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Tuesday 13 February 2018
Five Defendants Plead Guilty to Methamphetamine Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
Five defendants pled guilty in unrelated cases to methamphetamine trafficking charges in the Southern District of Florida.
Benjamin G. Greenberg, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, Adolphus P. Wright, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Miami Field Division, and Mark Selby, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI), Miami Field Office, made the announcement.
On January 18, 2018 and January 30, 2018, respectively, Saul Bustos Bustos, 38, and Irepan Juanchi Salgado, 24, each of Mexico, pled guilty to conspiring to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 846. According to court records, the defendants met on November 28, 2017, with a DEA undercover officer in Miami to sell him five kilograms of crystal methamphetamine, at $14,500 per kilo. During the transaction, the defendants, who possessed a total of 3,717 grams of 98% pure crystal methamphetamine, worked together to transfer the drugs from their vehicle to the undercover officer. Bustos Bustos also pled guilty to illegal reentry after removal, after reentering the United States subsequent to removal on April 13, 2017, July 6, 2017, and July 19, 2017.
On January 31, 2018, Reitilly Fuentes Ramos, 32, of Miami-Dade County, pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1). According to court records, on October 25, Fuentes Ramos distributed 56.2 grams of 100% pure methamphetamine to a DEA confidential source. Following that transaction, the confidential source purchased an additional four ounces of crystal methamphetamine from Fuentes Ramos. During execution of a search warrant at the residence of Fuentes Ramos, agents seized four more ounces of crystal methamphetamine as well as distribution quantities of cocaine.
On January 30, 2018 and February 9, 2018, respectively, Jeremy Robert Macroy, 30, and Andrew Ronald Lord, 38, each of Broward County, pled guilty to conspiring to possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 846. According to court records, Macroy and Lord facilitated the mailing of a UPS parcel from California to Hollywood, Florida, containing crystal methamphetamine. On November 15, 2017, Lord picked up the package, a portion of which he intended to distribute to Macroy. A search of the parcel revealed that it contained 430.3 grams of 98% pure methamphetamine.
At sentencing, Bustos Bustos and Juanchi Salgado face potential prison sentences of up to life imprisonment, to be followed by supervised release terms of at least five years on their respective narcotics convictions. Bustos Bustos also faces a maximum term of three years imprisonment, to be followed by up to three years supervised release, for his immigration violation. Bustos Bustos is scheduled to be sentenced before United States District Judge K. Michael Moore on March 29, 2018, at 2:00 p.m. A sentencing date for Juanchi Salgado has not been scheduled.
Fuentes Ramos faces a potential prison sentence of up to life imprisonment, to be followed by supervised release of at least five years. Fuentes Ramos is scheduled to be sentenced before United States District Judge K. Michael Moore on April 11, 2018, at 2:00 p.m.
Macroy and Lord face potential prison sentences of up to 40 years, to be followed by supervised release terms of at least four years. Macroy and Lord are scheduled to be sentenced before United States District Judge Beth Bloom on April 30, 2018, at 10:30 a.m., and April 24, 2018, at 2:30 p.m., respectively.
Mr. Greenberg commends the investigative efforts of DEA and ICE-HSI. These cases are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan K. Osborne.
This investigation and prosecution was carried out by members of the South Florida High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force. The South Florida HIDTA, established in 1990, is made up of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies that, cooperatively, target the region’s drug-trafficking and money laundering organizations. The South Florida HIDTA is funded by the Office of National Drug Control Policy which sponsors a variety of initiatives focused the nation’s illicit drug trafficking threats.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or on http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov.
Five Defendants Charged in Connection with Crack Cocaine Dealing in Seattle’s Pioneer Square NeighborhoodRead the Press Release
Three Seattle men are in custody, and two are being sought by law enforcement in connection with a 6-month investigation by the Seattle Police Department and DEA of significant drug trafficking in Seattle’s Pioneer Square neighborhood, announced U.S. Attorney Annette L. Hayes. PATRICK TABLES, 53 and MICHAEL TURNER, 49, were taken into custody this morning. MARVIN TRAYLOR, 49, and JONATHON RUSHING, 39, both of Seattle are being sought by law enforcement. CLYDE MCKNIGHT, 49, of Seattle was taken into custody in January 2018, when law enforcement seized significant amounts of crack cocaine, cocaine, fentanyl, and heroin from his vehicle. The defendants taken into custody today will make their initial appearance in U.S. District Court in Seattle at 2:00 PM.
According to the indictments and criminal complaint filed in the case, CLYDE MCKNIGHT, the apparent leader of the drug distribution ring was arrested outside a Portland, Oregon motel room in January 2018, following the seizure of 3 kilos of cocaine, 2 kilos of heroin, 1.5 lbs. of crack cocaine, and 187 grams of fentanyl from his vehicle in Seattle. At the time of his arrest, MCKNIGHT had $39,000 and a handgun in his vehicle. Other defendants in the case are charged with drug distribution and gun crimes. RUSHING, TABLES and TRAYLOR are charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. RUSHING is charged with possession of crack cocaine and methamphetamine with intent to distribute, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime. TABLES is charged with multiple counts of possession of crack cocaine with intent to distribute and TRAYLOR is charged with possession of crack cocaine with intent to distribute. TURNER is charged by complaint with possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine and possession of a weapon in furtherance of drug trafficking.
RUSHING has prior convictions in King County Superior Court for second degree murder (1997) and a federal conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm (2012).
The charges contained in the indictment are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
This was an Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation, providing supplemental federal funding to the federal and state agencies involved.
The case is being investigated by the Seattle Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Vince Lombardi and Kate Vaughan.
Federal Jury Convicts Jacksonville Man of Narcotic Distribution and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
ELIZABETH CITY – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced today that, ERIC HALL, a Jacksonville resident, was convicted in a two-day jury trial before United States District Judge Terrance W. Boyle. The jury found HALL guilty of possession with the intent to distribute cocaine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and two counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
The evidence at trial showed that on February 19, 2016, a Jacksonville Police Officer smelled marijuana coming from a room in a hotel. He obtained a search warrant and HALL, a convicted felon, was found in the room in Jacksonville in possession of 6 ounces of cocaine, a .45 caliber handgun and $3,800 dollars in cash. On May 4, 2016, a search warrant was executed at HALL’s residence outside Jacksonville, resulting in the seizure of a handgun and two assault rifles.
HALL is scheduled to be sentenced in about 90 days.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority. In October 2017, as part of a series of actions to address this crime trend, Attorney General Sessions announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop a district crime reduction strategy that incorporates the lessons learned since PSN launched in 2001.
The investigation of this case was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF), the Jacksonville Police Department and the Onslow County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney John Bennett represented the government in this case.
Federal Inmate Sentenced to More Than a Year in Prison for EscapeRead the Press Release
A man who escaped from custody at the Gerald Hinzman Center in June 2017 was sentenced on February 12, 2018, to more than a year in federal prison.
Gabriel Mangum, age 41, from Iowa City, Iowa, received the prison term after an August 24, 2017, guilty plea to one count of escape from custody.
At the plea hearing, Mangum admitted that, on June 20, 2017, he was in the custody of the federal government and imprisoned at the Gerald Hinzman Center in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He further admitted that on that day he left the Gerald Hinzman Center to go to work, but did not return to the Center on that day. Mangum was later arrested by the United States’ Marshal Service on July 12, 2017.
Mangum was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge Linda R. Reade. Mangumwas sentenced to 18 months’ imprisonment. A special assessment of $100 was imposed. He must also serve a 3-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Mangum is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lyndie Freeman and investigated by the United States’ Marshal Service.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 17-CR-56.
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Federal Inmate Sentenced to 14 Months for Escaping from Half-Way HouseRead the Press Release
CONCORD, N.H. – Eric Judkins, 34, formerly of Nashua, has been sentenced to serve 14 months in prison for escaping from the Hampshire House Residential Reentry Center in Manchester, announced Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Judkins received a 210-month federal prison sentence in 2000 for a bank robbery he committed in New Hampshire. While serving the sentence in a federal prison in Pennsylvania, Judkins pleaded guilty to assaulting an inmate and received an additional 27-month prison sentence.
On June 13, 2017, Judkins was transferred from a federal prison in Kentucky to the Hampshire House, with an expected release date of April 8, 2018. With permission from the Hampshire House staff, Judkins left the facility on August 28, 2017, and was required to return before 4:30 p.m. He failed to return as required. On August 31, 2017, Judkins was arrested by Deputy United States Marshals and local law enforcement officers in Howard, Pennsylvania.
Judkins pled guilty to escaping from the Hampshire House on November 3, 2017.
The case was investigated by the United States Marshals Service and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert M. Kinsella.
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Federal Agents Make Arrests Related to Kidnapping for Ransom SchemeRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – Two Laredo men have been arrested for conspiracy to violate interstate communications by demanding money prior to releasing two hostages, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.
John Daniel Pavon, 21, and Juan Manuel Ancira, 21, made their initial appearance yesterday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Guillermo R. Garcia, at which time the court ordered them into custody pending a preliminary hearing and a detention hearing set for Feb. 16, 2018, at 10:00 a.m.
On Feb. 8, 2018, a Wichita, Kansas, man reported to authorities that he received a phone call from an unknown male in Laredo claiming to be holding his son against his will, according to the complaint. The unknown male allegedly instructed him to send $2,000 through Money-gram or he would not release his son.
The next day, the FBI spoke to a group of people outside a residence in the 4000 block of Guadalajara Street in Laredo. Agents learned that two men had allegedly ran out of the residence and jumped the fence. They were the Wichita man’s son and another kidnapping victim. The second victim reported that his captors asked his family in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, for $4,000 before they would release him, according to the allegations.
The criminal complaint alleges both victims identified Pavon and Ancira as individuals involved in their kidnapping and who held them against their will.
If convicted of use of interstate communications containing demand for ransom, the defendants face up to 20 years in federal prison.
The FBI conducted the investigation with the assistance of Border Patrol, Drug Enforcement Administration, Texas Rangers, Texas Department of Public Safety, Laredo Police Department and Laredo Airport Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Julian Castaneda is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence.
A defendant is considered innocent unless and until convicted through due process of law.
Elkhart Man Sentenced to 84 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND - Thomas Hamet, age 38, of Elkhart, Indiana, was sentenced before South Bend District Court Judge Robert L. Miller, Jr. for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, announced United States Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II.
Hamet was sentenced to 84 months imprisonment followed by two years of supervised release.
According to documents in this case, on February 3, 2017, Mr. Hamet possessed methamphetamine in his car and he intended to sell the methamphetamine. He also possessed a Beretta handgun to protect and further his drug business.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms with the assistance of the St. Joseph County Police Department. The case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Frank Schaffer.
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Detroit Doctor Sentenced to Six Years in Prison for Role in $10.4 Million Health Care Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
A Detroit, Michigan-area doctor was sentenced to 72 months in prison today for his role in a $10.4 million conspiracy to defraud the Medicare program.
Acting Assistant Attorney General John P. Cronan of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Matthew Schneider of the Eastern District of Michigan, Acting Special Agent in Charge Timothy Waters of the FBI’s Detroit Division and Special Agent in Charge Lamont Pugh III of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General’s (HHS-OIG) Chicago Regional Office made the announcement.
Mahmoud Rahim, M.D., 65, of West Bloomfield, Michigan, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Nancy G. Edmonds of the Eastern District of Micihgan. Judge Edmonds also ordered the defendant to forfeit $1,679,505. The restitution amount will be determined at a later hearing.
After a one-week trial in September 2017, Rahim was convicted of one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud and wire fraud, one count of wire fraud, one count of conspiracy to receive health care kickbacks and two counts of receiving healthcare kickbacks. According to the evidence presented at trial, Rahim accepted kickbacks from his co-conspirators in exchange for referring Medicare patients for electromyogram tests (EMGs), some of which were unnecessary, and physical therapy performed by unlicensed individuals. Rahim disguised these payments as “rent” and set up a shell company to hide this illegal scheme.
