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11 May 2018
Columbia Man Pleads Guilty in Connection with 2008 Torture, Robbery, and Murder in AikenRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- Antonio Miller, age 39, of Columbia, South Carolina, plead guilty to three counts today in connection with the torture, robbery, and murder of Fred Tucker in Aiken: (1) Using a firearm to commit murder in furtherance of a crime of violence and drug trafficking; (2) Kidnapping resulting in death; and (3) Conspiring to distribute crack cocaine resulting in death. United States District Judge Mary Lewis accepted the plea and will sentence Miller in the coming months.
Hearings revealed that on September 15, 2008, Miller and three confederates targeted Fred Tucker to rob him of drugs and drug proceeds to further their ongoing efforts to distribute crack cocaine. Miller and the others drove in a rental car to Tucker’s house in Aiken. Carrying multiple firearms, these four men entered Tucker’s home, subdued and restrained Tucker, binding his hands and feet with duct tape, before repeatedly burning him with a scalding flathead screwdriver. After torturing Tucker in order to learn the location of hidden drugs and drug proceeds, Tucker was fatally shot in the chest. Through the work of local law enforcement, searches of the rental car and Miller’s own residence revealed crack cocaine taken from Tucker and firearms that ballistically matched those used to murder Tucker.
After his co-defendants pleaded guilty, a state-court jury convicted Miller of kidnapping, murder, and related charges before SC Circuit Judge Doyet A. (Jack) Early, III. On appeal in 2016, the South Carolina Supreme Court reversed the conviction. As part of a longstanding history of cooperation with Second Circuit Solicitor Strom Thurmond Jr., federal authorities indicted Miller in 2017. After U.S. District Judge Lewis denied Miller’s attempts to suppress evidence of the murder, Miller agreed to plead guilty and be sentenced to thirty years in federal prison.
The case was investigated by the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, FBI, Aiken County Sheriff’s Office, the Richland County Sheriff’s Department, the Aiken Department of Public Safety, the North Augusta Department of Public Safety and the United States Marshal’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys J.D. Rowell and Jay Richardson are prosecuting the case.
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Co-Conspirator Sentenced to 60 Months for Conspiracy to MurderRead the Press Release
Greenville, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that Antonio Devon Williamson, age 30, of Florence, South Carolina, was sentenced in federal court in Anderson, for a conspiracy to murder a trial witness of the State of South Carolina, in violation of the federal Violent Crime in Aid of Racketeering (VCAR) statute, Title 18, United States Code, Section 1959(a)(5). United States District Judge Timothy M. Cain, of Anderson, sentenced Williamson to 60 months imprisonment and three years of supervised release.
Evidence presented at the change of plea hearing established that Williamson conspired with fellow members of the Elm Street Piru Bloods gang, in Greenville County, South Carolina, to attempt to murder a witness in an upcoming state trial. That witness had been the victim of an armed robbery, committed by Brian Lewis, the leader of the Elm Street Piru gang for all of South Carolina. Lewis commissioned Williamson and others, as members and leaders in Elm Street Piru, to murder the anticipated victim/witness in order to avoid a lengthy sentence for that crime. Law enforcement, however, was able to intercept the conspiracy before any attempt on that individual’s life could be accomplished.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney D. Josev Brewer of the Greenville office handled the case.
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Chairman of Macau Real Estate Development Company Sentenced to Prison for Role in Scheme to Bribe United Nations Ambassadors to Build A Multi-Billion Dollar Conference CenterRead the Press Release
The chairman of a real estate development company was sentenced today to 48 months in prison and three years of supervised release for his role in a scheme to bribe United Nations ambassadors to obtain support to build a conference center in Macau that would host, among other events, the annual United Nations Global South-South Development Expo.
Acting Assistant Attorney General John P. Cronan of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman of the Southern District of New York, Assistant Director in Charge William F. Sweeney Jr. of the FBI’s New York Field Office and Special Agent in Charge James D. Robnett of the IRS Criminal Investigation’s (IRS-CI) New York Field Office made the announcement.
Ng Lap Seng, aka “David Ng,” 69, of Macau, China, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Vernon S. Broderick of the Southern District of New York. In addition to his prison sentence, Judge Broderick ordered Ng to pay a $1 million fine and $302, 977 in restitution to the United Nations. He also ordered a forfeiture money judgment of $1.5 million in forfeiture. Ng must report to the U.S. Marshals Service by July 10 to start his prison sentence. Ng was convicted on July 27, 2017, after a five-week trial of two counts of violating the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, one count of paying bribes and gratuities, one count of money laundering and two counts of conspiracy.
“Corruption at any level of government undermines the rule of law and cannot be tolerated,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Cronan. “But corruption is especially corrosive when it occurs at an international body like the United Nations. By paying bribes to two U.N. ambassadors to advance his interest in obtaining formal support for the Macau conference center project, Ng Lap Seng tried to manipulate the functions of the United Nations. The sentence handed down today demonstrates that those who engage in corruption will pay a heavy price and serves as a reminder that no one stands above the law.”
“Billionaire Ng Lap Seng corrupted the highest levels of the United Nations in pursuit of a multibillion-dollar real estate deal in Macau,” said U.S. Attorney Berman. “Ng exploited a center for international diplomacy as an instrument for his greedy intentions. This Office is committed to policing official corruption wherever it may be found.”
“Gaining the upper hand in a business venture by engaging in corrupt practices is bribery in its purest form. Today, Ng Lap Seng has learned the price he will have to pay for his actions,” said Assistant Director in Charge Sweeney. “I commend the investigators and prosecutors who continue to work together at home and abroad to vigorously enforce the law within the confines of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act.”
“No matter if money is funneled through New York corporations or transferred offshore, IRS-CI is always ready to follow the money,” said IRS-CI Special Agent-in-Charge Robnett. “Today’s sentencing shows that IRS-CI is committed to rooting out public corruption by investigating individuals who misuse their positions of public trust for personal financial gain.”
According to the evidence presented at trial, Ng, the chairman of the Sun Kian Ip Group, conspired with and paid bribes to Francis Lorenzo, a former UN Ambassador from the Dominican Republic, and John W. Ashe, the late former Permanent Representative of Antigua and Barbuda to the UN and the 68th President of the UN General Assembly (UNGA). With the assistance of Jeff C. Yin, an accountant and co-conspirator who worked with Ng and others and previously pleaded guilty to conspiring to defraud the United States, Ng orchestrated a scheme with the principal objective of obtaining the formal support of the UN for a multi-billion dollar facility that Ng hoped to build in Macau using the Sun Kian Ip Group (the “Macau Conference Center”). Ng wanted the Macau Conference Center to serve as a location for meetings, discussions, forums, and other events associated with the UN. In particular, he wanted it to serve as the permanent home of the annual “Global South-South Development Expo,” which is run by the UN Office for South-South Cooperation, and is hosted in a different country or city every year.
The trial evidence showed that Ng bribed Ambassador Ashe and Ambassador Lorenzo (together, the “Ambassadors”) in exchange for their agreement to use their official positions to advance Ng’s interest in obtaining formal UN support for the Macau Conference Center. As the evidence demonstrated at trial, Ng paid the Ambassadors in a variety of forms. For example, Ng appointed Ambassador Lorenzo as the President of South-South News, a New York-based organization — funded by Ng — which described itself as a media platform dedicated to advancing the implementation of the UN’s Millennium Development Goals, a set of philanthropic goals. Ng provided bribe payments to Ambassador Lorenzo through South-South News by transmitting payments from Macau to a company in the Dominican Republic affiliated with Ambassador Lorenzo’s brother (the “Dominican Company”). Through South-South News, Ng also made payments to Ambassador Ashe, including to Ambassador Ashe’s wife, who was paid in her capacity as a “consultant” to South-South News, and to an account that Ambassador Ashe had established, purportedly to raise money for his role as President of UNGA.
According to the trial evidence, one of the actions that the Ambassadors took in exchange for bribe payments, to advance Ng’s objectives, was to submit an official document to the then-UN Secretary-General in support of the Macau Conference Center (the “UN Document”). The UN Document claimed that there was a need to build the Macau Conference Center to support the UN’s global development goals. Ambassador Ashe, aided by Ambassador Lorenzo, initially submitted the UN Document to the UNGA in or about late February 2012. More than a year later, at Ng’s behest, the Ambassadors revised the UN Document to refer specifically to Ng’s company, the Macau Real Estate Development Company, as a partner in the Macau Conference Center project. The UN Document requested that the Secretary-General circulate the UN Document “as a document of the 66th session of the General Assembly,” under a specific item of the official UNGA agenda. The Secretary-General followed this request, thereby making the UN Document an official part of the UNGA record.
Five other defendants have been charged in this matter. Lorenzo and Heidi Hong Piao pleaded guilty to various charges, including bribery, and are awaiting sentencing. Jeff C. Yin pleaded guilty to conspiracy to defraud the United States and was sentenced to seven months in prison. Shiwei Yan pleaded guilty to bribery and was sentenced to 20 months in prison. Co-defendant Ashe passed away in 2016 and the charges against him were dismissed.
This case was investigated by the FBI and IRS-CI. The Criminal Division’s Office of International Affairs provided significant assistance. Assistant Chief David A. Last of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel C. Richenthal, Janis M. Echenberg, and Douglas S. Zolkind of the Southern District of New York are prosecuting the case.
The Criminal Division’s Fraud Section is responsible for investigating and prosecuting all FCPA matters. Additional information about the Justice Department’s FCPA enforcement efforts can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal/fraud/fcpa.
Canadian Who Operated Unlicensed Bitcoin Trading Business SentencedRead the Press Release
A Vancouver, British Columbia man was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Seattle to 20 days of incarceration and more than $1 million in forfeitures for Operating an Unlicensed Money Transmission Business, announced U.S. Attorney Annette L. Hayes. LOUIS ONG, 37, was arrested in July 2017, after a series of bitcoin for cash sales with an undercover agent with Homeland Security Investigations. ONG repeatedly told the agent, who was posing as a member of a drug trafficking group, that he did not want to know the source of the cash so that he would have ‘plausible deniability.’ Even after ONG registered as a money transmitter, he made little effort to comply with regulations about reporting suspicious transactions. At the sentencing hearing, U.S. District Judge Robert S. Lasnik imposed three years of supervised release and noted that ONG will likely be unable to return to the U.S. from Canada.
“The dark web is not a free pass for crime and mayhem,” said U.S. Attorney Annette L. Hayes. “As this defendant knew full well, the laws and rules apply to crypto currency dealings just as they do to other types of financial transactions. I commend Homeland Security Investigations for their ongoing work to police the Internet – including the Dark Web -- to root out those who undermine public safety for all of us.”
According to records filed in the case, in December 2016, federal law enforcement responded to an ad ONG had placed regarding buying and selling bitcoin – a cryptocurrency that can be used for purchases on the dark web and elsewhere. Later in December, and again in February and March 2017, ONG traveled to the Seattle area to exchange cash for bitcoin. At various times the undercover agents specifically told ONG that the funds they were exchanging for bitcoin came from drug trafficking. ONG repeatedly told them he did not want to hear that so that he had ‘plausible deniability.’
In May 2017, ONG was observed by other HSI agents in Blaine, Washington running cash through a bill counter while sitting in his car. The agents informed him he needed to register as a money remitter with FinCEN, a bureau of the U.S. Treasury whose mission is to safeguard the financial system from illicit use and money laundering. ONG registered with FinCEN, and informed Homeland Security that he had done so. However, even after registering he failed to follow FinCEN regulations requiring the reporting of suspicious transactions – including three more with undercover agents.
ONG was arrested in the midst of his sixth financial transaction with undercover law enforcement agents. After each of the exchanges for bitcoin, law enforcement used licensed cryptocurrency exchanges to return the government funds to cash. As part of his plea agreement, ONG is forfeiting both cash and bitcoin now valued at more than $1 million.
ONG was indicted on August 16, 2017 and pleaded guilty on February 15, 2018. He was released on bond to reside with his sister in Los Angeles, California after being held for 20 days at the Federal Detention Center at SeaTac.
While on home restrictions in Los Angeles, ONG volunteered with a variety of homeless organizations and today tearfully told the court he now realizes “how his actions (as an illegal money transmitter) facilitated more people being exposed to addictive substances.”
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Joe Silvio. Mr. Silvio is an attorney with Homeland Security Investigations who is specially designated to prosecute cases in federal court.
Brunswick Man Sentenced in Methamphetamine CaseRead the Press Release
Charles E. Peeler, United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia, announces that on May 10, 2018, Senior United States District Court Judge W. Louis Sands sentenced Jon Benton, age 38, of Brunswick, GA, to 180 months’ imprisonment for the offense of conspiracy with the intent to distribute methamphetamine. The evidence established during Benton’s guilty plea proved that Benton was a member of large-scale conspiracy responsible for distributing large quantities of methamphetamine as well as heroin, powder cocaine, crack cocaine and marijuana.
Other members of the conspiracy included Antron Miles and Anthony Moore who were both in the custody of the Georgia Department of Corrections in Coffee County, Georgia. Anthony Moore was in custody of the Georgia Department of Corrections in Coffee County. Another co-conspirator, Rejhan Mujanovic, was in the custody of the Georgia Department of Corrections in Wheeler County, Georgia during the course of the conspiracy. Miles, a native of Tifton, Georgia was obtaining controlled substances, primarily methamphetamine, but also marijuana, cocaine/cocaine base and heroin from persons associated with Mujanovic.
The drugs were warehoused and distributed in the Tifton, Georgia area as well as distributed in the Ware, Coffee and Brantley County areas. Evidence established that Defendant Jon Benton was a regular redistributor for the organization.
For example, on March 17, 2015, Benton texted Miles to let him know that he was ready to come to Tifton for meth. Miles texted other co-conspirators to gather about 8 ounces of crystal methamphetamine and meet Benton with it at the Dollar General in Tifton.
In his guilty plea, Benton admitted that he had distributed between 500 grams and 1.5 kilograms of actual methamphetamine.
“Methamphetamine continues to be one of the most serious drugs of abuse in the Middle District of Georgia,” said United States Attorney Peeler. “In a matter of only a few months it can destroy a person’s physical appearance, health, intellect and emotional stability. Those who deal in methamphetamine deal in human misery and will be held accountable for the choices they make.”
Robert J. Murphy, the Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Field Division stated, “Manufacturing methamphetamine poses an imminent danger to everyone. The precursor chemicals used for its manufacture are extremely volatile in nature. This defendant will no longer be able to feed the addicts who crave this addictive substance. This case is a great example of how the collective investigative efforts between DEA, its law enforcement counterparts and the U.S. Attorney’s Office yields positive results.”
