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Thursday 8 June 2017
Former Attorney Sentenced for Bankruptcy FraudRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – U.S. District Judge James D. Whittemore has sentenced Josiah E. Hutton (60, Winter Haven) to six months in federal prison, followed by six months of home confinement, for concealment of assets from a bankruptcy estate. In addition, he was ordered to pay $93,255.27 in restitution to the victim of his offense.
According to court documents, Hutton, a former bankruptcy attorney, was retained to represent a debtor who was planning to file for bankruptcy. In anticipation of filing a bankruptcy petition, Hutton received a $93,255.27 settlement check, which was property of the debtor’s bankruptcy estate, and deposited it into his attorney escrow account. Hutton later prepared and certified the debtor’s bankruptcy petition, yet he failed to list the settlement check as an asset, thereby concealing the asset from creditors and the bankruptcy court.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. The Office of United States Trustee, Tampa Division provided substantial investigative assistance. It was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Chris Poor.
Financial Planner Guilty of Mail FraudRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas – A 67-year-old Houston man has pleaded guilty to federal violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Brit Featherston today.
Lawrence Allen DeShetler pleaded guilty to mail fraud today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Keith Giblin.
According to information presented in court, DeShetler has been a certified financial planner (CFP) and investment advisor since 1994, and has been president of DeShetler & Company, Inc. since 1988. In his capacity as a CFP and investment advisor, DeShetler would advise clients on investment strategies and act as a broker for financial products, such as annuities and insurance policies. However, beginning in 2014, DeShetler began soliciting funds from clients by convincing them they could see higher returns on their money if they allowed him to invest it. Based on DeShetler’s advice, the clients then withdrew money from their existing investment accounts and gave him the proceeds. DeShetler then deposited the funds in bank accounts in his name and under his exclusive control, and then used the money for his personal benefit. In total, DeShetler fraudulently obtained $1,907,003.71 from five clients, including two from the Jefferson/Orange county area of the Eastern District of Texas.
Under federal statutes, DeShetler faces up to 20 years in federal prison at sentencing. The maximum statutory sentence prescribed by Congress is provided here for information purposes, as the sentencing will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the U.S. Probation Office.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Investigation; Orange County Sheriff’s Office, Texas Department of Public Safety, Texas State Securities Board, Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office, and Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher T. Tortorice.
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Filipino National Sentenced to 63 Months in Prison for Running $9 Million Stolen Credit and Debit Card Cybercrime RingRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A Filipino national was sentenced today to 63 months in prison for running an international cashing operation that monetized stolen credit and debit card information obtained through computer hacking and ATM skimming operations, Acting U.S. Attorney William E. Fitzpatrick announced.
Angelo Virtucio, a/k/a “ZaiR,” a/k/a “ZaiRe,” a/k/a “Omega,” a/k/a “Omega10,” 31, of Quezon City, Philippines, previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Susan D. Wigenton to an information charging him with one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud. Virtucio was arrested in the Southern District of Florida on Jan. 29, 2015 and was extradited to the District of New Jersey on Feb. 11, 2015. Judge Wigenton imposed the sentence today in Newark federal court.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
Virtucio monetized millions of dollars from stolen credit and debit card data using a global network of “cashers” to enter into unauthorized financial transactions using the accounts related to the stolen information. The stolen credit card data was primarily obtained through computer hacking; the stolen debit card data was mostly obtained through ATM skimming operations. After purchasing the stolen data from other cybercriminals, Virtucio and his conspirators encoded it onto counterfeit credit and debit cards. The cashers used the counterfeit cards to make unauthorized ATM withdrawals and purchases at physical retail locations.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Wigenton sentenced Virtucio to two years of supervised release.
Acting U.S. Attorney Fitzpatrick credited the special agents of the U.S. Secret Service, Newark Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Mark McKevitt, with the investigation leading to today’s sentencing.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney L. Judson Welle, coordinator of the Computer Hacking and Intellectual Property Section of the Economic Crimes Unit.
Defense counsel: Kathleen Theurer Esq. and A. Paul Condon Esq., Jersey City, New Jersey
Felon on Federal Supervised Release Admits Having Illegal Gun and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of felon in possession of a firearm, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Marcus Thompkins, 27, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Thompkins, after having been convicted of a felony, did knowingly possess a firearm, namely a .40 caliber Smith and Wesson pistol, Model 40 VE and approximately fifty rounds of .40 caliber Winchester ammunition. Thompkins, at the time of the offense, was on federal supervised release. An Officer with the United States Probation Office observed him with the firearm, and, based on that observation, the Probation Office and the United States Marshal Service conducted a search of Thompkins’ home, which led to the seizure of the firearm and ammunition.
Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for October 19, 2017. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court remanded Thompkins to federal custody.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, United States Marshals Service and United States Probation Office conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Thompkins.
Federal and State Authorities in Las Cruces Arrest Members and Associates of the “Cruces Boys” on Drug Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
Federal and state authorities arrested six members and associates of the “Cruces Boys” gang this morning on federal drug trafficking charges and seized 25 firearms announced United States Attorney Richard L. Durbin, Jr.; Special Agent in Charge Terry Wade, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Albuquerque Division; Special Agent in Charge Will Glaspy, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, El Paso Division; and, Las Cruces Police Chief Jaime Montoya.
Arrested today include: 29-year-old Joshua Randall Garcia (aka ”Flu,” “Flu Diggs”); 35-year-old Rahiem Harris; 23-year-old Estevan Carreon; 29-year-old Olajuwan Calhoun; 29-year-old Nate Nordorf; and, 21-year-old Jalen Bishop. Authorities arrested Carreon in Farmington, NM, and the others in Las Cruces, NM. All of the defendants remain in custody pending initial appearances expected to occur in federal court tomorrow.
Federal criminal complaints—unsealed today—charge the defendants with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine. According to court records, the defendants, led by Joshua Garcia, allegedly distributed cocaine and “crack” cocaine throughout the Las Cruces area from July 2016 until last month.
Garcia, whose charge involves more than 500 grams of cocaine, faces between five and 40 years in federal prison upon conviction. The other defendants, each charged for less than 500 grams of cocaine, face up to 20 years in federal prison upon conviction.
“An operation this large and complex required the coordination of many agencies. I am proud of how well this team of federal, state and local law enforcement professionals worked together to make our community safer,” stated Terry Wade, Special Agent in Charge of the Albuquerque Division of the FBI.
“Our communities deserve to exist without fear and intimidation inflicted by drug gangs,” said Will R. Glaspy, Special Agent in Charge of DEA’s El Paso Division. “Today’s enforcement operation represents our continued commitment to the citizens of Las Cruces for law enforcement at the federal, state and local levels to work together to keep our neighborhoods safe.”
These federal and state charges resulted from an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Las Cruces Police Department’s Gang Unit, New Mexico State Police, U.S. Border Patrol, U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). The Metro Narcotics Unit, Doña Ana County Sheriff’s Office, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Air and Marine Unit, and the New Mexico Army National Guard assisted in this investigation.
The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering operations, and those primarily responsible for the nation’s illegal drug supply.
It is important to note that an indictment is merely a charge and should not be considered as evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Federal Court of Appeals Denies Rehearing of Decision Upholding Convictions of William B. Aossey, Jr.,Read the Press Release
The United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit today denied a request to rehear its April 14, 2017, decision affirming the criminal fraud and related convictions of William B. Aossey, Jr.; Jalel Aossey; and Midamar Corporation, all of Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
On July 3, 2015, the founder of Midamar Corporation (Midamar) and Islamic Services of America, William B. Aossey, Jr., age 75, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, was convicted by a federal jury on 15 counts of conspiracy, making false statements on export certificates, and wire fraud. On February 26, 2016, Aossey was sentenced to 24 months’ imprisonment and fined $60,000. Aossey was also ordered to forfeit $184,983 representing proceeds of the fraud. In addition, he was ordered to pay costs of prosecution of $16,824 and a special assessment of $1500.
On September 9, 2015, Midamar pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit the following federal offenses: mail and wire fraud; covering up material facts by a scheme; making and using false statements and documents in a matter within the jurisdiction of the Department of Agriculture; making false statements on export certificates with the intent to defraud; and selling misbranded meat in interstate commerce with the intent to defraud. Midamar’s guilty plea was entered by its Treasurer and a corporate director, Yahya Nasser Aossey. On February 26, 2016, Midamar was sentenced to pay a $20,000 fine and ordered to forfeit $600,000. Midamar was also placed on probation for five years. As a special condition of probation, Midamar was ordered to abide by all terms of a consent decree entered into with the USDA Food Safety Inspection Service. The consent decree required Midamar to take a variety of corrective actions and to remove certain corporate officials including Jalel Aossey and William B. Aossey from the business. Midamar was also ordered to pay a special assessment of $400.
On September 11, 2015, Jalel Aossey, age 42, then President of Midamar, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit the following federal offenses: mail and wire fraud; covering up material facts by a scheme; making and using false statements and documents in a matter within the jurisdiction of the Department of Agriculture; making false statements on export certificates with the intent to defraud; and selling misbranded meat in interstate commerce with the intent to defraud. On March 11, 2016, Jalel Aossey was sentenced to serve 12 months’ and one day imprisonment and fined $30,000. In addition, he was ordered to pay a special assessment of $100. Aossey was ordered to serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term and to comply with the terms of a separate consent decree entered into with the USDA Food Safety Inspection Service. As part of that agreement and his plea agreement, Aossey was required to divest his interest in Midamar and to no longer be associated with the management or operations of Midamar.
William B. Aossey, Jr., Midamar, and Jalel Aossey each appealed their convictions. The defendants each claimed the district court, The Honorable Linda R. Reade, United States District Judge for the Northern District of Iowa, had erred by denying their motions to dismiss the cases. In their motions to dismiss, the defendants contended the district court lacked jurisdiction over their cases because Congress had reserved exclusive enforcement authority over the alleged statutory violations to the Secretary of Agriculture, and that the United States Attorney could not proceed against the defendants in a criminal prosecution. The cases were consolidated for resolution on appeal.
In a written opinion filed April 14, 2017, the United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit denied the appeals. The Court held that Congress did not express a “clear and unambiguous” intent that the district courts would not have jurisdiction over criminal violations of the Federal Meat Inspection Act. Rather, the “better reading” of the applicable statute is that it “provides an administrative enforcement mechanism for the Secretary of Agriculture that supplements the authority of the United States Attorneys to pursue criminal prosecutions in the district courts.” Further, here, “the United States Attorney properly proceeded in the district court.”
Midamar and the Aosseys then asked the Court to rehear the appeal before the same appeals panel or before a panel of all judges on the entire Eighth Circuit Court. In a one-line decision filed today, the Court of Appeals denied the rehearing request.
The cases were prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Richard L. Murphy and Timothy L. Vavricek and were investigated by the United States Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General Investigations and Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl
The case file numbers: 14-CR-00116-LRR (William B. Aossey, Jr.); 14-CR-00138-LRR (Midamar & ISA).
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Everett Man Sentenced for Dealing Firearms Without a LicenseRead the Press Release
BOSTON - An Everett man was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for dealing firearms without a license.
Samuel Jean, 23, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Senior Judge Rya W. Zobel to two years in prison and three years of supervised release after pleading guilty on March 2, 2017.
On four occasions between Aug. 29, 2016, and Oct. 3, 2016, Jean delivered firearms and ammunition to an accomplice, Jeffrey Joseph, who in turn sold the weapons to an individual cooperating with the government. All of the transactions took place in and around the Bunker Hill Housing Development in Charlestown. During the course of the transactions, Jean supplied a total of seven firearms for sale to the cooperating witness, including two firearms previously reported as stolen.
Jeffrey Joseph pleaded not guilty to federal firearms charges and is awaiting trial.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb and Mickey D. Leadingham, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Field Division, made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lori J. Holik, Chief of Weinreb’s Major Crimes Unit, prosecuted the case.
East Hartford Resident Charged with Obstructing Tax LawsRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, William Kalb, Special Agent in Charge for the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA), and Joel P. Garland, Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation in New England, announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven returned an indictment today charging RAYMOND McLAUGHLIN, also known as “Shakir Ra Ade Bey” and “Shakir Ade Bey,” 34, of East Hartford, with one count of obstructing the administration of federal tax laws, and one count of making a false statement.
McLAUGHLIN was arrested yesterday on a federal criminal complaint and is detained. An arraignment and bond hearing is scheduled for June 12 at 3:30 p.m. before U.S. Magistrate Judge Joan G. Margolis in New Haven.
As alleged in court documents, in March 2009, McLAUGHLIN and his wife refinanced the mortgage for their East Hartford residence, taking out a $233,371 refinancing loan. McLAUGHLIN and his wife failed to make a single mortgage payment for approximately six years thereafter while they resided in the home. In April 2011, the mortgage holder filed a foreclosure lawsuit in state court and, in December 2012, Judge Robert F. Vacchelli granted an Order of Foreclosure against McLAUGHLIN. On April 23, 2014, Judge Vacchelli denied the eleventh of McLAUGHLIN’s motions to vacate, reopen or otherwise set aside the foreclosure judgment. The next day, McLAUGHLIN mailed packages containing documents related to his foreclosure proceedings to both the U.S. Treasury Department in Washington, D.C., and the Internal Revenue Service in Austin, Texas. The packages included IRS Forms 1099-OID and 1099-A for the 2014 tax year that falsely claimed that McLAUGHLIN had paid $332,204.25 to Judge Vacchelli and the Connecticut state courts. The packages also contained an IRS Form 1096 on which McLAUGHLIN stated and declared under the penalties of perjury that he had examined the submissions and that they were true, correct and complete, when, in fact, he knew that he had not made a payment of any kind to either Judge Vacchelli or the courts.
