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10 May 2018
Dove Springs Gangstas Member Sentenced to Federal Prison for Racketeering Offenses Resulting in MurderRead the Press Release
In Austin, a federal judge sentenced 22-year-old member of the Dove Springs Gangstas (aka “DSG”) member Richard Ortega to 30 years in federal prison followed by five years of supervised release for racketeering charges associated with the kidnapping and murder of Darian Longoria in December 2015 announced United States Attorney John F. Bash, Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Christopher Combs, San Antonio Division, and Austin Police Chief Brian Manley.
“Today is one more step on the long road to justice for Darian Longoria. My office is committed to achieving the Attorney General’s goal of stamping out gang violence,” stated United States Attorney John F. Bash.
On January 22, 2018, Ortega pleaded guilty to one count of kidnapping in aid of racketeering, one count of conspiracy to commit kidnapping in aid of racketeering and one count of possession/use/carrying a firearm in relation to a crime of violence resulting in murder. By pleading guilty, Ortega admitted to membership in a criminal enterprise that engaged in acts of violence, including murder, attempted murder, robbery and narcotics distribution primarily in and around Austin. Ortega also admitted that he and others kidnapped 16-year-old Darian Longoria on or about December 7, 2015, in furtherance of their criminal enterprise. During the kidnapping, they shot and killed Longoria. On January 3, 2016, Longoria’s body was discovered along Onion Creek.
To date, eight individuals have pleaded guilty to federal charges in connection with the investigation into this criminal enterprise. Ortega is the seventh defendant in this case to be sentenced. Other sentences handed down include: Orlando Arroyo (aka “Orly”)-20 years imprisonment; Jorge Avliez-Mondragon (aka “Bunny”, “Conejo”)--42 months imprisonment; Norma Luis-Frias--12 months imprisonment; Jacob Guzman--30 months imprisonment; Leslie Mendez-Munoz--21 months imprisonment; and Kathia Gomez—one year probation. In addition to the prison terms, United States District Judge Sam Sparks ordered that Ortega and Arroyo pay, jointly and severally, $10,551.73 restitution to the Estate of Darian Longoria for funeral expenses. Brian Aguayo, who pleaded guilty last November to one count of kidnapping in aid of racketeering and one count of conspiracy to commit kidnapping in aid of racketeering, remains in federal custody awaiting sentencing. Aguayo, who is set for sentencing on June 22, 2018, faces up to life in federal prison.
“The tragic murder of 16-year-old Darian Longoria illustrates the horrific impact gang violence and drug trafficking have on our families and communities,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Christopher Combs. “Today, the leader of this violent criminal enterprise responsible for this act faced the consequences of his actions. The FBI, through the Violent Gang Safe Streets Task Force initiative, which includes our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, are committed to fighting for justice for all victims of gang and drug violence.”
The FBI Safe Streets Task Force and the Austin Police Department investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorneys Matt Harding and Dan Guess are prosecuting this case on behalf of the Government. The FBI Safe Streets Task Force is comprised of investigators from the Austin Police Department, Texas Department of Public Safety and Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Enforcement and Removal Operations (ICE ERO).
Doctor Sentenced to Two Years in Prison for Taking Bribes in Test-Referral Scheme with New Jersey Clinical LabRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A Monmouth County doctor with practices in Colts Neck, New Jersey, and Staten Island, New York, was sentenced today to 24 months in prison for accepting bribes in exchange for test referrals as part of a long-running and elaborate scheme operated by Biodiagnostic Laboratory Services LLC (BLS), of Parsippany, New Jersey, its president and numerous associates, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.
Ralph Messo, 56, of Colts Neck, New Jersey, previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Stanley R. Chesler to an information charging him with one count of accepting bribes. Judge Chesler imposed the sentence today in Newark federal court.
According to documents filed in this and related cases and statements made in court:
Messo admitted he accepted bribes in return for referring patient blood specimens to BLS and was paid approximately $3,000 per month. Messo’s referrals generated at least $828,000 in lab business for BLS.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Chesler sentenced Messo to two years of supervised release and fined him $4,000.
The investigation has thus far resulted in 53 convictions – 38 of them doctors – in connection with the bribery scheme, which its organizers have admitted involved millions of dollars in bribes and resulted in more than $100 million in payments to BLS from Medicare and various private insurance companies. It is believed to be the largest number of medical professionals ever prosecuted in a bribery case.
The investigation has to date recovered more than $13 million through forfeiture. On June 28, 2016, BLS, which is no longer operational, pleaded guilty and was required to forfeit all of its assets.
U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Gregory W. Ehrie in Newark; inspectors of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, under the direction of Acting Inspector in Charge Ruth M. Mendonca; IRS–Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Bryant Jackson in Newark; and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Scott J. Lampert, with the ongoing investigation.
The government is represented by Senior Litigation Counsel Joseph N. Minish, Assistant U.S. Attorney Danielle Alfonzo Walsman and Jacob T. Elberg, Chief of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Health Care and Government Fraud Unit in Newark, as well as Assistant U.S. Attorney Barbara Ward, of the office’s Asset Forfeiture and Money Laundering Unit.
Daniel Delvalle, Member of Bronx Drug Crew, Sentenced for Murder of Kenya MillerRead the Press Release
Geoffrey S. Berman, United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that DANIEL DELVALLE, a/k/a “BD,” a/k/a “Danny,” 31, was sentenced today by United States District Judge Naomi Reice Buchwald to a term of 156 months in prison for his participation in the murder of Kenya Miller, 26, on June 29, 2010. The sentence imposed by Judge Buchwald will be served consecutively to the 120-month prison term imposed on DELVALLE on June 4, 2014, by United States District Judge William H. Pauley III, for DELVALLE’s participation in a conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine.
United States Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman said: “Daniel Delvalle was responsible for the murder of 26-year-old Kenya Miller. As a result of that horrible and senseless crime, he will spend 23 years in prison. We thank our law enforcement partners for their outstanding efforts, and we will continue to work with them to keep our communities safe.”
According to the Indictment, and other documents filed in the case, as well as statements made during the sentencing proceedings:
Between approximately 2006 and 2012, two rival drug crews based their operations in and around the E. Roberts Moore Houses (the “Moore Houses”) in the vicinity of Cauldwell and Concord Avenues in the Bronx, New York. One such crew was headed by DELVALLE. Members of the DELVALLE crew primarily sold crack cocaine supplied to them by DELVALLE. Members of the DELVALLE crew also possessed and used firearms in order to protect themselves and their drug territory, and they were responsible for a number of drug-related shootings in the area.
On June 29, 2010, Miller was killed by a member of the DELVALLE crew (“CC-1”). Miller’s murder was ordered by DELVALLE, who had been upset with Miller for allegedly assaulting members of the DELVALLE crew. As a result, on the day of the murder, when DELVALLE saw Miller in the vicinity of the Moore Houses, DELVALLE told CC-1, in substance and in part, to retrieve a firearm and to kill Miller. CC-1 followed those instructions: CC-1 retrieved a gun belonging to the DELVALLE crew, followed Miller into an apartment building, and then shot Miller several times in an elevator.
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Mr. Berman praised the work of the New York City Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
The case is being handled by the Office’s Violent and Organized Crime Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Justina Geraci and Matthew Laroche are in charge of the prosecution.
Convicted Sex Offender Detained on New Child Porn ChargeRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas - A 64-year-old Corpus Christi resident has been charged with possession of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.
Today, U.S. Magistrate Judge B. Janice Ellington ordered Manuel Diaz detained pending further criminal proceedings.
The criminal complaint filed April 27, 2018, alleges that in July 2017, Diaz was at a pharmacy printing photographs of nude children from a flash drive. A forensic examination allegedly resulted in the discovery of child erotica and child pornography images of children as young as 12-years-old. Law enforcement also discovered more than 750 images and 100 videos of child pornography, according to the charges. The criminal complaint further alleges Diaz has a prior conviction related to a sex offense.
If convicted, Diaz faces a minimum of 10 years and up to 20 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and Corpus Christi Police Department’s – Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force conducted the investigation with the assistance of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Hugo R. Martinez is prosecuting the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
A criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence.
A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.Convicted Felon Sent to Prison on Firearms ChargeRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas - A 35-year-old Corpus Christi man has been ordered to federal prison following his conviction of being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick. Adam Lee Rodriguez pleaded guilty Feb. 1, 2018.
Today, U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos sentenced Rodriguez to 63 months imprisonment to be followed by three years of supervised release.
In July 2017, officers detained Rodriguez for violating a park curfew. While speaking with the officers, Rodriguez gave consent to search his vehicle, at which time authorities discovered a loaded 9mm semi-automatic handgun under his seat. Rodriguez had previously been convicted in state court for numerous felonies and is prohibited by federal law from possessing firearms and ammunition.
Rodriguez was taken into federal custody in December 2017 as part of Operation City Shield, an coordinated federal, state and local law enforcement operation designed to identify violent offenders, stop gun violence and protect the community.
Rodriguez will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be designated in the near future.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Corpus Christi Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lance Watt is prosecuting the case.
Cleveland man sentenced to more than 11 years in prison for selling fentanyl and heroin that caused death of Cleveland Heights manRead the Press Release
A Cleveland man was sentenced to more than 11 years in prison for selling a mixture of fentanyl and heroin that resulted in the death of a Cleveland Heights man.
Michael Cleveland, 35, was sentenced 135 months in prison after previously pleading guilty to distribution of fentanyl and heroin resulting in death.
Cleveland sold a mixture of fentanyl and heroin to a 46-year-old Cleveland Heights man that resulted in that man’s overdose death on Aug. 3, 2016, according to court documents.
“This defendant sold drugs that directly resulted in a death,” Herdman said. “We will continue to seek long prison sentences for drug dealers who kill and injure our friends and neighbors.”
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Cleveland Heights Police Department and the Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Marisa T. Darden.
Cleveland man sentenced to federal prison for defrauding investors of more than $1 millionRead the Press Release
GAINESVILLE, Ga. - Elmer Swain Stewart was sentenced to federal prison on charges that he defrauded 18 individuals of more than $1 million after he persuaded them to invest their retirement savings in tracts of timber land.
“Stewart’s victims trusted him with much of their retirement savings and gave him thousands of dollars to invest,” said U.S. Attorney Byung J. “BJay” Pak. “In return, this greedy defendant stole from his investors and used their money to fund his lavish lifestyle.”
