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Thursday 9 February 2017
Chaves County Man Sentenced for Federal Methamphetamine Trafficking ConvictionRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Jose Villa, 35, of Lake Arthur, N.M., was sentenced today in federal court in Las Cruces, N.M., to 60 months in prison for his conviction on methamphetamine trafficking charges. Villa will be on supervised release for four years after completing his prison sentence.
Villa and his co-defendant Charles Edward Gist, 57, of Artesia, N.M., were arrested in Sept. 2015, on an indictment charging them with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine from Nov. 17, 2014 through Nov. 20, 2014, and distribution of methamphetamine on Nov. 20, 2014. Villa was also charged with distribution of methamphetamine on Dec. 10, 2014. According to the indictment, the defendants committed the crimes in Eddy County, N.M.
On April 13, 2016, Villa pled guilty to a felony information charging him with conspiracy and two counts of distribution of methamphetamine. In entering the guilty plea, Villa admitted to conspiring with Gist and others to distribute methamphetamine in Nov. 2014. Villa admitted supplying approximately 56 grams of methamphetamine that was distributed to an undercover law enforcement officer on Nov. 20, 2014. He also admitted distributing 51 grams of methamphetamine to an undercover law enforcement officer on Dec. 10, 2014.
Gist pled guilty on April 1, 2016, to a felony information charging him with conspiracy and distribution of methamphetamine. In entering the guilty plea, admitted that he conspired with Villa and others to distribute methamphetamine from Nov. 17, 2014 through Nov. 20, 2014. further admitted that on Nov. 20, 2014, he agreed to sell 56 grams of methamphetamine to an undercover law enforcement officer. was sentenced on Aug. 24, 2016, to 21 months in prison followed by two years of supervised release.
This case was investigated by the Las Cruces office of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Y. Armijo of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Las Cruces Branch Office prosecuted the case.
California Man Pleads Guilty to $460,000 Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Tammy Dickinson, United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri, announced that a California man pleaded guilty in federal court today to a nearly $460,000 bank fraud scheme that involved stolen checks and false identities.
Michael Keefe White, 61, of Winnetka, Calif., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Beth Phillips to bank fraud, aggravated identity theft and money laundering.
By pleading guilty today, White admitted that he obtained checks stolen from the mail, then used counterfeit identification (such as driver’s licenses with his photo and the name of a victim) to open bank accounts in Missouri and other states in which to deposit the stolen checks as well as counterfeit checks modeled from the stolen checks. White then withdrew or wire transferred the money out of the account.
White used numerous counterfeit driver’s licenses to open bank accounts in a total attempted fraud amount of at least $459,896.
The specific bank fraud to which White pleaded guilty involved an account at a Parkville, Mo., bank in which White deposited a $48,700 counterfeit check. Under the terms of today’s plea agreement, White must forfeit to the government $248,155, which represents the actual loss attributable to the fraud scheme.
Under federal statutes, White is subject to a sentence of up to 40 years in federal prison without parole for bank fraud and money laundering, plus a mandatory consecutive sentence of two years in federal prison for aggravated identity theft. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant 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 United States Probation Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathleen D. Mahoney. It was investigated by IRS-Criminal Investigation, U.S. Department of Treasury – Office of Inspector General and the U.S. Postal Inspector Service.
Berkeley County woman pleads guilty to her role in a heroin distribution operationRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Holly Hopkins, 35, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was convicted of racketeering, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Hopkins admitted to traveling between Maryland and West Virginia to aid in a heroin distribution operation in March 2016.
Hopkins pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Interstate Travel in Aid of Racketeering.” She faces up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $500,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Z. Krasinski prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Bay Area Woman Sentenced to 9 Years in Federal Prison for Identity Theft Scheme to Steal State Disability BenefitsRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Jermila McCoy, 34, of Oakland, was sentenced today to nine years and two months in prison for charges related to a large identity theft scheme to defraud the State of California of disability insurance benefits, United States Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, McCoy used stolen identities of individuals throughout California to file for disability benefits with the California Employment Development Department. She then caused those disability benefits claims to be certified using the stolen identities of doctors throughout the State of California. Many of the doctors whose identities were used do not certify any disability claims as part of their practice. For example, one physician was employed at a state prison and only treated inmates of that prison. After a claim was filed and certified, McCoy received the fraudulent disability benefits at addresses she controlled. Over 250 stolen identities were used to get fraudulent benefits as part of this scheme and the defendants took over $1.5 million of fraudulent benefits.
This case was the product of an investigation by the United States Postal Inspection Service, the U.S. Marshals Service, and the California Employment Development Department, Criminal Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Jared C. Dolan prosecuted the case.
Authorities Arrest Six in Odessa for Credit Card Skimming Device SchemeRead the Press Release
This morning, authorities arrested six Cuban nationals for their roles in an alleged credit card skimming device scheme announced United States Attorney Richard L. Durbin, Jr., Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Special Agent in Charge Douglas E. Lindquist, Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts Glen Hegar and Ector County Sheriff Mike Griffis.
A federal grand jury indictment, returned on January 25, 2017 and unsealed today, charges the following individuals with one count of access device fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft: Juan Adelmo Bermudez, age 46; Jorge Manuel Batista-Gonzalez, age 37; Michel Sarmiento, age 36; Andy Cruz-Leyva, age 45; Sandra Alva Escobar-Carballosa, age 31; and, Livan Sanchez-Leyva, age 38.
According to the indictment, since January 1, 2015, the defendants, under the direction of Livan Sanchez-Leyva and his wife, Sandra Alva Escobar-Carballosa, allegedly conspired to place skimming devices on pumps at local gas stations in order to steal credit card numbers and personal identification information from members of the public. The defendants would then use the stolen information to produce and use “cloned” credit cards to purchase hundreds of gallons of diesel fuel from local gas stations. After acquiring the diesel fuel, the defendants then sold it to others. The known loss amount resulting from the defendants’ scheme is estimated to be more than $37,000.
Upon conviction, the defendants face up to ten years in federal prison for access device fraud and a mandatory two years in federal prison for aggravated identity theft. The defendants remain in federal custody pending detention hearings scheduled for next week.
This investigation was conducted by the FBI’s Permian Basin Oilfield Theft Task Force; Texas Comptroller’s Office - Criminal Investigation Division; and, the Ector County Sheriff’s Office. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE); United States Marshals Service; Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS); Odessa Police Department; Midland County Sheriff’s Office; and, the Reeves County Sheriff’s Office assisted in today’s arrests. Assistant United States Attorney V. LaTawn Warsaw is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
An indictment is merely a charge and should not be considered as evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Armed Bank Robber Sentenced to 16 1/2 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
EUGENE, Ore. – On February 9, 2017, U.S. District Judge Michael J. McShane sentenced Jeffrey Edward Ownby, 30, of Medford, Oregon, to 198 months in federal prison for committing three armed bank robberies, using a sawed-off shotgun in committing a violent felony and unlawful possession of a destructive device. Ownby was ordered to pay restitution to his victims and will be on supervised release for five years following his prison sentence.
Ownby committed the bank robberies in Medford over a one-year span. In each instance, he wore disguises and brandished firearms in front of customers and employees. On May 16, 2014, Ownby entered the Bank of the Cascades wearing a gray bandana and carrying a drawstring bag. He pulled out a handgun, swung it around and told everyone to “get on the ground.” He said, “you know what this is” before putting the bag on a desk and demanding bank employees fill it with money. Ownby fled with approximately $5,878.
On December 22, 2014, Ownby entered the Washington Federal Bank wearing a fake beard, camouflage head covering and clear glasses. He pulled out a handgun, pointed it at the bank tellers and threw a backpack on the counter. In a similar fashion, he stated “you know exactly what this is” and demanded that tellers put money in the bag. He took approximately $7,969 from the bank before fleeing and again avoiding capture by law enforcement.
On April 1, 2015, Ownby entered the America West Bank wearing a hat and fake beard. He pulled a 12-gauge sawed-off shotgun out of his backpack, pointed it at bank personnel and once again said in a loud voice “you know what this is” as he put the backpack on the teller counter. Bank tellers put approximately $2,375 in Ownby’s bag before he fled.
Police released surveillance photos of the robber to the news media. After spotting his resemblance on a local news report, some of Ownby’s former co-workers contacted police. On April 2, 2015, police served a search warrant at Ownby’s Medford residence and found the sawed-off shotgun and a majority of the money stolen the day prior. Police also found Molotov cocktails in a bag in Ownby’s truck along with his robbery disguises. When interviewed by police, Ownby confessed to the three bank robberies and told them he had pawned the handgun he used to commit the first two. Later, police seized the handgun from a local pawnshop.
This case was investigated by the Medford Police Department and the FBI and was prosecuted by Judith Harper and Byron Chatfield, Assistant United States Attorneys for the District of Oregon.
Alleged Carjacker Rapist Under Federal CustodyRead the Press Release
SAN JUAN, P.R. – On February 8, 2017, United States Magistrate Judge Bruce McGiverin authorized a criminal complaint charging Waldemar Martínez-Ortiz with carjacking with serious bodily injury, announced United States Attorney Rosa Emilia Rodríguez-Vélez. The FBI is in charge of the investigation.
