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24 May 2017
Columbia Man Sentenced for Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Tom Larson, Acting United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri, announced that a Columbia, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for his role in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
Douglas Marion Pryor, 55, of Columbia, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Stephen R. Bough to seven years in federal prison without parole.
On Jan. 19, 2017, Pryor pleaded guilty to participating in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in Boone, Cooper, Lafayette and Jackson Counties in Missouri from Aug. 25, 2015, to Jan. 11, 2016.
Pryor admitted that he had distributed approximately 40 to 50 pounds of methamphetamine since 2012. Pryor was arrested on Jan. 11, 2016, during a traffic stop in Boonville. Officers found a green bag in the back seat of his vehicle, which contained a pill bottle with six plastic bag corners of methamphetamine.
Co-defendant Gregory Alan Kennedy, 53, of Boonville, Mo., traveled to Kansas City, Mo., to pick up a large quantity of methamphetamine for Pryor on Aug. 25, 2015. Kennedy transported the methamphetamine from Kansas City to Boonville and was arrested just outside the city limits during a traffic stop. Officers located approximately one pound of methamphetamine hidden in the dashboard of his vehicle. Kennedy told investigators that Pryor had offered to pay him $700 to pick up the methamphetamine and bring it to Boonville, where Pryor would pick it up.
Co-defendant Matthew Allen Hampton, 35, of Franklin, Mo., was delivering approximately two pounds of methamphetamine to Pryor when he was stopped by Missouri State Highway Patrol troopers on I-70 in Lafayette County on Oct. 14, 2015. Hampton told investigators they had met in Pryor’s room at Harrah’s Casino in Kansas City, Mo., where Pryor handed him the methamphetamine and agreed to pay him $500 if he drove the methamphetamine back. Hampton admitted he had been dealing for Pryor for three or four months, and had moved approximately three to five pounds of methamphetamine in the last three months.
Law enforcement officers contacted Hampton again on Nov. 24, 2015, at the Isle of Capri Hotel/Casino in Boonville. Hampton had a plastic bag that contained methamphetamine in his pants pocket and a blue plastic glove that contained 93.1 grams of methamphetamine in a coat pocket. Hampton told officers he received the methamphetamine from Pryor.
Pryor is the second defendant to be sentenced in this case. Co-defendant Joseph Nicko Winters, 45, of Independence, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison without parole. Hampton and Kennedy have pleaded guilty and await sentencing.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lawrence E. Miller. It was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Cooper County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department, the Lafayette County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department, the Jackson County Drug Task Force and the East Central Drug Task Force.
Charlotte Man Receives 30 Months for Simpsonville Gun Shop RobberyRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina –--- United States Attorney Beth Drake announced today that Juran Maghi Witherspoon, age 18, of Charlotte, was sentenced on a charge stemming from his involvement in the pre-dawn break-in and theft of firearms from The Gun Shop in Simpsonville in October of 2016. Judge Bruce Howe Hendricks, of Charleston, sentenced Witherspoon to 30 months in the Bureau of Prisons and ordered him to pay over $48,000 in restitution.
Witherspoon was previously indicted on December 13, 2016, by a federal grand jury. Prior to his indictment, Witherspoon was arrested on federal arrest warrants in early November for the offense and has remained in custody, detained without bond, since that date.
The facts presented by AUSA Bill Watkins at the guilty plea hearing established that on October 13, 2016, at approximately 2:52 a.m., a burglary occurred at The Gun Shop and Indoor Range, a federal firearms licensee, located at 622 NE Main Street, Simpsonville, South Carolina, 29681. Surveillance camera footage from the store depicted a minivan driving though the front of the store and then three subjects (one of which was Witherspoon), wearing hooded sweatshirts, gloves and carrying bags, entering the store. Witherspoon and his associates used a sledge hammer and a baseball bat to break the glass from display cases containing firearms before loading handguns into the bags. The three men were in the store for just under one minute before they fled in a getaway car and abandoned the van at the scene. A subsequent inventory of the missing guns revealed that a total of forty-three (43) handguns had been stolen to include various models of Auto Ordnance, Bersa, Glock, Ruger, Sig Sauer, Smith & Wesson, Springfield Armory and Taurus firearms. The van was identified as a white Chrysler Town & Country which had been reported stolen from Denver, North Carolina.
Ms. Drake also thanked law enforcement for the excellent police work: “The Simpsonville and Charlotte police, ATF, and the Lincoln County Sheriff, they pulled together to solve this one. Working together for safer communities is what it’s about.”
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) with the assistance and cooperation of the Simpsonville Police Department, Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department and the Lincoln County (North Carolina) Sheriff’s Department. The case has been assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Bill Watkins and First Assistant United States Attorney Lance Crick for prosecution. The investigation is still ongoing.
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California Man Sentenced to Prison for Stealing Prisoner Identities and Filing Fraudulent Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
A San Francisco man was sentenced to serve 84 months in prison yesterday for stealing identities and conspiring to file fraudulent tax returns, announced Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg, of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Brian J. Stretch for the Northern District of California.
In January, at the conclusion of a two-week trial, a federal jury in the Northern District of California convicted Howard Webber, 52, of conspiring to commit mail and wire fraud, mail fraud, and aggravated identity theft. According to the evidence presented at trial, from June 2010 through January 2012, Webber conspired with Clifford Bercovich to obtain the names and social security numbers of fellow inmates while Webber was incarcerated at several prisons and jails, including San Quentin State Prison and Santa Clara County jail in California, and the Milwaukee Secure Detention Facility in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Webber and Bercovich convinced inmates to give them their names and social security numbers by explaining that they could help the inmates take advantage of government stimulus programs or secret tax loopholes. Webber and Bercovich recruited inmates to help them solicit the identities of other inmates, and created a limited-liability company, Inmate Assets Recovery and Liquidation Services LLC, to make their scheme appear legitimate.
Webber and Bercovich used the identities they obtained to file false federal income tax returns with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The returns falsely represented that the individuals earned wages or other income and fraudulently claimed refunds. Webber and Bercovich opened a post office box, which they listed on each false return and used to receive the fraudulently obtained refund checks. In some cases, they also directed that refunds be wired to bank accounts, which they opened and controlled. According to the evidence presented at trial, Webber and Bercovich filed more than 700 false returns and received over $600,000 in fraudulently obtained income tax refunds.
In addition to the term of prison imposed, Webber was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Goldberg and U.S. Attorney Stretch thanked special agents of IRS–Criminal Investigation, who conducted the investigation, and Assistant U.S. Attorney William Frentzen and Trial Attorneys Gregory Bernstein and Arthur J. Ewenczyk of the Tax Division, who prosecuted the case.
Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found on the division’s website.
California Man Sentenced to Prison in Loan SchemeRead 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 Robert Storey, 67, of Gardena, California, who was convicted of wire fraud, was sentenced to 33 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Russell T. Ippolito, Jr., who handled the case, stated that the defendant defrauded a film production company located in England in an advance fee scheme, which resulted in $300,000 dollars in financial losses. Storey represented to the victim film production company that he and co-conspirators could obtain a standby letter of credit from banks outside the United States. The defendant assured representatives of the film production company that he could monetize the stand by letter of credit, which would provide the film production company with millions of dollars in loans.
As part of the scheme, Storey required the investment company to provide him with $300,000, which would purportedly cover the costs associated with the financial transaction. The film production company provided the funds but instead of using the money to obtain financing, the defendant, and his co-conspirators, used the funds for their own purposes.
The defendant similarly defrauded two other film production companies. The total loss amount for all three film production companies was $780,000.
Four co-conspirators: Rhett Shepard; Nick Mussolini; John Nielsen; and Rodney Walker, have already been convicted and sentenced.The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Buffalo Man Pleads Guilty to 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 Samuel Nappo, 38, of Buffalo, NY, pleaded guilty to obtaining controlled substances through fraud, before U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara. The charge carries a maximum penalty of four years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Adler, who is handling the case, stated that between December 2013 and January 2015, co-defendant Brandon Coburn, a licensed nurse practitioner who was legally authorized to prescribe controlled substances, provided prescriptions that were not issued for legitimate medical purposes to Nappo and nine others. Nappo and the others filled the prescriptions, and then sold the drugs, which included fentanyl, oxycodone, oxymorphone, and amphetamine, on the street in the Buffalo area. Nappo filled a total of 26 prescriptions.
To date, seven defendants charged in this investigation have been convicted. 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.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of James J. Hunt, Special Agent-in-Charge, New York Field Division.
Sentencing is scheduled for September 1, 2017, at 12:30 p.m. before Judge Arcara.
Bridgeport Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing Heroin Involved in Stratford Woman's OverdoseRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that RAMON L. KILLINGS, also known as “Blade,” 39, of Bridgeport, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today in Hartford federal court to one count of distribution of heroin.
This matter stems from an ongoing statewide initiative targeting narcotics dealers who distribute heroin, fentanyl or opioids that cause death or serious injury to users.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in the early morning of December 4, 2016, Stratford Police responding to a 911 call encountered a 33-year-old female who had died from a suspected drug overdose in the bedroom of a residence in Stratford. Responding officers collected wax folds containing suspected heroin, a hypodermic needle and other drug paraphernalia from the bedroom. The investigation revealed that the victim’s boyfriend purchased heroin from KILLINGS the previous evening, and then he and the victim injected the heroin he had purchased.
In December 2016 and January 2017, law enforcement made controlled purchases of heroin from KILLINGS.
On January 18, 2017, KILLINGS was arrested on a federal criminal complaint. At the time of his arrest, he possessed quantities of heroin and crack cocaine.
KILLINGS is scheduled to be sentenced by Senior U.S. District Judge Alfred V. Covello on August 16, 2017, at which time he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. He is released on a $20,000 bond.
This matter has been investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force and the Stratford Police Department. The task force includes personnel from the Norwalk, Stamford, Stratford, Milford and Bridgeport Police Departments, and the Connecticut State Police. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito.
Battle Creek Hotel Owner Sentenced to Prison for Lying About Minimum Wage PaymentsRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — Acting U.S. Attorney Andrew Birge announced today that Mehul Chandubhai Patel, a/k/a "Mike Patel," 31, of Battle Creek, Michigan, was sentenced yesterday for lying to Labor Department investigators about the wages paid to his staff. The charges stem from Patel’s violation of minimum wage rules in connection with two hotels he operated in Battle Creek and Coldwater, Michigan.
