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Friday 17 June 2016
British Man Previously Charged with Coming to U.S. to Have Sex with Pre-Teen Boys Now also Faces Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – A British man who was previously charged with travelling to the Coachella Valley to have sex with pre-teen boys was charged today in a superseding indictment that adds child pornography charges.
Paul Charles Wilkins, 70, of Littleport in East Cambridgeshire, England, a dual United States-United Kingdom citizen, was named today in a four-count superseding indictment that now includes charges of transportation of child pornography and possession of child pornography.
The indictment reiterates charges contained in the original indictment that was filed in February – traveling with the intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct and attempted sex trafficking of children.
Wilkins allegedly travelled to the Coachella Valley in late January in order to engage in illicit sexual conduct with boys who were 10 and 12 years old.
While the first count of the indictment relates to Wilkins travel to the United States to allegedly have sex with two pre-teen boys, the attempted sex trafficking charge stems from a deal he allegedly brokered with an undercover investigator in which Wilkins allegedly paid $250 to have sex with a 9-year-old boy at an apartment he had rented in Palm Springs.
The child pornography counts related to images found on a laptop computer and a digital storage device that were seized when Wilkins was arrested on February 11 at his rented apartment after allegedly paying the money to the undercover operative.
“Child predators – whether foreign or domestic – threaten the most vulnerable members of society, which is why we devote considerable resources to stopping them,” said United States Attorney Eileen M. Decker. “The new indictment adds additional charges that more fully reflect the totality of this defendant’s conduct and could subject him to a longer prison term.”
Wilkins, who has been ordered held without bond, is currently scheduled to go on trial before United States District Judge Dolly M. Gee on July 19.
An indictment contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.
The charge of traveling with the intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct carries a statutory maximum sentence of 30 years.
The charge of attempted sex trafficking of children carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in federal prison and statutory maximum penalty of life without parole.
The two child pornography charges each carry a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years, and the transportation count carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison.
The investigation into Wilkins was conducted by special agents with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI)
“Pedophiles in the United States, or anywhere in the world, who believe they can escape the detection of law enforcement by traveling to another county to commit heinous crimes against children should take note,” said Robert Goetsch, acting special agent in charge for HSI Los Angeles. “HSI and its law enforcement partners around the globe will pursue those criminals who subject children to this torment and bring them to justice by using every tool at our disposal.”
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christina T. Shay.
Brazilian Man Sentenced for Illegal Reentry After DeportationRead the Press Release
CONCORD, NEW HAMPSHIRE –United States Attorney Emily Gray Rice announced today that Elismar Dasilva-Gomes, 40, of Brazil, pleaded guilty to illegally reentering the United States after having been previously deported. He was sentenced to the time served since his arrest on February 29, 2016. Dasilva-Gomes will now be deported.
A law enforcement officer conducting a routine investigation observed the defendant’s vehicle backed right up to the front door of a Verizon Wireless store. The officer approached the defendant, who was employed at the store, and asked for identification. Dasilva-Gomes provided a Brazilian passport as his only form of identification.
The officer sought the assistance of Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Enforcement and Removal Operations in positively identifying the defendant. An ICE-ERO officer ran complete criminal and immigration histories and found a record for a Brazilian national who was arrested and deported in 2005. The ICE-ERO officer sent a photo of the individual who was deported in 2005 to the local law enforcement officer, who confirmed that it matched the defendant.
On February 29, 2016, Dasilva-Gomes was booked and processed at the ICE office in Manchester. Fingerprints obtained from at that time were compared to fingerprints on file with ICE and were determined to match known fingerprints of the defendant on the occasion of his previous deportation in 2005.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alfred Rubega.
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Alleged Bank Robbers Ordered to Remain in Federal CustodyRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – Four members of a crew allegedly responsible for 20 armed bank robberies in the greater Houston and San Antonio areas will remain in federal custody without bond pending further criminal proceedings, announced U.S. Attorney Kenneth Magidson.
A federal grand jury returned the 15-count indictment May 25, 2016, against Eric Beverly, 27, Gregory Babers, 25, Julien Francis, 25, and Jerrick Hoskins, 26, all of Houston. They are charges with conspiracy to commit bank robbery and multiple counts of aiding and abetting bank robbery and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. Authorities took Beverly into custody June 3, while Francis was arrested June 8. Babers and Hoskins were taken into custody June 9.
