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27 October 2017
DEA Prepares for Prescription Drug Take Back DayRead the Press Release
Benjamin G. Greenberg, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, will join the DEA on October 28th for its 14th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. The biannual event will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at thousands of collection sites around the country, including 19 here in the Southern District of Florida. The event is an effort to rid homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs.
Acting U.S. Attorney Benjamin G. Greenberg stated, “Prescription drugs that serve no medical purpose should not be in our homes. They are subject to misuse and abuse. The Drug Enforcement Administration’s Prescription Drug Take-Back initiative addresses this public safety and health issue by allowing everyone to dispose of prescription drugs safely and anonymously. I encourage everyone to take advantage of this bi-annual event to rid your homes of unused, unnecessary and outdated prescription drugs.”
Last April Americans turned in 450 tons (900,000 pounds) of prescription drugs at almost 5,500 sites operated by the DEA and more than 4,200 of its state and local law enforcement partners. Overall, in its 13 previous Take Back events, DEA and its partners have taken in over 8.1 million pounds—more than 4,050 tons—of pills. The disposal service is free and anonymous, no questions asked.
Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 91 Americans die each day from an opioid overdose. Some painkiller abusers move on to heroin: Four out of five new heroin users started with painkillers.
Flushing medications down the toilet or throwing them in the trash pose potential safety and health hazards. This initiative addresses the public safety and public health issues that surround medications languishing in home cabinets, becoming highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse.
For more information or to locate a collection site near you, go the DEA Prescription Drug Take Back Day web site at https://takebackday.dea.gov/#collection-locator where you can search by zip code, city, or state.
DEA Prepares for Prescription Drug Takeback Day on Saturday, October 28, 2017Read the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Acting U.S. Attorney Grant Jaquith encourages all to take advantage of the United States Drug Enforcement Administration 14th National Prescription Drug Takeback Day on October 28th. The biannual event will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at thousands of collection sites around the country, including many here in the Northern District of New York. The event is an effort to rid homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs.
“The opioid and heroin epidemic is devastating families and communities, causing overdose deaths, increasing property crimes, and encouraging drug gangs to compete for customers. The DEA Prescription Drug Takeback Day provides a safe and anonymous way to get unused prescription drugs out of our homes and away from potential drug abusers without harming the environment, and we encourage all to take advantage of this opportunity.” said Acting United States Attorney Grant Jaquith.
DEA Special Agent in Charge James Hunt stated, “New Yorkers have been the targets of opioid traffickers pushing diverted medication, heroin and fentanyl onto our streets. Abusing prescription medication has turned Americans into addicts and is the cause of tens of thousands of overdose deaths. This Saturday, you can remove threats that lurk in your medicine cabinet and dispose of unused, unwanted and expired medication at any of our collection sites.”
Last April Americans turned in 450 tons (900,000 pounds) of prescription drugs at almost 5,500 sites operated by the DEA and more than 4,200 of its state and local law enforcement partners. Overall, in its 13 previous Take Back events, DEA and its partners have taken in over 8.1 million pounds—more than 4,050 tons—of pills. The disposal service is free and anonymous, no questions asked. (The DEA cannot accept liquids, needles, or sharps, only pills or patches.) Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 91 Americans die each day from an opioid overdose. Some painkiller abusers move on to heroin: four out of five new heroin users started with painkillers.Flushing medications down the toilet or throwing them in the trash poses potential safety and health hazards. This initiative addresses the public safety and public health issues that surround medications languishing in home cabinets, becoming highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse.
For more information or to locate a collection site near you, go the DEA Prescription Drug Take Back Day web site at https://takebackday.dea.gov/#collection-locator where you can search by zip code, city, or state.
DEA Prepares for Prescription Drug Takeback DayRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania will join DEA on October 28, 2017, for its 14th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. The biannual event will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at thousands of collection sites around the country, including here in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. The event is an effort to rid homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs.
“The death toll from prescription painkillers has tripled in the past decade and the problem is getting worse, said U.S. Attorney Brandler.” “Over 16,000 people die every year from prescription painkiller overdoses – that’s more than the number of overdoses from heroin, cocaine, or any other illegal drug.”
“Disposing of leftover painkillers or other addictive medicines in the house is one of the best ways to prevent a member of your family from becoming a victim of the opioid epidemic,” said Gary Tuggle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Philadelphia Field Division. “More people start down the path of addiction and overdose death with opioid prescription drugs than any other substance. The abuse of these drugs is our nation’s biggest drug problem.”
Last April Americans turned in 450 tons (900,000 pounds) of prescription drugs at almost 5,500 sites operated by the DEA and more than 4,200 of its state and local law enforcement partners. Overall, in its 13 previous Take Back events, DEA and its partners have taken in over 8.1 million pounds—more than 4,050 tons—of pills. The disposal service is free and anonymous, no questions asked. (The DEA cannot accept liquids, needles, or sharps, only pills or patches.)
Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 91 Americans die each day from an opioid overdose. Some painkiller abusers move on to heroin: Four out of five new heroin users started with painkillers.
Flushing medications down the toilet or throwing them in the trash pose potential safety and health hazards. This initiative addresses the public safety and public health issues that surround medications languishing in home cabinets, becoming highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse.
For more information or to locate a collection site near you, go the DEA Prescription Drug Take Back Day web site at https://takebackday.dea.gov/#collection-locator where you can search by zip code, city, or state.
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DEA Joins Local Law Enforcement Partners in Nationwide Take Back of Opioids and Other Prescription DrugsRead the Press Release
The Drug Enforcement Administration will join forces tomorrow with more than 4,000 local, tribal, and community partners at more than 5,000 collection sites to collect potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs. The effort will help prevent these drugs, including opioids, from falling into the wrong hands and contributing to a lethal drug abuse epidemic in the United States.
On Saturday, Oct. 28, 2018, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. local time, individuals can take pills and other solid forms of medication at nearby collection sites (DEA cannot accept liquids, needles or sharps), which can be located at www.DEATakeBack.com or by calling 800-882-9539. The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked.
The DEA action comes just days after President Donald J. Trump announced the mobilization of his entire Administration to address drug addiction and opioid abuse by directing the declaration of a Nationwide Public Health Emergency to address the opioids crisis.
“Today the United States is facing the worst drug crisis in our history, as more Americans are dying from drug overdoses than ever before,” said Attorney General Jeff Sessions. “We lose one American life to drugs every nine minutes. This crisis affects every American, as it is filling up our emergency rooms, our foster homes, and our cemeteries.
“President Trump is right to make this issue a top priority for his administration, and his plan will make a difference for millions of Americans. It will help those suffering from addiction get the treatment they need and prevent many new addictions from starting in the first place. I commend him for recognizing the public health emergency that this is.”
“This Department of Justice is committed to doing its part to turn the tide. This year we have conducted the largest opioid-related health care fraud takedown in American history, charging some 120 defendants with opioid-related crimes. Since then I have taken additional steps to stop opioid-related fraud, creating a new data analytics team that can find evidence of overprescribing, and appointing 12 prosecutors to focus solely on this issue. I firmly believe that these steps will prevent drug abuse and addiction and save American lives.
“We will continue to do our part in this effort, prosecuting drug traffickers and those who exploit vulnerable people suffering from addiction, so that every American can be safe and live out their God-given potential."
On Oct. 17, the Justice Department announced the indictments of two Chinese nationals and their North American based traffickers and distributors for separate conspiracies to distribute large quantities of fentanyl and fentanyl analogues and other opiate substances in the United States. In July, the department announced the seizure of the largest criminal marketplace on the Internet, AlphaBay, which operated for over two years on the dark web and was used to sell deadly illegal drugs, including synthetic opioids like fentanyl, throughout the world. The international operation was led by the United States and involved cooperation with law enforcement authorities around the world.
In addition, DEA this week announced the formation of six new heroin enforcement teams in hard hit areas such as West Virginia, Ohio, North Carolina, New York and Massachusetts.
The Take-Back initiative by the DEA addresses a vital public safety and public health issue. Medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. DEA launched its prescription drug take back program when both the Environmental Protection Agency and the Food and Drug Administration advised the public that their usual methods for disposing of unused medicines—flushing them down the toilet or throwing them in the trash—posed potential safety and health hazards.
“Disposing of leftover painkillers or other addictive medicines in the house is one of the best ways to prevent a member of your family from becoming a victim of the opioid epidemic,” said DEA Acting Administrator Robert W. Patterson. “More people start down the path of addiction through the misuse of opioid prescription drugs than any other substance. The abuse of these prescription drugs has fueled the nation’s opioid epidemic, which has led to the largest rate of overdose deaths this country has ever seen.”
Last April the public turned in 450 tons (900,000 pounds) of prescription drugs at almost 5,500 sites operated by the DEA and more than 4,200 of its state and local law enforcement partners. Overall, in its 13 previous Take Back events, DEA and its partners have taken in over 8.1 million pounds—more than 4,050 tons—of pills.DEA Joins Local Law Enforcement Partners in Nationwide Take Back of Opioids and Other Prescription DrugsRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – The Drug Enforcement Administration will join forces tomorrow with more than 4,000 local, tribal, and community partners at more than 5,000 collection sites to collect potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs. The effort will help prevent these drugs, including opioids, from falling into the wrong hands and contributing to a lethal drug abuse epidemic in the United States.
On Saturday, Oct. 28, 2017, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. local time, individuals can take pills and other solid forms of medication at nearby collection sites (DEA cannot accept liquids, needles or sharps), which can be located at www.DEATakeBack.com or by calling 800-882-9539. The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked.
The DEA action comes just days after President Donald J. Trump announced the mobilization of his entire Administration to address drug addiction and opioid abuse by directing the declaration of a Nationwide Public Health Emergency to address the opioids crisis.
"Today the United States is facing the worst drug crisis in our history, as more Americans are dying from drug overdoses than ever before," said Attorney General Jeff Sessions. "We lose one American life to drugs every nine minutes. This crisis affects every American, as it is filling up our emergency rooms, our foster homes, and our cemeteries.
"President Trump is right to make this issue a top priority for his administration, and his plan will make a difference for millions of Americans. It will help those suffering from addiction get the treatment they need and prevent many new addictions from starting in the first place. I commend him for recognizing the public health emergency that this is."
"This Department of Justice is committed to doing its part to turn the tide. This year we have conducted the largest opioid-related health care fraud takedown in American history, charging some 120 defendants with opioid-related crimes. Since then I have taken additional steps to stop opioid-related fraud, creating a new data analytics team that can find evidence of overprescribing, and appointing 12 prosecutors to focus solely on this issue. I firmly believe that these steps will prevent drug abuse and addiction and save American lives.
"We will continue to do our part in this effort, prosecuting drug traffickers and those who exploit vulnerable people suffering from addiction, so that every American can be safe and live out their God-given potential."
