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Wednesday 28 February 2018
Former Utah CEO Sentenced to Prison for Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
A former CEO of a Salt Lake City, Utah, company was sentenced today to 12 months and 1 day in prison for tax evasion, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney John W. Huber for the District of Utah.
Peter Nordberg, 62, of Alameda, California, pleaded guilty in September 2017 to tax evasion. According to court documents, Nordberg was the Chief Executive Officer of Max International, a company that produces and markets nutritional supplements directly and through independent associates and distributors. As an employee of Max International, Nordberg earned a salary and commissions equal to a percentage of sales. Nordberg caused Max International to pay his bonus income to a nominee entity he established, and used a bank account in the name of the nominee entity to pay personal expenses. Nordberg concealed the bonus income and nominee entity from his return preparer and filed false tax returns with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) that underreported his income. Nordberg’s conduct caused a tax loss of approximately $275,000.
In addition to the term of prison imposed, U.S. District Court Judge Dee Benson ordered Nordberg to serve 1 year of supervised release and to pay $354,770 in restitution to the United States Treasury.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and U.S. Attorney Huber thanked special agents of IRS Criminal Investigation, who conducted the investigation, and Tax Division Trial Attorney Matthew Hoffman and Assistant U.S. Attorney Ruth Hackford-Peer, who prosecuted the case.
Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found on the division’s website.
Former Norwood Man Sentenced for Coercing a Minor for Sex While on Home MonitoringRead the Press Release
CINCINNATI – Cody Lee Jackson, 22, formerly of Norwood, was sentenced in U.S. District Court today to 165 months in prison for coercion and enticement of a minor.
Jackson lured a minor to his apartment to have sex with Jackson while he was on home monitoring after pleading guilty to a crime in Hamilton County Common Pleas court.
Benjamin C. Glassman, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, Angela L. Byers, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Cincinnati Division, Hamilton County Prosecutor Joseph T. Deters, Blue Ash Police Chief Scott Noel and Norwood Police Chief William Kramer announced the sentence imposed today by U.S. District Judge Michael Barrett.
According to court documents, Jackson was under local supervision in Hamilton County in February 2015. While under supervision, he met the minor victim through social media and eventually persuaded her to come to his apartment.
Jackson would send a taxi to transport the victim, who was 14 years old at the time, to his apartment. He would engage in sexual activity on each visit, and took videos and photographs of the conduct.
Shortly after meeting the victim, he began to change her passwords to her social media accounts and give her instructions on what she could and could not do. If she broke his rules, he would verbally and physically abuse her.
Eventually, the minor became pregnant by Jackson.
In July 2015, Jackson left Ohio but began to contact the victim again on social media. He told the victim to send him sexually explicit pictures and threatened her family if she failed to comply.
Jackson was arrested in Utah in October 2015 after a federal complaint was filed in Cincinnati. He has been in custody since his arrest.
Following his arrest on federal charges, Jackson contacted the victim using other inmate’s calling numbers and threatened to take away the victim’s child and sue her. He also threatened to take the victim’s father’s home and car.
Jackson pleaded guilty to coercion and enticement of a minor in May 2017. As a part of that plea, parties agreed that Jackson’s federal prison sentence would run concurrent with sentences imposed in the Hamilton County Court of Common Pleas.
He was also sentenced to a lifetime of supervised release.
“Jackson has used young girls for his own purposes, punishing his victims if they don’t do as he instructs,” U.S. Attorney Glassman said. “This illicit sexual conduct, paired with a seemingly complete disregard for the law, calls for the sentence he received today.”
U.S. Attorney Glassman commended the investigation by the FBI and Blue Ash Police Department, Norwood Police Department and coordination with the Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office, as well as Assistant United States Attorney Christy L. Muncy, who is representing the United States in this case.
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Former Glendive Resident Sentenced to over Two Years for Firearms OffenseRead the Press Release
BILLINGS - The United States Attorney’s Office announced today that Frank Banks was sentenced to 30 months in prison, two years of supervised release, and a $200 special assessment. U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided over the hearing.
Banks previously entered a plea of guilty to a two-count indictment charging him being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. On November 23, 2015, law enforcement was notified that Banks was standing outside the Manor Apartments in Glendive and he was holding a gun. During a December 2015 search of Banks’ apartment law enforcement found a Hi-Point, model C9, 9mm Luger semi-automatic pistol in his bedroom. Officers also found a box of 9mm ammunition inside the apartment and six rounds of ammunition in Banks’ pocket. Banks is prohibited from possessing a firearm from a previous felony conviction from the state of Washington.
In a sentencing memorandum filed in federal court, federal prosecutors noted, “Banks has been involved in the criminal justice system since the age of 18; he is now 59 years old. Banks has a lengthy criminal history, with a number of violent offenses.” In arguing for a sentence to promote a respect for the law and provide adequate deterrence, it continued, “The government has a strong interest in protecting the public and restricting improper access to firearms.” In a letter filed with the district court, Banks acknowledged that he “became guilty of these charges weeks before that incident” and that he was guilty as soon the gun was “brought into our home.”
The Banks case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, in conjunction with Glendive Police Department and other federal, state, and local agencies.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is partnering with federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement to identify those responsible for significant violent crime in Montana. A centerpiece of this effort is Project Safe Neighborhoods, a recently reinvigorated Department of Justice program that has proven to be successful in reducing violent crime. Today’s sentencing is part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods program.
Final Defendant Sentenced to 48 Months for Smuggling Contraband into Lexington Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. – Keith A. Griffith, 35, a federal inmate, was sentenced today to four years in prison by United States Chief District Court Judge Karen K. Caldwell, for bribing a corrections officer at the Federal Medical Center in Lexington, Kentucky (“FMC Lexington”), a federal correctional facility, to smuggle prohibited items into the prison. This sentence is to be added to the term of imprisonment Griffith was already serving for narcotics related offenses.
Griffith previously admitted that he conspired with a federal corrections officer, James Carrington, Stephanie Dukes, and inmate Amai Rawls, to introduce prohibited objects into FMC Lexington, including mp3 players, tobacco, cell phones, weight supplements, and synthetic marijuana. Dukes, at the direction of Griffith, would purchase the contraband and deliver the items to Carrington, along with a payment for Carrington’s services. Carrington would then distribute the contraband to Griffith within the prison, for Griffith’s personal use and for distribution to other inmates. Carrington was considered a public official under the law.
James Carrington of Winchester, Kentucky, pleaded guilty to bribery of a public official, and was sentenced to 24 months in prison. Stephanie Dukes of Louisville, Kentucky, also pleaded guilty to bribing a public official and received a sentence of 18 months’ incarceration for her role in the scheme. Finally, federal inmate Amai Rawls pleaded guilty to conspiracy to introduce tobacco and cell phones into a federal correctional facility, a misdemeanor, for which he received a 5-month term of imprisonment. He will serve this sentence consecutive to the sentence he was already serving for narcotics related offenses.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, John F. Oleskowicz, Special Agent in Charge of the Chicago Field Office for the U.S. Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General, and Amy Hess, Special Agent in Charge of the Louisville Field Office for the Federal Bureau of Investigation, jointly made the announcement today after the sentencing.
Federal Jury Convicts Felon of Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced that a federal jury unanimously convicted DEARIEUS DUHEART, age 34, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, of possessing with the intent to distribute marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 841, following a trial before visiting U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk. The jury acquitted the defendant on two gun-related charges. As a result of his conviction, the defendant faces a term of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, forfeiture of assets, and a fine.
The evidence at trial reflected that law enforcement discovered the defendant, Jornell Keelen, and Derrick Keelen in a residence, sitting at a table, with packaged marijuana and a gun in close proximity. All three have now been convicted based on that discovery, with Jornell Keelen and Derrick Keelen having plead guilty before trial.
U.S. Attorney Fremin stated, “Individuals who represent a clear and present danger to the people of this community will be prioritized for federal investigation and prosecution on whatever charges are available and appropriate. Such individuals should be on notice that federal, state, and local authorities are working closely together, and with members of the community and other partners, to identify and neutralize the small number of people who threaten our peace and security. I applaud the tremendous efforts of the ATF, BRPD, and our prosecutors and staff who handled this important matter.”
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the Baton Rouge City Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Rene Salomon and Cal Leipold.
Federal Gun, Cocaine and Heroin Defendant Sentenced to 15 YearsRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, United States Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced today that Thomas Brooks, 54, of Wilmington, was sentenced to 15 years’ incarceration by Chief U.S. District Judge Leonard P. Stark following convictions for conspiracy to distribute cocaine, possession with intent to distribute heroin and cocaine, possession of a firearm by a felon, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. This is Brooks’ sixth conviction for drug dealing crimes.
According to documents filed and statements made in open court, Brooks was a main sub distributor in an extensive drug conspiracy, dealing at least one kilogram of cocaine during the fall of 2016. Brooks was recorded making dozens of calls and sending drug-related text messages during the conspiracy investigation.
On November 3, 2016, three men broke into Brooks’ residence. The perpetrators shot another person inside the home. Brooks then used his own firearm to shoot back.. Wilmington Police Department responded to the shooting and discovered a handgun, 123 grams of cocaine and 14 grams of heroin Brooks subsequently fled to Minnesota, where he was later apprehended.
Following today’s sentencing, U.S. Attorney Weiss stated, “Guns and drugs are a lethal combination and a scourge on our community, and today’s sentence reflects the danger posed by defendant’s conduct. My office will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to identify, investigate, arrest, and vigorously prosecute those who use guns to promote their drug trade in Delaware.”
“Today’s sentencing is indicative of the success that can be attained when agencies combine resources to remove violent drug distributors off the street,” said FBI Baltimore Special Agent in Charge Gordon B. Johnson. “The citizens of Delaware have the FBI’s commitment that we will work with our local, state and federal partners to attack these dealers and remove violent criminals from their neighborhoods.”
Wilmington Police Chief, Robert J. Tracy stated, "All of our local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies were very instrumental in working with the U.S. Attorney's Office. The sentencing in this case is a result of everyone's great work. The successful conviction is beneficial to all agencies, involved, but it is most beneficial to the City of Wilmington as we continue to make progress towards making the communities in the City of Wilmington safe."
This case is the result of an investigation led by the FBI Delaware Violent Crime Safe Streets Taskforce and assisted by Wilmington Police Department and the Delaware Attorney General’s Office. The FBI Delaware Violent Crime Safe Streets Taskforce is a part of the New Castle County HIDTA, comprised of the Delaware State Police, Delaware Department Probation Parole, New Castle County Police Department, University of Delaware Police Department, and Wilmington Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher L. de Barrena-Sarobe and Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander S. Mackler.
Eight Charged in Drug Conspiracy Operating in Mecklenburg CountyRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – United States Attorney R. Andrew Murray announced today that eight individuals are facing federal drug conspiracy charges for their involvement in a narcotics distribution ring operating in Mecklenburg County. A federal criminal indictment was filed on February 22, 2018, and was unsealed late yesterday in federal court following arrests conducted during an early morning round-up.
“The federal charges announced today are the culmination of a 10-month investigation into a drug conspiracy responsible for distributing large quantities of methamphetamine and heroin in the Western District. The arrests of these individuals are a testament to the high level of cooperation between our federal and local law enforcement counterparts as we work together to achieve our common goal: to disrupt drug networks from operating in this district and to stem the flow of drugs they pour into our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.
