Latest Records
Newest first across public DOJ and U.S. Attorney press releases.
Wednesday 1 March 2017
Seven Baltimore City Police Officers Arrested for Abusing Power in Federal Racketeering ConspiracyRead the Press Release
“Criminals Who Work in Police Agencies Unfairly Tarnish Honorable Officers”
Baltimore, Maryland – Federal agents arrested seven Baltimore City Police Department (BPD) officers today for a racketeering conspiracy and racketeering offenses, including robbery, extortion, and overtime fraud. The indictment was returned on February 23, 2017, and unsealed today following the execution of arrest and search warrants. One of the officers also was charged in a separate drug conspiracy indictment, also unsealed today.
The indictments were announced by Maryland U.S. Attorney Rod J. Rosenstein; Special Agent in Charge Gordon B. Johnson of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Baltimore Field Office; Assistant Special Agent in Charge Don A. Hibbert of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Baltimore District Office; and Commissioner Kevin Davis of the Baltimore Police Department.
“This is not about aggressive policing, it is about a criminal conspiracy,” said U.S. Attorney Rod J. Rosenstein. “Prosecuting criminals who work in police agencies is essential both to protect victims and to support the many honorable officers whose reputations they unfairly tarnish.”
“As evidenced by these indictments the FBI will continue to make rooting out corruption at all levels one of its top criminal priorities,” said Special Agent in Charge Gordon B. Johnson, FBI Baltimore Field Office. “Coupled with strong leadership by Commissioner Davis and his department, this investigation has dismantled a group of police officers who were besmirching the good name of the Baltimore City Police Department.”
“The police officers charged today with crimes that erode trust with our community have disgraced the Baltimore Police Department and our profession," said Baltimore Police Commissioner Kevin Davis. "We will not shy away from accountability, as our community and the men and women who serve our City every day with pride and integrity deserve nothing less. Our investigative partnership with the FBI will continue as we strive to improve. Reform isn't always a pretty thing to watch unfold, but it's necessary in our journey toward a police department our City deserves."
DEFENDANTS
The officers charged in the racketeering indictment are:
Detective Momodu Bondeva Kenton Gondo, a/k/a GMoney and Mike, age 34, of
Owings Mills, Maryland;
Detective Evodio Calles Hendrix, age 32, of Randallstown, Maryland;
Detective Daniel Thomas Hersl, age 47, of Joppa, Maryland;
Sergeant Wayne Earl Jenkins, age 36, of Middle River, Maryland;
Detective Jemell Lamar Rayam, age 36, of Owings Mills;
Detective Marcus Roosevelt Taylor, age 30, of Glen Burnie; and
Detective Maurice Kilpatrick Ward, age 36, of Middle River.A separate indictment alleges that Detective Gondo joined a drug-dealing conspiracy. In addition to Gondo, the other indictment charges:
Antonio Shropshire, a/k/a Brill, B, and Tony, age 31, of Baltimore;
Omari Thomas, a/k/a Lil’ Bril, Lil B, and Chewy, age 25, of Middle River;
Antoine Washington, a/k/a Twan, age 27, of Baltimore;
Alexander Campbell, a/k/a Munch, age 28, of Baltimore; and
Glen Kyle Wells, a/k/a Lou, and Kyle, age 31, of Baltimore.RACKETEERING INDICTMENT
The racketeering indictment alleges that the police officers stole money, property and narcotics from victims, some of whom had not committed crimes; swore out false affidavits; submitted false official incident reports; and engaged in large-scale time and attendance fraud.
Count One, racketeering conspiracy, alleges robbery and extortion violations committed by the defendants in 2015 and 2016 when they were officers in the police department’s Gun Trace Task Force, a specialized unit created to investigate firearms crimes.
Count Two, a substantive racketeering charge, alleges those crimes as well as several incidents of robbery and extortion committed by five of the seven defendants beginning in 2015, before they joined the task force. Four of the defendants previously worked together in another police unit; a fifth defendant was working in a separate unit during the earlier incidents.
In some cases, there was no evidence of criminal conduct by the victims; the officers stole money that had been earned lawfully. In other instances, narcotics and firearms were recovered from arrestees. In several instances, the defendants did not file any police reports. The amounts stolen ranged from $200 to $200,000.
According to the indictment, the defendants schemed to steal money, property, and narcotics by detaining victims, entering residences, conducting traffic stops, and swearing out false search warrant affidavits. In addition, the defendants allegedly prepared and submitted false official incident and arrest reports, reports of property seized from arrestees, and charging documents. The false reports concealed the fact that the officers had stolen money, property and narcotics from individuals.
The indictment alleges that the defendants obstructed law enforcement by alerting each other about potential investigations of their criminal conduct, coaching one another to give false testimony to investigators from the Internal Investigations Division of the BPD, and turning off their body cameras to avoid recording encounters with civilians. Finally, the indictment alleges that the defendants defrauded the BPD and the State of Maryland by submitting false time and attendance records in order to obtain salary and overtime payments for times when the defendants did not work.
For example, according to the indictment, on July 8, 2016, Rayam submitted an affidavit for a search warrant which falsely stated that he, Jenkins and Gondo had conducted a full day of surveillance at the residence of two victims. Later that day, Rayam, Gondo and Hersl conducted a traffic stop of the victims during which Rayam allegedly stole $3,400 in cash. Rayam, Gondo and Hersl then transported the victims to a BPD off-site facility. In a telephone call, Jenkins told Gondo that he would meet them at the facility and that they should introduce Jenkins as the U.S. Attorney. When Jenkins arrived, he told one of the victims that he was a federal officer. Jenkins and Rayam asked the victim if he had any money in his residence, and the victim said he had $70,000 in cash. Jenkins, Rayam, Gondo and Hersl then transported the victims back to their home. In the master bedroom closet, the officers located two heat sealed bundles – one containing $50,000 and the other containing $20,000 in $100 bills. Jenkins, Rayam, Gondo and Hersl stole the $20,000 bundle. Gondo and Rayam later argued about how to divide the stolen money. On July 11, 2016, Gondo deposited $8,000 in cash into his checking account.
Three days after the robbery, on July 11, 2016, Jenkins went on vacation with his family in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, staying until July 16, 2016. The indictment alleges that Jenkins falsely claimed he worked overtime on five of the six days he was on vacation. That same week, Gondo called Rayam and said that working for the BPD was “easy money” and that “one hour can be eight hours,” referring to working for one hour and then claiming eight hours on official time and attendance records.
In another episode alleged in the Indictment, on September 7, 2016, Rayam described to Gondo how he had told Jenkins that he only “taxed” a detainee a “little bit,” referring to stealing some but not all of the detainee’s drug proceeds. Rayam said that they had not arrested the victim, so he “won’t say nothing.” Rayam told Gondo that he had to give Wayne Jenkins $100 of the money stolen from the victim. The victim was not charged.
DRUG INDICTMENT
In a separate seven-count indictment, Gondo, Shropshire, Thomas, Washington, Campbell and Wells are charged with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin as part of the Shropshire drug trafficking organization (DTO). Washington is charged with possession with intent to distribute and distribution of heroin resulting in death; Shropshire, Gondo, and Campbell are charged with possession with intent to distribute heroin; and Shropshire is also charged with possession with intent to distribute heroin and cocaine. According to the indictment, the conspirators primarily distributed heroin near the Alameda Shopping Center in Baltimore.
In one telephone call, Detective Gondo allegedly said, “I sell drugs.” In addition to selling heroin, Gondo provided sensitive law enforcement information to other conspirators in order to help the DTO and protect his co-conspirators. For example, Gondo helped Shropshire get rid of a GPS tracking device that had been placed on his vehicle by DEA. Gondo also advised Wells about law enforcement operations in order to protect Wells from being arrested.
CONCLUSION
Anyone who believes they may have information about these cases is urged to call 1-800-CALL FBI (1-800-225-5324).
The seven defendants charged in the racketeering conspiracy each face a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison for the conspiracy and for racketeering. The defendants are expected to have an initial appearance in U.S. District Court in Baltimore later today.
Shropshire, Washington, and Campbell each face a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison for conspiracy to distribute at least one kilogram of heroin. Gondo, Wells and Thomas each face a mandatory five years and up to 40 years in prison for conspiracy to distribute at least 100 grams of heroin. Washington faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for distribution of heroin resulting in death. Shropshire, Gondo, and Campbell also face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for possession with intent to distribute heroin and cocaine.
An indictment is not a finding of guilt. An individual charged by indictment is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty at some later criminal proceedings.
United States Attorney Rod J. Rosenstein commended the FBI and Baltimore Police Department for their work in both investigations, and the DEA for its work in the drug investigation. U.S. Attorney Rosenstein also recognized the Baltimore County Police Department and Harford County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance in the racketeering case. Mr. Rosenstein thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Leo J. Wise and Derek E. Hines, who are prosecuting these Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force cases.
Rockford Man Pleads Guilty to Robbing a Rockford Bank and a Coin StoreRead the Press Release
ROCKFORD — A Rockford man pleaded guilty today in federal court before U.S. District Judge Frederick J. Kapala to bank robbery, robbery affecting interstate commerce and a related firearm charge.
DAVID J. SANDERS, 33, pleaded guilty to the robbery of BMO Harris Bank, 1480 S. Alpine Rd., Rockford, on May 31, 2016, and the robbery of Rockford Coin and Stamps, 4402 Center Terr., Rockford, on June 11, 2016, and to using and carrying a Remington pistol-grip shotgun in furtherance of the coin store robbery.
Sanders, who has been in custody since his arrest on June 14, 2016, is scheduled to be sentenced on June 27, 2017, at 2:30 p.m., before Judge Kapala.
The guilty plea was announced by Zachary T. Fardon, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois; Michael J. Anderson, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Office of Federal Bureau of Investigation; and Dan O’Shea, Chief of the Rockford Police Department. The investigation was conducted under the auspices of the FBI Safe Streets Task Force, which includes representatives from the FBI; U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Loves Park Police Department; Winnebago County Sheriff’s Department; and Rockford Police Department.
According to a written plea agreement, on May 31, 2016, Sanders attempted to rob a different BMO Harris Bank branch, located at 2510 South Alpine Rd. in Rockford. Sanders approached the branch manager and pulled a note out of his pocket that stated he had a gun and demanded money. However, when a bank employee came out of an employee door into the lobby, Sanders took the note and walked out of the bank. A short time later, Sanders entered the BMO Harris Bank at 1480 S. Alpine, approached the teller counter and was greeted by the bank manager. Sanders handed the bank manager a note that stated, “I have a gun give me 1000.” The bank manager said she could not give Sanders money, and when she attempted to keep the note, Sanders took it away from the manager and said, “I want $1,000.” The manager opened the teller drawer and gave Sanders $2,260. Sanders then left the bank.
Sanders further admitted in the plea agreement that on June 11, 2016, he entered the coin store, walked behind the display counter and obtained a Remington pistol-grip shotgun - with five live shells attached to the side of it - that belonged to the store. Sanders admitted that while holding the shotgun he demanded money from an employee. An employee gave Sanders approximately $500. Sanders then fled with the money and the shotgun.
Each count of bank robbery and robbery affecting interstate commerce carries a maximum sentence of up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the gross gain or gross loss resulting from that offense, whichever is greater, plus full restitution.
The charge of using and carrying a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years, a maximum sentence of up to life imprisonment, and a fine of up to $250,000. The sentence imposed for this charge must be consecutive to any other sentence imposed.
The Court must impose a reasonable sentence under federal sentencing statutes and the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph C. Pedersen.
Rochester Woman Sentenced on Sex Trafficking ChargeRead 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 Jodia Campbell, 35, of Rochester, NY, who was convicted of transporting individuals across state lines with intent that the individuals engage in illegal sex acts, was sentenced to 60 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tiffany H. Lee and Melissa M. Marangola, who handled the case, stated that in April 2013, Campbell transported an adult from New York to the State of New Jersey for the purpose of engaging in prostitution.
Campbell was arrested in April 2014 along with Laree Greggs and Jennifer Miller. Greggs and Miller have been convicted and were sentenced to 80 months and 70 months in prison respectively.
The sentencing is the culmination of an investigation on the part of the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Child Exploitation Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Adam S. Cohen.
Postal Employee Charged with Stealing Rx Meds Meant for VeteransRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of Theft of Mail by Postal Employee, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on February 28, named Gregory M. Schur, 36, of Duquesne, PA, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, Gregory M. Schur was an employee of the United States Postal Service. From in and around May 2016 to on or about August 15, 2016, Schur stole packages containing prescription medication addressed to customers of the Department of Veterans Affairs Healthcare System and first-class mail containing U.S. currency.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 5 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Charles A. Eberle is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Postal Service-Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Postal Employee Charged with Stealing Cash from a Greeting CardRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Washington County, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of theft of mail by a postal employee, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned on February 28, named LoreLei Lantz, 51, of Elrama, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, LoreLei Lantz was an employee of the United States Postal Service at the time she stole $60.00 in U.S. currency from a greeting card that was to be conveyed by mail.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 5 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Charles A. Eberle is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Postal Service – Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
People, Technology and Processes, LLC and Its Principals Pay $320,000 to Resolve False Claims AllegationsRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – United States Attorney A. Lee Bentley, III announces that People, Technology and Processes, LLC (“PTP”), Victor Buonamia, and Nicole Buonamia have paid the government $320,000 to resolve allegations that they submitted improper invoices for work allegedly performed for the United States in support of the U.S. Army in Afghanistan.
PTP is an information technology and professional services company located in Lakeland, Florida. Victor Buonamia is the President and CEO of PTP, and Nicole Buonamia is the CFO. During 2011 and 2012, PTP was a subcontractor to the prime contractor on a government contract awarded by the United States Army Communications-Electronics Command through the Strategic Sources Services (“S3”) Program.
As a subcontractor, PTP submitted invoices for its services to the prime contractor, who then paid those invoices and, in turn, billed those costs to the United States, which paid them. PTP and its principals were aware that PTP was a subcontractor on a United States government contract and that PTP’s bills would ultimately be presented to and paid by the United States.
Between November 2011 and June 2012, PTP submitted invoices that were signed by Victor Buonamia and/or Nicole Buonamia for work allegedly done by PTP employees in Afghanistan under the S3 Contract; however, some of that work was not actually performed. Specifically, during that period, PTP submitted invoices for one employee while he was in another country on R&R for a month, billed for another employee for several weeks after PTP terminated him and flew him back to U.S., and billed one or more weeks for two other employees before they actually started working for PTP. In all, PTP improperly billed $127,990.90 for work never performed by those employees.