On Oct. 17, the Justice Department announced the indictments of two Chinese nationals and their North American based traffickers and distributors for separate conspiracies to distribute large quantities of fentanyl and fentanyl analogues and other opiate substances in the United States. In July, the department announced the seizure of the largest criminal marketplace on the Internet, AlphaBay, which operated for over two years on the dark web and was used to sell deadly illegal drugs, including synthetic opioids like fentanyl, throughout the world. The international operation was led by the United States and involved cooperation with law enforcement authorities around the world.
In addition, DEA this week announced the formation of six new heroin enforcement teams in hard hit areas such as West Virginia, Ohio, North Carolina, New York and Massachusetts.
The Take-Back initiative by the DEA addresses a vital public safety and public health issue. Medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. DEA launched its prescription drug take back program when both the Environmental Protection Agency and the Food and Drug Administration advised the public that their usual methods for disposing of unused medicines—flushing them down the toilet or throwing them in the trash—posed potential safety and health hazards.
"Disposing of leftover painkillers or other addictive medicines in the house is one of the best ways to prevent a member of your family from becoming a victim of the opioid epidemic," said DEA Acting Administrator Robert W. Patterson. "More people start down the path of addiction through the misuse of opioid prescription drugs than any other substance. The abuse of these prescription drugs has fueled the nation’s opioid epidemic, which has led to the largest rate of overdose deaths this country has ever seen."
Last April the public turned in 450 tons (900,000 pounds) of prescription drugs at almost 5,500 sites operated by the DEA and more than 4,200 of its state and local law enforcement partners. Overall, in its 13 previous Take Back events, DEA and its partners have taken in over 8.1 million pounds—more than 4,050 tons—of pills.
DEA Joins Local Law Enforcement Partners in Nationwide Take Back of Opioids and Other Prescription DrugsRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – The Drug Enforcement Administration will join forces tomorrow with more than 4,000 local, tribal, and community partners at more than 5,000 collection sites to collect potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs. The effort will help prevent these drugs, including opioids, from falling into the wrong hands and contributing to a lethal drug abuse epidemic in the United States.
On Saturday, Oct. 28, 2017, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. local time, individuals can take pills and other solid forms of medication at nearby collection sites (DEA cannot accept liquids, needles or sharps), which can be located at www.DEATakeBack.com or by calling 800-882-9539. The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked.
The DEA action comes just days after President Donald J. Trump announced the mobilization of his entire Administration to address drug addiction and opioid abuse by directing the declaration of a Nationwide Public Health Emergency to address the opioids crisis.
“Today the United States is facing the worst drug crisis in our history, as more Americans are dying from drug overdoses than ever before,” said Attorney General Jeff Sessions. “We lose one American life to drugs every nine minutes. This crisis affects every American, as it is filling up our emergency rooms, our foster homes, and our cemeteries.
“President Trump is right to make this issue a top priority for his administration, and his plan will make a difference for millions of Americans. It will help those suffering from addiction get the treatment they need and prevent many new addictions from starting in the first place. I commend him for recognizing the public health emergency that this is.”
“This Department of Justice is committed to doing its part to turn the tide. This year we have conducted the largest opioid-related health care fraud takedown in American history, charging some 120 defendants with opioid-related crimes. Since then I have taken additional steps to stop opioid-related fraud, creating a new data analytics team that can find evidence of overprescribing, and appointing 12 prosecutors to focus solely on this issue. I firmly believe that these steps will prevent drug abuse and addiction and save American lives.
“We will continue to do our part in this effort, prosecuting drug traffickers and those who exploit vulnerable people suffering from addiction, so that every American can be safe and live out their God-given potential."
On Oct. 17, the Justice Department announced the indictments of two Chinese nationals and their North American based traffickers and distributors for separate conspiracies to distribute large quantities of fentanyl and fentanyl analogues and other opiate substances in the United States. In July, the department announced the seizure of the largest criminal marketplace on the Internet, AlphaBay, which operated for over two years on the dark web and was used to sell deadly illegal drugs, including synthetic opioids like fentanyl, throughout the world. The international operation was led by the United States and involved cooperation with law enforcement authorities around the world.
In addition, DEA this week announced the formation of six new heroin enforcement teams in hard hit areas such as West Virginia, Ohio, North Carolina, New York and Massachusetts.
The Take-Back initiative by the DEA addresses a vital public safety and public health issue. Medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. DEA launched its prescription drug take back program when both the Environmental Protection Agency and the Food and Drug Administration advised the public that their usual methods for disposing of unused medicines—flushing them down the toilet or throwing them in the trash—posed potential safety and health hazards.
“Disposing of leftover painkillers or other addictive medicines in the house is one of the best ways to prevent a member of your family from becoming a victim of the opioid epidemic,” said DEA Acting Administrator Robert W. Patterson. “More people start down the path of addiction through the misuse of opioid prescription drugs than any other substance. The abuse of these prescription drugs has fueled the nation’s opioid epidemic, which has led to the largest rate of overdose deaths this country has ever seen.”
Last April the public turned in 450 tons (900,000 pounds) of prescription drugs at almost 5,500 sites operated by the DEA and more than 4,200 of its state and local law enforcement partners. Overall, in its 13 previous Take Back events, DEA and its partners have taken in over 8.1 million pounds—more than 4,050 tons—of pills.Council Bluffs Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Acting United States Attorney Robert C. Stuart announced that on October 27, 2017, William J. Allen, a/k/a Billy Allen, 32, of Council Bluffs, Iowa, was sentenced to 135 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Following the prison term, Allen will serve five years on supervised release.
Information provided to law enforcement indicated that Allen was responsible for the distribution of at least five kilograms (11 pounds) of methamphetamine in the Lincoln and Omaha areas between January of 2013 and August of 2016. In August of 2016, a confidential informant working with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) purchased approximately one ounce of nearly pure methamphetamine from Allen.
This case was investigated by the Lincoln/Lancaster County Drug Task Force and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms.
Convicted Felon Pleads Guilty to Gun and Drug Charges in Federal CourtRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that Justin Dewayne Barr, age 32, of Scranton, SC, pled guilty in federal court in Florence to Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine, Cocaine Base, and Marijuana. United States District Judge Bryan Harwell, of Florence, accepted the plea and will impose sentence after he has reviewed the presentence report which will be prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.
The evidence presented at the guilty plea hearing established that on February 28, 2017, a deputy with the Florence County Sheriff’s Office observed a vehicle make an improper turn and then proceed through a red light. The deputy initiated a traffic stop on the vehicle. Upon making contact with the driver of the vehicle, Justin Barr, the deputy smelled the odor of marijuana emanating from the vehicle and asked Barr to step out of the vehicle. After Barr exited the vehicle, Barr ran, and a foot chase ensued. At one point during the chase, Barr fought with the deputy and turned the deputy’s wrist, turning the taser into the deputy’s inner thigh while it was cycling, causing the deputy to be briefly incapacitated. Barr was taken in custody shortly thereafter.
A subsequent search of Barr’s person revealed two bags of marijuana and just over $1,000 in cash. A search of the vehicle revealed a bag of cocaine, a bag of cocaine base, a set of digital scales, and a Smith and Wesson .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol, loaded with eleven rounds in the magazine and one in the chamber. The evidence presented also established that prior to his possession of the firearm, Barr had been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year.
Ms. Drake stated the defendant faces a maximum penalty of life in prison. The case was investigated by agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Florence County Sheriff’s Office, and the Lake City Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Lauren Hummel of the Florence office handled the case.
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Connecticut Resident Pleads Guilty to Failing to Report Foreign Financial AccountsRead the Press Release
A Greenwich, Connecticut man pleaded guilty yesterday to failing to report funds he maintained in foreign bank accounts to the Department of Treasury, announced Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division, U.S. Attorney Dana J. Boente for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Chief Don Fort, IRS Criminal Investigation.
According to court documents and information provided in court, Hyung Kwon Kim, a citizen of South Korea and, since 1998, a legal permanent resident of the United States, resided in Massachusetts and later in Connecticut. Around 1998, Kim traveled to Switzerland to identify financial institutions at which to open accounts for the purpose of receiving transfers of funds from another individual in Hong Kong. Over the next few years, Kim opened accounts at several banks, including Credit Suisse, UBS, Bank Leu, Clariden Leu, and Bank Hofmann. In 2004, the value of the funds in Kim’s accounts exceeded $28 million.
U.S. citizens, resident aliens, and permanent legal residents with a foreign financial interest in or signatory authority over a foreign financial account worth more than $10,000 are required to file a Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts, commonly known as an FBAR, disclosing the account.
Kim conspired with several bankers, including Dr. Edgar H. Paltzer, to conceal the funds from U.S. authorities. Paltzer, who was convicted in 2013 in the Southern District of New York for conspiring to defraud the United States, and the other bankers assisted Kim in opening accounts in the names of sham entities organized in Liechtenstein, Panama and the British Virgin Islands. Paltzer and the other bankers facilitated financial transactions for Kim, so that Kim could use the funds in the United States. For example, between 2003 and 2004, Kim directed Paltzer and another banker to issue nearly $3 million in checks payable to third parties in the United States for the purchase of a residence in Greenwich, Connecticut. In 2005, Kim created a nominee entity to hold title for the purchase of another home on Stage Harbor in Chatham, Massachusetts, for nearly $5 million. Kim and Paltzer communicated about the purchase in a manner that created the appearance that Kim was renting the property from a fictitious owner.
Between 2000 and 2008, Kim took multiple trips to Zurich, Switzerland and withdrew more than $600,000 in cash during these visits. He also brought his offshore assets back to the United States by purchasing millions of dollars’ worth of jewelry and loose gems. For example, in 2008, Kim purchased an 8.6 carat ruby ring from a jeweler in Greenwich, Connecticut, which he financed by causing Bank Leu to issue three checks totaling $2.2 million to the jeweler.
In 2008, during a trip to Zurich, Kim’s banker at Clariden Leu informed Kim that due to ongoing investigations in the United States, Kim could either disclose the accounts to the U.S. government, spend the funds, or move the funds to another institution. Kim moved the funds into nominee accounts at another bank. In 2011, Kim liquidated the accounts by, among other things, withdrawing tens of thousands of dollars in cash and purchasing three loose diamonds for about $1.7 million from the Greenwich jeweler.
Kim also admitted that from 2000 through 2011, he filed false income tax returns for 1999 through 2010, on which he failed to report income from the assets held in the foreign financial accounts that he owned and controlled in Switzerland.
As part of his plea agreement, Kim will pay a civil penalty of over $14 million dollars to the United States Treasury for failing to file, and filing false, FBARs, which is separate from any restitution the Court may order.
“For more than a decade Hyung Kim concealed his wealth in secret offshore accounts, evading reporting requirements and the payment of income taxes due,” said Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Goldberg. “With his guilty plea, he is now held to account for his criminal conduct. Offshore tax evasion is a top priority for the Tax Division, and we will continue to work with our partners at IRS to follow the money and actively pursue those who persist in thinking that they can safely hide their income and assets offshore.”
