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Monday 19 March 2018
Ripley Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possession of a Pipe BombRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that Steven Jones, 31, of Ripley, was sentenced to 12 months and a day in federal prison for possession of a pipe bomb. Jones pled guilty in December, admitting that on November 6, 2017, he possessed a pipe bomb he had constructed in his garage. Jones further admitted having built and detonated two additional pipe bombs and posting videos of the explosions on the internet. Stuart commended the investigative efforts of the West Virginia State Police, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
“A citizen tip to authorities about a pipe bomb prevented what could have been a horrific tragedy. Cases like this depend on the vigilance of citizens bravely willing to step forward to report this kind of dangerous activity,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “The horrific events happening in Austin, Texas, are a tragedy we don’t want to happen here in West Virginia. Bombs in the hands of citizens are highly dangerous, reckless and illegal. My Office is committed to strengthening the relationship between the public and law enforcement so that we can keep dangerous criminals like this bomb maker behind bars.”
United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin imposed the sentence in federal court in Charleston. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua Hanks prosecuted the case.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
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Randallstown Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin and FentanylRead the Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact ELIZABETH MORSE
www.justice.gov/usao/md at (410) 209-4885
Baltimore, Maryland – Anthony Renard Wynn, age 47, of Randallstown, Maryland, pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin and 400 grams or more of fentanyl.
The guilty plea was announced by Acting United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Stephen M. Schenning; Special Agent in Charge Andre Watson of the ICE Homeland Security Investigations; Colonel Woodrow Jones of the Maryland Transportation Authority Police; and Chief Terrence B. Sheridan of the Baltimore County Police Department.
According to his plea agreement, in connection with an investigation into drug trafficking and the laundering of drug proceeds through Maryland-based casinos, HSI investigators discovered that Wynn had placed into and cashed out in excess of one million dollars at those casinos from 2016 to 2017, although he only earned $30,000 in 2016.
HSI investigators were able to identify the places where Wynn received, transported, and stored drugs and other contraband. Specifically, Wynn received packages containing drugs from an animal hospital in Pikesville, Maryland and transported the drugs to the Southeast region of Washington, D.C. Wynn stored the drugs in a storage unit in Windsor Mill, his home in Randallstown, and in a Pikesville barbershop. Wynn also shipped several packages to a co-conspirator in California, one of which contained $244,040 in drug proceeds.
On June 9, 2017, an HSI investigator observed Wynn talking on a cell phone while driving and informed a Baltimore County patrol officer who conducted a traffic stop of Wynn’s vehicle. During that traffic stop, a Maryland Transportation Authority Police officer conducted a canine scan of Wynn’s vehicle and recovered a one-kilogram heroin brick and $11,620 in cash that was separated by rubber-banded bundles. The search of Wynn’s person incident to arrest revealed a digital scale and two $500 casino chips.
HSI investigators obtained search warrants for Wynn’s residence and storage unit and recovered approximately 1 kilogram of fentanyl, 3 kilograms of heroin, and an electronic money counter. Numerous gift cards totaling $5,575, $16,602 in cash that was bundled in small denominations, and an “owe sheet” were among the items that the HSI investigators recovered from Wynn’s residence.
Wynn faces a maximum sentence of life, in prison, with a minimum mandatory term of 10 years. U.S. District Judge Richard D. Bennett has scheduled sentencing for July 16, 2018 at 11 a.m.
Acting United States Attorney Stephen M. Schenning commended HSI, MTA police, Baltimore County Police Department. Mr. Schenning thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Samika N. Boyd and Christopher J. Romano who are prosecuting the case.
Omaha Man Sentenced for Bank RobberiesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Joseph P. Kelly announced that Traynell Toney, age 24, of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced today by the Honorable Laurie Smith Camp having previously pled guilty to robbing two U.S. Bank branches in two Baker’s Supermarkets. Toney was sentenced to 36 months’ imprisonment, 3 years’ supervised release, and ordered to pay $5,597 in restitution.
On June 2, 2017, Toney went to the U.S. Bank in Baker’s at 5555 North 90th Street, Omaha. He passed a note to the teller demanding money, stating that he would kill her and that he was carrying a gun in his sweatshirt. He was able to leave the bank with $3,170.00. He left the note at the bank.
On June 9, 2017, he passed a similar note to a teller at the U.S. Bank in Baker’s at 13250 West Maple Road. That note also stated he had a gun and threatened to kill a customer if he wasn’t given money. The teller complied and Toney got $2,427.
Law enforcement was able to identify Toney through surveillance at both banks that appeared to be the same person, a Crime Stopper’s tip, and his fingerprints were identified on the note from the June 2 robbery.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Omaha Police Department.
Ocean Springs Man Sentenced to over 13 Years in Federal Prison for Accessing the Internet with Intent to View Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Steven Dedual, Jr., 45, of Ocean Springs, Mississippi, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to 159 months in federal prison followed by 10 years of supervised release for accessing the internet with intent to view child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Thomas Annello, Acting Special Agent in Charge of U. S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans. Judge Ozerden also ordered Dedual to pay a $5,000 fine; restitution to three victims in the amount of $5,000 each, for a total of $15,000; and a $5,000 special assessment under the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act.
From November 2015 through May 2016, Dedual, through his use of computers in Gulfport and Ocean Springs, Mississippi, accessed the internet as a user of a file-sharing network with the intent to view visual depictions of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct, to include visual depictions of a minor who had not attained 12 years of age.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrea Jones.
North Carolina Woman Charged with Alien SmugglingRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office and the Swanton Sector of the United States Border Patrol announce that Carmen Melari Ferrufino Perdomo, 28, a naturalized U.S. citizen who lives in North Carolina, appeared today in United States District Court in Burlington on a charge that she transported six illegal aliens within the United States. U.S. District Judge Christina Reiss released the defendant on conditions pending her next court hearing in early April.
According to the criminal complaint that was filed today, on the early morning of March 18, 2018, Border Patrol officers noticed six people walking into the United States from Canada on Rainville Road, in Highgate, Vermont. Shortly after a white SUV was observed travelling towards the border along Rainville Road, Border Patrol officers saw a white Ford SUV travelling south, away from the border, along Rainville Road. Border Patrol stopped the white SUV, which was driven by the defendant. Border Patrol identified six undocumented persons from Mexico in the car as well. The defendant had flown to Burlington, Vermont on March 17, 2018, and rented the white Ford claiming that it would be returned on March 18, 2018 in New York. The Mexican citizens admitted entering the United States that night.
The United States Attorney emphasizes that the charge in the complaint is merely an accusation, and that the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until she is proven guilty.
If convicted, Ferrufino Perdomo faces up to five years of imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000. The actual sentence would be determined with reference to federal sentencing guidelines.
The Swanton Sector Border Patrol is responsible for securing the land border between ports of entry in Vermont as well as New Hampshire and northeastern New York. The assistance of citizens is invaluable in helping the U.S. Border Patrol accomplish their border security mission and they welcome community members to help them keep our nation’s borders safe by reporting suspicious activity at 1-800-689-3362.
For more on CBP’s mission at our nation’s ports of entry with CBP officers and along U.S. borders with Border Patrol agents, please visit the Border Security section of the CBP website.
Ferrufino Perdomo was represented at today’s hearing by Federal Public Defender Steven Barth. The prosecutor is Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Van de Graaf.
New Orleans Man Sentenced to 30 Months in Prison for Violating the Federal Gun Control ActRead the Press Release
DORIAN GIVENS, age 30, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was sentenced today by the Honorable Susie Morgan for violating the Federal Gun Control Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane Evans.
According to the court records, GIVENS on two separate occasions possessed a firearm after being convicted of distributing crack cocaine in a prior federal case. In June 2016, police found GIVENS in possession of a gun in the driver’s side door panel of the vehicle he was in when he was shot several times. In January 2017, police found a gun in a hotel room where GIVENS had been arrested. GIVENS admitted on a recorded jail call to being in possession of that gun.
Judge Morgan sentenced GIVENS to a term of imprisonment in the Bureau of Prisons of 30 months on each count, to run concurrently, as well as three years of supervised release following the term of imprisonment.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority. In October 2017, as part of a series of actions to address this crime trend, Attorney General Sessions announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop a district crime reduction strategy that incorporates the lessons learned since PSN launched in 2001.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Special Agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the New Orleans Police Department, and the Jefferson Parish Sherriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney David Haller.
New Haven Heroin Dealer Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that on March 16, 2018, LUIS RIVERA, JR., also known as “Pop” and “Gordo,” 43, of New Haven, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Alvin W. Thompson in Hartford 60 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for distributing heroin.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on March 3, 2016, an individual working with law enforcement purchased heroin from RIVERA in New Haven. The next day, investigators conducted a court-authorized search of RIVERA’s residence and car and seized heroin packaged for street sale, a digital scale and other items used to process and package narcotics for distribution.
RIVERA has been detained since his arrest on March 4, 2016. On October 13, 2017, he pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, heroin.
RIVERA’s criminal history includes several prior convictions, including felony convictions for sale of narcotics, robbery in the first degree, possession of narcotics, larceny in the third degree, assault on law enforcement personnel, and possession of a firearm.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Haven Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah P. Karwan.
Middletown Cocaine and Crack Dealer Sentenced to 10 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
Geoffrey S. Berman, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced today that COLLYER GOODMAN, a/k/a “West,” was sentenced to 10 years in prison for his role in supplying at least 14 other drug dealers with cocaine and crack cocaine in Middletown, New York. GOODMAN was convicted after a jury trial in October of conspiracy to distribute cocaine and crack cocaine. Numerous other members of the conspiracy, including Juan Beniquez, a/k/a “Johnny,” have already been sentenced. Beniquez was sentenced to 9 years in prison. U.S. District Court Judge Cathy Seibel imposed the sentences. Several other members of the conspiracy, including Oscar Boria Jr., and Damon Wheeler, are expected to be sentenced this spring.
U.S. Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman said: “Collyer Goodman has persistently sold crack and cocaine in Middletown and elsewhere at great risk to the community. Today’s sentence shows that drug dealers will neither profit from nor get away with their crimes.”
According to the Indictment, other filings in White Plains federal court, evidence at trial, and statements made in court proceedings:
Collyer Goodman supplied packages of redistribution quantities of cocaine to co-conspirators Oscar Boria Jr., Damon Wheeler, and Juan Beniquez, among others. All of those individuals were drug dealers with their own customers who repackaged the cocaine, in some cases cooked it into crack cocaine, and resold it to mid-level and street-level dealers and to drug users. Goodman sometimes also sold crack cocaine directly to his customers.
Over the period from 2015 through August 2016, Goodman distributed in excess of five kilograms of cocaine and 28 grams of crack cocaine.
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In addition to the prison sentence, GOODMAN was sentenced to five years of supervised release and ordered to forfeit $226,260.
Mr. Berman praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation Hudson Valley Safe Streets Task Force and the Middletown Police Department.
This case is being handled by the Office’s White Plains Division. Assistant United States Attorneys Anden Chow and Allison Nichols are in charge of the prosecution.