According to the information contained in the affidavit submitted in support of the criminal complaint, on February 6, 2017, Martínez-Ortiz was detained by the Puerto Rico Police Department (PRPD) pursuant to an ongoing investigation concerning several cases reported to the PRPD of a masked man forcing entry into the homes of females, sexually assaulting them, and then taking their cars.
The investigation revealed that on January 31, 2017, at approximately 10:30 PM, Martínez-Ortiz, wearing a mask and carrying a silver gun, ran up to a female who was outside her home sitting on her porch. The defendant ordered her to go inside the apartment, where the victim’s sister was. The defendant demanded that both victims give him all their money and they complied. After the defendant went through the apartment in search of more valuables, he sexually assaulted both women. After sexually assaulting the sisters, Martinez-Ortiz took a car that belonged to one of them.
The investigation also revealed that on February 6, 2017, Martínez-Ortiz, wearing a mask, committed another home invasion in Bayamón. The defendant approached a female that was outside her home, brandished a firearm and directed her to get inside her home. Once inside the home, the victim’s brother and boyfriend were able to restrain him until officers from the PRPD arrived at the scene.
“The victims of this crime should rest assured that we will zealously protect their rights and seek justice during our prosecution of this offense,” said Rosa Emilia Rodríguez-Vélez, U.S. Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico. “I commend the PRPD agents, detectives and P.R. Department of Justice prosecutors for their persistence and efforts in solving these crimes.”
The case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Daynelle M. Álvarez. If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum penalty of up to 25 years in prison. A criminal complaint contains only charges and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Wednesday 8 February 2017
York Man Indicted on Heroin Trafficking and Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Manuel Maldonado-Martinez, age 27, of York, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury on heroin trafficking and firearms charges.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that Maldonado-Martinez possessed with the intent to distribute heroin on June 30, 2016, in York. The indictment also alleges that Maldonado-Martinez unlawfully possessed a firearm as a previously convicted felon and possessed the firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the York City Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Carlo D. Marchioli is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of the Violent Crime Reduction Partnership (“VCRP”), a district wide initiative to combat the spread of violent crime in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the VCRP consists of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies whose mission is to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit violent crimes with firearms.
Additionally, this case was brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is a lifetime term of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Williamsville Man Charged in Wire Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051
BUFFALO, N.Y.- Acting U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Robert C. Logel, 53, of Williamsville, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with wire fraud. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney MaryEllen Kresse, who is handling the case, stated that in 2009, the defendant was convicted of wire fraud for defrauding two victims out of nearly $3,000,000 and sentenced to 48 months in prison. Logel told the victims that he invested their money in various businesses when he fact he used the funds for his own use.
According to the complaint, within months of being released from prison, Logel began to devise his next scheme. The scheme involved the alleged production, distribution, and sale of two skin and healthcare products: Nano Hydro Mist and Hot Ginger Muscle Rub. During the course of the scheme, the defendant made false representations regarding his ability to distribute and market these products. As a result, victims transferred funds to Logel which they believed would be used to ready the products for distribution and sale. The defendant did not, however, use the victims' money as promised. Rather, Logel used the vast majority of the funds for his personal use, including to pay personal expenses.
Logel appeared at a detention hearing this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremiah J. McCarthy and was released on conditions.
The criminal complaint is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Adam S. Cohen, and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Kathy A. Enstrom.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Waltham Man Sentenced for Defrauding Customers of Former Newton Travel AgencyRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Waltham man was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Boston in connection with a scheme in which he defrauded hundreds of customers of the now-defunct Tom Harper Cruises of more than $2.9 million in cruise trip deposits.
Bret A. Gordon, 44, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Denise J. Casper to 46 months in prison, three years of supervised release and ordered to pay $2,891,092 in restitution to victims. In November 2016, Gordon pleaded guilty to six counts of wire fraud and two counts of filing a false personal tax return.
In 2013, Gordon established and owned a 65% interest in Tom Harper Cruises, a business selling overseas river cruise vacations. As the company’s manager, Gordon had exclusive control of its bank accounts and finances. Soon after Tom Harper Cruises began operating, Gordon started to take money from its bank account for his own use, primarily for casino gambling. Most of the funds Gordon took were customer deposits for trips that the company needed to retain in order to pay the independent cruise companies that operated those trips.
As Gordon’s conversion of company funds increased, Tom Harper Cruises became unable to pay some of its regular business expenses and, inevitably, to pay the independent cruise companies for the trips ordered by customers. In June 2015, Tom Harper Cruises closed its doors and filed for bankruptcy. Between September 2013 and June 2015, Gordon took about $2,258,500 from Tom Harper Cruise’s accounts for his own use. About 400 customers were left without the trips they planned for, after paying Tom Harper Cruises a total of approximately $2.9 million.
Gordon also failed to report the money he had taken as income on his personal income tax returns. He failed to report about $165,000 that he received in 2013, and about $900,000 that he had taken in 2014.
Acting United States Attorney William D. Weinreb; Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Office; and Joel P. Garland, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigations in Boston, made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark J. Balthazard of Weinreb’s Economic Crimes Unit prosecuted the case.
Veterans Affairs Employees Charged with Stealing and Selling Prescription DrugsRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—Christopher R. Thyer, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, James W. Werner, Special Agent in Charge of the South Central Field Office of the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of the Inspector General (VAOIG), and Matthew R. Barden, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the Little Rock District Office of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), announced today the unsealing a federal indictment charging three Veterans Affairs (VA) employees with conspiring to steal prescription medications, including opioids, from the VA John L. McClellan Memorial Veterans Hospital in Little Rock, and conspiring to distribute those drugs.
The superseding indictment, returned by a federal grand jury on Wednesday, charges Satishkumar "Steve" Patel, 44, of North Little Rock, Alisha Pagan, 33, of Mabelvale, and Nikita Neal, 42, of Little Rock with eight counts stemming from a scheme to order oxycodone, hydrocodone, Viagra, Cialis, and promethazine syrup with codeine and divert them from the VA for street distribution.
"This case is an example of government employees using their position of trust to not only steal from the taxpayers of Arkansas, but also to poison the communities we live in with dangerous drugs," Thyer said. "Curbing the illegal distribution of opioids continues to be a primary focus for my office, and it is particularly troubling when the crime is being committed by people in the health-care industry."
This investigation began in June 2016, when VAOIG received a report that large amounts of unaccounted for prescription medications were charged to VA accounts. The VAOIG’s investigation revealed that Patel, a pharmacy technician, used his VA access to a medical supplier’s web portal to order and divert 4,000 oxycodone pills, 3,300 hydrocodone pills, 308 ounces of promethazine with codeine syrup, and more than 14,000 Viagra and Cialis pills, at a cost to the VA of approximately $77,700 dollars, with a street value of more than $160,000. It is alleged that Patel falsified payment invoices to avoid detection.
"This indictment illustrates that the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General remains committed to stemming the diversion and abuse of opioids in VA facilities," Werner said.
During the course of the investigation, which included controlled deliveries of oxycodone at the direction of law enforcement, VAOIG and DEA determined that Patel was distributing the medications to pharmacy technician Pagan, who in turn distributed a portion of the drugs to Neal, a pharmacy technician student trainee.
"The abuse of prescription drugs, such as oxycodone and hydrocodone, remains a significant problem in our communities. For the health and safety of our citizens, DEA will continue to target the illegal diversion of these pharmaceuticals, which can result in the tearing apart of families and the destruction of individual lives," Barden said. "It is particularly egregious when the perpetrators of such illegal acts are health care professionals responsible for ensuring that potentially dangerous drugs are dispensed properly. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners, including those at the Department of Veteran Affairs Office of the Inspector General, to ensure that if a health care provider illegally diverts pharmaceuticals, they will be held accountable for the harm they cause."
All three defendants are charged in a conspiracy to steal the medication, as well as conspiracies to distribute oxycodone and hydrocodone. Patel is also charged in four counts of possession with intent to deliver oxycodone, and Pagan is charged with one count of possession with intent to deliver oxycodone.
Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute oxycodone and hydrocodone, and possession with intent to distribute oxycodone and hydrocodone is punishable by not more than 20 years’ incarceration in the Bureau of Prisons, with a possible fine of up to $1,000,000, and not less than 3 years supervised release. Conspiracy to steal government property is punishable by not more than five years’ incarceration in the Bureau of Prisons, with a possible fine of up to $250,000, and not more than three years supervised release.
The case against Patel, Pagan, and Neal was investigated by the VAOIG and DEA, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Hunter Bridges.
An indictment contains only allegations. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Unsealed Indictment Reveals Four More Defendants Face Federal Charges Related to DAPL ProtestsRead the Press Release
FARGO - US Attorney Christopher C. Myers announced that on February 8, 2017, that an Indictment unsealed by the Court today reveals that the following defendants were Indicted for Civil Disorder and Use of Fire to Commit a Federal Crime arising out of an incident on October 27, 2016:
1. Brennon J. Nastacio a/k/a "Bravo One" – age 36
2. Brandon Aaron Miller-Castillo – age 22
3. Dion Ortiz – age 20
These defendants currently remain fugitives and their whereabouts are unknown. Law enforcement is requesting the assistance of the public in locating these individuals. Attached are photographs of these fugitives. Co-defendant James White, a/k/a "Angry Bird" was arrested on February 8, 2017 and will appear in Federal Court in Bismarck on or about February 8, 2017.
