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14 March 2018
South Carolina Man Sentenced to Ten Years for Federal Methamphetamine Trafficking Conviction in New MexicoRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Brandon Carr, 28, of Pawleys Island, S.C., was sentenced this afternoon in federal court in Albuquerque, N.M., to 120 months in prison for his methamphetamine trafficking conviction. Carr will be on supervised release for four years after completing his prison sentence.
Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) deputies arrested Carr in Aug. 2014, after finding approximately 5,808 grams of methamphetamine in Carr’s vehicle following a routine traffic stop. The methamphetamine was concealed in four 1.5 liter bottles of liquid. Carr subsequently was indicted on Sept. 9, 2014, and was charged with possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute on Aug. 13, 2014, in Bernalillo County, N.M.
On April 5, 2017, Carr pled guilty to a felony information charging him with possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. In entering the guilty plea, Carr admitted that on Aug. 13, 2014, BCSO deputies found four 1.5 liter bottles, which were labeled as apple juice but contained 5,808 grams of methamphetamine, in the trunk of his vehicle following a routine traffic stop. Carr admitted that he obtained the methamphetamine in Los Angeles, Calif., and intended to deliver the methamphetamine to another person.
This case was investigated by the Albuquerque office of the DEA and the BCSO and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney James R.W. Braun.
Social Security Administration Security Guard Pleads Guilty to Creating A False Incident Report Omitting the Fact That the Guard Repeatedly Punched A VisitorRead the Press Release
Geoffrey S. Berman, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that EDWIN CABAN, a former Protective Security Officer, pleaded guilty yesterday to creating a false incident report in which CABAN intentionally omitted the fact that CABAN had repeatedly punched a member of the public at a branch of the Social Security Administration (“SSA”), despite knowing that this omission was unlawful. CABAN pled guilty to a Superseding Indictment before U.S. District Court Judge Lorna G. Schofield, who will impose sentencing.
Manhattan U.S. Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman said: “Protective Security Officers are charged with protecting those who enter federal facilities. But, as he admitted in court, Protective Security Officer Edwin Caban repeatedly punched a visitor and then filed a false incident report omitting that fact. Caban betrayed the public trust and violated the law.”
According to the allegations in the Superseding Indictment, to which CABAN pled guilty today as to Count Two, and the related Complaint in which he was originally charged on April 24, 2017:
The SSA has multiple branch offices located throughout New York City, where claimants may request SSA services and make inquiries regarding social security benefits and Social Security cards. One branch office is located at 123 William Street (the “123 William Office”), in Manhattan. The 123 William Office is staffed by two Protective Security Officers, who are employees of a contractor for the Federal Protective Service of the United States Department of Homeland Security. The 123 William Office has several surveillance cameras, which captured the incident.
The Incident
At approximately 12:37 p.m. on June 22, 2016, the victim (“Victim-1”) entered the 123 William Office, wheeling an elderly gentleman in a wheelchair into the reception area. CABAN attempted to move the wheelchair, which Victim-1 asked him not to do. After CABAN stepped away, Victim-1 withdrew a cellphone from his pocket. CABAN then walked back to Victim-1 and repeatedly accused him of taking a picture with his cellphone, which Victim-1 denied.
As recorded by security camera footage obtained from the SSA, CABAN at this point reached out toward Victim-1, and Victim-1 put both of his hands up in the air, with his palms facing CABAN. CABAN then took hold of Victim-1’s waist with both hands, pivoted, turned Victim-1 around, and then pushed Victim-1 backward toward the elevator bank. CABAN continued to push Victim-1 backward, toward a desk adjacent to the opening to the elevator bank, until Victim-1 fell backward over the desk. CABAN then took hold of Victim-1’s arms, and, as Victim-1 struggled to shake free of CABAN’s hold, CABAN took Victim-1 into the elevator bank.
After a brief struggle in the elevator bank, CABAN pushed Victim-1 up against a wall. Placing his left hand at the base of Victim-1’s throat, CABAN pinned Victim-1 against the wall. As Victim-1 stood there, not moving, with his hands up in the air in a gesture of surrender, CABAN punched Victim-1 four times in the chest and ribs. Victim-1 collapsed forward, and CABAN continued to hold on to Victim-1 as Victim-1 remained bent forward, clutching his abdomen.
At this point, CABAN’s partner, another protective security officer (“PSO-1”), arrived in the elevator bank from a back area of the office and approached CABAN and Victim-1. CABAN let go of Victim-1, who remained against the wall, not moving. As PSO-1 stood a few feet away, CABAN punched Victim-1 again in the chest. After several minutes passed, CABAN and PSO-1 escorted Victim-1 out of the elevator bank and back into the main floor area, back toward where the man in the wheelchair was waiting.
As a result of the attack, Victim-1 suffered bodily injuries, including fractured ribs, bruising, and physical pain.
Shortly after the incident, Victim-1 called 911 and two New York City Police Department officers responded. One of these officers (“Officer-1”) entered the 123 William Office and spoke with CABAN about Victim-1’s allegations. CABAN stated to Officer-1 that he put his hands on Victim-1 to remove him from the office, at which point Victim-1 “flopped” onto the desk, knocking things over. CABAN denied touching Victim-1 after that point and denied entering the elevator bank during the incident.
That same afternoon, CABAN placed a telephone call to an FPS reporting center, in which CABAN made an oral report about the incident. CABAN stated that there was “a disruptive client in here that needed to be escorted out;” he did not disclose that he struck Victim-1.
CABAN wrote and submitted a Security Incident Report. In that report, CABAN stated that, as he “attempted to guide [Victim-1] out” of the office, Victim-1 “yelled and jumped onto the security desk flairing [sic] arms and legs knocking equipment around.” CABAN then stated that he placed Victim-1 in an “arm bar” and “took him by the elevator banks,” that Victim-1 “tried to break [his] hold” at which point CABAN “grabbed him under his chin” and “mainta[ined] a hold of his arm.” CABAN stated that PSO-1 then arrived. CABAN reported no other use of force against Victim-1. In particular, nowhere in the report did CABAN state that he struck Victim-1.
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CABAN, 56, of Astoria, New York, pled guilty to one count of filing a false form, which carries a maximum sentence of five 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 FPS.
This case is being handled by the Office’s Public Corruption and Civil Rights Units. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alison Moe and Jacob Lillywhite are in charge of the prosecution.
Settlement Between Department of Justice and Western Union will Provide $586 Million to Victims of FraudRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney for the Northern District of Iowa is reminding consumers that if they lost money to a scammer through Western Union between January 1, 2004, and January 1h, 2017, they can submit a claim to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to potentially get their money back. The deadline to do so has been extended to May 31, 2018.
These potential refunds for consumers are the result of joint investigations by the FTC, the Department of Justice (DOJ), and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. Western Union agreed to pay a $586 million settlement, and that money will be used to provide refunds. Once a consumer’s claim is verified by the DOJ, the amount of money returned to the consumer will depend on the total number of valid claims submitted.
Consumers who wish to file a claim or learn more about the refund process can visit the Western Union Refunds page on the FTC’s website at FTC.gov/WU. Consumers may also call 1-844-319-2124 to start a claim.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Sallisaw Man Pleads Guilty to Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Samuel Jason Nutt, age 50, of Sallisaw, Oklahoma, pled guilty to Felon In Possession Of Firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1), 924(a)(2) and 924(e), punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000.00 fine, or both; however, should the court determine he is an armed career criminal, he will be sentenced to not less than 15 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000.00 fine, or both.
The Indictment alleged that on or about December 29, 2017, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, Samuel Jason Nutt, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, did knowingly possess in and affecting commerce, a firearm, to-wit: One (1) Chinese, Model 54-1, 7.62 x 25mm caliber pistol, serial number 3700126799, which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce.The charges arose from an investigation by the Sallisaw Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris represented the United States.
Registered Sex Offender Convicted of Receipt and Possession of Images of Child RapeRead the Press Release
A registered sex offender with prior convictions for raping a 12-year-old girl he met via the internet, was convicted today in U.S. District Court in Seattle of two federal felonies involving his receipt and possession of images of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Annette L. Hayes. RICHARD DAVID BLICK, 65, formerly of Edmonds, Washington was indicted in September 2017, following an investigation by the King County Sheriff’s Office and Homeland Security Investigation (HSI). The jury deliberated for about three hours following a two-day trial. U.S. District Judge John C. Coughenour scheduled sentencing for June 12, 2018.
According to records in the case and testimony at trial, the electronic service provider Dropbox made a report to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) that an account later linked to BLICK was uploading pictures of child pornography. The subsequent law enforcement investigation revealed BLICK owned the Dropbox account and that he was a Level 3 registered sex offender with a 2001 conviction for raping a 12-year-old girl. In August 2017, law enforcement served search warrants on BLICK’s residence, an RV in Edmonds. On BLICK’s various electronic devices were thousands of images of child pornography as well as chats and videos with a 14-year-old California child whom BLICK convinced to send him sexually explicit images. BLICK has been in federal custody since his arrest in August 2017.
In closing arguments prosecutors noted that possession and receipt of child pornography is not a victimless crime, “Children are injured each and every time an adult trades in their misery… Child pornography keeps alive in the dark recesses of the internet the suffering that they have endured,” prosecutors told the jury.
BLICK faces a mandatory minimum 15 years in prison and up to 40 years in prison for receipt of child pornography. Possession of child pornography is punishable by a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison and a maximum of 20 years.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys= Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc
The case was investigated by the King County Sheriff’s Office and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Matthew Hampton and Special Assistant United States Attorney Cecilia Gregson. Ms. Gregson is a Senior King County Deputy Prosecutor specially designated to prosecute child exploitation cases in federal court.
Ravenna men indicted on firearms and drug chargesRead the Press Release
Two Ravenna men were indicted on firearms and marijuana charges, said U.S. Attorney Justin E. Herdman.
“These indictments demonstrate our commitment to prosecute people who carry firearms when they are not allowed by law to have them,” Herdman said. “We often see drug dealers using firearms as a tool of their trade, which increases the odds of a deadly encounter.”
Damen Winning, 23, was indicted on charges of possessing with intent to distribute marijuana, possessing a firearm in connection drug trafficking and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Winning on Nov. 16, 2017 possessed marijuana with the intent to distribute the drug. He also possessed firearms in connection to his drug trafficking. Winning possessed a Glock .40 pistol and ammunition, despite a prior conviction in the Portage County Court of Common Pleas for drug trafficking, according to the indictment.
Richard Lester Thomas, 63, is charged possession with intent to distribute marijuana and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Thomas on Sept. 20, 2017 possessed marijuana with the intent to distribute the drug, and a Ruger .22 rifle and ammunition despite prior convictions for attempted possession of chemicals to manufacture controlled substances and possession of chemicals for the manufacture of drugs in the Portage County Court of Common Pleas, according to the indictment.
The cases are unrelated.
Both cases are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David M. Toepfer. The Winning investigation was conducted by the United States Marshal Service, the Akron Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms. The Thomas investigation was conducted by the Portage County Drug Task Force and the ATF.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violations. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and, in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
Princeton Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
BLUEFIELD, W.Va. - A Princeton man pleaded guilty today to federal drug crimes, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Jerome Jones, 53, of Princeton, West Virginia, entered his guilty plea to 7 counts distribution of a quantity of cocaine base, 2 counts possession with intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine base, and 1 count distribution of a quantity of cocaine.
Stuart praised the work of the West Virginia State Police. “We are committed to working with the fine men and women of the West Virginia State Police in their efforts to make West Virginia communities safer places to live, work and play,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.
Jones admitted that between May 18, 2016, and November 13 , 2017 , he sold quantities of cocaine and cocaine base to a confidential informant who was working with the police. Jones further admitted that on June 1, 2016 , and then again on December 20, 2017 , the West Virginia State Police executed a search warrant and at his residence and seized quantities of cocaine and cocaine base.
Jones faces up to 20 years in federal prison on each county when he is sentenced on May 30, 2018. United States District Judge David A. Faber presided over the plea hearing.
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Portland Man Sentenced to Five Years for Crack TraffickingRead the Press Release
Portland, Maine: United States Attorney Halsey B. Frank announced that Salman Mohamed, 20, of Portland, Maine, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court by Judge D. Brock Hornby to five years in prison and four years of supervised release for possessing with intent to distribute cocaine base, commonly known as “crack.” He pleaded guilty on September 20, 2017.
Court records reveal that on May 31, 2017, the defendant possessed over 100 grams of crack. At that time, he was also on bail for a separate drug trafficking charge.
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and the Portland Police Department.
