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20 March 2018
Corpus Christi Man Convicted of Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas - A 30-year-old Corpus Christi man has admitted he possessed child pornography, announced U.S. Ryan K. Patrick.
In January 2015, law enforcement identified Victor Staples after using peer-to-peer software to successfully download various files containing child pornography from an IP address associated with him. In June 2015, agents executed a search warrant at his residence, at which time they seized various electronic devices. Forensic analysis on those devices revealed more than 420 images and approximately 247 videos child pornography.
Today, the court heard that Staples has stated that he was familiar with peer-to-peer software. He admitted to viewing child pornography as early as November 2014 and estimated he saw approximately 100 files of child pornography on his computer. Staples described to law enforcement that he recalled viewing one image of a nude female child he believed was approximately 11-12 years old.
Sentencing is set before U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzalez Ramos July 20, 2108. At that time, Staples faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine. Upon completion of any prison term imposed, Staples also faces a maximum of life on supervised release during which time the court can impose a number of special conditions designed to protect children and prohibit the use of the internet.
Staples was permitted to remain on bond pending that hearing.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Corpus Christi Police Department’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Hugo R. Martinez is prosecuting the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
Chandler Man Sentenced to 30 Months in Prison for Domestic Assault by Habitual OffenderRead the Press Release
PHOENIX – Yesterday, Frank Lynn Kisto, 60, of Chandler, Ariz., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Douglas L. Rayes to 30 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for assaulting a woman on the Gila River Indian Community. Kisto had previously pleaded guilty to domestic assault by a habitual offender.
Kisto assaulted the victim by punching her in the face in January 2017. Kisto was previously convicted of similar assaults against domestic partners in 1999 and 2009 in tribal court on the Gila River Indian Community. Both Kisto and the victim are enrolled members of the Gila River Indian Community.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Gila River Police Department. The prosecution was handled by Christine Ducat Keller, Assistant U.S. Attorney, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: CR-17-00993-PHX-DLR
RELEASE NUMBER: 2018-029_Kisto
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For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.
Bridgeport Man Sentenced to 2 Years in Prison for Distributing Heroin and FentanylRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JOVANNI REYES, 24, of Bridgeport, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to 24 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for distributing heroin and fentanyl.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in late 2016, Bridgeport Police made three controlled purchases of heroin from REYES. On December 8, 2016, investigators conducted a court-authorized search of REYES’s Voight Avenue residence and seized more than 120 folds of heroin and a loaded 9mm handgun. The firearm had been reported stolen.
Analysis of the seized drugs revealed that some of the folds also contained fentanyl.
REYES has been detained since his federal arrest on January 25, 2017. On October 18, 2017, he pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin.
This matter was investigated by the Bridgeport Police Department, Connecticut State Police, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rahul Kale and Vanessa Richards.
Baytown Man Convicted in Cocaine Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
LUBBOCK, Texas — Following a four-day trial before Senior U.S. District Judge Sam R. Cummings, a federal jury convicted Frederick Allen, 44, of Baytown, Texas, for his role in a drug conspiracy that operated throughout West Texas. U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox of the Northern District of Texas made today’s announcement.
On March 19, 2018, a jury convicted Allen on one count of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and one count of distribution and possession with intent to distribute cocaine. Allen was remanded to custody following the verdict.
The penalties for the offenses is up to thirty years in federal prison and a $2,000,000 fine. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
The government presented evidence at trial that Allen would supply large quantities of cocaine to mid-level dealers, who in turn, would supply street dealers in Abilene, San Angelo, and the surrounding areas. Law enforcement relied on undercover federal agents to infiltrate Allen’s drug trafficking operation. On Sunday, October 22, 2017, federal agents conducted an undercover operation in Baytown, Texas. Frederick Allen and Jesse James Scott drove to the San Jacinto Mall and met with a person they believed to be a high-level drug dealer. In reality, the person they were meeting was an undercover federal agent. After Allen and Scott arrived at the mall in Baytown, the undercover agent purchased a ¼ kilogram of cocaine and approximately 3,000 methamphetamine tablets. The cocaine and methamphetamine tablets had a street value of at least $25,000.
Agents subsequently searched Allen’s residence and found approximately $7,000 in United States currency in various denominations. At trial, Allen told the jury that the money found in his apartment was from an old vehicle that he sold to his mother for $6,000. Allen later admitted that his sister had given him the vehicle for free and that the vehicle was only worth approximately $4,000. Allen also testified that he was not in Baytown during critical times in the conspiracy. However, after confronted with GPS data, phone records, and other evidence, Allen recanted his earlier testimony and admitted that he must have been in Baytown during the times alleged by the Government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration led the investigation and was assisted by the Baytown Police Department, the San Angelo Police Department, and the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Russell Lorfing and Sean Long are prosecuting the case.
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Baltimore Man Indicted for Distribution of Controlled Substances Resulting in DeathRead the Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact ELIZABETH MORSE
www.justice.gov/usao/md at (410) 209-4885
Greenbelt, Maryland – A federal grand jury has indicted Coron Demon Johnson a/k/a “Savage,” age 23, of Baltimore, Maryland, on Distribution of a Controlled Substance with Death Resulting. The indictment was returned on February 21, 2018 and unsealed upon the arrest of Johnson.
The indictment was announced by Acting United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Stephen M. Schenning; Special Agent in Charge Karl C. Colder of the Drug Enforcement Administration – Washington Field Office; and Chief Henry P. Stawinski III of the Prince George’s County Police Department.
According to the indictment, on August 11, 2017, Johnson distributed heroin to an individual, which resulted in an overdose death in Prince George’s County, Maryland.
Johnson faces mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years with a maximum sentence of life in prison if found guilty. Johnson had his initial appearance in front of United States Magistrate Judge Timothy Sullivan in U.S. District Court in Greenbelt on March 19, 2018.
An indictment is not a finding of guilt. An individual charged by indictment is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty at some later criminal proceedings.
Acting United States Attorney Stephen M. Schenning commended the DEA, Prince George’s County Police and the City of Bowie for their work in the investigation. Mr. Schenning thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Erin Pulice and Kelly Hayes, who are prosecuting the case.
Baltimore Felon Exiled to 7 Years in Prison for Possessing A Gun and CocaineRead the Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact ELIZABETH MORSE
www.justice.gov/usao/md at (410) 209-4885
Baltimore, Maryland – United States District Judge Richard D. Bennett sentenced Darius Junior, age 26, of Baltimore, Maryland, today to seven years in prison followed by three years of supervised release for possessing a firearm after a felony conviction and possessing cocaine with the intent to distribute.
The sentence was announced by Acting United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Stephen M. Schenning; Special Agent in Charge Gordon B. Johnson of the FBI- Baltimore Field Office; State’s Attorney Marilyn Mosby of the Baltimore City State’s Attorney’s Office and Commissioner Darryl DeSousa of the Baltimore Police Department.
According to the plea agreement, on February 12, 2016, Baltimore City police made a vehicle stop of a Toyota in the 3300 block of McCulloh Street, just south of Gwynn Falls Parkway. Upon approach, the police could readily detect the odor of marijuana emanating from the Toyota. Junior was in the front passenger seat of the car. During the investigation that ensued, the police observed and seized a .32 caliber revolver tucked in Junior’s waistband area. A search of Junior’s person yielded distributable amounts of cocaine, cash and a .32 caliber bullet. At the time of his arrest, Junior had sustained three felony convictions punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year, including a separate handgun violation and two armed robbery convictions in Baltimore City.
Acting United States Attorney Stephen M. Schenning commended the FBI, Baltimore Police Department and Baltimore City State’s Attorney’s Office for their work in the investigation. Mr. Schenning thanked Assistant United States Attorney Sandra Wilkinson, who prosecuted the case.
Akron jury convicts North Carolina man of conspiring to support ISISRead the Press Release
A Charlotte, North Carolina, man was convicted by a jury in Akron, Ohio, of conspiring to provide material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), a designated foreign terrorist organization.
Erick Jamal Hendricks, 37, will be sentenced at a date to be determined. The guilty verdict was announced by Assistant Attorney General for National Security John C. Demers, U.S. Attorney Justin E. Herdman of the Northern District of Ohio and Special Agent in Charge Stephen D. Anthony of the FBI’s Cleveland Office following a two-week trial before U.S. District Judge John Adams.
“Hendricks used social media to recruit others to plan and carry out attacks on our homeland in the name of ISIS, with the goal of creating a sleeper cell on our soil,” said Assistant Attorney General Demers. “Thanks to the collaborative efforts of law enforcement, Hendricks’ plan was thwarted, and with today’s verdict he is being held accountable for his terrorist activities.”
“This defendant recruited and directed people here in the United States to launch attacks against our citizens, and attempted to recruit others to engage in similar attacks,” U.S. Attorney Herdman said. “Protecting our citizens from terrorist attacks remains our priority and our community will be safer with this defendant behind bars.”
“Erick Jamal Hendricks represents the significant online ISIS threat that we face daily -- a US citizen that becomes radicalized online and attempts to recruit and train individuals to commit jihad, all while on American soil,” Special Agent in Charge Anthony said. “The FBI urges the public to report information regarding individuals pledging their allegiance to ISIS or other identified terrorist groups. The FBI is pleased that Hendricks was stopped before he was successful and now will spend a significant amount of time behind bars.”
According to court documents and trial testimony, Hendricks tried to recruit people to train together and conduct terrorist attacks in the United States on behalf of ISIS.
Amir Al-Ghazi was arrested in the Northern District of Ohio in June 2015 after attempting to purchase an AK-47 assault rifle and ammunition from an undercover law enforcement officer. Al-Ghazi had pledged allegiance to ISIS in social media and made statements expressing interest in conducting attacks in the United States.
Hendricks had contacted Al-Ghazi over social media to recruit him in the spring of 2015. Hendricks allegedly told Al-Ghazi that he “needed people” and wanted to meet in person; that there were several “brothers” located in Texas and Mexico; that he was attempting to “get brothers to meet face to face;” and that he wanted “to get brothers to train together,” according to court documents and trial testimony
Al-Ghazi said Hendricks tested his religious knowledge and commitment, inquiring about his willingness to commit “jihad,” to die as a “martyr” and his desire to enter “jannah” (paradise). Al-Ghazi understood these statements to mean that Hendricks was recruiting people to train together for the purpose of conducting a terrorist attack in the U.S. and to see if Al-Ghazi was suitable for recruitment, according to the allegations. Al-Ghazi believed that Hendricks and the “brothers in Texas and Mexico” may have been responsible for a thwarted terrorist attack in Garland, Texas, on May 3, 2015, and therefore he decided to stay away from social media for a period following the attack to minimize detection by law enforcement.