Co-defendant Michael Mateo Markus, previously appeared on these charges on February 3, 2017 and a trial will be scheduled before the Honorable Daniel J. Hovland when the remaining co-defendants appear in court.
This case is being investigated by the Morton County Sheriff’s Office, North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation, Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Gary Delorme is prosecuting the cases.
An Indictment is an accusation and notice of charges. These defendants are presumed innocent under the law.
Brennon Nastacio
Brandon Miller-Castillo
Dion Ortiz
U.S. District Court Blocks Anthem’s Acquisition of CignaRead the Press Release
Judge Amy Berman Jackson for the District of Columbia ruled in favor of the Justice Department in its civil antitrust lawsuit to block health insurer Anthem, Inc.’s acquisition of Cigna Corp., the Justice Department announced.
“Today’s decision is a victory for American consumers,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Brent Snyder of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division. “This merger would have stifled competition, harming consumers by increasing health insurance prices and slowing innovation aimed at lowering the costs of healthcare. In concluding that Anthem’s acquisition of Cigna would violate federal antitrust laws, the court has protected consumers and the competition on which they rely. I thank the hardworking staff of the Antitrust Division and our state partners, who conducted a thorough investigation and offered a clear and compelling presentation across a two-phase trial and never wavered in their commitment to protect competition in these markets.”
Today’s decision follows a trial that ran from Nov. 21, 2016, to Jan. 3, 2017. In July 2016, the Justice Department along with 11 states and the District of Columbia sued to stop the merger. The complaint alleged that a combined Anthem and Cigna would substantially lessen competition in the health insurance industry in dozens of markets across the country.
The district court’s opinion is temporarily under seal to allow the parties to review for confidentiality.
The United States was joined in the lawsuit by the District of Columbia and the States of California, Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, New Hampshire, New York, Tennessee and Virginia.
Two St. Albans men each sentenced to seven years in federal prison for their roles in large-scale methamphetamine conspiracyRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Two St. Albans men were sentenced to federal prison today for their roles in a large-scale drug trafficking organization, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Mark Cobb, 30, of St. Albans, was sentenced to seven years in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Shayne Shamblen, 47, was also sentenced to seven years in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
As part of a comprehensive investigation, agents from the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team, and Homeland Security Investigations intercepted several mail packages that contained methamphetamine, other drugs, or drug proceeds. Throughout the course of the conspiracy, several pounds of methamphetamine were transported from California and Nevada into the Southern District of West Virginia via the United States mail or through individuals driving packages of drugs into the area. Cobb and Shamblen each admitted that they worked with Joseph Cooper, a codefendant, to arrange for the shipment and transport of methamphetamine to West Virginia.
Shamblen admitted that in April 2015, he arranged for the shipment of a package sent to him by Cooper containing over 100 grams of crystal methamphetamine. Shamblen further admitted that he intended to distribute the methamphetamine contained in the package. Cobb lived with Cooper in Nevada for a short time, and also helped with the packaging and distribution of methamphetamine. Cobb’s fingerprint was found on a package containing approximately 3 grams of crystal methamphetamine that was sent to an individual in St. Albans in April 2015. The methamphetamine from both of the packages was laboratory tested and found to be over 90% pure.
Cooper was sentenced to 14 years in prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Benjamin Childers, another individual involved with the transport of methamphetamine in this drug trafficking organization, was sentenced to 10 years and a month in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
Assistant United States Attorney Haley Bunn is responsible for these prosecutions. United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., imposed the sentences and is presiding over these cases.
These cases are being prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.
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Two Springfield Men Indicted on Drug, Gun Charges in Separate CasesRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – A federal grand jury today returned separate, unrelated indictments that charge two Springfield men with drug and gun offenses.
Darryl D. Perkins, 38, of the 2100 block of S. Renfro St., is charged with five counts of distribution or possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, heroin, possession of a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking offense, and possession of a firearm by a felon. The indictment alleges that on five separate occasions, from November 2016 to Jan. 19, 2017, Perkins distributed or possessed with intent to distribute heroin, and that he possessed a Colt Trooper MK3 .357 revolver.
Perkins was previously arrested and charged in a criminal complaint filed on Jan. 20, 2017. Perkins made his initial appearance in federal court on Jan. 23, 2017, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Tom Schanzle-Haskins. Perkins was ordered to remain detained in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
The charges against Perkins were investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Illinois State Police, the Springfield Police Department, and the Illinois Attorney General’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Z. Weir is prosecuting the case.
In an unrelated indictment, Jamarr Moore, 20, of the 700 block of N. 14th St., is charged with one count each of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, crack cocaine, possession of a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking offense, and possession of a firearm by a felon. The indictment alleges that Moore possessed crack cocaine and a Glock .40 caliber semi-automatic firearm on Jan. 5, 2017.
Moore was arrested on state charges on Jan. 5; a federal criminal complaint was filed on Jan. 23. Moore made his initial appearance in federal court on Jan. 23, 2017. U.S. Magistrate Judge Tom Schanzle-Haskins ordered that Moore remain detained in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
The charges against Moore were investigated by the Springfield Police Department Street Crimes Unit, the FBI, and the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Victor Yanz is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, for each count of distribution or possession with intent to distribute heroin (five counts), Perkins faces maximum statutory penalties of up to 30 years in prison. For possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine (one count), Moore faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison. The offense of possession of a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking offense carries a mandatory minimum five years in prison to be served consecutive to any sentence ordered for the related drug offense. Possession of a firearm by a felon carries a statutory maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.
The maximum statutory penalty for each offense charged is prescribed by Congress and is provided for informational purposes, as sentencing is determined by the court based on the advisory Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Members of the public are reminded that an indictment is merely an accusation; each defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
Two Sentences Handed Down in Northeast Georgia Methamphetamine CrackdownRead the Press Release
G.F. “Pete” Peterman, III, United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia, announces that two individuals were sentenced yesterday in Athens on drug and other charges by the Honorable C. Ashley Royal, Senior United States District Court Judge.
Travis Eugene Pearson, aged 40, of Spartanburg, South Carolina, was sentenced to serve 10 years (120 months) in Federal prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm by an illegal drug user. Mr. Pearson pled guilty to the charges on October 26, 2016. According to the plea agreement, on June 10, 2015, a Franklin County Sheriff’s Deputy stopped Mr. Pearson’s vehicle on Interstate 85 in response to several traffic violations. Mr. Pearson had more than $13,000 in U.S. currency in his trousers pocket. During a subsequent search, the deputy found a loaded firearm in the driver-side panel, drugs in clear baggies and drug paraphernalia.
During an interview, Mr. Pearson admitted that he had collected the currency from at least ten individuals in South Carolina and planned to use it to pay for methamphetamine acquired in Atlanta. He further admitted that he had made trips to Atlanta three prior times for drug-related activities. Mr. Pearson also stated that the firearm found in the car was his and that he had been a daily user of methamphetamine for two years.
In a separate case, William Corey Hughes, aged 26, of Bowman, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 13.5 years (162 months) in Federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Mr. Hughes entered his guilty plea on November 15, 2016.
In pleading guilty, Mr. Hughes admitted that on March 17, 2015, he was stopped by a Hart County Sheriff’s Deputy in Royston, Georgia while driving in the middle of the road. After Mr. Hughes refused to give consent for a search of the vehicle, a drug dog alerted on several spots on the car, including the front right headlight. Upon lifting the hood, the deputy found a metal box attached to the frame of the truck with magnets. Inside the box was a gallon-sized bag containing a crystalline substance later identified as methamphetamine, a substantial number of pills, and other drug paraphernalia.
The case against Mr. Pearson was investigated by the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, Georgia Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Peter Leary with the participation and cooperation of the District Attorney’s Office for the Northern Judicial Circuit of Georgia.
The Hart County Sheriff’s Office, Athens-Clarke County Police Department, Northeast Georgia Regional Drug Task Force and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation investigated the case against Mr. Hughes. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Danial Bennett, again with the participation and cooperation of the District Attorney’s Office for the Northern Judicial Circuit of Georgia.
United States Attorney Peterman stated that “These two cases are excellent examples of what can be accomplished when federal, state and local authorities work together. In each case a major drug dealer has been taken out of the local community for a decade or more as the result of this cooperation.”
“We are grateful to the dedicated and professional prosecutors working in the United States Attorney’s Office for partnering with us to incapacitate those who peddle poison in our community. Drug dealers breed crime by profiting off of the misery of individuals who might otherwise have a chance to be productive citizens. The actions taken here by the United States Attorney’s Office sends a strong message to would be outlaws regarding the consequences of their action.” said Northern Judicial Circuit District Attorney Parks White.
Inquiries regarding this case should be directed to Pam Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at 478-752-3511.
Two Men Sentenced for Smuggling $4.6 Million in CocaineRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas - Two San Antonio residents have been ordered to federal prison following their convictions of smuggling 59 kilograms of cocaine, announced U.S. Attorney Kenneth Magidson. Darin Josep Fox, 24, and Jacob Escalante, 25, pleaded guilty Oct. 31, 2016, to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine.
Today, Senior U.S. District Judge Hayden Head ordered both Fox and Escalante to each serve 120 months in federal prison immediately be followed by five years of supervised release. In handing down the sentence, Judge Head noted that the amount of cocaine seized in this case would have had a significant impact and harm on the community.