Pittsburgh Man Charged with Violating Federal Drug LawsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh and charged with violations of the federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The three-count indictment, returned on March 13, named Lewis Lamont Johnson, 35, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, from on or about September 22, 2017 to on or about October 11, 2017, Johnson conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and a quantity of acetyl fentanyl. The indictment also alleges that on or about October 11, 2017, Johnson possessed with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl. The indictment further alleges that on or about October 11, 2017, Johnson attempted to possess with the intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and a quantity of acetyl fentanyl.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $10,000,000.00, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)/Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), United States Postal Inspection Service, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Physician Owner of HNC and Wife Sentenced for Health Care Fraud Offenses Involving Prescription Opiate Pain MedicationRead the Press Release
GREENEVILLE, Tenn. – On March 14, 2018, Dr. Abdelrahman Mohamed, 64, and Cecilia Manacsa, 59, both of Morristown, Tennessee, were sentenced by the Honorable J. Ronnie Greer, U.S. District Judge, to serve 36 months and 16 months respectively in federal prison. In addition to his prison sentence, Mohamed also paid $730,000 in restitution.
Mohamed and Manacsa both pleaded guilty in September 2017, to an 11-count information charging them with one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud and 10 counts of health care fraud.
Mohamed was the owner and operator of Hamblen Neuroscience Center (HNC), a neurology and pain management facility located in Morristown, Tennessee. Manacsa, his wife, worked at HNC as a supervisor of various employees, including the employee responsible for submitting bills to Medicare and Medicaid (known as TennCare in the state of Tennessee). A detailed account of their offenses is included in the information and plea agreements on file with the U.S. District Court.
Mohamed, who was the only physician on staff at HNC, provided medical treatment to a variety of patients, most of whom sought treatment for chronic pain and had health insurance provided by TennCare or Medicare. Between January 2012 and September 2016 Mohamed and Manacsa developed a scheme to schedule far more patients per day than could be attended to by Mohamed. On average, they scheduled between 40 and 60 pain management patients per day, during the estimated six-hour period that Mohamed worked. To deal with the high volume, on many occasions staff members were instructed to line up the patients in the hallway outside of Mohamed's office, escort the first patient into the office for a one to two minute open-door meeting, then hand Mohamed a partially completed prescription for an opiate pain management medication, which he signed and gave to the patient. This process was repeated until all waiting patients had received a prescription for a controlled substance. Each patient was then scheduled for another appointment the following month at which time the process was repeated.
Mohamed admitted that during the fraud he issued thousands of prescriptions for opiate controlled substances and frequently did so on a recurring monthly basis, often for years. He also admitted that when he issued such prescriptions he was doing so outside of the scope of ordinary medical practice.
After these visits, Mohamed and Manacsa instructed HNC staff members to submit fraudulent bills to TennCare and Medicare claiming that they were owed approximately $1,538,000 for services they had not actually provided to these patients. This fraud resulted in Medicare and TennCare paying approximately $733,000 to HNC.
“This case sends a clear message to physicians and other health care providers in the Eastern District of Tennessee that investigating and prosecuting healthcare fraud related to prescription opioids is a top priority for the Department of Justice as well as the U.S. Attorney’s Office,” said J. Douglas Overbey, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Tennessee. “Our district’s participation in the Opioid Fraud and Abuse Detection Unit will provide us with the resources necessary to effectively investigate and prosecute medical providers, such as Mohamed and Manacsa, who are contributing to this epidemic by unlawfully diverting or dispensing opioids outside the scope of acceptable professional practice,” added U.S. Attorney Overbey.
“These defendants enriched themselves at the expense of taxpayers by defrauding Medicare and TennCare,” said Derrick L. Jackson, Special Agent in Charge at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General. “Their actions risked the health and safety of patients by prescribing opioids without a comprehensive physical exam. This sentence sends a strong message
that this type of behavior will be dealt with seriously,” added Jackson.
This case was investigated by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Health and Human Services – Office of the Inspector General. Assistance was provided by the Tennessee Department of Health as well as District Attorney General Dan Armstrong and the District Attorney’s Office for the Third Judicial District. Assistant U.S. Attorney T.J. Harker represented the United States.
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Newport News Couple Indicted for Robbery SpreeRead the Press Release
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – A federal grand jury returned an indictment today charging a Newport News couple with 12 counts of robbery and two counts of use of a firearm during a crime of violence.
According to allegations in the indictment, Christopher Robertson, 33, and Aquilla Jones, 38, conspired together to commit a series of robberies in Virginia Beach, Newport News, York County, Chesapeake and Spotsylvania County.
According to the indictment, Robertson and Jones, along with unnamed co-conspirators agreed to rob these local businesses:
Date
Business
Sept. 24, 2013
Gulf Gas Station, 2120 Plank Road, Fredericksburg
Oct. 1, 2013
Captain D’s, 2626 Princess Anne Street, Fredericksburg
Oct. 6, 2013
Big Lots, 4318 George Washington Highway, Yorktown
Oct. 8, 2013
Fast Mart, 5166 Mudd Tavern Road, Spotsylvania
Oct. 13, 2013
Food Lion, 7100 Salem Fields Blvd. Spottsylvania (Attempt)
Dec. 4, 2014
Citgo Gas Station, 780 J. Clyde Morris Ave., Newport News
Dec. 6, 2014
Shell Gas Station, 600 Hampton Highway, Yorktown
Dec. 6, 2014
Hop and Shop, 12961 Jefferson Avenue, Newport News
Dec. 8, 2014
Shell Gas Station, 10732 Jefferson Avenue, Newport News
Dec. 10, 2014
Smoke Shop, 3115 Western Branch Blvd., Chesapeake (Attempt)
Dec. 11, 2014
Mini-Mart, Green Meadows Drive, Virginia Beach
Dec. 12, 2014
Gulf Gas Station, 2120 Plank Road, Fredericksburg
Dec. 13, 2014
Subway Restaurant, 9817 Jefferson Davis Hwy, Fredericksburg
Robertson and Jones are charged with conspiracy to commit robbery, use of a firearm in a crime of violence, and Hobbs Act robbery. Each faces a mandatory minimum of 32 years in prison with a maximum of life 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, and Martin Culbreth, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Norfolk Field Office, made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric M. Hurt 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.
An indictment contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.
New York Man Indicted for Child Exploitation OffensesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A New York man has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on charges of travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct and possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The two-count indictment, returned on March 13, named Andrew Michael Dubois, age 32, of Jamestown, New York, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on December 7, 2017, Dubois knowingly travelled in interstate commerce for the purpose of engaging in illicit sexual conduct with a minor. The indictment further alleges that on December 7, 2017, Dubois possessed images and videos in computer graphic files, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct, some of whom had not yet attained 12 years of age.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 40 years imprisonment, a maximum term of lifetime supervised release, and a fine of $500,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)/Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the North Strabane Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals, who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
New York Man Convicted of Heroin and Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
Bangor, Maine: United States Attorney Halsey B. Frank announced that Reginald McBride, 41, of New York, New York, was convicted today following a three-day jury trial in U.S. District Court of being a felon in possession of a firearm, possessing heroin with the intent to distribute it, and using a firearm in relation to a drug trafficking offense. The charges arose out of a June 26, 2016 shooting at the Walmart in Augusta, Maine.
The evidence at trial revealed that on June 26, 2016, the defendant drove a vehicle to the Augusta Walmart carrying over 40 grams of heroin and a 9-mm pistol. When the defendant got to the Walmart, he engaged in a firefight with another individual. After the shooting, the defendant fled in his vehicle. Officers located the defendant and recovered the heroin. Officers later seized a loaded revolver, two more firearms, ammunition, a speed loader, and a scope from the vehicle.
Trial evidence revealed that the defendant used numerous aliases including “Kweasia McBride,” “Reggie McBride,” “Reginald Washington,” “Benjamin McBride,” “John Doe,” and “Sunny.” The defendant had prior felony convictions from Virginia and New York under a combination of these aliases.
The defendant faces up to 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release on the felon in possession charge; up to 20 years in prison, a $1,000,000 fine, and life on supervised release on the drug charge; and a consecutive term of between five years and life, a $250,000 fine, and five years of supervised release for using a firearm in relation to a drug trafficking offense.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Augusta Police Department; the Kennebec County Sheriff’s Office; the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration; the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency; the Maine State Police Crime Laboratory; and the Bangor and Hallowell Police Departments.
New Bedford Seafood Wholesaler Sentenced for Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A former New Bedford seafood wholesaler was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for failing to file tax returns and filing a false tax return for his business’ income.
George F. Estudante, 57, formerly of Marion, Mass., was sentenced to one year and one day in prison, one year of supervised release and ordered to pay restitution of $105,357. In December 2017, Estudante pleaded guilty to two counts of failing to file tax returns and one count of filing a false income tax return.
Estudante failed to file an income tax return for 2010, even though his business, Basic Fisheries, received approximately $1,418,629 in payments. He also failed to file a tax return for 2011, although his business received approximately $1,607,726 in payments that year. Furthermore, Estudante falsely swore on his 2012 tax return that he had received approximately $533,078 in gross receipts when his bank account reflected that he had received over $740,000.
United States Andrew E. Lelling and Joel P. Garland, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigations in Boston made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen P. Heymann of Lelling’s Economic Crimes Unit prosecuted the case.
Multiple Defendants Sentenced for Participating in Large Scale Heroin and Cocaine RingRead the Press Release
DENVER – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces the successful completion of a Colorado law enforcement operation, resulting in convictions of 17 defendants for conspiracy to distribute heroin and cocaine, possession with intent to distribute heroin and cocaine, distribution of heroin and cocaine, money laundering, or using phones to facilitate felonies. In addition, the operation seized an estimated 12 kilos of heroin, 2 kilos of cocaine, 4 guns and $190,000 in cash.
Twenty-three individuals were indicted on June 23, 2016, for a variety of criminal charges linked to the “Castores” group, which was comprised mostly of individuals from Guasave, Sinaloa, Mexico. Between approximately January 2010 and March 2015, this group transported heroin and cocaine from Arizona to Denver, Colorado, where they stored it in stash houses. Members then coordinated heroin and cocaine deliveries to approximately 20 street-level distributors in the Denver area. The organization’s “dispatcher” coordinated the runners and the street-level distributors each day, making sure the street-level distributors were ready to open the door for the runners as soon as the runners arrived. The day before the deliveries, the dispatcher would send requests for daily orders to the street-level distributors and make sure the runners knew what the street-level dealers wanted in terms of drug type (heroin or cocaine), quantity, and quality.
In order to facilitate the drug distribution, members used telephones to set the time, location, quantity, and price for the drug sales. The dispatcher frequently changed phones to avoid detection by law enforcement. Additionally, members used commercial wire transfer services to conceal and disguise the source, ownership, control, and location of the proceeds being sent to the suppliers in Sinaloa, Mexico. The members used false “sender” names and addresses to conceal the true ownership of the wires when they were sent.
Of the 23 defendants named in the fourth superseding indictment, 10 were sentenced as follows:
- Paul Rubio-Sepulveda aka Pelon – 235 months imprisonment, followed by 5 years supervised release;
- Juan Miguel Espinoza-Romero aka Macizo – 144 months imprisonment, followed by 5 years supervised release;
- Yonger Ricardo Matute-Venegas aka Yonger Venegas – 84 months imprisonment, followed by 5 years supervised release;
- Jose Cruz-Cruz aka Jefferson – 78 months imprisonment, followed by 4 years supervised release;
- Natasha Santistevan – 36 months imprisonment, followed by 2 years supervised release;
- Luis Cruz-Medina aka Carlos Medina aka Marlon Arturo Velasquez-Medina aka Chucky – 40 months imprisonment;
- Jose Nemecia-Garcia aka Jose Luis Galeas-Almendarez – time served, which was 33 months imprisonment;
- Ema Belinda Bustamante-Raudales aka Yeime Belinda Saensz aka Jaime – time served, which was 39 months imprisonment, followed by 2 years supervised release;
- Aaron Flores-Villegas aka Missael Valdez-Osorino – 70 months imprisonment, followed by 5 years supervised release; and,
- Jose Lopez-Robles aka Javier Sanchez Vega aka Popote – 96 months imprisonment, followed by 4 years supervised release.
In addition, Marco Castro-Cruz was also named as a defendant in the Fourth Superseding Indictment. Along with defendants Kyle Adams and Reynieri Centeno-Velasquez, he was separately indicted in the District of Wyoming for Distribution of Heroin Resulting in Death. Those charges stem from a heroin transaction in Denver, Colorado, that led to an overdose death in Laramie, Wyoming. After pleading guilty in both cases, Castro-Cruz was sentenced to 240 months imprisonment, followed by 5 years of supervised release. Kyle Adams and Centeno-Velasquez were separately sentenced to 5 and 6 year terms of imprisonment (respectively), followed by three year terms of supervised release.