Rahim was charged along with office manager Janet Nahkle, 58, of Dearborn, Michigan, in an indictment returned in June 2016. Nakhle pleaded guilty to conspiracy to receive health care kickbacks in December 2016 and was sentenced to serve 18 months in prison.
The FBI and HHS-OIG investigated the case, which was brought as part of the Medicare Fraud Strike Force under the supervision of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan. Fraud Section Trial Attorneys Jessica Collins and Amy Markopoulos prosecuted the case.
The Fraud Section leads the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, which is part of a joint initiative between the Department of Justice and HHS to focus their efforts to prevent and deter fraud and enforce current anti-fraud laws around the country. The Medicare Fraud Strike Force operates in nine locations nationwide. Since its inception in March 2007, the Medicare Fraud Strike Force has charged over 3,500 defendants who collectively have falsely billed the Medicare program for over $12.5 billion.
Dearborn county man sentenced in child pornography caseRead the Press Release
On parole for previous child pornography conviction in Indiana
PRESS RELEASE
Indianapolis - United States Attorney Josh Minkler announced today a Dearborn County, Indiana, man who was on parole of a previous conviction on child pornography charges, was sentenced for possession of child pornography. Wayne D. Brown 48, Aurora, was sentenced to 135 months (over 11 years) imprisonment by U. S. District Judge Tanya Walton Pratt late last week.
“This Office has sent a consistent message when it comes to child pornography and the re-victimization of our children,” said Minkler. “Child Pornography is child abuse, and individuals who continue to traffic in child abuse imagery will go to prison.”
According to court records, Brown was on Indiana parole for convictions of Possession of Child Pornography and Child Exploitation in Dearborn County from 2007. Following his prison sentence, Brown signed a condition of parole release agreement, allowing for reasonable visitation to his residence by the Indiana Department of Correction, no out-of-state travel, no on-line computer access, no alcohol use and no possession of obscene material.
Less than 3 months after his release from prison, on December 15, 2016, Brown met his parole officer and was confronted about being out of state without authorization. Later that evening, Indiana parole agents then conducted an unannounced home visit at Brown’s residence and removed an internet-enabled cell phone and a laptop computer. An examination of the devices revealed large quantities of child pornography, including images of infants and toddlers and other pre-pubescent children being sexually abused.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Dearborn County Prosecutor’s Office, the Indiana State Police Cyber Crimes Unit and Indiana State Parole.
“The FBI investigates all child pornography cases with a sense of urgency due to the extreme vulnerability of the victims involved – our children,” said Robert Alex Middleton, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Indianapolis Division. “This case demonstrates our commitment, and that of our law enforcement partners, to protect those who can’t protect themselves and ensure those who would harm them are brought to justice.”
“Mr. Brown’s repeated criminal acts demonstrate that he cannot be free in society,” said Dearborn County Prosecutor Lynn Deddens. “Thank you to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for prosecuting the case and leveraging additional penalties available under federal law that do not exist under our state criminal code. Brown’s deviant acts, that were investigated by county, state and federal law enforcement officials working hand in hand led to his arrest. Because of this teamwork, we have one more perpetrator incarcerated and one less person committing child abuse.”
“This case is an example of the diligent efforts of Indiana State Parole Agents. Here, we had an officer who took his responsibility to protect the community seriously, and once he detected violations by the defendant, he acted immediately. It was his quick search of the defendant’s residence that uncovered the defendant’s repeated crimes against children,” said Minkler.
According to Assistant United States Attorney Kristina M. Korobov who prosecuted this case for the government, Brown must serve 10 additional years of supervised release after his prison sentence.
In October 2017, United States Attorney Josh J. Minkler announced a Strategic Plan designed to shape and strengthen the District’s response to its most significant public safety challenges. This prosecution demonstrates the office’s firm commitment to utilize and partner with law enforcement agencies to prosecute individuals engaged in the sexual exploitation of children. See United States Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Indiana Strategic Plan Section 4.2.
Collin County Couple Sentenced for Lying to Federal AgentsRead the Press Release
PLANO, Texas – A Plano, Texas couple has been sentenced to federal prison for making false statements to federal agents in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Alan R. Jackson.
Mohommad Ali, 57, and his wife, Sumaiya Ali, 49, pleaded guilty on Dec. 13, 2017 to making false statements to the Federal Bureau of Investigation regarding international terrorism. Mohommad Ali was sentenced to 12 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Marcia Crone, while Sumaiya Ali was sentenced to 30 months in prison.
According to information presented in court, in 2014 and 2015 the Alis were in communication with their sons whom the Alis knew were in Syria fighting for ISIS. In May 2015, the Alis were questioned by agents with the FBI about their sons' whereabouts. The Alis denied any knowledge that their sons were in Syria or that their sons were associated with ISIS.
"There is an object lesson here," said U.S. Attorney Alan R. Jackson. "We will remain vigilant against those who support terrorism and those who attempt to shield supporters of terrorism from scrutiny."
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Texas and the Counterterrorism Section of the U.S. Department of Justice in Washington, D.C.
Chelsea Bomber Ahmad Khan Rahimi Sentenced to Life in Prison for Executing September 2016 Bombing and Attempted Bombing in New York CityRead the Press Release
Ahmad Khan Rahimi, aka, Ahmad Rahami, 30, of Elizabeth, New Jersey, was sentenced to life in prison for his execution and attempted execution of bombings in New York City on Sept. 17, 2016.
Acting Assistant Attorney General for National Security Edward C. O’Callaghan, U.S. Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman for the Southern 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 made the announcement.
“Today our legal system delivered on its promise to provide swift and resolute justice to those who would target innocent victims by perpetrating terrorist attacks against our homeland,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General O’Callaghan. “I commend all of the agents, analysts and prosecutors whose commitment and dedication made this result possible.”
“Inspired by ISIS and al Qaeda, Ahmad Khan Rahimi planted and detonated bombs on the streets of Chelsea, and in New Jersey, intending to kill and maim as many innocent people as possible,” said U.S. Attorney Berman. “Less than a year-and-a-half after his attacks, Rahimi has now been tried, convicted, and sentenced to life in prison. Rahimi’s conviction and sentencing are victories for New York City and our nation in the fight against terror.”
“Today’s sentencing assures us that Ahmad Khan Rahimi will spend the rest of his life behind bars. Once again, the lesson learned is clear: if you plot to cause catastrophic damage against this city and our citizens, you will be held accountable,” said Assistant Director Sweeney. “I would like to thank the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Forces here in New York and New Jersey, along with many other law enforcement partners, who moved with speed in this investigation and who work every day to protect Americans from acts of terror. I would also like to express my gratitude to the public who remained engaged throughout this investigation. That partnership and the public's continued cooperation are crucial to ensuring we stay ahead of threats, and enhance law enforcement's response following attacks like this.”
“Rahimi attempted to wreak havoc in the Chelsea neighborhood of New York City. He failed,” said Commissioner O’Neill. “Committing terrorism may seem, from the darkest places of the internet and espoused in propaganda, as a higher calling. It is not. Today’s sentencing — of life in prison — should be the strongest deterrent to future acts of terror. My thanks to the police officers from the 13th precinct, NYPD detectives, investigators on the Joint Terrorism Task Force, and prosecutors here in Manhattan for making today’s sentencing possible.”
Rahimi was convicted on Oct. 16, 2017, following a two-week jury trial before U.S. District Judge Richard M. Berman, who also imposed today’s sentence.
According to the Complaint, the Indictment, other filings in Manhattan federal court, evidence at trial, and statements made in court proceedings:
On Sept. 17, 2016, Rahimi transported two improvised explosive devices from New Jersey to New York, New York. Rahimi placed one of the devices in the vicinity of 135 West 23rd Street in the Chelsea neighborhood of New York, New York (the 23rd Street Bomb) and the other in the vicinity of 131 West 27th Street in the Chelsea neighborhood of New York, New York (the 27th Street Bomb).
At approximately 8:30 p.m., the 23rd Street Bomb – containing a high explosive main charge and thousands of ball bearings – detonated, causing injuries to over 30 people and hundreds of thousands of dollars in property damage across a 650-foot crime scene. The injuries included, among other things, lacerations to the face, abdomen, legs, and arms caused by flying glass; metal shrapnel and fragmentation embedded in skin and bone; and various head injuries. The explosive components appear to have been placed inside a pressure cooker and left near a dumpster. The explosion propelled a more-than-100-pound dumpster – which was introduced as an exhibit at trial – more than 120 feet. The blast shattered windows as far as approximately 400 feet from the blast site and, vertically, more than three stories high.
Shortly after the 23rd Street Bomb detonated, a civilian identified the 27th Street Bomb and promptly called 911, which recorded call was introduced in evidence and played at trial. The 27th Street Bomb, which was rendered safe prior to detonation, consisted of, among other things, a pressure cooker connected with wires to a cellular telephone (likely to function as a timer) and packaged with an explosive main charge, ball bearings, and steel nuts.
Earlier that day, at approximately 9:35 a.m. on Sept. 17, 2016, another improvised explosive device, which had been planted by Rahimi in the early morning hours, detonated in the vicinity of Seaside Park, New Jersey, along the route for the Seaside Semper Five Marine Corps Charity 5K race. The start of the race – which was scheduled to begin at 9:00 a.m. – was delayed. Had the race started on time, the bomb would have detonated as runners were passing by where Rahimi had planted it.
On Sept. 18, 2016, at approximately 8:40 p.m., six additional improvised explosive devices that Rahimi also planted were found inside a backpack located at the entrance to the New Jersey Transit station in Elizabeth, New Jersey. One of these devices detonated as law enforcement used a robot to defuse it.
On September 19, 2016, at approximately 9:30 a.m., Rahimi was arrested by police in Linden, New Jersey. Rahimi fired multiple shots at police, striking and injuring multiple police officers before he was himself shot, subdued, and placed under arrest. In the course of Rahimi’s arrest, a handwritten journal was recovered from Rahimi’s person. Written in the journal were, among other things, mentions of explosive devices (including “The sounds of bombs will be heard in the streets” and “Bombs set off in the streets they plan to run a mile”), and laudatory references to Usama Bin Laden, the former leader of al Qaeda, Anwar al-Awlaki, a former senior leader of al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula, Mohammed al-Adnani, a former senior leader of the Islamic State in Iraq and al Sham, and Nidal Hasan, who shot and killed 13 people in Foot Hood, Texas.
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In addition to the prison term, Rahimi was sentenced to five years of supervised release and ordered to pay $562,803 in restitution.
In addition to the charges for which he was sentenced in Manhattan federal court, Rahimi also has been charged in a Complaint in the District of New Jersey with offenses in connection with his alleged efforts to detonate explosives in Seaside Park, New Jersey, and Elizabeth, New Jersey.
Mr. O’Callaghan and Mr. Berman praised the outstanding efforts of the FBI’s New York Joint Terrorism Task Force, which principally consists of agents from the FBI and detectives from the New York City Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Emil J. Bove III, Andrew J. DeFilippis, and Shawn G. Crowley are in charge of the prosecution, with assistance from Trial Attorney Brian Morgan of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.
Chelsea Bomber Ahmad Khan Rahimi Sentenced to Life in Prison for Executing September 2016 Bombing and Attempted Bombing in New York CityRead the Press Release
Geoffrey S. Berman, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Edward C. O’Callaghan, the Acting Assistant Attorney General for National Security, William F. Sweeney Jr., Assistant Director-in-Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (“FBI”), and James P. O’Neill, Commissioner of the Police Department for the City of New York (“NYPD”), announced today that AHMAD KHAN RAHIMI, a/k/a “Ahmad Rahami,” was sentenced to life in prison for his execution and attempted execution of bombings in New York City on September 17, 2016. RAHIMI was convicted on October 16, 2017, following a two-week jury trial before U.S. District Judge Richard M. Berman, who also imposed today’s sentence.
