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11 April 2018
Former Shelby County Sheriff’s Deputy Sentenced to 63 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – A former Shelby County Sheriff’s Deputy has been sentenced to 63 months in federal prison for one count of Hobbs Act extortion; one count of receipt of a bribe by a government agent and one count of solicitation to tamper with a witness. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant for the Western District of Tennessee announced the sentence today.
After ten days of trial in December 2017 before U.S. Senior District Judge Samuel H. Mays, a federal jury convicted Jeremy Drewery of attempting to extort thousands of dollars from an alleged drug dealer in August of 2016. Drewery was also convicted of soliciting a person to tamper with the witness in the extortion case – thereby obstructing justice.
United States Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said: "Official misconduct and corruption by law enforcement officers in positions of trust and authority undermine the foundational integrity of our government institutions. We must root out, expose, and hold accountable those officials who violate the public trust by corrupt acts of extortion, bribery, and witness tampering, and this sentence does just that."
According to information presented in court, Drewery was assigned to the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office’s Narcotics Division at the time of these events, but has since been terminated from the department. The evidence at trial showed that after executing a search warrant on the home of an alleged drug dealer, Drewery demanded money from the man. In exchange, Drewery would not institute a criminal case on the man. The alleged drug dealer contacted the FBI, which began an investigation. Over the course of three weeks, Drewery met with the alleged drug dealer and received a total of $8,000. Each of the meetings and numerous phone calls between Drewery and the alleged drug dealer were recorded.
Shelby County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Floyd Bonner said, "It is always a sad day when someone who was sworn to uphold the law is convicted of violating the law. This outcome is proof that no one is above the law. The Sheriff’s Office is proud to work with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to ensure equal justice for all."
The evidence at trial showed that, after Drewery’s arrest on the attempted extortion, he paid a confidential informant $2,000 to solicit a person to kill the alleged drug dealer.
"When law enforcement officers break the law they swear to uphold, they undermine the trust and confidence the citizens have that law enforcement will serve and protect them," said Michael T. Gavin, Special Agent in Charge of the Memphis Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. "This sentence will send a strong message to those who would stray from their mission to uphold and enforce the law, that the FBI will aggressively identify, investigate, and bring you to justice."
At today’s sentencing, Assistant U.S. Attorney Reagan Taylor requested an enhanced sentence for the defendant, describing the offense as "an egregious violation of the public’s trust in law enforcement." Judge Mays sentenced Drewery to 63 months imprisonment and 3 years supervised release to begin after his period of incarceration.
This case was investigated by the Tarnished Badge Task Force, which is comprised of investigators from the FBI, Memphis Police Department and the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Reagan M. Taylor and Mark Erskine prosecuted this case on the government’s behalf.
Former Resident of Las Vegas, N.M., Sentenced to Four Years for Synthetic Cannabinoid Trafficking and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Ray L. Smith, 52, a former resident of Las Vegas, N.M., was sentenced yesterday afternoon in federal court in Albuquerque, N.M., to 48 months of imprisonment for his conviction on drug trafficking and money laundering charges. Smith will be on supervised release for three years after completing his prison sentence. Smith also was ordered to forfeit to the United States $1,062,592 in cash, five properties located in New Mexico and Arizona, and nine vehicles. He also was ordered to pay $5,000 in community restitution and a $5,000 fine.
Smith and co-defendant Tamara Phillips, 47, of Kingman, Ariz., were arrested by the DEA in Feb. 2016, and charged in a four-count indictment that was filed in Feb. 2016, alleging drug trafficking and money laundering offenses. The indictment subsequently was superseded in May 2017, and charged Smith and Phillips with conspiring to distribute synthetic cannabinoids, maintaining premises for the purpose of distributing synthetic cannabinoids, and participating in a conspiracy to launder drug proceeds. According to the superseding indictment, between Feb. 2010 and Feb. 2016, Smith and Phillips participated in a conspiracy to distribute synthetic cannabinoids from three businesses in New Mexico and Arizona owned by Smith that were jointly managed by Smith and Phillips
The superseding indictment alleged that Smith and Phillips used the three businesses – “Smokin Body Jewelry” stores located in Las Vegas, Raton and Kingman – to sell synthetic cannabinoids. Employees at the stores allegedly sold synthetic cannabinoids to customers while acting at the direction of Smith and Phillips. The superseding indictment included information about two alleged drug transactions occurring on Sept. 29, 2015; the first involved the sale of $1,687.46 of synthetic cannabinoids by an employee at the Raton store, and the second involved the sale of $1,556.91 of synthetic cannabinoids by an employee at the Las Vegas store. The superseding indictment included forfeiture allegations seeking forfeiture of property and other assets constituting the proceeds of the drug trafficking offenses charged in the superseding indictment or that were used to facilitate those crimes including seven parcels of real property located in New Mexico and Arizona, funds in 20 bank accounts, a safety deposit box, and four vehicles.
During law enforcement operations executed on Feb. 18, 2016, law enforcement agents and officers seized 18 bank accounts, a safety deposit box and the eight parcels of real property identified in the indictment. They also executed six search warrants, including search warrants for each of the three stores, a second commercial property in Kingman, and two residences. The estimated aggregate value of the real property, currency and other assets seized on Feb. 18, 2016, exceeded $2.3 million, including approximately $380,000 in cash. The agents and officers also seized approximately 11 kilograms (24.2 pounds) of precursor chemicals allegedly shipped from China in the primary residence of Smith and Phillips. In addition, approximately 25 kilograms (55 pounds) of suspected synthetic cannabinoids with a street value of $250,000 were seized from the three stores and the residence of Smith and Phillips.
On Nov. 2, 2017, Smith pled guilty to four counts of the superseding indictment charging him with conspiracy to distribute synthetic cannabinoids, two counts of maintaining a drug-involved premises, and conspiracy to commit money laundering. In entering the guilty plea, Smith acknowledged that from Feb. 2010 through Feb. 2016, he was the founder, owner and proprietor of “Smokin’ Body Jewelry,” which operated at various times from 2010 through 2016 in New Mexico and Arizona. Smith admitted that during that timeframe, he conspired to sell large quantities of synthetic cannabinoids to the general public.
Smith further admitted that synthetic cannabinoids were “Smokin Body Jewelry’s” best-selling item, and that he engaged in the routine practice of mixing, transferring and spreading deposits throughout personal and business bank accounts in order to conceal the source of his revenue as primarily derived from the unlawful sale of synthetic cannabinoids. Smith admitted he used revenue from the sale of synthetic cannabinoids to pay for his personal salary and the salaries of store employees, and to purchase several parcels of land, property and vehicles.
Phillips has entered a plea of not guilty to the charges in the superseding indictment and is scheduled for trial in May 2018. Charges in indictments are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent unless found guilty in a court of law.
This case was investigated by the DEA’s offices in Albuquerque, N.M., and Flagstaff, Lake Havasu and Yuma, Ariz., with assistance from the Raton Police Department and the Mohave Area General Narcotics Enforcement Team. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shaheen P. Torgoley and Joel R. Meyers are prosecuting the case.
The synthetic cannabinoids charged in the indictment are commonly referred to as “spice.” According to the DEA, over the past several years, there has been a growing use of synthetic cannabinoids. Smoke-able herbal blends marketed as being “legal” and providing a marijuana-like high have become increasingly popular because they are easily available and, in many cases, more potent and dangerous than marijuana. These products consist of plant material that has been coated with dangerous psychoactive compounds that mimic THC, the active ingredient in marijuana. These substances, however, have not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for human consumption, and there is no oversight of the manufacturing process. Synthetic cannabinoids often are labeled as incense to mask their intended purpose.
Former Financial Secretary for a United Steelworkers Local Sentenced for Embezzling Union FundsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A Washington County resident was sentenced in federal court to three years’ probation, the first six months of which is to be served on home detention, and to pay a $2,500 fine upon her conviction of embezzlement and theft of labor union assets, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Marianne Rodacy, 64, of Charleroi, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court at the time of the guilty plea proceeding, Rodacy was formerly the Financial/Recording Secretary of United Steelworkers, AFL-CIO, Local 10-53-G, and from October 1, 2012 to June 24, 2015, she embezzled union funds totaling $21,539.93 for her personal use. In addition to a three-year term of probation and a $2,500 fine, Judge Bissoon ordered that Rodacy be barred from working for a labor union for 13 years. At the time of sentencing, Rodacy had already paid full restitution to the union for the misappropriated funds.
Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch is prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Labor-Management Standards, conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Marianne Rodacy.
Florida Man Sentenced to 180 Months in Prison for Operating Oak Park Pill MillRead the Press Release
A Florida man was sentenced yesterday to 180 months in federal prison for writing illegal prescriptions for pain killers and for laundering the proceeds of his crimes, U.S. Attorney Matthew Schneider announced.
Schneider was joined in the announcement by Special Agent in Charge Timothy Plancon, Drug Enforcement Administration and Special Agent in Charge Manny Muriel, Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations.
Sentenced was Boris Zigmond, 52. The sentencing took place before U.S. District Judge George Caram Steeh in Detroit. Judge Steeh revoked Zigmond’s bond and ordered him into custody.
According to court records, Boris Zigmond operated a clinic which was a front for a scheme to distribute medically unnecessary prescriptions for the most powerful painful killers. Zigmond admitted that he received $500 from people seeking to obtain medically unnecessary prescriptions between 2013 and 2015. He further admitted that he attempted to conceal more than $375,000 in cash from law enforcement.
As part of his sentence, Zigmond was ordered to forfeit $2,221,000 in cash seized during the investigation.
Eight other individuals, including two physicians, Jennifer Franklin and Carlos Godoy, have already been sentenced for prescribing the unnecessary prescription in exchange for $100 per patient. A ninth individual, Rodney Knight, is awaiting sentencing following his guilty plea for participating in the drug conspiracy and for illegally possessing an AK-47 after having previously been convicted of a felony.
DEA Special Agent in Charge Plancon stated, “The DEA has worked cooperatively with other law enforcement agencies to successfully target Boris Zigmond. We have sent a clear message that we have “zero tolerance” for drug dealers and the devastation that they bring to our community. This is yet another example of our resolve to dismantle criminal organizations, especially those who are contributing to the opioid abuse epidemic.”
IRS-CI Special Agent in Charge Manny Muriel said, “A physician takes a Hippocratic Oath to uphold ethical standards to help the sick. Boris Zigmond let greed take priority over that oath and in doing so, contributed to the opioid epidemic in Michigan. Let this sentence be a reminder to all doctors that IRS-CI and its partners will continue to work to identify those who look to gain financial reward from medically unnecessary prescriptions.”
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Wayne F. Pratt and Philip A. Ross.
Florida Man Charged with Sex TraffickingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that on April 10, 2018, John Golom, age 52, of Florida, was indicted by a federal grand jury on sex trafficking charges.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, the indictment alleges that between 2014 and February 1, 2018, Golom trafficked two women as prostitutes through force, threat, and coercion in Florida and Monroe County, Pennsylvania.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Monroe County Detectives Office, Stroud Regional Police Department, and the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean A. Camoni is prosecuting the case.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is a life term of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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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Federal Inmate Admits Possessing Hundreds of Images and Videos of Child Sexual Abuse While in PrisonRead the Press Release
CAMDEN, N.J. – A Plain City, Ohio, man today admitted possessing hundreds of images and videos of child sexual abuse while imprisoned at Federal Correctional Institution Fort Dix for a previous offense involving the receipt of child pornography, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.
