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Thursday 10 August 2017
Scranton Man Indicted on Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
SCRANTON- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Jeffrey John Olson, age 56, of Scranton, Pennsylvania, was indicted on August 8, 2017, by a federal grand jury for wire fraud and bank fraud.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that between August 2016 and April 2017, Olson devised a fraudulent scheme to obtain money from an individual who believed he was investing in an auto parts business. The money provided to Olson, however, was used for Olson’ personal expenses. The indictment further alleges that Olson provided the victim with a fraudulent cashier’s check drawn on JP Morgan Chase Bank, resulting in a risk of loss to the financial institution of $200,000.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenny P. Roberts.
Indictments 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 total maximum penalty under federal law for these offenses is 50 years of 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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San Juan County Man Sentenced for Federal Methamphetamine Trafficking ConvictionRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Kirk Castor, 37, of Kirtland, N.M., was sentenced today in federal court in Albuquerque, N.M., to 37 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for his conviction on a methamphetamine trafficking charge.
Castor was one of eight San Juan County residents charged with federal narcotics trafficking offenses as the result of a multi-agency investigation led by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the HIDTA Region II Narcotics Task Force into methamphetamine trafficking on the Navajo Indian Reservation in northwestern New Mexico. The investigation was designated as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program, which combines the resources and unique expertise of federal agencies, along with their local counterparts, in a coordinated effort to disrupt and dismantle major drug trafficking organizations.
The investigation leading to the federal charges was initiated in response to an increase in methamphetamine trafficking on the Navajo Indian Reservation in the Shiprock area. The investigation identified eight defendants, who are charged in five indictments, through a series of methamphetamine purchases by undercover law enforcement officers. Law enforcement authorities seized more than two and a half pounds of methamphetamine, ten firearms, approximately $1,600 in cash and a vehicle during an arrest operation on May 11, 2016.
Castor was arrested on an indictment charging him with distributing methamphetamine on April 1, 2015 and April 3, 2015, in San Juan County, N.M. On Oct. 14, 2016, Castor pled guilty to the indictment and admitted that on April 1, 2015, he sold .7 grams of methamphetamine to an undercover officer, and on April 3, 2015, he sold 42 grams of methamphetamine to an undercover officer.
Six of the other seven defendants have entered guilty pleas and have been sentenced. The remaining defendant has entered a not guilty plea and is awaiting trial. Charges in indictments and complaints are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent unless convicted in a court of law.
These cases were investigated by HSI’s Albuquerque office and the HIDTA Region II Narcotics Task Force with assistance from the Farmington office of the FBI, U.S. Marshals Service, and BIA’s Division of Drug Enforcement, Shiprock office of the Navajo Nation Division of Public Safety, New Mexico State Police, San Juan County Sheriff’s Office, Farmington Police Department, and New Mexico National Guard. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elaine Y. Ramirez is prosecuting the cases.
The HIDTA Region II Narcotics Task Force is comprised of officers and investigators from the Farmington Police Department, San Juan County Sheriff’s Office, Bloomfield Police Department, Aztec Police Department and HSI Albuquerque, and is part of the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) program was created by Congress with the Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1988. HIDTA is a program of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) which provides assistance to federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies operating in areas determined to be critical drug-trafficking regions of the United States and seeks to reduce drug trafficking and production by facilitating coordinated law enforcement activities and information sharing.
Registered Nurse Who Owned Two Houston Home Health Companies Convicted in $20 Million Medicare Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
A federal jury today convicted a registered nurse who was the owner of two home health companies in Houston for her role in a $20 million Medicare fraud scheme involving fraudulent claims for home health services.
Acting Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Blanco of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Acting U.S. Attorney Abe Martinez of the Southern District of Texas, Special Agent in Charge Perrye K. Turner of the FBI’s Houston Field Office and Special Agent in Charge C.J. Porter of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services-Office of Inspector General’s (HHS-OIG) Dallas Region made the announcement.
After a four-day trial, Evelyn Mokwuah, 52, of Pearland, Texas, was convicted of one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud and four counts of health care fraud for her conduct at Beechwood Home Health (Beechwood) and Criseven Health Management Corporation (Criseven). Sentencing has been scheduled for October 6, before U.S. District Judge Gray H. Miller of the Southern District of Texas, who presided over the trial.
According to evidence presented at trial, from 2008 to 2016, Mokwuah and others engaged in a scheme to defraud Medicare of approximately $20 million in fraudulent claims for home health services at Beechwood and Criseven that were not provided or not medically necessary. According to the trial evidence, Mokwuah billed for patients who were not homebound or did not qualify for home health services; Mokwuah and others falsified patient records to show patients were homebound when they were not; Mokwuah paid patient recruiters to recruit Medicare beneficiaries to Beechwood and Criseven; and Mokwuah paid doctors to sign off on falsified plans of care for the recruited beneficiaries so that Beechwood and Criseven could bill Medicare for those services.
Co-defendant Amara Oparanozie, 47, of Richmond, Texas, pleaded guilty on May 24, to conspiring with Mokwuah and others to commit health care fraud and is awaiting sentencing.
The case was investigated by the FBI and HHS-OIG, and was brought as part of the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, under the supervision of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas. The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorneys Scott Armstrong and Kevin Lowell of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section.
The Fraud Section leads the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, which is part of a joint initiative between the department and HHS to focus their efforts to prevent and deter fraud and enforce current anti-fraud laws around the country. The Medicare Fraud Strike Force operates in nine locations nationwide. Since its inception in March 2007, the Medicare Fraud Strike Force has charged over 3,500 defendants who collectively have falsely billed the Medicare program for over $12.5 billion.
Port Charlotte Man Sentenced to 30 Years for Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Fort Myers, Florida – U.S. District Judge Sheri Polster Chappell has sentenced Brian Author Thomas (27, Port Charlotte) to 30 years in federal prison for production of child pornography. The Court also ordered him to forfeit his laptop computer and cellphone, which were used to commit the offense.
Thomas was found guilty on February 23, 2017.
According to court documents, FBI agents were able to download approximately 14 images and 2 videos depicting child pornography from Thomas’s computer between January 18, 2016, and March 2, 2016, using a peer-to-peer file sharing program. Agents executed a search warrant at Thomas’s residence on March 30, 2016, and seized his laptop computer and cellphone.
During an interview with agents, Thomas admitted that he had been downloading images and videos of child pornography for a few years. Thomas stated that he lived in the residence with a minor and her parents and that he had taken numerous videos of the minor while she was sleeping in her bed at night. He also admitted that he had started video recording the minor when she was nine years old.
A subsequent forensic analysis of Thomas’s laptop computer and cellphone revealed that from at least July 18, 2012, through March 30, 2016, he had collected in excess of 6,000 images and 35 videos depicting prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. Thomas’s cellphone contained approximately 11 videos that he had produced between May 1, 2014, through June 12, 2014, depicting the identified minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, FBI Child Exploitation Task Force, which includes the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Yolande G. Viacava.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Pittsburgh Man Indicted for Violating Federal Drug and Gun LawsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - One resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The two-count indictment, returned on August 8, named Laquan Sims, age 38, of Pittsburgh, PA.
According to the indictment, on May 1, 2017, Sims possessed with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and possessed a firearm as a convicted felon. Federal law prohibits a convicted felon from possessing a firearm.
The law provides for a total combined sentence of not less than 10 years in prison up to a maximum of life in prison and a fine of not more than $8,500,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy M. Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh Felon Charged with Illegally Possessing Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a violation of the federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on August 8, named Nicky Evans, age 37, of Pittsburgh, PA as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on July 23, 2017, Evans illegally possessed a firearm and ammunition. Evans has previously been convicted of three felonies and is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition.
For possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, the law provides for a maximum sentence of up to ten (10) years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
This case is being prosecuted under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and communities to prevent, deter and prosecute gun crime. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Owner of Saga Restaurants Sentenced for Harboring Illegal AliensRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of McKees Rocks, PA, has been sentenced in federal court on his conviction of harboring illegal aliens, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today. The court imposed a term of imprisonment of one day, a term of supervised release of three years, with 24 weeks of intermittent confinement and home detention, followed by an additional three months of home confinement and a fine of $30,000. During the period of intermittent confinement, the defendant shall serve two days a week at a jail or a community confinement center designated by the Bureau of Prisons.
Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Xing Zheng Lin, aka Steve Lin, age 44, of McKees Rocks, PA.
According to information presented to the court, from in and around 2009, until on or about January 10, 2014, Lin harbored illegal aliens who were employed at Saga Restaurant in Monroeville, Robinson, and Bethel Park, all of which were owned by Lin.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Song commended the Homeland Security Investigations and the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Lin.
Owings Mills Man Sentenced to Four Years in Federal Prison for Laundering Money from Victims of Internet Dating ScamRead the Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact ELIZABETH MORSE
www.justice.gov/usao/md at (410) 209-4885
Greenbelt, Maryland – U.S. District Judge Paul W. Grimm sentenced Olufemi Wilfred Williams, of Owings Mills, Maryland, to four years in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for conspiracy to commit money laundering arising from a scheme to defraud vulnerable victims of millions of dollars. Judge Grimm also ordered Williams to forfeit and pay restitution of more than $375,000. Williams previously pleaded guilty to the charge on February 21, 2017.
The sentence was announced by Acting United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Stephen M. Schenning and Special Agent in Charge Gordon B. Johnson of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
According to court documents, from January 2011 to May 18, 2015, Williams searched online dating websites to initiate romantic relationships with vulnerable male and female individuals. He phoned, emailed, texted, and used internet chat messenger services to form romantic relationships with the victims, who lived in Maryland and around the country. Williams then used false stories and promises to convince the victims to provide money to the conspirators, including fake hospital bills, plane trips to visit the victims, problems with overseas businesses, and foreign taxes.
Williams and other conspirators opened bank accounts, called “drop accounts,” in order to receive millions of dollars from the victims. The victims provided money to Williams and others as a result of the false stories and promises, either depositing money directly into drop accounts controlled by the defendant, or by wire transfers sent to the conspirators. Williams and his co-conspirators dispersed money received from the victims by transferring funds to other accounts controlled by the conspirators, by obtaining cashier’s checks, and by writing checks to individuals or entities, in order to conceal the nature, source, and control of those assets.
