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15 November 2016
Federal Inmate to Serve Additional 15 Years for Assaulting Correctional OfficerRead the Press Release
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – Today, Anthony Kendall, 28, an inmate in custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP), was sentenced by United States District Judge David L. Russell to serve an additional 15 years in a federal prison for assaulting a correctional officer, announced Mark A. Yancey, United States Attorney for the Western District of Oklahoma.
According to court records and court proceedings, on May 8, 2015, Kendall was an inmate at BOP’s Federal Transfer Center (FTC) located in Oklahoma City. He was in BOP custody after being sentenced to serve a ten-year sentence following his conviction for armed aggravated assault out of the District of Columbia. While at the FTC, Kendall refused to accept an assigned cell, became disruptive and eventually head-butted an FTC Correctional Officer causing a laceration to the Officer’s face. The Correctional Officer also injured his hip while trying to subdue Kendall.
On February 2, 2015, a federal grand jury indicted Kendall assaulting a correctional officer. On June 8, 2016, he pled guilty.
At a sentencing hearing today, Judge Russell sentenced Kendall to serve 15 years consecutively to his current ten-year sentence, followed by three years of supervised release upon completion of his prison term.
This case was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Prisons Special Investigative Service. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley L. Altshuler.
Federal Grand Jury IndictmentsRead the Press Release
Contact Person: Nancy Wicker (803) 929-3000
Acting United States Attorney Beth Drake stated today that a Federal Grand Jury in Columbia, South Carolina, returned Indictments against the following: Santonio Dwayne Ramsey, of Columbia, South Carolina, was charged in a 1-count indictment with escaping from a federal halfway house, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 751(a). The case was investigated by the United States Marshals Service and is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Stacey D. Haynes of the Columbia office for prosecution.
Nigel Michael Sandiford, a/k/a “Michael H. Rogers,” a/k/a “Cecil Price,” of Columbia, South Carolina, was charged in a 1-count indictment with being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1). The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Stacey D. Haynes of the Columbia office for prosecution.
The United States Attorney stated that all charges in these Indictments are merely accusations and that all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Federal Court Permanently Bars Detroit Area Former Liberty Tax Service Franchisee from Preparing Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
A federal court in Detroit, Michigan has permanently barred a former Liberty Tax Service franchise owner and his operating company from preparing federal tax returns for others, the Justice Department announced today. The civil injunction order prohibits Craig M. Comer and Comer Inc. from acting as federal tax return preparers and operating a tax return preparation business. Comer and Comer Inc. agreed to the civil injunction order entered against them.
On Jan. 28, the government filed suit against Comer and Comer Inc. and alleged that their five Detroit area Liberty Tax Service stores prepared federal income tax returns that improperly inflated claims for tax refunds and refundable credits for customers during 2013, 2014 and 2015. According to the government’s complaint, the defendants also altered completed, customer-signed tax returns to increase the fees they charged customers and then forged the customers’ signatures on the returns when re-signing and filing them with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). As of March, Comer and Comer Inc. claimed to no longer own or operate any Liberty Tax Service stores. Today’s court order, among other prohibitions, bars the defendants from operating a tax return preparation business and includes disbarment from practice before the IRS in any capacity.
Return preparer fraud is one of the IRS’s Dirty Dozen Tax Scams for 2016. The IRS has some tips on their website for choosing a tax preparer and has launched a free directory of federal tax preparers. In the past decade, the Tax Division has obtained injunctions against hundreds of unscrupulous tax preparers. Information about these cases is available on the Justice Department’s website. An alphabetical listing of persons enjoined from preparing returns and promoting tax schemes can be found on this page. If you believe that one of the enjoined persons or businesses may be violating an injunction, please contact the Tax Division with details.
Fairview Park man charged with making threats against the President-ElectRead the Press Release
A Fairview Park man was charged in federal court for making threats against President-Elect Donald Trump, said U.S. Attorney Carole S. Rendon and Craig Wisniewski, Special Agent in Charge of the Secret Service’s Cleveland office.
Zachary Benson, 24, posted threats on his Twitter account around 1 a.m. on November 9, including: “My life goal is to assassinate Trump. Don’t care if I serve infinite sentences. That man deserves to decease existing,” according to an affidavit filed in the case.
Benson later admitted to making the threats after watching election returns. He said he had no intentions related to the posts and was frustrated about the President-Elect’s policies, according to the affidavit.
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 Karrie Howard following an investigation by the U.S. Secret Service.
A charge 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.
East St. Louis Man Pleads Guilty to Providing Marihuana to a Federal Inmate and Making a False Representation to the Bureau of PrisonsRead the Press Release
Donald S. Boyce, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today that on November 15, 2016, Ricky J. McGee, 34, East St. Louis, IL, pled guilty to two criminal counts, namely: Providing Contraband to a Federal Inmate and Making a False Representation to the Bureau of Prisons. McGee faces a term of imprisonment of not more than five years, a fine up to $250,000, or both, and a term of supervised release of not more than three years on each count. McGee’s sentencing has been scheduled for March 1, 2017, in East St. Louis, Illinois.
On May 8, 2016, an officer monitoring the visiting room at the Federal Correctional Institution at Greenville, Illinois (FCI-Greenville) observed McGee, who was visiting an inmate, pass a Doritos bag to the inmate. Based on this behavior, the visit was ended and the Doritos bag that McGee had in his possession prior to passing it to the inmate was inspected. Inside that bag were eight small blue balloons that contained a green leafy substance that field tested positive for marihuana. In addition, the inmate, who was immediately placed in a dry cell after his visit ended so that his bowel movements could be monitored, defecated out two balloons that contained a green leafy substance which field tested positive for marihuana the next day.
A review of the videotape showedMcGee reaching into his pants pocket before exchanging Doritos bags with the inmate. Federal inmates are prohibited from possessing marihuana. The charge for making a false statement was based on McGee’s false representation on a Bureau of Prisons visitors’ form that he was not in possession of marihuana.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Prisons’ Special Investigation Section. The case is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Angela Scott.
Eagle Butte Women Sentenced for AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that two Eagle Butte, South Dakota, women convicted of Assault With a Dangerous Weapon and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury were sentenced on November 7, 2016, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Lisa Lone Eagle, age 36, was sentenced to 63 months in custody. Kendra Belt a/k/a Kendra Counting, age 41, was sentenced to 37 months in custody. Both women will be on supervised release for a period of 3 years following their release from custody. Both were ordered to pay a special assessment of $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution was left open for a period of 30 days.
Lone Eagle and Belt were indicted by a federal grand jury on September 15, 2015, for Assault With Intent to Commit Murder, Assault With a Dangerous Weapon, and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury. Lone Eagle pled guilty to Assault With a Dangerous Weapon on August 4, 2016. Belt pled guilty to Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury on August 8, 2016.
Lone Eagle and Belt are half-sisters. Lone Eagle had lived at the victim’s residence for approximately a year and half. On the evening of September 5, 2015, Lone Eagle was drinking with the victim at his home. Lone Eagle left for a short time and returned with Belt. Other people were also at the residence. After Lone Eagle returned, she became angry with the victim. Lone Eagle pulled down shelves in the living room. Lone Eagle then punched the victim at least eight (8) times. Belt joined Lone Eagle in hitting the victim.
The victim ended up on the floor of the living room. Lone Eagle was wearing cowboy boots and kicked and stomped the victim in the head, face, neck, and upper torso multiple times. Lone Eagle also hit the victim with the head of a sledgehammer. Belt also kicked the victim while he was down on the floor, and attempted to strangle the victim. At some point, the victim lost consciousness.
At that point, the two women thought the victim was dead. They attempted to hide the victim’s body in the crawlspace of the residence, but were unable to do so. At that point they put a blanket over the victim, poured kerosene on the blanket, and attempted to light the blanket on fire. They were unsuccessful in setting the blanket on fire.
The victim regained consciousness, got up, and went and laid down. Lone Eagle went to where the victim was lying, and hit him five or six more times. The victim was eventually able to get up and escape the residence. He collapsed nearby where he was discovered by a neighbor.
This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller prosecuted the case. Lone Eagle and Belt were immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Eagle Butte Women Sentenced for AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that two Eagle Butte, South Dakota, women convicted of Assault With a Dangerous Weapon and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury were sentenced on November 7, 2016, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Lisa Lone Eagle, age 36, was sentenced to 63 months in custody. Kendra Belt a/k/a Kendra Counting, age 41, was sentenced to 37 months in custody. Both women will be on supervised release for a period of 3 years following their release from custody. Both were ordered to pay a special assessment of $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution was left open for a period of 30 days.
Lone Eagle and Belt were indicted by a federal grand jury on September 15, 2015, for Assault With Intent to Commit Murder, Assault With a Dangerous Weapon, and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury. Lone Eagle pled guilty to Assault With a Dangerous Weapon on August 4, 2016. Belt pled guilty to Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury on August 8, 2016.
Lone Eagle and Belt are half-sisters. Lone Eagle had lived at the victim’s residence for approximately a year and half. On the evening of September 5, 2015, Lone Eagle was drinking with the victim at his home. Lone Eagle left for a short time and returned with Belt. Other people were also at the residence. After Lone Eagle returned, she became angry with the victim. Lone Eagle pulled down shelves in the living room. Lone Eagle then punched the victim at least eight (8) times. Belt joined Lone Eagle in hitting the victim.
The victim ended up on the floor of the living room. Lone Eagle was wearing cowboy boots and kicked and stomped the victim in the head, face, neck, and upper torso multiple times. Lone Eagle also hit the victim with the head of a sledgehammer. Belt also kicked the victim while he was down on the floor, and attempted to strangle the victim. At some point, the victim lost consciousness.
At that point, the two women thought the victim was dead. They attempted to hide the victim’s body in the crawlspace of the residence, but were unable to do so. At that point they put a blanket over the victim, poured kerosene on the blanket, and attempted to light the blanket on fire. They were unsuccessful in setting the blanket on fire.
The victim regained consciousness, got up, and went and laid down. Lone Eagle went to where the victim was lying, and hit him five or six more times. The victim was eventually able to get up and escape the residence. He collapsed nearby where he was discovered by a neighbor.
This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller prosecuted the case. Lone Eagle and Belt were immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Eagle Butte Woman Indicted for Failure to AppearRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Appear.
Daryl Eagle Horse, a/k/a Daryl Hawk Eagle, age 29, was indicted on November 8, 2016. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark Moreno on November 9, 2016, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 2 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered. The term of imprisonment imposed for the Failure to be Appear charge must be consecutive to the sentence of imprisonment for the criminal offense for which she failed to appear in court.
The Indictment alleges that between November 1, 2016, and November 2, 2016, Eagle Horse, after having been released from custody on charges of Forgery and Larceny, failed to appear in Federal District Court for further court proceedings as required.
The charge is merely an accusation and Eagle Horse is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller is prosecuting the case.
Eagle Horse was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Eagle Butte Man Sentenced for AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault Resulting in Substantial Bodily Injury to an Intimate Partner was sentenced on November 7, 2016, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Emmanuel Gomez, a/k/a Manny Gomez, age 29, was sentenced to 27 months in custody, followed by 2 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Gomez was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 17, 2016, for Assault Resulting in Substantial Bodily Injury to an Intimate Partner. Gomez pled guilty to the Indictment on August 30, 2016.
Gomez and the victim had been in a relationship for about six years, and have a daughter together. They all lived together in the Swiftbird Community on the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Reservation.
