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15 March 2018
Federal Jury Convicts Man of Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
St. Croix, USVI – After a two-day trial, a federal jury on Tuesday found Nathaniel Thomas, Jr., 28, of St. Croix, guilty of being a felon in possession of a Firearm, unlawful possession of a firearm and reckless endangerment, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced.
Thomas faces up to 10 years in prison for the felon in possession count of conviction, a mandatory minimum of fifteen years and up to twenty years in prison on the unlawful possession count and up to five years in prison on the reckless endangerment count.
According to the evidence presented at trial, Thomas drove a vehicle into the Gas For Less Service Station on St. Croix in the early morning hours on May 15, 2016. He was followed by individuals in a Ford Explorer. Thomas stopped his car, came out and hid between nearby vehicles as the Explorer shifted into reverse. At this point shots were being discharged. When the Explorer started to leave the service station, Thomas chased the Explorer on foot while discharging shots toward the vehicle. He subsequently returned to his own vehicle and left the scene. Individuals in the area ran for cover and hid during the shooting. Over fifty spent shell casings were subsequently recovered from the crime scene, many of which were located on the nearby Queen Mary Highway. After the shooting episode, the Explorer collided with two vehicles and came to rest nearby. Bullet holes were discovered in the windshield, on the driver side, and at the rear of the Explorer. Trial testimony established that Thomas was not authorized to possess a firearm and had previously been convicted of a felony offense.
This case was investigated by the Virgin Islands Police Department and by the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alphonso G. Andrews, Jr.
Fayette County Brothers Sentenced to Federal Prison for Roles in Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – Two Fayette County brothers were sentenced to federal prison today on drug charges, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Cheyenne Fragale, 30, and Macon Fragale, 34, both from Boomer, previously entered guilty pleas to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine, a quantity of oxycodone, and a quantity of heroin. Cheyenne Fragale was sentenced to 144 months in federal prison, while Macon Fragale was determined to be a career offender and was sentenced to 200 months in federal prison. U.S. Attorney Stuart commended the investigative efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Beckley Police Department on these cases.
U.S. Attorney Stuart commended the cooperative investigative efforts of several agencies, led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Raleigh County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force. The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Beckley Police Department, the Raleigh County Sheriff’s Department, the West Virginia State Police, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the United States Postal Inspection Service also provided assistance throughout the investigation.
“Prison time awaits those who peddle poison in our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Stuart. “These two brothers are not a good example for the model family. Their smorgasbord of drug dealing from meth, to pills to heroin has one spending the next 12 years behind bars and the other even longer. The message is, “Don’t sell drugs.””
Cheyenne and Macon Fragale previously admitted that between May 2017 and June 28, 2017, they took part in a drug trafficking conspiracy with multiple participants. They also admitted that during the course of the conspiracy, they distributed over 2,000 thirty mg tablets of oxycodone and over 500 grams of methamphetamine, as well as heroin. They additionally admitted that they sold the drugs in and around Fayette County. On June 28, 2017, law enforcement executed search warrants at several locations associated with the conspiracy. During the execution of the search warrants, officers seized over 300 grams of crystal methamphetamine, as well as heroin, fentanyl, and over $29,000 in cash. The methamphetamine was later laboratory tested and confirmed to be 94% pure. Cheyenne Fragale admitted that the cash was proceeds from drug dealing. As part of their plea agreements, Cheyenne and Macon Fragale both admitted to all the drug trafficking activity charged in the indictment.
Several individuals implicated as a result of this investigation have entered guilty pleas to drug charges and are awaiting sentencing. Velarian Carter, of Beckley, faces a mandatory minimum of not less than 20 years and up to life in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 17, 2018. Dominic Copney, of Beckley, faces a mandatory minimum of five and up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 17, 2018. Detria Carter, of Beckley, faces a mandatory minimum sentence of not less than five and up to 40 years in federal prison when she is sentenced on April 24, 2018. Donald Scalise, of Montgomery, faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 25, 2018. Tiffany Ramsey, of Boomer, faces at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when she is sentenced on May 2, 2018. Shawn Akiem Anderson, of Mt. Hope, faces up to 10 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on May 29, 2018. Rory White, of Montgomery, faces at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on June 6, 2018.
Karl Funderburk, of Teays Valley, who previously pled guilty to a gun charge, faces at least 5 years and up to life in federal prison for using and carrying a firearm during a drug trafficking crime when he is sentenced on May 29, 2018.
Shaun Jones of Beckley has entered a guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute more than 100 grams of heroin. Jonathan Moore, also of Beckley, has entered a guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine. Each faces at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when they are sentenced on May 29, 2018.
Corey Larkin, of Beckley, previously entered a plea to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine and more than 100 grams of heroin. He also faces at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on June 5, 2018.
Esau Burnette, of Beckley, has entered a plea to conspiracy to manufacture, distribute, and possess with intent to distribute more than 28 grams of cocaine base and a quantity of cocaine. He faces at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on May 30, 2018. James Rodney Staples, of Woodbridge, Virginia, faces at least 10 years in federal prison and up to life when he is sentenced on May 30, 2018 after entering a plea to conspiracy to distribute or possess with intent to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine, more than 280 grams of cocaine base, and more than one kilogram of heroin.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess handled the prosecutions. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger imposed the sentences.
These cases are being prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.
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Executive of Yacht Sharing Club Admits to Operating Investment Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ANDREW DEME, 52, of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to a conspiracy charge stemming from an investment fraud scheme.
According to court documents and statements made in court, DEME was the President and sole Director of Waters Club Worldwide, Inc. (“WCW”). In November 2016, WCW completed a merger with Petrus Resources Corporation and the merged company subsequently changed its name to Waters Club Holdings, Inc. (“Waters Club”). DEME became President, Chief Executive Office and Chief Financial Officer of Waters Club. According to a Waters Club document used to solicit investors and business partners, Waters Club sought to “introduce a revolutionary Sharing Economy model to yachting” by “form[ing] a membership-based Club with a fleet of yachts strategically located in the world’s leading cruising regions that members can share and use interchangeably for their yachting vacations.”
In pleading guilty, DEME admitted that promoters he hired made certain misrepresentations to prospective investors in Waters Club, including that money would be used to develop the business and fund the operations of Waters Club, and that promoters were not being paid commissions for recruiting investors. In truth, DEME knew that approximately half of all the money paid by investors for shares of Waters Club was paid to the promoters as sales commissions. Due in part to the payments to promoters, which totaled approximately $605,204, Waters Club lacked the capital to develop its membership-based club, did not pursue an IPO, and the shares purchased by investors were unsalable.
One of the victims of this investment scheme was a Connecticut resident who invested $475,000 in Waters Club.
DEME pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. Judge Meyer scheduled sentencing for June 7, 2018.
DEME has been released on a $100,000 bond since his arrest on December 5, 2017.
Two Waters Club promoters, Thomas Heaphy, Jr. and Brian Ferraioli, both of New York, previously pleaded guilty to the same charge. Heaphy and Ferraioli recruited at least 12 investors to pay a total of at least $1,289,500 for shares of Waters Club stock. Heaphy’s total gain from the scheme was $307,658, and Ferraioli’s total gain was $297,546.
This investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Avi M. Perry.
Edmonds Man Sentenced to One Year in Prison for Wire Fraud and Embezzlement from Non-Profit Sea Cadet ProgramRead the Press Release
A 49-year-old Edmonds, Washington man who defrauded the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps (NSCC) of more than $77,000 was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Seattle to one year in prison, three years of supervised release and $75,525 in restitution, announced U.S. Attorney Annette L. Hayes. In November 2017, MICHAEL NOEL LEIGHTON was convicted following a four-day jury trial of four counts of wire fraud and one count of embezzlement. At the sentencing hearing U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Zilly said “There was a lot of money that was spent improperly for personal items, for this defendant’s own personal use.”
“Fraud always undermines trust – in this case, with respect one of the cornerstones of our communities – our nonprofits,” said U.S. Attorney Annette L. Hayes. “Those who volunteer their time and hard earned funds deserve to know that they will be put to good use. Those who abuse that trust deserve to be held to account, just as this defendant was in this case.”
According to records in the case and testimony at trial, in 2011 LEIGHTON volunteered to become a training officer for a local NSCC unit based in Skagit and Snohomish Counties. In this role LEIGHTON was to organize and implement training opportunities for teen-aged students, called Sea Cadets. The program was funded by federal grants from the U.S. Navy to the NSCC. In addition, the Sea Cadets and their parents paid fees to participate in the programs. LEIGHTON and a family member had control of the bank account for the program. Between October 2011 and December 2012, LEIGHTON withdrew thousands of dollars for his personal expenses including meals, gas and the purchase of firearms and firearms accessories. Such purchases were not allowed under the program.
The Naval Sea Cadet Corps asked LEIGHTON for audit reports and receipts for his spending. In response, LEIGHTON provided fraudulent reports, attempting to cover up his illegitimate spending. When the new volunteer leaders of the group took over they discovered items purchased with the funds were missing. In the storage locker they found a few inexpensive furniture pieces, several uniforms, and camping gear. The expensive cameras, copiers and computers, as well as a number of firearms that LEIGHTON had purchased with NSCC funds were missing.
The case was investigated by the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Seungjae Lee and Stephen Hobbs.
Dubuque Felon Who Stole a Gun Sentenced to More Than Three Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A convicted felon who stole a firearm from a vehicle and led police officers on a foot chase through residential backyards was sentenced today to more than three years in federal prison.
Friday Gardner, age 20, from Dubuque, Iowa, received the prison term after a September 28, 2017, guilty plea to one count of possession of a firearm by a felon. At the guilty plea, Gardner admitted he illegally possessed a loaded Taurus PT 740 handgun in April and May of 2017.
Information at the sentencing hearing showed that Gardner stole the gun from a car in Dubuque in April 2017. He was then caught in May 2017 after leading Dubuque police officers on a foot chase through residential backyards. Gardner threw the gun on the ground during the chase, but police found it that day. Gardner was a convicted felon with an active warrant out of Cook County, Illinois.
Gardner was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge Linda R. Reade. Gardner was sentenced to 41 months’ imprisonment and must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
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.
Gardner is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lyndie M. Freeman and investigated by the Dubuque Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Guns, and Explosives.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 17_CR-1035.
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Dominican National Sentenced for Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Dominican national formerly residing in Methuen was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for federal drug conspiracy.
Jorge Luis Nunez Martinez, who used the name William Matos, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge F. Dennis Saylor IV to 87 months in prison and three years of supervised release. Martinez will be subject to deportation upon completion of his sentence. In December 2017, Martinez pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin, cocaine, and crack.
In October 2015, a confidential source reported that an individual named Javier Gonzalez Marcano was operating a large-scale drug trafficking organization in and around Lawrence and Lowell. The subsequent investigation revealed that Martinez was a runner for the Gonzalez Marcano drug trafficking organization. In October 2016, Martinez assumed control over the drug trafficking organization when Gonzalez Marcano returned to the Dominican Republic. Martinez and Juan Rodriguez Castro, another runner for the Gonzalez Marcano drug trafficking organization, were arrested in March 2017.
In June 2017, Rodriguez Castro pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin, cocaine, and crack and was sentenced in October to 28 months in prison. Gonzalez Marcano is presently a fugitive.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling and Michael J. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division, made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Miranda Hooker of Lelling’s Narcotics and Money Laundering Unit prosecuted the case.
Columbia Man Sentenced for Theft of Food Stamp MoneyRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that Christopher O’Berry, age 43, of Columbia, was sentenced to 27 months in prison for Theft of Government Money, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, § 641. Senior United States District Judge Joseph F. Anderson, Jr., of Columbia, also ordered O’Berry to pay $1,039,981.75 in restitution to the United States.
Evidence presented at the change of plea hearing established that the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) is the agency within the U.S. Department of Agriculture responsible for the administration and regulation of the SNAP. SNAP, commonly known as the food stamp program, assists low-income families and individuals purchase food.
Christopher O’Berry operated Cynthia’s Soul Food Deli (formerly Food World) in the Columbia area. The Deli served food, but was also registered to receive SNAP benefits as payment for food items. This arrangement posed two issues. First, SNAP does not pay for prepared food. Second, the Deli did not stock sufficient food to justify the purchases recorded under SNAP. O’Berry allowed beneficiaries to make small purchases through SNAP but processed them as much larger amounts. He would then pay some cash to the beneficiary and keep some for himself.
The investigation traced proceeds of the theft to a Woodforest National Bank account controlled by O’Berry. O’Berry deposited $956,006.90 between May 2011 and December 2014. He then withdrew $158,187 in cash and transferred $714,032 to his own accounts. The rest was used to make minimal purchases for the store.
U.S. Attorney Drake stated, “SNAP is an important source of critical funding to South Carolinians most in need, including the elderly and young families. When the unscrupulous or dishonest defraud the program- and that includes businesses and recipients of SNAP benefits- they are both stealing from the tax payers and eroding a program that does a lot of good.”
The Richland County Sherriff’s Office, the United States Department of Agriculture, Office of the Inspector General, and the Internal Revenue Service investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Winston David Holliday, Jr., of the Columbia office is prosecuting the case.
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Columbia Man Pleads to Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that Dennis Michael Martin, age 51, of Columbia, South Carolina, pled guilty in federal court in Columbia, South Carolina, for Distributing Child Pornography, a violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2252S(a)(5)(B). United States District Judge J. Michelle Childs, of Columbia, accepted the guilty plea and will impose sentence after she has reviewed the presentence report which will be prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.
Evidence presented at the change of plea hearing established that Martin was on supervised release after serving a seventy-eight month sentence for possessing child pornography when the Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) received notice from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) that Martin might be sharing child pornography on the internet. Further investigation revealed that Martin had been distributing and receiving child pornography for approximately one year while on supervised release. U.S. Attorney Drake stated the maximum penalty Martin could receive is a sentence of imprisonment not less than 15 years nor more than 40 years plus a fine of $250,000 and supervised release of not less than 5 years.
The case was investigated by agents of ICE. Assistant United States Attorney William E. Day II of the Columbia office prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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Columbia Man Pleads Guilty to Illegal FirearmRead the Press Release
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Timothy A. Garrison, United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri, announced that a Columbia, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal court today to illegally possessing a firearm.