Miami County Man Charged with Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DAYTON – A federal grand jury has charged Shawn Bradley, 36, of West Milton, Ohio with producing child pornography in an indictment unsealed here today.
Benjamin C. Glassman, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, Steve Francis, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Homeland Security Investigations and Miami County Sheriff Dave Duchak announced the charges.
According to the indictment, between May 2015 and February 2018, Bradley coerced a minor into engaging in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing child pornography.
Producing child pornography is a federal crime punishable by a range of 15 to 30 years in prison.
Bradley was arrested on February 28.
U.S. Attorney Glassman commended the investigation of this case by HSI and the Miami County Sheriff’s Office, as well as Assistant United States Attorney SaMee Harden, who is prosecuting the case.
An indictment merely contains allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
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Mexican National Sentenced for Destructive Marijuana Cultivation Operation in Sequoia National Forest in Kern CountyRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Alfredo Cardenas-Suastegui (Cardenas), 57, of Michoacán, Mexico, was sentenced today to five years in prison for conspiring to manufacture, distribute and possess with intent to distribute marijuana in the Sequoia National Forest, U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott announced. U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. O’Neill also ordered Cardenas to pay $5,233 in restitution to the U.S. Forest Service for the damage to public land and natural resources.
Cardenas pleaded guilty on October 2, 2017. According to the plea agreement, for four months, Cardenas tended to 3,850 marijuana plants at an area known as the “Box 6” grow site in the Sequoia National Forest in Kern County. Co‑defendants Sair Maldonado-Soto, 22, and Coral Herrera, 21, both of Perris, Riverside County, supplied material, equipment, and personnel to Box 6 and to a grow site in the Lucas Creek drainage with a total of 10,396 marijuana plants for both sites. Maldonado-Soto and Herrera were also responsible for transporting Cardenas and co‑defendant Abel Toledo‑Villa, 35, of Michoacán, Mexico, away from the Box 6 grow site after it was raided. A rifle, ammunition, and processed marijuana were seized from the vehicle occupied by the four defendants as it drove away from the Box 6 grow site.
The marijuana cultivation operations at both sites caused extensive damage to the land and natural resources. Toxic pesticides and fertilizers, miles of plastic irrigation lines, and large amounts of trash were found at both sites. Native trees and vegetation were also removed to make room for the marijuana plants.
Maldonado-Soto was sentenced to three years and four months in prison, Herrera was sentenced to five years of probation, and Toledo-Villa was sentenced to five years in prison.
This case was the product of an investigation by the U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) , Southern Tri-County High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) task force, California Department of Justice’s Campaign Against Marijuana Planting (CAMP), California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Kern County Sheriff’s Office, Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, Fontana Police Department, and Victorville Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Karen Escobar prosecuted the case.
Mexican Citizen Sentenced to 57 Months for Money Courier Role in Cocaine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Eduardo Nunez Serna, age 44, and a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced today to 57 months in prison for conspiring to launder the proceeds of a large cocaine trafficking organization.
The announcement was made by United States Attorney Grant C. Jaquith; James J. Hunt, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Division of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); James D. Robnett, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Office of IRS-Criminal Investigation; and Special Agent in Charge Kevin Kelly of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Buffalo Field Office.
Between August 2014 and March 30, 2016, a money laundering and drug trafficking organization based in Montreal, Canada, collected cash from selling marijuana in the United States and cocaine in Canada. The cash was delivered to couriers in, among other places, Albany County, Ulster County, and Montreal so that the cash could be delivered, either by a courier or by wire, to cocaine suppliers to purchase cocaine. At least $1 million was sent to Chicago, Los Angeles, Peru, Mexico and Colombia; money was also wired to China. The organization then arranged for the smuggling of cocaine back to Canada, and transported some of the cocaine through northern New York.
Nunez Serna, an illegal alien, acted as a money courier based in Chicago, Illinois, where he lived. Nunez Serna picked up cash sent by the money laundering and drug trafficking organization from the sale of marijuana in northern New York on at least two occasions. He forwarded this money to a cocaine supplier based in Acapulco, Mexico. On October 27, 2015, law enforcement searched Nunez Serna’s residence and found $710,827 in cash as well as a money ledger denoting transactions. Nunez Serna also had cellophane wrapping, duct tape, rubber bands, a heat sealer, money counter, and other packaging items used to count and repackage this cash.
United States District Judge Mae A. D’Agostino also sentenced Nunez Serna to a 3-year term of post-imprisonment supervised release, to begin after he is released from prison and in the event he remains in the country. Nunez Serna was also ordered to forfeit $355,000 in drug proceeds.
As part of the same case, all of the following people have pled guilty to conspiracy to commit international or promotional money laundering. Iraklis Haviaropoulos, Carlos Alberto Ocampo Garcia, and Jose Mauricio Ortiz Bolanos have also pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine, before Judge D’Agostino:
Name
Age
Residence
Charges
Sentencing Date
Iraklis Haviaropoulos
41
Montreal, Canada
Cocaine conspiracy > 5 kilograms
International money laundering conspiracy
May 23
Carlos Alberto Ocampo Garcia
56
Cali, Colombia
Cocaine conspiracy > 5 kilograms
International money laundering conspiracy
May 30
Jose Mauricio Ortiz Bolanos
30
Cali, Colombia
Cocaine conspiracy > 5 kilograms
International money laundering conspiracy
May 31
James DeSantis
56
Pompano Beach, Florida
International money laundering conspiracy
May 30
This case is the result of the close cooperative efforts of the DEA, including the Albany District Office and DEA offices in Peru, Mexico, Colombia, Guatemala, Chicago, Detroit, Los Angeles, and Worcester, Massachusetts; IRS-Criminal Investigation and HSI. These federal agencies worked closely with the Sûreté du Québec, the Canada Border Services Agency, the Peruvian National Police, and the Colombian National Police. U.S. Border Patrol, the Malone Police Department, the New York State Police, the Chicago Police Department, the Massachusetts State Police, and the Watervliet Police Department also provided assistance. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth R. Rabe.
Masked Robber Gets 14 Years in Prison for Stealing Prescription Meds from PharmaciesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A former Allegheny County resident has been sentenced in federal court to 171 months imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, on charges of conspiracy to commit pharmacy robbery, pharmacy robbery, brandishment of a firearm in relation to a crime of violence, and possession with the intent to distribute Schedule II controlled substances, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed the sentence on Stephan Edward Corrick, 67, formerly of Harmarville, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, on March 11, 2016, Palmer's Pharmacy located in Russellton, Pennsylvania, was robbed by two individuals armed with firearms and wearing masks. The suspects stole approximately 10,000 dosage units of prescription drugs, including Oxycodone and Fentanyl, with an estimated street value of approximately $235,000. As a result of their comprehensive and extensive investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration and West Deer Police Department developed a general description of at least one suspect.
Then on April 28, 2016, Keystone Pharmacy located in New Alexandria Boro, Pennsylvania, was robbed by two individuals wearing masks. One suspect had a gun and the other had pepper spray. The assailants placed employees on the ground and handcuffed them. Investigators determined that between 15,000 and 20,000 dosage units were stolen. Noting the similarities between both robberies, DEA then coordinated its investigation with that of the Pennsylvania State Police to identify and arrest the individuals in question. Through the investigation, agents identified Corrick as one of the suspects. After locating and interviewing him, agents secured a full confession. Immediately thereafter, the other suspect, was also identified and arrested. Corrick had recently been released from prison after serving time for armed robbery.
Corrick’s co-defendant, Dana Lee Shipley, of Fairmont, West Virginia, was sentenced in January to 216 months imprisonment, followed by six years of supervised release, for his role in the robberies.
Assistant United States Attorney Shanicka L. Kennedy prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Brady commended the DEA, the Pennsylvania State Police and the West Deer Township Police Department for conducting the investigation leading to the prosecution of Corrick.
Man Pleads Guilty to Gun Charge, Drug Conspiracy, and Possession with Intent to Distribute HeroinRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that KEVIN SAM, age 43, of New Orleans, pled guilty today to a Superseding Bill of Information charging him with conspiracy to distribute and possession with the intent to distribute heroin, possession with the intent to distribute heroin, and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court documents, SAM was the target of a narcotics investigation that was investigated by members of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Members of the FBI received information that SAM was selling heroin from his residence, located in the 1300 block of Reyes Street in New Orleans, Louisiana. Agents obtained a search warrant of SAM’s residence and located multiple bags of heroin that were packaged for sale. A pistol was also located inside of the residence. SAM, a convicted felon, is prohibited by law from possessing a firearm. At the time of his arrest, agents, while conducting a pat down of SAM, located additional individually wrapped bags of heroin inside of SAM’s clothing.
Judge Susie Morgan will sentence SAM on June 27, 2018 at 12:00 p.m. SAM faces a maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment for his participation in the drug conspiracy and for possessing heroin with the intent to distribute. For the firearms violation, SAM faces a maximum sentence of 10 years.
In August 2017, SAM was sentenced to serve 10 years for his role in a drug conspiracy in the Eastern District of Texas (Beaumont Division).
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Brittany L. Reed is in charge of the prosecution.
Last of Four Defendants Sentenced to Prison in Multi-State Dog Fighting ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Four defendants were sentenced this month in federal court in Trenton, New Jersey, as a result of their roles in a multi-state dog fighting conspiracy that extended to New Mexico and Indiana. Acting Assistant Attorney General Jeffrey H. Wood of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division and U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito of the District of New Jersey made the announcement.
- Today, Lydell Harris, 32, of Vineland, New Jersey, a/k/a “Sinn,” was sentenced to serve 17 months in prison. He had pleaded guilty to one felony count of conspiracy to sponsor or exhibit a dog in an animal fighting venture, and one felony count of possessing a dog intended for use in an animal fighting venture.
- Anthony “Monte” Gaines, 37, of Vineland, New Jersey, was sentenced on March 5, 2018, to serve 42 months in prison. Gaines had pleaded guilty to two felony counts of conspiracy to buy, sell, receive, transport, deliver, and possess dogs intended for use in an animal fighting venture, and one felony count of possessing a dog intended for use in an animal fighting venture.
- Frank Nichols, 40, of Millville, New Jersey, was sentenced March 9, 2018, to serve 57 months in prison. He had pleaded guilty to one felony count of conspiracy to transport, deliver and receive dogs intended for use in an animal fighting venture, and one felony count of possessing a stolen firearm subsequent to a felony conviction.
- Pedro Cuellar, 47, of Willow Springs, Illinois, was sentenced on March 12, 2018, to serve 12 months and a day in prison. He had pleaded guilty to one felony count of conspiracy to transport, deliver, and receive dogs intended for use in an animal fighting venture.
A fifth co-defendant who has pleaded guilty will be sentenced on April 18, 2018. The court is expected to set a trial date for four additional defendants for some time this summer. Judge Anne E. Thompson sentenced Gaines and Judge Peter G. Sheridan sentenced Harris, Cuellar, and Nichols.