Hendricks also communicated over social media with several other people, including an undercover FBI employee (UCE-1). Hendricks on April 16, 2015 instructed UCE-1 to download the document “GPS for the Ghuraba in the U.S.”, which included a section entitled “Final Advice” which advocated that “brothers and sisters” should not allow themselves to go to jail. This section also allegedly encouraged Muslims to die as a “Shaheed” (martyr), to “Boobie trap your homes,” to “lay in wait for them” and to “never leave your home without your AK-47 or M16.” Hendricks also directed UCE-1 to communicate online with other people and stated “It’s hard to sift through brothers;” “Allah chooses only the few;” and “Everyday I do this day in and day out,” according to court documents and trial testimony.
Hendricks told another person that his goal was to create a sleeper cell to be trained and housed at a secure compound that would conduct attacks in the United States. He mentioned that potential targets included military members whose information had been released by ISIS and the woman who organized the “Draw Prophet Mohammad contest,” and he claimed to have 10 members signed up for his group, according court documents and trial testimony.
On April 23, 2015, Hendricks used social media to contact Elton Simpson, who, along with Nadir Hamid Soofi, was inspired by ISIS and launched the attack on the “First Annual Muhammad Art Exhibit and Contest” in Garland. Simpson and Soofi opened fire, wounding a security guard, before Garland police returned fire and killed both Simpson and Soofi. Hendricks also connected UCE-1 with Simpson via social media; communicated with UCE-1 about the contest in Garland; and directed UCE-1 to go to the contest. Hendricks said: “If you see that pig (meaning the organizer of the contest) make your ‘voice’ heard against her.” He also asked UCE-1 a series of questions related to security at the event, including: “How big is the gathering?” “How many ppl?” “How many police/agents?” “Do you see feds there?’ “Do you see snipers?” and “How many media?” Shortly thereafter, Simpson and Soofi committed the attack on the cartoon drawing contest.
Al-Ghazi previously pleaded guilty to attempting to provide material support to a designated terrorist organization and being a felon in possession of firearms. He is awaiting sentencing.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew W. Shepherd and Mark S. Bennett and Justice Department Trial Attorney Rebecca Magnone. This case was investigated by the FBI’s offices in Cleveland; Columbia, South Carolina; Baltimore; and Charlotte, North Carolina, with assistance the U.S. Attorney’s Offices in the District of Maryland, District of South Carolina and the Western District of North Carolina.
Advanced Thermal Technologies and CEO Agree to Pay $100,000 for Failing to Account for Federal Research FundsRead the Press Release
Boston – Advanced Thermal Technologies, LLC (ATT), and its President and Chief Operating Officer, James W. Connell, of Upton, Mass., agreed today to pay $100,000 to resolve allegations that they failed to account for a portion of federal research grants they received and that they used a portion of the funds unlawfully.
“This office will take action when grant recipients misuse federal taxpayer money and fail to account for federal research dollars,” said United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling. “There are many deserving researchers who apply for government grants, and it is unacceptable and unethical for scientists to submit falsified information in order to gain a competitive edge.”
Allison Lerner, NSF Inspector General said: “The SBIR program is a valuable tool in advancing NSF’s mission to promote the progress of science by increasing opportunities for small businesses to undertake cutting-edge scientific research, and it is essential to vigorously pursue oversight of these taxpayer funds.”
April G. Stephenson, DOE Principal Deputy Inspector General said: “This settlement serves as a reminder that fraud in the SBIR Program will not be tolerated. The SBIR Program is an essential Department of Energy program that supports scientific excellence and technological innovation and we will investigate and pursue fraud aggressively.”
In a complaint filed today, the government alleges that ATT and Connell failed to account for federal grant funds under eight awards from the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), in connection with the agencies’ Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs. These programs grant awards to small, for-profit businesses, such as ATT, for the purpose of stimulating technological innovation, using small businesses to meet federal research and development needs, and increasing private sector commercialization of innovations derived from federal research and development. NSF and DOE awarded the research funds to ATT and Connell in response to grant applications that proposed research to identify and develop different materials and methods for dissipating the heat generated by high power electronics.
The government’s complaint alleges that on multiple occasions from 2007 to 2016, Connell personally certified to NSF and DOE that: (1) ATT maintained an adequate financial system to account for the award funds as required by regulations, (2) ATT would comply with the award terms and conditions, and (3) ATT spent the award funds and performed the research in accordance with the terms and conditions. The complaint alleges that these certifications were often false because ATT and Connell failed to prepare and maintain documentation substantiating that they used the funds for the awarded research projects, and, on occasion, that they claimed and received funds for NSF projects that were already completed.
U.S. Attorney Lelling, NSF Inspector General Lerner and DOE Principal Deputy Inspector General Stephenson made the announcement today. The matter was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anita Johnson of Lelling’s Civil Division.
Adelphi Man Sentenced to 71 Months in Prison for Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact ELIZABETH MORSE
www.justice.gov/usao/md at (410) 209-4885
Greenbelt, Maryland – United States District Judge Peter J. Messitte sentenced Jose Hernandez a/k/a “Plumhead,” a/k/a “David Hernandez,” a/k/a “Fathead,” age 27, of Adelphi, Maryland today to 71 months in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for distribution of 28 grams or more of crack and being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
The sentence was announced by Acting United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Stephen M. Schenning; Special Agent in Charge Daniel L. Board Jr. of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives – Baltimore Division; and Chief Henry P. Stawinski III of the Prince George’s County Police Department.
According to his plea agreement, between December 23, 2015 and January 12, 2017, at the direction of law enforcement, a confidential informant contacted Hernandez to arrange six controlled purchases of crack and heroin.
On December 16, 2016, ATF agents executed a search warrant at Hernandez’s residence and recovered a 12-gauge pump action shotgun, and a single round ammunition. Prior to December 16, 2016, Hernandez had been convicted of crimes punishable by more than one year in prison, which made him ineligible to possess a firearm and ammunition. His civil rights had not been restored.
At the time of the Defendant's arrest on January 12, 2017, ATF agents recovered approximately $5,572 from Hernandez's wallet, five cellular telephones, and two knotted baggies in the center console of the vehicle which contained approximately one gram of crack and approximately one gram of heroin.
Acting United States Attorney Stephen M. Schenning praised the ATF and Prince George’s County Police for their work in the investigation. Mr. Schenning thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennifer Sykes and Michael Packard who prosecuted the case.
19 March 2018
Wheeling man sentenced to nearly five years for firearm, methamphetamine chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA - Peter Hankish, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 57 months incarceration for firearm and drug charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Hankish, age 44, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm” and one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine” in January 2018. Hankish, having previously been convicted of Theft in the Camp Lejeune Marine Corps General Court, possessed a 7.62 caliber rifle. Hankish admitted to possessing methamphetamine. The crimes occurred in April 2017 in Ohio County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Westlake woman charged with defrauding Social Security by cashing deceased father-in-law's checksRead the Press Release
A Westlake woman was charged today with theft of government funds, said Justin E. Herdman, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
Rimjhim Gupta, 40, fraudulently converted to her own use her father-in-law’s Title II Retirement Insurance benefits after her father-in-law died. The Social Security Administration was not made aware of the death and continued to pay benefits to a checking account held by Gupta’s father-in-law. Over the course of several years, Rimjhim Gupta accessed her father-in-law’s account and withdrew over $38,000 in federal benefits which she was not entitled.
Kelly Clark from the Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General conducted the investigation. Special Assistant United States Attorney Payum Doroodian is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, the Court will determine the defendant’s sentence after a review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense, and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum. In most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
An information is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government's burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Vancleave Woman Sentenced to over 23 Years in Federal Prison for Trafficking MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Sharon Marie Stallone, aka "Boss," aka "Sharbear Boss," age 36, of Vancleave, was sentenced on Thursday by U.S. District Judge Louis Guirola, Jr. to 278 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for distributing methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Christopher Freeze, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Stallone pled guilty on November 28, 2017, to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Stallone was part of a group of individuals selling methamphetamine and other drugs from an area called "the Hill" in Vancleave.
The case was investigated by the FBI Safe Streets Task Force and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John Meynardie.
United States Resolves Claims That Philadelphia Cardiologist Billed Medicare for Unnecessary Stent ProceduresRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – Vidya Banka, M.D., a cardiologist and former director of Pennsylvania Hospital’s cardiac catheterization lab, has entered into a settlement agreement with the United States to resolve allegations that he improperly submitted Medicare claims for unnecessary cardiac stent procedures.
The University of Pennsylvania Health System (“UPHS”), which owns Pennsylvania Hospital, brought the matter to the United States’ attention through a voluntary self-disclosure. In January 2017, UPHS reached a separate settlement with the United States. The United States then continued to investigate Dr. Banka.
Dr. Banka had privileges to admit patients to Pennsylvania Hospital and ceased working there in September 2012.
The United States alleged that between May 5, 2010 and September 7, 2012, Dr. Banka performed cardiac stent procedures at Pennsylvania Hospital that were not medically necessary. According to the United States, claims were then submitted to Medicare for stent procedures that Dr. Banka performed.
To resolve the matter, Dr. Banka has agreed to pay a civil penalty of $126,617. He has also agreed to a five-year term of exclusion from Medicare, Medicaid, and all other Federal health care programs. Dr. Banka admitted no liability as part of the agreement.
“We encourage health care organizations to make voluntary disclosures to the government when they identify false claims,” said United States Attorney Louis D. Lappen. “This agreement with Dr. Banka shows that we will and must hold individuals accountable. Voluntary disclosure by an institution is not a free pass from accountability for the individual directly responsible for the false claims.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael S. Macko handled the matter. The matter was investigated by the Office of the Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services, and by Auditor Dawn Wiggins of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Union County Man Admits Armed Crime Spree of Bank Robberies; Carjackings, and Hostage TakingRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A Union County, New Jersey, man today admitted robbing seven banks – and attempting to rob an eighth bank while brandishing a firearm – committing one carjacking and attempting to commit three additional carjackings, and taking a hostage at gunpoint while fleeing, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.
Marlon Peek, 41, of Plainfield, New Jersey, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Katharine S. Hayden in Newark federal court to Counts One through 11, 13, 15, and 17 of an indictment. The counts include: seven counts of bank robbery, one count of carjacking, one count of attempted bank robbery with a dangerous weapon, one count of use and brandishing of a firearm during a crime of violence, three counts of attempted carjacking, and one count of forced accompaniment in attempting to avoid apprehension for the attempted armed bank robbery.
“This defendant cut a swath of violent crime through central New Jersey for two months, brandishing guns to terrify innocent victims as he robbed banks and carjacked vehicles,” U.S. Attorney Carpenito said. “The excellent work of local and federal law enforcement officers have taken a violent criminal with no regard for the lives and safety of others off the streets. The crimes to which the defendant pleaded guilty justifiably expose him to significant prison time.”