“Instead of living comfortably off their well-earned retirement investments, Stewart’s greed has caused these victims to worry about their future well-being,” said David J. LeValley, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “The sentencing of Stewart will not make these victims whole again, but hopefully it sends a message that the FBI will continue to make it a priority to root out and punish anyone who preys on investors for their own selfish desires.”
According to U.S. Attorney Pak, the charges and other information presented in court: Stewart represented to potential investors that he was aware of tracts of land in Georgia and other states that had large timber stands that were available to harvest at auction to the highest bidder. Stewart told investors that he would give them the opportunity to invest with him in bidding on these timber tracts. Stewart told the investors they would need to give him earnest money or a down payment for the bid. If they won the bid, Stewart would then re-sell the timber rights for a profit or arrange to harvest the timber on the land for a profit. Stewart claimed that if he did not win the bid, the investors’ money would be returned. None of the investors received written confirmation or documentation that the bids were submitted or that the bids were accepted.
Stewart’s representations that he would use his investors’ money as earnest money or down payments on timber bids were fraudulent. Instead, Stewart used the investors’ money to pay for a lavish lifestyle for himself that he could not otherwise afford. Stewart lived on a horse farm valued at $1.5 million that he falsely claimed he owned. The investors’ money was used to pay rent on the property and for basic living expenses. He also used the money for trips to Alaska, Hawaii, and other places.
When investors demanded Stewart return their money, the defendant falsely told the investors that he had rolled the money over into another timber bid or that their money had not been returned to him. Based on Stewart’s false representations, investors gave Stewart anywhere from $5,000 to $50,000 per timber bid, totaling more than $1 million.
Elmer Swain Stewart, 67, of Cleveland, Georgia, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Richard W. Story to two years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $218,000. Stewart pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud on December 8, 2017.
“Swain Stewart swindled over $1 million from my husband and me and at least seventeen other victims,” said one of the victims. “Stewart used our money and the other investors’ money to take Hawaiian vacations, fishing trips to Alaska, and hunting trips out West. In doing so, he devastated our retirement and the retirements of many other people. Stewart’s actions demonstrate nothing but greed. I don’t know how he sleeps at night. What a legacy to leave for your family!”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys William L. McKinnon, Jr. and John Ghose prosecuted the case.
For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at [email protected] or (404) 581-6016. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.
Canton Man Sentenced for Selling CocaineRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Canton man was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for selling cocaine.
Jerry Orozco, 44, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Rya W. Zobel to eight months in prison and six years of supervised release. In February 2018, Orozco pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine and distribution of cocaine.
On Feb. 16, 2017, Orozco was caught on video in a sting operation selling 5.8 grams of cocaine to a witness working with government agents. The witness paid Orozco $200 in exchange for the cocaine. The transaction occurred in a parking lot at the intersection of Columbia Road and Harvard Street in Boston.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling; Mickey D. Leadingham, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Field Division; and Boston Police Commissioner William Evans made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christine Wichers of Lelling’s Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case.
California Man Arrested for Hacking Websites for the Combating Terrorism Center at West Point and the New York City ComptrollerRead the Press Release
Geoffrey S. Berman, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and William F. Sweeney Jr., the Assistant Director-in-Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), announced today the arrest of BILLY RIBEIRO ANDERSON, a/k/a “Anderson Albuquerque,” a/k/a “AlfabetoVirtual.” ANDERSON was charged with three separate counts of computer fraud for obtaining unauthorized access to and committing defacements of the websites for the Combating Terrorism Center at the United States Military Academy in West Point, New York (“West Point”), and the Office of the New York City Comptroller (the “NYC Comptroller”). ANDERSON was arrested earlier this morning at his residence in Torrance, California, and will be presented later today in federal court in Los Angeles, California.
U.S. Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman said: “Billy Anderson allegedly used specialized computer skills and knowledge to hack important U.S. military and government websites, as well as over 11,000 other websites around the world. Thanks to the outstanding work of the FBI’s cyber squads, criminals who compromise the integrity of government websites and network infrastructure will continue to be investigated vigorously and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
Assistant Director-in-Charge William F. Sweeney Jr. said: “Among other possible effects, website defacements can disrupt an organization’s operations and damage its credibility. As alleged, Anderson committed more than 11,000 such acts over several years, impacting a wide spectrum of military, government and business entities. The charges filed against Anderson should serve as a reminder that committing these acts of cyber vandalism will not be tolerated.”
According to the allegations contained in the Complaint[1] unsealed today:
Website defacements are acts of computer intrusion during which a hacker obtains unauthorized access to computers hosting Internet websites and then replaces the publicly available contents of the website with content generated by the hacker, thereby “defacing” the website. Hackers frequently claim responsibility for defacements by listing their online pseudonyms as part of the defaced content.
From in or about 2015 through at least March 13, 2018, ANDERSON took responsibility for obtaining unauthorized access to, and committing more than 11,000 defacements of, various U.S. military, government, and business websites around the world under the online pseudonym “AlfabetoVirtual,” including websites for the Combating Terrorism Center at West Point and the NYC Comptroller.
On or about July 10, 2015, a website owned by the NYC Comptroller was defaced, and ANDERSON, using the online pseudonym “AlfabetoVirtual,” claimed responsibility for the intrusion and defacement. The contents of the NYC Comptroller website were modified to display the text “Hacked by AlfabetoVirtual,” “#FREEPALESTINE” and “#FREEGAZA.” The defacement was performed by exploiting security vulnerabilities associated with the version of a plugin being used on the website.
On or about October 4, 2016, a website for the Combating Terrorism Center at West Point was defaced, and ANDERSON, using the online pseudonym “AlfabetoVirtual,” claimed responsibility for the intrusion and defacement. The content of the Combating Terrorism Center website was modified to display the text “Hacked by AlfabetoVirtual.” The defacement was performed by an unauthorized administrative account that exploited a known cross-site script vulnerability, thereby enabling ANDERSON to bypass access controls and target an internal Combating Terrorism Center website address.
ANDERSON also committed unauthorized intrusions of thousands of web servers located around the world by surreptitiously installing malicious code on victim web servers that provided ANDERSON with administrative rights to the victimized web servers, thereby enabling ANDERSON to commit defacements and otherwise to maintain persistent unauthorized access to the victimized web servers.
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ANDERSON, 41, of Torrance, California, is charged with two counts of computer fraud for causing damage to a protected computer, each of which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, and one count of computer fraud for unauthorized access to a United States Government computer, which carries a maximum sentence of one year in prison. The maximum potential sentences are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge.
Mr. Berman praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI. Mr. Berman also thanked the Computer Crime Investigative Unit of the United States Army Criminal Investigation Command and the Brazilian Federal Police Cyber Crime Unit for their assistance with the investigation.
The prosecution of this case is being handled by the Office’s Complex Frauds and Cybercrime Unit. Assistant United States Attorney Sagar K. Ravi is in charge of the prosecution.
The charges contained in the Complaint are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
[1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Complaint and the description of the Complaint set forth below constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.
Buffalo Man Pleads Guilty to Beating A WitnessRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Eric Taylor, 35, of Buffalo, NY, pleaded guilty to conspiring to retaliate against a witness, and retaliating against a witness before Senior U.S. District Judge William M. Skretny. The charges carries a maximum penalty of 40 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura A. Higgins, who is handling the case, stated that on October 11, 2014, the defendant approached the victim at a convenience store in Lackawanna and told the victim that Reuben Fears, a co-defendant in the Project Boys drug case, wanted to see the victim at the Gates Housing Project in Lackawanna. As the victim followed Taylor to the location, Taylor gave a verbal signal to co-defendant Sharon Thompson by singing a rap song. Sharon Thompson then jumped out from behind a dumpster and assaulted the victim by punching the victim in the back of the head knocking the victim down to the concrete. Taylor then joined in the assault and struck the victim on the other side of the head. The victim lost consciousness, had swelling and contusions on the head and neck area, and required stitches.
Taylor and Thompson attacked the victim following the arrest of Laron Thompson, another co-defendant in the Project Boys drug case, on a drug charge the day before on October 10, 2014. The Project Boys blamed the victim for that arrest. Eric Taylor and Sharon Thompson planned a retaliation and Taylor took the victim’s cell phone while the victim was unconscious to check for evidence of cooperation with law enforcement officers.Reuben Fears, Laron Thompson, Sharon Thompson, and 17 others were indicted in December 2014 for engaging in narcotics trafficking in the Gates Housing Project, a housing facility owned and operated by the Lackawanna Municipal Housing Authority. Laron Thompson and Sharon Thompson were previously convicted and are awaiting sentencing. Charges are pending against Reuben Fears. 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.
Taylor’s plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Gary Loeffert, and the Lackawanna Police Department, under the direction of Chief James Michel.
Sentencing is scheduled for August 15, 2018, before Judge Skretny.Bridgeport Man Sentenced to 4 Years in Prison for Distributing Heroin and Fentanyl to Overdose VictimRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that PERRY DeSHAZO, also known as “Hov” and “Amafia Hov,” 27, of Bridgeport, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jeffery A. Meyer in New Haven to 48 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for distributing heroin and fentanyl to an overdose victim in 2016.
This matter stems from an ongoing statewide initiative targeting narcotics dealers who distribute heroin, fentanyl or opioids that cause death or serious injury to users.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on December 2, 2016, at approximately 1:35 a.m., Bridgeport Police responded to St. Vincent’s Medical Center after a report of a suspicious death. Hospital staff told officers that a 40-year old female had been dropped off at the hospital and was dead upon arrival.
The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner subsequently determined that the victim’s death was caused by “acute intoxication due to the combined effects of fentanyl, heroin and alcohol.”
The investigation, which included witness interviews and analysis of cell phone records and social media sites, revealed that DeSHAZO supplied the narcotics consumed by the victim shortly before her death.
DeSHAZO has been detained since his arrest on July 17, 2017. On January 2, 2018, he pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of heroin and fentanyl.
DeSHAZO’s criminal history includes multiple convictions, and he was on state probation at the time of this offense.
This matter was investigated by the DEA New Haven Task Force and the Bridgeport Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jocelyn Courtney Kaoutzanis and Peter Markle.