According to court documents filed in connection with the cases, from October 2015 through June 1, 2016, the defendants and their associates fought dogs – including to the death – and trafficked in dogs with other dog fighters in Indiana, Illinois, New Mexico, and elsewhere so that those dogs could be used in dog fights. They also maintained fighting dogs and dog fighting equipment such as dog treadmills, intravenous drug bags and lines, “breeding stands” used to immobilize female dogs, and chains weighing up to several pounds per linear foot. Agents found canine blood on the floor, walls, and ceiling of the basement of one defendant’s residence, indicating that the area was likely used as a dog fighting pit. Among other acts involved in the charges, one of the pleading defendants admitted that his dog died in his car on the way home after losing a dog fight.
“In close partnership with the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and USDA Office of Inspector General, our Division is aggressively pursuing those who engage in illegal animal fighting ventures,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Wood. “These sentencings demonstrate our firm commitment to prosecute those who violate federal laws banning the torture of animals in the fighting ring. As these cases also demonstrate, animal fighting ventures often involve other forms of serious criminal conduct like illegal gambling and illegal trafficking in drugs and weapons. I applaud the law enforcement officers and prosecutors who worked tirelessly to deliver justice in these cases.”
“Dog fighting is vicious and cruel. And beyond the needless suffering it inflicts on animals, it exacts a toll on local animal shelters, charitable humane organizations, and the taxpayers of New Jersey,” said U.S. Attorney Carpenito. “We applaud our local and federal partners who investigated this case and brought the offenders to justice. The message from these sentencing is simple: if you fight dogs in New Jersey, you will face prosecution and imprisonment.”
“The provisions of the Animal Welfare Act were designed to protect animals from being used in illegal fighting ventures, which often entail other forms of criminal activity involving drugs, firearms and gambling,” said Special Agent in Charge Bethanne M. Dinkins for U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Office of Inspector General. “Together with the Department of Justice, animal fighting is an investigative priority for USDA OIG, and we will work with our law enforcement partners to investigate and assist in the criminal prosecution of those who participate in animal fighting ventures.”
“Homeland Security Investigations is proud to have been involved in this interagency investigation that sends a clear message that New Jersey will prosecute such offenders to the fullest extent of the law,” said Resident Agent in Charge Richard Reinhold for Cherry Hill Homeland Security Investigations. “It also points to the diverse law enforcement work that HSI performs on a daily basis.”
This case is part of Operation Grand Champion, a coordinated effort across numerous federal judicial districts to combat organized dog fighting. The phrase “Grand Champion” is used by dog fighters to refer to a dog with more than five dog fighting “victories.” To date, 98 dogs have been rescued as part of Operation Grand Champion, and either surrendered or forfeited to the government. The Humane Society of the United States assisted with the care of the dogs seized by federal law enforcement. The government is represented by Trial Attorney Ethan Eddy of the Justice Department’s Environmental Crimes Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathleen O’Leary. The case is being investigated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture – Office of Inspector General, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Laplace Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Commit Wire FraudRead the Press Release
DARYL ALEX, age 52, of LaPlace, Louisiana was sentenced today to two years of probation for his role in a conspiracy to commit wire fraud, U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today.
According to court documents, ALEX and his wife, Shawanda Nevers, conspired together to unjustly enrich themselves by using and attempting to use bank accounts and credit cards issued in the name of Nevers’s deceased father and to steal funds and obtain property that did not belong to them. Although Nevers’s father had died on May 5, 2017, on or about May 23, 2016, defendant ALEX placed a telephone call to a credit card company, on which ALEX falsely stated that he was Nevers’s father and had lost his credit card. ALEX further falsely stated that he, pretending to be the deceased father, had moved to LaPlace, Louisiana and requested a replacement credit card be mailed to an address in LaPlace, Louisiana. ALEX also caused bad checks to be written that were drawn on Nevers’s father’s bank account and used the father’s bank account to make purchases, using Social Security Administration funds that were deposited after the father’s death.
United States District Judge Susie Morgan also ordered ALEX to pay $247.37 in restitution to the Social Security Administration and to pay a $100 special assessment.
U. S. Attorney Evans commended special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation and the United States Secret Service, New Orleans Field Office, who investigated the case, and AUSAs Hayden Brockett and Loan “Mimi” Nguyen, and Trial Attorney Grace Albinson of the Department of Justice, Tax Division, who are prosecuting this case.
Kinmundy, IL Man Pleads Guilty to Bank FraudRead the Press Release
On Friday, March 16, 2018, in Federal Court in East St. Louis, Illinois, Alfred L. Cross, 75, of Kinmundy, Illinois (originally from Mattoon, Illinois), pled guilty to five counts of bank fraud, announced Donald S. Boyce, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois. The indictment charged Cross with defrauding seven southern Illinois banks out of more than $500,000.
In pleading guilty on Friday, Cross admitted that he opened checking accounts at the following banks: Bradford National Bank in Greenville, Illinois; Community First Bank of the Heartland in Mount Vernon, Illinois; the Farmers and Merchants National Bank in Nashville, Illinois; First Southern Bank in Carbondale, Illinois; Midland States Bank in Effingham, Illinois; State Bank of Whittington, in Benton, Illinois; and Washington Savings Bank, located in Effingham, Illinois. After these accounts had been open for a short period of time, Cross deposited into each of the accounts very large checks, ranging from $18,875 to $148,000. These checks were drawn on out-of-state bank accounts in the names of businesses that Cross controlled. Cross admitted that at the time he deposited these checks, he knew there were insufficient funds in the out-of-state accounts to cover the checks. Cross further admitted that before the checks could be returned as non-sufficient funds, he withdrew almost all of the funds he had deposited. Cross gave
some of these funds to his relatives and used the remainder to pay for personal expenses. Cross conducted this fraud scheme from April 14, 2011, through March 25, 2015.
Each of the bank fraud counts carries a maximum sentence of thirty years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000. The court can also order Cross to pay restitution to the victim banks. Cross will be sentenced on May 9, 2018, at 9:30 a.m. at the Federal Courthouse in East St. Louis, IL.
The investigation was conducted by agents from the Springfield Division, Fairview Heights Resident Agency, of the Federal Bureau of Investigation ("FBI"). The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Scott A. Verseman.
Justice Department Obtains $625,000 Settlement of Sexual Harassment Lawsuit Against Two St. Louis LandlordsRead the Press Release
The Justice Department today announced a settlement with two St. Louis landlords, Hezekiah and Jameseva Webb, to resolve a lawsuit alleging that they violated the Fair Housing Act by subjecting fifteen female tenants in their rental properties to sexual harassment over the course of two decades.
The lawsuit arose from a complaint filed by a former tenant with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The suit alleged that Hezekiah Webb, who served as property manager for the Webbs’ rental properties, sexually harassed female tenants at those properties. The United States alleged that Hezekiah Webb conditioned housing and housing benefits on female tenants’ agreement to engage in sexual acts, coerced female tenants to engage in unwelcome sexual acts, subjected female tenants to unwanted sexual touching and other unwanted sexual acts, made unwelcome sexual comments and advances to female tenants, and took adverse actions against female residents when they refused his sexual advances. The lawsuit further alleged that Jameseva Webb was liable under the Fair Housing Act because Hezekiah Webb acted as her agent when he engaged in the harassment.
Under the settlement, Hezekiah and Jameseva Webb will pay a total of $600,000 in monetary damages to fifteen former and prospective tenants who were subjected to sexual harassment, as well as a $25,000 civil penalty to the United States. The settlement also bars Hezekiah and Jameseva Webb from continuing to serve as property managers. The Webbs have advised the United States that they plan to sell their remaining five residential rental properties. If they fail to do so within 180 days, the settlement will impose certain requirements on them with regard to the remaining properties, including adoption of a sexual harassment policy, creation of tenant complaint procedures, and training on the Fair Housing Act’s requirements.
“Sexual harassment is unacceptable and intolerable, especially in the home, where landlords and property managers have the power to control so many aspects of a vulnerable tenant’s life,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General John Gore of the Civil Rights Division. “The Justice Department and its Sexual Harassment in Housing Initiative will continue to aggressively pursue sexual harassment in housing, even when the conduct occurred years ago.”
“No woman should have to put up with unwanted sexual advances in order to keep a roof over her head,” said Anna Maria Farías, HUD Assistant Secretary for Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity. “Today’s settlement sends a loud and clear message that HUD and the Justice Department are committed to taking appropriate action against housing providers who deprive women of the right to feel safe and secure in their home.”
In October, the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division announced the Sexual Harassment in Housing Initiative (SHHI). The initiative specifically seeks to increase the Department’s efforts to protect individuals from harassment by landlords, property managers, maintenance workers, security guards, and other employees and representatives of rental property owners. In 2017, the Justice Department recovered more than $1 million in damages for harassment victims. This is the first settlement announcement in 2018.
The Justice Department, through the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Civil Rights Division, enforces the Fair Housing Act, which prohibits discrimination in housing based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability and familial status. Sexual harassment is a form of discrimination prohibited by the Act. Individuals who believe that they may have been victims of housing discrimination can contact the Housing Discrimination Tip Line at 1-800-896-7743, e-mail the Justice Department at [email protected] or contact HUD at 1-800-669-9777 or through its website at http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/program_offices/fair_housing_equal_opp. More information about the Civil Rights Division and the laws it enforces is available at http://www.justice.gov/crt.
Jena man sentenced to 97 months for receiving hundreds of images, videos of child pornographyRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, La. – United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that a Jena man was sentenced last week to more than eight years in prison for downloading hundreds of images and videos of child pornography.
Shane Jeansonne, 30, of Jena, La., was sentenced Friday by U.S. District Judge Dee D. Drell on one count of receiving child pornography. He was also sentenced to five years of supervised release and is required to register as a sex offender. According to the December 15, 2017 guilty plea, law enforcement agents identified Jeansonne as downloading and distributing child pornography online. Agents searched his home on March 18, 2015 and found numerous computers and storage devices containing videos and images of child pornography. Agents then arrested Jeansonne, and he admitted to downloading child pornography and sharing the material online. After agents conducted a forensic examination of his electronic devices, they found hundreds of images and videos of child pornography.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a U.S. Department of Justice nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood combines 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.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) also encourage the public to report suspected child predators and any suspicious activity through its toll-free hotline at (866) 347-2423. Investigators are available at all hours to answer hotline calls. Tips or other information can also be submitted to ICE online by visiting their website at www.ice.gov/exec/forms/hsi-tips/tips.asp or through the Operation Predator smartphone application www.ice.gov/predator/smartphone-app. Tips may be submitted anonymously.
Homeland Security Investigations and the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Luke Walker prosecuted the case.
Indian Nationals Sentenced for Roles in Alien Harboring Scheme Involving Labor Exploitation at Nebraska MotelRead the Press Release
Vishnubhai Chaudhari, 50, and Leelabahen Chaudhari, 44, of Kimball, Nebraska, and Indian nationals unlawfully residing in the United States, were sentenced on March 19, 2018, in federal court in Omaha after previously pleading guilty on Dec. 18, 2017, to alien harboring for financial gain and conspiracy to harbor an alien, announced Acting Assistant Attorney General John Gore of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, U.S. Attorney Joe Kelly for the District of Nebraska, and Special Agent in Charge Tracy Cormier of ICE Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
U.S. District Court Judge Lauri Smith Camp sentenced both of the defendants to one year and one day in prison, followed by two years’ supervised release. The defendants also agreed to the entry of a stipulated judicial order of removal to India at the completion of their sentences and paid the victim $40,000 in restitution as a condition of their guilty pleas.
