term after a March 16, 2017, jury verdict finding her guilty of one count of mail fraud, one count of using fire to commit mail fraud, and money laundering.
The evidence at trial showed that, between Spring 2013 and Spring 2014, Galloway and her boyfriend, James Plower, made up and participated in a scheme to defraud Plower’s insurance company. The evidence showed that Galloway twice drove a minor to Plower’s vacant home in Martelle, Iowa, to attempt to set fire to the home, but that both attempts failed. Further evidence showed that Plower then deliberately set fire to his vacant home and submitted an insurance claim in which he falsely claimed the fire was accidental. As a result of the fraudulent insurance claim, the insurance company mailed Plower a check for $66,497.46. Evidence also showed that Galloway and Plower agreed to launder the proceeds from the fraudulent insurance claim in February and March of 2014 when the two agreed to take $10,000 of the proceeds from Plower’s bank account after learning that law enforcement was investigating the cause of the fire,. They then gave the $10,000 to a friend to hold for them to prevent law enforcement from seizing the money.
Plower had previously pled guilty to charges of mail fraud and use of fire to commit mail fraud. He also had previously been sentenced to 13 years’ in federal prison.
Galloway was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Galloway was sentenced to 144 months’ imprisonment. She was ordered to make $152,874.58 in restitution to the insurance company. She must also serve a 2-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Ravi Narayan and Tony Morfitt and was investigated by the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Iowa State Fire Marshal Division, and the Jones County Sheriff’s Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 16-CR-68.
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Violent felon sentenced to 16 years in federal prison for cocaine traffickingRead the Press Release
ATLANTA – Darrick Lawrence, a previously convicted felon, has been sentenced to 16 years and six months in prison, with one month credit for time served, for trafficking cocaine. Lawrence also faces charges in Virginia for conspiracy to commit first-degree murder. A search of Lawrence’s Decatur, Georgia home resulted in the recovery of cocaine, two high-powered rifles, and hundreds of rounds of ammunition.
“Lawrence created a sophisticated drug operation and funneled drug proceeds through 18 different bank accounts using a shell company,” said U.S. Attorney Byung J. “BJay” Pak. “This lengthy prison sentence removes a violent felon from our streets and places him in federal prison while he awaits prosecution for a murder in Virginia.”
“The criminal history of Lawrence shows a complete and utter disregard for the lives of others as well as for their personal pursuits,” said ATF Acting Assistant Special Agent in Charge Robert Davis. “As an agency and a unified law enforcement community, we will not tolerate armed violent felons continually terrorizing and reducing the quality of life in our neighborhoods.”
“Drug traffickers often protect the poisonous fruits of their labor by engaging in acts of violence,” said Robert J. Murphy, the Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Field Division. “The cache of weapons seized from this convicted felon validated his propensity towards violence. Because of the pinnacle of cooperation between DEA, its federal, state and local law enforcement counterparts and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, this defendant is deserving of the sentence handed down today.”
According to U.S. Attorney Pak, the charges and other information presented in court: On February 7, 2017, DeKalb County, Georgia, police officers and SWAT members executed a warrant to search Lawrence’s residence for evidence regarding a murder committed in Virginia. During the search, investigators recovered a stolen Anderson Manufacturing, model AM-15, .300 Blackout caliber rifle, an American Tactical, model Omni, 5.56mm caliber pistol, hundreds of rounds of ammunition, and cocaine. At the time of the search, Lawrence was an eleven-time convicted felon, with prior convictions for robbery, assault, battery, and multiple violations of possessing with intent to distribute controlled substances. Investigators determined that Lawrence trafficked kilos of cocaine between Atlanta and Virginia. He also created a shell company through which he funneled nearly a million dollars in drug proceeds using 18 banks accounts. Lawrence attempted to continue his drug trafficking operation while in federal and state prisons by directing members of his drug operation to communicate with him with prepaid “flip phones.”
Darrick Lawrence, 39, of Decatur, Georgia, was sentenced 16 years and six months in prison, with one month credit for time served, to be followed by three years of supervised release by U.S. District Judge Steve C. Jones. He pleaded guilty to the offense of possession with intent to distribute cocaine on December 1, 2017. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the DeKalb Police Department, and the Henrico County Virginia Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Dash A. Cooper and Kim S. Dammers prosecuted 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.
For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at [email protected].
Utah Resident Sentenced for Second Degree Murder on Ute Mountain Ute ReservationRead the Press Release
DURANGO -- Timothy Merritt, age 57, of Utah was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Robert Blackburn on April 9, 2018, to 24 years in prison for the crimes of Murder in the Second Degree in Indian Country and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury in Indian Country. Merritt was convicted after a jury trial in Durango on September 12, 2017. His sentence also includes 5 years of supervised release, with the special conditions of participating in a cognitive behavioral treatment program and a substance abuse program.
According to evidence presented at trial, Merritt caused a fatal car crash on the Ute Mountain Ute Reservation while driving in the wrong lane of traffic with a blood alcohol content between 0.23 and 0.25. The crash caused the death of one man and serious injuries to his wife. Merritt had been arrested for drinking and driving offenses on three occasions prior to the fatal crash. Three months after the fatal crash, Merritt was again arrested driving drunk, narrowly avoiding causing another crash.
“I hope with all my heart that this conviction and sentence brings some relief to the deep suffering Merritt caused his victims and their family,” said United States Attorney Bob Troyer. “Our prosecutors and the BIA and FBI agents worked tirelessly on this case, for that sole purpose.”
“This sentence reflects the ongoing efforts of the BIA and FBI to aggressively investigate violent crime on Native American reservations and seek justice for the victims,” said Calvin Shivers, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Denver Division.
The Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated this case. The United States was represented by Assistant United States Attorneys Julia Martinez, Jeffrey Graves, and former Assistant United States Attorney Dondi Osborne.
The case is captioned United States v. Merritt, Case No. 16-cr-365-REB.
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United States Attorney’s Office Commemorates National Crime Victims’ Rights WeekRead the Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact ELIZABETH MORSE
www.justice.gov/usao/md at (410) 209-4885
Baltimore, Maryland - In observance of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, April 8-14, 2018, the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland held the 2nd Annual National Crime Victims’ Rights Week Award Ceremony. United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Robert K. Hur presented Victim Assistance awards to employees and members of local and Federal law enforcement.
Assistant United States Attorneys Ayn B. Ducao, Bryan E. Foreman, and Jefferson M. Gray were awarded the AUSA Victim Assistance Award that recognizes AUSAs who exhibited extraordinary effort in advocating for the rights of victims and demonstrate exceptional commitment to the pursuit of justice.
Asset Forfeiture Paralegal Specialist Naquita C. Ervin received the Support Staff Victim Assistance Award that recognizes a support staff member who goes above and beyond normal duty to assist victims.
Cpl. Joshua P. Mouton of the Howard Country Police Department was awarded the State Law Enforcement Victim Assistance Award that recognizes a member of state or local law enforcement who exhibited professionalism and superior service and sensitivity to victims.
Special Agent Keith A. Custer of the FBI, as well as two other Baltimore based Special Agents of the FBI, were awarded the Federal Law Enforcement Victim Assistance Award that recognizes a Special Agent, TFO, or other federal law enforcement officer who consistently displays superior investigative skills and sensitivity to the rights and needs of victims.
In addition to the presentation of awards, the ceremony included keynote speeches by individuals who have been victims of crime. “The stories we heard today from those who have been victims of crime are a reminder that statistics represent real crimes affecting real people and real families,” said U.S. Attorney Hur. “The United States Attorney’s Office recognizes the courage of these brave individuals, and is here to listen, support and empower them. National Crime Victims’ Rights Week is a time to celebrate progress, raise awareness of victims’ rights and services, and stand with those whose lives have been changed by the criminal acts they have endured.”
The U.S. Attorney’s Office joins its federal, state, and local enforcement partners in taking this opportunity to highlight the importance of providing necessary services at the earliest possible stage of victimization and litigation. Early intervention helps prevent further victimization and encourages victim involvement in the criminal justice system, mitigating the cycle of violence and restoring hope for the future.
Each year in April, the Department of Justice and United States Attorney’s Offices observe National Crime Victims’ Rights Week nationwide by taking time to honor victims of crime and those who advocate on their behalf.
"In law enforcement, we are sworn to serve and protect," Attorney General Sessions said. "We carry out this oath every day by protecting the rights of law abiding people from criminals and by achieving justice for crime victims. This week, we remember the millions of Americans who have been victimized by criminals and we thank those who have gone above and beyond the call of duty in their service to those victims. As we do so, we recommit ourselves to fulfilling our oath and to reducing crime in America."
The U.S. Department of Justice will host the Office for Victims of Crime’s annual National Crime Victims’ Service Awards Ceremony in Washington, D.C. on April 13, 2018, to honor outstanding individuals and programs that serve victims of crime.
The Office of Justice Programs provides innovative leadership to federal, state, local, and tribal justice systems, by disseminating state-of-the-art knowledge and practices across America, and providing grants for the implementation of these crime fighting strategies. Because most of the responsibility for crime control and prevention falls to law enforcement officers in states, cities, and neighborhoods, the federal government can be effective in these areas only to the extent that it can enter into partnerships with these officers. More information about the Office of Justice Programs and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov. More information about Crime Victim’s Rights Week can be found at https://ovc.ncjrs.gov/ncvrw/. You may also contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland Victim Witness Program at (410) 209-4800.
US Attorney Observes National Crime Victims' WeekRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE, RI – Each year in April, the Department of Justice and United States Attorney’s Offices observe National Crime Victims’ Rights Week nationwide by honoring victims of crime and those who advocate on their behalf. In addition, the Justice Department and U.S. Attorney’s Offices organize events to honor the victims and advocates, as well as bring awareness to services available to victims of crime. This year’s observance takes place April 8-14, with the theme Expand the Circle: Reach All Victims.
"In law enforcement, we are sworn to serve and protect," Attorney General Sessions said. "We carry out this oath every day by protecting the rights of law abiding people from criminals and by achieving justice for crime victims. This week, we remember the millions of Americans who have been victimized by criminals and we thank those who have gone above and beyond the call of duty in their service to those victims. As we do so, we recommit ourselves to fulfilling our oath and to reducing crime in America."
In observance of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch today joined Rhode Island Attorney General Peter F. Kilmartin, other state and local leaders, and victim advocates at Rhode Island’s Victims’ Grove in downtown Providence to commemorate National Crime Victims’ Rights Week.
“Today we gather to honor victims of crime and to recognize the efforts of the people who work hard day in and day out to protect and serve those victims,” said United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch at today’s commemoration at Victims’ Grove. “These people, who include law enforcement officers, prosecutors, victim services specialists, employees of non-profit agencies and community volunteers, are tireless in their efforts to expand opportunities for victims to disclose, to connect with services and to receive the support they need and deserve.”
The U.S. Department of Justice will host the Office for Victims of Crime’s annual National Crime Victims’ Service Awards Ceremony in Washington, D.C. on April 13, 2018, to honor outstanding individuals and programs that serve victims of crime.
The Department of Justice’s Office for Victims of Crime, within the Office of Justice Programs, leads communities across the country in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week each year. President Ronald Reagan proclaimed the first National Crime Victims’ Rights Week in 1981 to bring greater sensitivity to the needs and rights of victims of crime.