On November 22, 2015, Gomez was consuming alcohol at Bob's Steakhouse. The victim was at home. Gomez came home around 7:30 p.m. very intoxicated. He immediately began to argue with the victim and called her names. The victim kept quiet, hoping not to provoke Gomez. Gomez got up from the couch, went at the victim and grabbed her by her hair. Gomez hit the victim repeatedly in the face with his fist. The victim fell back onto the couch. Gomez fell down on the floor in front of her, and tried to get up and come back towards the victim.
At that point, she began fighting back and started hitting Gomez. Gomez bit the victim on the upper right thigh. The victim yelled at Gomez in an attempt to get him to stop biting her. When that did not work, the victim started hitting him in the face until he stopped biting her.
The victim pushed Gomez back and was able to get off the couch. Gomez got up at the same time he victim did, continued to hit her on the arms, and bit her right arm. The victim shoved Gomez back, causing him to fall backwards. She was able to get away at that point and ran out of the house without shoes or a coat. She then went to a nearby friend's house.
The victim sustained two nasal fractures during the assault which required surgery. The victim also had bruises and swelling to the left eye as well as to the bridge of her nose. Her forehead, arms, left hip area, and right foot were bruised, and she had a large bruise and bite mark to her inner right thigh.
This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller prosecuted the case. Gomez was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Eagle Butte Man Sentenced for AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that an Eagle Butte man, convicted of Assault By Strangulation and Suffocation, was sentenced on November 7, 2016, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Ronnie Antelope, Sr., a/k/a Ronald Noisy Hawk, Sr., age 55, was sentenced to 30 months in custody, followed by 2 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Antelope was also ordered to pay $1,995.00 in restitution to the victim for lost wages as a result of the assault.
Antelope was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 17, 2016, for Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury, and Assault By Strangulation and Suffocation. Antelope pled guilty to Assault By Strangulation and Suffocation on August 15, 2016.
Antelope and the victim were in a relationship, and began living together in early 2016.
On April 17, 2016, Antelope drove to the victim’s place of employment. Antelope was intoxicated and began accusing the victim of being with other men. Antelope also began creating an issue with others who were present and the police were called. When law enforcement arrived, Antelope became argumentative with the officer and was arrested. After Antelope was taken into custody, his vehicle was turned over to the victim.
The next afternoon, the victim went to drop Antelope’s vehicle off at the jail on her way to work, thinking that Antelope would still be in custody. However, Antelope had already been released from custody by the time she arrived. Antelope drove the victim to where she worked.
When they got to the victim’s work, Antelope refused to let her out of the vehicle. He accused her of being with other men she worked with and then drove away with her still in the car. They went to various places throughout the day, and whenever the victim would get out of the vehicle, Antelope would go with her. During the day, Antelope began consuming alcohol, and continued to accuse the victim of being interested in other men.
When they returned home and the victim was getting out of the car, Antelope reached over from the driver's side, grabbed the door, and pulled it shut on the victim’s lower left leg. Antelope grabbed the victim by the throat and squeezed. The victim had trouble breathing, began crying, and begged Antelope to stop. The victim nearly passed out.
The next thing the victim remembered was running away from the car. Antelope pursued her, caught her, and threw her to the ground. The victim landed on her left hand or arm. Antelope then grabbed the victim by her hair and dragged her back toward their residence. She continued to struggle in an effort to get away.
At that point, a neighbor exited their residence, told Antelope to stop, and said that she had called the police. Antelope let go of the victim and went inside the house. The victim was taken inside the neighbor’s home to wait for the police to arrive.
The victim sustained fractures to her right jaw bone and lower left arm. There were visible scratches on her neck and an injury to her leg. She also had bruises on her left cheek and right forearm.
This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller prosecuted the case.
Antelope Sr. was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
District Man Sentenced to over 13 Years in Prison for Two Armed Robberies of Commercial Businesses in the Same WeekRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Malik Mingo, 20, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced today to a prison term of 13 years and five months stemming from two separate armed robberies of commercial businesses in September 2015 in Southeast Washington, announced U.S. Attorney Channing D. Phillips, Paul M. Abbate, Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Washington Field Office, and Peter Newsham, Interim Chief of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
Mingo pled guilty in August 2016, in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, to one count of interference with interstate commerce by robbery, and one count of using, carrying, and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence as to two separate offenses. He was sentenced by the Honorable Rosemary M. Collyer. Upon completion of his prison term, Mingo will be placed on 30 months of supervised release.
According to the government’s evidence, on Sept. 19, 2015, at approximately 12:50 p.m., Mingo, while masked, and with at least two additional masked individuals, entered Pizza Bolis, a pizza shop in the 1500 block of Alabama Avenue SE. During the robbery, a gun was placed at the head of the cashier and approximately $213 was stolen from the register. Mingo and his accomplices also stole $1,800 and a cellphone from a customer inside the pizzeria. The masked individuals were seen leaving the area in a black Infinity SUV.
Four days later, on Sept. 23, 2015, at approximately noon, Mingo and his accomplice, Jarred Thomas, entered the “Like That 2” barber shop in the 3300 block of Stanton Road SE, while wearing masks and brandishing loaded firearms. The barber shop was located around the corner from the Pizza Bolis that had been robbed four days earlier. At gunpoint, Mingo ordered everyone to the ground and demanded that they hand over their money. Numerous victims were robbed at gunpoint of cash and possessions. Present during the armed robbery was a small child. After the robbery, Mingo was observed leaving the area in a black Infinity SUV that matched the vehicle seen leaving the Pizza Bolis pizzeria. Mingo subsequently was apprehended by the police three blocks from the barber shop and a firearm was recovered in his flight path. The black Infinity SUV used by Mingo was located and identified as having been stolen in a separate armed robbery eight days earlier.
Thomas, 20, of Washington, D.C., pled guilty in May 2016, in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, to charges stemming from the barber shop robbery, including one count of interference with interstate commerce by robbery, one count of using, carrying, and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, and one count of unauthorized use of a vehicle. He was sentenced on July 13, 2016 to a prison term of 121 months.
In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Phillips, Assistant Director in Charge Abbate, and Interim Chief Newsham commended the work of those who investigated the case from the Violent Crime Task Force of the FBI’s Washington Field Office and from the Metropolitan Police Department. They also acknowledged the efforts of those who worked on the case from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, including Paralegal Specialist Candace Battle, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Macchiaroli, of the Violent Crimes and Narcotics Trafficking Section, who prosecuted the matter.
Defendant Sentenced in Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, VIRGINIA – Another member of a methamphetamine conspiracy that trafficked large quantities of the drug from Atlanta, Georgia to Southwest Virginia, was sentenced today in the United States District for the Western District of Virginia in Abingdon, United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. announced.
Matthew Charles Blevins, 35, previously guilty to one count of conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine. Today in District Court, Blevins was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison.
“This prosecution made major strides in stemming the tide of methamphetamine being trafficked into Southwest Virginia from places outside of the Commonwealth,” United States Attorney Fishwick said today. “We will continue to work with our partners in law enforcement, both here in Virginia, and elsewhere, to dismantle these large-scale trafficking organizations.”
According to evidence presented at previous hearings by Assistant United States Attorney Zachary T. Lee, Blevins was part of a methamphetamine conspiracy that trafficked and distributed multiple pounds of crystal methamphetamine between Atlanta, Georgia, Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia.
To date, more than ten other individuals have pled guilty to conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine as part of the investigation.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Bristol, Virginia Police Department, the Bristol, Tennessee Police Department, the Abingdon Police Department and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Zachary T. Lee prosecuted the case for the United States.
Davenport Man Sentenced to Prison for Making a False Statement During Purchase of a FirearmRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA – On November 14, 2016, Leonard Deshawn Boyd, 24, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose to 18 months in prison for making a false statement during purchase of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Boyd was ordered to serve three years of supervised release following his prison term, and pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
Boyd pleaded guilty to making a false statement during the purchase of a firearm on June 20, 2016. The investigation revealed on November 21, 2015, Boyd purchased a Ruger 9 mm pistol from a pawn shop in Davenport. When filling out the required ATF form (Form 4473) he listed a false address.
This matter was investigated by the Davenport Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa as part of the Project Safe Neighborhood initiative.
Davenport Man Sentenced to Prison for Making False Statements to the Social Security AdministrationRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA – On November 14, 2016, Damarcus Laron Liddell, 29, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose to 18 months in prison for failure to disclose information to the Social Security Administration (SSA) and false statements to the SSA, each count to run concurrently, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Liddell was ordered to serve three years of supervised release following his prison term, and pay $200 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
Liddell pleaded guilty to failure to disclose information and making false statements to the SSA on June 27, 2016. During the investigation, it was discovered Liddell applied for disability benefits and was sent to be evaluated by two doctors. At the doctor appointments, Liddell exhibited outrageous behavior suggesting he was unable to understand simple commands and was non-verbal. The agents uncovered documents to support the position that Liddell was feigning a mental illness and had falsely represented to the doctors his physical and mental condition. Additionally, when filling out the SSA forms, Liddell falsely stated he did not have any specialized training, omitting the fact he attended LA James School of Cosmetology.
This matter was investigated by the Social Security Administration – Office of the Inspector General. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa
Davenport Man Sentenced to Prison for Making False Statements During Purchase of FirearmsRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA – On November 14, 2016, Algerron Lee Goldsmith, 26, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose to 18 months in prison for three counts of making false statements during purchase of firearms, to run concurrently, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Goldsmith was ordered to serve three years of supervised release following his prison term, pay $300 to the Crime Victims’ Fund, and pay $1,998 in restitution to the State of Iowa.
Goldsmith pleaded guilty to three counts of making a false statement during the purchase of a firearm on June 29, 2016. According to the plea agreement, on February 21, 2015, Goldsmith bought a HI Point 380 caliber pistol; on May 2, 2015, Goldsmith bought a HI Point 9 mm pistol; and on June 19, 2015, Goldsmith bought a HI Point 45 caliber pistol. At each purchase, Goldsmith listed a false address on the 4473 Form, which is a document required by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives to be filled out at the time of purchase.
During the investigation into the false statements on the 4473 Forms, a fraudulent Social Security document was found at Goldsmith’s residence. This document was used to obtain rent rebate monies in 2014 and 2015 in the amount of $1,998. Goldsmith agreed to pay back the amount reimbursed to him based on the fraudulent document he submitted.
This matter was investigated by the Davenport Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa as part of the Project Safe Neighborhood initiative.
Dallas County Man Who Fired Numerous Shots at Officer with Ennis Police Department During a High Speed Pursuit Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
DALLAS — A Lancaster, Texas, Man, Javier Martinez, 24, appeared this morning before U.S. Magistrate Judge David L. Horan and pleaded guilty to several felony offenses related to his involvement in an attempted kidnapping and then subsequently firing numerous shots at an officer with the Ennis Police Department during a high-speed pursuit, announced U.S. Attorney John Parker of the Northern District of Texas.
Specifically, Martinez pleaded guilty to one count each of conspiracy to commit kidnapping; possession with intent to distribute cocaine; possession with intent to distribute heroin; using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during or in relation to a crime of violence; and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. While Martinez faces a statutory maximum sentence of life in federal prison and a $2.75 million fine, if the Court accepts the plea agreement between the government and the defendant, Martinez should receive a total sentence of 40 years in federal prison. Sentencing is set for March 2, 2017, before U.S. District Judge Jane J. Boyle.