On June 13, 2016, Fox was driving a Kenworth Tractor with Escalante as passenger. They were towing a flatbed trailer into the Sarita checkpoint on Highway 77 for primary inspection, at which time a service K9 alerted to the presence of contraband. Upon examination, agents discovered and removed 59 square bundles wrapped in black tape containing cocaine from a void located between the frame rails. The cocaine had a total weight of 59 kilograms with an estimated value of approximately $4.6 million.
Fox and Escalante will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and Border Patrol conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lance Watt is prosecuting the case.
Two Buffalo Men Plead Guilty to Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051
BUFFALO, N.Y.-Acting U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Rodney Courton, 48, and John Davis, 44, both of Buffalo, NY, pleaded guilty to obtaining controlled substances through fraud, before U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara. The charge carries a maximum penalty of four years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Adler, who is handling the case, stated that between December 2013 and April 2015, co-defendant Brandon Coburn, a licensed nurse practitioner who is legally authorized to prescribe controlled substances, provided fraudulent fentanyl, oxycodone, oxymorphone, and amphetamine prescriptions to Courton, Davis, and eight other co-defendants. Those prescriptions, however, were not used for a legitimate medical purposes and instead were filled by the defendants and others and sold on the street in the Buffalo area. Courton and Davis filled a total of 34 of the fraudulent prescriptions.
To date, four defendants charged in this investigation have been convicted. The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Today’s pleas are the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of James J. Hunt, Special Agent-in-Charge, New York Field Division.
Courton is scheduled to be sentenced on May 17, 2017 at 12:30 p.m. Davis is scheduled to be sentenced on May 18, 2017 at 12:30 p.m., both before Judge Arcara.
Tuttle Man Draws 50-year Federal Prison Sentence for Child Exploitation ConvictionRead the Press Release
BISMARCK - US Attorney Christopher C. Myers announced that on February 6, 2017, Calvin Bernhardt, 54, Tuttle, ND, was sentenced before Chief United States District Judge Daniel L. Hovland to serve 50 years in prison, followed by lifetime supervised release, on charges of: Attempted Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, Attempted Receipt of Materials Depicting the Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, Counterfeit Currency, Tampering with Witness or Evidence, and Attempted Travel with Intent to Engage in Sexual Acts with a Minor.
Bernhardt was found guilty of the above charges on October 28, 2016, following nearly four days of trial. Evidence introduced at trial demonstrated that, from approximately September 2015 to approximately March 2016, Bernhardt induced and enticed a 14-year-old minor from the Philippines to engage in and produce images of sexually explicit conduct via the internet. Bernhardt further induced the minor to send him the sexually explicit or sadistic and masochistic images. Once Bernhardt became aware of an investigation into his illegal conduct, he contacted the mother of the victim in the Philippines and instructed her to delete any images of himself and the minor on the minor’s cellphone and further instructed her to not talk to United States federal law enforcement officials in the Philippines. Communications between Bernhardt and the victim revealed that Bernhardt was attempting to arrange a meeting with the minor in a Philippines hotel with the intent of engaging in sexual acts with her.
This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security-Homeland Security Investigations in Bismarck; Homeland Security Investigations-Manila, Philippines; and the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation.
Assistant US Attorneys Gary Delorme and Jonathan O’Konek prosecuted the case.
Three Nigerian Nationals from South Africa Convicted in International Cyber Financial Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Three Nigerian nationals, who in July 2015 were extradited from South Africa to the Southern District of Mississippi, were convicted today by a federal jury for their wide-ranging Internet fraud schemes.
Acting Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Blanco of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and U.S. Attorney Gregory K. Davis of the Southern District of Mississippi made the announcement.
Oladimeji Seun Ayelotan, 30, was convicted of conspiracy to commit mail fraud, wire fraud, and bank fraud, conspiracy to commit identity theft, access device fraud, and theft of U.S. government funds, two counts of mail fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering. Ayelotan faces up to 95 years in prison. Rasaq Aderoju Raheem, 31 was convicted of conspiracy to commit mail fraud, wire fraud, and bank fraud, conspiracy to commit identity theft, access device fraud, and theft of U.S. government funds, three counts of mail fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering. Raheem faces up to 115 years in prison. Femi Alexander Mewase, 45, was convicted of conspiracy to commit mail fraud and wire fraud, and conspiracy to commit identity theft, access device fraud, and theft of U.S. government funds. Mewase faces up to 25 years in prison. Sentencing for all three is set for May 24 in the Southern District of Mississippi.
According to trial testimony and evidence presented in the three-week trial, the defendants participated in numerous complex Internet-based financial fraud schemes, including romance scams, re-shipping scams, fraudulent check scams, and work-at-home scams, as well as bank, financial, and credit card account takeovers. From as early as 2001, the defendants identified and solicited potential victims through online dating websites and work-at-home opportunities. In some instances, the defendants carried on fictitious online romantic relationships with victims for the purpose of using the victims to further objectives of the conspiracy. For example, the defendants convinced victims to ship and receive merchandise purchased with stolen personal identifying information (PII) and compromised credit card and banking information, to deposit counterfeit checks, to withdraw money from fraudulent pre-paid debit cards that were loaded with money from stolen credit cards and to transfer proceeds of the conspiracy via wire, U.S. mail, or express delivery services.
A total of 21 defendants were charged in this case. To date, defendants Adekunle Adefila, 41, of Nigeria; Anuoluwapo Segun Adegbemigun, 40, of Nigeria; Gabriel Oludare Adeniran, 30, of Nigeria; Genoveva Farfan, 45, of California; Rhulane Fionah Hlungwane, 26, of South Africa; Teslim Olarewaju Kiriji, 30, of Nigeria; Dennis Brian Ladden, 75, of Wisconsin; Olutoyin Ogunlade, 41, of New York; Taofeeq Olamilekan Oyelade, 32, of Nigeria; Olufemi Obaro Omoraka, 27, of Nigeria; and Olusegun Seyi Shonekan, 34, of Nigeria; have pleaded guilty to related conspiracy charges. Susan Anne Villeneuve, 49, of California, is awaiting trial.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service investigated the case. Significant assistance was also provided by the Criminal Division’s Office of International Affairs, the HSI Cyber Crimes Center, HSI Attachés in Pretoria, South Africa and Dakar, Senegal, the U.S. Marshals Service’s International Investigations Branch and the Southern District of Mississippi District Office, the South African Police Service (SAPS) Directorate of Priority Crimes Investigation (DPCI) Electronic Crimes Unit, the SAPS Interpol Extradition Unit, the South African National Prosecution Authority and the South African Department of Justice and Constitutional Development. Trial Attorney Conor Mulroe of the Criminal Division’s Organized Crime and Gang Section, Senior Counsel Peter Roman of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Annette Williams of the Southern District of Mississippi tried the case.
If you believe that you may have been a victim of criminal fraud committed by any of the defendants, please go to http://www.justice.gov/usao-sdms/scams and complete the questionnaire. Defendants allegedly used the following email addresses and names to perpetuate the scheme:
Stacy Adams Marlon Chase
Regina Darwin Folly Edwards
Kimberly Faye Lorene M. Garrett
Mark Gentile John Gervino
Dickson Jones Anita Lauren
Samuel Maxwell Mark Miller
Adeline Piper Sarah Powell
Karen Robinson Glenn Sattelberg
Kevin Smith Mark Smith
Richard Wasser Justin Worsham
Any information that you provide through the questionnaire may be helpful in the criminal investigation and prosecution of this case. A federal investigator may contact you with additional questions or to request documents you may have. Please note that submitting the questionnaire is not a substitute for consulting with your own attorney to determine what actions and remedies may be available to you through civil litigation. If you have any questions related to this matter that are not addressed at the above websites, you may contact federal law enforcement authorities at [email protected].
Three Monroe County Men Indicted on Drug and Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Deshaun Lipscomb, age 24, of Bushkill, Pennsylvania, Pablo Martinez, age 27, and Orrett Campbell, age 37, both of East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, were indicted on February 7, 2017, by a federal grand jury on drug trafficking and firearms charges.
The indictment was unsealed today following the arrests of defendants. The defendants were arraigned before United States Magistrate Judge Joseph F. Saporito, Jr. and were ordered detained pending a detention hearing scheduled for February 13, 2017.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that Lipscomb, Martinez, and Campbell conspired to traffic marijuana and used firearms during the course of that conspiracy. The charges stem from a drug deal that turned into a shooting in East Stroudsburg in January 2016. The victim of the shooting suffered two gunshot wounds and was forced from a vehicle travelling at high speed.
The indictment further alleges that Lipscomb possessed a firearm in furtherance of heroin trafficking and trafficked heroin and cocaine, and that Martinez trafficked MDAM, commonly known as “Molly” or “ecstasy.”
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Francis P. Sempa and Sean A. Camoni.
This case was brought as part of the Violent Crime Reduction Partnership (“VCRP”), a district wide initiative to combat the spread of violent crime in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the VCRP consists of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies whose mission is to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit violent crimes with firearms.
