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6 October 2016
Jacksonville Man Sentenced for Heroin Distribution and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
NEW BERN – The United States Attorney’s Office announced that yesterday in federal court, United States District Judge Louise W. Flanagan sentenced JUAN RAMIREZ-MARTINEZ, a/k/a Panda, 28, a legal resident of Mexico living in Jacksonville, to 128 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release.
RAMIREZ-MARTINEZ was named in a seven-count Indictment filed on March 16, 2016. On May 11, 2016, RAMIREZ-MARTINEZ pled guilty to four counts, including Conspiracy to Possess With Intent to Distribute a Quantity of Heroin; Possession With Intent to Distribute a Quantity of Heroin; Possession of a Firearm by an Illegal Alien; and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime.
During the investigation, multiple controlled purchases and seizures of heroin were conducted from the conspirators with the use of confidential informants (CI’s). Based on these controlled purchases and information regarding trips taken by RAMIREZ-MARTINEZ to resupply, the defendant is accountable for at least 308 grams of heroin. He is also considered to have possessed a firearm in connection with his drug trafficking activities.
Investigation of this case was conducted by the Jacksonville Police Department, Onslow County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF). Assistant United States Laura Howard represented the government.
Israeli Owner of Mall Kiosk Businesses Pleads Guilty to Immigration and Money Laundering ChargesRead the Press Release
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – Eyal Katz, 38, of Israel, pleaded guilty today to charges related to his role in an immigration fraud and money laundering scheme.
According to the statement of facts filed with the plea agreement, Katz, operating from an office in Tel Aviv, Israel, would identify, recruit and send foreign nationals from Israel to the United States on B-2 visitor visas. Once those foreign nationals were in the United States, they would be sent to work for one of several business entities, known collectively as RASKO; a mall-based kiosk business in Virginia, Georgia, Pennsylvania and New Jersey through which they sold Dead Sea Salt products. Katz and co-conspirators would provide housing and transportation to the foreign nationals. From 2011 through the present, the conspirators, led by Omer Gur in the United States and Katz in Israel, recruited over 140 foreign nationals from Israel to work at the kiosks, in violation of the workers’ B-2 visitor visa status. From 2012 through 2014, RASKO received over $14 million through its kiosk based sales. Several million dollars from these sales were then routed to Israel based accounts, including accounts controlled by Katz, and spent on lodging, travel, kiosk rentals and other expenses of the scheme. To date, nine of the ten charged defendants in the case have been arrested. Katz is the ninth defendant to plead guilty.
Katz was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 10, and was arrested in Romania and extradited to the United States in June. Katz faces a maximum penalty of 25 years in prison when sentenced on Jan. 17, 2017. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Dana J. Boente, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Robin Blake, Special Agent in Charge of the Washington, D.C. Regional Office, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General; and Jonathan F. Trimble, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Norfolk Field Office, made the announcement after the plea was accepted by U.S. District Judge Raymond A. Jackson. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brian J. Samuels, Lisa R. McKeel and Kevin Hudson are prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release may be found on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:116-cr-17.
Hobbs Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Methamphetamine Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Enrique Miramontes, 42, of Hobbs, N.M., pled guilty yesterday in federal court in Las Cruces, N.M., to a methamphetamine trafficking charge under a plea agreement with the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Miramontes was arrested on June 8, 2016, and was charged by criminal complaint with possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. According to the complaint, on June 7, 2016, in Lea County, N.M., law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Miramontes’ residence in Hobbs, and seized approximately 462 grams of methamphetamine, two firearms and ammunition.
During yesterday’s proceedings, Miramontes pled guilty to a felony information charging him with possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. In entering the guilty plea, Miramontes admitted that on June 7, 2016, law enforcement officers, who were executing a search warrant at his residence, found methamphetamine in a shed at his residence. Miramontes further admitted that he intended to sell the methamphetamine.
At sentencing, Miramontes faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. He remains in custody pending a sentencing hearing which has yet to be scheduled.
This case was investigated by the Las Cruces office of Homeland Security Investigations and the Lea County Drug Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Terri J. Abernathy of the U.S. Attorney’s Las Cruces Branch Office is prosecuting the case.
The Lea County Drug Task Force is comprised of officers from the Lea County Sheriff’s Office, Hobbs Police Department, Lovington Police Department, Eunice Police Department the Tatum Police Department and the Jal Police Department, and is part of the NM HIDTA Region VI Drug Task Force. The High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) program was created by Congress with the Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1988. HIDTA is a program of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) which provides assistance to federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies operating in areas determined to be critical drug-trafficking regions of the United States and seeks to reduce drug trafficking and production by facilitating coordinated law enforcement activities and information sharing.
Greensburg Man Charged with Making and Using Fake U.S. Secret Service CredentialsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Greensburg, Pa., has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of conspiracy to produce false identification documents, use of a false U.S. Secret Service badge, and an unauthorized use of the U.S. Secret Service seal on a fake U.S. Secret Service identification card, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The three-count indictment, returned on October 4, named Christopher Diiorio, 53, of Greensburg, PA.
According to the indictment, Christopher Diiorio conspired with others to produce false United States Secret Service identification cards. He also misrepresented that he was an agent of the United States Secret Service, possessed, and displayed an imitation United States Secret Service badge to a hotel manager in order to obtain the government rate for a hotel stay. Finally, he misrepresented that he was an agent of the United States Secret Service and displayed the false United States Secret Service identification card during an encounter with a local police officer.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of twenty years and six months in prison, a fine of $505,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Paul E. Hull is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Secret Service conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Glenn County Sheriff's Office Detective Receives U.S. Attorney General’s Award for Distinguished Service in Community PolicingRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Today, at a ceremony in Washington, DC, Attorney General Loretta Lynch presented Detective Greg Felton of the Glenn County Sheriff's Office the U.S. Attorney General’s Award for Distinguished Service in Community Policing for field operations, Acting U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
Detective Felton is being recognized for his work in field operations. He works with multiple agencies to strengthen collaboration and integrate services while handling complex criminal investigations. During the past year, Detective Felton has been a driving force and team leader in the creation of the Glenn County System-wide Mental Health Assessment and Response Team, a collaborative multiagency team that responds to incidents such as school or community threats, suicidal behavior, and bullying. His ability to remain calm in any situation helps to quickly resolve a crisis situation.
The Attorney General’s Award for Distinguished Service in Community Policing recognizes individual state, local, or tribal sworn police officers and deputies for exceptional efforts in community policing. The winning officer or deputy and/or deputies have demonstrated active engagement with the community in one of three areas: 1) Innovations in Community Policing; 2) Criminal Investigations; or 3) Field Operations.
Acting U.S. Attorney Talbert stated: “We are pleased that the work of Detective Felton has been recognized nationally as part of National Community Policing Week. Community policing encourages collaboration between law enforcement agencies and community members to improve public trust and safety. It uses all parties’ shared interest in safe neighborhoods as the foundation for deeper understanding, mutual respect, and closer partnership. Detective Felton exemplifies the core principles of community policing.”
Ft. Thompson Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Ft. Thompson, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine was sentenced on October 3, 2016, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Lucas Paul Evans, a/k/a Abdul Evans, a/k/a Lucas Harrison, a/k/a Abdul Salom Harrison, a/k/a Abubarker Harrison, a/k/a Abubarker Shabazz Evans, age 29, was sentenced to 94 months in custody, 4 years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and a special assessment of $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Evans was indicted by a federal grand jury on April 19, 2016, for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. He pled guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, on July 19, 2016.
Prior to sentencing, Evans admitted to distributing over 396 grams of methamphetamine in and around the Crow Creek Sioux Indian Reservation in South Dakota. Evans admitted making thirteen trips from Ft. Thompson to Utah to obtain methamphetamine for distribution in South Dakota, each time bringing back an ounce (28.3 grams) of methamphetamine. He purchased each ounce for $800, and would sell it in South Dakota for $300-$350 per 3.54 grams, or for over $8,400 an ounce. Evans stated that he primarily distributed to two individuals on the reservation and estimated he earned $3,000 per month while distributing drugs. Other interviews conducted by law enforcement corroborated Evans’ admissions.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Crow Creek Agency, and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney SaraBeth Donovan prosecuted the case.
Evans was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Former Springfield Man Sentenced for Defacing Islamic Center, Burning Qur'anRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Tammy Dickinson, United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri, announced that a former Springfield, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for violating the civil rights of others by leading a conspiracy to deface The Islamic Center of Springfield with graffiti and burn two copies of the Qur’an.
Adam David Smock, 24, of Edgewater, Calif., formerly of Springfield, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Roseann Ketchmark five years’ probation with conditions of the probation to include 14 days’ incarceration, payment of $10,440 in restitution and performance of 40 hours of community service. Smock will meet with and personally apologize to the leadership of the Islamic Center of Springfield for his crime.
On Dec. 29, 2015, Smock pleaded guilty to participating in a conspiracy to oppress, threaten, and intimidate worshippers at the Islamic Center of Springfield in the free exercise and enjoyment of their Constitutional right to the free exercise of their religious beliefs.
Joshua Daniel Lobsien, 24, of Orland, Calif., formerly of Springfield, was sentenced on July 13, 2016, after pleading guilty to defacing religious property. The court sentenced Lobsien to five years of probation, including 20 hours of community service, and ordered him to pay $5,220 in restitution. If the Islamic Center of Springfield, or an Islamic Center located near Lobsien’s residence, is willing to have him perform his community service on its premises, then that is the location where Lobsien should perform his community service. Lobsien has personally apologized to the leadership of the Islamic Center of Springfield for his crime.
The Islamic Center of Springfield, 2151 E. Division St., provides services common to most religious establishments, including regular prayer service, a venue for individuals to pray on their own, community activities and a forum for charitable fund-raising.
Both Lobsien and Smock were 18 years old at the time of the offense. They admitted that, along with a 14-year-old minor, they spray-painted graffiti on the exterior walls of the Islamic Center of Springfield on Jan. 7, 2011. The graffiti included explicit and offensive language in addition to such statements as “Bash Back,” “Now is our time!” and “You bash us in Pakistan we bash here.”
Smock and Lobsien also admitted that on April 10, 2011, they partially burned two copies of the Qur’an (the Muslim holy book) and transported the Qur’ans to the Islamic Center of Springfield. Smock left the burned Qur’ans directly in front of the main doors to the Islamic Center, approximately 30 feet away from the building. Lobsien left a computer-printed note on the mat in front of the main doors. The note contained the image of a goat’s or ram’s head, and the following text:
“To: Sincere Followers of Allah,
“Today, we show the Muslim Nation that its oppressive religion won't go without a fight, not from soldiers, but from average citizens willing to fight for America – for there are three (sic) burned Qur'ans that lay spread in the driveway. For we grow tired of Anti-Zionism. The Islamification of Europe. Terroristic regimes. And worst of all, the membership of 1.5 billion Muslims that stain the earth. And we vow one thing: Islam will not survive.
“Death to Islam!”
Smock admitted that it was his idea to commit the acts and that he persuaded his co-conspirators to participate. He also admitted that he selected the Islamic Center of Springfield for vandalism because of the religious nature of the property, in order to threaten and intimidate worshippers, so as to hinder and interfere with the worshippers’ enjoyment of their Constitutional right to the free exercise of religion.
The total cost of restoration and repair of the damage to the Islamic Center of Springfield, including sandblasting and applying anti-graffiti paint, is $15,662
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Randall D. Eggert. It was investigated by the FBI and the Springfield, Mo., Police Department.
Former Purchasing Agent for the Jicarilla Apache Nation Sentenced for Federal Embezzlement ConvictionRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – The former purchasing agent for the Jicarilla Apache Nation was sentenced today in federal court in Albuquerque, N.M., to three years of probation and ordered to pay $5,000 in restitution for embezzling funds from the Jicarilla Apache Nation.
Vanessa Cohoe, now known as Vanessa Vicenti, 46, formerly of Dulce, N.M., was charged in an indictment filed on Dec. 17, 2015, with theft of funds belonging to the Jicarilla Apache Nation, an organization receiving more than $10,000 in federal funds. The indictment alleged that Cohoe committed the crime by embezzling approximately $23,039.23 from the Tribe between Dec. 2010 and May 2011. The indictment also charged Cohoe with embezzling more than $1000 in funds belonging to an Indian Tribal organization by using the Jicarilla Apache Nation’s credit card on eight separate occasions between Jan. 2011 and April 2011.
On May 17, 2016, Cohoe pled guilty to the theft charge, and admitted embezzling funds belonging to the Jicarilla Apache Nation. The plea agreement states that Cohoe committed the crime while employed as the purchasing agent for the Jicarilla Apache Nation, a position she held from Feb. 2007 through June 2011. In that capacity, Cohoe had access to and use of the Tribe’s Sam’s Club credit card for authorized purchases. From Jan. 2010 through May 2011, Cohoe made unauthorized purchases using the Tribe’s credit card for gift cards, alcohol, groceries, clothes and cosmetics for herself and her family. Cohoe concealed her embezzlement scheme by intercepting the credit card bills and modifying them before submitting them to the billing department for payment. Cohoe was suspended from her position in May 2011 and was terminated after a full investigation in June 2011.
This case was investigated by the Farmington office of the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristopher N. Houghton prosecuted the case.
Former Pine Lawn Lieutenant Sentenced on Federal ChargesRead the Press Release
St. Louis, MO –Former Pine Lawn Lieutenant Steven Blakeney was sentenced to 51 months in prison on criminal civil rights charges arising from his arrest in 2013 of a candidate for the office of Mayor of the City of Pine Lawn.
According to testimony presented at trial, on March 31, 2013, Blakeney, while a police officer with the City of Pine Lawn Police Department, conspired with others to cause the arrest of a mayoral candidate based on false allegations and without probable cause. Blakeney ordered another person to falsely report that the mayoral candidate had stolen a campaign poster from a local business and then arranged for the candidate to be arrested.
Blakeney was convicted in January of one felony count of conspiracy against rights; one count of deprivation of rights under color of law and one count of falsification of records. He appeared today for sentencing before United States District Judge Stephen N. Limbaugh, Jr., who had the defendant remanded into the custody of United States Marshals.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Reginald Harris handled the case for the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Former Iowa City Head Shop Owner Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal Prison for Selling Synthetic DrugsRead the Press Release
A man who owned and operated a head shop in Iowa City in 2014 was sentenced yesterday to 30 years in federal prison.