Peek robbed or attempted to rob the following New Jersey banks:
Bank
Location
Date
TD Bank
Edison, New Jersey
March 17, 2015
Magyar Bank
Edison, New Jersey
March 31, 2015
Investors Bank
Dunellen, New Jersey
April 9, 2015
Wells Fargo Bank (aiding and abetting)
South Plainfield, New Jersey
April 14, 2015
Unity Bank
Middlesex Borough, New Jersey
April 15, 2015
PNC Bank
South Plainfield, New Jersey
April 21, 2015
TD Bank
Springfield, New Jersey
April 21, 2015
Bank of America (armed attempt)
Linden, New Jersey
May 6, 2015
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:From March 2015 to May 2015, Peek and others committed a string of crimes. At each bank, Peek presented a note demanding cash from bank tellers, including, on at least six occasions, statements that he had a gun and would shoot. During the robbery of the TD Bank in Edison, New Jersey, on March 17, 2015, Peek handed a teller a note that read, in part, “I have gun will shoot to kill you have 3 seconds.” In the course of the attempted robbery of the Bank of America, Peek pointed a loaded firearm directly at a bank teller.
Peek admitted that he committed a carjacking in Plainfield, New Jersey, on April 21, 2015, between robbing the PNC Bank and the TD Bank that day, and that he committed three attempted carjackings using a loaded firearm directly after attempting to rob the Bank of America in Linden on May 6, 2015. He also admitted that in attempting to flee from the attempted robbery of the Bank of America, he entered a warehouse, took a hostage, held a loaded gun to the hostage’s head, and forced the hostage to accompany him. Law enforcement officers arrived on the scene and ordered Peek to drop his gun. Peek then surrendered his weapon and was arrested.
The seven bank robbery charges to which Peek pleaded guilty each carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000. The four carjacking or attempted carjacking charges to which Peek pleaded guilty each carry a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000. The charge of armed attempted bank robbery to which Peek pleaded guilty carries a maximum penalty of 25 years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000.
The charge of using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, while brandishing the firearm, carries a mandatory minimum sentence of seven years in prison and a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. The sentence imposed for this charge must be consecutive to the sentence for any other count. This charge also carries a maximum fine of $250,000.
The charge of forced accompaniment in attempting to avoid apprehension for the attempted robbery of the Bank of America carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. Sentencing is scheduled for June 11.
Peek’s co-defendant, Nathaniel Brown, pleaded guilty to Count Four of the indictment and is scheduled to be sentenced May 30, 2018.
U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Bradley Cohen in Newark; and officers of the Linden Police Department, under the direction of Chief David Hart; the Edison Police Department, under the direction of Chief Thomas Bryan; the Dunellen Police Department, under the direction of Chief Jeffrey E. Nelson; the South Plainfield Police Department, under the direction of Chief James Parker; the Middlesex Police Department, under the direction of Chief Matthew P. Geist; the Plainfield Police Department, under the direction of Director Carl Riley; and the Springfield Police Department, under the direction of Chief John Cook with the investigation leading to today’s guilty plea. U.S. Attorney Carpenito also thanked the Union County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Acting Prosecutor Michael A. Monahan, and the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Andrew C. Carey, for their assistance.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Elisa T. Wiygul of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Criminal Division in Trenton.
Defense counsel: Alyssa A. Cimino Esq., Fairfield, New Jersey
U.S. Attorney’s Office to Conduct Election Day MonitoringRead the Press Release
CHICAGO — The U.S. Attorney’s Office will monitor the federal, state and local primary elections in Chicago and surrounding suburbs on March 20, 2018, John R. Lausch, Jr., United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, announced today.
As part of the monitoring effort, the office will operate a telephone hotline for citizens to report complaints related to the voting process. Assistant U.S. Attorneys and other office personnel will monitor the hotline and respond to complaints as needed.
The hotline number, staffed on Election Day only, is (312) 469-6157.
The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring election fraud and discrimination at the polls, and combating these violations wherever they occur. The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program seeks to ensure public confidence in the voting process.
Federal voting-rights laws protect the rights of voters to mark their own ballot or be assisted by a person of their choice. Actions designed to interrupt or intimidate voters at polling places may constitute a violation. Federal law protects against such crimes as intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. Violations carry penalties ranging from one to ten years in prison and fines of up to $250,000.
For information as to the location and hours of polling sites, Illinois residents are advised to contact the Illinois State Board of Elections by logging on to www.elections.il.gov or by calling (312) 814-6440.
Tyler County man sentenced for meth distribution and a firearm violationRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – William “Jack” Parr, of Middlebourne, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 30 months incarceration for drug distribution and illegally possessing a firearm, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Parr, age 51, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess With Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Methamphetamine” and one count of “Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person” in January 2018. Parr admitted to distributing methamphetamine from 2015 to August 2017 in Tyler County, West Virginia. Parr, having previously been convicted of a felony in the Circuit Court of Tyler County, also admitted to illegally possessing two .22 caliber pistols, a 9mm pistol, and a .45 caliber pistol.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert H. McWilliams, Jr., prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Tyler County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. presided.
Stanislaus County Man Pleads Guilty in Helicopter Laser StrikesRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Roger Shane John, 32, of Turlock, pleaded guilty today to aiming the beam of a laser pointer at a Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Department helicopter, U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott announced.
According to court documents, on the evening of October 22, 2017, John struck a Stanislaus County Sheriff’s helicopter, Air 101, five to six times with a powerful green laser, causing visual interference of both the pilot and tactical flight officer and disrupting an air support response to a domestic violence call. The laser strikes occurred within the FAA‑designated laser-free zone of the Modesto Airport. In pleading guilty, John admitted he knew that shining a laser at an aircraft is illegal. An examination of John’s laser revealed that it emitted 85 milliwatts (mW) of power and is 17 times more powerful than what is legally permissible for handheld laser devices. The FDA, which regulates handheld laser devices, has found that such power emission is dangerous and can cause either temporary visual effects or an eye injury.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Department, and Modesto Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Escobar is prosecuting the case.
John is scheduled for sentencing by U.S. District Judge Dale A. Drozd on June 11, 2018, in federal court in Fresno. He faces a maximum statutory penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
Seven Individuals Plead Guilty to Multi-Million Dollar International Money Laundering ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Seven individuals have pled guilty to participating in a multi-million dollar international money laundering conspiracy.
Benjamin G. Greenberg, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, and Robert F. Lasky, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Miami Field Office, made the announcement.
On March 7, 2018, Geannis Gonzalez, 31, formerly of Peyton, Colorado, Alfredo Tovar, 36, of Miami Gardens, Robinson Castillo, 32, of Pembroke Pines, and Jamie Vives Castillo, 41, of Pembroke Pines, pled guilty to conspiracy to commit money laundering. On March 15, 2018, Quiana Velasco, 35, of Miami, Jose Daniel Estrella, 38, of Hallandale, Pedro Reyes, 38, of Hialeah, pled guilty to the same offense. Each defendant faces a possible maximum statutory sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment. Defendants Gonzalez, Tovar, Velasco, Estrella, Reyes, and Castillo will be sentenced on May 25, 2018, by the United States District Judge Ursula Ungaro. Defendant Vives Castillo will be sentenced on May 30, 2018.
According to stipulated facts filed in court, the defendants admitted to opening bank accounts established in the names of shell corporations to receive the proceeds of various fraudulent schemes, including romance frauds, email hacking schemes, and inheritance and lottery scams, that victimized individuals and corporations across the United States. The defendants further admitted that, after banks closed the bank accounts that the defendants had opened, often on suspicion that the accounts were being used for fraud or other illegal activity, the defendants would recruit other individuals to act as “money mules,” establishing additional shell corporations in the money mules’ names. The defendants would then instruct the money mules to open new bank accounts throughout South Florida in the names of the new shell corporations, and telling the mules to falsely represent to the banks that the shell corporations were legitimate businesses engaged in the import, export, or sale of various goods. Once these bank accounts received money wired from a fraud victim, the defendants would instruct the money mules to wire the money to other accounts overseas.
These stipulated facts further revealed that the defendants received repeated warnings that the funds coming into the shell corporation bank accounts were the proceeds from illegal activity. The defendants also admitted that these bank accounts received total amounts of illegal proceeds ranging from $3,381,110 to $7,177,442. The defendants would receive a small percentage of these funds as their commission. According to the allegations in the indictment in which the defendants were charged, the overall conspiracy, which was led by defendant Roda Taher, laundered approximately $94 million.
Mr. Greenberg commended the investigative efforts of the FBI. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jared M. Strauss and Michael G. Walleisa.
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.
Ripley Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possession of a Pipe BombRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced today that Steven Jones, 31, of Ripley, was sentenced to 12 months and a day in federal prison for possession of a pipe bomb. Jones pled guilty in December, admitting that on November 6, 2017, he possessed a pipe bomb he had constructed in his garage. Jones further admitted having built and detonated two additional pipe bombs and posting videos of the explosions on the internet. Stuart commended the investigative efforts of the West Virginia State Police, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
“A citizen tip to authorities about a pipe bomb prevented what could have been a horrific tragedy. Cases like this depend on the vigilance of citizens bravely willing to step forward to report this kind of dangerous activity,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “The horrific events happening in Austin, Texas, are a tragedy we don’t want to happen here in West Virginia. Bombs in the hands of citizens are highly dangerous, reckless and illegal. My Office is committed to strengthening the relationship between the public and law enforcement so that we can keep dangerous criminals like this bomb maker behind bars.”
United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin imposed the sentence in federal court in Charleston. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua Hanks prosecuted the case.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
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Randallstown Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin and FentanylRead the Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact ELIZABETH MORSE
www.justice.gov/usao/md at (410) 209-4885
Baltimore, Maryland – Anthony Renard Wynn, age 47, of Randallstown, Maryland, pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin and 400 grams or more of fentanyl.
The guilty plea was announced by Acting United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Stephen M. Schenning; Special Agent in Charge Andre Watson of the ICE Homeland Security Investigations; Colonel Woodrow Jones of the Maryland Transportation Authority Police; and Chief Terrence B. Sheridan of the Baltimore County Police Department.
According to his plea agreement, in connection with an investigation into drug trafficking and the laundering of drug proceeds through Maryland-based casinos, HSI investigators discovered that Wynn had placed into and cashed out in excess of one million dollars at those casinos from 2016 to 2017, although he only earned $30,000 in 2016.
HSI investigators were able to identify the places where Wynn received, transported, and stored drugs and other contraband. Specifically, Wynn received packages containing drugs from an animal hospital in Pikesville, Maryland and transported the drugs to the Southeast region of Washington, D.C. Wynn stored the drugs in a storage unit in Windsor Mill, his home in Randallstown, and in a Pikesville barbershop. Wynn also shipped several packages to a co-conspirator in California, one of which contained $244,040 in drug proceeds.
On June 9, 2017, an HSI investigator observed Wynn talking on a cell phone while driving and informed a Baltimore County patrol officer who conducted a traffic stop of Wynn’s vehicle. During that traffic stop, a Maryland Transportation Authority Police officer conducted a canine scan of Wynn’s vehicle and recovered a one-kilogram heroin brick and $11,620 in cash that was separated by rubber-banded bundles. The search of Wynn’s person incident to arrest revealed a digital scale and two $500 casino chips.