The Office of Justice Programs provides innovative leadership to federal, state, local, and tribal justice systems, by disseminating state-of-the art knowledge and practices across America, and providing grants for the implementation of these crime fighting strategies. Because most of the responsibility for crime control and prevention falls to law enforcement officers in states, cities, and neighborhoods, the federal government can be effective in these areas only to the extent that it can enter into partnerships with these officers. More information about the Office of Justice Programs and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov. More information about Crime Victim’s Rights Week can be found at https://ovc.ncjrs.gov/ncvrw/. You may also contact the Rhode Island U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Victim Witness Program at (401) 709-5000.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office to Commemorate National Crime Victims’ Rights WeekRead the Press Release
BISMARCK – U.S. Attorney Christopher C. Myers announced today that on April 13, 2018, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of North Dakota will host a National Crime Victims’ Rights Week Awards Ceremony to raise awareness about crime victims’ rights and to recognize individuals throughout the state who provide outstanding services to crime victims. The awards ceremony will take place at the William L. Guy Federal Building, Eagle Courtroom, 220 E Rosser Avenue, Bismarck, at 10:30 a.m.
The U. S. Department of Justice’s Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) leads communities throughout the country in their annual observances of the National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, which is April 8-14, by promoting victims’ rights and honoring crime victims and those who advocate on their behalf. This year’s theme—Expand the Circle: Reach All Victims—highlights how the investment of communities in crime victims expands the opportunity for victims to disclose their victimization, connect with services, and receive the support they need. The theme also acknowledges the many barriers facing victims of crime especially those with disabilities, LGBTQ victims, older adults, speakers with limited English proficiency, American Indians and Alaska Natives, and others from historically marginalized communities.
Members of the media will be permitted to bring appropriate still photo, video, and audio equipment to the Eagle Courtroom for purposes of covering this event. The public is also invited to attend.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office Hosts Roundtable on Sexual Harassment in HousingRead the Press Release
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont and the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division hosted a roundtable on Wednesday, April 11, for community organizations, U.S. Attorney Christina Nolan announced.
The Department of Justice, through the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Civil Rights Division, enforces the Fair Housing Act, which prohibits discrimination in housing on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, familial status, national origin, and disability. Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination prohibited by the Act. Sexual harassment by landlords, property managers, maintenance workers, and others with power over housing often affects the most vulnerable populations – single mothers, women who are financially unstable, and women who have suffered sexual violence in their past.
This week’s event included state and local government agencies, legal service providers, non-profits, fair housing organizations, and shelters and transitional housing providers. Each organization was invited because they often work with Vermont’s most vulnerable populations, who could also become victims of sexual harassment in housing.
“For landlords, property managers, or others to take advantage of a person’s vulnerability by premising their access to housing on sex or sexual harassment is unconscionable,” U.S. Attorney Nolan said. She noted that “our federal civil rights laws are designed to protect people against terrible abuses, and it is part of the job and mission of this office to make sure those laws are enforced.”
In October 2017, the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division announced the Sexual Harassment Initiative, an effort to combat sexual harassment in housing. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont is collaborating with the Civil Rights Division to spread the word about options to help victims experiencing sexual harassment. Because victims may not be aware that the conduct they have experienced violates the Fair Housing Act or may not know where to turn, the U.S. Attorney’s Office and Department of Justice hope to collaborate with community organizations in Vermont to raise awareness and help victims report abuse.
The Justice Department brings cases each year involving egregious conduct, including allegations that defendants have requested sexual favors in exchange for reduced rents or making necessary repairs, made unrelenting and unwanted sexual advances to tenants, and evicted tenants who resisted their sexual overtures. In 2017, the Justice Department recovered more than $1 million in damages for harassment victims. The Justice Department’s investigations frequently uncover sexual harassment that has been ongoing for years or decades and identify numerous victims who never reported the conduct to federal authorities. Many instances of sexual harassment in housing continue to go unreported.
The Roundtable was coordinated by Jules Torti of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont and Lauren Marks of the Housing and Civil Enforcement Section of the Civil Rights Division of DOJ.
The Justice Department’s initiative seeks to identify barriers to reporting sexual harassment in housing, increase awareness of its enforcement efforts – both among victims and those they may report to – and collaborate with federal, state, and local partners to increase reporting and help victims quickly and easily connect with federal resources. The Department encourages anyone who has experienced sexual harassment in housing, or knows someone who has, to contact the Division by calling (844) 380-6178 or emailing: [email protected].
Individuals who believe they may have been victims of discrimination may also file a complaint with the U.S. Attorney’s Office by filling out the Complaint Form, which can be found at https://www.justice.gov/usao-vt.
Public Service Announcement Transcript
Two Pittsburgh-area Men Charged with Sabotaging Railroad Signal OperationsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - Two Allegheny County residents have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of damaging railroad signals and equipment, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The two-count indictment, returned on April 3 and unsealed yesterday, named William Curry Brown, 24, of Elizabeth, Pennsylvania, and Brandon Edward Peck, 24, of Glassport, Pennsylvania.
According to the indictment, Brown and Peck damaged and impaired signal cables by severing them and further damaged and impaired bond strand wire connectors that were connected to the rail line. The indictment also alleges that Brown removed and detached railroad antennas and otherwise impaired the operation of a railroad signal system, including a train control system that engaged in interstate commerce. Peck is charged with aiding and abetting Mr. Brown.
For each count, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Soo C. Song is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, CSX Police Department and Amtrak conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Two Paterson Police Officers Charged with Conspiring to Violate Civil RightsRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – Two Passaic County, New Jersey, men were arrested today for allegedly violating the civil rights of two individuals during a motor vehicle stop in Paterson, New Jersey, with one officer also being charged with extortion for personally accepting a firearm in exchange for reducing the charges on an arrestee, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.
Jonathan Bustios, 28, and Eudy Ramos, 31, both of Paterson, New Jersey, were arrested by federal agents this morning and charged by complaint with conspiring to deprive individuals of civil rights under color of law. Bustios was also charged with one count of extortion under color of official right. Both defendants are scheduled to appear this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael A. Hammer in Newark federal court.
According to the complaint:
The investigation uncovered instances in which Bustios and Ramos, both officers of the Paterson Police Department, allegedly stopped motor vehicles, detained the occupants, and searched those vehicles without any justification. On certain occasions, Bustios and Ramos also took cash and other items without justification before releasing the detained occupants.
For example, on Feb. 20, 2018, while on duty, Bustios pulled over a BMW and stopped behind the vehicle, while Ramos stopped his police car in front of the vehicle. Bustios and Ramos exited their police cars and proceeded to search the front and back of the BMW and the trunk. Bustios and Ramos also detained and searched the two occupants of the BMW and put them into the backseat of Ramos’ police car.
After searching the BMW, Bustios left the scene, drove for ten minutes, then stopped his police car and took out a white plastic bag that was filled with cash. Bustios also took out a firearm. He then called Ramos, after which Ramos released the two detained occupants of the BMW and drove to meet Bustios. Bustios passed a portion of the recovered cash to Ramos through the window of Bustios’ police car.
Later that day, Bustios and Ramos turned in the firearm that they had recovered. In the offense report pertaining to the firearm, they told a false story about having recovered the firearm due to a tip by a concerned citizen. In fact, there was no tip by a concerned citizen. They did not report to the Paterson Police Department that they had stopped and searched the BMW, detained and searched its occupants, and taken cash, all without any warrants.
Bustios was also charged with extortion under color of official right for an incident that allegedly occurred on March 14, 2018. Bustios arrested and detained an individual and placed the individual in the backseat of his police car. Bustios then told the individual that Bustios would not charge the individual with resisting arrest and would allow the individual to keep the cash that the individual had on him, in exchange for the individual helping Bustios acquire a firearm. Specifically, Bustios said, “I ain’t gonna charge you with resisting, and I’m letting you keep your money bro.” Bustios then told the individual, “If you don’t wanna make the deal, you don’t have to make the deal.”
The individual ultimately agreed and directed Bustios to the location of a firearm, which Bustios allegedly recovered and kept without turning it over to the Paterson Police Department. According to Paterson Police Department records, as he had promised, Bustios did not charge the individual with resisting arrest. Bustios also submitted an arrest report in which he failed to mention any details about recovering a firearm.
The conspiracy to violate civil rights count with which Bustios and Ramos are charged carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. The extortion under color of official right count with which Bustios is charged carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison.
The charges and allegations in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Bradley W. Cohen in Newark, with the ongoing investigation leading to today’s arrest. He also thanked the Paterson Police Department, under the direction of Paterson Police Director Jerry Speziale and Police Chief Troy Oswald, as well as the Paterson Police Department Office of Internal Affairs, for their assistance in the investigation.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rahul Agarwal, Deputy Chief of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Criminal Division.
Two Milwaukee Residents Indicted for Armed CarjackingsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Matthew D. Krueger announced today that Brittney Neal (Age: 24) and Cedric L. Glosson (Age: 23) had been indicted for armed carjackings in Milwaukee. Both defendants were charged with one count of motor vehicle robbery and one count of discharging a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence related to a September 27, 2017, carjacking on N. 29th Street. Ms. Neal also is charged with an October 22, 2017, carjacking on W. Vienna Avenue in which a firearm was brandished.
With respect to September incident, each defendant faces up to 15 years in prison for the carjacking and a minimum mandatory consecutive sentence of 10 years to life in prison on the firearm count. With respect to the October incident, Neal faces up to 15 years in prison on the carjacking count and a minimum mandatory seven years to life in prison for brandishing the firearm. If Neal were convicted of both discharging a firearm during the September carjacking and brandishing a firearm during the October carjacking, she would face a mandatory minimum sentence of 35 years in prison.
Glosson remains a fugitive. If you have any information regarding his whereabouts, please contact the United States Marshals Service Tip Line at 414-297-3707.
In response to the indictment, United States Attorney Krueger stated, “Carjackings must stop. The United States Attorney’s Office, in collaboration with the federal and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively prosecuting violent crimes within our community.”
This case is being investigated and prosecuted under the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) initiative. PSN is a federal, state, and local law enforcement collaboration to identify, investigate, and prosecute individuals responsible for violent crimes in our neighborhoods. The PSN strategy brings together all levels of law enforcement and community resources to reduce violent crime and improve the quality of life in all our neighborhoods. This matter is being investigated by the FBI’s Milwaukee Area Violent Crimes Task Force and the Milwaukee Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Margaret B. Honrath.
The public is cautioned that an indictment is merely a charge and the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Trucking Companies, Owners Indicted in Alleged Scheme to Falsify Safety RecordsRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE, RI – Two Rhode Island trucking companies and their owners were indicted by a federal grand jury in Providence today in an alleged scheme to falsify federally mandated safety inspection reports and allow trucks in need of repair to haul tons scrap metal on roadways in Rhode Island and Massachusetts.
The grand jury today returned a seven count indictment charging CDE Corporation and Winsor Hill Hauling and Recycling Corporation, located in Johnston, RI, and their owners, Leslie Cucino, 53, of Foster, RI, and Robert Cucino, Jr., 48, of Johnston, RI, each on one count of conspiracy and six counts of false statements.
The indictment is announced by United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch and Todd Damiani, Special Agent in Charge of the United States Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General.
According to the indictment, it is alleged that the owners of CDE and Winsor Hauling directed employees, under threat, including termination, to falsify Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports (DVIR), and not report safety defects or deficiencies discovered by or reported to the driver which would affect the safe operation of the vehicle or in a mechanical breakdown.
A significant amount of the companies’ business includes hauling fully loaded truckloads of scrap metal to the Port of Providence and to locations in Boston.
United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) regulations, enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), a division of the USDOT, require that motor carriers require their drivers to prepare a daily DVIR on each commercial motor vehicle operated. The report must be in writing and prepared at the completion of each day's work, and must include at least the following parts and accessories: service brakes, parking (hand) brake, steering mechanism, lighting devices and reflectors, tires, horn, windshield wipers, rear vision mirrors, coupling devices, wheels and rims, and emergency equipment.
The reports, which must be preserved and made available upon demand for review, are the primary means by which FMCSA Inspectors and state law enforcement authorities enforce federal motor carrier safety regulations relating to the safety of the commercial motor vehicles.