On February 2, 2017, Patel appeared in federal court and pled guilty to violating a federal statute that prohibits anyone from concealing a material fact from the federal government when obligated to disclose it. He admitted that during 2005, the Department of Labor ("DOL") found that he had violated minimum wage laws by underpaying his hotel employees. He thereafter signed an agreement promising to repay his employees. When the DOL asked him to provide proof that he had done so, Patel sent them copies of checks indicating that he had paid the back wages. However, he concealed the fact that he required his employees to return the money to him immediately after cashing the checks.
Patel appeared yesterday for sentencing before U.S. District Judge Paul Maloney. After hearing arguments from the defense that Patel deserved no jail time, Patel received a sentence of 2 months incarceration. Judge Maloney also ordered Patel to pay a $10,000 fine immediately and promised a ruling on the $250,000 restitution issue within a month.
Acting U.S. Attorney Andrew Birge stated: "Cheating employees out of their wages is unacceptable, especially when we are talking about the bare minimum wage the law allows. Any employer who does that and then lies to the government about it should expect federal agents with an arrest warrant will come knocking at the door."
"Mehul Patel exploited vulnerable workers by compelling them to kickback a portion of their wages and then he submitted false documents to the Department of Labor’s (DOL) Wage and Hour Division to cover up the scheme. We are committed to working with our DOL partner agencies to preserve the integrity of all DOL enforcement programs," stated James Vanderberg, Special Agent in Charge, Chicago Region, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General.
Prosecution of the matter has been assigned to Timothy VerHey, Assistant U.S. Attorney. The matter was investigated by the US Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Battle Creek Police Department.
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Aren Perryman Sentenced to Thirty Years after Pleas of Guilty to Drug Trafficking, Firearms Offenses and Threatening WitnessesRead the Press Release
Spokane - Joseph H. Harrington, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced that today Chief United States District Court Judge Thomas O. Rice sentenced Aren Lee Perryman, aka Filthy, age 32, of Spokane, Washington, to a 30-year term of imprisonment after pleading guilty to Trafficking in Methamphetamine and Heroin; Possessing and Using Firearms in Connection with Drug Trafficking; and Intimidating and Threatening Witnesses. Chief Judge Rice accepted the agreed upon sentence presented by the parties which included 10 years of supervised release to follow his 30-year term of incarceration.
In September 2015, Perryman, the leader/organizer of a drug conspiracy responsible for trafficking large quantities of methamphetamine and heroin from Arizona into the Eastern District of Washington, was arrested with several co-defendants. The investigation resulted in the seizure of over 35 pounds of methamphetamine, 8 pounds of heroin, and multiple firearms. Perryman was also directly tied to a number of drive-by shootings that occurred in Spokane in the summer of 2015 and linked to a local overdose death in 2015. After Perryman was arrested, he attempted to retaliate against the local law enforcement officer he deemed responsible for his arrest.
At sentencing, Chief Judge Rice noted the damaging impact of the Defendant’s actions to this community to include the corresponding violence associated with his drug trafficking activities.
Acting United States Attorney Joseph Harrington said, “The heroin epidemic in this country is a real concern and sadly our community is not immune from its destruction.” Harrington went on to add, “this case highlights the joint commitment, dedication, and partnership between our state
and federal partners to combat this problem and the accompanying violence associated with trafficking such dangerous drugs into our community. Of additional significance, is the prevention of additional crimes of violence especially those that target our dedicated law enforcement officers.”
This case was conducted as part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation, which included the Drug Enforcement Administration (Spokane Resident Office and Seattle Field Division); the Spokane Regional Drug Task Force; Idaho State Police; and the Spokane Police Department. The OCDETF program provides supplemental federal funding to the federal and state agencies involved in the investigation of drug-related crimes.
The investigation also included the participation of numerous federal and local law enforcement agencies, including Drug Enforcement Administration (Boise, Idaho); Federal Bureau of Investigation (Spokane, Washington); the Unified Police Department (Salt Lake City, Utah); Montana Department of Criminal Investigations (Kalispell, Montana) and Northwest HIDTA.
The case was prosecuted by Caitlin Baunsgard and Stephanie Van Marter, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the Eastern District of Washington in partnership with the United States Attorneys Offices in the Districts of Idaho and Utah.
Alien Located in Sumter Pleads Guilty to Illegal Re-EntryRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that Martin Saquic-Larios, age 24, of Guatemala, has entered a guilty plea in federal court in Columbia, to Illegal Re-Entry, a violation of 8 U.S.C. § 1326(a)(2) and (b). United States District Chief Judge Terry L. Wooten, of Columbia, accepted the guilty plea and will impose sentence after he has reviewed the presentence report, which will be prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.
Evidence presented at the change of plea hearing established that Martin Saquic-Larios was encountered by agents from ICE-Homeland Security Investigations on January 26, 2017 at the Sumter-Lee County Detention Center in Sumter, after he was arrested for Forgery and Identity Fraud. An investigation revealed that Saquic-Larios is a citizen of Guatemala. He had been deported on October 9, 2013 pursuant to an order of removal then re-entered the United States without permission.
U.S. Attorney Drake stated the maximum penalty for Illegal Re-Entry is imprisonment for 20 years and/or a fine of $250,000.
The case was investigated by agents from ICE-Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney William E. Day, II, of the Columbia office, is prosecuting the case.
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Ada Man Sentenced to 36 Months for Possession of Unregistered FirearmRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that JARED JAMES MOCK, age 36, of Ada, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 36 months imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release for POSSESSION OF UNREGISTERED FIREARM (SAWED-OFF SHOTGUN), in violation of Title 26, United States Code, Sections 5861(d), 5841, 5845(a) and 5871.
The Indictment alleged that on or about December 10, 2015, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, did knowingly possess a shotgun having a barrel less than 18 inches in length, which is a firearm, as defined in Title 26, United States Code, Section 5845, not registered to him in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Ada Police Department, the District 22 Drug Task Force, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. The defendant will remain in custody pending transportation to the designated federal facility at which the nonparoleable sentence will be served.
Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris represented the United States.
Abington Man Sentenced to Probation for Unemployment Compensation FraudRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Rashaad Schell, age 27, of Abington, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today to 24 months of probation with six months of in-home detention by United States District Judge John E Jones, III, for knowingly making false statements in order to obtain unemployment compensation.
Judge Jones also ordered Schell to repay $18,421 in restitution to the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, from February 2012 through September 2013, Schell worked as a mail handler for the Abington Post Office while also obtaining unemployment compensation from the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry in Harrisburg.
The case was investigated by the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry and the United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorney Chelsea Schinnour prosecuted the case.
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3 Indicted for North Myrtle Beach Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated that Lance Hardiman, Justin Pressley, and Rodrick Berklery of Longs, South Carolina, were charged in a 8-count federal indictment arising from the armed takeover of the South State Bank in North Myrtle Beach on May 4, 2016, and the ensuing high speed chase and exchange of gun fire that followed.
Hardiman, Pressley, and Berklery were charged with conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery, a violation of Title 18, United States Code §1951; armed bank robbery, a violation of Title 18, United States Code §2113; two counts of use and discharge of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, a violation of Title 18, United States Code §924(c); obstruction of justice/witness tampering, a violation of Title 18, United States Code §1512; and, possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number, a violation of Title 18, United States Code §922(k). Hardiman and Pressley were also charged with felon in possession of a firearms counts, a violation of Title 18, United States Code §922(g). The maximum penalty the defendants could receive is a sentence of life and if convicted of the two counts of using and discharging a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, the defendants face a mandatory 35 years, consecutive to all other sentences.
The case was investigated by agents of the FBI , North Myrtle Beach Police Department, SLED, and Horry County Police Department. The case is assigned to Assistant United States Attorneys Jim May and JD Rowell of the Columbia office, as well as Special Assistant United States Attorney Scott Hixson from the 15th Circuit Solicitor’s Office for prosecution.
The United States Attorney stated that all charges in this indictment are merely accusations and that the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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16 Defendants Charged with Drug Trafficking and Firearm Offenses Following Multi-Agency InvestigationRead the Press Release
United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia, G. F. “Pete” Peterman, III, announced today that an indictment was returned by a grand jury sitting in the United States District Court in Macon, Georgia on May 11, 2017, which charged 16 defendants with drug trafficking and firearms offenses. During “Operation Gang Related”, Federal agents, assisted by state and local law enforcement officers, investigated a large-scale drug organization based in Milledgeville, Georgia. Over the course of the investigation, federal agents seized large amounts of Cocaine Base, Methamphetamine, Heroin and cash.
Penalties for the charges range from a mandatory minimum 5 years up to life in prison without parole. Fines range from $250,000 to $10,000,000 dollars.
All of the individuals were arrested in a multi-agency operation and initial appearances will held in U.S. District Court in Macon.
United States Attorney Peterman stated, “Today’s arrests are the result of an extremely complex, long term investigation involving four federal and four local/state agencies working closely together. It is an outstanding example of what can be accomplished through multiple agencies working cooperatively toward a common goal.”
A copy of the indictment is attached. The indictment is only an allegation of criminal conduct. Each person is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law.
The case was investigated by the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office, the Ocmulgee Regional Drug Task Force, the Office of the District Attorney of the Ocmulgee Judicial Circuit District; the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, the U. S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the United States Marshals Service (USMS), and the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kimberly S. Easterling and Charles Calhoun are prosecuting the case for the Government.
For additional information, please contact Pamela Lightsey at (478) 621-2603.
Those indicted and arrested are as follows:
1) DELMA GODDARD, a/k/a “SHUG”, a/k/a “BIG HXMIE,” age 34, Milledgeville, GA;
2) CHAD DELACY FREEMAN, a/k/a “BIG BONE”, a/k/a “BONE LOCO,” age 43, Milledgeville, GA;
3) CYNTHIA BOLSTON SMITH, a/k/a “CYNT,” age 68, Milledgeville, GA;
4) ALONZO BUTTS, age 43, Eatonton, GA;
5) DEMETRIUS JAMEL HARDEN, a/k/a “MEAT DAWG,” age 31, Gordon, GA;
6) DESHAWN RANSOM, a/k/a “NEPHEW,” age 22, Milledgeville, GA;
7) ERIC DEMETRIUS VEAL, age 44, Milledgeville, GA;
8) EVERETTE HILL, age 50, Milledgeville, GA;
9) DERRICK MOSLEY, a/k/a “D. MO,” age 37, Milledgeville, GA;
10) ISHMAWIYL ABDHAL DAVIS a/k/a “NY, NEW YORK,” age 33, Milledgeville, GA;
11) TRAVIS GLENN, a/k/a “T,TG,” age 39, Milledgeville, GA;
12) EDWARD ANTONIO BROWN, JR. a/k/a “PLUG,” age 40, Milledgeville, GA;
13) MONTAVIOUS JERMELL BARNES, a/k/a “COOT, KOOT,” age 21, Milledgeville, GA;
14) JEVON DESHAWN CLARK, a/k/a “DUB, J. DUB,” age 34, Milledgeville, GA;
15) DEMALE HAMPTON, a/k/a “RAB, RABBIT,” age 40, Milledgeville, GA; and
16) DEMOND MONTERIO DENNIS, a/k/a “DOUBLE DEUCE,” age 32, Milledgeville, GA.