This case was also brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The total maximum penalty under federal law for these offenses is life imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Tampa Man Pleads Guilty to Role in Stolen Identity Refund Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney A. Lee Bentley, III announces that Weldon Malveau (41, Tampa) yesterday pleaded guilty to theft of government property. He faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the plea agreement, between January 2011 and March 2012, Malveau was involved in a scheme to file false and fraudulent income tax returns with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in order to generate large refunds that were deposited onto debit cards. When law enforcement officers arrested Malveau on March 15, 2012, he had 26 debit cards in the names of different individuals in his possession, along with ledgers containing names and social security numbers. The investigation revealed that the IRS had received fraudulent tax returns and issued refunds in the names of many of those individuals, totaling approximately $342,563, which was traced back to Malveau. An analysis of the debit cards in Malveau’s possession revealed that he had purchased a 2010 Porsche Panamera for $85,000 with the proceeds from his scheme. As part of the plea agreement, Malveau agreed to forfeit the Porsche.
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation and the Tampa Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Adam M. Saltzman.
St. Croix Man Sentenced to Probation for Unlawful Mailing of FirearmRead the Press Release
St. Croix, USVI – District Court Judge Raymond L. Finch, on February 7, 2017, sentenced Waleed Lang, 33, of St. Croix, Virgin Islands, to five years of probation for unlawful mailing of a firearm, United States Attorney Ronald W. announced. Judge Finch also ordered Lang to pay a fine of $500 along with a special assessment of $100.
On or about February 15, 2014, Lang knowingly mailed a U.S. priority mail parcel from Florida to St. Croix. The parcel contained a Titan Tier .38 caliber revolver.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alphonso Andrews, Jr.
Shawano County Man Indicted for Child Sex Offenses on Menominee Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
Gregory J. Haanstad, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on February 7, 2017, a federal grand jury returned a three-count indictment charging William C. Wilber IV (age: 35), of Suring, Wisconsin with child sex offenses on the Menominee Indian Reservation. This is in violation of 18, United States Code, Sections 2243(a) and 1153(a). If convicted, Wilber faces a maximum sentence of up to 15 years’ imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, at least 5 years of supervised release, and a $5,000 special assessment, on each of the three counts.
According to the indictment, the defendant engaged in sex acts with two teenage girls near a family property on Legend Lake on the Menominee Indian Reservation. Count One charges the defendant with engaging in a sex act with a 14-year old girl in spring 2015. Counts Two and Three relate to the defendant engaging in sex acts with a 15-year old girl in summer 2015 and fall 2016.
The case was investigated by the Menominee Tribal Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Andrew J. Maier.
An indictment is only a charge and not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
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For Additional Information Contact:
Public Information Officer Dean Puschnig 414-297-1700
Shady Point Woman Sentenced to 4 Months for Conspiracy to Steal Postal OrdersRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that LADAUGHNA JEAN DUXBURY, age 54, of Shady Point, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 4 months imprisonment, and 3 years of supervised release for CONSPIRACY TO STEAL, POSSESS AND UTTER STOLEN UNITED STATES POSTAL MONEY ORDERS, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371.
The Indictment alleged that from on or about December 24, 2015, and continuing thereafter until on or about January 13, 2016, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere the defendant, did knowingly and willfully conspire, confederate and agree together, and with other persons both known and unknown to the Grand Jury, to commit offenses against the United States in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 500, namely, did knowingly steal, receive, possess, pass and utter, and attempt to pass and utter stolen United States Postal Service Money Order Forms with the intent to convert them to her own use or gain, and the use or gain of another, knowing said United States Postal Service Money Order Forms to have been stolen and converted.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Pocola Police Department and the United States Postal Service.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. The defendant will remain in custody pending transportation to the designated federal facility at which the nonparoleable sentence will be served.
Assistant United States Attorney Kristin Harrington represented the United States.
Second Construction Company Owner Charged with Conspiring to Pay Bribes for City of Atlanta ContractsRead the Press Release
ATLANTA – Charles P. Richards, Jr., has been arraigned on conspiratorial bribery charges for paying over $185,000 to obtain City of Atlanta contracts.
“From approximately 2010 to August 2015, Richards conspired with E.R. Mitchell to buy lucrative construction-related contracts with the City of Atlanta,” said U.S. Attorney John A. Horn. “Contractors who willingly participate in a pay-to-play contracting system subvert the process for those who try to compete fairly and ultimately undermine the public’s trust in government.”
“The arraignment of Mr. Richards illustrates once again that providing bribes in order to obtain government contracts, be it city, state, or federal, can land you in the defendant’s chair as easily as for those accepting the bribes. The FBI continues to work diligently with its various law enforcement partners and federal prosecutors in identifying, investigating, and presenting for prosecution all individuals engaged in these types of criminal public corruption schemes that undermine the legitimate and established practices of government,” said David J. LeValley, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Atlanta Field Office.
“The citizens of Atlanta must be able to trust that government officials will perform their duties in the best interests of the communities they serve,” said Veronica Hyman-Pillot, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation. “Charles Richards Jr. undermined the process of fair and open competition when he conspired with others to pay bribes in exchange for securing lucrative contracts with the City of Atlanta. Today’s announcement demonstrates our commitment to work in a collaborative effort to promote honest and ethical government at all levels.”
According to U.S. Attorney Horn, the charges, and other information presented in court: Richards serves as the owner and/or principal of the construction companies C.P. Richards Construction Co., Inc., and C.P. Richards & Associates, Inc.
In an effort to obtain construction-related contracts with the City of Atlanta, Richards and defendant Elvin R. Mitchell, Jr. conspired to pay an individual to obtain government contracts. From approximately 2010 to August 2015, Richards paid over $185,000 to an individual in exchange for City of Atlanta contracts, believing that some of the money would be paid to city official/s who exercised influence over the contracting process.
Charles. P Richards, Jr., 64, of Tucker, Georgia, was charged by information and will plead guilty on February 16, 2017, before the U.S. District Court Judge Steve C. Jones.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation.
First Assistant United States Attorney Kurt R. Erskine and Assistant United States Attorneys Jeffrey W. Davis, and Jill Steinberg, are prosecuting the case.
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.
Scranton Man Charged with Drug Distributions Resulting in Two Deaths and Serious Bodily Injury to A Third VictimRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Josthan Cardona, age 26, of Scranton, Pennsylvania, was indicted on February 7, 2017, by a federal grand jury for conspiracy to distribute heroin and distribution of heroin and fentanyl, resulting in two deaths and serious bodily injury to another victim.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the five-count indictment alleges that beginning in or about September 2015 and continuing through December 2015, Cardona conspired with others to distribute heroin in Lackawanna County. The indictment also alleges that Cardona distributed heroin and fentanyl on December 7, 2015 and December 12, 2015, resulting in the death of two individuals and distributed heroin and fentanyl on December 12, 2015, to a third individual who overdosed as a result of the heroin causing serious bodily injury.
The investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration – Scranton Office, the Dunmore and Scranton Police Departments, and the Lackawanna County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Olshefski is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Drug distributions resulting in death or severe bodily injury require a 20 year minimum-mandatory sentence. The maximum penalty under federal law for the crimes charged in the indictment is life in prison, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Roswell Felon Sentenced to Five Years in Prison for Unlawfully Possessing Firearm and Violating Supervised Release ConditionsRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Enrique Chavarria, 33, of Roswell, N.M., was sentenced today in federal court in Las Cruces, N.M., to 40 months in prison for violating the federal firearms laws by unlawfully possessing a firearm and ammunition. He also was sentenced to an additional 20 months in prison for violating the terms of his supervised release on a prior conviction, for a total sentence of 60 months of imprisonment. Chavarria will be on supervised release for three years after completing his prison sentence.
Chavarria was arrested on July 21, 2016, in Chaves County, N.M., by the U.S. Marshals Service, and was charged by criminal complaint with being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. At the time, was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition because he previously had been convicted of possession of methamphetamine and cocaine with intent to distribute.
On Sept. 16, 2016, Chavarria pled guilty to a felony information charging him with being a felon in possession of a firearm. Chavarria entered his guilty plea without the benefit of a plea agreement.
This case was investigated by the Las Cruces offices of the U.S. Marshals Service and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Beck of the U.S. Attorney’s Las Cruces Branch Office is prosecuting the case.
Rochester Man Sentenced for Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-Acting U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr., announced today that Faycal Taouzinet, 28, of Rochester, NY, who was convicted of receipt of child pornography, was sentenced to five years in prison by Chief U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tiffany H. Lee, who handled the case, stated that in June 2015, the mother of a 13-year-old minor advised the Rochester Police Department that her child was communicating with two men. According to the mother, one of the two men, Taouzinet, was a clerk at a local corner store. Officers reviewed the minor’s phone and uncovered texts between the minor and Taouzinet to include sexually explicit chats and chats where the minor had sent sexually explicit pictures to Taouzinet.
An officer, assuming the minor’s identity, engaged in texts with Taouzinet and arranged for a meeting to occur on June 22, 2015. The defendant did not show up at the arranged time but texted later and asked to meet. Taouzinet was observed by officers later that date and confronted and arrested.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Child Exploitation Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Adam S. Cohen.
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Richmond Resident Sentenced to 12 Years’ Imprisonment for Filing Fraudulent Tax Returns and Appropriating Fraudulent and Stolen Treasury ChecksRead the Press Release
OAKLAND– Hugh Robinson was sentenced to 144 months in prison for his role in a conspiracy to commit theft of government property, announced United States Attorney Brian J. Stretch, Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division, and Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, Special Agent in Charge Michael T. Batdorf.