Manhattan U.S. Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman said: “Inspired by ISIS and al Qaeda, Ahmad Khan Rahimi planted and detonated bombs on the streets of Chelsea, and in New Jersey, intending to kill and maim as many innocent people as possible. Less than a year-and-a-half after his attacks, Rahimi has now been tried, convicted, and sentenced to life in prison. Rahimi’s conviction and sentencing are victories for New York City and our nation in the fight against terror.”
Acting Assistant Attorney General Edward C. O’Callaghan said: “Today our legal system delivered on its promise to provide swift and resolute justice to those who would target innocent victims by perpetrating terrorist attacks against our homeland. I commend all of the agents, analysts, and prosecutors whose commitment and dedication made this result possible.”
FBI Assistant Director William F. Sweeney Jr. said: “Today’s sentencing assures us that Ahmad Khan Rahimi will spend the rest of his life behind bars. Once again, the lesson learned is clear: if you plot to cause catastrophic damage against this city and our citizens, you will be held accountable. I would like to thank the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Forces here in New York and New Jersey, along with many other law enforcement partners, who moved with speed in this investigation and who work every day to protect Americans from acts of terror. I would also like to express my gratitude to the public who remained engaged throughout this investigation. That partnership and the public's continued cooperation are crucial to ensuring we stay ahead of threats, and enhance law enforcement's response following attacks like this.”
Police Commissioner James P. O’Neill said: “Ahmed Kahn Rahimi placed two ticking bombs in a crowded Manhattan neighborhood on a warm Saturday night. He then walked away. It was the most cowardly of all crimes. His clear intention was to take as many lives as possible. Rahimi had other bombs and likely other plans. I want to thank the NYPD officers who responded that night, the agents and NYPD detectives of the JTTF, the NYPD Intelligence Bureau, Detective Bureau, Bomb Squad, ATF Agents, and the officers of the Linden New Jersey Police Department who all had important contributions in the investigation and arrest. I also want to thank the prosecutors of the US Attorney for the Southern District of New York, the most experienced terrorism prosecutors in the nation for bringing New Yorkers justice.”
According to the Complaint, the Indictment, other filings in Manhattan federal court, evidence at trial, and statements made in court proceedings:
On September 17, 2016, RAHIMI transported two improvised explosive devices from New Jersey to New York, New York. RAHIMI placed one of the devices in the vicinity of 135 West 23rd Street in the Chelsea neighborhood of New York, New York (the “23rd Street Bomb”) and the other in the vicinity of 131 West 27th Street in the Chelsea neighborhood of New York, New York (the “27th Street Bomb”).
At approximately 8:30 p.m., the 23rd Street Bomb – containing a high explosive main charge and thousands of ball bearings – detonated, causing injuries to over 30 people and hundreds of thousands of dollars in property damage across a 650-foot crime scene. The injuries included, among other things, lacerations to the face, abdomen, legs, and arms caused by flying glass; metal shrapnel and fragmentation embedded in skin and bone; and various head injuries. The explosive components appear to have been placed inside a pressure cooker and left near a dumpster. The explosion propelled a more-than-100-pound dumpster – which was introduced as an exhibit at trial – more than 120 feet. The blast shattered windows as far as approximately 400 feet from the blast site and, vertically, more than three stories high.
Shortly after the 23rd Street Bomb detonated, a civilian identified the 27th Street Bomb and promptly called 911, which recorded call was introduced in evidence and played at trial. The 27th Street Bomb, which was rendered safe prior to detonation, consisted of, among other things, a pressure cooker connected with wires to a cellular telephone (likely to function as a timer) and packaged with an explosive main charge, ball bearings, and steel nuts.
Earlier that day, at approximately 9:35 a.m. on September 17, 2016, another improvised explosive device, which had been planted by RAHIMI in the early morning hours, detonated in the vicinity of Seaside Park, New Jersey, along the route for the Seaside Semper Five Marine Corps Charity 5K race. The start of the race – which was scheduled to begin at 9:00 a.m. – was delayed. Had the race started on time, the bomb would have detonated as runners were passing by where RAHIMI had planted it.
On September 18, 2016, at approximately 8:40 p.m., six additional improvised explosive devices that RAHIMI also planted were found inside a backpack located at the entrance to the New Jersey Transit station in Elizabeth, New Jersey. One of these devices detonated as law enforcement used a robot to defuse it.
On September 19, 2016, at approximately 9:30 a.m., RAHIMI was arrested by police in Linden, New Jersey. RAHIMI fired multiple shots at police, striking and injuring multiple police officers before he was himself shot, subdued, and placed under arrest. In the course of RAHIMI’s arrest, a handwritten journal was recovered from RAHIMI’s person. Written in the journal were, among other things, mentions of explosive devices (including “The sounds of bombs will be heard in the streets” and “Bombs set off in the streets they plan to run a mile”), and laudatory references to Usama Bin Laden, the former leader of al Qaeda, Anwar al-Awlaki, a former senior leader of al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula, Mohammed al-Adnani, a former senior leader of the Islamic State in Iraq and al Sham, and Nidal Hasan, who shot and killed 13 people in Foot Hood, Texas.
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In addition to the prison term, RAHIMI, 30, was sentenced to five years of supervised release and ordered to pay $562,803 in restitution.
In addition to the charges for which he was sentenced in Manhattan federal court, RAHIMI also has been charged in a Complaint in the District of New Jersey with offenses in connection with his alleged efforts to detonate explosives in Seaside Park, New Jersey, and Elizabeth, New Jersey.
Mr. Berman praised the outstanding efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s New York Joint Terrorism Task Force, which principally consists of agents from the FBI and detectives from the New York City Police Department, and the 13th Precinct of the NYPD. Mr. Berman also thanked the Counterterrorism Section of the Department of Justice’s National Security Division for its assistance.
The prosecution of this case is being handled by the Office’s Terrorism and International Narcotics Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Emil J. Bove III, Andrew J. DeFilippis, and Shawn G. Crowley are in charge of the prosecution, with assistance from Trial Attorney Brian Morgan of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.
California Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Sex Trafficking Charges in New MexicoRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Acting U.S. Attorney James D. Tierney, Special Agent in Charge Terry Wade of the FBI’s Albuquerque Division and Bernalillo County Sheriff Manuel Gonzales III announced today that Cordny Henry, 31, of Oakland, Calif., pleaded guilty yesterday evening to federal sex trafficking charges. Henry entered the guilty plea in federal court in Albuquerque, N.M., shortly after a jury had been impaneled and as the trial on a two-count second superseding indictment charging him with federal child sex trafficking offenses was about to commence.
During yesterday evening’s change of plea hearing, Henry pled guilty to the two-count superseding indictment under a plea agreement with the U.S. Attorney’s Office. The first count of the indictment charged Henry with recruiting and enticing a 13-year-old victim to engage in commercial sex acts by use of force, fraud and coercion in Bernalillo County, N.M., from Sept. 2, 2015 through Sept. 12, 2015. The second count charged Henry with transporting the 13-year-old victim in interstate commerce for the purpose of having the victim engage in prostitution.
The plea agreement recommends that Henry be sentence to a term of imprisonment within the range of 15 to 25 years followed by ten to 20 years of supervised release. Henry also will be required to register as a sex offender after his release from prison. The plea agreement also requires the imposition of a money judgment against Henry in the amount of $10,000 and that Henry pay restitution to the victim of his criminal conduct. Henry has been in federal custody since his arrest on April 8, 2016, and will remain detained pending his sentencing hearing, which has yet to be scheduled.
The U.S. Marshals Service arrested Henry in Nevada on April 8, 2016, on a criminal complaint filed in New Mexico that charged him with federal child sex trafficking offenses. Henry subsequently was transferred to New Mexico to face the charges against him. According to the criminal complaint, the 13-year-old victim ran away from her home in Albuquerque on Sept. 2, 2015, and was found in California on Sept. 12, 2015, after having been sex trafficked in both Albuquerque and Los Angeles. The investigation, which was initiated by the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) and later included the FBI, revealed that Henry was the “pimp” who sex trafficked the victim and transported her to California. It also revealed that Juanita Williams, 29, of Pittsburgh, Calif., aided and abetted Henry in committing these offenses.
The FBI and BCSO previously had arrested Williams on March 15, 2016, on a criminal complaint on charges similar to those filed against Henry. On March 23, 2016, a federal grand jury filed an indictment charging Williams with a child sex trafficking offense. On April 26, 2016, the indictment charging Williams was superseded to add Henry as a defendant. The indictment was superseded a second time on Jan. 11, 2018, to add the second count of transporting the victim in interstate commerce for the purpose of engaging in criminal sexual activity against Henry.
Williams entered a guilty plea on April 28, 2017, to a felony information charging her with being an accessory after the fact to sex trafficking. In entering the guilty plea, Williams admitted that on March 16, 2016, she aided and abetted Henry in avoiding apprehension and prosecution for sex trafficking of a minor by providing false information during a law enforcement interview. At sentencing, which yet to be scheduled, Williams faces up to 15 years of imprisonment followed by a term of supervised release to be determined by the court.
This case was investigated by the Albuquerque office of the FBI and the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office Ghost Unit, with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sarah J. Mease and Nicholas Jon Ganjei are prosecuting the case as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice (DOJ) to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and DOJ’s Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc/.
Henry ComplaintBurlington Man Sentenced to 242 Months in Prison for Distributing MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa-- On February 12, 2018, Gregory Louis Baxter, Jr., age 34, formerly of Burlington, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to 242 months in prison following his guilty plea to possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Baxter was ordered to serve ten years of supervised release to follow his prison term and pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund. Baxter faced an enhanced statutory mandatory minimum sentence based on a 2014 state conviction for conspiracy to deliver marijuana.
According to the plea agreement, on April 4, 2017, Baxter possessed 312 grams of actual “ice” methamphetamine with the intent to distribute. Baxter admitted to distributing ounces of methamphetamine to another on that date. Baxter also admitted he intentionally attempted to flee from law enforcement agents in a vehicle and attempted to destroy evidence.
This investigation was conducted by the Iowa Department of Public Safety, Division of Narcotics Enforcement; Southeast Iowa Narcotics Task Force; Johnson County Drug Task Force; Burlington Police Department; West Burlington Police Department; Iowa State Patrol; and Des Moines County Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Buffalo Woman Pleads Guilty to 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 Elisa Rivera Ortiz, 36, of Buffalo, NY, pleaded guilty, before U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara, to attempted possession, with intent to distribute, cocaine. The charges carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Adler, who is handling the case, stated that on April 8, 2017, United States Postal Inspectors intercepted a package that was addressed to the defendant. Inside, the Postal Inspectors found cocaine. On June 30, 2017, inspectors again intercepted a package addressed to the defendant. Once again, they found cocaine.
On July 6, 2017, a controlled delivery of a package containing sham cocaine and a monitoring device was made to the defendant’s Warren Avenue residence. Once the monitor alerted investigators that the package had been opened, they entered the residence and executed a search warrant. Ortiz attempted to run out the side door but was taken into custody.
During the search, investigators located drug packaging materials, a digital scale with suspected cocaine residue, and a small bag of marijuana. Ortiz’s son and three other minor children were in the residence at the time.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge James J. Hunt, New York Field Division, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, under the direction of Boston Division Inspector in Charge Shelly Binkowski.
Sentencing is scheduled for May 25, 2018, at 12:30 p.m. before Judge Arcara.
Buffalo Man Sentenced on Gun and Drug 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 Jose Feliciano-Miranda, 37, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, heroin and cocaine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, was sentenced to 147 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Scott S. Allen, Jr., and Wei Xiang, who handled the case, stated that between April 2015 and April 2016, Feliciano-Miranda assisted co-defendant Manuel Freire who coordinated the receipt, and subsequent distribution, of wholesale quantities of heroin and cocaine in Buffalo from sources in Puerto Rico and New York City.