Robert Carl Sharp, age 37, from Peoria, Illinois, received the prison term after an October 5, 2015 guilty plea to three counts of possessing with intent to distribute and conspiring to manufacture and distribute a synthetic drug called AB‑FUBINACA.
Court documents reflect that in 2012, in Peoria, Illinois, Sharp began selling, and later manufacturing, smokeable synthetic cannabinoid products which are commonly known as “Spice,” “incense,” or K2. Sharp sold these products in packets that marketed the substances as incense, and contained a warning that the products were “not for human consumption,” although Sharp knew the products were actually intended for human consumption. The synthetic cannabinoids in these products were actually research chemicals that have not been tested or approved as safe for human consumption, and which have unpredictable short-term effects and unknown long-term effects on users.
Sharp eventually moved to Iowa and opened a head shop called Pipe Dreamz in downtown Iowa City. He employed another individual, Wayne Watkins, to manufacture synthetic cannabinoid products called “Gods of Aroma,” “Bizarro,” “AK-47 Cherry Popper,” “Bling Bling Monkey,” “Super Nova,” and “Darkness.” Sharp would order synthetic cannabinoid chemicals and also purchase bulk quantities of dried damiana leaves, a plant material that resembles dried marijuana. Watkins would dilute the synthetic cannabinoid chemical in acetone, and then spray the mixture on the damiana leaves. Watkins would then add some flavoring and package the substances into the various brands sold by Sharp.
On May 7, 2015, Sharp’s store, his house and storage unit in Center Point, along with Watkins’s house in Cedar Rapids, and the Pipe Dreamz store in Iowa City, were all searched by federal law enforcement. During the searches, officers seized thousands of synthetic cannabinoid products, including the sprayed-on plant variety and a liquid form of the synthetic cannabinoids that was designed for use in e‑cigarettes. Officers seized an active manufacturing lab in Watkins’s house.
At the plea hearing, Sharp stated he was told by the individuals from whom he purchased the substances that he was buying legal chemicals. He admitted at the plea hearing, however, that despite those statements from his suppliers, he believed there was a high probability that the substances he received and distributed were regulated by federal drug laws, but took deliberate actions to avoid learning of the true identity of the substances by not having them tested by a laboratory.
Sharp was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge Linda R. Reade. Sharp was sentenced to 360 months’ imprisonment. A special assessment of $300 was imposed. Sharp was also ordered to pay forfeiture of $200,000 that represented proceeds of his drug dealing. He must also serve a 3‑year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Watkins was previously sentenced to 115 months’ imprisonment.
The investigation of Sharp and raids of his business, home, and other related locations in May 2014 were a part of a coordinated DEA takedown called Project Synergy Phase II. The second phase of Project Synergy, which began January 2014, culminated on May 7, 2014, in 29 states, and involved more than 45 DEA offices serving nearly 200 search warrants. On that date, authorities seized hundreds of thousands of individually packaged, ready-to-sell synthetic drugs as well as hundreds of kilograms of raw synthetic products to make thousands more. Additionally, more than $20 million in cash and assets were seized.
Sharp is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was investigated by the Iowa City Police Department and as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program of the United States Department of Justice through a cooperative effort of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Task Force consisting of the DEA, the Linn County Sheriff's Office, the Cedar Rapids Police Department, the Marion Police Department, the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, and the Sixth Judicial District Department of Correctional Services; and the Internal Revenue Service. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dan Chatham.
Court file information available https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 15-CR-31-1-LRR.
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Former Hospital Orderly Sentenced to Prison for Aggravated Identity TheftRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—Christopher R. Thyer, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, Special Agent in Charge Diane Upchurch, of the Little Rock Field Office for the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI), and Tracey D. Montaño, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Criminal Investigation Division announced today that United States District Judge Kristine G. Baker sentenced Sir John Ashley Holliday, 28, of Dallas, Texas, to two years in federal prison for aggravated identity theft and theft of government funds, and ordered him to pay $13,191 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service. Holliday was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release.
Holliday was formerly employed as an orderly at the Arkansas State Hospital, a Little Rock psychiatric facility. At his change of plea hearing before Judge Baker on May 19, 2016, Holliday admitted that he stole patient names and social security numbers that he obtained during his employment at the State Hospital.
Holliday used the stolen information to file fraudulent federal income tax returns in the patients’ names which claimed refunds on wages never actually earned. Holliday then obtained refunds from the fraudulent returns in the form of debit cards totaling $13,191, which he later spent as his own.
Holliday pleaded guilty to aggravated identity theft and theft of government funds. The FBI, IRS–Criminal Investigation Division, and United States Secret Service investigated this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Alexander D. Morgan prosecuted the case for the United States.
Former Hospital Employee Indicted on Federal Charges Involving Forged Prescriptions for OxycodoneRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Sherrell Washington, 30, a former hospital employee, was indicted today on federal charges alleging that she forged prescriptions taken from her workplace to obtain oxycodone, announced U.S. Attorney Channing D. Phillips, Karl C. Colder, Special Agent in Charge of the Washington Division Office of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and Peter Newsham, Interim Chief of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
Washington, of Washington, D.C., was indicted by a grand jury in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia on eight counts of distribution of oxycodone and eight counts of obtaining a controlled substance by fraud. She will be arraigned at a later date.
According to the government’s evidence, at the time of the conduct alleged in the indictment, Washington was an administrative assistant at Medstar Georgetown University Hospital. She is accused of forging and filling prescriptions for oxycodone in eight separate instances, from April 20 through June 13, 2016, involving a total of 600 pills. Washington allegedly forged the prescriptions by using a blank pad belonging to a nurse-practitioner.
Washington was arrested on Aug. 12, 2016, and initially was charged in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. She pleaded not guilty in that case, which will now be dismissed as the matter is moved to U.S. District Court.
Opioids historically have been used as painkillers, but they also have great potential for misuse. Repeated use of opioids greatly increases the risk of developing an opioid use disorder. While these medicines have a legitimate medical use for alleviating pain, they are in such great demand that opioids and heroin are now the number one drug threat to our region and to the nation. The Justice Department is taking a three-fold approach to the epidemic: 1) prevent further tragedies by raising awareness regarding the opioid and heroin epidemic; 2) focus on enforcement priorities and highlight best practices; and 3) deploy resources for treatment.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed a violation of criminal laws and every defendant is presumed innocent until, and unless, proven guilty.
In announcing the indictment, U.S. Attorney Phillips, Special Agent in Charge Colder, and Interim Chief Newsham commended the work of those who investigated the case from the DEA and MPD. They also acknowledged the work of Assistant U.S. Attorney Jillian Willis, who handled the Superior Court matter, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jamila Hodge and Vincent W. Caputy, who are prosecuting the federal charges.
Federal Indictment Charges Four Conspirators in Fraudulent Credit Card SchemeRead the Press Release
Greenbelt, Maryland – A federal grand jury has indicted Hussain Abdullah, age 39 of Forestville, Maryland; Shazad Khan, age 56, of Maryland; Patricia Lynn Hiter, age 50, of Lawrenceville, Georgia: and James Edward Foster, age 60, of Woodbridge, Virginia, on charges related to a scheme to use victims’ stolen identity information to obtain credit. The conspirators allegedly used the fraudulent credit cards to obtain money and merchandise. The indictment was returned on August 17, 2016, and unsealed today.
Hiter and Foster are scheduled to have their initial appearances in U.S. District Court in Greenbelt today at 3:45 p.m. Abdullah had his initial appearance on Monday and was detained pending a detention hearing on Friday, October 7, 2016 at 2:30 p.m. Khan is currently serving a state sentence on unrelated charges and will have his initial appearance at a later date.
The indictments were announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Rod J. Rosenstein; Special Agent in Charge Brian J. Ebert of the United States Secret Service – Washington, D.C. Field Office; Chief J. Thomas Manger of the Montgomery County Police Department; and Chief Hank Stawinski of the Prince George’s County Police Department.
According to the indictment, Abdullah obtained and helped obtain the personal identifying information (PII) of others, without their knowledge or consent. The indictment alleges that from October 2014 through July 2016, Abdullah, Khan, Hiter, Foster and their co-conspirators, including Bland Shivers, used this information to create fake driver’s licenses in the names of the victims. Khan, Hiter, Foster, Shivers and others then allegedly used the driver’s licenses to apply for credit at retail stores, and used the credit cards they obtained to purchase merchandise and gift cards worth over $135,000. Prosecutors have stated that they believe there are at least 33 victims of the scheme, including nine victims specifically mentioned in the indictment - seven that were residents of Montgomery County, Maryland, and two that were residents of Washington, D.C.
If convicted, the defendants face a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison for wire fraud conspiracy, and a mandatory two years in prison, consecutive to any other sentence imposed, for aggravated identity theft.
An indictment is not a finding of guilt. An individual charged by indictment is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty at some later criminal proceedings.
Bland Shivers, age 50, of New Bern, North Carolina, previously pleaded guilty to the wire fraud conspiracy and aggravated identity theft and is awaiting sentencing.
The Maryland Identity Theft Working Group has been working since 2006 to foster cooperation among local, state, federal, and institutional fraud investigators and to promote effective prosecution of identity theft schemes by both state and federal prosecutors. This case, as well as other cases brought by members of the Working Group, demonstrates the commitment of law enforcement agencies to work with financial institutions and businesses to address identity fraud, identify those who compromise personal identity information, and protect citizens from identity theft.
Today’s announcement is part of the efforts undertaken in connection with the President’s Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force. The task force was established to wage an aggressive, coordinated and proactive effort to investigate and prosecute financial crimes. With more than 20 federal agencies, 94 U.S. attorneys’ offices, and state and local partners, it’s the broadest coalition of law enforcement, investigatory and regulatory agencies ever assembled to combat fraud. Since its formation, the task force has made great strides in facilitating increased investigation and prosecution of financial crimes; enhancing coordination and cooperation among federal, state and local authorities; addressing discrimination in the lending and financial markets; and conducting outreach to the public, victims, financial institutions and other organizations. Since fiscal year 2009, the Justice Department has filed over 18,000 financial fraud cases against more than 25,000 defendants. For more information on the task force, please visit www.StopFraud.gov.
United States Attorney Rod J. Rosenstein commended the U.S. Secret Service National Capitol Region Multi-Agency Task Force, the Montgomery County Police Department and Prince George’s County Police Department for their investigation. Mr. Rosenstein thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Leah J. Bressack and Arun Rao, who are prosecuting the case.
Federal Grand Jury Indicts Pharmacist and Others for Scheme to Sell Stolen HIV MedicationRead the Press Release
BATON ROUGE, LA – United States Attorney Walt Green announced that, in September, a federal grand jury returned a sealed Indictment against ALVIN WATTS, III, age 35, of Addis, Louisiana, TROY TAYLOR, 35, of White Castle, Louisiana, BRODERICK “CHRIS” LANDRY, 37 of White Castle, Louisiana, and FRANCIS “FRANK” ASIEDU DEBRAH, 38 of Waldorf, Maryland. The first count in the Indictment charges all four individuals with conspiracy to possess, transport, and traffic in embezzled pre-retail medical products, and to transport stolen property in interstate commerce, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371.
The Indictment alleges that these four individuals participated in a scheme to unlawfully enrich themselves by, among other things, trafficking in and transporting HIV pharmaceutical drugs that had been stolen from the Washington, D.C. Department of Health Pharmacy Warehouse where DEBRAH worked. The Indictment alleges that DEBRAH and another individual not named in the Indictment, stole HIV medication from the Washington, D.C. Department of Health Pharmacy Warehouse, and then sold the drugs to WATTS who operated a pharmacy called “Doc Your Dose” in Gross Tete, Louisiana. The Indictment alleges that WATTS sent TAYLOR and LANDRY to Washington, D.C. as couriers to purchase the stolen prescription drugs for cash. The Indictment further alleges that once TAYLOR and LANDRY returned the stolen prescription drugs to Louisiana, WATTS sold them to customers of his pharmacy.
In addition to the conspiracy count, the Indictment also charges all four men with trafficking in embezzled pre-retail medical products, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 670, and charges WATTS, TAYLOR, and LANDRY with transporting stolen goods in interstate commerce, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2314. Finally, the Indictment charges WATTS with one count of receipt, possession, or sale of stolen property, in violation of Title 18 United States Code, Section 2315. The Indictment also includes a forfeiture allegation related to proceeds of the offenses.
This matter is being handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Louisiana and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s Office of Criminal Investigations, with assistance from other FDA components, and the Louisiana State Attorney General’s Office Medicaid Fraud Control Unit. The matter is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Peter Smyczek and Kevin Sanchez.
NOTE: An Indictment is an accusation by the Grand Jury. The defendant is presumed innocent until and unless adjudicated guilty at trial or through a guilty plea.
Fairfield Man Indicted on Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment today against Wesley Keith Smith, 33, of Fairfield, charging him with possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and being a felon in possession of a firearm, Acting United States Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, Fairfield City police officers executed a search warrant on a car used by Smith and found methamphetamine in a satchel located in the trunk, along with a digital scale, cash, clear plastic baggies, and two firearms. Officers also executed a search at a residence in Fairfield where Smith was known to reside and found an additional firearm and narcotics distribution paraphernalia. Smith has previously been convicted of an offense that makes it unlawful for him to possess firearms.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Fairfield Police Department and the FBI Vallejo County Violent Crimes Task Force. Assistant United States Attorney Owen Roth is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Smith faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years, a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison and a $10,250,000 fine. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Energy Company Employee Indicted on Fraud and Tax ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Waynesburg, Pa., has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of wire fraud, mail fraud, impeding and obstructing the Internal Revenue Laws, and income tax evasion, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The seven-count indictment, returned on October 4, named Kevin C. Conklin, 54, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, Conklin was employed by Mountain Energy Company, Ltd., an energy company headquartered in Aleppo Pennsylvania that operated oil and natural gas wells in the Western District of Pennsylvania. As part of his employment, Conklin oversaw the day-to-day operations of Mountain Energy and managed the financial matters of Mountain Energy.