Baytown Resident Heads to Prison for Multiple Child Pornography CrimesRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 50-year-old man from Baytown has been ordered to federal prison for possession, receipt and distribution of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan Patrick. Marlin Louis Carman, of Baytown, pleaded guilty Feb. 16, 2018.
Today, U.S. District Judge Sim Lake sentenced him to 120 each for the charges, respectively. The sentences will run concurrently. Carman was further ordered to pay $15,300 special assessments and will serve 10 years on supervised release following completion of his prison term, during which time he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. He will also be ordered to register as a sex offender.
Carman first came to the attention of law enforcement in September 2013 after multiple images of child pornography were found associated with his online email account. At the conclusion of the investigation, authorities discovered Carman was communicating with an email account holder in New York to obtain child pornography and later conducted a search of his residence, phone and email accounts, leading to the discovery of 3,090 videos and 13,519 images. Some of the images are of known victims identified through the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
Carman admitted ownership of the child pornography as well as the phone and email account he used to obtain it.
At the time of his plea, he admitted to using email to communicate with other individuals to search for, download and obtain child pornography. He also admitted to distributing the child pornography through his online account.
Following the plea hearing, Judge Lake revoked Carman’s bond and ordered him into custody where he will remain pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The FBI conducted the investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie N. Searle is prosecuting the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
Baltimore Police Commissioner Charged with Failure to File TaxesRead the Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact ELIZABETH MORSE
www.justice.gov/usao/md at (410) 209-4885
Baltimore, Maryland – Darryl De Sousa, age 53, of Baltimore, Maryland was charged by federal criminal information today with three misdemeanor counts of failure to file a U.S. Individual Tax Return.
The information was announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Robert K. Hur; Acting Special Agent in Charge Kelly R. Jackson of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Division, and Special Agent in Charge Gordon B. Johnson of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Baltimore Field Office.
According to the information, De Sousa willfully failed to file a federal return for tax years 2013, 2014, and 2015, despite having been a salaried employee of the Baltimore Police Department in each of those years.
De Sousa faces a maximum sentence of one year in prison and a $25,000 fine for each of the three counts.
De Sousa currently serves as the Police Commissioner for the Baltimore City Police Department.
An information is not a finding of guilt. An individual charged by information is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty at some later criminal proceedings.
United States Attorney Robert K. Hur commended the IRS and the FBI for their work in the investigation. Mr. Hur thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Leo Wise, Derek Hines, and Sean Delaney, who are prosecuting the case.
Attorney General Sessions and U.S. Attorney Jaquith Recognize Law Enforcement Service and Sacrifice During National Police WeekRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Attorney General Sessions and U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of New York Grant C. Jaquith 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.”
“For 29 years it has been my privilege to work closely with the men and women who serve as law enforcement officers in the Northern District of New York,” said United States Attorney Jaquith. “I have seen first-hand their selfless service and daily dedication to safeguarding our communities, securing our rights and freedoms, solving crimes, and saving lives. With reverence and gratitude, we pay tribute to New York State Police Trooper Joel Davis, who was killed in Jefferson County in 2017, and all those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for public safety and security. And we honor the professionalism, vigilance, and courage of the blue line continuing to confront danger so the rest of us are protected. Police Week pays homage to these true public servants.”
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 15 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, D.C., 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 p.m. EDT on May 13. To register for this free online event, visit www.LawMemorial.org/webcast.
One Northern District of New York officer was added this year: New York State Police Trooper Joel Davis.
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 Greenberg 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
Attorney General Jeff Sessions and U.S. Attorney for the District of Florida Benjamin G. Greenberg 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.”
“Every day, the brave men and women of law enforcement proudly put on their badges to protect our rights, liberties and safety,” stated U.S. Attorney Benjamin G. Greenberg. “Tragically, many of these unsung heroes have made the ultimate sacrifice or sustained serious injuries, while carrying out their call of duty. During National Police Week and throughout the year, the U.S. Attorney’s Office gives thanks to these valiant officers, and their families, for their dedicated service to our South Florida communities.”
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.
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.
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. The Candlelight Vigil is one of many commemorative events taking place in the nation’s capital during National Police Week 2018. So that people across the country can experience this unique and powerful ceremony, the Candlelight 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.
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 Bash Recognize Law Enforcement Service and Sacrifice During National Police WeekRead the Press Release
Attorney General Jeff Sessions and United States Attorney for the Western District of Texas John F. Bash 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.
“During National Police Week, we pause to reflect on the final sacrifice made by so many men and women who quite literally devoted their lives to keeping us all safe. Many of these senseless and infuriating homicides do not receive the same level of media coverage as when an officer, justifiably or not, takes a life. That is perhaps understandable. But I hope that those who in good faith call for policing reform bear in mind the tremendous risk that an officer takes every time he or she makes a traffic stop, or patrols a dangerous neighborhood, or intervenes in a domestic altercation, or attempts to apprehend a fugitive. The memories of our fallen brothers and sisters in blue should weigh heavily whenever we must decide whether an officer acted reasonably in using force in a tense situation clouded by uncertainty and mistrust and the risk of sudden violence,” stated United States Attorney John F. Bash.
In the past year, six law enforcement officers have died in the line of duty in the Western District of Texas. They include:
- Round Rock Police Officer Charles Whites – Officer Whites passed away on April 27, 2018, from injuries sustained after being struck by a vehicle on February 25, 2018. At the time, Whites was directing traffic on Interstate 35 near East Bowman Road where a pedestrian had been struck and killed. White suffered broken ribs, a collapsed lung and bleeding in his brain.
- San Marcos Police Officer Kenneth Copeland – Officer Copeland died on December 4, 2017, after he was fatally shot by a suspect while executing a warrant at a residence in San Marcos, TX.
- Texas Department of Public Safety Trooper Damon Allen – Trooper Allen died on November 23, 2017. Trooper Allen was conducting a traffic stop on Interstate 45 near Fairfield, TX, at approximately 4:00pm. The driver allegedly shot Trooper Allen in the back with a rifle as Trooper Allen walked back to his vehicle. Trooper Allen died at the scene.
- Texas Department of Public Safety Trooper Tom Nipper – Trooper Nipper died on November 4, 2017. Trooper Nipper was conducting a traffic stop on the southbound shoulder of Interstate 35 in Temple, TX, at approximately 3 p.m. when his patrol car was struck from behind by a Chevrolet pickup truck. Trooper Nipper was transported to local hospital where he was pronounced deceased.
- San Antonio Police Officer Miguel Moreno, III – Officer Moreno died on June 30, 2017. The nine-year veteran of SAPD succumbed to injuries sustained during an altercation with a suspect the day before. Officer Moreno was shot in the head by an individual whom he had pulled over in the 200 block of West Evergreen Street near downtown.
- United States Border Patrol Agent Rogelio Martinez – Border Patrol Agent Rogelio Martinez died on November 19, 2017, from injuries sustained while on duty near Interstate 10 east of Van Horn, TX, the day before.
“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.”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.
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. 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 Recognizes Law Enforcement Service and Sacrifice During National Police WeekRead the Press Release
Attorney General Sessions 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.”
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 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 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 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.
Attorney General Sessions and U.S. Attorney Recognize Law Enforcement Service and Sacrifice During National Police WeekRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – Attorney General Jeff Sessions and U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Florida Maria Chapa Lopez recognize the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal police officers on the occasion of National Police Week and remembered those law enforcement officers killed and assaulted in 2017. The MDFL is home to more than 160 law enforcement agencies. During May 2018, communities throughout the MDFL will hold public memorial services honoring fallen officers and showing support for their families. In addition, multiple agencies will embark upon various media campaigns to strengthen connections between officers and citizens and show appreciation for the officers’ continued service.
“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.”
“Each day, somewhere in America, a man or woman puts on a uniform and steps into the unknown to answer a call for help,” said U.S. Attorney Chapa Lopez. “These brave men and women voluntarily leave the comfort of their families to assist and protect others. Too often, some do not return. This month, we pause to show our appreciation for their service and stand in honor of their sacrifices.”
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 – a 30 percent decrease from 2016, when 66 law enforcement officers were feloniously killed in the line-of-duty. For the full comprehensive report about these incidents and selected assaults resulting in injury, please see the 2017 edition of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted report, released this week. To access the FBI's 2017 Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted report, please visit www.fbi.gov.
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.
Five Middle District of Florida officers were added to the memorial this year: Deputy Julie Ann England Bridges, Hardee County Sheriff’s Office; Officer Matthew Scott Baxter, Kissimmee Police Department; Sergeant Richard Samuel Howard, III, Kissimmee Police Department; Deputy First Class Norman Cecil Lewis, Orange County Sheriff’s Office; Lieutenant Debra Lucinda Clayton, Orlando Police Department.
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.
For more information about other National Police Week events, please visit www.policeweek.org.
Attorney General Sessions and U.S. Attorney Kirsch Recognize Law Enforcement Service and Sacrifice During National Police WeekRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – Attorney General Sessions and U.S. Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II for the Northern District of Indiana 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.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Indiana, works closely with law enforcement and community members to provide specialized training and initiatives to reduce violent crime. In honor of National Police Week, the Office will announce one such event, the 2018 Annual Law Enforcement conference conducted in partnership with the Southern District of Indiana U.S. Attorney’s Office. This yearly event provides specialized training to over 500 law enforcement officials throughout the State. In addition to major events as described, the office routinely coordinates smaller specialized courses such as the Valor Program’s Survive and Thrive training, which took place in April 2018 with over 120 officers in attendance throughout the State. U.S. Attorney Kirsch will also attend memorial services in LaPorte County on Friday, May 11, 2018 and in Munster, Indiana on Thursday, May 17, 2018 in honor those who paid the ultimate sacrifice.
“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.”
“Law enforcement officers run toward conflict and gunfire to protect innocent lives in an environment where they are highly scrutinized on social media and in cell phone video clips,” said U.S. Attorney Kirsch. “I have heard recent stories of police officers, during a typical traffic stop, being challenged on their authority when asking for a license and registration in the hopes that the individuals involved in the stop can be the next social media video hit. Acknowledgement of police officers for a job well done seems rare these days, and we cannot know what crimes are stopped by officers being visible. So on behalf of my Office, I want to personally thank every law enforcement officer and their families for their service, sacrifice and echo the Attorney General’s remarks that we have your back.”