Lorenzo Dwayne Kemp, 20, of Columbia, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Willie J. Epps, Jr., to being a felon in possession of firearms.
By pleading guilty today, Kemp admitted that he was in possession of a Smith and Wesson .380-caliber semi-automatic handgun and a Rohm .22-caliber revolver on Oct. 25, 2017.
Columbia police officers located a stolen vehicle, occupied by Kemp in the driver’s seat and another person in the passenger’s seat, on the morning of Oct. 25, 2017. The vehicle’s owner had reported earlier that morning that her 2003 Ford Expedition was stolen from her residence after she left the vehicle running and unlocked prior to going to work so that it would be warm for her commute.
Kemp and the passenger of the stolen vehicle both fled from police officers on foot. After a short pursuit, both men were arrested. As the officer who handcuffed Kemp assisted him off the ground, he noticed a black bag that was directly underneath him. The bag contained both firearms as well as 16 baggies of marijuana, which weighed approximately 28.75 grams.
Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition. Kemp has a prior felony conviction for forgery. He was sentenced in that state case on Oct. 23, 2017 (two days prior to his arrest in this federal case) to four years with a suspended execution of sentence and five years of probation.
Under federal statutes, Kemp is subject to a sentence of up to 10 years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lawrence E. Miller. It was investigated by the Columbia, Mo., Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Cleveland man indicted twice for firearms crimes; also had crack cocaineRead the Press Release
A Cleveland man was indicted for two separate firearms crimes, as well as one involving drugs, U.S. Attorney Justin E. Herdman said.
Darren M. Monroe, Jr., 30, was indicted on one count of illegal possession of ammunition and by a felon and possession of crack cocaine with intent to distribute. In a separate indictment, he was charged with being illegal possession of a firearm by a felon.
Monroe had five rounds of .22 caliber ammunition and crack cocaine base on November 1, 2016. He also possessed an H&R .22 caliber revolver and ammunition on January 27, 2018, according to the indictments.
Monroe is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition because of three prior felony convictions for drug trafficking, according to the indictments.
The Cleveland Division of Police’s Neighborhood Impact Community Enforcement Unit, the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the RTA Transit Police, the Cuyahoga County Prosecutor’s Office, and ATF participated in the investigations. Both cases are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney James P. Lewis.
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 violation. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial, in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Chief Executive and Four Associates Indicted for Conspiring with Global Drug Traffickers by Providing Encryption Services to Evade Law Enforcement and Obstruct JusticeRead the Press Release
Assistant U. S. Attorneys Andrew P. Young (619) 546-7981, Mark W. Pletcher (619) 546-9714 and Benjamin J. Katz (619) 546-9604
NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY – March 15, 2018
SAN DIEGO – Vincent Ramos, the chief executive of Canada-based Phantom Secure, and four of his associates were indicted by a federal grand jury today on charges that they knowingly and intentionally participated in a criminal enterprise that facilitated the transnational importation and distribution of narcotics through the sale and service of encrypted communications.
This is the first time the U.S. government has targeted a company and its principals for knowingly and intentionally conspiring with criminal organizations by providing them with the technological tools to evade law enforcement and obstruct justice while committing transnational drug trafficking.
“With one American dying of a drug overdose every nine minutes, our great nation is suffering the deadliest drug epidemic in our history,” Attorney General Jeff Sessions said. “Incredibly, some have sought to profit off of this crisis, including by specifically taking advantage of encryption technologies to further criminal activity, and to obstruct, impede, and evade law enforcement, as this case illustrates. The Department of Justice will aggressively prosecute not just drug traffickers, but those who help them spread addiction and death in our communities. I want to thank the FBI, DEA, Customs and Border Protection, Homeland Security Investigations, Washington State Police, the Bellingham and Blaine Police Departments, and all of our law enforcement partners around the world, including Australia, Canada, Panama, Hong Kong, and Thailand for their hard work on this case. Today's indictment sends a clear message that drug traffickers and criminals cannot hide, because we will hunt them down and find them wherever they are.”
“When criminals go dark, and law enforcement cannot monitor their phones or access evidence, crimes cannot be solved, criminals cannot be stopped and lives can be lost,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Braverman. “As a result of this groundbreaking prosecution, we will disable the communication infrastructure provided by a criminal enterprise to drug traffickers and other violent criminals. Phantom Secure was designed to profit off of criminal activity committed by transnational criminal organizations around the world. We are committed to shutting these criminals down.”
“The indictment of Vincent Ramos and his associates is a milestone against transnational crime,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “Phantom Secure allegedly provided a service designed to allow criminals the world over to evade law enforcement to traffic drugs and commit acts of violent crime without detection. Ramos and his company made millions off this criminal activity, and our takedown sends a serious message to those who exploit encryption to go dark on law enforcement. I want to thank our partners at the Department of Justice, as well as our Australian and Canadian law enforcement partners, for their incredible work on this case.”
“Hidden or undetected communication is key for any transnational organized crime network,” said John A. Brown, FBI Special Agent in Charge of the San Diego Field Office. “This case highlights how criminal enterprises, like Phantom Secure, knowingly provided advanced technology and encrypted private networks to transnational criminal operations in order to evade law enforcement. This break-through investigation has undoubtedly disrupted countless criminal organizations from operating their illegal and dangerous operations in the United States and abroad because their communications mechanism has been shut down. This indictment shows the impact law enforcement, working together across the globe, can have on transnational organized criminal groups. The San Diego Division of the FBI would like to recognize and thank our international law enforcement partners, who built this international case with exceptional and dedicated collaboration.”
Ramos was taken into custody in Bellingham, Washington, on March 7. Ramos made his first appearance in the Western District of Washington and will face charges in San Diego. The remaining four defendants are fugitives.
According to court documents, Phantom Secure advertised its products as impervious to decryption, wiretapping or legal third-party records requests. Phantom Secure also guaranteed the destruction of evidence contained within a device if it was compromised, either by an informant or because it fell into the hands of law enforcement. According to court documents, Phantom Secure’s clients used email handles like the following to conduct criminal activities:
The indictment alleges that as a result of its efforts to facilitate international crime, Phantom Secure has generated approximately $80 million in annual revenue since 2008 and facilitated drug trafficking, obstruction of justice, and violent crime around the world.
The international operation to arrest the company’s chief executive and seize Phantom Secure’s infrastructure involved cooperation and efforts by law enforcement authorities in the United States, Australia, Canada, with additional assistance from U.S. and foreign law enforcement in Panama, Hong Kong, and Thailand.
Over the past two weeks, in cooperation with Australian Federal Police and Royal Canadian Mounted Police, more than 250 agents around the globe conducted approximately 25 searches of houses and offices of Phantom Secure associates in Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Miami, and in Australia and Canada, seizing Phantom Secure devices, assets, and evidence of the charged crimes. The coordinated effort led to the seizure of servers, computers, cell phones, and Phantom Secure devices used to operate the Phantom Secure network, as well as drugs and weapons.
Ramos and the others - Kim Augustus Rodd, Younes Nasri, Michael Gamboa and Christopher Poquiz - are charged with participating in and aiding and abetting a racketeering enterprise and conspiring to import and distribute controlled substances around the world. The defendants have been charged with Conspiracy to Commit RICO in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1962 and Conspiracy to Aid and Abet the Distribution of Controlled Substances in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 841 and 846.
Authorities have seized Phantom Secure’s property, including more than 150 domains and licenses which were being used by transnational criminal organizations to send and receive encrypted messages. Authorities also seized bank accounts and property in Los Angeles, California and Las Vegas, Nevada.
This case stems from an investigation in the Southern District of California of a Phantom Secure client who used Phantom devices to coordinate shipments of thousands of kilograms of cocaine and other drugs throughout the globe. According to court documents, there were an estimated 10,000 to 20,000 Phantom devices in use worldwide before the authorities dismantled the company. This coordinated action means Phantom Secure’s clients can no longer use these devices to commit crimes.
According to Timothy O’Connor, Executive Director of the Criminal Investigations Division New South Wales Crime Commission, “The disruption of the Phantom Secure platform has been one of the most significant blows to organized crime in Australia.”
In addition to our foreign law enforcement partners, the U.S. Attorney’s Office further recognizes the support and assistance of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration; Customs and Border Protection; the Department of Homeland Security; Seattle and Las Vegas field office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Washington State Police Department; the City of Bellingham, Washington Police Department; the City of Blaine, Washington Police Department; and the Canada Border Services Agency, among others, without whose help this prosecution could not have been possible.
Speaking on behalf of Australian law enforcement authorities, Australian Federal Police (AFP) Assistant Commissioner Organised Crime, Neil Gaughan said today Australia’s role in this complex and unique investigation began in early 2017 following an exchange of intelligence with the FBI and Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).
As a result, Australian authorities executed 19 search warrants across four states last week as part of the international action, where more than 1,000 encrypted mobile devices were seized.
“The action taken in the U.S. directly impacts the upper echelons of organized crime both here in Australia and offshore, who until now have been able to confidently control and direct illicit activity like drug importations, money laundering and associated serious criminal offending,” said Assistant Commissioner Gaughan.
“Our thanks go to our international partners – the FBI and RCMP – who have been outstanding in working methodically around the clock together with us on this unique investigation. Without their cooperation, commitment and shared singular drive, Australian law enforcement agencies would not be announcing this significant result today.”
Australian agencies involved in this investigation include the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission, the New South Wales Crime Commission, state police from New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia, the Australian Tax Office and financial intelligence agency AUSTRAC.
“This investigation is a prime example of law enforcement agencies from around the world working together to identify, investigate and charge people involved in transnational criminal activity,” says Assistant Commissioner Jim Gresham, RCMP Criminal Operations Officer, Investigative Services and Organized Crime. “We remain committed to investigating and disrupting these illegal activities that adversely affect each of our communities.”
This case is the result of ongoing efforts by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF), a partnership that brings together the combined expertise and unique abilities of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, dismantle and prosecute high-level members of drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations and enterprises.
DEFENDANTS
Vincent Ramos (1) Richmond, British Columbia Canada
aka “CEO”
aka “Business”
Kim Augustus Rodd (2) Phuket, Thailand
aka Visith Vongthai
aka “Snowstar”
aka “Global”
Younes Nasri (3) Dubai, United Arab Emirates
aka “Maestro”
aka “Jesse”
Michael Gamboa (4) Los Angeles, CA
aka “Chino”
Christopher Poquiz (5) Los Angeles, CA
aka “Caddy”
aka “Cad”
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Racketeering Conspiracy to Conduct Enterprise Affairs (RICO Conspiracy), in violation of 18 USC §1962(d)
Maximum Penalty: Life in prison
Conspiracy to Aid and Abet the Distribution of Narcotics, in violation of 21 USC §841 and 846; Title 18 USC §2
Maximum Penalty: Life in prison
AGENCIES
Federal Bureau of Investigation
Drug Enforcement Administration
Department of Justice, Office of International Affairs
Australian Federal Police
New South Wales Police (Australia)
New South Wales Crime Commission (Australia)
Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission
Royal Canadian Mounted Police
International Assistance Group, Department of Justice, Canada
*The charges and allegations contained in an indictment or complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Chief Executive and Four Associates Indicted for Conspiring with Global Drug Traffickers by Providing Encryption Services to Evade Law Enforcement and Obstruct JusticeRead the Press Release
Vincent Ramos, the chief executive of Canada-based Phantom Secure, and four of his associates were indicted by a federal grand jury today on charges that they knowingly and intentionally participated in a criminal enterprise that facilitated the transnational importation and distribution of narcotics through the sale and service of encrypted communications.
This is the first time the U.S. government has targeted a company and its principals for knowingly and intentionally conspiring with criminal organizations by providing them with the technological tools to evade law enforcement and obstruct justice while committing transnational drug trafficking.
“With one American dying of a drug overdose every nine minutes, our great nation is suffering the deadliest drug epidemic in our history,” said Attorney General Jeff Sessions. “Incredibly, some have sought to profit off of this crisis, including by specifically taking advantage of encryption technologies to further criminal activity, and to obstruct, impede, and evade law enforcement, as this case illustrates. The Department of Justice will aggressively prosecute not just drug traffickers, but those who help them spread addiction and death in our communities. I want to thank the FBI, DEA, Customs and Border Protection, Homeland Security Investigations, Washington State Police, the Bellingham and Blaine Police Departments, and all of our law enforcement partners around the world, including Australia, Canada, Panama, Hong Kong, and Thailand for their hard work on this case. Today's indictment sends a clear message that drug traffickers and criminals cannot hide, because we will hunt them down and find them wherever they are.”
“When criminals go dark, and law enforcement cannot monitor their phones or access evidence, crimes cannot be solved, criminals cannot be stopped and lives can be lost,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Braverman. “As a result of this groundbreaking prosecution, we will disable the communication infrastructure provided by a criminal enterprise to drug traffickers and other violent criminals. Phantom Secure was designed to profit off of criminal activity committed by transnational criminal organizations around the world. We are committed to shutting these criminals down.”
“The indictment of Vincent Ramos and his associates is a milestone against transnational crime,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “Phantom Secure allegedly provided a service designed to allow criminals the world over to evade law enforcement to traffic drugs and commit acts of violent crime without detection. Ramos and his company made millions off this criminal activity, and our takedown sends a serious message to those who exploit encryption to go dark on law enforcement. I want to thank our partners at the Department of Justice, as well as our Australian and Canadian law enforcement partners, for their incredible work on this case.”
Ramos was taken into custody in Bellingham, Washington, on March 7. Ramos made his first appearance in the Western District of Washington and will face charges in San Diego. The remaining four defendants are fugitives.
According to court documents, Phantom Secure advertised its products as impervious to decryption, wiretapping or legal third-party records requests. Phantom Secure also guaranteed the destruction of evidence contained within a device if it was compromised, either by an informant or because it fell into the hands of law enforcement.
The indictment alleges that as a result of its efforts to facilitate international crime, Phantom Secure has generated approximately $80 million in annual revenue since 2008 and facilitated drug trafficking, obstruction of justice, and violent crime around the world.
The international operation to arrest the company’s chief executive and seize Phantom Secure’s infrastructure involved cooperation and efforts by law enforcement authorities in the United States, Australia, Canada, with additional assistance from U.S. and foreign law enforcement in Panama, Hong Kong, and Thailand.