Four other named defendants received felony convictions and seven defendants remain fugitives. The case is captioned U.S. v. Aguilar-Cruz, et al., Case No. 14-cr-00144-CMA.
This case was investigated by the Front Range Task Force, which is comprised of agents and officers from the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, United States Marshals Service, Denver Police Department, Colorado Bureau of Investigation, Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office and the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorneys Guy Till, Barbara Skalla, and Laura Hurd represented the United States. The District of Wyoming indictment was investigated by the Laramie Police Department, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant United States Attorneys Guy Till and Brad Giles also worked on that prosecution.
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Monroe County Man Guilty of Heroin TraffickingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON—The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Charles McRae, age 37, of East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty on March 13, 2018, before U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion to distribution of heroin.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, McRae admitted to selling heroin in Stroudsburg on January 20, 2016.
McRae was indicted by a grand jury in December 2016.
Judge Mannion ordered a presentence report to be completed. Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and local police from Monroe County. Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis P. Sempa is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority. In October 2017, as part of a series of actions to address this crime trend, Attorney General Sessions announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop a district crime reduction strategy that incorporates the lessons learned since PSN launched in 2001.
This case was also brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law is 20 years’ imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Meridian Nurse Practitioner Pleads Guilty to Obtaining Controlled Substances by FraudRead the Press Release
BOISE – Cheri Susan Thomas, 37, of Meridian, Idaho, pleaded guilty yesterday to obtaining controlled substances by fraud, identity theft, and misbranding a drug while held for sale, U.S. Attorney Bart M. Davis announced. A Boise federal grand jury indicted Thomas on January 9, 2018.
According to court records, Thomas was employed as a nurse practitioner by a medical facility with multiple facilities in Idaho. Each facility had a locked cabinet where controlled substances were kept. Thomas did not have access to the locked cabinets. On at least seven occasions, however, Thomas accessed the cabinets at different facilities, and took bottles of Schedule II controlled substances, including hydrocodone. Thomas then replaced the controlled substances with different medications, resealed the bottles and placed them back in the cabinets. For example, on October 31, 2017, Thomas knowingly and intentionally removed a bottle of hydrocodone/APAP 10mg/325mg containing 20 tablets. She removed the hydrocodone pills, replaced them with Flexeril tablets, and put the bottle back into the cabinet. The replacement of the controlled substances with other medication caused the drugs to be misbranded because the labeling became false and misleading as to the bottle’s contents. In addition, when Thomas replaced the misbranded drug back into the cabinet, she moved the pack of bottles around to place the misbranded drugs in the back.
On two occasions, Thomas knowingly and intentionally forged fraudulent prescriptions to herself using another provider’s information. For example, on October 26, 2017, Thomas forged a prescription for hydrocodone/APAP 10mg/325mg using another provider’s information to facilitate the crime of obtaining controlled substances by fraud. The other provider never saw Thomas as a patient and did not authorize the prescription. Thomas fraudulently filled the prescription in Meridian, Idaho, obtaining 30 tablets of hydrocodone/APAP 10mg/325mg.
The charge of obtaining controlled substances by fraud is punishable by up to four years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, and a term of one year of supervised release. The charge of identity theft is punishable by up to 20 years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, and a term of three years of supervised release. The charge of misbranding a drug while held for sale is punishable by up to three years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, and a term of one year of supervised release.
Sentencing is set for June 5, 2018, before Senior U.S. District Judge Edward J. Lodge at the federal courthouse in Boise.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration led Tactical Diversion Squad, the Ada County Sheriff’s Office, and the Food and Drug Administration Office of Criminal Investigations.
Members of Multi-State Drug Trafficking Organization SentencedRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina --- United States Attorney Beth Drake announced today that Jimmy Hallums, age 40, and Christine Wellwood, age 34, were sentenced to 188 months (or 15 ½ years) imprisonment and 144 months (or 12 years) imprisonment, respectively in federal court in Greenville.
The evidence presented during their guilty pleas and sentencing hearings showed that Hallums met the leader of the organization, Dustin Tiller, while both men were serving prison sentences in the South Carolina Department of Corrections in 2015 for drug offenses. Working in conjunction with Tiller and at Tiller’s direction, Hallums recruited drug couriers, rented storage units to store drugs, met with sources of supply, and facilitated the shipment of methamphetamine from the Atlanta area to the Upstate of South Carolina for redistribution in South Carolina. Hallums and a courier he recruited were arrested by federal and state law enforcement officials on March 8, 2016, in Georgia while traveling in tandem with approximately 20 pounds of methamphetamine.
Wellwood also was closely associated with Tiller. The evidence showed that Wellwood acted as a money courier for Tiller. At his direction, Wellwood would meet with high-ranking members of the organization, would receive drug proceeds, and would transport the proceeds to locations that Tiller designated.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andy Moorman, Deputy Chief for the Narcotics Unit, is the lead prosecutor.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Drug Enforcement Task Force, the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office, the Anderson Police Department, and the Franklin County (GA) Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.
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Media AdvisoryRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart will hold a brief press conference at 9:00am on Thursday, March 15, 2018 to discuss collaborative efforts to address the opioid scourge and violent crime in the City of Huntington.
WHO: Mike Stuart, United States Attorney, SDWV
Mayor Steve Williams, City of Huntington
Interim Police Chief Hank Dial, Huntington Police Department
Supervisory Special Agent Wes Quigley, FBI
Assistant Special Agent in Charge David Gourley, DEA
Resident Agent in Charge Adam Black, ATF
Corky Hammers, Cabell County Prosecuting Attorney
Sharon Frazier, Cabell County Assistant Prosecutor
WHAT: Press Conference
WHEN: Thursday, March 15, 2018 @ 9:00am
WHERE: Sidney L. Christie Federal Building
845 Fifth Avenue
Huntington, WV 25701
Follow us on Twitter: @SDWVNews and @USAttyStuart
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Maryland MS-13 Member Convicted in Federal Racketeering Conspiracy Including MurderRead the Press Release
A federal jury today convicted Raul Ernesto Landaverde-Giron, aka Humilde and Decente, of Silver Spring, Maryland of conspiracy to participate in a racketeering enterprise in connection with his gang activity as a member of La Mara Salvatrucha, or MS-13. Landaverde-Giron was also found guilty of murder in aid of racketeering; conspiracy to commit murder in aid of racketeering; discharging a firearm during a crime of violence and murder resulting from the discharging of a firearm during a crime of violence.
The conviction was announced by Attorney General Jeff Sessions; Acting Assistant Attorney General John P. Cronan of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; Acting U.S. Attorney Stephen M. Schenning for the District of Maryland; Special Agent in Charge Andre R. Watson of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); Chief Henry P. Stawinski III of the Prince George’s County, Maryland, Police Department; Prince George’s County State’s Attorney Angela D. Alsobrooks; Chief Douglas Holland of the Hyattsville City Police Department; Chief Edward Hargis of the Frederick Police Department; Frederick County State’s Attorney J. Charles Smith; Chief J. Thomas Manger of the Montgomery County Police Department; and Montgomery County State’s Attorney John McCarthy.
“With more than 10,000 members across 40 U.S. states, MS-13 is one of the deadliest gangs in America,” said Attorney General Sessions. “That’s why the Trump administration and this Department of Justice have worked aggressively to dismantle this vicious gang and take its members off of our streets. Maryland in particular has suffered terribly because of MS-13’s campaign of rape, murder, and extortion. Today’s conviction is another victory for the American people against this uniquely barbaric gang, and I want to thank everyone who played a role in making it possible, especially Homeland Security Investigations, Prince George’s and Montgomery County police, Hyattsville police, and the Assistant U.S. Attorneys and Department of Justice Trial Attorneys who prosecuted the case. MS-13 thinks that they are targeting us—but we are targeting them.”
According to the indictment, MS-13 is a national and transnational 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, Montgomery County, and Frederick County, Maryland. MS-13 members are required to commit acts of violence to maintain membership and discipline within the gang. One of the principal rules of MS-13 is that its members must attack and kill rivals, known as “chavalas,” whenever possible. MS-13 imposes “greenlights,” or orders to be killed, on members or associates who betray the gang by cooperating with law enforcement or violating significant gang rules.According to evidence presented at the three-week trial, from at least 2012 through at least 2016, MS-13 members planned and committed numerous crimes, including murders and attempted murders in Prince George’s County and Frederick County. Gang members also extorted owners of illegal businesses, among other crimes. Landaverde-Giron was a member of the MS-13 Normandie Locos Salvatrucha Clique.
Trial evidence showed that on Nov. 30, 2013, Landaverde-Giron, along with two other Normandie Clique members, murdered an individual in Frederick, Maryland, who had fled El Salvador to escape a greenlight imposed by MS-13 members in El Salvador. After a co-conspirator recognized the victim in Frederick, Normandie Clique members called an MS-13 leader in prison in El Salvador to confirm the greenlight was still in effect. A co-conspirator then lured the victim to a wooded area in Frederick, where he shot the victim in the head and Landaverde-Giron and another co-conspirator stabbed the victim in the face and neck. Landaverde-Giron was promoted within the Normandie Clique for his participation in this murder.
Landaverde-Giron faces a mandatory sentence of life in prison for murder in aid of racketeering. U.S. District Judge Peter J. Messitte has scheduled sentencing for June 13. Landaverde-Giron remains detained.
In addition to this conviction, five of the seven defendants charged in this case have previously pleaded guilty to their roles in the racketeering conspiracy.
HSI Baltimore, Frederick Police Department, Prince George’s County Police Department, Hyattsville City Police Department, Montgomery County Police Department, and the Prince George’s County State’s Attorney’s Office assisted in the investigation and prosecution. The case was prosecuted by Trial Attorney Francesca Liquori of the Criminal Division’s Organized Crime and Gang Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys William D. Moomau and Lindsay Eyler Kaplan of the District of Maryland.
Maryland MS-13 Member Convicted in Federal Racketeering Conspiracy Including MurderRead the Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact ELIZABETH MORSE
www.justice.gov/usao/md at (410) 209-4885
Greenbelt, Maryland – A federal jury today convicted Raul Ernesto Landaverde-Giron, a/k/a “Humilde,” a/k/a “Decente,” of Silver Spring, Maryland of conspiracy to participate in a racketeering enterprise in connection with his gang activity as a member of La Mara Salvatrucha, or MS-13. Landaverde-Giron was also found guilty of murder in aid of racketeering; conspiracy to commit murder in aid of racketeering; using, carrying and discharging a firearm during a crime of violence; and murder resulting from the use, carrying and discharging of a firearm during a crime of violence.
The conviction was announced by Acting United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Stephen M. Schenning; Attorney General Jeff Sessions; Acting Assistant Attorney General John P. Cronan of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; Special Agent in Charge Andre R. Watson of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); Chief Henry P. Stawinski III of the Prince George’s County, Maryland, Police Department; Prince George’s County State’s Attorney Angela D. Alsobrooks; Chief Douglas Holland of the Hyattsville City Police Department; Chief Edward Hargis of the Frederick Police Department; Frederick County State’s Attorney J. Charles Smith; Chief J. Thomas Manger of the Montgomery County Police Department; and Montgomery County State’s Attorney John McCarthy.
“With more than 10,000 members across 40 U.S. states, MS-13 is one of the deadliest gangs in America,” said Attorney General Sessions. “That’s why the Trump administration and this Department of Justice have worked aggressively to dismantle this vicious gang and take its members off of our streets. Maryland in particular has suffered terribly because of MS-13’s campaign of rape, murder, and extortion. Today’s conviction is another victory for the American people against this uniquely barbaric gang, and I want to thank everyone who played a role in making it possible, especially Homeland Security Investigations, Prince George’s and Montgomery County police, Hyattsville police, and the Assistant U.S. Attorneys and Department of Justice Trial Attorneys who prosecuted the case. MS-13 thinks that they are targeting us—but we are targeting them.”
According to the indictment, MS-13 is a national and transnational 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, Montgomery County, and Frederick County, Maryland. MS-13 members are required to commit acts of violence to maintain membership and discipline within the gang. One of the principal rules of MS-13 is that its members must attack and kill rivals, known as “chavalas,” whenever possible. MS-13 imposes “greenlights,” or orders to be killed, on members or associates who betray the gang by cooperating with law enforcement or violating significant gang rules.
According to evidence presented at the three-week trial, from at least 2012 through at least 2016, MS-13 members planned and committed numerous crimes, including murders and attempted murders in Prince George’s County and Frederick County. Gang members also extorted owners of illegal businesses, among other crimes. Landaverde-Giron was a member of the MS-13 Normandie Locos Salvatrucha Clique.