If convicted of the charges, MCLAUGHLIN faces a maximum term of imprisonment of eight years.
U.S. Attorney Daly stressed that an indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Henry Kopel.
East Chicago Man Sentenced for Gang-Related ShootingRead the Press Release
An East Chicago, Indiana man was sentenced today to 10 years in prison on a firearms charge related to the activity of a street gang known as the Two Six Nation. Acting Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Blanco of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and Acting U.S. Attorney Clifford D. Johnson of the Northern District of Indiana made the announcement.
Julio Ivan Cartagena Jr, 22, pleaded guilty on March 22, to Use of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence for his role in a car chase and shooting on Aug. 31, 2013. The uncontested facts proffered at Cartagena’s guilty plea hearing showed that on that evening, Cartagena’s stepbrother had been denied admission to a party in Hammond by members of a rival street gang. Responding to a call for assistance from his stepbrother, Cartagena and another individual joined the stepbrother and a fourth individual in a car. Possessing two handguns, Cartagena and the other occupants drove back to the location of the party, where they saw individuals believed to be members of the rival gang getting into a car. Cartagena and the other occupants of the first vehicle followed that car, shooting at the rival gang members as they went. Shots fired from the car in which Cartagena was riding hit the rival gang members’ vehicle, striking one occupant in a finger. Several shots also went wide, penetrating the house of a Hammond Police Department officer who lived in the neighborhood.
Cartagena was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Joseph Van Bokkelen to 10 years in prison and to a two year term of supervised release.
The FBI Gang Response Investigative Team; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Hammond Police Department; and the Lake County Police Department investigated the case. They were assisted by the East Chicago Police Department and the Lake County High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Nozick of the Northern District of Indiana and Trial Attorneys Andrew L. Creighton and Robert Tully of the Criminal Division’s Organized Crime and Gang Section.
East Chicago Man Sentenced for Gang-Related ShootingRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – An East Chicago, Indiana man was sentenced today to 10 years in prison on a firearms charge related to the activity of a street gang known as the Two Six Nation. Acting Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Blanco of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and Acting U.S. Attorney Clifford D. Johnson of the Northern District of Indiana made the announcement.
Julio Ivan Cartagena Jr, 22, pleaded guilty on March 22, to Use of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence for his role in a car chase and shooting on Aug. 31, 2013. The uncontested facts proffered at Cartagena’s guilty plea hearing showed that on that evening, Cartagena’s stepbrother had been denied admission to a party in Hammond by members of a rival street gang. Responding to a call for assistance from his stepbrother, Cartagena and another individual joined the stepbrother and a fourth individual in a car. Possessing two handguns, Cartagena and the other occupants drove back to the location of the party, where they saw individuals believed to be members of the rival gang getting into a car. Cartagena and the other occupants of the first vehicle followed that car, shooting at the rival gang members as they went. Shots fired from the car in which Cartagena was riding hit the rival gang members’ vehicle, striking one occupant in a finger. Several shots also went wide, penetrating the house of a Hammond Police Department officer who lived in the neighborhood.
Cartagena was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Joseph Van Bokkelen to 10 years in prison and to a 2 year term of supervised release.
The FBI Gang Response Investigative Team; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Hammond Police Department; and the Lake County Police Department investigated the case. They were assisted by the East Chicago Police Department and the Lake County High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Nozick of the Northern District of Indiana and Trial Attorneys Andrew L. Creighton and Robert Tully of the Criminal Division’s Organized Crime and Gang Section.
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Dorchester Man Sentenced for Illegally Selling Three FirearmsRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Dorchester man was sentenced today in federal court in Boston in connection with illegal, street-level gun trafficking.
Victor Florentino, 22, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Allison D. Burroughs to two years in prison and three years of supervised release. In March 2017, Florentino pleaded guilty to one count of engaging in the business of dealing with firearms without a license.
In 2015 and 2016, a federal investigation identified a network of street gangs, which had created alliances to traffick weapons and drugs throughout Massachusetts and generate violence against rival gang members. Based on the investigation, 53 defendants were indicted in June 2016 on federal firearm and drug charges, including defendants who are allegedly leaders, members, and associates of the 18th Street Gang, the East Side Money Gang and the Boylston Street Gang. These gangs operated primarily in the East Boston, Boston, Chelsea, Brockton, Malden, Revere and Everett areas. During the course of the investigation, over 70 firearms, cocaine, cocaine base (crack), heroin and fentanyl were seized.
During the investigation, Florentino was identified as having been actively involved in illegal, street-level, firearms trafficking in the Boston area. He brokered the sale of three handguns to a cooperating witness: an AMT, Backup, 9mm semi-automatic pistol with an obliterated serial number; a Beretta, Model 84B, .380 caliber semi-automatic pistol; and a JP Sauer & Sohn, .44 Magnum revolver.
Florentino is the 10th defendant to plead guilty.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb; Mickey D. Leadingham, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Boston Field Division; Michael J. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; Matthew Etre, Special Agent in Charge of the Homeland Security Investigations in Boston; John Gibbons, U.S. Marshal of the District of Massachusetts; Maura Healey, Attorney General of Massachusetts; Colonel Richard D. McKeon, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; Boston Police Commissioner William Evans; Chelsea Police Chief Brian Kyes; and Brockton Police Chief John Crowley, made the announcement today. The U.S. Attorney’s Office also acknowledges the assistance of the Suffolk and Middlesex County Sheriff Departments and the Malden, Revere and Everett Police Departments.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Dominican National Sentenced for Distributing Kilo of HeroinRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Dominican national was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for his role in two separate heroin trafficking rings operating in southeastern Massachusetts.
Francis Gonsalez-Romero, a/k/a Sam, 41, a Dominican national residing in Providence, R.I., was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge George A. O’Toole Jr. to 84 months in prison and three years of supervised release. Gonsalez-Romero will be subject to deportation upon completion of his sentence. On Feb. 28, 2017, Gonsalez-Romero pleaded guilty in two separate cases, a 2012 charge for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin, and a 2015 charge for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl.
The first indictment was returned on July 9, 2012, and was the product of a federal wiretap investigation. The investigation included the interception of a cellular telephone used by Gonsalez-Romero. Based on the investigation, Gonsalez-Romero supplied significant quantities of heroin to co-defendant Jose Rosa, who arranged for the heroin to be distributed to customers in the Taunton, Mass., area. Gonsalez-Romero’s four co-defendants were arrested in July 2012, but federal investigators were unable to locate Gonsalez-Romero, who remained a fugitive. All four co-defendants pleaded guilty and were sentenced to prison terms ranging from three years to 87 months.
The 2015 indictment was the product of a long-term federal investigation that established that Gonsalez-Romero was part of a drug trafficking organization led by his brother, Dedwin Cruz-Rivera. Cruz-Rivera allegedly obtained large quantities of heroin and fentanyl from local drug suppliers, including Gonsalez-Romero and his brother Manuel Romero-Gonsalez, which was distributed in and around Fall River and Providence, R.I.
The investigation culminated with the arrests and charges of Gonsalez-Romero and 24 others in connection with Cruz-Rivera’s heroin trafficking operation; an April 2016 superseding indictment brought the number of defendants charged in the case to 26. More than half of the defendants charged in the Cruz-Rivera operation have pleaded guilty, and nine of the defendants have already been sentenced. Cruz-Rivera pleaded not guilty and is awaiting trial.
Investigators used DNA evidence to confirm Gonsalez-Romero was the same individual charged in the 2012 indictment. Overall, Gonsalez-Romero was responsible for the distribution of more than a kilogram of heroin.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb and Michael J. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division, made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Katherine Ferguson, Thomas E. Kanwit, Karen Beausey, Ann Taylor, and Linda M. Ricci of Weinreb’s Narcotics and Money Laundering Unit are prosecuting the cases.
Dominican National Charged with Passport FraudRead the Press Release
BOSTON - A Dominican national was charged today in federal court in Boston with passport fraud.
Adolfo Santana Gonzalez, 31, was charged with misuse of a social security number and making a false statement in an application for a United States Passport.
According to the indictment, in November 2016, Santana Gonzalez, using the identification and social security number assigned to another individual, submitted an application for a U.S. passport at a U.S. Post Office in Worcester in that individual’s name.
The charge of passport fraud provides for a sentence of no greater than 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000. Santana Gonzalez will be subject to deportation upon completion of his sentence. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb and David W. Hall, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Diplomatic Security, Boston Field Office, made the announcement today. U.S. Customs and Border Protection assisted with the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth G. Shine of Weinreb’s Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the indictment are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Dominican National Charged with Illegal Reentry After DeportationRead the Press Release
BOSTON - A Dominican national was charged today in federal court in Boston with a federal immigration crime.
Orlando Genao-Maldonado, 55, was charged with illegally reentering the United States after being deported.
According to the indictment, Genao-Maldonado was deported in March 2004. In May 2016, federal agents in Boston discovered Genao-Maldonado and found him to be illegally present in the United States.
Genao-Maldonado faces a sentence of no greater than 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release, a fine of $250,000 and will be subject to deportation upon completion of his sentence. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb and Matthew J. Etre, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston, made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth G. Shine of Weinreb’s Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the indictment are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Dominican National Arrested for Trafficking HeroinRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Dominican national was arrested today for distributing heroin.
Elin Robinson Mejia Romero, 51, a Dominican national residing in Hyde Park, was arrested today and charged by a federal criminal complaint with distribution of heroin.
According to court documents, a cooperating witness worked with investigators to identify Romero. On five occasions between January 2017 and June 2017, Romero sold a total of over 100 grams of heroin and/or fentanyl to the cooperating witness. Federal agents recorded each transaction and laboratory results confirmed that the drugs were heroin and fentanyl. Additional suspected fentanyl and cash were recovered during searches at two residences in Hyde Park.
Romero, was previously convicted in federal court in Boston in 2008 for conspiracy to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin and five kilograms or more of cocaine. He was sentenced to 46 months in federal prison and was deported to the Dominican Republic after completing his sentence.
The charging statute for possession with intent to distribute heroin provides for a sentence of no greater than 20 years, up to a lifetime of supervised release, and a fine of $1 million. Romero will be subject to deportation upon completion of his sentence. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb and Mickey D. Leadingham, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Field Division, made the announcement today. The case was investigated by the Boston OCDETF Strike Force. Assistance was also provided by Customs and Border Protection and the Attleboro Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Leah B. Foley of Weinreb’s Narcotics and Money Laundering Unit is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Department of Justice Issues Statement on Testimony of Former FBI Director James ComeyRead the Press Release
In response to testimony given today by former FBI Director James Comey, Department of Justice Spokesman Ian Prior issued the following statement:
- Shortly after being sworn in, Attorney General Sessions began consulting with career Department of Justice ethics officials to determine whether he should recuse himself from any existing or future investigations of any matters related in any way to the campaigns for President of the United States.
Those discussions were centered upon 28 CFR 45.2, which provides that a Department of Justice attorney should not participate in investigations that may involve entities or individuals with whom the attorney has a political or personal relationship. That regulation goes on to define “political relationship” as:
“[A] close identification with an elected official, a candidate (whether or not successful) for elective, public office, a political party, or a campaign organization, arising from service as a principal adviser thereto or a principal official thereof ***”
Given Attorney General Sessions’ participation in President Trump’s campaign, it was for that reason, and that reason alone, the Attorney General made the decision on March 2, 2017 to recuse himself from any existing or future investigations of any matters related in any way to the campaigns for President of the United States.
- In his testimony, Mr. Comey stated that he was “not *** aware of” “any kind of memorandum issued from the Attorney General or the Department of Justice to the FBI outlining the parameters of [the Attorney General’s] recusal.” However, on March 2, 2017, the Attorney General’s Chief of Staff sent the attached email specifically informing Mr. Comey and other relevant Department officials of the recusal and its parameters, and advising that each of them instruct their staff “not to brief the Attorney General *** about, or otherwise involve the Attorney General *** in, any such matters described.”
- During his testimony, Mr. Comey confirmed that he did not inform the Attorney General of his concerns about the substance of any one-on-one conversation he had with the President. Mr. Comey said, following a morning threat briefing, that he wanted to ensure he and his FBI staff were following proper communications protocol with the White House. The Attorney General was not silent; he responded to this comment by saying that the FBI and Department of Justice needed to be careful about following appropriate policies regarding contacts with the White House.
- Despite previous inaccurate media reports, Mr. Comey did not say that he ever asked anyone at the Department of Justice for more resources related to this investigation.
- In conclusion, it is important to note that after his initial meeting with career ethics officials regarding recusal (and including the period prior to his formal recusal on March 2, 2017), the Attorney General has not been briefed on or participated in any investigation within the scope of his recusal.
Convicted Felon Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing Handgun at Suburban Shooting Range and Obstructing Law Enforcement Investigation into the MatterRead the Press Release
CHICAGO — A convicted felon admitted in federal court today that he illegally possessed a handgun at a suburban shooting range and then obstructed a law enforcement investigation into the matter.
LABAR SPANN, 38, also known as “Bro Man,” possessed and discharged the handgun in a firing range at Midwest Sporting Goods in Lyons on Sept. 14, 2014, according to a written plea agreement. Spann went to the range with two other individuals, and he posted numerous videos and photographs of the visit on his Instagram profile, the plea agreement states. One photograph depicted the silhouette of a person as the shooting target, with holes in the head and chest. According to the plea agreement, Spann posted a caption for the photograph that read: “y’all know I had to go first just to show my [expletive] how this [expletive] work lmao I do this [expletive].”