“Mr. Kim’s plea is another example of what happens to those who dodge their tax obligations by utilizing offshore tax havens,” said Chief Don Fort, IRS Criminal Investigation. “We owe it to the vast majority of honest U.S. taxpayers to tirelessly search for and prosecute those who avoid paying their fair share, regardless of how they may try to disguise their income.”
Sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 26, 2018 before U.S. District Court Judge T.S. Ellis III. Kim faces a statutory maximum sentence of five years in prison. He also faces a period of supervised release, restitution, and monetary penalties, in addition to the FBAR penalty.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Goldberg, U.S. Attorney Boente and Chief Don Fort commended special agents of IRS Criminal Investigation, who conducted the investigation, and Senior Litigation Counsel Mark F. Daly and Trial Attorney Robert J. Boudreau of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Lytle of the Eastern District of Virginia, who are prosecuting this case.
Additional information about the Tax Division’s enforcement efforts can be found on the division’s website.
Chelsea Gang Member Sentenced to 10 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
BOSTON – An East Side Money Gang (ESMG) member, known as “Superbad,” was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston for racketeering and drug trafficking charges.
Josue Rodriguez, a/k/a “SB,” a/k/a “Superbad,” 20, of Chelsea, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Richard G. Stearns to 10 years in prison and five years of supervised release. In June 2017, Rodriguez pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to conduct enterprise affairs through a pattern of racketeering activity, commonly known as RICO, and one count of conspiracy to distribute cocaine and cocaine base.
Rodriguez is a member of the ESMG, a Chelsea-based street gang, which uses violence to further its criminal activities and enforce its internal rules. Specifically, ESMG uses violence to protect its members/associates, target rival gang members/associates and intimidate potential witnesses.
Rodriguez admitted that on July 5, 2015, he ambushed a rival gang member who was walking down the street, shooting at him with a semi-automatic pistol, but did not hit him. On March 29, 2016, Rodriguez and another ESMG member agreed to provide a .22 caliber revolver to a third ESMG member so he could “spank” with it – meaning that he could use it against rivals of ESMG. On April 3, 2016, the third gang member used the revolver to attempt to murder two men believed to be members/associates of a rival gang. One of the targets was shot but not killed.
On May 26, 2016, Rodriguez attempted to hide the .38 caliber Smith and Wesson revolver used in a shooting, as well as spent and live shells, after another ESMG member/associate attempted to shoot a rival gang member.
The East Side Money gang was also involved in drug trafficking, including cocaine, cocaine base (crack) and heroin. Rodriguez conspired with other gang members and associates to distribute at least one kilogram of cocaine base. Rodriguez further admitted that he stored drugs at, and distributed drugs from, his home in Chelsea, and that the gang maintained at least one firearm at the location.
Rodriguez is one of 53 defendants indicted in June 2016 on federal firearms and drug charges following an investigation into a network of street gangs that had created alliances to traffic weapons and drugs throughout Massachusetts and to generate violence against rival gang members. According to court documents, the defendants, who are leaders, members, and associates of the 18th Street Gang, East Side Money Gang and the Boylston Gang, were responsible for fueling a gun and drug pipeline across a number of cities and towns in eastern Massachusetts. During the course of the investigation, over 70 firearms were seized.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb; Mickey D. Leadingham, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Boston Field Division; Michael J. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; Matthew Etre, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston; John Gibbons, U.S. Marshal for the District of Massachusetts; Maura Healey, Attorney General of Massachusetts; Colonel Richard D. McKeon, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; Boston Police Commissioner William Evans; Chelsea Police Chief Brian Kyes; and Brockton Police Chief John Crowley made the announcement today. The U.S. Attorney’s Office also acknowledges the assistance of the Suffolk and Middlesex County Sheriff Departments and the Malden, Revere and Everett Police Departments. Weinreb’s Organized Crime and Gang Unit is prosecuting the case.
Central NY Military Contractor Pays $150,460 to Resolve False Claims Act ExposureRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – JGB Enterprises, Inc. (JGB) paid $150,460 today to resolve claims that it improperly billed the United States Army for repair kits for the Army’s tank recovery vehicle because the kits included parts from unapproved sources, announced Acting United States Attorney Grant C. Jaquith.
JGB had a firm-fixed price agreement with the government to provide engine overhaul kits for the Army’s Recovery Vehicle, M51/M74/M88 (the “Contract”). The Contract contains a source-controlled provision. That provision requires that certain parts be obtained from specified manufacturers who have approved quality-control plans concerning the manufacture of their parts.
JGB obtained some source-controlled parts from third-party vendors. In several instances, these parts were not adequately traceable back to an approved source and at least two of the parts delivered by JGB were inconsistent with required specifications. For example, source-controlled bolts included within the kit delivered by JGB did not fit on the Army’s Recovery Vehicle, rendering a component of the kit unusable until replacements could be obtained.
Acting United States Attorney Grant C. Jaquith said: “Contractors for the government need to ensure that they turn square corners, an obligation that is especially important when they are providing goods or services used by our nation’s warfighters. We will continue to utilize the False Claims Act where appropriate to hold contractors to account when they submit false claims to the government. We do appreciate that JGB worked cooperatively to resolve this matter outside litigation and understand that it has implemented changes to help ensure that something like this does not occur going forward.”
“The settlement agreement announced today is the successful resolution of this joint investigation conducted by the Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Northern District of New York,” stated Leigh-Alistair Barzey, Special Agent-in-Charge, DCIS Northeast Field Office. “The integrity of the DoD supply chain is of vital importance to America’s national security and DCIS is committed to working with its law enforcement partners to ensure that individuals and companies do not profit by providing non-conforming products to the U.S. military.”
“This settlement further demonstrates the resolve of USACIDC’s Major Procurement Fraud Unit and our law enforcement partners to protect and defend the assets of the United States Army,” stated Special Agent in Charge L. Scott Moreland, of the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command’s Mid-Atlantic Fraud Field Office.
The investigation and settlement were the result of a coordinated effort among the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York, the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, and the United States Army Criminal Investigation Command. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael D. Gadarian.
Central Kentucky Pharmacist Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute Oxycodone and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. – A Central Kentucky pharmacist, who owned and operated Hometown Pharmacy of Georgetown, has been sentenced to eight years in federal prison, followed by two years of home incarceration as a term of his supervised release, for Conspiracy to Distribute Oxycodone and Money Laundering.
Chief United States District Judge Karen K. Caldwell formally sentenced Michael Ingram, 37, of Cynthiana, Ky., earlier today. Ingram must serve 85 percent of his sentence. Ingram has also forfeited in excess of $450,000 stemming from his criminal conduct.
In his July 2017 guilty plea, Ingram admitted that, while operating Hometown Pharmacy of Georgetown, he illegally distributed and dispensed oxycodone, by filling forged prescriptions from outside Kentucky. Ingram also admitted that his distribution and dispensation of these pills was outside the scope of pharmaceutical professional practice and was not for a legitimate medical purpose. Ingram further admitted that he used the proceeds of those illegal oxycodone sales to purchase the property now housing an additional business, Hometown Pharmacy of Cynthiana.
“We continue to see corrupt medical professionals choose profit over medical judgment and callously fuel an opioid epidemic that has decimated our state,” said Carlton S. Shier, IV, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky. “This despicable conduct does enormous damage, both to individuals struggling with addiction and to our communities as a whole. Combatting this epidemic requires that we be clear: these egregious breaches of professional trust are criminal conduct that will be prosecuted.”
Acting United States Attorney Shier; Mark McCormack, Special Agent in Charge, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations; Timothy J. Plancon, Special Agent in Charge, Drug Enforcement Administration; and Tracey D. Montaño, Special Agent in Charge, IRS, Criminal Investigation, jointly announced the sentence. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Andrew Smith and Cynthia Rieker
Catholic Health to Pay $6,000,000 to Settle False Claims Act AllegationsRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX: (716) 551-3051
BUFFALO, N.Y.-Acting U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that the Catholic Health System, Inc. has agreed to pay $6,000,000 to resolve allegations that its subsidiary, Home & Community Based Care (formerly known as "Continuing Care"), violated the False Claims Act by submitting false claims to government health care programs.Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathleen A. Lynch, who handled the case, stated that between January 1, 2007, and December 31, 2014, Catholic Health submitted or caused to be submitted, false claims to Medicare for rehabilitation therapy services. The services were provided by Catholic Health at long and short-term skilled nursing care and post-acute care facilities including Father Baker Manor, St. Francis Williamsville, and the McAuley Residence.
The services were administered to beneficiaries at levels that were unreasonable, not medically necessary, and unsupported by the medical records. Specifically, Catholic Health submitted false claims for payment related to Ultra High Resource Utilization Group (“RUG”) levels during the relevant time at these facilities.
“A healthcare system that is infected with dishonesty is susceptible to one of the worst afflictions known to mankind—human greed,” said Acting U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. “Today’s settlement demonstrates our unwavering commitment to eradicating this cancer from our federal health care programs.”
“When health care companies charge federal government health programs for medically unnecessary services just to boost profits, taxpayers are victimized and the health care industry’s reputation takes a hit,” said Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, Office of Investigations Special Agent-in-Charge Scott J. Lampert. “Our agency will continue to hold companies accountable for such greed-fueled schemes.”
Catholic Health System, Inc. was named as a defendant in a qui tam, or whistleblower, lawsuit brought under the False Claims Act, which permits private citizens to bring lawsuits on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of the proceeds of any settlement or judgment awarded against a defendant.
As part of the False Claims Act settlement agreement and in exchange for a release of OIG’s permissive exclusion authority, Catholic Health has agreed to enter into a five-year corporate integrity agreement with OIG.
The settlement is the result of an investigation by the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, Office of Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Scott Lampert.
The claims resolved by these settlements are allegations only, and there have been no determinations of liability.
Canadian Man Sentenced to 96 Months for Possessing 290 Pounds of CocaineRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, Ohio – Sylvain Desjardins, 48, of Maribel, Canada, was sentenced in U.S. District Court to 96 months in prison and three years of supervised release for possessing 290 pounds of cocaine in a plane that went down near Athens, Ohio on March 29.
Benjamin C. Glassman, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, announced the sentence handed down today by U.S. District Judge Algenon L. Marbley.
Law enforcement and other agencies involved in this case include: Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, Federal Aviation Administration, Ohio University Police Department, the Ohio University Airport, Athens County Sheriff’s Office, U.S. Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations, Ohio National Guard Counter Drug Program, Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigations, U.S. Homeland Security Investigations Attaché Office Montreal, Ohio High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force, Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Canada Border Services Agency and Service de Police del la Ville de Montreal.
Desjardins and David Ayotte, 46, also of Maribel, Canada, pleaded guilty in May to one count of possession with intent to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine.
Ayotte was sentenced to 63 months in prison and three years of supervised release on October 12.
According to the Statement of Facts filed in this case, on March 29, 2017, a U.S. Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations center official in Riverside, Calif. detected an aircraft that departed from the Bahamas and was traveling to Windsor, Ontario, Canada but had diverted to Gordon K. Bush Airport at Ohio University.