On April 24, 2015, federal law enforcement officers intercepted a parcel mailed from Puerto Rico destined for a residence on Hudson Street in Buffalo. A half a kilogram of cocaine was hidden in speakers contained in the parcel. Two other co-conspirators, who, at Freire’s direction, went to retrieve the parcel, were arrested.
In early 2016, Feliciano-Miranda and Freire began selling heroin out of 247 Niagara Street in Buffalo. On April 1, 2016, law enforcement officials executed a search warrant at that property. During the search of Feliciano-Miranda’s Jeep Cherokee, law enforcement officials discovered a “trap,” a hydraulic powered concealment chamber that can only be opened after several sequential steps, which drug traffickers use to conceal quantities of contraband when traveling long distances.
Another search warrant was executed at a residence on Byrd Way, which led to the recovery of a loaded firearm.
Manuel Freire has been convicted and is awaiting sentencing.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Acting Commissioner Byron Lockwood; the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge James J. Hunt, New York Field Division; the Erie County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Timothy Howard; the Federal Bureau of Investigation Safe Streets Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Kevin P. Lyons; and the United States Postal Inspection Service, under the direction of Boston Division Acting Inspector-in-Charge Raymond Moss.
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Buffalo Man Sentenced on Cocaine ConvictionRead 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 Kelley Thomas, 43, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of possession with intent to distribute cocaine, was sentenced to 70 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Wei Xiang, who handled the case, stated that the defendant was arrested on August 3, 2017, with a kilogram-sized brick of cocaine. Thomas was stopped by Buffalo Police Officers while driving on Richmond Avenue. The only other occupant in his car was a minor female. The cocaine was in his glove compartment.
Buffalo Police were alerted to the defendant by the FBI following physical surveillance and interceptions of wire and electronic communications over a mobile telephone used by Thomas’s supplier.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Safe Streets Task Force, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Kevin P. Lyons; the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Acting Commissioner Byron Lockwood; the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge James J. Hunt, New York Field Division; and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge James D. Robnett.
Bronx Man Charged with Possessing and Distributing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Geoffrey S. Berman, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and James P. O’Neill, the Commissioner of the New York City Police Department (“NYPD”), announced the arrest today of LANCELOT PAUL LUTCHMAN for possession and distribution of child pornography. LUTCHMAN will be presented before United States Magistrate Judge Debra Freeman in Manhattan.
U.S. Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman said: “As alleged, the defendant possessed and distributed hundreds of files containing child pornography. Trafficking in child pornography fuels demand for such vile images, which means that in a very real sense, every time an image is shared, a child is victimized. Working with partners like the NYPD, our mission is to protect children and prosecute child predators.”
Police Commissioner James P. O’Neill said: “The defendant in this case is a Bronx man who is charged with possessing and distributing child pornography – hundreds and hundreds of video files. I want to thank the investigators and prosecutors on this case for their work to hold those who allegedly victimize and exploit children accountable for their crimes.”
According to the allegations in the Complaint filed in Manhattan federal court:[1]
Between January 31, 2016 and January 21, 2017, LUTCHMAN used a peer-to-peer file sharing network to share approximately 845 unique video files known to contain child pornography. The child pornography included depictions of prepubescent children engaged in sexual activity with other children or adults. On January 26, 2017, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant for LUTCHMAN’s apartment and recovered his laptop computer, which contained numerous files of child pornography. As officers were entering the apartment, LUTCHMAN hid the laptop in his oven.
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LUTCHMAN, 44, of the Bronx, New York, is charged with one count of distribution and receipt of child pornography, which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison and a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, and one count of possession of child pornography, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.
The maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge.
Mr. Berman praised the New York City Police Department for its outstanding investigative work. Mr. Berman also thanked the Bronx District Attorney’s Office for its invaluable assistance with this matter.
This case is being handled by the Office’s General Crimes Unit. Assistant United States Attorney Daniel Loss is in charge of the prosecution.
The charges contained in the Complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
[1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Complaint, and the description of the Complaint set forth herein, constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.
British Luxury Knitwear Retailer and CEO Agree to Pay $908,100 to Settle False Claims Act Allegations Concerning Improper Avoidance of Customs DutiesRead the Press Release
Portland, Maine: United States Attorney Halsey B. Frank announced today that Pure Collection Ltd. (“Pure”) and its CEO, Samantha Harrison (“Harrison”), both of Harrogate, England, have entered into civil settlement agreements with the U.S. under which they will pay a total of $908,100 to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act (“FCA”). The FCA is the government’s primary civil remedy to redress false claims involving government funds.
The settlements resolve allegations that Pure and Harrison improperly avoided U.S. customs duties owed on merchandise shipped from the United Kingdom to U.S. customers, including many customers in Maine. See United States ex rel. Patrick v. Pure Collection Ltd., 2:16-cv-00230-GZS (D. Me.). Generally, U.S. customers owed no customs duties on single shipments of merchandise into the U.S. worth less than $200 (a limit later raised to $800). The complaint alleged that Pure and Harrison improperly evaded customs duties that would have been paid by U.S. customers by breaking up single shipments worth more than those amounts into multiple shipments of lesser value in order to avoid the applicable duties.
The FCA action was originally filed by Andrew Patrick, a citizen of the United Kingdom, under the Act’s whistleblower, or qui tam, provisions that allow private individuals who have knowledge of fraud committed against the government to file lawsuits on the government’s behalf. The FCA permits the government to recover up to three times the amount of damages incurred by the U.S., in addition to civil penalties for each violation. The government may also intervene and file its own lawsuit for damages and penalties, as it did in this case. If the government prevails in the action, the whistleblower, also known as the relator, may receive a share of the recovery. Here, the government will pay the relator, Mr. Patrick, a share of the settlement proceeds.
The government was represented by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maine, the National Courts Section of the Department of Justice, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Pure and Harrison cooperated throughout the investigation.
Brazilian Woman Sentenced for Involuntary ManslaughterRead the Press Release
BISMARCK – United States Attorney Christopher C. Myers announced that on February 13, 2018, Chief United States District Judge Daniel L. Hovland sentenced Bruna De Paula Cardoso, 24, Brazil, on a charge of involuntary manslaughter. Judge Hovland sentenced Cardoso to serve three years and one month in prison, followed by three years of supervised release and to pay restitution.
On September 24, 2016, while in Parshall, North Dakota, Cardoso drove a vehicle while intoxicated, lost control of the vehicle and hit an "End School Zone" sign, then struck a tree. The passenger in the vehicle she was operating was killed. At the time of the accident, Cardoso’s Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) was .130 and it was determined that the speed of the vehicle was approximately 40 miles per hour, which was 15 mph over the posted 25 mph speed limit.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the assistance of the Three Affiliated Tribes Police Department.
Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan O’Konek prosecuted the case
Berkeley County woman admits to drug distribution chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Martinsburg, West Virginia woman has admitted to a drug distribution charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Shonna Marie Thomas, age 32, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Heroin.” Thomas admitted to selling heroin in February 2017 in Berkeley County.
Thomas faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney C. Lydia Lehman, also with the Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.Artesia Man Sentenced to Ten Years for Conviction on Federal Firearms and Drug Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Odis Levi Booher, 28, of Artesia, N.M., was sentenced today in federal court in Las Cruces, N.M., to 120 months of imprisonment for his conviction on federal firearms and drug trafficking charges. Booher will be on supervised release for three years after completing his prison sentence.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives arrested Booher on Nov. 15, 2016, on a criminal complaint charging him with committing firearms and methamphetamine trafficking offenses in Chaves County, N.M. According to the complaint, on Nov. 10, 2016, law enforcement agents found approximately 511.2 grams of methamphetamine, a handgun, $2,205 in cash, and drug paraphernalia while executing search warrants on Booher and his vehicle.
On July 18, 2017, Booher pled guilty to a felony information charging him with possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, possession of a handgun in relation to a drug trafficking crime, and being a felon in possession of a firearm. In entering the guilty plea, Booher admitted that on Nov. 10, 2016, he possessed the methamphetamine, firearm and ammunition found inside his truck by law enforcement officers. Booher acknowledged that on Nov. 10, 2016, he was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition because of his prior felony conviction for residential burglary.
This case was investigated by the Las Cruces office of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Chaves County Metro Narcotics Task Force. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Dustin C. Segovia of the U.S. Attorney’s Las Cruces Branch Office.
The HIDTA Chaves County Metro Narcotics Task Force is comprised of investigators from the Roswell Police Department, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the FBI and the Chaves County Sherriff’s Office. The High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) program was created by Congress with the Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1988. HIDTA is a program of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) which provides assistance to federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies operating in areas determined to be critical drug-trafficking regions of the United States and seeks to reduce drug trafficking and production by facilitating coordinated law enforcement activities and information sharing.
Army Most Wanted Fugitive Sentenced to More Than 3 Years in Federal Prison for Identity Theft and Misuse of a Social Security NumberRead the Press Release
A man who has been wanted by the Army since the early 1980s was sentenced today to more than 3 years in federal prison.
Daryl Grigsby, age 57, most recently from Dyersville, Iowa, received the prison term after a September 6, 2017, guilty plea to one count of aggravated identity theft and one count of misuse of a Social Security Number.
Information from the sentencing hearing showed that Grigsby was convicted at court-martial of aggravated assault while serving in the Army in the 1980s. Following his conviction and while pending additional criminal charges, Grigsby ran from the Army. He was later convicted of bank robbery in federal court Oregon in the 1990s while using the name “Aaron Davis.” In 2001, Grigsby absconded from federal supervised release. At some point after his bank robbery conviction, Grigsby began using the identity and Social Security Number of another person. He continued to use that identity until his arrest in Iowa last year. Grigsby is still wanted by the Army. He was on the Army’s most wanted list until his arrest in Iowa.
Grigsby was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge Linda R. Reade. Grigsby was sentenced to 40 months’ imprisonment. A special assessment of $200 was imposed and he was ordered to make $19,401 in restitution to the Social Security Administration and $46,118.48 in restitution to the State of Iowa. He must also serve a 3-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Grigsby is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Morfitt and investigated by the Social Security Administration – Office of the Inspector General.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 17-CR-1020.
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Amarillo Man Convicted on Drug and Firearm Charges Sentenced to Life in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
AMARILLO — Moises Jimenez, 39, of Amarillo, Texas, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Sidney A. Fitzwater to life in federal prison. Jimenez was convicted of felony drug and firearm offenses in August 2017, following a four-day jury trial. The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox for the Northern District of Texas.
Jimenez was convicted of one count of distribution and possession with intent to distribute cocaine, one count of distribution and possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Judge Fitzwater sentenced Jimenez to 240 months for the distribution of cocaine count, 60 months for the possession of a firearm count and life in federal prison without the possibility for parole for the distribution and possession of 500 grams or more of methamphetamine.
Jimenez has been in custody since the time of his arrest in December 2016.
The government presented evidence at trial that on January 20, 2015, the Amarillo Police Department executed a search warrant at Moises Jimenez’s apartment. A search of the apartment yielded one kilogram of methamphetamine, almost 300 grams of cocaine, a Lorcin, .25 caliber pistol, approximately $22,000 in cash, and drug trafficking paraphernalia. During post-arrest interviews with a detective of the Amarillo Police Department, Jimenez admitted to possessing the controlled substances and firearm. He also admitted that he had delivered 50 pounds of methamphetamine less than a week before officers executed the search warrant. A search of Jimenez’s cell phones yielded text messages consistent with drug trafficking. Further, recorded telephone calls made by Jimenez while he was in jail corroborated his involvement in drug trafficking.
The Amarillo Police Department investigated the case with the assistance of the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Russell Lorfing, Sean Long, and Sean Taylor prosecuted the case.
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Akron man charged with making threatsRead the Press Release
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Ohio, announce the arrest of Raynard Clayton, 34, of Akron.
Clayton was placed into custody by the Adult Parole Authority on Feb. 8, 2018 without incident. Clayton was transferred to federal custody by FBI agents assigned to the FBI Akron Resident Agency on Feb. 12.