HSI investigators obtained search warrants for Wynn’s residence and storage unit and recovered approximately 1 kilogram of fentanyl, 3 kilograms of heroin, and an electronic money counter. Numerous gift cards totaling $5,575, $16,602 in cash that was bundled in small denominations, and an “owe sheet” were among the items that the HSI investigators recovered from Wynn’s residence.
Wynn faces a maximum sentence of life, in prison, with a minimum mandatory term of 10 years. U.S. District Judge Richard D. Bennett has scheduled sentencing for July 16, 2018 at 11 a.m.
Acting United States Attorney Stephen M. Schenning commended HSI, MTA police, Baltimore County Police Department. Mr. Schenning thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Samika N. Boyd and Christopher J. Romano who are prosecuting the case.
Omaha Man Sentenced for Bank RobberiesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Joseph P. Kelly announced that Traynell Toney, age 24, of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced today by the Honorable Laurie Smith Camp having previously pled guilty to robbing two U.S. Bank branches in two Baker’s Supermarkets. Toney was sentenced to 36 months’ imprisonment, 3 years’ supervised release, and ordered to pay $5,597 in restitution.
On June 2, 2017, Toney went to the U.S. Bank in Baker’s at 5555 North 90th Street, Omaha. He passed a note to the teller demanding money, stating that he would kill her and that he was carrying a gun in his sweatshirt. He was able to leave the bank with $3,170.00. He left the note at the bank.
On June 9, 2017, he passed a similar note to a teller at the U.S. Bank in Baker’s at 13250 West Maple Road. That note also stated he had a gun and threatened to kill a customer if he wasn’t given money. The teller complied and Toney got $2,427.
Law enforcement was able to identify Toney through surveillance at both banks that appeared to be the same person, a Crime Stopper’s tip, and his fingerprints were identified on the note from the June 2 robbery.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Omaha Police Department.
Ocean Springs Man Sentenced to over 13 Years in Federal Prison for Accessing the Internet with Intent to View Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Steven Dedual, Jr., 45, of Ocean Springs, Mississippi, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to 159 months in federal prison followed by 10 years of supervised release for accessing the internet with intent to view child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Thomas Annello, Acting Special Agent in Charge of U. S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans. Judge Ozerden also ordered Dedual to pay a $5,000 fine; restitution to three victims in the amount of $5,000 each, for a total of $15,000; and a $5,000 special assessment under the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act.
From November 2015 through May 2016, Dedual, through his use of computers in Gulfport and Ocean Springs, Mississippi, accessed the internet as a user of a file-sharing network with the intent to view visual depictions of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct, to include visual depictions of a minor who had not attained 12 years of age.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrea Jones.
North Carolina Woman Charged with Alien SmugglingRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office and the Swanton Sector of the United States Border Patrol announce that Carmen Melari Ferrufino Perdomo, 28, a naturalized U.S. citizen who lives in North Carolina, appeared today in United States District Court in Burlington on a charge that she transported six illegal aliens within the United States. U.S. District Judge Christina Reiss released the defendant on conditions pending her next court hearing in early April.
According to the criminal complaint that was filed today, on the early morning of March 18, 2018, Border Patrol officers noticed six people walking into the United States from Canada on Rainville Road, in Highgate, Vermont. Shortly after a white SUV was observed travelling towards the border along Rainville Road, Border Patrol officers saw a white Ford SUV travelling south, away from the border, along Rainville Road. Border Patrol stopped the white SUV, which was driven by the defendant. Border Patrol identified six undocumented persons from Mexico in the car as well. The defendant had flown to Burlington, Vermont on March 17, 2018, and rented the white Ford claiming that it would be returned on March 18, 2018 in New York. The Mexican citizens admitted entering the United States that night.
The United States Attorney emphasizes that the charge in the complaint is merely an accusation, and that the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until she is proven guilty.
If convicted, Ferrufino Perdomo faces up to five years of imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000. The actual sentence would be determined with reference to federal sentencing guidelines.
The Swanton Sector Border Patrol is responsible for securing the land border between ports of entry in Vermont as well as New Hampshire and northeastern New York. The assistance of citizens is invaluable in helping the U.S. Border Patrol accomplish their border security mission and they welcome community members to help them keep our nation’s borders safe by reporting suspicious activity at 1-800-689-3362.
For more on CBP’s mission at our nation’s ports of entry with CBP officers and along U.S. borders with Border Patrol agents, please visit the Border Security section of the CBP website.
Ferrufino Perdomo was represented at today’s hearing by Federal Public Defender Steven Barth. The prosecutor is Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Van de Graaf.
New Orleans Man Sentenced to 30 Months in Prison for Violating the Federal Gun Control ActRead the Press Release
DORIAN GIVENS, age 30, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was sentenced today by the Honorable Susie Morgan for violating the Federal Gun Control Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane Evans.
According to the court records, GIVENS on two separate occasions possessed a firearm after being convicted of distributing crack cocaine in a prior federal case. In June 2016, police found GIVENS in possession of a gun in the driver’s side door panel of the vehicle he was in when he was shot several times. In January 2017, police found a gun in a hotel room where GIVENS had been arrested. GIVENS admitted on a recorded jail call to being in possession of that gun.
Judge Morgan sentenced GIVENS to a term of imprisonment in the Bureau of Prisons of 30 months on each count, to run concurrently, as well as three years of supervised release following the term of imprisonment.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority. In October 2017, as part of a series of actions to address this crime trend, Attorney General Sessions announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop a district crime reduction strategy that incorporates the lessons learned since PSN launched in 2001.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Special Agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the New Orleans Police Department, and the Jefferson Parish Sherriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney David Haller.
New Haven Heroin Dealer Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that on March 16, 2018, LUIS RIVERA, JR., also known as “Pop” and “Gordo,” 43, of New Haven, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Alvin W. Thompson in Hartford 60 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for distributing heroin.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on March 3, 2016, an individual working with law enforcement purchased heroin from RIVERA in New Haven. The next day, investigators conducted a court-authorized search of RIVERA’s residence and car and seized heroin packaged for street sale, a digital scale and other items used to process and package narcotics for distribution.
RIVERA has been detained since his arrest on March 4, 2016. On October 13, 2017, he pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, heroin.
RIVERA’s criminal history includes several prior convictions, including felony convictions for sale of narcotics, robbery in the first degree, possession of narcotics, larceny in the third degree, assault on law enforcement personnel, and possession of a firearm.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Haven Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah P. Karwan.
Middletown Cocaine and Crack Dealer Sentenced to 10 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
Geoffrey S. Berman, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced today that COLLYER GOODMAN, a/k/a “West,” was sentenced to 10 years in prison for his role in supplying at least 14 other drug dealers with cocaine and crack cocaine in Middletown, New York. GOODMAN was convicted after a jury trial in October of conspiracy to distribute cocaine and crack cocaine. Numerous other members of the conspiracy, including Juan Beniquez, a/k/a “Johnny,” have already been sentenced. Beniquez was sentenced to 9 years in prison. U.S. District Court Judge Cathy Seibel imposed the sentences. Several other members of the conspiracy, including Oscar Boria Jr., and Damon Wheeler, are expected to be sentenced this spring.
U.S. Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman said: “Collyer Goodman has persistently sold crack and cocaine in Middletown and elsewhere at great risk to the community. Today’s sentence shows that drug dealers will neither profit from nor get away with their crimes.”
According to the Indictment, other filings in White Plains federal court, evidence at trial, and statements made in court proceedings:
Collyer Goodman supplied packages of redistribution quantities of cocaine to co-conspirators Oscar Boria Jr., Damon Wheeler, and Juan Beniquez, among others. All of those individuals were drug dealers with their own customers who repackaged the cocaine, in some cases cooked it into crack cocaine, and resold it to mid-level and street-level dealers and to drug users. Goodman sometimes also sold crack cocaine directly to his customers.
Over the period from 2015 through August 2016, Goodman distributed in excess of five kilograms of cocaine and 28 grams of crack cocaine.
* * *
In addition to the prison sentence, GOODMAN was sentenced to five years of supervised release and ordered to forfeit $226,260.
Mr. Berman praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation Hudson Valley Safe Streets Task Force and the Middletown Police Department.
This case is being handled by the Office’s White Plains Division. Assistant United States Attorneys Anden Chow and Allison Nichols are in charge of the prosecution.
Miami County Man Charged with Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DAYTON – A federal grand jury has charged Shawn Bradley, 36, of West Milton, Ohio with producing child pornography in an indictment unsealed here today.
Benjamin C. Glassman, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, Steve Francis, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Homeland Security Investigations and Miami County Sheriff Dave Duchak announced the charges.
According to the indictment, between May 2015 and February 2018, Bradley coerced a minor into engaging in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing child pornography.
Producing child pornography is a federal crime punishable by a range of 15 to 30 years in prison.
Bradley was arrested on February 28.
U.S. Attorney Glassman commended the investigation of this case by HSI and the Miami County Sheriff’s Office, as well as Assistant United States Attorney SaMee Harden, who is prosecuting the case.
An indictment merely contains allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
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Mexican National Sentenced for Destructive Marijuana Cultivation Operation in Sequoia National Forest in Kern CountyRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Alfredo Cardenas-Suastegui (Cardenas), 57, of Michoacán, Mexico, was sentenced today to five years in prison for conspiring to manufacture, distribute and possess with intent to distribute marijuana in the Sequoia National Forest, U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott announced. U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. O’Neill also ordered Cardenas to pay $5,233 in restitution to the U.S. Forest Service for the damage to public land and natural resources.
Cardenas pleaded guilty on October 2, 2017. According to the plea agreement, for four months, Cardenas tended to 3,850 marijuana plants at an area known as the “Box 6” grow site in the Sequoia National Forest in Kern County. Co‑defendants Sair Maldonado-Soto, 22, and Coral Herrera, 21, both of Perris, Riverside County, supplied material, equipment, and personnel to Box 6 and to a grow site in the Lucas Creek drainage with a total of 10,396 marijuana plants for both sites. Maldonado-Soto and Herrera were also responsible for transporting Cardenas and co‑defendant Abel Toledo‑Villa, 35, of Michoacán, Mexico, away from the Box 6 grow site after it was raided. A rifle, ammunition, and processed marijuana were seized from the vehicle occupied by the four defendants as it drove away from the Box 6 grow site.
The marijuana cultivation operations at both sites caused extensive damage to the land and natural resources. Toxic pesticides and fertilizers, miles of plastic irrigation lines, and large amounts of trash were found at both sites. Native trees and vegetation were also removed to make room for the marijuana plants.
Maldonado-Soto was sentenced to three years and four months in prison, Herrera was sentenced to five years of probation, and Toledo-Villa was sentenced to five years in prison.
This case was the product of an investigation by the U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) , Southern Tri-County High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) task force, California Department of Justice’s Campaign Against Marijuana Planting (CAMP), California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Kern County Sheriff’s Office, Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, Fontana Police Department, and Victorville Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Karen Escobar prosecuted the case.