Spann had previously been convicted of a felony and was not lawfully allowed to possess a firearm.
Spann, of Chicago, pleaded guilty to one count of illegal possession of a firearm by a felon, three counts of obstruction of justice, and one count of possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute. The conviction carries a maximum sentence of 70 years in prison. U.S. District Judge John J. Tharp Jr. scheduled sentencing for Sept. 5, 2017.
The guilty plea was announced by Joel R. Levin, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois; Michael J. Anderson, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; Celinez Nunez, Special Agent in Charge of the Chicago Field Division of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; and Eddie T. Johnson, Superintendent of the Chicago Police Department. The investigation was conducted in conjunction with the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force (HIDTA).
The obstruction charges stemmed from Spann’s efforts to influence and impede a witness’s testimony before the federal grand jury that was investigating the incident at the firing range. The witness had initially stated truthfully to law enforcement that she accompanied Spann to the firing range and saw Spann load the gun and fire it, the plea agreement states. Soon thereafter, Spann communicated with the witness and others, intending to cause the witness to withhold truthful testimony from the grand jury.
When the witness was called before the grand jury on Jan. 29, 2015, she falsely testified that Spann did not shoot the gun at the range, the plea agreement states. In subsequent text messages between Spann and the witness, Spann asked if she could obtain the grand jury transcript of her testimony to give to him, the plea agreement states.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Peter Salib, Timothy Storino, Tobara Richardson and William Dunne.
Columbia, Jefferson City Residents Among Five Defendants Indicted in Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Tom Larson, Acting United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri, announced today that four Columbia, Mo., and Jefferson City, Mo., residents and a Compton, Calif., man have been indicted by a federal grand jury for their roles in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in Cole County, Mo.
Shadeed Seifullah Muhammad, 41, of Compton; Javier Rashad Rosser, 30, Robert Istill McNair, 30, and Bria Lanier-Richie, 37, all of Jefferson City, Mo.; and James Alexander Larkins, 37, of Columbia, Mo.; were charged in an 11-count indictment returned under seal by a federal grand jury in Jefferson City on May 31, 2017. That indictment was unsealed and made public today following the arrests of all five defendants.
The government is seeking detention without bond for all of the defendants, who remain in federal custody pending detention hearings. Muhammad, who was arrested in Atlanta, Ga., had his initial court appearance in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia and is being transported to the Western District of Missouri. The other defendants had their initial court appearance this afternoon in Jefferson City.
The federal indictment alleges that each of the five defendants participated in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in Cole County from Jan. 15, 2016, to Feb. 18, 2017.
In addition to the conspiracy, Muhammad is charged with two counts of distributing 500 grams or more of methamphetamine in March and April 2016. Rosser is also charged with attempting to possess 500 grams or more of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute on March 9, 2016.
Rosser, McNair, Lakins and Lanier-Richie are charged together in one count of attempting to possess 500 grams or more of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute in April 2016.
Rosser, McNair, Larkins and Lanier-Richie are also charged in various counts of using a cell phone to facilitate the commission of the drug-trafficking conspiracy.
Larson cautioned that the charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lawrence E. Miller. It was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the FBI and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Columbia Man Pleads to Felon in Possession of Firearm and Ammunition ChargeRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated that Brandon LaChristopher Golson, age 35, of Columbia, plead guilty in federal court to being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2). United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis, of Columbia, accepted the guilty plea and will impose sentence after she has reviewed the presentence report, which will be prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.
Evidence presented in court during the guilty plea hearing established that at approximately 2:30am on March 26, 2017, troopers with the South Carolina Highway Patrol were conducting a traffic safety checkpoint near Ramblin Road and Lake Francis Road in Lexington County when they encountered Golson, the driver and sole occupant of a vehicle that came through the checkpoint. Troopers discovered that Golson’s license was suspended and when they had Golson exit the vehicle, they saw a loaded Smith and Wesson .40 caliber handgun in his rear waistband. Golson was arrested on state charges and a search incident to that arrest revealed a small amount of marijuana in his pants pocket.
Golson is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms and ammunition based upon his prior state convictions, which include convictions for attempted burglary 2nd degree (2001), possession of a controlled substance (2005), possession with intent to distribute cocaine (2010), possession of cocaine (2011), and possession of controlled substance (2014). Additionally, Golson was previously convicted in Lexington County state court for unlawful carrying of a pistol in 2015 and in 2016.
Golson faces a maximum of ten years imprisonment, a fine of $250,000, and three years of supervised release on the felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition charge.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the South Carolina Highway Patrol and was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state and local Project CeaseFire initiative, which aggressively prosecutes firearm cases. Assistant United States Attorney Stacey D. Haynes of the Columbia office handled the case.
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Columbia Man Pleads to Felon in Possession of Firearm and Ammunition ChargeRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated that Steven Don Martin, age 23, of Columbia, plead guilty in federal court to being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2). United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis, of Columbia, accepted the guilty plea and will impose sentence after she has reviewed the presentence report, which will be prepared by the U.S. Probation Office. Yesterday, Martin’s co-defendant, Melvin Cain Silas, Jr., plead guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition stemming from the same incident.
Evidence presented in court during the guilty plea hearing established that at approximately 10:28am on November 10, 2016, a deputy with the Richland County Sheriff’s Department on patrol on Farrow Road encountered a Jeep bearing Colorado license plates and learned that it had previously been reported stolen from Georgia. Once the deputy activated his blue lights and siren, the Jeep failed to stop and ultimately crashed. The four occupants attempted to flee on foot, but deputies were able to apprehend Martin, a passenger, and the driver, Silas. The other two passengers were able to get away. A search of the Jeep revealed that Martin had been in possession of a stolen loaded Glock .40 caliber handgun and a 30 round magazine. A third handgun was also found in the Jeep. Martin admitted, after waiving his rights, that he traded marijuana for the Glock handgun. A search incident to Silas’ arrest revealed a loaded Taurus .380 handgun in his front pants pocket. After waiving his rights, Silas admitted to stealing the Jeep from the side of the road in Blythewood and using a screwdriver to start it, and to buying the Taurus handgun off the street.
Martin is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms and ammunition based upon his prior state convictions for burglary 2nd (two separate counts). Like Silas, Martin was on state supervision when this incident occurred.
Martin and Silas each face a maximum of ten years imprisonment, a fine of $250,000, and three years of supervised release on the felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition charge.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the Richland County Sheriff’s Department and was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state and local Project CeaseFire initiative, which aggressively prosecutes firearm cases. Assistant United States Attorney Stacey D. Haynes of the Columbia office handled the case.
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California Woman Sentenced for Conspiracy to Launder MoneyRead the Press Release
Acting United States Attorney Robert C. Stuart announced that on Thursday, June 8, 2017, Marisela Pescador., 39, of Moreno Valley, California, was sentenced to four years of probation for conspiracy to commit money laundering. As part of the sentence of probation, Pescador will be required to serve six months on home confinement and will be incarcerated for 16 weekends or 2-day time-periods.
Pescador pled guilty to the charge in February of 2016. Information obtained by law enforcement indicated that between April and September of 2011, Pescador was involved with other persons in laundering proceeds of methamphetamine sales, which occurred in Lincoln, Nebraska, through bank accounts in the names of Pescador, her children, her husband’s landscaping business, and bank accounts in the names of persons associated with a co-conspirator. Money from methamphetamine sales was deposited in Lincoln, Nebraska, and Pescador and other persons would withdraw the money from the bank accounts in California.
On Monday, June 5, 2017, Pescador’s husband and co-defendant, Sergio Valencia, Sr., was sentenced to 160 months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and conspiracy to money launder.
This case was investigated by the Lincoln/Lancaster County Drug Task Force.
Buffalo Man Indicted on Drug ChargesRead 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 a federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging Mikel Lowe, aka L-O, 23, of Buffalo, NY, with possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine and heroin, and possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes. The charges carry a maximum penalty of life in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul C. Parisi, who is handling the case, stated on February 28, 2017, the defendant possessed crack cocaine, fentanyl, and heroin, which was intended for distribution in the Buffalo area. In addition, while in possession of the illegal narcotics, Lowe also possessed a firearm.
Lowe was arraigned this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Hugh B. Scott and is being held pending a detention hearing on June 9, 2017 at 10:00 a.m.
The indictment is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Safe Streets Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Adam S. Cohen, the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Daniel Derenda, the Erie County Sheriff’s Department, under the direction of Timothy Howard, and the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge James J. Hunt, New York Field Division.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Bronx Man and Michigan Man Arrested for Terrorist Activities on Behalf of Hizballah’s Islamic Jihad OrganizationRead the Press Release
Joon H. Kim, the Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Dana Boente, the Acting Assistant Attorney General for National Security, William F. Sweeney Jr., the Assistant Director-in-Charge of the New York Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), and James P. O’Neill, the Commissioner of the Police Department for the City of New York (“NYPD”), announced that ALI KOURANI and SAMER EL DEBEK, a/k/a “Samer Eldebek,” were arrested on Thursday, June 1, 2017, on charges related to their alleged activities on behalf of Hizballah, a designated foreign terrorist organization.
KOURANI was arrested in the Bronx for providing, attempting, and conspiring to provide material support to Hizballah; receiving and conspiring to receive military-type training from Hizballah; a related weapons offense that is alleged to have involved, among other weapons, a rocket-propelled grenade launcher and machine guns; violating and conspiring to violate the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (“IEEPA”); and naturalization fraud to facilitate an act of international terrorism. KOURANI was presented on Friday, June 2, 2017, before Magistrate Judge Barbara Moses in Manhattan federal court.
EL DEBEK was arrested in Livonia, Michigan, outside of Detroit, for providing, attempting, and conspiring to provide material support to Hizballah; receiving and conspiring to receive military-type training from Hizballah; use of weapons in connection with a crime of violence that is alleged to have involved, among other weapons, explosives, a rocket-propelled grenade launcher, and machine guns; and violating and conspiring to violate IEEPA. EL DEBEK was presented on Monday, June 5, 2017, before Magistrate Judge Henry Pitman in Manhattan federal court.
Acting Manhattan U.S. Attorney Joon H. Kim said: “Today, we announce serious terrorism charges against two men who allegedly trained with and supported the Islamic Jihad Organization, a component of the foreign terrorist organization Hizballah. Recruited as Hizballah operatives, Samer El Debek and Ali Kourani allegedly received military-style training, including in the use of weapons like rocket-propelled grenade launchers and machine guns for use in support of the group’s terrorist mission. At the direction of his Hizballah handlers, El Debek allegedly conducted missions in Panama to locate the U.S. and Israeli Embassies and to assess the vulnerabilities of the Panama Canal and ships in the Canal. Kourani allegedly conducted surveillance of potential targets in America, including military and law enforcement facilities in New York City. Thanks to the outstanding work of the FBI and NYPD, the allegedly destructive designs of these two Hizballah operatives have been thwarted, and they will now face justice in a Manhattan federal court.”
FBI Assistant Director-in-Charge William F. Sweeney Jr. said: “The charges announced today reveal once again that the New York City region remains a focus of many adversaries, demonstrated as alleged in this instance by followers of a sophisticated and determined organization with a long history of coordinating violent activities on behalf of Hizballah. Our announcement today also reveals, however, that the dozens of agencies working together with our FBI JTTFs nationwide are just as determined to disrupt the plans of those working to harm our communities. I’d like to thank the hundreds of investigators who comprise the FBI’s New York JTTF and display constant vigilance on our behalf, and I encourage the public to remain engaged and to immediately report suspicious activity to law enforcement.”
NYPD Commissioner James P. O’Neill said: “As part of his work for Hezbollah, Kourani and others allegedly conducted covert surveillance of potential targets, including U.S. military bases and Israeli military personnel here in New York City. Pre-operational surveillance is one of the hallmarks of Hezbollah in planning for future attacks. As alleged, Kourani, on at least two occasions, received sophisticated military training overseas, including the use of a rocket propelled grenade. In addition, El Debek is charged in an unrelated complaint, for allegedly possessing extensive bomb making training received from Hezbollah. Today’s charges of two for their work on behalf of Hezbollah is a tribute to the collaborative work of the agents and detectives of the Joint Terrorism Task Force.”
As alleged in the criminal Complaints against KOURANI and EL DEBEK,[1] both of which were unsealed today in Manhattan federal court:
Background on Hizballah and the Islamic Jihad Organization
Hizballah is a Lebanon-based Shia Islamic organization with political, social, and terrorist components. Hizballah was founded in the 1980s with support from Iran after the 1982 Israeli invasion of Lebanon, and its mission includes establishing a fundamentalist Islamic state in Lebanon. Since Hizballah’s formation, the organization has been responsible for numerous terrorist attacks that have killed hundreds, including United States citizens and military personnel. In 1997, the U.S. Department of State designated Hizballah a Foreign Terrorist Organization, pursuant to Section 219 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, and it remains so designated today. In 2001, pursuant to Executive Order 13224, the U.S. Department of State designated Hizballah a Specially Designated Global Terrorist entity. In 2010, State Department officials described Hizballah as the most technically capable terrorist group in the world, and a continued security threat to the United States.
The Islamic Jihad Organization (“IJO”), which is also known as the External Security Organization and “910,” is a component of Hizballah responsible for the planning and coordination of intelligence, counterintelligence, and terrorist activities on behalf of Hizballah outside of Lebanon. In July 2012, an IJO operative detonated explosives on a bus transporting Israeli tourists in the vicinity of an airport in Burgas, Bulgaria, which killed six people and injured 32 others. Law enforcement authorities have disrupted several other IJO attack-planning operations around the world, including the arrest of an IJO operative surveilling Israeli targets in Cyprus in 2012, the seizure of bomb-making precursor chemicals in Thailand in 2012, including chemicals manufactured by a medical devices company based in Guangzhou, China (“Guangzhou Company-1”), and a similar seizure of chemicals manufactured by Guangzhou Company-1 in Cyprus in May 2015 in connection with the arrest of another IJO operative.