Robinson, 46, of San Pablo, Calif., was charged along with ten codefendants on November 5, 2015, in a 71-count indictment with conspiracy to commit theft of public money, theft of public money, wire fraud, and aggravated identity theft. On October 31, 2016, a jury convicted Robinson of all charges against him in the indictment. The sentence was handed down yesterday by the Honorable Jeffrey S. White, U.S. District Judge.
According to the indictment and evidence presented at trial, from at least August 21, 2013, through April 27, 2015, the defendants conspired with one another to commit the offenses against the United States charged in the indictment, which included theft of government money. The scheme involved obtaining the names of deceased individuals, filing false tax returns in the names of those individuals, obtaining false identifications, and illegally cashing U.S. Treasury checks.
Robinson, with the assistance of others, obtained names of deceased individuals for use in filing false tax returns. To obtain identities for use in the scheme, the defendants searched California death records and obtained the names and personal identifying information of deceased individuals. The defendants then used the identities obtained from the death records to electronically file false federal income tax returns and caused the returns to be filed in the name of the deceased individuals with the IRS. The returns falsely represented that the individuals earned wages or other income and that the individuals listed on the tax returns were entitled to tax refunds. Robinson and other individuals working with them also listed on the tax returns certain physical addresses to which the defendants had access, enabling the defendants to retrieve the refund checks.
Also described in the indictment and at trial is the process by which the defendants cashed the fraudulently obtained U.S. Treasury checks. The evidence established that a co-conspirator provided false and fraudulent California identification documents which was used to negotiate the U.S. Treasury checks. The false identifications contained the pictures of designated co-conspirators who would cash the checks. In addition, Robinson and others brought some of the checks to a Walmart store in Richmond, Calif., where other co-conspirators cashed the checks. According to the indictment, two of the coconspirators were Walmart employees who knew the checks belonged to others and the U.S. Treasury. Further, Robinson and his coconspirators obtained false identification documents that matched other names on the U.S. Treasury checks and negotiated those illegally-obtained checks at various other Walmart stores. According to the criminal complaint filed in the case, a search of the location where Robinson resided yielded $237,394 worth of uncashed U.S. Treasury checks.
U.S. Attorney Stretch and Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Goldberg commended special agents of IRS–Criminal Investigation who conducted the investigation; as well as Assistant United States Attorneys Thomas Newman and Jose A. Olivera, and Trial Attorney Gregory Bernstein of the Justice Department Tax Division, who prosecuted the case.
Reno Man Sentenced to Prison for Making A Threat Against the President of the United StatesRead the Press Release
RENO, Nev. – A Reno man was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Howard D. McKibben to 36 months in prison and three years of supervised release for making a threat against the President of the United States, announced U.S. Attorney Daniel G. Bogden for the District of Nevada.
“The U.S. Attorney’s Office takes all threats against the President of the United States seriously, and we will work with our law enforcement partners to bring those who make such threats to justice,” said U.S. Attorney Bogden.
Steven Eugene Ford, aka Job Ford, aka Eleazar Melchizedek, 51, was convicted by a jury on Nov. 16, 2016. He was charged by an indictment on March 9, 2016.
According to court documents, on or about March 1, 2016, Ford made a threat to take the life of the President of the United States. He told a White House telephone operator that “I’m going to kill that president. I hate him.” During an interview with law enforcement, Ford admitted to making the threats.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Secret Service; and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian L. Sullivan.
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Puerto Rico Man Sentenced to 46 Months for Conspiracy to Possess Controlled Substance with Intent to DistributeRead the Press Release
St. Croix, USVI – District Court Judge Raymond L. Finch, on February 7, 2017, sentenced Carmelo Cruz-Velez, 52, of Puerto Rico, to 46 months in prison for conspiracy to possess a controlled substance with intent to distribute, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced. Judge Finch also sentenced Cruz-Velez to five years of supervised release and ordered him to pay a fine of $2,000 along with a special assessment of $100.
Before October 21, 2014, Cruz-Velez and his co-conspirators agreed to import cocaine into St. Croix and deliver it to others. On October 21, 2014, his co-conspirators retrieved a mid-sea shipment of 71 kilograms of cocaine and brought it to St. Croix. Afterward, Cruz-Velez, knowing of the plan, took possession of the cocaine and delivered it to another individual for transshipment to Puerto Rico.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alphonso Andrews, Jr.
Pittsburgh Man Charged with Three Robberies at Castle Shannon Dollar BankRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of bank robbery, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The three-count indictment, returned on February 7, named John Michael Boden, 30, of Pittsburgh, Pa.
According to the indictment, Boden robbed Dollar Bank, located at 400 Mount Lebanon Boulevard, Castle Shannon, Pa., on October 13, 2016, November 10, 2016, and November 16, 2016.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 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 offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Caitlin A. Loughran is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Allegheny County Police Department, the Castle Shannon Police Department, and the Bethel Park Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh Man Charged with Possessing Heroin and FentanylRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - An Allegheny County resident, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The one-count indictment, returned yesterday, named Eric Clancy, 30, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, on May 13, 2015, Eric Clancy possessed with the intent to distribute a quantity of heroin and fentanyl.
On the sole count of the indictment, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 30 years in prison, a fine of $2,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy M. Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. This case is being prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and communities to prevent, deter, and prosecute gun crime.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Mount Oliver Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh Man Charged with Assisting in the Preparation of False 1040 FormsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of aiding and assisting in the preparation and presentation of false and fraudulent income tax returns, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The 31-count indictment, returned yesterday, named Jamar White as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment, for the calendar years 2010 through 2014, Jamar White willfully aided and assisted seven different taxpayers in the preparation of 31 IRS Forms 1040 which were false due to fraudulent Schedule A deductions for items such as medical and dental expenses, charitable contributions, various unreimbursed business expenses and tax preparation fees.
At each of the 31 counts, defendant faces a maximum penalty of three years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and 1 year of supervised release. 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.
The Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh Man Charged in Six Area Bank RobberiesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of armed bank robbery and bank robbery, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The six-count indictment, returned on February 7, named Gregory Magee, age 47.
According to the indictment, Magee robbed the following banks:
- On January 20, 2016, First Niagara Bank, 20111 Route 19, Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania 16066, of $5,526.00;
- On February 29, 2016, First Merit Bank, 2090 West State Street, New Castle, Pennsylvania 16101, of $10,126.00;
- On March 31, 2016, First Niagara Bank, 4073 Washington Road, McMurray, Pennsylvania 15317, of $9,133.00;
- On June 8, 2016, First Commonwealth Bank, 5847 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15217, of $3,709.00;
- On August 11, 2016, Citizens Bank, 2537 Constitution Boulevard, Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania 15010, of $12,559.00; and,
- On November 8, 2016, S&T Bank, 4580 Broadway Boulevard, Monroeville, Pennsylvania 15146, of $78,643.00.
With respect to armed bank robbery, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 25 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. With respect to bank robbery, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 20 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 offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.Assistant United States Attorney Conor Lamb is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, the Monroeville Police Department, the Chippewa Township Police Department, and the Peters Township Police Department 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.
Phoenix Man Sentenced to 30 years in Prison for Conspiracy to Support Isil and other Terrorism-Related OffensesRead the Press Release
PHOENIX – Abdul Malik Abdul Kareem, 45, of Phoenix, Ariz., was sentenced today to 360 months in prison. On March 17, 2016, Kareem was found guilty by a federal jury of conspiring to provide material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (“ISIL”), a designated foreign terrorist organization; conspiring to transport firearms and ammunition in interstate commerce with the intent to commit murder and aggravated assault; transporting firearms and ammunition in interstate commerce with the intent to commit murder and aggravated assault; making false statements to the FBI; and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
“Today’s sentence, in the country’s first trial involving a homeland terrorist attack committed in the name of ISIL, demonstrates the commitment of the United States to hold accountable any person who participates in or aids in any way acts of terrorism against our citizens,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Elizabeth A. Strange. “I would like to recognize the heroic law enforcement officials in Garland whose quick action prevented a much larger tragedy, the FBI for the tremendous work on the underlying investigation, and our dedicated prosecutors who worked tirelessly to seek justice on behalf of the United States.”
“Following the first jury trial in the country involving a homeland attack committed in the name of ISIL, today’s sentence holds Abdul Kareem accountable for conspiring to provide material support to the foreign terrorist organization and other federal offenses,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General McCord. “The defendant conspired with Elton Simpson and Nadir Soofi to provide material support to ISIL and to transport firearms in interstate commerce with the intent to commit murder and aggravated assault. Thanks to the response of brave law enforcement officers at the scene, no innocent lives were lost when Simpson and Soofi attacked the Curtis Culwell Center in Garland, Texas. The National Security Division will continue to prosecute to the fullest extent of the law those who conspire with others to support foreign terrorist organizations and to commit acts of violence in our country.”
“The sentencing of Kareem is significant and sends a strong message to those who support terrorism,” said Michael DeLeon, Special Agent In Charge of the FBI Phoenix Field Office. “Unfortunately, some people who do not believe in the American way of life are plotting to do us harm. The protection of U.S. citizens and our communities remains the FBI's number one priority. This can only be accomplished through the joint and coordinated efforts of our law enforcement, our intelligence community, and our vigilant citizens. I would like to commend our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, to include the Joint Terrorism Task Force, for their role in this case."