Over the past two weeks, in cooperation with Australian Federal Police and Royal Canadian Mounted Police, more than 250 agents around the globe conducted approximately 25 searches of houses and offices of Phantom Secure associates in Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Miami, and in Australia and Canada, seizing Phantom Secure devices, assets, and evidence of the charged crimes. The coordinated effort led to the seizure of servers, computers, cell phones, and Phantom Secure devices used to operate the Phantom Secure network, as well as drugs and weapons.
Ramos and the others - Kim Augustus Rodd, Younes Nasri, Michael Gamboa and Christopher Poquiz - are charged with participating in and aiding and abetting a racketeering enterprise and conspiring to import and distribute controlled substances around the world. The defendants have been charged with Conspiracy to Commit RICO in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1962 and Conspiracy to Aid and Abet the Distribution of Controlled Substances in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 841 and 846.
Authorities have seized Phantom Secure’s property, including more than 150 domains and licenses which were being used by transnational criminal organizations to send and receive encrypted messages. Authorities also seized bank accounts and property in Los Angeles, California and Las Vegas, Nevada.
This case stems from an investigation in the Southern District of California of a Phantom Secure client who used Phantom devices to coordinate shipments of thousands of kilograms of cocaine and other drugs throughout the globe. According to court documents, there were an estimated 10,000 to 20,000 Phantom devices in use worldwide before the authorities dismantled the company. This coordinated action means Phantom Secure’s clients can no longer use these devices to commit crimes.
According to Timothy O’Connor, Executive Director of the Criminal Investigations Division New South Wales Crime Commission, “The disruption of the Phantom Secure platform has been one of the most significant blows to organized crime in Australia.”
In addition to our foreign law enforcement partners, the U.S. Attorney’s Office further recognizes the support and assistance of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration; Customs and Border Protection; the Department of Homeland Security; Seattle and Las Vegas field office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Washington State Police Department; the City of Bellingham, Washington Police Department; the City of Blaine, Washington Police Department; and the Canada Border Services Agency, among others, without whose help this prosecution could not have been possible.
Speaking on behalf of Australian law enforcement authorities, Australian Federal Police (AFP) Assistant Commissioner Organised Crime, Neil Gaughan said today Australia’s role in this complex and unique investigation began in early 2017 following an exchange of intelligence with the FBI and Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).
As a result, Australian authorities executed 19 search warrants across four states last week as part of the international action, where more than 1,000 encrypted mobile devices were seized.
“The action taken in the U.S. directly impacts the upper echelons of organized crime both here in Australia and offshore, who until now have been able to confidently control and direct illicit activity like drug importations, money laundering and associated serious criminal offending,” said Assistant Commissioner Gaughan.
“Our thanks go to our international partners – the FBI and RCMP – who have been outstanding in working methodically around the clock together with us on this unique investigation. Without their cooperation, commitment and shared singular drive, Australian law enforcement agencies would not be announcing this significant result today.”
Australian agencies involved in this investigation include the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission, the New South Wales Crime Commission, state police from New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia, the Australian Tax Office and financial intelligence agency AUSTRAC.
“This investigation is a prime example of law enforcement agencies from around the world working together to identify, investigate and charge people involved in transnational criminal activity,” says Assistant Commissioner Jim Gresham, RCMP Criminal Operations Officer, Investigative Services and Organized Crime. “We remain committed to investigating and disrupting these illegal activities that adversely affect each of our communities.”
This case is the result of ongoing efforts by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF), a partnership that brings together the combined expertise and unique abilities of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, dismantle and prosecute high-level members of drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations and enterprises.
The charges and allegations contained in an indictment or complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.
DEFENDANTS
Vincent Ramos (1) Richmond, British Columbia Canada aka “CEO” aka “Business”
Kim Augustus Rodd (2) Phuket, Thailand aka Visith Vongthai aka “Snowstar” aka “Global”
Younes Nasri (3) Dubai, United Arab Emirates aka “Maestro” aka “Jesse”
Michael Gamboa (4) Los Angeles, CA aka “Chino”
Christopher Poquiz (5) Los Angeles, CA aka “Caddy” aka “Cad”
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Racketeering Conspiracy to Conduct Enterprise Affairs (RICO Conspiracy), in violation of 18 USC §1962(d)
Maximum Penalty: Life in prison
Conspiracy to Aid and Abet the Distribution of Narcotics, in violation of 21 USC §841 and 846; Title 18 USC §2
Maximum Penalty: Life in prison
Charlotte Man Sentenced for Identity TheftRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that Stanley Fard Harper, age 33, of Charlotte, was sentenced to 24 months in prison for committing Aggravated Identity Theft, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, § 1028A. United States District Judge J. Michelle Childs, of Columbia, also ordered Harper to pay over $57,000 in restitution to various financial institutions.
Harper was an employee of The Lash Group, a health care consulting firm located in Ft. Mill, SC, since 2010. Harper had access to the personal identification information (PII) of Lash’s customer pool. Harper stole this information and used it to open bank and credit card accounts at Founders Federal Credit Union, also located in Ft. Mill.
Harper used Lash client files to set up fraudulent accounts at Founders using his personal cell phone. He would then go to the Founders branch in Ft. Mill, deposit a nominal sum to show activity, then apply for a credit card linked to that account. He would then use a fake North Carolina identification and a fake social security card matching the stolen identity to make cash advances and purchases. He would then deposit additional money into the account to increase the credit limit on his card. He used the fraudulent cards until they were suspended for nonpayment, and then he would get rid of all the documents. He opened thirteen accounts. He received his false identification documents from a website for $60 per set. All of the cash advances and purchases were for personal items.
Harper also opened fraudulent accounts at Charlotte Metro Federal Credit Union, Truliant Federal Credit Union, and Chase Bank USA.
The United States Secret Service investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Winston David Holliday, Jr., of the Columbia office is prosecuting the case.
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Canadian Arrested on Indictment Alleging Illegal Export of Petroleum Equipment to IranRead the Press Release
UPDATE
The defendant in this case, MEHRAN GHANOUNI, was acquited of the charges alleged in the indictment described in the press release below.
A Canadian citizen was arrested on arrival at Sea-Tac airport last night, following his indictment on charges of violating U.S. export laws and making false statements to federal investigators, announced U.S. Attorney Annette L. Hayes. MEHRAN GHANOUNI, 29, operated a number of companies in both the U.S. and Canada. The indictment alleges that between 2014 and 2016, GHANOUNI and his coconspirators exported $2.3 million in parts for petrochemical operations, falsely claiming they were destined for companies in Kuwait, Iraq and the United Arab Emirates. In fact, the coconspirators knew the equipment was to be transshipped to oil companies owned by the government of Iran. Such exports are illegal under federal law. GHANOUNI will make his initial appearance in U.S. District Court in Seattle at 2:00 p.m. today.
“The violation of export control requirements undermines our national security,” said U.S. Attorney Annette L. Hayes. “I commend the investigative work of Homeland Security Investigations and the Office of Export Enforcement that has resulted in this arrest and charges.”
According to the indictment, the co-conspirators attempted to illegally export the equipment on 35 different occasions. The indictment describes a February 1, 2014, export where GHANOUNI’s company, Integrated Control Systems (ICS) claimed the parts were for an oil refinery in Kuwait when in fact they were destined for Iran. In May 2014, ICS claimed parts were destined for a company in Iraq, when in fact they were for an Iranian oil company. In December 2014, U.S. Customs and Border protection seized a shipment of parts ICS was sending overseas suspecting they were headed to Iran. The company again falsely claimed they were for repairs to be made in the UAE for a project in Iraq. Other shipments in January 2015 and February 2016 were also destined for Iran, but were represented as being for companies in Iraq and the UAE. When questioned, MEHRAN GHANOUNI told a special agent with Homeland Security Investigations that his company did not do any business with Iran. GHANOUNI knew that statement was false.
Conspiracy to violate the International Emergency Economic Powers Act Making a False Statement are each punishable by up to five years of imprisonment.
The charges contained in the indictment are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The case is being investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and United States Department of Commerce, Office of Export Enforcement.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas Woods with assistance from the Department of Justice National Security Division.
California Men Sentenced to Prison for Cocaine TraffickingRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Ernestor Ramirez Garcia, 28, of Los Angeles, California, and Richard Cuevas, 35, of Sun City, California, were each sentenced by Senior U.S. District Judge Tom S. Lee to 60 months in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release for transporting cocaine on the interstate, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst.
On October 6, 2016, Garcia and Cuevas were stopped by law enforcement on I-20 in Morton, Mississippi for a traffic violation. During the traffic stop, the officer noticed Garcia appeared to be extremely nervous, and the two men gave inconsistent statements. The officer ran a drug dog around the vehicle and the dog alerted to the presence of controlled substances. Ultimately, the investigation revealed that Garcia and Cuevas traveled from California through Morton, Mississippi with approximately 30 kilograms of cocaine. In total, 21 packages were removed from the vehicle.
The case was investigated by the Morton Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris Wansley.
Brothers from Ossian Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Two brothers from Ossian, Iowa, who sold opioids and illegally possessed numerous guns were each sentenced today to nearly four years in federal prison.
Kaleb Breitsprecher, age 22, received the prison term after an August 25, 2017 guilty plea to distributing heroin and possession of a firearm as an unlawful drug user. Cole Breitsprecher, age 24, received the prison term after a September 1, 2017 guilty plea to distribution of furanyl fentanyl and possession of a firearm as an unlawful drug user.
Evidence at a prior hearing showed that law enforcement purchased drugs from the brothers multiple times in April and May 2017. During one of the controlled buys, Cole Breitsprecher sold an aerosol bottle of liquid containing furanyl fentanyl, a potent analogue of fentanyl. During other controlled buys, Kaleb Breitsprecher sold baggies of heroin. During June 2017 searches at their respective residences in Ossian, law enforcement seized 12 guns. Each brother possessed a Bushmaster rifle with multiple high-capacity magazines. Both brothers admitted to being unlawful users of heroin, fentanyl, and marijuana.
“The Breitsprechers endangered the entire community by unlawfully possessing guns while using drugs,” said United States Attorney Peter E. Deegan, Jr. “They also sold heroin and furanyl fentanyl, presenting a grave risk to everyone who bought these incredibly dangerous opioids.”
The Breitsprechers were sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge Linda R. Reade. Kaleb Breitsprecher was sentenced to 46 months’ imprisonment. Cole Breitsprecher was sentenced to 46 months’ imprisonment and fined $5,000. Each must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Both men are being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until they can be transported to federal prison.
The case was investigated by the Northeast Iowa Drug Task Force and Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dan Chatham.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 17-CR-2053-LRR.
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Brooklyn Man Pleads Guilty to Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Geoffrey S. Berman, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that DAVID SHALAM pleaded guilty today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah Netburn to a Superseding Information charging him with the production of child pornography. U.S. District Court Judge Alvin K. Hellerstein will impose sentencing.
Manhattan U.S. Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman said: “David Shalam paid a woman to perform sex acts via internet video, eventually further urging her to engage in acts of sexual molestation of her own minor children of six and eight years old. Depraved acts such as this can have profoundly damaging effects on victims, the aftermath often leading to years of suffering psychological torment and anguish. Today’s plea holds David Shalam accountable for these reprehensible acts.”
According to the allegations in the Superseding Information, and the Complaint filed on March 9, 2017:
Between April and December 2015, SHALAM paid a woman in Romania (referred to in the Complaint as “Jane Doe”) to participate in a series of live video chats over Skype, during which SHALAM directed Jane Doe to engage in specific sexually explicit conduct with her minor children, who at the time were approximately six and eight years old. SHALAM referred to Jane Doe’s real time sexual abuse of her children as “shows,” at least one of which SHALAM recorded.
In conjunction with Romanian authorities, the FBI recovered logs of instant messages between SHALAM and Jane Doe over Skype, during which SHALAM and Jane Doe discussed the kinds of sex acts SHALAM wanted to see performed, when the children would be home from school so that the “shows” could take place, and the cost of each “show.” SHALAM wired payments to Jane Doe through a Western Union branch in midtown, Manhattan, a few blocks from the office where SHALAM worked for a retail clothing company.
* * *
SHALAM, 51, of Brooklyn, New York, pled guilty to one count of sexual exploitation of minors, which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of fifteen years in prison, and a maximum sentence of thirty years in prison. The maximum potential sentence in this case is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge.
Mr. Berman praised the investigative work of the FBI.
This case is being handled by the Office’s General Crimes Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alison Moe and Mollie Bracewell are in charge of the prosecution.
Boston Man Sentenced for Cocaine DistributionRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Boston man was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for selling crack cocaine in and around Roxbury’s Orchard Gardens Housing Development.
Dominique Dozier, 31, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Allison D. Burroughs to 50 months in prison and six years of supervised release, during which time Dozier must stay away from the Orchard Gardens Housing Development area. In December 2017, Dozier pleaded guilty to two counts of distribution of cocaine base within 1,000 feet of a school.
On July 13, 2016, Dozier sold four bags of crack cocaine, which he described as “some fat ones,” to a cooperating witness in the lobby of his apartment building, which is near the Edna W. Bynoe Community Park in Roxbury. According to court documents Dozier has been convicted on nine separate occasions for 20 offenses that include violence, threats, weapons, and trafficking of drugs. Dozier is one of 12 defendants arrested and charged in June 2017 following a nearly two-year investigation into the high concentration of crime in and around the Orchard Gardens Development, the largest publically funded housing development in Roxbury, which is also adjacent to the Edna W. Bynoe Community Park.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling; Mickey D. Leadingham, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Field Division; and Boston Police Commissioner William Evans made the announcement.
Baltimore Man Sentenced to 14 Years in Prison for Carjackings and ShootingRead the Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact ELIZABETH MORSE
www.justice.gov/usao/md at (410) 209-4885
Baltimore, Maryland – United States District Judge Ellen L. Hollander sentenced Jerome Pittman, age 23, of Baltimore, Maryland today to 14 years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for conspiracy to commit carjacking, carjacking resulting in serious bodily injury, and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
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 (ATF) Baltimore Field Division; and Commissioner Darryl DeSousa of the Baltimore Police Department.