Jordan T. Allen, 31, pleaded guilty before Senior U.S. District Judge Joseph H. Rodriguez in Camden federal court to an information charging him with one count of possession of child pornography.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
Allen admitted that he possessed a micro SD Card containing 577 images and 340 videos of children being sexually abused, including videos of sadistic and masochistic sexual conduct involving infants and toddlers. In connection with his plea, Allen also admitted that he distributed child pornography to another inmate.
Allen and seven other inmates were arrested in April 2017 and February 2018 following an FBI investigation involving multiple covert recordings and several cooperating inmates. The investigation revealed that Allen and other inmates utilized contraband cellphones, micro SD cards, and access to the internet to obtain, view, and distribute child pornography within the prison. A co-defendant organized and helped facilitate this criminal activity by maintaining cloud accounts that were used as repositories for child pornography.
At sentencing, Allen faces a mandatory minimum term of 10 years in prison and a lifetime of supervised release. Sentencing is scheduled for July 17, 2018.
Charges remain pending against Brian J. McKay, 47, of Brookhaven, Pennsylvania; Christopher D. Roffler, 30, of Virginia Beach, Virginia; Jacob S. Good, 26, of Fredericksburg, Virginia; William H. Noble, 52, of Lowell, Massachusetts; and Charles Wesley Bush, 38, of Knoxville, Tennessee, all of whom were serving sentences for prior child pornography offenses while committing the alleged crimes in this case. The pending charges and allegations are merely accusations, and these defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Two other inmates – Erik M. Smith, 36, of Iron Mountain, Michigan, and Anthony C. Jeffries, 32, of Orange, Virginia – have since pleaded guilty to informations charging them each with one count of possession of child pornography. Smith’s sentencing is scheduled for May 7, 2018. Jeffries’ sentencing is scheduled for July 10, 2018.
U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Bradley W. Cohen in Newark, with the investigation. He also thanked officials of the Bureau of Prisons at Federal Correctional Institution Fort Dix for their assistance.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Gabriel J. Vidoni and Alyson M. Oswald of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Criminal Division in Camden.
Defense counsel: Justin T. Lougry Esq., Camden
Federal Grand Jury IndictmentsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that a Federal Grand Jury in Greenville, South Carolina, returned Indictments against the following:
Pelzer Man Indicted on Federal Gun and Drug Charges. Ronnie Beauford Eugene Gilmer, Jr., age 53, of Pelzer, South Carolina, was charged in a six-count indictment with possession of firearms and ammunition by a prohibited person previously convicted of a felony and a criminal domestic violence crime, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and (g)(9); possession of a firearm during a drug trafficking crime, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A); and possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, a violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 841(a)(1). The maximum penalty Gilmer could face is a fine of $1,000,000.00 and/or life imprisonment. The case was investigated by agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joe Brewer of the Greenville office.
Anderson Man Indicted on Federal Gun and Explosive Charges. Wesley Dallas Ayers, age 27, of Anderson, South Carolina, was charged in a twelve-count indictment with transportation of explosive materials with the intent to injure, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 844(d); possession and use of destructive devices during the commission of a crime of violence, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 924(c)(1)(A)(i), 924(c)(1)(A)(ii), 924(c)(1)(A)(iii), 924(c)(1)(B)(ii), 924(c)(1)(C)(ii), and 924(c)(3)(A); use of a destructive device during the commission of a felony, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 844(h)(1) and (2); and possession of a firearm that was not registered to him in the NTRTF, a violation of Title 26, United States Code, Sections 5841, 5861(d), and 5871. The maximum penalty Ayers could face is a fine of $250,000.00 and/or life imprisonment. This case was investigated by agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joe Brewer of the Greenville office.
Rural Mail Carrier Indicted on Mail Theft. Tony T. Maclin, age 44, of Greer, South Carolina, was charged in a seven-count indictment with theft of mail matter by officer or employee, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1709. The maximum penalty Maclin could receive is a fine of $250,000 and/or five years imprisonment. The case was investigated by agents of the United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General, and is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney William J. Watkins, Jr. of the Greenville office for prosecution.
The United States Attorney stated that all charges in these indictments are merely accusations and that all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Father and Son Plead Guilty in Mortgage Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Robert S. Khuzami, the Attorney for the United States, Acting Under Authority Conferred by 28 U.S.C. § 515, announced that HERZEL MEIRI and AMIR MEIRI pled guilty yesterday to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud before the U.S. District Judge Edgardo Ramos, in connection with their scheme to fraudulently induce distressed homeowners to sell their homes for little or no consideration to a company they owned and controlled. The defendants will be sentenced by Judge Ramos on July 27, 2018.
According to allegations in the contained documents filed in federal court, including the Indictment and Complaint:
From 2013 to 2015, HERZEL MEIRI and AMIR MEIRI defrauded distressed homeowners throughout the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Queens. The MEIRIs and others falsely represented to these homeowners – some of whom were elderly or in poor health – that they could assist them with a loan modification or similar relief from foreclosure that could result in the homeowners saving their homes. But rather than actually assisting these homeowners, the defendants deceived them into selling their homes for less than the homes’ actual values to Launch Development LLC (“Launch Development”), a for-profit company owned and controlled by the MEIRIs.
Specifically, the MEIRIs’ direction fraudulently induced the homeowners to engage in a type of short sale in which the homeowner would sell the property to Launch Development. The MEIRIs and their conspirators falsely assured the homeowners that their homes would be returned to them after a short period, and that they could remain in their homes throughout the entire process. At the closing that followed, homeowners were encouraged to sign fraudulent documents, that unbeknownst to the homeowners transferred the homes Launch Development. Homeowners often were then forced to vacate their homes, and in many cases had no other place to live. Launch Development resold many of the homes, which were purchased at fraudulently deflated prices, for an enormous profit.
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HERZEL MEIRI, 64, pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison and a maximum fine of $1,000,000 or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense. He also consented to forfeit $6,469,291.41, as well as 31 real properties, four bank accounts, and one escrow account, as proceeds traceable to the offense.
AMIR MEIRI, 35, pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison and maximum fine of $1,000,000 or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense. He also consented to forfeit the same 31 real properties, four bank accounts, and one escrow account, as proceeds traceable to the offense.
Mr. Khuzami praised the outstanding work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Special Inspector General for the Troubled Asset Relief Program, and the New York State Department of Financial Services for their investigative efforts and ongoing support and assistance with the case.
The prosecution of this case is being overseen by the Office’s General Crimes Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew Thomas and Sheb Swett are in charge of the case.
Essex County, New Jersey, Man Sentenced to 18 Years in Prison for Armed Robbery and CarjackingRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – An Essex County, New Jersey, man was sentenced today to 216 months in prison for robbing a Newark jewelry store and then stealing a car at gunpoint immediately afterwards, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.
Orlando Nieves-Velez, 30, of Newark, previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Claire C. Cecchi to an indictment charging him with one count of Hobbs Act robbery, one count of carjacking, and one count of using a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. Judge Cecchi imposed the sentence today in Newark federal court.
According to the documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
On Dec. 1, 2016, Nieves-Velez robbed a jewelry store in Newark while brandishing a firearm. During the robbery, Nieves-Velez pressed a gun to the back of an employee’s neck and threatened to shoot him if the other employees didn’t give him jewelry.
After leaving the store with more than $20,000 in jewelry, Nieves-Velez stepped in front of a 2006 Nissan Altima. Nieves-Velez pointed his gun at the driver and ordered the driver out of the car. Nieves-Velez fired his gun into the air before fleeing in the Altima.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Cecchi sentenced Nieves-Velez to five years of supervised release and ordered him to pay restitution of $95,000.
U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Bradley W. Cohen in Newark, the U.S. Marshals Service, under the direction of U.S. Marshal Juan Mattos in Newark, and the Newark Department of Public Safety, under the direction of Director Anthony F. Ambrose, with the investigation leading to today’s sentencing.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sammi Malek of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Criminal Division in Newark.
Defense Counsel: Kevin Carlucci Esq., Assistant Federal Public Defender, Newark
El Paso Area Doctor Indicted on Federal Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
In El Paso, a local physician faces federal drug trafficking charges, announced United States Attorney John F. Bash and Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Acting Special Agent in Charge Steve A. Borak, El Paso Division.
A twelve–count federal grand jury indictment returned last week charges 66–year-old Dr. Thomas Glenn Easter, II, and his co-defendant, 28-year-old Elizabeth Lightfoot of El Paso, with two counts of conspiracy to distribute Xanax and other controlled substances outside the scope of professional practice. Dr. Easter is charged with an additional ten counts of distributing Xanax and other controlled substances outside the scope of professional practice. Authorities allege that Dr. Easter, with assistance from Ms. Lightfoot, was responsible for doling out numerous prescriptions involving a variety of medications in exchange for favors.
“Prescription drug abuse has become increasingly prevalent in the community,” stated United States Attorney John F. Bash. “We are going to crack down hard on licensed medical professionals who violate federal law — not to mention their professional obligations — in illegally dispensing controlled substances.”
Upon conviction, each defendant faces up to five years in federal prison. Both defendants are currently out on bond.
“Dr. Thomas Glenn Easter, II, and his co-defendant Elizabeth Lightfoot contributed to the controlled substance abuse epidemic plaguing our society,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Steve Borak. “Their conduct put lives at risk and won’t be tolerated. DEA, along with our law enforcement partners, will continue to pursue those who seek to perpetuate and profit from the diversion of prescription drugs.”
The Drug Enforcement Administration’s Tactical Diversion Squad in El Paso along with Texas Department of Public Safety conducted this investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Michael Rose Whyte is prosecuting this case on behalf of the Government.
An indictment is merely a charge and should not be considered as evidence of guilt. The defendants are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Corpus Man Sent to Federal Prison for Online Solicitation of MinorsRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 42-year-old resident of Corpus Christi has been ordered to prison following his conviction of two counts of online solicitation of minors and two counts of transfer of obscene material to minors, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick. A federal jury deliberated for approximately 20 minutes following less than two days of trial before convicting Spencer Salcedo on Jan. 9, 2018.
Today, U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos handed Salcedo a total 168-month sentence. Salcedo was further ordered to serve five years of supervised release following completion of his prison term, during which time he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. Salcedo will also be ordered to register as a sex offender.
According to the evidence presented at trial, Salcedo was communicating with a person he believed was the mother of two minor female children - ages 14 and 11. In reality, he was actually talking to an undercover police officer. During the course of the communications, he made arrangements to meet and engage in sexual activity with the mother’s children. Salcedo also sent sexually explicit photographs through text messages intended for the children.
He was apprehended as he arrived at the designated meeting place. At the time of his arrest, Salcedo had condoms with him and candy for the children.
At trial, the jury heard from an agent who testified that Salcedo gave a conflicting statement as to why he showed up to the meeting location.