“While healthcare fraud recoveries are an important focus of this office, we pay equal attention to investigating fraud in government procurement, including defense spending,” stated U.S. Attorney Bentley. “No matter their size, government contractors and subcontractors who improperly seek or obtain payment from the United States will be investigated, prosecuted, and made to repay their ill-gotten gains.”
“This settlement demonstrates the continued commitment of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service and our partners to enforce laws intended to protect the integrity of U.S. Department of Defense programs,” said Special Agent in Charge John F. Khin, Southeast Field Office. “All contractors and subcontractors, who are ultimately paid with American taxpayer dollars, will be held accountable for submitting fraudulent claims to the Government.”
This settlement resolves allegations in a lawsuit filed by relator Aidan Tamer Toprakci in February 2013. That suit was filed under the whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act, which authorizes private parties to sue for false claims on behalf of the United States and to share in any recovery. Toprakci was employed by PTP in 2012 and disclosed certain of the conduct internally to PTP. The relator has received $64,000.00 from the proceeds of the settlement.
This case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Harden. The case was investigated by the Tampa Resident Agency of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Commands Major Procurement Fraud Unit, and the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction.
The lawsuit was filed in the Middle District of Florida, and is captioned United States ex rel. Toprakci v. People Technology and Processes, LLC, Victor Buonamia, and Nicole Buonamia, Case No. 8:13-cv-432-T-33-MAP (M.D. Fla.).
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only; there has been no determination of liability.
Palo Alto Man Sentenced to More Than Seven Years in Murder-For-Hire PlotRead the Press Release
SAN FRANCISCO – Ulices Cazarez was sentenced today to 87 months in prison for seeking to hire someone to murder his accuser in a sexual harassment case, announced United States Attorney Brian J. Stretch and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) Special Agent in Charge Jill Snyder.
Cazarez, 39, of East Palo Alto, pleaded guilty on December 6, 2016. A civil sexual harassment lawsuit was filed against Cazarez in late May 2015. According to his plea agreement, Cazarez admitted that in June 2015 he was willing to pay thousands of dollars to have his accuser murdered. The plea agreement describes the process by which Cazarez discussed prices as high as $40,000 with certain individuals. Ultimately, Cazarez met with an undercover agent (UC) with the ATF. On June 12, 2015, the UC posed as a hitman and met with the defendant in the parking lot of the Stonestown Mall in San Francisco to discuss the killing. The two negotiated a price for the murder and Cazarez told the UC that he would obtain the address for the intended victim within days. Federal agents and task force officers arrested Cazarez on June 26, 2015. On July 9, 2015, a federal grand jury indicted Cazarez for use of interstate commerce facilities in the commission of murder-for-hire, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1958.
The sentence was handed down by the Honorable Charles R. Breyer, U.S. District Judge, in San Francisco. In addition to the prison term, Judge Breyer also sentenced the defendant to a three-year period of supervised release. The defendant was immediately remanded into custody.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Scott D. Joiner and William Frentzen prosecuted the case with the assistance of Christine Tian, Lance Libatique, and Yanira Osorio. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the ATF and the San Francisco Police Department.
Pair of USP Lee Inmates Sentenced to Additional Prison Time for Possessing Illegal WeaponsRead the Press Release
Abingdon, VIRGINIA – A pair of inmates at United States Penitentiary Lee County in Jonesville were sentenced during separate hearings earlier this week for illegally possessing weapons inside the prison, Acting United States Attorney Rick A. Mountcastle announced today.
Thomas B. Lewis, 33, and Larry Brown, 22, both inmates at USP Lee, each previously pled guilty to possessing illegal weapons. They were sentenced earlier this week in separate hearings to additional time in federal prison after they were found in possession of homemade, illegal weapons, otherwise known as “shanks.”
Lewis was sentenced to an additional 27 months in federal prison. Brown was sentenced to an additional six months in prison and six months in a halfway house.
The investigation of the case was conducted by Federal Bureau of Prisons. Assistant United States Attorney Randy Ramseyer prosecuted the case for the United States.
Ohio Man Pleads Guilty to Oneida County BombingRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Keith Seppi, age 58, of Conneaut, Ohio, pled guilty today to using a destructive device during and in relation to a crime of violence and possessing a destructive device in furtherance of a crime of violence.
The announcement was made by United States Attorney Richard S. Hartunian and Ashan M. Benedict, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), New York Field Division.
Sentencing is scheduled in U.S. District Court on July 5, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. before United States District Judge Brenda K. Sannes. According to the terms of the plea agreement, Seppi will be sentenced to at least 30 years of imprisonment.
As part of his guilty plea, Seppi admitted that he built a bomb at his Ohio home that would be activated by motion and disguised it to look like a standard parcel package. He admitted that he brought the bomb from Ohio to Floyd, Oneida County, New York, where he put it in the victim’s driveway around midnight on May 28, 2016, intending that it would explode when it was moved. The next morning, the victim attempted to pick up the package and the bomb exploded, causing severe injuries and burns. The victim survived but was hospitalized for several weeks.
In his plea agreement, Seppi also admitted that in May 2016, and prior to the bombing, he had learned that the victim, Alan Dobransky, had accused Seppi’s sister-in-law of stealing money from Dobransky’s mother and had threatened to report the alleged thefts to law enforcement authorities in Ohio. Dobransky’s mother had been living with and cared for by that sister-in-law in her Conneaut, Ohio, residence. Shortly after learning of the theft accusations against his sister-in-law, and the threat to report the alleged thefts to local law enforcement authorities in Ohio, Seppi constructed the bomb and later planted it in Dobransky’s driveway in New York.
United States Attorney Richard S. Hartunian stated: "The defendant’s building and use of a lethal bomb, as part of a plan to intimidate and prevent the victim from reporting a theft to the police, was a terrifying and despicable crime that requires the lengthy prison sentence that he will receive. I am grateful for the nearly miraculous survival of the victim, as well as the effective investigation by law enforcement at the local, state, and federal levels, resulting in the quick identification and prosecution of the defendant."
ATF Special Agent in Charge Ashan M. Benedict stated: "Keith Seppi committed a targeted, cowardly attack against Mr. Dobransky with a destructive device disguised as a package, which was intended to inflict, at a minimum, severe injury. His motive was to prevent Mr. Dobransky from reporting crimes committed by Seppi's sister-in-law. Such acts of violence will not be tolerated. Thanks to the superb efforts of the ATF Special Agents, Sheriff's Deputies, and New York State Police Investigators involved in the investigation, Seppi was quickly apprehended. Today’s plea is a testament to the quality and comprehensiveness of their investigation. We extend our well wishes to Mr. Dobransky and his family, and our gratitude to the United States Attorney's Office and the Oneida County District Attorney's Office for their partnership and diligence in seeing that justice is done."
Oneida County District Attorney Scott McNamara stated: "I would first like to recognize the victim, Alan Dobransky, as we all continue to wish him a full and speedy recovery from the injuries sustained as a result of this bombing.
"I would like to thank all of the members of local, state and federal law enforcement who spent countless hours to identify the perpetrators of this heinous attack and bring them to justice. In particular, I would like to thank the Oneida County Sheriff's Office, New York State Police, New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, Office of Special Investigations, City of Utica Police Department, U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, FBI, Ashtabula Sheriff and Prosecutor (OH), Conneaut Police (OH).
"I would also like to thank U.S. Attorney Rick Hartunian and his Office, particularly Assistant U.S. Attorneys Steve Green and Nico Commandeur, for taking the lead on the investigation of federal charges against Keith Seppi and sending the strong and clear message that persons involved in the production and deployment of improvised explosive devices will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of our laws.
"I would also like to recognize First Assistant District Attorney Dawn Lupi and Assistant District Attorney Grant Garramone for all of the hard work that went into securing convictions for Keith Seppi, Cindy Shields and Donna Seppi in Oneida County Court for violations of New York State law. The success of this investigation is the direct result of the cooperation that occurred between all of the law enforcement agencies involved."
Oneida County Sheriff Robert Maciol said stated: "Premeditated acts of violence such as this will not be tolerated in our community. I cannot thank those at the local, state, and federal levels enough who worked tirelessly, side by side with us from the day of the bombing right up until today, to insure that every possible resource was utilized to bring this complex case to a successful conclusion."
New York State Police Superintendent George P. Beach II stated: "This defendant knowingly plotted and planned to do serious harm to a New York State Corrections Officer and should be punished to the fullest extent for this heinous act. The New York State Police, along with our law enforcement partners at all levels, remain committed to ensuring the safety of all of our citizens and will work diligently to identify these types of threats and stop those who seek to cause to harm others. Such premeditated attacks will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law."
At sentencing, Seppi faces at least 30 years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of post-imprisonment supervised release of up to 5 years. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the statute violated, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors.
This case was investigated by the ATF, the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office and the New York State Police, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephen C. Green and Nico Commandeur.
New Haven Man Pleads Guilty to Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that SHAQUILLE PEARSON, 23, of New Haven, pleaded guilty today before Chief U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven to one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
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.
Chief Judge Hall scheduled sentencing for May 24, 2017, at which time PEARSON faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years. PEARSON has been detained since his arrest on June 30, 2016.
This matter is being investigated by the New Haven Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter D. Markle.
McDonald Man Charged with Illegally Possessing Firearm and Controlled SubstanceRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on charges of violating federal firearms and narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The three-count indictment named Mackenzie Cole Roberts, age 24, of McDonald, PA, as the sole defendant.
Federal law makes it illegal for a fugitive, or an unlawful user of a controlled substance, to possess a firearm or ammunition. The indictment alleges that Roberts was both on March 13, 2016, when he possessed a loaded derringer firearm. Specifically, the indictment alleges that he was wanted by Tennessee and North Carolina and was an unlawful user and/or addicted to heroin. The indictment further alleges that on March 13, 2016, Roberts possessed heroin.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 21 years in prison, a fine of up to $500,000.00, and the forfeiture of the firearm and ammunition. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
During a detention hearing in this matter, evidence was presented that Roberts had his young child in the car along with heroin, a gun and ammunition on March 13, 2016. A DEA Task Force Officer explained in court that Roberts potentially faces additional drug charges for allegedly selling heroin that resulted in the death of the user. Roberts remains in federal custody pending trial.
Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Canonsburg Police Department, the McDonald Police Department and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office and the Washington County District Attorney’s Office Drug Task Force conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case. This case is being prosecuted under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and communities to prevent, deter and prosecute gun crime.
An Indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Marshall Belden, of Canton, indicted on child pornography chargesRead the Press Release
A Canton man was indicted on child pornography charges, said U.S. Attorney Carole S. Rendon and FBI Special Agent in Charge Stephen D. Anthony.
Marshall Belden, Jr., 69, was charged with receiving, distributing and possessing visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
Belden on Oct. 24, 2016 knowingly received and distributed numerous computer files which contained visual depictions of real minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct, and which files had been shipped and transported in and affecting interstate and foreign commerce. On Jan. 26, 2017, Belden possessed a computer and an external hard drive, each of which contained child pornography, according to the indictment.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant's role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael A. Sullivan following an investigation by the Canton office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Canton Police Department.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Marion Fireworks Company Pleads Guilty to SmugglingRead the Press Release
Contact Person: Winston David Holliday, Jr. (803) 920-3000
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that Atlas Importers, Inc., a fireworks company based in Marion, pled guilty in federal court in Florence on Tuesday to Smuggling, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, § 545. United States District Judge R. Bryan Harwell of Florence accepted the guilty plea and will sentence the company at a later date.
Evidence presented at the change of plea hearing established that between November 2013 and late 2016, Atlas Importers repeatedly imported unapproved fireworks for sale in the United States. These fireworks were omitted from invoices to conceal their presence in shipping containers. Many of the fireworks had been modified to change the powder ratios from what had been approved. Essentially, the effect powders were increased and the launch powders decreased.
Ms. Drake stated the maximum penalty is a fine of $500,000 and supervised release of five years.
The case was investigated by agents of the Office of the Inspector General, Department of Transportation. Assistant United States Attorney Winston David Holliday, Jr. of the Columbia office is prosecuting the case.
#####
Manchester Man Sentenced for Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
CONCORD, N.H. – United States Attorney, Emily Gray Rice announced today that Ryan Freeman, 27, of Manchester, New Hampshire, was sentenced to 57 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to one count of bank robbery. Freeman was also sentenced to three years of supervised release, which will begin when he is released from prison.
Information based on court filings and statements made at the change of plea hearing established that Freeman entered the TD Bank on South River Road in Bedford, New Hampshire on July 26, 2015. He approached a teller, demanded $10,000, and threatened to blow her brains out if she did not comply. The teller provided a sum of money to Freeman and he left the bank. Witnesses saw him leave the bank in a gold Volvo, which was later recovered after being abandoned near Exit 4 on Interstate 293. Images from the bank clearly established that Freeman committed the robbery.
The case was investigated by the Bedford Police Department with the assistance of the Manchester Police Department, the New Hampshire State Police Forensics Laboratory and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Don Feith.
###
Man pleads guilty to identity theftRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Daniel Aaron Stone, 36, currently incarcerated at Federal Correctional Institution Beckley, was convicted for aggravated identity theft, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Stone admitted to having social security numbers of people for the intended use of filing false tax returns. Stone pled guilty today in federal court to two counts of “Aggravated Identity Theft.” He faces up to four years in prison. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew R. Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Internal Revenue Service and the Special Investigative Services Unit of the Bureau of Prisons investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Man Arrested for Arson at the U.S. Navy and Marine Recruitment CenterRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Spencer Wayne Allen, 25, was arrested on February 28, 2017, on a criminal complaint charging him with maliciously damaging the U.S. Navy and Marine Recruitment Center by means of fire, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced today. The U.S. Navy and Marine Recruitment Center is located in the Nisky Shopping Center, Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas. Allen made his initial appearance yesterday before Magistrate Judge Ruth Miller. Today, after a preliminary hearing, the court found that there was probable cause to believe that Allen committed the offense and ordered Allen detained pending trial.