According to his plea agreement, on May 15, 2016, Pittman and a second male caught an unlicensed taxi in Baltimore, Maryland. The unidentified male entered the front passenger seat of the car and Pittman entered the rear passenger seat. The males then asked the driver to take them to a nearby treatment facility.
Upon arriving at the treatment facility, Pittman got out of the car, purportedly to retrieve some papers. The unidentified male then asked the driver to take him to the far, darker side of the lot so that the unidentified male could urinate.
A few moments later, the unidentified male opened the driver-side door, pointed a firearm at the driver, and ordered him out of the car. The driver got out of the car and ran around to the passenger side where he unexpectedly met Pittman, who shot him at close range in the thigh. The two men then drove off in the stolen vehicle leaving the injured driver in the parking lot.
Three days later, on May 19, 2016, Pittman and two co-conspirators were in a 2012 Mercedes Benz, which had been reported stolen. The men crashed the Mercedes Benz into another car and then fled the scene of the accident. They then walked to a nearby gas station, again in Baltimore, Maryland, where they brandished a firearm at a driver stopped at a traffic light, pressed the firearm into the driver’s stomach, and carjacked the vehicle.
The following day, the three men were together in the stolen vehicle and took a “selfie” with the victim’s cell phone.
Pittman’s co-defendants, Ti’Quan Dinkins and Rashad Harris, previously pleaded guilty to the carjacking on May 19, 2016, and related charges. Dinkins was sentenced to eight and a half years in prison, followed by three years of supervised release. Harris has not yet been sentenced.
Acting United States Attorney Stephen M. Schenning praised the ATF and Baltimore Police Department for their work in the investigation. Mr. Schenning thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Dana Brusca and Patty McLane who prosecuted the case.
Authorities in Waco and California Arrest 15 Indicted on Federal Drug Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
Today, federal, state and local authorities arrested eleven individuals in connection with a crystal methamphetamine trafficking operation in the Waco area, announced United States Attorney John F. Bash; Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Special Agent in Charge Will Glaspy, Houston Division; Texas Department of Public Safety Director Steven McCraw; McLennan County Sheriff Parnell McNamara; and, Waco Police Chief Ryan Holt.
A federal grand jury this week returned two related indictments charging those individuals, as well as four individuals who were previously arrested, with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine. The defendants include Darris Thompson, who was the ringleader of the trafficking operation. Below is a complete list of defendants.
The indictments allege that since at least October 2016, the defendants have been responsible for a crystal methamphetamine supply network based in Hesperia, California, and a methamphetamine distribution network based in Waco.
During this investigation, authorities seized over 26 pounds of crystal methamphetamine, over 330 pounds of marijuana, and approximately 1,000 tabs of Xanax.
Given the drug quantity charged, if the defendants are convicted they will be subject to significant sentencing ranges--between ten years and life in federal prison for some defendants, and between five years and 40 years for others. All but two of the defendants will remain in federal custody pending detention hearings anticipated for next week in Waco.
These indictments resulted from an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation conducted by the McLennan County Sheriff’s Office, the Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigation Division, the Waco Police Department, the Waco office of the DEA, and the United States Marshals Service. In addition, the Ft. Worth and Riverside offices of the DEA and the Riverside Sheriff’s Office provided valuable assistance with this investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie Smith-Burris is prosecuting this case on behalf of the Government.
The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering operations, and those primarily responsible for the nation’s illegal drug supply.
It is important to note that an indictment is merely a charge and should not be considered as evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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U.S. v. Thompson, et al. (W18cr093) defendants
Name Age Residence Statutory Max. Penalty
*Darris Kinita Thompson (aka “Piru”) 41 Waco, TX 10 years to life imprisonment
*Sedric Barshea Thompson 49 Waco 10 years to life imprisonment
*Meagan Anaise Keel 32 Waco 10 years to life imprisonment
*Christopher Derric Blount 46 Waco 5 – 40 years imprisonment
*Darrell Wayne Moore 50 Waco 5 – 40 years imprisonment
*Ulis Howard Alexander 27 Waco 10 years to life imprisonment
*Chelsea Laine Early Graves 30 Waco 5 – 40 years imprisonment
*Lamont Alexander Taylor 41 Waco 5 – 40 years imprisonment
*Ruby Clara Williams 55 Waco 5 – 40 years imprisonment
*Joe Angel Gayton 27 Waco 10 years to life imprisonment
*Johnny Perez, Jr. 38 Wichita Falls, TX 10 years to life imprisonmentU.S. v. Casillas, et al. (W18cr072) defendants
Name Age Residence Arrested Statutory Max. Penalty
*Johnny Casillas 36 Waco 2.28.18 10 years to life imprisonment
**Francisco Resendiz-Martinez 25 Hesperia, CA 3.1.18 10 years to life imprisonment
*Patricia Ferrer 53 Hesperia, CA 2.28.18 10 years to life imprisonment
**Veronica Barraza Real 40 Hesperia, CA 3.1.18 10 years to life imprisonment* Remains in federal custody
**Resendiz-Martinez and Real are currently on bond--$100,000 and $50,000, respectively.Attorney General Sessions Provides Further Support for Local Law Enforcement with Launch of New Collaborative Reform Initiative Technical Assistance CenterRead the Press Release
Attorney General Jeff Sessions today announced the launch of the Collaborative Reform Initiative Technical Assistance Center (CRI-TAC) during the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) Division Midyear Conference in Nashville, Tennessee.
This follows the Attorney General’s announcement in September of 2017 that the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services would shift to better align the program to support local law enforcement consistent with the original intent of the authorizing statute. Consistent with that, the CRI-TAC brings together a coalition of the nation’s top public safety organizations under the leadership of the IACP to provide tailored technical assistance and a field driven approach to local policing agencies through a $7 million award from the Department of Justice’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office).
"Better training and the more sophisticated policing strategies were key reasons for 20 years of declining crime in America," Attorney General Sessions said. "I believe that continuing to advance our technical sophistication can help us reduce crime once again, and that's why we're investing in CRI-TAC. Improving access to training for our state and local law enforcement partners will mean better policing and a safer America."
Since the December 2017 announcement of the CRI-TAC award, the IACP and its partners have started planning technical assistance delivery to support three law enforcement agencies around their unique challenges. Those agencies include the Cedar Rapids (IA) Police Department, the McNeese State University (LA) Police Department, and the Knoxville (TN) Police Department, which has asked for technical assistance around effective gun violence reduction and prevention initiatives.
For the first time ever, the following law enforcement stakeholder organizations – and their over 420,000 members – are working together to create a center of resources and subject matter expertise explicitly focusing on the needs of local policing agencies: International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP)
- "The IACP is excited to work alongside eight leading law enforcement leadership and labor organizations to build and deliver this comprehensive technical assistance center that can support the diverse agencies and communities around the U.S. with customized solutions for the field, by the field," said IACP President Louis M. Dekmar, Chief of the LaGrange, Georgia, Police Department.
Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy Associates (FBINAA)
- “The vision of the FBI National Academy Associates is to provide continuous development and resources to the world's strongest law enforcement leadership network,” said Howard Cook, Executive Director, FBI National Academy Associates. “The Collaborative Reform Initiative for Technical Assistance Center (CRI-TAC) will allow us to provide cutting-edge and innovative education, training, and resources to law enforcement executives throughout the country. By focusing on the most relative and important 21st century issues, we will be able to continue to impact communities by providing and promoting law enforcement leadership and enhancing the trust our citizens have bestowed on us.”
Fraternal Order of Police (FOP)
- “The National Fraternal Order of Police is honored to be a partnering member of this initiative,” said Chuck Canterbury, National President of the Fraternal Order of Police. “We view our participation as critical to the delivery of quality training opportunities to front line officers who have dedicated their lives to the protection of the public under some of the most adverse conditions we have seen in recent times.”
International Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators (IACLEA)
- “IACLEA is honored to be a part of this vital initiative,” said IACLEA President David Bousquet. “The input of campus public safety experts will enhance the project development and, ultimately, the technical assistance center. We look forward to rolling up our sleeves and working with our project partners.”
International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training (IADLEST)
- “IADLEST is proud to be a part of this project and to be partnering with so many other great organizations dedicated to increasing public safety and the effectiveness of community policing and reducing crime,” said Daniel Zivkovich, President of IADLEST. “We are very appreciative of the IACP for spearheading this initiative and allowing IADLEST to be a part of it. Being the only membership organization that represents POST agencies and Academy Directors nationwide, we believe that IADLEST is an integral partner in this initiative.”
Major Cities Chiefs Association (MCCA)
- “The Major Cities Chiefs Association looks forward to the ongoing partnership with the IACP and each program partner in the Collaborative Reform Initiative,” said Montgomery County, Maryland Police Chief Tom Manger. “The expertise of our combined membership will help provide solutions to some of the most challenging problems facing law enforcement in our commitment to service throughout our communities.”
National Association of Women Law Enforcement Executives (NAWLEE)
- “The National Association of Women Law Enforcement Executives (NAWLEE) is honored to be part of the rich coalition of participants,” said Valerie Cunningham, NAWLEE President. “We look forward to offering up the collective experience of our membership and subject matter expertise to deliver tailored resources to agencies looking for assistance.”
National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE)
- “The National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) is very pleased to join the IACP and others in delivering Collaborative Reform Initiative technical assistance to law enforcement agencies across the nation,” said NOBLE President Clarence E. Cox, III. “We look forward to playing an integral role in this much needed effort which focuses on developing and executing a national law enforcement technical assistance program at all levels of law enforcement. The technical assistance offerings will include everything from Active Shooter Responses to Police Responses to Mass Demonstrations of which NOBLE is well versed.”
National Tactical Officers Association (NTOA)
- “For 35 years, the National Tactical Officers Association (NTOA) has been dedicated to enhancing the performance and professional status of law enforcement personnel by providing a credible and proven training resource, as well as a forum for the development of tactics and information exchange. We are excited to be a partner in the CRI-TAC and assist those agencies in need of our services.” Thor Eells, NTOA Executive Director.
For more information about the CRI-TA program, visit the COPS Office website https://cops.usdoj.gov/collaborativereform.
Law enforcement agencies seeking additional information or interested in submitting a voluntary request to participate in CRI-TAC should visit www.collaborativereform.org.
The COPS Office awards grants to hire community policing officers, develop and test innovative policing strategies, and provide training and technical assistance to community members, local government leaders, and all levels of law enforcement. Since 1994, the COPS Office has invested more than $14 billion to help advance community policing.Arnold Man Indicted on Charges of Possessing Guns at Fox High SchoolRead the Press Release
St. Louis, MO – Dustin Lockwood, 23, of Arnold, was indicted today on charges of possessing firearms in a school zone and possession of a silencer.
On February 20, 2018, Lockwood was sitting in his vehicle in the parking lot of Fox High School in Arnold, Missouri. Arnold Police Department and ATF responded after a school staff member contacted them and advised them of a rifle case in the rear of Lockwood’s black 2001 Toyota Corolla. Search of the vehicle revealed a .22 caliber rifle, .22 caliber revolver, multiple spent shell casings throughout the vehicle, a suspected homemade silencer, and multiple bags and boxes in the trunk of the vehicle containing explosive related material, multiple knives, a machete, and .22 and 9mm caliber ammunition. Lockwood indicated that he was at the school to pick up his sister. He was taken into federal custody and charged on a criminal complaint.
If convicted, the charge of possession of a firearm in a school zone carries a maximum penalty of 5 years in prison and a $250,000 fine and the charge of possession of a silencer carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. In determining the actual sentences, a judge is required to consider the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which provide recommended sentencing ranges.
This case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Arnold Police Department, St. Louis County Bomb Squad and the Jefferson County Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Rodney H. Holmes is handling the case for the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
As is always the case, charges set forth in the complaint are merely accusations and do not constitute proof of guilt. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Armed Felon Sentenced to 77 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Spokane – Joseph H. Harrington, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced today that Nicholas Matthew McRae, age 36, of Spokane, Washington, was sentenced after having pleaded guilty on December 14, 2017, to being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. United States District Court Judge Stanley A. Bastian sentenced McRae to a 77-month term of imprisonment, to be followed by a 3-year term of court supervision following release from Federal prison.
According to information disclosed during court proceedings, officers assigned to the Spokane Police Department Patrol Anti-Crime Team (PACT) observed McRae driving his vehicle past the Union Gospel Mission and the barrel of a firearm pointed toward the open driver’s side window. The officers followed McRae and attempted a high-risk traffic stop. McRae sped past the Union Gospel Mission and eluded the pursuing officers for several minutes, causing multiple accidents. After a pursuing officer disabled McRae’s vehicle, McRae fled and a foot chase ensued until police apprehended him. A search of McRae’s vehicle revealed two firearms, an AK-47 style pistol with a drum magazine capable of containing 100 rounds of ammunition and a revolver. A search of the drum magazine revealed it was loaded with over 60 rounds of ammunition. As a previously convicted felon, McRae was prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition.
Joseph H. Harrington said, “Prosecuting firearms-related crimes continues to be a priority for the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington. Previously convicted felons should be aware that there are serious criminal penalties connected with possessing any firearm and ammunition and that this Office is committed to prosecuting aggressively firearm-related cases in the Eastern District of Washington.”
This case was investigated by the Spokane Police Department Patrol Anti-Crime Team (PACT) and the Spokane Resident Office of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives
(ATF). This case was prosecuted by Patrick J. Cashman, Assistant United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington.
Allendale Man Sentenced to Fifteen Years for Distribution of Crack CocaineRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that Ernest Roberts, a/k/a “Balla Walla,” age 41, of Allendale, South Carolina, was sentenced for possession with intent to distribute and distribution of crack cocaine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 841. United States District Judge Mary G. Lewis, of Columbia, sentenced Roberts to 180 months in prison.
At trial, audio and video evidence presented established that on February 22, 2016, Roberts traveled to a pawn store in Fairfax, South Carolina, to meet with an informant working with the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED). After discussing the meet on several recorded phone calls, evidence established that Roberts sold the informant 26.35 grams of “crack” cocaine in exchange for $1300.00 while standing near 10th Street in Fairfax. SLED agents testified that they observed the transaction and identified Ernest Roberts as the individual who met with the informant to conduct the controlled purchase.