Mexican Citizen Sentenced to 57 Months for Money Courier Role in Cocaine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Eduardo Nunez Serna, age 44, and a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced today to 57 months in prison for conspiring to launder the proceeds of a large cocaine trafficking organization.
The announcement was made by United States Attorney Grant C. Jaquith; James J. Hunt, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Division of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); James D. Robnett, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Office of IRS-Criminal Investigation; and Special Agent in Charge Kevin Kelly of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Buffalo Field Office.
Between August 2014 and March 30, 2016, a money laundering and drug trafficking organization based in Montreal, Canada, collected cash from selling marijuana in the United States and cocaine in Canada. The cash was delivered to couriers in, among other places, Albany County, Ulster County, and Montreal so that the cash could be delivered, either by a courier or by wire, to cocaine suppliers to purchase cocaine. At least $1 million was sent to Chicago, Los Angeles, Peru, Mexico and Colombia; money was also wired to China. The organization then arranged for the smuggling of cocaine back to Canada, and transported some of the cocaine through northern New York.
Nunez Serna, an illegal alien, acted as a money courier based in Chicago, Illinois, where he lived. Nunez Serna picked up cash sent by the money laundering and drug trafficking organization from the sale of marijuana in northern New York on at least two occasions. He forwarded this money to a cocaine supplier based in Acapulco, Mexico. On October 27, 2015, law enforcement searched Nunez Serna’s residence and found $710,827 in cash as well as a money ledger denoting transactions. Nunez Serna also had cellophane wrapping, duct tape, rubber bands, a heat sealer, money counter, and other packaging items used to count and repackage this cash.
United States District Judge Mae A. D’Agostino also sentenced Nunez Serna to a 3-year term of post-imprisonment supervised release, to begin after he is released from prison and in the event he remains in the country. Nunez Serna was also ordered to forfeit $355,000 in drug proceeds.
As part of the same case, all of the following people have pled guilty to conspiracy to commit international or promotional money laundering. Iraklis Haviaropoulos, Carlos Alberto Ocampo Garcia, and Jose Mauricio Ortiz Bolanos have also pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine, before Judge D’Agostino:
Name
Age
Residence
Charges
Sentencing Date
Iraklis Haviaropoulos
41
Montreal, Canada
Cocaine conspiracy > 5 kilograms
International money laundering conspiracy
May 23
Carlos Alberto Ocampo Garcia
56
Cali, Colombia
Cocaine conspiracy > 5 kilograms
International money laundering conspiracy
May 30
Jose Mauricio Ortiz Bolanos
30
Cali, Colombia
Cocaine conspiracy > 5 kilograms
International money laundering conspiracy
May 31
James DeSantis
56
Pompano Beach, Florida
International money laundering conspiracy
May 30
This case is the result of the close cooperative efforts of the DEA, including the Albany District Office and DEA offices in Peru, Mexico, Colombia, Guatemala, Chicago, Detroit, Los Angeles, and Worcester, Massachusetts; IRS-Criminal Investigation and HSI. These federal agencies worked closely with the Sûreté du Québec, the Canada Border Services Agency, the Peruvian National Police, and the Colombian National Police. U.S. Border Patrol, the Malone Police Department, the New York State Police, the Chicago Police Department, the Massachusetts State Police, and the Watervliet Police Department also provided assistance. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth R. Rabe.
Masked Robber Gets 14 Years in Prison for Stealing Prescription Meds from PharmaciesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A former Allegheny County resident has been sentenced in federal court to 171 months imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, on charges of conspiracy to commit pharmacy robbery, pharmacy robbery, brandishment of a firearm in relation to a crime of violence, and possession with the intent to distribute Schedule II controlled substances, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed the sentence on Stephan Edward Corrick, 67, formerly of Harmarville, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, on March 11, 2016, Palmer's Pharmacy located in Russellton, Pennsylvania, was robbed by two individuals armed with firearms and wearing masks. The suspects stole approximately 10,000 dosage units of prescription drugs, including Oxycodone and Fentanyl, with an estimated street value of approximately $235,000. As a result of their comprehensive and extensive investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration and West Deer Police Department developed a general description of at least one suspect.
Then on April 28, 2016, Keystone Pharmacy located in New Alexandria Boro, Pennsylvania, was robbed by two individuals wearing masks. One suspect had a gun and the other had pepper spray. The assailants placed employees on the ground and handcuffed them. Investigators determined that between 15,000 and 20,000 dosage units were stolen. Noting the similarities between both robberies, DEA then coordinated its investigation with that of the Pennsylvania State Police to identify and arrest the individuals in question. Through the investigation, agents identified Corrick as one of the suspects. After locating and interviewing him, agents secured a full confession. Immediately thereafter, the other suspect, was also identified and arrested. Corrick had recently been released from prison after serving time for armed robbery.
Corrick’s co-defendant, Dana Lee Shipley, of Fairmont, West Virginia, was sentenced in January to 216 months imprisonment, followed by six years of supervised release, for his role in the robberies.
Assistant United States Attorney Shanicka L. Kennedy prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Brady commended the DEA, the Pennsylvania State Police and the West Deer Township Police Department for conducting the investigation leading to the prosecution of Corrick.
Man Pleads Guilty to Gun Charge, Drug Conspiracy, and Possession with Intent to Distribute HeroinRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that KEVIN SAM, age 43, of New Orleans, pled guilty today to a Superseding Bill of Information charging him with conspiracy to distribute and possession with the intent to distribute heroin, possession with the intent to distribute heroin, and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court documents, SAM was the target of a narcotics investigation that was investigated by members of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Members of the FBI received information that SAM was selling heroin from his residence, located in the 1300 block of Reyes Street in New Orleans, Louisiana. Agents obtained a search warrant of SAM’s residence and located multiple bags of heroin that were packaged for sale. A pistol was also located inside of the residence. SAM, a convicted felon, is prohibited by law from possessing a firearm. At the time of his arrest, agents, while conducting a pat down of SAM, located additional individually wrapped bags of heroin inside of SAM’s clothing.
Judge Susie Morgan will sentence SAM on June 27, 2018 at 12:00 p.m. SAM faces a maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment for his participation in the drug conspiracy and for possessing heroin with the intent to distribute. For the firearms violation, SAM faces a maximum sentence of 10 years.
In August 2017, SAM was sentenced to serve 10 years for his role in a drug conspiracy in the Eastern District of Texas (Beaumont Division).
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Brittany L. Reed is in charge of the prosecution.
Last of Four Defendants Sentenced to Prison in Multi-State Dog Fighting ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Four defendants were sentenced this month in federal court in Trenton, New Jersey, as a result of their roles in a multi-state dog fighting conspiracy that extended to New Mexico and Indiana. Acting Assistant Attorney General Jeffrey H. Wood of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division and U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito of the District of New Jersey made the announcement.
- Today, Lydell Harris, 32, of Vineland, New Jersey, a/k/a “Sinn,” was sentenced to serve 17 months in prison. He had pleaded guilty to one felony count of conspiracy to sponsor or exhibit a dog in an animal fighting venture, and one felony count of possessing a dog intended for use in an animal fighting venture.
- Anthony “Monte” Gaines, 37, of Vineland, New Jersey, was sentenced on March 5, 2018, to serve 42 months in prison. Gaines had pleaded guilty to two felony counts of conspiracy to buy, sell, receive, transport, deliver, and possess dogs intended for use in an animal fighting venture, and one felony count of possessing a dog intended for use in an animal fighting venture.
- Frank Nichols, 40, of Millville, New Jersey, was sentenced March 9, 2018, to serve 57 months in prison. He had pleaded guilty to one felony count of conspiracy to transport, deliver and receive dogs intended for use in an animal fighting venture, and one felony count of possessing a stolen firearm subsequent to a felony conviction.
- Pedro Cuellar, 47, of Willow Springs, Illinois, was sentenced on March 12, 2018, to serve 12 months and a day in prison. He had pleaded guilty to one felony count of conspiracy to transport, deliver, and receive dogs intended for use in an animal fighting venture.
A fifth co-defendant who has pleaded guilty will be sentenced on April 18, 2018. The court is expected to set a trial date for four additional defendants for some time this summer. Judge Anne E. Thompson sentenced Gaines and Judge Peter G. Sheridan sentenced Harris, Cuellar, and Nichols.
According to court documents filed in connection with the cases, from October 2015 through June 1, 2016, the defendants and their associates fought dogs – including to the death – and trafficked in dogs with other dog fighters in Indiana, Illinois, New Mexico, and elsewhere so that those dogs could be used in dog fights. They also maintained fighting dogs and dog fighting equipment such as dog treadmills, intravenous drug bags and lines, “breeding stands” used to immobilize female dogs, and chains weighing up to several pounds per linear foot. Agents found canine blood on the floor, walls, and ceiling of the basement of one defendant’s residence, indicating that the area was likely used as a dog fighting pit. Among other acts involved in the charges, one of the pleading defendants admitted that his dog died in his car on the way home after losing a dog fight.
“In close partnership with the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and USDA Office of Inspector General, our Division is aggressively pursuing those who engage in illegal animal fighting ventures,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Wood. “These sentencings demonstrate our firm commitment to prosecute those who violate federal laws banning the torture of animals in the fighting ring. As these cases also demonstrate, animal fighting ventures often involve other forms of serious criminal conduct like illegal gambling and illegal trafficking in drugs and weapons. I applaud the law enforcement officers and prosecutors who worked tirelessly to deliver justice in these cases.”
“Dog fighting is vicious and cruel. And beyond the needless suffering it inflicts on animals, it exacts a toll on local animal shelters, charitable humane organizations, and the taxpayers of New Jersey,” said U.S. Attorney Carpenito. “We applaud our local and federal partners who investigated this case and brought the offenders to justice. The message from these sentencing is simple: if you fight dogs in New Jersey, you will face prosecution and imprisonment.”
“The provisions of the Animal Welfare Act were designed to protect animals from being used in illegal fighting ventures, which often entail other forms of criminal activity involving drugs, firearms and gambling,” said Special Agent in Charge Bethanne M. Dinkins for U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Office of Inspector General. “Together with the Department of Justice, animal fighting is an investigative priority for USDA OIG, and we will work with our law enforcement partners to investigate and assist in the criminal prosecution of those who participate in animal fighting ventures.”
“Homeland Security Investigations is proud to have been involved in this interagency investigation that sends a clear message that New Jersey will prosecute such offenders to the fullest extent of the law,” said Resident Agent in Charge Richard Reinhold for Cherry Hill Homeland Security Investigations. “It also points to the diverse law enforcement work that HSI performs on a daily basis.”
This case is part of Operation Grand Champion, a coordinated effort across numerous federal judicial districts to combat organized dog fighting. The phrase “Grand Champion” is used by dog fighters to refer to a dog with more than five dog fighting “victories.” To date, 98 dogs have been rescued as part of Operation Grand Champion, and either surrendered or forfeited to the government. The Humane Society of the United States assisted with the care of the dogs seized by federal law enforcement. The government is represented by Trial Attorney Ethan Eddy of the Justice Department’s Environmental Crimes Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathleen O’Leary. The case is being investigated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture – Office of Inspector General, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Laplace Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Commit Wire FraudRead the Press Release
DARYL ALEX, age 52, of LaPlace, Louisiana was sentenced today to two years of probation for his role in a conspiracy to commit wire fraud, U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today.