From January 2008 through December 2012, Conklin engaged in a scheme to defraud Mountain Energy and fraudulently obtained hundreds of thousands of dollars of Mountain Energy’s funds. As part of the fraudulent scheme, Conklin used checks drawn on Mountain Energy’s business bank account to pay for personal expenses, including payments for Conklin' s home, personal credit card bills, college tuition for his daughter, an engagement ring for his son and automobile payments for a personal vehicle. Conklin falsely recorded in the financial database of Mountain Energy, the payee information and purpose of the Mountain Energy’s checks used by Conklin for his personal expenses. As part of the scheme, Conklin concealed from Mountain Energy’s tax preparer and the Internal Revenue Service, the expenditure of Mountain Energy’s funds to pay for his personal expenses.
Conklin faces a maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment and a fine of $250,000 for each of the two counts charging him with wire fraud and mail fraud, a maximum sentence of three years imprisonment and a fine of $250,000 for the count charging him with impeding and obstructing the Internal Revenue Service, and a maximum sentence of five years imprisonment and a fine of $250,000 for each of the four counts charging him with income tax evasion. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Mary McKeen Houghton is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Elkhart Woman Sentenced to Prison for Mail Fraud Scheme Involving over $1.6 Million in LossRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, IA – On October 6, 2016, Andrea G. Baker, 50, of Eklhart, Iowa, appeared before the Honorable Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger and was sentenced to 27 months of imprisonment for mail fraud, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Baker was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release following her term of imprisonment and was ordered to pay $1,656,583.11 in restitution.
Baker pled guilty to one count of mail fraud on June 2, 2016. From around July 2000 until August 2014, Baker served as treasurer for the Ames Chi Omega Alumnae Association ("Chi Omega"). Over the course of fourteen years, she utilized her position as treasurer to engage in a scheme to use funds from Chi Omega for her personal benefit. This included mailing checks from Chi Omega’s account to pay for personal credit card expenses, depositing Chi Omega funds into personal bank accounts, and obtaining United States currency from Chi Omega’s account for her personal use. To conceal her misconduct, Baker made materially false entries and material omissions in Chi Omega’s financial records. Over the course of the fourteen-year period, Baker fraudulently received $1,656,583.11 in funds from Chi Omega.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the cooperation of the Ames Chi Omega Alumnae Association. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Eagle Butte Man Sentenced for Sexual Contact with a MinorRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Sexual Contact With a Minor was sentenced on October 3, 2016, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Jasyn Curley, age 21, was sentenced to 12 months in custody, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment of $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Curley was indicted by a federal grand jury on December 8, 2015, for Sexual Contact With a Person Incapable of Consent and Sexual Contact With a Minor. He pled guilty to Sexual Contact With a Minor on July 19, 2016.
On July 15, 2015, the victim, who was between 12 and 16 years of age, began drinking alcohol with Curley and another friend. She did not know Curley prior to that time. The victim drank to the point she became incapacitated. When the victim’s father returned home from work he found Curley in a bed with the victim, who was passed out. He went to call the police. When the father returned to the bedroom, he saw Curley was leaned over the victim with his hand down her pants, while she was still passed out. The victim’s father told Curley to stop, but he did not do so.
This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller prosecuted the case.
Curley was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
District Man Sentenced to Nine Years in Prison for Series of Home BurglariesRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON - Donte Purcell Polk, 27, of Washington, D.C., has been sentenced to nine years in prison for a string of home burglaries that took place last year in various neighborhoods, U.S. Attorney Channing D. Phillips announced today.
Polk pled guilty in June 2016, in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia, to one count of first-degree burglary and two counts of second-degree burglary. He was sentenced on Oct. 5, 2016, by the Honorable Juliet McKenna. Following his prison term, Polk will be placed on five years of supervised release. He also must pay $4,000 in restitution to the victims.
According to the government’s evidence, during the months of August and September of 2015, Polk gained entry into various occupied and unoccupied residences and stole numerous items ranging from electronics to luxury watches. The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) subsequently identified Polk by his fingerprints found at the residences. Polk pled guilty to carrying out three burglaries in August and September of 2015: in the 1300 block of E Street SE, the 900 block of Seventh Street NE, and the 1200 block of Fourth Street NW.
In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Phillips commended the work of those who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department. He also expressed appreciation for the assistance provided by the District of Columbia Department of Forensic Sciences. He acknowledged the efforts of those who worked on the case from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, including Victim/Witness Advocate Jennifer Allen, Paralegal Specialist Tamaya Reid, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Vanessa Goodwin, who investigated and prosecuted the case.
Detroit Diesel Corporation to Pay Penalty and Reduce Exposure to Harmful Diesel Exhaust to Resolve Clean Air Act ViolationsRead the Press Release
Department of Justice and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today announced a settlement with Detroit Diesel Corporation that resolves alleged violations of the Clean Air Act for selling heavy-duty diesel engines that were not certified by EPA and did not meet applicable emission standards. Under the settlement, Detroit Diesel will spend $14.5 million on projects to reduce nitrogen oxide and other pollutants, including replacing high-polluting diesel school buses and locomotive engines with models that meet current emissions standards. Detroit Diesel will also pay a $14 million civil penalty.
The government’s complaint, filed today along with the settlement, alleges that Detroit Diesel violated the Clean Air Act by introducing into commerce 7,786 heavy-duty diesel engines for use in trucks and buses in model year 2010 without a valid EPA-issued certificate of conformity demonstrating conformance with Clean Air Act standards to control nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. The complaint also alleges that the engines did not conform to emission standards applicable to model year 2010 engines. To mitigate the harm posed by the alleged violations, the school bus and locomotive replacement projects required by the settlement will reduce ambient air levels of nitrogen oxide and other pollutants. EPA will approve where the projects are to be performed, based on various criteria, including whether the area already does not meet Clean Air Act standards and whether the area includes low-income communities. In addition, the school bus program will improve air quality inside school buses by reducing exposure to diesel exhaust. Diesel exhaust poses a lung cancer hazard for humans and can cause non-cancer respiratory effects such as asthma.
“This case demonstrates the critical importance of EPA’s vehicle and engine certification program to achieving the goals of the Clean Air Act,” said Assistant Attorney General John C. Cruden for the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “By not certifying the engines in accordance with the rules, Detroit Diesel Corp. increased pollution and undercut competitors. We will uphold the integrity of that program by holding accountable those that skirt the rules.”
“Today’s settlement protects clean air for many communities and vulnerable people across the country, including school children,” said Cynthia Giles, Assistant Administrator for EPA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “EPA will continue to hold engine manufacturers accountable for meeting emissions standards that protect public health and the air we breathe.”
The Clean Air Act requires manufacturers to obtain a certificate of conformity demonstrating compliance with emission standards before introducing an engine into commerce. Certificates of conformity cover only those engines produced within a single model year. A model year for an engine family of engines ends either when the last such engine is produced, or on Dec. 31 of the calendar year, for which the model year is named, whichever date is sooner.
The complaint alleges that Detroit Diesel commenced construction of the engines during model year 2009, but did not complete construction of the engines until model year 2010. Because Detroit Diesel completed all manufacturing and assembling processes for the engines in 2010, the complaint alleges that the engines were produced in 2010 and required a certificate of conformity demonstrating compliance with 2010 emission standards. From approximately Jan. 5, 2010, through approximately June 1, 2010, Detroit Diesel sold the engines for on-highway use in heavy duty vehicles. Because the engines were not certified to the stringent 2010 NOx emission standards, Detroit Diesel’s introduction of these engines resulted in excess emissions. The engines were manufactured in Detroit, Michigan, but were introduced into commerce across the country.
Under the consent decree, Detroit Diesel will be required to implement projects to replace high-polluting school buses with school buses that meet current federal emissions standards and replace or repower high-polluting switch locomotives. Detroit Diesel is also required to post data and information about the clean diesel projects on a public website.
Detroit Diesel is a Michigan corporation that began as a diesel engine manufacturing division of the General Motors Corporation in 1938. It is currently a wholly-owned subsidiary of Daimler Trucks North America. Detroit Diesel manufactures heavy-duty diesel engines, axles and transmissions for the on-highway and vocational truck markets.
The consent decree was lodged in the District Court for the District of Columbia. Notice of the lodging will appear in the Federal Register allowing for a public comment period of not less than 30 days before the consent decree can be entered by the court as final judgement. The $14 million civil penalty is due 30 days after the effective date of the consent decree. To view the consent decree: www.justice.gov/enrd/Consent_Decrees.html.
More information about today’s settlement: https://www.epa.gov/enforcement/detroit-diesel-corp-clean-air-act.
More information about EPA’s Clean Air Act vehicle and engine enforcement case resolutions: https://www.epa.gov/enforcement/clean-air-act-vehicle-and-engine-enforcement-case-resolutions.
Deputy Attorney General Sally Q. Yates Statement on the President’s Recent Clemency DecisionsRead the Press Release
Deputy Attorney General Sally Q. Yates released the following statement after President Obama granted commutation of sentence to 102 individuals:
“The department has made great progress reviewing applications under the President's clemency initiative to correct unduly harsh and outdated drug sentences. President Obama has commuted 774 sentences, which is more than were commuted in the prior 66 years preceding his administration combined and we expect to continue to make history with additional commutations in the months ahead."
Department of Justice Awards $12 Million to Advance Community Policing Efforts and Collaborative ReformRead the Press Release
Attorney General Loretta E. Lynch today announced $12 million in funding through the Department of Justice, Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) as part of President Obama’s commitment to engage with law enforcement and other members of the community to implement key recommendations from the 21st Century Policing Task Force report. The grant awards will build on the Justice Department’s community policing efforts and include funding for the development of innovative community policing strategies, officer training and technical assistance, applied research, and the implementation of best practices for community engagement.
Grant awards were made in categories that support the implementation of recommendations from the 21st Century Policing Task Force report, including the Microgrant Initiative for Law Enforcement, Critical Response Technical Assistance, Community Policing Emerging Issues Forums, Community Policing Training Projects, Law Enforcement Led 21st Century Policing Demonstration Projects, 21st Century Policing and Implementation Projects. A full list of grant awardees is available here: http://www.cops.usdoj.gov/Default.asp?Item=2895.
In addition, the COPS Office allocated $4.5 million to a contract award for Hillard Heintze to support the Collaborative Reform Initiative for Technical Assistance program. Collaborative reform is a long-term strategy that identifies issues within an agency that may affect public trust and then offers recommendations based on a comprehensive agency assessment for how to resolve those issues and enhance the relationship between the police and the community.
The COPS Office, headed by Director Ronald Davis, is a federal agency responsible for advancing community policing nationwide. Since 1995, COPS has invested more than $14 billion to advance community policing, including grants awarded to more than 13,000 state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies to fund the hiring and redeployment of more than 129,000 officers and provide a variety of knowledge resource products including publications, training and technical assistance. For additional information about COPS, please visit www.cops.usdoj.gov.
Dallas County Awarded $1,000,000 Federal Grant for Sexual Assault Kit TestingRead the Press Release
DALLAS – U.S. Attorney John Parker announced today that Dallas County will receive $1,00,000 in grant funding as part of the federal government’s efforts to process sexual assault kits in law enforcement custody that have not been submitted to forensic laboratories.
The grant, announced by Attorney General Loretta E. Lynch, is one of nine million dollar grants awarded last week by the Justice Department’s Office of Justice Programs Bureau of Justice Assistance and funded under the 2016 National Sexual Assault Kit Initiative.
“It is my fervent hope that this funding will help bring healing, hope and justice to those affected by the devastating crime of sexual assault,” said U.S. Attorney John Parker.
This annual award provides funding to support a community-based comprehensive approach to inventory and test previously unsubmitted kits. The program also enables jurisdictions to assign personnel to pursue leads and criminal investigations based on evidence discovered through kit testing, as well as to develop evidence-based tracking systems and train law enforcement on sexual assault investigations. Further, grantees can use the funds to conduct research on outcomes in sexual assault cases, and increase collection of DNA that may lead to identification of serial sex offenders.
“Justice delayed is justice denied. We are thankful for the strong relationship with our federal partners,” said Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins. “This DOJ grant to test backlogged rape kits supports victims and promotes increased public safety for everyone.”
“Reducing the backlog of untested sexual assault kits is a complex issue that requires a comprehensive, evidence-based and community-supported approach to resolve,” said Director Denise O’Donnell of the Bureau of Justice Assistance. “These grants provide resources and improve processes to test kits, provide training to law enforcement personnel, and improve the justice system while providing justice and resolution to the victims of sexual assault.”
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Colorado Man Sentenced to Prison for Robbing Banks in Colorado and New Mexico in 2014 and 2015Read the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – John Allen Pierceall, 55, of Denver, Colo., was sentenced this morning in federal court in Las Cruces, N.M., to 77 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for his conviction on bank robbery charges. The sentence was imposed based on Pierceall’s guilty plea to robbing three banks, two in Colorado and one in New Mexico, between Aug. 2014 and Aug. 2015.
Pierceall was arrested on Aug. 24, 2015, on a criminal complaint charging him with robbing the US Bank branch located at 901 East University Ave. in Las Cruces, on Aug. 24, 2015. According to the complaint, Pierceall robbed the bank by presenting a bank teller with a demand note stating that he was armed and would shoot if she did not comply with his demand for cash.
On Dec. 2, 2015, Pierceall was indicted in the District of Colorado, and charged with two counts of bank robbery. The indictment alleged that Pierceall robbed the Vectra Bank Colorado in Denver twice, once on Aug. 14, 2014 and again on Oct. 7, 2014.
On Dec. 8, 2015, Pierceall plead guilty to a felony information charging him with three counts of bank robbery. In entering the guilty plea, Pierceall admitted robbing the Vectra Bank Colorado on Aug. 14, 2014, and Oct. 7, 2014, and robbing the US Bank branch in Las Cruces on Aug. 24, 2015. Pierceall further admitted that he committed all three bank robberies by handing the teller a demand note which stated that he was armed and would shoot if his demands for cash were not met.
In his plea agreement, Pierceall waived his right to have the Colorado bank robberies prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the District of Colorado, and agreed to have a federal judge in the District of New Mexico accept his guilty plea on those crimes.
This case was investigated by the Las Cruces office of the FBI, the Las Cruces Police Department and the Denver Police Department with assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado. Assistant U.S. Attorney Marisa A. Ong prosecuted the case.
Citizen of Colombia Pleads Guilty to Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that CARLOS ALBERTO DEOSA-MUNERA, 56, of Colombia, waived indictment and pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to one count of illegally reentering the U.S. after being deported.