“This conviction demonstrates the great work of law enforcement at all levels to investigate and prosecute the distribution of methamphetamine,” said Georgia Bureau of Investigation Director Vernon Keenan. “Methamphetamine is still a major threat to the citizens of Georgia and the GBI remains committed to working with our local and federal partners in bringing down these drug trafficking organizations.”
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Leah E. McEwen prosecuted the case for the United States.
Questions concerning this case should be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603.
Brentwood Man Pleads Guilty to Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Michael Holt, 49, of Brentwood, pleaded guilty in federal court to bank robbery, announced United States Attorney Scott W. Murray.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on January 13, 2018, Michael Holt walked into a TD Bank branch in Stratham, New Hampshire, and gave a teller a note claiming that he had a gun and demanding money. The teller gave Holt a quantity of United States currency. On January 19, 2018, Holt entered a People's United Bank branch in Exeter, New Hampshire, and again gave a teller a note stating that he had a gun and demanding money. He again received a quantity of United States currency. Comparing bank surveillance video of each offense and witness descriptions allowed Stratham and Exeter police to determine that the same person had committed both crimes. Images from the bank surveillance videos were broadcast on local news outlets and distributed via social media, leading to the identification of Holt, who was apprehended soon after.
Holt is scheduled to be sentenced on August 30, 2018.
“Bank robberies are violent crimes that often can jeopardize the safety of bank employees, customers, and other members of the community,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to working with the law enforcement community to combat violent crimes such as bank robberies. By combatting violent crime, our goal is ensure that the citizens of the Granite State feel safe in their local communities.”
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Stratham Police Department, and Exeter Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Dronzek.
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Berkeley County Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal Court for Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that Rico Reid, a/k/a “Deuce”, age 41, of Berkeley County, South Carolina, was sentenced in federal court yesterday in Charleston, South Carolina, for (1) Using and Carrying a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Trafficking Crime in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(i), (2) Possession with Intent to Distribute and Distribute of Heroin in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1) & 21 U.S.C. § 841(b)(1)(C), and (3) Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1). Senior United States District Judge Patrick Michael Duffy, of Charleston, sentenced Reid to twenty years’ imprisonment followed by three years of supervised release,
Evidence presented at the guilty plea hearing established that in 2016 and 2017, agents conducted an undercover operation during which they made several purchases of firearms and heroin from Reid. Reid was previously convicted of several crimes punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year and was therefore prohibited from carrying a firearm.
Berkeley County Sheriff Duane Lewis stated, “With the assistance of the ATF and U.S. Attorney’s Office, a major player around the Goose Creek area in the gun and narcotics trade has been removed from society. This 20-year federal sentence should send a strong message to the criminal element.”
The case was investigated by agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives with the assistance of the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorneys Emily Limehouse and Sean Kittrell of the Charleston office prosecuted the case.
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Bay Area Executive Indicted in Investment Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
SAN FRANCISCO – Bay Area executive and Croatian national Renato Libric was arrested yesterday in Redwood City, Calif., on charges related to an alleged $1.5 million investment fraud scheme, announced Acting United States Attorney Alex G. Tse and Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge John F. Bennett. In an indictment filed yesterday and unsealed this morning, a federal grand jury charged Libric with forging signatures on documents to carry out the fraud.
According to the indictment, between August of 2017 and February of 2018, Libric, 39, was a shareholder in, and chief executive officer of, Delaware corporation Bouxtie, Inc. The indictment alleges Libric fraudulently placed on a term sheet the signature of an executive of a large publicly traded corporation. The term sheet indicated the publicly traded corporation was interested in purchasing Bouxtie at a price of $150,000,000. Libric then allegedly caused the fraudulent term sheet to be transmitted to potential investors. In addition, the indictment alleges Libric fraudulently placed the signatures of several members of Bouxtie’s board of directors on a Bouxtie corporate resolution. The corporate resolution purported to authorize Libric to enter into agreements pursuant to which Bouxtie could receive a $1.5 million loan from a Las Vegas-based company. Under the terms of the loan, the Las Vegas investor eventually would receive just under 4% of the shares of Bouxtie. According to the indictment, the Las Vegas company was, in fact, defrauded and invested $1.5 million in Bouxtie. Further, the indictment alleges that after the $1.5 million was deposited into a Bouxtie bank account, Libric withdrew more than $130,000 of the invested funds from the account. In sum, the indictment charges Libric with one count of wire fraud, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1343 and 2.
Libric made his initial appearance this morning in before Joseph C. Spero, United States Magistrate Judge. Libric’s next appearance is scheduled for May 15, 2018, before Magistrate Judge Spero for identification of counsel and issues related to pretrial detention or release.
An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. In addition, the court also may order an additional term of supervised release, fines or other assessments, and restitution, if appropriate. However, any sentence following conviction would be imposed by the court only after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of a sentence, 18 U.S.C. § 3553.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew McCarthy is prosecuting the case with assistance from Bridget Kilkenny. This prosecution is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Baltimore City Police Sergeant Sentenced to 15 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact ELIZABETH MORSE
www.justice.gov/usao/md at (410) 209-4885
Baltimore, Maryland – United States District Judge Catherine C. Blake sentenced Sergeant Thomas Allers, age 49, of Linthicum Heights, Maryland today to fifteen years in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for racketeering conspiracy and racketeering offenses, including nine robberies.
The sentence was announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Robert K. Hur and Special Agent in Charge Gordon B. Johnson of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Baltimore Field Office.
According to his plea agreement, Allers stole money from victims, swore out false affidavits, and submitted false official incident reports. Sergeant Allers joined the Baltimore Police Department (BPD) on July 22, 1996. He became the officer-in-charge of the Gun Trace Task Force (GTTF), a specialized unit created to investigate firearms crimes, on or about July 25, 2013.
Allers admits that he participated in nine robberies and was armed with his BPD service firearm during the commission of the robberies. In some cases, there was no evidence of criminal conduct by the victims; Allers stole money that had been earned lawfully. The amounts stolen ranged from $700 to $66,000.
For example, on or about April 3, 2015, Allers and co-conspirators executed a search warrant at a residence in Baltimore City and discovered approximately $6,000 in the home. This money was a combination of money that the homeowners had made buying and selling used cars and a tax refund the wife had received. Allers and his coconspirators took approximately $5,700 of the $6,000, then filed a false incident report stating that only $233 had been seized.
In another incident, on or about March 2, 2016, Allers and his co-conspirators executed a search warrant at a residence in Baltimore City. The resident of the home had $200 in her purse, which her daughter had received the previous day during her birthday party; $900 to pay her rent for that month; $300 to pay down the amount of money she owed Baltimore Gas & Electric for utilities; and $8,000 in proceeds of drug sales. Allers approved the false report that stated that only $1,624 had been seized from home, when in fact, he had stolen more than $7,000.
In another incident, on or about April 28, 2016, Allers and co-conspirators arrested an individual who resided at a residence, then robbed the occupants of the residence of over $10,000. Allers approved a false incident report that failed to report that any money had been taken from the residence, when in fact he and his co-conspirators stole more than $10,000. Following this robbery, one of the residents was shot and killed because he could not repay a drug-related debt.
According to the plea agreement, Allers prepared and submitted false official incident and arrest reports, reports of property seized from arrestees, and charging documents. The false reports concealed the fact that the officers had stolen money from individuals.
In total, Allers admitted to stealing over $117,000.00.
United States Attorney Robert K. Hur praised the FBI for their work in the investigation. Mr. Hur thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Leo J. Wise and Derek E. Hines, who are prosecuting this Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force case.
Baltimore BGF Gang Member Sentenced to Life in Prison for Federal Racketeering and Drug Conspiracy ChargesRead the Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact ELIZABETH MORSE
www.justice.gov/usao/md at (410) 209-4885
Baltimore, Maryland – On May 10, 2018, United States District Judge James K. Bredar sentenced Kenneth Jones, a/k/a “K-Slay”, and “Slay,” age 30, of Baltimore, Maryland to life in prison for conspiring to participate in a violent racketeering enterprise known as the Black Guerilla Family (BGF) gang’s Greenmount Avenue Regime. Jones was responsible for three separate murders and at least one attempted murder as the primary enforcer for the gang. In January, Jones was convicted by a federal jury of racketeering conspiracy, as well as conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances.
The sentence was announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Robert K. Hur; Special Agent in Charge Daniel L. Board, Jr. of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives - Baltimore Field Division; Special Agent in Charge Gordon B. Johnson of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Baltimore Field Office; Maryland Attorney General Brian E. Frosh; and Baltimore City State’s Attorney Marilyn Mosby.
According to the evidence presented at the two-month trial, Jones was a member of an organization known today as the BGF Greenmount Avenue Regime, a violent set, or “bubble,” of BGF. During the early years in which it operated, the gang called itself the Young Guerilla Family, or YGF, and consisted mostly of younger people who lived in the 2200, 2300, and 2400 blocks of Barclay Street and Guilford Avenue. YGF members sold drugs throughout the Greenmount Avenue corridor and committed murders, shootings, and armed robberies.
In about mid-2007, YGF members took the BGF oath and became the BGF Greenmount Avenue Regime. According to evidence presented at trial, the BGF Greenmount Avenue Regime continued to sell drugs and commit violent acts, including murders, shootings, and robberies, and by mid-2013 controlled the roughly rectangular area bordered by Greenmount Avenue to the east; Guilford Avenue to the west; 25th Street to the north; and Federal Street to the south, as well as certain offshoots east of Greenmount Avenue, including Mund Park and Cokesbury Avenue.
Between 2005 and 2017, the BGF Greenmount Avenue Regime and its members were responsible for seven murders; three non-fatal shootings; more than 10 armed robberies; and over 12 years of street-level drug dealing. The government proved at trial that Jones was responsible for three of these murders and a fourth attempted murder.
In January 2007, co-conspirator Gerald Johnson, a/k/a “Geezy,” authorized the murder of YGF associate Gregory Rochester, a/k/a “Craig Mack,” both because Rochester was rumored to be cooperating with the law enforcement and because Johnson believed that Rochester had stolen drugs from him. Pursuant to Johnson’s order, Jones and two other YGF members shot and killed Rochester inside a residence that was used by YGF to package and store narcotics.
The Court also found at sentencing that Jones was responsible for the May 7, 2013 murder of Trevon White, a/k/a “Country.” Like Jones, White was a member of the BGF Greenmount Regime. The government proved at trial that Jones shot White to death, in the presence of two other BGF members, with a 9mm handgun in the 300 block of E. 22nd Street in Batimore.
Jones was also responsible for the murder of Thabiti Wheeler, an unauthorized taxi or “hack” driver, in March of 2013. The government proved at trial that Jones shot Wheeler 18 times, with the same gun he used to kill Trevon White, while the two men were in Wheeler’s car.
Lastly, Jones was responsible for the October 5, 2013 non-fatal shooting of Lamontae Smith. Smith testified at trial that Jones shot him in the arm in the 300 block of E. 24th St. Smith explained that prior to the shooting, three of his fellow BGF members, including Shawn Gregg, Tavon Thompson, a/k/a “Man Man,” and Nate Brown, had attempted to shoot Jones as retaliation for Jones’ murder of Trevon White. Following that attempted shooting, Smith learned from a co-conspirator that Jones believed—incorrectly, as it turned out—that Smith had been involved in the attempt on his life.
The following eight co-defendants, also members of the BGF gang, have all previously pleaded guilty or were found to be guilty of conspiring to violate federal racketeering and drug trafficking laws;
Joseph Laurence Bonds, a/k/a/ Joe, a/k/a Yo Gotti, age 36;
Wesley Jamal Brown, a/k/a Shike White, a/k/a Wes, age 25;
Kenneth Lee Faison, a/k/a Roscoe, age 28;
Norman Tyrone Handy, a/k/a Lil Norm, a/k/a Norm, age 23;
Montel Harvey, a/k/a Telly, a/k/a Telephone, a/k/a Big Head, age 26;
David Albert Hunter, a/k/a Lil Dave, a/k/a Dave, age 31;
Gerald Thomas Johnson, a/k/a “Geezy,” age 35; and
Marquise McCants, a/k/a Digga, age 25.
United States Attorney Robert K. Hur commended the ATF, the FBI, the Baltimore Police Department, the Maryland Attorney General’s Office, and the Baltimore City State’s Attorney’s Office for their work in the investigation. Mr. Hur thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Peter J. Martinez and Christina Hoffman, who prosecuted the case.
Bakersfield Man Charged with Interstate Shipping of Heroin, Methamphetamine and CocaineRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a six-count indictment today against Juan Pina, 22, of Bakersfield, charging him with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin, methamphetamine, and cocaine and other related charges, U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott announced.
According to court documents, on November 16, 2017, Pina allegedly paid to ship nearly 300 grams of cocaine through a Bakersfield parcel service to Sioux Falls, South Dakota. On November 30, 2017, Pina shipped a package containing three pounds of methamphetamine to Indianapolis, Indiana. On December 1, 2017, it is alleged that Pina shipped a package containing approximately 1 kilogram of cocaine to Virginia Beach, Virginia. Records obtained from the parcel service indicated that Pina, using the same alias each time, made similar shipments on at least 45 additional occasions.
On May 3, 2018, search warrants were executed for Pina’s residence and vehicle, and additional drugs were recovered at each location.
This case is the product of an investigation by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Bakersfield Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian K. Delaney is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Pina faces a maximum statutory penalty of 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 defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Attorney General Sessions and U.S. Attorney Troester Recognize Law Enforcement Service and Sacrifice During National Police WeekRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY—Attorney General Sessions and Acting U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester recognized the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal police officers on the occasion of National Police Week. They also commented on the FBI's 2017 Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted report.
In October 1962, Congress passed and President Kennedy signed a joint resolution declaring May 15th as National Peace Officers Memorial Day to honor law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. The resolution also created National Police Week as an annual tribute to law enforcement service and sacrifice.
During Police Week, which is observed from Sunday, May 13, to Saturday, May 19, 2018, our nation celebrates the contributions of police officers from around the country and recognizes their hard work, dedication, and commitment to keeping our communities safe.
Two events in Oklahoma City will honor police service. On Friday, May 18, at 10:00 am, the names of six law enforcement officers will be added to the Oklahoma Law Enforcement Officer’s Memorial during the fiftieth annual service at the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety Headquarters, 3600 N. Martin Luther King Avenue. The six officers are Perkins Police Officer Henry L. Cotton, Department of Corrections Corporal Stephen R. Jenkins, Craig County Deputy Sheriff Sean F. Cookson, Tecumseh Police Officer Justin M. Terney, Logan County Deputy Sheriff David J. Wade, and Oklahoma Highway Patrol Lieutenant D. Heath Meyer. Officer Cotton passed away in 1986 after an altercation during an arrest. The other five officers lost their lives in the line of duty during 2017.