“Drug abuse is a growing concern across North Carolina. Drug dealers victimize our communities, strain law enforcement resources, and diminish quality of life for everyone. The FBI will continue to join forces with our state and local law enforcements partners to track down these offenders to end the deadly cycle of drug abuse in our communities,” said John Strong, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in North Carolina.
“This investigation is a good example of what ATF agents do on a daily basis. It also reflects our commitment to removing drug traffickers and their co-conspirators from our streets. ATF will continue to work collaboratively with our federal, state and local investigative partners to identify and apprehend violent career criminals and keep our communities safe,” said Wayne Dixie, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
“The role of IRS, Criminal Investigation in narcotics investigations is to follow the money, which enabled us to financially disrupt and dismantle this major drug trafficking organization. We were proud to provide this financial expertise as we worked alongside our law enforcement partners to bring these criminals to justice,” said Matthew D. Line, Acting Special Agent in Charge for IRS-CI.
“We will continue to work with our federal partners to identify and arrest anyone who brings these dangerous and highly-addictive drugs into our community,” said Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Chief Kerr Putney. “They are destroying families. We must do everything we can to combat these deadly drugs and the many crimes they bring with them," said Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Chief Kerr Putney.
“We are grateful for the hard work of all the federal agents, local officers and federal prosecutors who participated in this long term drug investigation. Unfortunately, heroin and methamphetamine has impacted virtually every community in the country, including Union County, and we must continue to use all available resources to protect our citizens and bring dealers to justice. Too many families have lost loved ones as a result of this epidemic, so every drug dealer taken off the street is potentially saving someone’s life,” said Union County Sheriff Eddie Cathey.
“I commend the work and efforts of all the individual officers and agents involved in this investigation. This investigation demonstrates the value of professional partnerships across jurisdictional lines and sharing resources to keep our communities safe,” said Gastonia Police Chief Robert C. Helton
According to allegations contained in the criminal indictment and other filed court documents, from 2015 until the present, the defendants operated as a drug conspiracy responsible for trafficking methamphetamine and heroin in Mecklenburg County and surrounding areas. The defendants named in the 33-count indictment are all charged with conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Some of the defendants face additional drug trafficking and money laundering offenses. Those named in the indictment are:
- Emilio Mejia, 28, of Charlotte. (arrested)
- Rodolfo Medina, 47, of Charlotte. (arrested)
- Jose Javier Reyes, 19, of Charlotte. (previously arrested on a complaint)
- Mauco Contreras, 21, of Charlotte. (arrested)
- Kevin Eliezer Velasquez Melendez, 18, of Concord, N.C. (previously arrested on a complaint)
- Alejandro Jose Lopez Ceballos, 20, residence unknown. (arrested)
- Martha Olivia Placencia Beltran, 48, of Charlotte. (arrested)
- Edgar Jesus Magana, 24, of Charlotte. (arrested)
Rodolfo Medina, Jose Reyes, and Kevin Velasquez Melendez are also charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin and possession with intent to distribute heroin. Emilio Mejia, Kevin Velasquez Melendez, Mauco Contreras, and Alejandro Ceballos are charged with additional counts of distribution and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Rodolfo Medina and Martha Beltran are also facing charges of international money laundering, stemming from money transfers of drug proceeds wired to Mexico.
A separate criminal indictment was filed charging Brandy Nicole Short, 34, of Gastonia, N.C. with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, bringing the total number of those arrested in connection this investigation to nine.
The penalties associated with the drug charges range from a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison and a maximum of up to life in prison and a monetary fine of up to $10 million. The money laundering charges carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The charges contained in the indictment are allegations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney Murray praised the outstanding efforts of special agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), under the direction of Special Agent in Charge John A. Strong; the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Wayne Dixie; the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division, Charlotte Field Office (IRS-CI) under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Matthew D. Line; officers of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department under the direction of Chief Kerr Putney; the Gastonia Police Department under the direction of Chief Robert C. Helton; the Monroe Police Department under the direction of Chief J. Bryan Gilliard; and deputies of the Union County Sheriff’s Office under the direction of Sheriff Eddie Cathey. U.S. Attorney Murray also noted the invaluable assistance provided by the North Carolina National Guard Counterdrug Program.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennifer Dillon and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Erik Lindahl of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte are prosecuting the case.
This prosecution is part of an extensive investigation by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). OCDETF is a joint federal, state and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking and is the nation’s primary tool for disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets.
East Hartford Man Sentenced to 6 Years in Federal Prison for Trafficking Heroin Near Hartford High SchoolRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that RONALD PEREZ, 30, of East Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Alvin W. Thompson in Hartford to 72 months of imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release, for trafficking heroin. Judge Thompson also ordered PEREZ to perform 100 hours of community service while on supervised release.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2016, the East Hartford Police Department received information that individuals were packaging and selling heroin from an apartment at 50 Forest Street in Hartford, and that there were guns in the apartment. The apartment is directly across the street from Hartford Public High School. A law enforcement investigation in August and September 2016 confirmed drug activity at the location.
On September 13, 2016, members of the Hartford Police Department, East Hartford Police Department and the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force executed a search warrant at the apartment and encountered PEREZ, Marcus Tyson and Byron Rivera inside. A search of the apartment revealed more than 33,000 bags of heroin, approximately 283 grams of unpackaged heroin, three fentanyl patches, scales and other items used in the processing and packaging of heroin, two handguns and numerous rounds of ammunition. PEREZ, Tyson and Rivera were arrested at that time.
On October 3, 2017, PEREZ pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, 100 grams or more of heroin. Tyson and Perez also previously pleaded guilty and were sentenced to 60-month prison terms.
The FBI Task Force includes members of the U.S. Marshals Service, Hartford Police Department, East Hartford Police Department, Connecticut State Police and Connecticut Department of Correction. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian P. Leaming.
Deloitte & Touche Agrees to Pay $149.5 Million to Settle Claims Arising from Its Audits of Failed Mortgage Lender Taylor, Bean & WhitakerRead the Press Release
The Justice Department announced today that Deloitte & Touche LLP has agreed to pay the United States $149.5 million to resolve potential False Claims Act liability arising from Deloitte’s role as the independent outside auditor of Taylor, Bean & Whitaker Mortgage Corp. (TBW), a failed originator of mortgage loans insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) in the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
“With taxpayer dollars at stake, auditors must take their obligations seriously when auditing companies that participate in government programs,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Chad A. Readler for the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “When auditors fail to exercise their professional judgment, and make false statements that allow bad actors to remain in government programs and submit false claims to the government, there will be consequences.”
Under HUD’s Direct Endorsement Lender program, TBW was authorized to originate and underwrite mortgage loans insured by the FHA. When a borrower defaults on an FHA-insured loan underwritten and endorsed by a Direct Endorsement Lender such as TBW, the holder of the loan can submit a claim to the United States to recoup losses resulting from the default. To maintain its status as a Direct Endorsement Lender, a lender is required to submit to HUD annual audit reports on its financial statements and related reports on its internal controls and its compliance with certain HUD requirements.
Deloitte served as TBW’s independent outside auditor, and issued audit reports for TBW’s fiscal years 2002 through 2008. The United States alleged that during that time period TBW had been engaged in a long-running fraudulent scheme involving, among other things, the purported sale of fictitious or double-pledged mortgage loans, and as a result, TBW’s financial statements failed to reflect its severe financial distress. The United States alleged that Deloitte’s audits knowingly deviated from applicable auditing standards and therefore failed to detect TBW’s fraudulent conduct and materially false and misleading financial statements. The United States alleged that Deloitte’s audit failures extended to the specific financial arrangements through which TBW carried out its fraudulent conduct. By failing to detect TBW’s misconduct, Deloitte’s audit reports allegedly enabled TBW to continue originating FHA-insured mortgage loans until TBW collapsed and declared bankruptcy in 2009.
A number of TBW officials were criminally convicted in connection with the conduct at issue.
“HUD relies on auditors to ensure the soundness of participants in HUD programs. When CPA firms and auditors fail to detect fraud, waste or abuse the consequences are significant to federal programs, and, ultimately, to the American taxpayer and must be addressed,” said Helen M. Albert, Acting HUD Inspector General.
The claims settled by this agreement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
The settlement was the result of a coordinated effort between the Civil Division’s Commercial Litigation Branch, HUD and HUD’s Office of Inspector General.
Dallas Man Sentenced for East Texas Investment Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
SHERMAN, Texas – A 52-year-old Dallas man has been sentenced to federal prison for investment fraud in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Joseph D. Brown today.
Carlton Chadbourne Sayers, also known as Chad Sayers, pleaded guilty on Sep. 18, 2017, to wire fraud and bank fraud and was sentenced to 132 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Amos Mazzant on Feb. 27, 2018.
According to information presented in court, beginning in 2009, Sayers devised a real estate investment scheme in which individuals loaned or invested money with him and Wellington and Franklin Financial, a business that he controlled, representing that this money would be used to purchase and/or renovate various residential real properties, to be secured by an interest in the property. Sayers promised a significant rate of return (such as ten percent) to the investors, and frequently secured multiple investments based on a single piece of real property. However, Sayers did not invest the funds as he had represented to investors and did not provide the secured interests in real property as he represented to the investors. On some occasions, when Wellington and Franklin Financial or Sayers did actually own the residential properties, the property had been purchased with a pre-existing loan from a seasoned investor, and was already acting as security to that investor. Sayers was ordered to pay restitution to his victims in the amount of $2,102,617.27.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tom Gibson.
Crofton Man Pleads Guilty to Coercion and Enticement of A MinorRead the Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact ELIZABETH MORSE
www.justice.gov/usao/md at (410) 209-4885
Baltimore, Maryland – Piere Ceradoy, age 37, of Crofton, Maryland, pleaded guilty today to coercion and enticement of a minor.
The sentence was announced by Acting United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Stephen M. Schenning; and Special Agent in Charge Andre R. Watson of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
According to his plea agreement, between February 2016 and April 2017, Ceradoy repeatedly enticed a minor female to take photographs and stream live videos of herself engaging in sexually explicit conduct and send those images and videos to Ceradoy using a mobile phone and the internet. During the course of the exploitation of the victim, Ceradoy frequently threatened to expose the victim by disseminating the explicit files, and regularly threatened to kill the victim and her family. Ceradoy also sent images and videos of himself engaged in sexually explicit conduct to the victim. The victim was 13 years old.
Ceradoy engaged in this conduct after two convictions in 2014 relating to aggravated sexual abuse, sexual abuse, and abusive sexual conduct involving a minor. During this time, he was on parole for a sex offense conviction in the state of Washington, and was registered as a sex offender.
Ceradoy and the government have agreed that if the Court accepts the parties’ plea agreement Ceradoy will be sentenced to 25 years in prison and will be placed on supervised release for life. United States District Judge Marvin J. Garbis has scheduled sentencing for May 25, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. Ceradoy remains detained pending sentencing.
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 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.justice.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.justice.gov/psc and click on the "resources" tab on the left of the page.
Acting United States Attorney Stephen M. Schenning praised HSI Baltimore, the Maryland State Police and the Franklinton, North Carolina Police Department, for their work in the investigation. Mr. Schenning thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul E. Budlow who is prosecuting the case.