According to court documents and statements made in court, DEOSA-MUNERA has been previously deported from the U.S. on four occasions. DEOSA-MUNERA, who had been residing in Waterbury, was convicted of sexual assault in the third degree and incarcerated within the Connecticut Department of Correction. Federal immigration officers visited DEOSA-MUNERA at the Department of Correction facility, advised him of his Miranda rights and questioned him. DEOSA-MUNERA admitted that he was born in Colombia, remains a citizen of that country and had been previously deported on multiple occasions.
When he is sentenced, DEOSA-MUNERA faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years. A sentencing date is not yet scheduled.
This investigation was conducted by the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Detention and Removal Operations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Hal Chen.
Chinese National Sentenced to Prison for Conspiracy to Steal Trade SecretsRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, IA – On October 5, 2016, Mo Hailong, also known as Robert Mo, 46, appeared before the Honorable Stephanie M. Rose and was sentenced to 36 months imprisonment for conspiracy to steal trade secrets, announced Assistant Attorney General for National Security John P. Carlin and United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Mo Hailong was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment and was ordered to pay restitution in an amount to be determined at a later date. In addition, the Court ordered the forfeiture of two farms, in Iowa and Illinois, that were purchased and utilized by Mo Hailong and others during the course of the conspiracy.
During the course of the conspiracy, Mo Hailong was employed as the Director of International Business of the Beijing Dabeinong Technology Group Company, commonly referred to as DBN. DBN is a Chinese conglomerate with a corn seed subsidiary company, Kings Nower Seed. Mo Hailong is a Chinese national who became a lawful permanent resident of the United States.
According to the plea agreement entered on January 27, 2016, Mo Hailong admitted to participating in a long-term conspiracy to steal trade secrets from DuPont Pioneer and Monsanto. Mo Hailong participated in the theft of inbred corn seeds from fields in the Southern District of Iowa and elsewhere for the purpose of transporting the seeds to DBN in China. The stolen inbred, or parent, seeds were the valuable trade secrets of DuPont Pioneer and Monsanto.
The investigation was initiated when DuPont Pioneer security staff detected suspicious activity and alerted the Federal Bureau of Investigation. DuPont Pioneer and Monsanto were fully cooperative throughout the investigation.
"Mo Hailong stole valuable proprietary information in the form of seed corn from DuPont Pioneer and Monsanto in an effort to transport such trade secrets to China. Theft of trade secrets is a serious federal crime, as it harms victim companies that have invested millions of dollars and years of work toward the development of propriety technology. The theft of agricultural trade secrets, and other intellectual property, poses a grave threat to our national economic security," said United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. "The Justice Department and federal law enforcement partners are committed to prosecuting those who in engage in conduct such as Mo Hailong."
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa and the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section, with assistance from the Department’s Computer Crimes and Intellectual Property Section.
Cheektowaga Woman Arrested, Charged with Voter FraudRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney William J. Hochul Jr. announced today that Shirley Anne Conners, a/k/a Shirley Anne Faragalli, 62, Cheektowaga, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with making a false claim to United States citizenship in order to vote. The charge carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian J. Counihan, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, the defendant is a native and citizen of Canada and has been illegally present in the United States since the early 1970s. Conners has voted in over 20 Federal, State, and local elections since 1995, the last being the New York State Democratic Presidential Primary on April 19, 2016.
The defendant made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge H. Kenneth Schroeder, Jr. and was released into the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
The criminal complaint is the result of an investigation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Michael Phillips.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Cedar Rapids Heroin Dealer Enters Guilty PleaRead the Press Release
A Cedar Rapids man who distributed heroin and fentanyl that resulted in a young woman being hospitalized pled guilty yesterday in federal court in Cedar Rapids.
Shawn Albert, age 24 from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, was convicted of distributing heroin on September 27, 2015.
At the plea hearing, Albert admitted he distributed heroin to another person and that individual overdosed and was hospitalized.
Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge Linda R. Reade will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Albert remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Albert faces a possible maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment, a $1,000,000 fine, $100 in special assessments, and a minimum of 3 years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick J. Reinert and was investigated as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program of the United States Department of Justice through a cooperative effort of the Cedar Rapids Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Task Force consisting of the DEA; the Linn County Sheriff's Office; the Cedar Rapids Police Department; the Marion Police Department; the Iowa City Police Department; and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is CR 16-00053.
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Burlington Man Sentenced to 30 Months Imprisonment for Failing to Update His Residence on the Sex Offender RegistryRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that Eric Weaver, 35, of Burlington, was sentenced to thirty months’ imprisonment by United States District Judge J. Garvan Murtha sitting in Brattleboro, Vermont. The term of imprisonment will be followed by a five-year period of supervised release by the U.S. Probation Office. Weaver previously pled guilty to failing to update his residence on the sex offender registry under the federal Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.
Weaver was required to update his residence on the Sex Offender Registry based on his prior conviction for rape in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1998, which occurred when he was 16 years old. According to court records Weaver moved to Vermont in the early summer of 2014 from Philadelphia and failed to update his residence on either the Vermont or Pennsylvania sex offender registries.
According to court records, after Weaver moved to Vermont he also started selling heroin in the Burlington area. In late November 2014, the State’s Attorney’s Office for Chittenden County charged Weaver with Aggravated Domestic Assault with a Deadly Weapon relating to a November 17, 2014 assault on his girlfriend at their 80 Pearl Street, Burlington apartment. Weaver pled guilty to that offense and received a 16-30-month state sentence. Weaver’s state sentence will be completed in May 2017. Judge Murtha ordered that the 30-month federal sentence be served concurrently to the remaining portion of the state sentence, beginning on October 3, 2016.
This case was investigated by the United States Marshals Service with assistance by the Burlington Police Department. The United States is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joe Perella. Weaver is represented by Michael Desautels, Esq. of the Federal Public Defender’s Office.
Brooklyn Resident and Two Russian Nationals Arrested in Connection with Scheme to Illegally Export Controlled Technology to RussiaRead the Press Release
Defendants Used Brooklyn-Based Front Companies to Procure Sophisticated Military and Satellite Technology on Behalf of Russian End-Users
Earlier today, Alexey Barysheff of Brooklyn, New York, a naturalized citizen of the United States, was arrested on federal charges of illegally exporting controlled technology from the United States to end-users in Russia. Simultaneously, two Russian nationals, Dmitrii Aleksandrovich Karpenko and Alexey Krutilin, were arrested in Denver, Colorado, on charges of conspiring with Barysheff and others in the scheme. Federal agents also executed search warrants at two Brooklyn locations that were allegedly used as front companies in Barysheff’s illegal scheme.
Barysheff is scheduled to make his initial appearance today at 2:00 p.m EDT at the United States Courthouse, 225 Cadman Plaza East, Brooklyn, New York, before Chief United States Magistrate Judge Roanne L. Mann. Karpenko and Krutilin are scheduled to make their initial appearances today at 2:00 p.m. MDT at the United States Courthouse in Denver, Colorado, where the government will seek their removal in custody to the Eastern District of New York.
The arrests and charges were announced by Assistant Attorney General for National Security John P. Carlin; U.S. Attorney Robert L. Capers of the Eastern District of New York; Special Agent in Charge Angel M. Melendez, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), New York Field Office; FBI Assistant Director in Charge William F. Sweeney, Jr., New York Field Office; Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Carson, U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, Office of Export Enforcement, New York Field Office; and Craig Rupert, Special Agent in Charge of the Department of Defense, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, North East Field Office.
The complaints allege that Barysheff, Karpenko, Krutilin, and others were involved in a conspiracy to obtain cutting-edge microelectronics from manufacturers and suppliers located within the United States and to export those high-tech products to Russia, while evading the government licensing system set up to control such exports. The Department of Commerce, pursuant to authority granted by the President of the United States, has placed restrictions on the export and re-export of items that it has determined could make a significant contribution to the military potential and weapons proliferation of other nations and that could be detrimental to the foreign policy and national security of the United States. The microelectronics shipped to Russia included, among other products, digital-to-analog converters and integrated circuits, which are frequently used in a wide range of military systems, including radar and surveillance systems, missile guidance systems and satellites. These electronic devices required a license from the Department of Commerce to be exported to Russia and have been restricted for anti-terrorism and national security reasons.
As further detailed in the complaints, in 2015 Barysheff registered the Brooklyn, New York-based companies BKLN Spectra, Inc. (Spectra) and UIP Techno Corp. (UIP Techno). Since that time, the defendants and others have used those entities as U.S.-based front companies to purchase, attempt to purchase, and illegally export controlled technology. To induce U.S.-based manufacturers and suppliers to sell them high-tech, export-controlled microelectronics and to evade applicable controls, the defendants and their co-conspirators purported to be employees and representatives of Spectra and UIP Techno and provided false end-user information in connection with the purchase of the items, concealed the fact that they were exporters and falsely classified the goods they exported on records submitted to the Department of Commerce. To conceal the true destination of the controlled microelectronics from the U.S. suppliers, the defendants and their co-conspirators shipped the items first to Finland and subsequently to Russia.
“According to the complaints, Barysheff, Karpenko, and Krutilin conspired among themselves and with others to send sensitive U.S. technology surreptitiously to Russia in violation of U.S. export law,” said Assistant Attorney General Carlin. “These laws are in place to protect the national security, and we will spare no effort in pursuing and holding accountable those who seek to harm the national security by illegally procuring strategic commodities for foreign entities.”
“U.S. export laws exist to prevent potentially dangerous technology from falling into the wrong hands,” said U.S. Attorney Capers. “Those who seek to evade the scrutiny of U.S. regulatory and law enforcement agencies by operating in the shadows present a danger to our national security and our allies abroad. We will continue to use all of our available national security options to hold such individuals and corporations accountable.”
“Had law enforcement not interceded, the alleged perpetrators would have exported materials that are known to be used in a wide range of military devices,” said Melendez, Special Agent in Charge for HSI New York. “HSI will continue to partner with other law enforcement agencies while focusing its efforts on national security and stopping the illegal flow of sensitive technology.”
“Export controls were established to prevent certain individuals, organizations, or nations from obtaining protected technology and information. When the laws are evaded, we become vulnerable to the many threats posed by our adversaries. The FBI will continue to protect our national security assets as we work with our partners to prevent the exportation of restricted materials,” said Sweeney, FBI Assistant Director in Charge, New York Field Office.
“Today’s arrest is a collaborative effort among law enforcement agencies. I commend our colleagues for their efforts,” said Special Agent in Charge Carson, U.S. Department of Commerce Bureau of Industry and Security, Office of Export Enforcement, New York Field Office. “The Office of Export Enforcement will continue to use our unique authorities as the regulator and enforcer of our nation’s export control laws to keep the most dangerous goods out of the most dangerous hands.”
“The attempted theft of restricted U.S. technology by foreign actors severely threatens the United States’ defensive posture,” said Special Agent in Charge Craig Rupert, DCIS Northeast Field Office. “DCIS will continue to pursue these investigations with our Federal partners to shield America’s investment in national defense.”
If convicted of the charges, the defendants face up to 25 years in prison and a $1 million fine.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes. If convicted of any offense, the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The case is being handled by the Office’s National Security and Cybercrime Section. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Craig R. Heeren and Peter W. Baldwin are in charge of the prosecution, with assistance from Trial Attorney Matthew Walczewski of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section.
Brooklyn Resident and Two Russian Nationals Arrested in Connection with Scheme to Illegally Export Controlled Technology to RussiaRead the Press Release
Earlier today, Alexey Barysheff of Brooklyn, New York, a naturalized citizen of the United States, was arrested on federal charges of illegally exporting controlled technology from the United States to end-users in Russia. Simultaneously, two Russian nationals, Dmitrii Aleksandrovich Karpenko and Alexey Krutilin, were arrested in Denver, Colorado, on charges of conspiring with Barysheff and others in the scheme.[1] Federal agents also executed search warrants at two Brooklyn locations that were allegedly used as front companies in Barysheff’s illegal scheme.
Barysheff is scheduled to make his initial appearance today at 2:00 p.m. at the United States Courthouse, 225 Cadman Plaza East, Brooklyn, New York, before Chief United States Magistrate Judge Roanne L. Mann. Karpenko and Krutilin are scheduled to make their initial appearances today at the United States Courthouse in Denver, Colorado, where the government will seek their removal in custody to the Eastern District of New York.
The arrests and charges were announced by U.S. Attorney Robert L. Capers of the Eastern District of New York; Assistant Attorney General for National Security John P. Carlin; Special Agent in Charge Angel M. Melendez, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) for New York; FBI Assistant Director in Charge William F. Sweeney, Jr., New York Field Office; Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Carson, U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, Office of Export Enforcement, New York Field Office; and Craig Rupert, Special Agent in Charge of the Department of Defense, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, North East Field Office.
The complaints allege that Barysheff, Karpenko, Krutilin, and others were involved in a conspiracy to obtain technologically cutting-edge microelectronics from manufacturers and suppliers located within the United States and to export those high-tech products to Russia, while evading the government licensing system set up to control such exports. The Department of Commerce, pursuant to authority granted by the President of the United States, has placed restrictions on the export and re-export of items that it has determined could make a significant contribution to the military potential and weapons proliferation of other nations and that could be detrimental to the foreign policy and national security of the United States. The microelectronics shipped to Russia included, among other products, digital-to-analog converters and integrated circuits, which are frequently used in a wide range of military systems, including radar and surveillance systems, missile guidance systems, and satellites. These electronic devices required a license from the Department of Commerce to be exported to Russia and have been restricted for anti-terrorism and national security reasons.
As further detailed in the complaints, in 2015 Barysheff registered the Brooklyn, New York-based companies BKLN Spectra, Inc. (Spectra) and UIP Techno Corp. (UIP Techno). Since that time, the defendants, and others have used those entities as U.S.-based front companies to purchase, attempt to purchase, and illegally export controlled technology. To induce U.S.-based manufacturers and suppliers to sell them high-tech, export-controlled microelectronics and to evade applicable controls, the defendants and their co-conspirators purported to be employees and representatives of Spectra and UIP Techno and provided false end-user information in connection with the purchase of the items, concealed the fact that they were exporters, and falsely classified the goods they exported on records submitted to the Department of Commerce. To conceal the true destination of the controlled microelectronics from the U.S. suppliers, the defendants and their co-conspirators shipped the items first to Finland and subsequently to Russia.