Previously released on bond, Salcedo was remanded to custody following the verdict where he will remain pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the Corpus Christi Police Department - Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force conducted the investigation as part of Operation Hidden Predator, a joint investigation targeting individuals involved in online solicitation of minors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Hugo R. Martinez and Jeff S. Miller prosecuted the case as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
Connecticut Man Sentenced to Nine Years for RobberiesRead the Press Release
Bangor, Maine: United States Attorney Halsey B. Frank announced that Seth J. Blewitt, 30, of Oakville, Connecticut was sentenced today in U.S. District Court by Judge John A. Woodcock, Jr., to nine years in prison and three years of supervised release for bank robbery and armed Hobbs Act robbery. The Hobbs Act makes it a crime to interfere with interstate commerce by robbery. The charges arose from the robberies of a TD Bank branch and a Dollar Tree store. The defendant pleaded guilty on November 30, 2017.
Court records reveal that on May 28, 2017, the defendant robbed a TD Bank branch in Bangor. He entered the bank, approached a teller, and said, “I’m actually robbing you. I want all of your money, no dye packs or GPS trackers.” He was wearing a black knit hat, sunglasses, gloves, and a plaid shirt. The teller complied and the defendant absconded with a bag of cash.
The next day, the defendant robbed the Dollar Tree store in Bangor with a shotgun. He was wearing a mask and sunglasses and he demanded that a cashier open the register. When the cashier said that she could not open the register, he struck the register with the shotgun. The cashier yelled for the manager. The manager opened the register and gave cash to the defendant who absconded with it.
The defendant’s wife, Cara Blewitt, served as the getaway driver for both robberies. Officers from the Bangor Police Department arrested the Blewitts within minutes of the Dollar Tree robbery. On March 26, 2018, Cara Blewitt was sentenced to 33 months for aiding and abetting the robberies.
The investigation was conducted by the Bangor Police Department; the FBI; and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Clarksburg woman admits to her role in a drug distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Kamesha Sherrail Claypool, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, has admitted to her role in a drug distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Claypool, age 24, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Heroin” and one count of “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of the Controlled Substance Analogue Cyclopropylfentanyl.” Claypool admitted to selling the heroin and cyclopropylfentanyl in August 2017 in Harrison County.
Claypool faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,0000 for each count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci M. Cook is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The case was investigated by the Greater Harrison Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the West Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.Clairton Woman Allowed Her Home to be Used for Her Brother’s Drug Trafficking ActivityRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA. - A resident of Clairton, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to maintaining a drug-involved premises, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Jalea Carter, 26, pleaded guilty to one count of using or maintaining a drug-involved location, between March and June 2017, as a place for the storage, packaging and distribution of narcotics. In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Carter occupied the residence located at 804 Third Street, Clairton, Pennsylvania, and made her residence available for her brother, codefendant Skyler Carter, to store and distribute heroin, fentanyl, cocaine, and crack cocaine. In connection with the guilty plea, Carter acknowledged her responsibility for the intended distribution of the 4.5 grams of heroin seized by federal agents from her home on June 28, 2017. She is the eleventh of 21 defendants charged in the case to enter a plea of guilty.
Judge Arthur J. Schwab scheduled sentencing for September 18, 2018, at 9:30 a.m. The law provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $500,000.00, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will depend upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Carter remains on bond pending the sentencing hearing.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, the Allegheny County Police Department, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police. The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises. Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Carencro man sentenced to 7 years in prison for possessing child pornographyRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, La. – United States Attorney David C. Joseph announced that a Carencro man was sentenced last week to 84 months in prison for possessing child pornography on his computer.
Michael DeBlanc, 57, of Carencro, La., was sentenced Friday by U.S. District Judge Dee D. Drell, on one count of possession of child pornography. He was also sentenced to 10 years of supervised release and was ordered to register as a sex offender. According to the July 14, 2017 guilty plea, law enforcement officers identified DeBlanc as possessing child pornography in November of 2016. DeBlanc had been trafficking child pornography by sharing the material online. Agents downloaded 33 videos from DeBlanc’s computer remotely using file sharing programs. During a later search of his residence, agents found child pornography on his computer’s hard drive. During an interview with agents, DeBlanc admitted to downloading 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.
Those concerned may leave tips with the FBI at tips.fbi.gov. Tips may be submitted anonymously. The Alexandria FBI office number is (318) 443-5097.
The FBI conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Dominic Rossetti prosecuted the case.
Career Cocaine Dealer Sentenced to 16 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
RICHMOND, Va. – A Fredericksburg man was sentenced today to 16 1/2 years in prison for possession with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine.
According to court documents, Marcellus White, 31, was under surveillance for suspicion of drug trafficking when, on April 13, 2017, law enforcement performed a traffic stop on his vehicle. During the traffic stop, a narcotic canine alerted to the odor of narcotics in the car, leading law enforcement to find White in possession of over $7,000 in cash. Subsequently, law enforcement learned that just prior to the traffic stop, White delivered six ounces of cocaine to a location in Woodbridge, and White admitted that the cash on his person were proceeds from narcotics sales. Law enforcement then performed a search of White’s home and found another $36,000 in cash, more than 600 grams of marijuana, and 500 grams of cocaine.
Due to White’s prior criminal convictions for trafficking cocaine, the sentencing court found him to be a “Career Offender” under the federal sentencing guidelines.
Tracy Doherty-McCormick, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, Karl C. Colder, Special Agent in Charge for the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Washington Field Division, Adam S. Lee, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Richmond Field Office, and Roger L. Harris, Spotsylvania County Sheriff, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Henry E. Hudson. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen E. Anthony prosecuted the case.
This case was investigated by the Fredericksburg FBI Narcotics Task Force, which includes DEA, FBI, Department of the Treasury, Virginia State Police, Orange County Sheriff’s Office, Stafford County Sheriff’s Office, Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office, and Fredericksburg Police Department.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:17-cr-147.
Canadian Woman Pleads Guilty to Smuggling Thousands of Dollars at the Peace BridgeRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Liliya Dzyuba, 42, a Ukraine National and citizen of Canada, pleaded guilty to bulk cash smuggling before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo. The charge carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison, and a fine of $250,000
Assistant U.S. Attorney, Aaron J. Mango, who is handling the case, stated that on January 25, 2018, the defendant attempted to enter the United States from Canada at the Peace Bridge Port of Entry. During her primary inspection, Dzyuba stated that she was traveling with $5,000 in U.S. Currency. The defendant signed the CBP Customs Declaration Form indicating that she was not carrying over $10,000. During a secondary inspection, CBP Officers told Dzyuba that she was going to be patted down and was asked again if she had any additional money on her. The defendant then admitted that she was carrying $35,000.00 around her waist and hidden in her pants. Dzyuba was searched and officers recovered four black zipper pouches concealed around her waist, which contained a total of $37,000. In addition, $5,373 was found in the defendant’s wallet, for a total amount of $42,373.
The plea is the result of an investigation by agents of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations under the direction of Special Agent-in- Charge Kevin Kelly, and Customs and Border Protection, under the direction of Director of Field Operations Rose Brophy.
Sentencing is scheduled for June 1, 2018, at 12:30 p.m. before Judge Vilardo.
Camden Man Arraigned on Federal Drug Conspiracy ChargeRead the Press Release
CAMDEN, N.J. - A Camden man was arraigned in federal court today for his alleged role in a drug trafficking ring responsible for selling crack, heroin, and furanyl fentanyl in and around Camden, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.
Davon Leak, 19, is charged in a second superseding indictment with one count of conspiracy to distribute 280 grams or more of cocaine base as well as quantities of heroin and furanyl fentanyl. He was arraigned this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Joel Schneider in Camden federal court and was remanded to the custody of Camden County, where he is being held on other charges. Leak was charged in the federal indictment following the arrests of 10 other members of the drug ring in June 2017.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
John Gunther, 34, of Blackwood, New Jersey, and Taleaf Gunther, 32, of Camden, obtained bulk supplies of narcotics, prepared and packaged those controlled substances for street level sale, provided crack cocaine, furanyl fentanyl, and heroin to other members for resale to customers, collected drug proceeds, and oversaw the daily sales and operation of the organization. Taleaf Gunther also allegedly possessed a firearm in furtherance of the drug trafficking conspiracy.
Other members of the organization – including William Roland, 36, Daron Suiter, 23, Karim Johnson, 39, Latoya Whealton, 33, and Malcolm McCoy, 27, all of Camden – assisted in the distribution and sale of the drugs. George Williams, 43, of Oaklyn, supplied heroin and furanyl fentanyl to the organization. Leak and Rajai Gaines, 36, of Camden, assisted with the preparation of drugs for resale. Mark Campbell, 28, of Sicklerville, New Jersey, supplied bulk quantities of crack cocaine to members of the organization.
The FBI-led investigation used surveillance, confidential informants, cooperating witnesses, more than 20 controlled drug purchases, record checks, a GPS vehicle tracker, and multiple telephone wiretaps and search warrants to uncover the operations of the drug trafficking organization. The investigation ultimately led to the seizure of over 300 grams of crack cocaine, quantities of furanyl fentanyl and heroin, a firearm, and drug paraphernalia.
The drug conspiracy charge with which Leak is charged carries a mandatory minimum term of 10 years in prison, a maximum potential penalty of life in prison, and a $10 million fine.On March 26, 2018, Johnson and Suiter pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of cocaine base. As part of their pleas, Johnson and Suiter also accepted responsibility for distributing furanyl fentanyl to customers in Camden. Both defendants face a mandatory minimum term of 60 months in prison when they are sentenced on July 10, 2018.
On March 12, 2018, Williams pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute furanyl fentanyl. His sentencing is scheduled for June 18, 2018.On March 5, 2018, Whealton pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of cocaine base. As part of her plea, Whealton also accepted responsibility for distributing furanyl fentanyl and heroin to customers in Camden. She faces a mandatory minimum term of 60 months in prison at her sentencing on June 11, 2018.
The charges against John Gunther, Taleaf Gunther, Roland, Campbell, McCoy, Leak, and Gaines are still pending and they are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited special agents of the FBI’s South Jersey Violent Offender and Gang Task Force, South Jersey Resident Agency, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Michael Harpster in Philadelphia; the Camden County Police Department, under the direction of Chief J. Scott Thomson; the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Mary Eva Colalillo; and the N.J. State Police, under the direction of Superintendent Col. Patrick Callahan, with the investigation.
He also thanked the Camden County Sheriff’s Department, the Cherry Hill Police Department, and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) for their assistance.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Gabriel J. Vidoni of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Criminal Division in Camden.
Defense counsel: Teri Lodge Esq., Marlton, New Jersey
California Man Apprehended at Cyril E. King Airport Pleads Guilty to Possession of Marijuana with the intent to DistributeRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Kelley Hansen, 28, of California, pleaded guilty today in District Court before District Court Judge Curtis V. Gomez, to possession of marijuana with the intent to distribute, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced.
According to court documents, after communicating with an individual about the sale of marijuana, Hansen agreed to travel to St. Thomas from California to complete the sale. Hansen arrived on St. Thomas onboard a commercial airline and was found in possession of approximately two kilograms of marijuana.
Hansen faces a sentence of not more than five years in prison and a fine of $250,000.00. His sentencing is scheduled for June 21, 2018.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Department of Homeland Security U.S. Customs and Border Protection. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sigrid M. Tejo-Sprotte.