The following co-defendants were previously convicted at trial or pleaded guilty:
Gbenga Benson Ogundele, a/k/a “Benson Ogundele,” age 58, of Laurel, Maryland;
Victor Oyewumi Oloyede, age 42, of Laurel;
Olusegun Charles Ogunseye, a/k/a “Charles O. Ogunseye,” age 58, of Laurel;
Babtunde Emmanuel Popoola, a/k/a “Emmanuel Popoola” and his sister, “Tunde Popoola, age 34, of Bowie, Maryland;
Mojisola Tinuola Popoola, a/k/a “Mojisola Oluwakemi Tin Popoola” and “Moji T. Popoola,” age 42, of Laurel;
Adeyinka Olubunmi Awolaja, Jr., a/k/a “Yinka O. Awolaja, Jr.,” age 34, formerly of New Carrolltown, Maryland; and
Olusola Olla, age 50, of Greensboro, North Carolina.
The Maryland Identity Theft Working Group has been working since 2006 to foster cooperation among local, state, federal, and institutional fraud investigators and to promote effective prosecution of identity theft schemes by both state and federal prosecutors. This case, as well as other cases brought by members of the Working Group, demonstrates the commitment of law enforcement agencies to work with financial institutions and businesses to address identity fraud, identify those who compromise personal identity information, and protect citizens from identity theft.
Today’s announcement is part of the efforts undertaken in connection with the President’s Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force. The task force was established to wage an aggressive, coordinated and proactive effort to investigate and prosecute financial crimes. With more than 20 federal agencies, 94 U.S. attorneys’ offices, and state and local partners, it’s the broadest coalition of law enforcement, investigatory and regulatory agencies ever assembled to combat fraud. Since its formation, the task force has made great strides in facilitating increased investigation and prosecution of financial crimes; enhancing coordination and cooperation among federal, state and local authorities; addressing discrimination in the lending and financial markets; and conducting outreach to the public, victims, financial institutions and other organizations. Since fiscal year 2009, the Justice Department has filed over 18,000 financial fraud cases against more than 25,000 defendants. For more information on the task force, please visit www.StopFraud.gov.
Acting United States Attorney Stephen M. Schenning commended the FBI for its work in the investigation and thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas P. Windom, Ray D. McKenzie, and Leah Jo Bressack, who are prosecuting the case.
Opelousas man sentenced to 57 years in prison for robbing three businesses at gunpointRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. – Acting U.S. Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced today that an Opelousas man was sentenced to 684 months and one day in prison for robbing three local businesses at gunpoint.
Carey Wardell Reed, 29, of Opelousas, La., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Rebecca F. Doherty on three counts of interference with commerce by robbery; two counts of using, carrying and brandishing a firearm during a violent crime; and one count of using, carrying and discharging a firearm during a violent crime. He was also sentenced to three years of supervised released and ordered to pay $3,098.77 restitution.
Reed was found guilty by a jury on March 7, 2017. According to the evidence presented at trial, Reed robbed three commercial establishments in Opelousas in 2014. On May 2, 2014, Reed robbed the Tiger Stop #7 gas station. He fired a shot, and told everyone inside to “get down.” He then had the employees empty the cash register of $704 and fled the scene. One May 10, 2014, Reed robbed the Chicken King restaurant. He entered the restaurant with a gun, which he pointed at the cashier. He demanded money and threatened to harm those present. The cashier turned over $985, and Reed fled. On September 22, 2014, Reed robbed a Family Dollar store. He entered the store with a handgun and demanded money. Before leaving, he also threatened the employees’ lives and took $1,400. The defendant was arrested on September 30, 2014 after police conducted a traffic stop. Extensive ballistic and digital forensic evidence were key in proving Reed to be the perpetrator in all three robberies.
The FBI and the Opelousas Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jamilla A. Bynog and Joseph T. Mickel prosecuted the case.
Oklahoma Man Sentenced for Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – JESSE MICHAEL O’DAY, 23, of Norman, Oklahoma, was sentenced today to 42 months in prison for bank robbery, announced Mark A. Yancey, United States Attorney for the Western District of Oklahoma.
On January 18, 2017, a federal grand jury charged O’Day with robbing a BancFirst branch in Norman, Oklahoma, on October 24, 2016, and a MidFirst Bank in Oklahoma City on November 15, 2016. A bank surveillance photo from the BancFirst robbery revealed that O’Day was wearing a black t-shirt featuring a cat posing for a jail booking photograph.
On March 8, 2017, O’Day entered a plea of guilty to robbing the BancFirst branch.
Today U.S. District Judge Stephen P. Friot sentenced O’Day to 42 months in the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons. After his prison term, O’Day will serve three years on supervised release. O’Day was also ordered to pay $8,000 in restitution to BancFirst and $1,158.50 to MidFirst Bank.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Oklahoma City Police Department, and the Norman Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Patterson prosecuted the case.
Ohio woman pleads guilty to firearm chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA - A Dennison, Ohio woman admitted to an illegal firearm charge, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Erin Marie Rudolph, age 24, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Rudolph, having previously being convicted of a felony in the Circuit Court of Ohio County, was in possession of .22 caliber pistol with an obliterated serial number. The crime occurred May 10, 2017 in Ohio County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen L. Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the West Virginia State investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.
Nurse-Practitioner Found Guilty of Federal Charges for Illegally Distributing Oxycodone and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON - Ivan Lamont Robinson, a licensed nurse practitioner who was based in Southeast Washington, was found guilty by a jury today of 42 federal charges that he distributed oxycodone outside the legitimate scope of professional practice and without a legitimate medical purpose, and two counts of money laundering.
The guilty verdicts were announced by U.S. Attorney Channing D. Phillips; Karl C. Colder, Special Agent in Charge of the Washington Division Office of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); Nicholas DiGiulio, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), for the region that includes Washington, D.C.; Robert E. Craig, Jr., Special Agent in Charge of the Mid-Atlantic Field Office of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), and Peter Newsham, Chief of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
The trial began July 10, 2017, in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, in the courtroom of the Honorable Colleen Kollar-Kotelly. Following today’s verdict, Robinson, 46, of Washington, D.C., was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. His sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later date.
According to the government’s evidence, Robinson conducted a pain management practice from 2011 until 2013 in the 2000 block of Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE. His practice received numerous complaints from pharmacists who suspected that he was operating a “pill mill” rather than a medical pain management practice. “Pill mill” is a shorthand terminology for a medical practice which begins selling prescriptions to customers, usually for cash.
Through his position as a nurse practitioner, under District of Columbia law, Robinson had authority to prescribe oxycodone to patients. Robinson sold prescriptions to customers in exchange for $370 in blank money orders. Customers came from outside the District of Columbia to purchase identical prescriptions, 60 tablets of 30 milligrams of oxycodone. Law enforcement executed numerous search warrants involving his practice on June 19, 2013. After a meeting with officials of the DEA, Robinson voluntarily relinquished his DEA license, which had authorized him to write prescriptions for controlled substances.
During the trial, the government presented testimony from a medical expert who stated that Robinson provided no real medical treatment, and there was no medical basis to prescribe oxycodone. Further, the government’s evidence showed that Robinson deposited over $100,000 in money orders from customers during a four-month period in 2013. With these illegal proceeds, the government showed that Robinson purchased a brand new Volvo automobile and, during the execution of the search warrants, that he withdrew $108,000. After returning the guilty verdicts, the jury also voted to forfeit Robinson’s $108,000 and the Volvo automobile that he had gained from his illegal pill mill practice.
The case was investigated by the U.S Drug Enforcement Administration, Metropolitan Police Department, the Office of Inspector General for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and the Department of Defense, Defense Criminal Investigative Service.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys John P. Dominguez and Dineen A. Baker. Assistance was provided by Paralegal Specialists Jeannette Litz and Rommel Pachoca and Legal Assistants Kate Abrey and Holly Crouse. Trial assistance was also provided by Arvind K. Lal, Chief of the Asset Forfeiture and Money Laundering Section; Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anthony Scarpelli, Nancy Jackson, Kara Traster, Zia M. Faruqui, and Christopher B. Brown; Victim/ Witness Assistance Unit Specialist Tonya Jones, and Interns Cloyd Smith, Jennifer Newman, Maria Thompson and Leila Bartholet.
Norristown Man Charged with Illegal Reentry After DeportationRead the Press Release
Rigoberto Roque-Vazquez, of Norristown, PA, was charged today by Indictment with illegal reentry after deportation, announced Acting United States Attorney Louis D. Lappen. The indictment alleges that on or about July 13, 2017, Roque-Vazquez, an alien, and native and citizen of Guatemala, was found in the United States after having been deported from the United States on or about June 11, 2013, March 21, 2014, and October 2, 2015.
If convicted the defendant faces a maximum possible sentence of two years.
The case was investigated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations (“ERO”), and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sean P. McDonnell.
An Indictment, Information or Criminal Complaint is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
New York Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Role in Southeastern Connecticut Drug RingRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JOHN KING, also known as “Soy,” 33, of Queens, N.Y., was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to 120 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for trafficking heroin and crack cocaine.
This matter stems from a long-term investigation headed by the Connecticut State Police Statewide Narcotics Task Force East and U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration into the large-scale distribution of narcotics in southeastern Connecticut. The investigation revealed that KING, Sydney “Fatz” Jackson and others regularly acquired kilogram quantities of cocaine and heroin from sources in New York and transported the drugs to southeastern Connecticut. Much of the cocaine was converted to crack cocaine and the drugs were distributed through a network of dealers in Groton, Norwich, New London, Stonington, Westerly, R.I. and the surrounding area.
KING used an apartment on East Main Street in Norwich to store, process and package narcotics for street sale. On April 28, 2015, law enforcement officers made entry into the apartment and seized approximately 150 grams of crack cocaine and approximately 80 grams of heroin. Officers subsequently searched a vehicle that was registered to KING and was parked outside of the stash house and seized a kilogram of cocaine.
At the time of the drug seizure, KING was incarcerated and awaiting sentencing in New York after having pleaded guilty to assault in the second degree with intent to cause serious physical injury. The conviction stemmed from an incident in which KING shot another individual. Recorded prison calls revealed that KING continued to run his narcotics trafficking enterprise while he was incarcerated.
On November 24, 2015, a federal grand jury in Hartford returned a 35-count superseding indictment charging KING, Jackson and 11 other defendants with various narcotics trafficking and firearm offenses. In addition, approximately 20 individuals were prosecuted on related state charges.
On March 8, 2017, KING pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute 280 grams or more of cocaine base (“crack”).