Later that day, at 2:00 pm, the Oklahoma City Police Department will conduct its annual service to honor fallen officers. That event will take place at Department headquarters, 700 Colcord Drive.
"One officer death is too many," Attorney General Sessions said. "While we are inexpressibly grateful to have had a decrease in the number of officers killed in the line-of-duty last year, the number is still far too high. At the Department of Justice, we honor the memories of the fallen and we pray for their families. We are also following President Trump's Executive Orders to back the women and men in blue, to enhance law enforcement safety, and to reduce violent crime in America. Those priorities will help keep every American safe, including those who risk their lives for us. As always, we have their backs and they have our thanks."
"All of us rely on law enforcement officers to keep us safe in the face of threats, many violent in nature," said Acting U.S. Attorney Troester. "The sacrifices of fallen officers and their families deserve the utmost appreciation of all citizens, not just the law enforcement community. We are committed to support our dedicated federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement partners to ensure their safety while reducing violent crime in Oklahoma."
According to statistics collected by the FBI, 93 law enforcement officers were killed in line-of-duty incidents in 2017—a 21 percent decrease from 2016, when 118 law enforcement officers were killed in line-of-duty incidents.
In 2017 there were 46 law enforcement officers killed in line-of-duty incidents as a result of felonious acts—a 30 percent decrease from 2016, when 66 law enforcement officer were killed in line-of-duty incidents as a result of felonious acts.
For the full comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing the fatal attacks and selected assaults resulting in injury, please see the 2017 edition of the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted report, released this week, at www.fbi.gov.
The names of all 93 fallen officers nationwide in 2017 will be formally dedicated on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC, during the 30th Annual Candlelight Vigil on the evening of May 13, 2018. So that people across the country can experience this unique and powerful ceremony, the vigil will be livestreamed beginning at 8:00 pm EDT on May 13. To register for this free online event, visit www.lawmemorial.org/webcast. In addition to the six officers named above, two other Oklahoma law enforcement officers will be among more than 300 names added to the National Memorial: Logan County Deputy Sheriff Edward J. Wright, who died in 2016, and Sac & Fox Nation Police Officer Nathan B. Graves, who died in 2017.
The Candlelight Vigil is one of many commemorative events taking place in the nation’s capital during National Police Week 2018. For more information about other National Police Week events, please visit www.policeweek.org.
Attorney General Sessions and U.S. Attorney Recognize Law Enforcement Service and Sacrifice During National Police WeekRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Attorney General Sessions and McGregor W. Scott, the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of California, recognized the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal police officers on the occasion of National Police Week, and commented on the FBI’s 2017 Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted report.
According to statistics collected by the FBI, 93 law enforcement officers were killed in line-of-duty incidents in 2017 — a 21 percent decrease from 2016 when 118 law enforcement officers were killed in line-of-duty incidents.
Additionally, in 2017 there were 46 law enforcement officers killed in line-of-duty incidents as a result of felonious acts — this is a 30 percent decrease from 2016, when 66 law enforcement officers were killed in line-of-duty incidents as a result of felonious acts.
“One officer death is too many,” Attorney General Sessions said. “While we are inexpressibly grateful to have had a decrease in the number of officers killed in the line-of-duty last year, the number is still far too high. At the Department of Justice, we honor the memories of the fallen, and we pray for their families. We are also following President Trump’s Executive Orders to back the women and men in blue, to enhance law enforcement safety, and to reduce violent crime in America. Those priorities will help keep every American safe, including those who risk their lives for us. As always, we have their backs and they have our thanks.”
“This week is a somber reminder of the dangers our law enforcement officers face on our behalf,” U.S. Attorney Scott said. “These officers strive to keep our communities safe and they put their lives on the line in the service of others. We are humbled by the sacrifices they make and we take this opportunity to express our deepest gratitude for their service.”
In October 1962, Congress passed and President Kennedy signed a joint resolution declaring May 15th as National Peace Officers Memorial Day to honor law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. The resolution also created National Police Week as an annual tribute to law enforcement service and sacrifice.
During Police Week, which is observed from Sunday, May 13 to Saturday, May 19, 2018, our nation celebrates the contributions of police officers from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment in keeping our communities safe.
In the last several days, U.S. Attorney Scott and others from the U.S. Attorney’s Office helped to commemorate the selfless service of law enforcement officers by attending the California Highway Patrol Peace Officer Memorial at the CHP Academy, the California Peace Officer Memorial Ceremony at the California Peace Officers Memorial, the Sacramento Peace Officer Memorial, and the Sacramento County District Attorney’s Annual Public Safety and Community Appreciation Luncheon.
Today, we take time to remember the courage by which peace officers live their lives, and we remember the tragic loss of those from our community who died in the line of duty:
CHP Officer Lucas Forrest Chellew, who died in February 2017;
Stanislaus County Deputy Sheriff Jason Allen Garner who died in May 2017; and,
Sacramento County Deputy Sheriff Robert Allan French who died in August 2017.
The names of all 93 fallen officers nationwide will be formally dedicated on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC, during the 30th Annual Candlelight Vigil on the evening of May 13, 2018. So that people across the country can experience this unique and powerful ceremony, the vigil will be livestreamed beginning at 5:00 p.m. PDT on May 13th. To register for this free online event, visit www.LawMemorial.org/webcast.
The Candlelight Vigil is one of many commemorative events taking place in the nation’s capital during National Police Week 2018.
For more information about other National Police Week events, please visit www.policeweek.org.
To access the FBI’s 2017 Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted report, please visit www.fbi.gov.
Attorney General Sessions and U.S. Attorney Recognize Law Enforcement Service and Sacrifice During National Police WeekRead the Press Release
Attorney General Sessions and U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Louisiana, Duane A. Evans, recognized the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal police officers on the occasion of National Police Week, and commented on the FBI's 2017 Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted report.
“One officer death is too many,” Attorney General Sessions said. “While we are inexpressibly grateful to have had a decrease in the number of officers killed in the line-of-duty last year, the number is still far too high. At the Department of Justice, we honor the memories of the fallen and we pray for their families. We are also following President Trump's Executive Orders to back the women and men in blue, to enhance law enforcement safety, and to reduce violent crime in America. Those priorities will help keep every American safe, including those who risk their lives for us. As always, we have their backs and they have our thanks.”
In 2017, the Eastern District of Louisiana, which is comprised of 13 parishes, lost two law enforcement officers while on duty. On January 20, 2017, Westwego Police Department Officer Michael Louviere was shot and killed while at the scene of what appeared to be a traffic accident and on October 13, 2017, New Orleans Police Department Officer Marcus McNeil was shot and killed while conducting an investigation. U.S. Attorney Evans said, “Officers Louviere and McNeil made the ultimate sacrifice in order to protect the public. We owe it to their memories and their families to never forget that sacrifice. Our brave men and women in law enforcement, on the federal, state, and local levels, made the selfless choice to protect and serve. They made their choice with full knowledge that they could one day find themselves in harm’s way while doing their jobs. This week we should all take some time to reflect and honor the fallen and also those in law enforcement who continue to serve the public.”
According to statistics collected by the FBI, 93 law enforcement officers were killed in line-of-duty incidents in 2017 – a 21 percent decrease from 2016 when 118 law enforcement officers were killed in line-of-duty incidents.
Additionally, in 2017 there were 46 law enforcement officers killed in line-of-duty incidents as a result of felonious acts – this is a 30 percent decrease from 2016, when 66 law enforcement officer were killed in line-of-duty incidents as a result of felonious acts.
For the full comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing the fatal attacks and selected assaults resulting in injury, please see the 2017 edition of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted report, released today.
In October 1962, Congress passed and President Kennedy signed a joint resolution declaring May 15th as National Peace Officers Memorial Day to honor law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. The resolution also created National Police Week as an annual tribute to law enforcement service and sacrifice.
During Police Week, which is observed from Sunday, May 13 to Saturday, May 19, 2018, our nation celebrates the contributions of police officers from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment in keeping our communities safe.
The names of fallen officers nationwide will be formally dedicated on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC, during the 30th Annual Candlelight Vigil on the evening of May 13, 2018. So that people across the country can experience this unique and powerful ceremony, the vigil will be livestreamed beginning at 8:00 p.m. EDT on May 13th. To register for this free online event, visit www.LawMemorial.org/webcast. The Candlelight Vigil is one of many commemorative events taking place in the nation’s capital during National Police Week 2018.
For more information about other National Police Week events, please visit www.policeweek.org.
To access the FBI's 2017 Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted report, please visit www.fbi.gov.
Attorney General Sessions and U.S. Attorney Hiland Recognize Law Enforcement Service and Sacrifice During National Police WeekRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—Attorney General Jeff Sessions and Cody Hiland, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, recognized the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal police officers on the occasion of National Police Week, and commented on the FBI’s 2017 Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted report.
In support of National Police Week, Hiland and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Arkansas publically salutes and honors the service of law enforcement officers in our community and in communities across the nation. To show their support for law enforcement officers, Hiland asks citizens to adorn the front of their homes and local businesses in blue ribbons and/or place blue-tinted light bulbs on their outside lighting for the week.
In 2017, three law enforcement officers in the Eastern District of Arkansas were killed in the line of duty. Yell County Sheriff Lt. Kevin Clyde Mainhart died on May 11, Newport Police Department Lt. Patrick Neal Weatherford died on June 12, and Drew County Deputy Sherriff Timothy Braden died on August 24.
“One officer death is too many,” Attorney General Sessions said. “While we are inexpressibly grateful to have had a decrease in the number of officers killed in the line-of-duty last year, the number is still far too high. At the Department of Justice, we honor the memories of the fallen and we pray for their families. We are also following President Trump's Executive Orders to back the women and men in blue, to enhance law enforcement safety, and to reduce violent crime in America. Those priorities will help keep every American safe, including those who risk their lives for us. As always, we have their backs and they have our thanks.”
“Lt. Mainhart, Lt. Weatherford, and Dep. Sheriff Braden died helping keep the people of Arkansas safe; in other words, doing their job,” Hiland said. “Their sacrifice will never be forgotten. During National Police Week, we honor these brave men, as well as the service of all law enforcement officers across the Eastern District of Arkansas and the nation. It is important that all citizens understand the sacrifices, hazards, and immense responsibilities of each of the men and women in law enforcement who put their lives on the line every day. Our communities, our state, and our country depend on them.”
While recognizing those law enforcement officers who have ultimately paid the price while protecting us, Hiland also remembers Forrest City Police Department Officer Oliver Johnson, Jr., who was tragically killed on April 28 by a stray bullet while off duty and inside his home with his family.
There are more than 900,000 law enforcement officers serving in communities across the United States. Since the first recorded death in 1791, more than 20,000 law enforcement officers in the United States have been killed in the line of duty.
According to statistics collected by the FBI and released Thursday, 93 law enforcement officers were killed in line-of-duty incidents in 2017—a 21 percent decrease from 2016 when 118 law enforcement officers were killed in line-of-duty incidents.
Additionally, in 2017 there were 46 law enforcement officers killed in line-of-duty incidents as a result of felonious acts—this is a 30 percent decrease from 2016, when 66 law enforcement officer were killed in line-of-duty incidents as a result of felonious acts.
For the full comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing the fatal attacks and selected assaults resulting in injury, please see the 2017 edition of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted report, available at www.fbi.gov.
In October 1962, Congress passed and President Kennedy signed a joint resolution declaring May 15th as National Peace Officers Memorial Day to honor law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. The resolution also created National Police Week as an annual tribute to law enforcement service and sacrifice.
During Police Week, which is observed from Sunday, May 13 to Saturday, May 19, 2018, our nation celebrates the contributions of police officers from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment in keeping our communities safe.
The names of all 93 fallen officers nationwide—including Lt. Mainhart, Lt. Weatherford, and Dep. Sheriff Braden—will be formally dedicated on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC, during the 30th Annual Candlelight Vigil on the evening of May 13, 2018. So that people across the country can experience this unique and powerful ceremony, the vigil will be livestreamed beginning at 8:00 p.m. EDT on May 13th. To register for this free online event, visit www.LawMemorial.org/webcast.
Additionally, Tuesday, May 15, 2018, is designated as Peace Officers Memorial Day and in honor of all fallen officers and their families, U.S. flags should be flown at half-staff on this day.
The Candlelight Vigil is one of many commemorative events taking place in the nation’s capital during National Police Week 2018. For more information about other National Police Week events, please visit www.policeweek.org.
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This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available on-line athttp://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter: @EDARNEWS
Attorney General Sessions and U.S. Attorney Anderson Recognize Law Enforcement Service and Sacrifice during National Police WeekRead the Press Release
Attorney General Sessions and U.S. Attorney Shawn N. Anderson for the Districts of Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands recognized the service and sacrifice of federal agents and local police officers on the occasion of National Police Week, and commented on the FBI's 2017 Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted report.
“One officer death is too many,” Attorney General Sessions said. “While we are inexpressibly grateful to have had a decrease in the number of officers killed in the line- of-duty last year, the number is still far too high. At the Department of Justice, we honor the memories of the fallen and we pray for their families. We are also following President Trump's Executive Orders to back the women and men in blue, to enhance law enforcement safety, and to reduce violent crime in America. Those priorities will help keep every American safe, including those who risk their lives for us. As always, we have their backs and they have our thanks.”
U.S. Attorney Anderson stated, “Those who sacrifice to protect our communities deserve justice. Any act of violence against law enforcement on our islands is unacceptable. Our office will continue to work hard on focused prosecutions and outreach initiatives that promote the safety of agents and officers. We will also take action to combat violent crime in an effort to enhance the important work of our local partners.”
According to statistics collected by the FBI, 93 law enforcement officers were killed in line-of-duty incidents in 2017 nationwide – a 21 percent decrease from 2016 when 118 law enforcement officers were killed in line-of-duty incidents.
Additionally, in 2017 there were 46 law enforcement officers killed in line-of- duty incidents as a result of felonious acts – this is a 30 percent decrease from 2016, when 66 law enforcement officer were killed in line-of-duty incidents as a result of felonious acts.
For the full comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing the fatal attacks and selected assaults resulting in injury, please see the 2017 edition of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted report, released today.
In October 1962, Congress passed and President Kennedy signed a joint resolution declaring May 15th as National Peace Officers Memorial Day to honor law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. The resolution also created National Police Week as an annual tribute to law enforcement service and sacrifice.
During Police Week, which is observed from Sunday, May 13 to Saturday, May 19, 2018, our nation celebrates the contributions of police officers from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment in keeping our communities safe.
The names of all 93 fallen officers nationwide will be formally dedicated on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC, during the 30th Annual Candlelight Vigil on the evening of May 13, 2018. So that people across the country can experience this unique and powerful ceremony, the vigil will be livestreamed beginning at 8:00 p.m. EDT on May 13th. To register for this free online event, visit www.LawMemorial.org/webcast.