23 May 2017
United States Files Complaint Against Fiat Chrysler Automobiles for Alleged Clean Air Act ViolationsRead the Press Release
The Department of Justice, on behalf of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), today filed a civil complaint in federal court in Detroit, Michigan, against FCA US LLC, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V., V.M. Motori S.p.A., and V.M. North America, Inc. (collectively referred to as FCA). The complaint alleges that nearly 104,000 light duty diesel vehicles containing 3.0 liter EcoDiesel engines are equipped with software functions that were not disclosed to regulators during the certification application process, and that the vehicles contain defeat devices. The complaint alleges that the undisclosed software functions cause the vehicles’ emission control systems to perform differently, and less effectively, during certain normal driving conditions than on federal emission tests, resulting in increased emissions of harmful air pollutants.
The Clean Air Act requires vehicle manufacturers to obtain a certificate of conformity before introducing a vehicle into commerce, by demonstrating to EPA that the vehicle will meet applicable federal emission standards to control air pollution. Manufacturers must disclose in their certification applications all auxiliary emission control devices (e.g. computer software that affects the performance of emission controls based upon operating parameters of the vehicle), justify the presence of any such devices, and explain why those that reduce the effectiveness of emission controls are not “defeat devices.” Motor vehicles equipped with defeat devices cannot be certified.
The complaint alleges that FCA equipped nearly 104,000 Ram 1500 and Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles (Model Years 2014-2016) sold in the United States with at least eight software-based features that were not disclosed in FCA’s applications for certificates of conformity and that affect the vehicles’ emission control systems. The undisclosed software features lessen the effectiveness of the vehicles’ emissions control systems during certain normal driving situations. This results in cars that meet emission standards in the laboratory and during standard EPA testing, but during certain normal on-road driving emit oxides of nitrogen (NOx) that are much higher than the EPA-compliant level. The complaint alleges that each of these vehicles differs materially from the specifications provided to EPA in the certification applications, and thus the cars are uncertified, in violation of the Clean Air Act. These allegations are consistent with those set forth in notice of violation (“NOV”) that EPA issued to FCA US LLC and FCA NV on Jan. 12, 2017.
Following the issuance of the NOV, EPA continued its investigation into the operation of the undisclosed software-based features. Based upon this investigation, the complaint alleges that one or more of these undisclosed software features, alone or in combination with the others, renders inoperative, bypasses and/or defeats the vehicles’ emission control systems, which were installed to make the vehicles comply with Clean Air Act emission standards. In short, the complaint now alleges that the vehicles contain defeat devices.
NOx pollution contributes to the formation of harmful smog and soot, exposure to which is linked to a number of respiratory- and cardiovascular-related health effects as well as premature death. Children, older adults, people who are active outdoors (including outdoor workers), and people with heart or lung disease are particularly at risk for health effects related to smog or soot exposure. Nitrogen dioxide formed by NOx emissions can aggravate respiratory diseases, particularly asthma, and may also contribute to asthma development in children.
The civil complaint filed today seeks injunctive relief and the assessment of civil penalties. The United States also filed a notice that it will request to transfer its case and fully participate in the pretrial proceedings now initiated in the related multi-district litigation in the Northern District of California.
EPA and the California Air Resources Board are continuing in their discussions with FCA to bring the subject vehicles into compliance with the Clean Air Act and California law. The nature and timing of any resolution of this issue are uncertain.
United States Announces Settlement with Richland County Board of Elections & Voter Registration to Ensure Compliance with Americans with Disabilities ActRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ----- United States Attorney Beth Drake announced today a settlement with the Richland County Board of Elections & Voter Registration to ensure accessibility of polling sites to persons with disabilities.
The agreement requires the Richland County Board of Elections and Voter Registration (Board) to ensure that every polling site is accessible to persons with disabilities by the 2018 primary election. The Richland County Board of Elections and Voter Registration will provide training to all precinct coordinators on how to install and maintain any temporary equipment and accessibility items, such as wheelchair ramps, accessible parking or the placement of mats over thresholds. On Election Day and during early-voting periods, the Richland County Board of Elections and Voter Registration must maintain in working order all facilities and equipment, including lifts, elevators and ramps, necessary to make polling sites accessible to individuals with disabilities.
The Richland County Board of Elections and Voter Registration cooperated with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to voluntarily reach the settlement agreement, which became effective on May 22, 2017, eliminating the need for a lawsuit.
“The right of individuals to participate in our democratic system of government includes full and equal access to polling sites,” said U.S. Attorney Drake. “This agreement represents an important step toward guaranteeing voting access to all of our citizens.”
In 2016, the Richland County Board of Elections and Voter Registration oversaw 150 polling sites. Pursuant to the ADA, all polling places must be accessible to voters with disabilities. In the June 2016 primary elections, the U.S. Attorney’s Office and Department of Justice reviewed more than 50 polling places in Richland County and concluded that many have architectural barriers that make them inaccessible to voters who use wheelchairs or have mobility impairments, or voters who are blind or have vision impairments.
In response to the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s initial findings, the Richland County Board of Elections and Voter Registration expressed its commitment to making all polling locations accessible to voters with disabilities. The Board made some improvements by the November 2016 election, and continued to make improvements prior to the Settlement Agreement becoming finalized.
Title II of the ADA prohibits public entities, such as the Richland County Board of Elections and Voter Registration, from discriminating against people with disabilities in their programs, services, and activities. With respect to polling places, public entities are required to select and use polling places that are accessible. To learn more about the ADA and other laws protecting the rights of voters with disabilities, log on to www.ada.gov/ta-pubs-pg2.htm or call the Justice Department's toll-free ADA Information Line at (800) 514-0301 or (800) 514-0383 (TDD).
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Two Individuals Sentenced Federally for Importing Counterfeit Microsoft Software into the United StatesRead the Press Release
Two conspirators were sentenced by Senior United States District Judge Daniel T.K. Hurley in South Florida for importing counterfeit Microsoft software into the United States.
Benjamin Greenberg, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, and Mark Selby, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI), made the announcement.
Clifford Eric Lundgren, 33, of Reseda, California and Robert J. Wolff, 54, of Boca Raton, Florida, previously pled guilty to participating in a conspiracy to traffic in counterfeit goods, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2320(a)(1) and committing criminal copyright infringement, in violation of Title 17, United States Code, Section 506(a)(1)(A) and Title 18, United States Code, Section 2319(a) and (b)(1). Defendants Lundgren was sentenced to 15 months in prison and a $50,000 fine. Defendant Wolff was sentenced to 6 months house arrest and four years probation.
According to documents filed with the court, Lundgren and Wolf manufactured and imported 28,000 discs containing Microsoft Windows programming, specifically, 7 Dell reinstallation Edition and XP Service Pack 3 Dell reinstallation Edition. Lundgren and Wolff violated Microsoft’s intellectual property rights by illegally manufacturing the software in China and then importing the discs into the United States.
The production, importation and/or sale of counterfeit and pirated goods can have substantial consequences for: the manufacturing industry in the form of lost sales, lost brand value, and reduced incentives to innovate; consumers who use substandard counterfeit goods; governments which may lose tax revenue and face risks of counterfeits entering national security or critical infrastructure supply chains; and the nation’s economic growth which may be slowed by reduced innovation and lost trade revenue.
Anyone with information regarding the production or trafficking of counterfeit goods is encouraged to contact law enforcement at 866-DHS-2ICE (866-347-2423).
Mr. Greenberg commended the investigative efforts of ICE-HSI. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lothrop Morris.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or on http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov.
Taunton Man Pleads Guilty to Heroin TraffickingRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Taunton man pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston to trafficking heroin and fentanyl in southeastern Massachusetts.
Oniel Rivera, 30, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl. U.S. District Court Judge George A. O’Toole Jr. has not yet scheduled sentencing.
In October 2015, Rivera was arrested and charged along with 24 others in connection with a heroin trafficking ring operating in southeastern Massachusetts; an April 2016 superseding indictment brought the number of defendants charged in the case to 26. These charges are the result of a 15-month investigation into heroin and fentanyl trafficking in Taunton and surrounding communities, which have seen a steep increase in opioid related deaths since 2013.
Rivera received heroin and fentanyl from co-defendant Dedwin Cruz-Rivera, who received the drugs from three other co-defendants, Eric Matos, a former heroin and fentanyl supplier based in Lawrence, Manuel Romero-Gonsalez, a former heroin supplier based in Providence, R.I., and Jonathan Ruiz, a former Lawrence drug supplier, among others. Rivera would then distribute the drugs to customers in and around Taunton.
20 of the 26 defendants charged in the superseding indictment have pleaded guilty including Matos, whose sentencing is scheduled for June, 8, 2017, and Romero-Gonsalez, who was sentenced to 66 months in prison and will be subject to deportation hearings upon completion of his sentence. Cruz-Rivera pleaded not guilty; his trial is scheduled for June 12, 2017.
The charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute heroin and fentanyl provides for a sentence of no greater than 20 years in prison, a minimum of three years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of $1 million. 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 Michael J. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Boston Field Division, made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas E. Kanwit, Karen Beausey, Katherine Ferguson and Ann Taylor of Weinreb’s Narcotics and Money Laundering Unit are prosecuting the cases.
Springfield Man Sentenced for Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Tom Larson, Acting United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri, announced today that a Springfield, Mo., man has been sentenced in federal court for his role in a conspiracy to distribute large quantities of methamphetamine.
David A. Floyd, 44, of Springfield, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge M. Douglas Harpool on Monday, May 22, 2017, to 13 years and six months in federal prison without parole.
On Jan. 4, 2017, Floyd pleaded guilty to participating in the drug-trafficking conspiracy that lasted from June 1, 2013, to Nov. 29, 2014.
In 2013 through 2014, Daniel and Kenna Harmon, 38, of Republic, Mo., distributed in excess of 45 kilograms of methamphetamine in southwest Missouri. Floyd was one of the persons that received methamphetamine from the Harmon drug-trafficking organization during this time. Floyd personally received more than 500 grams of methamphetamine from the Harmon drug-trafficking organization, which he then distributed to other persons.