According to documents filed in the case, on July 12, 2016, Martinez, along with co-defendants Jose Cardenas Aguirre, 25, and Melissa Trevino, 23, planned to kidnap another individual because of an unpaid drug debt involving cocaine. During the planned kidnapping, Martinez and Aguirre wore ballistic vests and black camouflage clothing. The kidnapping was unsuccessful, and as Martinez, Aguirre, and Trevino fled the scene, they were engaged in a high-speed chase with officers with the Ennis Police Department. During this pursuit, Martinez, using an AR-156 style rifle, fired numerous shots at a police officer. Martinez led, supervised, and organized this planned kidnapping.
A trial date of December 5, 2016, has been set for defendants Aguirre and Trevino. Three other defendants charged in the case have pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing.
Between December 2015, and continuing to July 2016, Martinez conspired to possess with intent to distribute cocaine and heroin. On February 5, 2016, Martinez possessed a firearm in furtherance of these drug trafficking crimes.
In addition, according to the factual resume, on January 7, 2016, Martinez sold another individual one ounce of heroin and offered to sell that same individual one kilogram of heroin for $40,000. During that same conversation, Martinez offered to sell the same individual an AK-47 for $7,000 and an AR-15 rifle for $1,500. On April 11, 2016, Martinez sold three ounces of heroin and two AR-15’s to another individual; these drug and gun sales took place at his residence.
The case was investigated by the Ennis Police Department and the FBI’s Violent Gang Taskforce. Assistant U.S. Attorney P.J. Meitl is in charge of the prosecution.
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DEA Announces "360 Strategy" in Manchester to Address Fentanyl, Heroin, Prescription Drugs and Violent CrimeRead the Press Release
Nov. 15 (Manchester) – The United States Drug Enforcement Administration today announced that Manchester will be the fifth city in the Nation to initiate a comprehensive Diversion Control, Law Enforcement and Prevention “360 Degree Strategy” to help cities dealing with the fentanyl, heroin, and prescription drug abuse epidemic, and the associated violent crime. DEA Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Ferguson announced this strategy to the public today, along with Manchester Political and Community leaders, local, state and federal law enforcement, and medical professionals, substance abuse prevention and treatment experts.
“We must continue to find new and innovative ways to address the growing abuse of heroin and prescription drugs, and the violence that stems from the illicit drug trade,” Ferguson said. “The 360 strategy brings together many agencies that have dealt with this problem separately, into a unifying, comprehensive and sustained effort to go after the drug distribution networks but also to make the communities resilient to their return.”
“We are proud to join with the DEA and our other community partners in announcing the 360 Degree Strategy, “U.S. Attorney Emily Gray Rice said. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to focus attention on identifying and prosecuting the large scale drug trafficking organizations that are responsible for putting these dangerous drugs on the streets of Manchester and our other local communities. However, we know that law enforcement is only part of the solution. Efforts to limit drug diversion, educate the community, and improve access to treatment are all important parts of the overall solution to our state’s opiate crisis. We salute the DEA’s efforts to address this crisis in a comprehensive manner.”
The DEA 360 Strategy is comprised of a three-fold approach to fighting drug trafficking and stemming abuse:
- Enforcement actions targeting all levels of drug trafficking organizations and violent gangs, supplying drugs in our neighborhoods.
- Diversion Control by engaging drug manufacturers, wholesalers, practitioners and pharmacists to increase awareness of the prescription drug and related heroin problem, and to push for responsible prescribing and use of these medications.
- Community Outreach by partnering with medical professionals, governmental and community service organizations to proactively educate the public about the dangers of prescription drug misuse and heroin abuse, and to guide individuals to treatment services when needed.
“The community outreach aspect may be the most important and critical to its long-term success,” Ferguson said. “We have to diligently continue to work on the most effective ways to talk about these programs in ways we’ve never done before in order to stop abuse, addiction and to save lives.”
The 360 Degree Strategy brings together many experts in substance abuse and prevention to address four key groups by engaging in dialogue, providing information and resources to educate young people about the consequences of drug abuse and trafficking:
- Parents/caregivers in the home
- Educators and the classroom
- After school organizations such as the boy and girl clubs and athletic associations
- The workplace
In the short term, the goal of the 360 strategy is to provide as much information as possible in many different forms to reach young people. Officials will work to form a “Community Alliance” that will comprise key leaders from law enforcement, prevention, treatment, the judicial system, education, business, government, civic organizations, faith communities, media, social services and others, to form the core of a long-term group that will cross disciplines to help carry the prevention and treatment messages to the local population during the critical post-operation timeframe.
In the future, DEA and its partners also plan to host multi-day summits to bring community leaders together to look for sustainable, impactful efforts to address drug misuse and abuse, addiction, trafficking and the violence that accompanies it. Other partners will include the U.S. Attorney’s Office District of New Hampshire, New Hampshire Attorney General Office, Manchester Police Department, Makin It Happen Coalition, Manchester Boys & Girls Club, Partnership for Drug Free New Hampshire and many others.
“There is no neighborhood that is safe from the opioid epidemic-this is a threat to our Nation’s public health and public safety,” Ferguson said. “We all have seen what this insidious disease of heroin and fentanyl substance use disorder has done to many of our neighbors, friends, and co-workers. DEA’s 360 strategy will utilize every community resource possible to reach our young people so we can prevent that first time use and lifelong battle of addiction.”
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Construction Company Officer Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Defraud GovernmentRead the Press Release
Defendant Illegally Obtained Federal Contracts Meant for Small, Disadvantaged Businesses
Michelle Cho, an officer of Far East Construction Corporation (Far East) and other construction companies, pleaded guilty today to a federal charge of conspiring to commit wire fraud. Cho also agreed to pay forfeiture in the amount of $169,166 and pay a criminal fine in the amount of $35,000.
The plea agreement was announced by Acting Assistant Attorney General Renata Hesse of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division; U.S. Attorney Channing D. Phillips of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia; Assistant Director in Charge Paul M. Abbate of the FBI’s Washington Field Office; Inspector General Peggy E. Gustafson for the Small Business Administration (SBA); Inspector General Carol Fortine Ochoa of the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA); Special Agent in Charge Brian J. Reihms of the Central Field Office of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS) and Director Frank Robey of the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command’s Major Procurement Fraud Unit (MPFU).
According to court documents filed as part of the plea, Cho utilized two straw companies, including Far East, to conspire with MCC Construction Company (MCC) and others to defraud the SBA. Cho’s two companies were eligible to receive federal government contracts set asides for small, disadvantaged businesses. Cho and MCC understood that MCC would, illegally, perform all of the work on these contracts. In so doing, MCC was able to win 27 government contracts worth over $70 million from 2008 to 2011. The scope and duration of the scheme resulted in a significant number of opportunities lost to legitimate small and disadvantaged businesses.
“Michelle Cho knowingly participated in a long-standing scheme that manipulated federal contracts designated for small, disadvantaged businesses,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Hesse. “We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to protect the integrity of the procurement system.”
“Michelle Cho sought to unjustly enrich herself by participating in a fraudulent scheme that blatantly undermined a program to designate federal contracts for small disadvantaged businesses,” said U.S. Attorney Phillips. “Companies that benefit from the Small Business Administration’s 8(a) program are expected to perform the agreed-upon work in return for taxpayer dollars. This prosecution shows our determination to maintain the integrity of federal contracting programs so that benefits go only to deserving businesses.”
“This conspiracy to deceive and defraud the federal government caused funds to be diverted illegally and cheated small businesses out of fair federal contracting opportunities,” said Assistant Director in Charge Abbate. “The FBI remains vigilant to such abuses of the system and will continue to work with our partners to bring to justice anyone who perpetrates fraud against the government.”“Today’s guilty plea signifies our commitment to bringing individuals that conspire to fraudulently gain access to set-aside Federal contracting opportunities to justice,” said SBA Inspector General Gustafson. “Fraudulently passing work to ineligible businesses subverts the intent of SBA’s preferential contracting programs to assist small businesses as engines of economic development and job creation. I want to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners for their leadership and dedication to serving justice.”
“We will continue to investigate and hold accountable those who game the government procurement process at the expense American taxpayers and legitimate small businesses,” said GSA Inspector General Ochoa.
“The Defense Criminal Investigative Service is committed to working with our partner agencies to combat fraud impacting the Department of Defense's vital programs and operations and maintain the integrity of the procurement system,” said Special Agent in Charge Reihms.
“Today's plea is a fitting end for those who conspire to defraud the government,” said Director Robey. “The Major Procurement Fraud Unit is proud to work with our federal law enforcement partners to protect the coffers of the U.S. government from those who break the law and threaten the readiness of the U.S. Army.”
Cho, 45, of Downers Grove, Illinois, was charged in a criminal information on October 12, 2016 in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia with one count of conspiring to commit wire fraud. She waived the requirement of being charged by way of federal indictment, agreed to the filing of the information and accepted responsibility for her criminal conduct. The charge carries a statutory maximum of five years in prison and potential financial penalties.
The Honorable Ketanji Brown Jackson scheduled sentencing for March 7, 2017.
The court documents state that Cho and MCC violated the provisions of the SBA 8(a) program, which is designed to award contracts to businesses that are owned by “one or more socially and economically disadvantaged individuals.” To qualify for the 8(a) program, a business must be at least 51 percent owned and controlled by a U.S. citizen (or citizens) of good character who meets the SBA’s definition of socially and economically disadvantaged. The firm must also be a small business (as defined by the SBA) and show a reasonable potential for success. Participants in the 8(a) program are subject to regulatory and contractual limits. Also, under the program, the disadvantaged business is required to perform a certain percentage of the work. For the types of contracts under investigation here, the SBA 8(a)-certified companies were required to perform 15 percent or more of the work with its own employees.
Court documents also state Cho conspired with MCC and others for MCC to exercise impermissible control over Far East, to obstruct a U.S. Government Agency proceeding, and to reach an agreement whereby MCC would provide all labor, equipment, materials, safety, and supervision and, in return, receive 97 percent of the contract task order amount. This agreement by its terms meant that Cho’s company would violate SBA rules and regulations and would collect a 3 percent fee for allowing its small business status to be used.Earlier this year, MCC pleaded guilty to conspiring to commit fraud on the United States by illegally obtaining government contracts that were intended for small, disadvantaged businesses and agreed to pay $1,769,924 in criminal penalties and forfeiture. In June, Thomas Harper, another former officer and owner of MCC, pleaded guilty to conspiring to obstruct proceedings before a department or agency. In August, Walter Crummy, another former officer and owner of MCC, pleaded guilty to conspiring to commit wire fraud.
The investigation is being conducted by the FBI’s Washington Field Office, the Inspector General for the Small Business Administration (SBA), the Inspector General of the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA), the Central Field Office of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS) and the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command’s Major Procurement Fraud Unit (MPFU).
The prosecution was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney John Marston and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Matt Graves of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and Trial Attorneys Kevin B. Hart, Justin P. Murphy and former Assistant Chief Craig Y. Lee of the Antitrust Division.
Construction Company Officer Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Defraud GovernmentRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Michelle Cho, an officer of Far East Construction Corporation (Far East) and other construction companies, pleaded guilty today to a federal charge of conspiring to commit wire fraud. Cho also agreed to pay forfeiture in the amount of $169,166 and pay a criminal fine in the amount of $35,000.
The plea agreement was announced by Acting Assistant Attorney General Renata Hesse of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division; U.S. Attorney Channing D. Phillips of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia; Assistant Director in Charge Paul M. Abbate of the FBI’s Washington Field Office; Inspector General Peggy E. Gustafson for the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA); Inspector General Carol Fortine Ochoa of the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA); Special Agent in Charge Brian J. Reihms of the Central Field Office of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS) and Director Frank Robey of the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command’s Major Procurement Fraud Unit (MPFU).