“U.S. export laws exist to prevent potentially dangerous technology from falling into the wrong hands,” said U.S. Attorney Capers. “Those who seek to evade the scrutiny of U.S. regulatory and law enforcement agencies by operating in the shadows present a danger to our national security and our allies abroad. We will continue to use all of our available national security options to hold such individuals and corporations accountable.”
“According to the complaints, Barysheff, Karpenko, and Krutilin conspired among themselves and with others to send sensitive U.S. technology surreptitiously to Russia in violation of U.S. export law,” said Assistant Attorney General Carlin. “These laws are in place to protect the national security, and we will spare no effort in pursuing and holding accountable those who seek to harm the national security by illegally procuring strategic commodities for foreign entities.”
“Had law enforcement not interceded, the alleged perpetrators would have exported materials that are known to be used in a wide range of military devices,” said Melendez, Special Agent in Charge for HSI New York. “HSI will continue to partner with other law enforcement agencies while focusing its efforts on national security and stopping the illegal flow of sensitive technology.”
“Export controls were established to prevent certain individuals, organizations, or nations from obtaining protected technology and information. When the laws are evaded, we become vulnerable to the many threats posed by our adversaries. The FBI will continue to protect our national security assets as we work with our partners to prevent the exportation of restricted materials,” said Sweeney, FBI Assistant Director in Charge, New York Field Office.
“Today’s arrest is a collaborative effort among law enforcement agencies. I commend our colleagues for their efforts,” said Special Agent in Charge Carson, U.S. Department of Commerce Bureau of Industry and Security, Office of Export Enforcement, New York Field Office. “The Office of Export Enforcement will continue to use our unique authorities as the regulator and enforcer of our nation's export control laws to keep the most dangerous goods out of the most dangerous hands.”
“The attempted theft of restricted U.S. technology by foreign actors severely threatens the United States’ defensive posture,” said Special Agent in Charge Craig Rupert, DCIS Northeast Field Office. “DCIS will continue to pursue these investigations with our Federal partners to shield America's investment in national defense.”
If convicted of the charges, the defendants face up to 25 years in prison and a $1 million fine.
The case is being handled by the Office’s National Security and Cybercrime Section. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Craig R. Heeren and Peter W. Baldwin are in charge of the prosecution, with assistance from Trial Attorney Matthew Walczewski of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section.
The Defendants:
ALEXEY BARYSHEFF
Age: 36
Brooklyn, New YorkDMITRII ALEKSANDROVICH KARPENKO
Age: 33
RussiaALEXEY KRUTILIN
Age: 27
RussiaE.D.N.Y. Docket Nos. 16-893-M, 16-894-M
[1] The charges contained in the complaints naming Barysheff, Karpenko, and Krutilin are allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Boston Man Charged with Identity Theft in Scheme to Defraud Retirement AccountsRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Boston man was arrested today in connection with his role in a scheme to steal personal information and bank account numbers to withdraw money from retirement accounts.
Kevin Marseille, 26, of Boston, was indicted on identity theft, access device fraud, and conspiracy to commit those offenses. Marseille was arrested today and is schedule to be arraigned tomorrow before U.S. District Court Magistrate Judge Judith G. Dein.
The indictment alleges that, in 2014, Marseille approached Jasmine Banks, who, at the time, worked as a customer service employee at Mercer, Inc., in Norwood, Mass. Marseille used Banks to obtain personally identifiable information and bank account information for individuals whose retirement accounts were administered by Mercer, a New York-based company which provides consulting and related services for employers, including administration of retirement benefit plans.
As alleged in the indictment, from approximately February 2014 to April 2014, Banks accessed customer account information from her computer and provided this information to Marseille via email. Marseille obtained the names, addresses, and bank account and routing numbers for approximately 270 Mercer account holders. In many cases, he also obtained account holders’ dates of birth and social security numbers. He further sought and obtained detailed account access information for four retirement accounts with substantial balances.
The retirement account information was allegedly used to load a prepaid card with nearly $20,000 in fraudulently obtained funds. Marseille then used the prepaid card to purchase electronic and other consumer goods at retailers in greater Boston, including Target and Best Buy. Intervention by Mercer and law enforcement prevented further account access and withdrawals. Mercer has cooperated fully with the government’s investigation.
In March 2016, Banks pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit access device fraud and identity theft.
The charge of identity theft provides for a sentence of no greater than 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater. The charges of access device fraud and conspiracy each provide for a sentence of no greater than five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater. 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 Stephen A. Marks, Special Agent in Charge of the United States Secret Service, made the announcement today. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. D’Addio of Ortiz’s Cybercrime Unit.
The details in the indictment are allegations. The defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Bergen County, New Jersey, Man Indicted on New Tax ChargesRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A Bergen County, New Jersey, man who was charged in a scheme to defraud two international companies out of $3 million by fraudulently billing them for services that were never completed was indicted today on additional tax charges, U.S. Attorney Paul J. Fishman announced.
Philip Charles de Gruchy, 63, and Barbara Brown, 66, both of Park Ridge, New Jersey, were originally charged in February 2016 in a nine-count indictment with one count of conspiracy to commit mail fraud and eight counts of substantive mail fraud. The indictment handed up today adds six counts against de Gruchy, charging him with subscribing to false individual and corporate tax returns in 2009 and 2010, resulting in more than $800,000 taxes owed to the United States.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
From August 2007 through April 2, 2010, Brown was employed by “Company A,” a toy and juvenile products retailer headquartered in Wayne, New Jersey, first as director of customer relationship management and then as director of global customer relations management. She had authority to hire and pay contractors. Brown caused Company A to enter into a business relationship with CEM Inc., a company that Brown and de Gruchy secretly controlled. From Nov. 5, 2007, through March 4, 2010, CEM submitted approximately 170 invoices to Company A totalling more than $3 million for alleged marketing consulting work. The purported work was unnecessary, worthless, or never completed. Brown failed to disclose that she and De Gruchy had a financial interest in those invoice payments.
Although the checks that Company A issued to CEM were mailed to various Canadian addresses, the checks were ultimately deposited at bank branches located in Park Ridge, New Jersey. Checks were written out of the CEM account payable directly to either de Gruchy, Brown or two companies affiliated with de Gruchy: Silk Farm Inc. and Ontario LLC. Money obtained from the scheme was used for personal purposes, including home renovations, mortgage payments on the Park Ridge residence that Brown and de Gruchy shared, and credit card expenses.
From July 2010 through Nov. 11, 2011, de Gruchy was employed as the director of global relations management by “Company B,” an international manufacturer and retailer of luxury suitcases and accessories, headquartered in South Plainfield, New Jersey. He was responsible for a data migration project designed to assist Company B with identifying customer purchasing patterns. De Gruchy obtained verbal approval from Company B to hire Brown to assist him on the migration project. At no time did de Gruchy reveal his personal and financial relationship with Brown.
From November 2010 until November 2011, Brown submitted invoices in her own name or the name of her company, BI Insights, totaling more than $300,000 for purported work related to the data migration project. De Gruchy approved all of the invoices submitted by Brown and BI Insights. The work was alleged to be unnecessary, worthless, or never completed. Checks from Company B totaling $216,825 were sent to one of the Canadian addresses used to receive checks from Company A and were then deposited into a National Bank of Canada account held by Brown and De Gruchy.
Counts 10 and 11 of the superseding indictment charge de Gruchy with subscribing to false individual joint income tax returns for tax years 2009 and 2010. He allegedly intentionally overstated expenses and understated gross receipts, including receipts from the fraudulent conduct charged regarding Company A and Company B for those tax years, causing those returns to understate his total income for those years by $1.6 million.
De Gruchy is charged in Counts 12 and 13 of the superseding indictment with subscribing to false corporation tax returns for CEM for tax years 2009 and 2010. He allegedly falsely claimed certain business expenses payments, including payments made to “Individual 1,” which were then kicked back to de Gruchy, causing those business returns to understate CEM’s taxable income by $649,465 for those tax years.
De Gruchy is charged in Counts 14 and 15 of the superseding indictment with subscribing to false corporation tax returns for Silk Farm for tax years 2009 and 2010. He allegedly falsely claimed certain business expense payments, including payments made to Individual 1, which were then kicked back to de Gruchy, causing those business returns to understate Silk Farm’s taxable income by $377,578 for those tax years.
The counts of conspiracy to commit mail fraud and substantive mail fraud each carry a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison. The charges of subscribing to a false tax return each carry a maximum potential penalty of three years in prison. Each count of the indictment is punishable by a fine of $250,000 or twice the amount of the pecuniary 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 Timothy Gallagher and IRS-Criminal Investigations, Newark Field Office, under the direction of Special Agent Jonathan D. Larsen, with the investigation leading to the charges.
The government is represented by Senior Litigation Counsel Leslie F. Schwartz of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Newark.
The charges and allegations contained in the indictment are merely accusations and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Defense counsel:
De Gruchy: Wanda Akin Esq., Newark
Brown: David B. Glazer Esq., Livingston, New Jersey
Benjamin Joseph Shook Sentenced to Serve Life in Federal Prison for Federal Crimes Including Kidnapping Fourteen-Year Old GirlRead the Press Release
GREENEVILLE, Tenn. – Benjamin Joseph Shook, 43, originally of Hall County, Ga., was sentenced on Oct. 6, 2016 by the Honorable R. Leon Jordan, U.S. District Court Judge, to serve life plus five years in federal prison.
Shook pleaded guilty in June 2016 to five federal crimes, including kidnapping, using a means of interstate commerce to entice a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity, transporting a minor in interstate commerce for illegal sexual activity, traveling interstate to engage in illegal sexual activity, and failing to register as required by the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act while traveling interstate.
During the summer of 2015, Shook, who was recently released from Georgia prison for prior sex offenses, convinced a 14-year-old girl residing in Surgoinsville, Tenn., to drive a truck and meet him in Morristown, Tenn. Shook drove the truck from Morristown to North Carolina and then to Virginia. After a nationwide Amber Alert and search, he and the minor victim were found in rural Smyth County, Va. The victim was returned safely to her family.
Nancy Stallard Harr, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Tennessee noted the commitment of the U.S. Attorney’s office to the safety of children and the extensive collaborative effort which resulted in Shook’s arrest and life sentence. “This positive outcome would not have been possible without assistance from the public and the media together with the joint effort of more than 15 law enforcement agencies. Nearly 200 law enforcement officers worked around the clock over a three-state area for 14 days to rescue this minor female victim from a convicted child sex predator,” said U.S. Attorney Harr.
Agencies involved in this investigation included: the Surgoinsville Police Department; Hawkins County Sheriff’s Office; Tennessee Bureau of Investigation; U.S. Marshals Service; Federal Bureau of Investigation; National Center for Missing and Exploited Children; Virginia State Police; Tennessee Highway Patrol; U.S. Forrest Service; Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries; Carroll, Smyth, Washington, and Wythe County Sheriff’s Offices in Virginia; and Damascus, Virginia Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Helen Smith represented the United States.
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Attorney General Recognizes Seattle Police Department Deputy Chief and Chair of East African Advisory Council During Community Policing Week Awards CeremonyRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON, D.C. - Attorney General Loretta Lynch today met with Deputy Chief Carmen Best and Mergitu Argo, chair of SPD's East African Advisory Council, as part of National Community Policing Week and the Obama Administration's commitment to building stronger relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
At a ceremony presenting the first-ever Attorney General's Awards for Distinguished Service in Community Policing, Seattle was recognized for hosting the Attorney General on her 12-city Community Policing Tour that highlighted collaborative programs and policing practices designed to advance public safety, strengthen police-community relations, and foster mutual trust and respect between law enforcement and the people they serve.
Annette L. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Washington, accompanied Best and Argo to Washington, D.C.
When in Seattle last fall, the Attorney General met with line officers and leadership at SPD's West Precinct; traveled to El Centro de la Raza to meet with the inaugural class of students from the Seattle Youth Employment Program SYEP, an internship program established by the Mayor's office for teenage students enrolled in Seattle public schools; and held a Community Policing Roundtable at the Northwest African American Museum where she solicited feedback from community members about their perception of and interactions with SPD, what they hoped to see as police reform continued, and the lessons they had learned from the consent decree process to date.
As the Attorney General stated when in Seattle: "Sweeping progress will not occur overnight. But as Seattle's recent experience can attest, real progress is possible-when we engage with one another, when we summon our goodwill and good faith, and when we work collaboratively as partners with a mutual and shared interest in ensuring the safety and security of the communities we call home."Attorney General Lynch Announces Inaugural Attorney General’s Awards for Distinguished Service in Community PolicingRead the Press Release
Attorney General Loretta E. Lynch today announced the recipients of the inaugural Attorney General’s Awards for Distinguished Services in Community Policing, acknowledging the exceptional work of 12 law enforcements officers from nine jurisdictions across the country.
“These inspiring men and women have been nominated for these awards by their colleagues and their communities,” said Attorney General Lynch at today’s ceremony. “Each of them embodies the very best of their profession. They understand that their role is not just to enforce the law, but to secure justice. They recognize that the badge they wear represents a sacred trust – one that they strive to fulfill each and every day. And they view the citizens they serve not as adversaries or potential opponents, but as partners, allies and neighbors. Everything that they do – whether it is an effort as large as running a youth outreach program, or a gesture as small as learning a neighbor’s name – makes a real difference in their communities and we are here to share our admiration and our gratitude.”
Each of the officers honored has demonstrated exceptional commitment to the principles of community policing in the cities, towns and localities where they serve. Through their excellent service and dedication to professional, impartial and effective policing, these individuals are having a transformational impact on their agencies by embracing 21st Century Policing strategies that build and strengthen trust and mutual cooperation between law enforcement officers and the communities they serve.
The Attorney General’s Award for Distinguished Service in Community Policing recognizes individual state, local or tribal sworn police officers and deputies who exemplify remarkable achievements in innovative community policing strategies, criminal investigations and field operations. In the more than 18,000 law enforcement agencies throughout the country, the everyday work of individual officers often goes unsung. To remedy this, Attorney General Lynch announced the creation of this award to honor the outstanding work of rank-and-file officers like those recognized today.
The individuals recognized today are listed below:
INNOVATIONS IN COMMUNITY POLICING CATEGORY
Officers Andy Dobbins and Curt Vajgrt of the Urbandale Police Department, Iowa:
Officers Dobbins and Vajgrt helped develop and implement an education program for their local high school focused on the social issues and pressures young people face. The Culture of Integrity program teaches the importance of character, integrity and community and focuses on issues related to bullying, social media, personal safety and achieving success. The officers managed all the details, getting approval of the curriculum and teaching schedule, organizing the content of the workbooks, and co-teaching the classes. The program was so successful that two other schools requested it.