On June 10, all four defendants appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Dena Hanovice Palermo for a detention hearing, after which it was determined that they should be held in custody without bond pending further criminal proceedings. During the hearing, evidence was presented indicating that the crew committed 20 take-over style robberies between July 25, 2014, and May 2, 2015. During the alleged crimes, two or more men wearing masks would enter the banks while at least one of them brandished a firearm. Inside, one or more of the men allegedly demanded money from employees at gunpoint, jumped over teller counters and would grab money from the teller drawers. It is alleged that the conspirators robbed three of the banks on more than one occasion.
Today, Judge Palermo issued detention orders indicating probable cause the crimes were committed. The court further found them to be a danger to the community.
Each faces up to five years in prison if convicted of the conspiracy to commit bank robbery. For aiding and abetting bank robbery, they also face a maximum of 25 years in federal prison upon each conviction. In addition, they face a mandatory seven-year sentence for the first conviction of brandishing a firearm, plus 25 years for every subsequent firearm conviction which must be served consecutively to each other and to the other sentences. All 15 counts also carry a possible fine of $250,000.
The FBI Violent Crime Task Force investigated, which included agents and officers of the Harris County Sheriff’s Office and the Houston Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Carrie Wirsing and Jill Stotts are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence.
A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
Thursday 16 June 2016
Youngstown man sentenced to 15 years in prison for having firearmRead the Press Release
A Youngstown man was sentenced to 15 years in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm, said Carole S. Rendon, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, and Bradley Earman, Acting ATF Special Agent in Charge for the Columbus Field Division.
Lawrence J. Johnson, 52, was found to be an armed career criminal. He illegally possessed a Bryco 9 mm pistol on Aug. 12, despite four felony convictions in state court – attempted robbery in 1982 in Mahoning County, robbery in 1983 in Mahoning County, robbery in 1997 in Trumbull County and complicity to aggravated robbery with a firearm in 2005 in Trumbull County.
“We will continue to prosecute those who carry firearms despite convictions that forbid them from having guns,” Rendon said. “These are people that everyone agrees should not have access to firearms.”
“ATF is committed to combating gun violence in our communities,” Earman said. “We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to arrest violent criminals and make our communities safer.”
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin Filiatraut following an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Winnfield men plead guilty to firearms chargesRead the Press Release
MONROE, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced that two Winnfield men pleaded guilty Wednesday to possessing stolen firearms.
Ashton L. Howard, 33, and Aaron Thomas, 26, both of Winnfield, La., pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a stolen firearm in a hearing before U.S. Magistrate Judge Karen L. Hayes. Thomas also pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon. Their pleas will become final when accepted by U.S. District Judge Robert G. James. According to the guilty pleas, Howard and Thomas received and possessed 14 firearms, ammunition and other items from a Winnfield firearm seller on March 22, 2015. Howard drove four juveniles to a store where they loaded eight rifles, five shotguns, a revolver, ammunition, firearms parts, knives and other items into Howard’s van. Thomas later helped them unload the stolen items and store them under his house and in various locations. They both were aware the firearms were stolen.
Each defendant faces up to 10 years in prison, one to three years of supervised release and a $250,000 fine. A sentencing date of September 12, 2016 was set.
This investigation and prosecution is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, which is a Department of Justice initiative to promote firearm safety and to reduce firearm crimes by preventing the possession and use of firearms by dangerous and persistent felons and others not authorized to possess a firearm.
The ATF and the Winnfield Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert W. Gillespie Jr. is prosecuting the case.
Williamson County Heroin Seller Faces Long Prison TermRead the Press Release
A Williamson County, Illinois man was recently sentenced to a long term in federal prison on heroin charges, James L. Porter, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today.
On June 15, 2016, Antoine B. Shaw, a/k/a "Scan," 42, of Herrin, IL, was sentenced to 228 months’ imprisonment and five years’ supervised release following his imprisonment. Shaw had previously pleaded guilty to one count in a federal superseding indictment which charged that from August 2014, until on or about June 5, 2015, in Williamson and Franklin Counties, Shaw and others conspired to distribute more than 100 grams of heroin.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Illinois State Police, the Marion, Illinois Police Department, and the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office.
Wilkes-Barre Man Pleaded Guilty to Transporting A Minor for Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Trevon Jackson, age 24, of Wilkes-Barre pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Court Judge Edwin M. Kosik in Scranton pursuant to a plea agreement.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, Jackson was charged in a Criminal Information in May 2016 with transporting a minor in interstate commerce with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity. The Information alleged that in December 2013, Jackson transported an individual under the age of 18, from Pennsylvania to New York, with the intent that the individual engage in prostitution.