According to court documents filed as part of the plea, Cho utilized two straw companies, including Far East, to conspire with MCC Construction Company (MCC) and others to defraud the SBA. Cho’s two companies were eligible to receive federal government contracts set asides for small, disadvantaged businesses. Cho and MCC understood that MCC would, illegally, perform all of the work on these contracts. In so doing, MCC was able to win 27 government contracts worth over $70 million from 2008 to 2011. The scope and duration of the scheme resulted in a significant number of opportunities lost to legitimate small and disadvantaged businesses.
“Michelle Cho knowingly participated in a long-standing scheme that manipulated federal contracts designated for small, disadvantaged businesses,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Hesse. “We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to protect the integrity of the procurement system.”
“Michelle Cho sought to unjustly enrich herself by participating in a fraudulent scheme that blatantly undermined a program to designate federal contracts for small disadvantaged businesses,” said U.S. Attorney Phillips. “Companies that benefit from the Small Business Administration’s 8(a) program are expected to perform the agreed-upon work in return for taxpayer dollars. This prosecution shows our determination to maintain the integrity of federal contracting programs so that benefits go only to deserving businesses.”
“This conspiracy to deceive and defraud the federal government caused funds to be diverted illegally and cheated small businesses out of fair federal contracting opportunities,” said Assistant Director in Charge Abbate. “The FBI remains vigilant to such abuses of the system and will continue to work with our partners to bring to justice anyone who perpetrates fraud against the government.”
“Today’s guilty plea signifies our commitment to bringing individuals that conspire to fraudulently gain access to set-aside Federal contracting opportunities to justice,” said SBA Inspector General Gustafson. “Fraudulently passing work to ineligible businesses subverts the intent of SBA’s preferential contracting programs to assist small businesses as engines of economic development and job creation. I want to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners for their leadership and dedication to serving justice.”
“We will continue to investigate and hold accountable those who game the government procurement process at the expense American taxpayers and legitimate small businesses,” said GSA Inspector General Ochoa.
“The Defense Criminal Investigative Service is committed to working with our partner agencies to combat fraud impacting the Department of Defense's vital programs and operations and maintain the integrity of the procurement system,” said Special Agent in Charge Reihms.
“Today's plea is a fitting end for those who conspire to defraud the government,” said Director Robey. “The Major Procurement Fraud Unit is proud to work with our federal law enforcement partners to protect the coffers of the U.S. government from those who break the law and threaten the readiness of the U.S. Army.”
Cho, 45, of Downers Grove, Illinois, was charged in a criminal information on October 12, 2016 in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia with one count of conspiring to commit wire fraud. She waived the requirement of being charged by way of federal indictment, agreed to the filing of the information and accepted responsibility for her criminal conduct. The charge carries a statutory maximum of five years in prison and potential financial penalties.
The Honorable Ketanji Brown Jackson scheduled sentencing for March 7, 2017.
The court documents state that Cho and MCC violated the provisions of the SBA 8(a) program, which is designed to award contracts to businesses that are owned by “one or more socially and economically disadvantaged individuals.” To qualify for the 8(a) program, a business must be at least 51 percent owned and controlled by a U.S. citizen (or citizens) of good character who meets the SBA’s definition of socially and economically disadvantaged. The firm must also be a small business (as defined by the SBA) and show a reasonable potential for success. Participants in the 8(a) program are subject to regulatory and contractual limits. Also, under the program, the disadvantaged business is required to perform a certain percentage of the work. For the types of contracts under investigation here, the SBA 8(a)-certified companies were required to perform 15 percent or more of the work with its own employees.
Court documents also state Cho conspired with MCC and others for MCC to exercise impermissible control over Far East, to obstruct a U.S. Government Agency proceeding, and to reach an agreement whereby MCC would provide all labor, equipment, materials, safety, and supervision and, in return, receive 97 percent of the contract task order amount. This agreement by its terms meant that Cho’s company would violate SBA rules and regulations and would collect a 3 percent fee for allowing its small business status to be used.
Earlier this year, MCC pleaded guilty to conspiring to commit fraud on the United States by illegally obtaining government contracts that were intended for small, disadvantaged businesses and agreed to pay $1,769,924 in criminal penalties and forfeiture. In June, Thomas Harper, another former officer and owner of MCC, pleaded guilty to conspiring to obstruct proceedings before a department or agency. In August, Walter Crummy, another former officer and owner of MCC, pleaded guilty to conspiring to commit wire fraud.
The investigation is being conducted by the FBI’s Washington Field Office, the Inspector General for the Small Business Administration (SBA), the Inspector General of the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA), the Central Field Office of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS) and the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command’s Major Procurement Fraud Unit (MPFU).
The prosecution was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney John Marston and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Matt Graves of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and Trial Attorneys Kevin B. Hart, Justin P. Murphy and former Assistant Chief Craig Y. Lee of the Antitrust Division.
Child Sex Trafficker Sentenced to 13 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
EUGENE, Ore. – On Tuesday, November 15, 2016, U.S. District Judge Michael J. McShane sentenced Darryl Tyrone Norwood Jr., 29, of Lane County, Oregon, to 160 months in prison for sex trafficking of a minor. Following his prison sentence, Norwood will be on lifetime supervised release.
In February of 2014, the FBI and the Eugene Police Department (EPD) were investigating the solicitation of commercial sexual activity on the website Backpage.com, and identified a sixteen-year-old minor female. On February 27, 2014, an undercover EPD detective posed as a customer, contacted the minor female and purported to arrange for commercial sex at a Eugene hotel. The minor female victim was driven to the hotel by Wayne Ratliff. Both were detained and interviewed by police. Law enforcement learned that the victim had been trafficked by Norwood on and off for a period of four months, and that Ratliff had at times assisted. Both Norwood and Ratliff were arrested and charged in federal court with sex trafficking of a minor. Ratliff was convicted in July 2016 and sentenced to 63 months in prison.
While trafficking the minor female victim, Norwood rented hotel rooms for her to stay and use for commercial sex acts, told her where to post an online solicitation, drove her to locations to engage in sexual activity and bought her a phone. The victim gave all of the proceeds from the sexual encounters to Norwood who knew that she was sixteen years old for most of the time he was trafficking her. Law enforcement also learned that Norwood trafficked several other women, including a female who was convicted in state court for assault.
Norwood engaged in a pattern of threats, manipulation, and controlling behavior toward the women he trafficked. He has prior convictions in Oregon for Assault in the Second Degree in 2007, and Assault in the Fourth Degree in 2014.
“Sex traffickers use violence, threats and power to manipulate and take advantage of vulnerable victims,” said Billy J. Williams, United States Attorney for the District of Oregon. “Stopping sex trafficking throughout Oregon is a top priority for our office. We will continue to work closely with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners to find, convict and punish those responsible for these horrible and degrading crimes. Furthermore, we will continue to do everything possible to prevent these and similar crimes through outreach and education.”
The investigation of this case was a collaborative effort between the FBI and the EPD Special Investigations Unit. The case was prosecuted by Jeffrey Sweet, Assistant United States Attorney for the District of Oregon.
Broken Bow Man Found Guilty of Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that RICHARD DALE HENRY, age 62, of Broken Bow, Oklahoma, was found guilty, by a federal jury, of FELON IN POSSESSION OF FIREARM, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1), 924(a)(2) and 924(e)(1). The jury trial began with testimony on Monday, November 14, 2016 and concluded on the same day with the guilty verdict. The statutory range of punishment is no more than 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00 or both; however, should the Court determine the defendant, who has prior convictions for Murder First Degree, Murder Second Degree and Sales of Controlled Dangerous Substances, is an Armed Career Criminal offender, the range of punishment is not less than 15 years imprisonment, up to life, a fine of up to $250,000.00 or both.
Evidence at trial proved that from on or about December 23, 2013, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, RICHARD DALE HENRY, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, did knowingly possess in and affecting commerce, an AK-47 style firearm, which had been shipped and transported in interstate or foreign commerce. Henry sold the rifle, along with a nylon case and 5 high capacity magazines, to Jo’s Pawn in Broken Bow, Oklahoma.
The verdict obtained was the result of an investigation by the McCurtain County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
The Honorable James H. Payne, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the trial and ordered the completion of a presentence report. Sentencing will be scheduled following its completion. The defendant will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris represented the United States.
Assistant United States Attorney Edward Snow of the Eastern District of Oklahoma Receives Attorney General AwardRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - On November 10, 2016, Attorney General Loretta E. Lynch recognized 376 department employees for their distinguished public service at the 64th Annual Attorney General’s Awards Ceremony. Forty-seven other individuals outside of the department were also honored for their work. This annual ceremony recognizes individuals for their outstanding service and dedication to carrying out the missions of the Department of Justice.
“The Attorney General’s Awards provide us with a rare opportunity to honor the efforts of outstanding department employees and our invaluable partners across the federal government and at the state and local levels,” said Attorney General Lynch. “Their work has made our nation – and our world – stronger, safer and more just, and I am proud of and inspired by each and every one of them.”
In particular, the Attorney General’s Award for Exceptional Service in Indian Country recognizes extraordinary efforts by department employees who demonstrate the department’s commitment to fighting crime in Indian Country. This year’s award is presented to, from the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section, Trial Attorney J. Michael Sheckels; from the Criminal Division’s Appellate Section, Trial Attorney Richard A. Friedman; from the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Eastern District of Oklahoma, Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward Snow; from the FBI’s Oklahoma City Field Office, Supervisory Special Agent John W. Fitzer and Special Agent Joshua W. Martin; from the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, Special Agent John Jones; and from the Seminole Nation Lighthorse Police, Chief Kent Dowell.
On March 3, 2004, David Magnan entered a house on an Indian allotment in rural Seminole County, Oklahoma, and with premeditation shot three Native American occupants to death as they lay in their beds. Originally convicted in state court under the misapprehension of the status of the land where the house was located, that conviction was set aside in 2013 after the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals determined that the Indian title to the land had not been extinguished. Working at great disadvantage given the passage of time, this team worked tirelessly to locate the witnesses and evidence necessary to secure a conviction at trial on all three murder counts, keep a dangerous killer off the streets and obtain justice for the victims’ families.
A Mitchell Man Charged with Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Mitchell, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assaulting, Resisting and Impeding a Federal Officer.
Corey Johnson, age 30, was indicted on October 14, 2015. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on November 4, 2016, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 8 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on September 13, 2015, Johnson did forcibly assault, resist, impose, impede, intimidate and interfere with a Bureau of Indian Affairs Officer by the use of physical contact.
The charge is merely an accusation and Johnson is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Lower Brule Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the case.
Johnson was detained in U.S. Marshal custody pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
14 November 2016
Youngstown man sentenced to 10 years in prison for firearms crimeRead the Press Release
A Youngstown man was sentenced to 10 years in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm, said U.S. Attorney Carole S. Rendon and ATF Special Agent in Charge Trevor Velinor.
Arian O'Connor, 39, also known as Noble Bullhorn Sirius O’Connor Bay, possessed a Maddi Company, Model Arm, 7.62 rifle on or about August 12, 2015, O’Connor, despite prior convictions for felonoius assault and two convictions for being a felon in possession of a firearm, according court documents.
These cases are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David M. Toepfer following investigations by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Youngstown Police Department and the U.S. Probation Office.