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 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.
To access the FBI's 2017 Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted report, please visit www.fbi.gov.
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Attorney General Jeff Sessions and U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey Recognize Law Enforcement Service and Sacrifice During National Police WeekRead the Press Release
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – Attorney General Jeff Sessions and U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey, Eastern District of Tennessee, 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.
This week, Attorney General Sessions participated as the keynote speaker at the annual Gatlinburg Law Enforcement Training Conference, which opened with a tribute to fallen officers from the past year. Attorney General Sessions paid tribute to the 750 local, state and federal law enforcement professionals in attendance by stating, “In this very room are some of the best people in America. You and those you lead invest their lives in their communities to protect the innocent and vulnerable. You place your lives at risk for the safety of others, for law, for America.”
Several events to commemorate National Police Week will be held across the Eastern District of Tennessee. U.S. Attorney Overbey and other members of the U.S. Attorney’s staff will participate in many of these events in Knoxville, Chattanooga and Tri-cities.
On Tuesday, May 15, 2018, U.S. Attorney Overbey will speak at the Blount County’s Annual Law Enforcement Memorial Service to be held at 11:00 a.m., in the City Courtroom building at the Alcoa Police Department, 2020 Wright Road, Alcoa, Tennessee. Two former Alcoa police officers were recently accepted for inclusion on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C. They are: Lieutenant. Glen Giles, who died July 3, 1987, and Officer William M. Hunt, who died July 7, 1937, both in the line of duty.
“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.”
“Statistics from the Officer Down Memorial Page indicate that over 50 officers were killed in the line of duty across the nation over the past year. Many of these were firearms related. This violence against police officers, as well as the violent acts occurring in our communities, must stop. Reducing violent crime is a major priority of the Department of Justice as well as mine,” stated U.S. Attorney Overbey. “As the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Tennessee, I am personally committed to work in partnership with state and local law enforcement to develop strategies that work in our communities and make the streets safer for everyone, including law enforcement,” added U.S. Attorney Overbey.
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 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.
To access the FBI's 2017 Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted report, please visit www.fbi.gov.
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Atlanta Man Sentenced to 5+ Years in Prison for Role in a Money Laundering ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Atlanta, Georgia, has been sentenced in federal court to 63 months in prison on his conviction of money laundering conspiracy, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Akintayo Bolorunduro, age 36, of Atlanta, Georgia. Bolorunduro was also sentenced to pay restitution of $646,606.59 to victims of the conspiracy.
According to information presented to the court, from in and around January 2016 through in and around July 2017, Bolorunduro and others conspired to launder funds derived from business email compromise scams, in which fraudulent emails and faxes caused businesses to wire real estate settlement funds to bank accounts controlled by members of the conspiracy.
In particular, on April 29, 2016, Bolorunduro forwarded to another conspirator the bank account information of a Pittsburgh-area co-conspirator, which was used to induce a fraudulent wire transfer of $411,548.06 into the Pittsburgh-area conspirator’s bank account. Bolorunduro then directed the Pittsburgh-area conspirator to purchase and distribute cashier’s checks with the fraud proceeds, including three checks totaling $131,000 made payable to fake names and businesses and sent to Bolorunduro in Georgia. In a separate scam, which resulted in a fraudulent wire transfer of $235,058.53, Bolorunduro received a portion of the proceeds and, on April 18, 2016, deposited a bank check for $20,000 into a bank account he had previously opened using a false Nigerian passport.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Schwab stated that the sentence was appropriate due to the seriousness of the offense, the scope of the financial losses from the conspiracy, and Bolorunduro’s role in the criminal activity.
Assistant United States Attorneys Adam N. Hallowell and Charles A. Eberle prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Bolorunduro.
Arizona Man Sentenced to Ten Years for Federal Cocaine Trafficking Conviction in New MexicoRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Jesus Quiroz, 36, of Tucson, Ariz., was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Las Cruces, N.M., to 120 months in prison for his conviction on a cocaine trafficking charge arising out of the seizure of 148 pounds of cocaine and 10.5 pounds of fentanyl at the New Mexico Port of Entry near Lordsburg, N.M., on Sept. 9, 2016. Quiroz will be on supervised release for five years after completing his prison sentence.
Quiroz was arrested on Sept. 9, 2016, on a criminal complaint charging him with possession of cocaine with intent to distribute in Hidalgo County, N.M. According to the complaint, Quiroz was arrested after New Mexico State Police officers at the New Mexico Port of Entry on Interstate 10 in Lordsburg seized 63 individually wrapped packages containing what officers then believed to be 72 kilograms of cocaine from a tractor and trailer in which Quiroz was traveling. At the time of his arrest, Quiroz was on probation for a state cocaine trafficking conviction in Arizona.
Quiroz subsequently was indicted on Dec. 14, 2016, and was charged in a two-count indictment with possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, and possession of visual depiction of a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Quiroz was charged with committing the crimes on Sept. 9, 2016, in Hidalgo County.
On Jan. 18, 2017, Quiroz pled guilty to Count 1 of the indictment charging him with possession of cocaine with intent to distribute. In entering the guilty plea, Quiroz admitted that on Sept. 9, 2016, he drove a commercial vehicle containing approximately 72 kilograms of cocaine into the Lordsburg, New Mexico Port of Entry. Quiroz further admitted that he intended to deliver the cocaine to another person.
Court records indicate that, after Quiroz entered his guilty plea, laboratory tests performed on the drugs seized from Quiroz’s tractor-trailer revealed that the drugs consisted of approximately 67.26 kilograms of cocaine and 4.84 kilograms of fentanyl.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the New Mexico State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brock Taylor of the U.S. Attorney’s Las Cruces Branch Office prosecuted the case.
Albany Sex Offender Sentenced to 20 Years for Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Michael Gullinese, age 48, of Albany, New York, was sentenced yesterday to 20 years in prison for distributing, receiving, and possessing child pornography.
The announcement was made by United States Attorney Grant C. Jaquith and Janelle M. Miller, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
As part of his guilty plea, Gullinese admitted that between January 23, 2017 and his arrest on March 14, 2017, he used his cell phone to send and receive images of child pornography over the Kik messaging application. Gullinese saved to his phone approximately 600 image files and 150 video files of child pornography, some depicting children as young as infants.
Gullinese has a 2010 federal child pornography conviction. He was serving a life term of supervised release at the time of his arrest, having been released from prison in August 2014.
Senior United States District Judge Norman A. Mordue sentenced Gullinese to a 15-year term of imprisonment on Gullinese’s guilty plea to the 2017 child pornography offenses, to be followed by an additional 5-year term of imprisonment for violating the terms of his supervised release. Judge Mordue also imposed a lifetime term of supervised release, to begin when Gullinese is released from prison, and ordered him to pay restitution in the amount of $3,000.
This case was investigated by the FBI and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph A. Giovannetti.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood. Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice, Project Safe Childhood is led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS). Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Alaska Man Sentenced for Illegally Possessing 29 Firearms as a Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
Anchorage, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder announced that Steven Andrew Bush, 56, a former Nikiski resident, was sentenced yesterday by Chief U.S. District Judge Timothy M. Burgess, to serve 45 months in prison for illegally possessing firearms as a convicted felon. Bush previously pleaded guilty on Jan. 3, 2018, to one count of felon in possession of a firearm.
On Feb. 8, 2017, the Soldotna Police Department received a call from a resident of the Kenai Peninsula who claimed Bush was carrying a firearm while demanding payment for construction work. Bush had falsely represented himself as a member of law enforcement and possessed a fake Alaska State Troopers badge, along with a t-shirt indicating the wearer was an agent of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. A search of Bush’s shared residence in Kenai revealed that he was in possession of 28 firearms, including a fully automatic Sten MKII machinegun. Bush also possessed another firearm in one of his former residences in Danville, Virginia.
Bush has a previous felony conviction in Virginia for embezzlement. As someone convicted of a felony, Bush was prohibited from possessing firearms.
At yesterday’s sentencing hearing, Judge Burgess remarked that it was especially important to “send a message” to people whom might consider falsely representing themselves to be law enforcement agents. As part of the plea agreement, Bush surrendered his law enforcement memorabilia, holsters, and ammunition boxes. The Court also ordered forfeiture of firearms and ammunition that Bush owned.
The Soldotna Police Department, the Alaska State Troopers (AST), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of this case. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonas Walker.
Akron man arrested and charged for launching denial of service attacks that shut down web sites for city of Akron and Akron Police DepartmentRead the Press Release
An Akron man was arrested this morning and charged in federal court for launching denial of service attacks that shut down web sites for the city of Akron and the Akron Police Department.
James Robinson, 32, was charged with one count of knowingly causing the transmission of a program, information, code and command, and as a result of such conduct, intentionally causing damage to a protected computer.
According to an affidavit filed in the case:
Servers hosting web sites belonging to the city of Akron were victims of an active distributed denial of service (DDoS) attack on Aug. 1, 2017. Two website domains appeared to be the target of the attacks: akronohio.gov and akroncops.org.
The DDoS attack ultimately overwhelmed the web sites with network traffic and rendered them unavailable to users.
A tweet that same day from @AkronPhoenix420 took credit for targeting the Akron web sites, including a link to a youtube video and a screenshot showing akronohio.gov was not accessible. The tweet included hashtags #Anonymous and #TangoDown.
The video showed a static image of an individual in a Guy Fawkes mask making statements including “it’s time we teach the law a lesson,” “Akron PD abuses the law” and “this week the city of Akron experienced system failures on multiple domains including their emergency TCP ports.”
The subsequent investigation identified attacks coming from an Internet connection registered to James Robinson and that Robinson’s phone was associated with the Twitter account @AkronPhoenix420.
@AkronPhoenix420 also claimed credit for many other DDoS attacks including many in 2018 that bore similar characteristics to the Akron attacks. Targets of those attacks web site domains and servers hosted by the Ohio Department of Public Safety, the National Institutes of Health, the Defense Information Security Agency, the Department of Defense, the Department of Treasury and others. Multiple DDoS attacks have been claimed by AkronPhoenix420, including many in 2018.