Jackson previously pleaded guilty to the same charge and, on February 16, 2017, was sentenced to 10 years of imprisonment.
This matter has been investigated by the Connecticut State Police Statewide Narcotics Task Force East, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Marshals Service, Connecticut Department of Correction and Groton City, Groton Town, New London, Norwich and Waterford Police Departments.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Dave Vatti and Joseph Vizcarrondo, with the assistance of Senior Assistant State’s Attorneys Paul Narducci and David Smith of the State’s Attorney’s Office for the Judicial District of New London.
New Orleans Woman Pleads Guilty to Healthcare FraudRead the Press Release
Acting U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that SAQUENA GRIFFIN, a/k/a “QUEENIE,” age 34, of New Orleans, pled guilty today to conspiracy to pay and receive illegal Medicare kickbacks which resulted in Medicare paying $378,274 to a local home health agency.
According to court records, GRIFFIN was a recruiter and marketer for Comprehensive Nursing and Home Health Service, Inc. (Comprehensive) on Earhart Boulevard in New Orleans. GRIFFIN is charged with receiving illegal kickbacks to bring Medicare beneficiaries to Comprehensive.
GRIFFIN faces a possible maximum sentence of five years imprisonment and a $250,000 fine. U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo set sentencing on October 19, 2017.
Acting U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Special Agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrice Harris Sullivan is in charge of the prosecution.
Navy Contractor Admits Accepting Funds from Port Engineer Administering Contracts Involving his CompanyRead the Press Release
Assistant U.S. Attorney Phillip L.B. Halpern (619) 546-6964
NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY – August 9, 2017
SAN DIEGO – Alfonso Liburd, the President and Chief Executive Officer of San Diego-based defense contractor NEVWEST, Inc. (“NevWest”), pleaded guilty today to improperly aiding and abetting Navy Port Engineer, John Nasshan (charged elsewhere), who improperly administered projects in which he (Nasshan) had a financial interest.
According to documents filed in Court, Nasshan had been employed at Southwest Regional Maintenance Center as a Combat Systems Port Engineer since March of 2009. As a Combat Systems Port Engineer, Nasshan drafted technical direction letters, recommended which contractors were qualified for jobs and verified and certified work performed on Navy ships by contractors. to federal law, Nasshan was prohibited from working on projects in which he had a personal financial interest. Despite this prohibition, Nasshan administered projects at the Navy’s Southwest Regional Maintenance Center involving work performed by Liburd and NevWest.
Nasshan made decisions and recommendations affecting Navy contracts with NevWest, Inc. even though he made personal loans to Liburd and NevWest, which is a conflict of interest. As detailed in government pleadings, between May 2011 and September 2015, Nasshan had a financial interest in the business affairs of NevWest. In particular, Nasshan loaned Liburd and NevWest more than $30,000 at the same time that NevWest was engaged in numerous subcontracts with Southwest Regional Maintenance Center. Liburd accepted these loans despite recognizing that Nasshan’s job required that he administer NevWest subcontracts.
In order to hide and conceal their illegal activity, Liburd and Nasshan agreed to keep their financial arrangement secret; to deal in cash when exchanging amounts over $10,000; and to structure the cash they were exchanging by dividing it up into amounts of $10,000 or less.
Liburd also lied to Defense Criminal Investigative Service agents regarding his relationship with Nasshan. In particular, on November 13, 2015, he falsely told a DCIS agent that he never: (i) received any money from Nasshan, including cash; (ii) paid Nasshan any money; or (iii) obtained any loans from Nasshan.
“As in all phases of the Government contracting process, it is essential that the work performed by contractors be done free of undue influence, bias, or favoritism,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Alana W. Robinson. “Accordingly, government officials and employees are prohibited from working on any and all matters that would affect their personal financial position.”
“The successful prosecution of this case was the direct result of collaborative teamwork between the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, our federal law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorney's Office,” said Gunnar Newquist, Special Agent in Charge of the NCIS Southwest Field Office. “Convictions like this should be a warning to those who would attempt to take advantage of the U.S. Navy, for personal gain. We are unified in our efforts to catch criminals who not only defraud the U.S. Navy, but specifically are stealing money from the American taxpayers at the direct loss to our warfighters.”
Chris Hendrickson, Special Agent in Charge of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service's Western Field Office said: “DCIS and its partner agencies will aggressively investigate Department of Defense personnel who abuse their positions of trust and corruptly advance their own interests. This behavior tarnishes the integrity of the Department's procurement processes and erodes the public's faith in government.”
“The FBI seeks truth and justice in our investigations,” commented FBI Special Agent in Charge Eric S. Birnbaum. “Today’s conviction shows that the FBI, along with our investigative partners, will ultimately uncover the truth despite roadblocks created by those who stand to personally benefit from their lies.”
DEFENDANT: Case Number 17cr2189-JLS_
Alfonso Liburd Age: 67 Chula Vista, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Aiding and Abetting a Conflict of Interest – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 208 and 2
Maximum penalty: Five years in prison and $250,000 fine
AGENCIES
Federal Bureau of Investigation
Defense Criminal Investigative Service
Naval Criminal Investigative Service
Related Case:
DEFENDANT: Case Number 17cr1167_
John Nasshan Age: 55 Jamul, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Conflict of Interest – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 208
Maximum penalty: Five years in prison and $250,000 fine
AGENCIES
Federal Bureau of Investigation
Defense Criminal Investigative Service
Naval Criminal Investigative Service
Navajo Man from Arizona Sentenced for Federal Firearms and Burglary Conviction in New MexicoRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Loren Lloyd Wauneka, 37, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation from Window Rock, Ariz., was sentenced today in federal court in Albuquerque, N.M., to 37 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for his conviction on federal firearms and burglary charges.
Wauneka and his co-defendant Lisa Benally, 37, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation from Fort Defiance, Ariz., were arrested on Jan. 29, 2016, on a criminal complaint charging them with being felons in possession of firearms and burglary on the Navajo Indian Reservation in McKinley County, N.M. According to the criminal complaint, a law enforcement officer encountered Wauneka, Benally and others as they were attempting to burglarize the officer’s residence on the Navajo Indian Reservation. Court documents indicate that pursuant to a search warrant, a television, jewelry, bags, computer laptops and two firearms allegedly belonging to the officer, were seized from inside Wauneka and Benally’s vehicle.
Wauneka and Benally were subsequently indicted on Feb. 24, 2016, and charged with being felons in possession of firearms and ammunition, possession of stolen firearms and aggravated burglary on Dec. 1, 2015, in McKinley County. According to the indictment, Wauneka was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition because he previously was convicted of unlawful discharge of a firearm and aggravated driving while intoxicated. Benally was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition because she previously had been convicted of escape, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of dangerous drugs.
On March 23, 2017, Wauneka pled guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition and aggravated burglary. In entering the guilty plea, Wauneka admitted that on Dec. 1, 2015, he entered a residence with the intent to commit theft and stole two firearms and ammunition which he placed into his vehicle, thus making Wauneka armed during the burglary. Wauneka further admitted that he was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition because of his status as a convicted felon.
On March 27, 2017, Benally pled guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition and aggravated burglary. In entering the guilty plea, Benally admitted that on Dec. 1, 2015, she and others drove to and unlawfully entered a residence with the intent to commit theft and stole two firearms and ammunition, which Benally placed into her vehicle, thus making Benally armed during the burglary. Benally further admitted that she was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition because of her status as a convicted felon. At sentencing, Benally faces a maximum penalty of ten years in federal prison. A sentencing hearing is currently scheduled for Aug. 31, 2017.
This case was investigated by the Crownpoint office of the Navajo Nation Division of Public Safety, the McKinley County Sheriff’s Office and the New Mexico State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael D. Murphy is prosecuting the case.
Nampa Woman Indicted for Mail TheftRead the Press Release
BOISE – Laura Alicia Cox, 56, of Nampa, Idaho, was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 8, 2017, for two counts of mail theft by a postal employee, Acting U.S. Attorney Rafael Gonzalez announced.
The indictment alleges that Ms. Cox, then a Postal Service employee, stole mail that was for delivery by the U.S. Post Office in Melba, Idaho. The indictment is not evidence, and Ms. Cox is innocent of the charges until proven guilty.
Mail theft by a postal employee is a felony punishable by up to 5 years of imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release and a $100 special assessment.
This case was investigated by the United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General.
Mission Man Sentenced for BurglaryRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Second Degree Burglary was sentenced on August 9, 2017, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Bryan Herman, age 52, was sentenced to 4 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, restitution was ordered in the amount of $11,793.79, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Herman was indicted by a federal grand jury on October 18, 2016. He pled guilty on May 15, 2017.
The conviction stemmed from multiple incidents that occurred between June 15, 2016, and July 20, 2016. Around June 15, 2016, Herman broke into the home of a friend in Todd County, South Dakota, and stole multiple blank checks. Between June 20, 2016, and July 20, 2016, Herman forged the account holder’s signature on multiple checks and cashed them at various locations in and around Mission.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Herman was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Michigan Man Sentenced to 145 Months ImprisonmentRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND - Acting United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson announced that Johnny Jones, 39, of Benton Harbor, Michigan was sentenced before District Court Judge Jon E. DeGuilio for conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine
Jones was sentenced to 145 months of imprisonment and 8 years of supervised release. The sentence is to be served consecutive to a sentence imposed by a federal district court in Nevada.
According to documents in this case, Jones was convicted by a jury of conspiracy to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine mixture and of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. One of his co-defendants (Stephine Smith) has already been sentenced to 41 months in prison. The other co-defendant (Jen-nai Rowland) is still awaiting sentencing.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration Task Force with the assistance of the St. Joseph Count Drug Investigations Unit and Michigan Southwest Enforcement Team. The case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel Gabrielse.
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Mexican Citizen Charged with Being an Alien in Possession of Firearms and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Francisco Garcia-Puentes, age 23, of Mexico, was indicted on August 9, 2017, by a federal grand jury with being an alien in possession of firearms and ammunition.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Garcia-Puentes, a Mexican citizen with no legal status in the United States, was apprehended in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania while in possession of a SAR-1 semiautomatic firearm and 20 rounds of 30.06 caliber ammunition. According to state court records, on June 25, 2017, the Pennsylvania State Police conducted a traffic stop on U.S. Route 15 in Cumberland County of the vehicle Garcia-Puentes was traveling in. During the vehicle stop the Pennsylvania State Police located Garcia-Puentes’ firearm in the trunk.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO), Homeland Security Investigations, and the Pennsylvania State Police. Special Assistant United States Attorney Brian G. McDonnell is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of the Violent Crime Reduction Partnership (“VCRP”), a district wide initiative to combat the spread of violent crime in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the VCRP consists of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies whose mission is to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit violent crimes with firearms.