The Candlelight Vigil is one of many commemorative events taking place in the nation’s capital during National Police Week 2018.
The Guam Police Department will hold its annual Peace Officers’ Memorial Service on May 15, 2018, at 3:30 PM at the GPD’s Hagatna Precinct. The CNMI Department of Public Safety will hold its annual ceremony on May 15, 2018, at 5:00 PM at DPS Central Precinct. These events will honor past fallen law enforcement and remember them for their sacrifices. While no officers were killed in the line of duty on Guam or the CNMI during 2017, several were assaulted.
For more information about other National Police Week events, please visit www.policeweek.org.
To access the FBI's 2017 Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted report, please visit www.fbi.gov.
Attorney General Jeff Sessions and U.S. Attorney Robert J. Higdon, Jr. Recognize Law Enforcement Service and Sacrifice During National Police WeekRead the Press Release
FBI Releases 2017 Statistics on of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted
RALEIGH - Attorney General Jeff Sessions and the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., recognized the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal police officers on the occasion of National Police Week, and commented on the FBI's 2017 Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted report.
Jay Russell Memelaar, Jr., Meggan Lee Callahan, Justin James Smith, Veronica Skinner Darden and Wendy Letitia Shannon. These five names – all North Carolina law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty in 2017 - will be added to the National Law Enforement Officers Memorial wall in Washington, D.C. next week in remembrance of their service and their sacrifice.[1]
“One officer death is too many,” Attorney General Sessions said. “While we are inexpressibly grateful to have had a decrease in the number of officers killed in the line-of-duty last year, the number is still far too high. At the Department of Justice, we honor the memories of the fallen and we pray for their families. We are also following President Trump's Executive Orders to back the women and men in blue, to enhance law enforcement safety, and to reduce violent crime in America. Those priorities will help keep every American safe, including those who risk their lives for us. As always, we have their backs and they have our thanks.”
“Protecting those who protect us is one of the most important responsibilities of the United States Department of Justice.” United States Attorney Higdon said. “And, here in the Eastern District of North Carolina, we stand squarely behind law enforcement at the federal, state and local levels. We are honored to support and advise them as they work to prevent crime, to prosecute the cases they investigate as they bring offenders to justice, and to back them in every way as they seek to make our communities safer and more secure. Where their work leads them into harm’s way, we stand ready to aggressively pursue those who would commit violent acts against our law enforcement officers. It is our first priority.”
According to statistics collected by the FBI, 93 law enforcement officers were killed in line-of-duty incidents in 2017 – a 21 percent decrease from 2016 when 118 law enforcement officers were killed in line-of-duty incidents.
Additionally, in 2017 there were 46 law enforcement officers killed in line-of-duty incidents as a result of felonious acts – this is a 30 percent decrease from 2016, when 66 law enforcement officer were killed in line-of-duty incidents as a result of felonious acts.
For the full comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing the fatal attacks and selected assaults resulting in injury, please see the 2017 edition of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted report, released today. See, https://ucr.fbi.gov/leoka/2017. Information about the numbers of officers killed in the line of duty during the first months of 2018 can be found at https://ucr.fbi.gov/leoka-resources.
In October 1962, Congress passed and President Kennedy signed a joint resolution declaring May 15th as National Peace Officers Memorial Day to honor law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. The resolution also created National Police Week as an annual tribute to law enforcement service and sacrifice.
During Police Week, which is observed from Sunday, May 13 to Saturday, May 19, 2018, our nation celebrates the contributions of police officers from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment in keeping our communities safe.
The names of all 93 fallen officers nationwide will be formally dedicated on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC, during the 30th Annual Candlelight Vigil on the evening of May 13, 2018. So that people across the country can experience this unique and powerful ceremony, the vigil will be livestreamed beginning at 8:00 p.m. EDT on May 13th. To register for this free online event, visit www.LawMemorial.org/webcast.
The Candlelight Vigil is one of many commemorative events taking place in the nation’s capital during National Police Week 2018.
For more information about other National Police Week events, please visit www.policeweek.org.
[1] The name of Zack C. Ramsey, formerly of the Cherokee County, North Carolina Sheriff’s Office, was also added. Deputy Ramsey gave his life in the line of duty on October 2, 1942. We honor his service and sacrifice as well.
Alien Smuggler Sentenced for Blowing Through Checkpoint at High Speed, Seriously Injuring Border Patrol AgentRead the Press Release
Assistant U. S. Attorney Colin McDonald (619) 546-9144
SAN DIEGO – Jorge Garcia-Osornio was sentenced in federal court today to 30 months in prison for blasting through a Border Patrol checkpoint in Pine Valley, severely injuring a checkpoint inspection agent, and taking Border Patrol on a high-speed chase reaching speeds of at least 100 miles per hour.
Garcia, who was illegally present in the U.S. and had two illegal immigrants hiding on the floor of his vehicle, approached the checkpoint – about 45 miles east of downtown San Diego - at approximately 10:26 a.m. on November 14, 2017. As he neared the line of cars waiting for inspection, he made an illegal U-turn and started driving the wrong way on the freeway.
https://youtu.be/bGiBdp3ieV4
https://youtu.be/KsR_R44bpsQ
A Border Patrol agent yelled, “Turn around! Turn around!” Another agent activated his emergency lights and siren and began following the defendant. Garcia then made another U-turn on the freeway and headed back toward the checkpoint. The agent tried to stop Garcia’s vehicle by positioning the agency vehicle in the center of both freeway lanes, but Garcia squeezed past by driving onto the shoulder of the freeway.
He then sped toward the checkpoint. A number of cars were in the checkpoint queue. Garcia evaded them by driving into a coned-off freeway lane. He then accelerated to – and through – the checkpoint. In the process, he barely missed crashing into a parked agency car; barely missed crashing into a parked civilian car; and barely missed running over Border Patrol Agent M. Medina, the primary inspection agent.
But Garcia did not miss a steel-framed stop sign sitting in the middle of the freeway lanes; he barreled through it, causing a collision best described as an “explosion.” Debris from the collision struck Agent Medina, who likened the blow to being “hit with a baseball bat.” His injuries were similarly severe: Vomiting, throbbing headache, blurry vision, a gash on his face, shaking uncontrollably, and loud ringing in his ears, among other things. Agent Medina was taken to the hospital in an ambulance and has not returned to work since.
After crashing through the checkpoint, Garcia led Border Patrol on a high-speed chase, reaching speeds of at least 100 mph. After about 3.5 miles, Garcia exited the freeway, ran a stop sign and crashed into a hillside. One of the illegal immigrants on the floor of Garcia’s car said he “feared for his life.”
Garcia then ran away and agents found him hiding in a nearby carport with the crashed car’s key fob in his pocket.
As part of his plea, Garcia admitted driving the wrong way on the freeway, reaching at least 100 mph when fleeing from the checkpoint, using a dangerous weapon in the commission of the offense, and seriously injuring Agent Medina, among other things.
Garcia expected to earn between $1,400 and $2,000 for transporting the two illegal immigrants.
“This defendant had no regard for the safety of his passengers, other drivers on the freeway or agents at the checkpoint,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Braverman. “It’s a miracle no one died in this incident. Smugglers operate in a world where immigrants are just dollar signs, not people.”
“In committing his criminal act, Garcia not only placed the lives of those he smuggled in grave danger, but seriously injured a Border Patrol agent in the process,” Chief Patrol Agent Rodney S. Scott. “I would like to express my sincere appreciation to the United States Attorney’s office for their efforts in prosecuting this case. Let this sentencing serve as a reminder that there will be severe consequences for those that wish to do our country harm.”
DEFENDANT Case Number 17cr4272-JM
Jorge Garcia-Osornio Age: 28 Michoacán, Mexico
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Transporting Certain Aliens and Aiding and Abetting – Title 18, U.S.C., Sections 1324(a)(1)(A)(ii), (v)(II), and (a)(1)(B)(i)
Maximum penalty: 10 years’ imprisonment and $250,000 fine
AGENCY
U.S. Border Patrol
Albuquerque Felon Pleads Guilty to Unlawful Possession of Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Jaime Santiesteban, 37, of Albuquerque, N.M., pled guilty today in federal court to violating the federal firearms laws by being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Santiesteban’s plea agreement recommends a prison sentence within the range of 63 to 92 months followed by a term of supervised release to be determined by the court.
Santiesteban was arrested in Sept. 2017, and charged by criminal complaint with being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition on Sept. 7, 2017. According to the complaint, Albuquerque Police Department (APD) officers found ammunition in a stolen vehicle recently occupied by Santiesteban and a firearm in the backyard of a residence that Santiesteban had run past while attempting to evade arrest.
Santiesteban was indicted on Sept. 21, 2017, and was charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition on Sept. 7, 2017, in Bernalillo County, N.M. According to the indictment, Santiesteban was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition because he previously had been convicted of multiple felony offenses, including contributing to the delinquency of a minor, possession of a controlled substance, being a felon in possession of a firearm, tampering with evidence, and battery on a peace officer.
During today’s proceedings, Santiesteban pled guilty to the indictment. In entering the guilty plea, Santiesteban admitted that on Sept. 7, 2017, APD detectives were conducting an operation when they heard gunshots, and observed Santiesteban driving a stolen truck. He also admitted that the APD detectives found a firearm magazine in the stolen truck and a firearm missing a magazine in the backyard of a residence where he discarded the firearm as he attempted to flee from the detectives. Santiesteban acknowledged that he attempted to evade arrest because he was a convicted felon and was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition.
Santiesteban remains in custody pending a sentencing hearing, which has yet to be scheduled.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the APD. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly A. Brawley is prosecuting the case as part of a federal anti-violence initiative that targets violent, repeat offenders for federal prosecution. Under this initiative, the U.S. Attorney’s Office and federal law enforcement agencies work with New Mexico’s District Attorneys and state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies to target for federal prosecution violent or repeat offenders with the goal of removing them from communities in New Mexico for as long as possible.
Attorney General Sessions and U.s. Attorney Minkler Recognize Law Enforcement Service and Sacrifice During National Police WeekRead the Press Release
Former Southport Police Officer Aaron Allan’s name to be added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington DC
Indianapolis – Attorney General Sessions and U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana Josh Minkler recognized the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal police officers on the occasion of National Police Week, and commented on the FBI's 2017 Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted report.
“One officer death is too many,” Attorney General Sessions said. “While we are inexpressibly grateful to have had a decrease in the number of officers killed in the line-of-duty last year, the number is still far too high. At the Department of Justice, we honor the memories of the fallen and we pray for their families. We are also following President Trump's Executive Orders to back the women and men in blue, to enhance law enforcement safety, and to reduce violent crime in America. Those priorities will help keep every American safe, including those who risk their lives for us. As always, we have their backs and they have our thanks.”
“We have lost three police officers in our district in less than one year, all killed by gunfire,” said Minkler. “We will never forget the bravery demonstrated by Southport Police Officer Aaron Allan, Boone County Deputy Jacob Pickett and most recently, Terre Haute Police Officer and United States Marshal Task Force member Rob Pitts. All three are meaningful examples of the risks that we ask our officers to undertake every day. We owe them our gratitude, we owe them unwavering support and we owe their families our prayers when they make the ultimate sacrifice.”
According to statistics collected by the FBI, 93 law enforcement officers were killed in line-of-duty incidents in 2017 – a 21 percent decrease from 2016, when 118 law enforcement officers were killed in line-of-duty incidents. To date, 53 officers have been killed in the line of duty- 27 by gunfire.
In October 1962, Congress passed and President Kennedy signed a joint resolution declaring May 15th as National Peace Officers Memorial Day to honor law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. The resolution also created National Police Week as an annual tribute to law enforcement service and sacrifice.
During Police Week, which is observed from Sunday, May 13 to Saturday, May 19, 2018, our nation celebrates the contributions of police officers from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment in keeping our communities safe.
Lt. Aaron Allan from the Southport Police Department along with 93 fallen officers nationwide will be formally dedicated on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC, during the 30th Annual Candlelight Vigil on the evening of May 13, 2018. So that people across the country can experience this unique and powerful ceremony, the vigil will be livestreamed beginning at 8:00 p.m. EDT on May 13th. To register for this free online event, visit www.LawMemorial.org/webcast.
The Candlelight Vigil is one of many commemorative events taking place in the nation’s capital during National Police Week 2018.
For more information about other National Police Week events, please visit www.policeweek.org.
To access the FBI's 2017 Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted report, please visit www.fbi.gov.
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"Homesource Partners Inc." Owner Sentenced to 96 Months PrisonRead the Press Release
DENVER – Karen Lynn McClaflin, age 59, of Colorado Springs, Colorado, and owner of “Homesource Partners Inc.” was sentenced today by U.S. District Court Judge Christine M. Arguello to serve 96 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, restitution in the amount of $14,528,206.39, and a $200 mandatory special assessment, U.S. Attorney Bob Troyer, FBI Special Agent in Charge Calvin Shivers and IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge Steven Osborne announced. On June 21, 2017, Ms. McClaflin pled guilty to one count of wire fraud and one count of engaging in a monetary transaction in property derived from wire fraud.
According to the stipulated facts contained in the plea agreement, in December 2005, McClaflin and a partner started Trademark Properties and Trademark Reality (“Trademark”) in Colorado Springs. Trademark’s business was to use investor money to purchase and renovate distressed houses in order to resell those houses at a profit. By 2011, Trademark had accumulated so much debt that McClaflin’s partner declared bankruptcy, and their partnership was terminated. Rather than declare bankruptcy herself, McClaflin transitioned to another company with the same “fix and flip” business model as Trademark.
In late 2010, McClaflin started Homesource Partners Inc. (“Homesource”), and McClaflin rolled many of her investors from Trademark into Homesource. From late 2010 through early March 2017, McClaflin owned and operated Homesource in Colorado Springs, Colorado. In seeking investors for Homesource between March 2011 and early 2017, McClaflin told investors that Homesource was seeking loans from investors to finance Homesource’s “fix and flip” business because Homesource was not able to use traditional bank loans. McClaflin represented that traditional bank loans took too long and some of the distressed homes might not qualify as collateral for such loans.
Through marketing materials and verbal statements, McClaflin told investors that Homesource had access to distressed houses that were deeply discounted, which Homesource could purchase for no more than 80% of the “as is” value of the house. McClaflin further represented that Homesource then had exit strategies to profit from the distressed houses, including selling them within 30 days for an immediate profit, “fixing and flipping” the houses for sale within 31-90 days, or fixing the houses and renting them if the houses failed to sell within 90 days.