Floyd was arrested on Aug. 1, 2014, when federal agents conducted a traffic stop and searched his vehicle. Officers found approximately 322 grams of methamphetamine, which Floyd received from Kenna Harmon, and 39 grams of marijuana. Officers also discovered $3,156.
Beginning in 2012, the Drug Enforcement Administration, assisted by other agencies, investigated a large-scale methamphetamine distribution network in southwest Missouri involving several sources of supply. The investigation resulted in the indictment of 28 co-defendants.
Daniel Harmon was indicted in the Eastern District of Missouri and pleaded guilty to possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute and to being a felon in possession of a firearm. Kenna Harmon has pleaded guilty to being a leader in the drug-trafficking conspiracy as well as a money-laundering conspiracy and to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Randall D. Eggert, Nhan D. Nguyen and Cynthia J. Hyde. It was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, IRS-Criminal Investigation, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Springfield, Mo., Police Department and Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
Springfield Man Sentenced for Federal Drug and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Springfield man was sentenced today in federal court in Springfield for distributing cocaine and crack cocaine and for selling firearms and ammunition to a convicted felon.
Eric Vale, 35, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Mark G. Mastroianni to 10 years in prison and five years of supervised release. In January 2017, Vale pleaded guilty to three counts of selling a firearm to a convicted felon and three counts of drug distribution.
On Aug. 27, 2013, Vale sold a Davis Industries .380 caliber pistol and four rounds of .380 caliber ammunition to a convicted felon. On Sept. 5, 2013, Vale sold 50 rounds of .380 caliber ammunition to the same individual, and on Jan. 30, 2015, Vale again sold the same individual a FEG 9mm pistol and four rounds of 9mm ammunition. In addition, Vale distributed crack cocaine on Aug. 26, 2013, and Sept. 5, 2013, and distributed cocaine on March 3, 2015, all in Springfield.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb and Mickey D. Leadingham, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Boston Field Division, made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Katharine A. Wagner of Weinreb’s Springfield Branch Office prosecuted the case.
Six Members of National Drug Trafficking Organization Charged in Manhattan Federal CourtRead the Press Release
Joon H. Kim, the Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and Carl J. Kotowski, the Special Agent in Charge of the New Jersey Division of the Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”), announced today the unsealing of an Indictment charging six defendants with operating a national drug trafficking organization that distributed synthetic cannabinoids. In conjunction with the unsealing of the Indictment, search warrants were executed at locations in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Missouri, and Wisconsin.
HIKMAT HAMED, a/k/a “Abu Amjad,” was arrested by DEA agents this morning and will be presented today before U.S. Magistrate Judge David D. Noce in St. Louis, Missouri.
MOHAMMAD ABDELELAH AL BARBARAWI, a/k/a “Abu Yazan,” and HATEM K. EL HAJ, a/k/a “Tug Tug,” were arrested by DEA agents this morning and will be presented today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeffrey Cole in Chicago, Illinois.
NEHAD THAHER, a/k/a “Nick,” SHADI SHUAIBI, and MAYTHEM AL ABOUDI were arrested by DEA agents this morning and will be presented today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Colin H. Lindsay in Louisville, Kentucky.
Acting Manhattan U.S. Attorney Joon H. Kim said: “Trafficking of synthetic cannabinoids – sometimes called K2 or Spice – is on the rise and posing a serious threat to public health and safety. Packaged attractively to appeal to teenagers and young adults, synthetic cannabinoids are in reality a toxic cocktail that can be very dangerous to consume. As alleged, thanks to our partners at the DEA, a sprawling operation of alleged traffickers has been dismantled.”
DEA Special Agent in Charge Carl J. Kotowski said: “This multi-jurisdictional investigation puts an end to this alleged drug trafficking organization. This is just another example of an organization allegedly more concerned about making a profit selling their poison than they are about the safety of the public.”
According to the allegations in the Indictment unsealed today in Manhattan federal
court[1]:
Between October 2016 and May 2017, HIKMAT HAMED, a/k/a “Abu Amjad,” MOHAMMAD ABDELELAH AL BARBARAWI, a/k/a “Abu Yazan,” NEHAD THAHER, a/k/a “Nick,” SHADI SHUAIBI, HATEM K. EL HAJ, a/k/a “Tug Tug,” and MAYTHEM AL ABOUDI participated in a conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute leaves treated with 5F-MDMB-PINACA and FUB-AMB, each of which is an analogue of a schedule I controlled substance. Many of the synthetic cannabinoids the defendants distributed were packaged in packets that contained inaccurate descriptions of their contents and were misleadingly labeled as “Potpourri Product,” “NOT FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION,” and “complies with all federal and state legislation.”
* * *
Each of the defendants is charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute controlled substance analogues, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; and one count of conspiracy to introduce misbranded drugs into interstate commerce with the intent to defraud and mislead, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison. The maximum potential sentences are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencings of the defendants will be determined by the judge. The case is assigned to U.S. District Judge Katherine Polk Failla.
Mr. Kim praised the investigative work of the DEA Newark’s Tactical Diversion Squad. Mr. Kim also thanked the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Indiana State Police, the Louisville Metropolitan Police Department, the West Virginia State Police, as well as the United States Attorney’s Offices for the Northern District of Illinois, the Northern District of Indiana, the Southern District of Indiana, the Eastern District of Kentucky, the Eastern District of Missouri, the District of New Jersey, and the Eastern District of Wisconsin for their assistance in this investigation. He added that the investigation is continuing.
This case is being handled by the Office’s Narcotics Unit. Assistant United States Attorneys Andrew K. Chan, Benet J. Kearney, and Michael D. Neff are in charge of the prosecution.
The charges contained in the Indictment 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 Indictment constitutes only allegations, and every fact described herein should be treated as an allegation.
Rochester Man Pleads Guilty to Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX: (716) 551-3051ROCHESTER, N.Y.—Acting U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Leonardo Gonzalez, 34, of Rochester, NY, pleaded guilty to possession of child pornography before Chief U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tiffany H. Lee, who is handling the case, stated that this case began with an indictment in the District of Alaska where Gonzalez was charged with one count of distribution of child pornography. On August 31, 2016, in the Western District of New York, the defendant possessed 300 images of child pornography involving prepubescent minors on his Alcatel smart phone. Gonzalez downloaded the images from a website containing child pornography.
The plea is the culmination of an investigation on the part of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge James C. Spero, and the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Alaska, under the direction of Acting United States Attorney Bryan Schroder.
Sentencing is scheduled for August 17, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. before Judge Geraci.
Roanoke Man Sentenced on Child Pornography ChargeRead the Press Release
Roanoke, VIRGINIA – A Roanoke man, who used a peer-to-peer file-sharing network that allowed others to access his images of hardcore child pornography, was sentenced today in the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia, Acting United States Attorney Rick A. Mountcastle announced.
William Rhodes, a.k.a. “Billy Rhodes,” a.k.a. “BillRho,” a.k.a. “hel_yeh1,” age 26, of Roanoke, Va., was sentenced today to 120 months in federal prison, to be followed by 15 years of supervised release. Rhodes previously pled guilty to one count of knowingly distributing or receiving or attempting to distribute or receive child pornography.
According to a factual statement filed in court by Assistant United States Attorney Nancy S. Healey, on March 23, 2014, an undercover task force officer with the Federal Bureau of Investigation working in Texas, accessed a peer-to-peer file sharing network, and identified a computer with a particular IP address as a potential source of files associated with hash values previously known to belong to images of child pornography. The undercover agent successfully downloaded 1,432 images from this torrent, the vast majority of which depicted prepubescent females engaged in sexually explicit conduct and sadistic abuse, including depictions of infants and toddlers.
On September 10, 2014, an FBI task force officer working in Richmond downloaded approximately 320 images from the same torrent from a different IP address. The investigation revealed that the downloads were associated with the same Roanoke, Virginia address.
A search warrant was executed at that Roanoke residence in the early morning hours of February 2, 2015. The defendant, William Rhodes, was the adult son of the homeowners and was living at the home. He was briefly interviewed during the search and told investigators he knew why there were there, without specifically mentioning the downloading of child pornography.
A forensic examination of the defendant’s computer conducted by the Virginia State Police revealed substantial corroborating evidence that proved the defendant was the person responsible for the downloads conducted by the task force officers, including Skype chat evidence suggesting that the defendant had transferred videos from the same torrent to another individual.
The investigation of the case was conducted by Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Virginia State Police and the Roanoke City Police. Assistant United States Attorney Nancy S. Healey and Jessica Urban, U.S. Department of Justice, Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, are prosecuting the case for the United States.
Rio Rancho Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Heroin Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Kayleb Reyos, 22, of Rio Rancho, N.M., pled guilty today in federal court to heroin trafficking charges. His co-defendant, Joshua Greene, 19, of Albuquerque, N.M., previously entered a guilty plea to resolve the charges against him.
Reyos and Greene were arrested in May 2016, as the result of a DEA investigation into heroin and methamphetamine trafficking in northwest Albuquerque. According to the criminal complaint filed against them, Greene and Reyos sold an aggregate of 36 ounces (2.25 pounds) of heroin and 3 ounces (.18 pounds) of methamphetamine to an undercover law enforcement agent during a series of transactions occurring between Feb. 2016 and May 2016. The two men were arrested when the DEA executed a search warrant at a residence in northwest Albuquerque. During the search, the DEA seized an additional pound of heroin, bulk amounts of cash, a handgun, and drug paraphernalia.
Greene and Reyos subsequently were charged in a ten-count indictment filed on June 14, 2016. The indictment charged Greene and Reyos with conspiracy to distribute heroin from Feb. 2016 to May 2016. It also charged the two defendants with distributing heroin on Feb. 25, 2016, April 12, 2016, and May 4, 2016, and distributing methamphetamine on March 23, 2016. Greene separately was charged with distributing heroin on Feb. 4, 2016, March 9, 2016, and March 22, 2016, and possessing heroin with intent to distribute on May 17, 2016. Reyos separately was also charged with possessing heroin with intent to distribute on May 17, 2016.
During today’s proceedings, Reyos pled guilty to a felony information charging him with conspiracy and distribution of heroin. In entering the guilty plea, Reyos admitted that from Feb. 4, 2016 through May 17, 2016, he was part of a small-scale drug trafficking organization that operated in northwest Albuquerque. Reyos admitted that on April 12, 2016, he drove Greene to a parking lot in Albuquerque, where Greene sold approximately 423.8 grams of heroin to an undercover law enforcement agent.