According to the complaint, the Virgin Islands Territory Emergency Management Agency (VITEMA) received a 911 call for a fire at the Nisky Shopping Center in the early morning hours of February 28, 2017. The Virgin Islands Police Department and Fire Service responded to the call to find the U.S. Navy and Marine Recruitment Center engulfed in flames. As a result, the U.S. Navy and Marine Recruitment Center was completely destroyed. The Police and Fire Departments also responded to two related fires: one at the Ron De Lugo Federal Courthouse and another at the U.S. Coast Guard Station.
Arson, or maliciously damaging federal property by means of fire, carries a sentence of not less than 5 years in prison and up to a maximum term of 20 years.
The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Department of Homeland Security, with the assistance of the Virgin Islands Territory Emergency Management Agency, Virgin Islands Police Department, and the Virgin Islands Fire Service. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tasheika Hinson.
United States Attorney Sharpe reminds the public that a complaint is merely a formal charging document and is not evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Leader of Sunland Park Heroin Trafficking Ring Pleads Guilty to Federal Narcotics Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Raymundo Munoz, 69, of Sunland Park, N.M., pled guilty today in federal court in Las Cruces, N.M., to heroin trafficking charges resulting from a DEA-led investigation targeting a heroin trafficking ring operating out of Sunland Park, N.M. Under the terms of his plea agreement, Munoz will be sentenced to 72 months in prison followed by a term of supervised release to be determined by the court.
The investigation targeted a heroin trafficking organization led by Munoz that obtained its heroin from Juan Francisco Rivera, 60, of El Paso, Tex. The investigation was designated as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program, a nationwide Department of Justice program that combines the resources and unique expertise of federal agencies, along with their local counterparts, in a coordinated effort to disrupt and dismantle major drug trafficking organizations.
Ten members of the heroin trafficking ring are charged in a 30-count indictment with participation in a heroin trafficking conspiracy and a series of substantive heroin trafficking offenses. The indictment charged all ten defendants with conspiring to distribute heroin in Doña Ana County and elsewhere between May 8, 2016 and July 12, 2016. It also included 23 counts charging certain defendants with distributing heroin or possessing heroin with intent to distribute and six counts charging certain defendants with using communications devices (telephones) to facilitate heroin trafficking crimes.
According to the indictment, Rivera routinely supplied Muñoz with heroin, in quantities ranging from two to nine ounces, which was smuggled by couriers into the United States across the international border in El Paso. Muñoz took the heroin to his Sunland Park residence where he distributed the drugs to others. Members of the conspiracy used telephones to negotiate their heroin deals, arrange for heroin deliveries, and pay for the heroin.
During today’s proceedings, Munoz pled guilty to conspiracy and distribution of heroin. In entering the guilty plea, Munoz admitted to conspiring with Rivera and others to distribute approximately 119 ounces of heroin between April and July 2016, using female body carriers who would cross heroin from Mexico into the United States to give to Rivera who would then give the heroin to Munoz. Munoz also admitted that on dates from April 10, 2016, through July 11, 2016, he facilitated the sale and delivery of more than 64 grams of heroin to other individuals. Munoz’s plea agreement indicated that on July 11, 2016, Blanca Elisa Tovar, 42, of El Paso, Texas, smuggled seven ounces of heroin to the United States, intending to deliver the heroin to Rivera. However, Tovar, Rivera and Munoz were arrested and agents subsequently seized approximately $52,304, several ounces of heroin and a firearm from Munoz’s vehicle and residence. Munoz remains in custody pending a sentencing hearing which has yet to be scheduled.
The following five defendants previously entered guilty pleas in the case:
-
Alberto Lozano-Morales, 43, of Sunland Park, pled guilty on Dec. 6, 2016, and faces a sentence of a year and a day in prison under the terms of his plea agreement;
-
Tovar, pled guilty on Dec. 13, 2016, and faces a sentence of 24 months in prison under the terms of her plea agreement;
-
Carlos Diaz, 38, of El Paso, Texas, pled guilty on Jan. 24, 2017, and faces a sentence of 18 months under the terms of his plea agreement;
-
Juan Francisco Rivera pled guilty on Feb. 7, 2017, and faces a sentence of 108 months in prison under the terms of his plea agreement; and
-
Armando Daniel Marquez, 54 of Sunland Park, N.M., pled guilty on Feb. 23, 2017, and faces a maximum sentence of 20 years under the terms of his plea agreement.
Three of the four remaining co-defendants have entered pleas of not guilty to the charges in the indictment; the fourth has yet to be arrested and is considered a fugitive. Charges in indictments and criminal complaints are only accusations. All criminal defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
The Las Cruces office of the DEA and Sunland Police Department investigated these cases with assistance from the El Paso office of the FBI, the U.S. Border Patrol, and the Gang Unit of the El Paso Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Dustin C. Segovia and Renee L. Camacho of the U.S. Attorney’s Las Cruces Branch Office are prosecuting these cases 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, the Bernalillo County Opioid Accountability Initiative, 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.
-
Laurens Man Pleads Guilty to Armed Robbery of Local StoreRead the Press Release
Contact Person: Lance Crick (864) 282-2105
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that Iquill Wayne Morrison, age 22, of Laurens, pled guilty in federal court in Greenville to obstruction of commerce by robbery, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1951; and to use of a firearm during a crime of violence, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c).
United States District Judge Henry M. Herlong, Jr., accepted the plea and will impose sentence after he has reviewed the presentence report which will be prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.
Morrison faces a statutory maximum sentence of life imprisonment, with a mandatory minimum sentence of seven years imprisonment consecutive to any other sentence in federal prison. Morrison was arrested on the federal charges on November 28, 2016, and has remained in jail since that time.
Evidence presented at the change of plea hearing established that on August 25, 2016, Morrison entered the Drug-Lo Pharmacy in Laurens and robbed the employees of money while he was brandishing a firearm.
Agents from the Laurens City Police Department, the State Law Enforcement Division (SLED), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Max Cauthen in the Greenville U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case.
#####
Las Cruces Man Pleads Guilty to Violating Federal Narcotics and Firearms LawsRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Eric Steven Ontiveros, 33, of Las Cruces, N.M., pled guilty today in federal court to violating the federal narcotics and firearms laws. Ontiveros entered the guilty plea without the benefit of a plea agreement.
Ontiveros was arrested on April 6, 2016, on a criminal complaint charging him with possessing distribution quantities of methamphetamine and being a felon in possession of a firearm on Oct. 5, 2015, in Doña Ana County, N.M. According to the criminal complaint, law enforcement officers discovered approximately 112.19 grams of methamphetamine, two firearms, ammunition, and drug paraphernalia in Ontiveros’ vehicle during a routine traffic stop.
Ontiveros was indicted on the same charges on July 20, 2016. According to the indictment, Ontiveros was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition because of his prior felony convictions for shooting at a dwelling or occupied building, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, and being a felon in possession of a firearm. During today’s proceedings, Ontiveros pled guilty to the indictment.
At sentencing, Ontiveros faces a statutory penalty of a mandatory minimum of five years and a maximum of 40 years in prison on the methamphetamine charge and a maximum statutory penalty of ten years on the firearms charge. He remains in custody pending a sentencing hearing which has yet to be scheduled.
This case was investigated by the Las Cruces office of the FBI and the HIDTA Regional Interagency Drug Task Force/Metro Narcotics Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Y. Armijo of the U.S. Attorney’s Las Cruces Branch Office is prosecuting the case.
The HIDTA Regional Interagency Drug Task Force/Metro Narcotics Task Force is comprised of officers from the Las Cruces Police Department, the Doña Ana County Sheriff’s Office, the FBI, HSI and the New Mexico State Police. The High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) program was created by Congress with the Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1988. HIDTA is a program of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) which provides assistance to federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies operating in areas determined to be critical drug-trafficking regions of the United States and seeks to reduce drug trafficking and production by facilitating coordinated law enforcement activities and information sharing.
Ladson Man Arrested on Federal Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
Contact Person: Lance Crick (864) 282-2105
Columbia, South Carolina-------United States Attorney Beth Drake announced today that Robert Mansfield, 60, of Ladson, South Carolina, has been arrested on federal charges of conspiring to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute fentanyl. Mansfield made an initial appearance in federal court this afternoon and a detention hearing and preliminary hearing have been scheduled for 11 a.m. on March 3, 2017.
The case is being investigated by Special Agents with ICE-Homeland Security Investigations, as well as the Drug Enforcement Administration, United States Postal Inspection Service, Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office and Charleston County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant United States Attorney Nick Bianchi of the Charleston office is prosecuting the case.
The United States Attorney stated that all charges in this indictment are merely accusations and that the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
#####
KC Man Sentenced After Stealing Firearm from Vehicle at Liberty Community CenterRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Tammy Dickinson, United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri, announced today that a Kansas City, Mo., man has been sentenced in federal court for illegally possessing a firearm that he stole from a vehicle in the parking lot of the Liberty Community Center in Liberty, Mo.
Jeffrey L. Ducksworth, 36, of Kansas City, was sentenced by U.S. Chief District Judge Greg Kays on Tuesday, Feb. 28, 2017, to six years in federal prison without parole.
Ducksworth pleaded guilty on Sept. 19, 2016, to being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to court documents, Ducksworth stole a Glock .45-caliber semi-automatic pistol from a car parked at the Liberty Community Center on June 30, 2015.
Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition. At the time of the theft, Ducksworth was on felony supervision through the state of Mississippi for burglary of an auto and fraudulent use of a credit card. Subsequent to this federal offense, Duckworth was convicted in state court of receiving stolen property in Clay County, Mo., and of stealing a credit card in Platte County, Mo.
This case was prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph W. Vanover. It was investigated by the Liberty, Mo., Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Justice Department Reaches Agreement with Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority to Resolve Disability Discrimination ComplaintRead the Press Release
The Justice Department filed a proposed consent decree today to resolve a complaint that the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) discriminated against a job applicant on the basis of his disability, in violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
The department’s complaint alleges that WMATA extended a job offer as an elevator/escalator parts supervisor to an applicant but withdrew the offer upon learning that the applicant had epilepsy. The complaint further alleges that WMATA failed to discuss with the applicant how his disability might affect his ability to do the job or whether there were any available accommodations that would allow him to do the job.
As part of the consent decree, which is subject to approval by the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, WMATA will institute new policies to ensure that employees and job applicants with disabilities have the opportunity to confer with WMATA about their limitations as well as opportunities for reasonable accommodation in the workplace. WMATA will also ensure that supervisors are fully trained in those policies. In addition, WMATA has agreed to pay $175,000 in compensatory damages to the applicant. This matter was based on a referral from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission’s Washington Field Office, which completed the initial investigation of the facts.
“The ADA mandates that job applicants with disabilities receive fair and equal consideration in the hiring process,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Tom Wheeler of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “This settlement provides for new hiring policies that will protect against discriminatory practices and safeguard the rights of all individuals with disabilities who seek employment with WMATA. We commend WMATA for agreeing to revise its policies and offering to compensate the job applicant.”
“The discriminatory conduct in this case deprived a qualified candidate of a job opportunity and caused him economic and emotional stress,” said U.S. Attorney Channing D. Phillips of the District of Columbia. “This case shows there will be consequences for employers who fail to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. We are pleased that WMATA recognizes the need for new policies and will compensate the job candidate.”
To read the consent decree, please visit http://www.ada.gov/wmata/wmata_cd.html. For more information on the Civil Rights Division, please visit www.justice.gov/crt. For more information on the Civil Rights Division’s Disability Rights Section, please call the department’s toll-free ADA Information Line at 800-514-0301 (TDD 800-514-0383) or visit www.ada.gov.
WMATA Consent DecreeJustice Department Reaches Agreement with Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority to Resolve Disability Discrimination ComplaintRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – The Justice Department filed a proposed consent decree today to resolve a complaint that the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) discriminated against a job applicant on the basis of his disability, in violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
The department’s complaint alleges that WMATA extended a job offer as an elevator/escalator parts supervisor to an applicant but withdrew the offer upon learning that the applicant had epilepsy. The complaint further alleges that WMATA failed to discuss with the applicant how his disability might affect his ability to do the job or whether there were any available accommodations that would allow him to do the job.
As part of the consent decree, which is subject to approval by the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, WMATA will institute new policies to ensure that employees and job applicants with disabilities have the opportunity to confer with WMATA about their limitations as well as opportunities for reasonable accommodation in the workplace. WMATA will also ensure that supervisors are fully trained in those policies. In addition, WMATA has agreed to pay $175,000 in compensatory damages to the applicant. This matter was based on a referral from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission’s Washington Field Office, which completed the initial investigation of the facts.
“The ADA mandates that job applicants with disabilities receive fair and equal consideration in the hiring process,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Tom Wheeler of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “This settlement provides for new hiring policies that will protect against discriminatory practices and safeguard the rights of all individuals with disabilities who seek employment with WMATA. We commend WMATA for agreeing to revise its policies and offering to compensate the job applicant.”
“The discriminatory conduct in this case deprived a qualified candidate of a job opportunity and caused him economic and emotional stress,” said U.S. Attorney Channing D. Phillips of the District of Columbia. “This case shows there will be consequences for employers who fail to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. We are pleased that WMATA recognizes the need for new policies and will compensate the job candidate.”
To read the consent decree and complaint, please visit http://www.ada.gov/wmata/wmata_cd.html. For more information on the Civil Rights Division, please visit www.justice.gov/crt. For more information on the Civil Rights Division’s Disability Rights Section, please call the department’s toll-free ADA Information Line at 800-514-0301 (TDD 800-514-0383) or visit www.ada.gov.
Jury Convicts Orlando Resident for Possessing A FirearmRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida– United States Attorney A. Lee Bentley, III announces that a federal jury has found Shaka Smith (27, Orlando) guilty of possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for May 24, 2017, and he faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. Smith was indicted on September 28, 2016.
According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, on June 28, 2016, Smith ran from Orange County Sheriff’s Office deputies, through a residential neighborhood, with a backpack containing a .380 caliber semiautomatic firearm. The gun had an obliterated serial number and held an extended magazine containing 15 rounds of ammunition. Deputies also recovered two small bags of drugs from the backpack. Prior to his arrest in 2016, Smith had been convicted (2010) in the Orange County, Florida Circuit Court for carrying a concealed firearm. As a previously convicted felon, he is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Orange County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Vincent S. Chiu and Sean P. Shecter.