Convicted Felon Indicted for Drug and Gun Law ViolationsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The four-count indictment, returned on January 16 and unsealed yesterday, named Tohn Robinson, aka "Tizzy," age 36, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on August 22, 2016 and again on August 23, 2016, Robinson distributed and possessed with intent to distribute fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance, resulting in serious bodily injury to the users of the fentanyl. In addition, on August 29, 2016, Robinson possessed with intent to distribute quantities of fentanyl and heroin. Further, the indictment charges that on or about April 3, 2016, Robinson, a convicted felon, was in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Federal law prohibits an individual who has been convicted of a felony from possessing a firearm or ammunition.
For the drug distribution resulting in serious bodily injury, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 20 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both. For the firearms offense, the law provides for a maximum total sentence 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Caitlin A. Loughran is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Penn Hills Police Department and the Monroeville Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Cleveland men indicted for robbing Richmond Heights bankRead the Press Release
Two Cleveland men were indicted for robbing a Richmond Heights bank.
Qaid T. Azeem and Zubali Ikangua Bell were each indicted on one count of bank robbery. They used force, violence and intimidation to take approximately $1,935 from a teller at Dollar Bank, located at 5201 Wilson Mills Road in Richmond Heights on Dec. 6, 2017, according to the indictment.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert Patton and Ranya Elzein.
If convicted, the Court will determine the defendant's sentence after a review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant's prior criminal record, if any, the defendant's role in the offense, and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and, in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government's burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Buffalo Woman Pleads Guilty to Twitter Threats on Behalf of ISISRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Timothy A. Garrison, United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri, announced that a Buffalo, Mo., woman pleaded guilty in federal court today to using Twitter to transmit threatening communications against several persons, including two FBI employees and two former members of the military and their families, on behalf of the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham, also known as ISIS.
Safya Roe Yassin, 40, of Buffalo, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge M. Douglas Harpool to two counts of transmitting threatening communications across state lines, contained in a July 19, 2016, federal indictment.
By pleading guilty today, Yassin admitted that she maintained a series of Twitter accounts under the pseudonym “Muslimah” that she used to post, or tweet, messages in support of ISIS, a designated foreign terrorist organization. Yassin also re-posted, or re-tweeted, messages she knew were authored by ISIS operatives residing overseas.
Beginning in May 2015, Yassin communicated over Twitter with a person identified in court documents as “Individual A,” whom she believed was an ISIS operative located outside the United States. They discussed ISIS’s publishing of personally identifying information of U.S. government employees and others, to threaten violence against those persons on behalf of ISIS. From May 2015 through at least October 2015, Yassin and Individual A routinely communicated about promoting new pro-ISIS accounts to like-minded followers before Twitter suspended them.
Yassin knew that Individual A used Twitter accounts, including those that Yassin promoted, to tweet personally identifying information of government employees and others and to threaten those persons on behalf of ISIS. Yassin admitted that, knowing Individual A’s intent to threaten, she re-retweeted the personally identifying information on her Muslimah accounts several times so that the information could be more widely disseminated.
Throughout the month of August 2015, ISIS operatives tweeted additional personally identifying information, which Yassin re-tweeted to her followers, knowing that the intent of the messages was to threaten on behalf of ISIS. Yassin admitted that on Aug. 24, 2015, she re-tweeted one such message that contained the phrase “Wanted to kill,” followed by the first and last name, status as an employee of the FBI, city of residence, zip code, and phone number of Victim 1. In the same communication, she repeated the same “Wanted to kill” phrase, followed by the same personally identifying information for Victim 2. Yassin intended this communication as a threat against Victims 1 and 2.
Yassin also admitted that on Oct. 8, 2015, she re-tweeted a message from Individual A that linked to a publically viewable document containing the name and home address of Victim 3, a U.S. service member, along with photos of Victim 3, his family, and the names of his wife and children. The document further stated, “Once again I leave these details online to cause havoc in his life & for my brothers and Al-Qaeda in the U.S. to eventually hunt him down & kill him.”
The linked document also contained the name and home address of Victim 4, a former U.S. service member who had been the previous target of threats on Twitter by ISIS. Yassin knew that Individual A had previously threatened Victim 4 with violence and called him ISIS’s “number one target.” Yassin admitted that she intended to aid and assist Individual A in threatening Victims 3 and 4.
Under federal statutes, Yassin is subject to a sentence of up to 10 years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brian Casey and Abram McGull II. It was investigated by the FBI.
Buffalo Man Sentenced on Cocaine ChargeRead 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 Damar Currie, 42, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of cocaine, was sentenced to 54 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patricia Astorga and Timothy C. Lynch, who handled the case, stated that between December 10, 2014, and March 31, 2015, the defendant possessed and distributed cocaine and crack cocaine. On three occasions, Currie sold cocaine in exchange for money. In addition, the defendant utilized 55 Krupp Avenue and 24 Palos Place, both in Buffalo, for the purposes of manufacturing, distributing, and storing cocaine and crack cocaine.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Kevin P. Lyons.
Buffalo Man Pleads Guilty to Fentanyl ChargeRead 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 Charles Newkirk, 34, of Buffalo NY, pleaded guilty, before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo, to possessing with intent to distribute, and distributing, 10 grams or more of butyryl fentanyl. The charge carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of 40 years, and a $1,000,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan Tokash, who is handling the case, stated that between June 25, 2015, and July 28, 2015, the defendant sold large volumes of heroin and butyryl fentanyl in the City of Buffalo. During that period, a confidential source made three undercover purchases of heroin and butyryl fentanyl from Newkirk.
The plea is the culmination of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge James J. Hunt, New York Field Division.
Sentencing is scheduled for June 7, 2018, at 10:00 a.m. before Judge Vilardo.
Buffalo Man Indicted on Fentanyl and Cocaine 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 a federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging Luis Matias, of Buffalo, 27, with possessing with intent to distribute; and distributing, butyryl fentanyl and crack cocaine. The charges carry 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 according to the indictment and a previously filed complaint, in July 2017, law enforcement officers developed information that the defendant was distributing large quantities of butyryl fentanyl in the Buffalo area. During the investigation, a confidential source and undercover officers were used to conduct controlled purchases from Matias.
The defendant was arraigned this morning before U.S. Magistrate Judge H. Kenneth Schroeder and is being detained.
The indictment is the culmination of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge James J. Hunt, New York Field Division; the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Edward Kennedy; and the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Byron Lockwood.
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.
Brooklyn Man Sentenced to Six Years for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
Portland, Maine: United States Attorney Halsey B. Frank announced that Naquan Eley, 33, of Brooklyn, New York, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court by Judge D. Brock Hornby to six years in prison and five years of supervised release for conspiring to distribute heroin and cocaine base, commonly known as “crack.” He pleaded guilty on October 11, 2017.
Court records reveal that between September and December 2014, the defendant conspired with others to distribute more than 28 grams of crack and more than 100 grams of heroin. The drugs were acquired in New York, transported to Maine, and distributed in Androscoggin County. On December 18, 2014, law enforcement agents searched two vacant apartments used by members of this conspiracy and seized crack, heroin and four firearms. Eley is the 27th defendant to be sentenced in connection with this investigation.
The investigation was conducted by the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency and the FBI in conjunction with the Southern Maine Gang Task Force, which is comprised of agents and officers from the FBI; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration; U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations; and the Portland, South Portland, and Lewiston Police Departments. The investigation was part of the ongoing effort of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF), a partnership between federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations, and those primarily responsible for the nation’s illegal drug supply.
Brooklyn Man Arrested for Using a Weapon of Mass DestructionRead the Press Release
Earlier today, in federal court in Brooklyn, a complaint was unsealed charging Victor Kingsley, a Brooklyn resident, with using a weapon of mass destruction that resulted in the death of a Queens resident in July 2017, and with the unlawful transportation of explosive materials. Kingsley used the explosive device in an apparent effort to target New York City Police Department (NYPD) officers. Kingsley is scheduled to make his initial appearance tomorrow afternoon at the federal courthouse in Brooklyn before United States Magistrate Judge Vera M. Scanlon.
Richard P. Donoghue, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York; John C. Demers, Assistant Attorney General for the National Security Division; William F. Sweeney, Jr., Assistant Director-in-Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI); and James P. O’Neill, Commissioner, NYPD, announced the charges.
“As alleged in the complaint, Kingsley used an improvised explosive device in an attempt to target an NYPD officer, and he killed an innocent civilian in the process,” stated United States Attorney Donoghue. “This Office and our law enforcement partners will use every tool at our disposal to bring to justice those who endanger the community through acts of senseless violence.” Mr. Donoghue extended his grateful appreciation to the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF), which comprises a large number of federal, state and local agencies from the region, the NYPD and the Queen’s County District Attorney’s Office.
“There is no place in civil society for the spreading of fear through intimidation, violence and destruction,” stated FBI Assistant Director-in-Charge Sweeney. “I commend the work of the joint FBI-NYPD investigative team for its determination and complete collaboration in bringing this accused criminal to justice.”
“Kingsley’s cowardly act was meant to target a New York City Police Officer for doing his job and resulted in the tragic death of an unintended victim,” said Police Commissioner O’Neill. “This was a case where the NYPD Detective Bureau, Intelligence Bureau, and FBI/NYPD Joint Terrorist Task Force combined their expertise and unique talents to find a needle in a haystack—the clues that would lead to the identification of a bomber who went to great lengths to remain hidden.”
As alleged in the complaint, Kingsley built the explosive device used in the July 28, 2017 murder as part of his broader effort to retaliate violently against several police officers who were part of an NYPD unit that had arrested him in January 2014. Despite the case against him having eventually been dismissed, Kingsley methodically sought revenge against the officers. He conducted internet searches and made telephone calls to determine the locations of the officers’ residences. He also accumulated explosive device components via online purchases made through Amazon, which he had delivered to his house in Brooklyn. Ultimately, he arranged for the explosive device to be placed outside of the Queens residence where Kingsley mistakenly believed one of his target officers resided. The building owner inadvertently detonated the device when he tried to open it, and he died as a result of his injuries.
Thereafter, Kingsley continued to acquire explosive device parts. According to Amazon purchase records, he placed additional orders for explosive device components as recently as earlier this month.
If convicted, Kingsley could face a maximum sentence of life in prison. The charges in the complaint are merely allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The government’s case is being prosecuted by the office’s National Security & Cybercrime Section. Assistant United States Attorney Margaret Lee is in charge of the prosecution with assistance from Trial Attorney Jacqueline L. Barkett of the Counterterrorism Section of the National Security Division.
The Defendant:
Victor C. Kingsley
Age: 37
Brooklyn, New YorkBridgeport Heroin Trafficker Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that ERIC GREEN, 31, of Bridgeport, pleaded guilty yesterday in Hartford federal court to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin.
According to court documents and statements made in court, GREEN was a member of a Bridgeport-based heroin trafficking organization that, between approximately April 2015 and March 2017, received at least 30 kilograms of heroin that had been transported from Mexico, and then distributed the drug in the Bridgeport area. The investigation, which included multiple controlled purchases of heroin from GREEN, revealed that GREEN distributed more than three kilograms of heroin to his own customers.
On March 16, 2017, a grand jury in Hartford returned an indictment charging GREEN and six other individuals with heroin trafficking and related offenses. GREEN was arrested on March 24, 2017.
GREEN is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant on June 20, at which time he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of life.
This matter is being investigated by the FBI’s Bridgeport Safe Streets Task Force, DEA’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force, and Bridgeport Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph Vizcarrondo and Alina Reynolds.