On April 11, 2017, Greene pled guilty to a felony information charging him with conspiracy and distribution of heroin. In entering the guilty plea, Green admitted that from Feb. 4, 2016 through May 17, 2016, he directed a small-scale drug trafficking organization in northwest Albuquerque. Greene also admitted selling approximately 135.1 grams of heroin to an undercover law enforcement agent on March 22, 2016.
Reyos and Greene both remain in custody pending sentencing hearings, which have yet to be scheduled. Reyos faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. Under the terms of his plea agreement, Greene will be sentenced within the range of 60 to 87 months in federal prison. Each will be on supervised release for a term to be determined by the court after completing his prison sentence. Reyos and Greene jointly will be required to forfeit $28,135 in cash in addition to paying a money judgment in the amount of $28,250. In addition, Greene will have to forfeit a handgun and a gold necklace set with 1,728 natural diamonds valued at $11,555.
This case was investigated by the Albuquerque office of the DEA. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kristopher Houghton and Alexander Uballez are prosecuting the case as part of the New Mexico Heroin and Opioid Prevention and Education (HOPE) Initiative. The HOPE Initiative was launched in January 2015 by the UNM Health Sciences Center and the U.S. Attorney’s Office in response to the national opioid epidemic which has had a disproportionately devastating impact on New Mexico. Opioid addiction has taken a toll on public safety, public health and the economic viability of our communities. Working in partnership with the DEA, Bernalillo County Commissioner Maggie Hart Stebbins, Albuquerque City Councilor Diane Gibson, Healing Addiction in our Community (HAC), the Albuquerque Public Schools and other community stakeholders, HOPE’s principal goals are to protect our communities from the dangers associated with heroin and opioid painkillers and reducing the number of opioid-related deaths in New Mexico.
The HOPE Initiative is comprised of five components: (1) prevention and education; (2) treatment; (3) law enforcement; (4) reentry; and (5) strategic planning. HOPE’s law enforcement component is led by the Organized Crime Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the DEA in conjunction with their federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement partners. Targeting members of major heroin and opioid trafficking organizations for investigation and prosecution is a priority of the HOPE Initiative. Learn more about the New Mexico HOPE Initiative at http://www.HopeInitiativeNM.org.
Registered Broker Sentenced to 24 Months in Prison for Securities Fraud in A $131 Million Market Manipulation SchemeRead the Press Release
Today in federal court in Brooklyn, Naveed Khan, a registered broker, was sentenced to 24 months in prison and two years of supervised release after having pleaded guilty to securities fraud for his role in the fraudulent market manipulation of ForceField Energy Inc. (ForceField), a publicly-traded company that was listed on the NASDAQ under the ticker symbol “FNRG.”
The sentencing was announced by Bridget M. Rohde, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, and William F. Sweeney, Jr., Assistant Director-in-Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office.
According to court filings and facts presented at the plea hearing, between January 2009 and April 2015, Khan, together with others, engaged in a scheme to defraud investors in ForceField, a purported worldwide distributor and provider of LED lighting products and solutions, by artificially controlling the price and volume of traded shares of ForceField through, among other means: (1) using nominees to purchase and sell ForceField stock without disclosing this information to investors and potential investors; (2) orchestrating the trading of ForceField stock to create the appearance of genuine trading volume and interest in the stock; and (3) concealing payments to stock promoters and broker dealers who promoted and sold ForceField stock to investors and potential investors while claiming to be independent of the company. The fraudulent scheme caused a loss of approximately $131 million to the investing public.
Between February 2015 and April 2015, Khan received commission payments, or kickbacks, from a ForceField executive for purchasing ForceField stock in his clients’ brokerage accounts. Khan did not disclose to his clients the kickbacks he was receiving for their purchase of ForceField stock. Khan and his co-conspirators took pains to conceal their participation in the fraudulent scheme by using prepaid, disposable cellular telephones and encrypted, content-expiring messaging applications to communicate with each other, and by paying kickbacks in cash.
Today’s proceeding took place before United States District Court Judge Brian M. Cogan.
The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Business and Securities Fraud Section. Assistant United States Attorneys Mark E. Bini and Lauren H. Elbert are in charge of the prosecution.
The Defendant:
NAVEED KHAN
Age: 35
Residence: Staten Island, New York
E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 16-CR-234 (BMC)
Pomona Woman Arrested on Federal Charges that Allege Scheme to Smuggle Restricted Space Communications Technology to ChinaRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – A Pomona woman was arrested this morning on federal charges that accuse her of conspiring to procure and illegally export sensitive space communications technology to her native China.
Si Chen, also known as Cathy Chen, 32, is expected to be arraigned this afternoon in United States District Court on charges contained in an indictment that was returned by a federal grand jury on April 27 and was unsealed today after her arrest.
The 14-count indictment accuses Chen of violating the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), which controls and restricts the export of certain goods and technology from the United States to foreign nations. Chen is also charged with conspiracy, money laundering, making false statements on an immigration application, and using a forged passport.
According to the indictment, from March 2013 to December 2015, Chen purchased and smuggled sensitive items to China without obtaining licenses from the U.S. Department of Commerce that are required under IEEPA. Those items allegedly included components commonly used in military communications “jammers” from which Chen removed the export-control warning stickers prior to shipping. Additionally, Chen is suspected of smuggling communications devices worth more than $100,000 that are commonly used in space communications applications. On the shipping paperwork Chen falsely valued the items at $500. The indictment further describes how Chen received payments for the illegally exported products through an account held at a bank in China by a family member.
“Federal export laws are designed to protect American interests by preventing the proliferation of technology that may fall into the wrong hands,” said Acting United States Attorney Sandra R. Brown. “We will vigorously pursue those who traffic items that could harm our national security if they land in the wrong hands.”
Chen was taken into custody this morning without incident by special agents with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Office of Export Enforcement (OEE); and the Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS).
“One of HSI’s top enforcement priorities is preventing sensitive technology from falling into the hands of those who might seek to harm America or its interests,” said Joseph Macias, special agent in charge for HSI Los Angeles. “The export of items like those identified in this case are tightly controlled with good reason. Given what’s at stake, HSI will continue to work closely with its law enforcement partners to combat this threat and hold the perpetrators accountable for putting the U.S. at risk.”
In addition to the export violations, Chen is also charged with employing several aliases and using a forged passport in an effort to conceal her alleged smuggling activities on behalf of unnamed co-conspirators in China. The indictment alleges the defendant used a Chinese passport bearing her photo and a false name – “Chunping Ji” – to rent an office in Pomona where she took delivery of the export-controlled items. After receiving the goods, the indictment alleges Chen shipped the devices to Hong Kong in parcels that bore her false name, along with false product descriptions and monetary values, all done in an effort to avoid attracting law enforcement scrutiny.
Under IEEPA, it is crime to willfully export or attempt to export items that appear on the Commerce Control List without a license from the U.S. Department of Commerce. These are items authorities have determined could be detrimental to regional stability and national security.
“The partnership between OEE, HSI and DCIS was critical in the apprehension of Si Chen,” said Richard Weir, Special Agent in Charge of Commerce’s Office of Export Enforcement Los Angeles Field Office. “We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to identify, deter, and prevent any suspected violations.”
“The Defense Criminal Investigative Service and our law enforcement partners will relentlessly pursue anyone who violates laws that are designed to preserve and protect the Department of Defense’s critical technologies,” stated Chris Hendrickson, Special Agent in Charge, Defense Criminal Investigative Service. “Precious DoD resources are invested in technology, and its theft puts our brave soldiers, marines and airmen at risk.”
An indictment contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.
If convicted of the 14 charges in the indictment, Chen would face a statutory maximum penalty of 150 years in prison.
This case is the result of an ongoing investigation being conducted by HSI, OEE and DCIS. The probe began in 2015 after U.S. Customs and Border Protection alerted HSI about a suspicious parcel its officers intercepted that contained communications equipment sent by “Chunping Ji.”
The case against Chen is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Judith A. Heinz of the National Security Division in the United States Attorney’s Office.
Pittsburgh-area Sex Offender Sentenced to 33 Months in Prison for Failing to RegisterRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 33 months imprisonment, followed by five years supervised release, on a charge of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed the sentence on Arthur Linsenbigler, 46, whose last known address was in Pitcairn, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, from February 3, 2015, to June 20, 2016, Linsenbigler, who had been convicted of the felony sex offense of Rape By Forcible Compulsion in 1991, failed, as required, to register and update a registration under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.
Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting U.S. Attorney Song commended the United States Marshals Service for conducting the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Linsenbigler.
Pittsburgh Man Sentenced to 4 Years in Prison for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court to 48 months imprisonment to be served concurrently, followed by a lifetime supervised release, on two charges of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Robert James Grace, Jr., age 49, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, on or about February 23, 2016, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Grace, Jr. knowingly possessed images in computer graphic files, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct, some of whom had not yet attained 12 years of age. Grace, Jr. also possessed child pornography, from a date unknown and continuing until May 12, 2011, in Tucson, Arizona.
Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting U.S. Attorney Song commended the Immigration & Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations for conducting the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Grace.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Parkville Man Pleads Guilty to Computer Hacking, Accessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Tom Larson, Acting United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri, announced that a Parkville, Mo., man who was under investigation for hacking into his former employer’s computer system, pleaded guilty in federal court today to both the intrusion charge and to using a computer to view online child pornography.
Jacob Raines, 38, of Parkville, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Howard F. Sachs to one count of computer intrusion and one count of accessing a computer in order to view child pornography over the Internet.
Raines worked as the information technology manager for American Crane & Tractor Parts in Kansas City, Kan., from July 2004 until his resignation on March 28, 2014. The company’s new IT manager removed Raines’s computer passwords and made other security changes associated with the transition to a new IT manager. However, while utilizing the computer previously assigned to Raines, the new IT manager noticed that someone had logged into the computer remotely and copied files to an off-site server.
An examination revealed the company’s proprietary source code files and file folders were copied to Raines’s remote server during several sessions from May 16 to May 18, 2014. Law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Raines’s residence on April 2, 2015, for evidence of the computer intrusion and theft of trade secrets. Copies of the proprietary source code for the company were on Raines’s home computer.
This proprietary source code is considered a trade secret by American Crane & Tractor Parts, which provides it a competitive advantage in its industry. The value of the proprietary source code exceeds $5,000, and the copying of this source code would provide a commercial advantage and a private financial gain to others.