According to documents filed in court, the defendants admitted to conspiring to harbor the victim, who was an undocumented Indian national, at a Super 8 Motel in Kimball between October 2011 and February 2013. During that time, the defendants required the victim to work long hours, seven days a week at the motel, performing manual labor, including cleaning rooms, shoveling snow, and doing laundry. Although the defendants promised to pay the victim, they never did, but rather claimed to apply that amount to a debt the victim owed. The defendants further restricted the victim’s movement, isolated him, and verbally abused him. Defendant Vishnubhai Chaudhari also threatened to find the victim if he ever left the motel, and defendant Leelabahen Chaudhari regularly assaulted the victim, including on one occasion when she slapped his face several times because he had failed to clean a bathtub to her standards. The victim eventually escaped with the help of a motel guest and local law enforcement.
“Today’s sentence, and the restitution awarded to the victim, sends a clear message that the Justice Department will use its full resources to prosecute defendants like this one who motivated by their greed violate our immigration laws and exploit a vulnerable individual who lacked immigration status,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General John Gore of the Civil Rights Division.
“This case is a reminder that labor exploitation occurs in the United States, not just overseas, and federal law targets those who profit from human trafficking and related crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Joe Kelly for the District of Nebraska. “This case is a testament that such conduct will be vigorously investigated and prosecuted in the District of Nebraska.”
“Human trafficking is the modern world’s version of enslaving another person for profit. That is what these individuals have done to this victim,” said Special Agent in Charge Tracy Cormier of HSI St. Paul. “I’m proud of the work accomplished by HSI’s special agents, our partners at the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Nebraska, and the Department of Justice, who made these guilty pleas possible.”
The case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security’s Homeland Security Investigations, and was prosecuted by Trial Attorneys Olimpia Michel and Shan Patel of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section and Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit and Assistant U.S. Attorney Frederick D. Franklin of the District of Nebraska.
Illegal Alien Sentenced to Almost 7 Years in Prison for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Gustavo Millan-Arizmendi, 29, an illegal alien from Mexico, was sentenced today by US. District Judge Sul Ozerden to 82 months in federal prison, followed by 15 years of supervised release, for possession of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Thomas M. Annello, Acting Special Agent in Charge of U. S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans.
On May 29, 2017, when stopped while driving on Interstate 10 in Harrison County by a Border Patrol Agent, Millan-Arizmendi knowingly possessed on his cellular telephone visual depictions of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct, to include visual depictions of a minor who had not attained 12 years of age.
This case was investigated by U. S. Customs and Border Protection and Homeland Security Investigations, and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrea Jones.
Illegal Alien Found Guilty of Illegally Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. — Jesus Humberto Bernal- Berreaza, 19, a Mexican National illegally residing in Lexington, was convicted on Friday, by a federal jury sitting in Lexington, of being an Illegal Alien in Possession of a Firearm.
The jury returned its verdict following a one-day trial. The evidence established that Lexington Police arrested Bernal-Berreaza, on December 7, 2017, for carrying a loaded and concealed .45 caliber semi-automatic handgun. Bernal-Berreaza was also found in possession of 40 live rounds of .45 caliber ammunition. Bernal- Berreaza was illegally residing in Lexington.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Shawn Byers, Assistant Field Office Director, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement; Stuart Lowrey, Special Agent in Charge ATF; and Lawrence Weathers, Chief of the Lexington Police Department, jointly announced the jury’s verdict.
ICE, the ATF, and the Lexington Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Roger W. West represented the United States.
Bernal- Berreaza is currently scheduled to appear for sentencing, before Senior Judge Joseph M. Hood, in Lexington, on June 18, 2018, at 10:30 a.m. Bernal-Berreaza faces a maximum of 10 years in prison. However, the Court will impose his sentence after consideration of the United States Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statutes governing the imposition of sentences.
Guatemalan Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Document FraudRead the Press Release
A Guatemalan man who unlawfully used a fraudulent identification document was sentenced today to more than two months in federal prison.
Jose Lopez-Morales, age 36, a citizen of Guatemala residing in Independence, Iowa, received the prison term after a January 25, 2018, guilty plea to one count of unlawful use of identification documents.
At the guilty plea, Lopez-Morales admitted that on November 2, 2017, he used a fraudulent permanent resident card, bearing a fake name, when completing employment forms to obtain a job in Fairbank, Iowa. The social security account number used by Lopez-Morales on the employment forms belonged to a United States citizen and the lawful permanent resident number on the card was not assigned to him. On October 24, 2017, U.S. Border Patrol agents arrested Lopez-Morales and his minor child in Arizona after they illegally entered the United States. On October 25, 2017, Lopez-Morales was released pending immigration proceedings. On December 5, 2017, Lopez-Morales reported to the immigration office in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and initially denied being illegally employed in the United States before admitting he worked under a false name in Fairbank.
Lopez-Morales was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by Chief United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand. Lopez-Morales was sentenced to 76 days’ imprisonment. He must also serve a two-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Lopez-Morales is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be turned over to immigration officials.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel C. Tvedt and investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 17-CR-2095.
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Greene County Felon Illegally Possessed and Transported a Firearm Across State LinesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Greene County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Waylon Hanlan, 30, of Dilliner, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty to three counts before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on or about June 25, 2015, Waylon Hanlan illegally transported a firearm from out of state into his state of residency. Additionally, Waylon Hanlan, being a convicted felon, did knowingly and unlawfully possess the firearm. Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year from possessing a firearm.
Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for July 27, 2018 at 11:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of up to 10 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Amy L. Johnston is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the United States Marshals Service and the Monongalia County – West Virginia Sheriff’s Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Waylon Hanlan. 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 a 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.
Grand Rapids Man Sentenced to 188 Months in Federal Prison for Firearms OffenseRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN – Ralph Lamont Blevins, 39, of Grand Rapids, Michigan was sentenced to 188 months (15 years, 8 months) in federal prison for illegally possessing firearms and ammunition as a convicted felon, U.S. Attorney Andrew B. Birge announced today. In addition to the prison term, U.S. District Judge Paul L. Maloney imposed a 4-year term of supervised release that will commence once Blevins is released from imprisonment.
Blevins pled guilty on October 31, 2017, to one count of being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition. Blevins came to the attention of law enforcement in the Summer of 2017, when he had sold crack cocaine to a police informant. Police quickly moved in and executed a search warrant at Blevins’ home. They found numerous firearms, ammunition, drug paraphernalia, cash, and marijuana. Blevins had previously been convicted of more than a half dozen felonies, including violent crimes, drug offenses, and weapons offenses. He qualified for enhanced penalties under the Armed Career Criminal Act because of his extensive criminal history.
In its sentencing memorandum, the U.S. Attorney’s Office underscored Blevins’ long criminal history and emphasized the need to protect the public. “The defendant is a 39-year old with adult convictions for drugs, violence, and illegal possession of a firearm. Unfortunately, his prior convictions and periods of incarceration have not deterred him from further criminality.” His decision to maintain “a heavily guarded drug operation in the middle of Grand Rapids posed a significant risk to the community. The toxic mix of drugs and firearms could have easily led to the loss of life by officers, innocent bystanders, or even the defendant himself.”
U.S. Attorney Birge stated: “My office and our law enforcement partners will aggressively prosecute repeat offenders, and the penalties for engaging in narcotics trafficking while armed with firearms will be appropriately severe.”
The charges in this case are the result of a joint investigation by the Kent Area Narcotics Enforcement Team (KANET), the Grand Rapids Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF). Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean M. Lewis prosecuted the case. The U.S. Attorney's Office and federal, state, and local law enforcement are working closely together to combat violent crime in the Grand Rapids area.
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Four from the Mahoning Valley indicted for firearms crimesRead the Press Release
Four people from the Mahoning Valley were indicted in federal court on firearms charges, and, in some cases, drug trafficking charges.
Named in separate indictments are: Daylen Harris, 39, of Youngstown; Marvin Howell, Jr., 39, of Boardman; Antonio Dukes, 30, of Warren, and Donald Sims, 36, of Warren.
“These indictments demonstrate our commitment to prosecute people who carry firearms when they are not allowed by law to have them,” said U.S. Attorney Justin E. Herdman. “Not surprisingly, several of these defendants were also involved in the sale of fentanyl, heroin and other deadly drugs, and using firearms as part of their drug trafficking.”
“These cases are the result of great collaboration from all the agencies involved, local and federal,” said Mahoning Valley Law Enforcement Task Force Commander Larry McLaughlin.
“There is no place in our community for those who use firearms for violent, criminal purposes,” said Trevor A. Velinor, Special Agent in Charge of ATF’s Columbus Field Division. “ATF will continue to work with our law enforcement partners at the federal, state, and local levels to bring those individuals to justice and make the Mahoning Valley area safer for all of its residents.”
Harris was indicted on charges of trafficking crack cocaine, possessing with intent to distribute crack cocaine, possessing a firearm in connection with drug trafficking and being a felon in possession of firearms.
Harris repeatedly sold crack cocaine in May and June 2017. He used a several firearms in connection with his drug trafficking, including a Norinco SKS 7.62 mm rifle, a Plainfield Machine model M1 .30 rifle, a Russian SKS-45 7.62 mm rifle, a Taurus 9 mm pistol and a Taurus .380 pistol. Harris was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition because of a previous conviction for possession of cocaine, according to the indictment.
Howell was indicted on charges of possessing with intent to distribute marijuana, possessing a firearm in connection with drug trafficking and being a felon in possession of firearms.
Howell possessed marijuana with the intent to distribute the drug on Nov. 16, 2017, as well firearms related to his drug trafficking activities, including a Glock 9 mm pistol, an RG Industries .22 revolver, a Smith & Wesson .40 pistol and ammunition. Howell was prohibited from possessing these firearms and ammunition because of a prior conviction for drug trafficking, according to the indictment.
Dukes was charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm. Dukes has prior convictions for possession of heroin and assault on a law enforcement officer, but on Dec. 21, 2017, he was in possession of a Smith & Wesson 9 mm pistol and ammunition, according to the indictment.
Sims was charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. He possessed a Star, model PS, .45 caliber pistol and ammunition, after having been previously convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm, according to the indictment.
These cases are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David M. Toepfer following investigations by the Mahoning Valley Law Enforcement Task Force, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms and the Warren Police Department.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violations. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and, in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government's burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt
Four Defendants Sentenced to Federal Prison Terms in Multi-State Dog Fighting ProsecutionRead the Press Release
TRENTON, N.J. – Four men have been sentenced to federal prison terms for their respective roles in an interstate dog fighting network that extended from New Jersey to New Mexico and Indiana, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito, District of New Jersey, and Acting Assistant Attorney General Jeffrey H. Wood of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division, announced today.