Burnsville Coin Dealer Indicted for Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Gregory G. Brooker today announced an indictment charging BARRY RON SKOG, 67, with five counts of sale of counterfeit coins and one count of mail fraud. The defendant made his initial appearance earlier today before Magistrate Judge Franklin L. Noel in U.S. District Court in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
According to the indictment, from June 2012 through October 2016, SKOG devised a scheme to advertise and sell counterfeit coins by fraudulently representing that the coins were legitimate U.S. coins worth hundreds of dollars.
According to the indictment, SKOG owned and operated a business called Burnsville Coin Company and through his business, he posted advertisements for coins in a publication called Numismatic News. When victims responded to the ads, SKOG would mail them lists of available coins for purchase, many of which were counterfeit. In his communications with the victims, SKOG would often represent himself as an employee of the Burnsville Coin Company named “Ron Peterson,” when, in fact, there are no other owners or employees of the company other than SKOG. In total, SKOG fraudulently obtained more than $80,000 from his victims.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Minnesota Commerce Fraud Bureau and the Burnsville Police Department.
Based on the evidence obtained in this case, authorities believe there may be additional victims who have not yet been identified. Anyone with information about this matter is encouraged to call the Minnesota Commerce Fraud Bureau at 651-539-1617. Callers may remain anonymous.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Manda M. Sertich is prosecuting the case.
Defendant Information:
BARRY RON SKOG, 67
Burnsville, Minn.
Charges:
- Sale of counterfeit coins, 5 counts
- Mail fraud, 1 count
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
The charges contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Bulgarian National Arrested for Conspiracy to Defraud the United States and Illegally Export Prohibited Articles to Syria in Violation of U.S. Export Control LawsRead the Press Release
Zhelyaz Andreev, 29, a Bulgarian national, was arrested pursuant to an Interpol Red Notice based on an Indictment charging him with: conspiracy to defraud the U.S. Government and substantive violations of the Syria Trade Embargo as enforced through the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA); and the U.S. Department of Treasury Office of Foreign Assets Control’s (OFAC) designation of Syrian Arab Airlines, aka Syrian Air, as a Specially Designated National (SDN) whose assets are blocked and with whom U.S. nationals are prohibited from transacting business.
Assistant Attorney General for National Security John C. Demers, U.S. Attorney Benjamin G. Greenberg for the Southern District of Florida, Special Agent in Charge Robert F. Lasky of the FBI’s Miami Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Robert Luzzi of the Department of Commerce’s Office of Export Enforcement (DOC) Miami Field Office, and the members of the South Florida Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF), made the announcement.
Andreev was charged with conspiracy to violate IEEPA and the OFAC regulations by exporting dual-use goods, that is, articles that have both civilian and military application, to Syrian Arab Airlines, the Syrian government’s airline, which is an entity designated and blocked by OFAC for transporting weapons and ammunition to Syria in conjunction with Hizballah, a terrorist organization, and the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps.
According to court documents, Andreev worked in the Bulgaria office of AW-Tronics, a Miami export company, which shipped and exported various aircraft parts and equipment to Syrian Arab Airlines. Andreev dealt directly with the Syrian Air principals who procured the parts.
Mr. Demers and Mr. Greenberg commended the investigative efforts of the FBI, DOC, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and South Florida JTTF. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ricardo Del Toro and Michael Thakur of the Southern District of Florida; and Trial Attorney Matthew Walczewski of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section.
Buffalo Man Charged with Selling Heroin Linked to the Death of A Hamburg ManRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Tyrone Green, 24, of Buffalo, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with possession with intent to distribute heroin. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy C. Lynch, who is handling the case, stated that the charge in the complaint stems from an investigation into an overdose death that occurred in Hamburg, NY on March 26, 2018. Through text messages on the decedent’s cellular telephone, detectives with the Hamburg Police Department and Special Agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration identified Green as the decedent’s supplier. Law enforcement officers then set up a controlled purchase of heroin from the defendant. When Green arrived to sell the heroin, he was arrested and found to be in possession of heroin.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Hamburg Police Department, under the direction of Chief Gregory Wickett, and the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special-Agent-in-Charge James J. Hunt.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Bradenton Man Sentenced to 16 Years in Federal Prison for Producing and Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Charlene Edwards Honeywell today sentenced Paul Fabrizio Solis (40, Bradenton) to 16 years in federal prison for producing and possessing child pornography. He was also ordered to serve 25 years on supervised release, following his incarceration. Solis pleaded guilty on November 6, 2017.
According to court documents, Solis took explicit photographs of a young child who was in his care. He kept the images on a thumb drive hidden in a locked safe in his home. He also had more than 4,000 videos and images of child pornography stored on his laptop computer.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation -Tampa Division, with support from the Bradenton Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kristen A. Fiore.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by 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 locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Boston Man Charged with Failing to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Boston man was arrested yesterday and appeared in federal court in Boston for failure to register as a sex offender.
Lance Pona, 27, was indicted on one count of failing to register as a sex offender. He appeared yesterday before Magistrate Judge Robert B. Collings, who ordered Pona held in custody pending a detention hearing scheduled for Thursday, April 12, 2018.
Pona faces a sentence of no greater than 10 years in prison, a minimum of five years and up to lifetime supervised release, and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling and John Gibbons, United States Marshal for the District of Massachusetts, made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Anne Paruti, Lelling’s Project Safe Childhood Coordinator and a member of the Major Crimes Unit, is prosecuting the case.
The case is brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov/.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Bluffton Woman Sentenced to 60 Months Imprisonment for Bank FraudRead the Press Release
Charleston, South Carolina---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated that Lecelle Montgomery, age 71, of Bluffton, was sentenced in federal court in Charleston for one count of Bank Fraud, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1344(2). United States District Judge Richard Gergel, of Charleston, sentenced Montgomery to 60 months imprisonment followed by 5 years of supervised release and mandatory restitution.
Evidence presented at the change of plea and sentencing hearing established that beginning in 2008 and continuing up to late 2012, Montgomery offered the victims her services as a financial adviser and purposely withheld the fact that she was disbarred by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). Ultimately, the victims sent Montgomery a combined total of $1,119,440.75 in order to be invested. Instead, the evidence showed that Montgomery used the victims’ money for personal expenditures including gambling at various casinos.
The case was investigated by the FBI. Assistant United States Attorney Matt Austin of the Charleston office prosecuted the case.
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Bergen County, New Jersey, Man Sentenced to Three Years in Prison for Violent North Jersey CarjackingRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A Waldwick, New Jersey, man was sentenced today to 36 months in prison for carjacking a taxi and striking the victim on the head with a beer bottle, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.
Arlyn Jowany Carrasco Cruz, 28, previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Jose L. Linares to an information charging him with one count of carjacking. Judge Linares imposed the sentence today in Newark federal court.According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
In the early morning hours of Dec. 26, 2016, Cruz and at least five others forcibly took a 2008 Dodge Caravan from a taxicab driver. Cruz and the others forced the taxicab driver into the back of the vehicle and took over driving. As they drove toward Waldwick, Cruz struck the victim in the head with a beer bottle before being let out of the cab.
After dropping Cruz off, the others continued driving the cab to New York, and one individual caused further serious bodily injury to the victim by slicing his throat with a knife before leaving him on the side of the New York State Thruway near Woodbury, New York. The taxicab driver survived.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Linares sentenced Cruz to three years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Bradley W. Cohen in Newark, investigators from the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Acting Prosecutor Dennis Calo, and the Ridgewood and Hawthorne Police Departments with the investigation leading to today’s sentencing.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elaine K. Lou and Karen D. Stringer of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Criminal Division in Newark.
Defense counsel: Susan C. Cassell Esq., Ridgewood, New Jersey
Beckley Man Pleads Guilty to Passing Counterfeit ChecksRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Beckley man pled guilty today to his role in a mail theft and counterfeit check cashing conspiracy, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Shawn Meadows, 30, entered his guilty plea to uttering counterfeit securities.
Stuart commended the work of the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Beckley Police Department.
“Mail theft and counterfeiting are serious, serious crimes,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Honest, hardworking taxpayers are left paying for those who cheat, steal and lie and I will protect the taxpayers from criminals like this every single day.”
Meadows admitted that he received three counterfeit checks from his co-defendant, Savion Thomas, which he then passed at three separate branches of a bank in Raleigh County.
Smith faces up to ten years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine when he is sentenced on August 1, 2018. Meadows also agreed to pay more than $7,000 in restitution.
Assistant United States Attorney Eric P. Bacaj is in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Irene C. Berger.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
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Bangor Man Sentenced to over Two Years for Distributing FentanylRead the Press Release
Bangor, Maine: United States Attorney Halsey B. Frank announced that John Oliveira, 32, of Bangor was sentenced today in U.S. District Court by Judge John A. Woodcock, Jr. to 27 months in prison and three years of supervised release for distributing fentanyl. Oliveira pleaded guilty to the charges on April 17, 2017.
According to court records, on August 16 and 17, 2016, the defendant sold fentanyl to a witness working with law enforcement. During the second sale, the defendant bragged that he was “the best” at selling drugs, he did not “normally have [buyers] waiting too long,” and his buyers “always know what quality is going to be.”
In imposing sentence, Judge Woodcock commented that the defendant had a “horrible criminal history” and that the defendant’s drug dealing was “every parent’s worst nightmare.”
The investigation was conducted by the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency and the Maine Attorneys General’s Office. This case was investigated and prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice’s Strategy to Combat the Opioid Epidemic.
Austin men arrested in Bossier City plead guilty to using card skimmers to steal identities, moneyRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – United States Attorney David C. Joseph announced that two men from Austin, Texas, pleaded guilty last week to using a credit card skimmer to steal information to create fake credit cards and steal thousands from private accounts.
Emicel Artigas Garcia, 39, and Adalberto Ramos Cuellar, 42, both of Austin, pleaded guilty Friday before U.S. District Judge S. Maurice Hicks Jr., to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft.
According to the guilty pleas, the defendants were observed on July 14, 2017 at a Bossier City retail store’s self-checkout counter swiping multiple cards in order to purchase prepaid money and gift cards. Bossier City police later approached the defendants in the parking lot and found seven credit cards and three gift cards in Cuellar’s possession, which bore the defendants’ names. After the electronic information was obtained from the cards, law enforcement agents found that stolen identities were on the cards even though they were labeled with the defendants’ names. Police later searched the defendants’ car and found seven USB thumb drives, one laptop, eight additional re-encoded cards, a cell phone, a gas pump key and a gas pump skimmer. Gas pump skimmers are illegal devices used to steal credit card information. The evidence from the seized devices showed that the defendants downloaded private card information between October 2016 and July 2017. The cell phone contained pictures of screens showing the stolen information, and the laptop contained compromised credit/debit card data for 793 additional cards.
The defendants face up to 20 years in prison for the conspiracy count and two years in prison for the identity theft count, which will run consecutive. They also face five years of supervised release, restitution and a $250,000 fine. Sentencing is scheduled for July 31, 2018.
The U.S. Secret Service and the Bossier City Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tennille M. Gilreath is prosecuting the case.