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.
Under federal law, Garcia-Puentes faces a maximum penalty of ten years of 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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Mask-Wearing Robber Sentenced to 87 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – Charles Sampson, 61, of Chester, PA, was sentenced today to 87 months in prison attempting to rob a postal employee with a dangerous weapon at the Chester Post Office post offices. Sampson pleaded guilty on March 6, 2017. In addition to the prison term, U.S. District Court Judge Mitchell S. Goldberg ordered three years of supervised release and a $100 special assessment.
On November 30, 2016, Sampson entered the United States Post office in Chester, PA, wearing a mask and carrying a long golf style umbrella which was open to conceal his identity. Sampson was carrying a silver firearm or a facsimile firearm which he pointed at the postal clerk and demanded cash. Surveillance video in the area captured Sampson leaving the scene, without the mask and carrying the umbrella. Based on the video, Postal Inspectors created a reward flyer which was distributed to local media and local area residents. In response, law enforcement received several tips which led Postal Inspectors to Sampson.
The case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Chester Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Natali.
Marshall County men indicted on drug distribution chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A Moundsville, West Virginia man and a McMechen, West Virginia man were indicted by a federal grand jury on drug distribution charges, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Rhett D. Gump, age 24, of Moundsville, was indicted on one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine in Proximity to a Protected Location,” one count of “Distribution of Fentanyl in Proximity to a Protected Location,” and one count of “Distribution of Heroin.”
William A. Novick, age 35, of McMechen, was indicted on four counts of “Distribution of Heroin” and one count of “Distribution of Fentanyl in Proximity to a Protected Location.”The crimes are alleged to have taken place in January and February 2017 in Ohio and Marshall Counties, West Virginia.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert H. McWilliams, Jr., is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Marshall County Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, is investigating.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Marshall County man indicted on drug distribution chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A Moundsville, West Virginia man was indicted by a federal grand jury on drug distribution charges, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Ronald Lee Shaw, also known as “Fuzz,” age 45, was indicted on five counts of “Distribution of Cocaine within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location” and one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine.”
The crimes are alleged to have taken place from April to June 2017 in Ohio County, West Virginia.Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen L. Vogrin is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, is investigating.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Louisiana Company Pays More Than $100,000 to U.S. Workers to Resolve Discrimination ClaimsRead the Press Release
Justice Department announced today that Barrios Street Realty LLC, a company based in Lockport, Louisiana, has paid approximately $108,000 to 12 U.S. workers pursuant to a settlement with the department. The payments are part of a March 2016 settlement that resolved claims that Barrios discriminated against U.S. workers in violation of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).
In its investigation leading up to the settlement, the department determined that from 2014 through 2015, the company and its agent, Jorge Arturo Guerrero Rodriguez, failed to consider or improperly rejected U.S. workers who applied for positions as sheet metal roofers or laborers, and then sought to fill the vacancies with foreign workers under the H-2B visa program. According to the department, the company’s petition for foreign workers falsely claimed that it could not find qualified U.S. workers. Refusing to consider or hire qualified U.S. workers because of their citizenship violates the anti-discrimination provision of the INA.
The settlement required Barrios to pay $30,000 in civil penalties and up to $115,000 in back pay to compensate U.S. workers who were denied employment because of the company’s reliance on H-2B visa workers. After entering the settlement, the department determined that 12 U.S. workers were entitled to receive back pay totaling approximately $108,000, and the company made the final payments to the workers last week.
“The Department of Justice will not tolerate employers misusing visa programs to discriminate against U.S. workers,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General John Gore of the Civil Rights Division. “We will vigorously prosecute claims against companies that place U.S. workers in a disfavored status.”
Civil Rights Division’s Immigrant and Employee Rights Section (IER), formerly known as the Office of Special Counsel for Immigration-Related Unfair Employment Practices, is responsible for enforcing the anti-discrimination provision of the INA. The statute prohibits, among other things, citizenship and national origin discrimination in hiring, firing, or recruitment or referral for a fee; unfair documentary practices; retaliation; and intimidation.
For more information about protections against employment discrimination under immigration laws, call IER’s worker hotline at 1-800-255-7688 (1-800-237-2515, TTY for hearing impaired); call IER’s employer hotline at 1-800-255-8155 (1-800-237-2515, TTY for hearing impaired); sign up for a free webinar; email [email protected]; or visit IER’s English and Spanish websites.
Applicants or employees who believe they were subjected to different documentary requirements based on their citizenship, immigration status, or national origin; or discrimination based on their citizenship, immigration status or national origin in hiring, firing, or recruitment or referral, should contact IER’s worker hotline for assistance.
Leesville man pleads guilty to counterfeiting $100 billRead the Press Release
LAKE CHARLES, La. – Acting U.S. Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced today that a Leesville man pleaded guilty to taking part in counterfeiting $100 bills in order to purchase prepaid cards.
Deldrick Shykil Fowler, 24, of Leesville, La., previously of DeQuincy, La., pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen Kay to one count of counterfeiting obligations to the United States. The plea will become final when accepted by U.S. District Judge Dee D. Drell. According to evidence presented at the guilty plea, Fowler helped another unnamed conspirator on December 27, 2016 to use a genuine $100 bill to make 58 counterfeit copies. The conspirator then passed $1,500 worth of counterfeit bills at a DeRidder, La., department store in exchange for three prepaid debit cards. The conspirator discarded the unused counterfeit bills in a trashcan at a park. The counterfeit bills were later found and provided to law enforcement officers. The officers located Fowler the next day and discovered him with two of the three prepaid cards. He had already spent the third card.
Fowler faces up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a $250,000 fine. The court set a sentencing date of November 3, 2017.
The U.S. Secret Service, Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office and the DeRidder Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Abendroth is prosecuting the case.
Jury Finds Former Midland Bookkeeper Guilty of Embezzlement and Tax Evasion SchemeRead the Press Release
In Midland today, a federal jury convicted a former bookkeeper on federal charges in connection with a scheme to steal over $2 Million from a local businessman announced United States Attorney Richard L. Durbin, Jr., Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Emmerson Buie, Jr., El Paso Division; and, Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge William Cotter.
Jurors found 52–year-old Kimberley Dale Boyce of Midland guilty of three counts of mail fraud; three counts of wire fraud; three counts of engaging in monetary transactions with criminally derived funds; and, three counts of tax evasion.
Evidence presented at trial revealed that over a two-year period beginning in February 2012, Boyce implemented a scheme involving mailed documentation and wire transfers to syphon money from a Midland County business owner’s bank accounts and place it into bank accounts which she controlled. Boyce also failed to accurately report to the Internal Revenue Service her actual taxable income—totaling more than $2.5 million--for tax years 2012, 2013, and 2014.
Following today’s verdict, United States District Judge Robert A. Junell remanded the defendant into the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. Boyce faces up to 20 years imprisonment for each wire and mail fraud count; up to ten years imprisonment for each money laundering count; and up to five years imprisonment for each tax evasion count. Sentencing is scheduled for 9:00am on October 11, 2017, before Judge Junell in Midland.
This case was investigated by the FBI and IRS-Criminal Investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys William F. Lewis, Jr., and Daniel Castillo are prosecuting this case on behalf of the Government.
Jury Convicts McLean Man for Credit Union RobberyRead the Press Release
PEORIA, Ill. – A jury deliberated for approximately one hour yesterday, before returning a verdict of guilty against Scott Books, 34, of McLean, Ill., for the July 2016 robbery of the Land of Lincoln Credit Union in Normal, Ill.
During the trial, which began on Aug. 7, the government presented evidence that Books had cashed bad checks at the credit union in the months preceding the robbery. On July 28, 2016, Books, wearing gloves and a partial mask and wielding what appeared to be a firearm, robbed two tellers before fleeing in a grey Buick SUV. A teller immediately recognized the robber as Scott Books. A matching vehicle was spotted at Books’ residence and a search warrant was executed at the residence where matching shoes and gloves were recovered. Follow-up investigation conducted by the FBI and the Normal Police Department revealed that Books had text messaged a friend the day of the robbery, “What bank should I rob today?”
The case is being prosecuted in federal court by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Adam C. Korn and Paul B. Morris. The Normal Police Department and FBI conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Village of McLean Police Department.
Sentencing has been scheduled on Dec. 6, 2017. Books faces a statutory maximum penalty of up to 20 years in prison. Books remains in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Jury Convicts Local Man on Multiple Drug and Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 45-year-old Corpus Man has been found guilty for trafficking more than a kilogram of cocaine as well as being a felon in possession of both a firearm and ammunition, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Abe Martinez. The federal jury deliberated for approximately 40 minutes following a one-day trial before convicting Elias Gonzalez Alvarez on all counts as charged.
Authorities had learned that Alvarez had been engaged in trafficking cocaine and, on May 12, 2015, conducted surveillance on his apartment in Corpus Christi. Authorities stopped him for a traffic violation as he left his residence. His license was found to be suspended and Alavarez was arrested. At that time, they conducted a search of his vehicle and discovered a box with a bag inside that contained 1.01 kilograms of cocaine.
A search warrant was also executed on his residence, where authorities found a .38 caliber handgun and ammunition. Alvarez is a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition per federal law.
Alavarez attempted to convince the jury the drugs found in his vehicle and the gun and ammunition discovered in his apartment did not belong to him. They did not believe his claims and found him guilty as charged.
Senior U.S. District Judge John D. Rainey presided over the trial and has set sentencing for Nov. 21, 2017. At that time, Alvarez faces a minimum of 10 years and up to life in federal prison as well as a possible $5 million maximum fine.
The Texas Department of Public Safety investigated the case with the assistance of the Corpus Christi Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Jackson Woman Sentenced for Conspiracy to Commit Tax FraudRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss – Shonda Williams, 38, of Jackson, was sentenced on August 8, 2017, to 15 months in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release for conspiracy to defraud the United States, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Harold Brittain and IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge Jerome McDuffie.