The four defendants, arrested and charged as part of a coordinated effort across numerous federal judicial districts to combat organized dog fighting, previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Mary L. Cooper in Trenton federal court:
- Anthony “Monte” Gaines, 37, of Vineland, New Jersey, was sentenced March 5, 2018, to serve 42 months in prison. He previously pleaded guilty to two felony counts of conspiracy to buy, sell, receive, transport, deliver, and possess dogs intended for use in an animal fighting venture, and one felony count of possessing a dog intended for use in an animal fighting venture.
- Frank Nichols, 40, of Millville, New Jersey, was sentenced March 9, 2018, to serve 57 months in prison. He previously pleaded guilty to one felony count of conspiracy to transport, deliver and receive dogs intended for use in an animal fighting venture, and one felony count of possessing a stolen firearm subsequent to a felony conviction.
- Lydell Harris, 32, of Vineland, New Jersey, a/k/a “Sinn,” was sentenced today to serve 17 months in prison. He previously pleaded guilty to one felony count of conspiracy to sponsor or exhibit a dog in an animal fighting venture, and one felony count of possessing a dog intended for use in an animal fighting venture.
- Pedro Cuellar, 47, of Willow Springs, Illinois, was sentenced today to serve 12 months in prison. He had pleaded guilty to one felony count of conspiracy to transport, deliver, and receive dogs intended for use in an animal fighting venture.
A fifth co-defendant, Mario Atkinson, 42, of Asbury Park, New Jersey, has also pleaded guilty and is scheduled to be sentenced April 18, 2018. The court is expected to set a trial date for four additional defendants for some time this summer. Judge Anne E. Thompson sentenced Gaines and Judge Peter G. Sheridan sentenced Harris, Nichols and Cuellar.
“Dog fighting is vicious and cruel. And beyond the needless suffering it inflicts on animals, it exacts a toll on local animal shelters, charitable humane organizations, and the taxpayers of New Jersey,” U.S. Attorney Carpenito said. “We applaud our local and federal partners who investigated this case and brought the offenders to justice. The message from these sentencing hearing is simple: if you fight dogs in New Jersey, you will face prosecution and imprisonment.”
“Ending animal fighting ventures is important to our Division, and is often tied to other forms of crime. We dispatch prosecutors who focus in this area to districts across the country to join with our partners in the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices in aggressively pursuing illegal animal fighting,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Wood. “This week’s sentencing proceeding demonstrates that our justice system will not tolerate the torment and death of animals in the fighting ring, all for the sake of illegal gambling.”
“The provisions of the Animal Welfare Act were designed to protect animals from being used in illegal fighting ventures, which often entail other forms of criminal activity involving drugs, firearms and gambling,” Special Agent in Charge Bethanne M. Dinkins for U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Office of Inspector General said. “Together with the Department of Justice, animal fighting is an investigative priority for USDA OIG, and we will work with our law enforcement partners to investigate and assist in the criminal prosecution of those who participate in animal fighting ventures.”
According to court documents filed in connection with the cases and statements made in court:
From October 2015 through June 1, 2016, the defendants and their associates fought dogs – including to the death – and trafficked in dogs with other dog fighters in Indiana, Illinois, New Mexico, and elsewhere so that those dogs could be used in dog fights. They also maintained fighting dogs and dog fighting equipment such as dog treadmills, intravenous drug bags and lines, “breeding stands” used to immobilize female dogs, and chains weighing up to several pounds per linear foot. Agents found canine blood on the floor, walls, and ceiling of the basement of one defendant’s residence, indicating that the area was likely used as a dog fighting pit. One of the pleading defendants admitted that his dog died in his car on the way home after losing a dogfight.
This case is part of Operation Grand Champion, a coordinated effort across numerous federal judicial districts to combat organized dog fighting. The phrase “Grand Champion” is used by dog fighters to refer to a dog with more than five dog fighting “victories.” To date, 98 dogs have been rescued as part of Operation Grand Champion, and either surrendered or forfeited to the government. The Humane Society of the United States assisted with the care of the dogs seized by federal law enforcement. The investigation is ongoing.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathleen O’Leary of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of New Jersey, and Trial Attorney Ethan Eddy of the Justice Department’s Environmental Crimes Section.
The case is being investigated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture – Office of Inspector General, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations, and the FBI.
Founder and CEO of Defunct Tampa Technology Company Sentenced to 80 Months in Prison for Investment FraudRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Kovachevich has sentenced Timothy Munro Roberts (57, Missouri) to six years and eight months in federal prison for wire fraud. He was also ordered to pay $5,874,912.52 in restitution to the victims of the fraud. Roberts pleaded guilty on January 9, 2017.
According to court documents, in 2010, Roberts and his codefendant, Terrance Taylor, founded Savtira Corporation, Inc., a technology company headquartered in Ybor City. Savtira purported to offer a centralized, cloud-based shopping cart platform for online and traditional retailers. While marketing Savtira stock to investors, Roberts and Taylor made false claims and promises. In particular, they claimed that the company was profitable and owned patents, that they had entered into executed agreements with nationally recognized technology firms, and that Savtira was valued between $450 million and $540 million. Roberts and Taylor then misused and misappropriated investor funds for personal expenses and made cash withdrawals without the investors’ consent. They also failed to disclose key facts to investors, including that Roberts had entered into a prior settlement agreement with the Securities and Exchange Commission that required him to pay a fine and banned him from selling unregistered securities.
Taylor, Savtira’s CFO, pleaded guilty and was sentenced on December 17, 2017, to five years in federal prison.
This case was investigated by the Florida Office of Financial Regulation - Bureau of Financial Investigations and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mandy Riedel.
Fort Worth, Texas Federal Court Shuts Down Tax Return PreparerRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – A federal court in Fort Worth, Texas has permanently barred Munah Youssef, also known as Munah Harris Youssef, and her corporation, 3M & Sons Tax and Beauty Salon LLC, from preparing tax returns for others, the Justice Department announced today. U.S. Senior District Judge Terry R. Means entered the order, which defendants consented to. The order also authorizes the United States to conduct discovery to monitor Youssef’s and her corporation’s compliance.
Youssef and 3M & Sons Tax and Beauty Salon LLC admitted the allegations in the government’s complaint filed in December 2017, including the allegation that Youssef prepared returns for her customers that included false claims of education credits, fuel tax credits, and business expenses.
The IRS has a list of steps on their website that you can take now in anticipation of filing your 2017 federal income tax return and ten tips for choosing a tax preparer. Return preparer fraud was one of the IRS’s Dirty Dozen Tax Scams for 2018 and taxpayers seeking a return preparer should remain vigilant. The IRS has some information on their website about selecting a return preparer and has launched a free directory of federal tax preparers.
In the past decade, the Tax Division has obtained injunctions against hundreds of unscrupulous tax preparers. Information about these cases is available on the Justice Department’s website. An alphabetical listing of persons enjoined from preparing returns and promoting tax schemes can be found on this page. If you believe that one of the enjoined persons or businesses may be violating an injunction, please contact the Tax Division with details.
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Felon with Firearm Sentenced to 98 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
Charles E. Peeler, United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia, announces that on March 15, 2018, Senior United States District Court Judge Hugh Lawson sentenced Michael Trevor Haynes, age 37, of Moultrie, GA, to 98 months imprisonment for possession of a firearm by a person previously convicted of domestic violence and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Mr. Haynes was found guilty of the charges on August 8, 2017, following a jury trial. Evidence presented showed that on August 10, 2016, two Moultrie, Georgia police officers approached a vehicle in which the defendant was sitting. The officers began questioning Mr. Haynes as he sat in the car. The car door was open and Mr. Haynes had his legs out the door and his feet on the ground. Mr. Haynes provided officers with a false name and a false date of birth. Some of Mr. Haynes’ family began walking toward the car from a home nearby. When the officers began to ask them about the defendant’s identity, Mr. Haynes charged one of the officers and struck him in the face. The other officer grabbed Mr. Haynes in an effort to prevent him from fleeing. Mr. Haynes then hit that officer in the face. The officers were eventually forced to use tasers twice to subdue him. During the arrest, officers removed a .38 caliber revolver from Mr. Haynes’ right front pocket. During a search of Mr. Haynes at the local jail facility, officers found two small bags of marijuana on his person. They later caught Mr. Haynes attempting to flush another small bag of marijuana down a toilet.
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.
"Mr. Haynes is an example of the type of person Project Safe Neighborhoods is designed to get off the streets: a man with a prior conviction of a violent crime, who desperately and violently resisted arrest until forcibly subdued, all the while carrying a concealed handgun. It is so very fortunate that his illegal weapon did not come into play during his arrest," said United States Attorney Peeler.
The case was investigated by the Macon Office of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Moultrie Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Sonja B. Profit prosecuted the case for the United States.
Questions concerning this case should be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603.
Federal Firearms Dealer Sentenced to 78 Months for His Role in Trafficking Firearms to MexicoRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – Last week, Timothy Alan Veninga, 48, of Tucson, Ariz., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge James A. Soto to 78 months’ imprisonment and a judgment of forfeiture of over $61,000. Veninga had previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to defraud the United States, aiding and abetting false statements in firearms transactions, false statements to government agency, tampering, and identity theft. On July 6, 2017, Veninga’s co-defendant, Joe Valles, a former Tucson Police Department officer, was also sentenced to 78 months’ imprisonment for his role in the trafficking scheme.
Veninga, owner of Ballistic Firearms in Tucson and Valles, a business partner who operated a firearm painting business on the premises of Ballistic Firearms, were involved in a scheme in which they paid individuals who were not the actual purchasers of firearms to complete and sign ATF Forms 4473 (Firearms Transaction Record), while leaving the date and firearm information section blank. Veninga and Valles also used the identities of two other people (which had been obtained while Valles was working as a police officer for Tucson Police Department) who were not the actual purchasers of firearms without their permission to complete and sign Forms 4473. Veninga and Valles used the fraudulent Forms 4473 to document multiple firearms transactions and create records retained by Veninga, which falsely represented the identities of the purchasers, thereby concealing the identities of the true buyers. The conspiracy involved a minimum of 31 firearm transactions involving 24 semi-automatic pistols (varying calibers) and seven rifles, including one semi-automatic assault rifle, one semi-automatic high-capacity rifle, and two .50 caliber semi-automatic rifles. Evidence from the investigation established that these firearms were sold to members from Mexico drug cartels and that the firearms were intended for Mexico.
The investigation in this case was conducted by Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The prosecution was handled by Serra M. Tsethlikai and Karen Rolley, Assistant U.S. Attorneys, District of Arizona, Tucson.
CASE NUMBER: CR-16-1059-TUC-JAS
RELEASE NUMBER: 2018-028_Veninga
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For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.
Easton Man Sentenced to 3 Years in Prison for Using Dark Net to Acquire and Sell Meth and XanaxRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that on March 16, 2018, CAVAN DEVINE, 26, of Easton, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton in New Haven to 36 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for possessing methamphetamine and Xanax.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on December 4, 2016, Easton Police seized a bag belonging to DEVINE that contained approximately 744 grams of methamphetamine, 577 and one-half pills labeled “Xanax,” and drug paraphernalia. DEVINE was arrested the next day. A subsequent search of a hotel room rented by DEVINE revealed an additional quantity of methamphetamine, as well as items used to process, package and mail drugs. Investigators also seized a laptop computer.