It is alleged in the indictment that on numerous occasions, beginning on or about March 9, 2009, through the present, the owners of the trucking companies directed and encouraged employee drivers, under the threat of up to termination, to falsely certify that the commercial motor vehicles they were operating had “No Defects” on their DVIR when in fact the driver knew that the vehicles had serious safety defects that were required to be reported, and, in some cases, had received citations of serious violations from the Massachusetts or Rhode Island State Police on the same day.
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.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard W. Rose.
The matter was investigated by USDOT Office of Inspector General and FMCSA, with the assistance of Massachusetts State Police and Rhode Island State Police.
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Three Illegal Aliens Plead Guilty to Unlawful Re-entry after RemovalRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Domingo Lopez-Lopez, 25, an illegal alien from Mexico, Victor Manuel Polanco-Aguilar, 23, and Carlos Vazquez-Hernandez, 21, both illegal aliens from Guatemala, pled guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Louis Guirola, Jr., to unlawful re-entry by an alien after deportation or removal, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst, Thomas M. Annello, Acting Special Agent in Charge of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans, and Joseph A. Banco Jr., Acting Chief Patrol Agent of the U.S. Border Patrol’s New Orleans Sector.
On February 6, 2018, a U.S. Border Patrol Agent conducted a traffic stop on a Toyota Highlander displaying a Georgia license plate on Interstate 10 in Harrison County. The agent encountered the driver, a citizen of Cuba and a Legal Permanent Resident of the United States.
After interviewing the passengers in the vehicle, all admitted to being citizens of other countries illegally present in the United States. All were arrested and transported to the Gulfport Border Patrol Station. Agents determined that the passengers were being transported from Houston, Texas, to Florida and Georgia, and that four passengers were aliens who had been previously deported or removed and who had unlawfully returned to the United States.
Lopez-Lopez, Polanco-Aguilar, and Vazquez-Hernandez will be sentenced by Judge Guirola on July 5, 2018. They each face a maximum penalty of two years in federal prison a $250,000 fine.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the U.S. Border Patrol. Assistant United States Attorney Stan Harris is the prosecutor for the case.
Texas man sentenced to 16 months for possessing an improvised weapon while at the Pollock prisonRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, La. – United States Attorney David C. Joseph announced that a Texas man was sentenced last week to 16 months in prison for possessing an improvised weapon while a prisoner in Pollock, Louisiana.
Serjio Rolando Siller Jr., 33, of Roma, Texas, was sentenced Friday by U.S. District Judge Dee D. Drell, on one count of possessing contraband in prison. In addition to imprisonment, Siller was also sentenced to one year of supervised release. According to the January 11, 2018 guilty plea, Siller was found in possession of an improvised weapon commonly known as a “shank,” while a prisoner at the Federal Correctional Institution in Pollock. The weapon was a small metal rod sharpened to a point.
The FBI and the U.S. Bureau of Prisons conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney T. Forrest Phillips prosecuted the case.
Texas Man Pleads Guilty in 21-Defendant Drug Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA. - A resident of Texas pleaded guilty in federal court to conspiring to distribute narcotics, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Cameron Ranson, 43, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring with 20 other individuals, between March and June 2017, to distribute narcotics. In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Ranson, traveled from Texas to Clairton, Pennsylvania, for the purpose of distributing quantities of heroin to his codefendant, Skyler Carter, and others. He accepted responsibility for the distribution of between 20 and 40 grams of heroin. He is the twelfth of 21 defendants charged in the case to enter a plea of guilty.
Judge Arthur J. Schwab scheduled sentencing for September 18, 2018, at 10:30 a.m. The law provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of not more than $1 million, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will depend upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Ranson remains incarcerated pending the sentencing hearing.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, the Allegheny County Police Department, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police. The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises. Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Tennessee Doctors Plead Guilty in $65 Million TRICARE FraudRead the Press Release
Assistant U. S. Attorneys Benjamin J. Katz and Mark W. Pletcher (619) 546-9604 and (619) 546-9714
NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY – April 11, 2018
SAN DIEGO – Two doctors, Carl Lindblad and Susan Vergot, pleaded guilty in federal court today, admitting that they participated in a health care fraud scheme that bilked TRICARE – the health care program that covers United States service members – out of more than $65 million by prescribing thousands of exorbitantly expensive compounded medications to patients that they never saw or examined.
Drs. Lindblad and Vergot entered their guilty pleas before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mitchell D. Dembin. Both pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit health care fraud. Their sentencings are scheduled for June 29, 2018 before U.S. District Court Judge Janis L. Sammartino.
Compounded medications are specialty medications mixed by a pharmacist to meet the specific medical needs of an individual patient. Although compounded drugs are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), they are properly prescribed when a physician determines that an FDA-approved medication does not meet the health needs of a particular patient, such as if a patient requires a particular dosage or application or is allergic to a dye or other ingredient.
According to the guilty pleas, a team of individuals worked to recruit and pay Marines, primarily from the San Diego area, and their dependents – all TRICARE beneficiaries – to obtain compounded medications that would be paid for by TRICARE. This information was sent to Choice MD, the Tennessee medical clinic that employed Drs. Lindblad and Vergot. Drs. Lindblad and Vergot then wrote prescriptions for the TRICARE beneficiaries, despite never examining the patients in person. Once signed by the doctors, these prescriptions were not given to the beneficiaries, but sent directly to particular pharmacies controlled by co-conspirators, which filled the prescriptions and billed TRICARE at exorbitant prices.
Josh Morgan, a former Marine from San Diego, pleaded guilty last month to Conspiracy to Commit Health Care Fraud for his role in recruiting TRICARE beneficiaries to fraudulently receive these prescriptions.
Between December 2014 and May 9, 2015 – the day that TRICARE stopped reimbursing for compounded medications – Drs. Lindblad and Vergot authorized 4,442 total prescriptions. Over this time, their co-conspirators billed TRICARE $65,679,512 for these prescriptions.
Lindblad and Vergot represent the fifth and sixth defendants charged in relation to this fraud scheme. In addition to Morgan, Jimmy and Ashley Collins, the owners of Choice MD, and CFK, Inc., the owner of a co-conspirator pharmacy, were indicted in March 2018 on charges of Conspiracy to Commit Health Care Fraud and Illegal Payments of Remunerations. That case remains pending.
DEFENDANTS Case Number 18-cr-0432-JLS
Carl Lindblad Age: 53 Cleveland, TN
Susan Vergot Age: 31 Cleveland, TN
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Conspiracy to Commit Health Care Fraud – Title 18, U.S.C § 1349
Maximum penalty: 10 years’ imprisonment and fine of higher of $250,000 or double loss amount
AGENCY
Defense Criminal Investigative Service
Naval Criminal Investigative Service
IRS Criminal Investigation Division, Gulfport, MS
Federal Bureau of Investigation - Jackson, MS Field Office
*The charges and allegations contained in an indictment or complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Statement from United States Attorney Thomas T. CullenRead the Press Release
Roanoke, VIRGINIA – United States Attorney Thomas T. Cullen has released the following statement:
“The FBI, the National Park Service, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Virginia are investigating today’s fatal shooting on the Blue Ridge Parkway near mile marker 116. Because the Commonwealth of Virginia has concurrent jurisdiction over the Parkway, this federal investigative team is working in close consultation with the Roanoke County Police Department and the Roanoke County Commonwealth’s Attorney. The investigative team will collect all available evidence and will ensure that the investigation is fair, thorough, and impartial. As this is an ongoing investigation we are not able to comment further at this time.”
St. Croix Man Sentenced to Prison for His Involvement in a Conspiracy to Possess Cocaine with Intent to Distribute at the Rohlsen AirportRead the Press Release
St. Croix, USVI – Dimitrous Jefferson, 29, of St. Croix, was sentenced on April 9, 2018 for conspiracy to possess cocaine with intent to distribute, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced.
Chief District Court Judge Wilma A. Lewis sentenced Jefferson to twenty-four months in prison. Judge Lewis also sentenced Jefferson to three years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine and ordered him to pay a $100 special assessment.
On February 27, 2017, Jefferson pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess a controlled substance with intent to distribute. According to documents filed in court, on May 4, 2016, the defendant and another individual who were employed by Worldwide Flight Services at the Rohlsen Airport, entered the TSA screening area before their scheduled shifts. The defendant attempted to pass through the screening area and triggered the metal detector. A search of his person revealed a brick-like package wrapped with gray duct tape strapped to one of his legs. The other individual also had a similar package strapped to one of his legs. The packages field-tested positive for cocaine.
The case was investigated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rhonda Williams-Henry.
Springfield Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing Meth, Faces 30 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Springfield, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal court today to his role in a conspiracy to distribute large quantities of methamphetamine in southwest Missouri.
Kenneth R. Friend, 47, of Springfield, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge David P. Rush to participating in the conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in Greene, Polk, Christian, Jasper, Laclede, and Webster Counties from June 1, 2013, through Nov. 29, 2014.
Beginning in 2012, the Drug Enforcement Administration, assisted by other agencies, investigated one of the largest methamphetamine distribution rings in southwest Missouri. The investigation resulted in the indictment of 29 co-defendants.
During the conspiracy, Friend was responsible for the distribution of more than 45 kilograms of methamphetamine. He obtained large amounts of methamphetamine from various sources.
For example, Friend paid one source $20,000 in early November 2014 for two pounds of methamphetamine. Friend also intended to purchase a large amount of methamphetamine from one of his sources on Nov. 27, 2014. As part of the investigation, law enforcement officers arrested Friend, his then-girlfriend and one of his suppliers. During the execution of a federal search warrant at the supplier’s residence in Springfield, agents found approximately $20,000 and approximately five and a half pounds of methamphetamine. Friend admitted that he intended to purchase at least two of the five and a half pounds seized from this source of supply. Agents also seized $34,310 from Friend, which he had intended to use to purchase the two pounds of methamphetamine.
Friend is among 28 co-defendants who have pleaded guilty in this case; 18 of those defendants have been sentenced.
Under the terms of today’s plea agreement, Friend will be sentenced to 30 years in federal prison without parole. Friend must forfeit to the government $34,310 that was seized by law enforcement and a 1992 Harley Davidson motorcycle, which Friend used to distribute methamphetamine, and which he purchased with proceeds from the sale of methamphetamine. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Randall D. Eggert, Nhan D. Nguyen and Cynthia J. Hyde. It was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, IRS-Criminal Investigation, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Springfield, Mo., Police Department and Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
South Carolina Man Charged with Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A South Carolina man will appear in federal court today on charges of distributing images of child sexual abuse, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.
Rashad Russell, 28, was indicted by a federal grand jury on April 6, 2018, on one count of distribution of child pornography. He is scheduled to make his initial appearance today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael A. Hammer in Newark federal court.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
Between December 2017 and March 2018, Russell allegedly contacted a law enforcement officer working in an undercover capacity through Facebook messenger stating that he was willing to travel from South Carolina to New Jersey to meet the undercover agent’s purported 8-year-old child for the purpose of engaging in sexual acts with the child. On Jan. 8, 2018, Russell sent two images and one video to the undercover officer, including images of prepubescent children being sexually abused.
The charge of distribution of child pornography carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison, and a $250,000 fine.U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited special agents with the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Brian Michael, with the investigation leading to the indictment.
The government is represented by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Leah Gould of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Public Protection Unit in Newark.
Seven Individuals Indicted in April 2018 Federal Grand JuryRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office announced today the results of the April 2018 Federal Grand Jury.
The following named individuals have been charged with a federal crime or crimes by the return of an indictment by the Grand Jury. A grand jury Indictment does not constitute evidence of guilt. A grand jury Indictment is a method of bringing formal charges against the defendant. A defendant is presumed innocent of the charges and may not be found guilty unless evidence establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. United States Sentencing Guidelines may be considered, upon conviction, by the sentencing court. Federal prison sentences are non-parolable.