As part of the conspiracy, Williams stole patients’ personal identifying information from current and former patients at Jackson-Hinds Comprehensive Health Center while employed at the facility. She sold the social security numbers to other co-conspirators for cash. Those co-conspirators later submitted false claims to the IRS by preparing and submitting false U.S. Individual Income Tax Returns, Forms 1040 for tax year 2010 through 2013, using stolen identities. Fraudulent tax refunds were then deposited into the bank accounts of other co-conspirators involved in the scheme. The 865 false claims totaled over $1,000,000 in fraud. Williams was ordered to pay $35,975.00 in restitution for her part in the scheme.
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service- Criminal Investigations and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Helen Wall.
Jackson Man Sentenced to 50 Months in Federal Prison for Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss – William Jason Moore, 38, of Jackson, was sentenced on August 8, 2017, by U.S. District Judge Carlton W. Reeves, to serve 50 months in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Harold Brittain. Moore was also ordered to pay a $1500 fine.
Moore previously pled guilty to possession of a firearm at a time when he was already a convicted felon. He was arrested on May 16, 2016, during a traffic stop in Rankin County, after Pearl Police officers found two firearms in the stolen vehicle he was driving. Moore’s previous convictions are for grand larceny and burglary.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives along with the Pearl Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Helen Wall.
Jackson County Man Indicted for Federal Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
PANAMA CITY, FLORIDA – Ralph Herman Fox Jr., 60, of Graceville, Florida, was arraigned today in the U.S. District Court in Panama City after a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging him with production and possession of child pornography. The indictment was announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
The indictment alleges that, between June 2015, and September 2016, Fox enticed a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct to produce a visual depiction. The indictment further alleges that, in September 2016, Fox possessed child pornography. The defendant is in custody. The trial is scheduled for October 16, 2017, at 8:15 a.m.
The case is being investigated by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christopher J. Thielemann.
An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Investment Bank Vice President Pleads Guilty to Insider TradingRead the Press Release
Joon H. Kim, the Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that AVANEESH KRISHNAMOORTHY, who worked as a vice president and risk management specialist for a Manhattan-based investment bank (the “Investment Bank”), pled guilty earlier today to a criminal Information (the “Information”) charging him with engaging in a scheme to commit insider trading. KRISHNAMOORTHY made over $78,000 by trading in the stock and options of three publicly traded companies based on material nonpublic information he misappropriated from the Investment Bank and its parent company (the “Company”). KRISHNAMOORTHY pled guilty before United States District Judge Jesse M. Furman.
Acting U.S. Attorney Joon H. Kim said: “As he admitted today in federal court, Avaneesh Krishnamoorthy abused his position as an investment bank executive to get nonpublic information about several companies and then trade on it. We remain committed to prosecuting financial professionals whose greed drives them to break the law.”
According to the allegations in court documents, including the Information and a previously filed criminal complaint, and statements made during court proceedings:
As a vice president and risk management specialist, KRISHNAMOORTHY was given access to material, nonpublic information concerning mergers and acquisitions in which the Investment Bank was potentially going to be retained.
In November 2016, the Investment Bank was contacted about financing the acquisition of Neustar, Inc., a company whose shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange, by a private equity fund (the “Fund”). KRISHANMOORTHY received multiple emails regarding the Investment Bank’s potential involvement in the transaction, which also summarized the mechanics of the deal. In violation of the Company’s policies and in breach of his duties to the Company and its clients, KRISHNAMOORTHY used this material nonpublic information to acquire Neustar stock and options. In the days and weeks after receiving the emails, KRISHNAMOORTHY purchased numerous Neustar call options and hundreds of shares of Neustar stock before the public announcement of the transaction. KRISHANMOORTHY did not reveal these trades or the existence of the underlying brokerage accounts to the Company. The price of Neustar stock increased by approximately 20% following the public announcement of the Fund’s acquisition of Neustar on December 14, 2016. KRISHNAMOORTHY also used material nonpublic information that he received from the Company to make profitable trades in securities of Cabelas Inc. and Axiall Corporation.
As a result of the scheme, KRISHNAMOORTHY reaped over $78,000 in ill-gotten gains, which he has agreed to forfeit to the Government as part of his plea agreement.
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KRISHNAMOORTHY, 42, pled guilty to one count of securities fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a maximum fine of $5 million, or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense. The statutory maximum sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant would be determined by the judge.
KRISHNAMOORTHY is scheduled to be sentenced November 21, 2017.
Mr. Kim praised the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and thanked the Securities and Exchange Commission.
This case is being handled by the Office’s Securities and Commodities Fraud Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brendan F. Quigley is in charge of the prosecution.
Harrisburg Man Indicted on Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Johnnie Jahill Wilkerson, age 30, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was indicted on August 9, 2017, by a federal grand jury for possessing a firearm and ammunition after having been convicted of a felony and possessing a firearm with an obliterated serial number.
According to U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that Wilkerson had a firearm (Taurus 357 Magnum) in his possession on December 21, 2016.
The case was investigated by the Harrisburg City Police with assistance from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant United States Attorney James T. Clancy is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of the Violent Crime Reduction Partnership (“VCRP”), a district wide initiative to combat the spread of violent crime in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the VCRP consists of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies whose mission is to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit violent crimes with firearms.
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 for possessing a firearm after a felony conviction is 10 years’ imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. The maximum penalty for possessing a firearm with an obliterated serial number is 5 years in prison, 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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Grand Jury Charges Family with Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, Ohio – A federal grand jury has charged a father, mother and daughter in a 33-count indictment returned here on June 22 that alleges the family members conspired to and actually laundered nearly $3 million.
Parents Mitch G. Stevenson, 53, and Patricia Stevenson, 57, and their daughter Candace G. Stevenson, 30, all of Mason, Ohio, were charged with conspiring to launder money and money laundering.
Benjamin C. Glassman, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, and Ryan L. Korner, Special Agent in Charge, Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Criminal Investigation, announced the indictment that was unsealed yesterday.
The indictment alleges that in 2009 two life-insurance policies were fraudulently purchased insuring another relative for a combined $2.9 million.
The policy applications falsely stated that the relative had never been diagnosed with diabetes, high blood pressure or ulcers, among other conditions, and that the relative had not had any medication in the 12 months before the application was prepared. The defendants reported the person’s weight as 170 pounds, when in actuality the person’s true weight was approximately 375 to 400 pounds.
As part of the application process for the life insurance, a medical examination was required.
“In early February 2009, an unknown individual in Sugar Land, Texas, who met the description in the applications, represented herself as the relative at the examination and was weighed at 176 pounds,” said U.S. Attorney Glassman. “Three weeks earlier, the actual relative was weighed in a Cincinnati emergency room at 387 pounds.”
In early 2011, amendments were made to the owners and beneficiaries of the two policies to name Patricia and Candace Stevenson. One year later, the relative died and West Coast Life Insurance Company issued a $1.5 million check to Patricia Stevenson and a $1.4 million check to Candace Stevenson.
The defendants then engaged in a complex sequence of transactions allegedly designed to conceal and disguise the nature, location, source, ownership or control of the proceeds of the life-insurance fraud.
They also purchased a 2012 Bentley GT Convertible for approximately $247,000 and used approximately $284,000 as a down payment on a land contract on a home in Mason, Ohio. Other transactions included approximately $16,000 to World of Decor and nearly $33,000 to Facet Jewelry.
Money laundering conspiracy is a crime punishable by up to 20 years in prison and money laundering carries a potential maximum sentence of 10 years in prison.
U.S. Attorney Glassman commended the investigation of this case by the IRS Criminal Investigation, and Assistant United States Attorney Peter K. Glenn-Applegate, who is prosecuting the case.
An indictment merely contains allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
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Four men indicted on illegal alien chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Two Mexican men, a Nicaraguan man, and a man from El Salvador have been indicted by a federal grand jury on reentry of a removed alien charges, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.Elias Rojas-Zapata, age 30, of Nicaragua, was indicted on one count of “Reentry of Removed Alien.” Rojas-Zapata, having previously been removed from Louisiana, allegedly was found in Brooke County in June 2017 without consent.
Mauro Nieto-Garcia, age 26, of Mexico, and Noe Jacinto-Nieto, age 26, also of Mexico, were each indicted on one count of “Reentry of Removed Alien.” Nieto-Garcia, and Jacinto-Neito, each having previously been removed from Arizona, allegedly were found in Ohio County in June 2017 without consent.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen L. Vogrin is prosecuting all three cases on behalf of the government. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigrations and Customs Enforcement and the Brooke County Sheriff’s Office are investigating the Rojas-Zapata case. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigrations and Customs Enforcement and the Bethlehem Police Department are investigating the Nieto-Garcia and Jacinto-Nieto cases.
Miguel Angel Melendez-Lopez, age 37, of El Salvador, was also indicted on indicted one count of “Reentry of Removed Alien.” Melendez-Lopez has previously been removed from Newark, New Jersey and Atlanta, Georgia, allegedly was found in Ohio County without consent in July 2017.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins is prosecuting the Melendez-Lopez case on behalf of the government. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigrations and Customs Enforcement and the West Virginia State Police are investigating the Melendez-Lopez case.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Four Schuylkill County Residents Indicted for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON—The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that four Schuylkill County residents were indicted on August 8, 2017, by a federal grand jury for allegedly participating in a methamphetamine trafficking conspiracy from July 2016 through May 2017.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that Anibal Luis Rodriguez a/k/a “Lou,” age 26, of Pottsville, Malcom Wilfong a/k/a “Sleep,” age 26, of Pottsville, David Castro a/k/a “D,” age 27, of Pottsville, and Laverne Schaeffer, age 45, of Schuylkill Haven, conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. The indictment further alleges that Rodriguez, Wilfong, and Castro were involved in distributing more than 500 grams of methamphetamine. Schaeffer is alleged to have distributed more than 50 grams of methamphetamine.
Rodriguez and Castro are also charged with five additional counts of distributing methamphetamine. Wilfong is also charged with an additional count of distributing methamphetamine.
The indictment also seeks to forfeit the residence and property of Laverne Schaeffer in Schuylkill Haven, Pennsylvania.
The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Shenandoah Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis P. Sempa 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 for conspiracy to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine is life imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. There is also a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years for that offense. The maximum penalty under federal law for conspiracy to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine is 40 years in prison. There is a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison for that charge. 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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Former Union Officer Charged with Embezzling over $280,000 in Union FundsRead the Press Release
Portland, Maine: Acting United States Attorney Richard W. Murphy announced today that Ryan Jones, 34, of Bath, Maine was indicted yesterday by a federal grand jury for embezzling union funds.