The investigation established that DEVINE had obtained the methamphetamine and Xanax over the dark net, which he also used to distribute the drugs.
The search of DEVINE’s laptop also revealed more than 1,000 images of child pornography, which DEVINE also acquired over the dark net.
On October 2, 2017, DEVINE pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and a quantity of Xanax.
This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Connecticut State Police and Easton Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony E. Kaplan.
Denver Jury Convicts Cocaine TraffickerRead the Press Release
DENVER - The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado today announces that Carlos Fernandez-Barron aka “Carlitos” was convicted in the United States District Court for conspiring to distribute, and possessing with intent to distribute, five kilograms or more of cocaine. A Denver jury returned the verdict in federal court today, acquitting him of two other charges.
At trial, before United States District Court Judge Raymond P. Moore, the Government introduced evidence showing that Fernandez-Barron was a Denver-based member of a sophisticated cocaine trafficking conspiracy, which was responsible for sending hundreds of kilograms of cocaine to Colorado and millions of dollars in proceeds back to Chihuahua, Mexico. The Defendant’s role was to help unload cocaine from hidden compartments in vehicles, distribute it in the Denver metro area, and then collect proceeds to return to Mexico. A Denver jury today convicted Fernandez-Barron of one count of conspiracy to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 846 and one count of possession with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(A)(ii)(II). His sentencing is set for June 4, 2018.
The case was investigated by the Rocky Mountain High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas, Front Range Task Force, which includes agents from the Drug Enforcement Administration, Denver Field Division. Assistant United States Attorney Peter McNeilly and Special Assistant United States Attorney Wayne Paugh are prosecuting this matter for the United States. The case is captioned, United States of America v. Carlos Fernandez-Barron, Case No. 15-cr-360-RM.
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Delaware Man Pleads Guilty in Enticement of a Minor CaseRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – Joshua Rutherford pled guilty to one count of attempting to entice a minor to engage in sexual activity, announced U.S. Attorney David C. Weiss of the District of Delaware.
Today, Rutherford, 37 years old of Camden-Wyoming, Delaware, and Newark, Delaware, and a former teacher at Smyrna High School, pled guilty before the Honorable Gregory M. Sleet of the U.S. District Court of Delaware.
According to statements made in court at the hearing, Rutherford responded to an online advertisement posted by an undercover detective with the Delaware State Police looking for men who were interested in incest with minor children. Using a mobile chat application, Rutherford responded to the advertisement and communicated with the undercover detective for almost a month. In those conversations, Rutherford expressed his desire to see nude pictures of a girl he believed to be 14 years old, Rutherford expressed his willingness to have sexual intercourse with the same minor while her father watched, and Rutherford demanded that the father have sexual contact with the minor first – while Rutherford watched – in order to prove that the father was not a member of law enforcement. Rutherford scheduled a time to meet the man he believed to be the father of a 14-year-old girl along with that 14-year-old girl for the purpose of having sex with that 14-year-old girl. Rutherford was arrested when he arrived at the rendezvous.
U.S. Attorney David C. Weiss stated, “Our office reaffirms its unrelenting commitment to take whatever steps are necessary to pursue and prosecute those predators who seek to victimize our most precious and vulnerable citizens – our children.”
Rutherford is being detained until sentencing where he faces a sentence of ten years. Rutherford also faces a term of supervised release following imprisonment and will be required to register as a sex offender in any jurisdiction in which he lives, works, or attends school. Sentencing is scheduled for June 19, 2018 at 2:00 p.m.
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the Delaware Child Predator Task Force investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Graham L. Robinson is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Decatur Man Pleads Guilty to Kidnapping and Child Sex-Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
BIRMINGHAM – A Decatur man pleaded guilty today in federal court to kidnapping and child sex-trafficking charges as part of a detailed plan to hire someone to kidnap a woman and her 14-year-old daughter, announced U.S. Attorney Jay E. Town and FBI Special Agent in Charge Johnnie Sharp Jr.
BRIAN DAVID “Blaze” BOERSMA, 48, entered his guilty pleas before U.S. District Judge R. David Proctor to attempted kidnapping of a minor, attempted kidnapping, attempted sex trafficking of a child, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a violent crime. A sentencing date has not been set.
“Boersma has revealed the worst parts of human depravity and his guilty plea provides little comfort to those who would have suffered unspeakable horrors,” Town said. “He will spend most, if not all, of the remainder of his life in prison…and then he has hell to look forward to.”
“It is unacceptable for adults to take advantage of minors in such a way that will forever impact their lives, and the deplorable behavior exhibited in this case is beyond comprehension,” Sharp said. “Human trafficking steals the innocence from our children and young women, and individuals like Boersma, who prey upon the vulnerable, need to be removed from our society.”
Boersma worked at the Alabama Farmers’ Cooperative in Decatur shuttling trailers from the storage yard to the warehouse where they would be loaded with merchandise for shipment to other locations. His plea agreement with the government lays out his efforts in the fall of 2017 to encourage a co-worker at the co-op to find someone willing to kidnap a woman and her daughter for payment. Boersma, in installments, gave the co-worker $3,440 to hold for a kidnapping payment. The co-worker alerted the FBI to Boersma’s plan in mid-September and the bureau sent two undercover employees to pose as willing kidnappers.
According to Boersma’s plea agreement, he intended to carry out the kidnappings and child sex-trafficking as follows:
Boersma boasted to his co-worker that he would sell the child to a pimp he knew in Memphis, Tenn., and hoped to get as much as $40,000 because she was “a young, clean virgin.” Ultimately, his contact in Memphis offered him only $8,000 for the girl, Boersma said.
Boersma had outfitted a trailer at the co-op with a mattress and restraints for holding the mother and daughter. He also placed inside the trailer a metal “sex device” he had built so the woman could be tied to it, beaten and raped.
Boersma claimed that the woman’s ex-husband wanted the woman and child kidnapped as retribution for the woman divorcing him and taking him to court for child support. He said the ex-husband wanted to beat the woman with a bullwhip and it would be a “bloody mess” in the trailer. He said he put plastic down inside the trailer to help with clean up. Boersma also told the undercover FBI employees that once the woman was dead, he would “have to go get 300 pounds of lime and dig a hole.” He said he would get the lime from the co-op and bury the body under a nearby bridge.
On Oct. 10, Boersma and his co-worker met at a Decatur hotel with the undercover FBI agents who Boersma believed would kidnap the mother and child. Boersma told the agents what he wanted done, provided photos of the two intended victims and handed the agents $3,440. He then led the agents to the woman’s workplace, to her home and to the co-op, where he showed them the trailer he had prepared for holding the victims.
Shortly after returning to the hotel, police arrested Boersma as he approached his pickup truck. A loaded Smith & Wesson M&P .40-caliber pistol was recovered in a subsequent search of the truck. Boersma was prohibited from possessing the gun because of a felony unlawful possession of a controlled substance conviction in Shelby County, Tenn., in 1998.
The prison penalty for attempted kidnapping of a minor is a minimum of 20 years. Attempted sex trafficking of children carries a prison penalty of 10 years to life. Attempted kidnapping carries a maximum 20-year prison sentence. The maximum prison sentence for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon is 10 years. Possessing a firearm in furtherance of a violent crime carries a minimum five-year prison sentence that must run consecutively to any other term of imprisonment imposed.
The FBI investigated the case, which Assistant U.S. Attorney Davis Barlow is prosecuting.
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Costa Rican Sentenced to 33 Months in Prison for Fraud Scheme Involving Controlled SubstancesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Costa Rica has been sentenced in federal court to 33 months with three years of supervised release on his conviction of mail fraud and money laundering, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Donetta Ambrose imposed the sentence on Ramiro Navarro Quesada, 40, of San Jose, Costa Rica.
According to information presented to the court, Quesada used a Costa Rican website to advertise the Internet sale of Schedule II and Schedule IV controlled substances, which were exported from India and received in the United States.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations, the Postal Inspection Service, Homeland Security Investigations, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Quesada.
Convicted Felon Sentenced to 44 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that Bobby Eric Spates, age 26, of Florence, SC, was sentenced in federal court in Florence, South Carolina, for Felon in Possession of a Firearm. United States District Judge Bryan Harwell, of Florence, sentenced Spates to 44 months in federal prison with 3 years of supervised release to follow.
The evidence presented at the guilty plea hearing established that on March 31, 2017, members of the Florence Police Department (FPD) responded to a 911 call regarding a pedestrian pointing a gun at a motorist on West Evans Street in Florence. Based on the description of the armed pedestrian received from the motorist, FPD made contact with the pedestrian, identified as Spates, detained him in handcuffs, and asked Spates if he had any weapons on him. Spates responded he had a gun in his pants pocket. The officer proceeded to pat-down Spates and felt what appeared to him to be a gun in Spates’ right front pants pocket. The officer then removed a loaded Phoenix Arms .22 caliber pistol. The officer advised Spates of his Miranda warnings and advised Spates he was under arrest. The officer next secured a box of .22 caliber ammunition from the same pocket where the firearm was located. Prior to his possession of the firearm, Spates had been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year.
The case was investigated by the Florence Police Department and the ATF. Assistant United States Attorney Lauren Hummel of the Florence office handled the case.
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.
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Convicted Felon and His Sister Charged in Indictment Stemming from Violent Encounter with Law Enforcement OfficersRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A brother and sister from Plainfield, New Jersey, were indicted today on drug distribution, felony possession of a firearm, obstruction of justice, and other charges resulting from a violent encounter with law enforcement officers in October 2017, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.
Arthur Forman, 35, is charged with possession of cocaine, marijuana, and oxycodone with intent to distribute, possession of a firearm in the course of committing a drug crime, and being a previously convicted felon in possession of a handgun. Courtney Jessica Forman, 30, is charged with misprision of a felony for taking acts to conceal Arthur Forman’s alleged crimes. Both defendants are charged with obstruction of justice. They are scheduled to be arraigned in Newark federal court at a later date.
According to the documents filed in this case:
During an encounter with law enforcement on Oct. 13, 2017, Forman allegedly resisted arrest by choking a Plainfield detective. During the encounter, Forman transferred a bag containing contraband to Courtney Jessica Forman, who attempted to dispose of the contraband by throwing it out a window. The bag was recovered by law enforcement officers from a nearby rooftop landing. Law enforcement officers recovered cocaine, marijuana, and a .38 caliber semi-automatic handgun loaded with eight rounds from the bag and multiple oxycodone pills from Arthur Forman’s apartment.
Based on the combined charges, Arthur Forman faces a maximum sentence of 30 years to life in prison. Courtney Jessica Forman faces a maximum sentence of three years in prison for the misprision charge and five years in prison for the obstruction of justice charge.
The charges and allegations in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited special agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge John Devito, the Plainfield Police Division, under the leadership of Director Carl Riley, and the Union County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Acting Prosecutor Michael Monahan, with the investigation.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua L. Haber of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Healthcare Fraud Unit and Desiree Grace Latzer of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Violent Crimes Unit in Newark.