BRIAN FREDRIC JOICE, age 39, of Muskogee, Oklahoma
Felon In Possession Of Firearm & AmmunitionThe Indictment alleges that on or about March 7, 2018, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the Defendant, BRIAN FREDRIC JOICE, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, did knowingly possess in and affecting commerce, a firearm and ammunition, to-wit: One (1) Smith & Wesson, .38 caliber revolver, bearing serial number K281231; and Five (5) rounds of .38 caliber ammunition, which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2), punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00 or both.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Muskogee County Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Assistant United States Attorney Kristin Harrington
ROSE MARIE MYERS, age 40, of Fort Gibson, Oklahoma
JEREMY MOORE, a/k/a 'HOSS', age 40, of Fort Gibson, Oklahoma
Drug Conspiracy
Distribution Of Methamphetamine (Two Counts Each)
Possession With Intent To Distribute Methamphetamine (Two Counts Each)
Possession Of A Firearm In Furtherance Of A Drug Trafficking Crime (Myers Only, Two Counts)The Indictment alleges that beginning in or about June 2016, and continuing until the date of this indictment, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, the defendants, ROSE MARIE MYERS and JEREMY MOORE, a/k/a Hoss, did willfully and knowingly combine, conspire, confederate and agree together, and with others known and unknown to the Grand Jury, to commit offenses against the United States in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 846 as follows: to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual), a Schedule II controlled substance in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 846, 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A), punishable by not less than 10 years imprisonment, a fine up to $10,000,000.00 or both.
The Indictment further alleges that on or about May 10, 2017, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendants, ROSE MARIE MYERS and JEREMY MOORE, a/k/a Hoss, did knowingly and intentionally distribute 5 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual), a Schedule II controlled substance, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B) and Title 18, United States Code, Section 2, punishable by not less than 5 years imprisonment, a fine up to $5,000,000.00 or both.
The Indictment further alleges that on or about May 15, 2017, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendants, ROSE MARIE MYERS and JEREMY MOORE, a/k/a Hoss, did knowingly and intentionally distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual), a Schedule II controlled substance, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A) and Title 18, United States Code, Section 2, punishable by not less than 10 years imprisonment, a fine up to $10,000,000.00 or both.
The Indictment further alleges that on or about May 25, 2017, in a vehicle within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendants, ROSE MARIE MYERS and JEREMY MOORE, a/k/a Hoss, did knowingly and intentionally possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual), a Schedule II controlled substance, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A) and Title 18, United States Code, Section 2, punishable by not less than 10 years imprisonment, a fine up to $10,000,000.00 or both.
The Indictment further alleges that on or about May 25, 2017, in a residence within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendants, ROSE MARIE MYERS and JEREMY MOORE, a/k/a Hoss, did knowingly and intentionally possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual), a Schedule II controlled substance, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A) and Title 18, United States Code, Section 2, punishable by not less than 10 years imprisonment, a fine up to $10,000,000.00 or both.
The Indictment further alleges that on or about the May 25, 2017, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma the defendant, ROSE MARIE MYERS, did knowingly possess a firearm, that is, a black RG .38 revolver bearing the serial number Q058450, in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime for which she may be prosecuted in a court of the United States, that is, Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine as alleged in Count 5, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A), in addition to the punishment in count 5, punishable by not less than 5 years imprisonment, a fine up to $10,000,000.00 or both.
The Indictment further alleges that on or about the May 25, 2017, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma the defendant, ROSE MARIE MYERS, did knowingly possess the following firearms, to-wit: One (1) Burgo .22 caliber revolver, bearing serial number 165575; One (1) Heritage .22 caliber revolver, bearing serial number P02239; One (1) Highpoint .40 caliber handgun, bearing serial number 7249617; One (1) Highpoint 9mm rifle, bearing serial number F96048; One (1) GWAGS Armory rifle, CAV-15, bearing serial number 13001775; One (1) S&W rifle, M&P-15, bearing serial number SP07917; One (1) Bushmaster AR-15 rifle, bearing serial number BK1810602; One (1) Mossberg 702 .22 rifle, bearing serial number L113064506; One (1) Stevens model 320 12-gauge shotgun, bearing serial number 150300J; One (1) Springfield 745c 12-gauge shotgun, serial number unknown; in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime for which she may be prosecuted in a court of the United States, that is, distribution of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A), in addition to the punishment in subsequent counts, punishable by not less than 5 years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00 or both.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Assistant United States Attorney Kristin Harrington
NOWLIN LEE WAUGH JR., age 35, of Henryetta, Oklahoma
Possession With Intent To Distribute MethamphetamineThe Indictment alleges that on or about March 23, 2018, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, defendant, NOWLIN LEE WAUGH JR., did knowingly and intentionally possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable quantity of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B), punishable by not less than 5 years, and not more than 40 years imprisonment, a fine up to $5,000,000.00 or both.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Assistant United States Attorney Edward Snow
ALYSSIA MARIE JAE CAREY, age 26, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma
Uttering A Counterfeit Obligation Of The United States (Two Counts)
Passing A Counterfeit Obligation Of The United StatesThe Indictment alleges that on or about November 14, 2017, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the Defendant, ALYSSIA MARIE JAE CAREY, with intent to defraud, did pass, utter and publish to Clear Creek 66, 1100 E. Allen Road, Tahlequah, Oklahoma, falsely made, forged and counterfeited obligations of the United States, that is: One (1) twenty-dollar Federal Reserve Note, Series 2013, Serial No. MF57071698C, Quadrant # 2, Face Plate 66, Back Plate 46, Federal Reserve Bank B2, and One (1) twenty-dollar Federal Reserve Note, Series 2013, Serial No. MG04098161, Quadrant # 2, Face Plate 1, Back Plate 3, Federal Reserve Bank G7, which she then knew to be falsely made, forged and counterfeited, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 472, punishable by not more than 20 years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00 or both.
The Indictment further alleges that on or about November 24, 2017, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the Defendant, ALYSSIA MARIE JAE CAREY, with intent to defraud, did pass, utter and publish to Hit-N-Run, 1200 S. Muskogee Ave., Tahlequah, Oklahoma, a falsely made, forged and counterfeited obligation of the United States, that is: One (1) twenty-dollar Federal Reserve Note, Series: 2009, Serial No. JB14517500F, Quadrant # 2, Face Plate 218, Back Plate 156, Federal Reserve Bank B2, which she then knew to be falsely made, forged and counterfeited, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 472, punishable by not more than 20 years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00 or both.
The Indictment further alleges that on or about November 25, 2017, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the Defendant, ALYSSIA MARIE JAE CAREY, with intent to defraud, did pass, utter, publish and sell to Dollar General, 18497 W. Woodard Road, Tahlequah, Oklahoma, falsely made, forged and counterfeited obligations of the United States, that is: Nine (9) five-dollar Federal Reserve Notes, Series 2006, Serial No. IB70330255H, Quadrant # 4, Face Plate 8, Back Plate 5, Federal Reserve Bank J9, which she then knew to be falsely made, forged and counterfeited, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 472, punishable by not more than 20 years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00 or both.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Tahlequah Police Department and the United States Secret Service.
Assistant United States Attorney John David Luton
NICKEY LYNN ANDERSON, age 35, of McCurtain County, Oklahoma
Felon In Possession Of Firearm And AmmunitionThe Indictment alleges that on or about August 5, 2017, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, NICKEY LYNN ANDERSON, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, did knowingly possess in and affecting commerce, the following firearm and ammunition, to-wit: One (1) Jimenez, Model JA-25, .25 automatic caliber pistol, serial number 059829; and Six (6) rounds G.F.L. (Giuilio Fiocchi, Lecco) .25 automatic caliber ammunition, which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1), 924(a)(2) and 924(e), punishable by not more than 10 years, or not less than 15 years imprisonment if the court decides ANDERSON to be an Armed Career Criminal, a fine up to $250,000.00 or both.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Idabel Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Assistant United States Attorney John David Luton.
JOSEPH JAY JOHNSON, age 40, of Indianapolis, Indiana
Felon In Possession Of Firearm And Ammunition
Witness TamperingThe Indictment alleges that on or about January 30, 2018, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, JOSEPH JAY JOHNSON, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, did knowingly possess in and affecting commerce, the following firearm and ammunition, to-wit: One (1) Kel-Tec CNC Inc., Model P11, 9mm Luger caliber pistol, s/n: AK783; and Seven (7) rounds of Winchester brand 9mm Luger caliber FMJ ammunition, which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1), 924(a)(2) and 924(e), punishable by not more than 10 years, or not less than 15 years imprisonment if the court decides JOHNSON to be an Armed Career Criminal, a fine up to $250,000.00 or both.
The Indictment further alleges that on or about February 1, 2018, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, JOSEPH JAY JOHNSON, did knowingly intimidate, threaten and corruptly persuade, and knowingly attempt to intimidate, threaten and corruptly persuade J.P. by threatening bodily harm regarding a statement to law enforcement with the intent to influence, delay and prevent the testimony of J.P. in an official proceeding, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1512(b)(1), punishable by not more than 20 years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00 or both.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Okmulgee County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Assistant United States Attorney John David Luton
Salem County, New Jersey, Man Indicted for Illegally Selling and Possessing Firearms in South JerseyRead the Press Release
CAMDEN, N.J. – A Salem County, New Jersey, man was indicted by a federal grand jury today for illegally selling firearms without a license and unlawfully possessing firearms after having been previously convicted of a felony, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.
Corey Moore, 32, of Salem, New Jersey, was charged by indictment with 12 counts of dealing in firearms without a federal firearms license and 12 counts of possession of firearms by a convicted felon.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
From July 2016 through December 2016, Moore sold 15 firearms to a confidential informant working with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives in 12 separate transactions. Moore conducted each sale in a similar manner, texting the informant photographs of various firearms that Moore had for sale and negotiating a price. He made each of the sales at a convenience store in Gloucester County, and sold all but one of the firearms with ammunition.
The counts of unlawfully dealing in firearms without a license each carry a maximum potential penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The counts of possession of firearms by a convicted felon each carry a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000.
U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited special agents of the ATF, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge John B. Devito, Newark Field Division; Logan Township Police Department, under the direction of Chief Robert T. Leash, and the Salem County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of John T. Lenahan, with the investigation leading to today’s indictment.The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Diana Vondra Carrig of the U.S. Attorney's Office in Camden.
The charges and allegations in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Defense counsel: Lisa Lewis Esq., Assistant Federal Public Defender, Camden
Rochester Man Sentenced in Firebombing CaseRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Taj R. Williams, 33, of Rochester, NY, who was convicted after a jury trial of arson and unlawful possession of Molotov cocktails, was sentenced to 104 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas E. Gregory, who handled the prosecution of the case, stated that on January 18, 2015, Williams used a tire iron to shatter the front glass door of the Chili Express Mini Mart located at 989 Chili Avenue in Rochester. The defendant then removed three Molotov cocktails from a bag, each of which he lit and threw inside the store. All of the devices exploded, causing extensive fire damage to the interior structure and its merchandise.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief Michael Ciminelli; the Rochester Fire Department, under the direction of Chief John Schreiber; and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Ashan Benedict, New York Field Division.
Pittsburgh Felon Sentenced to Prison for Second Drug Trafficking Offense and Illegally Possessing Loaded PistolRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – Darwin Good was sentenced to 78 months in federal prison for heroin trafficking and for possessing a firearm in furtherance of heroin trafficking in July 2016, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Good, age 31, of Pittsburgh, was sentenced by Chief United States District Court Judge Joy Flowers Conti. Judge Conti also sentenced Good to 18 months in prison for violating the terms of his federal supervised release from a prior federal conviction for heroin trafficking. In addition, Judge Conti imposed six years of supervised release for Good to serve when he is released from prison.
Good was on federal supervised release as of July 2016 following a prior conviction and 87-month prison sentence for conspiring to distribute at least 100 grams of heroin. Good previously violated his supervised release terms and received a 16-month prison sentence for recklessly fleeing at high speed from pursuing police cars and striking several other cars while doing so.