Trial evidence showed that on November 30, 2013, Landaverde-Giron, along with two other Normandie Clique members, murdered an individual in Frederick, Maryland, who had fled El Salvador to escape a greenlight imposed by MS-13 members in El Salvador. After a co-conspirator recognized the victim in Frederick, Normandie Clique members called an MS-13 leader in prison in El Salvador to confirm the greenlight was still in effect. A co-conspirator then lured the victim to a wooded area in Frederick, where he shot the victim in the head and Landaverde-Giron and another co-conspirator stabbed the victim in the face and neck. Landaverde-Giron was promoted within the Normandie Clique for his participation in this murder.
Landaverde-Giron faces a mandatory sentence of life in prison for murder in aid of racketeering. U.S. District Judge Peter J. Messitte has scheduled sentencing for June 13, 2018, at 9:30 am. Landaverde-Giron remains detained.
In addition to this conviction, five of the seven defendants charged in this case have previously pleaded guilty to their roles in the racketeering conspiracy.
Acting United States Attorney Stephen M. Schenning commended HSI Baltimore, Frederick Police Department, Prince George’s County Police Department, Hyattsville City Police Department, and Montgomery County Police Department, and the Prince George’s County State’s Attorney’s Office, for their work in the investigation and prosecution. Mr. Schenning thanked Assistant United States Attorneys William D. Moomau and Lindsay Eyler Kaplan, and Trial Attorney Francesca Liquori with the Justice Department’s Organized Crime and Gang Section, who are prosecuting the case.
Manhattan U.S. Attorney Announces Arrest of NYPD Officer Charged with Heroin TraffickingRead the Press Release
Geoffrey S. Berman, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, James J. Hunt, the Special Agent-in-Charge of the New York Division of the Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”), James P. O’Neill, Police Commissioner of the City of New York (“NYPD”), and George P. Beach II, the Superintendent of the New York State Police (“NYSP”), announced that YESSENIA JIMENEZ, a New York City Police Department Officer, and LUIS SOTO, were arrested and charged yesterday in Manhattan federal court with heroin trafficking and firearms offenses. JIMENEZ and SOTO were presented yesterday before Magistrate Judge Sarah Netburn.
U.S. Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman said: “As alleged, Yessenia Jimenez, a New York City Police Department officer, along with Luis Soto, trafficked heroin in New York City, the city she took an oath to serve and protect, and used her police department service weapon to carry out her illegal activities. Thanks to the outstanding investigative work of the DEA, NYPD, and the New York State Police, Jimenez and Soto have been arrested and can no longer contribute to the opioid epidemic plaguing this city.”
DEA Special Agent-In-Charge James J. Hunt said: “Allegedly, this New York City Police officer and her co-defendant pushed heroin onto the streets at the same time that other law enforcement officers across the nation are fighting an opioid epidemic. I commend the men and women at the New York Drug Enforcement Task Force and Southern District of New York for their tireless efforts in dismantling drug trafficking crews throughout this city and nation.”
Commissioner James P. O’Neill said: “Cops are charged with enforcing the law, not breaking it. Today’s arrest—for serious allegations of trafficking heroin—are troubling.”
Superintendent George P. Beach II said: “The charges brought today against these two individuals are the direct result of the vigilant work done by our law enforcement partners at all levels. These partnerships are key when it comes to shutting down illegal drug trafficking operations, keeping dangerous drugs off of our streets, and stopping the heinous crimes that are associated with these activities. This sends a clear message that such crimes will not be tolerated especially when they are perpetuated by individuals who have been entrusted with enforcing and upholding the law. Such criminals will be prosecuted to the fullest.”
According to the allegations in the Complaint unsealed today in Manhattan federal court[[1]]:
Following a months’ long investigation into heroin trafficking, the DEA identified SOTO as an individual believed to traffic in kilogram quantities of heroin, and to collect narcotics proceeds. The investigation uncovered that SOTO was working with JIMENEZ, an NYPD officer, to carry out his drug trafficking activities. Following extensive surveillance and GPS tracking, the DEA, the NYPD, and the NYSP apprehended JIMENEZ and SOTO in possession of approximately $50,000, which represent proceeds from the sale of narcotics. JIMENEZ, who was not in uniform and was off duty, was carrying her loaded NYPD service firearm in her purse, alongside approximately $25,000 of the drug proceeds. Following the arrest, law enforcement agents obtained a search warrant for the defendants’ apartment and discovered approximately 250 grams of heroin.
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JIMENEZ, 31, of the Bronx, New York, and SOTO, 34, of the Bronx, New York, are each charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute at least 100 grams of heroin, which carries a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison and a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison; one count of possession of at least 100 grams of heroin with intent to distribute, which carries a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison and a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison; and one count of using and carrying a firearm in relation to their heroin trafficking, which carries a maximum sentence of life in prison and a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison. The maximum potential sentences are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge.
Mr. Berman praised the investigative work of the DEA and NYPD in this investigation. He added that the investigation is continuing.
This case is being handled by the Office’s Narcotics Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Thane Rehn is in charge of the prosecution.
The charges contained in the Complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
[1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Complaint and the description of the Complaint set forth herein constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.
Maine man charged with sexual assault of woman on Delta flightRead the Press Release
ATLANTA - William Charles Pelletier has been indicted by a federal grand jury charged with abusive sexual contact for sexually assaulting a female passenger on a Delta flight to Atlanta, Georgia.
“This defendant allegedly believed he could sexually assault a fellow passenger on a flight to Atlanta,” said U.S. Attorney Byung J. “BJay” Pak. “This conduct is unacceptable, and anyone who chooses to act in this manner will be prosecuted. Citizens deserve to feel protected from sexual assault and should not have to fear this happening to them while traveling.”
“Behavior like what this defendant is accused of will not be tolerated by the FBI or any other law enforcement agency,” said David J. LeValley, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “No citizen should have to confront this type of behavior any time or anywhere. And no person should ever think they can get away with such alleged actions.”
According to U.S. Attorney Pak, the Indictment, and other information presented in court: on November 10, 2017, on a Delta flight from Charlottesville, Virginia, to Atlanta, several passengers reported that Pelletier was verbally abusive and unruly during the flight. As passengers were preparing for landing Pelletier threw a pretzel bag at the female passenger seated directly in front of him. The female passenger initially ignored Pelletier. But seconds later, she felt Pelletier reach around her seat and put his cupped hand on her breast. A passenger seated next to Pelletier witnessed the alleged assault and requested that the flight attendant contact the police. Pelletier was arrested when the flight arrived in Atlanta.
Arraignment for William Charles Pelletier, 35, of Andover, Maine, has not been determined. Members of the public are reminded that the indictment only contains an allegation of criminal conduct. The defendant is presumed innocent of the charge and it will be the government’s burden to prove the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
This case is being investigated by the FBI and the Atlanta Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Phyllis Clerk is prosecuting the case.
For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at [email protected] or (404) 581-6016. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.
MEDIA ADVISORY-- U.S. Attorney John C. Anderson to Testify Before U.S. Senate Committee on Indian Affairs on “Opioids in Indian Country: Beyond the Crisis to Healing in the Community”Read the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – The Honorable John C. Anderson, U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico, will testify before the U.S. Senate Committee on Indian Affairs during an oversight hearing on “Opioids in Indian Country: Beyond the Crisis to Healing in the Community,” at 2:30 p.m. (EDT)/12:30 p.m. (MDT), Wednesday, March 14, 2018. U.S. Attorney Anderson will be part of a three-witness panel which will include Capt. Christopher Jones, Pharm. D., M.P.H., Director, National Mental Health and Substance Use Policy Laboratory, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and RADM Michael Toedt, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, Indian Health Services, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
WHO:
The Honorable John C. Anderson, U.S. Attorney, District of New Mexico, U.S. Department of Justice
Capt. Christopher Jones, Pharm. D., M.P.H., Director, National Mental Health and Substance Use Policy Laboratory, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
RADM Michael Toedt, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, Indian Health Services, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
WHEN:
Wednesday, March 14, 2018, 2:30 P.M. EDT/12:30 P.M. MDT
WHERE:
The hearing can be viewed in real time on the Committee’s webcast at https://www.indian.senate.gov/hearing/oversight-hearing-opioids-indian-country-beyond-crisis-healing-community
Lovington Man Sentenced to Prison for Violating Federal Firearms LawsRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Baret Wayne Smith, 28, of Lovington, N.M., was sentenced today in federal court in Las Cruces, N.M., to 51 months in prison for violating the federal firearms laws by being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition. Smith will be on supervised release for three years after completing his prison sentence.
Smith was charged in a federal criminal complaint filed in April 2016, with unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition and body armor on Jan. 22, 2016, in Lea County, N.M. According to the complaint, law enforcement officers arrested Smith, who was wearing a bulletproof vest, based on two outstanding warrants. During a search incident to Smith’s arrest, the officers seized ammunition, methamphetamine, a glass pipe commonly used for smoking methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia in Smith’s pockets. The officers also seized a firearm from Smith’s vehicle. Court documents indicate that months earlier, on Nov. 12, 2015, officers found multiple rounds of ammunition in Smith’s clothing after he was taken to a hospital in Hobbs, N.M., where he was treated for a gunshot wound to the stomach.
Smith subsequently was indicted on Nov. 8, 2017, and was charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. According to the indictment, Smith was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition because of his numerous felony convictions. Smith pled guilty to the indictment without the benefit of a plea agreement on Nov. 14, 2017.
This case was investigated by the Las Cruces office of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the New Mexico State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander B. Shapiro of the U.S. Attorney’s Las Cruces Branch Office is prosecuting the case.
Liberty Attorney Sentenced for Stealing Victim Restitution FundsRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Timothy A. Garrison, United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri, announced that a Liberty, Mo., attorney was sentenced in federal court today for obstruction of justice after stealing funds earmarked for victim restitution.
Robert J. Young II, 48, of Liberty, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Beth Phillips to three years and one month in federal prison without parole.
On Nov. 6, 2017, Young was found guilty of one count of obstruction of justice at the conclusion of a one-day bench trial.
Young represented defendant Rodney J. Tatum, who was indicted by a federal grand jury and convicted of mail fraud in connection with the embezzlement of funds from his employer. Young obstructed justice by embezzling money that was given to him by Tatum’s family for the purpose of paying restitution to the victim in the criminal case. Young instead made numerous transfers of restitution funds into his personal bank account. Young then spent restitution funds to purchase a motorcycle for himself, to make numerous cash withdrawals, to make rent payments and to make retail purchases.
Young utilized an Interest on Lawyers Trust Account to accept four separate deposits from Tatum’s wife for the purpose of making restitution. Tatum’s wife also made one deposit into Young’s business account for restitution purposes. These checks totaled $42,412. In addition, Young advised Tatum’s wife to draft a check, made payable to Young, as the FBI was pursuing money laundering charges against Tatum and the Tatums’ joint checking account would be frozen. Young stated he would be able to protect the funds in his business account. Tatum’s wife gave Young a check for $20,000. Young had been expected to provide this total $62,412 as partial victim restitution at Tatum’s sentencing hearing on Jan. 21, 2016.
Young was not able to provide the restitution at Tatum’s sentencing hearing and falsely informed the court that the proceeds of assets sold on behalf of Tatum were in his Missouri Lawyer’s Trust Fund. The $62,412 in restitution eventually was paid after Young was relieved from the case and a federal public defender was appointed to represent Tatum. The sentencing hearing was continued to March 3, 2016, at which time the court ordered Tatum to pay a total of $442,810 in restitution. Tatum was sentenced to 15 months in federal prison.
Today’s sentence also reflected Young’s conduct during the trial in which he perjured himself by lying under oath when he claimed that the money he took was legitimate fees for his services. According to court documents, Tatum had already paid Young $11,500 in legal fees and Young had agreed that the additional funds would be used for restitution.
According to court documents, Young had 11 pending complaints (including the Tatums’ complaint) with the Office of Chief Disciplinary Counsel at the time of his indictment. Those complaints included one from an individual who retained Young to represent him in a traffic matter and had given Young money to pay the fine. However, Young never paid the fine and the individual was later arrested on an outstanding warrant. The other nine complaints were allegations that clients had paid Young money for representation and he had not provided any services.
Young’s license to practice law was suspended on Aug. 23, 2016.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul S. Becker. It was investigated by the FBI.