Roberts has numerous prior convictions, the most recent of which were for possession with intent to distribute oxycodone and crack cocaine in 2014, possession with intent to distribute marijuana in 2013, and distribution of cocaine in 2006.
This case was investigated by Special Agents with the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) and officers with the Allendale Police Department. The case was prosecuted pursuant to 14th Circuit Solicitor Duffie Stone’s longstanding partnership with the United States Attorney’s Office to target career criminals in Beaufort, Jasper, Hampton, Colleton, and Allendale Counties in federal court. Special Assistant United States Attorney Carra Henderson of the 14th Circuit Solicitor’s Office and Assistant United States Attorney JD Rowell of the US Attorney’s Office in Columbia prosecuted the case.
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Alleged MS-13 Member Charged in Violent Racketeering Conspiracy Including Drug Trafficking and ExtortionRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury returned an indictment yesterday charging an alleged MS-13 member residing in Arlington, Virginia with conspiracy to participate in a racketeering enterprise, conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, and conspiracy to interfere with interstate commerce by extortion.
The indictment was announced by Acting Assistant Attorney General John P. Cronan; Acting U.S. Attorney Stephen M. Schenning for the District of Maryland; Special Agent in Charge Andre Watson of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); Assistant Director in Charge Andrew W. Vale of the FBI Washington Field Office; Special Agent in Charge Karl C. Colder of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA); Chief Henry P. Stawinski III of the Prince George’s County Police Department; Prince George’s County State’s Attorney Angela D. Alsobrooks; Chief Douglas Holland of the Hyattsville Police Department; Chief J. Thomas Manger of the Montgomery County Police Department; and Montgomery County State’s Attorney John McCarthy.
Luis Arnoldo Flores-Reyes, aka Maloso and Lobo, 37, is charged in a four-count superseding indictment that alleges that from at least 2015 through January 2018, he was a member and associate of the Sailors Clique of MS-13 and that he engaged in a racketeering conspiracy that included extortion, drug trafficking, murder and a conspiracy to commit murder. The defendant is also charged with drug trafficking conspiracy and conspiracy to interfere with interstate commerce by extortion. Flores-Reyes is in custody.
According to the indictment, MS-13 is a national and international gang composed primarily of immigrants or descendants from El Salvador. Branches or “cliques” of MS-13, one of the largest street gangs in the United States, operate throughout Prince George’s County and Montgomery County, Maryland. Eleven other individuals were previously charged in this case with racketeering conspiracy, conspiracy to commit murder in aid of racketeering, drug trafficking conspiracy and conspiracy to interfere with interstate commerce by extortion.
For a period of time beginning at least in 2015 through in or about 2017, members of the Sailors Clique, including Flores-Reyes, are alleged to have extorted owners of illegal businesses in the Langley Park and Wheaton areas of Maryland, with the extortion proceeds being sent to El Salvador to benefit MS-13. In addition, between 2015 and 2018, members of the Sailors clique, including Flores-Reyes, are alleged to have trafficked narcotics, including marijuana and cocaine in Langley Park, Maryland, with the proceeds benefiting the gang.
More specifically, in January 2018, Flores-Reyes gave directions to members of MS-13 in Houston, Texas that they should purchase a gun and shoot rival gang members who were believed to have killed a member of MS-13. On or about Jan. 28, 2018, members of MS-13 in Houston, Texas shot at and attempted to kill suspected rival gang members while Flores-Reyes and other MS-13 members, including MS-13 members in El Salvador, monitored the shooting by phone.
An indictment is not a finding of guilt. An individual charged by indictment is presumed innocent until proven guilty at some later criminal proceedings.
Trial Attorney Catherine K. Dick of the Criminal Division’s Organized Crime and Gang Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys William D. Moomau and Daniel C. Gardner of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland are prosecuting this case.
Alleged MS-13 Member Charged in Violent Racketeering Conspiracy Including Drug Trafficking and ExtortionRead the Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact ELIZABETH MORSE
www.justice.gov/usao/md at (410) 209-4885
Greenbelt, Maryland – A federal grand jury returned an indictment yesterday charging an alleged MS-13 member residing in Arlington, Virginia with conspiracy to participate in a racketeering enterprise, conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, and conspiracy to interfere with interstate commerce by extortion.
The indictment was announced by Acting U.S. Attorney Stephen M. Schenning for the District of Maryland; Acting Assistant Attorney General John P. Cronan; Special Agent in Charge Andre Watson of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); Assistant Director in Charge Andrew W. Vale of the FBI Washington Field Office; Special Agent in Charge Karl C. Colder of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA); Chief Henry P. Stawinski III of the Prince George’s County Police Department; Prince George’s County State’s Attorney Angela D. Alsobrooks; Chief Douglas Holland of the Hyattsville Police Department; Chief J. Thomas Manger of the Montgomery County Police Department; and Montgomery County State’s Attorney John McCarthy.
Luis Arnoldo Flores-Reyes, a/k/a “Maloso” and “Lobo”, 37, is charged in a four-count superseding indictment that alleges that from at least 2015 through January 2018, he was a member and associate of the Sailors Clique of MS-13 and that he engaged in a racketeering conspiracy that included extortion, drug trafficking, murder and a conspiracy to commit murder. The defendant is also charged with drug trafficking conspiracy and conspiracy to interfere with interstate commerce by extortion. Flores-Reyes is in custody.
According to the indictment, MS-13 is a national and international gang composed primarily of immigrants or descendants from El Salvador. Branches or “cliques” of MS-13, one of the largest street gangs in the United States, operate throughout Prince George’s County and Montgomery County, Maryland. Eleven other individuals were previously charged in this case with racketeering conspiracy, conspiracy to commit murder in aid of racketeering, drug trafficking conspiracy and conspiracy to interfere with interstate commerce by extortion.
For a period of time beginning at least in 2015 through in or about 2017, members of the Sailors Clique, including Flores-Reyes, are alleged to have extorted owners of illegal businesses in the Langley Park and Wheaton areas of Maryland, with the extortion proceeds being sent to El Salvador to benefit MS-13. In addition, between 2015 and 2018, members of the Sailors clique, including Flores-Reyes, are alleged to have trafficked narcotics, including marijuana and cocaine in Langley Park, Maryland, with the proceeds benefiting the gang.
More specifically, in January 2018, Flores-Reyes gave directions to members of MS-13 in Houston, Texas that they should purchase a gun and shoot rival gang members who were believed to have killed a member of MS-13. On or about Jan. 28, 2018, members of MS-13 in Houston, Texas shot at and attempted to kill suspected rival gang members while Flores-Reyes and other MS-13 members, including MS-13 members in El Salvador, monitored the shooting by phone.
An indictment is not a finding of guilt. An individual charged by indictment is presumed innocent until proven guilty at some later criminal proceedings.
Acting United States Attorney Stephen M. Schenning commended the HSI, FBI, DEA and Prince George’s County, Hyattsville, and Montgomery County Police Departments for their work in the investigation. Mr. Schenning thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys William D. Moomau and Daniel C. Gardner and Trial Attorney Catherine K. Dick of the Criminal Division’s Organized Crime and Gang Section who are prosecuting this Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force case.
Alien Located in Columbia Pleads Guilty to Illegal Re-EntryRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that Hugo Rolando Canenguez-Montes, age 52, of El Salvador, entered a guilty plea in federal court in Columbia, to Illegal Re-Entry, a violation of 8 U.S.C. § 1326(a). United States District Judge J. Michelle Childs, of Columbia, accepted the guilty plea and will impose sentence after she has reviewed the presentence report, which will be prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.
Evidence presented at the change of plea hearing established that Canenguez was encountered by DHS/ICE agents on December 10, 2017, at the Lexington County Detention Center in Lexington after he was arrested for Kidnapping and Criminal Sexual Conduct 1st Degree. An investigation revealed that Canenguez is a citizen of El Salvador who had been deported five times pursuant to an order of removal. U.S. Attorney Drake stated the maximum penalty for Illegal Re-Entry is imprisonment for 2 years and/or a fine of $250,000.
The case was investigated by officers of the ICE – Enforcement and Removal Operations. Assistant United States Attorney William E. Day, II, of the Columbia office is prosecuting the case.
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Alien Located in Columbia Pleads Guilty to Illegal Re-EntryRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that Mario Almaraz-Juarez, age 23, of Mexico, entered a guilty plea in federal court in Columbia, to Illegal Re-Entry, a violation of 8 U.S.C. § 1326(a). United States District Judge J. Michelle Childs, of Columbia, accepted the guilty plea and will impose sentence after she has reviewed the presentence report, which will be prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.
Evidence presented at the change of plea hearing established that Almaraz was encountered by DHS/ICE agents on December 31, 2017, at the Lexington County Detention Center, in Lexington, after he was arrested for Hit and Run, Driving Under Suspension and No Insurance. An investigation revealed that Almaraz is a citizen of Mexico who had been deported pursuant to an order of removal. U.S. Attorney Drake stated the maximum penalty for Illegal Re-Entry is imprisonment for 2 years and/or a fine of $250,000.
The case was investigated by officers of the ICE-Enforcement and Removal Operations. Assistant United States Attorney William E. Day, II of the Columbia is prosecuting the case.
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Alien Found in Richland County Sentenced for Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that Oscar Santiago-Bello, age 34, of Columbia, South Carolina, was sentenced in federal court in Columbia, South Carolina, for Reentry of Removed Aliens, a violation of 8 U.S.C. § 1326. United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis, of Columbia, sentenced Santiago-Bello to time served (approximately 5 months imprisonment) with no supervised release because he is expected to be deported upon completion of his sentence.
Evidence presented at the change of plea hearing established that Santiago-Bello is a Mexican citizen who had previously been deported three times and had previously been convicted of illegal reentry. He was encountered by Department of Homeland Security/ICE-ERO officers on August 6, 2017 at the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center after being arrested for unrelated state charges.
Officers of the Department of Homeland Security/ICE-ERO investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney William E. Day, II, of the Columbia office is prosecuting the case.
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Alien Found in Aiken County Sentenced for Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that Jorge Luis Marin-Villa, age 36, of Augusta, Georgia, was sentenced today in federal court in Columbia, South Carolina, for Reentry of Removed Aliens, a violation of 8 U.S.C. § 1326. United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis, of Columbia, sentenced Marin-Villa to one year and one day imprisonment, with no supervised release because he is expected to be deported upon completion of his sentence.
Evidence presented at the change of plea hearing established that Marin-Villa is a Mexican citizen who had previously been deported two times and had previously been convicted of Reentry of a Removed Alien. He was encountered by Department of Homeland Security/ICE-ERO officers on September 10, 2017 at the Aiken County Detention Center after being arrested for unrelated state charges.
Officers of Department of Homeland Security/ICE-ERO investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney William E. Day, II, of the Columbia office is prosecuting the case.
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Albuquerque Resident Pleads Guilty to Federal Bank Fraud and Identity Theft ChargesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Shawn Dale Torrez, 40, of Albuquerque, N.M., pled guilty today in federal court to bank fraud and aggravated identity theft charges. Torrez entered the guilty plea under a plea agreement that recommends a sentence of 42 to 48 months of imprisonment followed by a term of supervised release to be determined by the court.
The U.S. Postal Inspection Service arrested Torrez on Dec. 8, 2017, on a four-count indictment charging him with two counts of bank fraud and two counts of aggravated identity theft. According to the indictment, Torrez committed the offenses from July 23, 2014 through April 16, 2015, in New Mexico, by stealing mail, which included personal identifying information of individuals, to create and use counterfeit drivers’ licenses and drivers’ licenses extensions to submit online applications for lines of credit and credit cards in the names of the individuals.
During today’s proceedings, Torrez pled guilty to the four-count indictment. In entering the guilty plea, Torrez admitted that on Jan. 10, 2015, he opened a fraudulent line of credit through Wells Fargo bank in the amount of $23,000 at an Albuquerque-area jewelry store. Torrez used the personal identifiers of a victim, without the victim’s permission, to open the account and to purchase a three-stone diamond ring and a wristwatch. Torrez also admitted that on March 15, 2015, he used a fraudulent Sandia Labs Credit Union check with the victim’s name and address to make an $860.07 furniture purchase at an Albuquerque-area store. Torrez acknowledged that he used the victim’s identity in order to commit fraud.
Torrez remains in custody pending a sentencing hearing, which has yet to be scheduled.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
24 Defendants Charged by Federal and State Prosecutors for Drug Trafficking and Firearm Related OffensesRead the Press Release
BRUNSWICK, GA – Federal indictments were unsealed yesterday revealing that sixteen (16) residents from Glynn County and McIntosh County, in the Southern District of Georgia, and elsewhere, have been charged with federal firearms and drug-trafficking offenses. The Brunswick District Attorney’s Office has charged an additional eight defendants.
The federal and state charges are the result of joint federal and local efforts to dismantle a major cocaine trafficking organization that was operating in the Southern District of Georgia and elsewhere. After law enforcement received information about a drug dealer who was selling large quantities of cocaine in Glynn County, the McIntosh Sheriff’s Office teamed up with the Glynn County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Investigators from local and federal law enforcement worked together to identify the members of the drug trafficking organization (DTO), their methods of operation, and where they stored and sold drugs. The team used a number of investigative techniques, including the use of informants, conducting surveillance, making undercover purchases of cocaine and crack cocaine, and the execution of search warrants.
Through search warrants and consensual searches conducted during this investigation, agents seized kilograms of cocaine, with a street value in excess of $150,000, over 30 pounds of marijuana, crack cocaine, over $60,000 cash, and dozens of firearms, including assault style rifles and substantial amounts of ammunition.
On March 13, 2018, a team of federal and local law enforcement investigators simultaneously executed over twenty (20) arrest warrants in the Southern District of Georgia and the Middle District of Florida. During the arrests, investigators seized an additional 21 firearms.