The case is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations and the Pennsylvania State Police. Prosecution is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Olshefski.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
A sentence following a finding of guilty is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
In this case, the maximum penalty under the federal statute for transportation of minors for criminal activity is imprisonment for life, with a mandatory minimum sentence of imprisonment for 10 years, a $250,000 fine, and a term of supervised release following imprisonment. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant’s educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Water Treatment Chemicals Manufacturer Pleads Guilty in Conspiracy Aimed at Eliminating CompetitionRead the Press Release
Company to pay $5 Million Criminal Fine
GEO Specialty Chemicals Inc., an Ohio company, has pleaded guilty for its role in a conspiracy to eliminate competition involving contracts to supply liquid aluminum sulfate to municipalities and pulp and paper manufacturers in the United States, the Department of Justice announced today.
GEO’s Water Treatment Chemicals Division, headquartered in Little Rock, Arkansas, is a manufacturer and supplier of water treatment chemicals, including liquid aluminum sulfate. The company has admitted to conspiring to fix prices, rig bids, and allocate customers involving contracts for liquid aluminum sulfate, a coagulant used by municipalities to treat drinking and waste water, and by pulp and paper manufacturers in their manufacturing processes. GEO has been sentenced to pay a fine of $5 million. GEO is the first corporate defendant, and fourth defendant overall, to be charged with participation in this decade-and-a-half-long conspiracy. One individual previously pleaded guilty and two others have been indicted in connection with the conspiracy.
“GEO and its co-conspirators deprived municipalities and paper manufacturers of the competitive prices they rightly expected from their suppliers of liquid aluminum sulfate,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Renata Hesse, head of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division. “This prosecution continues our efforts to hold criminally responsible those who collude to cheat their customers.”
“The FBI is committed to protecting the American consumer’s right to expect the benefits of free and open competition. However, GEO Specialty Chemicals and their co-conspirators colluded to circumvent competitive bidding and independent pricing for liquid aluminum sulfate contracts, and conspired to raise prices by submitting artificially inflated bids to their customers,” said Special Agent in Charge Timothy Gallagher of the FBI’s Newark Division. “They also allocated customers in furtherance of their collusive scheme. By agreeing to violate both the spirit and the letter of the competitive process, GEO and others defrauded municipalities as well as pulp and paper companies out of millions of dollars.”
According to documents filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey, from 1997 until 2011, GEO and its co-conspirators engaged in their collusive agreement by meeting to discuss each other’s liquid aluminum sulfate business, submitting intentionally losing bids to favor the intended winner of the business, withdrawing inadvertently winning bids, and discussing with each other prices to be quoted or bid to municipalities and pulp and paper manufacturers.
The investigation into price fixing, bid rigging, and customer allocation in the liquid aluminum sulfate industry is being conducted by the New York Office of the Antitrust Division and the FBI’s New Jersey Office. Anyone with information on price fixing, bid rigging, or customer allocation in the sale and marking of liquid aluminum sulfate should contact the New York Office of the Antitrust Division at 212-335-8000, call the Antitrust Division’s Citizen Complaint Center at 1-888-647-3258, or visit www.justice.gov/atr/contact/newcase.htm.
Wakpala Man Sentenced for AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Wakpala, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault Resulting in Substantial Bodily Injury to a Spouse, Intimate Partner or Dating Partner was sentenced on June 13, 2016, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Christopher Lee Delong, age 40, was sentenced to 28 months in custody, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Delong was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 14, 2015. He pled guilty on December 15, 2015.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on June 27, 2015, when law enforcement was informed by the victim that her boyfriend was beating her up. Upon arrival, law enforcement made contact with the victim and Delong. The officer could see that the victim had blood on her lips, a swollen left eye, and what appeared to be a broken hand. The victim explained that Delong hit her on the face when he became angry when another person took his car keys from him. As a result of the assault, the victim sustained a cut lip, a swollen left eye, multiple abrasions to her body, and a severely swollen hand.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Standing Rock Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.
Delong was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Two Portsmouth Drug Dealers Sentenced for Cocaine TraffickingRead the Press Release
NORFOLK, Va. – Norman Preston Stephenson, 35, and Samuel Gray, aka Pig, 36, both of Portsmouth, were sentenced today to 264 months, and 120 months in prison, respectively, for conspiring to distribute crack cocaine. Additionally, Stephenson was sentenced to 10 years of supervised release and Gray was sentenced to five years of supervised release.