Bossier City man sentenced to 12 years in prison for driving while intoxicated at Barksdale Air Force baseRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced today that a Bossier City man was sentenced to 12 years in prison, with two years suspended, for driving drunk and crashing his car into bollards guarding a gate at Barksdale Air Force Base.
Leandrew Smith, 56, of Bossier City, La., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge S. Maurice Hicks Jr. on one count of driving while intoxicated-fourth offense. He was also sentenced to three years of supervised release. On May 20, 2017, Smith drove his vehicle into bollards blocking the West Gate at Barksdale Air Force Base on May 20, 2017. The bollards, which were completely destroyed, caused Smith’s vehicle to go airborne before stopping. Security Forces Airmen rushed to the crash and asked Smith if he needed medical attention, which he declined. Smith’s breath smelled of alcohol, and Smith told Security Forces he had drank a beer. A half-full 40-ounce beer bottle was found on the back floorboard. Smith tried to get out of his car and fell down. Smith was unable to complete field sobriety tests other than the horizontal gaze nystagmus test, which he failed. He also passed out while Security Forces Airmen transported him to Security Forces headquarters where his blood alcohol concentration registered more than three times the legal limit at .295 percent. Smith has three prior convictions for driving while intoxicated in the last 10 years, including two in 2013 in Caddo Parish Court and one in 2015 in Shreveport City Court.
The FBI and the 2nd Security Forces Squadron of Barksdale Air Force Base conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mike O’Mara prosecuted the case.
Beaumont Man Sentenced for Drug Trafficking ViolationsRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas - A 29-year-old Beaumont, Texas man has been sentenced to federal prison for drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Joseph D. Brown today.
Gerardo Federico Rodriguez pleaded guilty on July 10, 2017, to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Marcia Crone.
According to information presented in court, on Jan. 27, 2017, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Rodriguez’s residence on West Lynwood in Beaumont. During the execution of the warrant, officers discovered a loaded semi-automatic handgun on a table in plain view along with a ledger reflecting drug transactions of over $30,000. At another location in the home, officers located a backpack containing another loaded handgun and a bag of methamphetamine. A television in a bedroom displayed a video surveillance feed of the property. Additional firearms, as well as methamphetamine and cocaine were located in the garage. Rodriguez was indicted by a federal grand jury on Mar. 1, 2017 and charged with drug trafficking violations.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, aimed at reducing gun and gang violence, deterring illegal possession of guns, ammunition and body armor, and improving the safety of residents in the Eastern District of Texas. Participants in the initiative include community members and organizations as well as federal, state and local law enforcement agencies.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Beaumont Police Department, and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Randall L. Fluke.
Baldwin County Man Receives 36 Month Sentence for Possession of a Firearm After Felony ConvictionRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney, Richard W. Moore, announces that Bobby Amos, a 39 year old, resident of Foley, Alabama was sentenced to 36 months incarceration followed by three years of supervised release for possessing a firearm after four felony convictions for robberies committed when he was a juvenile.
On May 4, 2017, Foley, Alabama police officers arrested Amos for disorderly conduct and public intoxication. The charges resulted from Amos causing a disturbance at a local church. Amos told officers responding to the church that he wanted the officers to shoot him. Almost simultaneously to this Amos’ common law wife arrived at the church and reported to the police that she witnessed Amos hold a gun to his head earlier that day in their home and that he was suicidal. She said that she managed to get the firearm from him and told the officers she hid the firearm inside the church because he followed her to the church hoping to retrieve the firearm. The firearm was retrieved by responding officers. The firearm was a Bersa, .380 caliber pistol. On November 7, 2017, Amos pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
The Foley Police Department along with local task force officers assigned to the FBI’s Violent Crime Unit investigated the case and presented it to the United States Attorney’s Office for prosecution. The prosecutor assigned to the case was Assistant United States Attorney, Gina S. Vann.
Auburn Man Charged with Illegal Firearm Possession and Marijuana TraffickingRead the Press Release
Portland, Maine: United States Attorney Halsey B. Frank announced that Brian J. Bilodeau, 33, of Auburn, Maine, was arrested yesterday and charged today by criminal complaint in U.S. District Court with illegal possession of a firearm in relation to a drug trafficking crime and possession with intent to distribute marijuana.
According to the complaint, the charges arose from an investigation into a drug trafficking organization located in the Lewiston-Auburn area that is alleged to have grown and distributed large quantities of marijuana in violation of federal law, and under the cover of, but in violation of, Maine’s Medical Marijuana program. The organization cultivated marijuana at numerous warehouses in Androscoggin County and distributed marijuana to people who were not participants in Maine’s Medical Marijuana program, including out-of-state customers. This organization also grew marijuana as a precursor for the illegal manufacture of marijuana concentrates known as butane hash oil and “shatter,” a product made from butane hash oil.
Yesterday, federal, state and local law enforcement agents executed over 20 search warrants in the Lewiston-Auburn area associated with the organization. The defendant’s Danville Corner Road residence was searched. Agent seized about 183 pounds of marijuana, butane hash oil, a loaded .380 caliber pistol, a loaded 9mm pistol, an unloaded .45 caliber pistol, and an unloaded .22 caliber rifle. Agents also seized a 2016 Lamborghini Huracan and a black 2014 Nissan GT-R pursuant to seizure warrants on the basis that they were forfeitable as proceeds of drug trafficking, facilitated drug trafficking, or were involved in money laundering offenses.
If convicted, the defendant faces up to 20 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine on the drug charge and between 5 years and life in prison and a $250,000 fine on the firearms charge.
The defendant is expected to make an initial appearance in U.S. District Court today at 4:00 p.m. in Portland.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration; the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the FBI; the Maine State Police; and the Lewiston, Auburn, Windham, Biddeford and Scarborough Police Departments.
A criminal complaint is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
Ansonia Man Admits Role in Naugatuck Valley Crack Distribution RingRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that JACOB FREEMAN, 22, of Ansonia, pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, cocaine base (“crack cocaine”).
According to court documents and statements made in court, FREEMAN was a member of a drug trafficking organization that trafficked large quantities of crack cocaine throughout the Naugatuck Valley. The investigation revealed that members of the organization shared the same cellphone to service drug customers in shifts. Between May and September 2017, investigators made multiple controlled purchases of crack from FREEMAN and other members of the drug trafficking organization.
Judge Meyer scheduled sentencing for May 30, 2018, at which time FREEMAN faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
FREEMAN has been detained since his arrest on November 15, 2017.
This matter is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Task Force and the Ansonia and Derby Police Departments. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jocelyn Courtney Kaoutzanis.
Algiers Woman Sentenced for Theft of Nearly $300,000 in Social Security FundsRead the Press Release
PAMELA THOMPSON (“THOMPSON”), age 63, of Algiers, Louisiana, was sentenced today for Theft of Government Funds, announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court records, THOMPSON had continued to receive her mother’s Social Security Administration (“SSA”) benefits after her mother died in 2008. SSA determined that THOMPSON’s mother’s monthly benefits of $2,973.20 were deposited directly into her bank account. The investigation revealed that THOMPSON had access to her mother’s account and spent $297,325.70 in SSA benefits that were intended for her mother.
U.S. District Judge Martin L.C. Feldman sentenced THOMPSON to three years of probation and restitution to the Social Security Administration in the amount of $297,325.70.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Fraud Unit Chief, Assistant U. S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba.
Alachua County Man Pleads Guilty to Harboring Undocumented Aliens and Evading Workers' Compensation and Payroll TaxesRead the Press Release
GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA – Mac Johnson, 50, of Newberry, Florida, pled guilty yesterday afternoon to tax fraud, wire fraud, structuring financial transactions to evade reporting requirements, and harboring undocumented aliens. The guilty plea was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
Johnson, who owns roofing, tree service, and dumpster businesses, devised a scheme to conceal the amount of wages earned by his undocumented alien employees to avoid paying more than $1.7 million in federal income, Medicare, and social security taxes, as well as more than $1 million in Florida worker’s compensation premiums. Johnson concealed the wages from the State of Florida by inaccurately and incompletely identifying all employees, representing that lower wages were paid than the true amounts, and paying by cash or a non-payroll check in amounts of less than $10,000 to avoid reporting requirements.
The investigators discovered that undocumented alien employees on work sites did not speak English or have any personal identification. Their names did not match the names on the insurance policy, and their files contained employment eligibility verification forms that did not match their handwriting. Johnson also provided transportation to the work sites and rented residences he owned to the undocumented workers for which he deducted money from their pay.
The potential penalties are:
- Failure to collect and pay over taxes: a maximum term of 5 years in federal prison;
- Wire fraud: a maximum of 20 years;
- Structuring: a maximum of 10 years; and
- Harboring undocumented aliens: a maximum of 10 years.
The sentencing hearing is scheduled for May 29 at 2:00 p.m. at the United States Courthouse in Gainesville.
This case resulted from an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation and the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from the Florida Department of Financial Services, Division of Insurance. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregory P. McMahon is prosecuting the case.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Akron man sentenced to 20 years in prison for having methamphetamine and a firearmRead the Press Release
An Akron man was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for having a firearm and methamphetamine.
Robert E. Evans, 40, was previously found guilty of one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and one count of possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine.
Evans had approximately one ounce of pure crystal methamphetamine in his home last year as well as a Colt .45 caliber pistol, despite two prior felony convictions for drug trafficking which prohibited him from possessing firearms, according to court documents.
“A convicted drug trafficker with a firearm and methamphetamine can only end with tragic results for our community,” U.S. Attorney Justin E. Herdman said. “This prison sentence again demonstrates that targeted enforcement can make Akron and all of our cities in this district safer for everyone.”
“The targeted and cooperative work by ATF and Akron's Gun Violence Reduction Unit is making our city safer,” Akron Police Chief Kenneth Ball said. “The arrest, conviction and sentencing of Robert Evans is a positive example of this. We must protect our communities from those that deal illicit drugs and illegally carry firearms. We are thankful for a sentence that reflects this priority.”
“ATF’s core mission is reducing violent gun crime in our communities,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Trevor Velinor. “We are committed to working with our partners in the Akron Police Department to follow the gun and remove the most violent criminals from our streets.”
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron P. Howell following an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Akron Police Department’s Gun Violence Reduction Unit.
Akron man previously convicted of attempted murder with a firearm indicted for having two firearmsRead the Press Release
An Akron man previously convicted of attempted murder with a firearms specification was indicted for illegally having a firearm, said U.S. Attorney Justin E. Herdman.
Gino Hunter, 27, was indicted on two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Hunter knowingly possessed a 9mm Glock semi-automatic pistol on Oct. 27, 2017 and a loaded 5.7mm Masterpiece Arms pistol on Nov. 27, 2017, according to the indictment.
Hunter was convicted in 2011 in the Summit County Court of Common Pleas of attempted murder with a firearms specification, making it illegal for him to possess a firearm, according to the indictment.
This case was investigated the Akron Police Department’s Gun Violence Reduction Team, the Ohio State Highway Patrol and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark S. Bennett.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violations. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and, in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Additional Charges Filed Against Two Philadelphia Men for Heroin Introduction at USP CanaanRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Sable Daniel, age 29, and Russell Whitmore, age 34, both of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, were charged yesterday in a four-count superseding indictment with additional charges that both Daniel and Whitmore conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin, stemming from a delivery of heroin to an inmate at United States Penitentiary, Canaan, (USP Canaan).