On July 26, 2016, detectives with the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted a traffic stop on Good and his car. As the detectives approached the car, Good reached toward the glove box of the car. A young child was sitting in front of the glove box. A subsequent search of the glove box, that was conducted after Good attempted to flee from the car on foot, resulted in the discovery of stamp bags of heroin that Good intended to distribute, as well as Good’s .40 caliber Glock pistol that was loaded with 16 rounds including one in the chamber. The heroin and the loaded pistol were within arm’s reach of the young child.
Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.
The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the convictions and sentences in this case. This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and communities to prevent, deter, and prosecute violent crimes.
Phoenix Man Sentenced to More Than 15 Years in Prison for Meth Trafficking and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
A man who mailed at least 45 pounds of methamphetamine from Phoenix, Arizona, to Dubuque, Iowa, was sentenced today to more than 15 years in federal prison.
Anthony Robert McCarron, age 38, originally from Dubuque, received the prison term after an October 30, 2017, guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine near a school and money laundering.
Evidence presented in court established that McCarron was living in Phoenix when he started shipping packages of “ice” methamphetamine to codefendant Derek Richard Rath in Dubuque. McCarron mailed at least 45 pounds of methamphetamine into Iowa from July 2016 to July 2017. Rath paid for the methamphetamine by shipping packages of cash to McCarron. McCarron and Rath used aliases when shipping the drugs and money.
McCarron was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by Chief United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. McCarron was sentenced to 190 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a 10-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. McCarron is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Drew O. Inman and investigated by the Dubuque Drug Task Force, the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 17-CR-1042-LTS.
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Pettus Man Gets More Than 30 Years for Online Solicitation of MinorsRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas - A 55-year-old resident of Pettus has been ordered to federal prison following his admission that he attempted to meet two underage boys for the purpose of sex, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick. Darrell Freeze pleaded guilty Oct. 30, 2017, to one count of online solicitation of a minor.
At a hearing late yesterday, Senior U.S. District Judge Janis Graham Jack sentenced Freeze to 380 months in prison. Additional information was also presented, including testimony from a federal agent that an individual in Arizona reported Freeze had sexually assaulted him when he was a minor. Freeze will also serve 25 years on supervised release following completion of his prison term, during which time he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. He will also be ordered to register as a sex offender. In handing down the sentence, Judge Jack noted freeze had not shown any remorse for his victims.
Freeze was communicating with a person he believed was the mother of two minor children - ages 14 and 11. He made arrangements to meet and engage in sexual contact with the minors, but was apprehended as he arrived at the designated meeting place. Freeze admitted to authorities he had sent messages indicating his intention to engage in sexual acts with the children. He was also in possession of condoms and candy he brought for the children.
He will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The FBI, Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, Corpus Christi Police Department—Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and the Nueces County District Attorney’s Office conducted the investigation as part of Operation Hidden Predator.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Hugo R. Martinez is prosecuting the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
Pennsylvania Nurse Anesthetist Indicted for Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury sitting in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, returned an indictment yesterday charging a Pittsburgh-area certified registered nurse anesthetist with five counts of tax evasion and four counts of failure to file federal income tax returns and pay federal income tax, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Scott W. Brady for the Western District of Pennsylvania.
According to the indictment, Loren Pulliam earned over $500,000 in income between 2002 and 2005, and over $1.2 million in additional income between 2008 and 2016, working as a nurse anesthetist at medical facilities in the Pittsburgh area. Pulliam allegedly evaded her tax obligations for the years 2002 through 2005 and 2011 through 2014 by establishing a nominee entity and directing her employers to pay compensation to that entity and then using a bank account opened in the nominee’s name to pay personal expenses.
The indictment further alleges that Pulliam failed to timely file federal income tax returns and pay the taxes due for the years 2011 through 2014, despite having an obligation to do so.
If convicted, Pulliam faces a statutory maximum sentence of five years in prison for each count of tax evasion and one year in prison for each failure to file count. Pulliam also faces a period of supervised release, restitution and monetary penalties. An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed. A defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and U.S. Attorney Brady thanked agents of Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, who conducted the investigation, and Tax Division Trial Attorney Brittney N. Campbell and Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam N. Hallowell, who are prosecuting the case.
Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found on the division’s website.
Owner of U.S. Energy Partners, Inc. of Bowling Green, Kentucky, Sentenced to Prison for Wire Fraud, Securities Fraud, and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
Fraudulent Investment scam resulted in loss exceeding $1,000,000 for eleven partners
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – The owner of U.S. Energy Partners, Inc. of Bowling Green, Kentucky, was sentenced in United States District Court Monday, by District Judge Greg N. Stivers, to 50 months in prison following a jury conviction for wire fraud, securities fraud, and money laundering as part of a scheme that defrauded investors of $1,175,000 announced United States Attorney Russell M. Coleman. There is no parole in the federal system.
“This office will aggressively seek restitution for the victims of Clay Shelton’s scheme,” stated United States Attorney Russell M. Coleman. “The 50 month sentence should serve to warn others who seek to profit off of innocent investors – you will be caught and you will go to federal prison.”
The jury deliberated less than two hours before convicting Clay Shelton, 48, of Bowling Green, on January 11, 2018, on all submitted counts, for devising a scheme that fraudulently obtained money from eleven investors. Shelton has remained in federal custody since his conviction.
According to testimony presented during the four day trial, between March 2011 and September 2012, Shelton created Monterey Pipeline Partners, LLC, purportedly to purchase the Monterey Pipeline in Tennessee. Shelton also operated Escrow 2011 LP, an investment partnership he created to fund an escrow account to purchase and operate the Monterey (gas) Pipeline. Further, Shelton operated Brakaw Energy Management LLC, which was created by Shelton to manage and operate the Monterey Pipeline once he completed the purchase.
From March 2011 through September 2012, Shelton solicited in excess of $1,000,000 from eleven investors for the purchase of the Monterey Pipeline. He fraudulently represented to the investors that their funds would be held in escrow as a down payment until he was able to complete financing to purchase the Monterey Pipeline (about 60 days). Once the loan closed, investors would receive either a 25 percent return on their investment or Monterey Pipeline would buy their interest in any Tennessee well program they previously purchased through U.S. Energy Partners. Investors were, therefore, assured they would receive their investment back in at least 60 days and that their investment would be held in escrow.
Shelton misappropriated $1,000,000 of investor funds, which were wired into Escrow 2011, by investing the majority in collateralized mortgage obligations. Additional funds from investors were used to pay operating and business expenses, including his own salary.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Bryan Calhoun and Nute Bonner, with paralegal assistance from Jane Bauer and Mary Kennedy. This case was investigated by the IRS Criminal Investigation Division and the Kentucky Department of Financial Institutions.
Owner of Newark, New Jersey, Automobile Export Business Sentenced to 18 Months in Prison for Filing False Tax Returns and Structuring CrimesRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A Newark man was sentenced today to 18 months in prison for filing false tax returns and structuring cash payments to avoid reporting requirements, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.
Okoro Ifeanyi, 56, previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Stanley R. Chesler to a two-count information charging him with filing false tax returns with respect to his 2010 through 2013 personal tax returns and with structuring financial transactions in 2007 and 2008 to avoid reporting requirements. Judge Chesler imposed the sentence today in Newark federal court.
According to the documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
Ifeanyi was the owner and operator of Amiri Mbubu Auto Sales. His primary business was buying used cars in and around New Jersey, often at auto auctions, and exporting the cars to Nigeria.
Ifeanyi admitted to substantially underreporting his income on his 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2013 U.S. individual income tax returns, specifically, failing to report additional taxable income that he earned through his business. According to the information, by failing to report his true income, Ifeanyi avoided paying approximately $461,085 in taxes.
Ifeanyi also admitted to structuring a series of transactions in 2007 and 2008. He made 17 different deposits into his Bank of America account, each less than $10,000, in order to avoid currency reporting requirements.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Chesler sentenced Ifeanyi to three years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Bradley W. Cohen in Newark, and special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jonathan D. Larsen, with the investigation leading to today’s sentencing.The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin S. Herring of the U.S. Attorney's Office Economic Crimes Unit in Newark.
Defense counsel: Patrick O’keke Esq., New York
Owner of Jacksonville Tax Return Preparation Firm Convicted of Tax FraudRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – A federal jury today found Adrian George guilty of conspiring to commit wire fraud and aiding in the preparation and presentation of fraudulent tax returns to the IRS, as well as multiple counts of aiding in the preparation and presentation of fraudulent tax returns. He faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. His sentencing hearing has not yet been set.
George was indicted on March 30, 2017.
According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, George owned and operated Professional Tax Service South, LLC, a tax return preparation firm in Jacksonville. He taught his employees various ways to include false information in tax returns to assure that his clients received large tax refunds. Acting at his direction, George’s employees offered to prepare fraudulent or “boosted” returns for clients in exchange for cash payments from the proceeds of the illegitimate tax refunds.
After being in business for less than two years, George and his employees had prepared and filed 748 tax returns for clients – all of which requested refunds. Typically only 62% percent of tax returns filed nationwide request refunds. The tax returns prepared and filed by George and his employees requested a total of approximately $3.2 million in refunds.
This case was investigated by IRS – Criminal Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael J. Coolican.
Oklahoma City Man Sentenced to Almost 20 Years in Federal Prison as Armed Career CriminalRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – JAMES CORNELIUS CHRISTIAN, 40, of Oklahoma City, was sentenced to 235 months in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced Robert J. Troester, Acting United States Attorney for the Western District of Oklahoma.
On October 11, 2017, a jury found Christian guilty of possessing a Ruger, model LCP, .380 caliber pistol after he had previously been convicted of a felony. He was acquitted on a second count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.
At a sentencing hearing today, United States District Judge David L. Russell took into consideration Christian’s multiple prior serious drug offenses, which qualified Christian as an armed career criminal under federal law. As an armed career criminal, he was subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years, or 180 months.
In addition to the 235-month sentence, Judge Russell ordered Christian to serve three years of supervised release after his release from prison.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jacquelyn M. Hutzell and David Petermann. It is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a Department of Justice program to reduce violent crime. In October 2017, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the reinvigoration of Project Safe Neighborhoods and directed U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop crime-reduction strategies that incorporate lessons federal law enforcement has learned since the program’s launch in 2001.
North Carolina Return Preparer Sentenced to over 10 Years in Jail for Filing Fraudulent ReturnsRead the Press Release
A Durham, North Carolina, tax return preparer was sentenced today to 121 months in prison for conspiring to defraud the United States and preparing fraudulent tax returns for herself and her clients, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Matthew G.T. Martin for the Middle District of North Carolina.
According to documents and information presented to the court, Keesha Frye, owned and operated KEF Professional Tax Services, a Durham tax preparation business. From 2012 through 2014, Frye and other KEF employees falsified their clients’ tax returns by including fake and inflated sources of income to qualify for and maximize the earned income tax credit and increase the refunds claimed on the returns. Frye also filed false personal income tax returns that claimed bogus childcare expenses and business losses. In total, Frye’s scheme caused a tax loss of more than $1.7 million.
In addition to the prison term imposed, Frye was ordered to serve three years of supervised release and to pay $1,742,823 in restitution to the IRS.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and U.S. Attorney Martin commended special agents of IRS Criminal Investigation, who investigated the case, and Tax Division Trial Attorney Nathan Brooks and Assistant U.S. Attorney Anand Ramaswamy, who prosecuted the case.
Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found on the division’s website.
North Carolina Return Preparer Sentenced to over 10 Years in Jail for Filing Fraudulent ReturnsRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – A Durham, North Carolina, tax return preparer was sentenced today to 121 months in prison for conspiring to defraud the United States and preparing fraudulent tax returns for herself and her clients, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Matthew G.T. Martin for the Middle District of North Carolina.