Auburn Man Sentenced to Almost Five Years for Possessing a Firearm after Being Convicted of a Domestic Violence MisdemeanorRead the Press Release
Portland, Maine: United States Attorney Halsey B. Frank announced that Willie Richard Minor, 58, of Auburn, Maine, was sentenced yesterday in U.S. District Court by Judge D. Brock Hornby to 57 months in prison and three years of supervised release for possessing a firearm after being convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence. Minor was convicted on December 13, 2017, following a two-day jury trial.
Court records and trial evidence revealed that on June 14, 2010, Minor was convicted in Maine Superior Court for assaulting his wife at the time. As a result of that misdemeanor conviction, the defendant was prohibited from possessing firearms. On November 27, 2016, the defendant admitted to a detective with the Auburn Police Department that he had a gun and kept it in his apartment. The police subsequently searched his apartment and seized a loaded .38 caliber pistol. At sentencing, the Court found that Minor was subject to an enhanced sentence because he used the pistol to assault another person.
The investigation was conducted by the Auburn and Mechanic Falls Police Departments; the Maine State Police Crime Lab; the FBI; and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Antitrust Division Issues 2018 Annual NewsletterRead the Press Release
The Department of Justice’s Antitrust Division today issued the 2018 edition of its annual Spring Newsletter on its website. The Newsletter highlights the Antitrust Division’s recent activities and successes on civil and criminal enforcement, international cooperation, and competition advocacy. The Newsletter includes a message from Assistant Attorney General Makan Delrahim, articles recounting the Antitrust Division’s enforcement actions in the criminal, merger, and civil non-merger areas over the past year, as well as an update on the Division’s international and competition advocacy programs.
“This spring, I have had the opportunity to reflect on my six-month anniversary as Assistant Attorney General of the Antitrust Division, looking back on the important achievements of our career staff and the exciting new developments and announcements still on the horizon,” said Assistant Attorney General Delrahim in his ‘Message from Makan.’ “My goal as Assistant Attorney General is to ensure that the Antitrust Division exercises its power so that the American consumer can reap the rewards of free market competition and innovation.”
The Newsletter highlights these milestones and accomplishments, and features profiles of Division leadership and staff. It can be found at https://www.justice.gov/atr/division-operations/division-update-spring-2018.
Anchorage Woman Sentenced for Embezzling Funds from Local UnionRead the Press Release
Anchorage, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder announced that an Anchorage woman has been sentenced in federal court for embezzling nearly $200,000 from a local union.
Anne C. Reddig, 63, of Anchorage, was sentenced yesterday by Chief U.S. District Judge Timothy M. Burgess, to serve 14 months in prison, followed by a three-year term of supervised release, and was ordered to pay $139,960.66 in restitution. Reddig previously pleaded guilty on Sept. 25, 2017, to embezzlement of assets by a labor organization officer.
According to court documents, from March 2007 until she resigned in September 2014, Reddig served as the Secretary-Treasurer of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (“IATSE”) Local Union (“LU”) #918. The investigation revealed that Reddig, while an officer of IATSE LU 918, embezzled $193,275.52 in union funds and converted the funds to her own personal use between March 2010 and September 2014. Reddig embezzled the funds by transferring money directly from union accounts into her own accounts, forging the signature of another union officer on checks she wrote for her own benefit, using ATM machines to withdraw cash directly from union accounts, and spending union funds at retail stores via the union’s debit card. The investigation further revealed that Reddig also submitted false reports to the United States Department of Labor by failing to disclose the union funds that she had received.
The U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Labor-Management Standards conducted the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of this case. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonas Walker.
Anchorage Man Sentenced to 50 Months in Federal Prison for Involvement in Opium Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Anchorage, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder announced that an Anchorage man was sentenced to federal prison for his involvement in a conspiracy to distribute large amounts of opium, and for possession of methamphetamine.
Kao Ching Saelee, 51, of Anchorage, was sentenced on Monday, April 9, by Chief U.S. District Judge Timothy M. Burgess to 50 months in prison. Saelee was indicted by a federal grand jury in June 2016, together with three co-defendants, for his role in the conspiracy to distribute the opium. Saelee was additionally charged in a separate count for possession of the methamphetamine. He pleaded guilty to the opium and methamphetamine charges in October 2017.
According to court documents, between April and June 2016 in Anchorage, Saelee was involved in helping to distribute approximately 1,200 grams of opium in three separate transactions. The investigation revealed that Saelee had allowed his residence in Anchorage to be used to store large amounts of opium, which were distributed by another participant in the conspiracy. On June 14, 2016, a federal search warrant was executed at Saelee’s residence leading to the seizure of additional amounts of opium and a large amount of methamphetamine.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation Safe Streets Task Force conducted the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of this case. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph W. Bottini.
***media Advisory***Read the Press Release
UNITED STATES ATTORNEY JOINS WITH GOVERNOR IN HONORING FALLEN HEROES OF LAW ENFORCEMENT
AND TO COMMEMORATE NATIONAL CRIME VICTIMS' RIGHTS WEEK
Back the Blue: Honoring Our Fallen Heroes, and Celebrating Law Enforcement’s Contributions to Crime Victims and Service
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Federal, state and local law enforcement and advocates of crime victims’ rights will join United States Attorney Mike Stuart in hosting an opening ceremony on Thursday, April 12, 2018, in the Robert C. Byrd United States Courthouse in Charleston, and a Walk/Run for Justice on Friday, April 13, 2018, at Haddad Riverfront Park in Charleston. Both events are being held in recognition of National Crime Victims' Rights Week.
This year’s local theme is “Back the Blue: Law Enforcement’s Contributions to Crime Victims and Service.” The ceremony and walk/run will honor and remember fallen law enforcement who paid the ultimate sacrifice, and celebrate those who continue to serve crime victims and the community. As part of the event, the United States Attorney and the West Virginia Fraternal Order of Police will unveil a statewide tribute to our men and women in blue.
West Virginia Governor James “Jim” Justice, II has issued a Proclamation ordering on April 13th at noon a statewide moment of silence be observed, at which time United States Attorney Mike Stuart has, in addition to the moment of silence, called for all houses of worship to toll their bells.
This years’ events mark the 18th Annual Operation Reach Out event. Operation Reach Out is a collaborative group of federal, state and local agencies and organizations that work to raise awareness about the rights, protections, and services available to crime victims in West Virginia. This event is being held in conjunction with the nationwide observance of National Crime Victims' Rights Week, which begins on April 8 and runs through April 14, 2018.
OPENING CEREMONY:
WHO: United States Attorney Mike Stuart
West Virginia Fraternal Order of Police
Operation Reach Out committee members
Other federal, state and local officials
Families of fallen heroes of law enforcement
Staff of United States Attorney's Office, Southern District of West Virginia
WHAT: Operation Reach Out Opening Ceremony for National Crime Victims’ Rights Week – Back the Blue
WHERE: Robert C. Byrd United States Courthouse – Fifth Floor
300 Virginia Street, East
Charleston, WV 25301WHEN: Thursday, April 12, 2018, at noon. The ceremony will immediately follow a reception and lunch beginning at 11:30 a.m.
WALK/RUN FOR JUSTICE & PRE-RACE CEREMONY:
WHO: United States Attorney Mike Stuart
James Bailey, Senior Counsel to Governor Jim Justice
Major General James A. Hoyer, West Virginia National Guard
Operation Reach Out committee members
Survivors of Crime
Other federal, state and local officials
Staff of United States Attorney’s Office, Southern District of West Virginia
WHAT: Walk/Run for Justice and Pre-Race Ceremony
WHERE: Haddad Riverfront Park
Kanawha Boulevard
Charleston, WV
WHEN: Friday, April 13, 2018. Registration to begin at 11:00 a.m. Ceremony at 11:30 a.m. Race at noon.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
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10 April 2018
Windsor Mill Man Sentenced for Procuring Citizenship UnlawfullyRead the Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact ELIZABETH MORSE
www.justice.gov/usao/md at (410) 209-4885
Baltimore, Maryland – United States District Judge Richard D. Bennett sentenced Zulquarnain Qureshi, age 71, of Windsor Mill, Maryland, to nine months in prison, followed by one year of supervised release, should he return to the United States, for Procurement of Citizenship Unlawfully. Qureshi plead guilty to the offense on February 5, 2018. As part of the plea agreement, Qureshi was denaturalized and agreed to be removed from the United States.
The sentence was announced by the United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Robert K. Hur and Special Agent in Charge Richard Ingram of the Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service (DSS), Washington Field Office.
According to his plea agreement, Qureshi fraudulently obtained the passport of a citizen of the United Kingdom and used it to enter the United States in June 1999. Qureshi then lived in the United States, and worked and traveled abroad under that false identity until his August 15, 2017 arrest in Baltimore, Maryland. During the intervening years, Qureshi married a succession of three United States citizens while maintaining his marriage to a woman in his native Pakistan. Through his second marriage, Qureshi was able to obtain lawful permanent resident status as the spouse of a United States citizen.
Qureshi, using the assumed identity, filed for United States citizenship, which was granted, and took the oath on August 10, 2016. The day before a new United States passport was to be sent to Qureshi, Her Majesty’s Passport Office alerted American law enforcement to the fraud. The passport was not delivered and an investigation was undertaken.
United States Attorney Robert K. Hur commended the DSS, the United Kingdom’s Border Force and Passport Office and HSI for their work in the investigation. Mr. Hur thanked Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Fish who is prosecuting the case.
Wilkes-Barre Man Sentenced to Eight Years’ Imprisonment for Conspiring to Distribute Crack CocaineRead the Press Release
WILKES-BARRE – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that on April 6, 2018, United States District Court Judge A. Richard Caputo sentenced Jaquan Henderson, age 28, of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, to eight years’ imprisonment and three years of supervised release, for conspiring to distribute crack cocaine.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Henderson pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute crack cocaine in February 2016. Henderson was charged with five other individuals in May 2016. Henderson’s sentence was impacted, in part, by his significant criminal history, which qualified him as a career offender under the advisory United States Sentencing Commission Guidelines.
The matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and by the Luzerne County Drug Task Force. Assistant United States Attorney Phillip J. Caraballo prosecuted 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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Webster County Man Sentenced to over 20 Years in Prison for Role in Methamphetamine Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Webster County man who brought more than 4 kilograms of methamphetamine to Charleston was sentenced to 262 months in federal prison, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Quinton Funk, 38, of Webster Springs, previously pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute over 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. Stuart commended the investigation conducted by the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT) with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
“The increase in methamphetamine trafficking throughout the Southern District of West Virginia is greatly concerning,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “We need to stop meth now before it becomes an even bigger problem. We will aggressively prosecute meth dealers like Funk to the fullest extent of the law.”
Funk took part in a methamphetamine trafficking conspiracy that transported more than 4 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine from Atlanta and sold it in West Virginia. On January 4, 2017, Funk traveled to Atlanta with codefendants Jamie Harmon and Carl “Yogi” Clark to buy the methamphetamine. He further admitted to bringing the drugs back to West Virginia and selling that methamphetamine. Later that month, Funk was arrested with approximately $28,000 in cash in his backpack, and a loaded Glock 22, .40 caliber pistol in his possession. That same day, MDENT officers executed a search warrant at a hotel room where Funk was staying and found over 130 grams of methamphetamine, scales, baggies, and a gun. In February 2017, law enforcement arrested him again after he provided Christopher Carte, another codefendant, an ounce of methamphetamine to distribute. Officers recovered another $2,700 in cash from Funk when he was arrested. As part of his plea agreement, Funk also admitted to all the drug and gun crimes he was charged with in the indictment.