The official contacted the Athens County Sheriff’s Office, who, along with agents from HSI, executed a search warrant on the plane upon arrival. While doing so, investigators discovered approximately 132 kilograms or 290 pounds of cocaine.
Desjardins was the pilot and Ayotte was his passenger. The two men intended on flying the cocaine to Canada to then distribute, but discovered that the plane was having mechanical issues.
U.S. Attorney Glassman commended the cooperative investigation of this case by law enforcement, as well as Deputy Criminal Chief Michael J. Hunter, who is representing the United States in this case.
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Buffalo Man Sentenced on Gun and Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX: (716) 551-3051
BUFFALO, N.Y. - Acting U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy Jr. announced today that Donte Lee, 44, of Buffalo, N.Y., who was convicted by a federal jury of being a felon in possession of a firearm and possession of marijuana, was sentenced to 54 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara.Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael J. Adler and Paul C. Parisi, who handled the prosecution of the case, stated that on November 3, 2015, members of the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force turned onto Sherman Street off Genesee Street to execute an arrest warrant when they observed a large group of people scattering in all directions. Following a chase first on foot and then in a vehicle, Lee eventually attempted to drive through a vacant lot between Sherman Street and Fox Street where his vehicle crashed into a fence. The defendant got out of his vehicle and attempted to escape again on foot before he was ultimately arrested. Subsequently, officers recovered a 9mm pistol loaded with approximately 18 rounds of 9mm ammunition.
Since 1992, the defendant has been convicted of three separate felonies in state and local courts and is prohibited from legally possessing a gun.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Daniel Derenda, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Ashan Benedict.
Buffalo Man Arrested for Selling Illegal OpioidsRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX: (716) 551-3051
BUFFALO, N.Y.- Acting U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Jeremy Jorge, 21, of Buffalo, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with possession with intent to distribute and distribution of heroin, fentanyl, butyryl fentanyl, furanyl fentanyl, and U-47700. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine.Assistant U.S. Attorney Wei Xiang, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, between December 2016 and October 2017, the defendant sold opioids on multiple occasions in the Buffalo area during controlled purchases by the Drug Enforcement Administration. In total, the DEA obtained several thousand dollars worth of opioids from Jorge. Variations of the drugs contained combinations of heroin, fentanyl, butyryl fentanyl, furanyl fentanyl, and U-47700.
The defendant made an initial appearance this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer and is being held pending a detention hearing on October 31, 2017.
The criminal complaint is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge James J. Hunt, New York Field Division.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Broward County Man Pleads Guilty to Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
A Broward county man pled guilty today to production and possession of child pornography.
Benjamin G. Greenberg, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, Mark Selby, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI), Timothy R. Langan, Acting Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Miami Field Office, and Rick Maglione, Chief, Fort Lauderdale Police Department, made the announcement.
Juan Sebastian Chavez, 26, of Ft. Lauderdale, pled guilty to one count of possession of child pornography, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2252(a)(4)(B), and one count of production of child pornography, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2251(a) and 2251(e).
Sentencing is scheduled for February 9, 2018 before United States District Judge Kenneth Marra. Chavez is facing a possible minimum statutory sentence of 15 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum statutory sentence of 30 years’.
According to court documents, beginning in April 2014 through September 2014, Chavez persuaded, induced, enticed and coerced a minor female child to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of that conduct using the camera on his cellular telephone. These sexually explicit images of a minor child were uncovered by law enforcement during the execution of a search warrant and search of Chavez’s cellular telephone. Law enforcement also searched other computers where Chavez possessed more images and videos of child pornography.
Mr. Greenberg commended the investigative efforts of the ICE-HSI, FBI and the Fort Lauderdale Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jodi L. Anton and Francis Viamontes.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or on http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov.
Brooklyn Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Conspiring to Provide Material Support to TerroristsRead the Press Release
Earlier today, at the federal courthouse in Brooklyn, Abdurasul Hasanovich Juraboev, a citizen of Uzbekistan and resident of Brooklyn, New York, was sentenced by United States District Judge William F. Kuntz, II, to 15 years’ imprisonment for conspiring to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization, the Islamic State in Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS). The U.S. government intends to seek his removal to Uzbekistan upon completion of his sentence of imprisonment.
Bridget M. Rohde, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, Dana Boente, Acting Assistant Attorney General for National Security, William F. Sweeney, Jr., Assistant Director-in-Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI), and James P. O’Neill, Commissioner, New York City Police Department (NYPD), announced the sentence.
According to previous court filings, in August 2014, Juraboev posted a threat on an Uzbek-language website to kill President Obama in an act of martyrdom on behalf of ISIS. In subsequent interviews by federal agents, Juraboev stated his belief in ISIS’s terrorist agenda, including the establishment by force of an Islamic caliphate in Iraq and Syria. Juraboev stated that he wanted to travel to Syria to fight on behalf of ISIS but lacked the means to travel. He added that, if he were unable to travel, he would engage in an act of martyrdom on U.S. soil if ordered to do so by ISIS, such as killing the President or planting a bomb on Coney Island. During the next several months, Juraboev and a co-conspirator discussed plans to travel to Syria to fight on behalf of ISIS, culminating in Juraboev’s purchase on December 27, 2014, of a ticket to travel from John F. Kennedy International Airport in Queens, New York, to Istanbul, Turkey, departing on March 29, 2015.
“Today’s sentence holds Juraboev to account for his plans to join ISIS and engage in violent jihad overseas or carry out a terrorist attack in the United States if he was unable to travel to Syria,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Rohde. “This Office will continue to work tirelessly in collaboration with the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force in New York to protect our city from terrorist attacks and prevent extremists from travelling abroad to join foreign terrorist organizations.”
“The defendant had a clear desire to wage violence on behalf of ISIS, and was determined to do so, whether on U.S. soil or abroad,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Boente. “Thanks to the efforts of law enforcement, the defendant was stopped at JFK International Airport before his plans came to fruition, and with this sentence he will be held accountable. Stemming the flow of foreign fighters and defending our nation against the threat of terrorism remains the highest priority of the National Security Division.”
“As a Brooklyn resident, Abdurasul Hasanovich Juraboev posted comments on an ISIS website in August 2014 about his desire to be a martyr and his willingness to kill President Obama,” stated FBI Assistant Director-in-Charge Sweeney. “Over the next few months, Juraboev and his co-conspirators continued to ramp up their allegiance to the terrorist group by discussing travel to Syria and proposals to wage violent jihad here in the United States. Juraboev ultimately purchased a plane ticket to travel to Syria, an act in furtherance of his terrorist plans and intentions. Those plans were thwarted and ended with today’s sentence, resulting in serious prison time.”
“The defendant in this case lived in Brooklyn while making plans to travel to Syria to support a designed terrorist organization,” stated NYPD Commissioner O’Neill. “If that was not successful, the defendant schemed of bombing Coney Island or killing the President of the United States. My thanks to the detectives, agents, prosecutors and federal judge whose work resulted in today’s sentence.”
The government’s case was handled by the Office’s National Security & Cybercrime Section. Assistant United States Attorneys Alexander Solomon, Douglas M. Pravda, Peter W. Baldwin, and David K. Kessler of the Eastern District of New York are in charge of the prosecution, with assistance provided by Trial Attorney Steven Ward of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.
The Defendant:
ABDURASUL HASANOVICH JURABOEV
Age: 27
Residence: Brooklyn, New YorkE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 15 CR 95 (WFK)
Brockton Man Sentenced for Distributing FentanylRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Brockton man was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for trafficking fentanyl.
Gilvan Monteiro, 26, a/k/a “G,” was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge William G. Young to 66 months in prison and three years of supervised release. During the period of supervised release, Monteiro is prohibited from associating with his co-conspirators and certain Brockton gang members. He is also prohibited from being in the City of Brockton.
In January 2017, Monteiro pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl. In April 2016, Monteiro was arrested and charged in a criminal complaint along with Luis DaCosta and Edson Gomes. In May 2016, they and four others were indicted on drug and firearm-related charges.
On numerous occasions between December 2015 to March 2016, Monteiro and his co-defendants sold fentanyl in the Brockton area, and shared several of the same customers. In instances where Monteiro was out of fentanyl, he would direct his customers to purchase from Gomes.
According to court records, Monteiro has a criminal record that includes narcotics and firearms offenses and assault and battery with a dangerous weapon.
DaCosta was sentenced to 106 months in federal prison in May 2017, and Gomes was sentenced to 71 months in prison in June 2017.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb; Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division; Michael Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; Colonel Richard D. McKeon, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; Plymouth County District Attorney Timothy Cruz; and Brockton Police Chief John Crowley made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Glenn A. MacKinlay, Chief of Weinreb’s Organized Crime and Gang Unit, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy Moran, also of the Organized Crime and Gang Unit, prosecuted the case.
Bay St. Louis Man Sentenced to Prison on Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Peter Skladzien, 58, of Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to 236 months in federal prison followed by a lifetime of supervised release for possession of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst. Skladzien was also ordered to pay restitution to victims in the amount of $119,000.
Skladzien pled guilty on July 11, 2017, to possession and receipt of visual images depicting minors under the age of 12 engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
This case was investigated by U.S. Homeland Security Investigations and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Glenda Haynes.
Baltimore Man Sentenced to 18 Months in Federal Prison for Failing to Register as A Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact ELIZABETH MORSE
www.justice.gov/usao/md at (410) 209-4855
Greenbelt, Maryland – United States District Judge George J. Hazel sentenced Dennis Morgan, age 52, of Baltimore, Maryland, to 18 months in prison, 6 months of which are to be served in a halfway house, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for Failure to Register as a Convicted Sex Offender.
The sentence was announced by Acting United States Attorney Stephen M. Schenning; Marshal Johnny Hughes of the United States Marshals Service and Chief James A. Cervera of the Virginia State Police.
Morgan is required to register as sex offender by reason of a 1996 conviction for Attempted Sexual Battery in Florida. Between August 2016 and November 2016, he both resided and worked within the district of Maryland. Throughout that time period, he knowingly failed register as a sex offender in the state of Maryland.
Acting United States Attorney Stephen M. Schenning commended the United States Marshals Service and Virginia State Police for their work in the investigation. Mr. Schenning thanked Assistant United States Attorney Nadia Prinz and Joseph Baldwin, who prosecuted this case.
Attorney General Jeff Sessions Honors Beaumont Federal ProsecutorsRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Attorney General Jeff Sessions recognized 202 department employees for their distinguished public service this week at the 65nd Annual Attorney General’s Awards Ceremony. Nineteen other individuals outside of the department were also honored for their work. This annual ceremony recognizes individuals for their outstanding service and dedication to carrying out the missions of the Department of Justice. The department will also present one posthumous award to Deputy Commander Patrick T. Carothers for exceptional heroism in the line of duty during a fugitive apprehension in Allenhurst, Georgia on Nov. 18, 2016, in which Deputy Commander Carothers was mortally wounded.