Washington, Iowa Woman Sentenced to Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA- On November 9, 2016, Brandy Kay Reschly, age 35, of Washington, Iowa, was sentenced by Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey to 50 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Reschly was ordered to serve three years of supervised release following her term of imprisonment and to pay $100 to the Crime Victims Fund.
On June 3, 2016, Reschly pleaded guilty and admitted she participated in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine beginning as early as May 2015 and continuing through November 2015. This charge was a result of an investigation conducted by law enforcement of methamphetamine trafficking that occurred in Washington, Johnson, Muscatine, and Blackhawk counties in Iowa and Phoenix, Arizona.
This matter was investigated by the Washington County Sheriff’s Department, the Johnson County Drug Task Force, the Washington Police Department, and the United States Drug Enforcement Administration. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
United States Attorney’s Office and City Year Miami Celebrate American Education Week and Read to Local Students as Part of Violence Reduction Partnership (VRP)Read the Press Release
VRP Program Reaches 23 Schools in Miami-Dade and Over 12,000 Students Every Month
WHO: U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida Wifredo A. Ferrer, City Year Miami Executive Director Keith “Fletch” Fletcher, and elementary students at Charles R. Drew K-8 Center for the Visual and Performing Arts.
WHAT: To celebrate the National Education Association’s American Education Week, Director Fletcher and U.S. Attorney Ferrer will read to students as part of the Violence Reduction Partnership’s monthly readings to more than 1,200 pre-kindergarten and elementary school students in 23 schools across the Southern District of Florida. The joint effort brings books and the joy of reading into the lives of students in many of Miami’s highest-need schools, in order to combat the potential correlation between low literacy levels and poverty, crime and unemployment. Following each reading session, the children receive books to take home – often the only books they have ever owned. Since 2014, the program has distributed more than 11,000 books.
WHERE: Charles R. Drew K-8 Center for the Visual and Performing Arts
1775 NW 60th St.
Miami, Fla. 33142
(Media, please meet in the front lobby of the school)
WHEN: Tomorrow, Tuesday, November 15th
9:15 a.m. – 9:45 a.m.
About City Year:
City Year is an education-focused organization, founded in 1988 dedicated to helping students and schools succeed. City Year partners with public schools in 26 urban, high-poverty communities across the U.S. and through international affiliates in the U.K. and Johannesburg, South Africa. Diverse teams of City Year AmeriCorps members provide high-impact student, classroom and school-wide support to help students stay in school and on track to graduate from high school and prepare for college and career success. A member of the AmeriCorps national service network, City Year is made possible by support from the Corporation for National and Community Service, school district partnerships, and private philanthropy from corporations, foundations and individuals. More information about City Year is available at www.cityyear.org/miami.
To learn how you can partner with the VRP, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office Community Outreach Team at (305) 961-9134 or [email protected].
To partner with City Year Miami and sponsor a Miami-Dade County School, you can contact Keith “Fletch” Fletcher at (305) 778-5579 or [email protected].
Interviews are available after the event. Photograph and video opportunities are available before, during and after the event.
United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger's Statement Regarding Sentencing of Abdullahi YusufRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger said: “The hard work of rehabilitating those who seek to engage in ideological violence must continue. Judge Davis recognized that fact today with a sentence for Abdullahi Yusuf that allows him to continue his rehabilitation. The United States thanks Mr. Yusuf for his cooperation.”
U.S. Attorney Reaches Agreement with City of Yonkers to Enhance Police Department Policies and ProceduresRead the Press Release
Preet Bharara, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and Vanita Gupta, the Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights for the Department of Justice, announced today that the United States has entered into an agreement with THE CITY OF YONKERS (the “City”) and THE CITY OF YONKERS POLICE DEPARTMENT (“YPD”), which is the product of the United States’ comprehensive investigation of YPD police practices and furthers the parties’ commitment to constitutional policing.
U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara said: “This agreement ensures that the Yonkers Police Department polices in a way that keeps its citizens safe, while protecting their constitutional rights. The measures put in place with this agreement, including clear and reasonable use-of-force policies and guidance on how to properly evaluate and respond to use-of-force incidents, will make Yonkers safer for citizens and police alike. We thank the Yonkers Police Department and the City of Yonkers for cooperating with our investigation, and for joining our effort to ensure that the Yonkers Police Department protects its citizens not only from physical harm, but also from violations of their constitutional rights.”
Head of the Civil Rights Division Vanita Gupta said: “This agreement will ensure that the Yonkers Police Department continues to advance constitutional, effective and community-oriented policing. Through clear policy guidance, data analysis and accountability systems, we believe these reforms will make the entire community safer and strengthen public trust in the police.”
The agreement is the result of the United States’ comprehensive investigation of YPD police practices that began in August 2007 under the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994, and the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968. In June 2009, the United States sent the City a technical assistance letter that identified necessary reforms to YPD practices and policies in the areas of use of force, citizen complaints, investigations, supervisory oversight, and training. After receiving the United States’ technical assistance letter, the City and YPD made substantial changes to its policies and procedures. The agreement implements and further improves those policies and procedures and addresses the United States’ remaining concerns. Under the agreement, the YPD will, among other things:
• Maintain and implement clear use-of-force policies that require officers to use only that force which is reasonable in light of the resistance encountered and to de-escalate force immediately as resistance decreases, and provide that the use of unreasonable force may subject officers to discipline, possible criminal prosecution, and/or civil liability.
• Thoroughly and timely evaluate, document, and review use-of-force incidents, arrests, and citizen complaints of officer misconduct.
• Maintain and implement clear policies on investigatory stops and detentions, which permit investigatory stops and detentions only where the officer has the reasonable suspicion, under the totality of the circumstances, that criminal activity or a violation of law has been or is about to be committed.
• Develop a system to collect data on all investigatory stops and searches, except stops purely for traffic enforcement, whether or not they result in an arrest or issuance of a citation. The system shall require recording of, among other things, the officer’s name and badge number; the subject’s apparent race, ethnicity, gender and age; and the reason for the stop, including a description of the facts creating reasonable suspicion.
• Permit onlookers or bystanders to witness, observe, record, and/or comment on officer conduct, including stops, detentions, searches, arrests, or uses of force, with some limitations.
• Continue to develop and implement a computerized risk management system to identify and respond to potentially problematic incidents, officers, units, training, and tactics.
• Continue to maintain and build community relationships and engage constructively with the community to ensure collaborative problem-solving efforts and to increase community confidence in the Department, including by developing a survey to measure officer outreach to a cross-section of community members in each precinct, with an emphasis on community partnerships and problem-solving strategies that build mutual respect and trusting relationships with community stakeholders.
• Ensure that officers and supervisors receive appropriate levels of training in constitutional policing.
The agreement also provides that consultants retained by the United States will conduct compliance reviews to ensure that YPD has implemented the measures required by the agreement, and issue public reports of those compliance reviews.
This case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Tomoko Onozawa of the Office’s Civil Rights Unit and the Special Litigation Section of the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice.
U.S. Attorney Hickton to ResignRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – David J. Hickton, United States Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania, has announced his resignation effective midnight on November 28. U.S. Attorney Hickton has served as the U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania since August 12, 2010.
“The opportunity to serve as a United States Attorney in this administration has been the professional privilege of a lifetime and the highlight of my career,” said U.S. Attorney Hickton.
During his tenure as U.S. Attorney, Mr. Hickton’s signature achievements include:
Addressing the Cyber Threat
- Brought first of its kind indictment against five members of the Chinese military for economic espionage against Pittsburgh-based companies and organizations.
- Created a dedicated section in the U.S. Attorney’s Office to focus on cybercrime and national security.
- Prosecuted ground-breaking cases such as Darkode, the largest English-speaking cybercrime forum, and Evgeniy Bogachev, creator of GameOver Zeus and Cryptolocker malware, among others.
Combatting the National Heroin and Opioid crisis
- Co-Chaired the National Heroin Task Force.
- Formed U.S. Attorney’s Working Group on Drug Overdoses and Addiction which includes key federal, state and local law enforcement along with public health and public safety staff.
- Brought community impact prosecutions against large-scale heroin traffickers and worked to reduce stigma, minimize the criminalization of addiction and improve access to treatment.
Enhancing Community Police Trust
- Assembled a Community Police Working Group in 2011 to build trust for and from law enforcement and the citizens they serve.
- Established a civil rights section in U.S. Attorney’s Office.
- Pittsburgh selected as one of six pilot cities for the National Initiative for Building Community Trust and Justice by Attorney General Loretta Lynch.
Significant Civil Recoveries and Achievements
- EDMC - Achieved a historic settlement of $95.5 million, the largest ever False Claims Act (FCA) recovery of Department of Education funds.
- PENNSYLVANIA DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS – Secured fundamental changes throughout the prison system to humanely address the issues of unconstitutional confinement conditions for those suffering from serious mental illness and for victims of institutional sexual assault.
- GAMEOVER ZEUS BOTNET– Utilized civil injunctions in conjunction with criminal prosecution to dismantle a global network of infected victim computers used by cyber criminals to steal millions of dollars from businesses and consumers.
As of November 29, Soo C. Song will assume leadership of the office as Acting U.S. Attorney. Ms. Song is currently the First Assistant U.S. Attorney and has served in the Department of Justice since 1995. She is a graduate of Yale University and the George Washington Law School.
Two Men Charged with Stealing Trade Secrets from Connecticut Defense ContractorRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that a grand jury in Bridgeport has returned a 29-count indictment charging JARED DYLAN SPARKS, 33, of Ardmore, Okla., and JAY WILLIAMS, 45, of Griswold, Conn., with offenses related to a scheme to steal trade secrets from a Connecticut-based defense contractor. The indictment was returned on November 3. SPARKS was arrested on November 7 and WILLIAMS was arrested on November 8.
According to court documents and statements made in court, SPARKS, an electrical engineer, and WILLIAMS, an electronic technician, both worked at LBI Inc., a Connecticut-based defense contractor that designs and builds, among other things, unmanned underwater vehicles for the U.S. Navy Office of Naval Research. From January 4, 2010, until December 2, 2011, SPARKS was employed by LBI as the Lead Electrical Engineer for design, prototyping and testing for prototypes of unmanned vehicles. From May 10, 2010, until November 23, 2011, Williams was employed by LBI as an Electro-Mechanical Technician tasked with the fabrication, installation, testing and operation of various prototypes of unmanned vehicles.
During the course of their employment with LBI, SPARKS and WILLIAMS collaborated with employees of Charles River Analytics, a Massachusetts-based software company that developed software to be integrated into LBI’s unmanned underwater vehicles. In late 2010 and early 2011, Charles River Analytics sought to expand into the hardware business and eventually agreed with the Office of Naval Research that it would complete the testing for a number of the unmanned vehicles designed and developed by LBI. However, Charles River Analytics had never done that work before and had no staff that could carry out that work. Sometime after April 2011, SPARKS and WILLIAMS began exploring employment with Charles River Analytics, and were eventually hired by that company in the fall of 2011.
Information obtained from the execution of various search warrants revealed that beginning in at least May 2011 and continuing until November 2011, WILLIAMS and SPARKS, without authorization, uploaded LBI proprietary information to accounts in Dropbox, a cloud-based storage application.
SPARKS and WILLIAMS ended their employment with LBI in December 2, 2011, and November 23, 2011 respectively, and both began working with Charles River Analytics on January 3, 2012. SPARKS and WILLIAMS continued to possess stolen trade secrets belonging to LBI after the end of their employment with LBI. During the course of their employment at Charles River Analytics, they both continued to work on at least one of the unmanned underwater vehicles that LBI had designed and developed.