Law enforcement authorities on May 9 got a search warrant for Robinson’s house on Edison Avenue in Akron. Agents located a Guy Fawkes mask and a cell phone with a cracked screen similar to a phone seen in tweets by @AkronPhoenix420. Robinson stated he was responsible for the DDoS attacks against the Department of Defense, city of Akron and others, according to the affidavit.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Defense Criminal Investigative Services, Akron Police Department, Ohio State Highway Patrol, Department of Health and Human Services and Department of Treasury. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Om Kakani and Daniel J. Riedl.
“As evidenced by this individual living in Akron, Ohio, cyber attackers can be anywhere and reach anyone via a computer,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Stephen D. Anthony. “It is imperative that law enforcement and the public join forces to protect ourselves, our institutions, and our businesses. Working together, we must continue to combat and thwart these cyber criminals.”
“This defendant illegally shut down government web sites to serve his own agenda,” U.S. Attorney Justin E. Herdman said. "We will work with our partners in the private and public sector to help strengthen their cyber defense systems and prosecute those who launch attacks against our community, regardless of their motivation.”
“This arrest underscores DCIS resolve and the ongoing joint efforts among international law enforcement to stop cyber criminals. DCIS Special Agents will use every tool at their disposal to hunt down and bring to justice those that attack and endanger the Department of Defense," said Jeffery Thorpe, Special Agent in Charge, Cyber Field Office, Defense Criminal Investigative Service.
“Convenient access to city services and information is essential to the proper functioning of local government,” Akron Mayor Dan Horrigan said. “We take any attacks or attempted attacks on our web site seriously, and will continue to do all we can to ensure the perpetrator of this malicious incident is brought to justice.”
Akron Police Chief Kenneth Ball said: “The Akron Police Department is very appreciative for the partnerships that were involved in this case. This shows a strong positive resolution by all the public and private partners. Hopefully this sends a strong message to any others that may think they can bully law enforcement.”
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense, and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
A charge is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial, in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
"Incognito Bandit" Charged with Additional Count of Armed Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A man dubbed the “Incognito Bandit” was charged in federal court in Boston today with an additional count of armed bank robbery.
Albert Taderera, 36, of Brighton, was charged in a superseding indictment with two counts of bank robbery: the Oct. 16, 2015, armed bank robbery of a branch of the Winchester Savings Bank in Arlington and the Oct. 7, 2016, armed robbery of a branch of TD Bank in Wayland. In March 2017, Taderera was charged by criminal complaint and arrested at Dulles International Airport in Virginia as he attempted to board an outbound flight to South Africa.
According to court documents, between February 2015 and March 2017, 16 banks were robbed in the Metro-West and Greater Boston areas. In most of the robberies, the robber was disguised in a dark hooded sweatshirt, dark face mask/sunglasses covering his face, dark gloves and dark clothing. In each case, the robber entered the bank and made verbal demands for the banks’ money. In most of the robberies, the robber displayed what tellers described as a black semi-automatic handgun.
All of the robberies occurred in suburban settings where banks were freestanding and featured adjacent wooded areas or foliage. After many of these robberies, witnesses observed the robber leave the bank and enter the wooded areas. Witnesses also observed the robber flee the area in a black BMW sedan. Based on these similarities, investigators believed that the individual driving the black BMW was responsible for the robberies.
On March 16, 2017, the Concord Police observed a black BMW sedan sitting outside a local bank. They also noted that Taderera fit the general description of the individual responsible for numerous recent robberies. Police determined that the registration of the BMW was revoked and per Department policy, the vehicle was towed and inventoried.
On Wednesday, March 22, 2017, an individual identifying himself as Taderera, called the tow company and inquired about the status of his BMW. The tow company informed Taderera that the vehicle was in police custody.
On Thursday, March 23, 2017, at approximately 10:15 pm, law enforcement learned that Taderera had booked a flight, scheduled to leave on Friday, March 24, 2017, at 11:00 a.m., from Dulles International Airport to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. During the morning of March 24, 2017, Taderera was en route to Dulles having taken a flight out of Boston. It was later learned that Taderera had rebooked his flight and was now planning to leave on March 24, 2017, at 5:45 p.m. from Dulles to Johannesburg, South Africa. Taderera was arrested prior to boarding the flight.
The charging statute provides for a sentence of no greater than 25 years in prison, five years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the US sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling; Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division; William Ferrara, Director of Field Operations, U.S. Customs and Border Protection; and Concord Police Chief Joseph F. O’Connor made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth G. Shine of Lelling’s Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging document are allegations. The defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in the court of law.
9 May 2018
Worcester Man Sentenced for Illegally Possessing AmmunitionRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Worcester man was sentenced today in federal court in Worcester for a federal firearms charge.
Steven Rivera, 24, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Timothy S. Hillman to 42 months in prison and three years of supervised release. In January 2018, Rivera pleaded guilty to two counts of being a felon in possession of ammunition. Rivera was arrested on June 29, 2017, as part of a coordinated federal and state law enforcement operation that resulted in the arrests of nine individuals who have been charged with firearms-related offenses.
On Feb. 14, 2017, Rivera – who has multiple prior felony convictions, including drug-related offenses – sold two handguns and numerous rounds of ammunition to a cooperating source in Worcester. On Feb. 28, 2017, Rivera sold the cooperating source two more handguns (one of which was inoperable) and numerous rounds of ammunition.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling; Mickey D. Leadingham, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Field Division; Colonel Kerry A. Gilpin, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; Worcester County District Attorney Joseph D. Early Jr.; and Worcester Police Chief Steven M. Sargent made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Abely of Lelling’s Worcester Branch Office prosecuted the case.
Windsor Woman Who Defrauded Medicaid Program is SentencedRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, Phillip Coyne, Special Agent in Charge for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, and Chief State’s Attorney Kevin T. Kane today announced that BEVERLY COKER, 70, of Windsor, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to five years of probation for defrauding Connecticut’s Medicaid program.
According to court documents and statements made in court, COKER owned and operated New Beginnings Family Center, a behavioral health practice with an office located in Hartford. In May 2010, Ronnette Brown, of Bristol, and another individual approached COKER and proposed a collaboration with COKER’s practice. Under the proposal, Brown and the other individual would provide services to children and families through We-MPACT, a social services practice they operated in Bristol. COKER was to provide supervision to Brown and the other individual, for which COKER would be paid 30 percent of the proceeds. COKER knew that Brown and Sharpe were not licensed to provide psychotherapy, but understood that they were working toward becoming licensed.
Although COKER never provided supervision to Brown and the other individual, she submitted claims to Medicaid for psychotherapy services provided to We-MPACT’s clients using her provider number. Pursuant to their agreement, COKER paid Brown and others at We-MPACT approximately 70 percent of the amount of money she received from Medicaid. Beginning in January 2011, Brown and the other individual began billing Medicaid directly using COKER’s provider number. COKER ended her relationship with We-MPACT in November 2011.
Through this scheme, COKER and Brown defrauded Medicaid of approximately $214,555.
On April 8, 2016, COKER pleaded guilty to one count of health care fraud.
On May 26, 2017, a jury found Brown guilty of 23 counts of health care fraud and one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud, stemming from this scheme and related fraudulent billing of Medicaid for psychotherapy services that were not performed. On April 19, 2018, Judge Bolden sentenced Brown to 48 months of imprisonment and ordered her to pay restitution in the amount of $2,033,962.
Three other individuals have been charged and convicted of health care fraud offenses stemming from this investigation.
This matter has been jointly investigated by the Office of the Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit of the Chief State’s Attorney’s Office, with assistance from the Connecticut Attorney General’s Office. U.S. Attorney Durham also thanked the Connecticut Department of Social Services for their role in identifying the fraudulent scheme and supporting the investigation and prosecution of the case.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office, Chief State’s Attorney’s Office and Attorney General’s Office meet regularly as part of The Medicaid Fraud Working Group. The Working Group also includes representatives from the Connecticut Department of Social Services; the Connecticut Department of Public Health; the Drug Control Division of the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection; the Office of the Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and the FBI. The Working Group reviews pending issues and cases, identifies trends that might indicate fraudulent activity, and coordinates efforts for maximum results.
This matter is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys David J. Sheldon and Christopher W. Schmeisser.
People who suspect health care fraud are encouraged to report it by calling 1-800-HHS-TIPS.
Wilmington Man Pleads Guilty to Dealing FentanylRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Wilmington man pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston to dealing fentanyl.
Bryan Moran, 35, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl. U.S. District Court Judge Indira Talwani scheduled sentencing for Aug. 3, 2018.
In June 2016, Moran was arrested and charged after investigators seized approximately 80 grams of fentanyl from a storage unit in North Reading. In October 2017, a superseding indictment added a five-year mandatory minimum sentence against Moran; however, due to a 2003 conviction in federal court for heroin conspiracy, Moran faces a 10-year mandatory minimum.
Moran faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to life in prison, at least eight years and up to a lifetime of supervised release, a fine of up to $8 million, and forfeiture. 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; Albert Angelucci, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Division; Wilmington Police Chief Michael Begonis; and North Reading Police Chief Michael Murphy made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine Ferguson of Lelling’s Narcotics and Money Laundering Unit is prosecuting the case.
Vian Man Sentenced to 57 Months for Possession of Firearm, AmmunitionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Dustin Floyd Johnson, age 33, of Vian, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 57 months imprisonment and 3 years supervised release for Felon In Possession Of Firearm & Ammunition, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2). The charge arose from an investigation by the Sequoyah County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
The Indictment alleged that on or about April 19, 2017 Johnson, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, possessed a firearm and ammunition which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce.
“This joint investigation by the Sequoyah County Sheriff’s Office and the ATF is a great example of what can be accomplished when agencies from state, local, federal, and tribal jurisdictions work together with the common goal of protecting the public,” United States Attorney Brian J. Kuester said. “As a result of their work, the dedicated members of this office were able to enforce the federal statute that prohibits felons from possessing firearms and as a result make the Eastern District a safe place to live and work.”
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 Dean Burris represented the United States. The defendant will remain in custody pending transportation to the designated federal facility at which the non-paroleable sentence will be served.
Venezuelan Woman Sentenced to 20 Months in Prison for Extortion PlotRead the Press Release
Brigith Dayana Gomez, 29, of Venezuela, was sentenced today to 20 months and 15 days in prison, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release, for her participation in an extortion plot. Additionally, United States District Judge Joan A. Lenard ordered Gomez to pay at least $841.20 in restitution, and prohibited her from using social media and email during her sentence and the term of supervision.