Clayton is charged with transmitting in interstate commerce a threat to injure another person and also threatening a person with physical force with the intent to hinder, delay, or prevent communication to a law enforcement officer.
Clayton is alleged to have posted a publicly available Facebook Live video, approximately 21 minutes in length, threatening to assault and kill an individual known to law enforcement. In the video, Clayton, also known as Raynard Dutch, stated “I’ll shoot you point blank range, no mask......Get you and your family wrapped up. AR-15, you know what I mean.” Clayton continues on stating, “…basically what I’m sayin’ to you is keep my name out your mouth fo (before) I take yo (your) life.” Clayton also stated in the video, “The best type of cop is a dead cop.”
A complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Monday 12 February 2018
Woman Faked Death in Cross-Country Luxury Vehicle Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – A Portsmouth woman who faked her own death in connection with an elaborate bank fraud scheme was sentenced today to four years in prison.
According to court documents, Alexandra Hatcher, 50, conspired with her husband, Albert Hatcher Jr., 49, to collect on life insurance policies the two had obtained to insure Hatcher’s life. After traveling to Washington state and changing her legal name in August 2015, Hatcher and her husband submitted false death claims on at least two of these policies. In support of these claims, Hatcher created fake death certificates and published a death notice in the Daily Press. After insurers denied their claims, Hatcher and her husband undertook a cross-country fraud scheme through which they fraudulently obtained at least 20 new and newer-used luxury vehicles by presenting worthless and counterfeit checks and forged documents to car dealerships in several states. Hatcher and her husband retitled these vehicles and then used them as collateral for loans and other vehicles. The two also resold vehicles to other dealerships for cash. Hatcher used the legal name she adopted just prior to faking her death to purchase, title, and resell vehicles in furtherance of the scheme.
The Hatcher’s each pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bank fraud, possessing and uttering a counterfeit security of an organization, and conspiracy to commit mail fraud. Albert Hatcher was sentenced to four years in prison on January 22 for his role in the scheme.
Tracy Doherty-McCormick, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Robert B. Wemyss, Inspector in Charge of the Washington Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, made the announcement after sentencing by Senior U.S. District Judge Robert G. Doumar. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kaitlin C. Gratton prosecuted 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. 4:17-cr-48.
Wichita Man Charged with Operating Gambling BusinessesRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. – A Wichita man was charged Monday in federal court with operating illegal gambling businesses, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said.
Jack Oxler, 41, Wichita, Kan., was charged with one count of operating an illegal poker gambling business and one count of operating an illegal sports betting business.
If convicted, he faces up to five years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000 on each count. The FBI, the Wichita Police Department and the Internal Revenue Service investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Smith and Assistant U.S. Attorney Mona Furst are prosecuting.
Virginia Man Convicted of Receiving Child Pornography on Tor Network Forum for Child PredatorsRead the Press Release
A Purcellville, Virginia man who was a member of a website dedicated to the advertising and sharing of child pornography on an online anonymous network pleaded guilty today to receipt of child pornography.
Acting Assistant Attorney General John P. Cronan of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and Acting U.S. Attorney Tracy Doherty-McCormick of the Eastern District of Virginia made the announcement.
Nikolai Bosyk, 40, was charged on Oct. 17, 2017, and pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Leonie M. Brinkema of the Eastern District of Virginia. Sentencing is scheduled for May 4.
According to admissions made in conjunction with the guilty plea, Bosyk was a member of an online bulletin board that operated on an anonymous online network and was dedicated to the sharing of child pornography. He downloaded child pornography, from that website and other places on the Internet. A forensic review of his laptop discovered thousands of images and videos of child pornography.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case, with assistance from the High Technology Investigative Unit of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), and the Northern Virginia-Washington, D.C. Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
CEOS Trial Attorney Lauren E. Britsch and Assistant U.S. Attorney Nathaniel Smith III of the Eastern District of Virginia prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
U.S. Attorneys announce initiative to combat violent crime and drug trafficking in Tri-State areaRead the Press Release
ASHLAND, Ky. – Today, the three United States Attorneys for the Tri-State area: Robert M. Duncan, Jr., of the Eastern District of Kentucky; Michael B. Stuart, of the Southern District of West Virginia; and Benjamin C. Glassman, of the Southern District of Ohio, along with representatives from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), state and local law enforcement and prosecutors, and other law enforcement partners announced the formation of a law enforcement working group, to enhance joint efforts to combat violent crime and drug trafficking in the Kentucky, West Virginia, and Ohio Tri-State area.
The working group met for the first time on February 9, 2018, in Ashland.
The collaboration is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s enhanced Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, a crime reduction program incorporating long-standing law enforcement partnerships to help produce a long-term, meaningful reduction in violent crime. PSN is a comprehensive approach to public safety, one that includes prevention, enforcement, and reentry efforts.
The working group will focus its efforts on individuals responsible for violent crimes and significant drug trafficking activities in the area. As part of the collaborative partnership, members of ATF, FBI, DEA, and state and local law enforcement personnel will meet regularly to share intelligence, and to review cases about the most dangerous offenders in the area, including those cases in which the offender’s conduct involves possession or use of a firearm. The cases will be evaluated to ensure that the most appropriate penalties will be applied to the offenders, whether in federal or state court. The ultimate goal of the collaboration is to reduce violent crime and access to illegal drugs, and make the Tri-State safer.
“As Attorney General Sessions has confirmed, combatting violent crime, reducing access to drugs, and partnering with state and local law enforcement efforts are top priorities for the Department of Justice,” said U.S. Attorney Duncan. “By working together to investigate and prosecute the most dangerous individuals in the Tri-State, we are sending a clear message that we will protect our communities against those who do them harm. If you are using firearms to commit acts of violence or illegally selling drugs – especially those that cause an overdose death – you are on notice: your conduct will not be tolerated; and if it continues, you risk arrest, prosecution, and the forfeiture of your freedom.”
“The good people of the Tri-State and good cities like Huntington, Ashland, Ironton and Portsmouth, have paid too high a price because of violent crime and the drug scourge. Effective partnerships, sharing resources and intelligence, and aggressive enforcement are the best offense to defeat those that bring chaos and despair to our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Stuart. “Now is the time to take our streets back from violent offenders and drug dealers that cause havoc. We are committed to working together as true partners in this fight to reduce violent crime, protect our citizens, and put dangerous criminals behind bars for as long as possible.”
“State lines don’t stop criminals from committing violence in our communities, so they shouldn’t stop our law enforcement efforts, either,” U.S. Attorney Glassman said. “Today’s announcement highlights our dedication to working together across governmental levels and geographic boundaries to get the job done.”
Today’s announcement follows U.S. Attorney General Sessions’s directives to federal law enforcement and prosecutors, to reinvigorate the Project Safe Neighborhoods Program in an effort to reduce rising violent crime in America, and to combat access to illegal drugs, particularly opiates and opioids.
U.S. Attorneys Announce Initiative to Combat Violent Crime and Drug Trafficking in Tri-State AreaRead the Press Release
ASHLAND, Ky. – Today, the three United States Attorneys for the Tri-State area: Robert M. Duncan, Jr., of the Eastern District of Kentucky; Michael B. Stuart, of the Southern District of West Virginia; and Benjamin C. Glassman, of the Southern District of Ohio, along with representatives from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), state and local law enforcement and prosecutors, and other law enforcement partners announced the formation of a law enforcement working group, to enhance joint efforts to combat violent crime and drug trafficking in the Kentucky, West Virginia, and Ohio Tri-State area.
The working group met for the first time on February 9, 2018, in Ashland.
The collaboration is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s enhanced Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, a crime reduction program incorporating long-standing law enforcement partnerships to help produce a long-term, meaningful reduction in violent crime. PSN is a comprehensive approach to public safety, one that includes prevention, enforcement, and reentry efforts.
The working group will focus its efforts on individuals responsible for violent crimes and significant drug trafficking activities in the area. As part of the collaborative partnership, members of ATF, FBI, DEA, and state and local law enforcement personnel will meet regularly to share intelligence, and to review cases about the most dangerous offenders in the area, including those cases in which the offender’s conduct involves possession or use of a firearm. The cases will be evaluated to ensure that the most appropriate penalties will be applied to the offenders, whether in federal or state court. The ultimate goal of the collaboration is to reduce violent crime and access to illegal drugs, and make the Tri-State safer.
“As Attorney General Sessions has confirmed, combatting violent crime, reducing access to drugs, and partnering with state and local law enforcement efforts are top priorities for the Department of Justice,” said U.S. Attorney Duncan. “By working together to investigate and prosecute the most dangerous individuals in the Tristate, we are sending a clear message that we will protect our communities against those who do them harm. If you are using firearms to commit acts of violence or illegally selling drugs – especially those that cause an overdose death – you are on notice: your conduct will not be tolerated; and if it continues, you risk arrest, prosecution, and the forfeiture of your freedom.”
“The good people of the Tri-State and good cities like Huntington, Ashland, Ironton and Portsmouth, have paid too high a price because of violent crime and the drug scourge. Effective partnerships, sharing resources and intelligence, and aggressive enforcement are the best offense to defeat those that bring chaos and despair to our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Stuart. “Now is the time to take our streets back from violent offenders and drug dealers that cause havoc. We are committed to working together as true partners in this fight to reduce violent crime, protect our citizens, and put dangerous criminals behind bars for as long as possible.”
“State lines don’t stop criminals from committing violence in our communities, so they shouldn’t stop our law enforcement efforts, either,” U.S. Attorney Glassman said. “Today’s announcement highlights our dedication to working together across governmental levels and geographic boundaries to get the job done.”
Today’s announcement follows U.S. Attorney General Sessions’s directives to federal law enforcement and prosecutors, to reinvigorate the Project Safe Neighborhoods Program in an effort to reduce rising violent crime in America, and to combat access to illegal drugs, particularly opiates and opioids.
U.S. Attorneys Announce Initiative to Combat Violent Crime and Drug Trafficking in Tri-State AreaRead the Press Release
ASHLAND, Ky. – Today, the three United States Attorneys for the Tristate area: Robert M. Duncan, Jr., of the Eastern District of Kentucky; Michael B. Stuart, of the Southern District of West Virginia; and Benjamin C. Glassman, of the Southern District of Ohio, along with representatives from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), state and local law enforcement and prosecutors, and other law enforcement partners announced the formation of a law enforcement working group, to enhance joint efforts to combat violent crime and drug trafficking in the Kentucky, West Virginia, and Ohio Tri-State area.
The working group met for the first time on February 9, 2018, in Ashland.
The collaboration is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s enhanced Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, a crime reduction program incorporating long-standing law enforcement partnerships to help produce a long-term, meaningful reduction in violent crime. PSN is a comprehensive approach to public safety, one that includes prevention, enforcement, and reentry efforts.
The working group will focus its efforts on individuals responsible for violent crimes and significant drug trafficking activities in the area. As part of the collaborative partnership, members of ATF, FBI, DEA, and state and local law enforcement personnel will meet regularly to share intelligence, and to review cases about the most dangerous offenders in the area, including those cases in which the offender’s conduct involves possession or use of a firearm. The cases will be evaluated to ensure that the most appropriate penalties will be applied to the offenders, whether in federal or state court. The ultimate goal of the collaboration is to reduce violent crime and access to illegal drugs, and make the Tri-State safer.
“As Attorney General Sessions has confirmed, combatting violent crime, reducing access to drugs, and partnering with state and local law enforcement efforts are top priorities for the Department of Justice,” said U.S. Attorney Duncan. “By working together to investigate and prosecute the most dangerous individuals in the Tristate, we are sending a clear message that we will protect our communities against those who do them harm. If you are using firearms to commit acts of violence or illegally selling drugs – especially those that cause an overdose death – you are on notice: your conduct will not be tolerated; and if it continues, you risk arrest, prosecution, and the forfeiture of your freedom.”