Defense counsel:
Arthur Forman: Wanda M Akin Esq.
Courtney Jessica Forman: David Holman Esq.Columbia County Man Arrested on Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – James Brady, age 68, of Philmont, New York, was arrested and charged earlier this month with distribution and receipt of child pornography.
The announcement was made by United States Attorney Grant C. Jaquith and Vadim D. Thomas, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
Brady was arrested on March 1 and appeared in Albany before United States Magistrate Judge Christian F. Hummel, who ordered him detained pending trial.
If convicted, Brady faces at least 5 years and up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of post-imprisonment supervised release of at least 5 years and up to life, as well as mandatory registration as a sex offender. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
The charges in the complaint are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Anyone who wants to provide law enforcement with information about the defendant should contact the FBI Albany Field Office at (518) 465-7551.
This case is being investigated by the FBI and New York State Police, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sahar L. Amandolare.
This multi-agency approach is a hallmark 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.
Coeburn Doctor Sentenced on Healthcare Fraud, Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
Abingdon, VIRGINIA – A Coeburn physician, who prescribed Ritalin and hydrocodone to an undercover investigator, will serve two years’ probation, pay a $25,000 fine, surrender his medical license and pay $945,000 in restitution and forfeiture, announced United States Attorney Rick A. Mountcastle and Virginia Attorney General Mark Herring.
Gurcharan Singh Kanwal, 82, of Wise, Va., was sentenced last week in the United States District Court after previously pleading guilty to one count of healthcare fraud and one count of distributing Ritalin and hydrocodone. In addition to surrendering his medical license, Kanwal agreed to never reapply for a medical license.
After receiving numerous complaints that controlled substances were being diverted by employees and patients at the Coeburn Medical Clinic, agents with the Southwest Virginia Drug Task Force opened a formal investigation into Kanwal. During the course of the investigation, an undercover agent visited Kanwal’s practice as a patient and obtained prescriptions for Ritalin and hydrocodone without a legitimate medical purpose and beyond the bounds of medical practice. The investigation also revealed that Kanwal fraudulently billed Virginia Medicaid $472,500 for services provided that were not medically necessary or not actually provided.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Big Stone Gap Police Department, City of Norton Police Department, Southwest Virginia Regional Drug Task Force, the Virginia Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, and Virginia State Police. The following agencies also assisted with the execution of a search warrant in connection with the investigation: Bristol, Virginia Police Department, Buena Vista Police Department, Coeburn Police Department, Dickenson County Sheriff’s Office, Drug Enforcement Administration, Lee County Sheriff’s Office, Martinsville Police Department, Richlands Police Department, Scott County Sheriff’s Office, Tazewell County Sheriff’s Office, Tazewell Police Department, UVA-Wise Police Department, Wise County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, Wise County Sheriff’s Office, Wise Police Department, and the Virginia Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control. Special Assistant United States Attorney Suzanne Kerney-Quillen, a Virginia Assistant Attorney General assigned to the Attorney General’s Major Crimes and Emerging Threats Section, and Special Assistant Janine M. Myatt, a Virginia Assistant Attorney General assigned to the Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, prosecuted the case for the United States.
Chenango County Woman Pleads Guilty to Defrauding IRSRead the Press Release
BINGHAMTON, NEW YORK – Lavyette Anna Louisa Garcia, age 41, of Oxford, New York, pled guilty today to making a false claim against the United States and to assisting in the preparation of a false tax return.
The announcement was made by United States Attorney Grant C. Jaquith and James D. Robnett, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Office of IRS-Criminal Investigation.
As part of her guilty plea, Louisa Garcia admitted that she prepared tax returns for a fee while residing in Oxford and also Norwich, New York. She admitted to preparing at least 110 false tax returns between 2011 and 2014, resulting in an intended loss to the United States of $848,196.
Louisa Garcia admitted to preparing a 2012 tax return for a customer that falsely claimed self-employment income and several tax credits. Lavyette Garcia also admitted to preparing a 2009 tax return for another customer that falsely claimed income and several tax credits. These false returns caused the United States Treasury Department to issue refunds to which the taxpayers were not entitled.
Louisa Garcia faces up to 8 years in prison, post-imprisonment supervised release of up to 3 years, and a maximum $250,000 fine, when she is sentenced on July 17, 2018 by Senior United States District Judge Thomas J. McAvoy. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
This case was investigated by IRS-Criminal Investigation and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard Southwick.
Camden, New Jersey, Woman Admits Defrauding FEMA after Natural DisastersRead the Press Release
CAMDEN, N.J. – A Camden woman today admitted defrauding the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) in 2014 after Hurricane Sandy struck New Jersey in 2012, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.
Shanyra Bennett 40, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Jerome B. Simandle in Camden federal court to an information charging her with one count of Disaster Benefits Fraud.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
When a natural disaster or federal emergency occurs in the United States, federal agencies, such as FEMA, provide relief and assistance to effected individuals and entities. FEMA provides financial assistance by, among other things, helping effected individuals repair their property.
Due to FEMA's vast size and the typically large number of victims resulting from a disaster, FEMA is frequently targeted in disaster fraud schemes by individuals or groups seeking benefits to which they are not entitled. They do this by submitting fraudulent applications to FEMA for among other things, repairs and rental assistance.
In October 2012, various counties of southern New Jersey, including Camden County, sustained significant damage due to wind, rain, and flooding from Hurricane Sandy.
On Oct. 30, 2012, then-President Obama signed a Presidential Disaster Declaration for the State of New Jersey, enabling eligible individuals to seek financial assistance from FEMA when displaced by the storms.
Bennett admitted today that she applied for FEMA benefits in November 2012, requesting rental assistance, assistance to replace personal property that was damaged and assistance for transportation, as her car was damaged and not drivable.
Bennett faxed FEMA documents claiming that she worked as a senior health aide, which required her to travel for work. She sent FEMA a fraudulent letter indicating that she had insurance through Mercury Indemnity Co. of America. At the time of the hurricane, Bennett did not have insurance with Mercury Indemnity. Bennett also submitted fraudulent invoices from a mechanic in Camden.
Based on these false representations and fraudulent documents, on Dec. 10, 2012, FEMA electronically transferred $5,162 into Bennett’s bank account to replace her 2004 Dodge Durango, which she falsely reported destroyed by the hurricane.
To support her claim for personal property assistance, Bennett faxed FEMA a letter purported to be on the letterhead of her employer, which indicated that she was a Certified Home Health Aid and that her position required a laptop to perform her job. She also faxed FEMA earning statements from a company in Camden for July 2013, August 2013, September 2013 and October 2013. At the time of the hurricane, Bennett was unemployed.
As part of the application process for rental assistance, Bennett provided a fraudulent copy of a lease agreement for a house on South 41st Street, Camden, and fraudulent copies of rental receipt payments for June 2013 through November 2013. Bennett neither rented the property nor paid rent for use of the property.
Based on Bennett’s false statements and representations, between December 2012 and September 2013, FEMA transferred $22,190 in disaster related funds through electronic fund transfers into Bennett’s bank account.
Bennett admitted that she also defrauded FEMA in 2011, when Hurricane Irene struck the area. She admitted that between September 2011 and November 2012, based on her fraudulent claims and representations, she received approximately $30,200 in FEMA disaster related funds.
The charge to which Bennett pleaded guilty carries a maximum potential penalty of 30 years in prison and a fine of $250,000. Bennett=s sentencing is scheduled for June 27, 2018.
U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited special agents of the Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Mark Tasky, with the investigation leading to today’s guilty plea.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason M. Richardson of the U.S. Attorney's Office Criminal Division in Camden in the criminal case.
California Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- Steve Jones, 35, from Riverside, California, pled guilty today before United States District Court Judge Joseph R. Goodwin to conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. At the hearing, Jones admitted to obtaining pound quantity packages of methamphetamine on at least two occasions in 2017 that had been shipped from California to West Virginia and delivering them to another individual who had arranged their shipment. Once Jones delivered the packages he and others he was involved in distributing methamphetamine with in the Kanawha Valley were supplied large amounts of methamphetamine to sell. The proceeds were then returned to the individual who had arranged the shipments. Jones further admitted to having been involved in the distribution of between 500 grams and 1.5 kilograms of pure methamphetamine. Jones faces from 10 years to life imprisonment and a $10,000,000.00 fine when he is sentenced on June 14, 2018. Stuart praised the joint investigation conducted by MDENT, DEA and the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department.
“Meth dealers like Steve Jones who come to our state from California are not welcome here. It is my sincere hope that since Mr. Jones decided to distribute large amounts of poison to our people, he will spend every day of the rest of his life behind bars,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. These out-of-state drug traffickers are a disgrace to humanity and a threat to honest law abiding citizens in our communities,” continued Stuart.
This case is being 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. 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.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
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Bronx Woman Sentenced for Distributing HeroinRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Lourdes Rivera, age 40, of the Bronx, New York, was sentenced today to time served (44 days in jail) for distributing heroin.
The announcement was made by United States Attorney Grant C. Jaquith and James J. Hunt, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Division of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
United States District Judge Mae A. D’Agostino also sentenced Rivera to 3 years of post-imprisonment supervised release, including 6 months of home confinement.
Rivera, formerly of Albany, pled guilty in July 2017. Rivera admitted that she obtained heroin from suppliers in the Bronx and Amsterdam, New York. She sold the heroin on more than 6 occasions during the summer of 2016.
On July 25, 2016, law enforcement searched Rivera’s residence in Albany and found 160 small bags of heroin. A search of Rivera herself located a hidden bag that contained 58.3 grams of heroin.
This case was investigated by the DEA and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth R. Rabe.
Brockton Man Convicted by Federal Jury of Fentanyl DistributionRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Brockton man was convicted by a federal jury in U.S. District Court in Boston on Friday, March 16, 2018, of fentanyl distribution.
Dany Brandao, 30, was convicted of four counts of fentanyl distribution and one count of possession with intent to distribute more than 40 grams of fentanyl. U.S. Senior District Court Judge Rya W. Zobel scheduled sentencing for June 6, 2018.
On Oct. 7, 2016, Oct. 11, 2016, Oct. 25, 2016, and Nov. 1, 2016, Brandao met with an undercover police detective and sold him plastic baggies containing fentanyl. On Nov. 8, 2016, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Brandao’s home, where they located fentanyl, plastic baggies, cash, and a digital scale. The controlled purchases and search resulted in the seizure of more than 180 grams of fentanyl from Brandao. At the time of these offenses, Brandao was on federal supervised release stemming from a June 2013 conviction for heroin trafficking conspiracy.
Brandao faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to life in prison, a minimum of four years and up to a lifetime of supervised release, and a fine of up to $5 million. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling; Michal J. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Division; Colonel Kerry A. Gilpin, Superintendent of the Massachusetts States Police; Brockton Police Chief John Crowley; East Bridgewater Police Chief Scott Allen; and Marshfield Police Chief Phil Tavares made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Leah Foley, Ann Taylor, and Craig Estes of Lelling’s Narcotics and Money Laundering Unit are prosecuting the case.