Sergeant Audrey Mazzuca of the Gainesville Police Department, Florida:
After a disproportionate number of minority youth were being arrested in the community, Sgt. Mazzuca worked with local stakeholders to develop programs that encourage officers and school administrators to replace student arrests with alternatives such as counseling, life skills training, and other services. Through Sgt. Mazzuca’s leadership, the kids developed trusting relationships with law enforcement resulting in a 79 percent decline in on-campus arrests in 2015.
Community Liaison Officers Lawrence E. Geis and Scott B. Clinger of the Columbus Division of Police, Ohio:
Community Liaison Officers Clinger and Geis have worked diligently to address residents’ and business owners’ concerns regarding a rash of criminal activity and their success has led to an examination of several problem hotels and businesses in Columbus. The officers were instrumental in the adoption of a new city ordinance establishing safety rules for hotels and motels. As a result, crime and calls for service at hotels and motels have decreased significantly.
CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS CATEGORY
Detective Jessie Gonzales of the Tohono O’odham Police Department, Arizona:
Assigned to crimes against children and sex crimes, Detective Gonzales is sometimes the only detective investigating these cases on the Tohono O’odham reservation, which covers three counties. He consistently goes above and beyond the call of duty when conducting investigations. He recently solved two rape cases, one involving a 10-year-old victim, and another involving a domestic violence stabbing case. In these and all of his other cases, he consistently goes beyond the call of duty when conducting investigations to make the victims feel heard and believed.
Detectives Adam Beha and Joseph Milewczik of the Chesapeake Police Department, Virginia:
Detectives Beha and Milewczik conducted a long-term investigation involving a heroin distribution organization that funneled large amounts of heroin to the streets of Hampton Roads. Due to the organization’s affiliation with a high-level street gang, the case became an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force investigation involving local and federal law enforcement partners. Their work led to the arrest of all the federal targets, and the detectives continue to work the case, which will likely lead to more dangerous narcotics distributors being identified, investigated and arrested.
Senior Officer Kimberly Miller of the Houston Police Department, Texas:
In April of 2015, a woman was beaten, sexually assaulted, and robbed. Senior Police Officer Kim Miller dissected the incident with skills gained in her 30 years of investigative work, leading to the arrest of three individuals suspected of involvement in the incident and additional assaults. Miller’s dedication led these cases to successful conclusions. Tireless in pursuit of the predators, she treated the victims with compassion and is a leader in her department.
FIELD OPERATIONS CATEGORY
Detective Greg Felton of the Glenn County Sheriff's Office, California:
Detective Felton works with multiple agencies to strengthen collaboration and integrate services while handling complex criminal investigations. During the past year, Detective Felton has been a driving force and team leader in the creation of the Glenn County System-wide Mental Health Assessment and Response Team, a collaborative multiagency team that responds to incidents such as school or community threats, suicidal behavior, and bullying. His ability to remain calm in any situation helps to quickly resolve a crisis situation.
Officer Bennie L. Evans of the Alexandria Police Department, Virginia:
Officer Evans embraces community policing during field operations and through voluntary participation in projects for the police department and local nonprofit organizations. A lead instructor in the department’s crisis intervention team, he provides officer training in suicide intervention, substance abuse, and other issues. He also serves as the department’s homeless outreach liaison. He works to help residents in need and has helped build trust in the communities he serves. Officer Evans has successfully de-escalated numerous violent and attempt suicide calls for service.
Officer JoAnn Walker of the San Francisco Police Department, California:
Officer JoAnn Walker has volunteered for extensive training on hostage negotiation, crisis counseling, and suicide prevention, dedicating her own time and resources to advance her expertise and educate her colleagues in crisis service support. Thanks to her initiative and advocacy, crisis counselors are better equipped to respond to people in need, and the relationship between law enforcement and the local community has improved.
Arizona Indian Tribes and Agencies Awarded over $6.8 Million in Federal Grants to Assist Victims, Promote Public and Officer SafetyRead the Press Release
PHOENIX – Today, U.S. Attorney John S. Leonardo announced that over $6.8 million in federal grant funds have been awarded to a variety of Arizona-based Indian tribes and associatedagencies. The federal grant awards, which are individually summarized below, are intended to combat crime, assist victims of crime, and promote public and officer safety:
- Pascua Yaqui Tribe: Awarded a total of $1,609,919, through four awards, to support the Comprehensive Tribal Victim Assistance Program and other federal programs and to improve services to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault/trafficking, and stalking. (Grant Nos. 2016-VR-GX-K009, 2016-AC-BX-0004, 2016-VI-GX-K006, 2016-TW-AX-0011.)
- Tohono O’odham Nation: Awarded $1,362,142, through three awards, to support the Comprehensive Tribal Victim Assistance Program and other federal programs. (Grant Nos. 2016-TW-AW-0009, 2016-VR-GX-K008, 2016-DJ-BX-0985.)
• Colorado River Indian Tribes: Awarded $991,092 to support the hiring of three officers and the purchase of additional equipment and training. (2016-CTAS-COPS.)
- Hopi Tribe: Awarded $679,065 to ensure crimes against women and girls are aggressively prosecuted. (Grant No. 2015-TW-AX-0037)
- Unified Solutions Tribal Community Development Group, Inc.: Awarded $500,000 to enhance tribal communities’ ability to provide comprehensive and culturally appropriate services to victims of crime, their families, and their communities. (Grant No. 2015-MU-GX-K074.)
- Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community: Awarded $450,000 to support the Comprehensive Tribal Victim Assistance Program. (Grant No. 2016-VR-GX-K006.)
- Hopi-Tewa Women’s Coalition to End Abuse: Awarded $336,976 to implement certain provisions of the Violence Against Women Act of 2000, the Justice Act of 2004, and Public Law No. 108-4-5. (Grant No. 2016-IW-AX-0015.)
- Southwest Indigenous Women’s Coalition: Awarded $336,976 to implement certain provisions of the Violence Against Women Act of 2000, the Justice Act of 2004, and Public Law No. 108-4-5. (Grant No. 2016-IW-AX-0012.)
- Yavapai-Apache Nation: Awarded $184,680 to support Sex Offender Sentencing, Monitoring, Apprehending, Registering, and Tracking and the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act. (Grant No. 2016AW-BX-0024.)
- White Mountain Apache Tribe: Awarded $150,000 to support Sex Offender, Sentencing, Monitoring, Apprehending, Registering, and Tracking and the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act. (Grant No. 2016-AW-BX-0025.)
- Salt River Police Department: Awarded a total of $141,032, through two awards, to support the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act and the Comprehensive Tribal Victim Assistance Program. (Grant Nos. 2016-AW-BX-0012, 2016-VR-GX-K006.)
- Navajo Nation: Awarded $48,831 to implement Moral Reconation Therapy in its probation and parole services. (2016-DJ-BX-0919.)
- San Carlos Apache Tribe Police Department: Awarded $22,246 for the purchase of ammunition, approved firearms, and training. (2016-DJ-BX-1000.)
- Gila River Indian Community: Awarded $20,150 to improve officer safety by purchasing ballistic vests. (2016-DJ-BX-0510.)
“These funds support the basic operational needs of each of the Arizona-based tribes and agencies named in this release,” said U.S. Attorney John S. Leonardo. “These grants will enhance our efforts to reduce crime and increase public safety in Indian Country. We encourage all agencies to be proactive and apply for future law enforcement grant funding through our Office of Justice Programs.”
The grant funds identified above were supplied by a variety of federal awarding agencies, all of which are components of the Department of Justice’s Office of Justice Programs (“OJP”).
Information about Office of Justice Programs and its components can be found at:
http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov
Information about Bureau of Justice Assistance and its programs can be found at: https://www.bja.gov/Default.aspx
Information on the Office on Violence against Women can be found at:
https://www.justice.gov/ovw/grant-programs
Information on the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency can be found at:
http://www.ojjdp.gov/
Tribal training and technical assistance
https://www.justice.gov/tribal/training-and-technical-assistance
Additional tribal training and technical assistance:
- Unified Solutions: http://www.unified-solutions.org/
- U.S. Dept. of the Interior, Indian Affairs: www.bia.gov
RELEASE NUMBER: 2016-090_IC GRANTS
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For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.
Albuquerque Man Sentenced to 71 Months in Prison for Being a Lookout During Armed Robbery of Convenience StoreRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Johnny Ramirez, 33, of Albuquerque, N.M., was sentenced today in federal court to 71 months in prison for violating the Hobbs Act by robbing a business engaged in interstate commerce. Ramirez will be on supervised release for three years following his prison sentence.
Ramirez and five other Albuquerque residents were charged in Jan. 2015, with violating the Hobbs Act and federal firearms laws in a five-count indictment. Count 1 charged Raymond Castillo, 27, Reyes Lujan, 27, Daniel Maestas, 36, Frank Gallegos, 31, and Henry Lujan, 23, with conspiring to violate the Hobbs Act. Count 2 charged the six men with violating the Hobbs Act by robbing a Walmart Store in Bernalillo County, N.M., on Oct. 29, 2014. Count 3 charged Castillo with brandishing a firearm during the robbery of the Walmart store, and Count 4 charges Maestas with using and carrying a firearm during the robbery. Count 5 charged Ramirez, Gallegos, Reyes Lujan and Henry Lujan with aiding and abetting the use of firearms during the robbery.
A seven-count superseding indictment was filed on May 28, 2015, charging the original six defendants and adding Reynaldo Marquez, 26, as a new defendant and two new counts. The two new charges in the superseding indictment charged Marquez and Castillo with interfering with interstate commerce by robbing a 7-11 convenience store located in Bernalillo County, N.M., on Dec. 7, 2014, and Marquez with discharging a firearm during the robbery of the 7-11 convenience store on Dec. 7, 2015.
On June 16, 2016, Ramirez pled guilty to Count 2 of the superseding indictment charging him with aiding and abetting an interference with interstate commerce. In entering the guilty plea, Ramirez admitted that on Oct. 29, 2014, he acted as a lookout for the armed robbery of the Walmart located at 400 Eubank NE in Albuquerque.
Ramirez’ six co-defendants previously have entered guilty pleas. Reyes Lujan was sentenced on March 8, 2016, to 71 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release and Gallegos was sentenced on Sept. 8, 2016, to 71 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release. The four remaining co-defendants are in custody pending their sentencing hearings.
This case was investigated by the Albuquerque office of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Albuquerque Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Norman Cairns and Samuel A. Hurtado are prosecuting this case.
This case is being prosecuted as part of a federal anti-violence initiative that targets “the worst of the worst” offenders for federal prosecution. Under this initiative, the U.S. Attorney’s Office and federal law enforcement agencies work with New Mexico’s District Attorneys and state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies to target violent or repeat offenders for federal prosecution with the goal of removing repeat offenders from communities in New Mexico for as long as possible. In recognition that New Mexico’s violent crime rates, on a per capita basis, are amongst the highest in the nation, New Mexico’s law enforcement community has come together to is collaborating the initiative is significantly exceed the national average.
5 October 2016
Westcliffe Man with Interest in Successful Structural Steel Company Ordered to Pay Creditors, Including the United StatesRead the Press Release
DENVER -- U.S. District Judge Christine M. Arguello recently found that Michael D. Wilhite, of Westcliffe, Colorado, concealed his membership interest in Advance Floor Concepts, LLC (“AFC”), a successful multi-million dollar structural steel company for the purpose of hindering, delaying and defrauding his creditors, Acting U.S. Attorney Bob Troyer announced.
In January 2001, Wilhite pled guilty to one count of wire fraud and aiding and abetting, stemming from his involvement in the 1990’s in a sophisticated scheme to defraud the Bank of New Zeland of approximately $5.18 million. The court sentenced Wilhite to three months’ imprisonment, three years’ supervised release, and ordered him to pay restitution in the amount of $1,741,700. Wilhite stopped making restitution payments in 2004, when his term of supervised release ended. Wilhite presently owes approximately $1,719,078.98.
After conducting a thorough investigation into Wilhite’s financial condition, the United States filed a writ of execution, seeking to sell Wilhite’s membership interest in AFC. Wilhite denied having any interest in AFC and his wife, Mrs. Darla Wilhite, claimed to be AFC’s only member.
According to court documents, and the evidence introduced at trial, Wilhite and Mrs. Wilhite created AFC solely in her name in 1997 to avoid and defraud his creditors, including the United States. Indeed, the court found that Wilhite avoided putting a single asset in his name for over two decades, and expressly admitted at trial that he decided not to co-own AFC with his wife, at least in part because doing so “could have” jeopardized “[his] family’s assets.” The court also found that Wilhite exercised sufficient control over AFC to be deemed an owner. The evidence revealed that Wilhite could hire and fire employees and direct their duties; could adjust AFC’s inventory; authored and implemented memos and policies; “has knowledge of and participates in [AFC’s] financial structure”; and even participated in negotiations to sell the company in 2013.
“Due to the tenacious work of our Asset Recovery Division, victims of Wilhite’s crime will now see justice in the form of additional restitution payments,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Bob Troyer. “We have the ‘Seal Team 6’ of Asset Recovery, and these folks work tirelessly on behalf of victims and the taxpayers every day.”
This matter was handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado’s Asset Recovery Division.
West Hollywood Store and Owner Sentenced for Violating Endangered Species Act by Illegally Importing SeahorsesRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – Necromance, a West Hollywood shop that sells novelty wildlife items, and its owner were sentenced today in federal court for violating the Endangered Species Act by unlawfully importing seahorses.
Necromance and Nancy Delap Smith, 56, of Studio City pleaded guilty in July to misdemeanor violations of the Endangered Species Act. Both defendants illegally imported items that were protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
During today’s sentencing hearing, Necromance was ordered to pay a $20,000 fine and was placed on probation for two years.
Smith was placed on probation for a period of one year and ordered to serve 200 hours of community service.
Both defendants were sentenced by United States Magistrate Judge John E. McDermott.
“The defendant and her store participated in illegal wildlife trafficking, which is prohibited by the United States, international treaties and nearly every nation on the planet,” said United States Attorney Eileen M. Decker. “These laws and international agreements are designed to protect species that are subject to senseless killing and poaching simply to meet the demands of individuals who want to possess unusual animals.”