KOURANI’s Alleged Support of Hizballah
KOURANI, who was born in Lebanon, attended Hizballah-sponsored weapons training in Lebanon in 2000 when he was approximately 16 years old. After lawfully entering the United States in 2003, KOURANI obtained a Bachelor of Science in biomedical engineering in 2009, and a Masters of Business Administration in 2013.
KOURANI and certain of his relatives were present during the summer 2006 conflict between Israel and Hizballah in Lebanon, when a residence belonging to his family was destroyed. KOURANI was subsequently recruited to join the IJO by 2008. In August 2008, KOURANI submitted an application for naturalization in the United States in which he falsely claimed, among other things, that he was not affiliated with a terrorist organization. In April 2009, KOURANI became a naturalized citizen and was issued a United States passport. Despite claiming in his passport application that he had no travel plans, KOURANI traveled to Guangzhou, China – the location of Guangzhou Company-1 – on May 3, 2009. He later claimed to the FBI that the purpose of the trip was to meet with medical device manufacturers and other businessmen.
KOURANI was assigned an IJO handler, or mentor, responsible for providing him with taskings, debriefings, and arranging training. KOURANI sometimes communicated with his handler using coded email communications, including messages sent by the handler that informed KOURANI of the need to return to Lebanon. In order to establish contact with his handler when KOURANI returned to Lebanon, KOURANI called a telephone number associated with a pager (the “IJO Pager”) and provided a code that he understood was specific to him. After KOURANI called the IJO Pager, the handler would contact KOURANI to set up an in-person meeting by calling a phone belonging to one of KOURANI’s relatives. The IJO also provided KOURANI with additional training in tradecraft, weapons, and tactics. In 2011, for example, KOURANI attended an IJO military training camp located in the vicinity of Birkat Jabrur, Lebanon, where he was provided with military-tactics and weapons training, including training in the use of a rocket propelled grenade launcher, an AK-47 assault rifle, an MP5 submachine gun, a PKS machine gun (a Russian-made belt-fed weapon), and a Glock pistol.
Based on requests from IJO personnel, which were conveyed during periodic in-person meetings when KOURANI returned to Lebanon, KOURANI also conducted operations that included searching for weapons suppliers in the United States who could provide firearms to support IJO operations, identifying individuals affiliated with the Israeli Defense Force, gathering information regarding operations and security at airports in the United States and elsewhere, and surveilling U.S. military and law enforcement facilities in Manhattan and Brooklyn. KOURANI transmitted some of the products of his surveillance and intelligence-gathering efforts back to IJO personnel in Lebanon using digital storage media.
EL DEBEK’s Alleged Support of Hizballah
EL DEBEK, a naturalized U.S. citizen, was first recruited by Hizballah in late 2007 or early 2008, began to receive a salary from Hizballah shortly thereafter, and was paid by Hizballah through approximately 2015. In July 2006, shortly before he was recruited by Hizballah, EL DEBEK expressed by email his support for Hassan Nasrallah, the leader of Hizballah.
EL DEBEK received military training from Hizballah in Lebanon on several occasions, from approximately 2008 through approximately 2014. EL DEBEK received training in basic military tactics, the handling of various weapons, surveillance and counter-surveillance techniques, and the creation and handling of explosives and explosive devices. Based on information EL DEBEK provided to the FBI, FBI bomb technicians have assessed that EL DEBEK received extensive training as a bomb-maker, and has a high degree of technical sophistication in the area. EL DEBEK received by email in 2010 a list of raw materials that could be sent from Syria or Dubai, including items often used in explosives and improvised explosive devices.
EL DEBEK also conducted missions for Hizballah in Thailand and Panama. In May 2009, EL DEBEK traveled from Lebanon, through Malaysia, to Thailand, where his mission was to clean up explosive precursors in a house in Bangkok that others had left because they were under surveillance. EL DEBEK used his U.S. passport to enter and leave Thailand, consistent with his instructions from Hizballah to use his U.S. passport in that manner, so he could travel from Malaysia to Thailand without obtaining a visa.
EL DEBEK first traveled to Panama for Hizballah in 2011, where his operational tasks included locating the U.S. and Israeli Embassies, casing security procedures at the Panama Canal and the Israeli Embassy, and locating hardware stores where explosive precursors could be purchased. Shortly before traveling to Panama, EL DEBEK updated his status on Facebook with a post that read, in part, “Do not make peace or share food with those who killed your people.”
In early 2012, EL DEBEK again traveled to Panama for Hizballah, passing through New York and New Jersey, and was asked to identify areas of weakness and construction at the Panama Canal, as well as provide information about how close someone could get to a ship passing through the Canal. Upon his return from Panama, EL DEBEK’s IJO handlers asked him for photographs of the U.S. Embassy there and details about its security procedures.
EL DEBEK has told the FBI that he was detained by Hizballah from December 2015 to April 2016 and falsely accused of spying for the United States. Between November 2014 and February 2017, EL DEBEK, who received religious training from Hizballah, has conducted more than 250 Facebook searches using search terms such as “martyrs of the holy defense,” “martyrs of Islamic resistance,” “Hizballah martyrs,” and “martyrs of the Islamic resistance in Lebanon.”
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KOURANI, 32, of the Bronx, is charged with providing material support and resources to a designated foreign terrorist organization, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; conspiracy to provide material support and resources to a designated foreign terrorist organization, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; receiving military-type training from a designated foreign terrorist organization, which carries a sentence of 10 years in prison or a fine; conspiracy to receive military-type training from a designated foreign terrorist organization, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison; conspiracy to possess, carry, and use firearms and destructive devices during and in relation to crimes of violence, which carries a maximum sentence of life in prison; making and receiving a contribution of funds, goods, and services to and from Hizballah, in violation of IEEPA, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; conspiracy to make and receive a contribution of funds, goods, and services to and from Hizballah, in violation of IEEPA, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; and naturalization fraud in connection with an act of international terrorism, which carries a maximum sentence of 25 years in prison.
EL DEBEK, 37, of Dearborn, Michigan, is charged with providing material support and resources to a designated foreign terrorist organization, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; conspiracy to provide material support and resources to a designated foreign terrorist organization, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; receiving military-type training from a designated foreign terrorist organization, which carries a sentence of 10 years in prison or a fine; conspiracy to receive military-type training from a designated foreign terrorist organization, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison; possessing, carrying, and using firearms and destructive devices during and in relation to crimes of violence, which carries a maximum sentence of life in prison; making and receiving a contribution of funds, goods, and services to and from Hizballah, in violation of IEEPA, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; and conspiracy to make and receive a contribution of funds, goods, and services to and from Hizballah, in violation of IEEPA, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.
The maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants will be determined by a judge.
Mr. Kim praised the outstanding efforts of the FBI’s New York Joint Terrorism Task Force, which principally consists of agents from the FBI and detectives from the NYPD. Mr. Kim also thanked the FBI’s Detroit Office and the Counterterrorism Section of the Department of Justice’s National Security Division.
These prosecutions are handled by the Office’s Terrorism and International Narcotics Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Emil J. Bove III and Amanda L. Houle are in charge of the prosecution of KOURANI, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew D. Beaty and Stephen J. Ritchin are in charge of the prosecution of EL DEBEK. Trial Attorneys Lolita Lukose and Alexandra Hughes of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are assisting the prosecutions.
The charges contained in the Complaints are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
[1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Complaints and the description of the Complaints set forth below constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.
Billings Contractor and Companies Sentenced to Two Years in Prison and $4.58 Million in Fines and RestitutionRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS - The United States Attorney’s Office announced that Kevin David McGovern was sentenced to 24 months of imprisonment, $880,000 in restitution (joint and several with his companies), $800,000 in fines, $500 in special assessments, and 2,000 hours of community service. CMG Construction, Inc., was ordered to pay $1.0 million in restitution, $1.6 million in fines, and $1,600 in special assessments. And MC Equipment Holdings, LLC, was sentenced to $380,000 in restitution, $800,000 in fines, and $800 in special assessments. All total, McGovern and his companies were required to pay $4.58 million in restitution and fines. The sentencing occurred on June 8, 2017, before U.S. District Judge Brian Morris, in Great Falls, Montana.
In November 2016, a federal trial jury convicted Kevin McGovern and CMG Construction, Inc., of conspiracy, wire fraud, and bribery, all of which was associated with a pay-to-play scheme on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation.
Tony James Belcourt was in care, custody, and control of over $85 million of federal and tribal funds for the construction of a rural water project and several disaster relief projects on the reservation. Of that amount, $52 million was associated with the Rocky Boy/North Central Montana Rural Water System, $11 million was provided by FEMA for the flash floods that occurred in June 2010, and $25 million was provided by the Tribe’s insurance carrier.
Between January 2010 and March 2013, Belcourt’s job duties included serving as a representative in the House of Representatives for the State of Montana, the CEO for the Chippewa Cree Construction Corporation, a member of the Tribe’s Insurance Recovery Team, and the Incident Commander for FEMA. Belcourt and other tribal officials required contractors to pay kickbacks and bribes in order to receive contracts and contract payments. Belcourt was previously convicted for accepting bribes and is currently serving a 90-month sentence in federal prison.
In June 2011, Kevin McGovern and his company, CMG Construction, Inc., received three unadvertised, sole-sourced contracts valued at $2.5 million without being required to submit bids to the Chippewa Cree Construction Corporation. In return, Belcourt received $324,333 through a company called MT Waterworks, LLC. Belcourt never provided any services to MT Waterworks, LLC, which was started with $100,000 of embezzled federal funds from the rural water system. MT Waterworks, LLC, was owned by Belcourt, McGovern, and a third businessman from Billings.
In July 2011, Belcourt drove from his home in Box Elder, Montana, to Billings, Montana, and gave Kevin McGovern a $200,000 progress payment of federal funds for work performed on FEMA-related disaster projects. The following day, McGovern gave a personal loan to Tony Belcourt in the amount of $50,000. Then, at Belcourt’s direction, McGovern sent $25,000 as a donation to the Chippewa Cree Events Committee, which was a known slush fund for a tribal councilman who was previously convicted for accepting bribes.
The jury convicted McGovern and CMG Construction, Inc., of conspiracy, wire fraud, and bribery of Tony Belcourt. The jury acquitted McGovern and CMG Construction, Inc., of one count that involved bribery of another tribal official.
In addition to bribing Belcourt for contracts, McGovern and MC Equipment Holdings, LLC, also pleaded guilty to wire fraud and theft in connection with the February 2012 sale of a “hot plant” to the Chippewa Cree Tribe. A “hot plant” is a portable industrial paving machine that consists of several interlocking components, including an asphalt tank and silo, drum mixer, conveyor system, and control house that, when properly assembled, produced hot asphalt that can be used on paving projects, such as roads and parking lots. McGovern inflated the purchase price of the hot plant by $380,000, of which $229,000 he paid to Belcourt. The “hot plant” was never assembled or used by the Tribe. It was subsequently sold at a loss by the Chippewa Cree Construction Corporation in June 2015.
CMG Construction, Inc., also pleaded guilty to a false claims act conspiracy in connection with a March 2013 claim in the amount of $3.8 million submitted by the Chippewa Cree Tribe to FEMA. This claim contained inflated invoices from CMG Construction, Inc., relating to the demolition of the health clinic.
In a sentencing memo filed in federal court, Ryan G. Weldon and Bryan T. Dake stated, “This case is purely about greed. McGovern had a multi-million dollar business in Billings, Montana. His personal bank account had almost $1,000,000. He had everything. CMG Construction, Inc., did not have to bribe to obtain business. It was a thriving and legitimate venture that employed hundreds of people. McGovern, though his companies, chose to engage in the corrupt practices at the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation.”
Acting United States Attorney Leif Johnson said the conviction and sentence reaffirms the line that exists between corrupt business and those that are merely aggressive: “Too often, in pursuit of a profit, a businessman seeks an advantage that is one step too far and begins a relationship involving taxpayer monies that seems too good to be true. It starts with great promise and ends with the loss of everything—reputation, fortune, and freedom.”
The Department of Interior, Office of Inspector General, Western Region, Special Agent In Charge David A. House stated, “This latest corruption conviction involving the Rocky Boy/North Central Montana Rural Water System, a water project designed to deliver safe drinking water to the Chippewa Cree Tribe and several rural Montana communities. This is another successful effort by the Montana Guardians Project wherein corruption was identified and vigorously prosecuted in an effort to stop unjust personal enrichment. Prosecutions such as these allow federal agencies, and tribal organizations, to rebuild from criminal impact. It also demonstrates our commitment to protecting taxpayer funds and our trust responsibilities to Tribes.”
“IRS Criminal Investigation provides financial investigative expertise while working with our law enforcement partners,” said Steven Osborne, Special Agent In Charge, IRS-Criminal Investigation for Montana. “Pooling skills of each agency makes a formidable team as we investigate allegations of wrong-doing. Today’s sentencing demonstrates our collective efforts to enforce the law and ensure public trust.”