According to United States Attorney David Freed, Daniel and Whitmore were originally indicted on December 6, 2016, with charges alleging that Daniel delivered heroin to Whitmore during a visit at USP Canaan. Daniel is also charged with distribution of heroin and providing an inmate with a contraband narcotic, and Whitmore is charged with possession of contraband narcotic by an inmate.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and officers at USP Canaan. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sean A. Camoni.
This case was brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses.
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 20 years 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.
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Tuesday 27 February 2018
Woman Sentenced for Participating in Kidnapping of Two U.S. Citizens in MexicoRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – A 31-year-old Mexican woman has been ordered to federal prison for her role in conspiring to hold two U.S. nationals hostage in Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas, Mexico, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick. Ruth Sarahi Lopez-Espinoza, of Nuevo Laredo, pleaded guilty Feb. 15, 2017.
Today, Visiting U.S. District Judge Keith P. Ellison handed Lopez-Espinoza a total sentence of 153 months in federal prison. At the hearing, two kidnapping victims spoke of the pain and destruction this event inflicted on them and their families. In handing down the sentence, the court noted that this was one of the worst cases he has seen during his time on the bench. Lopez-Espinoza was ordered to pay $25,000 in restitution to the two victims. Not a U.S. citizen, Lopez-Espinoza is expected to face deportation proceedings following the sentence.
On July 16, 2006, four men wearing masks and brandishing pistols kidnapped two U.S. nationals as they were leaving a wedding reception of a co-worker from a Laredo restaurant. The masked captors forced the victims into the victims’ vehicle and to wear hoods. They were taken to an unknown residence in Nuevo Laredo and detained for two days until the ransom demands were met. The captors demanded $20,000 and the victims’ two vehicles.
During their confinement, the captors told the victims there was an employee at the restaurant who was providing them with current information about what actions were being taken to secure their release. The kidnappers also said they knew about the wedding reception and that they were targeted because of their vehicle - a Chrysler 300.
With cooperation from Mexican law enforcement, U.S. authorities eventually identified Christina Rodriguez, an employee at the restaurant where one of the victims worked at the time, and her sister - Lopez-Espinoza - as the persons who provided the captors with information about the wedding date, location, targets and real time information about investigative efforts during the detention of the victims.
Lopez-Espinoza was arrested in Nuevo Laredo on March 12, 2015, and later extradited to the United States June 28, 2016.
She has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Rodriguez, 42, of Laredo, was also convicted and previously sentenced to 168 months in federal prison and also ordered to pay restitution to the victims.
The kidnappers who executed the plot are currently incarcerated in Mexico for a separate but similar scheme.
The FBI conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Christopher S. Coker is prosecuting the case.
Wilson Man Sentenced to 24 Years in Federal Prison for Sexual Abuse of A Child Under 12 YearsRead the Press Release
MARQUETTE, MICHIGAN - Patrick Roy Wandahsega, 40, of Wilson, Michigan, was sentenced to 288 months (24 years) imprisonment for engaging in sexual contact with a child under 12 years of age, U.S. Attorney Andrew Birge announced today.
The charge arose from an incident in December 2015, in which Wandahsega sexually abused a six-year-old child at his home on the Hannahville reservation. Hannahville law enforcement became aware of the incident when the victim reported the abuse to relatives and later a physician. After an extensive investigation, a federal grand jury indicted Wandahsega on two counts – the first charging Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Child and the second charging, Abusive Sexual Contact Involving Young Children. On October 27, 2017, after a four-day trial, the jury found Wandahsega guilty of the second charge. U.S. District Court Judge Paul L. Maloney rendered the sentence.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from sexual exploitation and abuse. The U.S. Attorney's Office, county and tribal prosecutor's offices, the Internet Crimes Against Children task force (ICAC), federal, state, tribal, and local law enforcement are working closely together to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children. The partners in Project Safe Childhood work to educate local communities about the dangers of child exploitation, and to teach children how to protect themselves. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit the following web site: www.projectsafechildhood.gov. Individuals with information or concerns about possible child exploitation should contact local law enforcement officials.
The Hannahville Tribal Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Hannah N. Bobee and Paul D. Lochner prosecuted the case.
END
United States Attorney J. Douglas Overbey Supports the Priorities and Initiatives of the Department of Justice in the Fight Against Opioid Abuse and Addiction Resulting in Multiple Overdose DeathsRead the Press Release
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced today the creation of a new effort, the Department of Justice Prescription Interdiction & Litigation (PIL) Task Force, to fight the prescription opioid crisis. The PIL Task Force will aggressively deploy and coordinate all available criminal and civil law enforcement tools to reverse the tide of opioid overdoses in the United States, with a particular focus on opioid manufacturers and distributors.
The PIL Task Force will include senior officials from the offices of the Attorney General, the Deputy Attorney General, and the Associate Attorney General, as well as senior officials from the Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys, the Civil Division, the Criminal Division, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The Task Force will coordinate the Department’s many efforts and tools to combat the opioid epidemic.
“Over the past year, the Department has vigorously fought the prescription opioid crisis, and we are determined to continue making progress. Today, we are opening a new front in the war on the opioid crisis by bringing all of our anti-opioid efforts under one banner,” said Attorney General Sessions. “We have no time to waste. Every day, 180 Americans die from drug overdoses. This epidemic actually lowered American life expectancy in 2015 and 2016 for the first time in decades, with drug overdose now the leading cause of death for Americans under age 50. These are not acceptable trends and this new task force will make us more effective in reversing them and saving Americans from the scourge of opioid addiction.”
“The nation is currently facing the deadliest drug crisis in American history. Unfortunately, east Tennessee is not immune to this problem. In fact, statistics show that Tennessee is a ‘hot spot’ for drug abuse and overdose related deaths in the country,” said U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey. “In addition to working with our other task forces comprised of our local, state and federal law enforcement partners, the U.S. Attorney’s office will work with the PIL Task Force to use all criminal and civil remedies available under federal law to combat this growing crisis. This includes holding drug manufacturers, distributors such as pharmacies, pain management clinics, drug testing facilities, and individual physicians accountable for their unlawful actions,” added U.S. Attorney Overbey.
The new PIL Task Force will build on a number of other new initiatives begun by Attorney General Sessions over the past year that will help end the drug crisis. The Opioid Fraud and Abuse Detection Unit, a new data analytics program to help find evidence of overprescribing and opioid-related health care fraud, was created in August 2017. The Attorney General assigned 12 experienced Assistant U.S. Attorneys to opioid “hot-spots” to focus solely on investigating and prosecuting opioid-related health care fraud.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Tennessee was one of 12, out of 94 districts across the country, chosen to participate in this program. The district received funding for an Assistant U.S Attorney, for a three-year term, to focus solely on investigating and prosecuting healthcare fraud related to prescription opioids, including pill mill schemes and pharmacies that unlawfully divert or dispense prescription opioids for illegitimate purposes. The 12 districts selected represented areas with a significant prescription opioid problem, where the Department can effectively investigate and prosecute the medical providers that are contributing to this epidemic by unlawfully diverting or dispensing opioids outside the scope of professional practice and not for a legitimate medical purpose.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David P. Lewen, Jr., was selected to fill this position for the Eastern District of Tennessee. Working with the FBI, DEA and HHS, as well as our state and local law enforcement partners, Assistant U.S. Attorney Lewen will lead the district in the investigation and prosecution of opioid-related healthcare fraud cases involving doctors, pharmacies and medical providers who are furthering this epidemic in east Tennessee.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lewen has served as a federal prosecutor in east Tennessee for nearly 10 years. Prior to that time, he served on active duty for five years in the U.S. Army JAG Corps, serving in Korea, Hawaii, and Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lewen has experience in prosecuting a wide range of federal crimes, including large-scale drug trafficking and money laundering organizations, violent crimes, public corruption, and complex white-collar and corporate fraud crimes. Two of the higher profile defendants Lewen has prosecuted in U.S. District Court include former Knox County Criminal Court Judge Richard Baumgartner and bank extortionist Michael Benanti.
In November 2017, Attorney General Sessions ordered all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to designate an opioid coordinator to be responsible for facilitating intake of cases involving prescription opioids, heroin, and fentanyl; convening a task force of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement to identify opioid cases for federal prosecution, facilitate interdiction efforts, and tailor their district’s response to the needs of the community it serves; providing legal advice and training to Assistant U.S. Attorneys regarding the prosecution of opioid offenses; maintaining statistics on the opioid prosecutions in the district; and developing and continually evaluating the effectiveness of the office’s strategy to combat the opioid epidemic. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tracy Stone was chosen to fill this position for the Eastern District of Tennessee.
Prior to joining the U.S. Attorney’s Office in 2006, Assistant U.S. Attorney Stone prosecuted state felony cases as an Assistant District Attorney in Tennessee’s Fourth Judicial District. For the first few years with the office, he was assigned to the Violent Crime Unit, investigating and prosecuting violent offenses such as carjackings, interstate kidnappings, bank robberies, Hobbs Act robberies, and firearms offenses.
As a veteran prosecutor currently assigned to the Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force, Assistant U.S. Attorney Stone investigates and prosecutes drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises operating within the Eastern District of Tennessee and elsewhere. The bulk of his caseload is devoted to combatting pill mills and the opioid scourge ravaging people, families, and communities within the Eastern District of Tennessee.
In conjunction with the announcement of the PIL Task Force, the Department also announced today that it would be filing a Statement of Interest in a multi-district action regarding hundreds of lawsuits against opioid manufacturers and distributors.
The plaintiffs include numerous cities, municipalities, and medical institutions that have borne the costs of the prescription opioid crisis. The plaintiffs seek to recover the costs associated with providing treatment and public safety measures relating to the opioid epidemic from those who allegedly used false, deceptive, or unfair marketing practices for prescription opioid drugs.
The Department will primarily argue that the federal government—through various federal health programs and law enforcement efforts—has borne substantial costs from the opioid epidemic and seeks reimbursement.
Click on the highlighted links to see the entire national release for the PIL Task Force announcement and here for the release on the Statement of Interest filing release.
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United States Attorney Addresses Rising Number of Deaths Due to Unintentional ShootingsRead the Press Release
Between 2015 and 2017, there was a nationwide increase in the number of deaths due to unintentional shootings. Unfortunately, Iowa has not been immune to this trend. Unintentional shootings with illegally possessed guns present a danger to everyone in our community, but especially to children. The United States Attorney for the Northern District of Iowa and its law enforcement partners are committed to continuing to make Iowa safer by addressing this problem through the enforcement of all federal laws limiting who can possess firearms. Under federal law it is illegal for an unlawful drug user to possess a firearm. Four recent prosecutions involving unlawful drug users in possession of firearms highlight the risks associated with these types of violations as well as the commitment to deterring future violations.
The four cases, described in more detail below, are the investigation and prosecution of Daniel Henriksen, 30, from Elgin, Iowa; Robyn Lynn Merchant, 55, from Vinton, Iowa; Raven Harris, 27, and Willie Earl Horsley, Sr., 31, both from Dubuque, Iowa, and Dale Edward White, 26, from Nashua, Iowa. All of these cases involved an unintentional shooting resulting in death or serious injury, and all of these cases involved the possession of a firearm by an illegal drug user. The cases demonstrate why guns and drugs are a dangerous combination.