Bancroft Man Sentenced for Bank Robbery and Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Joseph P. Kelly announced that Lenn W. Zuhlke, age 56, of Bancroft, Nebraska, was sentenced today by the Honorable Laurie Smith Camp having previously pled guilty to aiding and abetting a bank robbery at the First Bank of Bancroft. Zuhlke was sentenced to 17 months’ imprisonment and 2 years’ supervised release.
On April 20, 2017, Zuhlke drove Jeffrey Bonneau to pick up an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) that Bonneau had previously stolen. While in Zuhlke’s vehicle, Bonneau changed his clothes and covered his face. Zuhlke knew Bonneau was going to rob a bank. At approximately 5:35 p.m., Jeffrey Bonneau rode the stolen ATV to the First Bank of Bancroft and parked it on the sidewalk. He was wearing a dark motorcycle helmet, camouflage clothing and gloves. He entered the bank and demanded money from the teller, He was given $6,745.00 and then fled the bank on the ATV. He was tracked to a wooded grove near 2345 R Road. At one point he told officers he had a gun and fired a shot in the air. After he fired the shot, Bonneau fled again through the grove and was ultimately arrested after he crashed the ATV. He was taken to Pender Hospital and it was found he had methamphetamine in his system. All of the money was recovered. There was no evidence he used or possessed the gun during the bank robbery. Prior to Bonneau crashing, the plan was for Zuhlke to pick him up and get a share of the robbery proceeds.
Bonneau previously pled guilty to the robbery and possession of a firearm by a user of a controlled substance. He received a 30-month sentence for both charges and was ordered to serve them both at the same time.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Bancroft Police Department, Cuming County Sheriff’s Department and Nebraska State Patrol.
Baltimore Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Forcible Assault on Federal EmployeeRead the Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact ELIZABETH MORSE
www.justice.gov/usao/md at (410) 209-4885Baltimore, Maryland –United States District Judge Richard D. Bennett sentenced Idialyon Helm, age 21, of Baltimore, Maryland, to 10 years in prison, followed by three years of supervised release for forcible assault on a United States Postal Service (USPS) letter carrier, and brandishing a firearm in connection with a crime of violence. Helm also admitted to one additional armed robbery, as well as an attempted armed robbery.
The sentence was announced by Acting United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Stephen M. Schenning; Postal Inspector in Charge Robert B. Wemyss of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service - Washington Division; and Commissioner Darryl De Sousa of the Baltimore Police Department.
“While protecting postal employees is of paramount importance to Postal Inspectors, we are pleased that the results of this investigation have improved the safety of the entire community,” stated Inspector in Charge Wemyss.
According to his plea agreement, on December 29, 2016, at between 10:00 and 10:15 AM, Helm robbed a USPS letter carrier at gunpoint while the letter carrier was on his route in the 3100 block of Chesterfield Avenue in Baltimore City, taking the victim’s wallet and smart watch, among other things.
Helm was indicted for forcible assault on a federal employee and brandishing a firearm in connection with a crime of violence. In pleading guilty to those charges, Helm also acknowledged that he committed two other robberies/attempted robberies just days before the robbery of the letter carrier. According to his plea agreement, on December 25, 2016, at approximately 1:30 in the afternoon, Helm approached a male victim outside of a convenience store on Caton Avenue in Baltimore, pointed a silver handgun at him, and stole his shoes—a pair of Ugg Boots. Later that afternoon, Helm also attempted to rob a female victim at an M&T Bank ATM on Belair Road in Baltimore. He approached her, pointed a silver handgun at her, and said “Give me what you got.” In response, she fled and observed Helm get into a silver Infiniti SUV and drive away.
Acting United States Attorney Stephen M. Schenning commended the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Baltimore City Police Department for their work in the investigation. Mr. Schenning thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Paul Riley and Judson Mihok who prosecuted the case.
Attorney General Sessions Issues Statement on President Trump’s Plan to End the Devastating Opioid EpidemicRead the Press Release
Today Attorney General Jeff Sessions released the following statement on President Trump’s plan to end the devastating opioid epidemic:
“Drug dealers show no respect for human dignity and put their own greed ahead of the safety and even the lives of others. Drug trafficking is an inherently violent and deadly business: if you want to collect a drug debt, you collect it with the barrel of a gun. As surely as night follows day, violence and death follow drug trafficking, and murder is often a tool of drug traffickers.
“At the Department of Justice, we have made ending the drug epidemic a priority. We will continue to aggressively prosecute drug traffickers and we will use federal law to seek the death penalty wherever appropriate.
“I want to thank the President for his strong leadership on this issue and I join him in sending the message that business as usual has ended.”Antioch Man Facing Federal Charges for Making False Statement to Purchase FirearmRead the Press Release
Khari Milak Whitehead, 26, of Antioch, Tennessee, was charged on Friday in a criminal complaint with making a false statement in connection with the attempted purchase of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Don Cochran of the Middle District of Tennessee.
Whitehead was arrested Friday morning by ATF and FBI agents and is currently in federal custody. He will appear before a federal magistrate judge for a preliminary and detention hearing on March 21, 2018, at 11:00 a.m.
According to the criminal complaint, in early 2018, agents received numerous alarming notifications about Whitehead’s behavior and attempts to purchase a firearm from businesses in the middle Tennessee area, after a judicial officer had committed him to a mental institution for an evaluation.
The complaint outlines incidents recorded in reports by the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department (“MNPD”), where on July 5, 2013, Whitehead was arrested and charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and possession of a prohibited weapon, after displaying a hand grenade in a crowded downtown nightclub. The grenade was later found to be inert. MNPD records also indicated that on November 7, 2017, police went to Whitehead’s residence, where a family member told them that Whitehead was “acting out of control and crazy.” The family member also told officers that Whitehead had converted to Islam and may have become radicalized and they feared that he might commit a mass murder. The following day, the family member told officers that Whitehead was watching ISIS propaganda videos on the internet and he stated, “White people are going to end up getting it.”
According to the criminal complaint, on December 7, 2017, a judicial officer in Rutherford County, Tennessee, ordered Whitehead to be committed for a mental evaluation, due to his behavior in researching ISIS and mass shootings and his attempt to purchase a sniper rifle and ammunition from Wal-Mart. The judicial official in Rutherford County signed another order committing Whitehead for an evaluation on December 19, 2017.
During the course of this investigation, the complaint alleges that Whitehead attempted to purchase a firearm from Wal-Mart on February 22, 2018. Whitehead was particularly interested in purchasing a semi-automatic rifle that had the capacity to hold a lot of ammunition. Whitehead submitted the ATF purchase application forms and indicated that he had never been committed to a mental institution. The purchase was denied based on a background check and denied a second time when Whitehead requested that the background check be resubmitted.
If convicted, Whitehead faces up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives; the FBI; and Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ahmed Safeeullah is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Acting Captain and Two Soldiers in the Bonanno Crime Family Plead Guilty to Racketeering Conspiracy, Agree to Pay $2.25 Million in ForfeitureRead the Press Release
Earlier today, in federal court in Brooklyn, Ronald Giallanzo, also known as “Ronnie G,” an acting captain in the Bonanno organized crime family of La Cosa Nostra (the “Bonanno family”), and Michael Palmaccio, also known as “Mike,” a soldier in the Bonanno family, pleaded guilty to racketeering conspiracy, admitting their involvement in multiple acts of loansharking over 10 years. On March 8, 2018, Nicholas Festa, also known as “Pudgie,” a soldier in the Bonanno family, also pleaded guilty to racketeering conspiracy and admitted to additional acts of loansharking. The proceedings were held before Chief United States District Judge Dora L. Irizarry.
Richard P. Donoghue, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, and William F. Sweeney, Jr., Assistant Director-in-Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Division (FBI), announced the guilty pleas.
“Through their acts of violence, Giallanzo, Palmaccio and Festa reaped substantial illicit profits at the expense of their loansharking victims,” said United States Attorney Donoghue. “With today’s guilty pleas, these defendants are being held responsible for their destructive role in perpetuating organized crime’s presence in the community.” Mr. Donoghue thanked the Queens County District Attorney’s Office, the New York City Police Department and the U.S. Probation Department of the Eastern District of New York for their assistance in the investigation.
“Mobsters are known for lending large amounts of money at exorbitant rates to individuals who they know lack the financial means of paying off their loans,” said FBI Assistant Director-in-Charge Sweeney. “They intentionally extort their victims over extended periods of time using threats of violence as a means of collecting their weekly payments. It’s one of the oldest tricks in the book for these crime families, and they’ve shown no inclination to stop harassing and intimidating communities in our area. Today’s guilty pleas demonstrate that the FBI’s New York Joint Organized Crime Task Force continues to investigate these organized crime groups to hold them accountable and to protect the public.”
According to the indictment, court filings and facts presented during the plea proceeding, Giallanzo, Palmaccio and Festa were members of a Bonanno family “crew” that operated primarily in Howard Beach, Queens. Giallanzo operated a lucrative loansharking business in which he provided money to, among others, Palmaccio and Festa, to extend and collect extortionate loans to numerous individuals. Even while incarcerated for a prior federal conviction for racketeering and extortion conspiracy, Giallanzo kept watch over his illicit loansharking business, directing his associates to commit acts of violence to ensure that the customers paid the exorbitant weekly interest rate. At one point, Giallanzo had lent over $3 million in extortionate loans to customers. Giallanzo, Palmaccio and Festa were arrested by the FBI in March 2017.
At his guilty plea, Giallanzo admitted to participating in the affairs of the Bonanno family by extending and collecting extortionate loans to five different victims, and agreed to forfeit $1.25 million. As part of his agreement with the government, Giallanzo is also required to sell the Howard Beach mansion he constructed with loansharking proceeds while he was on supervised release stemming from his prior federal conviction. Palmaccio and Festa admitted to participating in the affairs of the Bonanno family by extending and collecting extortionate loans to five victims and two victims, respectively, and each agreed to forfeit $500,000.
When sentenced, Giallanzo, Palmaccio and Festa each face a statutory maximum of 20 years’ imprisonment. Seven co-defendants have previously pleaded guilty in this case.
The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Organized Crime & Gangs Section. Assistant United States Attorneys Nicole M. Argentieri, Lindsay K. Gerdes and Keith D. Edelman are in charge of the prosecution.
The Defendants:
RONALD GIALLANZO (also known as “Ronnie G”)
Age: 47
Queens, New YorkMICHAEL PALMACCIO (also known as “Mike”)
Age: 46
Queens, New YorkNICHOLAS FESTA (also known as “Pudgie”)
Age: 37
Oceanside, New YorkE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 17-CR-155 (S-1) (DLI)
Saturday 17 March 2018
Wounded Knee Man Sentenced for Child AbuseRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Wounded Knee, South Dakota, man convicted of Felony Child Abuse and Neglect was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Antuwon Hawk Wing, age 19, was sentenced on March 7, 2018, to time served, 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Hawk Wing was charged on March 21, 2017. The charge relates to Hawk Wing assaulting a two-year old at Kyle in March 2017, causing extensive bruising, a fractured clavicle, and a lung injury.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah B. Collins prosecuted the case.