McClaflin represented that Homesource had a team of contractors who would fix and upgrade the properties so Homesource could resell the properties for a profit. McClaflin further represented that each property would be financed by an individual investor whose investment would be secured by a Deed of Trust in first position on that property, which McClaflin would record for the investor. Occasionally, McClaflin told the investor their Deed of Trust would be in second position. McClaflin further represented that investors would receive an interest rate of 6% to 15%.
However, starting in late March 2011, McClaflin knowingly and intentionally began having multiple investors “invest” in the same property and began placing multiple Deeds of Trust on the same properties, such that the amount of the investments purporting to be secured by the Deeds of Trust exceeded the value of the property. Additionally, starting in late March or April 2011, McClaflin intentionally did not record all of the investors’ Deeds of Trust as promised. Nonetheless, McClaflin continued to falsely represent that investors would receive a first Deed of Trust and that McClaflin would record that Deed of Trust for the investor. McClaflin also sometimes forged the signature of an investor, without the investor’s knowledge or consent, on a release so McClaflin could remove that investor’s Deed of Trust from a property. McClaflin sometimes did not inform investors when “their” property sold and did not return the investor’s principal upon that sale as promised.
Additionally, starting in at least the beginning of 2013, Homesource’s debt had grown too high and the interest payments owed to investors far exceeded the gross profits earned by Homesource. By at least January 2013, McClaflin was aware of this problem and intentionally continued seeking additional investments so that she could keep making the interest payments owed to earlier investors.
Unbeknownst to the individual investors, the amount of investment funds, which were supposed to be secured by real property, far exceeded the value of the encumbered property and Homesource’s business assets. An analysis of Homesource’s finances shows that the influx of investor funds kept Homesource operating, particularly in its latter years. Without the additional investor funding, Homesource would have failed years earlier.
“For a lot of years, the defendant lied a lot of people out of millions of dollars,” said U.S. Attorney Bob Troyer. “I am proud of the dogged and sophisticated work our prosecution team – including the FBI and IRS CI -- did to put a stop to it.”
"Karen McClaflin took advantage of innocent investors by knowingly and wittingly creating a deceptive home investment scheme for personal gain," said FBI Denver Special Agent in Charge Calvin Shivers. "Investigations of those who commit fraud schemes to mislead innocent investors is a felony and those who do will face the consequences of their actions."
“Financial fraud schemes are often described as a house of cards,” says IRS Criminal Investigation, Denver Field Office, Special Agent In Charge Steven Osborne. “The underlying structure can fall apart at any time and expose the individuals responsible. IRS Criminal Investigation is proud to bring our forensic accounting skills to this joint venture and help put a stop to this and other types of white collar crime."
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and IRS Criminal Investigation. The defendant is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Pegeen Rhyne with Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura Hurd handling the asset forfeiture.
CASE NUMBER: 17-CR-00168
10 May 2018
West Yarmouth Woman Pleads Guilty to Stealing Social Security Disability BenefitsRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A West Yarmouth woman pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston to stealing Social Security disability benefits.
Crystal Lehtola, 35, pleaded guilty to one count of theft of public funds. U.S. District Court Judge William G. Young scheduled sentencing for Sept. 6, 2018. Lehtola was arrested and charged in August 2017.
From February 2011 through August 2016, Lehtola received approximately $64,953 in benefits from the Social Security Administration intended for her disabled daughter. In order to be appointed as her daughter’s representative payee, Lehtola told Social Security that her daughter lived with her and that she was her daughter’s guardian. However, in April 2009, the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families removed Lehtola’s daughter from her care, and although Lehtola never regained custody, she repeatedly advised Social Security that her daughter lived with her and that she spent all of the benefits on her daughter’s care. In reality, Lehtola spent the funds on her own expenses.
The charge of theft of public funds provides for a sentence of no greater than 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling and Scott Antolik, Special Agent in Charge of the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General, Office of Investigations, Boston Field Division, made the announcement. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Burzycki of Lelling’s Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.
Waterloo Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Unlawfully Possessing a Gun and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
A Waterloo man was sentenced on May 9, 2018, to serve 43 months in federal prison for unlawfully possessing a gun and ammunition.
Wayne J. Jones, II, age 38, received the prison term after an October 15, 2017, guilty plea to one count of unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon and unlawful drug user.
Evidence presented at sentencing showed that Jones possessed multiple firearms in his Waterloo apartment and shot those firearms at an outdoor shooting range. On April 12, 2017, FBI agents executed a federal search warrant at Jones’s apartment. On that same date, Jones’s brother, Joseph Jones, was charged in the Northern District of Illinois with providing material support to ISIS. Those charges are still pending.
The evidence at sentencing showed that at the time the search warrant was executed, Wayne Jones admitted he was a daily user of marijuana. FBI agents seized a loaded handgun, ammunition, and other items from his apartment. A forensic examination of Jones’s phone discovered text messages and photos relating to drug activity and photos of firearms, as well as an image of an ISIS flag Jones claimed his brother sent him. Other investigation showed Jones sought to have his adult son purchase a firearm for him at a Waterloo sporting goods store in November 2016. Jones was arrested at the time of the search on an outstanding arrest warrant in Wisconsin issued after Jones violated terms of probation imposed on prior battery and disorderly conduct convictions there. While Jones was incarcerated in Wisconsin, he spoke to family members in calls recorded by the jail.
In one call, Jones claimed he and his brother were of “like mind” but have different approaches, stating: “I’m a little wiser, like okay, I’ll kill ‘ya, like you and your whole f****** household, but I’m not gonna be all you know unwise about it. I’m going to take the appropriate approach and make sure my ass is covered.”
Jones was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge Linda R. Reade. Jones was sentenced to 43 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a 3-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
In imposing sentence, Judge Reade noted Jones had several prior criminal convictions that had not been taken into account by the sentencing guidelines, including convictions for possession with intent to distribute marijuana, resisting a peace officer, assault, forgery, and interference with official acts. The court stated Jones’s prior criminal conduct showed a disrespect for the law and a history of violence that was particularly troubling given his fascination with guns. The court found Jones was an “extremely high risk to recidivate.”
Jones is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Richard L. Murphy and investigated by 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-02058.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Wagner Man Sentenced to 24 Months for Sexual Abuse of a MinorRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier sentenced a Wagner, South Dakota, man convicted of Sexual Abuse of a Minor, on May 9, 2018.
Dorian Lester, age 22, was sentenced to 24 months in custody, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Lester was also required to register as a sex offender upon release from incarceration.
Lester was indicted for sexual abuse of a minor by a federal grand jury on August 9, 2016. He pled guilty on February 15, 2018.
On or about November 23, 2014, Dorian Lester engaged in a sexual act with a 12-year old girl. Both had been drinking alcohol at a home in the South Housing area of Wagner.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeff Clapper prosecuted the case. Lester was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Settles Disability Discrimination Allegations at Skilled Nursing FacilityRead the Press Release
BOSTON – The U.S. Attorney’s Office reached a settlement agreement today with Charlwell House, a skilled nursing facility in Norwood, to resolve allegations that the facility violated Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by refusing to accept a patient because they were being treated for Opioid Use Disorder (OUD).
Charlwell House is a 124-bed health and rehabilitation center that provides skilled nursing services and rehabilitation programs. According to a complaint filed with the United States Attorney’s Office, an individual seeking admission for treatment at Charlwell House was denied because they were being treated with Suboxone, a medication used to treat OUD. Individuals receiving treatment for OUD are generally considered disabled under the ADA, which among other things prohibits private healthcare providers from discriminating on the basis of disability.
“Our office is committed to protecting the rights of people with disabilities, which includes those in treatment for an Opioid Use Disorder,” said United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling. “The number one enforcement priority of my office is addressing Massachusetts’ opioid crisis. Overdoses killed more than 2,000 individuals in Massachusetts last year alone. As Massachusetts faces this overdose epidemic, now more than ever, individuals in recovery must not face discriminatory barriers to treatment. We appreciate the cooperation that Charlwell House has offered throughout our investigation.”
Under the terms of the agreement, Charlwell House will, among other things, adopt a non-discrimination policy, provide training on the ADA and OUD to admissions personnel, and pay a civil penalty of $5,000 to the United States.
This matter was handled by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregory Dorchak of Lelling’s Civil Rights Unit.
The Civil Rights Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office was established in 2015 with the mission of enhancing federal civil rights enforcement. For more information on the Office’s civil rights efforts, please visit www.justice.gov/usao-ma/civil-rights.
Two Florida Men Sentenced in Six Million Dollar Investment FraudRead the Press Release
DENVER – Joseph Anthony Rubbo, age 54, of Oakland Park, Florida, and Nicholas D. Rubbo, age 48, of Coral Springs, Florida pled guilty on May 9, 2018, to conspiring to commit mail fraud, securities fraud, and money laundering announced U.S. Attorney Bob Troyer, the Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Calvin Shivers, and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge Steven Osborne. U.S. District Court Judge R. Brooke Jackson accepted the guilty pleas, sentenced Joseph Rubbo to the maximum term of imprisonment available under the law, 60 months, and sentenced Nicholas Rubbo to 48 months imprisonment.
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According to court documents, including the stipulated facts contained in the defendants’ amended plea agreements, from December 2012 to November 2017, Joseph Rubbo and Nicholas Rubbo, along with three others, engaged in a conspiracy to defraud more than thirty investors, including two investors in Colorado, of more than $6,000,000 in an investment fraud scheme. The investment fraud scheme focused on a television production company based in South Florida, VIP Television, LLC, as well as a cleaning product, the “Scrubbieglove,” which was also patented in Florida. Investors sent money to both of these companies as a result of false statements about VIP Television’s merger opportunities and interest in the Scrubbieglove by entities such as QVC, Walgreens, and Bed, Bath & Beyond.
Three other members of the conspiracy, Angela Monaco, Pasquale Rubbo, and Steven Dykes, are defendants in a related case pending before the United States District Court for the District of Colorado in Case No. 17-cr-417-RBJ. Monaco, Pasquale Rubbo, and Dykes have all pleaded guilty and will be sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge R. Brooke Jackson in August 2018.
The case was investigated by the FBI and IRS-CI. The defendants are being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Hetal J. Doshi and Matthew T. Kirsch.
Visit our website http://www.justice.gov/usao/co | Follow us on Twitter @DCoNewsTwenty-Three New United States Citizens Naturalized in GulfportRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Twenty-three applicants for U.S. citizenship were sworn in today as new citizens during a naturalization ceremony held at the United States District Court in Gulfport, Mississippi.
United States Magistrate Judge Robert H. Walker presided over the ceremony. Judge Walker welcomed family, friends, soon-to-be citizens, and special guests, including Dr. Antoine B. Rizk, a cardiologist with Memorial Hospital at Gulfport. Following a performance of "America the Beautiful" by sisters Chloe and Noelle King and Eric Boutwell of Stone High School, the applicants were presented for citizenship by Assistant U.S. Attorney Steve Graben on behalf of Jeff Sessions, the Attorney General of the United States.
After Arthur Johnston, Clerk of the U.S. District Court, administered the Oath of Allegiance for citizenship, the honorees recited the Pledge of Allegiance for the first time as U.S. citizens.
Judge Walker congratulated the new citizens and commended them for their hard work to achieve citizenship. He challenged them to make the most of the opportunities now before them as new citizens by continuing to work hard; engaging in civic and community activities; and registering to vote and participating in the electoral process. He also encouraged them to serve on juries when summoned; stay informed about important local, state, and national events; defend the United States if called upon; and obey all laws. On the importance of becoming a citizen, Judge Walker quoted former U.S. Supreme Court Justice Louis D. Brandeis, who said, "The only title in our democracy superior to that of President is the title of citizen."
Dr. Rizk, who was born in Lebanon and naturalized as a U.S. citizen fourteen years ago, also addressed the new citizens. He told them that while many opportunities lay ahead for both them and their families, those opportunities will only be realized if they dedicate themselves to becoming the best citizens possible. Dr. Rizk also observed that most of them came from countries that did not afford its citizens the rights, freedoms, and privileges that U.S. citizenship offers. He concluded his remarks by wishing them well.
Judge Walker then presented the new citizens with certificates of citizenship. Representatives from the Daughters of the American Revolution Friendship Oak Chapter also presented them American flags.
The new citizens originated from the following 16 countries: Egypt, Philippines, Laos, Costa Rica, Vietnam, Mexico, El Salvador, Jordan, Honduras, Cuba, Canada, India, People’s Republic of China, Yemen, Nicaragua, and Burma.
Third Colombian National Extradited to the United States to Face Charges for Encouraging and Inducing Aliens to Come to the United StatesRead the Press Release
A Colombian citizen was extradited yesterday from Colombia to the United States to face a four-count federal indictment in the Southern District of Florida for his role in a scheme to smuggle illegal aliens from Colombia into the United States.
Acting Assistant Attorney General John P. Cronan of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Benjamin G. Greenberg of the Southern District of Florida, and Special Agent in Charge Mark Selby of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Miami Field Office made the announcement.
Fredis Valencia Palacios, 29, is charged along with three others in a Jan. 6 indictment with one count of conspiracy to encourage and induce aliens to come to the Unites States as well as three counts of encouraging and inducing aliens to come to the United States. Palacios had his initial court appearance earlier today and has a detention hearing on May 15 at 10 a.m. ET before U.S. Magistrate Judge Alicia M. Otazo-Reyes. Colombian nationals Carlos Emilio Ibarguen Palacios, 26, and Jhoan Stiven Carreazo Asprilla, 23, were previously extradited to the Southern District of Florida on Nov. 8, 2017 and Jan. 18., respectively. According to allegations in the indictment, from as early as November 2014, Valencia Palacios and other co-conspirators organized and arranged the unlawful smuggling of illegal aliens to the United States. The indictment alleges that in at least one instance, the defendant’s conduct resulted in the death of two individuals.
This case is scheduled for trial before U.S. District Judge Jose E. Martinez in Miami on Aug. 6.
The charges and allegations in the indictment are merely accusations. A defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
This case is being investigated by HSI Miami, with assistance from the HSI Bogota field office. The Government of Colombia, including the Colombian Office of the Attorney General, provided significant assistance and support during the investigation. The Criminal Division’s Office of International Affairs provided significant support with the defendant’s extradition. The investigation is being conducted under the Extraterritorial Criminal Travel Strike Force (ECT) program, a joint partnership between the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and HSI. The ECT program focuses on human smuggling networks that may present particular national security or public safety risks, or present grave humanitarian concerns. ECT has dedicated investigative, intelligence and prosecutorial resources. ECT coordinates and receives assistance from other U.S. government agencies and foreign law enforcement authorities.
This case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorney Danielle Hickman of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian Dobbins of the Southern District of Florida.
Third Colombian National Extradited to the United States to Face Charges for Encouraging and Inducing Aliens to Come to the United StatesRead the Press Release
A Colombian citizen was extradited yesterday from Colombia to the United States to face a four-count federal indictment in the Southern District of Florida for his role in a scheme to smuggle illegal aliens from Colombia into the United States.