In plea agreements filed in court, Necromance and Smith admitted to unlawfully importing seahorses, as well as bat skulls, that had been imported from Indonesia in 2011. Smith and Necromance also unlawfully imported other wildlife, such as scorpions and tree frogs, without declaring those items to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which was responsible for the investigation in this case.
“Illegal trafficking in protected wildlife species will not be tolerated in this country,” said Jill Birchell, special agent in charge of the Pacific Southwest Region of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. “This case demonstrates that officers of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will continue their diligent efforts to investigate and prosecute those who seek to profit by illegally exploiting the world’s wildlife resources.”
This case was prosecuted by Dennis Mitchell of the Environmental and Community Safety Crimes Section.
Waterbury Man Pleads Guilty to Heroin Distribution ChargeRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Michael J. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England, announced that RONALD WEAVER, 38, of Waterbury, pleaded guilty today in Bridgeport federal court to one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, heroin. The charge stems from an ongoing statewide initiative targeting narcotics dealers who distribute heroin, fentanyl or opioids that cause death or serious injury to users.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on March 11, 2016, Newtown Police and emergency medical personnel responded to a residence in Newtown on the report of a 30-year-old female who was in cardiac arrest. The victim was transported to the hospital where she subsequently died. Medical records and witness interviews revealed that the victim had a history of substance abuse, and the family of the victim turned over to law enforcement several wax folds of heroin, several empty folds and other drug paraphernalia.
The investigation revealed that the victim purchased heroin and other drugs from at least two sources in the days leading up to her death. One of the sources worked as a “runner” who conducted drug transactions for WEAVER.
Between June and August 2016, law enforcement made four controlled purchases of heroin from WEAVER.
WEAVER has been detained since his arrest on August 9, 2016. He is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill on December 28, 2016, at which time he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
This matter is being investigated by the DEA’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad and the Newtown, Waterbury and Torrington Police Departments. The Task Force includes members from the New Haven, Hamden, Greenwich, Shelton, Bristol, Vernon, Wilton, Milford, Monroe, Fairfield and Manchester Police Departments, and the Connecticut State Police.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Avi M. Perry.
Washington County Sheriff Receives Award for Community PolicingRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Washington County Sheriff Jeffrey J. Murphy was recognized today for the achievements of his department in community policing, as part of the United States Department of Justice National Community Policing Week, announced United States Attorney Richard S. Hartunian.
“I am pleased to recognize the excellent work of Sheriff Jeffrey J. Murphy and the Washington County Sheriff’s Department for their commitment to strengthening and enhancing the ties between his department and the community it serves through community policing. These successful efforts promote trust and confidence between the Sheriff’s Department and the people of Washington County. In the challenging times in which we live, these bonds are essential to a society that is both free and safe. National Community Policing Week, October 3rd through 7th, provides an opportunity for the United States Department of Justice to acknowledge those who promote law enforcement engagement with communities, and I am very happy to do so for Sheriff Murphy, whose motto is emblazoned on each Washington County Sheriff’s Department Patrol car, ‘Community First.’
Upon becoming Sheriff of Washington County in upstate New York in 2012, Sheriff Murphy instituted numerous programs to emphasize the Department’s engagement with the community. These include:
-Active-shooter awareness for school faculties
-Bicycle safety rodeos
-Career-day events at schools
-Child safety seat installation and inspection service
-Cyber safety/online predator awareness for students
-EMS and fire police in-service regarding MVA investigation
-Prom crash drills
-Rape aggression defense training
-Safe-drive program
-Scam-avoidance for senior citizen groups
-School safety and lock-down training
-Community Roll Call Video Web Series
-Law Enforcement Explorer Post for Teens
-Internet Safe Transaction Zone
-Town Supervisor/Deputy Liaison Program
In a ceremony at the Washington County Law Enforcement Center in Fort Edward, New York today, United States Attorney Hartunian presented Sheriff Murphy with a plaque to recognize the Washington County Sheriff’s Department for its Community Policing programs.
The Washington County Sheriff’s Department includes criminal, civil, jail and administrative divisions, and serves the people of Washington County in northeastern New York State. It is part of the Northern District of New York, the thirty-two county federal district in which the United States Attorney’s Office, a part of the United States Department of Justice, prosecutes civil and criminal cases in federal court.
Wallingford Man Charged with Stealing Bitcoins in Dark Web Phishing SchemeRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Patricia M. Ferrick, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, announced that MICHAEL RICHO, 34, of Wallingford, was arrested today on a criminal complaint charging him with access device fraud, computer fraud, wire fraud, identity theft and money laundering offenses in connection with a scheme to steal bitcoins in an online phishing scheme.
According to the criminal complaint, RICHO engaged in an online phishing scheme to steal bitcoins from individuals on the dark web. Bitcoins are a form of electronic currency and online marketplaces on the dark web typically accept them as a payment method.
The complaint alleges that RICHO posted fake links to online marketplaces on dark web forums. The links directed individuals to a fake login page that looked like the real login pages for the various online marketplaces. When individuals attempted to log in, RICHO stole his or her username and password. Once he had an individual’s username and password, RICHO monitored the individual’s bitcoin balance at the real marketplace. If the individual later deposited bitcoins with the real marketplace, RICHO withdrew the bitcoins before the individual could spend them and caused the stolen bitcoins to be deposited into his own bitcoin wallet. RICHO then sold the stolen bitcoins to others in exchange for U.S. currency, which was deposited into a bank account that RICHO controlled.
The complaint alleges that RICHO had over 10,000 stolen usernames and passwords saved on his computer.
RICHO appeared this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah A. L. Merriam in New Haven and was released on a $100,000 bond.
Money laundering carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, wire fraud carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, access device fraud carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years, computer fraud carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years, and aggravated identity theft carries a mandatory term of imprisonment of two years.
U.S. Attorney Daly stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Neeraj N. Patel.
Virginia man sentenced to prison for defrauding the Greenbrier through cancer schemeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Virginia man was sentenced today to a year and two months in federal prison for defrauding The Greenbrier, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Carmelo “Carmine” Carrozza, 57, of Charlottesville, previously pleaded guilty to wire fraud. Carrozza was also ordered to pay $48,355.73 in restitution to The Greenbrier.
In the spring of 2013, Carrozza began working at the resort as the Director of Fine Dining. In June 2013, he told senior management that he had cancer. However, Carrozza did not have cancer. Carrozza then left the resort, purportedly to receive cancer treatment, and kept collecting his salary. He continued to receive a salary during his purported cancer diagnosis and treatments from June through mid-December 2013. During this period, Carrozza falsely informed employees of the resort about his supposed cancer prognosis and treatments.
Instead of spending time getting cancer treatment, Carrozza obtained a position with the University of Virginia Darden School Foundation beginning in August 2013.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI. Assistant United States Attorney Meredith George Thomas is in charge the prosecution. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger imposed the sentence.
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Virginia Man Pleads Guilty to Firearms Charge in Connection with Armed Robbery of Econo Lodge in ScrantonRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that a Virginia man pleaded guilty on October 4, 2016 in United States District Court in Scranton, before United States District Judge Malachy E. Mannion, to a firearms charge filed in connection with the armed robbery of the Econo Lodge in Scranton on February 13, 2016.
According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Kelvin Robinson, age 24, of Newport News, Virginia, admitted to the charge of brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. Robinson was one of four individuals, including Tracy Whiting, age 24, of Newport News, Virginia, Kwa’shon Roane, age 24, of Gloucester, Virginia, and Rodney Whiting, age 23, of Scranton, who were indicted by a grand jury in March 2016 for the armed robbery of the Econo Lodge.
The charges against the remaining defendants are currently still pending.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF), the Scranton Police Department, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Lackawanna County District Attorney’s Office and numerous local law enforcement agencies, including the Taylor Borough and Moosic Borough Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. O’Hara
This case was brought as part of the Violent Crime Reduction Partnership (“VCRP”), a district wide initiative to combat the spread of violent crime in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the VCRP consists of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies whose mission is to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit violent crimes.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Kelvin Robinson faces a mandatory penalty of at least seven years in prison for the charge of brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.
The maximum penalty under federal law is up to life in prison, a term of supervised release following imprisonment and a fine. According to the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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University of Pittsburgh Institute of Politics Issues Western Pennsylvania Opioid Response Report and RecommendationsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – The University of Pittsburgh’s Institute of Politics today released a 64-page report of the work undertaken by a regional working group convened and led by David J. Hickton, United States Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania. The report sets forth a community-based continuum of care model that demonstrates how Western Pennsylvania has implemented the recommendations of the National Heroin Task Force Report on a regional level and describes a framework for moving forward.
A Continuum of Care Approach: Western Pennsylvania’s Response to the Opioid Epidemic was released by United States Attorney Hickton, Mark Nordenberg, Chancellor Emeritus of the University of Pittsburgh and Chair of the University’s Institute of Politics, and Terry Miller, Director of the University of Pittsburgh Institute of Politics, at a news conference at the Joseph F. Weis Jr. United States Courthouse in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
U.S. Attorney Hickton stated, “As of 2016, we have established a fusion center to receive reports of heroin overdoses and drug seizures from first responders, enhanced coordination with county District Attorneys on prosecution, continuing education for prescribers, pharmacists, medical students, first responders and the public, prevention efforts aimed at middle and high school students, increased access to naloxone, and additional take-back programs and drop box locations. The next frontier in successfully addressing the opioid crisis is to integrate public health and public safety responses. In this report, we show all that is being accomplished in our region; yet, we are transparent about what still needs to be done. The Institute of Politics has provided an effective and sustainable model that can be replicated across the country – in both urban and rural settings.”
In commenting on this initiative, Chancellor Emeritus Nordenberg said, “Partnering with U.S. Attorney Hickton to help advance the important work that he initiated has provided a special opportunity for the Institute of Politics to help this region meet the challenges of an epidemic that is taking lives, destroying families and damaging communities. More than sixty years ago, a team led by Pitt Professor Jonas Salk developed the vaccine that brought an end to this country’s polio epidemic. The opioid epidemic is the critical public health challenge of our time, and it will take a broad-based, well-organized and committed effort to meet that challenge.”
Institute of Politics Director Miller, who founded and was the first executive director of POWER (Pennsylvania Organization for Women in Early Recovery), stated, “Western Pennsylvania has been extremely hard-hit by this epidemic, but we also have the resources to effectively address the problem. Those resources include engaged and enlightened law enforcement officers, some of the world’s most accomplished scientists and public health professionals and a regional culture that is committed to cooperating to advance the public good.”
The plan underscores the importance of integrating public health and public safety to reduce overdoses; catalogs regional efforts, highlights existing best practices so that they can be deployed in other settings; exposes gaps; identifies next steps; and creates a continuum of care model to maximize interventions.
The report is organized into three sections:
- A Prevention section, which describes initiatives directed toward three groups with different vulnerabilities: the general public; those with a higher than average risk of developing a Substance Use Disorder (SUD) and their families; and individuals with an SUD at critical intercept points, including interactions with the health care system and law enforcement;
- A Treatment section, which identifies two stages of treatment strategies – case identification, which focuses on the screening process for identifying individuals suffering from an SUD, and Standard Treatment for Known Disorders, which uses SUD professionals to evaluate and determine where a person suffering from an SUD should be placed; and
- A Maintenance/Recovery section, which details strategies that are designed to help SUD patients manage the symptoms of their disease over the long term following treatment. This may include Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) at least at the start of maintenance/recovery.
The Institute’s report contains targeted recommendations including:
- Improved access to overdose survivor data (data from EMS and hospital emergency services providers on overdoses that do not result in death);
- A uniform tracking system for open beds and outpatient slots that operates in real time, eventually showing availability throughout the state;
- The establishment of rapid response teams of first responders, law enforcement, public health professionals, health care professionals, forensic laboratory analysts and coroners, to respond to overdose spikes;
- Improved “warm handoff” processes for transitioning an SUD patient from an intercept point, such as an interaction with a physician or law enforcement officer, directly to a treatment provider through an immediate in-person transition;
- Implementation of “hard handoffs,” which are court-ordered commitments to treatment that are only used when the substance user appears to be putting his or her own life in imminent danger or is posing a risk to others;
- Establishing family support centers to provide social, emotional and financial support to families of substance users;
- Ensuring that prescribers are adopting the best practices in order to reduce the number of people who develop SUD as a result of prescription opioids; and
- Increased access to naloxone and take-back boxes.
The report reiterates the National Heroin Task Force report’s three main findings: that public safety and public health strategies for opioids must be integrated and complementary; that policies regarding opioid and heroin use must be grounded in the scientific understanding that substance use disorders are a chronic brain disease that can be prevented and treated leading; and that visible community-based recovery supports must be available, affordable and accessible.
Pennsylvania has been particularly hard hit by the opioid epidemic. In 2015, the number of drug-related overdose deaths reported in Pennsylvania increased 23.4 percent to 3,383. In the most recent data for 2015, more than 81 percent of those who died from drug-related overdoses were found to have either heroin or other opioids in their system. Several counties in southwestern Pennsylvania outpaced the state average in the number of deaths per 100,000 people. The problem affects rural, urban and suburban jurisdictions.
Pitt’s Institute of Politics serves as a neutral, non-partisan convener that facilitates the consideration of policy issues of particular importance to Western Pennsylvania. It regularly brings together federal, state, county, and municipal government officials, in association with academics and foundation, civic, and business leaders and is committed to processes that are characterized by civil discussion and evidence-based decision-making.
A Continuum of Care Approach: Western Pennsylvania’s Response to the Opioid Epidemic is available for download at http://iop.pitt.edu/sites/default/files/Reports/Status_Reports/A Continuum of Care Approach - Western Pennsylvania%27s Response to the Opioid Epidemic.pdf.
U.S. Department of Justice Funds Seattle Area Programs Providing Services for Abused and Exploited ChildrenRead the Press Release
The U.S. Department of Justice has awarded more than $2 million to government and non-profit entities aimed at protecting and assisting children and youth who are at risk of violence, exploitation and abuse, announced U.S. Attorney Annette L. Hayes. The grants from the Office of Justice programs will continue some of the good work already underway and provide new services in some key areas.
“These grants from the Department of Justice provide services to some of the most vulnerable victims in our city and helps law enforcement do important work investigating those who prey on children,” said U.S. Attorney Annette L. Hayes. “These federal dollars flow to programs that have a track record of addressing critical needs in our community.”