The following defendants have been charged in the thirty-six (36) page, thirty-six (36) count federal indictment:
JOHN EUGENE OVERCASH, a/k/a “Cowboy,” 52, Brunswick, GA,
KENNETH LEON BRADLEY, 50, Brunswick, GA,
JEREMY MCINTYRE, 37, Brunswick, GA,
RICHARD CARTER, 57, Brunswick, GA,
DARRIUS MERRELL, 38, Brunswick, GA,
ANDREW JACKSON, a/k/a “Drew,” 34, Orlando, FL,
KENEIL KING, 25, Brunswick, GA,
JESSICA TABUTEAU, 31, Orlando, FL,
TROY CROSBY, 49, Hortense, GA,
AMY MANSON, 37, Hortense, GA,
EDRIN TEMPLE, a/k/a “Pete McCiver,” 39, Darien, GA,
ANTHONY BERNARD LEWIS, a/k/a “Amp,” 46, Brunswick, GA,
JOSEPH SIMMONS, a/k/a “Bug,” 48, Brunswick, GA,
TOMMY MURRAY, 50, Brunswick, GA,
CLIFTON FOSTER, 64, Brunswick, GA,
MARCUS MUNGIN, 33, Brunswick, GA
The federal charges and maximum penalties include:
-Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute 5 Kilograms or More of Cocaine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 846, which carries a potential sentence of not less than 10 years of incarceration, up to life. If a defendant has a prior felony drug conviction, then the charge carries not less than 20 years of incarceration up to life. If a person has two or more prior felony drug convictions, then not less than life.
-The Distribution of Cocaine and Crack Cocaine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1), which carries up to 20 years of incarceration. If a defendant has a prior felony drug conviction, then it carries not more than 30 years of incarceration.
-Felon in Possession of Firearm, 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1), which carries a potential sentence of 10 years incarceration. However, if a defendant has 3 prior convictions for violent crimes or serious drug offenses, then he/she faces not less than 15 years of incarceration up to life;
-Drug User in Possession of Firearm, 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(3), which carries a potential sentence of 10 years of incarceration;
-Possession of Firearms in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking Crimes, 18 U.S.C. § 924(c), which carries not less than 5 years of incarceration up to life;
-Use of a Communication Facility to Facilitate Drug Crime, 21 U.S.C. § 843(b), which carries not more than 4 years of incarceration.
The indictment also seeks to forfeit tools used in the crimes and proceeds from the crimes, including a residence located at 1199 West Shore Drive, Brunswick, Georgia.
The following individual was charged under the Georgia Controlled Substances Act with Conspiracy to Purchase Marijuana and Use of Communication Facility in Commission of a Felony Involving Controlled Substances:
Kenneth Bradley, Jr. (age 21) of Brunswick.
The following were charged under the Georgia Controlled Substances Act with Conspiracy to Purchase a Controlled Substance and Use of Communication Facility in Commission of a Felony Involving Controlled Substances:
Dana Smith (age 40) of Brunswick;
Clyde Underwood (age 58) of Brunswick;
Sarah Myrick (age 35) of Brunswick;
Eric Lashawn Hall (age 45) of Brunswick;
Antonio Givens (age 46) of Brunswick;
Doug Coffey (age 45) of Brunswick; and,
Travis Collins (age 39) of Brunswick.
United States Attorney Bobby L. Christine said, “The federal government is committed to working with local law enforcement agencies to dismantle the drug trafficking organizations who are ruining our communities and endangering our citizens. Let this indictment serve as another warning that we will hunt you and prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law.”
ATF Resident Agent in Charge Timothy Graden states: “These arrests are the product of concerted collaborative efforts on the part of ATF, the Glynn County Sheriff’s office, the McIntosh County Sheriff’s office and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to target, investigate, and prosecute the perpetrators of a major drug trafficking organization. Many of the defendants are convicted felons with extensive criminal histories that date back more than 20 years. ATF and its law enforcement partners acted judiciously on information developed during this 1 ½ year investigation resulting in the seizure of large quantities of cocaine, marijuana, U.S. currency, firearms and ammunition. ATF is pleased with the success of this operation, but unfortunately this operation also highlights the persistence of narcotics traffickers and demonstrates that this type of crime must be continuously battled. ATF will continue to dedicate federal resources in partnership with other law enforcement agencies in the pursuit of reducing violent crime and armed drug trafficking.”
McIntosh County Sheriff Stephen D. Jessup states: “I could not be more pleased with the results. Even though the majority of those involved in the drug trafficking organization lived and operated in Glynn County, the amount of cocaine flowing into McIntosh County through this organization had a staggering effect on our community. The work done here is exemplary of the type of partnerships and teamwork that I hope continues between these agencies.”
Glynn County Sheriff E. Neal Jump states: “This has proven to be a very successful operation and I believe it will have a significant impact on the illegal drug trade here in Glynn County. This case has led to one of the largest seizes of cocaine and marijuana in this area in quite some time. I, along with the men and women of my office, look forward to partnering with these agencies as well as others to continue working towards a safer community for our citizens.”
Jackie Johnson, District Attorney for the Brunswick Judicial Circuit, stated “Narcotics abuse and distribution is the driving force behind violent crime, theft and many other social ills in Glynn County. Our office is grateful for the work of our Sheriff, Federal law enforcement, and the U.S. Attorney in targeting this problem.”
United States Attorney Christine emphasized that an indictment is only an accusation and is not evidence of guilt. The defendants are entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the Government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
The operation was investigated by ATF, the Glynn County Sheriff’s Office, and the McIntosh Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant United States Attorneys Matthew Josephson and Greg Gilluly are prosecuting these cases for the United States. Assistant District Attorney Liberty Stewart is prosecuting these cases for the state of Georgia. For any questions, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (912) 652-4422.
'Pimp' Sentenced to 15 Years for Transporting Women from Dayton Across the Country to Engage in ProstitutionRead the Press Release
DAYTON – Lord Tyrone Al-Ahmin, 43, was sentenced in U.S. District Court to 180 months in prison and a seven-year term of supervised release for transporting women interstate to engage in prostitution.
Benjamin C. Glassman, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, Angela L. Byers, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Cincinnati Division, and Dayton Police Chief Richard S. Biehl announced the sentence handed down today by U.S. District Judge Timothy S. Black.
According to court documents, the FBI received information that a number of women engaged in prostitution at Al-Ahmin’s direction and control since 2005. Victims told law enforcement they were physically assaulted and threatened by Al-Ahmin.
One victim said she met Al-Ahmin in Dayton, when Al-Ahmin told the female he was a pimp and traveled around the country with women who engaged in prostitution. He told the victim she could work for him but she would be required to provide him with all of her prostitution proceeds. In exchange, he would provide her with food, clothing and heroin.
Al-Ahmin regularly carried a handgun and threatened to kill the female on a daily basis. He pointed the gun at her head and hit her in the face with the gun. He also told the female he had killed somebody in the past.
A second female victim met Al-Ahmin when he posed as a prostitution client and responded to her Backpage.com advertisement. Al-Ahmin picked the female up in his vehicle in Dayton, but rather than engage in any sexual activity, he purchased crack cocaine for the victim to use and drove her to Wisconsin.
He physically assaulted her on nearly a daily basis and threatened to kill her. He hit her, fractured her ribs, held a knife to her face and urinated in her mouth. Al-Ahmin also had non-consensual and aggressive sex with her. He told this victim he had killed four people in the past.
The Statement of Facts details that from August to October 2014, Ah-Ahmin transported at least three adult females from Dayton to other cities in Ohio, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Texas and elsewhere to engage in prostitution.
In many of these cities, Al-Ahmin posted advertisements on Backpage.com to solicit prostitution clients. He sometimes paid for hotel rooms for use in servicing prostitution clients. Al-Ahmin was paid the money that the females received for sexual acts during their travels.
“The horrible facts of this case illustrate the reality of sex trafficking,” said U.S. Attorney Glassman.
Al-Ahmin pleaded guilty in June 2016 to three counts of transporting interstate for the purpose of prostitution. He was arrested by FBI agents in Las Vegas in January 2015.
U.S. Attorney Glassman commended the cooperative investigation by the FBI and Dayton Police Department, as well as Assistant United States Attorney Kyle J. Healey, who is representing the United States in this case.
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14 March 2018
Woman Arrested at Dulles with Seven Kilograms of Suspected HeroinRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A United States citizen who resides in Mexico was arrested early Saturday morning on charges of importing heroin into the United States.
According to court documents, Nelly Davila, 39, arrived at Washington Dulles International Airport on March 9 from Mexico City carrying a suitcase containing over seven kilograms of a substance that field-tested positive for heroin. Customs and Border Protection agents found the contraband concealed in her suitcase as she attempted to re-enter the United States.
Davila is scheduled for a preliminary hearing and detention hearing today at 2 p.m. at the federal courthouse in Alexandria.
Davila is charged with importing a schedule I controlled substance and faces a maximum penalty of 40 years and a mandatory minimum of five years in prison, if convicted. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Tracy Doherty-McCormick, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, Casey Owen Durst, Director of Customs and Border Protection’s Baltimore Field Office, and Patrick J. Lechleitner, Special Agent in Charge of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Washington, D.C., made the announcement. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Williamson is prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:18-mj-122.
A criminal complaint contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.
Winchester Woman Sentenced for Stealing More Than a Million DollarsRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Winchester woman was sentenced today for bank fraud after using forged checks and account numbers to steal nearly a million dollars.
Sager Kopchak, a/k/a Sager Dallai, 34, was sentenced by U.S. Senior District Court Judge Mark L. Wolf to 18 months in prison, three years of supervised release and ordered to pay a fine of $10,000. In September 2017, Kopchak was charged and agreed to plead guilty to four counts of bank fraud.
In late 2009, Kopchak contacted an individual she knew and asked to stay with the individual for a few weeks while Kopchak received cancer treatment. Kopchak stayed with the individual from late 2009 until the summer of 2010, and paid neither rent nor utilities. In reality, Kopchak did not have cancer and was not undergoing cancer treatment. While staying with the individual, Kopchak stole a checkbook and, over the next eight years, stole nearly $1 million by forging checks and using the routing numbers from the stolen checks to make charges against the individual’s account. Kopchak used the stolen money to make high end purchases such as a pair of 2.05 karat diamond earrings ($9,700), five fur coats (totaling $21,297), Chanel purses (totaling $9,649), a Cartier watch ($3,250) and a trip to the Bahamas ($11,166), among other things.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling and Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division, made the announcement today. The case was investigated with the assistance of the Boston Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sara Miron Bloom of Lelling’s Economic Crimes Unit prosecuted the case.
Wheelwright Man Sentenced to 120 Months for Distributing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PIKEVILLE, Ky. – A Wheelwright, Ky. man, David Glenn Boyd, 53, has been sentenced to 120 months in federal prison, to be followed by a Life term of supervised release, for knowingly distributing child pornography.
Yesterday, Chief United States District Judge Karen K. Caldwell formally sentenced Boyd, who must serve 85 percent of his federal prison sentence.
Boyd previously admitted that, in August of 2016, he knowingly distributed images of child pornography over the Internet. A forensic examination of Boyd’s laptop computer revealed 42 still images and 35 videos of child pornography. The investigation was the result of a Cyber Tipline report from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). As a result of the Cyber Tip, the Kentucky State Police (KSP) conducted an investigation, which led them to obtain a search warrant for Boyd’s residence. During the execution of that search warrant the KSP seized Boyd’s computer and other electronic media.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Amy Hess, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation; and Rick Sanders, KSP Commissioner, jointly announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI and KSP. The United States was represented by Assistant United States Attorney David Marye.
West Virginia Business Owner Sentenced to Prison for Failing to Pay Employment TaxesRead the Press Release
A Fayette County, West Virginia, business owner was sentenced today to 15 months in prison for failing to pay over employment taxes, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Michael B. Stuart for the Southern District of West Virginia.
According to documents and information provided to the court, from 2008 through 2012, Steve Lopez, 68, owned and operated Ready Transport Services (RTS), a transportation business that mainly provided taxi services. From 2009 through 2012 he also owned RTS Ice Cream, Coffee and Candy Shop. Both businesses were located in Montgomery, West Virginia. Lopez was responsible for collecting and paying over to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) social security, Medicare, and income taxes withheld from his employees’ wages. He also was responsible for paying the employer’s share of his employees’ social security and Medicare taxes. Lopez admitted that he did not pay approximately $393,851 in employment taxes due to the IRS, including funds he withheld from his employees’ paychecks as well as money he owed as their employer.
In addition to the term of prison imposed, U.S. District Court Judge John T. Copenhaver Jr. ordered Lopez to serve three years of supervised release and to pay $393,851 in restitution to the IRS.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and U.S. Attorney Stuart commended special agents of IRS Criminal Investigation, who conducted the investigation, and Tax Division Trial Attorneys Mara Strier and Alexander Effendi, who prosecuted the case.
Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found on the division’s website.
Waterloo Man Sentenced to Ten Years in Prison after Illegally Possessing Gun Used in Shooting of 17 Year-Old BoyRead the Press Release
A Waterloo man who illegally possessed a gun he used to shoot a minor was sentenced today to the maximum allowed under the law, ten years in prison.
Eric Cortez Sallis, age 27, from Waterloo, Iowa received the prison term after a July 14, 2017, guilty plea to possessing a firearm and ammunition as a felon.
At the guilty plea, Sallis admitted that on December 10, 2016, he illegally possessed a loaded Sig Sauer 9mm handgun. Police located the gun during a search of an apartment in Waterloo. Evidence at the sentencing hearing established that Sallis had shot another person on November 27, 2016. On that day, while at a residence in Waterloo, Sallis confronted a 17 year-old boy. During the confrontation, Sallis shot the boy three times. The victim was taken to Allen Memorial Hospital and treated for gunshot wounds. Law enforcement examined the gun that police seized on December 10 and determined it was the gun used in the shooting. Sallis admitted to shooting the victim at the sentencing hearing.
Sallis was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge Linda R. Reade. Sallis was sentenced to 120 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
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.
Sallis is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lisa C. Williams and was investigated by a Federal Task Force composed of the Waterloo Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms assisted by the Black Hawk County Sheriff’s Office and Cedar Falls Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 17-CR-2017.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Virginia Man Arraigned on Armed Bank Robbery ChargeRead the Press Release
Portland, Maine: United States Attorney Halsey B. Frank announced that Ahmed Sadek, 23, of Fredericksburg, Virginia, was arraigned today in U.S. District Court on an armed bank robbery charge.
According to court records, on November 17, 2017, the defendant robbed a Key Bank branch located in Portland using what appeared to be a firearm.