Two other defendants involved in this methamphetamine conspiracy have been sentenced to federal prison. Christopher Carte, of St. Albans, was sentenced to three years in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Holly Doub, of South Charleston, was sentenced to five days in federal prison for aiding and abetting the distribution of methamphetamine.
Clark and Harmon both pled guilty to distribution of methamphetamine and each faces up to 20 years in federal prison when they are sentenced on April 12, 2018. Clark and Harmon have admitted they possessed approximately four kilograms of methamphetamine during the course of the conspiracy.
Assistant United States Attorneys Haley Bunn and Eric Bacaj are handling the prosecution. United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin imposed the sentence.
These cases are 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, including methamphetamine. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
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Volga Man Ordered to Restore Protected Wetlands of the United StatesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier sentenced a Volga, South Dakota man convicted of Disturbing Protected Wetlands of the United States. The sentencing took place on April 9, 2018.
Kevin Jay Mast, age 61, was sentenced to 1 year of probation, ordered to pay a $100 fine, and $10 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Mast was also ordered to comply with the restoration of the protected wetlands on his property.
Mast was indicted for Disturbing Protected Wetlands of the United States by a federal grand jury on September 6, 2017. He was found guilty by a jury of his peers on January 18, 2018.
In 1973, the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service purchased an easement for waterfowl management rights. The easement prohibited the drainage of any wetland areas on the property. In 2010, the U.S. Fish & Wildlife notified Mast that his plan to install drain tile conflicted with the protected wetlands and was not authorized. Despite the warning, Mast installed the drain tile in the fall of 2013. The sentence imposed by the Court requires Mast to restore all six protected wetland areas on his property by August 1, 2018.
“The wetland areas of South Dakota provide crucial habitat for the reproduction of waterfowl, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office strictly enforces protection of these areas. Requiring the defendant to restore the affected wetlands sends an important message, that this type of blatant disregard for the law will not be tolerated,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeff Clapper prosecuted the case.
Violent Crime Federal Prosecution UpdateRead the Press Release
St. Louis, MO – The United States Attorney’s Office will prosecute aggressively violent criminals and drug dealers. Federal prosecution is a powerful tool in the fight to reduce violent crime. Below is a list of defendants prosecuted federally in March:
Jamacian Brown, 28, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Keiven Cole, 32, Spanish Lake, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Tyrone Davis, 45, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Jerry Hampton, 38, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Courtney Brown, 36, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime resulting in death.
Paris Devine, 25, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine; one count of discharging a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence and one count of carjacking.
Tracy Johnson, 36, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Dustin Lockwood, 33, Arnold, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of possession of a firearm in a school zone and one count of possession of a silencer.
Jermaine Rhodes, 25, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl; one count of possession with the intent to distribute marijuana; one felony count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime; and felon in possession of a firearm.
Devin Tate, 24, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Amechie Baldwin, 31, Olivette, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Anthony Bounds, 35, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of one or more firearms; possession with intent to distribute cocaine base (crack); and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Shaahree Buckley, 38, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Rafael Foster, 32, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm; possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance; and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Paris Gordon, 47, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Shannon Jackson, 32, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Edward McGinnist, 34, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine; possession with intent to distribute heroin; and felon in possession of a firearm.
Shaun Bonner, 35, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Antoine Bonnett, 42, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm; possession with intent to distribute cocaine base; possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime; and possession with intent to distribute cocaine base.
Maurice Cooper, 38, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Ted Moses was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm and conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute in excess of 500g of cocaine.
Cory Smith, 29, Fenton, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Eric Steward, 27, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Deon Story, Jr., 37, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Christopher Walter, 44, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Zackary Ward, 26, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Donnell Witherspoon, 37, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Tyreece Young, 20, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Andre Adams, 32, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Darryl Allen, 49, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Justin Cordes, 42, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Anthony Drake, 33, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Travis Johnson, 33, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of possess with intent to distribute fentanyl; possess one or more firearms in furtherance of the drug trafficking crime; and felon in possession of a firearm.
Calvin Monger, Jr., 31, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Corey States, 40, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Cameron Sutton, 25, St. Ann, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm; possession with intent to distribute marijuana; and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Stacy Albright, 45, St. Clair, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Charles Dabney, 41, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Vernon DeFrance, 51, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Lyle Deloch, 32, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
David Ewing, Jr., St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Ernest Harris, 26, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Shaun Jackson, 25, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of conspiracy to distribute 100g or more of heroin; possession with intent to distribute 100g or more of heroin; and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Daria Wright, 21, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of conspiracy to distribute 100g or more of heroin; possession with intent to distribute 100g or more of heroin; and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Walter King, 43, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm; possession with intent to distribute heroin; and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Carl Terry, 37, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Derek Whitfield, 35, St. Louis, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one felony count of felon in possession of one or more firearms; possession with intent to distribute fentanyl;
Michael E. Broom, Jr., 28, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Johnnie Stewart, 36, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Chad M. Jackson, 34, Florissant, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Anthony Young, 44, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Eric Thompson, 49, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Antonio Gray, 30, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Kenyetta Chapman, 22, Stockton, CA, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Kenneth Johnson-Pace, 24, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Jerome Hughes, 30, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Dominique D. Simpson, 28, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Amin Suluki-Bey, 48, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Demarye Briggs, 21, St. Charles, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Christopher Starks, 37, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Rashad Faries, 26, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Christopher Starks, 37, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Teran Willis, 35, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Nicholas O. Johnson, 28, St. Louis, pled guilty to possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Jake Richardson, 24, St. Louis, pled guilty to importing a firearm.
Willie McFarland, 42, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Jason Baker, 41, Imperial, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Earl McNeal, 24, St. Louis, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Quavon D. Williams, 22, pled guilty to carjacking and use of a firearm during a crime of violence.
Michael Thomas-Williams, 35, Hazelwood, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
Joe Edger, 43, St. Louis, was sentenced to 360 months in prison for conspiracy to possess a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and felon in possession of a firearm.
Damon D. Williams, 41, was sentenced to 90 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm.
Armond Calvin, 20, St. Louis, was sentenced to 13 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm.
Joseph Stewart, 42, St. Louis, was sentenced to 24 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm
Deangelo H. Young, 25, St. Louis, was sentenced to 70 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm.
Brandon Johnson, 34, St. Louis, was sentenced to 32 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm.
Stephonne Wilder, 22, St. Ann, was sentenced to 15 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm.
Dwayne Bowden, 36, St. Louis, was sentenced to 27 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm.
Charles Leonard, 48, St. Louis, was sentenced to 66 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm and possession with intent to distribute a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl.
Calvin E. Kyles, 33, St. Louis, was sentenced to 96 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm.
Terrance L. Thomas, 25, St. Louis, was sentenced to 60 months in prison for possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Lamont Brison, 27, St. Louis, was sentenced to 29 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm.
Ronald A. Golden, Jr., 45, University City, was sentenced to 117 months in prison for use of a firearm during a crime of violence.
Jeramie Blount, 33, St. Louis, was sentenced to 38 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm.
Quontre Thomas, 27, Florissant, was sentenced to 110 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm.
Jon A. Parker, 29, Union, was sentenced to 27 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm.
Laron Hutchins, 27, St. Louis, was sentenced to 60 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm.
Jason Mitchell, 35, Fenton, was sentenced to 42 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm.
Roy C. White, 36, was sentenced to 60 months in prison for possessing a firearm during the commission of a federal crime of violence.
Deandriss Bowden, 22, St. Louis, was sentenced to 27 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm.
Lavell T. Sherman, 24, St. Louis, was sentenced to 27 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm.
Fidencio Lagunes-Elias, 36, Chesterfield, was sentenced to 10 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm.
Laythan Hearton, 32, St. Louis, was sentenced to 37 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm.
Hollis Weaver, 26, St. Louis, was sentenced to 27 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm.
James C. Smith, 33, Florissant, was sentenced to 50 months in prison for felon in possession
United States Recovers over $130,000 Resolving Allegations that Federal Gas Lessee Violated the False Claims ActRead the Press Release
DENVER -- The United States Attorney for the District of Colorado, Bob Troyer, today announces the recovery of $130,752 to settle allegations that two companies, Sanders Oil & Gas, LLC and Sanco Operating Company, violated the federal False Claims Act by failing to pay money owed to the Department of the Interior’s Office of Natural Resources Revenue (ONRR) for natural gas produced from a federal lease located in New Mexico.
Federal lands can be leased for the production of natural gas in exchange for the payment of royalties on the value of the gas that is produced, among other obligations. Each month, companies with federal leases are required to report to ONRR the amount of royalties due and then pay the amount owed.
The settlement announced today resolves claims by the United States that Sanders and Sanco failed to report any production or pay any of its royalty obligation to the United States for gas produced from the Mesa Diablo lease in New Mexico from September, 2010, through December, 2016. The United States further alleged that although Sanders and Sanco paid some money for gas that was produced from that lease between January, 2010, and August, 2010, they owed additional royalties and had failed to pay the full amount that was due during this 9-month period.
“Gas companies that cheat on royalty payments are going to get caught. Our office is systematically ensuring that they pay what they owe for resources they take from federal lands. These are resources owned by all Americans, and we won’t tolerate the failure to pay for them,” said United States Attorney Bob Troyer.
“The obligation to pay federal mineral royalties is essential to the responsible development of oil and gas from public lands, and the OIG is committed to work with DOJ and its federal partners to ensure that companies developing public resources meet their legal responsibilities,” stated Ron Gonzales, Special Agent in Charge of the Department of the Interior-Office of Inspector General’s Energy Investigations Unit.
“The Bureau of Land Management takes its oversight responsibilities seriously, and will work diligently with our partners to hold liable those companies that fail to meet their legal and regulatory commitments,” said Shannon Tokos, Acting Deputy Director of the BLM’s Office of Law Enforcement and Security.
The United States Attorney’s Office acknowledges the cooperation and teamwork demonstrated by governmental entities involved in today’s recovery. Special thanks are extended to the Office of Natural Resources Revenue, the Department of the Interior’s Office of the Solicitor, the Energy Investigations Unit of the Department of the Interior’s Office of Inspector General, and the Special Investigations Group of the Bureau of Land Management. The United States Attorney’s Office in Denver, Colorado works closely with these offices in the pursuit of unpaid or underpaid oil and natural gas revenue, claims for which are processed at the Office of Natural Resources Revenue at the Federal Center in Lakewood.
The United States was represented in this matter by Assistant United States Attorney Amanda Rocque and former Special Assistant United States Attorney Marisela Sandoval.
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Visit our website http://www.justice.gov/usao/co | Follow us on Twitter @DCoNews
Union Woman Pleads Guilty to Tax FraudRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that Ashley E. Browning, age 31, of Union, pled guilty in federal court in Anderson, to preparing and presenting false tax returns, a violation of Title 26, United States Code, Section 7206(2). United States District Judge Timothy M. Cain, of Anderson, accepted the plea and will impose sentence after he has reviewed the presentence report which will be prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.