“Connecticut’s defense contractors are critical to our country’s national security,” said U.S. Attorney Daly. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to ensure that intellectual property is protected, and that those who profit from stealing trade secrets are prosecuted.”
“The need to protect the intellectual property of the U.S. Department of Defense contractors is now more important than ever,” said Craig W. Rupert, Special Agent in Charge, Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), Northeast Field Office. “The theft of defense contractors’ trade secrets in particular, poses a grave threat to our national economic security and harms the Department of Defense’s investment in research and development. DCIS remains committed to working with our federal law enforcement partners and the U.S. Department of Justice to ensuring those who actively steal our nation’s trade secrets are prosecuted.”
The indictment charges SPARKS and WILLIAMS with one count of conspiracy to steal, upload, transmit and possess stolen trade secrets, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years. The indictment also charges SPARKS with seven counts of theft of trade secrets, seven counts of upload of trade secrets, two counts of transmission of trade secrets and five counts of possession of stolen trade secrets. WILLIAMS is also charged with seven counts of possession of stolen trade secrets. If convicted, the defendants face a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years on each count.
U.S. Attorney Daly stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Both defendants are released on bond pending trial.
This matter is being investigated by the Defense Criminal Investigative Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jacabed Rodriguez-Coss and Trial Attorney Brian Resler from the Computer Crimes and Intellectual Property Section of the U.S. Department of Justice, Criminal Division.
Two Burlington County, New Jersey, Pharmacists Charged with Illegally Distributing Oxycodone, Other Pain Killers from Medford, New Jersey, ‘Pill Mills’Read the Press Release
CAMDEN, N.J. – Two pharmacists were arrested today and charged in a long-running conspiracy to illegally distribute and dispense large quantities of oxycodone and other controlled substances from two pharmacies located in Medford, New Jersey, U.S. Attorney Paul J. Fishman announced.
Michael Ludwikowski, 44, of Medford, and David Goldfield, 58, of Medford Lakes, New Jersey, were charged in a 16-count indictment with conspiracy to illegally distribute and dispense oxycodone and other Schedule II controlled substances, maintaining a drug-involved premises, and multiple substantive counts of illegal distribution. Ludwikowski was also charged with using his cellphone in furtherance of the conspiracy. Both defendants are scheduled to appear this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Joel Schneider in Camden federal court.
“There is a real opioid epidemic in the United States, one that’s responsible for personal tragedy, widespread suffering, and enormous financial loss,” U.S. Attorney Fishman said. “Doctors, pharmacists, and other health care professionals have a unique opportunity to address this epidemic by ensuring prescription opiates are dispensed only for legitimate medical purposes. Instead, Ludwikowski and Goldfield allegedly chose to exacerbate the problem by selling opiates to customers with fake prescriptions or to individuals whom they knew to be addicts.”
“Opioid and prescription drug abuse is sweeping the country. By allegedly participating in a conspiracy to distribute oxycodone within our community, the defendants engaged in a behavior that ultimately contributes to this epidemic,” said Special Agent in Charge Timothy Gallagher. “Today's arrests are not only a victory for the FBI and our partners, but for everyone who confronts the tragic outcomes of opioid addiction and abuse.”
Carl J. Kotowski, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)’s New Jersey Division said, “Unfortunately, this is another alleged case of two pharmacists violating the public trust. They should have been doing their part to help in the reduction of the opioid epidemic we are facing. Instead, based on the charges, they have played a part in adding to the epidemic.”
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
From March 2008 through August 2013, Ludwikowski, the owner of both Olde Medford Pharmacy and Medford Family Pharmacy, and his employee, Goldfield, knowingly distributed and dispensed oxycodone and other controlled substances to individuals, including addicts, who presented phony prescriptions.
Ludwikowski ordered tens of thousands of dosage units of oxycodone, among other products, from a large national distributor. The distributer established thresholds for the quantity of controlled substances that it supplied to certain pharmacies. These thresholds could not be exceeded unless a pharmacy provided sufficient justification for an increase. As part of the conspiracy, Ludwikowski fraudulently requested and received increases to the thresholds of oxycodone supplied to his pharmacies, even though he knew they were not going to be used for legitimate medical reasons.
In some instances, the customers presented fraudulent prescriptions that had been blatantly “washed,” or “bleached,” through a chemical process that removed the original writing for a non-narcotic substance. The customers then rewrote the prescriptions for their drug of choice, including oxycodone. Ludwikowski and Goldfield even allegedly ignored concerns raised by an employee who pointed out an obviously altered prescription.
Customers who used the fraudulent prescriptions generally paid in cash and provided gifts to Ludwikowski and Goldfield. In some instances, these customers filled fraudulent prescriptions for oxycodone multiple times a week.
In furtherance of the scheme, Ludwikowski and another pharmacist he employed – referred to in the indictment as “Pharmacist 3” – reached an agreement with a physician –referred to in the indictment as “Doctor 1” – to “steer” Doctor 1’s patients to Ludwikowski’s pharmacies. In a text message from Pharmacist 3 to Ludwikowski on Jan. 11, 2013, Pharmacist 3 wrote: “I talked to [Doctor 1] and he is going to direct all of his patients to us he is the pain doc in Cherry Hill.”
Following that exchange, Ludwikowski received a voicemail from an individual referred to in the indictment as “Individual 3” who claimed to be a patient of Doctor 1 and was looking for a monthly supplier. After Ludwikowski passed along his number to Pharmacists 3, Individual 3 was able to fill prescriptions for oxycodone and other controlled substances at Olde Medford Pharmacy or Medford Family Pharmacy.
In another instance, a Pennsylvania resident referred to in the indictment as “Individual 4” informed Ludwikowski that he was “in a bit of a pickle” because he had been unable to fill a prescription written by Doctor 1 in Pennsylvania, but had heard that Ludwikowski would be able to help. Subsequently, Individual 4 was able to acquire oxycodone and other controlled substance prescriptions from Ludwikowski’s pharmacies.
The conspiracy charge and each substantive count of illegal distribution of oxycodone and other Schedule II controlled substances carry a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison and a $1 million fine, or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense. The count of using a telephone in furtherance of the drug trafficking crimes carries a maximum penalty of four years in prison and a $250,000 fine, or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense. The counts of maintaining a drug-involved premises each carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $500,000 fine, or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense.
U.S. Attorney Fishman credited special agents of the FBI’s Newark Field Office, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Gallagher; the DEA New Jersey Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Kotowski; the Medford Police Department under the direction of Chief Richard J. Meder; the Moorestown Police Department under the direction of Chief Lee R. Lieber; the Florence Police Department under the direction of Chief John Bunce; and the Lumberton Police Department under the direction of Chief Tony Diloreto, with the investigation leading to the charges.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin C. Danilewitz and Senior Litigation Counsel Jason M. Richardson of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Camden, as well as Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Devlin of the Office’s Asset Forfeiture and Money Laundering Unit.
The charges and allegations contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Three Twin Cities Men Sentenced for Providing Material Support to ISILRead the Press Release
The first three of nine defendants expected to be sentenced this week for conspiring to provide material support to ISIL were sentenced today in three separate hearings in U.S. District Court in Minneapolis. ABDULLAHI YUSUF, 20, was sentenced to time already served. ABDIRIZAK WARSAME, 21, was sentenced to 30 months in prison. ZACHARIA ABDURAHMAN, 21, was sentenced to 10 years in prison.
The announcement was made by United States Attorney for the District of Minnesota Andrew M. Luger, FBI Special Agent in Charge of the Minneapolis Division Richard T. Thornton, and Acting Assistant Attorney General for the National Security Division Mary B. McCord.
“The hard work of rehabilitating those who seek to engage in ideological violence must continue,” said United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger. “Judge Davis recognized that fact today in his considered sentences for those defendants who cooperated with the government and have begun to disengage from ISIL’s violent ideology.”
According to his guilty plea, in April 2014, YUSUF applied for an expedited U.S. Passport at the Minneapolis Passport Office. The following month, YUSUF attempted to travel from Minneapolis/St. Paul International Airport to Istanbul, Turkey, to join ISIL. He was stopped at the airport by federal agents. YUSUF pleaded guilty on February 26, 2015. YUSUF cooperated with the United States and testified at the trial of three of his co-conspirators.
According to his guilty plea, WARSAME participated in the conspiracy throughout 2014 and early 2015 in various capacities, including serving briefly as “emir” of the co-conspirators, and helping unindicted co-conspirator, Yusuf Jama, obtain contact information to aid his joining ISIL in Syria. WARSAME pleaded guilty on February 11, 2016. WARSAME cooperated with the United States and testified at the trial of three of his co-conspirators.
According to his guilty plea, in November 2014, ABDURAHMAN and three co-conspirators traveled by bus from Minneapolis to New York City’s JFK airport, where they attempted to fly overseas to join ISIL in Syria. They were stopped from flying and questioned by federal agents before returning to Minnesota. Despite being stopped from traveling in November 2014, ABDURAHMAN and the co-conspirators continued to discuss and plan another attempt to travel to Syria to join ISIL. ABDURAHMAN pleaded guilty on September 17, 2015.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by members of the FBI-led Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF). The JTTF includes members from the following departments: the United States Marshals Service, Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, Bloomington Police Department, St. Paul Police Department, Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office, Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office, Federal Air Marshals Service, Customs and Border Protection, Department of Defense, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Minneapolis Police Department, Burnsville Police Department, Department of State, the Airport Police, Criminal Investigation Division of the IRS, and the FBI.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew Winter, John Docherty and Julie Allyn.
Defendant Information:
ABDULLAHI YUSUF, 20
Inver Grove Heights, Minn.
Convicted:
- Conspiracy to Provide Material Support to a Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization, 1 count
Sentenced:
- Time already served
- 20 years of supervised release
ABDIRIZAK WARSAME, 21
Eagan, Minn.
Convicted:
- Conspiracy to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization, 1 count
Sentenced:
- 30 months in prison
- 20 years of supervised release
ZACHARIA ABDURAHMAN, 21
Columbia Heights, Minn.
Convicted:
- Conspiracy to Provide Material Support to a Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization, 1 count
Sentenced:
- 10 years in prison
- 20 years of supervised release
###
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
Three Minnesota Men Sentenced for Providing Material Support to ISILRead the Press Release
The first three of nine defendants expected to be sentenced this week for conspiring to provide material support to the Islamic State of the Levant (ISIL), a designated foreign terrorist organization, were sentenced today in three separate hearings in U.S. District Court in Minneapolis. Abdullahi Yusuf, 20, of Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota, received time served and a sentence of 20 years supervised release. Abdirizak Warsame, 21, of Eagan, Minnesota, was sentenced to 30 months in prison and 20 years supervised release. Zacharia Abdurahman, 21, of Columbia Heights, Minnesota, was sentenced to 120 months in prison and 20 years supervised release.
The announcement was made by Acting Assistant Attorney General for the National Security Division Mary B. McCord, U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger for the District of Minnesota and Special Agent in Charge Richard T. Thornton of the FBI’s Minneapolis Division.
“The hard work of rehabilitating those who seek to engage in ideological violence must continue,” said U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger. “Judge Davis recognized that fact today in his considered sentences for those defendants who cooperated with the government and have begun to disengage from ISIL’s violent ideology.”
According to his guilty plea, in April 2014, Yusuf applied for an expedited U.S. Passport at the Minneapolis Passport Office. The following month, Yusuf attempted to travel from the Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport in Minneapolis to Istanbul, Turkey, to join ISIL. He was stopped at the airport by federal agents. Yusuf pleaded guilty on Feb. 26, 2015. Yusuf cooperated with the U.S. and testified at the trial of three of his co-conspirators.