The indictment charges Jones with embezzling over $280,000 from the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, Local Lodge S6, during a period when he served as an officer of that union.
If convicted, Jones faces up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release, a $10,000 fine and restitution.
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Labor-Management Standards and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
An indictment is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
Former Tennessee Alhambra Office Manager Sentenced to Serve Two Years in Federal Prison for Embezzlement from OrganizationRead the Press Release
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. – On August 9, 2017, Belinda A. Phillips, 58, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, was sentenced by the Honorable Curtis L. Collier, Senior U.S. District Judge, to serve 24 months in federal prison for embezzlement from the Alhambra Shrine (Alhambra) in Chattanooga. Upon her release from prison, U.S. Probation will supervise her for three years. Phillips was also ordered to pay $120,000 in restitution.
Phillips previously pleaded guilty to one count of an indictment charging her with making, uttering and possessing a forged security of an organization. Detailed information regarding her actions is included in the plea agreement on file with U.S. District Court. According to the plea agreement, while employed as an office manager with Alhambra in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Phillips had control over their financial books and records, including checks and credit cards. During the time of her employment, Phillips devised a scheme to defraud and embezzle from the organization and obtain money and property for her personal use. She stole and converted checks drawn on Alhambra’s bank accounts, forged signatures and used credit cards to make unauthorized purchases and make payments for her own benefit, including the purchase of personal goods and payment of personal bills.
Alhambra, a charitable and social fraternal unincorporated association, was an affiliate of Shriner’s International. As part of its charitable activities, Alhambra supported the Shriner’s Hospitals for Children, which provide free medical care to children. They maintained a transportation fund that was to be used exclusively to transport children without charge from the Chattanooga area to the Shriner’s Hospitals for Children. Alhambra officials discovered that Phillips was siphoning funds from various accounts, including the charitable transportation account, for her own use when they were unable to pay for the transportation of a sick child who needed to fly from Chattanooga to Cincinnati for critical health care. As a result, they had to find funding elsewhere, and the treatment was delayed.
The Chattanooga Police Department and U.S. Secret Service investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Neff represented the United States.
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Former QVC Director Charged in Million-Dollar Fraud Scheme Involving Hollywood PR Agency and NYC Production CompanyRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – James D. Falkowski, a/k/a “Jamie Falkowski,” 42, of Buffalo, New York, was charged by indictment1, unsealed today, with eleven counts of wire fraud, eleven counts of mail fraud, and one count of conspiracy, announced Acting United States Attorney Louis D. Lappen.
According to the indictment, Falkowski – while working as a QVC Director responsible for enhancing QVC’s brand and reputation in the entertainment and fashion industries – engaged in a multi-layered fraud scheme that enabled him to live a luxury lifestyle through fraud. Falkowski allegedly used a variety of methods to fraudulently obtain from QVC over $1,000,000 worth of money, goods and services, all without QVC’s knowledge or approval. Specifically, the indictment alleges that Falkowski fraudulently caused QVC to pay for: hundreds of thousands of dollars of his personal expenses, including Falkowski’s first-class travel, luxury hotel and resort stays, spa treatments, upscale restaurants, luxury clothing, luxury accessories, and botox treatment; approximately $200,000 in private luxury chauffeur rides for himself and his friends and associates; approximately $70,000 in payments to his personal vendors and creditors, including over $28,000 in payments to a custom furniture maker for two tables for Falkowski’s Philadelphia apartment; and approximately $59,500 in pre-paid American Express, Tom Ford, and Barney’s New York gift cards that he used for himself. Falkowski also entered into fraudulent kickback arrangements with two separate QVC vendors, who collectively paid Falkowski approximately $240,000 as his cut of the kickback arrangement. Allegedly, Falkowski fraudulently abused QVC’s product requisition process to shower his friends and associates with at least tens of thousands of dollars’ worth of QVC products, all at QVC’s expense.
The indictment alleges that Falkowski caused QVC to hire Los Angeles-based PR firm “The Steinberg Group,” d/b/a “dOMAIN” (“TSG”), to serve as QVC’s outside PR agency. After QVC hired TSG, Falkowski allegedly used TSG to “launder” hundreds of thousands of dollars of his personal expenses. Falkowski did this by causing TSG to reimburse him directly for his personal expenses, but after paying Falkowski in the dollar amounts he commanded, TSG subsequently obtained reimbursement from QVC by issuing fraudulent invoices to QVC often written at Falkowski’s direction and, in certain instances, written by Falkowski himself. Those fraudulent invoices, by design, did not reveal to QVC the true nature of Falkowski’s expenses. Falkowski also caused TSG to reimburse him for expenses that he also submitted directly to QVC for reimbursement, thus causing QVC to unknowingly repay him multiple times for the same expenses. And, in some instances, Falkowski allegedly created entirely fake invoices and bills for submission to QVC to hide the true costs of his expenses from QVC. Falkowski also allegedly used a second QVC vendor, “SPEC Entertainment,” d/b/a “CS Global” (“SPEC”), to fraudulently alter invoices that SPEC submitted to QVC to hide the true costs of Falkowski’s expenses – including by reducing the cost of Falkowski’s luxury hotel charges on invoices submitted to QVC by tens of thousands of dollars, and by artificially inflating an event invoice to cover Falkowski’s personal vacation to the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Separately, the indictment alleges that Falkowski entered into fraudulent kickback arrangements with TSG and SPEC – both of which Falkowski caused QVC to hire, and both of whose relationships with QVC Falkowski controlled. Regarding TSG, Falkowski allegedly instructed TSG’s President and TSG’s General Counsel how to become a QVC “vendor representative” and earn royalties from QVC. Falkowski thereafter secretly assisted TSG leadership in negotiating against QVC – his own employer – by providing TSG with QVC’s proprietary contractual information, which enabled TSG leadership to negotiate for, and obtain, a larger royalty percentage over a longer period of time from QVC. In return, TSG leadership secretly cut Falkowski into the deal, and made him their “silent partner” – agreeing to pay Falkowski a kickback of fifty percent (50%) on all royalty payments received from QVC, as well as for funds received from a separate deal related to product sold by a QVC competitor. After Falkowski was terminated by QVC, Falkowski allegedly sent a private email to TSG’s President and TSG’s General Counsel, stating: “Let’s be clear of a few things: [. . . ] You have a better deal [at QVC] than any other rep because of me solely. [ ] we do not have any contract between us of our deal JUST [TSG President’s] word that we split things 50/50 always. This was because of the complications while I was at QVC.” TSG, which did business as “Domain Miami LLC” for its royalty deal with QVC, earned hundreds of thousands of dollars in royalties from QVC pursuant to the deal negotiated with Falkowski’s secret assistance, of which TSG kicked back approximately $160,981.73 to Falkowski as his share of their fraudulent deal.
Falkowski also allegedly entered into a similar fraudulent kickback arrangement with SPEC, pursuant to which he instructed SPEC how to serve as a QVC vendor representative, and in turn was secretly cut into the deal by SPEC as a one-third (33%) partner. SPEC earned hundreds of thousands of dollars in royalties from QVC, of which it kicked back approximately $81,571.23 to Falkowski as his share of their fraudulent deal.
If convicted of all charges, Falkowski faces a potential advisory sentencing guideline range of 108-135 months in prison, three years of supervised release, a possible fine, and a $2,300 special assessment. Restitution may also be ordered.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney James Petkun.
1An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Former Presidio Title C.F.O. Sentenced to Federal Prison for Stealing over $367K from CompanyRead the Press Release
In San Antonio this afternoon, a federal judge sentenced Joseph P. Karpowicz, 48-year-old former Chief Financial Officer for Presidio Title (Presidio), to 30 months in federal prison for stealing over $367,000 from the San Antonio real estate title company announced United States Attorney Richard L. Durbin, Jr.
In addition to the prison term, United States District Judge Xavier Rodriguez ordered that Karpowicz pay $367,309 restitution to his victim and be placed on supervised release for a period of three years after completing his prison term.
On August 24, 2016, Karpowicz pleaded guilty to one count of mail fraud and one count of engaging in financial transactions with criminally derived proceeds.
According to court records which the defendant admitted were factually correct, Karpowicz schemed to steal the money from Presidio between April 2010 until June 2013. Karpowicz issued Presidio checks to pay for his own personal expenses and credit card bills, then created materially false entries in Presidio’s records in order to hide his fraudulent conduct.
The United States Secret Service Identity Theft Task Force together with the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation conducted this investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Thomas P. Moore prosecuted this case on behalf of the Government.
Former Pit Boss, Blackjack Dealer, and a Player Plead Guilty in Federal Court to a Cheating Conspiracy at Dakota Sioux CasinoRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that three individuals have pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of Conspiracy Involving Theft by Employees of a Gaming Establishment on Indian Land.
Lito Banbilla Bolocon, age 44, and Jordon Anthony Rondell, age 29, appeared before U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann on August 1, 2017, and pled guilty to the Conspiracy charge contained in the Superseding Indictment. Jeremy Kris Brown, age 43, pleaded guilty to that same count on May 1, 2017.
The maximum term of imprisonment upon conviction is up to 5 years of imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and a special assessment of $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Dakota Sioux Casino (“DSC”) is a gaming establishment located approximately five miles north of Watertown, in Codington County, South Dakota. The DSC is also located on the Lake Traverse Indian Reservation and is operated by the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate Sioux Tribe.
According to the defendants’ plea agreements, Bolocon worked at the DSC as a pit boss, and Brown worked as a blackjack dealer. Rondell was a customer of the DSC whom frequently played blackjack. In December 2015 and through January 1, 2016, Bolocon, Brown, Rondell, and others conspired to enrich themselves by unlawfully obtaining gaming chips and money from the DSC. Specifically, in December 2015, the defendants devised a plan to cheat the DSC of monies derived during the gambling operations taking place on New Year’s Eve 2015 and into January 1, 2016. The agreement was for Rondell to unlawfully make a large sum of money from illegitimate winnings paid by Brown, and Rondell would then pay-off the other defendants for their participation. Rondell cashed-out approximately $10,000 from the DSC after playing at Brown’s blackjack tables, which were supervised by Bolocon.