This is another case prosecuted as a part of the Department of Justice’s “Project Safe Neighborhoods” Program - a nationwide, gun-violence reduction strategy. United States Attorney A. Lee Bentley, III, along with Daryl R. McCrary, Special Agent in Charge, ATF, is coordinating the Project Safe Neighborhoods effort here in the Middle District of Florida in cooperation with federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.
Jackson County Men Sentenced for Digging up Native American Human RemainsRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, Ohio – Brian K. Skeens, 49, and Toby Lee Thacker, 56, of Wellston, Ohio were sentenced in U.S. District Court for violating the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act by trafficking the human remains of Native Americans. The case is the first criminal enforcement of the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act in the Southern District of Ohio.
Benjamin C. Glassman, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, Angela L. Byers, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Cincinnati Field Division, Jackson County Sheriff Tedd E. Frazier and Rick Perkins, Chief Ranger, National Park Service at Hopewell Culture National Historical Park, announced the sentences.
Skeens was sentenced to 90 days in prison and Thacker to 30 days in prison for engaging in the excavation and sale of the human remains of a Native American.
Mark M. Beatty, 57, purchased the human remains. He was sentenced in August to serve three years of probation including three months of home confinement, pay a $3,500 fine and pay $1,000 in restitution to the Miami Tribe of Oklahoma, to be used for re-burial of the Native American remains. The remains will be transferred to the federally recognized tribes who have assisted with this case, and re-buried in Ohio at an undisclosed location and in private once all the court proceedings are completed.
According to court documents, a witness saw people digging in a rock shelter on property on Sour Run Road in Jackson County, Ohio in November 2012 and chased them off. They left behind shovels, dirt sifters, buckets and trash. Sheriff Frazier’s investigators confirmed that three Wellston men – David E. Skeens, 40, Brian K. Skeens, and Thacker – had been digging on the property and had unburied human remains and artifacts. And subsequently, Beatty illegally bought those remains.
An anthropologist confirmed that the human remains were consistent with Native Americans, specifically identifiable by cradle boarding, a cultural activity used only by Native American Indians in North America. The identity of the remains was also confirmed by an archeologist, who verified that rock shelters were used extensively for burials in Southern Ohio and specifically in Jackson County. DNA testing confirmed a direct connection between tribes living thousands of years ago to present day Native Americans.
David Skeens was sentenced on July 21, 2016 to 30 days’ incarceration followed by a year of supervised release and ordered to pay $1,000 in restitution after pleading guilty to one count of illegal trafficking of Native American remains.
U.S. Attorney Glassman commended the investigation by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and the Department of the Interior, and the participation from an archeologist from Wayne National Forest and researchers from Ohio University, The Ohio State University, Washington State University and the FBI, as well as Assistant United States Attorneys J. Michael Marous and Brian Martinez, who are representing the United States in this case.
Individual Indicted and Arrested for Trafficking FirearmsRead the Press Release
San Juan, Puerto Rico – On February 22, 2017, a Federal Grand Jury in the District of Puerto Rico returned an indictment charging Gabriel A. Pena-Castillo with trafficking firearms, announced U.S. Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico, Rosa Emilia Rodríguez-Vélez. The United States Postal Inspector Service (USPIS) is in charge of the investigation in collaboration with Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
According to the indictment, Pena-Castillo, violated federal law by mailing three firearms from the Continental United States to Puerto Rico. Specifically, Pena-Castillo mailed three Glock pistols. Pena-Castillo’s actions violated 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(e) and 1715.
“Our district has renewed its efforts to investigate and prosecute the trafficking of firearms,” said U.S. Attorney Rosa Emilia Rodríguez-Vélez. “Law enforcement relationships and alliances in the southeast United States allow us to identify those individuals sending and receiving weapons illegally. We will continue to investigate and prosecute those individuals to the fullest extent of the law.”
This case was investigated by the USPIS with the collaboration of ATF and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Victor O. Acevedo-Hernández. Pena-Castillo faces a penalty of up to five years of imprisonment.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. Defendants are presumed innocent unless and until convicted through due process of law.
Indictment: Mail Theft Scheme Rested on Theft of Master KeyRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. – A 61-count federal indictment returned Tuesday charged 11 defendants in a case involving the alleged theft of mail from Wichita mailboxes, identity theft and bank fraud.
The indictment alleges that on Dec. 8, 2012, Wichita police learned that a U.S. Postal Service vehicle was burglarized and a master key was stolen that could open mailboxes throughout the Wichita metro area. Copies of the stolen key were used to steal mail, including checks and money orders. Methods used to cash the checks and money orders include adding a person’s name to the payee line, removing the original payee and substituting another name, forging signatures of account holders, and making counterfeit checks using the stolen information
Defendants named in the indictment include:
Brandon L. Amend, 30, Wichita, Kan.
Bettye L. Amend, 26, Wichita, Kan.
Cory D. Blanchard, 33
Ashley M. Campbell, 30, Valley Center, Kan.
Jason A. Farner, 33, Leavenworth, Kan.
Keith P. Gipson, 30, Wichita, Kan.
Krista A. Goodwin, 27, Wichita, Kan.
Jason L. West, 31, Wichita, Kan.
Cole P. Kelly, 32, Wichita, Kan.
Shalan D. Hiatt, 37
Jera L. Hammond, 25, Wichita, Kan.
Upon conviction, the crimes carry the following penalties:
Receipt of stolen mail: Up to five years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000 on each count.
Theft of mail: Up to10 years and a fine up to $250,000 on each count.
Bank fraud: Up to 30 years and a fine up to $1 million on each count.
Aggravated identity theft: A mandatory two years (consecutive) and a fine up to $250,000 on each count.
Unlawful possession of a firearm by a user of controlled substances: Up to 10 years and a fine up to $250,000.
The U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Wichita Police Department investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lanny Welch and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly Rodebaugh are prosecuting.
OTHER INDICTMENTS
Danny Russell Thomas, 50, Augusta, Kan., is charged with one count of wire fraud, three counts of attempted wire fraud, seven counts of aggravated identity theft and two counts of bankruptcy fraud. The indictment alleges he used stolen identities to apply for loans and to attempt to purchase autos.
If convicted, he faces up to 20 years and a fine up to $250,000 on each of the wire fraud charges, a mandatory two years (consecutive) on each identity theft charge and up to five years and a fine up $250,000 on each of the bankruptcy charges. The Secret Service and the U.S. Trustee investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alan Metzger is prosecuting.
Chanel K. Wiseman, 28, Wichita, Kan., is charged with two counts of receiving stolen mail, one count of possession of methamphetamine, one count of attempted wire fraud, one count of aggravated identity theft, two counts of possessing fraudulent identification documents and one count of unlawful possession of a firearm by a user of controlled substances.
Upon conviction, the crimes carry the following penalties:
Receipt of stolen mail: Up to five years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000.
Possession of methamphetamine: Up to a year in prison and a fine of at least $1,000.
Wire fraud: Up to 20 years and a fine up to $250,000.
Aggravated identity theft: A mandatory two years (consecutive) and a fine up to $250,000 on each count.
Possession of fraudulent identification documents: Up to five years and a fine up $250,000 on each count.
Unlawful possession of a firearm by a user of controlled substances: Up to 10 years and a fine up to $250,000.
The U.S. Postal Inspection Service investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lanny Welch is prosecuting.
Adan Lucas Vail, 28, a citizen of Guatemala, is charged with unlawfully re-entering the United States after being deported. He was found Dec. 20, 2016, in Seward County, Kan.
If convicted, he faces up to two years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000. Homeland Security Investigations investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brent Anderson is prosecuting.
Gilberto Diaz-Castro, 55, a citizen of Mexico, is charged with unlawfully re-entering the United States after being deported. He was found Feb. 9, 2017, in Finney County, Kan.
If convicted, he faces up to two years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000. Immigration and Custom Enforcement’s Enforcement Removal Operations investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brent Anderson is prosecuting.
William Myron McGold, 42, Wichita, Kan., is charged with one count of making a false statement when purchasing a firearm and one count of aggravated identity theft. The crimes are alleged to have occurred Dec. 10, 2016, at Goddard Gunnery in Sedgwick County, Kan.
If convicted, he faces up to 10 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000 on the firearm count, and a mandatory two years (consecutive) and a fine up to $250,000 on the aggravated identity theft charge. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alan Metzger is prosecuting.
Michael Scott Ramsey, 32, is charged with escaping from custody at Mirror Incorporated, a halfway house in the 3800 block of North Toben in Wichita.
If convicted, he faces up to five years and a fine up to $250,000. The U.S. Marshal Service investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Hart is prosecuting.
In all cases, defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The indictments merely contain allegations of criminal conduct.
Idaho Tax Return Preparer Pleads Guilty to Filing False ReturnsRead the Press Release
A Blackfoot, Idaho business owner pleaded guilty today in the U.S. District Court for the District of Idaho to one count of aiding and assisting in the preparation of a false tax return, announced Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Acting U.S. Attorney Rafael M. Gonzalez Jr. for the District of Idaho.
According to documents filed with the court, from approximately 2009 through 2012, Jonathan Peirsol, 42, of Pocatello, Idaho, prepared false individual income tax returns under the name JJ Accounting Inc. Peirsol falsified returns without his clients’ knowledge by adding items such as medical and education expenses. For some of the returns Peirsol also diverted a portion of the refund into a bank account he controlled without his clients’ knowledge. Peirsol failed to report on his own tax returns the fees he earned from his tax preparation businesss. Peirsol also owns and operates J&J Chemical Inc., a janitorial chemical supply company in Blackfoot.
Sentencing is scheduled for May 11. Peirsol faces a statutory maximum sentence of three years in prison, a period of supervised release, restitution and monetary penalties. Pursuant to his plea, Peirsol consented to the entry of a permanent injunction barring him from preparing income tax returns for any individual or entity other than himself.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Goldberg and Acting U.S. Attorney Gonzalez thanked special agents of IRS–Criminal Investigation, who conducted the investigation, and Trial Attorneys Lori Hendrickson and Kathleen Barry of the Tax Division, who are prosecuting the case.
Additional information about the Tax Division’s enforcement efforts can be found on the division’s website.
INTERPOL Washington Helps Take Down International Fraud and Money Laundering SchemeRead the Press Release
INTERPOL Washington partnered with U.S. and international law enforcement agencies to bring down four multi-million dollar international fraud and money laundering schemes perpetrated by a transnational organized crime network. In a March 1st news conference announcing the indictment of 19 individuals, Acting U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Channing D. Phillips lauded the contributions of and coordination between U.S. and international law enforcement partners.
Sixteen of the 19 defendants were arrested overnight and today in a law enforcement operation coordinated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Another was previously arrested, and two remain at large. The arrests took place in New York and Los Angeles, as well as Hungary, Bulgaria, Germany, and Israel. The arrests were conducted by more than 50 law enforcement agents.
INTERPOL Washington began providing support for these cases in 2015. Information gleaned through various INTERPOL and other database queries, participation in operational case meetings and conference calls, as well as processing of multiple routine and urgent notices by INTERPOL Washington contributed to the successful investigations.
“These indictments and today’s arrests followed an international investigation into an interconnected web of money launderers, fraudsters and individuals that aided and abetted their criminal activities,” said U.S. Attorney Phillips. “The defendants in the cases being unsealed today are accused of taking part in schemes in the United States and abroad, costing victims millions of dollars. The investigation demonstrates the importance of international cooperation amongst law enforcement in combatting fraud and money laundering on a global basis.”
Read the full news release from the Office of the U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia.
Hudson Man Sentenced for Stealing Deceased Mother’s Social Security BenefitsRead the Press Release
CONCORD, N.H. – Robert H. Duquette, 74, of Hudson, was sentenced today to one year of probation, and was ordered to pay $39,984 in restitution, including an immediate payment of $12,000, to the Social Security Administration, announced United States Attorney Emily Gray Rice.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Duquette’s mother was
receiving widow’s benefits from the Social Security Administration at the time of her death in October 2006. After her death, Social Security continued to deposit these monthly benefits into a bank account Duquette held jointly with his mother. However, neither Duquette nor any other individual was entitled to receive the benefits on his deceased mother’s behalf. Duquette failed to advise Social Security that it was making payments erroneously to his deceased mother. Instead, he used the funds deposited into the account for his own personal expenses for over seven years. Because the error was not reported to Social Security, Duquette was able to convert approximately $101,250 in Social Security benefits to his own use.
Duquette, who pleaded guilty to one count of Theft of Public Money on October 17, 2016, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Joseph A. DiClerico, Jr.
The case was investigated by the Social Security Administration’s Office of the Inspector General and prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Karen Burzycki.
###
Hot Springs Man Enters Guilty Plea to Kidnapping and Aggravated Sexual Abuse by ForceRead the Press Release
Hot Springs, Arkansas – Kenneth Elser, United States Attorney for the Western District of Arkansas, announced that on February 27, 2017, Lynn Terrance Breckenridge, II, age 26, of Hot Springs, Arkansas, pleaded guilty to one count of Kidnapping in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1201(a)(2) and one count of Aggravated Sexual Abuse by Force, in violation of Title 18 U.S.C. § 2241(a). According to the plea agreement, in the early morning hours of October 5, 2014, Breckenridge picked up the victim on Park Avenue in Hot Springs, claiming to offer a ride to the victim’s residence. Breckenridge then refused to take the victim to her residence and continued to drive around Hot Springs and the Hot Springs National Park, which is under exclusive federal jurisdiction. While driving in the Hot Springs National Park, Breckenridge used a handgun to force the victim to perform a sexual act. Breckenridge eventually released the victim, and she reported the assault to the Hot Springs Police Department. The change of plea was accepted by the Honorable Susan O. Hickey, in the United States District Court in Hot Springs.
The offenses to which Breckenridge pled guilty carry a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. Sentencing will occur at a later date.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations, Hot Springs Police Department and the National Park Service. Assistant United States Attorneys Kyra Jenner and Candace Taylor prosecuted the case for the United States.
* * * E N D * * *
Related court documents may be found on the Public Access to Electronic Records website @ www.pacer.gov
Homeland Security Investigations Fugitive Apprehended in MexicoRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Cuidad de Tuxpan, Veracruz, was arrested on Monday, February 27, 2017, by Mexican and U.S. immigration officials in Playa del Carmen, Mexico, following an Indictment by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of fraud conspiracy, mail fraud and access device fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The 37-count indictment, returned on August 2013, named Nicolas Frank Sucich, aka Francisco Javier Alavarez-Johnson, age 47, of Cuidad de Tuxpan, Veracruz, as a defendant.