According to court documents, ALEX and his wife, Shawanda Nevers, conspired together to unjustly enrich themselves by using and attempting to use bank accounts and credit cards issued in the name of Nevers’s deceased father and to steal funds and obtain property that did not belong to them. Although Nevers’s father had died on May 5, 2017, on or about May 23, 2016, defendant ALEX placed a telephone call to a credit card company, on which ALEX falsely stated that he was Nevers’s father and had lost his credit card. ALEX further falsely stated that he, pretending to be the deceased father, had moved to LaPlace, Louisiana and requested a replacement credit card be mailed to an address in LaPlace, Louisiana. ALEX also caused bad checks to be written that were drawn on Nevers’s father’s bank account and used the father’s bank account to make purchases, using Social Security Administration funds that were deposited after the father’s death.
United States District Judge Susie Morgan also ordered ALEX to pay $247.37 in restitution to the Social Security Administration and to pay a $100 special assessment.
U. S. Attorney Evans commended special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation and the United States Secret Service, New Orleans Field Office, who investigated the case, and AUSAs Hayden Brockett and Loan “Mimi” Nguyen, and Trial Attorney Grace Albinson of the Department of Justice, Tax Division, who are prosecuting this case.
Kinmundy, IL Man Pleads Guilty to Bank FraudRead the Press Release
On Friday, March 16, 2018, in Federal Court in East St. Louis, Illinois, Alfred L. Cross, 75, of Kinmundy, Illinois (originally from Mattoon, Illinois), pled guilty to five counts of bank fraud, announced Donald S. Boyce, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois. The indictment charged Cross with defrauding seven southern Illinois banks out of more than $500,000.
In pleading guilty on Friday, Cross admitted that he opened checking accounts at the following banks: Bradford National Bank in Greenville, Illinois; Community First Bank of the Heartland in Mount Vernon, Illinois; the Farmers and Merchants National Bank in Nashville, Illinois; First Southern Bank in Carbondale, Illinois; Midland States Bank in Effingham, Illinois; State Bank of Whittington, in Benton, Illinois; and Washington Savings Bank, located in Effingham, Illinois. After these accounts had been open for a short period of time, Cross deposited into each of the accounts very large checks, ranging from $18,875 to $148,000. These checks were drawn on out-of-state bank accounts in the names of businesses that Cross controlled. Cross admitted that at the time he deposited these checks, he knew there were insufficient funds in the out-of-state accounts to cover the checks. Cross further admitted that before the checks could be returned as non-sufficient funds, he withdrew almost all of the funds he had deposited. Cross gave
some of these funds to his relatives and used the remainder to pay for personal expenses. Cross conducted this fraud scheme from April 14, 2011, through March 25, 2015.
Each of the bank fraud counts carries a maximum sentence of thirty years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000. The court can also order Cross to pay restitution to the victim banks. Cross will be sentenced on May 9, 2018, at 9:30 a.m. at the Federal Courthouse in East St. Louis, IL.
The investigation was conducted by agents from the Springfield Division, Fairview Heights Resident Agency, of the Federal Bureau of Investigation ("FBI"). The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Scott A. Verseman.
Justice Department Obtains $625,000 Settlement of Sexual Harassment Lawsuit Against Two St. Louis LandlordsRead the Press Release
The Justice Department today announced a settlement with two St. Louis landlords, Hezekiah and Jameseva Webb, to resolve a lawsuit alleging that they violated the Fair Housing Act by subjecting fifteen female tenants in their rental properties to sexual harassment over the course of two decades.
The lawsuit arose from a complaint filed by a former tenant with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The suit alleged that Hezekiah Webb, who served as property manager for the Webbs’ rental properties, sexually harassed female tenants at those properties. The United States alleged that Hezekiah Webb conditioned housing and housing benefits on female tenants’ agreement to engage in sexual acts, coerced female tenants to engage in unwelcome sexual acts, subjected female tenants to unwanted sexual touching and other unwanted sexual acts, made unwelcome sexual comments and advances to female tenants, and took adverse actions against female residents when they refused his sexual advances. The lawsuit further alleged that Jameseva Webb was liable under the Fair Housing Act because Hezekiah Webb acted as her agent when he engaged in the harassment.
Under the settlement, Hezekiah and Jameseva Webb will pay a total of $600,000 in monetary damages to fifteen former and prospective tenants who were subjected to sexual harassment, as well as a $25,000 civil penalty to the United States. The settlement also bars Hezekiah and Jameseva Webb from continuing to serve as property managers. The Webbs have advised the United States that they plan to sell their remaining five residential rental properties. If they fail to do so within 180 days, the settlement will impose certain requirements on them with regard to the remaining properties, including adoption of a sexual harassment policy, creation of tenant complaint procedures, and training on the Fair Housing Act’s requirements.
“Sexual harassment is unacceptable and intolerable, especially in the home, where landlords and property managers have the power to control so many aspects of a vulnerable tenant’s life,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General John Gore of the Civil Rights Division. “The Justice Department and its Sexual Harassment in Housing Initiative will continue to aggressively pursue sexual harassment in housing, even when the conduct occurred years ago.”
“No woman should have to put up with unwanted sexual advances in order to keep a roof over her head,” said Anna Maria Farías, HUD Assistant Secretary for Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity. “Today’s settlement sends a loud and clear message that HUD and the Justice Department are committed to taking appropriate action against housing providers who deprive women of the right to feel safe and secure in their home.”
In October, the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division announced the Sexual Harassment in Housing Initiative (SHHI). The initiative specifically seeks to increase the Department’s efforts to protect individuals from harassment by landlords, property managers, maintenance workers, security guards, and other employees and representatives of rental property owners. In 2017, the Justice Department recovered more than $1 million in damages for harassment victims. This is the first settlement announcement in 2018.
The Justice Department, through the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Civil Rights Division, enforces the Fair Housing Act, which prohibits discrimination in housing based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability and familial status. Sexual harassment is a form of discrimination prohibited by the Act. Individuals who believe that they may have been victims of housing discrimination can contact the Housing Discrimination Tip Line at 1-800-896-7743, e-mail the Justice Department at [email protected] or contact HUD at 1-800-669-9777 or through its website at http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/program_offices/fair_housing_equal_opp. More information about the Civil Rights Division and the laws it enforces is available at http://www.justice.gov/crt.
Jena man sentenced to 97 months for receiving hundreds of images, videos of child pornographyRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, La. – United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that a Jena man was sentenced last week to more than eight years in prison for downloading hundreds of images and videos of child pornography.
Shane Jeansonne, 30, of Jena, La., was sentenced Friday by U.S. District Judge Dee D. Drell on one count of receiving child pornography. He was also sentenced to five years of supervised release and is required to register as a sex offender. According to the December 15, 2017 guilty plea, law enforcement agents identified Jeansonne as downloading and distributing child pornography online. Agents searched his home on March 18, 2015 and found numerous computers and storage devices containing videos and images of child pornography. Agents then arrested Jeansonne, and he admitted to downloading child pornography and sharing the material online. After agents conducted a forensic examination of his electronic devices, they found hundreds of images and videos of child pornography.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a U.S. Department of Justice nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood combines federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) also encourage the public to report suspected child predators and any suspicious activity through its toll-free hotline at (866) 347-2423. Investigators are available at all hours to answer hotline calls. Tips or other information can also be submitted to ICE online by visiting their website at www.ice.gov/exec/forms/hsi-tips/tips.asp or through the Operation Predator smartphone application www.ice.gov/predator/smartphone-app. Tips may be submitted anonymously.
Homeland Security Investigations and the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Luke Walker prosecuted the case.
Indian Nationals Sentenced for Roles in Alien Harboring Scheme Involving Labor Exploitation at Nebraska MotelRead the Press Release
Vishnubhai Chaudhari, 50, and Leelabahen Chaudhari, 44, of Kimball, Nebraska, and Indian nationals unlawfully residing in the United States, were sentenced on March 19, 2018, in federal court in Omaha after previously pleading guilty on Dec. 18, 2017, to alien harboring for financial gain and conspiracy to harbor an alien, announced Acting Assistant Attorney General John Gore of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, U.S. Attorney Joe Kelly for the District of Nebraska, and Special Agent in Charge Tracy Cormier of ICE Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
U.S. District Court Judge Lauri Smith Camp sentenced both of the defendants to one year and one day in prison, followed by two years’ supervised release. The defendants also agreed to the entry of a stipulated judicial order of removal to India at the completion of their sentences and paid the victim $40,000 in restitution as a condition of their guilty pleas.
According to documents filed in court, the defendants admitted to conspiring to harbor the victim, who was an undocumented Indian national, at a Super 8 Motel in Kimball between October 2011 and February 2013. During that time, the defendants required the victim to work long hours, seven days a week at the motel, performing manual labor, including cleaning rooms, shoveling snow, and doing laundry. Although the defendants promised to pay the victim, they never did, but rather claimed to apply that amount to a debt the victim owed. The defendants further restricted the victim’s movement, isolated him, and verbally abused him. Defendant Vishnubhai Chaudhari also threatened to find the victim if he ever left the motel, and defendant Leelabahen Chaudhari regularly assaulted the victim, including on one occasion when she slapped his face several times because he had failed to clean a bathtub to her standards. The victim eventually escaped with the help of a motel guest and local law enforcement.
“Today’s sentence, and the restitution awarded to the victim, sends a clear message that the Justice Department will use its full resources to prosecute defendants like this one who motivated by their greed violate our immigration laws and exploit a vulnerable individual who lacked immigration status,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General John Gore of the Civil Rights Division.
“This case is a reminder that labor exploitation occurs in the United States, not just overseas, and federal law targets those who profit from human trafficking and related crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Joe Kelly for the District of Nebraska. “This case is a testament that such conduct will be vigorously investigated and prosecuted in the District of Nebraska.”
“Human trafficking is the modern world’s version of enslaving another person for profit. That is what these individuals have done to this victim,” said Special Agent in Charge Tracy Cormier of HSI St. Paul. “I’m proud of the work accomplished by HSI’s special agents, our partners at the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Nebraska, and the Department of Justice, who made these guilty pleas possible.”
The case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security’s Homeland Security Investigations, and was prosecuted by Trial Attorneys Olimpia Michel and Shan Patel of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section and Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit and Assistant U.S. Attorney Frederick D. Franklin of the District of Nebraska.
Illegal Alien Sentenced to Almost 7 Years in Prison for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Gustavo Millan-Arizmendi, 29, an illegal alien from Mexico, was sentenced today by US. District Judge Sul Ozerden to 82 months in federal prison, followed by 15 years of supervised release, for possession of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Thomas M. Annello, Acting Special Agent in Charge of U. S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans.