More than $1 million of the funding goes to two non-profit organizations to assist victims of human trafficking. Youthcare in Seattle will receive $588,115 to support shelter, education and employment training for sex trafficked youth and young adults ages 12-24. The grant will also pay for training and partnerships to expand community awareness about human trafficking. The Seattle Indian Center was awarded $450,000 to assist Native American victims of sex trafficking and increase public awareness and understanding of the damage caused by human trafficking.
In the area of youth violence prevention, both the City of Seattle and the non-profit Children and Youth Justice Center received grant funding totaling nearly $600,000. The City of Seattle Youth Violence Prevention Initiative received a $258,000 grant to enhance current efforts to prevent youth violence. The additional funding expands the program with youth suicide prevention as an important new component. The Children and Youth Justice Center was awarded $327,729 to continue and enhance its work combatting youth gangs and violent crime throughout King County.
Finally, the Seattle Police Department’s Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force received $453,540 to continue its work investigating a growing number of technology facilitated crimes against children. In addition to personnel, the funding will pay for technology upgrades and training for investigators. The ICAC is a clearing house for tips regarding a variety of child sexual abuse and exploitation crimes throughout western Washington.
For more information of DOJ grants please go to the website of the Office of Justice Programs http://ojp.gov/
U.S. Attorney Urges Police Officers to Reach Out to CommunitiesRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. - Law enforcement alone can’t solve all the crime problems in our communities, Acting U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said Wednesday at a statewide meeting of police officers.
“We need to reach out to community leaders, property owners, churches, private businesses and schools – to anyone who is willing to work with us to make the community safer,” he said.
Beall spoke before more than 100 officers at the Kansas Peace Officers Association’s fall conference in Wichita. He urged them to join with the Justice Department and law enforcement agencies nationwide in observing Community Policing Week.
“We need to build our public safety efforts on a foundation of mutual trust and respect between police officers and the communities they serve,” he said.
Beall praised Wichita Police Chief Gordon Ramsay for working to build community ties by inviting protesters to join police officers for a cookout in the park. He also cited the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center’s courses for officers on fair and impartial policing.
Beall had a personal message for officers, too.
“To all of you who continue to risk your lives day in and day out to keep us safe and protect our freedoms, thank you,” he said. “You have one of the hardest jobs in the world.”
U.S. Attorney Hochul Announces Departure; Will End 30 Year Department of Justice Career October 28Read the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, NY—William J. Hochul, Jr., announced today that he will leave his position as United States Attorney, and retire from public service after nearly 30 years in the Department of Justice. U.S. Attorney Hochul will leave his position October 28.
“While the threat to Americans and Western New Yorkers has changed over the decades of my service, it has been my experience that certain fundamental truths have remained constant,” said U.S. Attorney Hochul. “First, the commitment of law enforcement to protect and serve the public has never wavered, and it has been an honor to work with these heroes. Second, the system in which we operate is truly the best the world has ever seen. Finally, it has been a great privilege to be able to achieve justice for those who have been targeted or hurt by vicious predators, unscrupulous fraudsters, and criminals of every type.”
President Barack Obama nominated Mr. Hochul to serve as the United States Attorney for the Western District of New York in 2009. Following unanimous confirmation by the United States Senate in 2010, he oversaw the prosecution of all federal criminal cases brought within the 17 counties of Western New York. Mr. Hochul also directed and supervised all other matters occurring in the District in which the United States was a party, including affirmative and defensive civil litigation, appellate matters, forfeiture, and more.
Under Mr. Hochul’s leadership, the United States Attorney’s Office successfully implemented numerous strategies, organizational initiatives, and public outreach programs designed to keep the community safe. Criminal prosecution of terrorism, intellectual property, white collar, environmental, narcotics, identity theft, and cyber-related offenses resulted in some of the most significant cases in District history. Civil litigation returned hundreds of millions of dollars to the United States taxpayers, while simultaneously protecting against frivolous lawsuits.
While Mr. Hochul began serving as United States Attorney over six years ago, his career in the Department of Justice began decades earlier. Upon concluding work as a law clerk to a Maryland Court of Appeal Judge and as an associate at a large international law firm based in Washington, Mr. Hochul joined the Department of Justice in 1987 as an Assistant United States Attorney for the District of Columbia. In this role, he prosecuted an extensive array of violent and white collar criminal cases, and later specialized in the prosecution of first-degree and gang-related murder cases.Mr. Hochul returned to his hometown of Buffalo when he became an Assistant United States Attorney for the Western District of New York in 1991. He prosecuted a large number of notorious violent and white collar criminals, fraud, racketeering and intellectual property offenses, and emerging international organized crime groups. Among his many accomplishments, Mr. Hochul became one of the first federal prosecutors to utilize the federal racketeering laws to dismantle an entire street gang. The prosecution of the “LA Boys” resulted in the murder rate in the City of Buffalo decreasing by nearly 50%. Other significant prosecutions undertaken by Mr. Hochul early in his Buffalo career involved 20 members of a Niagara County based labor union which used violence against non-union employees and others; a massive food stamp fraud scheme encompassing multiple States; a multi-defendant cigarette trafficking ring, in which the States of Michigan and New York were defrauded of over fifty million dollars; and an international intellectual property trafficking ring, where millions of dollars of proceeds were transmitted to China and the Middle East.
Mr. Hochul became Chief of the Office’s Anti-Terrorism Unit following September 11, 2001, and Chief of the National Security Division in 2006. While in these positions, Mr. Hochul served as lead prosecutor in several high-profile international terrorism cases, including the highly successful prosecution of the internationally known Lackawanna Six, the first known instance of Americans traveling to train with al Qaeda.
For his role in the Lackawanna Six case, Mr. Hochul and others who worked with him received the Attorney General’s Award for Exceptional Service – the highest award conferred by the Department of Justice, as well as a Service to America Award, presented by the Partnership for Public Service.
ENR Magazine (McGraw Hill publication) named Mr. Hochul to its Top 25 Newsmaker Award, “for having purged Niagara County, New York of decades of construction industry violence and intimidation.” In total, Mr. Hochul received over three dozen awards and honors for his work in the Department of Justice.
Mr. Hochul’s work as United States Attorney spanned virtually every type of federal criminal and civil case. Some of the noteworthy criminal cases in this time period included:
• Prosecution of over 200 gang members from 14 gangs. Two such cases, involving all of the members of the 7th and 10th Street Gangs, brought peace to the West Side of Buffalo. Other gang cases involved the East Side of Buffalo, Rochester, Lackawanna, Niagara Falls, and various public housing projects. Most recently, the Office charged members of the Kingsmen Motorcycle Club, including the leadership and officers located in Western New York, Florida and elsewhere, and concluded a successful prosecution of the Hells Angels Motorcycle Club, whose members operated in California, Rochester, and Batavia.
• Multiple terrorism and threat cases, including the successful prosecution of the first known ISIL recruiter, and a Rochester man who planned to kidnap and behead victims on New Year’s Eve.
• Some of the largest environmental cases ever brought, including the highly successful prosecution of the Tonawanda Coke Corporation. This case, involving decades of deliberate release of harmful chemicals, resulted in criminal convictions and a judgment against the company of $25 million, a significant portion of which will remain in Western New York to fund health studies. Cases involving the Kensington Towers, asbestos remediation projects in Rochester, and a massive ivory smuggling case were also successfully concluded.
• In the realm of public corruption, Mr. Hochul’s Office charged or convicted numerous public officials including an elected legislator, mayors, a Federal Highway Safety Official, State and City regulatory and administrative professionals, letter carriers, and police officers. One successful case, involving the prosecution of parking meter attendants, resulted in the City of Buffalo obtaining over $700,000 in additional parking fees the year after the defendants were charged. The prosecution of two police officers for abusing Injured on Duty Status, meanwhile, resulted in over one hundred police officers returning to active duty and no longer claiming IOD.
• Regarding the opiate/heroin crisis - the leading cause of death in the area - Mr. Hochul’s tenure saw the prosecution of numerous doctors and health care professionals, along with the dismantling of some of the largest cocaine and heroin trafficking rings ever to operate in the District.
• In the area of military safety, Mr. Hochul’s Office prosecuted cases involving defective helmet screws placed within service members helmets, and non-conforming magnesium used in the manufacture of aircraft counter-measures deployed in aircraft to save pilots and crew from incoming missiles.
• Mr. Hochul’s Office protected children and the most vulnerable through several significant human trafficking and pornography production cases.
• Mr. Hochul authorized federal prosecution of cases traditionally prosecuted in local courts, including the Epps insurance fraud prosecution, the prosecution of Rico Vendetti and others for their roles in a massive shoplifting ring which led to the death of 78 year old Homer Marciniak, the prosecution of off-duty police officers for excessive force or wrongful arrest, and several cold case prosecutions.As for civil litigation, Mr. Hochul oversaw the conclusion of the Erie County Jail litigation, and numerous cases involving the health care industry. The Office’s Asset Forfeiture Section, meanwhile, successfully transferred properties to not for profit entities, demolished decrepit buildings, and returned millions of dollars to taxpayers and victims of crime.
Along with his duties as United States Attorney, the Government frequently deployed Mr. Hochul to instruct, domestically and abroad, a wide variety of law enforcement groups, attorneys, and judges on matters relating to investigating and prosecuting organized crime, gang, terrorism, intellectual property, public corruption and money laundering offenses, as well as on police leadership. His most recent international travels took Mr. Hochul to Europe and Africa, where he consulted with judges, prosecutors and investigators from Burkina Faso, Togo, Benin, Botswana, Ghana, Nigeria, Serbia, Hungary, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Ukraine.
Mr. Hochul made outreach to the community a priority for his Office. The initiatives conducted by Mr. Hochul and his Office included:
• Three Heroin/Opioid Drug Summits, with the first occurring in 2011
• Youth Engagement – Houghton Law 101; Teen Dating; Anti-Bullying
• Anti-Violence Pledge in all Buffalo Public Schools
• Fraud Awareness - How to Not Be a Victim; Identity Theft
• Protecting Children on-line
• The Justice Report
• Bridges
• How to Run a Business – provided to newly arrived refuges and others
• Annual Newsletters to Schools
• Intelligence meetings with area police
• Active Shooter Training for area businesses
• Intellectual Property Training for businesses
• Cyber Threats Training; Cyber Monday
• Hospital Compliance
• Sexual Assaults on Campus
• Church Safety
• First in the Nation Veteran’s Court
• Education to Parents on Use of Social Media Applications (Apps)
• Cultural Sensitivity Training for federal law enforcementFinally, Mr. Hochul hired 20 Assistant United States Attorneys during his time as United States Attorney, representing almost 40% of the attorney staff. These attorneys bring widely diverse backgrounds, talents and experiences to the Office, and will no doubt carry on the important work of protecting the public and the Constitution for decades to come.
Two felons from Warren indicted for stealing 30 firearms from gun storeRead the Press Release
Two felons from Warren were indicted for stealing 30 firearms, as well as related charges, said Carole S. Rendon, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
Laval Jackson, 43, and Tyrone Thomas, 42, were indicted on charges of stealing firearms, being in possession of stolen firearms and being felons illegally in possession of firearms.
Kristi Coxson, 33, also of Warren, was indicted on one count of possession of stolen firearms.
According to the indictment, Jackson and Thomas On or March 29 stole from J & D Firearms, located in Warren, the following firearms:
- Ruger, model SR1911, .45 caliber pistol, serial number 672-39025;
- Glock, model 17, 9mm pistol, serial number BBDR194;
- Stag Arms, 5.56mm rifle, serial number 330360;
- JLD Enterprises, model PTR91, .308 caliber rifle, serial number B0074;
- Vulcan Arms, model V15, .223 caliber rifle, serial number P006848;
- Bersa, model Thunder 9, 9mm pistol, serial number F87740;
- Glock, model 23, .40 caliber pistol, serial number AANN915;
- Bersa, model Thunder 40, .40 caliber pistol, serial number F37068;
- Bersa, model Thunder 45, .45 caliber pistol, serial number F87203;
- Springfield, model XDS, 9mm pistol, serial number S3841064;
- Squires Bingham, model 1911, .45 caliber pistol, serial number RIA1749616;
- Taurus, model PT917, 9mm pistol, serial number TDO68413;
- Sarsilmaz, 9mm pistol, serial number T1102-14G00678;
- Bersa, model Thunder 380, .380 caliber pistol, serial number 716090;
- Smith and Wesson, model M&P 40, .40 caliber pistol, serial number HSJ5404;
- Grand Power SRO, 9mm pistol, serial number GBA0938;
- Bersa, model BP9CC, 9mm pistol, serial number E28908;
- Glock, model 19, 9mm pistol, serial number BBEF141;
- FNH, model FNS9, 9mm pistol, serial number CSU0013415;
- Ruger, model GP100, .357 caliber revolver, serial number 177-90494;
- Springfield, 9mm pistol, serial number GM970936;
- Springfield, model XDM, 9mm pistol, serial number MG420979;
- Ruger, model Police Service Six, .357 caliber revolver, serial number 153-28202;
- Ruger, model SR45, .45 caliber pistol, serial number 380-66127;
- Smith and Wesson, model M&P 9, 9mm pistol, serial number HKK9077;
- Glock, model 23, .40 caliber pistol, serial number BAEC028;
- Browning, model Hi Power, 9mm pistol, serial number 419584;
- MKE, model Kirikkale, .380 caliber pistol, serial number 7340746;
- Taurus, model PT1911, .38 caliber pistol, serial number LBX04929; and
- Smith and Wesson, model M&P 9, 9mm pistol, serial number HUS1418
The indictment alleges that on March 29, 2016, Jackson, Thomas and Coxson knowingly possessed the above listed stolen firearms.
Jackson is charged with being a felon in possession of the above stolen firearms after he was previously convicted of failure to comply with the order or signal of a police officer in the Trumbull County Court of Common Pleas in 1996.
Thomas is charged with being a felon in possession of the above stolen firearms after he was previously convicted of aggravated assault in 1995 and of robbery in 2001, both in the Trumbull County Court of Common Pleas.
“These are people forbidden by law from having firearms who went out and stole them,” Rendon said. “They will hold them accountable for their actions and we will continue to do all we can to keep firearms from illegally getting to our neighborhoods.”
If convicted, the defendants’ sentences will be determined by the court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violations. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and, in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Warren Police Department. The matter is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David M. Toepfer.
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.