According to the Indictment, between November 2007 and February 2011, Sucich conspired to defraud Liberty Travel and Scotiabank through the purchase of airline tickets and travel with an unauthorized Scotiabank MasterCard. The charged fraud counts in the Indictment total approximately $267,000 in loss.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 30 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000 for each count of wire fraud, and five years in prison and $250,000 for each of the access device fraud counts. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Sucich was scheduled to make an initial appearance today in federal court in the Southern District of Florida.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The U.S. Immigration Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Hanson Man Pleads Guilty to Child Sexual Exploitation ChargesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Hanson man pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court in Boston in connection with sending sexually explicit messages to two pre-teen girls.
Mark L. Leach, 49, pleaded guilty to one count of coercion and enticement of a minor child. U.S. District Court Judge F. Dennis Saylor scheduled sentencing for May 25, 2017. Leach was arrested and charged in April 2016.
In 2016, law enforcement officers learned that Leach, using the Skype screen name “funtimehockey,” had sent sexually explicit messages via text, live video and audio to two pre-teen girls. One of the girls occasionally babysat for Leach’s daughter. The victims told law enforcement officers that Leach asked them to send him naked and sexually explicit pictures of themselves. The victims also stated that during these sessions, Leach also sent naked and sexually explicit pictures of himself to the victims.
Leach admitted during an interview with law enforcement that he had set up the Skype account to communicate with these minor victims and others, and frequently requested that they expose themselves to him during the conversations. Leach also admitted that when the minor victims babysat for his daughter, he would expose himself and masturbate in front of them.
The charging statute provides for a minimum mandatory sentence of 10 years and no greater than lifetime in prison, a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting U.S. Attorney William D. Weinreb; Shelly Binkowski, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service; Colonel Richard D. McKeon Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; Hanson Police Chief Michael Miksch; and Whitman Police Chief Scott D. Benton, made the announcement today. The Waltham Police Department also assisted with the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth G. Shine of Weinreb’s Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case.
Greenville Man Enters Guilty Plea in Federal Court on Gun-Related ChargeRead the Press Release
Contact Person: Lance Crick (864) 282-2105
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that Brandon Neal Hart, age 27, of Greenville, pled guilty in federal court in Greenville to making a false statement in the purchase of a firearm, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(a)(6). United States District Judge Henry M. Herlong, Jr., accepted the plea and will impose sentence after he has reviewed the presentence report which will be prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.
Hart faces a statutory maximum sentence of 10 years in federal prison.
Evidence presented at the change of plea hearing established that on September 28, 2015, Hart, in connection with his acquisition of a .380 caliber pistol, and a 9mm caliber pistol, knowingly made a false statement intended to deceive the firearms dealer with respect to a fact material to the lawfulness of sale in that Hart represented on the purchase form that he was the actual purchaser of the firearms, when in fact, he was purchasing the pistols for another individual who is not allowed to possess firearms.
Agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Max Cauthen in the Greenville U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case.
#####
Greeneville Resident Sentenced to 210 Months on Crack Cocaine Conspiracy ChargesRead the Press Release
GREENEVILLE, Tenn. – On Feb.7, 2017, Barry Moore, 40, of Greeneville, Tenn., was sentenced by the Honorable J. Ronnie Greer, U.S. District Court Judge, to serve 210 months in federal prison following a conviction for his leadership role in a conspiracy to distribute large quantities of cocaine base “crack” in the Eastern District of Tennessee. Upon his release from prison he will be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 10 years.
According to his plea agreement on file with U.S. District Court, Moore admitted that between June and August 2015, he participated in the sale of crack cocaine on three separate occasions to an individual cooperating on behalf of law enforcement. On numerous occasions, Moore directed other co-defendants to deliver drugs for him. He often sold crack cocaine, or had others deal for him, directly from the back window of his Greeneville residence. Moore admitted that he was accountable for at least 2.8 kilograms but less than 8.4 kilograms of crack cocaine and that he had distributed at least two kilograms of a combination of crack cocaine and powder cocaine in Greeneville between October 2012 and April 2016.
Co-defendants Zachery Moore, 51, and Sophia Arwood, 31, both of Greeneville, Tenn., were previously sentenced to serve prison terms of 96 months and 60 months respectively. Both Zachery Moore and Arwood dealt crack cocaine for Barry Moore from his Greeneville residence. Other co-defendants Fitzroy Turner, 35, and Anlushan Evans, 38, both of Greeneville, Tenn., have sentencing hearings scheduled in the coming weeks.
Law enforcement agencies participating in the investigation included the Third District Judicial Drug Task Force, Drug Enforcement Administration and Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Wayne Taylor and former Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Corey Shipley represented the United States.
###
Grant County man indicted on firearms chargesRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – A Petersburg, West Virginia man was arrested yesterday for multiple firearms violations, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Benjamin Wayne Hyre, 36, was charged by a federal grand jury on February 22 for “Felon in possession of a firearm,” “Possession of a firearm with altered serial number,” “Unlawful transfer of short barrel firearm,” and “Unlawful possession of a silencer.” The crimes are alleged to have occurred between March and December 2016 in Grant County.
Hyre faces up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 for the first count, up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine for the second count, up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000 for each of the third and fourth counts.
Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Grant County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.Georgia Man Pleads Guilty for Role in Overdoses in ‘Operation Denial’Read the Press Release
FARGO - US Attorney Christopher C. Myers announced that on March 1, 2017, Ronnie Lee Helms, 32, Acworth, Georgia, pled guilty before US District Judge Ralph R. Erickson to an Indictment charging him with Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and Distribution of a Controlled Substance and Controlled Substance Analogues Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury and Death.
At the plea hearing, Helms admitted receiving and arranging the distribution of substances containing fentanyl and acetyl-fentanyl from a source of supply in Canada. This conduct resulted in the death of Joseph Williams in Garland, North Carolina. Two other victims were hospitalized in Fayetteville, North Carolina. Operation Denial is an Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation into the international trafficking of fentanyl and other lethal drugs, and was significantly aided by the national and international coordination led by the multi-agency Special Operations Division (S.O.D.) near Washington D.C. as part of “Operation Deadly Merchant.” The investigation started in North Dakota on January 3, 2015, with the overdose death in Grand Forks of 18-year-old Bailey Henke.
Additional defendants charged in Federal court in this investigation include:
District of North Dakota
Daniel Vivas Ceron, 36, Columbia – Indicted on charges of Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances and Controlled Substance Analogues Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury and Death; Conspiracy to Import Controlled Substances and Controlled Substance Analogues into the United States Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury and Death; Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of a Controlled Substance Resulting in Death; Money Laundering Conspiracy, and Continuing Criminal Enterprise. Trial pending.
Jameson Robert Sele, 20, Grand Forks, ND – Pled guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances and was sentenced on 7/27/15 to 36 months in federal prison.
Ryan Jon Jensen, 20, Grand Forks, ND – Pled guilty on 2/27/15 to: Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury and Death; two Counts of Distribution of a Controlled Substance Resulting in Death; and Distribution of a Controlled Substance Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury and Money Laundering Conspiracy. Sentenced on 2/2/2016 to 20 years in federal prison.
David Todd Noye Jr., 18, Grand Forks, ND – Pled guilty on 5/4/15 to Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances. Sentenced on 1/25/2016 to serve 3 years and 3 months in federal prison.
Joshua Tyler Fulp, 20, Grand Forks, ND – Pled guilty on 6/23/15 to Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury and Death and was sentenced to 12 years in federal prison.
Kain Daniel Schwandt, 19, Grand Forks, ND - Pled guilty on 7/24/15 to Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances. Sentenced on 1/25/2016 to serve 3 years and 6 months in federal prison.
Brandon Corde Hubbard, 40, Portland, OR - Indicted on charges of: Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury and Death; Distribution of a Controlled Substance Resulting in Death; and Money Laundering Conspiracy. Sentenced on 07/13/2016 to serve life in federal prison.
Braden James Foley, 28, Olympia, WA - Pled guilty on 8/11/2016 to Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and Distribution of a Controlled Substance and was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison on 11/21/2016.
District of Oregon
Steven Fairbanks Locke – Charged with: Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance. Trial pending.
Channing Lacey – Charged with: Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury; Distribution of a Controlled Substance Resulting in Death; Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Distribute. Trial pending.
Carissa Marie Laprall – Charged with three Counts of Distribution of a Controlled Substance Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury and Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Distribute. Trial pending.
The case is being investigated by the Department of Homeland Security - Homeland Security Investigations, Drug Enforcement Administration, United States Postal Inspection Service, Grand Forks Narcotics Task Force, Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Portland Oregon Police Bureau – Drugs and Vice Division, Portland HIDTA Interdiction Task Force, Oregon State Police, and the Grand Forks Police Department.
United States Attorney Christopher C. Myers is prosecuting the cases in North Dakota; Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Kerin is prosecuting the cases in the District of Oregon and will be assisting as a Special Assistant U.S Attorney (SAUSA) in North Dakota as the investigation moves forward.
## An Indictment is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent unless or until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt by plea or at a trial. ##
Frewsburg Man Sentenced for Health Care FraudRead 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 Leo A. Kronert, Jr., 66, of Frewsburg, NY, who was convicted of healthcare fraud, was sentenced to three years supervised release to include six months of home confinement and 100 hours community service by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo. The defendant was also ordered to pay $59,449.00 in restitution.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Maura K. O’Donnell, who handled the case, stated that the defendant, then a full-time teacher at Salamanca High School and a part-time chiropractor in Salamanca, submitted false claims for payment to Medicare and private insurance companies seeking reimbursement for health care services allegedly provided in connection with his chiropractic practice. The fraudulent claims totaled approximately $92,000, and included bills for patient visits on dates during which Kronert was travelling out of the area and bills for an individual who did not reside in Western New York.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Adam S. Cohen, Special Agent-in-Charge and the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Scott Lampert.
Former Registered Broker Pleads Guilty to Securities Fraud Conspiracy for Participating in A $131 Million Market Manipulation SchemeRead the Press Release
BROOKLYN, NY – Earlier today, Christopher F. Castaldo, a former registered broker who was the owner of two subscription-based investment research firms, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit securities fraud in connection with the fraudulent market manipulation of ForceField Energy Inc. (ForceField), a publicly-traded company listed on the NASDAQ under the ticker symbol “FNRG.” The guilty plea was entered before United States Magistrate Judge Ramon E. Reyes, Jr. at the federal courthouse in Brooklyn, New York. When sentenced, Castaldo faces up to five years in prison, as well as restitution, criminal forfeiture, and a fine.
The guilty plea was announced by Robert L. Capers, 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. Mr. Capers thanked the Securities and Exchange Commission, New York Regional Office, for their cooperation and assistance in the investigation.
According to court filings and facts presented at the plea hearing, between January 2009 and April 2015, the defendant, 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 defendants’ fraudulent scheme caused a loss of approximately $131 million to the investing public.
Between June 2011 and June 2014, Castaldo received commission payments, or kickbacks, in cash and in ForceField stock, from a ForceField executive for promoting the purchase of ForceField stock to investors, including by contacting subscribers who paid to receive independent investment research from Castaldo’s companies. Castaldo and employees working at his direction did not disclose his compensation arrangement while soliciting his paid subscribers to purchase ForceField’s stock. In addition, during some of the periods in which Castaldo was promoting the purchase of ForceField’s stock to his subscribers, Castaldo was actively selling ForceField stock he had received. Castaldo did not disclose this to the subscribers who were being solicited to purchase ForceField stock.
* * *
The government’s case is being prosecuted 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:
CHRISTOPHER F. CASTALDO
Age: 45
Residence: Glen Head, New York
E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 16-CR-234 (S-1) (BMC)
Former NFL Player and Former Bank Executive Sentenced for Ponzi Scheme and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A former New England Patriots player and a former bank vice president were sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Boston in connection with an investment scheme that took in over $35 million by making fraudulent loans to professional athletes.
Will D. Allen, 38, of Davie, Fla., and Susan Daub, 56, of Coral Spring, Fla., were each sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge William G. Young to six years in prison, three years of supervised release and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of approximately $16.8 million. Judge Young remanded both defendants to the custody of the United States Marshal Service.
“The defendants’ elaborate Ponzi scheme robbed many of the investors of a stable financial future,” said Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb. “The significant sentences the Court imposed today should remind investment professionals to handle their clients’ money with the transparency and integrity that the law requires.”
“Mr. Allen and Ms. Daub lied, cheated and swindled investors out of millions of dollars for their own personal enrichment,” said Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division. “This behavior destroys the financial security of hard-working individuals in our community and the FBI will do everything in its power to bring to justice individuals who take advantage of unwitting victims.”
“The sentences imposed by the court today send a strong message – those who defraud investors to unjustly enrich themselves will pay a hefty price,” said Special Agent in Charge Joel P. Garland, IRS Criminal Investigation. “As a former professional football player, Mr. Allen’s conduct is especially egregious. He used his status as an NFL athlete to legitimize his dealings with investors. We are proud to bring our financial expertise to joint investigations of this magnitude, and help prevent future victims of such schemes.”
In November 2016, Allen and Daub each pleaded guilty to two counts of wire fraud, one count of conspiracy and one count of money laundering. In June 2015, Allen and Daub were arrested on criminal charges after being sued by the Securities and Exchange Commission in April 2015.
Between 2012 and April 2015, Allen and Daub defrauded investors out of millions of dollars by claiming that the funds would be used to back high-interest, short-term loans to professional athletes through Capital Financial Partners (CFP), Allen and Daub’s Massachusetts-based company. While CFP did make some loans to athletes, Allen and Daub also diverted millions of investor dollars to themselves and other business ventures. In total, Allen and Daub took in over $35 million in investments. To date, they have repaid less than $22 million.
As part of the fraud, Allen and Daub collected money from investors to fund fictitious loans, then used the money, in part, to pay themselves. Other times, Allen and Daub told some investors that the loans CFP made to professional athletes were larger than they actually were, allowing Allen and Daub to collect more money from investors than they were lending out to athletes. To keep investors from discovering their fraud, Allen and Daub used newly invested money to make payments to existing investors, which they falsely characterized as interest and principal payments from athlete borrowers.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb; Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division; and Joel P. Garland, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigations in Boston made the announcement today. The U.S. Attorney’s Office received valuable assistance from the Securities and Exchange Commission, which previously charged Allen and Daub in a civil complaint. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Seth B. Kosto and Brian A. Pérez-Daple of Weinreb’s Economic Crimes Unit prosecuted the case.