Evidence presented at the change of plea hearing established that Browning prepared and filed, and assisted in preparing and filing of, multiple tax returns for customers in exchange for fees. Browning carried out this conduct from her home in Union County and also from the homes of her customers who resided in and around Union County. Browning repeatedly falsified information in returns she prepared in order to generate fraudulent refunds. For example, Browning repeatedly submitted false information about customers’ income, federal withholding, and educational expenses. Because of this pattern of falsification, the Government issued approximately $200,000 more in refunds than it would have if accurate and honest information had been submitted by Browning.
Ms. Drake stated the maximum penalty Browning can receive is a fine of $100,000 and/or imprisonment for 3 years, supervised release of one year, plus a special assessment of $100.
The case was investigated by agents with the Internal Revenue Service and the Union City Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Bill Watkins of the Greenville office handled the case.
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U.S. Department of Justice Observes National Crime Victims' Rights Week with Events Throughout the CountryRead the Press Release
In observance of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, April 8-14, 2018, United States Attorney Brandon Fremin of the Middle District of Louisiana will be participating in several local events observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, including “An Evening of Remembrance” event hosted by the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office and a Crime Victims’ Rights picnic hosted by the East Baton Rouge District Attorney’s Office.
“In law enforcement, we are sworn to serve and protect,” Attorney General Sessions said. “We carry out this oath every day by protecting the rights of law abiding people from criminals and by achieving justice for crime victims. This week, we remember the millions of Americans who have been victimized by criminals and we thank those who have gone above and beyond the call of duty in their service to those victims. As we do so, we recommit ourselves to fulfilling our oath and to reducing crime in America.”
U.S. Attorney Brandon Fremin of the Middle District of Louisiana stated, “The importance of our law enforcement mission is most clearly illustrated by those who have been victimized by crime. Their stories remind us that crime statistics are not mere statistics; they represent real crimes affecting real people and real families. This week we remember those victims and recommit ourselves to making our community a safer place.”
Each year in April, the Department of Justice and United States Attorney’s Offices observe National Crime Victims’ Rights Week nationwide by taking time to honor victims of crime and those who advocate on their behalf. In addition, the Justice Department and U.S. Attorney’s Offices organize events to honor the victims and advocates, as well as bring awareness to services available to victims of crime. This year’s observance takes place April 8-14, with the theme Expand the Circle: Reach All Victims.
The U.S. Department of Justice will host the Office for Victims of Crime’s annual National Crime Victims’ Service Awards Ceremony in Washington, D.C. on April 13, 2018, to honor outstanding individuals and programs that serve victims of crime.
The Department of Justice’s Office for Victims of Crime, within the Office of Justice Programs, leads communities across the country in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week each year. President Ronald Reagan proclaimed the first National Crime Victims’ Rights Week in 1981 to bring greater sensitivity to the needs and rights of victims of crime.
The Office of Justice Programs provides innovative leadership to federal, state, local, and tribal justice systems, by disseminating state-of-the art knowledge and practices across America, and providing grants for the implementation of these crime fighting strategies. Because most of the responsibility for crime control and prevention falls to law enforcement officers in states, cities, and neighborhoods, the federal government can be effective in these areas only to the extent that it can enter into partnerships with these officers. More information about the Office of Justice Programs and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov. More information about Crime Victim’s Rights Week can be found at https://ovc.ncjrs.gov/ncvrw/. You may also contact the U.S. Attorney’s Middle District of Louisiana Victim Witness Program at (225) 389-0443.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Partners with Local Law Enforcement to Commemorate National Crime Victims’ Rights WeekRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. - The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Kentucky, along with the Fayette Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, the Fayette County Attorney’s Office, the Lexington Police Department, and the Office of the Fayette County Sheriff will commemorate National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW), April 8-14, 2018, at the Lexington Crime Victims’ Rights Luncheon, on April 11, 2018. The luncheon is a collaboration of local law enforcement partners, to raise awareness about crime victims’ issues and rights and introduce the community to the important resources and services available. According to the most recent Bureau of Justice Statistics survey, victims experience more than five million violent crimes and nearly 15 million property crimes a year.
This local partnership will commemorate the advancement of victims’ rights and highlight issues surrounding victimization at this event at 11:30 am, at the Fayette County Circuit Courthouse Multi-Purpose Room. During the event, the U.S. Attorney’s Office will honor Rajbir Datta, an Assistant United States Attorney, with the Office’s Danny Ray Smith Crime Victims’ Rights Award. Danny Ray Smith, the first Victim-Witness Coordinator at the U.S. Attorney’s Office, was a champion in advocating for expanded support and services to communities affected by crime. Datta will receive the award for his tireless efforts to pursue restitution for victims in a significant fraud case that affected hundreds of victims. The other law enforcement partners will be presenting awards as well.
The Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) of the U.S. Department of Justice leads communities throughout the country in their annual observances of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, by promoting victims’ rights and honoring crime victims and those who advocate on their behalf. This year’s theme—Expand the Circle: Reach All Victims—highlights how the investment of communities in crime victims expands the opportunity for victims to disclose their victimization, connect with services, and receive the support they need. The theme also acknowledges the many barriers facing victims of crime especially those with disabilities, LGBTQ victims, older adults, speakers with limited English proficiency, American Indians and Alaska Natives, and others from historically marginalized communities.
“Victims’ rights are of great importance in the criminal justice system, and I take very seriously my Office’s duty to ensure that victims’ voices are heard,” stated United States Attorney Robert M. Duncan, Jr. “I am proud to partner with members of the law enforcement community to honor and renew our commitment to victims of crime.”
OVC and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, along with our local partners, encourage widespread participation in the week’s events and in other victim-related observances throughout the year. The U.S. Department of Justice will host OVC’s annual National Crime Victims’ Service Awards Ceremony, in Washington, D.C., to honor outstanding individuals and programs that serve victims of crime.
For additional information about this year’s National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, and how to assist victims in your community, please contact Jenny Parker, Victim Assistance Specialist, at 859-685-4906, or visit U.S. Attorney’s Office website, at www.justice.gov/usao-edky. For additional ideas on how to support victims of crime, visit OVC’s website at www.ovc.gov.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Announces Additional Charges Against Athletic Apparel Company Executive and Others for Allegedly Defrauding Four NCAA Division I UniversitiesRead the Press Release
Robert S. Khuzami, the Attorney for the United States, Acting Under Authority Conferred by 28 U.S.C. § 515, announced the filing of a Superseding Indictment against defendants JAMES GATTO, a/k/a “Jim,” MERL CODE, and CHRISTIAN DAWKINS in United States v. Gatto, 17 Cr. 686 (LAK). The Superseding Indictment (“the Indictment”) expands the scope of the charged wire fraud conspiracy to include alleged payments to the families of six student-athletes in connection with those players’ decisions to attend four different NCAA Division I Universities – the University of Louisville, the University of Miami, the University of Kansas, and North Carolina State University – all of which were sponsored by the same major athletic apparel company (“Company-1”).[1]
The investigation remains ongoing. The FBI strongly encourages anyone with information they believe to be relevant to contact the FBI by calling a special hot line established to receive tips in connection with this investigation: 212-384-2135.
The case is being handled by the Office’s Public Corruption Unit. Assistant United States Attorneys Edward B. Diskant, Noah Solowiejczyk, Eli J. Mark, Robert L. Boone, and Aline Flodr are in charge of the prosecution.
[1] As the paragraph above indicates, the entirety of the text of the Superseding Indictment constitute only allegations, and every fact described therein should be treated as an allegation.
U.S. Attorney's Office Joins in Recognizing National Crime Victims' Rights Week, April 8-14, 2018Read the Press Release
PORTLAND, Ore. – Every April, the Justice Department’s Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) leads communities across the country in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW) to honor crime victims, promote their rights and recognize those who advocate on their behalf. This year’s NCVRW will be held April 8-14, 2018 with the theme of Expand the Circle: Reach All Victims.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office joins its federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement partners in taking this opportunity to highlight the importance of providing necessary services at the earliest possible stage of victimization and litigation. Early intervention helps prevent further victimization and encourages victim involvement in the criminal justice system, mitigating the cycle of violence and restoring hope for the future.
"In law enforcement, we are sworn to serve and protect," Attorney General Sessions said. "We carry out this oath every day by protecting the rights of law abiding people from criminals and by achieving justice for crime victims. This week, we remember the millions of Americans who have been victimized by criminals and we thank those who have gone above and beyond the call of duty in their service to those victims. As we do so, we recommit ourselves to fulfilling our oath and to reducing crime in America."
“According to Bureau of Justice statistics, victims experience more than five million crimes of violence and nearly 15 million property crimes annually. Sadly, odds are most Americans have been a victim of crime or know someone personally who has,” said Billy J. Williams, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. “Now more than ever, victims of crime deserve a voice. They deserve to know that others stand with them and recognize their courage.”
“So often in this country when we talk about crime, the focus is on those who are breaking the law, including significant attention paid to the criminal’s life, arrest and punishment. For the men and women of the FBI, though, any given case is about much more than just handcuffs and court appearances. Our compassion for the victims is at the core of who we are and why we do what we do. For us, the rights and needs of the trafficked child, armed robbery victim or senior citizen who lost his life savings are just as important - if not more so – than the story of the person who caused such harm,” said Renn Cannon, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Oregon.
This year’s theme—Expand the Circle: Reach All Victims—highlights how the investment of communities in crime victims expands the opportunity for victims to disclose their victimization, connect with services and receive the support they need. The theme also acknowledges the many barriers facing victims of crime especially those with disabilities, LGBTQ victims, older adults, speakers with limited English proficiency, American Indians and Alaska Natives, and others from historically marginalized communities.
OVC and the U.S. Attorney’s Office encourages widespread participation in the week’s events and in other victim-related observances throughout the year. The Justice Department will host OVC’s annual National Crime Victims’ Service Awards Ceremony in Washington, D.C. on April 13, 2018 to honor outstanding individuals and programs that serve victims of crime. For additional information about this year’s National Crime Victims’ Rights Week and how to assist victims in your community, please visit OVC’s website at www.ovc.gov.
If you or someone you know has been a victim of a crime, please contact your local law enforcement agency or your nearest FBI office immediately. The FBI Portland Field Office can be reached at (503) 224-4181.
U.S. Attorney for Kansas Spotlights Crime Victims’ RightsRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – Protecting the rights of crime victims is a high priority, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said today.
The U.S. Attorney’s office for the District of Kansas is joining advocates from across the state in recognizing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, April 8-14, 2018.
“As a society we must not lose sight of the costs and suffering that crime inflicts on those who are victims. Many organizations—federal, state and local—provide support and services to the victims of crime. The Constitution creates and requires recognition of several rights for those accused of crime, and rightly so. But our society also must recognize the dignity of the victims of crime, strive to ease the pain and loss many have suffered, and fully support victims’ legitimate interest in seeing justice done.”
McAllister said victim assistance staff members will be participating in the 21st Annual Crime Victims’ Rights Conference in Topeka, April 11 and 12. In coming months, the U.S. Attorney’s Office will be co-hosting the 2018 Indian Country Conference in Omaha, Neb., May 9-10, and hosting the 2018 Human Trafficking Conference in Manhattan, Kan., July 10-11.