“Federal law prohibits certain people from owning or even handling guns,” said United States Attorney Peter E. Deegan, Jr. “These include not only unlawful drug users, but convicted felons, convicted domestic abusers, persons with certain mental health histories, and illegal aliens. All of these shootings – including those resulting in the deaths of children – would have been avoided if the people involved had been following the law.” Deegan added, “As these cases also demonstrate, the consequences of illegally possessing a gun can include a felony conviction, going to federal prison, and being under court supervision for years. These cases highlight the commitment of local, state, and federal law enforcement to continue the fight against gun crime and to make our streets safer as part of Project Safe Neighborhood.”
The four recent prosecutions are:
1. On February 23, 2015, Robyn Lynn Merchant provided her 16-year-old son with a Walther HK MP5 .22 caliber rifle. The following day, police responded to Merchant’s residence in Vinton after receiving a 911 call that a shooting had taken place. When police arrived, they discovered a 14-year-old girl had been shot in an upstairs bedroom. That bedroom belonged to Merchant’s 16-year-old son. Merchant’s son was present in his bedroom at the time of the shooting. Also present in the bedroom were two additional 16-year-old males. The 14-year-old girl eventually died as a result of the gunshot wound.
At the time Merchant provided her son with the firearm, he was an unlawful user of marijuana. Her son regularly used marijuana in Merchant’s home, and a urine sample obtained from him the night of the shooting tested positive for marijuana. The night of the shooting, police saw evidence of recent drug and alcohol use in plain view in Merchant’s son’s bedroom. Police eventually seized a marijuana smoking pipe, drug paraphernalia, approximately seven ounces of marijuana individually packaged into eight separate plastic bags, and drug packaging materials from the bedroom. During the investigation, law enforcement learned that Merchant and her son conspired with each other to distribute marijuana from their residence. Some of their customers included other high school students who were friends of Merchant’s son.
On May 23, 2016, Merchant pled guilty to transferring a firearm to a prohibited person (a drug user). Merchant was sentenced on October 24, 2016, in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge Linda R. Reade. Merchant was sentenced to 46 months’ imprisonment. She must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term.
2. On January 2, 2016, police responded to Dale Edward White’s residence after receiving a 911 call regarding a shooting. Prior to the call, White and his father were handling a .22 caliber rifle in the living room of the residence they shared. The firearm was loaded with .22 caliber ammunition. During the handling of the firearm, the firearm unintentionally discharged, striking White’s father who eventually died as a result of this injury. During the investigation, police seized 49 firearms from White’s residence. These firearms included handguns, shotguns, and rifles. Police also seized evidence consistent with drug use. At the time he possessed these firearms, White was a user of methamphetamine and marijuana.
On April 27, 2016, White pled guilty to possessing a firearm and ammunition as a drug user. On August 31, 2016, he was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge Linda R. Reade. White was sentenced to 47 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term.
3. On January 3, 2016, police responded to the residence of Raven Harris and Willie Earl Horsley, Sr., after receiving a 911 call regarding a shooting. Horsley and Harris were both unlawful users of marijuana and kept in their residence a .45 caliber pistol. Horsley and Harris had left the firearm in their bedroom, accessible to their minor children. The children began playing with the firearm, which led to the shooting of Horsley and Harris’ two-year-old son. The child suffered multiple injuries and was airlifted to the University of Iowa Hospitals for treatment.
On April 20, 2016, both Harris and Horsley pled guilty to being drug users in possession of a firearm and ammunition. On August 30, 2016, they were each sentenced in Cedar Rapids to a five-year term of probation by United States District Court Judge Linda R. Reade. On November 14, 2017, Judge Reade found that Horsley had violated the terms of his probation and sentenced him to 9 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a two-year term of supervised release.
4. On June 17, 2016, law enforcement officers and emergency medical personnel responded to Daniel Henriksen’s home in Elgin after receiving a 911 call reporting that a four-year-old boy had shot himself in the head. Once at the residence, they located a child suffering from a gunshot wound to his head. The child was transported to Palmer Lutheran Hospital in West Union, Iowa, where he was later pronounced dead. Investigators determined that Henriksen was the owner of the firearm used in the shooting. During a search of Henriksen’s residence, officers seized several items of drug paraphernalia, including marijuana smoking devices. Several of these items were analyzed at the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation Criminalistics Laboratory and tested positive for marijuana.
On September 1, 2017, Henriksen pled guilty to being a drug user in possession of a firearm, specifically the Glock 36 .45 caliber handgun used in the shooting. Henriksen was sentenced on February 21, 2017, in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Henriksen was sentenced to two months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term.
There is no parole in the federal system.
These cases were prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lisa C. Williams and were investigated by the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation and the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office (Henriksen); the Vinton Police Department, the Iowa Department of Public Safety, the Department of Homeland Security, United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms (Merchant); the Dubuque Police Department (Harris and Horsley); and the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, the Nashua Police Department, the Chickasaw County Sheriff’s Office, and the Iowa State Patrol (White).
These cases were 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.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file numbers are 17-cr-2021 (Henriksen); 16-cr-0017 (Merchant); 16-cr-1006 (Harris and Horsley); and 16-cr-2013 (White).
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U.S. Citizen Charged in Brooklyn Federal Court with Attempting to Provide Material Support to ISILRead the Press Release
Earlier today, a complaint was unsealed charging Bernard Augustine, a United States citizen, with attempting to provide material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), a foreign terrorist organization. The defendant is scheduled to make his initial appearance this afternoon at the federal courthouse in Brooklyn before United States Magistrate Judge Vera M. Scanlon.
Richard P. Donoghue, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York; John C. Demers, Assistant Attorney General for National Security; William F. Sweeney, Jr., Assistant Director-in-Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), New York Field Office; and James P. O'Neill, Commissioner, New York City Police Department (NYPD), announced the charges.
“As alleged in the complaint, Augustine sought to travel to Libya to join a violent terrorist organization,” stated United States Attorney Donoghue. “This Office and our law enforcement partners will continue to work tirelessly to arrest and prosecute aspiring terrorists before they are able to threaten the United States and its allies.” Mr. Donoghue extended his grateful appreciation to the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF), which comprises a large number of federal, state and local agencies from the region.
“Augustine, a U.S. citizen, traveled halfway around the world with the intent of joining ISIS. Today, that journey ends in a US courtroom to face the justice system for his alleged support for a terrorist organization,” stated FBI Assistant Director-in-Charge Sweeney. “The FBI New York Joint Terrorism Task Force remains dedicated to bringing terrorists to justice wherever they are. I would like to thank all of our partner agencies for their continued vigilance.”
“Today, as is too often the case, another person was arrested for attempting to provide material support to ISIS,” stated NYPD Commissioner O’Neill. “Terrorism, violence, and murder is not a pathway to martyrdom. We will continue to arrest anyone who attempts to join or help a terrorist organization. My thanks to the many detectives, agents, and prosecutors whose work on the original Joint Terrorism Task Force here in Manhattan made today’s arrest and charges possible.”
As alleged in the complaint, the defendant traveled to Tunisia in February 2016. Upon his arrival in Tunisia, the defendant attempted to travel to Libya to enter ISIL-controlled territory. The defendant was arrested in Tunisia before he was able to travel into Libya.
After Augustine completed his term of imprisonment in Tunisia, he was subject to expulsion and Tunisian authorities transferred the defendant to the custody of the FBI.
Prior to his departure from the United States, Augustine repeatedly expressed support for ISIL and for individuals who provided support to the foreign terrorist organization’s mission of violent extremism. In March 2016, JTTF agents obtained a search warrant for the defendant’s laptop computer. In reviewing the contents of the defendant’s laptop, agents found evidence that, in the months prior to his departure, the defendant had viewed numerous videos that depicted ISIL leaders and fighters, including fighters engaged in acts of violence. There was also evidence on the laptop that, during the same period, the defendant viewed videos depicting well-known figures who were public supporters of ISIL, or of engaging in violent acts against Westerners, including, among others, Usama Bin Laden and Anwar al-Awlaki. In addition, the defendant’s Internet search history information revealed that, in the months leading up to his departure from the United States, the defendant actively searched for information on ISIL, how to join ISIL, radical jihadist propaganda and firearms. Finally, the investigation revealed that, in the weeks leading up to his travel from the United States, the defendant made numerous postings in online forums expressing support for ISIL and violent jihad.
If convicted, Augustine faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. The charge in the federal complaint is merely an allegation, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s National Security & Cybercrime Section and the Justice Department’s National Security Division. Assistant United States Attorney Peter Baldwin and Raj Parekh of the Counterterrorism Section of the National Security Division are in charge of the prosecution.
The Defendant:
BERNARD AUGUSTINE
Age: 21
Keyes, CaliforniaE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 16-MJ-1107
U.S. Citizen Charged with Attempting to Provide Material Support to ISISRead the Press Release
Earlier today, a complaint was unsealed charging Bernard Augustine, 21, of Keyes, California, with attempting to provide material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS or ISIL), a designated foreign terrorist organization.
Assistant Attorney General for National Security John C. Demers, U.S. Attorney Richard P. Donoghue for the Eastern District of New York, Assistant Director in Charge William F. Sweeney, Jr. of the FBI’s New York Field Office and Commissioner James P. O'Neill of the NYPD announced the charges. The defendant is scheduled to make his initial appearance today at the federal courthouse in Brooklyn, New York before U.S. Magistrate Judge Vera M. Scanlon.
As alleged in the complaint, the defendant traveled to Tunisia in February 2016. Upon his arrival in Tunisia, the defendant attempted to travel to Libya to enter ISIS-controlled territory. The defendant was arrested in Tunisia before he was able to travel into Libya.
Prior to his departure from the United States, Augustine repeatedly expressed support for ISIS and for individuals who provided support to the foreign terrorist organization’s mission of violent extremism. In March 2016, JTTF agents obtained a search warrant for the defendant’s laptop computer. In reviewing the contents of the defendant’s laptop, agents found evidence that, in the months prior to his departure, the defendant had viewed numerous videos that depicted ISIS leaders and fighters, including fighters engaged in acts of violence. There was also evidence on the laptop that, during the same period, the defendant viewed videos depicting well-known figures who were public supporters of ISIS or of engaging in violent acts against Westerners, including, among others, Usama Bin Laden and Anwar al-Awlaki. In addition, the defendant’s Internet search history information revealed that, in the months leading up to his departure from the United States, the defendant actively searched for information on ISIS, how to join ISIS, radical jihadist propaganda and firearms. Finally, the investigation revealed that, in the weeks leading up to his travel from the United States, the defendant made numerous postings in online forums expressing support for ISIS and violent jihad.
After Augustine completed his term of imprisonment in Tunisia, he was subject to expulsion and Tunisian authorities transferred the defendant to the custody of the FBI.
If convicted, Augustine faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. The charge in the federal complaint is merely an allegation, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes. If convicted of any offense, the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Mr. Demers and Mr. Donoghue extended their grateful appreciation to the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF), which comprises a large number of federal, state and local agencies from the region.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter Baldwin of the Eastern District of New York and Trial Attorney Raj Parekh of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are in charge of the prosecution.
Tyson Poultry Fined $2 Million for Violating the Clean Water ActRead the Press Release
Tyson Poultry Inc. was sentenced in federal court in Springfield, Missouri, to pay a $2 million criminal fine, serve two years of probation, and pay $500,000 to directly remedy harm caused when it violated the Clean Water Act, the Justice Department announced. The charges stemmed from discharges at Tyson’s slaughter and processing facility in Monett, Missouri that led to a major fish kill event.