Former Mamaroneck Teacher Sentenced for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Preet Bharara, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that LYLE KAMLET, a former teacher at a school in Mamaroneck, was sentenced yesterday by the Honorable Kenneth M. Karas to 39 months in prison for possessing child pornography.
Manhattan U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara stated: “Child pornography victimizes the most innocent and vulnerable in our communities. And when a former teacher like Lyle Kamlet possesses child pornography, it is doubly dangerous and disturbing. Thanks to the efforts of the United States Postal Inspection Service, Kamlet’s illicit conduct was brought to light, and he will now face time in prison for his crime.”
KAMLET previously pled guilty to one count of possessing child pornography.
According to the Information previously filed in White Plains federal court and public information:
From in or about 2008 through 2010, on a number of occasions, KAMLET ordered child pornography videos – some of which he directed to be mailed to the school where he was then employed. During a search of his residence, law enforcement seized those videos and also found home movies that he had created that contained images of naked children.
* * *
Mr. Bharara praised the outstanding investigative work of the United States Postal Inspection Service.
The prosecution is being overseen by the Office’s White Plains Unit. Assistant United States Attorney John P. Collins Jr. is in charge of the prosecution.
Former Guthrie Convenience Store Owner Pays $65,000 to Settle Allegations of False Claims for Trafficking in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program BenefitsRead the Press Release
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – ATCH, LLC d/b/a G-MART and ALI ASGHAR KHAN have paid $65,000 to settle allegations that they violated the False Claims Act by submitting false claims under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to the United States Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, announced Mark A. Yancey, United States Attorney for the Western District of Oklahoma.
The SNAP program was established to provide food to low-income individuals through approved retail food stores. The Oklahoma Department of Human Services (ODHS) determines whether individuals are eligible to receive benefits. Owners of retail stores apply for USDA authorization to accept SNAP benefits as payment for eligible food items, and the applicants certify they understand that trading cash or ineligible items for food stamp benefits violates the program regulations. Since February of 2008, ODHS has given electronic benefit transfer cards (a debit-type card known as Access Oklahoma cards) to SNAP recipients instead of paper food stamps.
ATCH, LLC, an Oklahoma limited liability company, formerly owned a retail convenience store named G-Mart in Guthrie, Oklahoma. Khan is the owner of ATCH and operated G-Mart. Khan was a resident of Guthrie and currently resides in McKinney, Texas. ATCH was an authorized SNAP retailer from May 20, 2009, until February 18, 2015. As an authorized retailer, ATCH was allowed to accept SNAP benefits from eligible recipients as payment for eligible food items. SNAP benefits cannot be exchanged for cash or ineligible items.
The United States contends that from March 1, 2011, through March 31, 2013, ATCH and Khan submitted claims for SNAP benefits to the United States that were false or fraudulent because the Defendants trafficked in SNAP benefits. More specifically, it was alleged that ATCH and Khan represented that claims for SNAP benefits submitted to the United States were in exchange for qualified food products when in fact they exchanged SNAP benefits for cash and ineligible items.
On June 20, 2016, the United States filed an action against ATCH and Khan in the United States District Court for the Western District of Oklahoma captioned United States v. ATCH, LLC d/b/a G-Mart and Ali Asghar Khan, CIV-16-683-F. In order to resolve the allegations brought by the United States, ATCH and Khan paid $65,000. In reaching this settlement, ATCH and Khan did not admit liability and the government did not make any concessions regarding the legitimacy of the claims. The agreement allows the parties to avoid the delay, expense, inconvenience, and uncertainty involved in litigating the case.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Matthew P. Anderson and Ronald R. Gallegos.
Fifty-Five Defendants Charged in Massive Crackdown on North County Heroin, Methamphetamine and Firearms TraffickersRead the Press Release
OFFICE OF THE UNITED STATES ATTORNEY
SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF CALIFORNIA
San Diego, California
Acting United States Attorney
Alana W. Robinson
For Further Information, Contact:
Assistant U. S. Attorneys Matthew Sutton (619) 546-8941, Kyle Martin 546-8384,
Carol Lee 546-7584 and Michael Heyman 546-9615For Immediate Release
NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY – March 1, 2017
SAN DIEGO – Ten federal indictments unsealed today charge 55 defendants with crimes ranging from money laundering to heroin, methamphetamine and firearms trafficking in what officials have described as one of the most significant crackdowns in recent memory.
The defendants, including prominent drug dealers and documented gang members, were responsible for supplying a substantial portion of the heroin and methamphetamine distributed in North County.
Early this morning, more than 150 members of the North County Regional Gang Task Force plus other law enforcement agencies made numerous arrests and during the course of the investigation searched more than 20 locations in Oceanside, Vista, elsewhere in North County and in Kingman, Arizona.
As of today at noon, 46 of the fifty-five defendants are either in federal or state custody. Fourteen were arrested this morning; the rest were arrested earlier in the week or were already in custody. Authorities are continuing to search for seven defendants; two are in Mexico. Many of the defendants are scheduled to be arraigned before U.S. Magistrate Judge Karen S. Crawford at 2:00 p.m. today and tomorrow.
The yearlong investigation was led by the North County Regional Gang Task Force. It involved months of federal wiretaps, dozens of undercover drug and gun buys and extensive surveillance. Many of the defendants are documented members or associates of violent North County street gangs, including the Vista Home Boys, Varrio Fallbrook Locos, Varrio Carlsbad Locos, Encinitas Tortilla Flats, Varrio San Marcos and Escondido Viejo Diablos.
According to charging documents, the defendants were involved in a variety of crimes, including drug distribution, firearms trafficking, robberies, vehicle thefts, burglaries and assaults.
25 firearms including handguns, revolvers and assault rifles.In total, authorities seized heroin, methamphetamine and 25 firearms, including handguns, revolvers and assault rifles. These drugs and guns were being stored and sold in our North County neighborhoods, including across the street from Vista High School.
The charging documents describe a trafficking organization allegedly led by a Mexico-based woman who used dozens of street gang members to distribute heroin. Defendant Yadira “Pini” Villalvazo attended Vista High School and was an associate of Vista Home Boys street gang before she was deported following a federal drug trafficking conviction in 2002. According to charging documents, Villalvazo is now running her own Sinaloa Cartel-linked organization from Tijuana. Her specialty is still heroin.
According to court records, this drug trafficking organization supplied at least 25 percent of the heroin sold and consumed in North County and grossed tens of thousands of dollars in proceeds that were sent back to Mexico. The Villalvazo network distributed heroin in North County and also supplied pound quantities of heroin to a prolific distribution ring in Kingman, Arizona.
During this investigation, the gang task force also targeted major methamphetamine distribution cells connected to North County street gangs, including rings allegedly led by Sabrina Yzaguirre, Ivan Bazan, aka “Dreamer,” and Jorge Enrique Jara Cervantes, aka “Scorpion.” In addition, the ring allegedly led by Jara shipped pound quantities of methamphetamine for distribution in Alabama and Tennessee.
Heroin deaths in San Diego County more than doubled in the last decade, from 40 in 2005 to 90 in 2015. And this is despite the use of naloxone, which first responders have used to save countless lives. In 2015 alone, paramedics used naloxone 1,340 times. Heroin treatment admissions have risen every year in San Diego County since 2011.
fugitives_no_worries.pdf
Meth-related deaths increased more than 80% between 2011 and 2015. And about half of adults arrested in 2015 tested positive for meth at the time of their arrest.“Today we’ve taken out one of North County’s largest heroin suppliers,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Alana Robinson. “This crackdown is our most significant response to date to the heroin epidemic ravaging our communities. We anticipate seeing a huge impact now that these defendants are removed from our community, particularly in the North County cities of Oceanside, Vista, San Marcos and other areas plagued by gangs.”
“The Sheriff's Department is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to keep the influence of drugs and gangs away from our children and out of our community,” said San Diego County Sheriff Bill Gore.
FBI Special Agent in Charge Eric S. Birnbaum stated, “This investigation demonstrates the complex, international and multi-faceted nature of the gang threat in North County where heroin, methamphetamine and firearms related crimes threaten our communities. The FBI will continue to work tirelessly alongside our law enforcement partners at the North County Regional Gang Task Force to restore these neighborhoods to the good citizens who live in them.”
Acting U.S. Attorney Robinson praised the task force for the coordinated team effort in the culmination of this investigation. Agents and officers from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, San Diego County Sheriff's Office, Oceanside Police Department, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, Bureau of Prisons, Homeland Security Investigations. U.S. Marshals Service, California Highway Patrol, and the Escondido and Carlsbad Police Departments collaborated on this investigation. Attorneys from the Department of Justice, Office of Enforcement Operations, Electronic Surveillance Unit, also provided critical assistance to the investigation.
This case is also the result of the ongoing efforts by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) a partnership that brings together the combined expertise and unique abilities of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, dismantle and prosecute high level members of drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations and enterprises.
The United States is represented in court by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew J. Sutton, Kyle B. Martin, Carol Lee, and Michael J. Heyman.
Operation No Worries Defendant Information
DEFENDANTS Criminal Case No: 17CR0336-LAB
Name
Age
Hometown
Yadira Esmeralda Villalvazo,
aka “Pini”
38
Tijuana, MX
Andrea Ball
37
Vista, CA
Cristina Gomez
30
Vista, CA
Joel Villalvazo
25
Vista, CA
Joshua O’Brien
35
Fallbrook, CA
David Dominguez,
aka “Bandit”
36
Vista, CA
Tina Dominguez
35
Vista, CA
Fidel Jimenez
36
Oceanside, CA
Naomi Jimenez,
aka “Huera”
42
Vista, CA
Salvador Mendez
46
Fallbrook, CA
David Siladji
37
Vista, CA
Angel Serrato
55
Vista, CA
Alexander Mendoza
29
Carlsbad, CA
Rene Ramos
45
Kingman, AZ
Maria Sanchez
41
Kingman, AZ
Edivan Patino
27
Vista, CA
Richard Seffens
39
Poway, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin, in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Secs. 841(a)(1) and 846;
Conspiracy to Import Heroin, in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Secs. 952, 960, and 963;
Conspiracy to Launder Monetary Instruments, in violation of Title 18, U.S.C., Secs. 1956(a)(2)(B)(i) and (h);
Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Sec. 841(a)(1);
Possession of Heroin with Intent to Distribute in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Sec. 841(a)(1);
Maximum Penalties: For the drug charges, life in prison with a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a $10 million fine. For the money laundering charges, 20 years in prison and a fine of $500,000 or twice the value of the monetary instrument or funds involved.
DEFENDANTS Criminal Case No: 17CR0337-LAB
Name
Age
Hometown
Andrea Ball
37
Vista, CA
Travis Hensley
36
Fallbrook, CA
Aaron McCune
36
San Marcos, CA
Vanessa Rojas
44
Vista, CA
Edward Araiza
42
Oceanside, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Secs. 841(a)(1) and 846;
Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Sec. 841(a)(1);
Felon in Possession of a Firearm in in violation of Title 18, U.S.C., Secs. 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2)
Maximum Penalties: For drug charges: life in prison with a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a 10 million dollar fine. For firearms charges: 10 years’ in prison, and a 250,000 dollar fine.
DEFENDANTS Criminal Case No: 17CR0338-LAB
Name
Age
Hometown
Javier Castrellon,
Aka “Javi”
53
San Marcos, CA
Manuel Espinoza,
Aka “Manny
48
Encinitas, CA
James Caruthers
54
Oceanside, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Secs. 841(a)(1) and 846;
Distribution of Methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Sec. 841(a)(1)
Maximum Penalties: Life in prison with a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a $10 million fine.
DEFENDANT Criminal Case No: 17CR0339-LAB
Name
Age
Hometown
Pedro Bret Cueva,
Aka “Largo
26
San Marcos, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Distribution of Methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Sec. 841(a)(1)
Maximum Penalties: Life in prison with a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a 10 million dollar fine.
DEFENDANT Criminal Case No: 17CR0340-LAB
Name
Age
Hometown
Julio Cesar Valverde,
Aka “Night Owl”
28
San Marcos, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Distribution of Methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Sec. 841(a)(1)
Maximum Penalties: Life in prison with a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a 10 million dollar fine.
DEFENDANT Criminal Case No: 17CR0482-JAH
Name
Age
Hometown
Noe Rene Lugo
Aka “No-No,” “Wolfie”
33
Vista, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Dealing in Firearms Without a License in violation of Title 18, U.S.C., Sec. 922(a)(1);
Felon in Possession of a Firearm in in violation of Title 18, U.S.C., Secs. 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2)
Maximum Penalties: For firearms charges: 10 years’ in prison, and a 250,000 dollar fine.
DEFENDANTS Criminal Case No: 17CR0483-LAB
Name
Age
Hometown
Jose Alejandre-Ruvalcaba,
Aka “Scrappy”
42
Tijuana, MX
Kristina Lee Rozzo
43
Vista, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Conspiracy to Import Methamphetamine in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Secs. 952, 960 and 963.
Maximum Penalties: Life in prison with a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a 10 million dollar fine.
DEFENDANTS Criminal Case No: 17CR0484-LAB
Name
Age
Hometown
Ivan Bazan
Aka “Dreamer”
32
Vista, CA
Brhandon Puga
20
Chula Vista, CA
Matthew Ortiz
35
Chula Vista, CA
Cheytan Siva,
Aka “Hawk”
36
Vista, CA
Luis Gonzalez,
Aka “Knockout”
32
Vista, CA
James Mathes
32
Oceanside, CA
Eva Corona
33
Carlsbad, CA
Randy Moraleja
35
Escondido, CA
Brett Mooney
37
Oceanside, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Secs. 841(a)(1) and 846;
Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Sec. 841(a)(1);
Felon in Possession of a Firearm in in violation of Title 18, U.S.C., Secs. 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2).
Maximum Penalties: For drug charges: life in prison with a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a $10 million dollar. For firearms charges: 10 years’ in prison, and a 250,000 dollar fine.