Kennewick Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Spokane– Joseph H. Harrington, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced that Wayne Lee Lafferty, age 53, of Kennewick, Washington, was sentenced after having pleaded guilty on October 24, 2017, to possession of child pornography. Senior United States District Judge Edward F. Shea sentenced Lafferty to a ten-year term of imprisonment, to be followed by a fifteen-year term of court supervision after he is released from Federal prison. Lafferty will be required to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life.
According to information disclosed during court proceedings, a Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agent was conducting an online undercover investigation relating to the distribution of child pornography. During that investigation, an IP address affiliated with Lafferty and his residence in Kennewick was identified as distributing images of child pornography. Law enforcement agents obtained a federal search warrant for Lafferty’s residence.
Law enforcement agents with HSI and Southeast Regional Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (SER-ICAC) executed the search warrant at Lafferty’s residence and seized electronic devices including a computer. During a forensic examination, agents identified over 47,000 images and video files of child pornography. The child pornography on Lafferty’s electronic devices included images of infants and toddlers and sadistic and masochistic conduct. When interviewed by law enforcement, Lafferty admitted he started viewing child pornography on his computer, after his supervision by the Washington State Department of Corrections for a prior state conviction for possession of child pornography had ended.
During the sentencing hearing, Judge Shea addressed the psychological consequences suffered by the minor victims depicted in the images possessed by Lafferty, as detailed in victim impact statements submitted to the Court. Judge Shea categorized Lafferty’s criminal conduct as a “concerning pattern of behavior that has gone on for years” and his history as “consistent with a person who has a fundamental core problem with child pornography,” despite a prior state conviction and treatment for a similar offense.
Joseph H. Harrington said, “The Court’s sentence should serve as a warning to those criminals who possess child pornography – they will be actively pursued by federal and state law enforcement officers. This case is an example of the superb work that can be accomplished when Homeland Security Investigations and the Southeast Regional Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force work together. The United States Attorney’s Office will continue to prosecute aggressively child pornography crimes that occur in the Eastern District of Washington.”
This case was pursued as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the United States Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. The Project Safe Childhood Initiative (“PSC”) has five major components:
• Integrated federal, state, and local efforts to investigate and prosecute child exploitation cases, and to identify and rescue children;
• Participation of PSC partners in coordinated national initiatives;
• Increased federal enforcement in child pornography and enticement cases;
• Training of federal, state, and local law enforcement agents; and
• Community awareness and educational programs.
For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources".
Homeland Security Investigations and the Southeast Regional Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force conducted the investigation of this matter. The case was prosecuted by Laurel J. Holland, an Assistant United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington.
Jury Convicts Cheektowaga Man of Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y.—U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that a federal jury has found Thomas Cascio, 52, of Cheektowaga, NY, guilty of bank robbery. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Paul C. Parisi and Scott S. Allen, Jr., who handled the trial of the case, stated that on March 6, 2017, at approximately 1:09 p.m., Cascio entered the Key Bank at 5200 Main Street in Amherst, NY. Wearing a hard hat, safety vest, and eye protection goggles, the defendant approached a teller and passed a bank robbery note. The teller only recalls reading the word “Robbery” at the top of the note before the individual took the note back and told her to “Hurry up!” and “Don’t give me funny money!” The teller gave money to Cascio who then departed the bank. Witnesses described the defendant as having a distinctive nose and gray hair.The Amherst Police Department issued a high quality bank robbery surveillance photo to local media stations which aired the photo on the evening of March 6, 2017, asking for public assistance. On March 7, 2017, eight people contacted either the Amherst Police Department or FBI identifying the robber as Thomas Cascio. In addition, there were numerous anonymous calls to the Amherst Police Department that identified Cascio as the bank robber.
In 2000, the defendant was convicted in federal court of four bank robberies and sentenced to 48 months in prison. In some of those robberies, Cascio’s movements were similar to his movements on May 6, 2017, including taking the note back from the teller before leaving the bank.
In 2009, Cascio was convicted in state court of one bank robberies and served two years in prison.
The verdict is the culmination of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Kevin P. Lyons; the Amherst Police Department, under the direction of Chief John Askey; the Cheektowaga Police Department, under the direction of Chief David Zack; and the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Byron Lockwood.
Sentencing is scheduled for June 21, 2018, at 10:00 a.m. before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo who presided over the trial of the case.
Jacksonville Pimp Sentenced to Ten Years in Prison on Firearms and Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Judge Timothy J. Corrigan has sentenced Christopher Loran Bentley (31, Jacksonville) to 10 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for possessing a pistol after having been convicted of a felony, and for possessing with intent to distribute crack cocaine and heroin. He pleaded guilty to the offenses on October 19, 2017.
According to court documents, Bentley possessed a stolen firearm outside a house in Jacksonville in April 2017. He was encountered by Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office patrol officers responding to investigate activities at the house. The officers observed Bentley sitting in his parked truck with a bag of marijuana in plain view. The officers ordered Bentley out of the truck, but he resisted and tried to escape. While removing Bentley from the truck, a bag of drugs, including powder cocaine, crack cocaine, and heroin fell from his lap, onto the ground. The firearm was sitting in the driver’s seat, where Bentley had been sitting. Bentley had been previously convicted of selling cocaine.
At sentencing, multiple witnesses’ testimony established that Bentley had been involved in pimping women in the Philips Highway area of Jacksonville for several years. Bentley controlled his sex trafficking victims through violence, threats of violence, coercion, and mental and emotional manipulation. On one occasion, Bentley threatened to bash one of his victims’ teeth in using a gun, broke his hand punching the victim in the head, then forced his victim to pull down her pants so that he could beat her with a pipe. Testimony also established that Bentley had used his victims’ drug addictions to coerce them into prostitution. One of Bentley’s victims died of an overdose in 2016, after obtaining fentanyl and cocaine from him. On another occasion, Bentley fired his gun at another individual who had been trying to collect a debt from one of the women prostituted by Bentley.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Laura Cofer Taylor.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. In October 2017, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorneys’ Offices to develop districtwide crime reduction strategies, incorporating the lessons learned since the program’s inception in 2001. In the Middle District of Florida, U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez coordinates PSN efforts in cooperation with various federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.
Jacksonville Man Indicted for Aggravated Sexual Abuse by Force on A Cruise ShipRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, FL – A federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging Brian Holland (23, Jacksonville) with aggravated sexual abuse by force. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of life imprisonment in federal prison, and a potential lifetime of supervision.
According to the indictment and court records, Holland is charged with sexually abusing a passenger-victim on February 27, 2018, while aboard a Carnival cruise ship based out of Jacksonville.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Ashley Washington and Jay Taylor.
Inmates at FCI-Berlin Pleads Guilty to AssaultRead the Press Release
CONCORD, N.H. – United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today that Leonard Johnson and Robert Dales, both inmates at the Federal Correctional Institution FCI-Berlin, pleaded guilty to assaulting another inmate on May 23, 2017. A sentencing hearing for Leonard Johnson and for Robert Dales will be held on June 27th, 2018. .
According to documents filed with the court and statements made during the change of plea hearings, on May 23, 2017, Johnson and Dales were in Unit A-4 of the prison when they attacked another inmate. The attack, which was captured on videotape, included Johnson and Dales punching, kicking and stomping on their victim. Johnson and Dales continued the attack even though prison staff ordered them to stop. Only after the defendants were threatened with use of pepper spray did the attack end.
The victim was treated for his injuries at Androscoggin Valley Hospital. He suffered lacerations and bruising to his head, eyes and ears.
The staff at FCI-Berlin conducted the investigation of this case.
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Honduran National Pleads Guilty to Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that ROBERTO UMANA-ROSA, age 45, a native of Honduras, pled guilty today to a one-count Indictment charging him with illegal entry of a removed alien.
According to the court documents, UMANA-ROSA was previously removed from the United States on October 15, 1998. He was later found in the Eastern District of Louisiana on June 13, 2017, and had not received permission from the Attorney General of the United States or the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to reenter.
UMANA-ROSA faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten years, a fine of $250,000, three years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment fee. U.S. District Judge Kurt D. Engelhardt set sentencing for June 6, 2018.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jon Maestri is in charge of the prosecution.
Historic St. Helena Parish, Louisiana, Public School Desegregation Case Successfully ResolvedRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brandon Fremin for the Middle District of Louisiana and Acting Assistant Attorney General John M. Gore of the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice announced today the successful resolution of the oldest current school desegregation case in the State of Louisiana, involving the St. Helena Parish Public School District.
In 1952, Robert Carter and others filed this action asserting that the St. Helena Parish School Board was operating in a racially dual system in violation of the Fourteenth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. The Justice Department subsequently joined the litigation as a plaintiff-intervenor in 1961. The case predated the United States Supreme Court’s decision in Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka, Kansas. The Complaint under which this historic lawsuit was commenced was signed by Thurgood Marshall before he was seated on the Supreme Court.
On May 20, 1960, the Court entered an order enjoining the State of Louisiana, including the St. Helena Parish School Board, from excluding African-American students from public schools because of their race. Since then, the U.S. District Court has overseen the school district’s efforts to comply with the 1960 order and further orders mandating the desegregation of its schools. Such oversight would continue until the school district achieved unitary status, a milestone it recently reached.
Judge James J. Brady issued a ruling on April 5, 2016, declaring that St. Helena Parish Public School District had obtained unitary status in all areas except student assignment. On February 15, 2018, all parties to the litigation filed a joint motion seeking dismissal of the action and a declaration that the school district has achieved full unitary status. This morning, Chief U.S. District Judge Brian A. Jackson granted the joint motion, dissolving all injunctions emanating from the action and dismissing the matter with prejudice.
U.S. Attorney Brandon Fremin stated, “Today is a historic day for all the people of St. Helena Parish. The road to desegregating our schools has undoubtedly been challenging and marked by great difficulties, but it is a road that had to be traveled, both legally and morally. I commend Chief Judge Jackson and his predecessors, including the late Judges Brady and Parker, as well as the parties and their attorneys, for their collective dedication to this important and historic matter.”
Acting Assistant Attorney General of the Civil Rights Division John Gore stated, “We commend the St. Helena Parish School District for satisfying its remaining obligations in this case and ensuring equal educational opportunities for all students. We have been pleased to work with the district to resolve outstanding issues and bring the case to a successful close.”
This matter was handled by Franz Marshall and Christopher Awad of the Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Department of Justice as well as Assistant United States Attorney John Gaupp, who serves as the Chief of the Civil Division of the United States Attorney’s Office.
Promoting school desegregation and enforcing Title IV of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 is a top priority of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. Additional information about the Civil Rights Division is available on its website at www.justice.gov/crt.
Historic St. Helena Parish, Louisiana, Public School Desegregation Case Successfully ResolvedRead the Press Release
Acting Assistant Attorney General John Gore of the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice and United States Attorney Brandon Fremin for the Middle District of Louisiana announced today the successful resolution of the oldest current school desegregation case in the State of Louisiana, involving the St. Helena Parish Public School District.
In 1952, Robert Carter and others filed this action asserting that the St. Helena Parish School Board was operating in a racially dual system in violation of the Fourteenth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. The Justice Department subsequently joined the litigation as a plaintiff-intervenor in 1961. The case predated the United States Supreme Court’s decision in Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka, Kansas. The complaint under which this historic lawsuit was commenced was signed by Thurgood Marshall before he was seated on the Supreme Court.
On May 20, 1960, the Court entered an order enjoining the State of Louisiana, including the St. Helena Parish School Board, from excluding African-American students from public schools because of their race. Since then, the U.S. District Court has overseen the school district’s efforts to comply with the 1960 order and further orders mandating the desegregation of its schools. Such oversight would continue until the school district achieved unitary status, a milestone it recently reached.
Judge James J. Brady issued a ruling on April 5, 2016, declaring that St. Helena Parish Public School District had obtained unitary status in all areas except student assignment. On Feb. 15, 2018, all parties to the litigation filed a joint motion seeking dismissal of the action and a declaration that the school district has achieved full unitary status. This morning, Chief U.S. District Judge Brian A. Jackson granted the joint motion, dissolving all injunctions emanating from the action and dismissing the matter with prejudice.
“We commend the St. Helena Parish School District for satisfying its remaining obligations in this case and ensuring equal educational opportunities for all students,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General John Gore of the Civil Rights Division. “We have been pleased to work with the district to resolve outstanding issues and bring the case to a successful close.”
“Today is a historic day for all the people of St. Helena Parish," said U.S. Attorney Brandon Fremin. "The road to desegregating our schools has undoubtedly been challenging and marked by great difficulties, but it is a road that had to be traveled, both legally and morally. I commend Chief Judge Jackson and his predecessors, including the late Judges Brady and Parker, as well as the parties and their attorneys, for their collective dedication to this important and historic matter.”