The defendant faces up to 25 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI and the Portland Police Department in conjunction with the Southern Maine Gang Task Force, which is comprised of agents and officers from the FBI; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration; U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations; the York County Sheriff’s Office; and the Portland, South Portland, and Lewiston Police Departments.
An indictment is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
U.S. Attorney Chris Myers to Serve on Native American Issues and Controlled Substance SubcommitteesRead the Press Release
North Dakota’s U.S. Attorney Chris Myers will be serving on the Native American Issues Subcommittee (NAIS), which is part of the Attorney General’s Advisory Committee (AGAC).
The AGAC was created in 1973 to serve as the voice of U.S. Attorneys and to advise the Attorney General on policy, management, and operational issues impacting U.S. Attorneys. The NAIS is made up of U.S. Attorneys from across the United States whose Districts contain Indian Country or one or more federally recognized tribes. The NAIS focuses exclusively on Indian Country issues, both criminal and civil, and is responsible for making policy recommendations to the Attorney General of the United States regarding public safety and legal issues that affect tribal communities. U.S. Attorney Myers added, "The U.S. Attorney’s Office has dedicated an Assistant U.S. Attorney to each of the reservations in North Dakota. Violent crime in our tribal communities continues to be a priority." NAIS is chaired by U.S. Attorney Trent Shores of the Northern District of Oklahoma.
U.S. Attorney Myers will also serve on the Controlled Substances Subcommittee of AGAC. U.S. Attorney Myers noted, "The opiate crisis continues to be priority of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in North Dakota. We will continue our strong partnership with all stakeholders in North Dakota to further build upon the multi-faceted approach to this deadly challenge. The Controlled Substance Subcommittee is chaired by U.S. Attorney Christina Nolan of Vermont.
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Two Plead Guilty to Insurance Fraud by ArsonRead the Press Release
BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – Two men pled guilty today in federal court for their respective roles in a scheme to commit insurance fraud by arson, announced United States Attorney Michael B. Stuart. Dudley Bledsoe, age 63, of Hanover, Wyoming County, and Ricky Dwayne Gleason, age 54, of Peach Creek, Logan County, both pleaded guilty to a charge of unlawful monetary transactions before Senior District Court Judge David A. Faber in Bluefield. United States Attorney Mike Stuart commended the work of the United States Postal Inspection Service, the West Virginia State Police and the West Virginia Office of the Insurance Commissioner.
“As West Virginia citizens, we all ultimately pay the price for this type of crime. That is why, regardless of the amount of monetary loss, we will continue to aggressively prosecute individuals who perpetrate fraudulent schemes,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.
In the spring of 2012, Bledsoe, with the assistance of James Edward Lester, also known as “Punkin,” and others, purchased a house in Matoaka, Mercer County. The purchase price was approximately $38,000. They insured the property for over $300,000 and set fire to the house in December of 2012 using cardboard and unscented candle oil. Bledsoe, with the help of others, then filed false claims for the house and its contents. Bledsoe collected the proceeds and divided the proceeds with others involved in the scheme.
In May of 2013, Gleason purchased a house in his name on Norwood Road in Huntington, West Virginia for $100,000 and insured it for over $400,000. Funds for the purchase were provided by others involved in the scheme. The next month, Gleason and others staged the house to be burned using cardboard and unscented candle oil. While Gleason was out of town in order to concoct an alibi, others connected with the scheme set fire to the house. Gleason filed a claim for the loss of the house as well as false contents lists with the insurance company and collected over $280,000 in insurance proceeds. The proceeds were divided with others in the scheme.
Bledsoe and Gleason each face up to 10 years imprisonment and up to a $250,000 fine when they are sentenced on May 30, 2018. Windel Lester, James Edward Lester, also known as “Punkin,” Georgetta Kenney, Greg A. Lester and James Keith Browning are currently facing charges in a 40 count indictment for their respective roles in the scheme. Their trial is set for May 8, 2018, in Bluefield.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
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Two More Defendants Plead Guilty for Roles in Federal Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – Two men pled guilty today for their roles in a drug trafficking conspiracy, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. James Rodney Staples, 39, of Woodbridge, VA, entered his guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 5 kilograms of cocaine, more than 280 grams of cocaine base, and more than one kilogram of heroin. Esau Burnette, 38, of Beckley, entered his guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 28 grams of cocaine base, and a quantity of cocaine. Staples and Burnette are two of 23 defendants indicted in June 2017 after a comprehensive investigation of drug trafficking in Southern West Virginia.
U.S. Attorney Stuart commended the cooperative investigative efforts of several agencies, led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Raleigh County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force. The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Beckley Police Department, the Raleigh County Sheriff’s Department, the West Virginia State Police, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the United States Postal Inspection Service also provided assistance throughout the investigation.
“A drug trafficking network has been dismantled as a result of this long-term, cooperative investigation. Along with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners we will continue to take down networks of traffickers pedaling dangerous drugs in our communities,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.
James Rodney Staples admitted that between August 2016 and June 28, 2017, he took part in a drug trafficking conspiracy with multiple participants involving the distribution of cocaine, cocaine base, also known as “crack,” and heroin. Staples admitted that Velarian Carter, another co-defendant in this case, requested his help in operating the drug trafficking organization while Carter was incarcerated on other drug charges. Staples admitted he paid other members to assist him in distributing the controlled substances and to collect money acquired through the illegal drug trafficking. As part of the agreement, Staples agreed to the forfeiture of $50,000, which represented proceeds of his illegal drug trafficking activity.
Esau Burnette admitted that between August 2016 and June 28, 2017, he participated in a drug trafficking organization that distributed cocaine and more than 28 grams of cocaine base, or “crack,” in and around Beckley, Raleigh County, West Virginia. Burnette admitted to assisting in manufacturing cocaine into “crack.” During this time he admitted to distributing and possessing with intent to distribute approximately 20 ounces of cocaine. Burnette further admitted that on June 28, 2017, police officers executed a search warrant at his residence in Beckley. Officers found $2,797 in cash, and a quantity of “crack.” Burnette admitted that the cash was obtained through the illegal drug trafficking activity and has agreed to forfeit the cash to the United States.
Staples faces at least 10 years and up to life, and Burnette faces at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison, when they are sentenced on May 30, 2018.
Several individuals implicated as a result of this investigation have entered guilty pleas to drug charges and are awaiting sentencing. Cheyenne Fragale and Macon Fragale, two brothers from Boomer in Fayette County, face a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in federal prison when they are sentenced on March 14, 2018. Velarian Carter, of Beckley, faces a mandatory minimum of not less than 20 years and up to life in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 17, 2018. Dominic Copney, of Beckley, faces a mandatory minimum of five and up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 17, 2018. Detria Carter, of Beckley, faces a mandatory minimum sentence of not less than five and up to 40 years in federal prison when she is sentenced on April 24, 2018. Donald Scalise, of Montgomery, faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on April 25, 2018. Tiffany Ramsey, of Boomer, faces at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when she is sentenced on May 2, 2018. Shawn Akiem Anderson, of Mt. Hope, faces up to 10 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on May 29, 2018. Rory White, of Montgomery, faces at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on June 6, 2018.
Karl Funderburk, of Teays Valley, who previously pled guilty to a gun charge, faces at least 5 years and up to life in federal prison for using and carrying a firearm during a drug trafficking crime when he is sentenced on May 29, 2018.
Shaun Jones has entered a guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute more than 100 grams of heroin. Jonathan Moore has entered a guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine. Each faces at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when they are sentenced on May 29, 2018.
Corey Larkin previously entered a plea to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine and more than 100 grams of heroin. He also faces at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on June 5, 2018.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess is in charge of these prosecutions. The Staples and Burnette plea hearings were held before Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber.
These cases are being prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
Tulsa Man Sentenced to 13 ½ Years in Prison for CarjackingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Trent Shores announced that Joshua Wofford, 33, of Tulsa, was sentenced today by United States District Judge John Dowdell to serve 162 months in federal prison. A jury previously found Wofford guilty of violating the federal carjacking statute. The jury acquitted Wofford of a related firearm count. After release from prison, Wofford must serve three years on supervised release. Parole has been abolished in the federal system.
On June 4, 2017, Wofford took a Chevrolet truck from a mother and her three children while they were parked in a convenience store parking lot in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He then led Tulsa Police Officers on a high speed chase and hid in a wooded area until he was captured by Tulsa Police Officers.
United States Attorney Shores stated, “Violent crime can come with big time in the federal system. Carjackers should be on notice that federal prosecutors are working side by side with the Tulsa Police Department and ATF to protect our community. A 13 1/2 year sentence sends a strong message to any would be violent criminal.”
The Tulsa Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives jointly investigated this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Eric O. Johnston represented the United States at the jury trial.
Transport Logistics International Inc. Agrees to Pay $2 Million Penalty to Resolve Foreign Bribery CaseRead the Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact ELIZABETH MORSE
www.justice.gov/usao/md at (410) 209-4885
Greenbelt, Maryland - Transport Logistics International Inc. (TLI), a Maryland-based company that provides services for the transportation of nuclear materials to customers in the United States and abroad, agreed to resolve criminal charges in connection with a scheme that involved the bribery of an official at a subsidiary of Russia’s State Atomic Energy Corporation and to pay a $2 million criminal penalty. Three individuals have been charged for their alleged roles in the bribery scheme.
Acting U.S. Attorney Stephen M. Schenning of the District of Maryland, Acting Assistant Attorney General John P. Cronan of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Principal Deputy Inspector General April G. Stephenson of the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Inspector General (DOE-OIG) and Assistant Director in Charge Andrew W. Vale of the FBI’s Washington, D.C. Field Office made the announcement.
TLI entered into a deferred prosecution agreement (DPA) with the Department in connection with a criminal information filed in the District of Maryland charging the company with conspiracy to violate the anti-bribery provisions of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA). In the DPA, TLI and the Department agreed that, because of the company’s financial inability to pay the penalty calculated under the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, the appropriate criminal penalty is $2 million. As part of the agreement, TLI also committed to cooperate fully with the Department’s ongoing investigation, and to continue to implement a compliance and ethics program designed to prevent and detect violations of the FCPA and other anti-corruption laws throughout its operations. In reaching the resolution with the Department, TLI received full credit for its substantial cooperation with the Department’s investigation and for engaging in remedial measures, including terminating the employment of all employees engaged in the misconduct.
“Bribery of foreign officials not only distorts markets and undermines democratic institutions; it can also pervert the incentives of those who are in a position to safeguard the public, as it did in this case involving the transportation of nuclear material,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Cronan. “Today’s resolution, along with the related charges against the corporate executives and the Russian official in this matter, underscore the Department’s continued commitment to holding both companies and individuals accountable for their roles in corruption-related crimes and for breaching the public’s trust.”
“The Department of Energy remains committed to ensuring the integrity of our contractors and subcontractors, as well as providing the nation transparency, accountability, and security when it comes to safe and reliable transport of sensitive materials,” said Principal Deputy Inspector General Stephenson. “We appreciate the efforts of the FBI, the Justice Department’s FCPA Unit and the U.S. Attorney’s Office in pursuing this matter and will continue to work collaboratively with them to aggressively investigate those who seek to defraud Department programs.”
“Today’s charges reflect the determination and ability of the FBI to investigate and prosecute companies that engage in foreign corrupt business practices, regardless of how sophisticated or far-flung the scheme may be,” said Assistant Director in Charge Vale. “No entity is above the law and those that try to perpetrate a similar scheme will be pursued by the FBI.”
According to admissions and court documents, beginning in at least 2004 and continuing until at least 2014, TLI conspired with others to corruptly pay more than $1.7 million to offshore bank accounts associated with shell companies, at the direction of, and for the benefit of, Vadim Mikerin, a Russian official at JSC Techsnabexport (TENEX), a subsidiary of Russia’s State Atomic Energy Corporation. The bribe payments were made to help TLI secure improper business advantages and obtain and retain business with TENEX. In order to effectuate and conceal the bribe payments, TLI executives and others caused fake invoices to be prepared, purportedly from TENEX to TLI, that described services that were never provided. TLI then wired payments for those purported services to shell companies in Latvia, Cyprus and Switzerland to further the bribery scheme.
On June 17, 2015, TLI co-president Daren Condrey pleaded guilty to conspiracy to violate the FCPA and commit wire fraud. On Aug. 31, 2015, Mikerin pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit money laundering involving violations of the FCPA, and Mikerin was sentenced to 48 months in prison on Dec. 15, 2015. On Jan. 12, an 11-count indictment was unsealed against TLI co-president Mark Lambert, which charged Lambert with one count of conspiracy to violate the FCPA and to commit wire fraud, seven counts of violating the FCPA, two counts of wire fraud and one count of international promotion money laundering. The charges in the indictment are merely allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The cases against TLI and Lambert are assigned to U.S. District Court Judge Theodore D. Chuang of the District of Maryland.
The case is being investigated by DOE-OIG and the FBI. Assistant Chiefs Ephraim Wernick and Christopher J. Cestaro and Trial Attorney Derek J. Ettinger of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, as well as Assistant U.S. Attorneys David I. Salem and Michael T. Packard of the District of Maryland, are prosecuting the case.
The Criminal Division’s Office of International Affairs provided significant assistance in this matter. The Department also thanks its law enforcement colleagues in Switzerland, Latvia and Cyprus for providing valuable assistance with the investigation and prosecution of the case.
The Criminal Division’s Fraud Section is responsible for investigating and prosecuting all FCPA matters. Additional information about the Justice Department’s FCPA enforcement efforts can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal/fraud/fcpa.
Torrey Scott Indicted for Violations of the Federal Gun Control Act and the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
TORREY SCOTT, age 46, a resident of New Orleans, was charged in a four-count indictment by a Federal Grand Jury for violations of the Federal Gun Control Act and the Federal Controlled Substances Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to the indictment, SCOTT possessed firearms in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime, possession with the intent to distribute quantities of cocaine hydrochloride, heroin, and MDMA (ecstasy).
The charges arose out of two arrests of SCOTT by the New Orleans Police Department: the first on March 15, 2016, when SCOTT, a twice-convicted felon, possessed two Glock semi-automatic pistols, and the second on November 18, 2016, when SCOTT was found with the drugs, four other weapons, and $14,000 in cash.