The convictions and sentencing of McGovern, CMG Construction, Inc., and MC Equipment Holdings, LLC, are the latest in a series of prosecutions and convictions relating to public corruption, fraud, and theft in federal grants, contracts, and programs brought by the investigators and prosecutors of the U.S. Attorney’s Guardians Project, an anti-corruption strike force created in 2011. The McGovern, CMG Construction, Inc., and MC Equipment Holdings, LLC, cases were investigated by the Department of Interior, Office of Inspector General, Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Division.
Berkeley County man admits to illegally possessing a firearmRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Martinsburg, West Virginia man was convicted today of illegal possession of a firearm, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Anthony Jerome Addison, age 39, pled guilty to one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.”
Addison admitted to possession a rifle in Jefferson County in June 2016. Addison, having previously been convicted of distribution of cocaine base in United States District Court for the Northern District of West Virginia, is prohibited from possessing firearms.
Addison faces up to ten years incarceration and a fine up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Danae DeMasi-Lemon prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Berkeley County man admits to his role in heroin trafficking ringRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Hedgesville, West Virginia man was convicted today of heroin distribution, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen announced.
Wayne Kegley, age 44, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin.” Kegley admitted to his role in a heroin distribution operation in Berkeley County and Baltimore, Maryland in June 2016.
Kegley faces up to twenty years and a $1,000,000 fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Z. Krasinski prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Bellevue Felon Stole then Sold 3 FirearmsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Bellevue, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to three counts of violating federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Patrick Snyder, age 33, pleaded guilty to three counts of possession of firearms by a prohibited person before United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer. Snyder was previously convicted of a felony offense and is prohibited from possessing firearms.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from December 2016 to January 2017, Snyder illegally possessed three firearms when he stole them from the lawful owner and sold them to third parties.
Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for November 1, 2017. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense.
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 Bellevue Police Department 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.
Battle Creek Man Pleads Guilty to Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN – Matthew John Andaluz, 44, of Battle Creek, Michigan pleaded guilty before the Hon. Robert J. Jonker, Chief U.S. District Judge, to producing child pornography, Acting U.S. Attorney Andrew Birge announced today. Andaluz faces a minimum of 15 years and a maximum of 30 years of imprisonment, and he will be required to serve a term of supervised release after his prison term has been completed. Andaluz will also be required to register as a sexual offender.
Andaluz admitted at the plea hearing that he had taken pornographic photographs of a ten-year-old child at his home in Calhoun County. The conduct occurred in late 2010 and early 2011. Andaluz came to the attention of law enforcement in November 2016, when agents and investigators traced images Andaluz had distributed over the Internet back to his home in Calhoun County. Agents executed a search warrant at Andaluz’s home on December 16, 2016, and arrested him. Andaluz remains in custody pending sentencing, which is scheduled for September 25, 2017.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. The U.S. Attorney's Office, county prosecutor's offices, the Internet Crimes Against Children task force (ICAC), federal, state, and local law enforcement are working closely together to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children. The partners in Project Safe Childhood work to educate local communities about the dangers of online child exploitation, and to teach children how to protect themselves. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit the following web site: http://www.projectsafechildhood.gov/. Individuals with information or concerns about possible child exploitation should contact local law enforcement officials.
The Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean M. Lewis prosecuted the case.
END
Army Colonel and Others Indicted in $20 Million Bribery and Fraud Scheme Arising Out of Fort Gordon, GeorgiaRead the Press Release
SAVANNAH, GA – Anthony Tyrone Roper, 55, an active duty Colonel with the U. S. Army stationed at Fort Gordon; Audra Roper, 49, the wife of Colonel Roper; and Dwayne Oswald Fulton, 58, a former employee of a defense contracting firm, were indicted this week by a federal grand jury sitting in Savannah, Georgia for their alleged roles in a bribery and kickback scheme. Each of the Defendants reside in Augusta, Georgia. According to the allegations contained in the Indictment, beginning in 2008 and lasting almost a decade, Colonel Anthony Roper conspired with his wife, Fulton and others to solicit and accept cash bribes in exchange for rigging the award of over $20 million in U. S. Army contracts to selected individuals and companies. The indictment further alleges that in an attempt to hide their bribery and fraud schemes, the Defendants attempted to obstruct an official investigation into their criminal conduct.
Colonel Roper was charged with one count of conspiracy, three counts of bribery, four counts of false statements and one count of obstruction, with a maximum sentence of 85 years in prison and a $1.75 million fine. Audra Roper was charged with one count of conspiracy, one count of false statements and one count of obstruction, with a maximum sentence of 25 years in prison and a $750,000 fine. Fulton was charged with one count of conspiracy and one count of obstruction, with a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a $500,000 fine. An indictment is only an accusation and is not evidence of guilt. The Defendants are entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the Government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case has been investigated by Special Agent Preston T. Johnson of the U. S. Army, Criminal Investigations Division; Special Agent Randall J. Temples of the U. S. Department of Defense, Criminal Investigative Service; and, Special Agent Bryan M. Cofer of the U.S. Small Business Administration, Office of Inspector General. The investigation of this case remains ongoing. Assistant U. S. Attorney C. Troy Clark and Acting U.S. Attorney James D. Durham are prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States. Any questions should be directed to the U.S. Attorney’s Office at (912) 201-2522.
Armed Career Criminal Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – U.S. District Judge James D. Whittemore has sentenced Lamonday Britt (45, Tampa) to 15 years in federal prison for possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. The Court also ordered him to forfeit the firearm and ammunition seized as part of the offense.
Britt pleaded guilty on April 6, 2017.
According to court documents, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Britt’s residence after he engaged in multiple sales of crack cocaine. During the execution of that search warrant, officers recovered a loaded firearm, loose rounds of ammunition, crack cocaine, marijuana, and cash. At the time of the offense, Britt was a convicted felon and therefore is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law. Due to his prior convictions for robbery and narcotics offenses, he qualified for an increased penalty as an Armed Career Criminal.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Tampa Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kaitlin R. O’Donnell.
This is another case prosecuted as a part of the Department of Justice’s “Project Safe Neighborhoods” Program - a nationwide, gun-violence reduction strategy. Acting United States Attorney W. Stephen Muldrow, along with Daryl R. McCrary, Special Agent in Charge, ATF, is coordinating the Project Safe Neighborhoods effort here in the Middle District of Florida in cooperation with federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.
Alton Couple Sentenced for Marijuana Conspiracy Based Out of their Family HomeRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A local couple will serve 10 years in federal prison for their roles in a drug conspiracy they ran out of their home in Alton, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Abe Martinez. Rodolfo Chavez Gonzalez, 53, pleaded guilty Nov. 29, 2016, as did his wife - Maria Elizabeth Gonzalez, 48.
Today, U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos handed Chavez Gonzalez the 120-month sentence for possession with intent to distribute more than 150 kilograms of marijuana.
His wife was sentenced March 30, 2017, to also serve 120 months in federal prison. Their sentences will be immediately followed by eight-year-terms of supervised release.
The long-term investigation led to the identification of Rodolfo and Maria Gonzalez as the facilitators of multiple marijuana smuggling events, which had been thwarted by agents at the Falfurrias Border Patrol (BP) checkpoint.
Both Rodolfo and Maria Gonzalez admitted they had knowingly hired co-conspirators to transport marijuana, concealed inside of tires, from their family home in Alton to buyers in the Houston area. At the time of their pleas, they also acknowledged they faced enhanced punishment in this case as they each had been previously convicted of the same offense in the Southern District of Texas in 2001.
The couple has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The remaining defendants have all entered pleas of guilty and await sentencing for their respective roles in the conspiracy.
The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation with the assistance of U.S. Border Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brittany L. Jensen is prosecuting the case.
Allen County Accountant Charged with Wire Fraud and Filing Fraudulent Individual Federal Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
Failed to include over $600,000 in reportable income on federal tax returns
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – An Allen County Kentucky accountant was charged this week by a federal criminal information with devising a scheme to defraud his employer, and with filing fraudulent individual income tax returns, over a five-year period, that failed to include over $600,000 in reportable income, announced United States Attorney John E. Kuhn, Jr.
According to the Information, Stephen C. Jones, 50, of Scottsville, Kentucky, committed wire fraud between January of 2010 and August of 2015, when he devised and executed a scheme to defraud his employer, by diverting money from the company’s bank account to his personal bank account.
Further, Jones is charged with preparing and presenting jointly-filed, U.S. Individual Income Tax Returns, to the Internal Revenue Service, for calendar years from 2011 to 2015, that were false and fraudulent, as they did not include approximately $631,691 in reportable income, which Jones knew was income and that should have been reported.
Charges in Kentucky Circuit Court have been dismissed in order for the federal prosecution of defendant Jones to proceed.
If convicted at trial, Jones could be sentenced to no more than 20 years for Count One and no more than three years for each of Counts Two through Six.
Assistant United States Attorney Amanda Gregory is prosecuting the case. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), and the Allen County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.
jones_stephen_ci_6-6-17.pdfAlbuquerque Man Sentenced to Prison for Federal Armed Bank Robbery ConvictionRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Greg Miera, 51, of Albuquerque, N.M., was sentenced today in federal court to 78 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release for his armed bank robbery conviction.
Miera was arrested was arrested in March 2016, on a criminal complaint charging him and four co-defendants, Christian Herrera, 20, Isaiah Gallegos, 22, Christopher Gallegos, 33, and Martin Huertta, 44, all of Albuquerque, with bank robbery. According to the complaint, a source identified the defendants as the individuals involved in robbing the US Bank branch located at 5620 Wyoming Blvd. NE in Albuquerque, on March 30, 2016. Albuquerque Police Department (APD) officers conducted surveillance as a vehicle with four men pulled up to the US Bank on the afternoon of March 30, 2016. Three of the men remained in the vehicle while the fourth entered the bank, threatened to shoot the bank employees, and demanded that two bank tellers place cash into a plastic bag.
Huertta, Miera, Herrera, Isaiah Gallegos and Christopher Gallegos were indicted on April 27, 2016, and charged with bank robbery.
On Oct. 11, 2016, Miera entered a guilty plea to the indictment and admitted participating in the armed robbery of the U.S. Bank branch in Albuquerque on March 30, 2016.
Miera’s four co-defendants have entered guilty pleas and one has been sentenced. Huertta pled guilty on Sept. 9, 2016 and was sentenced on March 14, 2017 to 108 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release. Isaiah Gallegos entered a guilty plea on April 25, 2017, Christopher Gallegos entered a guilty plea on Feb. 13, 2017, and Herrera entered a guilty plea on Feb. 24, 2017. At sentencing, Isaiah Gallegos, Herrera, and Christopher Gallegos each face a statutory maximum penalty of 25 years in federal prison. They remain in custody pending sentencing hearings.
This case was investigated by the Albuquerque office of the FBI and the Albuquerque Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Letitia C. Simms is prosecuting the case.
Albuquerque Felon Sentenced to 100 Months in Federal Prison for Unlawfully Possessing a Firearm and Robbing Albuquerque-Area Convenience StoresRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Oscar Anchondo, 40, of Albuquerque, N.M., was sentenced yesterday in federal court to 100 months in prison for his conviction on charges of being a felon in possession of a firearm and the armed robbery of two Albuquerque-area convenience stores that were engaged in interstate commerce. Anchondo will be on supervised release for three years after completing his prison sentence.
Anchondo was arrested in Oct. 2015, on a criminal complaint charging him with being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition on Oct. 6, 2015, in Sandoval County, N.M. According to the criminal complaint, on Oct. 6, 2015, a resident of the Town of Bernalillo called the Bernalillo Police Department to report a stolen vehicle. The victim reported that Anchondo stole the vehicle after threatening to kill her, and that Anchondo was armed when he made the threat. Officers responded to the call and located the vehicle parked in the driveway of another residence in Bernalillo. In response to an inquiry from the officers, an occupant of the residence said that Anchondo was in the residence.
Anchondo was subsequently indicted on the same charge on Dec. 17, 2015. According to court records, on Oct. 6, 2015, Anchondo was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition because he previously had been convicted of the following felony offenses in state court: armed robbery with a deadly weapon, attempted robbery with a deadly weapon, and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
On Sept. 6, 2016, Anchondo entered a guilty plea to the indictment charging him with being a felon in possession of a firearm and to a felony information charging him with two counts of violating the Hobbs Act. In entering the guilty plea, Anchondo admitted the following criminal conduct:
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On Sept. 29, 2015, Anchondo entered the Giant convenience store located at 6100 San Mateo Blvd. NE in Albuquerque, threatened the store employees with a firearm, demanded money, and robbed the employee of cash.
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On Sept. 29, 2015, Anchondo entered the 7-Eleven convenience store located at 1801 San Pedro Dr. NE in Albuquerque, threatened the store employees with a firearm, demanded money, and robbed the employee of cash.
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On Oct. 6, 2015, Anchondo was in possession of a firearm during a standoff with police who were attempting to arrest him for the offense charged in the criminal complaint, and that he was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition because of his status as a convicted felon.
This case was investigated by the ATF office in Albuquerque and the Bernalillo Police Department with assistance from the Albuquerque Police Department and the Rio Rancho Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly A. Brawley under a federal anti-violence initiative that targets “the worst of the worst” offenders for federal prosecution. Under this initiative, the U.S. Attorney’s Office and federal law enforcement agencies work with New Mexico’s District Attorneys and state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies to target violent or repeat offenders primarily based on their prior criminal convictions for federal prosecution with the goal of removing repeat offenders from communities in New Mexico for as long as possible.