According to his guilty plea, Warsame participated in the conspiracy throughout 2014 and early 2015 in various capacities, including serving briefly as “emir” of the co-conspirators, and helping unindicted co-conspirator, Yusuf Jama, obtain contact information to aid his joining ISIL in Syria. Warsame pleaded guilty on Feb. 11. Warsame cooperated with the U.S. and testified at the trial of three of his co-conspirators.
According to his guilty plea, in November 2014, Abdurahman and three co-conspirators traveled by bus from Minneapolis to JFK airport in New York, where they attempted to fly overseas to join ISIL in Syria. They were stopped from flying and questioned by federal agents before returning to Minnesota. Despite being stopped from traveling in November 2014, Abdurahman and the co-conspirators continued to discuss and plan another attempt to travel to Syria to join ISIL. Abdurahman pleaded guilty on Sept. 17, 2015.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by members of the FBI-led Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF). The JTTF includes members from the following departments: U.S. Marshals Service, Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, Bloomington Police Department in Minnesota, St. Paul Police Department in Minnesota, Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office in Minnesota, Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office in Minnesota, Federal Air Marshals Service, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Department of Defense, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Minneapolis Police Department, Burnsville Police Department in Minnesota, Department of State, Airport Police, Criminal Investigation Division of the IRS and the FBI.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew Winter, John Docherty and Julie Allyn of the District of Minnesota with assistance from the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.
Tampa Attorney Sentenced to Prison for Hiding Drug ProceedsRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Steven D. Merryday today sentenced Joe Manuel Gonzalez (66, Tampa) to 10 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for structuring financial transactions to avoid currency reporting requirements. The Court also ordered him to pay a $15,000 fine. Gonzalez pleaded guilty on August 24, 2016.
According to court documents, Gonzalez, an attorney with his own law practice in Tampa specializing in financial and tax matters, established a fictitious trust and bank account for a confidential source (CS) and undercover DEA agent. The CS and the undercover agent posed as brothers seeking to launder proceeds from their marijuana grow house operations. The “brothers” told Gonzalez that they made approximately $30,000-$50,000 per month from their marijuana operation and needed somewhere safe to put their money. Gonzalez advised the “brothers” how to set up and make deposits into bank accounts to avoid detection by law enforcement. Gonzalez established a bank account for the “brothers” in the name of a fictitious trust and made the initial deposits into the bank account with what Gonzalez understood to be proceeds from the marijuana business. On two occasions, Gonzalez structured the cash provided to him by the undercover agent, breaking up the bank deposit into separate transactions to avoid the currency reporting requirements.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Josephine W. Thomas.
Tahlequah Man Pleads Guilty to Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that NATHAN ROWDEN GREEN, age 28, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, pled guilty to DRUG CONSPIRACY, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 846, 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B), punishable by not less than 5 years or more than 40 years imprisonment, and up to a $5,000,000.00 fine or both.
The Information alleged that or about December 14, 2015, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, did willfully and knowingly combine, conspire, confederate and agree together, and with other persons known and unknown, to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of Methamphetamine, a Schedule II Controlled Substance.
The charges arose from a joint investigation by the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, the Tahlequah Police Department, the Muskogee Police Department, the Oklahoma Department of Corrections, the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The investigation was coordinated by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) of the Eastern District of Oklahoma. OCDETF is an initiative led and coordinated by the Office of the United States Attorney.
The Honorable Kimberly E. West, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report. The defendant will remain in custody pending a sentencing hearing.
Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States.
Suspended Attorney William O’Brien Pleads Guilty to Wire FraudRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that William O’Brien, 60, an attorney who lives in Winooski, pleaded guilty today in United States District Court in Burlington to a charge of wire fraud. Chief U.S. District Judge Christina Reiss released O’Brien on conditions pending sentencing, which has been set for May 31, 2017 in Brattleboro.
On October 13, the United States filed a criminal information charging O’Brien with one count of wire fraud, the charge which he admitted today. The information charges O’Brien with defrauding two former law clients. In one case, O’Brien became the trustee of a trust established by the clients. As trustee, O’Brien was to use trust funds to make charitable contributions in the memory of the clients. Between 2008 and 2013, O’Brien did make a number of contributions of trust funds in the total amount of $97,500, but also improperly diverted about $270,000 in trust funds to his law firm account. In another case, O’Brien received in his capacity as attorney more than $247,000 in client funds, which were also meant to be used for charitable purposes. Although O’Brien did make one contribution of $15,000, he again used the remaining funds for his own benefit.
In early 2016, O’Brien did repay about $472,000 to these two clients, but those payments were made only after O’Brien became aware he was under investigation by counsel for the Vermont bar. The Vermont Supreme Court suspended O’Brien’s law license in January.
O’Brien faces up to 20 years of imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000. The actual sentence will be determined with reference to federal sentencing guidelines.
This case was investigated by the Burlington Police Department, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Vermont Judiciary’s Office of Disciplinary Counsel.
O’Brien is represented by Scott McGee of Norwich. The prosecutor is Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregory Waples.
Statement by Attorney General Loretta E. Lynch on the Passing of Gwen IfillRead the Press Release
Attorney General Loretta E. Lynch today released the following statement on the passing of Gwen Ifill:
“Gwen Ifill was a pioneering figure in American journalism who quite literally changed the face of the evening news. She met discrimination and bigotry with talent and focus, rising to become one of the most prominent journalists of her generation. She pursued her reporting with grace, intelligence and integrity, earning her the trust of countless Americans who counted on her to present the facts of a story without slant or spin. She asked tough questions and told hard truths, but she always did so in a way that elevated, rather than coarsened, our national discourse. Our country is a better place because of her commitment to the truth, and she will be sorely missed, both on the air and off.”
Statement by Attorney General Loretta E. Lynch on the Departure of David Hickton from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of PennsylvaniaRead the Press Release
Attorney General Loretta E. Lynch released the following statement on the planned departure of U.S. Attorney David Hickton of the Western District of Pennsylvania:
“For the last six years, U.S. Attorney David Hickton has served the people of the Western District of Pennsylvania – and all the American people – with fidelity, integrity and distinction. Under David’s outstanding leadership, his office has been at the forefront of some of the Justice Department’s most consequential achievements of the last few years. These include the indictment of five Chinese military hackers for committing cyber espionage, the dismantling of the Darkode hacking forum and the first human trafficking cases to be brought in the Western District of Pennsylvania. In addition, David has been a tireless advocate of stronger community-police relations and he has been a crucial partner in the fight against the devastating heroin and prescription opioid epidemic. There is no doubt that the United States is a stronger and safer place because of David’s many contributions. I thank him for his distinguished service, and I wish him the very best in his future endeavors.”
Statement by Attorney General Loretta E. Lynch on the Departure of David Hickton from the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Western District of PennsylvaniaRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Attorney General Loretta E. Lynch released the following statement on the planned departure of U.S. Attorney David Hickton of the Western District of Pennsylvania:
“For the last six years, U.S. Attorney David Hickton has served the people of the Western District of Pennsylvania – and all the American people – with fidelity, integrity and distinction. Under David’s outstanding leadership, his office has been at the forefront of some of the Justice Department’s most consequential achievements of the last few years. These include the indictment of five Chinese military hackers for committing cyber espionage, the dismantling of the Darkode hacking forum and the first human trafficking cases to be brought in the Western District of Pennsylvania. In addition, David has been a tireless advocate of stronger community-police relations and he has been a crucial partner in the fight against the devastating heroin and prescription opioid epidemic. There is no doubt that the United States is a stronger and safer place because of David’s many contributions. I thank him for his distinguished service, and I wish him the very best in his future endeavors.”
Reno Was a Public Serveant Who Didn't Take Herself Too SeriouslyRead the Press Release
Commentary by Wifredo Ferrer, Daily Business Review
November 7, 2016
Though it was a long time ago, I vividly remember the day I met the woman who would eventually become my boss, my colleague, my friend and my mentor.
As a high school student at Hialeah-Miami Lakes, Janet Reno came to our class to talk about community safety and the value of public service. At the time, Reno was the Miami-Dade state attorney. Despite the demands of her job, Reno always made it a priority to connect with our community's youth. Her accessibility and core belief in the principle of justice for all was as clear to me that day as it was when I had the honor to work closely with her when she was the attorney general of the United States.
Though she would ultimately return to the community she loved, Reno left Miami to begin her tenure as U.S. attorney general in 1993. In 1995 I was fortunate enough to begin working with her, serving as her counsel and deputy chief of staff. She was the ideal and consummate public servant who believed deeply in the mission of the Department of Justice. She was tough and believed that those who violate our nation's laws must be punished and deterred.
But her view of justice transcended the role of the nation's top prosecutor. Reno also firmly believed that all Americans should have true and meaningful access to the law, and she demanded that we always remember that those in need, especially children, deserve a voice. The country witnessed these traits over and over again during her tenure. Indeed, as a member of the president's Cabinet, much of what she did played out in the public eye.
But I was blessed to also work with Reno behind closed doors, out of the glaring lights that she became accustomed to as attorney general. It is hard to appreciate the number of decisions an attorney general must make on a daily basis. Some are small and some are large, but each one is important to someone.
And regardless of the magnitude of the issue before her, the players involved or the gravity of the decision with which she was faced, her approach was consistent – she was guided by the evidence and the law and called it as she saw it.
As a young lawyer navigating the halls of Justice, I saw Reno lead by her values and principles. She was guided by an unwavering sense of right and wrong, and that was a powerful thing to witness. She was firm and decisive but never arrogant. Reno was a good listener but never allowed herself to be swayed by popular opinion. Reno was never tempted to take the easy way out simply to avoid hard choices. Her character and integrity would not allow that.
In addition to witnessing her leadership and character as attorney general, I also had the great fortune to be touched by her warmth, humanity and sense of humor.
Many Americans fondly recall Reno dancing with Will Ferrell on "Saturday Night Live." She reminded us to always take our responsibilities seriously but never to take ourselves too seriously.
Reno cared deeply about the professional and personal lives of all of her colleagues and tried to know everyone's name and life story. Reno taught me and so many others what it means to be a leader.
When I had the privilege to be sworn in as U.S. attorney, Reno was there. Although she was in very poor health, it meant so much to have her by my side.
Though she has left us, in many ways she will always be by my side, and her life and work will continue to inspire us all.
Wifredo Ferrer in U.S. attorney in the Southern District of Florida.Quincy Woman Charged with Distribution of Heroin Resulting in DeathRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – A Quincy, Ill., woman, Andrea Nicole Tate, 39, made her initial appearance in federal court last week, on Nov. 10, after a grand jury returned an indictment that charges her with distribution of heroin that resulted in death. The indictment alleges that Tate, of the 400 block of N. 7th Street, distributed and possessed with intent to distribute heroin on June 24, 2016, and that death resulted from use of the heroin.
Tate appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Tom Schanzle-Haskins, who ordered that Tate remain detained in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date of Jan. 3, 2017, has been scheduled.
The investigation was conducted by the West Central Illinois Task Force and the Quincy Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Crystal Correa is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, the statutory penalty for the offense of distribution and possession with intent to distribute heroin and death and serious bodily injury resulted is no less than 20 years and up to life in prison.
Members of the public are reminded that an indictment is merely an accusation; the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
Property Manager Charged with Fraudulently Pocketing Fees from Chicago Condominium AssociationRead the Press Release
CHICAGO — A property manager has been charged in federal court with fraudulently pocketing more than $150,000 in illegal fees from a condominium association in Chicago’s Edgewater neighborhood.