Benjamin G. Greenberg, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, and Robert F. Lasky, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Miami Field Office, made the announcement.
On February 14, 2018, following a two and a half week Miami jury trial, Gomez was convicted on all counts of the charged indictment, specifically: one count of conspiracy to transmit an interstate extortionate communication, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371; three counts of interstate transmission of an extortionate communication, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 875(d); and one count of interstate travel in aid of racketeering, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1952(a)(3).
According to evidence presented at trial, Gomez and co-defendant Carolina Del Carmen Roldan planned to extort a victim, residing in Broward County, out of tens of thousands of dollars. If the victim did not comply with the demands for payment, the defendants threatened to damage the victim’s reputation and business prospects.
Gomez was residing in Los Angeles, California, while Del Carmen Roldan was residing in Miami, Florida, during the extortion conspiracy. Both women, originally from Venezuela, had previously obtained visas to reside in the United States.
Del Carmen Roldan previously pled guilty to participating in the conspiracy transmit an interstate extortionate communication and was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Lenard to 14 months and 15 days in prison, to be followed by 2 years of supervised release.
Mr. Greenberg commended the investigative efforts of the FBI. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lisa H. Miller, Anne P. McNamara and Frederic C. Shadley.
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.
U.S. Attorney's Office and U.S. Department of Agriculture Holding Food Stamp Fraud Investigation TrainingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney’s Office –
Middle District of Georgia
And
U.S. Department of Agriculture - OIG
Invite You To
Food Stamp Fraud Investigation Training
Wednesday, June 20, 2018
8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Central Georgia Technical College
3300 Macon Tech Drive – Macon
Building I, Quad A
Topics of discussion for this no-cost training will include:
State Law Enforcement Bureau – SLEB
Overview of food stamp program
Trends in food stamp fraud
How to obtain undercover food stamp cards
Undercover Investigations, including pitfalls to avoid
Various criminal actions (state and federal)
Administrative Actions
Correlation Between Food Stamp Fraud and Gambling Machines (GBI)
Send registration to: [email protected] with the attached registration form.
Seating is limited to 85 participants
Questions? Call Pamela Lightsey at 478-621-2603
Two Men Plead Guilty to Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney R. Trent Shores announced today that two men pled guilty to child pornography offenses in the Northern District of Oklahoma. Both men used the internet to search for and find material depicting minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
“The child victims in these cases are victimized over and over again because the images remain on the internet and in circulation. Sexual deviants who prey on children by seeking out child pornography will be aggressively prosecuted by my office. I am proud to partner with our law enforcement partners to stop child exploitation. The investigators in these cases did excellent work to make our community safer,” said United States Attorney Shores.
On May 8, 2018, Jeffrey Townsend, age 51, plead guilty to accessing with intent to view child pornography before Judge John E. Dowdell. Townsend admitted that on December 2, 2015, he knowingly accessed with intent to view, and attempted to view videos of child pornography as defined by federal law by accessing a video conferencing room that contained child pornography. He knew child pornography would likely be available in the video conferencing website. He accessed the website using the Internet and his computer. Townsend and the government stipulated in his plea agreement that his sentence should be between 30-37 months in federal prison. Any length of supervised release following prison, and the amount of any fine or restitution is left to the Court’s discretion. Sentencing is set for August 8, 2018. His case was investigated by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations and the Tulsa Police Department.
On May 9, 2018, Scott Frederick Arterbury, age 32, plead guilty to possession of child pornography before Judge Claire V. Eagan. Arterbury admitted that he knowingly possessed images and videos of child pornography that he had downloaded from the Internet to his computer. According to the government, his collection of child pornography included images and videos of prepubescent minors or minors who had not reached the age of 12 years old. The case was a result of a search warrant executed at the defendant’s residence on November 10, 2015. The defendant obtained at least some of the child pornography from a child pornography website located on the so-called Dark Web. Defendant’s plea agreement allows him to appeal certain pretrial rulings made by Judge Eagan. Sentencing is set for August 7, 2018. Arterbury’s case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Broken Arrow Police Department.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Twin Bridges Man Pleads Guilty to Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
MISSOULA – Martin James Walsh, a 53-year-old resident of Twin Bridges, Montana, pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine. U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeramiah Lynch presided over the hearing.
Beginning in October 2016, the South West Montana Drug Task Force (SWMDTF) used a confidential informant to purchase an 8 ball of methamphetamine from Walsh. The next month the SWMDTF again made an undercover purchase of ¼ ounce of methamphetamine from Walsh. In June 2017, the Madison County Sheriff’s Office used another confidential informant to purchase a small amount of heroin from Walsh. Based upon the purchases, sheriff deputies obtained a search warrant for Walsh’s residence in Twin Bridges. During the search of Walsh’s home they found a digital scale, several glass smoking pipes, a large box containing four bags of a white crystalline substance that tested positive for methamphetamine. Walsh was home at the time of the search. He was detained and read his Miranda rights. Walsh stated that he had been selling ounces of meth in Madison County as well as Bozeman and Butte. The amount of methamphetamine found in Walsh’s residence was approximately 260 grams or 2080 dosing units.
Further investigation by the Missouri River Drug Task Force learned that Walsh had been supplying large quantities of methamphetamine to a distributor in Bozeman. It was learned that between July 2016 through January 2017, Walsh had distributed 1357 grams, or 10,856 dosing units, of methamphetamine to his co-conspirator to be distributed throughout the Gallatin County area.
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 case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Bryan R. Whittaker and investigated by the FBI, Madison County Sheriff’s Office, South West Montana Drug Task Force, and the Missouri River Drug Task Force.
Twelve Indicted on Federal Charges Related to Jefferson County Insurance FraudRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas – A federal grand jury returned a 40-count indictment on May 2, 2018, charging 12 individuals with federal violations related to an insurance fraud scheme in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Joseph D. Brown today.
According to the indictment, beginning in 2011, Patrick Wayne Bronnon, and others, began executing a scheme to defraud various insurance companies through fraudulent claims on homes and vehicles. The indictment alleges Bronnon, or co-defendant Glenn Etienne, would identify a low value property and purchase it through a co-defendant straw purchaser. On several occasions, Bronnon or Etienne would provide the straw purchaser with the funds for the down payment and initial insurance premium. Within a couple of weeks, Bronnon or an associate would intentionally damage the home, typically by fire or water, in order to collect insurance proceeds. In total, nine fraudulent fire claims, three fraudulent water damage claims, and two fraudulent theft claims were filed with various insurance companies on nine different addresses, totaling approximately $1.7 million in fraudulent payments. The properties were located in Port Arthur, Port Neches, Beaumont, and Sugarland, Texas. Those charged in the indictment are:
Patrick Wayne Bronnon, 49, of Groves, Texas; Glenn Dell Etienne, 50, of Groves; Geraldine Weldon Joseph, 67, of Port Arthur; Morris Broussard, 51, of Houston; Keisha Windon Lewis, 44, of Port Arthur; Helene Williams Calcote, 41, of Groves; Cynthia Lynn Banion, 45, of Houston; Earnest Hamilton, 79, of Richmond; Nathaniel Joseph Chevalier, 40, of Nederland; Rodric Ledae Wallace, 49, of Nederland; and
Riley Moss Reed, 63, of Port ArthurUnder federal statutes, if convicted, the defendants face up to 20 years in federal prison.
This case is being investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, National Insurance Crime Bureau and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher T. Tortorice.
A grand jury indictment is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Twelve Alleged Baltimore Drug Dealers Indicted on Federal Drug Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
May 9, 2018
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact ELIZABETH MORSE
www.justice.gov/usao/md at (410) 209-4885
Baltimore, Maryland – A federal grand jury has indicted twelve Baltimore men on charges related to a drug trafficking operation in East Baltimore. The indictment unsealed today charges the defendants with distribution of heroin and crack cocaine. Two defendants are charged with Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking and Conspiracy to Possess a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking; one of those defendants is also charged with Felon in Possession of a Firearm. Another defendant is also charged with Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking.
The indictment was announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Robert K. Hur and Special Agent in Charge Daniel L. Board Jr. of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Baltimore Field Division.
According to the thirteen-count indictment, in November of 2017, the ATF initiated an investigation into a drug trafficking organization. The organization was allegedly responsible for distributing large quantities of heroin and cocaine in the 2100 block of Aiken Street in Baltimore, Maryland.
The following defendants are charged in the indictment unsealed today;
Devin O’Cain, a/k/a Dev, a/k/a Dex, age 26, of Baltimore, Maryland;
Charles Alston, a/k/a Nub, age 28, of Baltimore, Maryland;
James Boykin, a/k/a Mal, age 32, of Baltimore, Maryland;
Antonio Santiful, a/k/a Tony, age 29, of Essex, Maryland;
Michael Brown, a/k/a Dirt, age 38, of Baltimore, Maryland;
Brian Cunningham, a/k/a Shug, age 44, of Middle River, Maryland;
Allen Griffin, a/k/a Max, a/k/a Mean, age 30, of Baltimore, Maryland;
Wayne Chambers, a/k/a Chedder, age 21, of Baltimore, Maryland;
Lamont Ferguson, a/k/a Lonnie, a/k/a Lil Yougin, age 26, of Baltimore, Maryland;
Markytis Brown, a/k/a Money, age 32, of Baltimore, Maryland;
John Williams, a/k/a Little, and 34, of Baltimore, Maryland; and
Sheldon Hill, age 64, of Baltimore, Maryland.
All of the defendants face a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years imprisonment and a maximum of 40 years imprisonment for the drug conspiracy charge. Chambers and Alston face a minimum of 5 years in prison to run consecutive with a maximum sentence of life for the possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. O’Cain and Alston also face an additional maximum of 20 years in prison for the charged Conspiracy to Possess a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking.
Nine defendants are currently detained. The whereabouts of Sheldon Hill and Allen Griffin are unknown.
Anyone who may have information on the whereabouts of Hill or Griffin is asked to contact the ATF-Baltimore Field Division at 1-888-ATF-TIPS, [email protected], or text ATFBAL to 63975.
An indictment is not a finding of guilt. An individual charged by indictment is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty at some later criminal proceedings.