According to court documents, Stephenson was a member of the Corna Sto Boys, a group formed in the late 1990s by individuals distributing crack cocaine near the corner of Elm Avenue and Fayette Street in Portsmouth. The group most recently dealt crack cocaine around an intersection across the street from Brighton Elementary School in Portsmouth. In August 2015, the Portsmouth Police Department conducted 17 controlled purchases of crack cocaine from members of the organization.
Stephenson dealt over one kilogram of crack cocaine between December 2014 and October 2015, when he was arrested for beating a woman who stole his drug stash. Gray, an affiliate of the Corna Sto Boys, dealt over one half kilogram of crack cocaine over the year prior to his arrest. Three other members of the group have pleaded guilty in federal court and are awaiting sentencing.
Dana J. Boente, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Mark R. Herring, Attorney General of Virginia; Karl C. Colder, Special Agent in Charge of Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Washington Field Division; John S. Adams, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Norfolk Field Office; Tonya D. Chapman, Chief of the Portsmouth Police Department; and Michael K. Lamonea, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Norfolk, made the announcement after sentencing by Senior U.S. District Judge Henry Coke Morgan, Jr. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew C. Bosse and Joseph E. DePadilla, and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney John F. Butler, prosecuted the cases.
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. 2:16-cr-16 and 2:16-cr-19.
Two Clay County Men Sentenced on Destructive Device ChargesRead the Press Release
Two Clay County, Illinois men were recently sentenced to federal prison on destructive device charges, James L. Porter, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today.
On June 15, 2016, Aaron B. Flota, 37, of Flora, IL, was sentenced to 63 months in federal prison and two years’ supervised release following his imprisonment. On June 14, 2016, Kevin E. Caldwell, 37, of Edgewood, IL, was sentenced to 37 months in federal prison and two years’ supervised release following his imprisonment.
Both men had previously pleaded guilty to one count in a federal indictment which charged that on August 10, 2015, in Clay County, Illinois, Flota and Caldwell knowingly possessed a destructive device, as defined by federal law, which had not been registered to either of them in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Clay County Sheriff’s Office. The Clay County State’s Attorney also assisted with the investigation.
Three plead guilty to heroin distribution in Monongalia CountyRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Three individuals pled guilty to heroin distribution in federal court in Clarksburg today, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Romelle Deshaun Stevens, 26, of Detroit, Michigan pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Heroin.” Stevens admitted to selling heroin in Monongalia County during December 2015. He faces not more than 20 years in prison and a fine not to exceed $1,000,000.
Robert Tucker, 22, of Clarksburg, WV pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Heroin.” Tucker admitted to selling heroin in Monongalia County during August 2015. He faces not more than 20 years in prison and a fine not to exceed $1,000,000.
Michaelo Merone, 30, of Westover, WV pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Heroin.” Merone admitted to selling heroin in Monongalia County during October 2015. He faces not more than 20 years in prison and a fine not to exceed $1,000,000.
Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the defendant’s prior criminal history, if any.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crime Task Force investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Three Men Sentenced to Prison for Credit Card Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
RICHMOND, Va. – Three men were sentenced to prison today for their involvement in a credit card fraud scheme which involved re-encoded credit cards with stolen bank information. All three defendants were directed to pay $68,337.66 in restitution to their victims.
Name, Age
Hometown
Charges
Sentence
Manvel Avagyan, 32
Van Nuys, California
Bank fraud and aggravated identity theft
45 months in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release
Davit G. Ghazaryan, 26
Brooklyn, New York
Conspiracy to commit bank fraud, access device fraud and aggravated identity theft
54 months in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release
Hrayr Margaryan, 26
Brooklyn
Conspiracy to commit bank fraud and aggravate identity theft
45 months in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release
According to court documents and testimony, on April 21, 2015, Spotsylvania Deputy Sheriffs received a call about suspicious activity around two bank branches. Upon responding, they observed Ghazaryan and Margaryan seated in a van parked in a near-by parking lot. They found 150 blank plastic cards with magnetic strips re-encoded with stolen credit card information, as well as a paper with the address of a Richmond area gas station that had been identified by banks as a point of compromise for customers’ debit cards. Deputies found Avagyan in a restaurant across the street. Several weeks later, an employee of the restaurant located three re-encoded cards, identical to those recovered from the van, buried in gravel near the front entrance of the restaurant. The three men were subsequently linked via bank photographs to withdrawals from ATMs that occurred in March and April 2015 in Pennsylvania and Virginia using stolen debit or credit card numbers.