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Acting Manhattan U.S. Attorney Announces Charges Against New York Man in Phony Bail Scheme That Targeted Elderly VictimsRead the Press Release
Joon H. Kim, the Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and James P. O’Neill, Commissioner of the New York City Police Department (“NYPD”), announced today the unsealing of a complaint charging PAUL IFEANYICHUKWU ONWUVUARIRI with conspiracy to commit wire fraud in connection with a scheme that targeted and victimized elderly people across the United States. As alleged, ONWUVUARIRI and his co-conspirators tricked victims, by phone, into believing that they were speaking to the NYPD or another law enforcement agency, and that the victims’ grandchildren or relatives had been arrested and needed bail money immediately to avoid prison. ONWUVUARIRI was arrested last night and will be presented later today in federal court in Manhattan.
Manhattan U.S. Attorney Joon H. Kim said: “As alleged, Paul Ifeanyichukwu Onwuvuariri and his co-conspirators targeted vulnerable grandparents, callously preying on their emotions by convincing them that their loved ones were in trouble. Participants in this scheme allegedly swindled elderly victims out of thousands of dollars by pretending to be members of law enforcement, including the NYPD, and falsely claiming that victims’ family members were in custody and needed bail. We urge victims of this type of fraud to contact law enforcement, including our Office’s Victim/Witness unit.”
NYPD Commissioner James P. O’Neill said: “As alleged, the defendant and his co-conspirators exploited victims’ trust in law enforcement to defraud the elderly. Tricking someone into thinking that a family member is in trouble, to further their fraud, is a particularly low bar. I want to thank the US Attorney’s Office, the Utica Police Department, and the detectives from the NYPD for their work on this case.”
According to the allegations in the Complaint unsealed in Manhattan federal court:[1]
Beginning in approximately 2015, ONWUVUARIRI and his co-conspirators perpetrated a scheme to defraud elderly people around the United States by tricking them into believing their grandchildren or other relatives had been arrested and needed immediate bail money. A member of the conspiracy typically contacted the victim by phone, purported to be either the relative or a law enforcement official, and falsely claimed that the victim’s grandchild or relative had been taken into custody for a narcotics offense and would not be released unless the victim paid thousands of dollars in purported bail money. A member of the conspiracy also frequently posed on the call as the victim’s grandchild, pleading with the elderly victim to send money to secure the grandchild’s release from jail, and asking the victim not to contact any other family members because the grandchild felt ashamed. In each case, the defrauded victim has sent thousands of dollars, at a minimum, as instructed, to certain individuals who, among other things, have provided that money to ONWUVUARIRI. After paying the “bail” money as directed, victims have learned that their grandchild or relative had not, in fact, been arrested, that the grandchild or relative knew nothing about the claims made on the call to the victim, and that the call appeared to be fraudulent.
For example, among the examples set forth in the complaint, one 82-year-old victim in Brooklyn, New York, received a phone call in November 2015 from an individual who identified himself as the victim’s grandson and claimed that he had been arrested. The victim then spoke to an individual who identified himself as an NYPD sergeant and said the victim’s grandson would be released if the victim wired $7,600 in bail money. The victim deposited the money as directed, and then received additional calls the next day asking for additional money and the victim’s credit card number. The victim subsequently spoke with the victim’s daughter, and learned that the victim’s grandson had not been arrested, and knew nothing about the purported sergeant or the basis for his request for bail money.
In fact, the victim’s money was wired to an individual working with ONWUVUARIRI who collected the wired funds on ONWUVUARIRI’s behalf and provided the money to ONWUVUARIRI.
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ONWUVUARIRI, 29, of Utica, New York, is charged with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. The maximum potential sentence in this case is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge.
Acting U.S. Attorney Kim praised the outstanding investigative work of the Criminal Investigators for the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York and the New York City Police Department. He also thanked the Utica Police Department for its assistance.
If you believe you were a victim of this crime, including a victim entitled to restitution, and you wish to provide information to law enforcement and/or receive notice of future developments in the case or additional information, please contact Wendy Olsen-Clancy, the Victim Witness Coordinator at the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York, at (866) 874-8900, or [email protected]. For additional information, go to: http://www.usdoj.gov/usao/nys/victimwitness.html.
This case is being handled by the Office’s General Crimes Unit. Assistant United States Attorney Nicolas Landsman-Roos is in charge of the prosecution.
The charge contained in the Complaint is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
[1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Complaint and the description of the Complaint set forth herein constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.
Acting Manhattan U.S. Attorney Announces Charges Against Brooklyn Man Who Preyed on Vulnerable Victims at A Manhattan BarRead the Press Release
Joon H. Kim, the Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and James P. O’Neill, Commissioner of the New York City Police Department (“NYPD”), announced today the unsealing of a complaint charging WILLIE WHITE with access device fraud and aggravated identity theft in connection with a scheme that targeted vulnerable young men and women whom he met at a bar in Manhattan. As alleged, WHITE identified intoxicated victims he met at the bar, and then took them to an apartment in Brooklyn where he forced them to inhale a controlled substance that appeared to be crack cocaine. WHITE took the victims’ credit and debit card information and made unauthorized purchases for his own benefit. WHITE was arrested this morning and will be presented later today in federal court in Manhattan.
Manhattan U.S. Attorney Joon H. Kim said: “Willie White allegedly took advantage of intoxicated men and women at a Manhattan bar by taking them to another location and then further incapacitated them by forcing them to take drugs. White then allegedly stole their debit and credit cards and made unauthorized purchases. We thank the NYPD for their work in putting a stop to White’s crimes.”
According to the allegations in the Complaint unsealed in Manhattan federal court:[1]
Between April and May of 2017, WHITE stole or otherwise improperly obtained the credit or debit cards of individuals whom he met in a Manhattan bar, and then used the stolen bank information to make purchases and cash withdrawals without the authorization or consent of the victims. In connection with the scheme, WHITE took at least two victims to an apartment in Brooklyn, where he forced the victims to ingest what they believed to be crack cocaine. While the victims were under the influence of the controlled substance, WHITE used the victims’ credit and debit cards to make purchases of clothing, shoes, and cash withdrawals without the victims’ knowledge or consent. WHITE detained the victims without their consent for hours, and in one case for over a day, while engaged in shopping sprees at the victims’ expense.
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WHITE, 46, of Brooklyn, New York, is charged with one count of access device fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison, and one count of aggravated identity theft, which carries a mandatory sentence of two years in prison that must be imposed consecutively to any other sentence. The maximum potential sentence in this case is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge.
Acting U.S. Attorney Kim praised the outstanding investigative work of the New York City Police Department, particularly Detective John McAuliffe and Detective Gregg Licari.
If you believe you were a victim of this crime, including a victim entitled to restitution, and you wish to provide information to law enforcement and/or receive notice of future developments in the case or additional information, please contact Wendy Olsen-Clancy, the Victim Witness Coordinator at the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York, at (866) 874-8900, or [email protected]. For additional information, go to: http://www.usdoj.gov/usao/nys/victimwitness.html.
This case is being handled by the Office’s General Crimes Unit. Assistant United States Attorney Aline R. Flodr is in charge of the prosecution.
The charge contained in the Complaint is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
[1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Complaint and the description of the Complaint set forth herein constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.
Wednesday 7 June 2017
Zuni Pueblo Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Statutory Rape ConvictionRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Kirk Simplicio, 24, a member and resident of Zuni Pueblo, N.M., was sentenced today in federal court in Santa Fe, N.M., to 16 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release for his conviction on a sexual abuse of a minor charge. Simplicio will be required to register as a sex offender after he completes his prison sentence.
Simplicio was arrested on March 17, 2015, on an indictment charging him with sexually abusing a minor who was between 12 and 16 years of age. According to the indictment, Simplicio committed the crime on Jan. 1, 2014, on Zuni Pueblo in McKinley County, N.M.
On May 26, 2016, Simplicio pled guilty to the indictment and admitted engaging in a sexual act with the victim, who was 14 years old and at least four years younger than Simplicio.
This case was investigated by the Zuni Pueblo Tribal Police Department and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle T. Nayback.
Woodlands Woman Charged with Defrauding EmployerRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 52-year-old resident of The Woodlands has been charged with defrauding her former employer of more than $1.5 million, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Abe Martinez.
A criminal information was filed May 24, 2017, charging Kavita Nehendra Duvvuru with one count of wire fraud. She is expected to make her initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Stephen Smith at 10:00 today.
According to the charges, Duvvuru worked for the president of Vinmar International Ltd., a petrochemical, marketing and distribution firm located in Houston. The criminal information alleges that from 2010 through January 2017, Duvvuru made unauthorized charges of personal expenses and unauthorized cash withdrawals on credit cards which were only to be used for Vinmar business expenses. Duvvuru allegedly altered the credit card statements and provided false information to conceal her fraud from Vinmar.
As a result of her scheme Duvvuru caused Vinmar a loss of more than $1.5 million, according to the charges.
If convicted, she faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
The criminal information also contains a notice of forfeiture.
The FBI conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Braddock is prosecuting the case.
A criminal information is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence.
A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
Woman Sentenced to Two and Half Years Imprisonment for Theft and Embezzlement from Philadelphia Non-Profit Serving ChildrenRead the Press Release
Sonja McQuillar, 50 of New Castle, Delaware was sentenced yesterday to 30 months in prison for embezzling from Northern Children’s Services, where she was employed. In addition to the prison term, U.S. District Court ordered 3 years of supervised release, a$300 special assessment, and $607,067 restitution.
McQuillar was the Director of Health and Information at Northern Children’s Services (NCS) in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NCS is a nonprofit organization that provides mental and behavioral treatment services to children. As Director of Health and Information, one of McQuillar’s responsibilities was to verify the accuracy of consultants’ invoices and submit them for payment. From December 2002 and April 2014, McQuillar embezzled approximately $607,067 from NCS by creating consulting invoices for relatives and friends who were never consultants for NCS, and for individuals who were consultants for NCS, but for work they did not perform. After creating bogus invoices, McQuillar then forged the signatures of the alleged consultants in order to cash the checks.
McQuillar embezzled more than $600,000 from a non-profit organization that existed to benefit our most vulnerable youth,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Louis D. Lappen. “In doing so, the defendant deprived these children of much needed public funds that were designed to help them overcome trauma and behavioral disorders. We will continue to investigate and prosecute those who, for their own personal benefit, abuse the trust of public and private organizations
"This case is an example of the most damaging kind of theft. The defendant stole taxpayer dollars that were meant to support at-risk children. We will not tolerate this kind of self-serving act against vulnerable members of our population," said Inspector General Amy Kurland. "I thank our federal law enforcement partners for their close cooperation in this investigation and assure the public that we will continue working diligently to maintain integrity in our City."
The case was initiated by a tip to the Philadelphia Office of the Inspector General and was also investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Morgan.
What They are Saying: Bipartisan Praise for Chris Wray as Next FBI DirectorRead the Press Release
"Chris is super smart, a great lawyer and highly experienced. He will serve the Department of Justice and Federal Bureau of Investigation well. I worked with Chris for a number of years and always had complete confidence in him. He simply doesn't make mistakes. We are lucky he decided to reenter public service."
--Larry Thompson, Former Deputy Attorney General
”Chris is a wonderful choice to lead the FBI who cares deeply about the institution and already has strong relationships with the FBI. His background at the helm of the criminal division offered an excellent experience working on national security, white collar crime and a range of federal crimes as well as offering the privilege of working with the fantastic men and women of the FBI every day. He’s an excellent lawyer who will provide even keeled leadership.”
--Alice Fisher, Former Assistant Attorney General for the Criminal Division
“This is an inspired nomination by the President. Chris Wray is a man of great intellect and unsurpassed integrity. He is a man of impeccable judgment. He is exactly the person the country needs at the FBI at this moment in our history. He will be beloved by the men and women of the Bureau and respected by all, Republicans and Democrats alike.”
--Judge J. Michael Luttig
"Chris Wray is a great choice for FBI Director. He is smart, independent and has a very impressive track record of service and experience in the Department of Justice where he worked closely with the FBI and was widely regarded as a strong leader. Chris's expertise covers a vast array of critical areas he will be dealing with, ranging from terrorism to white collar crime to cyberattacks. The country would be very fortunate to have someone of Chris's integrity and abilities leading the Bureau."
--Mary Jo White, Former Chair of the SEC under President Obama
"Chris Wray is the right man at the right time for the Nation and the FBI. He is a world-class prosecutor, lawyer, and leader with the integrity, experience, judgment, credibility, independence, and intellect needed to lead the FBI. He will bring the same immense talent, capacity for work and success in mission to the Bureau as he has brought in everything he has touched since he began his distinguished legal and public service career."
--John C. Richter, Former Acting Assistant Attorney General for the Criminal Division
“Chris is a person of extraordinary integrity, intelligence, and common sense. As the Director of the FBI, I have no doubt he would be outstanding. Years ago, when I was a Clinton Administration U.S. Attorney, I hired Chris as an Assistant U.S. Attorney. He was a star from the get-go, and always put justice before politics. The country needs more public servants like Chris Wray. I hope the Senate confirms him as quickly as possible.”
--Kent Alexander, Former U.S. Attorney under President Clinton
“Chris is a seasoned professional with experience in all critical areas of the Department’s law enforcement and national security operations. We can have absolute confidence that he will serve the Bureau and the nation with honor and distinction.”
--Ken Wainstein, Former Assistant Attorney General for the National Security Division
“I am delighted to hear the news that President Trump has nominated Chris Wray to be the next Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. I have known Chris Wray throughout his legal career and his public service at the Department of Justice. In all of those different positions, Chris Wray has served with distinction and integrity. I know he will bring his experience and intellect to the office of FBI Director. He will be a strong and positive influence at the bureau for the next decade. I am confident Chris Wray will be seen as an impartial and unbiased leader who will help maintain the critical and historical tradition of excellence at the FBI. The American people can have confidence and trust in his anticipated leadership of the FBI. Specifically, Chris will provide superb leadership to America's daily efforts to prevent and protect Americans and American interests against future acts of global terrorism.”