DEFENDANTS Criminal Case No: 17CR0485-LAB
Name
Age
Hometown
Jorge Enrique Jara Cervantes
Aka “Scorpion”
28
Vista, CA
Jaime Orozco
30
Vista, CA
Gabriele Solis
26
Vista, CA
Alex Camou
27
Vista, CA
Morgan Peterson
25
Carlsbad, CA
Keith Collins
Aka “Lurch
32
Oceanside, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Secs. 841(a)(1) and 846;
Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Sec. 841(a)(1);
Felon in Possession of a Firearm in in violation of Title 18, U.S.C., Secs. 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2).
Maximum Penalties: For drug charges: life in prison with a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a 10 million dollar fine. For firearms charges: 10 years’ in prison, and a 250,000 dollar fine.
DEFENDANTS Criminal Case No: 17CR0487-LAB
Name
Age
Hometown
Sabrina Yzaguirre
28
Vista, CA
Roberto Recendez,
Aka “Grandpa”
54
Vista, CA
Eduardo Oretga,
Aka “Lalo”
25
Oceanside, CA
Antonio Becerra,
Aka “Thief”
30
Vista, CA
Kimberly Arenas
41
Escondido, CA
Manuel Guerena
37
Escondido, CA
Marco Vasquez
Aka “No-No”
24
Vista, CA
Johnny Molina-Bailon
34
Vista, CA
Santiago Rios,
Aka “Jimmy”
35
Vista, CA
Alex Camou
27
Vista, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Secs. 841(a)(1) and 846;
Distribution of Methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Sec. 841(a)(1);
Felon in Possession of a Firearm in in violation of Title 18, U.S.C., Secs. 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2).
Maximum Penalties: For drug charges: life in prison with a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a $10 million fine. For firearms charges: 10 years in prison, and a 250,000 dollar fine.
DEFENDANT Criminal Case No: 17MJ0467-NLS
Name
Age
Hometown
Linda Cowan
46
Oceanside, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Sec. 841(a)(1);
Felon in Possession of a Firearm in in violation of Title 18, U.S.C., Secs. 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2)
Maximum Penalties: For drug charges: life in prison with a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a $10 million fine. For firearms charges: 10 years in prison, and a 250,000 dollar fine.
*The charges and allegations contained in an indictment or complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.
AGENCIES
North County Regional Gang Task Force, which includes the Federal Bureau of Investigation, San Diego County Sheriff's Office, Oceanside Police Department, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, Bureau of Prisons, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Marshals Service, California Highway Patrol, and the Escondido and Carlsbad Police Departments, San Diego County District Attorney’s Office
Fifty-Five Defendants Charged in Massive Crackdown on California Heroin, Methamphetamine and Firearms TraffickersRead the Press Release
Ten federal indictments unsealed today charge 55 defendants with crimes ranging from money laundering to heroin, methamphetamine and firearms trafficking in what officials have described as one of the most significant crackdowns in recent memory.
The defendants, including prominent drug dealers and documented gang members, were responsible for supplying a substantial portion of the heroin and methamphetamine distributed in North County, California.
Early this morning, more than 150 members of the North County Regional Gang Task Force plus other law enforcement agencies made numerous arrests and during the course of the investigation searched more than 20 locations in Oceanside, Vista and elsewhere in North County in California as well as Kingman, Arizona.
As of today at noon, 46 of the 55 defendants are either in federal or state custody. Fourteen were arrested this morning; the rest were arrested earlier in the week or were already in custody. Authorities are continuing to search for seven defendants; two are in Mexico. Many of the defendants are scheduled to be arraigned before U.S. Magistrate Judge Karen S. Crawford at 2:00 p.m. today and tomorrow.
The yearlong investigation was led by the North County Regional Gang Task Force. It involved months of federal wiretaps, dozens of undercover drug and gun buys and extensive surveillance. Many of the defendants are documented members or associates of violent North County street gangs, including the Vista Home Boys, Varrio Fallbrook Locos, Varrio Carlsbad Locos, Encinitas Tortilla Flats, Varrio San Marcos and Escondido Viejo Diablos.
According to charging documents, the defendants were involved in a variety of crimes, including drug distribution, firearms trafficking, robberies, vehicle thefts, burglaries and assaults.
In total, authorities seized heroin, methamphetamine and 25 firearms, including handguns, revolvers and assault rifles. These drugs and guns were being stored and sold in our North County neighborhoods, including across the street from Vista High School.
The charging documents describe a trafficking organization allegedly led by a Mexico-based woman who used dozens of street gang members to distribute heroin. Defendant Yadira “Pini” Villalvazo attended Vista High School and was an associate of Vista Home Boys street gang before she was deported following a federal drug trafficking conviction in 2002. According to charging documents, Villalvazo is now running her own Sinaloa Cartel-linked organization from Tijuana. Her specialty is still heroin.
According to court records, this drug trafficking organization supplied at least 25 percent of the heroin sold and consumed in North County and grossed tens of thousands of dollars in proceeds that were sent back to Mexico. The Villalvazo network distributed heroin in North County and also supplied pound quantities of heroin to a prolific distribution ring in Kingman.
During this investigation, the gang task force also targeted major methamphetamine distribution cells connected to North County street gangs, including rings allegedly led by Sabrina Yzaguirre, Ivan Bazan, aka “Dreamer” and Jorge Enrique Jara Cervantes, aka “Scorpion.” In addition, the ring allegedly led by Jara shipped pound quantities of methamphetamine for distribution in Alabama and Tennessee.
Heroin deaths in San Diego County more than doubled in the last decade, from 40 in 2005 to 90 in 2015. And this is despite the use of naloxone, which first responders have used to save countless lives. In 2015 alone, paramedics used naloxone 1,340 times. Heroin treatment admissions have risen every year in San Diego County since 2011.
Meth-related deaths increased more than 80% between 2011 and 2015. And about half of adults arrested in 2015 tested positive for meth at the time of their arrest.
“Today we’ve taken out one of North County’s largest heroin suppliers,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Alana Robinson. “This crackdown is our most significant response to date to the heroin epidemic ravaging our communities. We anticipate seeing a huge impact now that these defendants are removed from our community, particularly in the North County cities of Oceanside, Vista, San Marcos and other areas plagued by gangs.”
“The Sheriff's Department is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to keep the influence of drugs and gangs away from our children and out of our community,” said County Sheriff Bill Gore of San Diego, California.
Special Agent in Charge Eric S. Birnbaum of the FBI stated, “This investigation demonstrates the complex, international and multi-faceted nature of the gang threat in North County where heroin, methamphetamine and firearms related crimes threaten our communities. The FBI will continue to work tirelessly alongside our law enforcement partners at the North County Regional Gang Task Force to restore these neighborhoods to the good citizens who live in them.”
Acting U.S. Attorney Robinson praised the task force for the coordinated team effort in the culmination of this investigation. Agents and officers from the FBI, San Diego County Sheriff's Office, Oceanside Police Department, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, Bureau of Prisons and Homeland Security Investigations. U.S. Marshals Service, California Highway Patrol and the Escondido and Carlsbad Police Departments collaborated on this investigation. Attorneys from the Department of Justice, Office of Enforcement Operations, Electronic Surveillance Unit, also provided critical assistance to the investigation.
This case is also the result of the ongoing efforts by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) a partnership that brings together the combined expertise and unique abilities of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, dismantle and prosecute high level members of drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations and enterprises.
The U.S. is represented in court by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew J. Sutton, Kyle B. Martin, Carol Lee and Michael J. Heyman.
Operation No Worries Defendant Information
DEFENDANTS Criminal Case No: 17CR0336-LAB
Name
Age
Hometown
Yadira Esmeralda Villalvazo,
aka “Pini”
38
Tijuana, MX
Andrea Ball
37
Vista, CA
Cristina Gomez
30
Vista, CA
Joel Villalvazo
25
Vista, CA
Joshua O’Brien
35
Fallbrook, CA
David Dominguez,
aka “Bandit”
36
Vista, CA
Tina Dominguez
35
Vista, CA
Fidel Jimenez
36
Oceanside, CA
Naomi Jimenez,
aka “Huera”
42
Vista, CA
Salvador Mendez
46
Fallbrook, CA
David Siladji
37
Vista, CA
Angel Serrato
55
Vista, CA
Alexander Mendoza
29
Carlsbad, CA
Rene Ramos
45
Kingman, AZ
Maria Sanchez
41
Kingman, AZ
Edivan Patino
27
Vista, CA
Richard Seffens
39
Poway, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin, in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Secs. 841(a)(1) and 846;
Conspiracy to Import Heroin, in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Secs. 952, 960, and 963;
Conspiracy to Launder Monetary Instruments, in violation of Title 18, U.S.C., Secs. 1956(a)(2)(B)(i) and (h);
Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Sec. 841(a)(1);
Possession of Heroin with Intent to Distribute in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Sec. 841(a)(1);
Maximum Penalties: For the drug charges, life in prison with a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a $10 million fine. For the money laundering charges, 20 years in prison and a fine of $500,000 or twice the value of the monetary instrument or funds involved.
DEFENDANTS Criminal Case No: 17CR0337-LAB
Name
Age
Hometown
Andrea Ball
37
Vista, CA
Travis Hensley
36
Fallbrook, CA
Aaron McCune
36
San Marcos, CA
Vanessa Rojas
44
Vista, CA
Edward Araiza
42
Oceanside, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Secs. 841(a)(1) and 846;
Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Sec. 841(a)(1);
Felon in Possession of a Firearm in in violation of Title 18, U.S.C., Secs. 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2)
Maximum Penalties: For drug charges: life in prison with a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a 10 million dollar fine. For firearms charges: 10 years’ in prison, and a 250,000 dollar fine.
DEFENDANTS Criminal Case No: 17CR0338-LAB
Name
Age
Hometown
Javier Castrellon,
Aka “Javi”
53
San Marcos, CA
Manuel Espinoza,
Aka “Manny
48
Encinitas, CA
James Caruthers
54
Oceanside, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Secs. 841(a)(1) and 846;
Distribution of Methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Sec. 841(a)(1)
Maximum Penalties: Life in prison with a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a $10 million fine.
DEFENDANT Criminal Case No: 17CR0339-LAB
Name
Age
Hometown
Pedro Bret Cueva,
Aka “Largo
26
San Marcos, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Distribution of Methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Sec. 841(a)(1)
Maximum Penalties: Life in prison with a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a 10 million dollar fine.
DEFENDANT Criminal Case No: 17CR0340-LAB
Name
Age
Hometown
Julio Cesar Valverde,
Aka “Night Owl”
28
San Marcos, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Distribution of Methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Sec. 841(a)(1)
Maximum Penalties: Life in prison with a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a 10 million dollar fine.
DEFENDANT Criminal Case No: 17CR0482-JAH
Name
Age
Hometown
Noe Rene Lugo
Aka “No-No,” “Wolfie”
33
Vista, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Dealing in Firearms Without a License in violation of Title 18, U.S.C., Sec. 922(a)(1);
Felon in Possession of a Firearm in in violation of Title 18, U.S.C., Secs. 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2)
Maximum Penalties: For firearms charges: 10 years’ in prison, and a 250,000 dollar fine.
DEFENDANTS Criminal Case No: 17CR0483-LAB
Name
Age
Hometown
Jose Alejandre-Ruvalcaba,
Aka “Scrappy”
42
Tijuana, MX
Kristina Lee Rozzo
43
Vista, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Conspiracy to Import Methamphetamine in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Secs. 952, 960 and 963.
Maximum Penalties: Life in prison with a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a 10 million dollar fine.
DEFENDANTS Criminal Case No: 17CR0484-LAB
Name
Age
Hometown
Ivan Bazan
Aka “Dreamer”
32
Vista, CA
Brhandon Puga
20
Chula Vista, CA
Matthew Ortiz
35
Chula Vista, CA
Cheytan Siva,
Aka “Hawk”
36
Vista, CA
Luis Gonzalez,
Aka “Knockout”
32
Vista, CA
James Mathes
32
Oceanside, CA
Eva Corona
33
Carlsbad, CA
Randy Moraleja
35
Escondido, CA
Brett Mooney
37
Oceanside, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Secs. 841(a)(1) and 846;
Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Sec. 841(a)(1);
Felon in Possession of a Firearm in in violation of Title 18, U.S.C., Secs. 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2).
Maximum Penalties: For drug charges: life in prison with a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a $10 million dollar. For firearms charges: 10 years’ in prison, and a 250,000 dollar fine.
DEFENDANTS Criminal Case No: 17CR0485-LAB
Name
Age
Hometown
Jorge Enrique Jara Cervantes
Aka “Scorpion”
28
Vista, CA
Jaime Orozco
30
Vista, CA
Gabriele Solis
26
Vista, CA
Alex Camou
27
Vista, CA
Morgan Peterson
25
Carlsbad, CA
Keith Collins
Aka “Lurch
32
Oceanside, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Secs. 841(a)(1) and 846;
Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Sec. 841(a)(1);
Felon in Possession of a Firearm in in violation of Title 18, U.S.C., Secs. 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2).
Maximum Penalties: For drug charges: life in prison with a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a 10 million dollar fine. For firearms charges: 10 years’ in prison, and a 250,000 dollar fine.
DEFENDANTS Criminal Case No: 17CR0487-LAB
Name
Age
Hometown
Sabrina Yzaguirre
28
Vista, CA
Roberto Recendez,
Aka “Grandpa”
54
Vista, CA
Eduardo Oretga,
Aka “Lalo”
25
Oceanside, CA
Antonio Becerra,
Aka “Thief”
30
Vista, CA
Kimberly Arenas
41
Escondido, CA
Manuel Guerena
37
Escondido, CA
Marco Vasquez
Aka “No-No”
24
Vista, CA
Johnny Molina-Bailon
34
Vista, CA
Santiago Rios,
Aka “Jimmy”
35
Vista, CA
Alex Camou
27
Vista, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Secs. 841(a)(1) and 846;
Distribution of Methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Sec. 841(a)(1);
Felon in Possession of a Firearm in in violation of Title 18, U.S.C., Secs. 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2).
Maximum Penalties: For drug charges: life in prison with a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a $10 million fine. For firearms charges: 10 years in prison, and a 250,000 dollar fine.
DEFENDANT Criminal Case No: 17MJ0467-NLS
Name
Age
Hometown
Linda Cowan
46
Oceanside, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Sec. 841(a)(1);
Felon in Possession of a Firearm in in violation of Title 18, U.S.C., Secs. 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2)
Maximum Penalties: For drug charges: life in prison with a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a $10 million fine. For firearms charges: 10 years in prison, and a 250,000 dollar fine.