U.S. Attorney Benjamin G. Greenberg of the Southern District of Florida, Acting Assistant Attorney General John P. Cronan of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, and Special Agent in Charge Mark Selby of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI) Miami Field Office made the announcement.
Fredis Valencia Palacios, 29, is charged along with three others in a Jan. 6 indictment with one count of conspiracy to encourage and induce aliens to come to the Unites States as well as three counts of encouraging and inducing aliens to come to the United States. Palacios had his initial court appearance earlier today and has a detention hearing on May 15 at 10 a.m. ET before U.S. Magistrate Judge Alicia M. Otazo-Reyes. Colombian nationals Carlos Emilio Ibarguen Palacios, 26, and Jhoan Stiven Carreazo Asprilla, 23, were previously extradited to the Southern District of Florida on Nov. 8, 2017 and Jan. 18., respectively. According to allegations in the indictment, from as early as November 2014, Valencia Palacios and other co-conspirators organized and arranged the unlawful smuggling of illegal aliens to the United States. The indictment alleges that in at least one instance, the defendant’s conduct resulted in the death of two individuals.
This case is scheduled for trial before U.S. District Judge Jose E. Martinez in Miami on Aug. 6.
The charges and allegations in the indictment are merely accusations. A defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
This case is being investigated by ICE-HSI Miami, with assistance from the HSI Bogota field office. The Government of Colombia, including the Colombian Office of the Attorney General, provided significant assistance and support during the investigation. The Criminal Division’s Office of International Affairs provided significant support with the defendant’s extradition. The investigation is being conducted under the Extraterritorial Criminal Travel Strike Force (ECT) program, a joint partnership between the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and HSI. The ECT program focuses on human smuggling networks that may present particular national security or public safety risks, or present grave humanitarian concerns. ECT has dedicated investigative, intelligence and prosecutorial resources. ECT coordinates and receives assistance from other U.S. government agencies and foreign law enforcement authorities.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian Dobbins of the Southern District of Florida and Trial Attorney Danielle Hickman of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at http://www.flsd.uscourts.gov or on http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania Honors and Remembers Fallen Law Enforcement Officers in Observance of 2018 “National Police Week”Read the Press Release
HARRISBURG - Communities across the United States gather during National Police Week, which is observed from Sunday, May 13 to Saturday, May 19, 2018, to remember federal, state, and local law enforcement officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty to share their stories of courage and sacrifice and to honor their memory.
“One officer death is too many,” Attorney General Jeff Sessions said. “While we are inexpressibly grateful to have had a decrease in the number of officers killed in the line-of-duty last year, the number is still far too high. At the Department of Justice, we honor the memories of the fallen and we pray for their families. We are also following President Trump's Executive Orders to back the women and men in blue, to enhance law enforcement safety, and to reduce violent crime in America. Those priorities will help keep every American safe, including those who risk their lives for us. As always, we have their backs and they have our thanks.”
“The citizens of this District were reminded in stark terms on January 18, 2018 of the sacrifices that law enforcement officers and their families make to protect us every day,” said United States Attorney David J. Freed. “The tragic and heroic death of Deputy United States Marshal Christopher Hill once again highlighted the potential dangers faced by men and women in law enforcement each time they take to the streets. We seek to honor the memory of USDM Hill and others lost in the line of duty through our constant efforts to reduce violence in our communities.”
During National Police Week and in honor of fallen officers, two Middle District of Pennsylvania Assistant United States Attorneys are participating in the Police Unity Tour to help raise awareness of law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty.
According to statistics collected by the FBI, 93 law enforcement officers were killed in line-of-duty incidents in 2017 – a 21 percent decrease from 2016 when 118 law enforcement officers were killed in line-of-duty incidents.
Additionally, in 2017 there were 46 law enforcement officers killed in line-of-duty incidents as a result of felonious acts – this is a 30 percent decrease from 2016, when 66 law enforcement officer were killed in line-of-duty incidents as a result of felonious acts.
In October 1962, Congress passed and President Kennedy signed a joint resolution declaring May 15th as National Peace Officers Memorial Day to honor law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. The resolution also created National Police Week as an annual tribute to law enforcement service and sacrifice.
The names of all 93 fallen officers nationwide will be formally dedicated on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC, during the 30th Annual Candlelight Vigil on the evening of May 13, 2018. So that people across the country can experience this unique and powerful ceremony, the vigil will be livestreamed beginning at 8:00 p.m. EDT on May 13th. To register for this free online event, visit www.LawMemorial.org/webcast.
Among those added this year from Pennsylvania will be:
- Brian Shaw, New Kensington Police Department, who died in November 2017;
- Michael Stewart, III, Pennsylvania State Police, who died in July 2017;
- Shawn Rager, Johnstown Police Department, who died in October 2016;
- David Weaver, State Correctional Institute Graterford, who died in September 2016; and
- Raymond Diaz, Jr., Philadelphia Police Department, who died in September 2016.
Along with remembering the officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, Police Week is an opportunity to recognize and honor all law enforcement officers in our communities, who courageously stand on the front lines each day for the safety and protection of others.
The Candlelight Vigil is one of many commemorative events taking place in the nation’s capital during National Police Week 2018.
For more information about other National Police Week events, please visit www.policeweek.org.
To access the FBI's 2017 Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted report, please visit www.fbi.gov.
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Thackerville Woman Sentenced to 60 Months Probation, $88,700 Restitution for False Bank EntryRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Tiffany Rhea Spears, age 30, of Thackerville, Oklahoma, was sentenced to five years of probation for False Entry In The Books of a Federally Insured Bank, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1005. The charge arose from an investigation by the Federal Reserve Office of Inspector General. Spears has been ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $88,700.
The Indictment alleged that from on or about January 6, 2017, until on or about June 5, 2017, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, defendant, with the intent to deceive an officer of Citizens Bank and Trust of Ardmore, Oklahoma, a bank whose deposits are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, knowingly made false entries in the books, reports, or statements of Citizens Bank and Trust of Ardmore, Oklahoma. The defendant created false transaction documents showing customers advancing monies on their loans and withdrawing cash from their accounts, when in truth and in fact, as the defendant well knew, the advances and withdrawals from customer accounts were by, and for the benefit of, the defendant.
United States Attorney Brian J. Kuester said. “The defendant is being held accountable for her crimes because of an alert co-worker, a thorough and professional investigation, and the dedicated members of the U. S. Attorney’s Office. During her probationary term, the United States Probation Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma will monitor her to ensure that she abides by the conditions of her probation.”
The Honorable Ronald A. White, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace represented the United States.
Texas men arrested for transporting 10 kilograms of fentanylRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – United States Attorney David C. Joseph announced today that two Texas men were arrested today for transporting more than 10 kilograms of fentanyl.
Felipe Rodriguez, 21, of McAllen, Texas, and Brandon Montoya, 23 of Kaufman, Texas, were arrested and charged with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. United States Magistrate Judge Mark L. Hornsby presided over the initial appearance hearing, which was held this afternoon. According to the complaint filed during the hearing, a Louisiana State Police trooper conducted a traffic stop today on an SUV on Interstate-20 at mile marker 31 going eastbound. The trooper searched the vehicle and found a compartment in rear cargo area. Through a hole in the compartment, he could see a plastic bag containing an unknown substance. The vehicle was brought to Louisiana State Police Troop G headquarters. Upon a more thorough search, they found 10 plastic 1-kilogram bags containing fentanyl. The defendants admitted to transporting the drugs. They said they had been approached in Houston to travel to California to obtain the drugs. They were then instructed to drive to Atlanta, Georgia, where they would be paid for the delivery.
The defendants face up to 10 years to life in prison, at least five years of supervised release and a $10 million fine. The defendants will remain in custody until the detention hearing, which was set for May 15, 2018.
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid. In recent years it has become more widely available in the United States and grown as a threat to public safety. It only takes a very small amount of fentanyl or its derivatives- which can be inhaled or absorbed through the skin or mucus membranes (such as being inhaled through the nose or mouth)- to result in severe adverse reactions including death. For more information about fentanyl, visit www.dea.gov/druginfo/fentanyl.
The DEA, Homeland Security Investigations and Louisiana State Police investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tiffany E. Fields is prosecuting the case.
A complaint is merely an accusation and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Tahlequah Woman Pleads Guilty to Uttering, Passing Counterfeit ObligationRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Alyssia Marie Jae Carey, age 26, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, pled guilty to two counts of Uttering A Counterfeit Obligation Of The United States, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 472, punishable by not more than 20 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000.00 fine, or both for each count; and to Passing A Counterfeit Obligation Of The United States, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 472, punishable by not more than 20 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000.00 fine, or both.
The Indictment alleged that on or about November 14, 2017, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the Defendant, 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.
The Indictment further alleged that on or about November 24, 2017, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the Defendant, 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.
The Indictment further alleged that on or about November 25, 2017, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the Defendant, 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.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Tahlequah Police Department and the United States Secret Service.
The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.Assistant United States Attorney John David Luton represented the United States.
Stroud Township Man Charged with Drug Trafficking and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that James Williams, III, a/k/a “Dilly,” age 30, of Stroud Township, Pennsylvania, was indicted on May 8, 2018, by a federal grand jury on drug trafficking and firearms charges.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, the indictment alleges that Williams conspired to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams and more of cocaine beginning in 2017 in Monroe County, Pennsylvania. The indictment further charges Williams with distribution and possession with intent to distribute within 1,000 feet of Stroudsburg High School on two occasions in March and April of this year. Williams was also charged with possession with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of cocaine on May 3, 2018. The indictment further alleged that Williams, a convicted felon, illegally possessed three firearms, one of which was stolen and had an obliterated serial number, and possessed of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Stroud Regional Police Department, and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean A. Camoni is prosecuting the case.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is life in prison, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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St. Peters Woman Sentenced to Prison for Fraudulent Preparation of Bankruptcy PetitionsRead the Press Release
On May 10, 2018, Phebe Ibrahim, formerly known as "Phebe Khan," age 50, of St. Peters, Missouri, was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison for bankruptcy fraud and related charges, announced Donald S. Boyce, U. S. Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois. Ibrahim was previously charged in a 21-count indictment filed on October 3, 2017, as part of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s continuing effort to crack down on those who commit fraud in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Illinois. She pled guilty to all charges on February 8, 2018.
As part of her guilty plea, Ibrahim, a non-lawyer, admitted that she worked as a bankruptcy petition preparer, preparing bankruptcy petitions and other documents for debtors who wished to file bankruptcy in the Southern District of Illinois. The Bankruptcy Code imposes certain restrictions on bankruptcy petition preparers, including requiring them to disclose their names on any documents they prepare, and allowing the Bankruptcy Courts to set maximum fees that they can charge their customers. The practice in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Illinois is that bankruptcy petition preparers are not allowed to charge fees of more than $150.
Ibrahim admitted that she defrauded the debtors for whom she prepared bankruptcy petitions by routinely charging fees that exceeded the maximum allowable amount. Ibrahim also acknowledged that she attempted to conceal her fraud by not disclosing her name on the documents she prepared, and by instructing her customers not to mention her name during their bankruptcy cases.
The Bankruptcy Code also requires that debtors attend a credit counselling briefing prior to filing a bankruptcy case. Ibrahim admitted that she circumvented and defeated this provision of the Bankruptcy Code by causing false "Certificates of Counselling" to be filed on behalf of her customers. These Certificates represented that Ibrahim’s customers had attended the required credit counselling briefing.
In rejecting the defendant’s request for a probationary sentence, United States District Judge Staci M. Yandle noted that Ibrahim "took advantage of individuals when they were in a vulnerable financial situation," calling Ibrahim’s fraud and repeated false statements to the Bankruptcy Court "repugnant." Judge Yandle also found it "unbelievable" that after the
Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Illinois specifically ordered Ibrahim to stop acting as a bankruptcy petition preparer, she then engaged in the same conduct in the Bankruptcy Court for the Eastern District of Missouri.
In addition to the 18 month prison sentence, Judge Yandle imposed a three-year term of supervised release and ordered Ibrahim to pay a $2,100 special assessment and total restitution in the amount of $13,200 to the bankruptcy clients she defrauded.
"Today’s sentence sends a strong message to those who abuse the bankruptcy system," stated Nancy J. Gargula, United States Trustee for Southern and Central Illinois and Indiana (Region 10). "Providing false documents to the United States Bankruptcy Court, such as false bankruptcy credit counseling certificates, bankruptcy petitions that concealed this bankruptcy petition preparer’s involvement in the cases and charging fees that exceeded the maximum allowable amount, undermines the integrity of the system and will not be tolerated. We appreciate the commitment of U.S. Attorney Boyce and our law enforcement partners to holding those who abuse the bankruptcy system accountable. We welcome information that will help detect unscrupulous bankruptcy petition preparers and we encourage citizens to report suspected bankruptcy fraud through our Internet hotline at [email protected]." The United States Trustee Program is the component of the Justice Department that protects the integrity of the bankruptcy system by overseeing case administration and litigating to enforce the bankruptcy laws.
The case against Ibrahim resulted from a referral by the United States Trustee for Indiana and Southern and Central Illinois (Region 10) to the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois. The investigation was conducted by agents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Springfield Division, Fairview Heights Resident Agency, in collaboration with the Southern Illinois Bankruptcy Fraud Working Group, which is coordinated by the United States Trustee. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U. S. Attorney Scott A. Verseman.
South Carolina Couple Sentenced to a Total of 138 Months in Prison for Trafficking Counterfeit Goods, Including Misbranded Pet MedicineRead the Press Release
David Haisten, 51, and Judy Haisten, 51, both of Irmo, South Carolina, were sentenced yesterday to 78 and 60 months of incarceration, respectively, by U.S. District Judge Gerald J. Pappert, announced United States Attorney William M. McSwain. A jury found the Haistens guilty in October 2017 of conspiracy as well as six counts of violating the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, five counts of distributing misbranded animal drugs, and two counts of trafficking in counterfeit goods.
For about six years, and despite repeated warnings from numerous companies and government agencies, the defendants sold counterfeit DVDs, unregistered and misbranded pesticides, and misbranded animal drugs to customers online across the United States.
The defendants’ products, including pesticides that are extremely toxic in the wrong dose, posed a serious risk to animals and humans. Further, as detailed at trial, the defendants’ packaging and instructions for use increased the likelihood that an injury would occur.
“This joint venture generated millions of dollars in illegal income,” said U.S. Attorney McSwain. “Despite multiple warnings and cease and desist letters, the defendants continued to reinvent themselves and flout the law. Ultimately, it took federal arrests to stop them. Given their disdain for the law, the defendants deserved a substantial prison term.”