--Joe Whitley, Former Department of Homeland Security General Counsel and U.S. Attorney
"Chris Wray is an outstanding choice to lead the FBI. I have known and worked with Chris Wray for many years. He is an exceptional lawyer with impeccable integrity and sound judgment. His extensive experience as an Assistant U.S. Attorney and then as Assistant Attorney General of the Criminal Division during the immediate aftermath of 9/11 gives him the critically important skills required to manage this great law enforcement agency. His work as a defense attorney also gives him broader insight into how to most effectively manage the complex investigations that the FBI will conduct in the coming years. When with the Department of Justice, Chris worked tirelessly to uphold the rule of law, strengthen our national security, and protect the rights of victims of crime. I am confident that he will do the same as Director of the FBI. Chris is the kind of leader that the FBI needs and deserves.”
--Gary Grindler, Acting Deputy Attorney General under President Obama
“Chris Wray is a man of integrity with a deep commitment to the rule of law. His substantial experience, particularly in serving on our Justice Department team fighting terrorism after 9/11, uniquely qualifies him to protect America as FBI Director.”
--Former Attorney General John Ashcroft
“I worked for Chris as his counsel for terrorism from 2003 to 2005, during a period when international terrorism occupied a great deal of Chris’s time as the Assistant Attorney General. Chris was smart, hard-working and absolutely committed to the mission of the Department of Justice. He has the kind of judgment and integrity that we rightfully expect from an FBI Director and I applaud his nomination.”
--J. Patrick Rowan, former Assistant Attorney General for the National Security Division
"I’ve known Chris Wray for over two decades. He is smart, careful, tough and kind. He has a brilliant mind, great judgment, and unwavering integrity. The terrific women and men of the FBI will be well served, as will our country, with Chris at the helm.”
--Zach Fardon, Former U.S. Attorney under President Obama
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“Chris Wray is a superb and serious lawyer with a strong moral compass. Having served under Chris when I was Director of the Enron Task Force, I witnessed first-hand his deep respect for the Department of Justice and the FBI, as well as his strong commitment to public service. The country is lucky to have someone of Chris’s caliber serve in such an important role.”
--Leslie Caldwell, Former Assistant Attorney General for the Criminal Division
“I’ve known him and worked with him for two decades, in both his private and public sector stints. He will bring the independence and strength needed in this challenging environment.”
--Neil McBride, Former U.S. Attorney under President Obama
Westmoreland County Man Charged with Distribution of Fentanyl Resulting in DeathRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A Westmoreland County man has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of possession with intent to distribute and distribution of fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance, resulting in an overdose death and with possession with intent to distribute and distribution of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The two-count indictment, returned on June 6, named Jarrel Williams, age 29, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on Jan. 17, 2017, Williams possessed with intent to distribute and distributed a quantity of fentanyl, which resulted in the serious bodily injury and death of an individual, identified only as M.S. Count two of the indictment alleges that, on Jan. 19, 2017, Williams distributed or possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of heroin.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of life in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, 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, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Rachael L. Dizard is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, West Leechburg Police, Allegheny Township Police, and Pennsylvania State Police 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.
West Warwick Resident Sentenced to Federal Prison for Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE, R.I. – John Ryder, 29, of West Warwick, was sentenced today to 36 months in federal prison for robbing a BankRI branch office in Coventry of more than $6,000 in cash, while wielding a machete, on May 2, 2016.
At sentencing, U.S. District Court Chief Judge William E Smith also ordered Ryder to serve 3 years supervised release upon completion of his prison term and pay full restitution to BankRI. Ryder pleaded guilty on October 31, 2016, to bank robbery by force, violence and intimidation.
Ryder’s sentence is announced by Acting United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch; Coventry Police Chief John S. MacDonald; and Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the Boston Field Office of the FBI.
At the time of his guilty plea, Ryder admitted to the court that beginning on April 29, 2016, and on the days leading up to the robbery, he spent a considerable amount of time in and around a shopping plaza where the bank is located and in a wooded area directly behind the plaza. Ryder admitted to the court that on May 2, 2016, he entered the bank carrying a machete which he wielded while demanding cash from bank tellers. After robbing the bank of $5,937, he fled into the wooded area behind the shopping plaza.
Ryder was arrested by Coventry Police Detectives and FBI agents, with the assistance of the West Warwick Police Department, on May 13, 2016.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Milind M. Shah.
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Wapato Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Abusive Sexual Contact Sexual Contact with a MinorRead the Press Release
Spokane – Today, Joseph H. Harrington, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced that United States District Judge Stanley A. Bastian sentenced Numa Jay Speedis, age 64, of the Yakama Nation Indian Reservation, for Abusive Sexual Contact with a Minor. Speedis pled guilty to the offense on March 2, 2017. Judge Bastian sentenced him to a 15-year term of imprisonment, to be followed by a life-term of court supervision after he is released from federal prison. Speedis will be required to register as a sex offender.
According to information disclosed during the court proceedings, on December 18, 2016, Speedis engaged in sexual contact with a minor. The Yakama Nation Tribal Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted an expedient and thorough investigation. As the investigation progressed, law enforcement learned that Speedis had molested another child approximately five years ago, and had molested a third victim approximately 20 years ago.
Harrington said, “I commend the victim for her courage in disclosing the traumatic events related to Speedis’ appalling acts. I also commend the victim’s family for their unwavering support of her and the prosecution of this case. I acknowledge the thorough investigation of this case and exemplary working relationship demonstrated by the Yakama Nation Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The United States Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners understand the profound importance of protecting the children who live within the Eastern District of Washington. The United States Attorney’s Office will continue to prosecute and seek lengthy sentences to remove dangerous sex offenders from our communities.”
This investigation was conducted by the FBI and the Yakama Nation Tribal Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Tom Hanlon, an Assistance United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington.
United States Intervenes in False Claims Act Lawsuit Against the City of Los Angeles and CRA/LA for Knowingly Failing to Provide Accessible HousingRead the Press Release
The United States has intervened in a lawsuit against the City of Los Angeles and the CRA/LA (formerly the Community Redevelopment Agency of the City of Los Angeles) alleging that they falsely certified compliance with federal accessibility laws in connection with claims submitted to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for housing grants, the Department of Justice announced today. The accessibility laws allegedly violated include Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the Fair Housing Act, and the duty to affirmatively further fair housing, which are meant to ensure that people with disabilities have fair and equal access to public housing.
The lawsuit alleges that the City applied for and received from HUD millions of dollars in federal housing funds, a portion of which it provided to the CRA/LA, to develop affordable housing that was accessible for people with disabilities. As recipients of HUD funds, the City and the CRA/LA must comply with the accessibility laws allegedly violated. Among other things, these laws require that five percent of all units in certain federally-assisted multifamily housing be accessible for people with mobility impairments, and an additional two percent be accessible for people with visual and auditory impairments. They also require that the City and the CRA/LA maintain a publicly available list of accessible units and their accessibility features. Likewise, they require that the City and the CRA/LA have a monitoring program in place to ensure people with disabilities are not excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or otherwise subjected to discrimination in, federally-assisted housing programs and activities solely on the basis of a disability.
The City annually had to certify compliance with Section 504, the Fair Housing Act, and the duty to affirmatively further fair housing as a precondition for receiving HUD funds. The lawsuit alleges that none of the HUD-assisted multifamily housing supported by the CRA/LA, or other developers, met the minimum number of accessible units. The lawsuit also alleges that the City and the CRA/LA neither monitored sub-recipients of HUD funds for compliance with federal accessibility laws nor maintained a publicly-available list of accessible units and their accessibility features.
“Recipients of federal housing funds must honor their commitments to accommodate people with disabilities,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Chad A. Readler of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “Denying people with disabilities equal access to public housing deprives one of the most disadvantaged groups in society of fair housing opportunities.”
“This case alleges that the City of Los Angeles repeatedly violated the law by falsely certifying that millions of federal dollars were being used to build housing that included units accessible to people with disabilities,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Sandra R. Brown for the Central District of California. “While people with disabilities struggled to find accessible housing, the city and its agents denied them equal access to housing while falsely certifying the availability of such housing to keep the dollars flowing. The conduct alleged in this case is very troubling because of the impact on people who did not have access to housing that met their needs.”
“This case demonstrates the important role whistleblowers play in the process of uncovering waste, fraud, and abuse,” said HUD Inspector General David A. Montoya. “It further displays our commitment to fully pursue allegations that are brought to our attention.”
The lawsuit, United States ex rel. Ling, et al. v. City of Los Angeles, et al., No. CV11-00974 (PG), was filed in the U.S. District Court in Los Angeles by Mei Ling, a resident of Los Angeles who uses a wheelchair, and the Fair Housing Council of San Fernando Valley, a nonprofit civil rights advocacy group. The lawsuit was filed under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act, which permit private parties to sue on behalf of the United States when they believe that a party has submitted false claims for government funds, and to receive a share of any recovery. The False Claims Act permits the government to intervene in such a lawsuit, as it has done in this case.
These matters were investigated by the Civil Division’s Commercial Litigation Branch, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California, and the HUD Office of Inspector General.
The claims asserted against the City of Los Angeles and the CRA/LA are allegations only; there has been no determination of liability.
United States Attorney's Office Completes Nashville Restaurant Review for Compliance with Americans with Disabilities ActRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee has completed its review of 16 of Nashville’s most popular and frequented restaurants to determine if they are in compliance with the Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990 (the “ADA”), announced Acting United States Attorney Jack Smith. The initiative is in accordance with the Department of Justice’s congressionally-mandated responsibility to review compliance with the ADA. It is not in response to any specific complaint against a restaurant.
This year marks the 27th anniversary of the passage of the ADA. The Act prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability by places of public accommodation, including restaurants, and requires places of public accommodation to be “designed, constructed, and altered in compliance with the accessibility standards established” by the ADA’s implementing regulations.
“Nashville is a growing city, and has become a tourist destination with a vibrant restaurant scene, said Acting U.S. Attorney Jack Smith. “People with disabilities who live, work in, and visit Nashville deserve an equal opportunity to access and enjoy all that the city has to offer. We are pleased by the cooperation of all restaurants reviewed and commend them for their desire to take swift action to resolve all of the issues identified during the review.”
The U.S. Attorney’s Office initiated its compliance review on February 29, 2016. It objectively selected the restaurants to be reviewed using recent third party restaurant rankings in order to review 16 of Nashville’s most popular and frequented restaurants. The restaurants selected were: Arnold’s Country Kitchen, Caffe Nonna, The Catbird Seat, Chauhan Ale & Masala House, City House, Etch Restaurant, Hattie B’s (Downtown), Husk, Josephine, Kayne Prime, Lockeland Table Community Kitchen & Bar, Maggiano’s Little Italy, Margot Café & Bar, Monell’s (Germantown), Rolf & Daughters, and Watermark.
As part of the review, restaurant owners were asked to complete a survey supplied by the government pertaining to their restaurant’s accessibility. Federal investigators then conducted an on-site inspection of each of the restaurants to confirm survey responses and to evaluate compliance with federal ADA regulations.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office found barriers to access in varying degrees in each of the restaurants. These barriers included, among other things, issues related to parking, entrance accessibility, fixture height and clearance and other obstacles to accessibility.
Since identifying these violations, the United States Attorney’s Office and the restaurants have worked together to remove each of these barriers in order to make the restaurants fully compliant with the ADA. The United States Attorney’s Office is pleased to announce that all 16 restaurants have undertaken efforts to remove barriers to access so that all patrons can enjoy their dining experience, and it has closed its compliance review at this time.
Union Treatment Center to Pay $3 Million and Be Permanently Excluded from Federal Health Care Programs under False Claims Act SettlementRead the Press Release
Union Treatment Center (“UTC”), a medical and physical therapy provider with clinics in Austin, Killeen, San Antonio, and Corpus Christi, will pay $3 million to settle civil health care fraud allegations, announced U.S. Attorney Richard L. Durbin, Jr. Under the settlement, UTC will also waive claims for payment exceeding $1.6 million and be permanently excluded from participating in federal health care programs. The settlement partially resolves a lawsuit under the False Claims Act alleging that UTC perpetrated a scheme to defraud the federal workers’ compensation program (“FECA program”).
“Today’s settlement reflects our commitment to combatting fraud in the federal health care system,” said U.S. Attorney Richard L. Durbin, Jr. “We will use all of the tools at our disposal, including civil litigation under the False Claims Act, to ensure the integrity of federally funded programs.”
The U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (“OWCP”) administers the FECA program, which covers roughly 3 million federal civilian and postal employees for job-related injuries. Benefits include payment of an injured worker’s medical and rehabilitation expenses. OWCP uses federal funds to reimburse health care providers that treat covered workers.
“UTC and its executives submitted false claims to the Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs under the guise that they were treating injured American workers pursuant to the Federal Employees’ Compensation Act. The U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Inspector General will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to vigorously investigate medical providers who attempt to fraudulently obtain money from Department of Labor Programs intended to treat injured workers,” said Steven Grell, Special Agent in Charge, Dallas Regional, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General.
“The Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs considers program integrity and fraud detection and prevention a top priority. We thank the law enforcement community for their investigative efforts – we also thank DOJ for their hard work in resolving this case. This settlement sends a strong signal to providers who submit false health care claims to the government that they will be held accountable for their actions.” Gary A. Steinberg – Deputy Director of OWCP, United States Department of Labor.