According to documents and information presented to the court, Keesha Frye, owned and operated KEF Professional Tax Services, a Durham tax preparation business. From 2012 through 2014, Frye and other KEF employees falsified their clients’ tax returns by including fake and inflated sources of income to qualify for and maximize the earned income tax credit and increase the refunds claimed on the returns. Frye also filed false personal income tax returns that claimed bogus childcare expenses and business losses. In total, Frye’s scheme caused a tax loss of more than $1.7 million.
In addition to the prison term imposed, Frye was ordered to serve three years of supervised release and to pay $1,742,823 in restitution to the IRS.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and U.S. Attorney Martin commended special agents of IRS Criminal Investigation, who investigated the case, and Tax Division Trial Attorney Nathan Brooks and Assistant U.S. Attorney Anand Ramaswamy, who prosecuted the case.
Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found on the division’s website.
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Nigerian Man Pleads Guilty in Manhattan Federal Court to Participating in Business Email Compromise ScamsRead the Press Release
Geoffrey S. Berman, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced today that ONYEKACHI EMMANUEL OPARA pled guilty today before U.S. District Judge Paul A. Crotty in Manhattan federal court to charges stemming from his participation in fraudulent business email compromise scams that targeted thousands of victims around the world, including the United States. Collectively, the scams attempted to defraud victims of millions of dollars.
U.S. Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman said: “Onyekachi Emmanuel Opara ran a global email scam business that victimized thousands of people out of millions of dollars. And even though he operated his so-called ‘business’ in a country halfway around the world, our Office’s global reach ensures that he will serve time in the United States for his crimes.”
According to allegations in an Indictment and other documents filed in federal court, as well as statements made in public court proceedings:
Between 2014 and 2016, OPARA and co-conspirator David Chukwuneke Adindu participated in Business Email Compromise scams (“BEC scams”) targeting thousands of victims around the world, including in the United States. As part of the BEC scams, fraudulent emails were sent to employees of various companies, purportedly from their supervisors or from third party vendors, directing that funds be transferred to specified bank accounts. The fraudulent emails were sent from either email accounts with a domain name that was very similar to the legitimate domain name of the purported sender, or the metadata in the emails had been modified so that the emails appeared as if they were from legitimate email addresses belonging to the purported sender. After victims complied with the fraudulent wiring instructions, the transferred funds were quickly withdrawn or moved into different bank accounts controlled by members of the scheme. In total, the BEC scams attempted to defraud millions of dollars from victims.
OPARA and others carried out BEC scams by exchanging information regarding: (1) bank accounts used for receiving funds from victims; (2) email accounts for communicating with victims; (3) scripts for requesting wire transfers from victims; and (4) lists of names and email addresses for contacting and impersonating potential victims.
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OPARA, 29, of Lagos, Nigeria, was arrested in South Africa on the basis of a provisional arrest warrant in December 2016 and was extradited on January 22, 2018. He pled guilty today to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of wire fraud, each of which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. OPARA is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Crotty on July 11, 2018, at 11 a.m.
Adindu, 30, of Lagos, Nigeria, pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of conspiracy to commit identity theft, and was sentenced to 41 months in prison on December 14, 2017.
The maximum potential sentences are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge.
Mr. Berman praised the investigative work of the FBI. Mr. Berman also thanked Oath’s E-Crime Investigations Team, the National Prosecuting Authority for South Africa, the South African Police Service, and noted that the investigation is continuing.
This case is being handled by the Office’s Complex Frauds and Cybercrime Unit. Assistant United States Attorneys Andrew K. Chan and Daniel M. Loss are in charge of the prosecution.
Niagara County Man Sentenced on Child Pornography and Cyberstalking ChargesRead 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 Travis Guerriera, 28, of Olcott, NY, who was convicted of possession of child pornography and cyberstalking, was sentenced to 57 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary C. Baumgarten, who handled the case, stated that in September 2015, a female victim reported to the Niagara County Sheriff’s Department that she received unsolicited communications from an individual on Facebook. The individual threatened to distribute and post images that the female victim sent to her then-boyfriend when she was about 14 years-old. During the investigation, it was determined that co-defendant Timothy Laubacker was the individual who had contacted the female victim on Facebook. The investigation further determined that defendant Guerriera, who had possession of the images that the victim had previously shared with her former boyfriend, had provided such images to Laubacker.
Timothy Laubacker was previously convicted and sentenced to 180 months in prison.
Today’s sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Child Exploitation Task Force, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Kevin P. Lyons and the Niagara County Sheriff’s Department, under the direction of Sheriff James Voutour.
New Haven Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Distributing HeroinRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ANDRE MILLER, 27, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to 60 months of imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release, for his role in a heroin trafficking ring.
According to court documents and statements made in court, the DEA’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad targeted a New Haven-based heroin trafficking organization led by Bienvenido and Antonio Gonzalez. The investigation, which included court-authorized wiretaps, controlled purchases of narcotics and physical and video surveillance, revealed that the Gonzalez brothers regularly purchased bulk quantities of heroin from suppliers located in the Bronx, New York, and sold the heroin through a network of redistributors, including MILLER, in New Haven and elsewhere.
The investigation resulted in federal charges against 24 individuals.
MILLER was arrested on March 16, 2017. On November 14, 2017, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and distribution of, 100 grams or more of heroin.
Bienvenido Gonzalez and Antonio Gonzalez pleaded guilty to related charges. On March 28, Bienvenido Gonzalez was sentenced to 144 months of imprisonment. Antonio Gonzalez awaits sentencing.
The DEA’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad includes officers from the Bristol, Hamden, Milford, Monroe, New Haven, Shelton, Wallingford and Wilton Police Departments. The New Haven, East Haven and West Haven Police Departments, together with the U.S. Coast Guard, provided valuable assistance to the investigation.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Natasha M. Freismuth and Patrick F. Caruso.
Mount Rainier Man Sentenced to 10 and A Half Years in Prison for Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact ELIZABETH MORSE
www.justice.gov/usao/md at (410) 209-4885
Greenbelt, Maryland – United States District Judge Theodore D. Chuang sentenced James Emory Jones, Jr. a/k/a “Kirk,” age 41, of Mount Rainier, Maryland to 126 months in prison, followed by five years of supervised release for possession with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of phencyclidine (a/k/a "PCP”) and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
The sentence was announced by the United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Robert K. Hur; Special Agent in Charge Gordon B. Johnson of the FBI, Baltimore Field Office; and Assistant Director in Charge Nancy McNamara of the FBI, Washington Field Office.
According to his plea agreement, pursuant to court-authorized wiretap interceptions from June through October 2016, Jones was heard discussing distribution of cocaine base (a/k/a “crack cocaine”), cocaine, and phencyclidine (a/k/a "PCP.”)
On April 5, 2017, investigators executed a search warrant at Jones's apartment in Mount Rainier, Maryland, where they recovered a loaded .38 caliber revolver, a loaded .40 caliber semiautomatic pistol, a shoulder holster, and a shotgun. In addition, agents recovered more than one kilogram of PCP, ten empty glass vials, a plastic dropper (typically used to distribute PCP), a quantity of cocaine and crack cocaine, a digital scale, and $10,700 in U.S. currency.
Prior to April 5, 2017, Jones had sustained convictions for offenses punishable by more than one year of imprisonment, which made him ineligible to possess a firearm and ammunition.
United States Attorney Robert K. Hur commended the FBI Cross Border Task Force-Safe Streets, Prince George’s County Police Department, Metropolitan Police Department-District of Columbia, Calvert County Sheriff’s Office and Drug Enforcement Administration HIDTA for their work in the investigation. Mr. Hur thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennifer Sykes and Nicolas A. Mitchell who prosecuted the case.
Monmouth County Investment Adviser Admits Investment Fraud Scheme, Aggravated Identity Theft, and Preparing Phony Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
TRENTON, N.J. – A Farmingdale, New Jersey, man today admitted perpetrating a long-running scheme to defraud investment clients out of millions of dollars, forging an attorney’s signature without authorization in connection with that scheme, and preparing false tax returns for his clients, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.
Scott Newsholme, 43, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Anne E. Thompson in Trenton federal court to a three-count information charging him with wire fraud, aggravated identity theft, and preparing fraudulent tax returns.
In September 2017, Newsholme was charged by criminal complaint with mail fraud, wire fraud, and securities fraud, and was released on bail. In October 2017, after law enforcement discovered that Newsholme continued his fraudulent scheme while out on bail, he was charged in an amended criminal complaint with mail fraud, wire fraud, securities fraud, and aggravated identity theft. Newsholme’s bail was revoked and he was detained pending trial.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
Since 2002, Newsholme owned and operated at least three different financial advisory and tax return preparation businesses. Between 2007 and 2017, Newsholme recommended to multiple clients that they invest their money with him, which he would use on their behalf to invest in various securities and other investments, including bond instruments issued by a private New Jersey country club, a bond investment in a video-game production company, and investments in the production of a movie.
Newsholme also represented to clients that he would invest their money in more traditional securities, including mutual funds, annuities, life insurance policies, college education accounts, money market funds, and an escrow account for the purchase of a house. Newsholme directed his investment clients to write checks to him or one of his companies so that he could execute the investments on their behalf.
However, rather than invest the money as he represented, Newsome cashed or deposited the checks and used the funds for personal expenses, including multiple vehicles, bedroom furniture, debits at casinos, bank transfers to Newsholme’s personal bank accounts, and ATM withdrawals.
Newsholme concealed his scheme by diverting incoming investment funds to pay other clients who had requested to withdraw funds from their investment portfolios. Newsholme also provided his clients phony account statements, security instruments, and other documentation that falsely represented to the clients the status of their investments.
In October 2017, in furtherance of the scheme, Newsholme provided a letter to one of his investment clients from whom he had misappropriated approximately $62,000. The letter, which Newsholme represented had been prepared by an attorney, stated that the client’s funds were held safely in an escrow account established by the attorney. However, as he admitted today, Newsholme fabricated the letter and forged the attorney’s signature without the attorney’s authorization in order to conceal his misappropriation of the funds.
During the scheme, Newsholme misappropriated more than $3.1 million from his investment clients, resulting in net investment losses of more than $1.8 million.
In addition to the wire fraud and aggravated identity theft charges, Newsholme also admitted preparing fraudulent tax returns on behalf of his clients. The fraudulent returns that Newsholme prepared claimed inflated deductions for unreimbursed employee business expenses, charitable donations, and medical expenses to which his clients were not entitled.
The wire fraud charge to which Newsholme pleaded guilty carries a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The aggravated identity theft charge to which Newsholme pleaded guilty carries a mandatory sentence of two years in prison, which must run consecutive to the sentences on the other two counts. The false tax return charge carries a maximum potential sentence of three years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Sentencing is scheduled for July 19, 2018.
U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited special agents of the FBI, Newark Division, Red Bank Resident Agency, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Bradley W. Cohen, and special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jonathan D. Larsen, with the investigation. He also thanked the SEC’s New York Regional Office, under the direction of Director Mark P. Berger, and the N.J. Bureau of Securities, under the direction of Bureau Chief Christopher Gerold, for their assistance.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney J. Brendan Day of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Criminal Division in Trenton.
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Defense Counsel: Lisa Van Hoeck, Esq., Assistant Federal Public Defender
Mission Man Indicted for Second Degree MurderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Second Degree Murder.
Narvin James Bordeaux, Jr., a/k/a Narvin Bordeaux, age 55, was indicted on March 13, 2018. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 10, 2018, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is any term of years up to life in prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 5 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on or about October 3, 2017, Bordeaux killed a man by stabbing him with a knife. The charge is merely an accusation and Bordeaux is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the FBI and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case. Bordeaux was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Mexican National and Two Texas Men Plead Guilty to Cocaine Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that MANUEL SERRATA, age 42, JOSE GUADALUPE CERVANTES-MARRON, age 48, and JOSE HINOJOSA, age 45, pleaded guilty today to violating the Federal Controlled Substances Act.