“To ensure that consumers know what they are purchasing and how to safely use these products, pesticides must be registered and properly labeled," said Susan Bodine, Assistant Administrator for the Environmental Protection Agency’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. "Today's sentencing sends a strong signal that EPA and its law enforcement partners will hold responsible those who put consumers at risk for competitive advantage."
“The FDA is committed to working with our federal partners to bring criminals to justice who endanger our pets by distributing unapproved and unsafe drugs,” said Mark S. McCormack, Special Agent in Charge, Food and Drug Administration Office of Criminal Investigations’ Metro Washington Field Office.
“The uncontrolled distribution of unregistered and misbranded pesticides, and misbranded animal drugs pose a serious threat to public safety,” said Special Agent in Charge Marlon V. Miller, Homeland Security Investigations Philadelphia Field Office. “Let David and Judy Haisten’s sentencing serve as a reminder that our local, state and, federal partners will use all available means to investigate and prosecute individuals who disregard the rule of law.”
The case was investigated by the Environmental Protection, Criminal Investigative Division, the Food and Drug Administration Office of Criminal Investigations, and the Department of Homeland Security, and is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Christopher E. Parisi.
Shipping Company Will Pay Million Dollar Fine for Environmental Pollution CrimesRead the Press Release
A Japanese shipping company that delivered steel products to Wilmington, NC, was convicted and sentenced today for obstruction of justice and falsification of an Oil Record Book to cover-up intentional oil pollution from the Motor Vessel (“M/V”) Atlantic Oasis, announced Acting Assistant Attorney General Jeffrey H. Wood and United States Attorney Robert J. Higdon Jr. Nitta Kisen Kaisha Ltd. (“Nitta”) owned and operated the M/V Atlantic Oasis. The prior Chief Engineer, Jihnyun Youn, had previously been convicted and sentenced for falsification of the vessel’s Oil Record Book.
The company admitted that its engineers failed to document the illegal discharge of oily wastes from the vessel’s fuel and lubrication oil purifier systems, as well as discharges of oily bilge waste from the bilge holding tank and from the vessel’s bilges. During a U.S. Coast Guard inspection of the vessel on May 17, 2017, a junior engineering crewmember provided information to the inspectors about how the oily wastes were being discharged by the order of Chief Engineer Youn. The crewmember also showed U.S. Coast Guard inspectors where the hoses that were used for the discharges were hidden. Chief Engineer Youn lied to the inspectors about the existence of a Sounding Log, which is typically used in the industry to record the fluid levels of various tanks in the engine room. By the end of the inspection, Chief Engineer Youn had admitted to ordering the illegal discharges and admitted that there was a Sounding Log.
Nitta was ordered to pay a fine of $1,000,000; placed on probation for a period of three years; and further ordered to implement a court-approved comprehensive Environmental Compliance Plan as a special condition of probation, which will be audited throughout probation. Chief Engineer Youn was placed on probation for one year and ordered to pay a fine of $5,500.00.
“This case demonstrates that those who pollute our oceans and deliberately mislead U.S. Coast Guard Officials will be brought to justice,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Wood. “The Department of Justice will continue to work with our federal law enforcement partners to aggressively prosecute criminals that harm the environment.”
“While the charges in this case rest on the failure of the ship’s crew to properly document the discharge of oily bilge waste, the heart of this case is the illegal discharge itself and the damage that action did to our environment – particularly our spectacular seashores and waterways – is a critical necessity in the Eastern District of North Carolina,” said United States Attorney Robert J. Higdon Jr. for the Eastern District of North Carolina. “We trust that the fines and penalties imposed in this case will act as a deterrent to anyone who would treat our environment as a dump-ground.”
“Marine Environmental Protection is a critical mission of the U.S. Coast Guard. We respond to and investigate oil and hazardous material releases and discharges, as well as enforce environmental laws to preserve our waters and prevent future spills. We hope the outcome of this case deters future criminal acts that pollute the marine environment,” stated Captain Bion Stewart, Commander Coast Guard Sector North Carolina.
This case was investigated by U.S. Coast Guard personnel from Coast Guard Sector North Carolina and Coast Guard Investigative Service S/A Derrick (“Rick”) Vachon. This case was prosecuted by Senior Trial Attorney Kenneth E. Nelson from the Environmental Crimes Section, Assistant United States Attorney Banu Rangarajan from the Eastern District of North Carolina, and Special Assistant United States Attorney Brendan Gavin from the U.S. Coast Guard.
Shipping Company Will Pay Million Dollar Fine for Environmental Pollution CrimesRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON—– A Japanese shipping company that delivered steel products to Wilmington, NC, was convicted and sentenced today for obstruction of justice and falsification of an Oil Record Book to cover-up intentional oil pollution from the Motor Vessel (“M/V”) Atlantic Oasis, announced Acting Assistant Attorney General Jeffrey H. Wood and United States Attorney Robert J. Higdon Jr. Nitta Kisen Kaisha Ltd. (“Nitta”) owned and operated the M/V Atlantic Oasis. The prior Chief Engineer, Jihnyun Youn, had previously been convicted and sentenced for falsification of the vessel’s Oil Record Book.
The company admitted that its engineers failed to document the illegal discharge of oily wastes from the vessel’s fuel and lubrication oil purifier systems, as well as discharges of oily bilge waste from the bilge holding tank and from the vessel’s bilges. During a U.S. Coast Guard inspection of the vessel on May 17, 2017, a junior engineering crewmember provided information to the inspectors about how the oily wastes were being discharged by the order of Chief Engineer Youn. The crewmember also showed U.S. Coast Guard inspectors where the hoses that were used for the discharges were hidden. Chief Engineer Youn lied to the inspectors about the existence of a Sounding Log, which is typically used in the industry to record the fluid levels of various tanks in the engine room. By the end of the inspection, Chief Engineer Youn had admitted to ordering the illegal discharges and admitted that there was a Sounding Log.
Nitta was ordered to pay a fine of $1,000,000; placed on probation for a period of three years; and further ordered to implement a court-approved comprehensive Environmental Compliance Plan as a special condition of probation, which will be audited throughout probation. Chief Engineer Youn was placed on probation for one year and ordered to pay a fine of $5,500.00.
“This case demonstrates that those who pollute our oceans and deliberately mislead U.S. Coast Guard Officials will be brought to justice,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Wood. “The Department of Justice will continue to work with our federal law enforcement partners to aggressively prosecute criminals that harm the environment.”
“While the charges in this case rest on the failure of the ship’s crew to properly document the discharge of oily bilge waste, the heart of this case is the illegal discharge itself and the damage that action did to our environment – particularly the spectacular seashores and waterways that are so critical to the Eastern District of North Carolina. We trust that the fines and penalties imposed in this case will act as a deterrent to anyone who would treat our environment as a dumping-ground” said United States Attorney Robert J. Higdon Jr.
“Marine Environmental Protection is a critical mission of the U.S. Coast Guard. We respond to and investigate oil and hazardous material releases and discharges, as well as enforce environmental laws to preserve our waters and prevent future spills. We hope the outcome of this case deters future criminal acts that pollute the marine environment,” stated Captain Bion Stewart, Commander Coast Guard Sector North Carolina.
This case was investigated by U.S. Coast Guard personnel from Coast Guard Sector North Carolina and Coast Guard Investigative Service S/A Derrick (“Rick”) Vachon. This case was prosecuted by Senior Trial Attorney Kenneth E. Nelson from the Environmental Crimes Section, Assistant United States Attorney Banu Rangarajan from the Eastern District of North Carolina, and Special Assistant United States Attorney Brendan Gavin from the U.S. Coast Guard.
Sentencings for May 9 - May 10, 2018Read the Press Release
FULGENSIO FIGUEROA-MENCIA, 44, of Las Loma, Honduras, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on May 10, 2018 for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien into the United States. Figueroa-Mencia was arrested in Laramie, Wyoming. He received time served, plus 10 days, was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and is subject to deportation upon release from custody. This case was investigated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
QUENTIN ELDON OLER, 31, of Glenrock, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on May 9, 2018, for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Oler was sentenced to 33 months of imprisonment, consecutive to the judgment issued from the Seventh Judicial District Court, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Casper Police Department, the Natrona County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime.
Sentencing Hearing Set for Barrero in Federal CourtRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina-------United States Attorney Beth Drake announced today that a sentencing hearing for Ana Milena Barrero, age 24, has been set for Friday morning, May 11, 2018, at 10:00 A.M. in the federal courthouse in Greenville.
The case was investigated by Special Agents with ICE-Homeland Security Investigations, Border Enforcement Security Task Force (BEST), the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office, the Greenville Police Department, and the Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant United States Attorney Andy Moorman, Deputy Criminal Chief for the Narcotics Division, is prosecuting the case.
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Seafood Company Pleads Guilty to Illegal Sale of Blue CrabsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that SHELL BEACH SEAFOOD CO., LLC (“SHELL BEACH SEAFOOD”), a company based in St. Bernard, Louisiana, pled guilty today to a one-count Bill of Information for the illegal sale of blue crabs, in violation of the Lacey Act.
According to the Information, from on or about May 1, 2012 through March 30, 2013, SHELL BEACH SEAFOOD, did knowingly sell and transport blue crabs in interstate commerce with a market value in excess of $350 when, in the exercise of due care, SHELL BEACH SEAFOOD should have known that said blue crabs were acquired and possessed in violation of and in a manner unlawful under the laws of the State of Louisiana, specifically Louisiana Revised Statutes, R.S. 56:306.4, R.S. 56:306.5, and R.S. 56:306.6.
SHELL BEACH SEAFOOD faces a maximum fine of not more than $200,000, and a special assessment of $125.
Sentencing in this matter is scheduled for August 16, 2018, before U.S. District Court Judge Eldon E. Fallon.
The case was investigated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U. S. Attorney Sharan E. Lieberman of the Fraud Section.
Schenectady Man Indicted for Stealing FirearmsRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Christian Roman, age 24, of Schenectady, New York, was indicted today on charges that he stole an array of firearms from a licensed firearms dealer.
The announcement was made by United States Attorney Grant C. Jaquith and Ashan M. Benedict, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
According to the indictment, on October 22, 2017, Roman stole firearms from Target Sports, Inc., a federally licensed firearms dealer in Schenectady County. The stolen firearms included pistols, shotguns, and rifles. The indictment further alleges that Roman possessed, concealed, and stored the stolen firearms through November 1, 2017.
Roman is in custody and will be arraigned at a later date. The charges in the indictment are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
If convicted of all charges, Roman faces up to 20 years in prison, a maximum $500,000 fine, and up to 3 years of post-imprisonment supervised release. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
This case is being investigated by the ATF and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Wayne A. Myers and Joseph A. Giovannetti.
Rochester Woman Previously Convicted of Threatening the President Charged with Threatening A Federal JudgeRead 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 Christine Wright Darrisaw, 42, of Rochester, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with threatening to kill United States District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig R. Gestring, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, the defendant is currently on supervised release following her 2014 conviction for threatening to kill former President Barack Obama. Chief U.S. District Frank P. Geraci, Jr. presided over that case.
On December 15, 2017, Judge Geraci's chambers received two telephone calls from a number connected to the defendant. During both calls, the caller identified herself as Christine Wright Darrisaw. One of the judge’s law clerks answered the first call which came in at approximately 11:25 a.m. The caller was described as speaking quickly, clearly, and changed subjects rapidly and at one point stated “I am calling in a death threat against the Judge.” Wright Darrisaw claimed that two probation officers threatened death against the Judge and then she hung up. A short time later, at 12:01 p.m., the defendant again called Judge Geraci's Chambers which was answered by another law clerk. Wright-Darrisaw once again changed subjects rapidly. During that call, Wright-Darrisaw stated her and her boyfriend decided to "call in a terrorist threat." Wright-Darrisaw then stated “This is a death threat.”
The threats were then reported to the United States Marshal's Office.
The defendant made an initial appearance before U.S. District Judge Brenda K. Sannes of the Northern District of New York in Rochester and is being held pending a hearing on May 24, 2018, at 9:30 a.m.
The complaint is the culmination of an investigation by the United States Marshal's Service, under the direction of Marshal Charles Salina.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Ringleader of Drug Trafficking Organization that Distributed High Grade Marijuana Throughout New Mexico Sentenced for Marijuana Trafficking and Money Laundering ConvictionRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Enrique S. Cavazos, 32, of Tijeras, N.M., was sentenced late yesterday afternoon in federal court in Albuquerque, N.M., to six years in prison followed by three years of supervised release for his conviction on marijuana trafficking and money laundering conspiracy charges. Cavazos also was ordered to forfeit the proceeds of his drug trafficking and money laundering activities, including real estate, vehicles, cash, weapons, and jewelry, valued at more than $1,883,500.
U.S. Attorney John C. Anderson, Special Agent in Charge Terry Wade of the FBI’s Albuquerque Division, Special Agent in Charge Ismael Nevarez, Jr., of the Phoenix Field Office of IRS-Criminal Investigation, and Chief Michael Geier of the Albuquerque Police Department (APD), announced Enrique Cavazos’ sentence.
Enrique Cavazos was arrested in Nov. 2015, after a federal grand jury filed a 26-count indictment charging him, his wife, Lindsey A. Cavazos, 33, and six others with marijuana trafficking and money laundering charges. The indictment was the result of a two-year investigation by the FBI, IRS-Criminal Investigation and APD into a drug trafficking organization led by Enrique Cavazos that distributed high-grade marijuana throughout New Mexico and across the country. The investigation revealed that the Cavazos drug trafficking organization cultivated and purchased high-grade marijuana in California, distributed the marijuana throughout the country, and laundered its drug proceeds through a number of businesses and bank accounts in New Mexico.
According to the indictment, Enrique and Lindsey Cavazos and six co-conspirators participated in a marijuana trafficking conspiracy that existed from at least Jan. 2008 through Nov. 2015, and operated in the District of New Mexico and elsewhere. The indictment alleged that Enrique Cavazos operated his marijuana trafficking business by directing co-conspirators to purchase large quantities of marijuana in California and distribute the marijuana in New Mexico and other destinations across the country. It further alleged that Lindsey Cavazos was responsible for keeping the books on businesses she and her husband established with proceeds from their marijuana trafficking activities and for the purpose of laundering their drug proceeds. The indictment charged the couple with engaging in a money laundering conspiracy and using bank accounts in the names of several of their businesses, including a restaurant and a car dealership, to launder their drug proceeds.
The indictment was superseded in Aug. 2016, to add money laundering charges against three new defendants: Steven Becerra, 62, the owner of the Becerra Group Tax and Accounting Firm in Albuquerque, who previously was employed by the IRS for 18 years; Deborah Gutierrez, 55, who operated Automated Financial Technologies, which is no longer in business; and Glen F. Lucero, 66, a retired school teacher. The superseding indictment also removed Felix Cavazos, Enrique Cavazos’s father who passed away after the original indictment was filed, from the list of defendants.