Tyson Poultry, the nation’s largest chicken producer, is headquartered in Springdale, Arkansas, and is a subsidiary of Tyson Foods Inc. According to court records, Tyson Poultry’s conviction arose out of a spill at its feed mill in Aurora, Missouri, where it mixed ingredients to produce chicken feed. One ingredient was a liquid food supplement called “Alimet,” which is a very strong acid with a pH of less than one. In May 2014, the tank used to store Alimet at the Aurora feed mill sprang a leak. Tyson had the spilled substance transported to its Monett plant where the Alimet was then discharged into the sewers and flowed into the City of Monett municipal waste water treatment plant. The Alimet killed bacteria used to reduce ammonia in discharges from the treatment plant. As a result, more ammonia was released from the plant into Clear Creek, and approximately 108,000 fish were killed.
Under the terms of the plea agreement, Tyson Poultry also agreed to retain an independent, third-party auditor to examine environmental compliance at Tyson Poultry facilities across the country; conduct specialized environmental training at all of its poultry processing plants, hatcheries, feed mills, rendering plants, and waste water treatment plants; and implement improved policies and procedures to address the circumstances that gave rise to these violations.
“Good corporate practices are vital to protecting public health and our nation’s natural resources,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Jeffrey H. Wood for the Environment & Natural Resources Division. “When corporate misconduct disregards human safety or the environment in violation of federal laws, the Department of Justice and EPA stand ready to pursue all necessary legal relief, including criminal penalties, to ensure that these acts do not go unpunished. We hope that the outcome of this case will be a lesson for all companies that deal with dangerous wastes.”
“Today’s sentence not only remedies the harm Tyson Poultry caused locally, but puts safeguards in place to prevent similar occurrences at Tyson Poultry facilities across the country,” said U.S. Attorney Timothy A. Garrison for the Western District of Missouri. “Tyson’s $2.5 million fine and restitution payment reflects the seriousness of this offense and our commitment to protect Missouri’s natural resources.”
“Today’s sentencing not only holds Tyson Poultry accountable for their illegal actions, it includes important requirements for the company to improve compliance with the law to prevent future violations,” said Assistant Administrator Susan Bodine for EPA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “This case exemplifies EPA’s commitment to protect clean water by pursuing the most egregious violations.”
Acting Assistant Attorney General Wood and Acting U.S. Attorney Larson thanked the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Criminal Investigation Division for its work in this investigation. The case was prosecuted by Senior Counsel Kris Dighe of the Environmental Crimes Section of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patrick Carney and Casey Clark of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Missouri.
Two Men Arrested for Exporting Firearms to ChechnyaRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – Two Alexandria residents were arrested today on charges of international trafficking in firearms, smuggling and other charges.
According to allegations in the criminal complaint, Tengiz Sydykov, 28, and Eldar Rezvanov, 27, each citizens of Kyrgyzstan residing in Alexandria, purchased over 100 disassembled firearms and attempted to ship them to Chechnya without a license. The men attempted to smuggle the firearms to Chechnya by using false shipping inventories and disguising the disassembled firearms as kitchen utensils.
Sydykov and Rezvanov have been charged with violating the Arms Export Control Act, Conspiracy to Smuggle Goods from the United States, Wire Fraud, Bank Fraud and Money Laundering. Each defendant faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, if convicted. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Tracy Doherty-McCormick, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, John C. Demers, Assistant Attorney General for National Security, and Patrick J. Lechleitner, Special Agent in Charge of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Washington, D.C., made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ronald L. Walutes, Jr. and Senior Trial Attorney Heather Schmidt of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the case.
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. 1:18-mj-91, 92.
A criminal complaint contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.
Two Agents from Puerto Rico Treasury Department (“Hacienda”) Sentenced for Accepting Bribes and ExtortionRead the Press Release
SAN JUAN, P.R. – US District Court Chief Judge Aida Delgado-Colón sentenced two former Treasury Department employees for extortion, announced United States Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico, Rosa Emilia Rodríguez-Vélez. The investigation was led by the FBI.
On March 2, 2017, a Federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment against Edwin Aponte-Hernández and Eduardo Collazo-Torres, two agents from the Puerto Rico Treasury Department, (“Hacienda”) charging them with one count of extortion and one count of accepting bribes in their role as agents for the Puerto Rico Treasury Department. Aponte-Hernández pled guilty to one count of extortion on August 31, 2017and was sentenced to six months in prison, six months of home incarceration, one year of supervised release, and 150 hours of community service. Collazo-Torres pled guilty to one count of extortion on October 12, 2017, and was sentenced to one year of home incarceration, three years of probation, and 150 hours of community service.
The government’s evidence showed that on or about June 10, 2015, Aponte-Hernández and Collazo-Torres, confiscated three (3) Adult Entertainment Machines that had expired licenses from a store in Rio Piedres, Puerto Rico. The owner of the machines contacted Aponte-Hernández who demanded $3,000.00 for the return of the machines and a waiver of the fine. The owner of the machines negotiated with Aponte-Hernández and Collazo-Torres and the parties eventually agreed that the owner of the machines would pay $1,500.00 in cash to the agents in exchange for the return of the machines.
Later that same day, the owner of the machines met with Aponte-Hernández and Collazo-Torres and in exchange for $1,500.00 was given the entertainment machines. The defendant and other agents then split the $1,500.00 between them. This cash payment was never reported to Hacienda and the defendants did not have authority to negotiate this illicit transaction.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas W. Cannon. The case was investigated by the FBI, with the collaboration of the PR Treasury Department.
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Three Men Sentenced to A Total of 71 Months in Federal Prison for Possessing Credit Card Information “Skimmed” from Gas PumpsRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Three men have been sentenced for possession of 15 or more counterfeit or unauthorized access devices. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant for the Western District of Tennessee announced the sentence today.
According to information presented in court, on February 15, 2017, an agent with the West Tennessee Judicial Violent Crime and Drug Task Force conducted a traffic stop on a white Toyota Sienna Van, occupied by Jorge Vazquez Cedeno, 49, Pedro Luis Cabale, 48, and Pedro Alexander Cabello Cabale, 32.
The defendants and their respective sentences:
Jorge Vazuez Cedeno, 49, Miami, Florida: 28 months
Pedro Luis Cabale, 48, Miami, Florida: 28 months
Pedro Alexander Dabello, 32, Miami, Florida: 15 monthsCadeno, the driver, consented to a search of the van by law enforcement. The three defendants were in possession of the following items: 59 assorted gift cards, and credit cards, 23 of which had been fraudently re-encoded with card numbers and names embedded on the magnetic strip; five ribbon cables commonly used to illegally obtain credit card information from gas pumps; several keys which appeared to function as master keys to gas pumps; $10,460 in cash; and 2 laptop computers, one of which contained 4,781 victim credit card numbers, which were associated with 268 different banking and financial institutions. Because of these compromised credit card numbers, Capital One, Chase, Citibank and Wells Fargo sustained a total loss of $95,256.42.
The United States Secret Service, Collierville Police Department, and the West Tennessee Judicial Violent Crime and Drug Task Force investigated this case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Dean DeCandia prosecuted this case on the government’s behalf.
Tampa Man Pleads Guilty to Hate Crime for Threatening to Burn Down a Home Being Purchased by Muslim FamilyRead the Press Release
The Justice Department today announced that David H. Howard, 59, of Tampa, Florida, pleaded guilty in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida, Tampa Division, to one count of threatening, intimidating, and interfering with a Muslim family’s enjoyment of their housing rights, in violation of Title 42 U.S.C. § 3631. Howard intimidated and interfered with the victims, who sought to purchase a home in the Davis Islands neighborhood of Tampa, Florida, by threatening to burn down the home, simply because it was being purchased by a Muslim family.
According to court documents, on Nov. 3, 2016, a Muslim man, identified as K.A., and his wife were conducting the final walk-through of a home they had placed under contract. As K.A. arrived for the final walk-through, the defendant approached K.A. and the seller identified as H.D., and the accompanying realtors, and yelled, “This sale will not take place!” Howard threatened to burn the house down, and told K.A., “You are not welcome here!” K.A. and his wife hurried away from the house and cancelled the closing of the home purchase that was scheduled to take place the next day. In the days that followed, Howard retold his version of the incident to neighbors, making insulting remarks about Muslims.
“The Department of Justice will not tolerate illegal threats or acts of intimidation against any individual because of their religious beliefs,” said Acting Assistant Attorney John Gore of the Civil Rights Division. “The Civil Rights Division will continue to work tirelessly to prosecute hate crime offenders.”
“Individuals and families should have the right to live wherever they choose, without intimidation or fear,” said U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez for the Middle District of Florida. “Crimes perpetrated against people because of their race, ethnicity, color, or religious beliefs simply cannot be tolerated. And, we will prosecute those who commit these crimes to the fullest extent possible.”
“Hate motivated crimes are not only an attack on the victim, but are meant to threaten and intimidate an entire community," said FBI Tampa Division Special Agent in Charge Eric W. Sporre. “Reporting these types of crimes along with cooperation of the community is critical to ensuring a successful outcome in cases like this.”
A sentencing date has not yet been set. Howard faces a maximum punishment of 10 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a fine up to $250,000.
This case was investigated by the FBI. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Josephine W. Thomas of the Middle District of Florida and Trial Attorney William E. Nolan of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section.
Tampa Man Pleads Guilty to Hate Crime for Threatening to Burn Down A Home Being Purchased by Muslim FamilyRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – The Justice Department today announced that David H. Howard, 59, of Tampa, Florida, pleaded guilty in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida, Tampa Division, to one count of threatening, intimidating, and interfering with a Muslim family’s enjoyment of their housing rights, in violation of Title 42 U.S.C. § 3631. Howard intimidated and interfered with the victims, who sought to purchase a home in the Davis Islands neighborhood of Tampa, Florida, by threatening to burn down the home, simply because it was being purchased by a Muslim family.
According to court documents, on Nov. 3, 2016, a Muslim man, identified as K.A., and his wife were conducting the final walk-through of a home they had placed under contract. As K.A. arrived for the final walk-through, the defendant approached K.A. and the seller identified as H.D., and the accompanying realtors, and yelled, “This sale will not take place!” Howard threatened to burn the house down, and told K.A., “You are not welcome here!” K.A. and his wife hurried away from the house and cancelled the closing of the home purchase that was scheduled to take place the next day. In the days that followed, Howard retold his version of the incident to neighbors, making insulting remarks about Muslims.
“The Department of Justice will not tolerate illegal threats or acts of intimidation against any individual because of their religious beliefs,” said Acting Assistant Attorney John Gore of the Civil Rights Division. “The Civil Rights Division will continue to work tirelessly to prosecute hate crime offenders.”
“Individuals and families should have the right to live wherever they choose, without intimidation or fear,” said U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez for the Middle District of Florida. “Crimes perpetrated against people because of their race, ethnicity, color, or religious beliefs simply cannot be tolerated. And, we will prosecute those who commit these crimes to the fullest extent possible.”
“Hate motivated crimes are not only an attack on the victim, but are meant to threaten and intimidate an entire community," said FBI Tampa Division Special Agent in Charge Eric W. Sporre. “Reporting these types of crimes along with cooperation of the community is critical to ensuring a successful outcome in cases like this.”
A sentencing date has not yet been set. Howard faces a maximum punishment of 10 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a fine up to $250,000.