UTC claimed to specialize in treating workplace injuries. The company marketed itself to patients covered by the FECA program, targeting in particular unionized postal workers in Austin and San Antonio and civilian Army employees in the Corpus Christi area. In its civil complaint, the United States alleged that UTC, Garry Craighead, UTC’s former Chief Executive Officer, and Christine Craighead, its former Chief Operating Officer, orchestrated a scheme to overcharge OWCP for services and supplies allegedly rendered to patients covered by the FECA program. The United States asserted that, between January 1, 2009, and December 31, 2012, UTC fraudulently billed the FECA program for services it did not render; routinely overcharged for medical examinations; falsely inflated the time patients spent in therapy; and, billed for unnecessary services and supplies. The United States also accused UTC of offering, paying, soliciting, and receiving kickbacks in exchange for patient referrals. The government’s allegations may be found in a qui tam lawsuit captioned United States ex rel. Wheeler v. Union Treatment Centers, LLC, et al., no. SA:13-cv-4-XR (W.D. Tex.) The settlement agreement is not an admission of liability by UTC.
“The workers’ compensation program benefits thousands of postal employees who have received legitimate on-the-job injuries. This investigation should send a clear message to all healthcare providers that workers’ compensation fraud is a federal crime that carries serious consequences and will not be tolerated,” said Special Agent in Charge Maximo Eamiguel, U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General Southern Area Field Office. “The USPS-OIG, along with our law enforcement partners, will continue to aggressively investigate those who engage in fraudulent activities intended to defraud federal benefit programs and the United States Postal Service.”
“This settlement further demonstrates the resolve of USACIDC”s Major Procurement Fraud Unit and our law enforcement partners to protect and defend the assets of the United States Army,” stated Frank Robey, director, USACIDC Major Procurement Fraud Unit.
The settlement with UTC is part of a larger enforcement initiative. Garry Craighead is currently serving a 14-year term of imprisonment as a result of his guilty plea to kickback and money laundering charges. The Court ordered Craighead to pay OWCP nearly $18 million in restitution for the damage he caused to the FECA program. His criminal case may be found at United States v. Garry Wayne Craighead, no. A:15-cr-348 (W.D. Tex.) Christine Craighead is awaiting trial on conspiracy, wire fraud, kickback, and aggravated identity theft charges. Her trial is set for October 30, 2017. The criminal case is captioned United States v. Christine Ann Craighead, 1:17-cr-88 (W.D. Tex.)
“Along with criminal prosecution, the FBI is committed to pursuing administrative and civil remedies with the United States Attorney's Office, and our partner investigative agencies, to prevent, deter, and recover government losses sustained by fraud waste and abuse,” stated FBI Special Agent in Charge Christopher Combs, San Antonio Division.
The United States Postal Service Office of the Inspector General, United States Army Criminal Investigation Command’s Major Procurement Fraud Unit, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and United States Department of Labor Office of the Inspector General conducted the investigation for the United States. Assistant United States Attorney John J. LoCurto and Auditor Jamie Cole, CPA handled the investigation for the United States Attorney’s Office.
U.S. Marshals Service in Jamaica Apprehends Fugitive Wanted in Connection with North Dakota Telemarketing Fraud Lottery ScamRead the Press Release
BISMARCK - United States Attorney Chris Myers announced today, that the U.S. Marshals Service, working with Jamaican law enforcement, has located and apprehended another man charged with participating in an international organized crime advance fee “lottery scam” which defrauded at least 90 mostly elderly U.S. residents out of more than $5.8 million.
Federal fugitive Gregory Gooden was arrested earlier this week in Kingston, Jamaica. Gooden, a Jamaican national, is one of 15 defendants charged federally in an international wire/mail fraud and money laundering conspiracy investigation based in North Dakota, dubbed “Operation Hard Copy.” The investigation resulted in federal indictments throughout the United States. In North Dakota, more than 10 defendants have entered guilty pleas in related cases. One of Gooden’s former co-defendants, Sanjay Ashani Williams, was convicted following trial in North Dakota in 2015, and was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for selling victim lead lists used in the lottery scam.
Nine other defendants charged in the current case were arrested in Jamaica and have been extradited to the United States, where they await trial. Defendant Tristan Fisher was arrested on December 2, 2016, in Trelawny Parish, Jamaica, and is in custody there while his extradition case is being heard in the Jamaican court system. Another defendant was arrested in Providence, Rhode Island, and also awaits trial. Three individuals charged in this case remain fugitives and are believed to be in Jamaica: Gareth Billings; Akil Gray; and Mario Hines, aka “Buju Ramos.”
The U.S. Marshals Service is the primary federal agency responsible for tracking and extraditing fugitives apprehended in foreign countries and wanted for prosecution in the United States. The Marshals Service sees to it that there is no safe haven for criminals outside of the territorial boundaries of the United States.
U.S. Attorney Myers praised the tireless work of Operation Hard Copy lead investigators from the Federal Bureau of Investigation - North Dakota office, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service – Florida office.
An Indictment is merely an accusation, a method by which a person is charged with criminal activity; individuals charged are presumed innocent until, and unless, proven guilty.
U.S. Intervenes in ‘Whistleblower’ Lawsuit against City of Los Angeles that Alleges City Received Millions of Dollars in Federal Grants and Knowingly Failed to Provide Housing Accessible to the DisabledRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – The United States has intervened in a lawsuit against the City of Los Angeles and the CRA/LA (formerly the Community Redevelopment Agency of the City of Los Angeles) alleging that they falsely certified compliance with federal accessibility laws in connection with housing grants from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the Department of Justice announced today.
The lawsuit alleges that the city and the CRA/LA violated accessibility laws – including Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Fair Housing Act – and the duty to affirmatively further fair housing, which are meant to ensure that people with disabilities have fair and equal access to public housing.
The lawsuit alleges that the City of Los Angeles applied for and received millions of dollars in federal housing funds, a portion of which it provided to the CRA/LA, to develop affordable housing that was accessible to people with disabilities. As recipients of HUD funds, the city and the CRA/LA were required to comply with the accessibility laws.
Among other things, the accessibility laws require that 5 percent of all units in certain federally-assisted multifamily housing units be accessible to people with mobility impairments, and an additional 2 percent be accessible to people with visual and auditory impairments. The laws also require that the City of Los Angeles and the CRA/LA maintain a publicly available list of accessible units and their accessibility features. The laws further require that the city and the CRA/LA have a monitoring program in place to ensure that people with disabilities are not excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or otherwise subjected to discrimination in federally-assisted housing programs and activities solely on the basis of a disability.
As a precondition for receiving HUD funds, each year the city certified compliance with Section 504 and the Fair Housing Act, and certified that it satisfied its duty to affirmatively further fair housing. The lawsuit alleges that the city and CRA/LA failed to operate their housing programs in compliance with these federal civil rights laws, which resulted in public housing that was built without the minimum number of accessible units. The lawsuit also alleges that the city and the CRA/LA neither monitored sub-recipients of HUD funds to ensure that they complied with federal accessibility laws nor maintained a publicly-available list of accessible units.
“This case alleges that the City of Los Angeles repeatedly violated the law by falsely certifying that millions of federal dollars were being used to build housing that included units accessible to people with disabilities,” said Acting United States Attorney Sandra R. Brown. “While people with disabilities struggled to find accessible housing, the city and its agents denied them equal access to housing while falsely certifying the availability of such housing to keep the dollars flowing. The conduct alleged in this case is very troubling because of the impact on people who did not have access to housing that met their needs.”
“Recipients of federal housing funds must honor their commitments to accommodate people with disabilities,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Chad A. Readler of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “Denying people with disabilities equal access to public housing deprives one of the most disadvantaged groups in society of fair housing opportunities.”
The lawsuit, United States ex rel. Ling, et al. v. City of Los Angeles, et al., CV11-974 (PG), was filed in United States District Court in Los Angeles by Mei Ling, a resident of Los Angeles who uses a wheelchair, and the Fair Housing Council of San Fernando Valley, a nonprofit civil rights advocacy group. After a lengthy investigation, the United States elected to intervene in the lawsuit, which was unsealed on May 31 in an order signed by United States District Judge Philip S. Gutierrez. The government learned that the case was unsealed earlier this week.
The lawsuit was filed under the qui tam – or whistleblower – provisions of the False Claims Act, which permit private parties to sue on behalf of the United States when they believe that a party has submitted false claims for government funds, and to receive a share of any recovery. The False Claims Act permits the government to intervene in such a lawsuit, as it has done in this case. The United States has until July 31 to file its complaint in intervention.
“This case demonstrates the important role whistleblowers play in the process of uncovering waste, fraud, and abuse,” said HUD Inspector General David A. Montoya. “It further displays our commitment to fully pursue allegations that are brought to our attention.”
This matter was investigated by Assistant United States Attorney Lisa A. Palombo of the Civil Fraud Section of the United States Attorney’s Office, the Commercial Litigation Branch of the Justice Department’s Civil Division, and the HUD Office of Inspector General.
The claims asserted against the City of Los Angeles and the CRA/LA are allegations only. There has not yet been a determination of liability.
Two identity thieves charged in federal courtRead the Press Release
Alleged to have stolen victim identities from federal student aid website FAFSA
PRESS RELEASE
Indianapolis – United States Attorney Josh Minkler announced the indictment of two men in an elaborate scheme of aggravated identity theft, identity theft, false claims, and conspiracy. Taiwo K. Onamuti, 29, Doraville, Georgia, and Muideen A. Adebule, 49, Indianapolis, Indiana, were indicted on 23 federal charges relating to the fraud scheme.
“The Onamuti organization is responsible for stealing the identities of thousands of victims, including students who were simply trying to apply for financial aid,” said Minkler. “The organization’s criminal conduct disrupted countless lives, and led to the theft of more than $12 million from the United States Treasury—money that could and should have been spent for the benefit of the taxpayer.”
The 23-count indictment alleges that from March 2014, through March 2016, Onamuti, Adebule, and others in the conspiracy, acquired personal identifying information (names, dates of birth and Social Security numbers) of victims by either purchasing it via E-mail, or by obtaining the information through the Data Retrieval Tool on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FASFA) website. The organization would then use the stolen information to file false tax returns with the Internal Revenue Service.
The indictment further alleges that Onamuti and his organization then used the stolen identity information to file thousands of false and fraudulent electronic tax returns, and directed the IRS to deposit the refunds onto prepaid debit cards purchased by Adebule and others. The organization then used the debit cards to purchase money orders at several locations in Indiana and Georgia. In total, Onamuti, Adebule, and others unlawfully obtained or attempted to obtain approximately $12,686,634 in federal tax refunds.
In March, the Department of Education and IRS removed the data retrieval tool from the fafsa.gov and StudentLoans.gov web sites until extra security protections could be added. The removal of the tool at the height of financial aid application season disrupted the application process for parents and students who were trying to prepare and submit FAFSA forms.
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, the Office of Inspector General for the Department of Education and the United States Postal Inspection Service.
“The announcement of today’s indictment and arrest illustrates the tremendous work of IRS Criminal Investigation and our law enforcement partners to defend innocent taxpayers from the abuse of their stolen personal information, said IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge, Gabriel Grchan. “This type of crime not only results in theft of taxpayer funds, but also has a damaging impact to those victims whose personal information was used without authorization. IRS Criminal Investigation aggressively investigators all persons engaged in this type of criminal activity.”
"I'm proud of the work of our staff and our law enforcement colleagues whose efforts brought about today's actions," said Robert Mancuso, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Education (ED) Office of Inspector General (OIG) Technology Crimes Division, the OIG unit that works to protect ED programs and network infrastructure by investigating technology crimes, providing digital forensic services, and conducting proactive data analytics. "The OIG will continue to use our high-tech investigative and analytical capabilities to aggressively pursue those who misuse ED systems and programs in order to line their pockets with someone else's hard earned money. America's taxpayers and students deserve nothing less."
Assistant United States Attorney Tiffany J. Preston, who is prosecuting the case for the government, said that the charges carry maximum sentences of five to fifteen years’ imprisonment, and for the aggravated identity theft charges, two years’ imprisonment to be served consecutively.
An indictment is only a charge and not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven otherwise in federal court.
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Two Syracuse Men Plead Guilty to Roles in Credit-Card Cloning ConspiracyRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Daquan Rice, 22, and Damian Diaz, 26, both of Syracuse, New York, pled guilty to conspiracy charges relating to their role in a years-long credit-card cloning operation, announced United States Attorney Richard S. Hartunian.
Daquan Rice pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire-fraud, one count of conspiracy to commit money-laundering, and two counts of aggravated identity theft. Damian Diaz pled guilty to one count of wire-fraud conspiracy and one count of money-laundering conspiracy. As part of their guilty pleas, both men admitted to their involvement in the scheme, which involved the purchase of stolen credit card numbers belonging to numerous victims and the fabrication of cloned credit cards. They further admitted that they used those cloned credit cards to purchase tens of thousands of dollars of merchandise and prepaid gift cards. The defendants used the prepaid gift cards to purchase United States Postal money orders, which they converted to cash. Rice’s and Diaz’s criminal conspiracy ran from 2014 through 2016 in Syracuse, New York, as well as in Texas and Georgia.
Rice and Diaz are scheduled to be sentenced on September 29, 2017. The wire fraud and money laundering conspiracy charges carry a maximum possible sentence of twenty years incarceration. The aggravated identity theft charges to which defendant Daquan Rice pled guilty carry a two year mandatory minimum sentence, which must run consecutive to the sentence imposed on the other charges.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the United States Postal Inspectors, the Syracuse Police Department – Gang Violence Task Force, the New York State Police, and the Town of Dewitt Police Department, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicolas Commandeur.