“The good people of the Tristate and good cities like Huntington, Ashland, Ironton and Portsmouth, have paid too high a price because of violent crime and the drug scourge. Effective partnerships, sharing resources and intelligence, and aggressive enforcement are the best offense to defeat those that bring chaos and despair to our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Stuart. “Now is the time to take our streets back from violent offenders and drug dealers that cause havoc. We are committed to working together as true partners in this fight to reduce violent crime, protect our citizens, and put dangerous criminals behind bars for as long as possible.”
“State lines don’t stop criminals from committing violence in our communities, so they shouldn’t stop our law enforcement efforts, either,” U.S. Attorney Glassman said. “Today’s announcement highlights our dedication to working together across governmental levels and geographic boundaries to get the job done.”
Today’s announcement follows U.S. Attorney General Sessions’s directives to federal law enforcement and prosecutors, to reinvigorate the Project Safe Neighborhoods Program in an effort to reduce rising violent crime in America, and to combat access to illegal drugs, particularly opiates and opioids.
– END –
Two Defendants Charged in Manhattan Federal Court with Sex Trafficking and Other OffensesRead the Press Release
Geoffrey S. Berman, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, William F. Sweeney Jr., the Assistant Director-in-Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), and James P. O’Neill, the Commissioner of the New York City Police Department (“NYPD”), announced the arrests of LAVELLEOUS PURCELL, a/k/a “King Casino,” a/k/a “Mike Hill,” and GLORIA PALMER, a/k/a “Gloria Hearn.” PURCELL is charged with sex trafficking and related offenses. PALMER is charged with conspiracy to use interstate commerce to promote PURCELL’s illegal sex trafficking activity. PURCELL was presented Friday in Manhattan federal court before United States Magistrate Judge Stewart D. Aaron and detained. PALMER was presented Friday in federal court in Rochester and released on bail. The case has been assigned to United States District Judge Denise L. Cote.
Manhattan U.S. Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman said: “As alleged, Lavelleous Purcell’s conduct was exploitive, forcing women to engage in sex for money, and keeping the money for himself. Thanks to the FBI and NYPD, Purcell and his alleged accomplice, Gloria Palmer, are in custody.”
FBI Assistant Director-in-Charge William F. Sweeney Jr. said: “The subject in this case allegedly forced women to have sex for money. Our FBI agents and law enforcement partner detectives won’t ever stop pursuing pimps who profit from using women not as human beings, but as objects and as a way to make money. However, the practice isn’t going to ever go away unless the demand goes away. We ask anyone with information about this case, or any other situation they suspect may be human trafficking, to call us.”
According to the Indictment unsealed today in Manhattan federal court,[1] and statements made in court during the defendants’ presentments:
For the past several years, PURCELL has worked as a sex trafficker and pimp under the alias “King Casino.” From 2012 to 2016, PURCELL trafficked women, forcing them to engage in commercial sex, for which he was paid. Since at least 2015, PURCELL has recruited women to travel in interstate commerce to engage in prostitution and has transported women across state lines to engage in prostitution. PALMER used the facilities of interstate commerce to promote the prostitution business by booking hotel rooms for PURCELL and the women.
To date, law enforcement agents have identified over 50 women who appear to have engaged in commercial sex at PURCELL’s direction.
PALMER assisted in PURCELL’s sex trafficking business by, among other things, booking hotel rooms for PURCELL and the women he trafficked, for which PURCELL paid PALMER a monthly fee.
* * *
The charges in the Indictment against LAVELLEOUS PURCELL, 39, of Hempstead, New York, and GLORIA PALMER, 26, of Rochester, New York, are included in the chart below. The maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants will be determined by the judge.
Any individuals who believe they have information that may be relevant to the investigation should contact the FBI at 1-212-384-1000 or https://tips.fbi.gov/.
Mr. Berman thanked the FBI and NYPD for their outstanding investigative work in this matter. Mr. Berman also thanked the New York County District Attorney’s Office for its assistance with this investigation.
This case is being handled by the Office’s General Crimes Unit. Assistant United States Attorney Sheb Swett is in charge of the prosecution.
The charges and allegations contained in the Indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
[1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Indictment and the description of the Indictment set forth below constitute only allegations and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.
Three Defendants Charged in White Plains Federal Court with New City Armed RobberyRead the Press Release
Geoffrey S. Berman, United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, William F. Sweeney Jr., Assistant Director-in-Charge of the New York Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), and Raymond McCullagh, Chief of the Clarkstown Police Department, announced today the filing of a complaint charging three defendants with robbing a KeyBank branch located in New City, New York, on February 9, 2018. Two of the defendants were also charged with brandishing a firearm during the robbery. All three defendants were taken into custody on February 9, 2018, shortly after the robbery, and were presented in White Plains federal court the following morning before United States Magistrate Judge Lisa M. Smith.
U.S. Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman said: “As alleged, Jason Parris and Demetrice Young, wearing masks, robbed a bank while brandishing a gun. Then after threatening the bank employees, they made their way to Iyibia Brown, who was driving the getaway car. They didn’t make it far, however, before law enforcement arrested all three.”
FBI Assistant Director-in-Charge William F. Sweeney Jr. said: “This case is the perfect example of great police work. The alleged robbers put customers’ and employees’ lives in danger by flashing a gun, and vaulting the counter during the robbery, but they didn’t get far. The FBI Westchester Safe Streets Gang Task Force wants to thank our law enforcement partners at the Clarkstown Police Department and the fast action they took to get armed criminals off the streets.”
Clarkstown Police Chief Raymond McCullagh said: “This arrest was a direct result of the entire law enforcement community working together to ensure the public's safety and to bring these suspects to justice.”
As alleged in the complaint filed on February 10, 2018, in White Plains federal court[1]:
On February 9, 2018, JASON PARRIS, DEMETRICE YOUNG, and IYIBIA BROWN conspired to rob, and did rob, a branch of KeyBank, located at 270 Little Tor Road, New City, New York. PARRIS and YOUNG entered the bank in masks and, using a firearm, threatened numerous bank employees. PARRIS and YOUNG then fled the bank on foot with cash taken from the bank, meeting up with BROWN, who then drove PARRIS and YOUNG away from the scene of the robbery. PARRIS, YOUNG, and BROWN were apprehended by law enforcement shortly thereafter. Money from the bank was found on PARRIS and in the car, and a firearm was found in the car, as well.
* * *
PARRIS, 34, of Nyack, New York, YOUNG, 27, of Spring Valley, New York, and BROWN, 24, of Monsey, New York, are each charged with one count of bank robbery conspiracy, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, and one count of bank robbery, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. In addition, PARRIS and YOUNG are each charged with one count of brandishing a firearm during the robbery, which carries a maximum sentence of life in prison and a mandatory minimum sentence of seven years in prison. The statutory maximum penalties are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencings of the defendants would be determined by the judge.
Mr. Berman praised the outstanding, coordinated investigative work of the FBI, the Clarkstown Police Department, the Ramapo Police Department, the Rockland County Sheriff’s Department, and the New York State Police.
This case is being handled by the Office’s White Plains Division. Assistant United States Attorney Celia V. Cohen is in charge of the prosecution.
The charges contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
[1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Indictments and the descriptions of the Indictments set forth below constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.
Sisseton Woman Charged with Misprision of a FelonyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sisseton, South Dakota, woman was indicted by a federal grand jury for Misprision of a Felony on August 16, 2016.
Tylynn St. John, age 25, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on February 5, 2018, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 3 years of custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 5 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on or about June 10, 2014, St. John failed to report a crime of which she had knowledge, to the proper authorities. St. John and another are alleged to have witnessed an assault resulting in serious bodily injury and failing to report, or help seek aid, for a victim who ultimately died of her injuries.
The charge is merely an accusation and St. John is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley is prosecuting the case.
St. John was released pending trial, which has been set for April 10, 2018.
Shell Chemical LP to Install $10 Million in Pollution Monitoring and Control Equipment at Norco Chemical Facility in Louisiana to Resolve Alleged Federal and State Clean Air ViolationsRead the Press Release
The Department of Justice, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (LDEQ) announced a settlement today with Shell Chemical LP that each year will eliminate more than 150 tons of excess emissions of harmful air pollutants from Shell’s chemical plant located in Norco, Louisiana, in St. Charles Parish. The settlement resolves allegations that Shell violated the Clean Air Act and State law by failing to properly operate industrial flares at the facility.
The settlement, in the form of a Consent Decree, will require Shell to spend approximately $10 million to install and operate air pollution control and monitoring technology to reduce harmful air pollution from four industrial flares at the Norco plant. Once fully implemented, the pollution controls required by the settlement are estimated to reduce air emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) by approximately 159 tons per year, and reduce other harmful air pollutants, including benzene, by approximately 18 tons per year.
“We are proud to partner with the State of Louisiana on this important Clean Air Act settlement, which will benefit the citizens of Louisiana,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Jeffrey H. Wood of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “This agreement is the latest in EPA’s and the Justice Department’s continuing efforts to work with our state partners to protect the American public from harmful air pollution.”
“This settlement will improve air quality for citizens of Louisiana by reducing emissions of harmful air pollution,” said EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt. “Today’s agreement demonstrates EPA’s dedication to working with states to pursue violations of laws that are critical to protecting public health and bring companies into compliance.”
“We are committed to working hand-in-hand with our federal partners to reduce air pollution in Louisiana,” said LDEQ Secretary Dr. Chuck Carr Brown. “Actions like this one not only serve to clean up the air our citizens breathe, they send a message that we will not tolerate violations of federal or state laws.”
VOCs and benzene can seriously harm public health. VOCs are a key component in the formation of smog or ground-level ozone, a pollutant that irritates the lungs, exacerbates diseases such as asthma, and can increase susceptibility to respiratory illnesses, such as pneumonia and bronchitis. Chronic exposure to benzene, which EPA classifies as a carcinogen, can cause numerous health impacts, including leukemia and adverse reproductive effects in women.
The settlement agreement will reduce flaring and improve Shell’s flaring practices, reducing emissions at the facility. Industrial flares burn waste gases that otherwise would be released to the atmosphere. Well-operated flares have high “combustion efficiency,” meaning they burn nearly all the harmful components in the waste gas, including VOCs and hazardous air pollutants, turning them into water and carbon dioxide.
Under the consent decree, Shell will take steps to minimize the amount of waste gas sent to the flares. Shell will also operate a flare gas recovery system at the facility, which will save the company money by allowing it to use waste gas as fuel; this waste gas would otherwise be sent to the facility’s flares. In addition, by installing and maintaining state-of-the-art monitoring and control technology at its flares, Shell will ensure that the flares are operated at a high combustion efficiency. Finally, Shell will install and maintain monitoring equipment to detect air pollution along the facility fence line and publish the monitoring results on a public website. Shell will also pay civil penalties totaling $350,000, including $87,500 for LDEQ.
The consent decree, lodged in the Eastern District Court of Louisiana, is subject to a 30-day federal public comment period, a 45-day State public comment period, and final court approval. The consent decree will be available for viewing at https://www.justice.gov/enrd/consent-decrees.
Sacramento Man Pleads Guilty to Arsons in Long-Running Arson Fraud Scheme and Is Sentenced to 30 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — On February 10, 2018, Jamal Shehadeh, 59, of Sacramento, pleaded guilty to two counts of arson to commit a felony in furtherance of a long-running arson and insurance fraud scheme and was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Morrison C. England Jr. to 30 years in prison, U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott announced.
“Jamal Shehadeh avoided prosecution for decades as he set fire after fire with complete disregard for the lives of anyone nearby including firefighters,” U.S. Attorney Scott stated. “Shehadeh’s time committing the violent crime of arson and insurance fraud for the purpose of enriching himself has come to an end thanks to the hard work of all the federal law enforcement agencies that investigated and assisted with this case, and the local Sacramento authorities who provided tremendous assistance.”