“Every single day, the 115,000 men and women of the Department of Justice work to protect our national security against terrorist threats, defend the civil rights of all Americans, reduce violent crime in our communities, stop deadly drug dealers and their organizations, and strengthen the rule of law,” said Attorney General Sessions. “This work benefits every American, and each Department of Justice employee plays a role that helps us accomplish our objectives. Today, we take a moment to recognize those who have distinguished themselves by exemplary service to the Department. Each one of these men and women—through their dedication and commitment—has made a difference. Meeting with them and their families today, I am more confident than ever that the Department—and the safety of the American people—are in good hands.”
This year’s program honors individuals across the department and our federal, state, local, and tribal partners for their self-less efforts, protecting our national security and our civil rights, addressing rising violent crime in our communities, going after gangs and those trafficking in dangerous narcotics and human beings. The awards also honor the work of civil and environmental litigation, which enforces the rule of law and upholds our Constitution. They also recognize employees whose ideas and efforts save taxpayer dollars and help our government operate more effectively and efficiently, among other contributions to public safety and good governance.
From the Eastern District of Texas, Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph R. Batte and Christopher T. Tortorice were honored with the John Marshall Litigation Award. Bate was a prosecutor for the Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office before joining the U.S. Attorney’s Office in 1995. Tortorice is also a former state prosecutor having worked for the Navarro County District Attorney’s Office and the Texas Attorney General’s Office. He joined the U.S. Attorney’s Office in 2009.
“The U.S. Attorney’s Office is proud to acknowledge this award for outstanding work in the field of white collar prosecutions,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Brit Featherston. “Assistant U.S. Attorneys Batte and Tortorice continue to excel and lead the complex crimes area of the Beaumont Division of the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Their work reflects outstanding investigative leadership in complex white collar cases, and East Texas is better off by having them as prosecutors in the Eastern District of Texas.”
Attempted Robber Sentenced to Substantial Prison TermRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Gregory J. Hanstaad announced that Devon Brantley (age: 18) of Milwaukee was recently sentenced in federal court for charges stemming from an attempted robbery of a Subway Restaurant in Milwaukee on September 24, 2016. United States District Judge Lynn Adelman sentenced Brantley, to seven years and one day in prison.
According to the plea agreement, Brantley levelled a sawed-off shotgun at one restaurant employee, and that employee and her coworker fled to the restaurant’s freezer until police arrived. Brantley and his 16-year-old accomplice attempted to open the restaurant cash register but were unable to do so even though Brantley had previously worked at a Subway Restaurant. Brantley was subsequently apprehended after he was spotted walking down the street carrying the sawed-off shotgun.
This case was investigated by the Milwaukee Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Benjamin Taibleson.
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For Additional Information Contact:
Public Information Officer Dean Puschnig (414) 297-1700
Another Defendant Sentenced on Federal Charges Arising Out of ATF-Led Operation Targeting Drug Trafficking and Firearms Crime in Bernalillo CountyRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – In Aug. 2016, a multi-agency investigation led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) concluded with the filing of 59 federal indictments and a federal criminal complaint charging 103 Bernalillo County residents with federal firearms and narcotics trafficking offenses. To date, 80 of the 103 defendants charged as the result of this investigation have entered guilty pleas and 47 of them have been sentenced.
The investigation was undertaken in support of a federal anti-violence initiative that targets “the worst of the worst” offenders for federal prosecution. Under this initiative, the U.S. Attorney’s Office and federal law enforcement agencies collaborate with New Mexico’s District Attorneys and state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies to target violent or repeat offenders for federal prosecution primarily based on their prior criminal convictions with the goal of removing repeat offenders from communities in New Mexico for as long as possible.
Yesterday, Albuquerque, N.M., resident Luis Arreola-Palma, 24, was sentenced in federal court to 48 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine.
Arreola-Palma’s co-defendant Daniel Carmona, 31, was charged by criminal complaint with possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute on Aug. 3, 2016, in Bernalillo County, N.M., after Carmona allegedly distributed approximately 67 grams of methamphetamine to undercover law enforcement agents. Thereafter, Arreola-Palma, Carmona and Gaspar Leal, 47, were indicted on Aug. 9, 2016, and charged with conspiring to distribute methamphetamine from July 21, 2016 through July 25, 2016. In addition, Carmona was charged with distributing methamphetamine on July 25, 2016 and Aug. 3, 2016, and using and carrying a firearm in relation to a drug trafficking crime on Aug. 3, 2016. According to the indictment, the defendants committed the offenses in Bernalillo County, N.M.
On July 28, 2017, Arreola-Palma pled guilty to an information charging him with conspiracy, and admitted that from July 21, 2016 through July 25, 2016, he conspired with others to distribute methamphetamine to another person. Carmona and Lael have entered not guilty pleas to the charges in the indictment. Both are detained pending trial.
Twenty of the defendants charged as the result of the ATF investigation have entered not guilty pleas to the charges against them. Charges in indictments are merely accusations, and defendants are presumed innocent unless found guilty in a court of law. Two defendants are fugitives and the charges against two defendants have been dismissed.
This case was investigated by the Albuquerque office of ATF and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Norman Cairns and Samuel A. Hurtado.
Anderson Man Pleads Guilty to Manufacturing Counterfeit Currency in Upstate ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Anderson, South Carolina---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated that Kenneth Bearden, age 49, of Anderson, South Carolina, entered a guilty plea in federal court in Anderson to Manufacturing Counterfeit Federal Reserve Notes, in violation of Title 18 U.S.C. § 471, and Conspiracy to Pass Counterfeit Federal Reserve Notes, in violation of Title 18 U.S.C. § 371. United States District Judge Timothy M. Cain, of Anderson, accepted the guilty plea and will impose the sentence after he has reviewed the presentence report, which will be prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.
Evidence presented at the change of plea hearing established that Kenneth Bearden learned how to manufacture counterfeit from Crystal Hudson, a co-defendant who previously pled guilty in the case. Bearden distributed counterfeit to other co-conspirators to pass and passed it himself around the Upstate.
Ms. Drake stated that the maximum penalty Bearden could receive is twenty years imprisonment and a fine of $250,000 dollars. The case was investigated by the United States Secret Service, Anderson County Sheriff’s Office, Anderson Police Department, Belton Police Department, Greenville County Sheriff’s Office, Easley Police Department, and South Carolina Department of Probation, Pardon, and Parole Services. Assistant United States Attorney Jamie Lea Schoen of the Greenville office prosecuted the case.
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American Sentenced to 20 Years for Joining ISISRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – An Alexandria man was sentenced today to 20 years in prison for providing material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS).
Mohamad Jamal Khweis, 28, was convicted by a federal jury on June 7. According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Khweis left the United States in mid-December 2015, and ultimately crossed into Syria through the Republic of Turkey in late December 2015. Before leaving, Khweis strategically planned his travel. Using a sophisticated scheme of tradecraft, Khweis purposefully traveled to other countries first before entering Turkey to conceal his final destination. During his travel to the Islamic State, he used numerous encrypted devices to conceal his activity, and downloaded several applications on his phone that featured secure messaging or anonymous web browsing. Khweis used these applications to communicate with ISIS facilitators to coordinate and secure his passage to the Islamic State.
“The evidence at trial demonstrated that Mohamad Khweis is an unpredictable and dangerous person who was radicalized towards violent jihad,” said Dana J. Boente, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia and Acting Assistant Attorney General for National Security Division. “This office, along with the National Security Division and our investigative partners, are committed to tracking down anyone who provides or attempts to provide material support to a terrorist organization.”
After arriving in Syria, Khweis stayed at a safe house with other ISIS recruits in Raqqa and filled out ISIS intake forms, which included his name, age, skills, specialty before jihad, and status as a fighter. When Khweis joined ISIS, he agreed to be a suicide bomber. In February 2017, the United States military recovered his intake form, along with an ISIS camp roster that included Khweis’ name with 19 other ISIS fighters.
“Today's sentencing of Mohamad Khweis demonstrates the relentless efforts of the FBI and our partners within the Joint Terrorism Task Force, whom work 24/7 to identify individuals who pose a risk or harm to U.S. persons or interests,” said Andrew W. Vale, Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI's Washington Field Office. “Khweis purposefully traveled overseas with the intent to join ISIS in support of the terrorist group's efforts to conduct operations and execute attacks to further their radical ideology. Khweis recognized that ISIS uses violence in its expansion of its caliphate and he committed to serving as a suicide bomber.”
During the trial, the evidence showed that Khweis spent 2 1/2 months as an ISIS member, traveled with ISIS fighters to multiple safe houses, participated in ISIS-directed religious training, attended ISIS lectures and constantly watched military videos with his fellow ISIS members for inspiration, frequently gave money to ISIS members, and was forward deployed to Tal Afar, Iraq, before he was captured. Kurdish Peshmerga military forces detained Khweis in March 2016. A Kurdish Peshmerga official testified at trial that he captured Khweis on the battlefield after Khweis left an ISIS-controlled neighborhood in Tal Afar.
On cross-examination, Khweis admitted he consistently lied to United States and Kurdish officials about his involvement with ISIS, and that he omitted telling United States officials about another American who had trained with ISIS to conduct an attack in the United States.
Dana J. Boente, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia and Acting Assistant Attorney General for National Security, and Andrew W. Vale, Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Washington Field Office, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Liam O’Grady. Assistant U.S. Attorney Dennis Fitzpatrick and Trial Attorney Raj Parekh of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case.
The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force provided assistance in this case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:16-cr-143.
American Sentenced to 20 Years for Joining ISISRead the Press Release
Mohamad Jamal Khweis, 28, of Alexandria, Virginia, was sentenced today to 20 years in prison for providing material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), a designated foreign terrorist organization.
Dana J. Boente, Acting Assistant Attorney General for National Security and U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Andrew W. Vale, Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Washington Field Office, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Liam O’Grady.
“The evidence at trial demonstrated that Mohamad Khweis is an unpredictable and dangerous person who was radicalized towards violent jihad,” said Mr. Boente. “This office, along with the National Security Division and our investigative partners, are committed to tracking down anyone who provides or attempts to provide material support to a terrorist organization.”
“Today's sentencing of Mohamad Khweis demonstrates the relentless efforts of the FBI and our partners within the Joint Terrorism Task Force, whom work 24/7 to identify individuals who pose a risk or harm to U.S. persons or interests,” said Mr. Vale. “Khweis purposefully traveled overseas with the intent to join ISIS in support of the terrorist group's efforts to conduct operations and execute attacks to further their radical ideology. Khweis recognized that ISIS uses violence in its expansion of its caliphate and he committed to serving as a suicide bomber.”
Khweis was convicted by a federal jury on June 7. According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Khweis left the United States in mid-December 2015, and ultimately crossed into Syria through the Republic of Turkey in late December 2015. Before leaving, Khweis strategically planned his travel. Using a sophisticated scheme of tradecraft, Khweis purposefully traveled to other countries first before entering Turkey to conceal his final destination. During his travel to the Islamic State, he used numerous encrypted devices to conceal his activity, and downloaded several applications on his phone that featured secure messaging or anonymous web browsing. Khweis used these applications to communicate with ISIS facilitators to coordinate and secure his passage to the Islamic State.