ALAN P. GOLD, the owner and operator of Chicago-based A.P. Gold Realty & Management Inc., overbilled the Edgewater condo association for management services that were never performed, according to a criminal complaint and affidavit filed in U.S. District Court in Chicago. He also skimmed from the association’s reserve account by paying himself monies to which he was not entitled, the complaint states.
Gold is suspected of pilfering an additional $750,000 from eight other Chicago condominium associations, according to the complaint.
The complaint charges Gold, 65, of Chicago, with one count of mail fraud. He was arrested on Nov. 9, 2016, and made an initial appearance that day before U.S. Magistrate Judge Susan E. Cox. Judge Cox ordered Gold released on a $10,000 personal recognizance bond.
The complaint was announced by Zachary T. Fardon, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois; and Michael J. Anderson, Special Agent in Charge of the Chicago office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
According to the complaint, Gold had signature authority over the Edgewater condo association’s bank accounts and was supposed to draw a monthly fee of $650 for management services, which included collecting special assessments and paying utility providers. Gold overbilled the association by withdrawing multiple $650 checks in the same month, and he tapped into its reserve fund to write substantially higher checks to himself, the complaint states. All told, Gold stole approximately $154,271 from the Edgewater condo association between 2010 and 2014.
Gold defrauded the other associations in a similar manner, the complaint states. He concealed the frauds by furnishing fraudulent monthly statements to the condo associations that showed their balances to be higher than they actually were, according to the complaint.
The public is reminded that a complaint is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Mail fraud is punishable by up to 20 years in prison. If convicted, the Court must impose a reasonable sentence under federal statutes and the advisory U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Vikas Didwania.
Palmer Man Pleads Guilty to Child PornographyRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Palmer man pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court in Springfield to possessing child pornography.
Charles Benoit, 65, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring to possess child pornography before U.S. District Court Judge Mark G. Mastroianni who scheduled sentencing for Feb. 14, 2017.
From 2009 to 2010, Benoit used Limewire, an online peer-to-peer file sharing program, to search for and download child pornography. Benoit used search terms such as “preteen hard core” and “PTHC.”
The charging statute provides a sentence of no greater than five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Carmen M. Ortiz and Matthew Etre, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston, made the announcement today. The case is being prosecuted by Alex Grant of Ortiz’s Springfield Branch Office.
The case is brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov/.
Owner of Clackamas Property Management Companies Sentenced to 33 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Ore. – On Monday, November 14, 2016, U.S. District Judge Marco A. Hernandez sentenced Cody C. Halsey, 37, to 33 months in federal prison followed by three years’ supervised release. Halsey plead guilty in July 2016 to defrauding nearly 250 clients of his former property management companies, Cascade Community Management and Noah and Associates, both of which were located in Clackamas, Oregon. District Judge Hernandez also ordered Halsey to pay restitution of $1,545,487 to his client victims.
Halsey admitted to embezzling $1,545,487 in tenant rents and security deposits entrusted to his property management companies from 2010 through July 2015. He falsified company records and sent clients false account statements to conceal these thefts. According to the Receiver who took over the property management companies after Halsey’s embezzlement came to light, many property owners who were Halsey’s clients experienced severe emotional and financial distress as a result of his crimes.
“This sentence is a significant sanction for violating your clients’ trust,” said Billy J. Williams, United States Attorney for the District of Oregon. “Business owners who are entrusted with their clients’ money have a special obligation to handle it properly. We will continue to work with our partners at the FBI to identify and prosecute those in positions of trust who steal their clients’ money to enrich themselves.”
This case was investigated by the FBI and prosecuted by Seth D. Uram, Assistant United States Attorney for the District of Oregon.
Owner of Aerospace Company Pleads Guilty to Filing False Tax ReturnRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. - The owner of a Wichita-based aerospace company pleaded guilty Monday to filing a false federal tax return, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said.
John J. O’Neill, 62, Wichita, Kan., president of Omni Aerospace, Inc., pleaded guilty to one count of making a false statement on a federal tax return. In his plea, he admitted he filed a return seeking s special depreciation allowance of more than $2.7 million to which he was not entitled.
The judge will determine at sentencing how much O’Neill owes in taxes. Sentencing is set for Jan. 17, 2017. He faces a penalty of up to three years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000.
Beall commended the Internal Revenue Service and U.S. Attorney Alan Metzger for their work on the case.
Orwell Man Charged with Armed Robbery of Fair Haven Maplefields Store in September 2015Read the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that Matthew Hinton, 26, of Orwell, has been charged with an armed robbery of the Maplefields convenience store in Fair Haven, which occurred in the early morning hours of September 30, 2015.
The federal grand jury, sitting in Rutland, returned a four-count superseding indictment against Hinton. Hinton was previously charged with felon-in-possession of a firearm and possession of a stolen firearm, each of which carry a maximum prison sentence of ten years. Hinton pled not guilty to those charges. He is currently being detained by the Vermont Department of Corrections on separate unrelated state charges.
The two new federal charges are a Hobbs Act federal robbery charge, which carries a maximum sentence of twenty years. The second new charge is that of brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence, which carries a mandatory minimum consecutive sentence of seven years and a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. He is scheduled to be arraigned on these new charges on November 21, 2016 before Magistrate-Judge John Conroy in Burlington, Vermont.
The United States Attorney emphasizes that the charges contained in the indictment are merely accusations and that the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until he is proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Fair Haven Police Department, and the Vermont State Police. The United States is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joe Perella and Mr. Hinton is represented by David McColgin of the Federal Public Defenders Office.
One Individual Pleads Guilty to Importation of CocaineRead the Press Release
SAN JUAN, P.R. – Eduard Bueno-Beltrán pled guilty to all counts of an indictment which charged him with importation of controlled substances, conspiracy to import controlled substances, and two counts of possession with the intent to distribute a controlled substance on board a vessel under the jurisdiction of the United States, announced Rosa Emilia Rodríguez-Vélez, United States Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico. This guilty plea finalized a drug trafficking investigation and prosecution by the U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, the US Coast Guard, and the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Puerto Rico. United States District Court Judge Gustavo A. Gelpí presided the case.
On March 17, 2015 at around 2:00 am, a maritime patrol aircraft (MPA) detected a go-fast vessel heading eastbound in international waters, approximately 20 nautical miles north of the coast of Miches, Dominican Republic. The vessel was operating without navigation lights at night along a known smuggling route. The patrol aircraft observed packages being jettisoned from the go-fast vessel. The boarding team intercepted the go-fast vessel in international waters and conducted a search. They recovered nine (9) bales containing brick-shaped objects with a white powdery substance, one (1) cellular telephone and one (1) Global Positioning System (GPS) device. A field test of the substance within the bales was conducted by USCG personnel and yielded a positive result for cocaine.
An individual identified as Eduard Bueno-Beltrán claimed to be the master of the vessel. The other two subjects involved were identified as Ismael King-Almeida, who already pled guilty, and Pedro Antonio Berroa-Bonilla, who passed away due to preexisting conditions; all Dominican Republic nationals. A total of approximately 205 bricks of cocaine weighing approximately 229.2 kilograms were seized. These defendants are exposed to a term of imprisonment of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison for the drug trafficking conspiracy.
The case was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorneys Eugenio Lomba and Nicholas Smith.
Ohio man sentenced to nearly two years in prison for stealing $350,000 through fraudulent horseracing ventureRead the Press Release
A Logan man was sentenced to nearly two years in prison for stealing more than $350,000 from investors through a fraudulent horseracing venture and using the money to buy expensive clothes, vehicles and pay for gambling expenses, law enforcement officials said.
Jonathan Pippin, 30, was sentenced to 21 months in prison and ordered to pay $358,370 in restitution.
He previously pleaded guilty to two counts of wire fraud and one count of money laundering.
Pippin created PJH Horse Racing, Inc. in 2011. The company was headquartered in Cleveland and purported to be in the business of purchasing race horses. Pippin had sole control over the company and its various bank accounts, according to court documents.
Pippin solicited investors to his company under false pretenses. He told potential investors that they were investing in a venture with a wealthy businessman and widely-known horse racing figure – identified in the charges only as M.R. – when in reality Pippin did not know M.R.
Pippin falsely represented to investors that they would receive a percentage of the winnings of M.R.’s horses when he knew it was not true. He also told investors that he had stud rights to M.R.’s horses when he did not, according to court documents.
Pippin used the investors’ money to enrich himself and pay personal expenses, such as the purchase of a Cadillac Escalade, tickets to sporting events, gambling expenses, rent and expensive clothing. Four investors lost a combined $358,370, according to court documents.
“This defendant created a web of lies to pay for fancy cars, expensive clothes and gambling expenses,” Rendon said. “He defrauded investors to pay for a lifestyle he couldn’t afford. Now he’ll be held accountable for his actions.”
"When you knowingly mix deceit and trickery into the financial well-being of individuals, you create a recipe for devastation that could last a lifetime," said Kathy A. Enstrom, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Cincinnati Field Office. "Today's sentence demonstrates how federal law enforcement will band together to help put an end to the criminal behavior of those who prey on investors for their personal financial gain."
“This case is another example of the success of the task force concept where multiple federal agencies bring expertise to an investigation resulting in a successful conviction,” said Craig Wisniewsky, Special Agent in Charge of the Secret Service's Cleveland office.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christos M. Georgalis following an investigation by the IRS-CI and United States Secret Service.
North Royalton man faces child pornography chargesRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment charging Shawn L. Hicks, 20, of North Royalton, with receiving, distributing, and accessing with intent to view visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct, said Carole S. Rendon, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
The indictment alleges that from on or about September 5, 2014, through on or about July 15, 2015, Hicks knowingly received and distributed numerous computer files that contained visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. The indictment also alleges that from on or about December 19, 2014, through on or about March 4, 2015, Hicks knowingly accessed with intent to view on his computer visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct, to include at least one image involving a prepubescent minor or a minor who had not attained 12 years of age.
Assistant United States Attorney Megan R. Miller is prosecuting the case following an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
If convicted, the court will determine the defendant’s sentence after a 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. In most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
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.
North Carolina Tax Return Preparer Sentenced to Prison for Preparing and Filing False Tax Returns with the IRSRead the Press Release
A Guilford County, North Carolina resident was sentenced to serve 18 months in prison today for aiding and assisting in the preparation of false tax returns, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Caroline D. Ciraolo, head of the Justice Department’s Tax Division, and U.S. Attorney Ripley Rand of the Middle District of North Carolina.
Marvin Flythe admitted that he ran “TAXHOVA,” a tax preparation business in Greensboro, and maintained a YouTube video channel on which he advertised TAXHOVA. Between January 2012 and January 2015, Flythe prepared and filed numerous individual income tax returns for clients on which he reported false business losses and false unreimbursed employee business expenses. Flythe admitted to filing at least 36 false returns for clients, for which $130,949 in fraudulent refunds were paid. Flythe also admitted to filing false personal returns which underreported his income for tax years 2011, 2012 and 2013 and failing to file his 2014 return.
Flythe pleaded guilty in August to four counts of preparing false individual income tax returns for clients. In addition to the term of prison imposed, Flythe was ordered to serve one year of supervised release and to pay restitution in the amount of $105,128.04 to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Ciraolo and U.S. Attorney Rand commended special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, who conducted the investigation and Trial Attorney Robert J. Boudreau of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Anand Ramaswamy of the Middle District of North Carolina, who prosecuted this case.
Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found on the Division’s website.