On May 24, 2017, Enrique Cavazos pled guilty to a drug trafficking conspiracy charge and a money laundering conspiracy charge. In his plea agreement, Cavazos admitted participating in a conspiracy to distribute marijuana between Jan. 2008 and Nov. 2015, and acknowledged that the conspiracy included the cultivation, shipment and sale of marijuana to wholesalers and end-use customers. Enrique Cavazos also admitted conspiring with others from Jan. 2009 through Nov. 2015, to launder the cash proceeds from his marijuana distribution conspiracy, and engaging in numerous financial transactions using his drug proceeds, which were designed to conceal the nature, source and ownership of the illegal proceeds.
Also on May 24, 2017, Lindsey Cavazos entered a guilty plea to a money laundering conspiracy charge. In her plea agreement, she admitted that from Jan. 2009 through Nov. 2015, she conspired with others to launder the cash proceeds from marijuana distribution. Like her husband, Lindsey Cavazos admitted engaging in numerous financial transactions using drug proceeds, which were designed to conceal the nature, source and ownership of the illegal proceeds. Lindsey Cavazos’ plea agreement recommends that she be sentenced to a five-year term of probation. A sentencing hearing for Lindsey Cavazos has not been scheduled.
As part of their plea agreements, the Cavazos agreed to forfeit property derived, either directly or indirectly, from proceeds obtained from their drug trafficking and money laundering activities including:
- The Tijeras, N.M., residence of Enrique and Lindsey Cavazos, valued at $468,000;
- Two parcels of real property located on Grand Avenue in Las Vegas, N.M., valued at $227,032;
- A parcel of real property located on 12th Street in Las Vegas, N.M., valued at $42,500;
- A parcel of real property located on Grant Street in Las Vegas, N.M., valued at $50,000;
- A parcel of real estate located at 8th Street and Sperry Street in Las Vegas, N.M., valued at $229,000;
- The funds, totaling approximately $104,513.21, in nine bank accounts in the names of companies owned and controlled by Enrique and Lindsey Cavazos;
- 18 vehicles with an aggregate value of $177,500;
- Two Rolex watches valued at $35,600;
- Three pieces of sapphire and diamond jewelry owned by Lindsey Cavazos valued at $1,025.33;
- $473,040 in cash; and
- The fixtures and equipment from Café Bien, a restaurant formerly located on Central Avenue, SW, in Albuquerque, N.M., that was owned and operated by Enrique and Lindsey Cavazos.
Two of the Cavazos’ co-defendants have entered guilty pleas, and one has been sentenced. Antonio Ruelas, 33, of Rio Rancho, N.M., pled guilty on Sept. 8, 2017, and was sentenced on May 2, 2018, to 30 months in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release. Daniel Nieto, 40, of Carlsbad, N.M., pled guilty on May 25, 2017, and is scheduled for sentencing on May 24, 2018.
The remaining six defendants, who have entered not guilty pleas to the superseding indictment, are pending trial, which has yet to be scheduled. Charges in indictments are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent unless found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
The investigation of this case was designated as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program, a program that combines the resources and unique expertise of federal agencies, along with their local counterparts, in a coordinated effort to disrupt and dismantle major drug trafficking organizations. It was conducted by the Albuquerque offices of the FBI and IRS Criminal Investigation and the APD. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennifer M. Rozzoni, Timothy S. Vasquez and Joel R. Meyers are prosecuting the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen R. Kotz is handling the forfeiture matters.
Resident of Quechee, Vermont, Pleads Guilty to Filing False Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Kurt Devoid, 60, of Quechee, Vermont, pleaded guilty in federal court today to filing false income tax returns, announced United States Attorney Scott W. Murray.
According to court documents, Devoid is a self-employed painter. Devoid’s personal federal income tax returns for tax years 2010 through 2013 were prepared by a commercial tax preparation office in Lebanon, New Hampshire. On the returns, Devoid reported income he received from commercial customers of his painting business, but failed to report substantial income he received from his residential customers. Devoid’s failure to report the true amount of his personal income during the four year period caused a tax loss of $98,482 to the United States Treasury.
DeVoid will be sentenced on August 22, 2018.
“The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to working with the IRS to enforce the federal tax laws,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “This prosecution demonstrates that those who submit false or fraudulent tax returns will be held criminally responsible for their actions.”
“The American tax system is designed to provide vital government services to our citizens. It is not a slush fund for tax evaders,” said Kristina O’Connell, Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation’s Boston Field Office. “Those who illegally target our nation’s tax dollars for personal financial gain could face criminal prosecution and lengthy prison sentences."
The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert M. Kinsella.
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RSK Gang Members Sentenced to Lengthy Prison Terms for Conspiracy to Commit Acts of Racketeering, Including Murder, Kidnapping, Drug Trafficking, and Other OffensesRead the Press Release
PHOENIX – Yesterday afternoon, Devan Edward Leonard, 28, Kyle Filbert Gray, 26, and Lucille Jean Leonard, 48, members of the Navajo Nation, of Lukachukai, Ariz., were sentenced by United States District Judge David G. Campbell following their respective guilty pleas to RICO conspiracy for their participation in the violent Red Skin Kingz (“RSK”) criminal gang. Devan Leonard, the leader of RSK, was sentenced to 50 years’ imprisonment; Kyle Gray was sentenced to 30 years’ imprisonment; and Lucille Leonard was sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment.
Acting Assistant Attorney General John P. Cronan of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Elizabeth A. Strange, First Assistant United States Attorney for the District of Arizona, FBI Special Agent in Charge Michael DeLeon, District of Arizona, and Colonel Frank Milstead, Arizona Department of Public Safety announced the sentencings. FBI Special Agent in Charge Michael DeLeon also expressed his appreciation to the Navajo Nation Department of Public Safety and the Arizona Department for Public Safety for their partnership and significant assistance during the investigation.
“The investigation and prosecution of these RSK gang members required tremendous work by FBI, Arizona DPS, Navajo Nation DPS, and the prosecution team,” stated First Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth A. Strange. “I applaud their dedication and perseverance in obtaining the sentences imposed today. This case is a testament to our office’s commitment to use every available resource to combat gang violence in Arizona and to bring justice to the victims of violent crime.”
As detailed in the Second Superseding Indictment, Devan Leonard, Kyle Gray, and Lucille Leonard are members of the RSK. RSK operated on the eastern side of the Navajo Nation in the District of Arizona. RSK was responsible for at least three murders, attempted murder, aggravated assaults, carjacking, kidnappings, sexual assaults, and drug trafficking, amongst other crimes.
On or between Dec. 12 and Dec. 13, 2014, Devan Leonard and another RSK member shot and killed two men and then transported their bodies to a remote “wash” in Lukachukai, Ariz., on the Navajo Indian Reservation, where the bodies were dismembered, burned, and buried to conceal the killings.
On Dec. 16, 2014, Kyle Gray and Devan Leonard shot and killed another victim immediately following a drug trafficking transaction. Later, Devan Leonard and Kyle Gray transported the victim’s body to a remote sheep camp on the reservation, where they dismembered and burned the victim’s body as they forced the victim’s girlfriend to watch.
Lucille Leonard held a leadership role in RSK, mostly participating in and overseeing RSK’s drug trafficking activities, including the collection of debts owed to RSK.
The Second Superseding Indictment in this matter was the result of an investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Arizona Department of Public Safety, the Navajo Nation Department of Public Safety, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona, and the Criminal Division’s Organized Crime and Gang Section. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Dimitra Sampson and Tracy Van Buskirk of the District of Arizona, and Trial Attorneys Kelly Pearson and Hans Miller of the Criminal Division’s Organized Crime and Gang Section, prosecuted the case.
CASE NUMBER: CR-15-8076-PCT-DGC (JZB)
RELEASE NUMBER: 2018-061_ RSK
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For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.
RSK Gang Members Sentenced to Lengthy Prison Terms for Conspiracy to Commit Acts of Racketeering, Including Murder, Kidnapping, Drug Trafficking and Other OffensesRead the Press Release
On May 9, three members of Red Skin Kingz, also known as RSK, were sentenced to prison following their respective guilty pleas to RICO conspiracy for their participation in the violent RSK criminal street gang.
Devan Edward Leonard, 28, of Lukachukai, Arizona, the leader of RSK, was sentenced to 50 years in prison; Kyle Filbert Gray, 26, of Lukachukai, Arizona, was sentenced to 30 years in prison; and Lucille Jean Leonard, 48, of Lukachukai, Arizona, was sentenced to 10 years in prison. All defendants were sentenced by U.S. District Judge David G. Campbell in the District of Arizona
Acting Assistant Attorney General John P. Cronan of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, First Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth A. Strange for the District of Arizona, Special Agent in Charge Michael DeLeon of FBI’s Phoenix Field Office and Colonel Frank Milstead of the Arizona Department of Public Safety announced the sentencings. The Navajo Nation Department of Public Safety also provided significant assistance during the investigation.
As detailed in their three plea agreements, Devan Leonard, Kyle Gray, and Lucille Leonard are members of the RSK. RSK operated on the eastern side of the Navajo Nation in the District of Arizona. RSK was responsible for at least three murders, attempted murder, aggravated assaults, kidnappings, and drug trafficking, amongst other crimes.
On or between Dec. 12 and Dec. 13, 2014, Devan Leonard and another RSK member shot and killed two men, in Lukachukai, Arizona on the Navajo Indian Reservation, where the bodies were dismembered, burned and buried, to conceal the killings.
On Dec. 16, 2014, Kyle Gray and Devan Leonard shot and killed another victim immediately following a drug trafficking transaction. Later, Devan Leonard and Kyle Gray transported the victim’s body to a remote sheep camp on the reservation, where they dismembered, and burned the victim’s body.
Lucille Leonard held a leadership role in RSK, mostly participating in and overseeing RSK’s drug trafficking organization, including the collection of debts owed to RSK.
The second superseding indictment in this matter was the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI, the Arizona Department of Public Safety, the Navajo Nation Department of Public Safety, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona, and the Criminal Division’s Organized Crime and Gang Section. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Dimitra Sampson and Tracy Van Buskirk of the District of Arizona, and Trial Attorneys Kelly Pearson and Hans Miller of the Criminal Division’s Organized Crime and Gang Section prosecuted the case.
Quitman Sex Offender Has Supervised Release Revoked for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
VALDOSTA: Charles E. Peeler, United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia, announces that on May 9, 2018, Senior United States District Court Judge Hugh Lawson revoked the Supervised Release for Ferrell Walker, age 50, of Quitman, Georgia and ordered him to serve sixty (60) months in the Bureau of Prisons following a two-day hearing.
Mr. Walker was convicted of Possession of Child Pornography in 2005 and sentenced to serve ten (10) years in prison. In May 2014, he was released on Supervised Release and the conditions of release were explained to him. A petition filed on November 16, 2017 alleged several violations including that on September 20, 2017, Mr. Walker committed the offense of Possession of Child Pornography in Brooks County, Georgia, as evidenced by child pornography images recovered from a Samsung cellular telephone (smart phone) found in his possession during a search conducted by the U.S. Probation Office.
At the conclusion of the hearing, the Court found that Walker had committed all the violations of supervised release including the offense of Possession of Child Pornography.
The case was investigated by United States Probation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Julia C. Bowen and Leah E. McEwen prosecuted the case for the United States.
Questions concerning this case should be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603.
Previously convicted felon sentenced to more than 3 years in prison for illegal possession of a firearmRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – United States Attorney David C. Joseph announced that a Shreveport man was sentenced Tuesday to 37 months in prison for illegal possession of a firearm.
Alvin Kincerely Law Jr., 30, of Shreveport, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Elizabeth E. Foote on one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. He was also sentenced to three years of supervised release. According to the January 25, 2018 guilty plea, a Shreveport Police officer conducted a traffic stop on a red pickup truck Law was driving on June 26, 2017. Before the truck came to a stop, the officer saw a black object being tossed out of the driver’s side window. A firearm was later retrieved and was found to be a Lorcin, Mira Loma, CA, USA, model: L380, .380 caliber pistol. Law has a 2011 felony conviction for possession of marijuana, fourth offense and cannot legally possess a firearm.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The ATF and Shreveport Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney J. Aaron Crawford prosecuted the case.
Owner of Harris Therapy, Inc. Convicted on Healthcare Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
HONOLULU – A federal jury today found Sheila Harris, 53, of Honolulu, guilty of wire fraud, aggravated identity theft, and false statements involving healthcare matters for her role in submitting false claims and documents to TRICARE, a federal health benefits program serving military families. Harris owned and operated Harris Therapy, Inc., which provided therapeutic services, including speech, physical, and occupational therapy, on Oahu. The jury verdict came one day after a ten-day trial.
According to information presented in court, from 2008 to 2012, Harris submitted false claims and documents to TRICARE for payment for speech therapy services that were not performed. On the claims, Harris falsified dates of services and the treating speech therapy provider. Three Speech Language Pathologists who treated patients for Harris Therapy during this timeframe testified at trial that Harris directed them to create false invoices and false therapy notes for dates when no speech therapy treatment took place. During an audit of Harris Therapy, Harris directed others to alter and falsify therapy notes that were then submitted to TRICARE. In all, the scheme to defraud involved over $339,628 of false speech therapy services billed to TRICARE for non-existent treatment dates. It also involved 2,117 dates of service billed to TRICARE falsely using the name of a therapist as the treating provider who was on maternity leave at the time the services were supposedly provided.
“Rooting out health care fraud is critical to protecting the integrity of the health care system as a whole,” said U.S. Attorney Kenji M. Price. “TRICARE provides valuable health benefits to military families, and we are committed to vigorously prosecuting all providers who try to undermine our healthcare delivery systems by defrauding the government.”
“Health care fraud is a serious offense that costs Americans billions of dollars” said Chris D. Hendrickson, Special Agent in Charge, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, Western Field Office. “These crimes affect real people and erode the trust that should exist between a patient and their health care provider. DCIS and our law enforcement partners are committed and determined to doing everything it takes to ensure the health care system works for military families – and not those, whether health care providers or others, who seek to abuse the system.”
Harris was convicted of eleven counts of wire fraud, two counts of aggravated identity theft, and four counts of false statements relating to healthcare matters. Harris will face a mandatory term of two years in prison for aggravated identity theft, up to twenty years in prison for each count of wire fraud, and up to five years in prison for each count of false statements relating to health care matters when she is sentenced on August 20, 2018, by Senior U.S. District Judge Helen Gillmor.
The investigation was led by Defense Criminal Investigative Service and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rebecca Perlmutter and Gregg Paris Yates handled the prosecution.