Investigators also discovered that Raines had used his home computers and hard drives to access child pornography over the Internet since Nov. 13, 2013. Raines utilized peer-to-peer, file-sharing software to search for child pornography. Investigators discovered more than 7,000 files of child pornography images and videos on a Memorex DVD.
Under the terms of today’s plea agreement, the government will argue for a sentence of up to 7 years in federal prison without parole. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David Luna. It was investigated by the FBI.
Omaha Man Sentenced to 7 Years for Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Acting United States Attorney Robert C. Stuart announced that Randy Arnold, 51, was sentenced in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska, for receiving child pornography. Chief Judge Laurie Smith Camp sentenced Arnold to 84 months imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After his release from prison, Arnold will begin a five-year term of supervised release and will be required to register as a sex offender. Arnold was also ordered to pay restitution of $700.00 to a specific identified victim.
On June 12, 2016, the Omaha Police Department was called to Arnold’s home. A thumb drive was provided to the police. A search warrant was obtained to thoroughly search the drive for child pornography. A total of 74 videos of minor children engaged in sexually explicit conduct, many with children in the seven- to nine-year-old range, were found on the drive. The drive belonged to Arnold.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
This case was investigated by the Omaha Police Department.
Office Manager Sentenced for Theft from Lawrence CompanyRead the Press Release
TOPEKA, KAN. - A former office manager for a Lawrence property management company was sentenced Tuesday to 24 months in federal prison for embezzlement, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said. She was ordered to pay more than $485,000 in restitution.
Candy A. Gunderson, 45, Lawrence, pleaded guilty to one count of interstate transportation of stolen funds. In her plea, Gunderson admitted the crime took place from 2007 to 2015 while she was office manager for Garber Enterprises in Lawrence. She used various means to steal money from the company including:
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Depositing into her personal account checks made payable to Garber Enterprises.
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Issuing forged Garber Enterprises checks.
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Using company funds to pay bills for work performed on rental properties she owned.
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Using the company VISA card for personal expenses.
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Depositing cash belonging to the company into her personal accounts.
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Forging checks on Garber’s account to pay for personal phone bill.
Beall commended the Lawrence Police Department, the FBI and Assistant U.S. Attorney Rich Hathaway for their work on the case.
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Nitro meth dealer pleads guilty to federal drug crimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Nitro man caught selling methamphetamine while on federal supervised release pleaded guilty today to a drug crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. John F. Parrish, Jr., 55, entered his guilty plea to distribution of methamphetamine.
Parrish admitted that on August 18, 2016, he sold methamphetamine to a confidential informant working with law enforcement. The drug deal took place at the Exxon One Stop gas station on Goff Mountain Road in Cross Lanes. The Drug Enforcement Administration’s laboratory analyzed the methamphetamine and determined that it was at least 95% pure.
Parrish faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on August 23, 2017.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Putnam County Sheriff’s Department conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Clint Carte is responsible for the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr.
This case was brought as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.
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Nine Trey Gangsters Plead Guilty to Four Murders and Multiple ShootingsRead the Press Release
NORFOLK, Va. – Two members of the Nine Trey Gangsters pleaded guilty today to their respective roles in four murders and multiple shootings.
According to the statements of fact filed with the plea agreements, Anthony Foye, 25, and Alvaughn Davis, 28, both of Suffolk, were members of the Nine Trey Gangsters, a street gang with members in states across the East Coast that is affiliated with the United Blood Nation. In furtherance of his membership in the gang, Foye murdered Al-Tariq Tynes, Vandelet Mercer, Linda Lassiter, and Wayne Davis; shot into a residence in Portsmouth; and shot two other individuals in Portsmouth and Virginia Beach. Davis, in furtherance of his membership in the gang, helped conceal Mr. Tynes’ body and was the driver during the murder of Ms. Mercer.
Foye pleaded guilty to four counts of murder in aid of racketeering activity, and faces a mandatory life sentence on each count when sentenced on September 8. Davis pleaded guilty to RICO conspiracy, use of a firearm resulting in death, and to being an accessory after the fact to a murder in aid of racketeering. Davis has agreed to a sentence of 45 years and is scheduled to be sentenced on October 17.
Dana J. Boente, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Mark R. Herring, Attorney General of Virginia; Martin Culbreth, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Norfolk Field Office; Larry D. Boone, Chief of Norfolk Police; Tonya D. Chapman, Chief of Portsmouth Police; James A. Cervera, Chief of Virginia Beach Police; Col. K.L. Wright, Chief of Chesapeake Police; and Thomas E. Bennett, Chief of Suffolk Police, made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Mark S. Davis accepted the plea. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph E. DePadilla, Andrew C. Bosse, and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney John F. Butler are prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:16-cr-130.
New York Man Sentenced to 110 Months in Federal Prison for Selling Oxycodone and Laundering Money in Vermont over A Six-Year PeriodRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that, on May 22, 2017, The Honorable William K. Sessions III, sitting in Burlington, sentenced Michael J. Foreste, aka “Beast,” of Valley Stream, New York to 110 months’ imprisonment and three years of supervised release. Foreste was convicted at trial on 10 charges related to his oxycodone trafficking in Vermont over a six-year period. Specifically, in October 2016, a jury convicted Foreste, age 36, of (1) conspiring to distribute oxycodone in Vermont from about 2008 through June 2014; (2) distributing oxycodone (seven counts); and (3) money laundering (two counts). The jury returned a not guilty verdict relating to an additional count charging oxycodone distribution. The verdict was returned following a trial spanning two weeks. Judge Sessions III presided over the trial. At sentencing, Judge Sessions also ordered Foreste to forfeit his interest in a 2007 Lexus, which Foreste used to launder drug proceeds.
The Fourth Superseding Indictment charged Foreste with working with others to sell oxycodone from 2008 through June 2014, including Andre Clarke, Carol Clarke and Dannis Hackney. During that period, Andre Clarke served as a New York City police officer. Earlier this year, Clarke pled guilty to his role in the conspiracy and resigned from the NYPD. His sentencing is scheduled for November 7. In September 2016, Hackney pled guilty to several charges relating to his involvement in the oxycodone scheme. He is also awaiting sentencing. Carol Clarke is under federal indictment for conspiring to distribute oxycodone and awaiting trial.
According to prosecutors, Carol Clarke, who lived in Brooklyn, received a monthly prescription for hundreds of oxycodone to treat her sickle cell disease. She diverted the pills to her brother, Andre Clarke, of Long Island, who supplied them to Foreste. In the early part of the conspiracy, Foreste brought the pills to Vermont himself and sold them with the help of certain local addicts. In April 2012, however, Vermont State Police stopped Foreste in a vehicle on Interstate 91 North and seized 659 oxycodone pills from his person. Based on this event, Foreste sustained a federal conviction in 2013 for possession with intent to distribute oxycodone and was on pretrial release during much of the conduct involved in the current case. After April 2012, Foreste began working with Hackney, of Chittenden County, who sold Foreste’s pills to Burlington area addicts. Foreste eventually began mailing the pills to Hackney via the U.S. Mail Express Mail system. The Clarkes, Foreste, and Hackney transferred drug proceeds using various bank accounts, resulting in Foreste’s two convictions for money laundering. The evidence presented at trial demonstrated that Foreste’s drug distribution in Vermont yielded him illicit profits in excess of $500,000 over the course of the conspiracy. Foreste and Hackney have been in custody since their arrests in June 2014.
The convictions and sentencing of Foreste were the culmination of a multi-agency investigation and prosecution that began in mid-2014. The collaborative effort was spearheaded by Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Vermont State Police, the Burlington Police Department, and the NYPD. Foreste is represented by Mark Kaplan, of Burlington, and Natasha Sen, of Brandon. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Christina E. Nolan and Kevin J. Doyle.
New Haven Man Sentenced to 2 Years in Federal Prison for Illegal Gun PossessionRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that SHAQUILLE PEARSON, 23, of New Haven, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven to 24 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for illegally possessing a firearm.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on June 30, 2016, officers from the New Haven Police Department executed a search and seizure warrant at PEARSON’s residence on Button Street in New Haven. In the residence, an officer encountered PEARSON who was holding a sneaker that contained a loaded 9mm pistol. A subsequent search of the residence also revealed a .380 handgun that was hidden in another sneaker.
Prior to June 2016, PEARSON was convicted of state felony offenses, including carrying a dangerous weapon and third degree burglary. It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.
PEARSON has been detained since his arrest on June 30, 2016. On March 1, 2017, he pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Chief Judge Hall ordered PEARSON not to interact or communicate with any members of the “Slut Wave” street gang while he is on supervised release.
This matter was investigated by the New Haven Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter D. Markle.
Neopit, Wisconsin Man Sentenced to Prison for Drug Trafficking and Firearm Offense on Menominee Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
Gregory J. Haanstad, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on May 22, 2017, Joseph Komanekin, Jr. (age: 33) of Neopit, Wisconsin was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge William C. Griesbach to 2 years in prison and 3 years of supervised release after convictions for drug trafficking and a firearms offense on the Menominee Indian Reservation. The sentence was the result of guilty pleas in March 2017.
The investigation revealed that Komanekin possessed with the intent to distribute 38 grams of a synthetic drug called FUB-AMB, which is an analogue of a Schedule I controlled substance referred to locally as “Ish.” In February 2016, Komanekin’s residence was searched pursuant to a tribal search warrant, and further evidence of distribution was recovered from the home. Tribal police also seized a short-barreled shotgun from an area in the basement near where the synthetic drugs and other contraband were found.
In sentencing Komanekin, Chief Judge Griesbach noted the serious nature of the offense, which involved the sale of a substance that is causing great harm to the Menominee Indian community.
The case was investigated by the Menominee Tribal Police Department, the Wisconsin Department of Justice – Division of Criminal Investigation (Native American Drug and Gang Initiative), Wisconsin State Crime Laboratory, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Andrew J. Maier.
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For Additional Information Contact:
Public Information Officer Dean Puschnig 414-297-1700
Nebraska Woman Sentenced for Involvement in Income Tax SchemeRead the Press Release
Acting United States Attorney Robert C. Stuart announced that on May 22, 2017, Kathy L. Hansen, 36, of Gresham, Nebraska, was sentenced for her involvement in an income tax scheme. The Honorable Chief Judge Laurie Smith Camp sentenced Hansen to a three (3) year term of probation. Hansen was also ordered to make restitution in the amount of $11,557.