If convicted, SCOTT faces, on Counts 1 and 2 of the indictment, a term of imprisonment of up to ten years and a fine of up to $250,000; five years to run consecutive to any other sentence as to Count 3; and up to twenty years and/or a $1,000,000 fine as to Count 4.
U. S. Attorney Duane A. Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendants must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
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.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms and the New Orleans Police Department. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Michael E. McMahon.
Three Miami-Area Home Health Agency Owners Charged for Role in Health Care Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Three Miami, Florida-area home health agency owners were charged in an indictment unsealed yesterday for their alleged participation in a health care fraud scheme involving a now-defunct home health agency in Miami.
Acting Assistant Attorney General John P. Cronan of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Benjamin G. Greenberg of the Southern District of Florida, Special Agent in Charge Robert F. Lasky of the FBI’s Miami Field Office and Special Agent in Charge Shimon R. Richmond of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General’s (HHS-OIG) Miami Regional Office made the announcement.
Ailin Consuelo Rodriguez Sigler, 39; Zoila C. Rios, 57; and Tomas A. Rodriguez, 66, were charged in an indictment filed in the Southern District of Florida with one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud and wire fraud, and three counts of health care fraud. Sigler, Rios and Rodriguez were arrested yesterday morning and appeared yesterday afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Alicia M. Otazo-Reyes.
The indictment alleges that from approximately January 2011 through November 2014, Sigler, Rios and Rodriguez, owners of Florida Patient Care Corp. of Miami, Florida, were involved in a fraudulent scheme whereby they agreed with the owners and operators of multiple home health therapy staffing companies and others to bill Medicare for services that were medically unnecessary, not eligible for Medicare reimbursement, or were never provided.
According to the indictment, Sigler, Rios, Rodriguez and their co-conspirators allegedly caused the submission of false and fraudulent claims to Medicare for home health therapy care, and physical and occupational therapy services purportedly provided by Florida Patient Care Corp.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
This case was investigated by the FBI and HHS-OIG and was brought as part of the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, supervised by the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida. Fraud Section Trial Attorney Yisel Valdes is prosecuting the case.
The Fraud Section leads the Medicare Fraud Strike Force. Since its inception in March 2007, the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, now operating in nine cities across the country, has charged nearly 3,500 defendants who have collectively billed the Medicare program for more than $12.5 billion. In addition, the HHS Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to increase accountability and decrease the presence of fraudulent providers.
Three Individuals Indicted in March 2018 Federal Grand JuryRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office announced today the results of the March 2018 Federal Grand Jury.
The following named individuals have been charged with a federal crime or crimes by the return of an indictment by the Grand Jury. A grand jury Indictment does not constitute evidence of guilt. A grand jury Indictment is a method of bringing formal charges against the defendant. A defendant is presumed innocent of the charges and may not be found guilty unless evidence establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. United States Sentencing Guidelines may be considered, upon conviction, by the sentencing court. Federal prison sentences are non-parolable.
NICHOLAS RYAN RENFRO, age 25, of Tahlequah, OklahomaPossession Of A Counterfeit Obligation Of The United States (4 Counts)
On or about January 10, 2018, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the Defendant, NICHOLAS RYAN RENFRO, did knowingly have in his possession and custody, with intent to sell or otherwise use, falsely made and counterfeited notes, made after the similitude of obligations issued under the authority of the United States, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 474(a); punishable by not more than 25 years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00 or both for each count.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Tahlequah Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the United States Secret Service.
Assistant United States Attorney John David Luton.
RICHARD CURTIS WHETSELL, age 27, of Stilwell, OklahomaInterstate Violation Of A Protection Order
On or about the 7th day of February 2018, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, entered into and was present in Indian Country, with the intent to engage in conduct that would violate a portion of a protection order in the State of Oklahoma that was issued by the Adair County District Court on February 6, 2018, that ordered the defendant to leave and remain away from a specific residence, and the defendant did subsequently engage in such conduct by going to that specific location, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2262(a)(1), punishable by not more than 5 years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00 or both.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Adair County Sheriff’s Office, the Cherokee Nation Marshal Service, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Assistant United States Attorney Edward Snow
RONNIE RAY NEIHART, age 68, of Durant, OklahomaWire Fraud (15 Counts)
Beginning on or about June 3, 2010, and continuing through on or about August 31, 2017, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, RONNIE RAY NEIHART, defendant herein, knowingly and with the intent to defraud, devised and executed a scheme by making false statements to investors in order to sell them units of ownership in OG Land & Mineral, LLC, and EX-OG Energy, LLC, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343, punishable by not more than 20 years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00 or both for each count.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Assistant United States Attorney Melody Nelson
Thomas Lawton Evans Jr. Federally IndictedRead the Press Release
Charleston, South Carolina --- United States Attorney Beth Drake announced today that Thomas Lawton Evans Jr., 37, of Boiling Springs, South Carolina, was charged in a three count federal indictment. Count One charges Kidnapping Involving a Person Under the Age of 18, a violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 1201(a)(1) and (g), and is punishable by a minimum term of imprisonment of 20 years and up to life. Count Two charges Transportation of a Minor to Engage in Sexual Activity, a violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2423(a), and is punishable by a minimum of 10 years imprisonment and up to life. Count Three charges Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Person under the age of Twelve, a violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2241(c), which is punishable by a minimum term of imprisonment of 30 years and a maximum sentence of life.
Evans was initially charged with a federal complaint. An arraignment date for his current federal charges has been set for March 27, 2018 at 9:45 in the Charleston Federal Courthouse, 85 Meeting St. Evans also faces several charges in state court.
The charges are the result of an investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigations and Charleston Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Nathan Williams and Nick Bianchi are prosecuting the case.
The United States Attorney stated that all charges are merely accusations and that the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Statement of John C. Anderson, United States Attorney for the District of New Mexico, Before the Senate Committee on Indian AffairsRead the Press Release
Chairman Hoeven, Vice-Chairman Udall, and Members of the Committee:
Thank you for inviting us today to discuss this critical issue and the Department of Justice’s (the Department) efforts to support Native communities dealing with the devastating aftermath of the opioid epidemic. The Department has been uncompromising in our commitment to combatting drug abuse and drug crimes, particularly opioids, in Indian country and across the nation.
In my district, New Mexico, the opioid crisis in Indian Country is particularly acute. Despite its staggering natural beauty, northern New Mexico, and Espanola, New Mexico in particular, has one of the highest opioid overdose death rates in the country. For decades, Espanola has had a severe heroin problem. And as you may know, Espanola is surrounded by Indian reservations. Many New Mexico Indian Pueblos, including the Pueblos of Santa Clara, Ohkay Owingeh, San Ildefonso, Picuris, Pojoaque, Nambe and Tesuque are all within a short distance of the Espanola area. The opioid epidemic knows no boundaries, and so our Pueblos are equally affected by heroin and prescription opioids; individuals and communities alike continue to be plagued by the opioid scourge and its secondary effects.
At a recent consultation in New Mexico, one Pueblo Governor shared photographs of the parking lot of their casino. The photos revealed discarded needles, syringes and other drug paraphernalia scattered about the casino parking lot.
At the same consultation, a Pueblo Chief of Police emotionally described losing a brother to a heroin overdose and a sister to a prescription opioid overdose. The Chief of Police explained that the drug epidemic is dire in Northern New Mexico and that something needs to be done to address the problem.
The catastrophic impact that opioid abuse can have at every level of a community, from family units to infrastructure and economic stability, demands our best efforts to put forth effective and sustainable support to communities in crisis. The Department has developed a multi-faceted response to addressing the threat and the impact of opioid abuse. Our approach in Indian country is based on the belief that the Tribes are in the best position to identify solutions to problems in their communities. We have sought to develop resources and initiatives that rely on partnership with the Tribes and are continually interested in hearing from our Tribal and federal partners as we adjust our efforts to better meet the needs of Native communities.
An important element of the Department’s support is in providing opportunities for funding. In fiscal year 2017, the Department awarded nearly $59 million to strengthen drug court programs and combat the opioid epidemic. The Office of Justice Programs (OJP) administers the Department’s “Comprehensive Opioid Abuse Program.” The goals of the Comprehensive Opioid Abuse Program are twofold: First, the program aims to reduce opioid misuse and the number of overdose fatalities. Second, the program supports the implementation, enhancement, and proactive use of prescription drug monitoring programs (PDMPs) to support clinical decision-making and prevent the misuse and diversion of controlled substances. Tribes are eligible to apply for a variety of funding opportunities under this program. As an example of recent awards under this program, in Fiscal Year 2017, the Seneca Nation Peacemakers Court was awarded funds to create a community-driven, culturally competent diversion project aimed at helping Native American opioid users. The Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe was awarded funds in Fiscal Year 2017 to support drug courts and programs that support veterans. The Department will continue to offer these opportunities to Tribes going forward.
The Department understands that effective coordination among federal agencies is crucial to ensuring our efforts are successful. We have participated in the High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) program, funded through the Office of National Drug Control Policy, for many years now. The HIDTA program increases collaboration and information sharing between Tribal law enforcement and federal, state, and local agencies to improve investigation and interdiction in Indian country. As the Department continues to participate in the HIDTA program, our law enforcement agencies, particularly the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), have been working to build stronger relationships with other law enforcement agencies and service providers active in Indian country so that we are able to adjust our Task Force presence in Indian country most effectively.
The Indian Country Law Enforcement Coordination Working Group, co-chaired by the Department of Justice and the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) at the Department of the Interior, has become important to enhancing inter-agency federal law enforcement coordination in tribal communities. The group includes representatives from 13 federal law enforcement agencies and has focused heavily on several aspects of the opioid epidemic including proliferation, identifying top challenges to law enforcement, and coordinating responses. We will continue to use this working group to strengthen our coordinated efforts. For example, trafficking through the mail is a significant concern and we intend to use this working group as a forum to develop better ways to stop the movement of opioids through the postal service.
We recognize that the crisis requires more than a law enforcement response, so our efforts to coordinate go beyond law enforcement. For example, the Department is working closely with the Indian Health Service (IHS) of the Department of Health and Human Services to ensure that other federal agencies are aware of updated Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) protocols in IHS facilities. The updated protocols have an impact on how some drug crimes are investigated and prosecuted, and on efforts to introduce safeguards against opioid abuse. Additionally, we have developed a number of training opportunities to better equip law enforcement and service providers working in Indian country to address the drug crimes and the familial and community impacts of opioid abuse. The Department has presented recent trainings, often in coordination with BIA, on opioid trends, investigative techniques, drug handling precautions regarding opioids, naloxone use, and indicators that opioids are present in a community. Other training is available on violent crime associated with opioids, prescription drug diversion, and investigating and prosecuting medical professionals and others involved in distributing prescription medications outside the scope of legitimate medical practice. These training opportunities are available to Tribal law enforcement and, in some cases, entirely geared for a Tribal audience. The Department is currently working with BIA on a new opportunity tentatively slated for this summer that will bring Tribal law enforcement representatives together with a number of federal law enforcement agencies to train on a wide range of drug-related topics.
Community outreach is another important aspect of our approach to this issue. The DEA has conducted a prolonged community outreach effort in Indian country to educate Tribal leaders and citizens on opioids and other drugs. Additionally, on October 28, 2017, the Department and BIA collaborated on the most recent Prescription Drug Take Back Day, which is a nationwide program that has also allowed the successful collaboration between BIA and DEA. This initiative provided a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing prescription drugs, while also educating Native communities on the potential for opioid abuse. Over 115 Tribal communities participated; we intend to repeat this initiative and expand participation in the future.
Improved information sharing plays a crucial role in any law enforcement effort, even more so in the context of opioids as we all work to get ahead of this terrible epidemic. The Tribal Access Program for National Crime Information (TAP) is an effective tool for participating Tribes to track and contribute data on opioid-related crimes and to perform required background checks. TAP assists Tribes by providing a means of access to national crime databases maintained by the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) Division for both criminal justice and civil background check purposes. This has been an especially important tool for performing checks on those who have regular contact with children in Indian country, including schools and foster care. Service providers in Indian country carry much of the burden of healing communities in the wake of opioid abuse, so we believe TAP plays an equally necessary role in ensuring safe providers as it does in sharing important law enforcement information.
The use of data analytics to combat the opioid crisis is among the new tactics that are under development Department-wide. Attorney General Sessions formed the Opioid Fraud and Abuse Detection Unit to utilize data analytics, such as distribution and inventory figures, to identify patterns, trends, and statistical outliers that can be developed into targeted law enforcement operations. As we better understand the data across the country we will be able to better understand patterns and trends in Indian country.
Our goal is clear: we must continue working in partnership with Tribal, federal, state, and local partners to respond to the opioid epidemic and to support communities that are affected by the crisis. We are committed to putting forth our best efforts in this joint undertaking. We appreciate this committee’s focus on this issue and look forward to working with you going forward. Thank you again for the opportunity to participate today.
Springdale Man Setenced to over 5 Years in Federal Prison for Possession of Methamphetamine with the Intent to DistributeRead the Press Release
Fayetteville, Arkansas - Duane (DAK) Kees, United States Attorney for the Western District of Arkansas, announced that John Mullens, age 38, of Springdale, was sentenced today to 67 months in federal prison followed by four years of supervised release and was ordered to pay a $2,500.00 fine on one count of Possession With Intent To Distribute more than 50 grams of Methamphetamine. The Honorable Timothy L. Brooks presided over the sentencing hearing in the United States District Court in Fayetteville.
According to court records, on or about August 11, 2017, investigators the 4th Judicial Drug Task Force ("DTF") searched the home where John Mullens was present in Springdale, Arkansas. During the search investigators found 11 bags containing approximately 158 grams of a mixture or substance containing methamphetamine, digital scales, baggies and a methamphetamine pipe. Mullens stated that everything in the living room belonged to him. The Arkansas State Crime Lab results reflect that the substance recovered contained approximately 130.1 grams of actual methamphetamine.
Mullens was indicted by a federal grand jury in September 2017 and entered a guilty plea in December 2017.
This case was investigated by the 4th Judicial District Drug Task Force. Assistant United States Attorney Amy Driver prosecuted the case for the United States.