Events across the nation this week recognize the Crime Victim’s Rights Act, which guarantees victims protection from an accused, accurate and timely information about court proceedings and the right to be treated with fairness and respect for their dignity and privacy.
Each year in April, the Department of Justice and United States Attorney’s Offices observe National Crime Victims’ Rights Week nationwide by taking time to honor victims of crime and those who advocate on their behalf. In addition, the Justice Department and U.S. Attorney’s Offices take part in events to honor the victims and advocates, as well as bring awareness to services available to victims of crime. This year’s theme is Expand the Circle: Reach All Victims.
The U.S. Department of Justice will host the Office for Victims of Crime’s annual National Crime Victims’ Service Awards Ceremony in Washington, D.C. on April 13, 2018, to honor outstanding individuals and programs that serve victims of crime.
The Department of Justice’s Office for Victims of Crime, within the Office of Justice Programs, leads communities across the country in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week each year. President Ronald Reagan proclaimed the first National Crime Victims’ Rights Week in 1981 to bring greater sensitivity to the needs and rights of victims of crime.
The Office of Justice Programs provides innovative leadership to federal, state, local, and tribal justice systems, by disseminating state-of-the art knowledge and practices across America, and providing grants for the implementation of these crime-fighting strategies. Because most of the responsibility for crime control and prevention falls to law enforcement officers in states, cities, and neighborhoods, the federal government can be effective in these areas only to the extent that it can enter into partnerships with these officers. More information about the Office of Justice Programs and its components can be found at https://ojp.gov/. More information about Crime Victim’s Rights Week can be found at https://ovc.ncjrs.gov/ncvrw/. You may also contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Kansas’ Victim Witness Program at 316-269-6481.
U.S. Attorney Nolan to Testify Before U.S. Senate Judiciary SubcommitteeRead the Press Release
On April 11, 2018, United States Attorney Christina E. Nolan will testify at a hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee’s Subcommittee on Crime and Terrorism. Her remarks, titled “Defeating Fentanyl: Addressing the Deadliest Drugs Fueling the Opioid Crisis,” are scheduled to begin at 2:30 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time.
Two Tennessee Health Care Executives Charged for Role in $4.6 Million Medicare Kickback SchemeRead the Press Release
Nashville, Tenn. – April 9, 2018 - Two Tennessee health care executives were charged in an indictment unsealed today for their alleged participation in a $4.6 million Medicare kickback scheme involving durable medical equipment (DME).
Joining U.S. Attorney Don Cochran of the Middle District of Tennessee in making the announcement were Acting Assistant Attorney General John P. Cronan of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Special Agent in Charge Derrick Jackson of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General’s (HHS-OIG) Atlanta Region, Special Agent in Charge John F. Khin of the U.S. Department of Defense Criminal Investigative Service’s (DCIS) Southeast Field Office and Director Mark Gwyn of the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation.
John Davis, 40, of Brentwood, Tennessee, and Brenda Montgomery, 69, of Camden, Tennessee, were each charged with one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States and to pay and receive health care kickbacks, and seven counts of paying and receiving health care kickbacks. Davis is the former CEO of Comprehensive Pain Specialists (CPS), a large, multi-state pain management company. Montgomery is the owner, founder and CEO of CCC Medical Inc., a DME company with five locations in Tennessee and headquartered in Camden. Davis and Montgomery were arrested this morning and appeared this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Alistair E. Newbern of the Middle District of Tennessee.
“Our Medicare program is designed to help those who are most vulnerable and in need of medical services and equipment,” said U.S. Attorney Cochran. “Stealing funds from our health care system places the vulnerable at greater risk and diverts public funds into the pockets of the greedy individuals who exploit those with the greatest need. We will be un-relenting in our efforts to bring to justice, those individuals and corporations who choose to profit at the expense of the health of those individuals with the greatest need.”
“The charges against John Davis and Brenda Montgomery, alleging almost three quarters of a million dollars in illegal health care kickbacks and the submission of over $4.6 million in fraudulent claims to Medicare, demonstrate the Department of Justice’s commitment to protect taxpayer dollars and to hold corporate executives accountable for fraudulent and abusive conduct,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Cronan. “Kickbacks such as those alleged in the indictment distort markets and undermine public trust. The Criminal Division and our law enforcement partners will continue to root out fraud, waste and abuse in our health care programs, no matter how complex the schemes.”
“Kickback schemes like this one do not benefit patients or the Medicare program,” said Special Agent in Charge Jackson. “These arrangements are simply designed to line the pockets of the defendants at the expense of the taxpayer.”
“In concert with our partner agencies, DCIS aggressively investigates fraud and corruption that undermines the integrity of Department of Defense programs,” said Defense Criminal Investigative Service Special Agent in Charge John F. Khin. “These defendants selfishly put greed and personal gain before the safety and well-being of our military members, their families, and retirees, who deserve the best medical care available."
“Having the support and cooperation of our partner local, state and federal agencies is critical in our combined efforts to protect Tennesseans from individuals attempting to derive a personal benefit at the expense of patients and taxpayers,” said TBI Director Mark Gwyn.
According to the indictment, from June 2011 to June 2017, Montgomery paid Davis, approximately 60 per cent of the Medicare proceeds, as kickbacks, in exchange for Davis directing CPS employees and providers to send Medicare DME orders and referrals to Montgomery’s CCC Medical. It is alleged that Montgomery and Davis used a nominee and filed false tax documents to disguise the kickbacks.
Beginning in or around May 2015, according to the indictment, Davis and Montgomery renegotiated their illegal agreement to further obscure their personal contract from Medicare and from CPS owners and employees. The indictment alleges that from approximately May 2015 until approximately November 2015, Montgomery agreed to pay Davis $200,000 for the sham purchase of a shell entity known as ProMed Solutions LLC (ProMed). Davis and Montgomery renegotiated the sham transaction after Montgomery complained that her referrals from CPS had been lower than expected, and Montgomery ultimately paid $150,000 for the shell, ProMed, according to allegations in the indictment. The true purpose of this payment was to induce Davis to continue driving CPS referrals to CCC Medical, the indictment alleges.
The indictment alleges that Montgomery, through CCC Medical, submitted over $4.6 million in fraudulent claims to Medicare, and that Medicare paid a total of $2.6 million on those claims. Further, the indictment alleges that Montgomery paid more than $770,000 in illegal kickbacks to Davis.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
This case was investigated by HHS-OIG, DCIS and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation Medicaid Fraud Control Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Raybould of the Middle District of Tennessee and Trial Attorney Anthony Burba of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and are prosecuting the case.
The Fraud Section leads the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, which is part of a joint initiative between the Department of Justice and HHS to focus their efforts to prevent and deter fraud and enforce current anti-fraud laws throughout the country. The Medicare Fraud Strike Force operates in nine locations nationwide. Since its inception in March 2007, the Medicare Fraud Strike Force has charged over 3,500 defendants who collectively have collectively billed the Medicare program for over $12.5 billion.
Two Jamestown Men Arrested on Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Tyler Craig Anderson, 27, and Robert Lincoln, 26, both of Jamestown, NY, were arrested and charged by criminal complaint with conspiracy to make false statements to purchase firearms, which carries a mandatory penalty of five years in prison. In addition, Anderson is charged with possession with intent to distribute cocaine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes which are punishable by a mandatory minimum five years in prison and a maximum of life in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy C. Lynch, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, the Ellicott Police Department received complaints from area residents regarding suspected drug dealing at Anderson’s residence. According to residents, there were frequent and short visits by a number of people driving a variety of vehicles. As a result, law enforcement officers conducted controlled purchases of cocaine from Anderson at his residence on Willard Street Extension. Law enforcement officers learned during those controlled drug sales that Anderson had a number of firearms at his residence.
On March 9, 2018, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Anderson’s residence and recovered cocaine, marijuana, drug paraphernalia, 14 firearms, and ammunition. The defendant was taken into custody at the scene.
Subsequent investigation determined that at least three of the firearms were purchased by defendant Lincoln at a sporting goods store in Russell, Pennsylvania. According to the complaint, Lincoln completed the required federal forms stating that he was the purchaser of the firearms, but shortly thereafter, he turned the firearms over to Anderson.
Law enforcement officers reviewed a Facebook page believed to be operated by defendant Anderson. One post read, "I gotta bout 30 guns and I love em all the same bang bang 'merica." Another Facebook user commented, "And get them all taken the same when they say you can't have them anymore." Anderson responded, "They' re gonna have to kill me mane [sic]."
The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Kevin P. Lyons, the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Harry Snellings, and the Ellicott Police Department, under the direction of Chief William L. Ohnmeiss, Jr.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Two Associates of La Cosa Nostra Sentenced to Prison for Extortion-Related ChargesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – Two associates of the Genovese La Cosa Nostra (LCN) crime family were sentenced today in federal court in Worcester on extortion-related charges.
Ralph Santaniello, 50, and Giovanni Calabrese, 54, both of Longmeadow, were sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Timothy S. Hillman to five years in prison and two years of supervised release, and three years in prison and two years of supervised release, respectively. In November 2017, Santaniello and Calabrese each pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to interfere with commerce by threats or violence; one count of interference with commerce by threats or violence – aiding and abetting; one count of conspiracy to use extortionate means to collect extensions of credit; and one count of using extortionate means to collect extensions of credit – aiding and abetting. Santaniello and Calabrese were arrested and charged in August 2016 along with three other associates, Gerald Daniele, 52, of Longmeadow; Francesco Depergola, 62, of Springfield; and Richard Valentini, 51, of East Longmeadow.
According to plea documents and evidence presented in court, Santaniello, Calabrese, and their co-defendants, were associates of the New York-based Genovese LCN crime family and engaged in various criminal activities in Springfield, Mass., including loansharking and extortion from legitimate and illegitimate businesses, such as illegal gambling businesses and the collection of unlawful debts. The defendants used violence, exploited their relationship with LCN, and implied threats of murder and physical violence to instill fear in their victims.
In 2013, Santaniello, Calabrese, Depergola and Valentini attempted to extort money from a Springfield businessman. Santaniello assaulted the businessman, and Santaniello and Calabrese threatened to cut off the man’s head and bury his body if he did not comply. Over a period of two months, the businessman paid $20,000 to Santaniello, Calabrese, Depergola and Valentini to protect himself and his business.
In addition, during a six-month period in 2015, Daniele extended two extortionate and usurious loans to an individual, and then, along with Santaniello and Calabrese, threatened the individual if he did not make payments on the loans.
In March 2018, Daniele was sentenced to two years in prison. In December 2017, Depergola pleaded guilty and Valentini was convicted by a federal jury; they are both scheduled to be sentenced on May 11, 2018.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling; Acting Assistant Attorney General John P. Cronan of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division; Hampden County District Attorney Anthony Gulluni; and Colonel Kerry A. Gilpin, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police, made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin O’Regan, Chief of Lelling’s Springfield Branch Office; Assistant U.S. Attorney Katharine Wagner of Lelling’s Springfield Branch Office; and Trial Attorney Marianne Shelvey of the Criminal Division’s Organized Crime and Gang Section are prosecuting the cases.