Dana J. Boente, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Douglas F. Mease, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service’s Richmond Field Office; and Spotsylvania County Sheriff Roger L. Harris, made the announcement after sentencing by Senior U.S. District Judge Robert E. Payne. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael C. Moore and former Special Assistant U.S Attorney Margaret W. Reed prosecuted the case.
This case was investigated by the Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Secret Service as members of the Metro-Richmond Identity Theft Task Force. They were assisted by the Fredericksburg Police Department, the City of Richmond Police Department, the State College, Pennsylvania Police Department, and numerous other police departments in Pennsylvania. Prosecutions for the Task Force are handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia and the Office of the Attorney General for the Commonwealth of Virginia.
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. 3:15-cr-155.
Tallulah tax preparer pleads guilty to aiding in the filing of false tax returnRead the Press Release
MONROE, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced today that a Tallulah based tax preparer pleaded guilty to aiding and assisting in the preparation and filing of a tax return containing false information.
Frankie Cammack, 48, of Tallulah, La., pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Karen L. Hayes to one count of aiding and assisting in making and subscribing a fraudulent and false tax return. The plea will become final when accepted by U.S. District Judge Robert G. James. According to testimony presented during the guilty plea, Cammack prepared 26 returns for eight different taxpayers for tax years 2009 through 2012, all of which contained false information regarding either business expenses or education credits. The false information was used to generate refunds totaling $114,791 to the taxpayers.
Cammack faces a maximum penalty of up to three years in prison, one year of supervised release, a $250,000 fine and restitution. Sentencing is scheduled for September 12, 2016.
The IRS conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney William J. Flanagan is prosecuting the case.
Stockton Man Sentenced to 2.5 Years in Prison for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Joseph Aaron McClendon, 39, of Stockton, was sentenced today by United States District Judge Troy L. Nunley to two and a half years in prison, to be followed by eight years of supervised release, for possession of child pornography, Acting United States Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced. On release, McClendon will be required to register as a sex offender.
According to court documents, between March and November 2012, federal agents detected McClendon’s computer offering images of child pornography through a file-sharing peer-to-peer network. Agents executed a federal search warrant and seized McClendon’s computer. A subsequent forensic review found approximately 700 images and 95 videos of child pornography that had been downloaded by McClendon. These images and videos included depictions of prepubescent children, as well as acts of sadistic and masochistic conduct involving minors.
“Downloading sexually explicit images and videos of young children not only creates lifelong scars for victims, it also enables perpetrators around the globe to continuously exploit those same innocent victims,” said Ryan L. Spradlin, special agent in charge for HSI San Francisco. “HSI will continue to work tirelessly with our law enforcement partners to target criminals who prey on the most vulnerable members of society.”
This case was the product of an investigation by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). Assistant United States Attorney Amy Schuller Hitchcock prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. Click on the “resources” tab for information about internet safety education.
Six Coachella Valley Men Charged in Federal Court in Task Force Operation Targeting Illegal Firearms and Drugs in Desert Hot SpringsRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – Six Coachella Valley residents have been charged by federal prosecutors with drug trafficking offenses, and four of the men face additional counts for illegal possession of a firearm.
Four of the men were arrested this morning as part of a joint operation involving both federal and local authorities. Two of the men are already in state custody on separate charges.
In the first case, Julio Cesar Gomez, also known as “Spanky,” 31, of Indio, Angel Alejandro Carmona, aka “Lil Criminal,” 30, of Coachella, and Steven Andrew Gonzalez, aka “Cubs,” 32, of Indio, were charged in an indictment with engaging in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. In addition, Gomez was charged with being a felon in possession of an assault rifle with an obliterated serial number, and Carmona was charged with being a felon in possession of a .357-caliber handgun. Gomez and Carmona were arrested this morning, and Gonzalez is in state prison in Wasco, California.
In the second case, Francisco Remigio Figueroa, aka “Toro,” 34, of Desert Hot Springs, was charged in an indictment with distributing methamphetamine and marijuana. Figueroa was also charged with possessing a 20-gauge shotgun and ammunition after being convicted of multiple state felonies. Figueroa is currently in jail in Riverside County.