After arriving in Syria, Khweis stayed at a safe house with other ISIS recruits in Raqqa and filled out ISIS intake forms, which included his name, age, skills, specialty before jihad and status as a fighter. When Khweis joined ISIS, he agreed to be a suicide bomber. In February 2017, the U.S. military recovered his intake form, along with an ISIS camp roster that included Khweis’ name with 19 other ISIS fighters.
During the trial, the evidence showed that Khweis spent two and a half months as an ISIS member, traveled with ISIS fighters to multiple safe houses, participated in ISIS-directed religious training, attended ISIS lectures, constantly watched military videos with his fellow ISIS members for inspiration, frequently gave money to ISIS members and was forward deployed to Tal Afar, Iraq, before he was captured. Kurdish Peshmerga military forces detained Khweis in March 2016. A Kurdish Peshmerga official testified at trial that he captured Khweis on the battlefield after Khweis left an ISIS-controlled neighborhood in Tal Afar.
On cross-examination, Khweis admitted he consistently lied to United States and Kurdish officials about his involvement with ISIS, and that he omitted telling U.S. officials about another American who had trained with ISIS to conduct an attack in the United States.
Trial Attorney Raj Parekh of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Dennis Fitzpatrick of the Eastern District of Virginia are prosecuting the case. The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force provided assistance in this case.
Alexandria Man Sentenced for $2.3 Million Investment FraudRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – An Alexandria man was sentenced today to three years in prison for running multiple scams that defrauded investors of over $2.3 million.
According to court documents, Gregg Seitz, 50, recruited investors to invest in a purported real estate opportunities. Investors were told that Seitz and others were involved in purchasing, renovating and reselling distressed real estate for pennies on the dollar, and that the investors’ money would be used to help purchase and “flip” the real estate. Seitz claimed to have experience with large real estate deals and to be earning large returns on his own money from these investments. Later, Seitz found additional investors, who asked to loan money to finance a purported software company, which investors were falsely told had a lucrative contract with U.S. Department of Homeland Security. In fact, there were no real estate deals and there was no lucrative contract with the Department of Homeland Security. Rather, Seitz used new investor money to pay back old investors and finance his own lifestyle. For example, Seitz spent some of the money on luxury cars, mortgage payments on a townhouse in Alexandria, a wine business, travel to Mexico, Italy and the Caribbean, and purchases from high-end retailers. The total loss to investors was over $2.3 million.
In addition to his prison sentence, Seitz was also ordered to forfeit $2.3 million and pay $2.3 million in restitution to his victims.
Dana J. Boente, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Andrew W. Vale, Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Washington Field Office, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Claude M. Hilton. Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine L. Wong prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:16-cr-98.
26 October 2017
Woman Sentenced to Prison for Stealing Identity of Registered NurseRead the Press Release
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – A Windsor woman was sentenced today to nine years in prison for bank fraud and aggravated identity theft offenses.
Amanda Porter-Eley, 37, pleaded guilty on July 13. According to court documents, beginning in 2012, Porter-Eley used social security numbers assigned to others to open bank accounts through which she negotiated worthless checks and thereby fraudulently obtained nearly $50,000. Beginning in September 2015, Porter-Eley totally assumed the identity of A.F.P., a registered nurse then residing in New York state. Porter-Eley used A.F.P.’s Virginia registered nursing license to obtain employment as a nursing supervisor, a position she held for nearly six months despite lacking the requisite training and qualifications. In the weeks before she was fired from this position, Porter-Eley began using A.F.P.’s personal identifying information to obtain bank, credit, retail, loan, and mortgage accounts. In total, Porter-Eley opened and attempted to open more than three dozen accounts with over 15 financial institutions and retailers operating in Hampton Roads. Through these accounts, Porter-Eley attempted to obtain more than $450,000 in cash, credit, goods, and services, including at least three vehicles and one residential property. Porter-Eley’s use of A.F.P.’s identity continued until her arrest in September 2016 and caused losses to banks and retailers in excess of $120,000.
Dana J. Boente, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, Robert B. Wemyss, Inspector in Charge of the Washington Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and Terry L. Sult, Chief of Hampton Police Division, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Raymond A. Jackson. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kaitlin C. Gratton prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:16-cr-89.
Whippoorwill and Pinon Duo Sentenced to Lengthy Prison Terms for Assault, Carjacking, and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
PHOENIX– This week, Victoria Lynn Buckinghorse, 25, of Whippoorwill, Ariz., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge John J. Tuchi to 198 months’ imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release. Buckinghorse had previously pleaded guilty to discharging a firearm during a crime of violence and carjacking. Additionally, Avram Cook, 30, of Pinon, Ariz., was sentenced to 130 months’ imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, after previously pleading guilty to brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence and assault with a dangerous weapon.
On March 16, 2015, Buckinghorse and Cook assaulted the victim with a shotgun, resulting in the victim’s two fingers being amputated.
On March 29, 2015, Buckinghorse and an unknown male pointed a shotgun at the victim and threatened to shoot her.
On April 15, 2015, Buckinghorse and Cook blocked a road with their vehicle while Cook brandished and pointed a firearm at a family traveling to a family event. As the family was leaving, shots were fired at the vehicle.
Buckinghorse and Cook are enrolled members of the Navajo Nation, as well as the victims.
The investigation in this case was conducted by Navajo Nation Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution was handled by Kiyoko Patterson, Assistant U.S. Attorney, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: CR-15-8206-PCT-JJT; CR-15-8237-PCT-JJT; CR-15-8065-PCT-JJT
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-106_ Buckinghorse_Cook
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For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.
Wanblee Man Sentenced for Possession with Intent to Distribute MarijuanaRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Wanblee, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession with Intent to Distribute Marijuana was sentenced on October 24, 2017, by Chief Judge, Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Keith Lyle Brown, age 36, was sentenced to 36 months in custody, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Brown was indicted for Distribution of a Controlled Substance to Person Under Age 21 and Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on March 21, 2017. He pled guilty to Count II on June 23, 2017.
On November 4, 2016, Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle operated by Brown. Inside the vehicle, law enforcement found marijuana and marijuana based products designed for consumption, which Brown possessed and intended to distribute. At sentencing, the Court found Brown had distributed to juveniles and increased his sentence.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs Office of Justice Services – Division of Drug Enforcement, and Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case.
Brown was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Veterans Administration Employees Plead Guilty to Conspiring to Steal and Sell Prescription DrugsRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—Cody Hiland, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, James W. Werner, Special Agent in Charge of the South Central Field Office of the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of the Inspector General (VAOIG), and Anthony Lemons, Acting Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the Little Rock District Office of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), announced today that Nikita Neal, 43, of Little Rock, a former student trainee at the VA John L. McClellan Memorial Hospital in Little Rock, pleaded guilty to conspiring to steal and distribute the prescription opioid oxycodone. Neal’s co-conspirators, pharmacy technicians Alisha Pagan, 34, of Mabelvale, and Satishkumar “Steve” Patel, 45, of North Little Rock, pleaded guilty to the same charge in August and September, respectively.
United States District Judge J. Leon Holmes accepted Neal’s plea on Thursday. A superseding indictment, returned by a federal grand jury in February 2017, charged the trio with eight counts stemming from a scheme in which the three ordered oxycodone, hydrocodone, Viagra, Cialis, and promethazine syrup with codeine and then diverted the controlled substances from the VA for street distribution.
This investigation began in June 2016, when VAOIG received a report that large amounts of unaccounted-for prescription medications were charged to VA accounts. Patel, a pharmacy technician, used his VA access to a medical supplier’s web portal to order and divert 4,000 oxycodone pills, 3,300 hydrocodone pills, 308 ounces of promethazine with codeine syrup, and more than 14,000 Viagra and Cialis pills, at a cost to the VA of approximately $77,700 dollars, with a street value of more than $160,000. Patel then falsified payment invoices to avoid detection.
During the course of the investigation, which included controlled deliveries of oxycodone at the direction of law enforcement, VAOIG and DEA determined that Patel was distributing the medications to Pagan, also a pharmacy technician, who in turn distributed a portion of the drugs to Neal.
Once Patel ordered the narcotics, he communicated with Pagan via text message to arrange transfer of the drugs to Pagan. After obtaining the drugs, Pagan then delivered the drugs to others, including Neal. Neal in turn passed on the drugs to a street-level distributor.
Pagan pleaded guilty on August 2, 2017, and Patel pleaded guilty on September 28, 2017. All three will be sentenced by Judge Holmes at a later date.
Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute oxycodone is punishable by up to 20 years’ imprisonment, with a possible fine of up to $1,000,000, and not less than three years of supervised release.
The case against Patel, Pagan, and Neal was investigated by the VAOIG and DEA, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Hunter Bridges.
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University City Man Sentenced on Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
St. Louis, MO – Justin X. Carroll, was sentenced today to 54 months in prison for viewing 15 child porn videos and more than 600 images of children engaged in sex acts.
According to court documents, federal investigators discovered a group of child pornography sharers and were able to identify Carroll as one of the participants by tracing IP addresses to computers at his residence and Washington University, where Carroll served as Associate Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs. Washington University has cooperated with the investigation.
Carroll, 67, of University City, pled guilty on July 31, 2017, to one felony count of access with intent to view child pornography.
This case was investigated U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). Assistant United States Attorney Rob Livergood is handling the case for the U.S. Attorney's Office.
U.S. Attorney’s Office urges public to participate in Drug Take-Back driveRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, LAFAYETTE, MONROE, ALEXANDRIA, LAKE CHARLES, La. – Acting U.S. Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook urges the public to discard unused prescription drugs this weekend at area collection sites during Drug Take-Back Day.
On Saturday, October 28, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. the Drug Enforcement Administration and local law enforcement agencies across the Western District of Louisiana will give the public its 14th opportunity in seven years to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs. The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked.
Last April, Americans turned in 450 tons (900,000 pounds) of prescription drugs at almost 5,500 sites operated by the DEA and more than 4,200 of its state and local law enforcement partners. Overall, in its 13 previous Take-Back events, DEA and its partners have taken in more than 8.1 million pounds—more than 4,050 tons—of pills.
This initiative addresses a vital public safety and public health issue. Medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse and abuse. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the United States are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses because of these drugs. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. In addition, Americans are now advised that their usual methods for disposing of unused medicines—flushing them down the toilet or throwing them in the trash—both pose potential safety and health hazards.
The DEA will have collection sites across the country on Saturday, October 28, for those who are interested in bringing their unused or expired prescription drugs for proper disposal. Only pills and other solids, like patches, can be brought to the collection sites – liquids and needles or other sharp objects will not be accepted. The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked.
Prescription drugs can be dropped off from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., October 28, at:
Shreveport
- Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office, Sheriff’s Safety Town in the parking lot of Summer Grove Baptist Church, 8910 Jewella Ave.