According to court documents, the three men were part of a conspiracy to distribute fifteen kilograms of cocaine hydrochloride. Several members of the conspiracy were arrested in November 2016 with fifteen kilograms of cocaine hydrochloride in Houma, Louisiana. Two others have previously pleaded guilty to their role in the conspiracy.
SERRATA and HINOJOSA each face a minimum term of ten years of imprisonment up to life, a maximum fine of $10,000,000, at least five years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment. CERVANTES-MARRON faces a term of zero to twenty years of imprisonment, a maximum fine of $1,000,000, at least three years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment. Sentencing is set before Judge Martin L. C. Feldman on July 18, 2018.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Louisiana State Police, and the Terrebonne Parish Sherriff’s Office in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorneys James S. C. Baehr and David Haller are in charge of the prosecution.
Member of Gangster Disciples Pleads Guilty to RICO ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – One of 16 alleged Gangster Disciples members and associates indicted on racketeering charges in May 2016 pleaded guilty to RICO conspiracy. Acting Assistant Attorney General John P. Cronan of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant of the Western Division of Tennessee, Special Agent in Charge Michael T. Gavin of the FBI’s Memphis Division, and Acting Special Agent in Charge Jack Webb of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Memphis Field Division, made the announcement.
Tommy Earl Champion, Jr., a/k/a "Duct Tape," 29, of Jackson, Tennessee, pleaded guilty on April 2 before U.S. District Judge John T. Fowlkes Jr. to one count of conspiracy to participate in a racketeering offense, and one count of using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
According to the indictment, the Gangster Disciples is a highly organized national gang active in more than 35 states. The scope of the Gangster Disciples’ crimes is wide-ranging and consistent throughout its national operation. The gang protects its power through threats, intimidation, and violence, including murder, attempted murder, assault and obstruction of justice. The Gangster Disciples promotes its enterprise through member-only activities and provides financial and other support to members charged with or incarcerated for gang-related offenses or who are fugitives from law enforcement.
Members and associates of the Gangster Disciples are subject to a strict code of discipline and are routinely fined, beaten, and even murdered for failing to follow the gang’s rules. "Enforcers" within the enterprise ensure that members who violate the strict rules of the enterprise are appropriately punished.
Champion is scheduled to be sentenced on July 6, 2018.
This prosecution was brought as part of the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s drug supply reduction strategy. OCDETF was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations. Today, OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and those primarily responsible for the nation’s drug supply.
The FBI; ATF; the Memphis Multi-Agency Gang Unit; the Memphis Police Department; the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office; the Jackson Police Department Gang Enforcement Team; the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation; the Madison County Sheriff’s Department; the 28th Judicial District West Tennessee Drug Task Force; the Tipton County Sheriff’s Office; the 26th Judicial District Attorney General’s Office; the 25th Judicial District Attorney General’s Office; the Atascosa County District Attorney’s Office; and the Shelby County District Attorney’s Office investigated this case.
Trial Attorney Francesca Liquori of the Criminal Division’s Organized Crime and Gang Section, Assistant U.S. Attorneys Beth Boswell of the Western District of Tennessee and Samuel Stringfellow of the Northern District of Mississippi are prosecuting the case.
Member of Darknet Drug Trafficking Organization “ItalianMafiaBrussels” Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
DENVER – United States Attorney Bob Troyer announced today that U.S. District Court Judge R. Brooke Jackson sentenced Leonardo Cristea, 22, to 36 months’ imprisonment. Cristea had previously pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to import controlled substances, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 963.
On May 3, 2016, in a joint U.S./European enforcement action, law enforcement dismantled the ItalianMafiaBrussels Drug Trafficking Organization, arresting ten defendants during early morning raids in Bruges, Belgium and surrounding areas. Leonardo Cristea and Filip Lucian Simion were arrested simultaneously in Bucharest, Romania, and extradited to the District of Colorado in July and October of 2016, respectively.
The nine-count indictment underlying the extraditions charged Filip Lucian Simion, Leonardo Cristea, and others with conspiracies to distribute and import into the United States controlled substances, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 846 and 963. The defendants were also charged with substantive counts of importation of controlled substances and aiding and abetting, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 952(a), and Title 18, United States Code, Section 2. In addition, Filip Lucian Simion was charged in several counts of distribution of controlled substances by means of the Internet, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 841(h)(1)(A) and conspiracy to launder money, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1956(h).
The leader of the organization, Filip Lucian Simion, pleaded guilty on Monday, April 9, 2018, to one count of conspiracy to import into the United States controlled substances, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 963, and one count of conspiracy to launder money, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1956(h). Both charges carry a maximum possible penalty of 20 years’ imprisonment. Simion will be sentenced in Denver on August 30, 2018.
According to court documents, from January 2013, through May 3, 2016, members of the conspiracy imported kilogram quantities of MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, a Schedule I controlled substance commonly known as Ecstasy) into the United States via the mail from various countries in Europe. The transnational organization operated online as the Darknet vendor “ItalianMafiaBrussels” or “IMB” and operated on black markets, such as the now defunct Silk Road and Silk Road 2.0, to sell the MDMA throughout the United States and other countries. The organization accepted payment for the drugs in bitcoin.
This case was investigated by the Denver Illicit Digital Economy Working Group, comprised of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, in partnership with the Romanian Central Anti-Narcotics Unit in Bucharest, Romania, and the Belgian Federal Judicial Police, East Flanders Drug Unit in Dendermonde, Belgium. Other United States and international agencies assisting the working group in this investigation included: the Boulder County Drug Task Force, the Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office, the Boulder County District Attorney’s Office, U.S. Customs and Border Protection offices nationwide, the Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs, Europol, and Eurojust.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michele R. Korver.
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Manhattan U.S. Attorney announces arrests of former NYPD officers and FDNY firefighter for fraudulently obtaining over $1 million in disability benefitsRead the Press Release
Geoffrey S. Berman, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and John F. Grasso, the Special Agent-in-Charge of the United States Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General, New York Field Division, announced that GERARD SCPARTA, a former New York City Police Department (“NYPD”) officer, SCOTT MARAIO, a former NYPD officer and former New York City Fire Department (“FDNY”) firefighter, and KENNETH RUBERO, a former NYPD detective, were arrested today for separate schemes to fraudulently obtain a total of more than $1 million in disability benefits from the Social Security Administration (“SSA”). SCPARTA lied to the SSA about his disability, and SCPARTA, MARAIO, and RUBERO each falsely represented to the SSA that they could not work due to disability and failed to report earnings from employment as required. At the same time SCPARTA, MARAIO, and RUBERO were collecting disability benefits, each of them were working in various positions and earning hundreds of thousands of dollars. SCPARTA, MARAIO, and RUBERO were arrested earlier today at their residences, and will be presented later today in Manhattan federal court before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert Lehrburger.
Manhattan U.S. Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman stated: “As alleged, these three defendants, all former law enforcement officers, told lie after lie to obtain a total of over one million dollars in disability benefits through fraud. In doing so, they allegedly took money from truly disabled individuals who are dependent on this important source of public support. Scparta and Maraio also allegedly concealed their employment and income from the Social Security Administration by hiding behind corporate entities purportedly owned by their wives. I would like to thank the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General, for their work in bringing these alleged schemes to their proper end.”
Special Agent-in-Charge John F. Grasso stated: “Social Security Disability benefits are an earned benefit, for those who are truly deserving. It is not a treasure chest to be pilfered by alleged greedy liars and scammers. Unlike other crimes, when someone allegedly cheats Social Security, they are not just taking from one of us, they are stealing from all of us. I would like to thank our partners in this investigation, the IRS Criminal Investigation Division, and the NYC Department of Investigation. If you suspect Social Security fraud, I strongly encourage you to call the Social Security Fraud Hotline at 800-269-0271 or visit oig.ssa.gov/report<http://oig.ssa.gov/report>.”
According to the allegations contained in Complaints unsealed today:
The SSA administers Social Security Disability Insurance (“SSD”), a federal benefits program that provides monthly cash benefits to individuals who have worked in the past and paid into Social Security, but who can no longer engage in any substantial gainful activity due to medical disabilities. SSD is a disability benefit available only to individuals who have a qualifying disability and are unable to work in any profession. In order to receive SSD, a beneficiary must certify that he or she is incapable of performing any gainful activity due to disability. In addition, a beneficiary must report to the SSA all sources of income from work activity and any changes in the beneficiary’s medical condition, which are taken into account in determining whether the beneficiary is entitled to payments and the amount of those payments.
GERARD SCPARTA
Between in or about 1986 and in or about 1997, SCPARTA worked as a police officer with the NYPD. In or about 1997, after reportedly sustaining an injury at the age of 32, SCPARTA was referred to an individual (“CC-1”) who helped him fraudulently obtain disability benefits. Specifically, CC-1 submitted SSD application materials signed by SCPARTA that falsely stated, among other things, that SCPARTA suffered from severe depression and anxiety, could not do anything around his house, and was unable to work in any capacity. In addition, CC-1 coached SCPARTA to make the same false statements to physicians who examined SCPARTA for the purpose of establishing his disability and submitting reports to the SSA. Based on these false statements and representations by SCPARTA in documents and reports submitted to the SSA, the SSA approved SCPARTA to receive disability benefits from in or about 1997 onward.
In addition to lying about his disability status and inability to work, SCPARTA falsely claimed on multiple forms submitted to the SSA that he did not work, and failed to report earnings from employment as required. In fact, from in or about April 2004 up to and including at least in or about December 2017, SCPARTA worked as a security guard and host at a strip club located in Manhattan, New York (the “Strip Club”). From in or about 1997 up to and including in or about 2017, SCPARTA received a total of over approximately $638,000 in disability benefits for himself, his wife, and his children, during which time SCPARTA earned approximately $1.6 million from his work at the Strip Club. In order to conceal his income and prevent the SSA from discovering his fraud, SCPARTA arranged for the income from his work in connection with the Strip Club to be paid to a third-party corporate entity purportedly owned by SCPARTA’s wife.
SCOTT MARAIO
From in or about 1985 through in or about 1986, MARAIO worked as an NYPD police officer. Beginning in or about July 1987, MARAIO began working as a firefighter with the FDNY. In or about January 2002, at the age of 37, MARAIO stopped working as a firefighter due to a claimed disability, and began receiving disability benefits. On multiple forms submitted to the SSA, MARAIO falsely claimed he could not work due to problems with his neck and back and failed to report earnings from employment as required. In fact, from in or about September 2008 through in or about August 2014, MARAIO worked as a security guard at the Strip Club. In addition, from in or about July 2012 through at least in or about February 2018, MARAIO worked for a staffing company (the “Staffing Company”) in various positions relating to fire safety on construction sites, including as a fire safety manager and fireguard.
From in or about October 2008 through in or about February 2018, MARAIO received a total of over approximately $364,000 in disability benefits for himself, his wife, and his children, during which time MARAIO earned a total of approximately $450,000 from his employment at the Strip Club and with the Staffing Company. In order to conceal his income and prevent the SSA from discovering his fraud, MARAIO arranged for the income from his work in connection with the Strip Club and the Staffing Company to be paid to a third-party corporate entity purportedly owned by MARAIO’s wife called Blondie Consultants (“Blondie Consultants”), as well as another company.
KENNETH RUBERO
In or about 1985, RUBERO began working as an NYPD police officer and was subsequently promoted to detective in or about 1991. In or about December 1997, at the age of 33, RUBERO stopped working with the NYPD due to a claimed disability, and began receiving disability benefits. On multiple forms submitted to the SSA, RUBERO falsely claimed he could not work due to problems with his knees, neck, and back, and failed to report earnings from employment as required. In fact, since at least in or about 2008, RUBERO has been an owner and manager of Baychester Payment Center, LLC (“Baychester”), a check cashing and money services business located in the Bronx, New York, and an owner and president of Secure Logistics, Inc., a purported security company located at RUBERO’s residence. From at least in or about 2008 up to and including at least in or about February 2018, RUBERO received a total of approximately $396,000 in disability benefits for himself and his child, during which time RUBERO had earned a total of over approximately $720,000 from his work with Baychester and Secure Logistics.