United States Attorney Robert K. Hur commended the ATF and the Baltimore Police Department for their work in the investigation. Mr. Hur thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Patricia McLane and Brandon Moore who are prosecuting the case.
Topeka Man Sentenced for McDonald’s Restaurant RobberyRead the Press Release
TOPEKA, KAN. – A Topeka man was sentenced today to 12 years and 10 months in federal prison for robbing a McDonald’s restaurant, U.S. Attorney Stephan McAllister said.
Brendon R. Thompson, 31, Topeka, Kan., pleaded guilty to one count of robbery and one count of aiding and abetting another robber who brandished a firearm during the robbery.
In his plea, Thompson admitted that on July 10, 2017, he and another man robbed the McDonald’s restaurant at 1100 South Kansas Avenue in Topeka. Thompson went behind the counter and took money from the registers while the other robber brandished a firearm. The robbers fled when police arrived. Thompson was arrested near the restaurant, while the other robber got away.
McAllister commended the FBI, the Topeka Police Department and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jared Maag for their work on the case.
Thirty-seven Individuals Charged in Methamphetamine Drug Take DownRead the Press Release
DENVER – Thirty-seven individuals have been charged with federal crimes related to methamphetamine drug trafficking in two separate indictments unsealed in the United States District Court for the District of Colorado, announced U.S. Attorney Bob Troyer, DEA Special Agent in Charge William T. McDermott, and Colorado State Attorney General Cynthia H. Coffman. The indictments were issued by a Federal Grand Jury on April 19, 2018, and May 2, 2018, and unsealed today as arrest warrants were served throughout the metro Denver area, as well as in California and Arizona.
As described in two separate indictments, the drug conspiracy operated within the State of Colorado from dates spanning back as far as July 1, 2015. Separate charges against individual defendants include conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, knowingly or intentionally distributing and possessing with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, intentionally using a communications device in causing or facilitating the commission of a drug felony, and money laundering.
“Meth ravages and ruins the precious lives of too many Coloradans,” said U.S. Attorney Bob Troyer. “Taking out 37 dealers, taking this kind of weight out of our suffering communities, is a major public safety victory. And it’s one we only got because of the exceptional work and partnership we have with the Colorado Attorney General’s Office, the DEA, and many other law enforcement agencies.”
“Today’s bust is another indication that the profitability of dealing drugs in the U.S. invites cartels and criminals into our communities,” said Colorado Attorney General Cynthia Coffman. “Along with its law enforcement partners, the Colorado Attorney General’s Office will keep the heat on drug traffickers doing business in our state. But until we effectively reduce demand for these potent and deadly drugs, we will be fighting symptoms and consequences rather than stopping the problem.”
“With the methamphetamine, heroin and the opioid epidemic ravaging the country, this unified effort reflects the partnerships between federal, state, and local law enforcement in combating this issue to protect the citizens of Colorado,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge William T. McDermott. “The arrests of these 37 defendants will disrupt the flow of drugs into Colorado, California and Arizona. The Denver OCDETF Strike Force will continue its mission in targeting, disrupting and dismantling the highest levels of transnational criminal organizations.”
“This case is one of many examples of how local, state and federal partners work together to combat drug crimes,” said ATF Denver Special Agent in Charge Debbie Livingston. “Supporting our federal, state and local partners is always a priority for ATF.”
The Denver OCDETF Strike Force Group led today’s operation, which successfully arrested 25 individuals. Others are presently at large. The Strike Force includes investigators from the Colorado State Attorney General’s Office, DEA, HSI, FBI, ATF, U.S. Marshals Service, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, and was supported by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Other law enforcement agencies assisted in making today’s arrests. These cases are being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie Podolak.The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
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Visit our website http://www.justice.gov/usao/co | Follow us on Twitter @DCoNewsTexas Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing over Thirty Kilograms of CocaineRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Mario Guadalupe Pecina, age 44, of San Antonio, Texas, pled guilty today before U.S. District U.S. District Judge Louis Guirola, Jr. to possession with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst, Thomas Annello, Acting Special Agent in Charge of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans, and Joseph A. Banco Jr., Acting Chief Patrol Agent of the U.S. Border Patrol’s New Orleans Sector.
On January 11, 2018, a United States Border Patrol officer stopped Pecina for committing a traffic violation while traveling on Interstate 10 in Harrison County, Mississippi. During the stop, the officer learned that Pecina was previously arrested for smuggling cocaine in 2009. While speaking with the officer, Pecina began displaying signs of nervous behavior. Pecina consented to a search of the vehicle, and upon searching, the officer located 31 packages of cocaine concealed within the door and rear hatch panels of the vehicle.
Pecina will be sentenced on August 16, 2018, at 10:30 a.m. by U.S. District U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden. He faces a maximum penalty of life in prison and a $10 million fine.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the U.S. Border Patrol. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathlyn R. Van Buskirk.
Tangipahoa Parish Men Sentenced for Burglary of a Federal Firearms LicenseeRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – DEMARCO JONES, age 23 of Tickfaw, and WILLIE WALKER, age 22 of Hammond, were sentenced today by United States District Court Judge Kurt D. Engelhardt, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
JONES and WALKER pled guilty to theft of firearms in connection with the April 8, 2016 burglary of the Tickfaw Auction Company (a federal firearms licensee), during which 25 handguns were stolen. Additionally, WALKER admitted to possession of stolen firearms and JONES tendered a guilty plea to possession of firearms by a felon.
Judge Engelhardt sentenced JONES to thirty-six (36) months imprisonment, while WALKER received a fifty-seven (57) month sentence. Upon release from imprisonment, both defendants will serve a three (3) year term of supervised release. Additionally, the defendants were both ordered to pay $200 special assessment fees.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority. In October 2017, as part of a series of actions to address this crime trend, Attorney General Sessions announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop a district crime reduction strategy that incorporates the lessons learned since PSN launched in 2001.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, the Hammond Police Department, and the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office, and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael E. McMahon.
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Stratford Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun Charge Stemming from Domestic Violence IncidentRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that MATTHEW PETROVITCH, 38, of Stratford, pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to one count of possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on September 26, 2017, Stratford Police responded to PETROVITCH’s residence after a female victim reported that PETROVITCH had physically assaulted her and threatened her with a firearm while she was holding a young child. After PETROVITCH was taken into custody, officers searched the residence and seized an AK-74 semiautomatic rifle, a short-barreled shotgun, and more than 350 rounds of assorted ammunition.
The short-barreled shotgun was not registered to him in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record, as required.
In March 2000, PETROVITCH was convicted in state court of conspiracy to commit assault in the first degree, and robbery in the third degree. It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.
When he is sentenced, PETROVITCH faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years. PETROVITCH is detained pending sentencing.
On April 24, 2018, PETROVITCH pleaded guilty in Bridgeport Superior Court to state charges related to this incident.
This matter has been investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Stratford Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alina P. Reynolds, in coordination with the State’s Attorney for the Fairfield Judicial District.
South Charleston Man Sentence for Federal Methamphetamine CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A South Charleston man caught with methamphetamine and firearms last year was sentenced today to 54 months in federal prison, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Ray Eads, 35, previously pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Stuart praised the investigation conducted by the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT).
“The increase in methamphetamine trafficking we are experiencing in West Virginia is troublesome,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “To stop it from becoming an even bigger problem, we are aggressively prosecuting meth dealers.”
On May 18, 2017, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Eads’ residence on Smith Creek Road in South Charleston. During the search, officers found over 1,200 grams of methamphetamine, digital scales, drug ledgers, and almost $12,000 cash. Officers also located several firearms and a bulletproof vest in Eads’ bedroom. Eads gave a statement admitting to possessing the drugs and guns discovered in his residence. Eads also admitted that he had been distributing methamphetamine in the South Charleston area.
Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams handled the prosecution. United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin imposed the sentence.
This case was prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.
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South Carolina Man Sentenced on Federal Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A South Carolina man who had been residing in Charleston was sentenced today to 33 months imprisonment on federal drug charges, announced United States Attorney Michael B. Stuart. Antoine Dericus Wilmore, 30, pled guilty in November to four counts of distribution of heroin, one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin, and two counts of distribution of a fentanyl analogue. Stuart commended the work of the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT) for their work during this investigation.
“Dangerous drug dealers like Wilmore peddling heroin and fentanyl should be locked up,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Charleston will be a safer place with him behind bars.”
On six occasions between April and August, 2016, Wilmore distributed and aided and abetted the distribution of heroin and fentanyl analogue to a confidential informant in Charleston who was working with MDENT. One of the heroin distributions aided and abetted by Wilmore took place on the school grounds of Stonewall Jackson Middle School. On June 2, 2016, a search warrant executed at Wilmore’s residence discovered over 11 grams of heroin, $1300 in United States currency, and two pistols.
United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Rada Herrald handled the prosecution.
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South Bend Woman SentencedRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Susie Wilson, age 23, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced before South Bend District Court Judge Robert L. Miller, Jr. for conspiring to obtain firearms by providing false or fictitious statements, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
Wilson was sentenced to 48 months imprisonment followed by 1 years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Kirsch said, “We, with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners, will continue to aggressively prosecute individuals involved in firearms trafficking.”
According to documents in this case, Ms. Wilson was charged by indictment with making false statements when purchasing firearms on eight occasions from retailers in the South Bend area between August, 2016 and May 2017. Ms. Wilson purchased the firearms for another individual. Seven of the firearms she purchased were recovered in Chicago. One of the firearms was involved in three shootings and one homicide.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms and was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Frank E. Schaffer.
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.
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Salinas Gang Member Sentenced to over Nine Years in Prison for Multiple Bank RobberiesRead the Press Release
SAN FRANCISCO – Francisco Javier Marmolejo, aka “Blindy,” was sentenced to 114 months in prison today for robbing and conspiring to rob three San Francisco Bay Area banks, announced Acting United States Attorney Alex G. Tse and Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge John F. Bennett. The sentence was handed down by the Honorable Lucy H. Koh, United States District Judge, following Marmolejo’s guilty plea to the bank robbery on January 5, 2018.