Bossier City
- Louisiana State Police Troop G office, 5300 Industrial Drive
Monroe
- Louisiana State Police Troop F office, 1240 Highway 594
- Brookshire’s Food & Pharmacy, 1801 North 18th St.
- Brookshire’s Food & Pharmacy, 4070 Highway 165
- Super One, 2810 Louisville Ave.
Alexandria
- Louisiana State Police Troop E office, 1710 Odom St.
- Alexandria Police Department, 1000 Bolton Ave.
Lafayette
- Louisiana State Police Troop I office, 121 E. Pont Des Mouton Road
- Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office, 1825 W. Willow Street
Broussard
- Broussard Police Department at Walgreen’s parking lot, 105 St. Nazaire St.
Lake Charles
- Lake Charles Police Department at 900 Lake Short Drive (Civic Center)
- Louisiana State Police Troop D office, 805 Main St.
Morgan City
- Walgreens, 815 Brashear Ave.
- Walmart Neighborhood Market parking lot, 1002 La.-70
- Walmart Super Center, 973 Highway 90-East
The public can also find other nearby collection sites by visiting the DEA Diversion website or call 800-882-9539.
U.s. Attorney’s Office and DEA Announce National Prescription Drug Take Back Day Collection SitesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia and the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Charleston Regional Office announced today the location of collection sites for the Drug Enforcement Administration’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. The event provides safe venues for West Virginians to responsibly dispose of prescription drugs. National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is on Saturday, October 28, 2017, from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. Anyone can properly dispose of prescription medication by visiting one of several conveniently located collection sites throughout West Virginia.
“People often ask what they can do to help the fight against the opioid epidemic, and Prescription Drug Take Back Day provides one of the most effective ways to keep dangerous opiate painkillers off the streets,” stated United States Attorney Carol Casto. “Take the time to become part of the solution - go through your medicine cabinets or wherever your prescriptions are kept and use this program to safely dispose of unused and expired medication. A few minutes taking part in this initiative can make a significant difference in cutting off the supply of opioids and combating the drug crisis.”
“The National Take Back Day is an opportunity for the community to empty their medicine cabinets of unwanted or unused medications,” stated Assistant Special Agent in Charge David Gourley of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Charleston District Office. “We are seeing a lot of medication being diverted from legitimate use to illicit use. This is one of the reasons that is driving the drug problems we see today.”
Nearby collection sites can be found by visiting www.dea.gov, clicking on the “Take-Back Site Locations” icon, and searching by zip code, county, city, and state. Another option for locating collection sites is to call 800-882-9539. West Virginians have the option of visiting nearly 100 sites throughout the state to dispose of prescription drugs. Only pills and other solids, such as patches, can be brought to collection sites – liquids, needles, or other sharps will not be accepted.
Two Superseding Indictments Charge Six in Lawrence Federal Drug Sweep with Additional OffensesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – Six defendants involved in a May 2017 federal drug sweep in Lawrence were charged yesterday in federal court in Boston with additional drug and firearms offenses.
The individuals were arrested in May 2017 along with approximately 25 co-defendants. After a year-long investigation aimed at attacking the fentanyl and heroin crisis in Lawrence and surrounding areas, more than 200 federal, state and local law enforcement officers conducted a drug sweep to dismantle two Lawrence-based drug trafficking organizations; one allegedly run by Juan Anibal Patrone, and another allegedly led by Santo Ramon Gonzalez-Nival, who was also a source of supply for Patrone. The separate superseding indictments pertain to the two drug trafficking organizations.
Two members of the Patrone organization were charged with additional offenses. Juan Anibal Patrone, 27, and Josuel Moises Patrone Gonzalez, 22, both dual Dominican and Italian citizens, were each charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin, cocaine, and 400 grams or greater of fentanyl. Juan Anibal Patrone was also charged with one count of being an alien in possession of a firearm. During a search of Juan Anibal Patrone’s home, agents found a 10mm Auto-Ordnance Corp, loaded with a magazine containing six 10mm rounds of ammunition.
Four members of the Gonzalez-Nival organization were charged with additional offenses. Ramon Gonzalez Nival, 40, and Julio Baez Gonzalez, 34, both Dominican nationals, were each charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin, cocaine, and 400 grams or greater of fentanyl. Baez Gonzalez, who was previously charged with being an alien in possession of a firearm, is charged with an additional count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. Bernaldo Rosario Santiago, 25, of Lowell, and Diosmary Burgos, 39, a Dominican national, were each charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin, cocaine, and 40 grams or greater of fentanyl.
The charge of conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or greater of fentanyl provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to life in prison, a minimum of five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release, and a fine of up to $20 million. The charge of conspiracy to distribute 40 grams or greater of fentanyl provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and up to 40 years in prison, a minimum of four years and up to a lifetime of supervised release, and a fine of $5 million. The charge of being an alien in possession of a firearm provides for a sentence of no greater than 10 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of using a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime provides for a minimum sentence of five years in prison to be served consecutive to any sentence imposed for additional charges.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb; Michal J. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Division; and Matthew J. Etre, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston, made the announcement today. The DEA Cross Border Initiative comprised of the DEA and the Andover, Haverhill, Lawrence, Lowell, and Wilmington Police Departments, conducted the investigation jointly with the Massachusetts State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Susan Winkler of Weinreb’s Narcotics and Money Laundering Unit is prosecuting the cases.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Two Men Admit Roles in Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
TRENTON, N.J. – Two men today admitted their respective roles in an international drug trafficking organization, Acting U.S. Attorney William E. Fitzpatrick announced.
Wilson Madrid, 31, of Norcross, Georgia, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Peter G. Sheridan in Trenton federal court to an information charging him with conspiracy to launder money. Dany Francisco-Valerio, 44, of Bronx, New York, pleaded guilty before Judge Sheridan to an information charging him with conspiracy to distribute heroin.
According to documents filed in these and other cases and statements made in court:
From June 2014 through November 2014, Madrid conspired with other members of an international drug trafficking organization, with cells operating in New Jersey, to launder more than $150,000 related to the distribution of heroin. In December 2014, Francisco-Valerio conspired with members of the drug trafficking organization to transport and distribute kilogram quantities of heroin. On Dec. 24, 2014, he was arrested while transporting 15 kilograms of heroin contained in a hidden compartment in his vehicle.
One of their conspirators, Henry Zamora, pleaded guilty before Judge Sheridan on Aug. 31, 2017, to conspiring to distribute four kilograms of heroin that were recovered from a hidden compartment in Zamora’s vehicle. Another conspirator, Harry Madrid, pleaded guilty before Judge Sheridan on Sept. 7, 2017, to conspiring to launder more than $150,000 on behalf of the drug trafficking organization.
The money laundering charge to which Madrid pleaded guilty carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $500,000 fine. Sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 30, 2018.
The narcotics charge to which Francisco-Valerio pleaded guilty carries a maximum penalty of life in prison and a $10 million fine. Sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 31, 2018.
Acting U.S. Attorney Fitzpatrick credited the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) New Jersey Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Carl J. Kotowski, officers of the N.J. State Police, under the direction of Superintendent Col. Joseph R. Fuentes, and officers from the DeKalb (Illinois) Police Department, under the direction of Chief Gene Lowrey, with the investigation leading to today’s guilty pleas.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas S. Kearney and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jamari Buxton of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Organized Crime/Gangs Unit in Newark.
Defense counsel:
Madrid: Mark Davis Esq., Hamilton, New Jersey
Francisco-Valerio John D. Lynch Esq., Jersey City, New Jersey
Two Cleveland residents sentenced to prison after stealing identities to defraud bank out of $76,000Read the Press Release
Two Cleveland residents were sentenced to prison for defrauding a bank out of at least $76,000 by using fake identities, said U.S. Attorney Justin E. Herdman.
Delon Roberson, 26, was sentenced to nearly four years in prison while Shameka Roberson, 27, was sentenced to more than three years in prison. Both were ordered to pay $765,399 in restitution to Key Bank.
Both were previously found guilty of one count of bank fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft.
Delon Roberson used the social media site Facebook to recruit numerous local individuals to open accounts or turn over their bank ATM or debit cards and PINs. Delon Roberson and Shameka Roberson then caused the deposit of at least 138 fraudulent checks totaling more than $159,000 into the bank accounts of the recruited individuals. Approximately $76,399 was later withdrawn from the accounts through ATM transactions and debit card purchases between May 2015 and April 2016, according to court documents.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert W. Kern and Megan R. Miller following and investigation by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Financial Fraud and Identity Theft Task Force. This case specifically involved the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Department, the Cleveland Heights Police Department and the Cleveland Division of Police.
Texas man pleads guilty to heroin distributionRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – Acting U.S. Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that a man from Texas pleaded guilty Tuesday to drug distribution charges after heroin was found in his car battery.
Jose Alonzo Hernandez, 42, of Brownsville, Texas, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Elizabeth E. Foote to one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin. According to the guilty plea, a state trooper conducted a traffic stop on Hernandez’s car March 16, 2017 on Interstate 20 in Bossier Parish. The trooper conducted a search of the vehicle and found approximately 3.35 kilograms of heroin hidden inside the car’s battery.
Hernandez faces 10 years to life in prison, five years to life of supervised release and a $10 million fine. The court set a February 23, 2018 sentencing date.
The DEA and Louisiana State Police conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tiffany E. Fields is prosecuting the case.
Streetsboro man indicted for child pornography violationsRead the Press Release
Lawrence Michael Lynde, 49, of Streetsboro, was indicted on charges of with receiving and distributing visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct and possessing child pornography, said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman.
The conduct took place between October 2014 and December 2015, according to the indictment.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant's role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and, in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brian McDonough and Danielle Angeli following an investigation by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government's burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
South Bend Man Charged with Drug CrimesRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – The United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana, Thomas L. Kirsch II, announced that Lawrence Holley, age 45, of South Bend, Indiana was charged with possession with intent to deliver methamphetamine; possession with intent to deliver heroin; possession with intent to deliver cocaine; felon in possession of a firearm; and armed drug trafficking.
The affidavit supporting the complaint alleges that investigators obtained and executed a search warrant for a house in St. Joseph County. During that search, agents located narcotics and ammunition. In October, agents observed Lawrence Holley driving a pickup truck. Holley had outstanding warrants, so police stopped the truck. Inside the truck agents found approximately 2 pounds of crystal methamphetamine (“ice”), quantities of heroin, cocaine, and marijuana, and a loaded handgun. Mr. Holley was also searched, and agents recovered additional quantities of a crystal substance that tested positive for methamphetamine.
Holley’s detention hearing is scheduled for Friday, October 27, 2017, at 2:00 pm before the United States Magistrate Judge for the South Bend Division.
The United States Attorney’s office emphasizes that a Complaint is merely an allegation and that all persons are presumed innocent until, and unless proven guilty in court.
If convicted, any specific sentence to be imposed will be determined by the judge after a consideration of federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
This complaint results from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Elkhart Police; the Indiana State Police; the Mishawaka Police; the South Bend Police; the St. Joseph County Police and the St. Joseph County Drug Investigations Unit. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joel Gabrielse.