“Jamal Shehadeh intentionally set fires, which threatened the lives and safety of our community members. The FBI is proud to have partnered with the Sacramento Fire Department, Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District, and our federal partners to investigate the allegations against Shehadeh to ensure justice was served,” said Special Agent in Charge Sean Ragan of the FBI Sacramento Field Office. “The length of Shehadeh’s sentence highlights the seriousness of his admitted crimes and ensures he will not pose a threat to the community for decades.”
“Jamal Shehadeh was a serial arsonist who profited over and over again while concealing those profits through nominees and other means,” said Michael T. Batdorf, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation. “The scheme netted Shehadeh and his co-defendants over $1.5 million in insurance proceeds while endangering members of the community. Those who line their pockets with profits from these schemes should know that IRS Criminal Investigation will continue to use our financial investigative expertise and work with our great law enforcement partners to bring them to justice.”
According to court documents, from at least December 2009 through September 2013, Jamal Shehadeh participated in an arson fraud scheme with co-defendants Saber Shehadeh and Brian Stone and others. The scheme involved seven fires at six different commercial building locations in Sacramento and Carmichael. The dates and locations of the fires, and the names of businesses at those locations, are as follows:
- 1007 E Street and 427 10th St., Sacramento — December 27, 2009
- George’s Auto Care, 511 Broadway, Sacramento — June 9, 2010
- Tru Value Market, 427 10th St., Sacramento — August 15, 2010
- Galaxy Sacramento, 6964 65th St., Sacramento — April 23, 2012
- Escape Therapy, 5725 Marconi Avenue, Carmichael — September 24, 2012
- Cobblestone Café, 910 University Avenue, Sacramento — October 15, 2012
- Golden Star Auto Supply, LLC, 2764 Fulton Avenue, Sacramento — June 16, 2013
Jamal Shehadeh pleaded guilty to setting or causing to be set the fires at 910 University Avenue on October 15, 2012, and the fire at 2764 Fulton Avenue on June 16, 2013, for the purpose of carrying out insurance fraud. He also admitted to setting or causing to be set the fire on December 27, 2009, at 10th and E Streets in Sacramento, and the fire at 6964 65th Street in Sacramento on April 23, 2012, as a part of the arson and insurance fraud scheme.
According to court documents, the scheme involved numerous forms of fraud, including false statements when acquiring insurance policies, causing damage by fire, and seeking funds from insurance companies using false statements about the cause of the fires, the property and tenant improvements purported to have been damaged in the fire, lost business income resulting from the fires, and the true nature of the entities involved in the demolition and clean-up, as well as the actual clean-up costs. In some cases, the participants used a company named Wolf & Associates Construction Inc. to pursue insurance claims for demolition and cleanup costs while concealing their relation to it, or used Wolf Construction as a front company purporting to do cleanup that was in fact performed by someone else. Jamal Shehadeh meanwhile controlled a bank account associated with Wolf Construction.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and IRS Criminal Investigation, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Sacramento Fire Department; the Sacramento Metropolitan Fire Department; and the Sacramento Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael D. Anderson and Christopher S. Hales prosecuted the case.
Defendant Jamal Shehadeh is in custody. Co-defendants Saber Shehadeh and Brian Stone are pending trial. The charges against Saber Shehadeh and Brian Stone are only allegations; they are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Rockford Man Sentenced to More Than 12 Years in Federal Prison for Cocaine and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
ROCKFORD — A Rockford man was sentenced today in federal court by U.S. District Judge Frederick J. Kapala for possessing cocaine with the intent to distribute it and possessing a firearm as a convicted felon on April 8, 2016.
RYAN A. PANCYRZ, 29, was sentenced to 12 years and seven months in federal prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. Pancyrz pleaded guilty to the charge on Nov. 6, 2017.
According to the written plea agreement, on April 8, 2016, Pancyrz, a convicted felon, possessed a loaded .32-caliber revolver and 49 plastic baggies of cocaine at a residence on South Fifth Street in Rockford. In the plea agreement, he admitted that he intended to sell the cocaine. He further admitted that he possessed other items associated with drug distribution, including a digital scale, two bottles of Inositol, a vitamin supplement used to dilute controlled substances, and $666 in cash. Pancyrz was arrested by Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office deputies at the residence on South Fifth Street on April 8, 2016, and has remained in custody since his arrest.
The sentencing was announced by John R. Lausch, Jr., United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois; Celinez Nunez, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Division of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives; Joseph Bruscato, Winnebago County State’s Attorney; and Gary Caruana, Winnebago County Sheriff.
The government was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph C. Pedersen.
Providence Couple Indicted for Trafficking CocaineRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE, RI – A Providence couple has been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges they allegedly participated in a conspiracy to smuggle significant quantities of cocaine from the Dominican Republic into Rhode Island. The indictment, returned on February 8, 2017, and unsealed by the Court on February 9, charges Victor Lopez, 42, and Johanna Liranzo, 37, with conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute over 500 grams of cocaine and possession with the intent to distribute over 500 grams of cocaine.
The indictment is announced by United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch; Colonel Ann C. Assumpico, Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police; Shelly A. Binkowski, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), Boston Division; and Michael S. Shea, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) for New England.
According to court documents, it is alleged that on January 22, 2018, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers conducting enforcement examinations of U.S. mail shipped from the Dominican Republic through the JFK International Airport Mail Facility discovered a heavily taped express mail parcel addressed to a residence in Providence, R.I. Inside the package, CBP officers discovered two metal cylinders. Agents drilled holes in the cylinders and found them to be tightly packed with a white powdery substance, which tested positive for cocaine.
On January 29, 2018, law enforcement agents and officers from the U.S. Postal Service and the Rhode Island State Police High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force established surveillance of the Providence address to which the package was addressed for delivery. They also began surveilling a vehicle seen repeatedly driving around the area of the residence, which appeared to be employing counter-surveillance measures. The package was delivered to the residence by a USPIS Inspector, operating in an undercover capacity. It is alleged that the package was accepted by Johanna Liranzo.
About 90 minutes after the package was delivered, and while members of the HIDTA Task Force were executing a court authorized search of the residence, a separate team of HIDTA Task Force members located and stopped the vehicle seen employing counter-surveillance measures in the area of the residence. The driver of the vehicle, Victor Lopez, and a passenger, Johanna Liranzo, were detained pending the investigation. Liranzo was found to be carrying a key to a storage unit located in Pawtucket.
According to court documents, an HSI agent located the storage unit and obtained surveillance video from the storage facility. The video allegedly showed the same vehicle which was seen employing counter-surveillance measures in the area of the residence arriving and departing from the storage unit to which Lopez and Liranzo had keys. A narcotics detection dog gave a positive response to the presence of narcotics at the storage unit. A court authorized search of the storage unit by HIDTA Task Force members and USPIS agents resulted in the seizure of three metal cylinders, two of which were found to have drill holes placed in them by CBP officers in New York. Also seized from inside the storage unit were four compressed cellophane packages containing a total of more than a kilogram of cocaine. Law enforcement also seized personal papers belonging to Lopez and Liranzo.
An indictment is merely an allegation 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.
Victor Lopez has been detained in federal custody since his arrest and initial appearance in U.S. District Court on February 6, on a criminal complaint brought in this matter. He is scheduled to be arraigned on the indictment today. Johanna Liranzo was released on unsecured bond at her arraignment on Friday before U.S. District Court Magistrate Judge Patricia A. Sullivan.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Zechariah Chaffee.
###
Prattville Man Convicted of Sex Trafficking of a MinorRead the Press Release
Montgomery, Alabama – On Thursday, February 8, 2018, Michael Graham Lowe, 25, of Prattville, Alabama, was found guilty by a federal jury of sex trafficking of a minor and conspiracy to commit sex trafficking, announced United States Attorney Louis V. Franklin Sr.
Previously, a federal grand jury returned an indictment against Lowe and his co-defendant, Joshua David Rose, after hearing evidence that the two recruited, enticed, and transported a minor victim knowing that the victim was under the age of 18 years and would be engaging in a commercial sex act. Joshua Rose, 29, also from Prattville, pled guilty to sex trafficking of a minor in August 2017.
According to evidence presented at the four-day trial, Lowe was friends with the 17-year-old minor victim and in May 2016, he introduced the victim to co-defendant Rose at a motel in Montgomery. On May 24 and 25, 2016, Rose took photographs of the victim and placed an ad on the classified advertising website Backpage.com. Lowe and Rose transported the minor victim to perform commercial sex acts in Montgomery and the surrounding areas and stood guard outside during the acts. Rose and Lowe used the money earned by the minor victim to purchase illegal narcotics. On May 26, 2016, the victim became upset and refused to perform further commercial sex acts. Lowe then transported the victim from the motel leaving her at a local residence. After hearing the evidence presented at trial, the jury found Lowe guilty of both counts in the federal indictment.
For the sex trafficking of a minor charge, Lowe faces a minimum of 10 years and a maximum of life in prison. For the conspiracy to commit sex trafficking, Lowe faces up to life in prison. Lowe is in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending a sentencing hearing, which has not yet been scheduled.
“These human traffickers prostituted a child in order to have the money to feed their drug habit,” stated U.S. Attorney Franklin. “We will not allow the children of this District to be preyed-upon, prostituted and used by predators. This office will continue to use all resources necessary to take these criminals off the streets and ensure the safety of our children.”
“The Prattville Police Department is very thankful for the working relationship we have with the U.S Attorney’s Office and all the agencies involved in this case,” stated Prattville Police Chief Mark Thompson. “This should send a strong message to the criminal element committing these types of crime that we will find them and put them away. We are very proud of our Criminal Intelligence Unit for the effort put into this case. It shows that the Prattville PD is proactive and we will continue to develop better ways to combat crime.”
“Human trafficking is a horrific crime that traps its victims in a life of misery and abuse,” said Attorney General Steve Marshall. “This conviction is the result of a long and painstaking investigation by agents and officers who cared deeply about the harm being caused to the young victim, and were determined to stop this from happening to her and to others. I am thankful for the diligence of the Prattville Police Department, which initiated this case, working with agents of the Alabama Attorney General’s Office and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and assisted by the Montgomery Police Department. I also want to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office for its successful prosecution to bring this criminal to justice. As Alabama’s Attorney General, I am committed to continue this kind of cooperative and dedicated teamwork among agencies, which is the key to making our state a safer place.”
“HSI will tirelessly work to investigate and bring to justice anyone who thinks they can get away with preying upon our children for their sexual gratification,” said Homeland Security Investigations Acting Special Agent in Charge Thomas M. Annello. “This case highlights the exceptional commitment and devotion of the men and women who pursue the perpetrators of these depraved crimes every day.”
This case was jointly investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, the Prattville Police Department, and the Alabama Attorney General’s Office, with assistance from the United States Marshal’s Service and Montgomery Police Department.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Hollie Worley Reed of the Middle District of Alabama and Trial Attorney Leslie Williams Fisher of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section.
Papillion Man Sentenced to 66 Months for Receiving Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Acting United States Attorney Robert C. Stuart announced that Justin Haynes, 31, was sentenced today in federal court in Omaha for receiving child pornography. The Honorable Laurie Smith Camp sentenced Haynes to a 66-month term of imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After his release from prison, Haynes will begin a five-year term of supervised release and be required to register as a sex offender.
A federal search warrant was executed on Haynes’s Papillion residence on February 28, 2017. Haynes admitted to downloading and saving videos of child pornography. Several videos were of children under the age of 8 and some under the age of 5 engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
This case was investigated by the Omaha FBI's Cyber Crime Task Force (CCTF).
Oshkosh Drug Dealer Receives 20 Years in Federal Prison for Overdose DeathRead the Press Release
Gregory J. Haanstad, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on February 8, 2018, Anthony R. Chaplin (age: 41) of Oshkosh, Wisconsin, was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for his distribution of fentanyl and methamphetamine to an Appleton woman, Joy Strader, resulting in her death in May of 2017.