An investigation conducted by Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation determined that in 2014 Hansen opened a bank account used for the deposit of illegally obtained federal tax refunds. The illegally obtained federal tax refunds were deposited as part of a tax refund scheme being operated by individuals believed to be located outside of the United States. After the federal tax refunds were deposited into her account, Hansen would send the money to individuals operating the scheme believed to be located outside of the United States. “Individuals should think twice before participating in fraudulent tax schemes and be prepared to face the consequences,” said Karl Stiften, Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation. “Those consequences include being branded a convicted felon and paying back what was stolen from the government.”
The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation.
Navajo Woman Sentenced for Federal Child Abuse ConvictionRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Sho’Nee Ganadonegro, 26, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation who resides in Albuquerque, N.M., was sentenced today in federal court to three years of probation for her conviction on a child abuse charge. Ganadonegro was also ordered to complete substance abuse counseling and childcare classes, and to refrain from the use of alcohol.
Ganadonegro was arrested in Jan. 2016, on an indictment charging her with engaging in child abuse by operating a motor vehicle recklessly on Nov. 1, 2015, in Indian Country in Cibola County, N.M.
On Jan. 3, 2017, Ganadonegro entered a guilty plea to the indictment. In entering the guilty plea, Ganadonegro admitted that on Nov. 1, 2015, she operated a motor vehicle recklessly within Laguna Pueblo while under the influence of alcohol. Ganadonegro admitted that her actions endangered the lives and health of the four Indian children who were passengers in the vehicle.
This case was investigated by the Laguna/Acoma Agency of the BIA’s Office of Justice Services and the Laguna Pueblo Tribal Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Spindle prosecuted the case.
Nashville Man Sentenced to 55 Years in Federal Prison for Production and Transportation of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Damion Faulkner, 33, of Nashville, Tenn., was sentenced yesterday by Chief U.S. District Judge Waverly Crenshaw to 55 years in prison for producing and transporting child pornography, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jack Smith of the Middle District of Tennessee.
On July 15, 2015, a federal grand jury in Nashville, Tenn. returned a 15-count indictment, charging Faulkner with production, receipt, possession and transportation of child pornography. He pleaded guilty to all counts on September 16, 2016.
“The sentence imposed by the Court reflects the atrocious actions of the defendant and society’s need to punish the offender and insure that no other innocent children will become a victim of his perverted sexual desires,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Jack Smith.
According to documents filed with the court, beginning in July 2013, Faulkner produced a pornographic video and still images of a 5-year old girl and another pre-pubescent girl who were staying at the residence where Faulkner lived. Some of the images and the video depicted Faulkner sexually molesting the 5-year old as she slept. Faulkner subsequently distributed the images and video of the five-year-old girl to at least ten different individuals and possibly many more, often identifying her name and/or relationship to him.
The documents also describe many of Faulkner’s email conversations with others, in which he discussed his sexual attraction to young girls, offered advice on how to groom a young girl in preparation for engaging in sex and also discussed his molestation of another prepubescent girl in years past.
On January 3, 2014, Metro Nashville Police detectives executed a search warrant at Faulkner’s home. As a result of that search, detectives found 3,745 images depicting child pornography and 103 videos, most of which were of pre-pubescent girls, some as young as toddlers.
This investigation began in late 2013 when an investigator with the Vancouver, Washington Police Department Digital Evidence Cybercrime Unit discovered that an individual using a specific email address was trading images depicting the sexual exploitation of children with another individual under investigation by the same unit. Further investigation indicated that the individual using this email address was located in Nashville, Tennessee, and the case was referred to the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department. Local detectives were able to identify the individual using that email address as Damion Faulkner.
As a result of this investigation, Nashville Metro detectives were able to initiate and refer investigations, which resulted in 13 additional persons being charged in seven other states. To date, 12 of those have pleaded guilty to various charges involving child pornography.
This case is the result of the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, a national network of 61 coordinated task forces representing over 3,500 federal, state, and local law enforcement and prosecutorial agencies. These agencies are continually engaged in proactive and reactive investigations and prosecutions of persons involved in child abuse and exploitation involving the internet.
This case was investigated by the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Caran S. Daughtrey.
Nashville Man Facing Federal Firearms Charges After Ramming Metro Nashville Police Cruiser to Escape ArrestRead the Press Release
Joe Lewis Williams, Jr., of Nashville, Tenn., was indicted on May 18, 2017, and charged with being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced Jack Smith, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee.
Williams was initially arrested on April 12, 2017, by officers of the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department, after a series of events where he attempted to evade arrest and subsequently assaulted a Metro police officer.
“This is another example of an assault against a law enforcement officer where the defendant now faces federal charges,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Jack Smith. “I want this message to be heard loud and clear-if you commit an act of violence directed at a law enforcement officer in this district, the U.S. Attorney’s Office will review the incident to determine if there is a basis to bring federal charges. There will be zero tolerance for acts of violence against law enforcement officers in this district.”
According to a criminal complaint, issued on April 14, 2017, on the afternoon of April 12, 2017, a MNPD officer was exiting the Mercury Court Apartments on Murfreesboro Pike, when he saw a vehicle pulling into the parking lot. The officer recognized the vehicle as matching the description of one that was involved in an earlier hit-and-run and also recognized the driver as Williams, who he knew was wanted on an outstanding warrant for violation of probation.
The MNPD officer conducted a stop of Williams and ordered him two times to place his vehicle in park. Williams refused and pulled away, rammed the officer’s patrol car and pushed it out of the way to allow him to exit the parking lot. Williams then fled the area and was found minutes later by another MNPD officer, parked at the rear of a nearby hotel and standing outside the vehicle. Williams ignored the officer’s orders and ran through the hotel’s breezeways before being caught by the officer. Williams resisted and struggled with the officer and as the officer was about to deploy his Taser, he noticed a handgun protruding from William’s pocket. In an attempt to gain control of Williams and the firearm, the officer dropped the Taser and as the struggle continued, Williams lunged toward the Taser, before being subdued with the assistance of another MNPD officer. Officers recovered a 9mm semiautomatic pistol, loaded with 13 live rounds and drug paraphernalia from Williams.
Williams had previously been convicted by the State of Tennessee of possession with intent to sell cocaine and had prior federal felony convictions for carjacking, use of a firearm in commission of a crime of violence, being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm and aggravated identity theft.
If convicted, Williams faces a sentence of up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
An indictment is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Rascoe Dean is prosecuting the case.
Mexican Sentenced for Immigration OffenseRead the Press Release
Acting U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that ADOLFO BOLANOS-BONIFACIO, age 38, a native of Mexico, was sentenced today after previously pleading guilty to a one-count Indictment for illegal reentry of a removed alien.
U.S. District Court Judge Jay C. Zainey sentenced BOLANOS-BONIFACIO to time served, followed by one year of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment fee. BOLANOS-BONIFACIO he defendant will be surrendered to the custody of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement for removal proceedings.
According to court documents, on April 20, 2017, BOLANOS-BONIFACIO was found in the United States after having been previously deported from the United States on August 20, 2015.
Acting U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jon Maestri was in charge of the prosecution.
Mescalero Apache Man Sentenced for Federal Involuntary Manslaughter ConvictionRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Paul Raymond Garcia, 20, an enrolled member of the Mescalero Apache Nation who resides in Mescalero, N.M., was sentenced today in federal court in Las Cruces, N.M., to 27 months in prison for his conviction on an involuntary manslaughter charge. Garcia will be on supervised release for three years after completing his prison sentence.
Garcia was arrested in Jan. 2016, on a criminal complaint charging him with involuntary manslaughter. According to the complaint, Garcia killed a Mescalero Apache woman when he crashed his vehicle on March 23, 2015, on the Mescalero Apache Indian Reservation in Otero County, N.M. At the time of the crash, Garcia was driving under the influence of alcohol. Garcia was subsequently indicted on the same charge on June 22, 2016.
On Nov. 16, 2016, Garcia pled guilty to the indictment and admitted killing the victim by driving recklessly while under the influence of alcohol. Garcia acknowledged that the alcohol rendered him incapable of exercising clear judgment and a steady hand in operating the vehicle.
This case was investigated by the Mescalero Agency of the BIA’s Office of Justice Services and the New Mexico State Police and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron O. Jordan of the U.S. Attorney’s Las Cruces Branch Office.
Media Advisory - Press Conference in St. Petersburg on WednesdayRead the Press Release
WHO:
W. Stephen Muldrow
Acting United States Attorney
Middle District of Florida
Chief Anthony Holloway
St. Petersburg Police Department
Daryl R. McCrary
Special Agent in Charge
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives
Participating Agencies
State Attorney’s Office for the Sixth Judicial Circuit
WHAT:
Press Conference
Press conference to announce the culmination of an eight-month operation.
WHEN:
WEDNESDAY, May 24, 2017
11:00 A.M. EST
WHERE:
St. Petersburg Police Department (Headquarters)
Basement Meeting Room
1300 1st Avenue North
St. Petersburg Florida 33705
OPEN PRESS
NOTE:
All media must present press credentials and government-issued photo I.D. (e.g. Driver’s License).
Media may begin arriving at 10:30 A.M.
Please park on Central Avenue (behind P.D.).
Call (727) 893-7128 for escort through rear door.
Please RSVP to [email protected] by 5:00 p.m. today.
Maxton Man Sentenced to 20 Years for Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – John Stuart Bruce, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, announced that in federal court today, Chief United States District Judge James C. Dever, III, sentenced RONNIE DEESE, 39, of Maxton, NC to 240 months of imprisonment followed by 5 years of supervised release.
DEESE was named in a three-count Superseding Indictment filed on September 21, 2016. On October 25, 2016, DEESE pled guilty to discharging a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.
On May 28, 2016, investigators with the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office, responded to a residence on Tuscarora Nation Road in Maxton in reference to a shooting. They met with a witness who stated that prior to the deputies arriving, he heard a knock on his door and observed a male with blood on his face standing outside his door. He opened his door and the victim walked into the home, followed by DEESE. DEESE was armed and pointed a firearm at the homeowner while ordering him to give DEESE what he had, referring to marijuana. The homeowner told DEESE he did not have anything and DEESE shot the man in the foot. DEESE then began searching the home. Once DEESE entered the kitchen, the homeowner fled from the home through the front door. DEESE soon left the residence with a trash bag containing approximately $5,000 worth of marijuana.
Investigators interviewed the man with blood on his face, who had multiple lacerations to the top of his head. He told investigators that prior to the robbery, DEESE approached him near a creek and struck him on the head with a firearm. DEESE instructed the victim to take him, “where the grass was,” referring to marijuana, and DEESE forced him to ride with DEESE to the residence.