Bolocon, as pit boss during that night and early morning, would oversee Brown’s and Gill’s dealing to Rondell. Bolocon knew about and allowed the cheat to proceed throughout the night of December 31, 2015, and early morning of January 1, 2016.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Attorney’s Office, and the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate Sioux Tribe’s Gaming Commission. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri is prosecuting the case.
A fourth defendant, Fern Freya Gill, has a trial date set for August 22, 2017.
The case was brought pursuant to The Guardians Project, a federal law enforcement initiative to coordinate efforts between participating agencies, to promote citizen disclosure of public corruption, fraud, and embezzlement involving federal program funds, contracts, and grants, and to hold accountable those who are responsible for adversely affecting those living in South Dakota’s Indian country communities. The Guardians Project is another step of federal law enforcement’s on-going efforts to increase engagement, coordination, and positive action on behalf of tribal communities. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the participating agencies include: Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Offices of Inspector General for the Departments of Interior, Health and Human Services, Social Security Administration, Agriculture, Transportation, Education, Justice, and Housing and Urban Development; Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division; U.S. Postal Inspector Service; U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General.
For additional information about The Guardians Project, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (605)330-4400. To report a suspected crime, please contact law enforcement at the federal agency’s locally listed telephone number.
Former Lebanon Airport Operator Indicted for $707,000 Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Tom Larson, Acting United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri, announced today that the former owner of a fixed base operation at the Lebanon, Mo., airport has been indicted by a federal grand jury for a $707,000 investment fraud scheme.
Paul David Ward, 61, of Camdenton, was charged with wire fraud in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Jefferson City, Mo., on Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2017.
Ward was the owner of Lebanon Aviation Service, Inc., which provided services to the users of the Lebanon airport, including the sale of aviation fuel, through a contract with the city of Lebanon. Ward purchased aviation fuel for his business from Avfuel Corporation, located in Ann Arbor, Michigan. In October 2014, Ward surrendered his contract with the city of Lebanon to sell aviation fuel at the airport. At that time, Ward was suffering monthly losses of $6,000 or greater.
The federal indictment alleges that, from Jan. 1, 2011, to Aug. 22, 2016, Ward engaged in a scheme to defraud friends and associates who invested in his company. Ward falsely and fraudulently claimed he would use the solicited investments in Lebanon Aviation Service, the indictment says, but he actually used the solicited investments for personal expenses and to make Ponzi-style payments to previous investors. In total, according to the indictment, Ward defrauded approximately 25 investors in Camden, Laclede and Cole Counties who suffered actual losses of approximately $264,720.
Ward solicited his friends and associates to invest in Lebanon Aviation Services. At various times, the indictment says, Ward falsely claimed that he needed additional capital to purchase aviation fuel, needed capital to purchase pleasure boats for resale, and that he needed capital for undisclosed purposes. Ward continued to solicit investments after Lebanon Aviation Services was dissolved by the Missouri Secretary of State in January 2015.
At the time of the investment, Ward provided the investor with a post-dated bank check in the amount of the principal plus interest. In most cases, when the investment became due and payable, the investor deposited the post-dated check, but the check was returned for insufficient funds. When an investor complained to Ward about the returned check, the indictment says, Ward falsely stated a reason for the returned check and provided a series of false excuses for the failure to pay to lull the investor and gain more time to repay the investor. Ward generally attempted to repay investors who threatened to tell his wife about his failure to repay the investment. When Ward’s attempts to stall an investor failed, he solicited additional investments for the purpose of paying off a previous investor.
The indictment also contains a forfeiture allegation, which would require Ward to forfeit to the government any property derived from the proceeds of the alleged offense, including a $264,720 money judgment.
Larson cautioned that the charge contained in this indictment is simply an accusation, and not evidence of guilt.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley S. Turner. It was investigated by the FBI and the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
Former Eastpointe Human Services Chief Financial Officer SentencedRead the Press Release
GREENVILLE – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina announced that in federal court on August 9, 2017, Senior United States District Judge Malcolm J. Howard sentenced WILLIAM ROBERT CANUPP, 58, from Richlands, N.C., to 42 months in prison and 3 years of supervised release and restitution in the amount of $731,180.00, for conspiracy to commit federal program fraud, wire fraud and tax fraud. CANUPP pled guilty to the charges on March 17, 2017.
From March 2010 to April 2013, CANUPP was the Chief Financial Officer for Eastpointe Human Services based in Beaulaville, North Carolina. CANUPP hired his co-defendant, Ronnie L. Davis, to perform personal construction services without taking bids for the renovation projects and did not have the completed work inspected or approved. Additionally, CANUPP created and submitted fraudulent invoices for the work Davis supposedly performed or for supplies and materials. Davis submitted personal checks to CANUPP to purchase supplies for the construction work. Additionally, CANUPP committed tax fraud by not reporting the money he received from Davis on his tax returns. CANUPP used the embezzled funds to purchase an $80,000 boat, hunting equipment, fishing software, high-end video gaming systems, make mortgage payments for a beach house, make personal credit card payments, and for other personal matters.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), the United States of Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), and the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General (HUD-OIG). The federal prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Ethan A. Ontjes
Federal-State Law Enforcement Partnership Results in More Than 75 Arrests in San Mateo, San Francisco CountiesRead the Press Release
SAN FRANCISCO – Officials from more than a half dozen law enforcement agencies gathered today to announce that over 75 individuals have been arrested and charged with a variety of state and federal crimes pursuant to “Operation Cold Day,” a joint federal-state effort to combat crime in San Mateo and San Francisco counties.
The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Brian J. Stretch; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), San Francisco Field Division, Special Agent in Charge Jill Snyder; San Mateo County District Attorney Steve Wagstaffe; San Francisco District Attorney George Gascón; San Francisco Chief of Police William Scott; Daly City Chief of Police Manuel Martinez; and California Highway Patrol, Golden Gate Division, Assistant Chief James Libby.
According to the officials, Operation Cold Day was spearheaded by the ATF in close coordination with local law enforcement partners in an effort to support ongoing state and local efforts to combat gun and drug-related crime. Multiple investigations and undercover operations have resulted in federal charges against 42 defendants and charges against dozens in state court.
According to the federal charging documents, the defendants are charged in mostly separate indictments. Each defendant is charged with allegedly committing at least one or more of the following crimes: possessing illegal firearms (such as firearms with obliterated serial numbers), in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(k); engaging in the unlicensed dealing in firearms, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(a)(1)(A); distributing and possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(B)(viii); being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1); and participating in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine base, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 846. Similarly, defendants in the prosecutions brought by the district attorneys of San Francisco and San Mateo Counties face a variety of charges.
“This week we took a key preemptive step in our battle against violent crime,” said U.S. Attorney Stretch. “By pooling the resources of the federal government with those of our state and local law enforcement partners, scores of weapons that we allege were illegally possessed and sold now have been taken off the streets. We commend and thank all of our law enforcement partners who have risked their safety to bring this phase of the operation to a successful conclusion.”
“It is our duty to make this community a safer place for you and your families,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Snyder. “The safety of the public is at the core of ATF’s mission and we stand at the frontline eradicating violent crime from our streets. One firearm in the hands of a gang member or prohibited person is one firearm too many. It only takes one round from one gun to end a life. Today ATF and our partners stand here united and proud to serve our communities. Through everyone’s hard work and dedication this operation has been a true success. These are also our neighborhoods and today the greater San Francisco area is a safer place.”
“Law enforcement is at its best when we all come together to enhance public safety,” said District Attorney Gascón. “My office’s Crime Strategies Unit is always looking for creative ways to work with our law enforcement partners to make our jurisdictions safer together.”
“Gun violence has negatively impacted the lives of far too many people in San Francisco,” said SFPD Chief Scott. “This type of violence is more likely to happen when guns are in the hands of individuals willing to obtain and/or use them illegally. This interagency collaboration and the resulting arrests goes a long way to towards addressing gun violence by removing from our streets firearms and those willing to obtain them illegally and potentially use them.”
“The effects of this large-scale and collaborative operation will have an impact on the public safety in this region for quite some time,” said Daly City Police Chief Martinez.
“This type of interagency cooperation stands as an example of what can be accomplished when state, federal and local law enforcement agencies work together to ensure that our communities are safe,” said CHP Assistant Chief Libby. “This two-year operation would never have been possible were it not for the cooperation of all of the agencies involved, and for this, the California Highway Patrol is grateful to all of our allied partners.”
The indictments merely allege that crimes have been committed, and each defendant must be presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
These prosecutions are the result of close coordination between the ATF; the California Highway Patrol; and the police departments of San Francisco, Redwood City, San Bruno, and Daly City; and the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office.