This case was investigated by the FBI. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Josephine W. Thomas of the Middle District of Florida and Trial Attorney William E. Nolan of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section.
State Trooper Among Men Charged with Drug-Trafficking CrimesRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, Ohio – Six Ohio men, including an Ohio State Highway Patrol Trooper, have been arrested and charged by criminal complaint with drug-trafficking crimes arising in the Delaware, Ohio area.
Benjamin C. Glassman, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, Angela L. Byers, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Cincinnati Division, and other members of the Delaware County Drug Task Force announced the charges.
Each of the defendants is charged with possession with intent to distribute and distribution of controlled substances, as well as conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of controlled substances.
Nicholas Glassburn, 47, of Delaware, Ohio, Carlos Carvalho, 42, of Sandusky, Ohio, and William Covrett, 41, are also charged with money laundering.
Jason Delcol, 43, and Benjamin Owings, 37, both of Delaware, Ohio, each face an additional charge of possession with intent to distribute and distribution of human growth hormone. Delcol is charged with one count of witness tampering, as well.
Stevedore Crawford, 55, of Columbus, is charged with the first two counts named.
According to the affidavit filed in support of the criminal complaint, in June 2017, the Delaware County Drug Task Force and the FBI opened an investigation into Glassburn’s suspected drug trafficking activity in the greater Delaware area.
The investigation identified others believed to be sources of the supply of drugs trafficked by Glassburn, including an active law enforcement officer – Delcol – who was receiving drugs from and providing drugs to Glassburn and at least one other individual.
“According to the affidavit, Delcol has used his position as a law enforcement officer to provide Glassburn with information, intervene in criminal cases of Glassburn and Owings, provide Glassburn with ballistic vests and corroborate Glassburn’s alibi to law enforcement when Glassburn was caught transporting drugs in August 2017,” U.S. Attorney Glassman said.
Investigators discovered communication between defendants about drug trafficking, including HGH, testosterone, Xanax, Oxycodone, Percocet, Adderall, Suboxone, cocaine, crack cocaine and marijuana.
The investigation also showed Glassburn owed $17,000 to Carvalho for marijuana. It is believed that Delcol provided ballistic vests to Glassburn, which he used in meeting with Carvalho. The investigation revealed that Carvalho is likely one of Glassburn’s main sources of supply of drugs.
Law enforcement surveillance shows Delcol visiting Glassburn’s residence at least 16 times since October 2017, including at least two occasions in which Delcol was driving his Ohio State Highway Patrol marked cruiser and in uniform. Further investigation revealed communications between the men discussing drug trafficking of HGH, testosterone, Xanax, Percocet and possibly other opioid pills.
It was also revealed that Delcol is a middleman between Glassburn and Owings. Owings supplies HGH and steroids to Delcol, which Delcol sells to Glassburn, and Glassburn sells pills to Delcol, which Delcol sells or gives to Owings.
It is also alleged that Delcol engaged in misleading conduct toward law enforcement officers to help Glassburn. On August 5, 2017, around 4:30am, police officers from a law enforcement agency discovered Glassburn asleep at the wheel and observed a drug pipe in the backseat. A search of the car discovered a substance that later tested positive for cocaine and a substance that later tested positive for cocaine base.
Glassburn claimed to just be tired and told officers he had found and removed the drugs from one of his children’s bedrooms. He said he called a Trooper friend of his, Delcol, and asked for advice on what to do with the drugs. Another officer who had stopped to assist had Glassburn call Delcol to verify his story. The Deputy spoke with Delcol, who stated Glassburn had children who were problems and also said he did not know Glassburn to be involved with drugs. During a recorded follow-up call with police officers, Delcol again served as Glassburn’s alibi.
Five of the six defendants were arrested today and remain in custody pending detention hearings on Thursday at noon and 12:30pm.
U.S. Attorney Glassman commended the investigation of this case by the FBI and Delaware County Drug Task Force, as well as Assistant United States Attorney Peter K. Glenn-Applegate, who is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint merely contains allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
If you have any information related to these allegations and the individuals named, please contact the FBI at 614-224-1183.
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Stanislaus County Woman Indicted for Defrauding Social Security Administration of $190,000Read the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Linda Expose, 54, of Salida, appears in court today for an indictment charging her with mail fraud and fraud on the Social Security Administration, U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott announced.
According to court documents, Expose began receiving Social Security benefits in 1980 and concealed from the Social Security Administration her 19-year employment at a children’s hospital during which she received income under a family member’s social security number. To facilitate her continued receipt of Social Security benefits, Expose repeatedly misrepresented to the Social Security Administration that she had never used another social security number other than her assigned number, and filed multiple applications for Social Security benefits under both numbers to maximize her receipt of such benefits. Expose allegedly defrauded the Social Security Administration of approximately $190,000 in benefits she was ineligible to receive and would not have received had she truthfully reported to the Social Security Administration the income she earned from the hospital.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Social Security Administration’s Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher D. Baker is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Expose faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison for the mail fraud charge and five years in prison for each of the two counts of Social Security benefits fraud, and a $250,000 fine. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Serial Bank Robber Gets 15 Year SentenceRead the Press Release
A 50-year-old serial bank robber was sentenced February 26, 2018 in U.S. District Court in Seattle to 15 years in prison and five years of supervised release for armed bank robbery and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence, announced U.S. Attorney Annette L. Hayes. VINCENT L. FIELDS, 50, of Tacoma was arrested March 22, 2017 following a bank robbery in Renton. FIELDS tried to avoid a car-to-car search following the robbery by fleeing from police at a high rate of speed. FIELDS crashed his car into another driver and fled on foot but was ultimately taken into custody. U.S. District Judge James L. Robart imposed the sentence.
According to records filed in the case, FIELDS began his bank robbery spree in February of 2017, robbing a Tacoma Wells Fargo branch on February 15 and a University Place Key Bank on February 21. On March 7 he robbed a Wells Fargo branch in University Place and attempted to rob a different Wells Fargo branch on March 9, 2017. On March 22, 2017, FIELDS brandished a distinctive submachine style gun at a teller and demanded cash. The quick thinking teller included a GPS tracking device with the cash. Law enforcement was able to trace FIELDS’ movements and caught up with him stopped at a Renton intersection. That’s when FIELDS took off traveling in the wrong lane of travel, striking another car before being taken into custody. The gun and the cash were recovered.
FIELDS was still on federal supervision for a 2012 drug trafficking conviction. FIELDS has a prior federal conviction for trafficking crack cocaine and state convictions from 1995 for second degree murder and possession of cocaine with intent to deliver.
The case was investigated by the FBI and the Renton Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Vince Lombardi.
Rwandan Native Pleads Guilty to Making A False StatementRead 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 Peter Kalimu, 52, of Buffalo, NY, pleaded guilty, before Chief U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr., to making a materially false material. The charge carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Cantil, who is handling the case, stated that the defendant, a native of Rwanda, concealed the fact that he previously used the name “Fidele Twizere.” Kalimu answered “none” to the question on his naturalization petition that asked “If you have even been known by any other names, provide them below.” In November 2014, the defendant provided a letter to Homeland Security agents claiming that he had never used another name (other than Peter Kalimu) and that he did not use any other name (other than Peter Kalimu) in Rwanda. Those statements prevented the Department of Homeland Security, which is responsible for determining if foreign nationals are qualified to become U.S. citizens, from fully investigating the defendant’s background.
The plea is the result of an investigation by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Kevin Kelly, and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, under the direction of Edward A. Newman, Buffalo District Director.
Sentencing is scheduled for June 7, 2018, at 11:00 a.m. before Chief Judge Geraci.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for Possession of an Unregistered FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of an Unregistered Firearm was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Vance Layne Woodford, age 45, was sentenced on February 22, 2018, to 2 years of probation, ordered to pay a $1,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Woodford was indicted for the charge by a federal grand jury on February 22, 2017. The conviction stems from Woodford illegally being in possession of a firearm suppressor and a .223 caliber rifle in Rapid City on February 10, 2017.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Tyler Krebs, age 29, was sentenced on February 22, 2018, to time served, 2 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Krebs was indicted for the charge by a federal grand jury on June 21, 2016. The conviction stems from Krebs being found in possession of a 9mm pistol after a traffic stop in Rapid City on May 19, 2016, while being under the influence of a controlled substance.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.
Randolph County man admits to failing to update sex offender registryRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Daniel Lee Vance, of Mill Creek, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 21 months incarceration for failing to update his sex offender registry, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Vance, age 22, pled guilty to one count of “Failure to Update Sex Offender Registration” in December 2017. Vance admitted to moving from West Virginia to Ohio and failing to update his sex offender registration. The crime occurred from July to October 2017 in Marion County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah E. Wagner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Marshal Service investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Queens Man Indicted for Distributing Fentanyl from His Residence in QueensRead the Press Release
A two-count indictment was unsealed today in federal court in Brooklyn, charging David Wickham with conspiring to distribute and distributing more than 40 grams of fentanyl in Queens, New York. The defendant was arrested earlier today and is scheduled to be arraigned this afternoon before United States Magistrate Judge Vera M. Scanlon.
Richard P. Donoghue, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, Angel M. Melendez, Special Agent-in-Charge, United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), New York, and James P. O’Neill, Commissioner, New York City Police Department (NYPD), announced the charges.
“As alleged in court filings, David Wickham sold fentanyl, a powerful opioid with potentially lethal consequences, which he represented to buyers on numerous occasions to be heroin,” stated United States Attorney Donoghue. “This Office will continue to work tirelessly with our law enforcement partners to prosecute those who contribute to the opioid epidemic plaguing the communities in our District, and to save lives by reducing the availability of the deadly drug.”
“Fentanyl is a killer, and drug pushers have been taking advantage of selling this highly addictive drug, preying on the vulnerabilities of people,” stated HSI Special Agent-in-Charge Melendez. “Combatting the smuggling and trafficking of fentanyl and opioids is a priority for HSI, and we are committed to work alongside our law enforcement partners to address this problem.”
According to court documents, between August and December 2017, the defendant sold almost 100 grams of fentanyl to an undercover officer. On several occasions, Wickham represented the narcotics to be heroin—a much less potent narcotic—when it was actually distributing fentanyl. Also according to court documents, the fentanyl sold by Wickham is linked to two fatal overdoses and one near-fatal overdose based on phone records and a witness’ statements. During the execution of Wickham’s arrest and the search of his residence and vehicle, pursuant to a search warrant, agents recovered a firearm from under the defendant’s bed, as well as suspected narcotics and drug paraphernalia, including a scale, baggies and hypodermic needles.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Department of Justice, drug overdoses have become the leading cause of death for Americans under the age of 50. The increase in overdose deaths has been driven in large part by fentanyl—a drug that has been described as 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine. In New York, from 2014 to 2015, fentanyl overdose deaths rose 135 percent, while heroin overdose deaths rose 28 percent. According to the CDC’s latest report analyzing overdose deaths nationally, in 2016 synthetic opioid deaths—which includes fentanyl—more than doubled from 9,580 in 2015 to 19,413 in 2016.
The charges in the indictment are merely allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, the defendant faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years’ imprisonment and up to 40 years’ imprisonment.
The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s International Narcotics and Money Laundering Section. Assistant United States Attorney Nomi D. Berenson is in charge of the prosecution.
The Defendant:
DAVID WICKHAM (also known as “Wick” and “Dogg”)
Age: 35
Queens, New YorkE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 18-CR-72 (ARR)