Mario Vincent Lopez, 49, of Desert Hot Springs, was charged in an indictment with possession of an unregistered 12-gauge shotgun and shotgun ammunition after being convicted of multiple state felonies as well as distributing methamphetamine. Lopez was arrested this morning.
Finally, Donnie Darnel Dennis, 38, of Desert Hot Springs, was also arrested this morning pursuant to a criminal complaint charging him with the distributing methamphetamine. The affidavit in support of the criminal complaint describes Dennis handing his daughter a handgun when using her as part of a drug deal.
Five of the men face a statutory minimum penalty of 10 years in federal prison and a statutory maximum of life imprisonment if convicted on the counts with which they have been charged. Figueroa faces a statutory minimum penalty of five years imprisonment and a statutory maximum penalty of 65 years if he were to be convicted on all counts.
“Drug trafficking involving firearms continues to pose a tremendous danger to our communities,” said United States Attorney Eileen M. Decker. “Several of these men were undeterred by prior state convictions, so now they must face federal charges and lengthy prison sentences.”
ATF Special Agent in Charge Eric D. Harden added, “ATF works with our law enforcement partners to keep firearms out of the hands of prohibited persons and pursues federal criminal charges against felons that repeatedly seek to possess firearms."
At their court appearances this afternoon at the United States District Court in Riverside, Gomez, Lopez and Dennis were ordered detained pending trial. Carmona is scheduled for a court appearance tomorrow afternoon.
An indictment or criminal complaint contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.
These cases were investigated by the Coachella Valley Gang Impact Team, which includes members of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office.
Sesser Man Pleads Guilty to Bankruptcy FraudRead the Press Release
On Wednesday, June 15, 2016, Scott L. Thompson, of Sesser, IL, pled guilty to bankruptcy fraud charges pending against him in federal court in Benton, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, James L. Porter, announced today. Thompson was indicted on February 2, 2016, as part of an effort to crackdown on those who commit fraud during the course of bankruptcy proceedings in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Illinois.
"My office is committed to ensuring the integrity of the federal bankruptcy system," Porter explained. "Individuals who hide their assets during bankruptcy cases are defrauding their creditors. When this type of conduct occurs in Southern Illinois, these individuals will be prosecuted. Bankruptcy is a tool to help people, not a place to commit fraud."
"I am grateful to Acting U. S. Attorney Porter and our law enforcement partners for their strong commitment to combating fraud and abuse in bankruptcy cases," stated Nancy J. Gargula, U. S. Trustee for Central Illinois, Southern Illinois and Indiana.
The indictment charged Thompson with one count of concealing assets and three counts of fraudulently withholding records in a bankruptcy case. In pleading guilty, Thompson admitted that he concealed from the Bankruptcy Court a $28,129.55 settlement he received for a worker’s compensation claim. In addition, Thompson acknowledged that he withheld copies of his federal and state tax returns, despite being ordered to turn them over by the Bankruptcy Court. Under federal law, tax refunds in amounts above certain thresholds must be paid to the Bankruptcy Court and used to pay back the creditors. Thompson’s chapter 13 bankruptcy case was filed and litigated in the United States Bankruptcy Court in Benton, Illinois.
Thompson’s sentencing hearing is scheduled for September 13, 2016, at 10:00 a.m. at the federal courthouse in Benton, Illinois. Each count of bankruptcy fraud is punishable by up to 5 years in federal prison, and/or a $250,000 fine, not more than three years of supervised release following the prison term, and restitution.
Assistance with the investigation was provided by members of the Southern Illinois Bankruptcy Fraud Working Group, coordinated by the U.S. Trustee, while the investigation was conducted by agents from the Springfield Division, Fairview Heights Resident Agency, of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Scott A. Verseman.
Sentencings for June 13, 2016Read the Press Release
Traci Adelle Raymer, 32, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on June 13, 2016, for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Raymer was arrested in Evanston, Wyoming. She received 18 months imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and restitution in the amount of $150.00. This case results from an ongoing Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) joint investigation conducted by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations, and those primarily responsible for the nation’s illegal drug supply.
Loc Thi My Nguyen, 43, of Oakland, California, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on June 13, 2016, for possession with intent to distribute marijuana. Nguyen was arrested in Cheyenne, Wyoming. She was sentenced to time served, to be followed by two years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation.