According to the plea agreement, Marmolejo, 36, of Salinas admitted robbing Bay Area banks on three occasions between November of 2011 and January of 2012. Marmolejo admitted that on November 9, 2011, together with others, he robbed a bank in Pacific Grove, Calif. Marmolejo admitted that at least one of the robbers brandished a firearm and that he was the getaway driver while his fellow robbers went inside the bank to rob it. On that occasion, Marmolejo and his fellow robbers stole approximately $18,383.00 from the bank. Further, on December 2, 2011, Marmolejo, together with others, robbed a bank in Seaside, Calif. Marmolejo acknowledged that on that occasion, he brandished a firearm during the robbery. Finally, on January 19, 2012, Marmolejo, together with others, robbed a bank in Salinas, Calif., during which one of the robbers brandished a gun.
In addition to the three robberies in which Marmolejo admitted he participated, he also admitted that in March of 2012, he possessed three semi-automatic handguns, bear repellant, three ballistic vests, three ski masks, and other items all of which were used and intended to be used during the commission of bank robberies and to avoid detection by law enforcement.
On January 3, 2018, Marmolejo was charged by superseding information with one count of conspiracy to commit armed bank robbery, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § § 2113(a) and (d), and 371; one count of armed bank robbery, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § § 2113(a) and (2) and 2; and one count of use or possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § § 924(c)(1)(A) and 2. Pursuant to his plea agreement, Marmolejo pleaded guilty to all counts in the superseding information. Marmolejo was originally indicted on some of these charges on November 8, 2016. On December 18, 2017, Marmolejo’s co-defendant Jorge Lopez, aka “Cowboy,” pleaded guilty to the same charges. Judge Koh scheduled Lopez’s sentencing for July 11, 2018.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Koh also ordered Marmolejo to pay restitution in the amount of $52,854.00 and to serve five years of supervised release to begin after his prison term. Marmolejo currently is in state custody serving a 12-year prison sentence, part of which will be credited to his federal term. Upon his release from state custody, Marmolejo will have approximately 104 months remaining on his federal sentence.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Claudia A. Quiroz with the assistance of paralegal Jessica Meegan and legal assistant Lance Libatique. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the FBI.
Rockford Man Sentenced to More Than 15 Years in Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing A FirearmRead the Press Release
ROCKFORD — A Rockford, Ill., man was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Philip G. Reinhard for illegally possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. ALBERT DOWTHARD, 37, was sentenced to 186 months in federal prison, in addition to 4 years of supervised release following his imprisonment, for illegally possessing a .38 revolver on Nov. 14, 2016. Dowthard pleaded guilty to the charge on Oct. 12, 2017, and also admitted to possessing .38 caliber ammunition at the time. In imposing the sentence, Judge Reinhard found that Dowthard was an “armed career criminal” under a federal firearm law mandating non-paroleable prison sentences of 15 years or more for felons with extensive records of prior convictions who illegally possess or sell guns, which resulted in Dowthard receiving a higher sentence.
The sentencing was announced by John R. Lausch, Jr., United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois; Celinez Nunez, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives; and Dan O’Shea, Rockford Police Chief.
The government was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott R. Paccagnini.
Rockford Man Sentenced to 17 Years in Federal Prison for Distributing Heroin in RockfordRead the Press Release
ROCKFORD — A Rockford man was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Philip G. Reinhard on a federal drug trafficking charge. QUINCY L. ATMORE (also known as “Q”), 46, of Rockford, Ill., was sentenced to 17 years in federal prison, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release. Atmore pleaded guilty to distributing heroin on Jan. 17, 2018. In the written plea agreement, Atmore admitted that between October 2015 and September 2016, he operated a heroin trafficking business in the Rockford area, and maintained two cell phone lines as heroin hotlines for customers to order and purchase heroin. Atmore typically sold user quantity amounts of heroin, such as a gram or one-half gram, but occasionally did larger transactions. Atmore admitted he engaged in a large number of transactions each day, selling at least 10 to 15 grams of heroin a day resulting in sales of at least 4500 grams of heroin during the time period that he operated his heroin trafficking business. Atmore also admitted that on Sept. 7, 2016, he possessed a firearm in a vehicle he was driving near a BP Station on Auburn Street and that he possessed the firearm for protection when conducting drug transactions.
MAURICE D. NEAL (also known as “Moe”), 35, of Rockford, is also charged with conspiracy to distribute a kilogram or more of heroin, in addition to charges of distributing heroin in Rockford, Ill., from October 2015 through September 2016. Neal is currently in federal custody pending trial. The public is reminded that an indictment contains only charges and is not evidence of guilt. Neal is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The drug conspiracy charge carries a 10-year mandatory minimum sentence and a maximum potential penalty of up to life in federal prison, and a fine of up to $10 million. Each count of distribution of heroin carries a maximum potential penalty of up to 20 years in prison, and a fine of up to $1 million. If Neal is convicted, the court must impose a reasonable sentence under federal sentencing statutes and the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines.
The sentencing was announced by John R. Lausch, Jr., United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois; Brian M. McKnight, Special Agent in Charge of the Chicago Office of the Drug Enforcement Administration; and Leo P. Schmitz, Director of the Illinois State Police. The case was investigated by the Rockford Resident Agency of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Chicago Field Office, and the Stateline Area Narcotics Team (“SLANT”), a task force led by the Illinois State Police. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Department, and the Rockford Police Department assisted in the investigation.
The government is being represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Margaret J. Schneider.
Richmond Heights man sentenced to 15 years in prison for receiving four pounds of methamphetamine and Postal Service letter carrier sentenced to eight years in prison for diverting and delivering packages of drugsRead the Press Release
A Richmond Heights man was sentenced to 15 years in prison for receiving more than four pounds of methamphetamine from California, and a U.S. Postal Service letter carrier was sentenced to more than eight years in prison for diverting packages of drugs and delivering them to him.
Devon Williams, 24, of Richmond Heights, was sentenced to 180 months in prison. Marquacia Deshawn Morris, 27, of Woodmere, was sentenced to 97 months in prison. Kevin Williams, 24, of Richmond Heights and Devon Williams’ twin brother, was sentenced to 72 months in prison.
Devon Williams and Morris previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute more than two kilograms of methamphetamine. Kevin Williams pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin.
A package containing more than a kilogram of methamphetamine was mailed from California to Beachwood on Sept. 7, 2017. Four days later, Morris, a U.S. Postal Service letter carrier, accepted the package and began her daily assigned mail route, according to court documents.
She traveled to Beachwood on Sept. 11, where she met Devon Williams. He accepted the package and transported it to 440 Richmond Park East in Richmond Heights, according to court documents.
Investigators believe the methamphetamine was supplied by a Mexican drug cartel. Morris abused her position with the Postal Service to divert and deliver approximately 15 packages for the drug traffickers, according to court documents and statements.
“We increasingly see drug traffickers attempting to utilize whatever transportation method they can to get their drugs into the country, including the mail and private carriers,” U.S. Attorney Justin E. Herdman said. “The Postal Service’s investigators and all in law enforcement are working to stop the flow of drugs before they reach our streets.”
U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General Special Agent in Charge Kenneth Cleevely, Eastern Area Field Office, said: “Postal employees are paid to deliver mail, not drugs. The vast majority of the Postal Service's 600,000 employees are hard-working, trustworthy individuals. Unfortunately, a few of them decide to engage in criminal conduct, as in this case. When postal employees decide to risk their job, benefits, retirement, and freedom to get involved with drug trafficking, Special Agents of the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General will work with Postal Inspectors and the U.S. Attorney's Office to put them all in federal prison. To report criminal activity or serious misconduct by postal employees, contact USPS OIG special agents at www.uspsoig.gov or 888-USPS-OIG.”
This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, with assistance from the Willoughby Hills Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Seabury Gould.
Rensselaer County Man Sentenced to 78 Months for Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Keith J. Bleau, age 52, of Buskirk, New York, was sentenced today to 78 months in prison for receiving and possessing child pornography.
The announcement was made by United States Attorney Grant C. Jaquith and Janelle M. Miller, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
As part of his guilty plea, Bleau admitted that between about November 1, 2016 and May 15, 2017, he used the Internet and file-sharing software to download child pornography videos.
United States District Judge Mae A. D’Agostino also imposed a 15-year term of supervised release, which will start after Bleau is released from prison. As a result of his conviction, Bleau will be required to register as a sex offender after leaving prison.
This case was investigated by the FBI and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rick Belliss.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood. Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice, Project Safe Childhood is led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Reno Man Sentenced to 12 Years in Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Synthetic Opioid Drug U-47700Read the Press Release
RENO, Nev. – A Reno man was sentenced today to 144 months in federal prison for his role in a conspiracy to distribute U-47700, a dangerous synthetic opioid with street names “China white” and “pinky” that is more potent than morphine, announced U.S. Attorney Dayle Elieson for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Dan Neill for the DEA’s Las Vegas office.
Randy Ray Paulsen, aka “Frank,” 41, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Miranda M. Du. He previously pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute U-4700, and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
According to admissions made in the plea agreement, Paulsen and a co-conspirator agreed to sell one pound of U-47700, a Schedule 1 substance under the Controlled Substance Act, for $8,000. He arranged the sale with the buyer and his co-defendant via text messaging. On February 10, 2017, the co-conspirator left the one pound of U-47700 in a plastic bag in one of the washing machines at a laundromat on 5th Street, in Reno, which is near the Gold Dust West casino. Paulsen watched the events from a nearby location. As law enforcement approached, he texted his co-defendant, “Leave, setup, all bad,” and “911 leave.” Law enforcement found 445.2 grams of U-47700 and furanyl fentanyl, an analogue of fentanyl, in the plastic bag left in the washing machine.
During the execution of a search warrant at Paulsen’s residence, in a safe concealed in the ceiling of his bedroom, law enforcement discovered: 121.65 grams of U-47700 and furanyl fentanyl; 51.6 grams of methamphetamine; 7.82 grams of heroin; 206.9 grams of dimethyl sulfone (which can be used as a cutting agent for drugs); baggies; cash; and a .40 caliber pistol.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney James E. Keller prosecuted the case.
Controlled substance analogues are designer drugs that have chemical structures and hallucinogenic effects similar to Schedule I controlled substances. U-47700 is a synthetic opioid that is 7-8 times more potent than morphine. The illegal drug looks like a white or light pink powder and poses the same risks as heroin and prescription opioids.
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