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SCPARTA, 53, of Campbell Hall, New York, MARAIO, 53, of Staten Island, New York, and RUBERO, 53, of White Plains, New York, are each charged with one count of theft of government property, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, one count of making false statements, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison, and one count of making false statements in connection with Social Security disability benefits, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison. The maximum potential sentences 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 United States Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General. Mr. Berman also thanked the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Division, the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, and the New York City Department of Investigation for their assistance with the investigation.
The prosecution of this case is being handled by the Office’s Complex Frauds and Cybercrime Unit. Assistant United States Attorney Sagar K. Ravi is in charge of the prosecution.
The charges contained in the Complaint are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
MS-13 Member Sentenced to 27 Years in Prison for RICO Conspiracy Involving MurderRead the Press Release
BOSTON – An MS-13 member was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for racketeering conspiracy, including his involvement in a shooting that led to the death of an innocent bystander, as well as his involvement in an attempted murder of a rival gang member and armed robbery.
Hector Ramires, a/k/a “Cuervo,” 24, a Honduran national, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge F. Dennis Saylor IV to 27 years in prison. Ramires will be subject to deportation upon completion of his sentence. In October 2017, Ramires pleaded guilty to conspiracy to conduct enterprise affairs through a pattern of racketeering activity, more commonly referred to as RICO conspiracy.
Ramires was a member of MS-13’s Enfermos Criminales Salvatrucha (ECS) clique, which operated in Chelsea and other parts of Massachusetts. On Oct. 18, 2014, Ramires and Bryan Galicia Barillas, a/k/a “Chucky,” another member of MS-13’s ECS clique, were walking the streets of Chelsea when they encountered a group of rival gang members. Ramires, who was armed, shot at one of the gang rivals and missed, killing a woman - an innocent bystander - who was looking out a nearby window of a room she shared with her three children. Both Ramires and Galicia Barillas were charged with RICO conspiracy and held responsible for the murder of the innocent bystander. Galicia Barillas was sentenced in March 2018 to 22 years in prison.
Ramires also accepted responsibility for his role in a March 28, 2014, attempted murder of a rival gang member in Chelsea, and an April 9, 2014, armed robbery in Chelsea.
After a multi-year investigation, Ramires was one of 61 persons named in a superseding indictment targeting the criminal activities of alleged leaders, members, and associates of MS-13 in Massachusetts. Ramires is the 19th defendant to be sentenced in this case.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling; Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division; Michael Shea, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston; Colonel Kerry A. Gilpin, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; Commissioner Thomas Turco of the Massachusetts Department of Corrections; Essex County Sheriff Kevin F. Coppinger; Suffolk County Sheriff Steven W. Thompkins; Suffolk County District Attorney Daniel F. Conley; Middlesex County District Attorney Marian T. Ryan; Essex County District Attorney Jonathan Blodgett; Boston Police Commissioner William Evans; Chelsea Police Chief Brian A. Kyes; Everett Police Chief Steven A. Mazzie; Lynn Police Chief Michael Mageary; Revere Police Chief James Guido; and Somerville Police Chief David Fallon made the announcement.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. All remaining defendants are presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Local Victim Advocates Honored During National Crime Victims’ Rights WeekRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – In observance of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, April 8-14, 2018, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi held a Crime Victims’ Rights Awards Ceremony today to recognize law enforcement professionals who have demonstrated exceptional service to crime victims within the Southern District of Mississippi.
"In law enforcement, we are sworn to serve and protect," Attorney General Sessions said. "We carry out this oath every day by protecting the rights of law abiding people from criminals and by achieving justice for crime victims. This week, we remember the millions of Americans who have been victimized by criminals and we thank those who have gone above and beyond the call of duty in their service to those victims. As we do so, we recommit ourselves to fulfilling our oath and to reducing crime in America."
"While fighting crime, we must remember why we do this – for people. We take our responsibility very seriously to protect people from crimes and to help victims after crimes have occurred. I commend these individuals for their outstanding service to victims and their families and for their steadfast and unwavering support and pursuit of justice," said U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst.
U.S. Attorney Hurst made the following awards presentations during today’s ceremony:
AUSA Victim Assistance Award: Glenda R. Haynes, Assistant U.S. Attorney. This award recognizes an AUSA who is an extraordinary advocate for the rights of victims and demonstrates exceptional commitment to the pursuit of justice. Ms. Haynes’ professional dealings with victims are honest and effective, reflecting well on the United States Attorney’s Office and furthering the goal of restorative justice.
Special Agent Victim Assistance Award: Todd Key, Special Agent, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations. This award recognizes a Special Agent who consistently displays superior investigative skills and sensitivity to the rights and needs of victims. Special Agent Key has demonstrated steadfast persistence and dependability during the all phases of the investigation and prosecution of cases involving victims of crime.
Support Staff Victim Assistance Award: Lisa Dunn, Legal Assistant, U.S. Attorney’s Office, Gulfport branch. This award recognizes a support staff member who goes above and beyond the call of duty to assist victims. Mrs. Dunn consistently promotes trust and confidence between victims and advocates and provides exceptional support to victims in direct communication and through court preparation.
State/Local Law Enforcement Victim Assistance Award: Richard Johnson, FBI Task Force Officer and Special Investigator with the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. This award recognizes a member of state or local law enforcement that exhibits professionalism and superior service and sensitivity to victims. Johnson has been unwavering in his efforts to restore a sense of security and trust to victims, while also vigorously pursuing justice. A notable example of his exceptional work involved a particularly heinous federal criminal case with multiple child victims.
Crime Victim Service Legacy Assistance Award: Marge Whitmarsh, FBI Victim Specialist. This award recognizes an extraordinary individual whose dedication to crime victim advocacy has been particularly noteworthy. Ms. Whitmarsh has a passion for helping crime victims. She works tirelessly to facilitate justice for victims by promoting and ensuring their legal rights.
Each year in April, the Department of Justice and United States Attorney’s Offices observe National Crime Victims’ Rights Week nationwide by taking time to honor victims of crime and those who advocate on their behalf. In addition, the Justice Department and U.S. Attorney’s Offices organize events to honor the victims and advocates, as well as bring awareness to services available to victims of crime. This year’s observance takes place April 8-14, with the theme Expand the Circle: Reach All Victims.
The Department of Justice’s Office for Victims of Crime, within the Office of Justice Programs, leads communities across the country in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week each year. President Ronald Reagan proclaimed the first National Crime Victims’ Rights Week in 1981 to bring greater sensitivity to the needs and rights of victims of crime.
The Office of Justice Programs provides innovative leadership to federal, state, local, and tribal justice systems, by disseminating state-of-the art knowledge and practices across America, and providing grants for the implementation of these crime fighting strategies. Because most of the responsibility for crime control and prevention falls to law enforcement officers in states, cities, and neighborhoods, the federal government can be effective in these areas only to the extent that it can enter into partnerships with these officers. More information about the Office of Justice Programs and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov. More information about Crime Victim’s Rights Week can be found at https://ovc.ncjrs.gov/ncvrw/. You may also contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Jackson at 601-965-4480.
Leland Man Indicted for Lying to Federal Firearms Licensee During Attempted Purchase of a FirearmRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr. announced that a grand jury sitting in the Eastern District of North Carolina returned an indictment charging HOWARD JOSEPH BURCHFIELD, 36 of Leland, NC with two counts of providing a false statement in connection with purchasing a firearm and one count of possession of ammunition as a prohibited person. Each count carries a maximum penalty of ten years in prison.
The indictment alleges that on July 22, 2016 and April 1, 2017, in Shallotte, North Carolina, BURCHFIELD tried to purchase firearms from two federal firearm licensees. BURCHFIELD was required to fill out an ATF 4473 Form, as part of the federal background check, in order to purchase the firearms. On that form, BURCHFIELD checked the box “no” when asked if he had ever been adjudicated as a mental defective or been committed to a mental institution. At the time, BURCHFIELD knew that he had been adjudicated as a mental defective in Colorado in 2013, and had been committed to a mental institution in Florida in 2010. BURCHFIELD was unsuccessful in purchasing the firearms on both occasions. BURCHFIELD again provided this same false written statement in connection with attempting to purchase a firearm on March 2, 2018 in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. BURCHFIELD was again unable to purchase the firearm.
The FBI in the Eastern District of North Carolina arrested BURCHFIELD for the above offenses on March 20, 2018, and he has remained in custody pending the outcome of this case.
This case is consistent with Attorney General Jeff Sessions directive to federal prosecutors, issued on March 12, 2018, to swiftly and aggressively prosecute individuals who lie in an attempt to thwart the federal background check system when purchasing firearms.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Wilmington Resident Agency Safe Streets Task Force, which is comprised of the New Hanover County Sheriff's Office, Wilmington Police Department, North Carolina Highway Patrol, Onslow County Sheriff's Office and Jacksonville Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Peggah B. Wilson is handling the prosecution of this case for the government.
Lebanon Man Sentenced to 24 Years for MethRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Lebanon, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for possessing methamphetamine that was hidden in computer hard drives that were mailed to a neighbor’s residence.
Adam E. Billings, 43, of Lebanon, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge M. Douglas Harpool to 24 years and four months in federal prison without parole.
Billings pleaded guilty on Oct. 24, 2017, to possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute. He admitted that he had received methamphetamine through the mail 10 times, with quantities ranging from a couple of ounces to a pound. Billings paid a neighbor $100 for allowing the packages to be delivered to his residence.
The investigation began on Jan. 20, 2016, when the Lebanon Post Office received a suspicious package on which a K-9 alerted to the presence of a controlled substance. The next day, two envelopes arrived at the post office, addressed to the same residence. A K-9 again indicated the presence of a controlled substance in both envelopes.
Investigators arranged for a controlled delivery of the envelopes. A resident at the address took possession of the parcels, then took the parcels next door to Billings’s residence. Law enforcement officers searched Billings’s residence and found the two envelopes, which had been emptied, as well as another envelope that contained 110.1 grams of pure methamphetamine. Billings stated that he took the hard drives out of the just-delivered envelopes, removed the methamphetamine from the hard drives, and placed the methamphetamine in the third envelope. In the master bedroom, an officer found a methamphetamine pipe on top of a dresser, a black bag containing a digital scale with visible powder residue on a nightstand and four computer hard drives which had been opened.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nhan D. Nguyen. It was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Missouri State Highway Patrol and the Lake Area Narcotics Enforcement Group.
Lawrence Man Pleads Guilty to Heroin and Fentanyl Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
CONCORD – United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today that Miguel Vasquez, 23, of Lawrence, Massachusetts, pleaded guilty to participating in a drug trafficking conspiracy.
According to court documents and statements made in court, from at least January of 2017 through July of 2017, Vasquez made deliveries of heroin and fentanyl to customers of a drug organization working out of a residence on Water Street in Lawrence. Customers, including customers from New Hampshire, would call to order drugs and Vasquez and others would drive to locations in Methuen and Salisbury, Massachusetts to deliver the drugs.
Vasquez pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, heroin and fentanyl. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for July 20, 2018.
“Those who choose to distribute heroin and fentanyl endanger their customers as well as the general public. Maintaining public safety requires that they be prosecuted aggressively,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “We work closely each day with our law enforcement partners to target those who seek to profit from the sale of these deadly substances.”
This matter was investigated by the DEA, the Massachusetts State Police, the United States Marshals Service, the New Hampshire State Police, and the Lawrence Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Donald A. Feith.
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