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Sioux City AUSA Returns from Year in AfghanistanRead the Press Release
A federal prosecutor who spent a year in Afghanistan as the Justice Attaché and a Special Deputy United States Marshal returned to his duties today as an Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) in Sioux City, Iowa.
AUSA Forde Fairchild, was detailed from the Northern District of Iowa to the Office of the Deputy Attorney General, then deployed forward as the Justice Attaché for Afghanistan. Fairchild is the second prosecutor from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Iowa to serve in Afghanistan since the beginning of Operation Resolute Support, a 2015 U.S. led NATO mission, which began after transitioning from the International Security Assistance Force, which was created in accordance with the Bonn Conference in December 2001 shortly after the fall of the Taliban. Major General Patrick Reinert, U.S. Army Reserve, also a federal prosecutor from the Northern District of Iowa, served, in uniform from May of 2013, through October of 2014, as the commander of the Rule of Law Field Force and Combined Joint Interagency Task Force 435.
United States Attorney Peter E. Deegan, Jr. stated, “The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Iowa is very proud of Forde.” Deegan added, “Forde made tremendous sacrifices in supporting law enforcement efforts in a dangerous and troubled part of the world. His dedication to justice is clear from his work in Afghanistan and his outstanding work as an AUSA prosecuting some of the most dangerous and violent criminals in Iowa.”
The Office of the Justice Attaché at the United States Embassy in Kabul is the United States Attorney General's representative in Afghanistan. It coordinates all U.S. civilian law enforcement efforts in Afghanistan with DOJ components in the United States, and aids in the investigation of crimes being considered for extraterritorial prosecution in the United States. It also serves as a close partner of the U.S. interagency community including the U.S. Armed Forces, Afghanistan and U.S. Departments of State, and is part of the U.S. Embassy’s Country Team and its Small Group Leadership team. The Office of Justice Attaché’s efforts are designed to aid the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in its efforts to build its capacity to aggressively investigate and prosecute terrorism, narcotics, corruption, and other major criminal offenses in a transparent, just, and timely manner consistent with its laws and consistent with international standards of justice.
Fairchild's work as the leader of the Office of the Justice Attache regularly took him outside the relative safety of the International Zone. Careful security preparations were necessary for each of these trips, but by getting out into the field, Fairchild forged strong partnerships with Afghan law enforcement professionals, including the Attorney General of Afghanistan. These strong partnerships were critical in assisting the Afghans in their counter-insurgency law enforcement efforts. Fairchild’s efforts in this regard included working closely with the Afghan Chief Justice, Sayed Yousuf Halim. Fairchild built close ties with the U.S.'s international partners including the United Nations, NATO, and the governments of Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom, among others.
Shillington, PA Man Receives 42 Months Prison for Mail FraudRead the Press Release
Mark Vega, 35, of Shillington, Pennsylvania was sentenced today to 42 months in prison for Mail Fraud, submitting false claims to the United States, and Aggravated Identity Theft, announced Acting United States Attorney Louis D. Lappen. According to the indictment, Vega obtained stolen identities and used the names, dates of birth, and social security numbers of these victims to apply for credit cards. According to the indictment, Vega also had himself added as an authorized user on these credit card accounts. Vega also used stolen identities to file false tax returns claiming refunds in the names of those stolen identities.
In addition to the term of imprisonment, United States District Judge Edward G. Smith sentenced Vega to three years of supervised release and ordered him to pay $162,261.13 in restitution.
The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation Division, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Cumru Township Police Department and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David J. Ignall
Sentencings for October 25 & 26, 2017Read the Press Release
Bill Frank Blanchard, 53, of Escondido, California, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on October 26, 2017, for manufacturing counterfeit obligations. Blanchard was arrested in Laramie, Wyoming. He received 37 months of imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay $80.00 in restitution and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the U.S. Secret Service.
Mario Thomas Escajeda, 48, of Littleton, Colorado, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on October 25, 2017, for conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine. Escajeda was arrested in Colorado. He received 70 months of imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Cheyenne Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Scranton Woman Sentenced for Role in Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that on October 24, 2017, United States District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion sentenced Magdalena Alvarez, age 55, of Scranton, Pennsylvania, to six months home confinement for her role in a drug conspiracy.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brander, Alvarez pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute approximately 30 grams of heroin and 30 grams of cocaine throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania between February and April 2016. This amount of drugs equates to approximately 1,200 personal doses of heroin.
Alvarez was indicted by a grand jury on October 25, 2016, and pleaded guilty pursuant to a plea agreement on January 24, 2017.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pennsylvania State Police, and the Scranton and Wilkes-Barre Police Departments conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Evan Gotlob and Sean Camoni prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses.
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Scranton Man Sentenced to over 12 Years’ Imprisonment for Role in Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that on October 25, 2017, United States District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion sentenced Louis Bracey, age 41, of Scranton, Pennsylvania, to 151 months’ imprisonment for his role in a drug conspiracy.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brander, Bracey pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute heroin and crack cocaine throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania between February and April of 2016.
Bracey was indicted by a grand jury on October 25, 2016, and pleaded guilty pursuant to a plea agreement on January 10, 2017.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Scranton and Wilkes-Barre Police Departments conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Evan Gotlob and Sean Camoni prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses.
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Scranton Man Charged with Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Dickson Gutierrez, age 41, of Scranton, Pennsylvania, was indicted on October 24, 2017, by a federal grand jury for cocaine trafficking offenses.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment charges Gutierrez with two counts of distributing cocaine on August 18 and 25, 2017, and one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine on August 31, 2017.
The government is also seeking forfeiture of approximately $10,275 in cash.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Scranton Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. O’Hara is prosecuting the case.
Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law is up to 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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Saturday’s Prescription Drug Take-Back Good Way to Fight Public Health Emergency of Opioid AbuseRead the Press Release
BIRMINGHAM –Today’s declaration by President Donald Trump that America’s opioid crisis is a public health emergency underscores the importance of the DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day on Saturday, said U.S. Attorney Jay E. Town.
The Drug Enforcement Administration’s biannual event offers the public a convenient, anonymous way to properly dispose of potentially dangerous expired, unused or unwanted prescription drugs, thereby preventing their misuse and protecting the environment from contamination that can result from flushing drugs down the toilet or throwing them in the trash.
“The number of individuals whose path to addiction began with prescription pills is staggering,” Town said. “Today, the president formally recognized what he and so many others have known for too long…that this country’s abuse and addiction to opioids is a public health emergency. This is evidenced by the sad reality that nearly 100 people in America die every day from opioid overdose. The easiest and most effective thing we all can do to protect our loved ones from prescription drug abuse, opioid addiction, and even potential progression to heroin use, is to clean out our medicine cabinets and drop those drugs off for proper disposal,” he said.
“Last April, Alabamians turned in more 6,200 pounds of prescription drugs at more than 70 sites operated by the DEA and our state and local law enforcement partners,” said DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge Bret Hamilton. “We hope that this Take-Back will be just as successful and will help rid our community of these deadly drugs.”
The Take-Back will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at thousands of collection sites across the country, including more than 30 in the Northern District of Alabama. To locate a collection site near you, go to the DEA Prescription Drug Take-Back Day website at https://takebackday.dea.gov/#collection-locator where you can search by zip code, city or state.
The site lists eight drop-off locations in the Birmingham area, including the Hoover and Vestavia Hills police departments, Fultondale Fire Station No. 2, Greystone YMCA, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department at 2651 Center Point Road, Bessemer Police Department Emergency Operations Center at 651 9th Ave. SW, and the Alabama Board of Pharmacy at 111 Village St.
Huntsville-area locations include the Fox Army Health Center and the Army Air Force Exchange Service's Mail Post Exchange Building.
If this weekend is not convenient, there also are permanent, secure prescription drop-off sites in the metro Birmingham area. Locations include 24-hour Walgreens Pharmacies in Hoover, Roebuck and Bessemer, and some police and fire departments. To find a location near you, follow this link: http://www.rxdropbox.com/.
On the DEA’s Take-Back Day in April, Americans turned in 450 tons (900,000 pounds) of prescription drugs at almost 5,500 sites operated by the DEA and more than 4,200 of its state and local law enforcement partners. Overall, in its 13 previous Take Back events, DEA and its partners have taken in more than 8.1 million pounds – more than 4,050 tons – of pills. DEA cannot accept liquids, needles, or sharps, only pills or patches. The disposal service is free and anonymous, no questions asked.
Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 91 Americans die each day from an opioid overdose. Some painkiller abusers move on to heroin: four out of five new heroin users started with painkillers.
The Take-Back initiative addresses the public safety and public health issues that surround medications languishing in home cabinets, becoming highly susceptible to diversion, misuse and abuse.
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Sacramento Couple Indicted for Naturalization Fraud and Other Crimes Related to Fraudulent Use of U.S. Citizen’s IdentityRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a nine-count indictment today against Gustavo Araujo Lerma, 62, and his wife Maria Eva Velez, 64, both of Sacramento, United States Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced. Araujo is charged with aggravated identity theft, passport fraud, conspiracy to commit unlawful procurement of naturalization and citizenship, and five counts of voting by an alien. Velez is charged with conspiring to commit unlawful procurement of citizenship and unlawful procurement of citizenship.
According to court documents, Araujo committed passport fraud by applying for U.S. passports in the assumed identity of “Hiram Enrique Velez,” a now deceased U.S. citizen whose identity Araujo fraudulently used for over 25 years. Araujo allegedly used the false identity to commit various other offenses, including conspiring to obtain legal permanent resident status and ultimately U.S. citizenship for Velez, his wife. Although he and Velez had previously married in Mexico, they married again in Los Angeles in 1992 using Araujo’s fraudulent U.S. citizen identity, which allowed Velez to illegally obtain status as the purported wife of a U.S. citizen. Araujo also committed illegal alien voting by using the identity of Hiram Velez in numerous federal, state and local elections, including the five charged in the indictment. Araujo’s false representations concerning his citizenship in connection with his voting activity forms the basis for the aggravated identity theft count alleged in the indictment.
This case was the product of an investigation by the U.S. Department of State, Diplomatic Security Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine T. Lydon is prosecuting the case.
Araujo's initial appearance on a criminal complaint was on October 16, 2017, and he will be arraigned on the indictment on October 30 2017.
If convicted, Araujo faces a maximum statutory penalty of fifteen years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Velez faces a maximum statutory penalty of ten years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Rootstown man charged with child pornography violationsRead the Press Release
Christopher T. Fowler, 47, of Rootstown Township, was charged with receiving, distributing and possessing visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct, said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman and FBI Special Agent in Charge Stephen D. Anthony.
Fowler knowingly received and distributed numerous computer files which contained visual depictions of real minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. This took place between June and December 2016, according to the indictment
Fowler also possessed three micro-SD cards, each of which contained child pornography, according to the indictment.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant's role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael A. Sullivan.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.