The evidence at trial showed that beginning around June 2014, Kareem and two friends, Elton Simpson and Nadir Soofi, began conspiring to support ISIL. Their conspiracy focused on supporting ISIL by attacking targets in the United States. Over the course of the conspiracy, Kareem, Simpson, and Soofi considered attacking military bases, individual military service members, shopping malls, the Super Bowl, and the “Muhammad Art Exhibit and Contest.” On May 3, 2015, the morning of the contest, Simpson and Soofi drove from Arizona to Texas, stopped their car near the contest, got out, and began firing assault rifles at security personnel and law enforcement officers. A security guard was injured by one of their bullets, and Simpson and Soofi were shot and killed by police officers in the firefight.
Additionally, the evidence at trial showed that Kareem’s role in the conspiracy included assisting the other two men with firearms training, providing money to purchase some of the weapons and ammunition used in the attack, instruction on how to care for and maintain their weapons, taking Simpson and Soofi shooting in the desert, hosting Simpson and Soofi in his home, and providing a meeting location to plan the attack. The evidence also showed that Kareem supported ISIL and knew Simpson and Soofi supported ISIL. Kareem did not travel to Texas and was not injured during the attack. During an interview with FBI agents soon after the attack, Kareem lied about having prior knowledge of the attack and the contest.
The case was investigated by the FBI, and the prosecution was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph Koehler and Kristen Brook of the District of Arizona, with assistance provided by Trial Attorney Rebecca Magnone and Deputy Chief Matthew Blue of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.
CASE NUMBER: CR-15-707-PHX-SRB
RELEASE NUMBER: 2017-011_Kareem
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For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.
Pennsylvania man indicted for traveling to Ohio to have sex with 15-year-oldRead the Press Release
A Pennsylvania man was indicted on charges that he enticed and traveled with the intent of engaging in illicit sexual conduct with a child, said Carole S. Rendon, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
Carmen J. Sagnimeni, 38, of Mercer, Penn., knowingly used a cellular phone with Internet connectivity to attempt to persuade, induce, entice and coerce an underage girl to engage in illegal sexual activity with him. The indictment also charges on Dec. 15, 2016, Sagnimeni knowingly traveled from Pennsylvania to Ohio for the purpose of engaging in illicit sexual conduct with a 15 year‑old girl, 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 United States Attorney Michael A. Sullivan following an investigation by the Ohio Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations.
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.
Omaha Woman Pleads Guilty to Misprision of a Felony for Involvement in an Income Tax SchemeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Deborah R. Gilg announced that Kathy Hansen, 36, of Ralston, Nebraska, pleaded guilty on Monday, February 6, 2017 to misprision of a felony, relating to her concealment of an income tax scheme. The Honorable Chief Judge Laurie Smith Camp presided over the change of plea that was held in Federal District Court. Sentencing has been set for May 1, 2017. Hansen faces up to 3 years’ imprisonment as well as a $250,000 fine.
In 2014 Hansen opened bank accounts with financial institutions resulting in illegally obtained tax refunds, totaling approximately $11,557.00, being deposited into those bank accounts. The tax refunds were obtained as part of a tax refund fraud scheme being operated by individuals believed to be located outside the United States. The funds deposited into the accounts were then sent by Hansen to individuals in Nigeria. The charges allege that Hansen, knowing that a crime was being committed, failed to notify law enforcement of it.
The case was investigated by the Department of the Treasury, Criminal Investigations.
Ohio man pleads guilty to cocaine distributionRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Eric Alexander Young, 37, of Bridgeport, Ohio, was convicted of cocaine distribution today, Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, announced.
Young pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine.” He faces up to twenty years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen L. Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James E. Seibert presided.
Ohio Man Charged in Internet Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Ohio resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of mail fraud, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The two-count indictment, returned on February 7, named Atticus Sliter-Matias, 27, of South Euclid, Ohio.
According to the indictment presented to the court, from around June 2015 to on or about July 5, 2016, Sliter-Matias advertised electronic devices or other items for sale on numerous eBay accounts. However, Sliter-Matias mailed empty packages through the United States Postal Service to the purchasers instead of the purchased merchandise. Sliter-Matias often used the proceeds from these fraudulent sales to purchase gold or silver bars and coins.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $500,000.00 or both. 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.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Postal Inspection Service 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.
North Tonawanda Business Owner Sentenced for Tax FraudRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051
BUFFALO, N.Y.-Acting U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that David B. Schmitt, 65, of North Tonawanda, NY, who was convicted of tax evasion, was sentenced to 30 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford. The defendant was also ordered to pay restitution totaling $748,459.75.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo, who handled the case, stated that the defendant owned and operated delivery businesses known as Three Kids Trucking Inc. and 1553 Harlem Road Inc. Between February 2010 and June 2013, while Schmitt owned and operated these businesses, he willfully attempted to evade and defeat the payment of a large part of federal employment taxes owed by 1553 Harlem Road Inc. The defendant did so by filing false forms with the IRS, having nominees open bank accounts to conduct business for the corporation, and creating a fraudulent trust for one of the corporations. The total loss to the IRS exceeded $500,000.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division, under the direction of Kathy A. Enstrom, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge.
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New York Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Sex Trafficking Conspiracy and Sex Trafficking of a MinorRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – U.S. District Judge James K. Bredar sentenced Raymond Idemudia Aigbekaen, age 29, of Amityville, New York, on February 7, 2017, to 15 years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for conspiracy to commit sex trafficking, sex trafficking of a minor and other charges related to the trafficking of a 16 year-old female for prostitution in Maryland, Virginia, and New York. Judge Bredar also ordered that upon his release from prison Aigbekaen will be required to register as a sex offender in the place where he resides, where he is an employee, and where he is a student, under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA).
The sentence was announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Rod J. Rosenstein; Special Agent in Charge Andre R. Watson of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); Special Agent in Charge Gordon B. Johnson of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Baltimore Field Office; Harford County Sheriff Jeffrey R. Gahler and the Harford County Child Advocacy Center (HCCAC); and Colonel William M. Pallozzi, Superintendent of the Maryland State Police.
According to information presented at his nine-day trial, from late February through April 12, 2015, Aigbekaen and his co-defendant, Marcell Greene, trafficked a 16 year-old girl for prostitution. On April 12, 2015, the victim called 911 from a hotel in Bel Air, Maryland. Members of the Harford County Child Advocacy Center responded and the victim eventually advised that she had been taken to Virginia and Maryland from New York by two men, one named Marcell and another named “Raymond” who was Nigerian. The victim advised that commercial sex ads of her were posted on a webpage, and that she engaged in commercial sex acts with prostitution dates. Law enforcement was able to identify Aigbekaen as the person who rented the hotel room where victim was staying.
Items, such as tissues and used condoms, were recovered from the trash cans of the hotel room used by Aigbekaen, Greene and the victim on April 11-12, 2015. Some of these items were found to contain DNA evidence, including DNA evidence that matched the co-defendant, Greene. The evidence also determined that Aigbekaen was a potential contributor to stains on the victim’s underwear. Hotel records show that Aigbekaen also rented rooms on March 30, 2015 to April 1, 2015 and from April 2, 2015 to April 4, 2015. Hotel records also showed that Aigbekaen rented rooms at other hotels in Maryland and Fredericksburg, Virginia and Virginia Beach, Virginia.
Law enforcement were able to locate internet prostitution advertisements advertising the victim for prostitution using Aigbekaen’s email accounts. These advertisements were posted in the Long Island, New York, Maryland, and Virginia areas in February and March 2015. At least some of these advertisements listed Aigbekaen’s phone number. Photos of the victim that were used in the ads were also found on Aigbekaen’s computer. Finally, historical cell site records for Aigbekaen’s phones showed him travelling in Maryland and Virginia and puts him in vicinity of Maryland and Virginia hotels that were used when the victim was engaging in commercial sex acts.
Aigbekaen remains detained.
Marcell Greene, age 28, of Wyandanch, New York, previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit sex trafficking and sex trafficking of a minor, and is scheduled to be sentenced on February 10, 2017. Greene remains detained.
This case was investigated by the Maryland Human Trafficking Task Force, formed in 2007 to discover and rescue victims of human trafficking while identifying and prosecuting offenders. Members include federal, state and local law enforcement, as well as victim service providers and local community members. For more information about the Maryland Human Trafficking Task Force, please visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/md/priorities_human.html.
Report suspected instances of human trafficking to HSI's tip line at 866-DHS-2ICE (1-866-347-2423) or by completing its online tip form. Both are staffed around the clock by investigators.
United States Attorney Rod J. Rosenstein commended HSI-Baltimore, the Harford County Sheriff’s Office, Harford County Child Advocacy Center, Maryland State Police, FBI, for their work in the investigation and thanked U.S. Customs and Border Protection – New York for its assistance. The HCCAC is a task force comprised of the Harford County Sheriff’s Office, Maryland State Police – Bel Air Barrack, Aberdeen, Bel Air, and Havre de Grace Police Departments, Harford County State’s Attorney’s Office, Harford County Department of Social Services – Child Protective Services, and Family and Children’s Services of Central Maryland, which investigates allegations of child maltreatment while also providing services and resources for the abused child and his/her family. Mr. Rosenstein thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ayn B. Ducao and Matthew J. Maddox, who prosecuted the case.