This matter was handled by Franz Marshall and Christopher Awad of the Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Department of Justice as well as Assistant United States Attorney John Gaupp, who serves as the Chief of the Civil Division of the United States Attorney’s Office.
Promoting school desegregation and enforcing Title IV of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 is a top priority of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. Additional information about the Civil Rights Division is available on its website at www.justice.gov/crt.
Harlingen Bank Robber Heads to PrisonRead the Press Release
BROWNSVILLE, Texas – A 34-year-old Harlingen man has been ordered to federal prison for his role in the robbery of a Bank of America in Harlingen on May 26, 2017, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick. Adrian Paul Ross pleaded guilty Nov. 29, 2017.
Today, U.S. District Judge Andrew S. Hanen handed Ross a 42-month sentence to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. In handing down the sentence, the court considered Ross’s mental health history and other characteristics. Ross was further ordered to undergo mental health treatment while incarcerated. At the hearing, Ross acknowledged his criminal conduct and apologized for what he had done.
On Nov. 29, 2017, Ross entered the Bank of America located on Van Buren Street wearing a baseball cap and sunglasses. He waited in line, then approached a bank employee and claimed to want to make a deposit. He approached the teller and displayed what was written on his smart phone screen. In all caps Ross had written “EMPTY OUT YOUR DRAWER.” The teller then gave Ross the money she had in her possession but also triggered the silent alarm. Ross fled the scene, but was apprehended shortly thereafter.
Ross has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The FBI and Harlingen Police Department conducted the investigation.
Grenade Launcher Conspirators Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
BROWNSVILLE, Texas – Two people have been ordered to federal prison following their convictions related to a conspiracy to purchase and smuggle an M203 Grenade Launcher as well as three semi-automatic rifles, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.
ulce Maria Rippstine, 38, of San Juan, and Juan Martin Segura-Olvera, 57, of Reynosa, Mexico, pleaded guilty Dec. 7, 2017, and June 29, 2017, respectively.
Today, U.S. District Rolando Olvera ordered Rippstine to serve 37 months in prison, while Segura-Olvera received a 50-month term of imprisonment. Rippstine was further ordered to serve two years of supervised release. Not a U.S. citizen, Segura-Olvera is expected to face deportation proceedings following his prison term. The court acknowledged Rippstine’s and Segura-Olvera’s similar roles in the offense, but gave individual consideration to their actions as well as the actions of the other co-defendants.
Beginning in the fall of 2016, purchasers located in Mexico had negotiated the sale of a grenade launcher and three assault rifles with undercover federal agents who were posing as black market arms dealers. Acting on behalf of the purchasers in Reynosa, Rippstine and Segura met with the agents on Feb. 7, 2017, in Los Fresnos. Following the purchase, Rippstine and Segura were to act as the munitions transporter to facilitate the exportation and smuggling into Mexico.
Oscar Fredy Garcia, 31, of Reynosa, and Jorge Cortez-Trujillo, 42, of Veracruz, Mexico, were also members of the conspiracy. Garcia had been living illegally in the United States when he arrived in Los Fresnos on Feb. 7, 2017. In his possession was $5,000 to pay for the previously negotiated exchange. Cortez-Trujillo also illegally entered the United States prior to Feb. 7, 2017. His role was to inspect the grenade launcher and other munitions to insure the quality for the buyer in Mexico.
Rippstine had travelled to Reynosa to pick up Segura-Olvera before returning to the United States to meet at the predetermined location on Feb. 7. After an initial meet-and-greet, money was exchanged and Cortez-Trujillo inspected the grenade launcher, commenting that he was familiar with the weapon and was ex-Mexican military. He also stated that ammunition for the weapon was available in Mexico and that he had crossed these weapons previously. After he completed the inspection, Cortez-Trujillo directed the agents to load the munitions into the backseat of Rippstine’s vehicle. At that time, all four men were taken into custody.
Garcia and Cortez-Trujillo were each sentenced to five years in prison for their role in the conspiracy late last year.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation with the assistance of Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Corley is prosecuting the case.
Fort Mill Woman Pleads to Federal Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated that Shiquisa Monique Watts, a/k/a “Quisha,” age 23, of Fort Mill, plead guilty today in federal court to being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1). United States District Judge 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 United States Probation Office.
Evidence presented in court established that on September 10, 2016, officers with the Fort Mill Police Department responded to a fight in the Wal-Mart parking lot. Officers gathered information that one of the individuals involved in the altercation was Watts and that she had been armed with a handgun. Watts and others involved had since left the area. However, officers made contact with Watts at her home as she was exiting a vehicle. Officers located a loaded Ruger .380 caliber handgun in the car and Watts admitted possessing it. Further investigation revealed that the firearm had previously been reported stolen.
Watts is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms and ammunition based upon her prior state convictions for distribution of marijuana and distribution of marijuana within the proximity of a park.
Watts faces a maximum of 10 years imprisonment, a fine of $250,000, and 3 years of supervised release on the felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition charge.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the Fort Mill Police Department and was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state and local Project CeaseFire initiative, which aggressively prosecutes firearm cases. Assistant United States Attorney Stacey D. Haynes of the Columbia office handled the case.
Project Ceasefire is South Carolina’s continued application of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority. In October 2017, as part of a series of actions to address this crime trend, Attorney General Sessions announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop a district crime reduction strategy that incorporates the lessons learned since PSN launched in 2001.
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Former Plymouth Township Parks and Grants Director Charged with TheftRead the Press Release
The former Director of Parks and Grants for Plymouth Township, Michael Mitchell, 49, of Rockford, IL, was charged today by Information with one count of theft from a local government receiving federal assistance, United States Attorney Matthew Schneider announced.
Schneider was joined in the announcement by Jeffery E. Peterson, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Detroit Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Thomas Tiderington, Plymouth Township Chief of Police.
According to the Information, in October of 2016, while serving as the Director of Parks and Grants for Plymouth Township, Mitchell stole property belonging to the township, including a commercial lawnmower, a John Deer Gator utility vehicle, and other equipment, with a total value of about $10,000. Mitchell faces up to 10 years imprisonment and a fine of $250,000.
United States Attorney Schneider stated, “When public officials use their jobs to steal from taxpayers, their theft isn’t just measured in dollars - it is measured by the damage caused by robbing the public of honest government. We will stand up and fight this corruption at all levels.”
"Today’s charges of Mr. Mitchell should reassure the citizens of Michigan that the FBI and members of our Detroit Area Public Corruption task force are committed to holding public officials at all levels of government accountable for their actions if they decide to break the law,” said Jeffrey E. Peterson, Acting Special Agent in Charge, Detroit Division of the FBI.
"I would encourage anyone with information about potential public corruption in Michigan to contact the Detroit FBI’s Public Corruption tip line at 313-965-2222 or our main number 313-965-2323.”
This case is part of the government’s wide-ranging corruption investigation centered in Macomb County, Michigan. The investigation of this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Plymouth Township Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney R. Michael Bullotta.
Former North Hills Investment Planner Sentenced to Prison for Using Clients' Funds to Pay Personal ExpensesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident has been sentenced in federal court to two years in prison and two years supervised release on his conviction of mail fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge David Stewart Cercone imposed the sentence on Cameron Howat, 58, of Allison Park, Pennsylvania.
According to the information presented to the court, Howat solicited investment funds from friends and acquaintances for the purpose of investing those funds in the foreign exchange market. Howat represented to the investors that his compensation for making the investments on their behalf would be to take fifty percent of the profits from the investments. Instead of investing all of the funds, as promised to the investors, Howat took portions of each investor’s money and used it to pay for personal expenses. As part of his sentence, Howat was ordered to pay $420,000 to his victims.
Assistant United States Attorney Shaun E. Sweeney prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Attorney commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Cameron Howat.
Former Mon Valley Attorney Sentenced to 33 Months in Prison for Defrauding Elderly ClientRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Fayette County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 33 months' imprisonment, a $100,000.00 fine, and restitution in the amount of $505,131.95, as well as forfeiture in the amount of $235,515.93, on his conviction of mail fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Keith A. Bassi, age 61, of Fayette City, Pennsylvania.
According to the information presented to the court, between 2012 and 2016, Keith A. Bassi, then a licensed Pennsylvania attorney, misappropriated for personal use approximately $505,000 in funds belonging to the estate of an elderly person diagnosed with dementia. Bassi held a power of attorney for the victim, and then engaged in a series of financial transactions in which he diverted the victim’s assets into bank accounts he created and controlled at Charleroi Federal Savings and PNC Banks. In one instance, Bassi made insurance premium payments using the victim’s funds on a whole life policy purchased at Pacific Life in the name of someone other than the victim, and then later cancelled the policy and kept the surrendered cash proceeds for himself. He also used the victim’s estate funds to operate Mid Mon Valley Publishing Co.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Attorney commended the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Keith A. Bassi.
Former Equifax employee indicted for insider tradingRead the Press Release
ATLANTA - Jun Ying has been indicted on federal charges of insider trading relating to his sales of Equifax Inc. securities in advance of its announcement regarding a data breach.
“This defendant took advantage of his position as Equifax’s USIS Chief Information Officer and allegedly sold over $950,000 worth of stock to profit before the company announced a data breach that impacted over 145 million Americans,” said U.S. Attorney Byung J. “BJay” Pak. “Our office takes the abuse of trust inherent in insider trading very seriously and will prosecute those who seek to profit in this manner.”
“The alleged actions of this defendant undermine the public’s confidence in the nation’s stock markets,” said David J. LeValley, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “By prosecuting cases like this, the FBI and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission are sending a strong message to company insiders that they must follow the same rules that govern regular investors. Otherwise, they face the severe consequences for failing to do so.”
According to U.S. Attorney Pak, the charges, and other information presented in court: Equifax Inc. is a consumer credit reporting agency headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. During the summer of 2017, Equifax was the victim of a data breach, where hackers acquired names, Social Security numbers, birth dates, and addresses of over 145 million American citizens. Jun Ying was the Chief Information Officer of Equifax U.S. Information Solutions in August 2017. In that role, he became aware of information that resulted in him determining that Equifax had been the victim of that data breach before that information was made public.
On Friday, August 25, 2017, Ying texted a co-worker that the breach they were working on “Sounds bad. We may be the one breached.” The following Monday, Ying conducted web searches on the impact of Experian’s 2015 data breach on its stock price. Later that morning, Ying exercised all of his available stock options held at UBS Financial Services, resulting in him receiving 6,815 shares of Equifax stock, which he then sold. He received proceeds of over $950,000, and realized a gain of over $480,000. On September 7, 2017, Equifax publicly announced its data breach, which resulted in its stock price falling.
Jun Ying, 42, of Atlanta, Georgia, will arraigned later this week before U.S. Magistrate Judge Linda T. Walker on the charges. Ying was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 13, 2018. Members of the public are reminded that the indictment only contains charges. The defendant is presumed innocent of the charges and it will be the government’s burden to prove the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
This case is being investigated by the FBI. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission made contributions to the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher J. Huber and Lynsey M. Barron are prosecuting the case.
For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at [email protected] or (404) 581-6016. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.
Former Detroit Police Officer Sentenced to 24 Months in Prison for ExtortionRead the Press Release
Former Detroit Police Department Officer Anthony Careathers was sentenced today to twenty-four months’ imprisonment for accepting a bribe from an owner of an automobile collision shop in exchange for referring stolen and abandoned vehicles recovered in the City of Detroit to that shop, United States Attorney Matthew Schneider announced today.
Schneider was joined in the announcement by Jeffrey E. Peterson, Acting Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Patricia Armstrong, U.S. Postal Inspector in Charge, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Detroit Division and Chief James Craig, Detroit Police Department. The defendant was actively employed with the Detroit Police Department at the time of the offense.
Anthony Careathers, age 52, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Robert Cleland. Careathers previously pleaded guilty to one count of extortion.
According to the facts alleged in the indictment and further developed at the plea hearing and in sentencing briefing, Careathers accepted cash payments from the owner/operator of a Detroit collision shop in exchange for referring abandoned vehicles to that shop for repairs and for warning the business owner of law enforcement activity.
This is the first defendant to have been sentenced as a result of this investigation. The others awaiting sentencing or a trial are:
- James Robertson, age 45, pleaded guilty to an Information charging 2 counts of Extortion
- Jamil Martin, 46, pleaded Guilty to an Information charging 1 count of Extortion
- Martin Tutt, age 29, pleaded guilty to an Information charging 2 counts of Extortion
- Charles Wills, age 52, pleaded guilty to two counts of Extortion charged in a Superseding Indictment.
- Deonne Dotson, age 45, is awaiting trial.
All of the Officers were charged with engaging in extortion for using their official positions as Police Officers to refer cars to certain collision shops in exchange for cash payments.