OPERATION COLD DAY FEDERAL DEFENDANTS
Defendant
Case Number(s)
Charges
MARIO ALVARADO
CR 17-336 WHA
21 U.S.C. § 841
21 U.S.C. § 846
18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1)
HARRINGTON AMADOR
CR 17-361 WHA
21 U.S.C. § 841
AISHAH BUENAVENTURA
CR 17-395 CRB
CR 17-402 CRB
CR 17-401 RS
21 U.S.C. § 841 (four counts)
21 U.S.C. § 846 (two counts)
18 U.S.C. § 922(a)(1)
PAUL BIDINGER
CR 17-391 EMC
21 U.S.C. § 841
21 U.S.C. § 846
ALLELEA CABILES
CR 17-404 SI
21 U.S.C. § 841 (two counts)
21 U.S.C. § 846
RYAN COSINO
CR 17-402 CRB
21 U.S.C. § 841
21 U.S.C. § 846
VICENTE CRUZ
CR 17-356 EMC
21 U.S.C. § 841 (two counts)
21 U.S.C. § 846
18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1)
DAVID DAYAN
CR 17-372 MMC
21 U.S.C. § 841
NELSON DECUIRE
CR 17-395 CRB
CR 17-391 EMC
CR 17-393 WHA
21 U.S.C. § 841 (three counts)
21 U.S.C. § 846 (three counts)
JOEL DOMINGUEZ
CR 17-0375 JST
21 U.S.C. § 841
21 U.S.C. § 846
ARMANDO ESPARZA
CR 17-381 VC
21 U.S.C. § 841
21 U.S.C. § 846
JEAN FAALATAINA
CR 17-373 CRB
21 U.S.C. § 841
21 U.S.C. § 846
CENTURY FAATAUI
CR 16-303 CRB
18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1)
SHANE DYLAN FABRIS
CR 17-386 CRB
21 U.S.C. § 841 (two counts)
21 U.S.C. § 846
KRISTIAN SANTOS FIEL
CR 17-335 VC
21 U.S.C. § 841 (two counts)
CHRISTINE FLORES
CR 17-398 WHO
21 U.S.C. § 841
21 U.S.C. § 846
KRYSTAL FLORES
CR 17-373 CRB
21 U.S.C. § 841
21 U.S.C. § 846
RODRICK FORD
CR 17-377 VC
21 U.S.C. § 841
18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1) (three counts)
26 U.S.C. § 5861(d)
CARLITA FOWLER
CR 17-412 VC
21 U.S.C. § 841 (three counts)
21 U.S.C. § 846
LORENZO GAINES
CR 17-371 CRB
18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1) (two counts)
ALBERTO GARCIA
CR 17-353 CRB
18 U.S.C. § 922(k)
MONICA GARCIA
CR 17-411 WHO
21 U.S.C. § 841
LAWRENCE GILBERT
CR 17-265 CRB
18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1)
ROBERT GUEVARA
CR 17-378 RS
21 U.S.C. § 841
21 U.S.C. § 846
LILLIAN HOVAN
CR 17-378 RS
21 U.S.C. § 841
21 U.S.C. § 846
ETEVATI LEVI
CR 17-356 EMC
21 U.S.C. § 841
21 U.S.C. § 846
ANGELITO MALLARI
CR 17-403 WHO
CR 17-404 SI
21 U.S.C. § 841 (five counts)
21 U.S.C. § 846 (two counts)
JENNIFER MCPIKE
CR 17-389 RS
21 U.S.C. § 841
21 U.S.C. § 846
ALICIA MORALES
CR 17-398 WHO
21 U.S.C. § 841
21 U.S.C. § 846
CARLOS ORELLANA
CR 17-396 SI
21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1) (two counts)
BRIAN PEREZ
CR 17-383 SI
CR 17-386 CRB
18 U.S.C. § 371
18 U.S.C. § 922(a)(1)
18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1) (two counts)
21 U.S.C. § 841 (two counts)
21 U.S.C. § 846
CARL PITTS
CR 17-412 VC
21 U.S.C. § 841
21 U.S.C. § 846
JOSE ALEJANDRO VASQUEZ ROBLEDO
CR 17-381 VC
21 U.S.C. § 841
21 U.S.C. § 846
LUIS ROMERO
CR 17-336 WHA
21 U.S.C. § 841
21 U.S.C. § 846
18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(5)
JAVIER ROSALES
CR 17-376 SI
26 U.S.C. § 5861(d)
EFRAIN SANTAMARIA
CR 17-389 RS
18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1)
DANIELLE SIMRIL
CR 17-382 CRB
21 U.S.C. § 841 (two counts)
KERMIT TANNER
CR 17-383 SI
CR 17-347 VC
18 U.S.C. § 371
18 U.S.C. § 922(a)(1)
18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1) (three counts)
21 U.S.C. § 841 (two counts)
SANDY TUIMAVAVE
CR 15-593 TEH
18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1)
BRIAN VANDERCOURT
CR 16-121 WHO
21 U.S.C. § 841 (two counts)
DONNIE YINGLING
CR 17-388 SI
18 U.S.C. § 371
18 U.S.C. § 922(a)(1)(A)
18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1) (two counts)
21 U.S.C. § 841
IVAN ZARICH
CR 16-358
18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1)
18 U.S.C. § 111(b)
The statutes referenced above correlate to the following alleged offenses:
18 U.S.C. § 371- Conspiracy to deal in firearms without a license
18 U.S.C. § 111(b)- Assault on a federal officer
18 U.S.C. § 922(a)- Dealing in firearms without a license
18 U.S.C. § 922(g)- Felon in possession of a firearm
18 U.S.C. § 922(k)- Possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number
21 U.S.C. § 841- Distribution and/or possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance
21 U.S.C. § 846- Conspiracy to distribute and/or possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance
26 U.S.C. § 5861(d)- Possession of an unregistered firearm
Federal Inmate Sentenced to 41 Months’ Imprisonment for Assaulting Fellow InmateRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that United States District Court Judge James M. Munley sentenced James Carson, age 31, to 41 months of imprisonment for assaulting a fellow inmate while incarcerated at the United States Penitentiary Canaan (USP Canaan) in Waymart, Pennsylvania.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Carson previously pleaded guilty to the assault, during which he stabbed another inmate several times with an improvised knife, causing serious injury. Carson was deemed a career offender, in consideration of his extensive criminal history.
At the time of the assault, Carson was serving a sentence at USP Canaan pursuant to a 2012, federal conviction for being a felon in possession of a sawed-off shotgun. Judge Munley thus ordered that Carson’s new sentence run consecutive to his undischarged term of imprisonment.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and officers from USP Canaan. Assistant United States Attorney Phillip J. Caraballo prosecuted the case.
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Federal Grand Jury Indicts Columbus Man Who Allegedly Cyberstalked Local Law Enforcement OfficerRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, Ohio – A federal grand jury has charged William E. Young, 54, of Columbus, with one count of cyberstalking in an indictment returned here today.
Benjamin C. Glassman, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, and Angela L. Byers, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Cincinnati Field Office, announced the indictment.
The indictment alleges that Young used the mail and the Internet to attempt to cause substantial emotional distress and evoke fear of serious bodily injury or death.
According to an affidavit filed in support of a criminal complaint in this case, Young was arrested in October 1999 for menacing by stalking a female in Delaware County, Ohio. It is alleged that he has continuously harassed and stalked one of his arresting officers since the time of his arrest and conviction.
The affidavit details that over the course of more than 17 years, Young created four webpages and sent multiple letters claiming the victim is a “pedophile” and “corrupt cop.” Young allegedly mailed letters on numerous occasions to the victim’s wife and family, neighbors, physician, barber, church and church pastor and pastor’s wife, as well as to Ohio Wesleyan College, Delaware City Hall, the Delaware Chamber of Commerce, the Delaware City Mayor, Delaware City Council members, the Delaware Police Department, the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office, the Delaware County Jail, the Arapahoe County Prosecutor’s Office and other local community businesses.
“Letters varied in length from three to 92 pages, and often included court records related to the 1999 conviction and documents related to civil lawsuits that Young filed against the victim and a fellow officer,” U.S. Attorney Glassman said.
In a May 2010 interview with agents of the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI), Young stated he wanted the victim fired and wanted him to “eat his gun.”
In September 2015, Young allegedly mailed a 62-page letter to the victim’s spouse which stated: “I’ll force his hand if the powers that be make the mistake of coming after me again. Then I’ll take everyone down who had a hand in what was done to me one by one.”
Over the last decade, Young has filed multiple state and federal civil lawsuits against the victim and another arresting officer from Young’s 1999 arrest, and the Delaware Police Department, alleging various claims of corruption and fraud.
Young was arrested by FBI agents on Tuesday and is scheduled to return to court at 11am tomorrow for a detention hearing before U.S. Magistrate Judge Elizabeth Preston-Deavers.
Cyberstalking is a federal crime punishable by up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
U.S. Attorney Glassman commended the investigation of this case by the FBI, and Assistant United States Attorney Jessica H. Kim, who is prosecuting the case.
An indictment merely contains allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
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Endicott Man Pleads Guilty to Sexually Exploiting Two Children and Possessing and Receiving Child PornographyRead the Press Release
BINGHAMTON, NEW YORK – Richard M. Squires, 58, of Endicott, New York, pled guilty today to Exploitation of a Child, Receiving Child Pornography, and Possession of Child Pornography in Federal Court in Binghamton, New York, announced Acting United States Attorney Grant C. Jaquith and FBI Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office Vadim D. Thomas.
As part of his guilty plea, Richard M. Squires admitted that in 2013 he made images of his sexual exploitation of two minor females and in 2014 received and possessed images depicting child pornography at his home in Endicott, New York. At sentencing on December 19, 2017, Richard M. Squires faces a minimum sentence of 15 years and up to 30 years imprisonment for each count of child exploitation, a minimum sentence of five years and up to 20 years imprisonment for receiving child pornography, and up to 20 years imprisonment for possession of child pornography. Additionally, he faces a term of between five years and life of supervised release following his release from incarceration. He will also be ordered to register as a sex offender.
In April of 2017, law enforcement officials became aware of these offenses when one of the victims disclosed her sexual abuse by the defendant to a school official. Squires was interviewed by members of the Endicott Police Department and he confessed to making, possessing and receiving child pornography. Endicott Police and FBI Agents obtained search warrants for the defendant’s residence and electronic media located there and gathered evidence supporting his guilt.
This case was investigated by the Endicott Police Department and the FBI, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Miroslav Lovric.
Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice, Project Safe Childhood is led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS). Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc
Elma Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y.- Acting U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Kevin D. Waczkowski, 32, of Elma, NY, pleaded guilty to possession of child pornography, before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Lamarque, who is handling the case, stated that on April 15, 2016, the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Violent Crimes Against Children Task Force executed a search warrant at the defendant’s residence and seized several electronic devices. Forensic examination determined that Waczkowski was in possession of thousands of images of child pornography, some of which depicted prepubescent children less than 12 years of age, and some of which depicted images of violence.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Adam S. Cohen.
Sentencing is scheduled for November 16, 2017, at 2:00 pm before Judge Vilardo.Eagle Butte Man Sentenced for Abusive Sexual Contact and Failure to AppearRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact and Failure to Appear was sentenced on August 9, 2017, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Luther Blue Thunder, age 36, was sentenced to a total of 128 months in prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100. Restitution may also apply.
Blue Thunder was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 16, 2016. He was scheduled to plead guilty to Abusive Sexual Contact at a change of plea hearing on May 16, 2017, but he failed to appear for the hearing and a warrant was issued for his arrest. Blue Thunder was apprehended in Eagle Butte on May 18, 2017, and charged with Failure to Appear. He pled guilty to both offenses on May 22, 2017. Blue Thunder was sentenced to 120 months in prison for the Abusive Sexual Contact conviction and 8 months in prison for the Failure to Appear conviction, with the sentences ordered to be served consecutively.
The Abusive Sexual Contact conviction stemmed from conduct that occurred between May 2011 and September 2012, wherein Blue Thunder sexually assaulted a child who was between six and seven years old. The conduct occurred in Mission, South Dakota.
The case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Blue Thunder was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.