On May 29, 2017, when stopped while driving on Interstate 10 in Harrison County by a Border Patrol Agent, Millan-Arizmendi knowingly possessed on his cellular telephone visual depictions of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct, to include visual depictions of a minor who had not attained 12 years of age.
This case was investigated by U. S. Customs and Border Protection and Homeland Security Investigations, and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrea Jones.
Illegal Alien Found Guilty of Illegally Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. — Jesus Humberto Bernal- Berreaza, 19, a Mexican National illegally residing in Lexington, was convicted on Friday, by a federal jury sitting in Lexington, of being an Illegal Alien in Possession of a Firearm.
The jury returned its verdict following a one-day trial. The evidence established that Lexington Police arrested Bernal-Berreaza, on December 7, 2017, for carrying a loaded and concealed .45 caliber semi-automatic handgun. Bernal-Berreaza was also found in possession of 40 live rounds of .45 caliber ammunition. Bernal- Berreaza was illegally residing in Lexington.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Shawn Byers, Assistant Field Office Director, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement; Stuart Lowrey, Special Agent in Charge ATF; and Lawrence Weathers, Chief of the Lexington Police Department, jointly announced the jury’s verdict.
ICE, the ATF, and the Lexington Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Roger W. West represented the United States.
Bernal- Berreaza is currently scheduled to appear for sentencing, before Senior Judge Joseph M. Hood, in Lexington, on June 18, 2018, at 10:30 a.m. Bernal-Berreaza faces a maximum of 10 years in prison. However, the Court will impose his sentence after consideration of the United States Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statutes governing the imposition of sentences.
Guatemalan Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Document FraudRead the Press Release
A Guatemalan man who unlawfully used a fraudulent identification document was sentenced today to more than two months in federal prison.
Jose Lopez-Morales, age 36, a citizen of Guatemala residing in Independence, Iowa, received the prison term after a January 25, 2018, guilty plea to one count of unlawful use of identification documents.
At the guilty plea, Lopez-Morales admitted that on November 2, 2017, he used a fraudulent permanent resident card, bearing a fake name, when completing employment forms to obtain a job in Fairbank, Iowa. The social security account number used by Lopez-Morales on the employment forms belonged to a United States citizen and the lawful permanent resident number on the card was not assigned to him. On October 24, 2017, U.S. Border Patrol agents arrested Lopez-Morales and his minor child in Arizona after they illegally entered the United States. On October 25, 2017, Lopez-Morales was released pending immigration proceedings. On December 5, 2017, Lopez-Morales reported to the immigration office in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and initially denied being illegally employed in the United States before admitting he worked under a false name in Fairbank.
Lopez-Morales was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by Chief United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand. Lopez-Morales was sentenced to 76 days’ imprisonment. He must also serve a two-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Lopez-Morales is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be turned over to immigration officials.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel C. Tvedt and investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 17-CR-2095.
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Greene County Felon Illegally Possessed and Transported a Firearm Across State LinesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Greene County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Waylon Hanlan, 30, of Dilliner, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty to three counts before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on or about June 25, 2015, Waylon Hanlan illegally transported a firearm from out of state into his state of residency. Additionally, Waylon Hanlan, being a convicted felon, did knowingly and unlawfully possess the firearm. Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year from possessing a firearm.
Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for July 27, 2018 at 11:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of up to 10 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Amy L. Johnston is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the United States Marshals Service and the Monongalia County – West Virginia Sheriff’s Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Waylon Hanlan. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in a America a top priority. In October 2017, as part of a series of actions to address this crime trend, Attorney General Sessions announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop a district crime reduction strategy that incorporates the lessons learned since PSN launched in 2001.
Grand Rapids Man Sentenced to 188 Months in Federal Prison for Firearms OffenseRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN – Ralph Lamont Blevins, 39, of Grand Rapids, Michigan was sentenced to 188 months (15 years, 8 months) in federal prison for illegally possessing firearms and ammunition as a convicted felon, U.S. Attorney Andrew B. Birge announced today. In addition to the prison term, U.S. District Judge Paul L. Maloney imposed a 4-year term of supervised release that will commence once Blevins is released from imprisonment.
Blevins pled guilty on October 31, 2017, to one count of being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition. Blevins came to the attention of law enforcement in the Summer of 2017, when he had sold crack cocaine to a police informant. Police quickly moved in and executed a search warrant at Blevins’ home. They found numerous firearms, ammunition, drug paraphernalia, cash, and marijuana. Blevins had previously been convicted of more than a half dozen felonies, including violent crimes, drug offenses, and weapons offenses. He qualified for enhanced penalties under the Armed Career Criminal Act because of his extensive criminal history.
In its sentencing memorandum, the U.S. Attorney’s Office underscored Blevins’ long criminal history and emphasized the need to protect the public. “The defendant is a 39-year old with adult convictions for drugs, violence, and illegal possession of a firearm. Unfortunately, his prior convictions and periods of incarceration have not deterred him from further criminality.” His decision to maintain “a heavily guarded drug operation in the middle of Grand Rapids posed a significant risk to the community. The toxic mix of drugs and firearms could have easily led to the loss of life by officers, innocent bystanders, or even the defendant himself.”
U.S. Attorney Birge stated: “My office and our law enforcement partners will aggressively prosecute repeat offenders, and the penalties for engaging in narcotics trafficking while armed with firearms will be appropriately severe.”
The charges in this case are the result of a joint investigation by the Kent Area Narcotics Enforcement Team (KANET), the Grand Rapids Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF). Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean M. Lewis prosecuted the case. The U.S. Attorney's Office and federal, state, and local law enforcement are working closely together to combat violent crime in the Grand Rapids area.
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Four from the Mahoning Valley indicted for firearms crimesRead the Press Release
Four people from the Mahoning Valley were indicted in federal court on firearms charges, and, in some cases, drug trafficking charges.
Named in separate indictments are: Daylen Harris, 39, of Youngstown; Marvin Howell, Jr., 39, of Boardman; Antonio Dukes, 30, of Warren, and Donald Sims, 36, of Warren.
“These indictments demonstrate our commitment to prosecute people who carry firearms when they are not allowed by law to have them,” said U.S. Attorney Justin E. Herdman. “Not surprisingly, several of these defendants were also involved in the sale of fentanyl, heroin and other deadly drugs, and using firearms as part of their drug trafficking.”
“These cases are the result of great collaboration from all the agencies involved, local and federal,” said Mahoning Valley Law Enforcement Task Force Commander Larry McLaughlin.
“There is no place in our community for those who use firearms for violent, criminal purposes,” said Trevor A. Velinor, Special Agent in Charge of ATF’s Columbus Field Division. “ATF will continue to work with our law enforcement partners at the federal, state, and local levels to bring those individuals to justice and make the Mahoning Valley area safer for all of its residents.”
Harris was indicted on charges of trafficking crack cocaine, possessing with intent to distribute crack cocaine, possessing a firearm in connection with drug trafficking and being a felon in possession of firearms.
Harris repeatedly sold crack cocaine in May and June 2017. He used a several firearms in connection with his drug trafficking, including a Norinco SKS 7.62 mm rifle, a Plainfield Machine model M1 .30 rifle, a Russian SKS-45 7.62 mm rifle, a Taurus 9 mm pistol and a Taurus .380 pistol. Harris was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition because of a previous conviction for possession of cocaine, according to the indictment.
Howell was indicted on charges of possessing with intent to distribute marijuana, possessing a firearm in connection with drug trafficking and being a felon in possession of firearms.
Howell possessed marijuana with the intent to distribute the drug on Nov. 16, 2017, as well firearms related to his drug trafficking activities, including a Glock 9 mm pistol, an RG Industries .22 revolver, a Smith & Wesson .40 pistol and ammunition. Howell was prohibited from possessing these firearms and ammunition because of a prior conviction for drug trafficking, according to the indictment.
Dukes was charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm. Dukes has prior convictions for possession of heroin and assault on a law enforcement officer, but on Dec. 21, 2017, he was in possession of a Smith & Wesson 9 mm pistol and ammunition, according to the indictment.
Sims was charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. He possessed a Star, model PS, .45 caliber pistol and ammunition, after having been previously convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm, according to the indictment.
These cases are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David M. Toepfer following investigations by the Mahoning Valley Law Enforcement Task Force, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms and the Warren Police Department.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violations. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and, in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government's burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt
Four Defendants Sentenced to Federal Prison Terms in Multi-State Dog Fighting ProsecutionRead the Press Release
TRENTON, N.J. – Four men have been sentenced to federal prison terms for their respective roles in an interstate dog fighting network that extended from New Jersey to New Mexico and Indiana, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito, District of New Jersey, and Acting Assistant Attorney General Jeffrey H. Wood of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division, announced today.
The four defendants, arrested and charged as part of a coordinated effort across numerous federal judicial districts to combat organized dog fighting, previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Mary L. Cooper in Trenton federal court:
- Anthony “Monte” Gaines, 37, of Vineland, New Jersey, was sentenced March 5, 2018, to serve 42 months in prison. He previously pleaded guilty to two felony counts of conspiracy to buy, sell, receive, transport, deliver, and possess dogs intended for use in an animal fighting venture, and one felony count of possessing a dog intended for use in an animal fighting venture.
- Frank Nichols, 40, of Millville, New Jersey, was sentenced March 9, 2018, to serve 57 months in prison. He previously pleaded guilty to one felony count of conspiracy to transport, deliver and receive dogs intended for use in an animal fighting venture, and one felony count of possessing a stolen firearm subsequent to a felony conviction.
- Lydell Harris, 32, of Vineland, New Jersey, a/k/a “Sinn,” was sentenced today to serve 17 months in prison. He previously pleaded guilty to one felony count of conspiracy to sponsor or exhibit a dog in an animal fighting venture, and one felony count of possessing a dog intended for use in an animal fighting venture.
- Pedro Cuellar, 47, of Willow Springs, Illinois, was sentenced today to serve 12 months in prison. He had pleaded guilty to one felony count of conspiracy to transport, deliver, and receive dogs intended for use in an animal fighting venture.
A fifth co-defendant, Mario Atkinson, 42, of Asbury Park, New Jersey, has also pleaded guilty and is scheduled to be sentenced April 18, 2018. The court is expected to set a trial date for four additional defendants for some time this summer. Judge Anne E. Thompson sentenced Gaines and Judge Peter G. Sheridan sentenced Harris, Nichols and Cuellar.
“Dog fighting is vicious and cruel. And beyond the needless suffering it inflicts on animals, it exacts a toll on local animal shelters, charitable humane organizations, and the taxpayers of New Jersey,” U.S. Attorney Carpenito said. “We applaud our local and federal partners who investigated this case and brought the offenders to justice. The message from these sentencing hearing is simple: if you fight dogs in New Jersey, you will face prosecution and imprisonment.”