“The vast majority of Detroit Police Officers are courageous, dedicated public servants, but unfortunately these defendants are an exception to that rule,” U.S. Attorney Schneider said.
"I certainly appreciate the collaborative partnership of the state and federal agencies who took part in conducting this investigation." said Chief James Craig. "Although, the actions of these officers are disappointing, I echo U.S. Attorney Matthew Schneider in saying that the vast majority of the men and women on this department, serve the residents of this city with the utmost level of integrity and dedication."
“Anthony Careathers, a former Detroit Police Officer, was held accountable today for his own individual actions. Careathers' acts should not be considered representative of the vast majority of law enforcement professionals at the Detroit Police Department who serve the citizens of Detroit with honor and integrity every day," said Jeffery E. Peterson, Acting Special Agent in Charge, Detroit Division of the FBI.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Detroit Police Department and the following agencies from the FBI Detroit Area Corruption Task Force: Michigan State Police and U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Professional Responsibility, Investigative Operation Division.
The FBI Detroit Area Corruption Task Force is comprised of personnel from the Detroit Division of the FBI; Michigan State Police; Michigan Department of Attorney General; Detroit Police Department; U.S. Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division; U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Professional Responsibility, Investigative Operations Division; U.S. Postal Inspection Service; U.S. Department of Labor, Office of the Inspector General, Office of Labor Racketeering and
Fraud Investigations; U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of the Inspector General; U.S. Department of Transportation, Office of the Inspector General; U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Office of the Inspector General; U.S. Department of Education, Office of the Inspector General; and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of the Inspector General.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Sarah Resnick Cohen and Craig A. Weier.
Former Boss of Operating Engineers Union Local 324 Sentenced to Two Years in Prison for Extortion ConspiracyRead the Press Release
John Hamilton, the former top elected official of the 18,000 member Operating Engineers Local 324, International Union of Operating Engineers, was sentenced to twenty-four months in prison today for conspiring to commit extortion, United States Attorney Matthew Schneider announced.
Schneider was joined in the announcement by James Vanderberg, Special Agent in Charge, Chicago Region, U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General, FBI Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey E. Peterson, Ian Burg, District Director of the Department of Labor, Office of Labor Management Standards, Special Agent in Charge Manny Muriel, Internal Revenue Service—Criminal Investigations, and L. Joe Rivers, Regional Director for the Cincinnati Regional Office of the Labor Department’s Employee Benefits Security Administration.
Hamilton, 63, of Ocala, Florida, had been convicted of conspiring to commit extortion with at least two other former top Local 324 officials. Hamilton imposed a climate of fear by coercing business agents and other employees of Local 324 to each pay him kickbacks of over $5,000 from their salaries per year into what was called the “Team Hamilton Slate Fund.” Ostensibly, the slate fund was to be used for union election campaign expenses. However, Hamilton instead used a significant portion of the money that was forced from union business agents for his own personal benefit. Hamilton threatened union employees with termination if they complained about the payments to his slate fund. In fact, in 2010, Hamilton fired one business agent who had complained about the payments to Hamilton’s fund. Hamilton used some of the money that he extorted to pay for meals and liquor, as well as $5,000 to his daughter as a wedding present. After losing re-election in an August 2012 membership vote, Hamilton then proceeded to pocket for himself $71,000 from his slate fund, as well as distributing over $35,000 each to Steven Minella and David Hart, two other top Local 324 officials.
As part of its sentence, the Court ordered Hamilton to pay $250,000 in restitution to the victims of his crime.
In 2015, Minella, the former Local 324 President, and Hart, the former Local 324 Financial Secretary, both pleaded guilty to felonies for helping to conceal Hamilton’s scheme. Hart is scheduled to be sentenced on March 27, 2018, and Minella is set to be sentenced on April 11, 2018.
Local 324 represents heavy equipment and crane operators throughout Michigan. Hamilton served as the Business Manager of the union, its top elected official, from 2003 through 2012. The union is headquartered in Bloomfield Township, Michigan.
“This union official created a climate of fear of retaliation against the hardworking men and women of the union, all for his personal gain,” United States Attorney Matthew Schneider said. “The court’s sentence today sends a strong message that union officials who abuse their positions of trust to personally profit will face significant punishment.”
“John Hamilton betrayed the trust of members of Local 324 by conspiring to extort payments for personal financial gain from fellow members, including union officers. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners and the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Labor-Management Standards and Employee Benefits Security Administration to safeguard the assets of union members,” said James Vanderberg, Special Agent-in-Charge, Chicago Region, U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General.
“Conduct of this sort from individuals, such as Mr. Hamilton, who exercise control over union and employee benefit assets must be eradicated,” said L. Joe Rivers, Regional Director for the Cincinnati Regional Office of the Labor Department’s Employee Benefits Security Administration.
“Protecting financial integrity and combatting corruption in labor unions is a very high priority for OLMS,” said Ian Burg, Director of the Office of Labor-Management Standards (OLMS) Detroit-Milwaukee District Office, which enforces the Labor-Management Reporting and Disclosure Act (LMRDA).” “This case sends a clear message that OLMS will fully investigate and seek justice when anyone attempts to use their union position for personal financial gain.”
"Today’s sentencing of John Hamilton for running an extortion scheme forcing financial contributions from union members, leveraged and enforced with bullying tactics, for his own personal benefit illustrates our continued commitment to hold those chosen by members to represent them accountable for violating their trust," said Jeffery E. Peterson, Acting Special Agent in Charge, Detroit Division of the FBI. “The FBI, by working closely with our law enforcement partners, will continue to aggressively investigate anyone in leadership roles, within the labor union movement, choosing to illegally profit at the detriment of their members”.
The case was investigated by agents of the Department of Labor, Office of Investigations—Labor Racketeering and Fraud, the Office of Labor Management Standards, the Employee Benefits Security Administration, the Internal Revenue Service—Criminal Investigations, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys David A. Gardey and Dawn N. Ison.
Five Men Sentenced for Illegally Possessing and Dealing Firearms in the Augusta AreaRead the Press Release
AUGUSTA, GA: On March 12, 2018, Mark Winston Pickrell and Aubrey Dean Bullard were sentenced for their respective roles in a conspiracy to illegally possess and sell unregistered firearms. The sentences were handed down by the Honorable Chief Judge J. Randal Hall, United States District Court.
Pickrell and Bullard were two of five defendants indicted by a federal grand jury in July 2017 in an eighteen-count indictment charging controlled substance and firearms violations. All five defendants – Pickrell, Bullard, Danny Lee Thomas, Ralph Guemell Poole, and Christopher Earl Duckworth – entered into plea agreements in which they acknowledged committing crimes related to the illegal possession and sale of firearms.
According to his plea agreement, Pickrell admitted that between March 2, 2016 and May 10, 2016, he engaged in the business of dealing firearms without a license. Specifically, Pickrell admitted that he was responsible for selling seven firearms, to include four machine guns, knowing that the weapons would likely end up in the hands of those who would commit crimes. Pickrell pleaded guilty to one count of dealing in firearms without a license, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(a)(1)(A). Judge Hall sentenced Pickrell to 56 months in prison and three years of supervised release.
According to his plea agreement, Bullard admitted, that on May 10, 2016, he unlawfully possessed and transferred two Sten 9 mm machine guns, and that he test fired those machine guns in order to facilitate their illegal sale. Bullard pleaded guilty to one count of possession of an unregistered firearm, in violation of 26 U.S.C. §§ 5841, 5861(d) and 5871. Judge Hall sentenced Bullard to 33 months in prison and three years of supervised release.
On February 26, 2018, Judge Hall sentenced Thomas, Poole, and Duckworth to 38, 120 and 188 months, respectively, for their roles in this conspiracy and related controlled substance violations.
United States Attorney Bobby L. Christine stated, “The United States Attorney’s Office in the Southern District of Georgia is committed to aggressively prosecuting violations of gun laws currently on the books.”
“This investigation serves as a textbook example of the success that can be achieved when we blend our investigative experiences with our state and local partners as we continue to aggressively address the crimes that plague our communities,” said Resident Agent in Charge Timothy Graden. “Individuals who are brazen enough to sell machine guns and drugs pose a clear and present danger and they must be removed from our street.”
U.S. Attorney Christine commended the hard work and dedication of the ATF, Richmond County Sheriff’s Office (RCSO), North Augusta Department of Public Safety (NADPS), Aiken County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO), Aiken Department of Public Safety (ADPS), Burke County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO), and South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), which investigated the case. Special Agent Ronald Rhodes led the ATF’s investigation.
Assistant United States Attorney Tara M. Lyons prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. For any questions, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (912) 652-4422.
Felon Charged with Illegally Possessing a HandgunRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A former Ohio resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on March 13, named Timothy Anderson, 26, formerly of Sacramento, California, and Dayton, Ohio, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on or about January 24, 2018, Anderson, a convicted felon, possessed a silver and black Ruger P93CD 9mm semi-automatic handgun, bearing serial number 306-08627. Federal law prohibits an individual with a felony conviction from possessing a firearm.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Dayton, Ohio, Police Department, the Shenango Township Police Department, the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General – Bureau of Narcotics, and the New Castle Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority. In October 2017, as part of a series of actions to address this crime trend, Attorney General Sessions announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop a district crime reduction strategy that incorporates the lessons learned since PSN launched in 2001.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Federal Grand Jury IndictmentsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that a Federal Grand Jury in Greenville, South Carolina, returned Indictments against the following:
McCormick County Woman Indicted for Bank Embezzlement. Amy June Schaufelberger, a/k/a Amy Schaufelberger Brown, age 31, of Parksville, South Carolina, was charged in a one-count Indictment with bank embezzlement, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 656. The maximum penalty Schaufelberger could receive is a fine of $1,000,000.00 and/or imprisonment of 30 years. The case was investigated by agents of the United States Secret Service and is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney David C. Stephens of the Greenville office for prosecution.
Illegal Alien Indicted on Reentry of a Removed Alien and Felon in Possession of a Firearm. Luis Cenobio Barrera, a/k/a “Daniel Munguia Casanova”, a/k/a “Felipe Molina Garcia”, age 24, of Greenville, South Carolina, was charged in a two-count indictment. Luis Cenobio Barrera was charged with Reentry of Removed Alien, a violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section §1326(a), and Felon in Possession of a Firearm, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section §922(g)(1). The maximum penalty Barrera could receive is 20 years imprisonment and a maximum fine of $250,000. The case was investigated by agents of ICE-Homeland Security Investigations and is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney William J. Watkins, Jr., of the Greenville office for prosecution.
Illegal Aliens Indicted for False Use of Social Security Numbers. Juana Farfan-Garcia, a/k/a “MYP”, of Guatemala, was charged in a two-count indictment. Juana Farfan-Garcia was charged with Reentry of Removed Alien, a violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section §1326(a), and False Use of a Social Security Number, a violation of Title 42, United States Code, Section § 408. The maximum penalty Farfan-Garcia could receive is 2 years imprisonment and a maximum fine of $250,000, for Illegal Re-entry and 5 years imprisonment and a maximum fine of $250,000, for False Use of a Social Security Number. The case was investigated by agents of ICE-Homeland Security Investigations and is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Max Cauthen, of the Greenville office for prosecution.
Martina Guzman-Vasquez, a/k/a “CIRM”, of Guatemala, was charged in a two-count indictment. Martina Guzman-Vasquez was charged with False Use of a Social Security Number, a violation of Title 42, United States Code, Section § 408, and False claim to be a citizen of the United States, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section § 911. The maximum penalty Guzman-Vasquez could receive is 5 years imprisonment and a maximum fine of $250,000, for False Use of a Social Security Number, and 3 years imprisonment and a maximum fine of $250,000, for False claim to be a citizen of the United States. The case was investigated by agents of ICE-Homeland Security Investigations and is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Max Cauthen, of the Greenville office for prosecution.
Maria Barillas-Orozco, a/k/a “MRG”, locally from Saluda, South Carolina, was charged in a one-count indictment with False Use of a Social Security Number, a violation of Title 42, United States Code, Section § 408. The maximum penalty Barillas-Orozco could receive is 5 years imprisonment and a maximum fine of $250,000, for False Use of a Social Security Number. The case was investigated by agents of ICE-Homeland Security Investigations and is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Max Cauthen, of the Greenville office for prosecution.