Chaplin admitted dealing what he believed to be heroin to the victim on numerous occasions. The heroin was, unbeknownst to Chaplin and the victim, an especially potent form of fentanyl. At the same time he sold the fatal dose of fentanyl, Chaplin also sold the victim methamphetamine. The combination of fentanyl and methamphetamine were determined to be the cause of death according to the medical examiner’s findings.
In pronouncing sentence, Chief U.S. District Court Judge William C. Griesbach noted the serious nature of Chaplin’s crime and the negative effect that fentanyl and methamphetamine has had on the community. He found that Chaplin was aware of the inherent dangers of distributing illegal substances, but continued to do so despite the risk to others. Following his release from prison, Chaplin will serve 5 years on federal supervised release.
The case was investigated by the Appleton Police Department and the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Daniel R. Humble prosecuted the case.
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Norwalk Man Sentenced to Prison for Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that RYAN S. ROZYCKI, 41, of Norwalk, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to six months of imprisonment, followed by two years of supervised release, for tax evasion. Judge Shea also ordered ROZYCKI to pay a $50,000 fine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, ROZYCKI owns and operates bangthebook.com, a sports gaming information website, as well as other website businesses and rental properties. For the 2009 through 2014 tax years, ROZYCKI reported more than $1.6 million in gross receipts on his federal income tax returns, but failed to report more than $1.1 million in taxable income, which he had deposited into his personal bank accounts. ROZYCKI had worked with an accountant to prepare his tax returns, but did not provide his accountant with any information regarding his personal accounts and the business receipts that had been deposited into them.
As a result, ROZYCKI failed to pay more than $300,000 in federal income taxes.
ROZYCKI has paid full restitution of $336,780 to the IRS. He also will be required to pay interest and penalties.
On September 20, 2017, ROZYCKI pleaded guilty to one count of tax evasion.
Judge Shea ordered ROZYCKI, who is released on a $100,000 bond, to report to prison on April 30, 2018.
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael S. McGarry.
Northeast Ohio Man Charged with Buying Gun for Convicted Felon who Killed Westerville Police OfficersRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, Ohio – Gerald A. Lawson III, 30, of Warrensville Heights, Ohio, was charged by criminal complaint for allegedly acting as a straw purchaser for Quentin L. Smith, a convicted felon who shot and killed two Westerville Police Officers on February 10.
Lawson was charged with aiding and abetting the possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. He was arrested today by federal agents and is scheduled to appear before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kimberly A. Jolson today at 3:30pm.
Benjamin C. Glassman, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, and Trevor Velinor, Special Agent in Charge, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) announced the charges.
According to the affidavit filed in support of the complaint, when Westerville Police Officers Anthony Morelli and Eric Joering responded to a disturbance call on Cross Wind Drive in Westerville, Smith was armed with a Glock semi-automatic handgun.
As a convicted felon, Smith is prohibited from purchasing or possessing a firearm.
An undisclosed witness told investigators Smith provided Lawson money for the firearm and an extra $100 to compensate Lawson – who knew Smith had been convicted of a felony – for buying the gun for him.
Investigators learned that Lawson and Smith have a long history of friendship. A review of Lawson’s social media account after the incident on February 10 revealed a post by Lawson displaying three photographs of both of the men together. A comment by Lawson associated with the post also referenced the long-standing friendship between the two.
Firearm trace results indicate the Glock firearm was purchased by Lawson in Broadview Heights, Ohio.
Aiding and abetting the possession of a firearm by a prohibited person is a federal crime punishable by up to 10 years in prison.
U.S. Attorney Glassman commended the investigation of this case by ATF, and Assistant United States Attorney Noah R. Litton, who is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint merely contains allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
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North Tonawanda Man Pleads Guilty to Child Pornography 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 Scott Myers, 26 of North Tonawanda, NY, pleaded guilty to receipt of child pornography, before Senior U.S. District Judge William M. Skretny. The charge carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of 20 years and a fine of $250,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango, who is handling the case, stated that in November 2013, the defendant met a 14-year-old female (Victim), on an internet dating site and the two eventually began communicating via text messaging on Kik and Skype. The communications, which were sexually explicit in nature, included Myers requesting sexually explicit phots from the Victim which she sent and he stored on a thumb drive. A subsequent analysis of the thumb drive revealed approximately nine images of child pornography depicting the Victim. Myers was aware that the Victim was a minor at the time she sent the sexually explicit images. The defendant also engaged in online sexual communications with another minor, a 13-year-old female using Kik and text messages.
In addition to the thumb drive, the defendant also possessed other electronic media, which contained child pornography, including a cellular telephone, two laptop computers, and a tablet.
The plea is the result of an investigation by agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, at the direction of Kevin P. Lyons, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge, the Cheektowaga Police Department, under the direction of Chief David Zack, and the Blasdell Police Department, under the direction of Lieutenant Joseph Gramaglia.
Sentencing is scheduled for May 23, 2018, at 10:00 a.m. before Judge Skretny.Natick Man Charged with Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Natick man was arrested and charged today in federal court in Boston with distribution and possession of child pornography.
Francis Castellino, 19, was charged with one count of distribution of child pornography, and one count of possession of child pornography. Castellino remains in custody, after agreeing to voluntary detention during an appearance before Magistrate Judge Marianne B. Bowler.
According to court records, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Castellino’s Natick home as part of an ongoing investigation into the online trade of child pornography through the use of Kik messenger. During the search, Castellino admitted to acting as a moderator of a Kik chat group dedicated to trading images and videos of child pornography with other Kik users. Preliminary on-scene forensic analysis of Castellino’s cell phone confirmed his admissions.
The charge of distribution of child pornography provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and up to 20 years in prison. The charge of possession of child pornography provides for a sentence of no greater than 10 years in prison. Both charges also provide for a mandatory minimum of five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling and Michael Shea, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations, made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anne Paruti and Sandra S. Bower, of Lelling’s Major Crimes Unit, are prosecuting the case.
The case is brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov/.
Myrtle Beach Man Charged in Federal Indictment for Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute OxycodoneRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ----- United States Attorney Beth Drake announced today that Leroy Anthony Griffin, age 30, of Myrtle Beach, was charged in a single-count indictment with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute oxycodone. Griffin faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison and a fine of $1,000,000.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration Tactical Diversion Squad and the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, assisted by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, the Drug Enforcement Administration Florence Office, and the Fifteenth Circuit Drug Enforcement Unit. The case is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Lauren Hummel of the Florence office for prosecution.
The United States Attorney stated that all charges in this Indictment are merely accusations and that the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Moncks Corner Man Sentenced to 210 months for Possession of Child Pornography Involving Prepubescent MinorsRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that Kenneth Wayne Richardson, age 36, of Moncks Corner, South Carolina was sentenced in federal court in Charleston, South Carolina, for Possession of Child Pornography involving Prepubescent Minors, a violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2252A(a)(5)(B). United States District Judge David C. Norton, of Charleston, sentenced Richardson to 210 months (17.5 years), $8,500 restitution, and supervised release for life.
Evidence presented at the change of plea hearing established that on two different occasions Richardson posted web-links containing child pornography videos to internet chat rooms. Law enforcement agents traced the postings to internet protocol (IP) addresses associated with Richardson. Agents executed a search warrant at Richardson’s residence and seized a computer tablet belonging to Richardson that contained multiple images of child pornography. Richardson admitted that he possessed child pornography, including on his internet “cloud” account. He also admitted to posting web-links to chat rooms. Agents also executed a search warrant on Richardson’s internet “cloud” account and discovered over 4,000 images and 3,000 videos containing child pornography. These images and videos included adults engaged in sexual acts with prepubescent minors as well as sadistic and masochistic conduct.
The case was investigated by agents of ICE-Homeland Security Investigations. The Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office assisted in the execution of the residential search warrant. Assistant United States Attorney Dean H. Secor of the Charleston office prosecuted the case.
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.usdoj.gov/psc For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
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Mexican national pleads guilty to immigration crimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Mexican national pled guilty today to an immigration crime, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Nahum Ortiz-Perez, also known as Oscar Marin-Trujillo, 30, entered his guilty plea to illegally reentering the United States. U.S. Attorney Stuart commended the investigative efforts of the Milton Police Department and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
“We are a nation of laws. Free sanctuary should never be provided to those that illegally enter our country,” said U.S. Attorney Stuart. “We will continue to prosecute individuals who illegally jump ahead of those following the rules and abiding by our immigration laws – laws that provide for critical immigration and protect American citizens.”
On December 3, 2017, Ortiz-Perez was spotted acting suspiciously in Milton in Cabell County near an auto repair shop. Milton Police Officers approached Ortiz-Perez, and he offered them a Mexican voter registration card as an identification document. The officers immediately contacted ICE agents, who responded to the scene, confirmed that Ortiz-Perez was not in the United States legally, and took him into custody.
Ortiz-Perez’s fingerprints matched him to a 2013 Idaho felony drug conviction. After his felony sentence in Idaho was discharged, Ortiz-Perez was deported from the United States. He reentered the United States in 2014, and was captured in Douglas, Arizona. Ortiz-Perez was again deported, and sometime afterward he reentered the United States. Ortiz-Perez gave a statement to law enforcement admitting he was not in the United States legally, that he had been deported on two prior occasions, and that he was a Mexican national subject to deportation proceedings. He also admitted to using multiple aliases while in the United States, including Oscar Marin-Trujillo, Wilson Ruiz-Martinez, Earnest Guzman, and Edgar Lucio.
Ortiz-Perez faces up to 10 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on May 14, 2018. He also faces deportation proceedings at the conclusion of his sentence.
Assistant United States Attorney Erik S. Goes is responsible for the prosecution. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the plea hearing.
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Mexican Man Sentenced to 112 Days in Prison for Illegally Returning to the United States Following DeportationRead the Press Release
A Mexican man who had previously been deported following state convictions for domestic abuse and false imprisonment was sentenced today to 112 days in federal prison.
Efren Palacios-Ramirez, age 29, a citizen of Mexico who had been living in Polk County, Iowa, received the prison term after a November 16, 2017, guilty plea to one count of illegal reentry of a removed alien after a felony conviction.
At the guilty plea, Palacios-Ramirez admitted he illegally reentered the United States without permission after having been deported from the United States in December 2012. Prior to his deportation, Palacios-Ramirez was convicted in Polk County, Iowa, of theft 5th degree in April 2012, and of domestic abuse and false imprisonment in October 2012. At the time of his arrest in October 2017, Palacios-Ramirez provided law enforcement a false name and his true identity could not be verified until his fingerprints were analyzed by immigration officials.
Palacios-Ramirez was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge Linda R. Reade. Palacios-Ramirez was sentenced to 112 days’ imprisonment. He must also serve a one-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Palacios-Ramirez is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel C. Tvedt and investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 17-CR-82.
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McLoud Woman Pleads Guilty to Wire FraudRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Ksenia Ura Gubareva, age 38, of McLoud, Oklahoma, pled guilty to Wire Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343, punishable by not more than 30 years imprisonment, up to a $1,000,000.00 fine, or both. A copy of the full indictment can be found online at /media/929731/dl?inline.
The Indictment alleged that from on or about May 23, 2017, through June 9, 2017, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, and others known and unknown to the Grand Jury, conspired to commit offenses against the United States, that is: To obtain money and property by means of materially false pretenses, representations and promises, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1343.The charges arose from an investigation by the Durant Police Department, the District 19 District Attorney’s Office, the Chickasaw Nation Tribal Police, the Choctaw Nation Tribal Police, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, and the United States Secret Service.
United States Attorney Brian J. Kuester said, “This investigation is the result of dedicated law enforcement professionals from local, state, tribal and federal jurisdictions working together to serve and protect our communities. This team effort by many different agencies is a wonderful example of the effectiveness of multi-jurisdictional efforts to investigate criminal activity.”
The Honorable Kimberly E. West, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
Assistant United States Attorney Melody Nelson represented the United States.