On June 2, 2016, members of the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant at DEESE’S residence. At the time, DEESE had outstanding warrants for his arrest based upon the incidents that transpired on May 28, 2016. While searching DEESE’S residence, investigators located and seized a stolen 9mm semi-automatic pistol from DEESE’S master bedroom.
This case was part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) initiative which encourages federal, state, and local agencies to cooperate in a unified “team effort” against gun crime, targeting repeat offenders who continually plague their communities.
The Robeson County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted the criminal investigation of this case. Assistant United States Attorney Peggah Wilson handled the prosecution of this case for the government.
Massachusetts Insurance Broker Convicted of Filing False Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
A Dover, Massachusetts, insurance broker was convicted today by a federal jury of filing false tax returns, announced Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Acting U.S. Attorney William D. Weinreb for the District of Massachusetts.
According to the evidence presented at trial, Anthony J. May, 62, owned and operated Clients First Financial Insurance Agency, LLC, through which May sold life insurance products as a broker, and Advantage Life Settlements, LLC, through which he served as a broker for insured individuals looking to sell their personal life insurance policies to third party investors. May operated his businesses out of an office suite in Hingham where he also leased space to other independent insurance agents. May filed false 2008 and 2009 individual income tax returns that did not report $396,554 in income that he received from insurance commissions, broker fees and lease rental payments.
Sentencing is scheduled for Oct. 2, 2017. May faces a statutory maximum sentence of three years in prison on each count as well as a period of supervised release, restitution and monetary penalties.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Goldberg and Acting U.S. Attorney Weinreb thanked special agents of the Internal Revenue Service–Criminal Investigation, who conducted the investigation, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Victor A. Wild and Trial Attorney Eric Powers of the Tax Division, who are prosecuting the case.
Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found on the division’s website.
Man Sentenced to Prison for Assault on Menominee Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
Gregory J. Haanstad, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on May 22, 2017, Jeffrey Matchopatow (age: 32) of Keshena, Wisconsin was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge William C. Griesbach to 26 months in prison and 3 years of supervised release. In March, Matchopatow pled guilty to assault resulting in serious bodily injury.
The investigation revealed that On September 11, 2016, Matchopatow assaulted a woman at a residence in Keshena on the Menominee Indian Reservation. As a result of Mathopatow’s actions, the woman sustained a fractured jaw and other facial injuries.
In sentencing Matchopatow, Chief Judge Griesbach noted the serious nature of the offense, noting the serious injuries sustained by the victim. The court also referred to Matchopatow’s prior tribal convictions for violent offenses involving multiple victims.
The case was investigated by the Menominee Tribal Police Department, Menominee County Sheriff’s Office, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Andrew J. Maier.
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For Additional Information Contact:
Public Information Officer Dean Puschnig 414-297-1700
Man Pleads Guilty to Stealing from Marine Helicopter Squadron OneRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A Stafford man pleaded guilty today to stealing nearly $100,000 worth of military equipment from the helicopter squadron responsible for the transportation of the President of the United States.
According to the statement of facts filed with the plea agreement, from approximately September 2013 to April 2015, Branden Roy Baker, 34, stole at least 51 image intensifiers tubes and other night vision parts worth approximately $94,392 from Marine Helicopter Squadron One (HMX-1). Baker typically negotiated the sales of the stolen equipment via email after identifying potential buyers on eBay.com.
Baker pleaded guilty to theft of government property, and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison when sentenced on August 11. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Dana J. Boente, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; and Jeremy Gauthier, Special Agent in Charge of the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) Washington D.C. Field Office, made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Leonie M. Brinkema accepted the plea. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Andres E. Vasquez and Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael E. Rich are prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:15-cr-91.
Man Charged with Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute MarijuanaRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI- Dean Thompson, 47, of St. Thomas, made his initial appearance Monday before United States Magistrate Judge Ruth Miller on an indictment charging him with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute marijuana, and possession with intent to distribute marijuana, Acting United States Attorney Joycelyn Hewlett announced. Thompson was detained pending a detention hearing on Friday.
According to the indictment, between February 9, 2017, and March 8, 2017, Thompson conspired with others to possess approximately 14 kilograms of marijuana that was mailed in two packages from New York to St. Thomas.
If convicted, Thompson faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The case is being investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sigrid M. Tejo-Sprotte.
Acting United States Attorney Hewlett reminds the public that an information is merely a formal charging document and is not evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Los Angeles Defendants Indicted on Drug and Murder-for-Hire SchemeRead the Press Release
Acting U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that the Superseding Indictment charging DAVID SUIAUNOA a/k/a “DAVE,” age 46 from Torrence, CA; LUCKY FUA IOSUA, a/k/a “IOSUA LUCKY FUA,” age 46, from Carson, CA; and NADINE SAMALAULU PAALA, a/k/a “NADINE PAALA-UTU,” age 28, from Torrence, CA, was unsealed today. The Superseding Indictment charges each defendant with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. SUIAUNOA, IOSUA, and DAVID PHILLIPS, age 36 from Los Angeles, CA, were also indicted for using facilities of interstate commerce to solicit a murder-for-hire.
According to the Superseding Indictment, since on or about December 17, 2015, SUIAUNOA, IOSUA, and PAALA conspired to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. SUIAUNOA, IOSUA, and PHILLIPS were also indicted on conspiring to commit a murder-for-hire from on or about July 27, 2016. The investigation revealed that PHILLIPS hired SUIAUNOA to kill an individual located in Los Angeles. SUIAUNOA and IOSUA later attempted to hire an undercover agent from Homeland Security Investigations to find a hitman to complete the murder. SUIAUNOA, IOSUA, and PHILLIPS were all arrested before the victim could be murdered.
Acting U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the Superseding Indictment is merely an allegation and that the guilt of the defendants must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
Acting U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan L. Shih is in charge of the prosecution.
KCK Man Sentenced to 24 Years for Enticing a Minor for SexRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Tom Larson, Acting United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri, announced that a Kansas City, Kan., man was sentenced in federal court today for enticing a child victim, whom he met online, into engaging in illegal sexual activity.
Nathan R. Caylor, 42, of Kansas City, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Gary A. Fenner to 24 years in federal prison without parole.
On Dec. 12, 2016, Caylor pleaded guilty to one count of enticing a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity and one count of receiving child pornography. Caylor admitted that he communicated online for more than a year with a 14-year-old victim, identified in court documents at “Jane Doe,” and traveled to her home to engage in sexual intercourse on at least eight separate occasions.
Caylor initially contacted Jane Doe in May 2013. He used the false name “Justin” and told her he was 17 years old. They exchanged photos of each other electronically and communicated via Skype. Caylor told Jane Doe that he had been diagnosed with cancer when he was 14 years old and that the chemotherapy and radiation he had to undergo for cancer made him look older. In reality, Caylor had never been diagnosed with cancer.
Caylor eventually turned the topic of their communications to graphic conversations of a sexual nature and made arrangements to meet Jane Doe in person. Caylor traveled to her home for the first time in November 2013 when her parents were not home. Between May 2013 and July 2014 Caylor also electronically sent pornographic photos of himself to Jane Doe.
In July 2014 the Blue Springs, Mo., Police Department was notified about Caylor’s contact with Jane Doe. A Blue Springs detective assumed Jane Doe’s identity on Facebook and began communicating with Caylor. Caylor asked if he could visit, and was told that her parents were not home. Caylor told Jane Doe that he would see her that same day. He traveled by bus from Kansas City, Kan., to Independence, Mo., then walked several miles to her home. Caylor was arrested while he was walking to the victim’s home.
Investigators also found images of child pornography on Caylor’s computer, including images of a 3-to-4-year-old victim and a 10-to-12-year-old victim. Caylor also was in possession of images of Jane Doe engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
Caylor has prior Kansas state convictions in 1993 for four counts of enticing a child and five counts of lewd and lascivious behavior. According to court documents, Caylor enticed four young children (between 7 and 8 years old) to enter a building so he could commit an unlawful sexual act upon them. He exposed himself to these same four children and as well as to a fifth child.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David Luna. It was investigated by the Blue Springs, Mo., Police Department.
Project Safe Childhood
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc . For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
Justice Department Settles U.S. Worker Discrimination Claims Against New Mexico FarmRead the Press Release
The Justice Department announced today that it has reached a settlement agreement with Carrillo Farm Labor, LLC (Carrillo Farm), an onion farm in Deming, New Mexico. The settlement resolves the department’s investigation of complaints that Carrillo Farm discriminated against U.S. citizens due to a hiring preference for foreign visa workers.
After investigating complaints filed on behalf of two U.S. citizens, the Justice Department determined that Carrillo Farm denied U.S. citizens employment in 2016 because it wanted to hire temporary foreign workers under the H-2A visa program. Under the anti-discrimination provision of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), it is unlawful for employers to intentionally discriminate against U.S. citizens because of their citizenship status.
The settlement agreement requires Carrillo Farm to pay civil penalties to the United States, undergo department-provided training on the anti-discrimination provision of the INA, and comply with departmental monitoring and reporting requirements. In a separate agreement with workers represented by Texas RioGrande Legal Aid, Carrillo Farm agreed to pay a total of $44,000 in lost wages to affected U.S. workers.
“U.S. workers are the backbone of our economy, and the Justice Department will not tolerate employers discriminating against them because of their citizenship status,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Tom Wheeler of the Civil Rights Division. “The department is wholeheartedly committed to challenging discriminatory hiring preferences that disfavor U.S. workers. We commend Texas RioGrande for bringing the matter to our attention and applaud Carrillo Farm for cooperating with the department to implement the corrective actions necessary to resolve this matter.”
This settlement is part of a Justice Department enforcement initiative dedicated to combatting employment discrimination against U.S. workers.
The Division’s Immigration and Employee Rights Section (IER), formerly known as the Office of Special Counsel for Immigration-Related Unfair Employment Practices, is responsible for enforcing the anti-discrimination provision of the INA. The statute prohibits, among other things, citizenship status and national origin discrimination in hiring, firing, or recruitment or referral for a fee; unfair documentary practices; retaliation; and intimidation.
For more information about protections against employment discrimination under immigration laws, call IER’s worker hotline at 1-800-255-7688 (1-800-237-2515, TTY for hearing impaired); call IER’s employer hotline at 1-800-255-8155 (1-800-237-2515, TTY for hearing impaired); sign up for a free webinar; email [email protected]; or visit IER’s English and Spanish websites.
Applicants or employees who believe they were subjected to: different documentary requirements based on their citizenship, immigration status, or national origin; or discrimination based on their citizenship, immigration status or national origin in hiring, firing, or recruitment or referral, should contact IER’s worker hotline for assistance.