Juan Ramirez-Gomez, a/k/a “MB”, of Guatemala, was charged in a two-count indictment. Juan Ramirez-Gomez was charged with False Use of a Social Security Number, a violation of Title 42, United States Code, Section § 408, and False claim to be a citizen of the United States, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section § 911. The maximum penalty Ramirez-Gomez could receive is 5 years imprisonment and a maximum fine of $250,000, for False Use of a Social Security Number, and 3 years imprisonment and a maximum fine of $250,000, for False claim to be a citizen of the United States. The case was investigated by agents of ICE-Homeland Security Investigations and is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Max Cauthen, of the Greenville office for prosecution.
The United States Attorney stated that all charges in these indictments are merely accusations and that all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Federal Grand Jury Charges Non-Indian Man from Espanola with Federal Child Sexual Abuse OffensesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A federal grand jury has filed an indictment charging Kevin Vigil, 52, a non-Indian man from Espanola, N.M., with child sexual abuse offenses, announced U.S. Attorney John C. Anderson, Special Agent in Charge Terry Wade of the FBI’s Albuquerque Division, and Special Agent in Charge William McClure of District IV of the BIA’s Office of Justice Services.
The indictment charges Vigil with two counts of aggravated child sexual abuse. The indictment alleges that Vigil sexually abused an Indian child under the age of twelve years on Feb. 4, 2018, on Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo in Rio Arriba County, N.M. Vigil is scheduled to be arraigned on the indictment in federal court in Albuquerque, N.M., on March 21, 2018.
Vigil has been in federal custody since Feb. 17, 2018, following his arrest on a criminal complaint. If convicted of the aggravated sexual abuse charges, Vigil faces a statutory mandatory minimum penalty of 30 years and a maximum of life in federal prison. Charges in criminal complaints and indictments are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent unless found guilty in a court of law.
This case was investigated by the Santa Fe office of the FBI and the Northern Pueblos Agency of the BIA’s Office of Justice Services with assistance from the Ohkay Owingeh Tribal Police Department and the New Mexico State Police. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle T. Nayback as part of the Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice (DOJ) to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and DOJ’s Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc/. Individuals with information relating to suspected child predators and suspected child abuse are encouraged to contact the Children’s Advocacy Center tipline at (575) 526-3437.
Dual Iranian-American Citizen Sentenced to 25 Years in Prison for Conspiring and Attempting to Acquire Surface-To-Air Missiles and Other Items for the Government of IranRead the Press Release
Geoffrey S. Berman, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that REZA OLANGIAN, a dual citizen of the United States and Iran, was sentenced today to 25 years in federal prison, after being found guilty in November 2016, of conspiring and attempting to send surface-to-air missiles (“SAMs”) and military aircraft parts to the Government of Iran. OLANGIAN was arrested in Estonia on October 10, 2012, pursuant to a U.S. request for his provisional arrest, and he was extradited to the United States on March 26, 2013. OLANGIAN was convicted after a two-week jury trial before U.S. District Judge Loretta A. Preska, who imposed today’s sentence.
Manhattan U.S. Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman said: “Reza Olangian was convicted by a unanimous jury for attempting to assist the Iranian government in brokering deals for missiles capable of destroying aircraft from the ground. Olangian’s actions were in violation of critical international sanctions designed to protect our national security. Today he was sentenced to 25 years for his efforts to support a designated state-sponsor of terror in obtaining deadly military weapons and other items.”
According to the evidence presented during the trial:
In 2008, OLANGIAN worked with Iranian officials to obtain approximately 375 SAMs for use by the Iranian government. Ultimately, that missile deal was unsuccessful.
Beginning in early 2012, OLANGIAN worked to negotiate another, separate missile deal, this time with a confidential source (the “CS”), who was working with the Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”) and who purported to be a weapons and aircraft broker. From his base of operations in Tehran, and from approximately May 2012 through October 2012, OLANGIAN arranged for the purchase of “IGLA-S” SAMs and various aircraft components. During covertly recorded meetings in May 2012, and in subsequent recorded conversations and e-mails with the CS, OLANGIAN described in detail his plans for procuring the SAMs and aircraft parts and then smuggling them over land into Iran, from Afghanistan or from another neighboring country. OLANGIAN also expressed his interest in purchasing numerous other types of weapons and military parts for the Iranian government, including the so-called “S-300” missile defense system and Russian-made naval vessels.
OLANGIAN’s 2012 negotiations included his participation in a videoconference with the CS, during which OLANGIAN remotely inspected a missile that the CS presented as a sample of the larger quantity of the SAMs that OLANGIAN sought to purchase. After inspecting the sample missile and inquiring about its specifications, OLANGIAN stated that he would want “at least 200 . . . minimum 200” of such SAMs. In his communications with the CS, OLANGIAN also indicated that he was arranging for a missile expert to inspect and test the SAMs.
At the same time that he was negotiating with the CS, OLANGIAN was also working with other individuals, both inside and outside Iran, to acquire numerous other items for the Iranian government and Iran-based entities. For example, OLANGIAN worked with individuals and entities in China, Russia, and Europe to acquire commercial aircraft for use by Iranian airlines. In one of these commercial aircraft deals, OLANGIAN and his coconspirators planned to purchase aircraft for $80 million and sell them to an Iranian company for $110 million.
During October 2012, OLANGIAN traveled to Estonia in connection with the SAMs deal and in anticipation of later traveling to Russia in connection with one of the aircraft deals. He was arrested in Estonia, and following his arrest, he was interviewed by U.S. law enforcement agents. OLANGIAN stated, among other things, that he had been working with Iranian government officials, that the SAMs he had arranged to purchase were being obtained for the Iranian government, and that the aircraft parts he attempted to acquire were to be used in Iranian military aircraft.
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In addition to today’s sentence, OLANGIAN, 57, was sentenced to 5 years of supervised release.
Mr. Berman praised the outstanding investigative work of the DEA’s Special Operations Division, Bilateral Investigations Unit. Mr. Berman also thanked the DEA’s Copenhagen Country Office, as well as the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs and its National Security Division.
This prosecution is being handled by the Office’s Terrorism and International Narcotics Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean S. Buckley is in charge of the prosecution, with assistance from Robert E. Wallace of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section.
Doctor who Illegally Distributed Prescription Painkillers and Laundered Proceeds Sentenced to 160 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
SANTA ANA, California – A San Gabriel Valley doctor who pleaded guilty to a federal drug trafficking charge for illegally distributing the powerful opioid best known by the brand name OxyContin was sentenced today to over 13 years in federal prison.
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Dr. Daniel Cham, 49, a Covina resident who formerly operated a clinic in La Puente, was sentenced today by United States District Judge Andrew J. Guilford.
As he was sentencing Cham today, Judge Guilford expressed concern “that other doctors haven’t gotten the message of the seriousness of this activity.”
Cham pleaded guilty in April 2016 to one count of distribution of oxycodone, a powerful and addictive painkiller marketed under various names, including OxyContin, Vicodin and Norco. Cham also pleaded guilty to one count of money laundering.
In documents filed in relation to today’s sentencing, prosecutors wrote that Cham “stands before the court for selling prescriptions for massive amounts of oxycodone to persons he well knew were drug dealers and addicts, in exchange for hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash. Defendant’s illegal prescriptions killed at least two addicted youths, including a 22-year-old woman and 28-year-old man.”
The young woman, who was a resident of Oregon, died after ingesting narcotics prescribed by Cham to members of Oregon-based drug trafficking conspiracy. Cham issued prescriptions in the names of the Oregon drug traffickers – many of whom he had never met – and Cham created fake paperwork to make it falsely appear he had examined the “patients.” Investigators in Oregon identified over 12,000 pills of oxycodone that Cham illegally prescribed to the drug traffickers in that state.
“There is an opioid-abuse epidemic in this nation, and some of that drug abuse is fueled by unscrupulous doctors like this defendant,” said United States Attorney Nicola T. Hanna. “The lengthy sentence imposed in this case is the direct result of this defendant’s profiting from prescribing narcotics to persons he knew to be addicts and drug dealers – actions that led to fatal overdoses for two people.”
In a plea agreement filed in this case, Cham admitted that he unlawfully prescribed oxycodone to an undercover agent posing as a patient in March 2014 in exchange for $300 in money orders, which Cham then deposited into a bank account held in the name of another business. Cham made the deposit “knowing that the transaction was designed to conceal and disguise the nature and source of the money orders,” according to the plea agreement.
Acting on tip about a pharmacy that was filling a large number of prescriptions written by Cham, special agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration discovered a “large-scale criminal operation” in which Cham was writing thousands of prescriptions for powerful painkillers, often in combination with alprazolam (often sold under brand name Xanax) or carisoprodol (often sold under the brand name Soma), according to court documents. “The combination of these drugs is particularly dangerous, and is associated with the majority of overdose deaths,” according to a sentencing memorandum filed in court.
A doctor who specializes in pain management and addiction reviewed Cham’s history of writing prescriptions and found “gross and overwhelming evidence of inappropriate prescribing of narcotics and controlled drugs.” The expert also reviewed recordings made by undercover operatives who obtained prescriptions from Cham and found that the doctor was “essentially at that point dealing drugs.”
An affidavit previously filed in this case discussed how an undercover officer made three visits to Cham’s La Puente office in 2014, and how Cham wrote prescriptions for controlled substances in exchange for $200 or $300 in cash or money orders. As discussed in the court document, Cham issued a prescription for oxycodone even though the undercover operative said he “had been high and drunk while receiving controlled substance prescriptions” previously from Cham. On another occasion, Cham prescribed oxycodone even though the undercover law enforcement officer presented, in lieu of photo identification, a written notice that his license had been suspended for driving under the influence.
“Dr. Cham broke the Hippocratic Oath he swore to uphold when he became a physician – instead of serving the public good, his actions caused harm and death,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge David J. Downing. “Cham was no longer functioning as a healer but a common drug dealer, and his sentence should serve as a cautionary tale to other physicians who would choose this path for the sake of greed.”
“Not only did defendant Cham abdicate his oath as a physician, he deliberately caused harm by continuously drugging addicts who were in need of rehabilitation,” said Paul Delacourt, the Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office. “The FBI will continue to work with our partners to end illegal drug networks operating out of doctors’ offices.”
In his plea agreement, Cham also agrees to forfeit to the government more than $60,000 in cash that he admits are “proceeds of illegal activity.”
“While exploiting his patients’ addictions for his own personal gain, Cham laundered tens of thousands of dollars in cash and money orders through bank accounts held in fake business names such as Good Life 2 LLC. The good life Cham created for himself was fueled by a callous disregard for his patients’ well-being,” stated R. Damon Rowe, Special Agent in Charge for IRS Criminal Investigation. “IRS Criminal Investigation contributes our financial expertise in an effort to stop criminals who profit from the illegal trade of dangerous narcotics and take away any financial benefit they receive from their criminal activity.”
The investigation into Cham was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation Los Angeles and Portland Field Offices, IRS Criminal Investigation, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Health Authority Law Enforcement Task Force, the California Medical Board, and the Los Angeles Police Department.
The case against Cham was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Benjamin Barron of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force.
District Man Pleads Guilty to Felony Sex Offense for Attacking Woman on the StreetRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Elias Hailu, 37, of Washington, D.C., has pled guilty to sexually abusing a stranger on the street in broad daylight last fall in the 14th Street corridor of Northwest Washington, announced U.S. Attorney Jessie K. Liu.
Hailu pled guilty on March 13, 2018, in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia, to attempted third-degree sexual abuse. After completing any term of incarceration imposed by the Court, Hailu will be subject to 10 years of registration as a sex offender and a period of supervised release. The Honorable Judith Bartnoff scheduled sentencing for May 9, 2018.
According to the government’s evidence, Hailu encountered the victim on the afternoon of Nov. 15, 2017, as she was walking on U Street toward 13th Street NW. He began to follow the victim, who was a stranger to him, for several blocks while she proceeded to work. All the while, Hailu made sexually explicit proposals to the victim and ignored her repeated requests that he leave her alone. Hailu sexually abused the victim by forcefully grabbing the victim’s breast with his hand. The victim made an immediate report to law enforcement.
Surveillance footage that captured a portion of Hailu’s conduct showed Hailu’s distinctive clothing, some of which he had been wearing the day before in the same area. Based on the description provided by the victim and the surveillance footage, the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) was able to identify Hailu as the perpetrator. He was arrested on Nov. 17, 2017, wearing some of the same clothing he had worn during the sexual assault.
In announcing the plea, U.S. Attorney Liu praised the work of officers from the Metropolitan Police Department’s Sexual Assault Unit. She also acknowledged the efforts of those who worked on the case from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, including Victim/Witness Advocate Tracy Owusu, Paralegal Specialist Donhue Troy Griffith, and Criminal Investigator John Marsh. Finally, U.S. Attorney Liu commended Assistant U.S. Attorneys J. Matt Williams and Marisa West, who investigated and prosecuted this case.