*The charges and allegations contained in an indictment or complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.
AGENCIES
North County Regional Gang Task Force, which includes the FBI, San Diego County Sheriff's Office, Oceanside Police Department, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, Bureau of Prisons, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Marshals Service, California Highway Patrol, and the Escondido and Carlsbad Police Departments, San Diego County District Attorney’s Office.
Federal Inmate Guilty of Possessing Shank in Beaumont PrisonRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas – A 26-year-old federal prison inmate has pleaded guilty to possession of a shank in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Brit Featherston today.
Rafael Castillo, Jr., pleaded guilty to possession of a prohibited object on Feb. 28, 2017, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Keith Giblin.
According to information presented in court, on June 20, 2016, Castillo, an inmate at the Federal Correctional Complex in Beaumont, was found during a pat-down search, to be in possession of two homemade weapons measuring approximately 5.5 inches and 7 inches in length each. Castillo had the weapons concealed in his pants pocket. Each weapon, commonly referred to as a ‘shank,’ had been constructed out of metal material and had been sharpened to a point and designed to be used as a weapon. Such objects are prohibited in the Beaumont Federal Correctional Complex.
Under federal statutes, Castillo faces up to 20 years in federal prison at sentencing. The maximum statutory sentence prescribed by Congress and is provided here for information purposes, as the sentencing will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the U.S. Probation Office.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Prisons and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Randall L. Fluke.
Federal Grand Jury Indicts Lieutenant from Kirtland Air Force Base on Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A federal grand jury sitting in Albuquerque, N.M., has returned an indictment charging Jesse Furse, 34, with federal child pornography offenses, announced U.S. Attorney Damon P. Martinez, New Mexico Attorney General Hector H. Balderas, Special Agent in Charge Terry Wade of the Albuquerque Division of the FBI, Special Agent Philip J. Davis of the Air Force Office of Special Investigations (AFOSI), and Chief Gorden E. Eden, Jr., of the Albuquerque Police Department (APD).
The nine-count indictment, which was filed yesterday and publicly posted earlier today, charges Furse with eight counts of distributing visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct, and one count of possessing visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. The indictment charges Furse with distributing child pornography on eight occasions between Oct. 2015 and Jan. 2016, and with possessing child pornography between May 2014 and Jan. 2016. According to the indictment, Furse committed the nine crimes in Bernalillo County, N.M. At the time, Furse, a lieutenant with the U.S. Air Force, was stationed at Kirtland Air Force Base.
Furse was arrested on Feb. 10, 2017, on a criminal complaint alleging child pornography charges, and remains in federal custody pending trial on the charges in the indictment. Furse is scheduled for arraignment on the indictment on March 9, 2017.
Court filings indicate that the investigation of this case was initiated in Oct. 2015, when an agent with the New Mexico Internet Crimes against Children (ICAC) Task Force, who was conducting an investigation into computers in the Albuquerque-area that were receiving, sharing, possessing and/or distributing child pornography, came upon a device using a specific IP address that allegedly was being used to share child pornography. In Jan. 2016, after investigation by APD revealed that the IP address was registered to Furse at an address located on Kirtland Air Force Base, the investigation was referred to AFOSI. On Jan. 29, 2016, AFOSI obtained a search warrant from a Military Magistrate, and AFOSI and APD executed the search warrant and seized a computer and computer-related media from Furse’s residence. The FBI joined the investigation in Feb. 2016, and obtained a federal search warrant for the computer-related evidence seized from Furse’s residence in March 2016.
According to the criminal complaint, the computer-related evidence seized from Furse’s residence was encrypted, and experts at the FBI’s New Mexico Regional Computer Forensics Laboratory (RCFL) made multiple attempts to access the computer-related evidence between March 2016 and Feb. 2017. In Feb. 2017, RCFL experts were able successfully to access the computer-related evidence. The criminal complaint alleges that a preliminary review of the contents of a hard drive seized from Furse’s residence contained approximately 1400 video files consistent with child pornography.
If convicted, Furse faces a statutory mandatory minimum of five years and a maximum of 20 years of imprisonment on the distribution charges, and a statutory maximum of 20 years of imprisonment on the possession charge. Charges in criminal complaints and indictments are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent unless found guilty in a court of law.
The investigation of this case, which is continuing, is being handled by the Albuquerque office of the FBI, New Mexico ICAC Task Force, AFOSI, APD, and RCFL. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Mease is prosecuting the case as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice (DOJ) to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and DOJ’s Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit http://www.justice.gov/psc/.
The case also was brought as a part of the New Mexico (ICAC) Task Force’s mission, which is to locate, track, and capture Internet child sexual predators and Internet child pornographers in New Mexico. There are 82 federal, state and local law enforcement agencies associated with the New Mexico ICAC Task Force, which is funded by a grant administered by the New Mexico Office of the Attorney General. Anyone with information relating to suspected child predators and suspected child abuse is encouraged to contact federal or local law enforcement.
Furse IndictmentFather and Son Charged for Armed Robberies of Two Henderson Credit UnionsRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS, Nev. – A father and son were indicted today in connection with the armed robberies committed at two Henderson credit unions, announced U.S. Attorney Daniel G. Bogden for the District of Nevada.
“The alleged armed robberies placed bank employees and customers at severe risk of imminent harm,” said U.S. Attorney Bogden. “We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to ensure justice is brought to individuals who choose to steal from financial institutions in Nevada.”
Jeffrey Alan James, 51, and Jessy Stewart James, 22, both of Las Vegas, are each charged with one-count of Hobbs Act Robbery and one-count of bank robbery. Trial has been scheduled for May 9, 2017.
According to court documents, on Jan. 24, 2017, Jeffrey and Jessy James stole approximately $4,000 from a Silver State Schools Credit Union. Jeffrey James pointed a replica firearm at a bank teller’s head and demanded money. Jessy James placed a suitcase on the counter, and informed the teller that if she cooperated, she would not be shot.
It is further alleged that on Feb. 16, 2017, Jessy James stole approximately $4,207 from the America First Credit Union. He approached a bank teller with two large envelopes. One envelope had a demand note to the effect of “This is a robbery, not a joke” and the other envelope held a replica firearm with the barrel pointing at the bank teller through a hole in the paper. Jeffrey James waited outside of the credit union and acted as a getaway driver once Jessy James had completed the robbery.
The case is being investigated by the Henderson Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Burns.
An indictment contains only charges and is not evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law.
###
Epsom Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Firearms ChargeRead the Press Release
CONCORD, N.H. – United States Attorney Emily Gray Rice announced that on February 28, 2017, Christopher Barker, 23, of Epsom, New Hampshire, pleaded guilty to the illegal possession of firearms.
According to court documents and statements made during the change of plea hearing, Concord Police conducted an undercover operation to purchase a firearm from Barker in March 2016. When Barker arrived to the deal, Concord Police arrested him and seized two firearms from his vehicle. At the time, Barker was prohibited from possessing any firearms as a result of a previous felony conviction.
Barker is scheduled to be sentenced on June 13, 2017.
This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, and by the Police Departments of Concord and Lebanon, New Hampshire, and Hartford, Vermont, as well as by the Merrimack County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Georgie Konesky and Shane Kelbley.
###
Emory Doctor Goes to Prison for Downloading Thousands of Images of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ATLANTA - Kevin M. Sullivan has been sentenced to six years, six months in prison for downloading thousands of images of child pornography from a server in Switzerland. Sullivan, who was a professor in Emory University’s Epidemiology department, used the university’s Wi-Fi to access sites outside the country which provided access to child pornography.
“Sullivan downloaded thousands of files depicting the sexual abuse of children,” said U. S. Attorney John Horn. “He attempted to cover his tracks by using his personal computer on the Internet system at Emory to download the images. As predators continue to try to develop new methods to feed and download child pornography, we will continue to find them and prosecute them.”.
“Child pornography is one of the most heinous crimes HSI investigates due to the irrevocable harm it inflicts physically and emotionally upon innocent children,” said HSI Atlanta Special Agent in Charge Nick S. Annan. “Those who download these illegal images re-victimize innocent children who’ve already been subjected to unimaginable harm. ICE Homeland Security Investigations is committed to investigating and seeking prosecution of child exploitation cases as one the agency’s highest priorities.”
“This conviction illustrates the outstanding work of law enforcement around the world to investigate and prosecute child pornography cases,” said Vernon Keenan, Director, Georgia Bureau of Investigation. “The GBI will continue to dedicate resources to identify and bring to justice individuals who exploit children.”
According to U.S. Attorney Horn, the charges and other information presented in court: In October 2014, Swiss law enforcement seized a server that was hosting child pornography. Login information from the server showed that someone at Emory University Rollins School of Public Health was using Emory’s Wi-Fi to access child pornography. With cooperation from Emory University’s Information Technology Department, agents were able to determine that Dr. Kevin Sullivan was the person accessing child pornography from the Swiss website.
Dr. Sullivan was a professor in Emory University’s Epidemiology department. Agents obtained a search warrant for Dr. Sullivan’s office and executed it on June 15, 2015. Sullivan was present at the time, but left before agents found child pornography on his personal laptop and external hard drive. When agents went to his house later the same day to arrest him, they found Sullivan there at his home computer. A search of that computer revealed titles suggestive of child pornography, although the files themselves had been deleted. A search of the laptop and hard drive from his Emory office showed that Dr. Sullivan had more than 8,000 files containing child pornography.
Kevin M. Sullivan, 61, of Atlanta, Georgia, was sentenced to six years, six months in prison to be followed by seven years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a fine of $15,000. Sullivan was convicted on these charges on December 1, 2016, after he pleaded guilty.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.
Assistant United States Attorneys Paul R. Jones and Erin E. Sanders prosecuted the case.
This case is being brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In February 2006, the Attorney General launched Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices around the country, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at [email protected] or (404) 581-6016. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga
Eight Defendants Charged in Manhattan Federal Court with Bank Fraud and Mail Theft Conspiracy in the BronxRead the Press Release
Preet Bharara, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and Philip R. Bartlett, Inspector-in-Charge of the New York Office of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (“USPIS”), today announced the unsealing of an Indictment charging a total of eight defendants with engaging in mail theft and bank fraud conspiracies in the Bronx, New York. Five defendants were arrested today, and two defendants remain at large; the eighth will voluntarily appear later this week for arraignment. The five defendants who are in custody will be presented and arraigned before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah Netburn later today. The case is assigned to U.S. District Judge Gregory H. Woods.
Manhattan U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara said: “These eight defendants allegedly hatched a scheme to steal mail from Bronx residents, specifically targeting mail they thought would contain checks or money orders, then depositing stolen funds into their own and others’ accounts. Now, thanks to the work of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, these alleged mail fraudsters have been delivered to the criminal justice system.”
USPIS Inspector-in-Charge Philip R. Bartlett said: “When I think of the brazenness of these individuals to allegedly steal U.S. Mail coupled with their total disregard for the financial well-being of the communities impacted by their crimes, it takes the word insolent to new heights. Let today’s arrests serve as an example to those who believe they can steal from the US Postal Service and get away with it. Postal Inspectors and their law enforcement partners will find you, arrest you and bring you to justice for your crimes against the US Postal Service and their customers. That is something you can take to the bank.”
As alleged in the Indictment unsealed today in Manhattan federal court[1]:
Since 2015, USPIS and other local and federal agencies, including the New York City Police Department (“NYPD”), Homeland Security Investigations, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, have been investigating mail theft from mailboxes in the Bronx, New York. The investigation has revealed that individuals steal mail by either illicitly obtaining mail box keys or by “fishing.” Fishing involves inserting homemade mail theft devices into mailboxes located on street corners or other publicly accessible places. After gaining access to the mail in the mailbox, a thief typically will remove any mail that appears to contain checks or money orders. During the beginning and end of the month when many people mail checks for rent and bills, a thief can steal checks worth tens of thousands of dollars in a single night.
After perpetrators fish checks and money orders out of mailboxes, they sell the checks and money orders to others, remove the payees’ names by “washing” the checks and money orders, or simply deposit the checks and money orders into a bank account. In various iterations of the scheme, those bank accounts have belonged to the mail thieves, to complicit accountholders, or to unsuspecting third parties whose debits cards or personal identifying information has been stolen.
Since late 2015, USPIS and NYPD enforcement operations have resulted in over 50 state arrests of individuals in an area of the Bronx in the vicinity of Claremont Park for theft of mail, and over $750,000 in checks and money orders has been traced to these mail theft schemes. Between May 2015 and at least January 2017, BRIAN MARTE, a/k/a “Trini Rabiia,” ERICKSON BATISTA, a/k/a “Niike Batista,” JUNIOR TAVERAS, a/k/a “Tuh Relambio,” ANGEL ARISTY, a/k/a “Frekiitho Lindo Colon,” LUIS ROSADO, a/k/a “El Menolsito Tejada,” EOSCATERYS POLANCO, BRAYAN RODRIGUEZ, a/k/a “New Black El Paisano,” and RONARDO BAEZ, a/k/a “Tuchokoo Baez,” the defendants, each participated in these related schemes to steal mail and deposit stolen checks and money orders using other individuals’ debit cards.
* * *
Each of the defendants is charged with one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison; one count of conspiracy to commit mail theft, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison; and one count of aggravated identity theft, which carries a mandatory consecutive sentence of two years in prison. MARTE is also charged with one count of mail theft, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison. The charges also carry a maximum fine of $1 million, or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense. The statutory maximum sentences are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencings of the defendants would be determined by the judge.
A chart containing the names, ages, and residences of the defendants is below.
Mr. Bharara praised the outstanding investigative work of the United States Postal Inspection Service, Homeland Security Investigations, the New York City Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
These cases are being handled by the Office’s General Crimes Unit. Assistant United States Attorneys Catherine Geddes and Stephanie Lake 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.
###
NAME
AGE
RESIDENCE
Brian Marte
20
Bronx, NY
Erickson Batista
24
Bronx, NY
Junior Taveras
19
Bronx, NY
Angel Aristy
18
Bronx, NY
Luis Rosado
19
Bronx, NY
Eoscaterys Polanco
23
Bronx, NY
Brayan Rodriguez
23
Bronx, NY
Ronardo Baez
20
Bronx, NY
[1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Indictment and the description of the Indictment set forth herein constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.