New Town Man Sentenced for Domestic Assault by a Habitual OffenderRead the Press Release
BISMARCK - US Attorney Christopher C. Myers announced that on February 6, 2017, Valentino William White, Jr., 33, New Town, ND, was sentenced before US District Chief Judge Daniel L. Hovland to serve four years and nine months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, on a charge of domestic assault by a habitual offender. Judge Hovland also ordered White to pay a $100 special assessment to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
White pleaded guilty on November 2, 2016, to assaulting a woman by striking her across the face with a cellular phone and throwing her down the stairs in May 2016. White had demonstrated a pattern of violence towards women by having three previous convictions for domestic violence offenses by May 2016. Specifically, White had a domestic violence conviction in each of the following courts: Grand Forks County District Court, Bismarck Municipal Court, and Three Affiliated Tribes Tribal Court.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the assistance of the Three Affiliated Tribes Police Department.
Assistant US Attorney Jonathan O’Konek prosecuted the case.
Monroe County Man Indicted on Heroin Trafficking and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
SCRANTON—The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Laurence Cadogan, age 32, of Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, was indicted on February 7, 2017, by a federal grand jury on heroin trafficking and gun charges.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that Cadogan possessed with intent to distribute heroin and unlawfully possessed firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking. The crimes allegedly occurred on October 26, 2016, in Tannersville. Police and agents seized more than 3,000 bags of heroin and two firearms, a Ruger .380 caliber handgun and a Smith and Wesson 9mm handgun, during the investigation. The indictment seeks the forfeiture of the two firearms.
The charges against the Cadogan resulted from an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Stroud Area Regional Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis P. Sempa is prosecuting the cases.
This case was brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses.
This case was brought as part of the Violent Crime Reduction Partnership (“VCRP”), a district wide initiative to combat the spread of violent crime in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the VCRP consists of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies whose mission is to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit violent crimes with firearms.
Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law for the gun offense is life in prison, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. That charge also carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison. The maximum penalty under federal law for the drug offense is 20 years in prison, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Moldovan Pleads Guilty to Distributing Bugat MalwareRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Moldova pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of conspiracy and damaging a computer, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
Andrey Ghinkul a/k/a “Andrei Ghincul” a/k/a “Smilex”, 31, of Moldova pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that the defendant was part of a criminal conspiracy that disseminated the Bugat malware, used malware to steal banking credentials, and then used the stolen credentials to initiate fraudulent electronic funds transfers of millions of dollars from the victims’ bank accounts.
This case involves a sophisticated international conspiracy that infects computers with the malware known as Bugat. Bugat, which is also referred to as Cridex and Dridex, is a multifunction malware package. It is specifically designed to automate the theft of confidential personal and financial information, such as online banking credentials, from infected computers through the use of keystroke logging and web injects.
Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for July 13, 2017. The law provides for a total sentence of 15 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorneys Mary McKeen Houghton and Shardul S. Desai are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Ghinkul.
Members of Camden, New Jersey, Drug Trafficking Organization Charged with Drug Conspiracy and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
CAMDEN, N.J. – Two Camden-area men were charged by a federal grand jury today in connection with their roles in a drug distribution organization, U.S. Attorney Paul J. Fishman announced.
Preston J. Thomas, 30, a/k/a “Boo,” of Camden, was charged in a superseding indictment with one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute cocaine base and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The superseding indictment also charged Jeffrey Whitaker, 33, a/k/a “Jay,” a/k/a “Jay Black,” and a/k/a “Black,” of Collingswood, with the same drug trafficking conspiracy offense.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
Thomas, Whitaker and others were originally charged by complaint on Sept. 9, 2016, following a long-term investigation by the FBI’s South Jersey Violent Offender and Gang Task Force. Law enforcement officers seized drugs and recovered two handguns that were kept by members of the conspiracy in connection with the organization’s drug trafficking activities. Investigators also intercepted communications pursuant to court-authorized wiretaps on cellular telephones used by several members of the conspiracy.
Two conspirators identified in the indictment have already pleaded guilty to drug conspiracy and firearm offenses.
On Jan. 17, 2017, Jason Boyd, 36, a/k/a “Teddy,” a/k/a “Teddy Reek,” and a/k/a “Fatboy,” pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Jerome B. Simandle in Camden federal court to an information charging him with one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute cocaine base and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Boyd’s sentencing is scheduled for April 28, 2017.
On Dec. 8, 2016, Derek Stallworth, 20, a/k/a “AK” and a/k/a “A,” of Camden, also pleaded guilty before Judge Simandle to the same charges. His sentencing is scheduled for March 24, 2017.
The drug distribution conspiracy charge carries a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison and a $1 million fine. The firearms charge carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison to be served consecutively to the sentence for the conspiracy charge.
U.S. Attorney Fishman credited special agents of the FBI’s South Jersey Violent Offender and Gang Task Force, South Jersey Resident Agency, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Michael Harpster; the Camden County Police Department, under the direction of Chief J. Scott Thomson; the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Mary Eva Colalillo; and the N.J. State Police, under the direction of Col. Rick Fuentes, with the investigation leading to today’s indictment.
He also thanked the Camden County Sheriff’s Department, the Cherry Hill Police Department, and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) for their assistance.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Gabriel J. Vidoni of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Criminal Division in Camden.
The charges and allegations contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Defense counsel:
Thomas: Maggie Moy Esq., Assistant Federal Public Defender, Camden
Whitaker: Mark Catanzaro Esq., Mt. Holly, New Jersey
Media Pharmacist Faces Additional Charges in Conspiracy to Distribute OxycodoneRead the Press Release
Mitesh Patel, 36, of Media, Pennsylvania, was charged today by Superseding Indictment with conspiracy to distribute oxycodone, money laundering conspiracy, and filing false tax returns, announced Acting United States Attorney Louis D. Lappen.
According to the Superseding Indictment, from 2008 through June 2013, Patel was a pharmacist, registered in Pennsylvania, who conspired with others to illegally distribute oxycodone, a Schedule II controlled substance. From 2009 through 2013, Patel owned three pharmacies, Dava Pharmacy, Dava #2 Pharmacy, and Drexel Hill Pharmacy, that he used to order sums of oxycodone which he then provided to his coconspirators for distribution. Patel provided sums of the ordered oxycodone to his coconspirators for distribution without prescription and in exchange for money. Patel then used various bank accounts associated with his pharmacies to launder the drug proceeds in a manner intended to conceal the unlawful origin of the money. Additionally, Patel filed false tax returns for the tax years of 2010, 2011, and 2012, for not reporting his actual taxable income.
If convicted the defendant faces a maximum of 49 years in prison, a special assessment of $500, a lifetime of supervised release, and a potential fine. The government is also seeking forfeiture of the proceeds of Patel’s unlawful activities including, but not limited to, a sum of $2,733,300.00.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, and the Philadelphia Police Department as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force program. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jonathan B. Ortiz and David E. Troyer.
A Superseding Indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Mansfield couple indicted for sexual exploitation of a childRead the Press Release
A Mansfield couple was indicted on charges related to sexual exploitation of a child, said Carole S. Rendon, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, and FBI Special Agent in Charge Stephen D. Anthony.
Gary L. Fisher, 43, and Amy E. Glaze, 41, both from Mansfield, were charged with sexual exploitation of a child and destruction of evidence. Fisher was also charged with committing a felony offense involving a minor while being a registered sex offender.
Fisher and Glaze, did use, persuade, entice and coerce a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of such conduct. This took place from Aug. 1, 2016, through Nov. 21, 2016, according to the indictment.
Fisher and Glaze also knowingly altered, destroyed, concealed, and covered up any record, document, or tangible object, to wit: LG smartphone S/N 601VTYK1346642, a SanDisk microSD card, and the digital files contained thereon, with the intent to impede, obstruct, and influence the investigation and proper administration of any matter within the jurisdiction of any department or agency of the United States. This took place between Dec. 31, 2016, through Jan. 9, 2017, according to the indictment
Fisher, being required by Ohio law to register as a sex offender, committed a felony offense involving a minor between Aug. 1, through Nov. 21, 2016, 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 Mansfield and Canton offices of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Mansfield and Canton Police Departments and the Pennsylvania State Police.
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.
Man Sentenced for 2014 Convenience Store RobberiesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS, Nev. – A Las Vegas man was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Kent J. Dawson to 51 months in prison for three convenience store robberies in 2014, announced U.S. Attorney Daniel G. Bogden for the District of Nevada.
Eddie Junior Rodriguez, 46, pleaded guilty on Aug. 2, 2016, to three counts of interference with commerce by robbery.
“The defendant was brazen and robbed three convenience stores in less than two hours,” said U.S. Attorney Bogden. “Working with the FBI and our law enforcement partners, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to reducing violent crime in Nevada and keeping our communities safe.”
According to court documents, Rodriguez admitted that on Dec. 23, 2014, at approximately 3:30 a.m., he entered a Speedee Mart, pointed a knife at an employee and demanded money. Approximately 30 minutes later, at another Speedee Mart location, Rodriguez brandished a knife and demanded money. The third robbery occurred shortly before 5:00 a.m. at Snackers where he demanded money.
The case was investigated by the FBI; and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexandra Michael.
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