“Ending animal fighting ventures is important to our Division, and is often tied to other forms of crime. We dispatch prosecutors who focus in this area to districts across the country to join with our partners in the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices in aggressively pursuing illegal animal fighting,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Wood. “This week’s sentencing proceeding demonstrates that our justice system will not tolerate the torment and death of animals in the fighting ring, all for the sake of illegal gambling.”
“The provisions of the Animal Welfare Act were designed to protect animals from being used in illegal fighting ventures, which often entail other forms of criminal activity involving drugs, firearms and gambling,” Special Agent in Charge Bethanne M. Dinkins for U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Office of Inspector General said. “Together with the Department of Justice, animal fighting is an investigative priority for USDA OIG, and we will work with our law enforcement partners to investigate and assist in the criminal prosecution of those who participate in animal fighting ventures.”
According to court documents filed in connection with the cases and statements made in court:
From October 2015 through June 1, 2016, the defendants and their associates fought dogs – including to the death – and trafficked in dogs with other dog fighters in Indiana, Illinois, New Mexico, and elsewhere so that those dogs could be used in dog fights. They also maintained fighting dogs and dog fighting equipment such as dog treadmills, intravenous drug bags and lines, “breeding stands” used to immobilize female dogs, and chains weighing up to several pounds per linear foot. Agents found canine blood on the floor, walls, and ceiling of the basement of one defendant’s residence, indicating that the area was likely used as a dog fighting pit. One of the pleading defendants admitted that his dog died in his car on the way home after losing a dogfight.
This case is part of Operation Grand Champion, a coordinated effort across numerous federal judicial districts to combat organized dog fighting. The phrase “Grand Champion” is used by dog fighters to refer to a dog with more than five dog fighting “victories.” To date, 98 dogs have been rescued as part of Operation Grand Champion, and either surrendered or forfeited to the government. The Humane Society of the United States assisted with the care of the dogs seized by federal law enforcement. The investigation is ongoing.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathleen O’Leary of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of New Jersey, and Trial Attorney Ethan Eddy of the Justice Department’s Environmental Crimes Section.
The case is being investigated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture – Office of Inspector General, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations, and the FBI.
Founder and CEO of Defunct Tampa Technology Company Sentenced to 80 Months in Prison for Investment FraudRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Kovachevich has sentenced Timothy Munro Roberts (57, Missouri) to six years and eight months in federal prison for wire fraud. He was also ordered to pay $5,874,912.52 in restitution to the victims of the fraud. Roberts pleaded guilty on January 9, 2017.
According to court documents, in 2010, Roberts and his codefendant, Terrance Taylor, founded Savtira Corporation, Inc., a technology company headquartered in Ybor City. Savtira purported to offer a centralized, cloud-based shopping cart platform for online and traditional retailers. While marketing Savtira stock to investors, Roberts and Taylor made false claims and promises. In particular, they claimed that the company was profitable and owned patents, that they had entered into executed agreements with nationally recognized technology firms, and that Savtira was valued between $450 million and $540 million. Roberts and Taylor then misused and misappropriated investor funds for personal expenses and made cash withdrawals without the investors’ consent. They also failed to disclose key facts to investors, including that Roberts had entered into a prior settlement agreement with the Securities and Exchange Commission that required him to pay a fine and banned him from selling unregistered securities.
Taylor, Savtira’s CFO, pleaded guilty and was sentenced on December 17, 2017, to five years in federal prison.
This case was investigated by the Florida Office of Financial Regulation - Bureau of Financial Investigations and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mandy Riedel.
Fort Worth, Texas Federal Court Shuts Down Tax Return PreparerRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – A federal court in Fort Worth, Texas has permanently barred Munah Youssef, also known as Munah Harris Youssef, and her corporation, 3M & Sons Tax and Beauty Salon LLC, from preparing tax returns for others, the Justice Department announced today. U.S. Senior District Judge Terry R. Means entered the order, which defendants consented to. The order also authorizes the United States to conduct discovery to monitor Youssef’s and her corporation’s compliance.
Youssef and 3M & Sons Tax and Beauty Salon LLC admitted the allegations in the government’s complaint filed in December 2017, including the allegation that Youssef prepared returns for her customers that included false claims of education credits, fuel tax credits, and business expenses.
The IRS has a list of steps on their website that you can take now in anticipation of filing your 2017 federal income tax return and ten tips for choosing a tax preparer. Return preparer fraud was one of the IRS’s Dirty Dozen Tax Scams for 2018 and taxpayers seeking a return preparer should remain vigilant. The IRS has some information on their website about selecting a return preparer and has launched a free directory of federal tax preparers.
In the past decade, the Tax Division has obtained injunctions against hundreds of unscrupulous tax preparers. Information about these cases is available on the Justice Department’s website. An alphabetical listing of persons enjoined from preparing returns and promoting tax schemes can be found on this page. If you believe that one of the enjoined persons or businesses may be violating an injunction, please contact the Tax Division with details.
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Felon with Firearm Sentenced to 98 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
Charles E. Peeler, United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia, announces that on March 15, 2018, Senior United States District Court Judge Hugh Lawson sentenced Michael Trevor Haynes, age 37, of Moultrie, GA, to 98 months imprisonment for possession of a firearm by a person previously convicted of domestic violence and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Mr. Haynes was found guilty of the charges on August 8, 2017, following a jury trial. Evidence presented showed that on August 10, 2016, two Moultrie, Georgia police officers approached a vehicle in which the defendant was sitting. The officers began questioning Mr. Haynes as he sat in the car. The car door was open and Mr. Haynes had his legs out the door and his feet on the ground. Mr. Haynes provided officers with a false name and a false date of birth. Some of Mr. Haynes’ family began walking toward the car from a home nearby. When the officers began to ask them about the defendant’s identity, Mr. Haynes charged one of the officers and struck him in the face. The other officer grabbed Mr. Haynes in an effort to prevent him from fleeing. Mr. Haynes then hit that officer in the face. The officers were eventually forced to use tasers twice to subdue him. During the arrest, officers removed a .38 caliber revolver from Mr. Haynes’ right front pocket. During a search of Mr. Haynes at the local jail facility, officers found two small bags of marijuana on his person. They later caught Mr. Haynes attempting to flush another small bag of marijuana down a toilet.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority. In October, 2017, as part of a series of actions to address this crime trend, Attorney General Sessions announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop a district crime reduction strategy that incorporates the lessons learned since PSN launched in 2001.
"Mr. Haynes is an example of the type of person Project Safe Neighborhoods is designed to get off the streets: a man with a prior conviction of a violent crime, who desperately and violently resisted arrest until forcibly subdued, all the while carrying a concealed handgun. It is so very fortunate that his illegal weapon did not come into play during his arrest," said United States Attorney Peeler.
The case was investigated by the Macon Office of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Moultrie Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Sonja B. Profit prosecuted the case for the United States.
Questions concerning this case should be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603.
Federal Firearms Dealer Sentenced to 78 Months for His Role in Trafficking Firearms to MexicoRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – Last week, Timothy Alan Veninga, 48, of Tucson, Ariz., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge James A. Soto to 78 months’ imprisonment and a judgment of forfeiture of over $61,000. Veninga had previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to defraud the United States, aiding and abetting false statements in firearms transactions, false statements to government agency, tampering, and identity theft. On July 6, 2017, Veninga’s co-defendant, Joe Valles, a former Tucson Police Department officer, was also sentenced to 78 months’ imprisonment for his role in the trafficking scheme.
Veninga, owner of Ballistic Firearms in Tucson and Valles, a business partner who operated a firearm painting business on the premises of Ballistic Firearms, were involved in a scheme in which they paid individuals who were not the actual purchasers of firearms to complete and sign ATF Forms 4473 (Firearms Transaction Record), while leaving the date and firearm information section blank. Veninga and Valles also used the identities of two other people (which had been obtained while Valles was working as a police officer for Tucson Police Department) who were not the actual purchasers of firearms without their permission to complete and sign Forms 4473. Veninga and Valles used the fraudulent Forms 4473 to document multiple firearms transactions and create records retained by Veninga, which falsely represented the identities of the purchasers, thereby concealing the identities of the true buyers. The conspiracy involved a minimum of 31 firearm transactions involving 24 semi-automatic pistols (varying calibers) and seven rifles, including one semi-automatic assault rifle, one semi-automatic high-capacity rifle, and two .50 caliber semi-automatic rifles. Evidence from the investigation established that these firearms were sold to members from Mexico drug cartels and that the firearms were intended for Mexico.
The investigation in this case was conducted by Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The prosecution was handled by Serra M. Tsethlikai and Karen Rolley, Assistant U.S. Attorneys, District of Arizona, Tucson.
CASE NUMBER: CR-16-1059-TUC-JAS
RELEASE NUMBER: 2018-028_Veninga
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Easton Man Sentenced to 3 Years in Prison for Using Dark Net to Acquire and Sell Meth and XanaxRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that on March 16, 2018, CAVAN DEVINE, 26, of Easton, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton in New Haven to 36 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for possessing methamphetamine and Xanax.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on December 4, 2016, Easton Police seized a bag belonging to DEVINE that contained approximately 744 grams of methamphetamine, 577 and one-half pills labeled “Xanax,” and drug paraphernalia. DEVINE was arrested the next day. A subsequent search of a hotel room rented by DEVINE revealed an additional quantity of methamphetamine, as well as items used to process, package and mail drugs. Investigators also seized a laptop computer.
The investigation established that DEVINE had obtained the methamphetamine and Xanax over the dark net, which he also used to distribute the drugs.
The search of DEVINE’s laptop also revealed more than 1,000 images of child pornography, which DEVINE also acquired over the dark net.
On October 2, 2017, DEVINE pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and a quantity of Xanax.
This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Connecticut State Police and Easton Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony E. Kaplan.
Denver Jury Convicts Cocaine TraffickerRead the Press Release
DENVER - The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado today announces that Carlos Fernandez-Barron aka “Carlitos” was convicted in the United States District Court for conspiring to distribute, and possessing with intent to distribute, five kilograms or more of cocaine. A Denver jury returned the verdict in federal court today, acquitting him of two other charges.
At trial, before United States District Court Judge Raymond P. Moore, the Government introduced evidence showing that Fernandez-Barron was a Denver-based member of a sophisticated cocaine trafficking conspiracy, which was responsible for sending hundreds of kilograms of cocaine to Colorado and millions of dollars in proceeds back to Chihuahua, Mexico. The Defendant’s role was to help unload cocaine from hidden compartments in vehicles, distribute it in the Denver metro area, and then collect proceeds to return to Mexico. A Denver jury today convicted Fernandez-Barron of one count of conspiracy to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 846 and one count of possession with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(A)(ii)(II). His sentencing is set for June 4, 2018.
The case was investigated by the Rocky Mountain High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas, Front Range Task Force, which includes agents from the Drug Enforcement Administration, Denver Field Division. Assistant United States Attorney Peter McNeilly and Special Assistant United States Attorney Wayne Paugh are prosecuting this matter for the United States. The case is captioned, United States of America v. Carlos Fernandez-Barron, Case No. 15-cr-360-RM.
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