Seattle Man Pleads Guilty to Threatening Congressman over Democratic Primary ElectionRead the Press Release
A 27-year-old Seattle man pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court in Seattle to threatening a federal official, announced U.S. Attorney Annette L. Hayes. JASPER KILMER HILLMAN BELL admits he made multiple phone calls to the staff of Congressman Jim McDermott in mid-April 2016, and in one call threatened to cut out the congressman’s tongue. BELL expressed outrage over how delegates were being allocated between the two Democratic candidates for President and the role of Congressman McDermott as a ‘Super Delegate.’ Prosecutors will ask for up to a year in prison for BELL when he is sentenced by U.S. District Judge Robert S. Lasnik on October 28, 2016.
According to the plea agreement, in mid-April 2016, protestors went to Congressman McDermott’s office unhappy about his support for a particular Democratic presidential candidate as a ‘Super Delegate.’ BELL had written to the Congressman three times about the Super Delegate controversy, and had called the office on multiple occasions. On April 22, 2016, BELL called the Congressman’s office in Seattle seventeen times, and his Washington DC office an additional six times in one fifty minute period. In the calls BELL expressed his outrage that protestors had been arrested at the Congressman’s office. Speaking with staffers BELL demanded to know the Congressman’s home address and said he would “track him down and cut his (expletive) tongue out.” He told one he would find Congressman McDermott’s home address and “…he would not be safe.” Following the angry phone calls BELL went to the Congressman’s office and pounded on the locked exterior doors demanding to be admitted to the offices. Seattle Police arrested BELL later that evening.
Under the terms of the plea agreement, prosecutors will ask for no more than one year in prison.
BELL was in custody in the King County Jail until federal charges were filed earlier this week. Following his guilty plea today he was released on the condition that he get anger management and mental health treatment. Under the terms of his release bond, BELL is required to have no contact with Congressman McDermott and his staff, and must stay a quarter mile from the Congressman’s office. BELL is required to stay a half mile away from any political rally in the state of Washington.
The case was investigated by the Seattle Police Department, U.S. Capitol Police and the FBI. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Todd Greenberg.
Rochester Man Sentenced on Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX: (716) 551-3051ROCHESTER, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney William J. Hochul, Jr. announced today that Ronald Dodd, 32, of Rochester, NY, who was convicted of possession with intent to distribute heroin, and possession and brandishing of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, was sentenced to nine years in prison by U.S. District Judge Charles J. Siragusa. The defendant was also ordered to forfeit a .380 caliber pistol and rounds of ammunition.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert A. Marangola, who handled the case, stated that shortly after midnight on August 15, 2015, Rochester Police Department Officers responded to a report of gunfire at 431 Lake Avenue in Rochester. Officers spoke to a witness who stated that an unknown black male on a bike had pulled out a handgun from his waist and yelled that this was “his hood” during an argument outside the residence. Shortly afterward, witnesses heard gunshots and the gunman left the area. Responding officers observed Dodd riding a bike a short distance away and pursued him. The defendant fled but officers apprehended him hiding behind a bush at 17 Phelps Avenue. Dodd had three bags of marijuana, two bags of heroin, and two bags of cocaine in his pants. There was a stolen, Bryco Arms .380 semi-automatic handgun on the ground next to a tree where Dodd was apprehended.
The sentencing is the culmination of an investigation on the part of Special Agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives under the direction of Delano A. Reid, Special Agent in Charge, New York Field Division and the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief Michael Ciminelli.
Philadelphia Man Charged with Illegal Reentry After DeportationRead the Press Release
Nicolas Herrera, 55, of Philadelphia, PA, was charged today by Indictment with illegal reentry after deportation, announced United States Attorney Zane David Memeger. The indictment alleges that on or about May 19, 2016, Herrera, an alien, and native and citizen of the Dominican Republic, was found in the United States after having been deported from the United States on or about July 7, 2004 and July 22, 2009.
If convicted the defendant faces a maximum possible sentence of 20 years.
The case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anita Eve.
An Indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pennsylvania man sentenced for painkiller traffickingRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Kalif Briggs, 33, of Upper Darby, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 57 months in prison for transporting oxycodone across state lines today, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Briggs previously pled guilty in February 2016 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Oxycodone.” Briggs admitted to transporting oxycodone from Philadelphia to Morgantown, West Virginia for redistribution and sale.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Mon Metro Drug and Violent Crime Task Force investigated.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Orlando Man Indicted for Producing and Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Fort Myers, Florida – United States Attorney A. Lee Bentley, III announces the return of an indictment charging Jorge Guerrero-Torres (28, Orlando) with possession of child pornography and production of child pornography. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison on the possession charge, and minimum mandatory sentence of 15 years, up to 30 years, in federal prison on the production charge. Guerrero-Torres was arrested and made his initial appearance in federal court on June 6, 2016, in Fort Myers. He remains detained pending further proceedings
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It will be prosecuted by Chief Assistant United States Attorney Jesus M. Casas and Assistant United States Attorney Charles Schmitz.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
North Richland Hills Physician Admits Role in Health Care Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
DALLAS, Texas — A licensed physician from North Richland Hills, Texas, Byron Felton Conner, 48, pleaded guilty today to one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud stemming from a scheme to defraud Medicare through the submission of false claims for physician home visits and home health care services. The announcement was made today by U.S. Attorney John Parker of the Northern District of Texas.
Conner, who remains on bond, faces a maximum statutory penalty of 5 years in federal prison, a $250,000 fine, and may be ordered to pay restitution. Sentencing is scheduled for September 29, 2016, before U.S. District Judge Jane J. Boyle.
Conner is the fourth defendant to plead guilty in connection with a fraud scheme involving Paradise Home Health (Paradise), a home health agency that was owned and operated by Theophilus Adeoye, a licensed vocational nurse. Theophilus Adeoye, his wife and registered nurse Foluke Adeoye, and former Paradise employee, Stacey Shephard, all pleaded guilty last year.
According to documents filed in the case, from approximately March 2012 through September 2015 Conner worked with At Home Visiting Physicians as a contract physician serving patients throughout the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex. As part of the scheme, Conner signed physician orders for home health care that contained false information on behalf of Medicare beneficiaries who were not homebound or otherwise qualified for Medicare-covered home health care services. Conner knew that Paradise would use these falsified documents to support and justify fraudulent claims submitted to Medicare.
The FBI, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General, and the Texas Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit investigated. are investigating. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Douglas Brasher and John Kull are prosecuting.
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Newark Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for Multiple CarjackingsRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – An Essex County, New Jersey, man was sentenced today to 240 months in prison for his role in an armed carjacking spree between June 6, 2012, and June 22, 2012 U.S. Attorney Paul J. Fishman announced.
Jahleel McLendon, 22, of Newark, previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Kevin McNulty to an information charging him with five counts of theft of a motor vehicle by force, violence, and intimidation, and one count of brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. Judge McNulty imposed the sentenced today in Newark federal court.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
On June 6, 2012, McLendon approached a man sitting in the driver’s seat of a parked Chrysler 300 and ordered him out of the car at gunpoint. Several hours later, McLendon was still driving the Chrysler 300 when Newark police officers attempted to pull him over. McLendon led police on a car chase, eventually losing control of the vehicle and crashing into two parked cars and two utility poles. He eluded capture that day, and three days later, McLendon and an accomplice carjacked an Acura TL at gunpoint while the victim was loading the trunk of the car.
On June 15, 2012, McLendon and an accomplice carjacked a Chevrolet Trailblazer at gunpoint, and approximately twenty minutes later, used that Trailblazer to carjack a BMW 325 at a gas station in Newark. On June 22, 2012, McLendon carjacked a Chevrolet Impala at gunpoint. When the driver attempted to resist, McLendon threatened to shoot her. Less than two hours later, McLendon was still driving the Impala when Newark police officers attempted to pull him over. McLendon again led the police on a car chase before he drove into an empty parking lot and fled on foot. Newark Police officers quickly caught McLendon and arrested him. He was found to be possession of a loaded handgun and 46 glassine bags of heroin.
In addition to the prison term, Judge McNulty also sentenced McLendon to five years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Fishman credited the Newark Police Department, under the direction of Police Director Anthony Ambrose; special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Timothy Gallagher; detectives with the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Acting Prosecutor Carolyn A. Murray; and investigators in the U.S. Attorney’s Office with the investigation leading to today’s sentencing.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cari Fais of the Newark office.
Defense counsel: Carol Gillen Esq., Assistant Federal Public Defender, Newark
New York Man Sentenced to Two Years for Pharmacy RobberyRead the Press Release
Contact: Michael J. Conley
Assistant United States Attorney
Tel: (207) 780-3257Portland, Maine: United States Attorney Thomas E. Delahanty II announced that Scott McMahon, 33, of Orchard Park, New York, was sentenced yesterday in U.S. District Court by Judge Jon D. Levy to two years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release for pharmacy robbery. McMahon pleaded guilty to the charge on February 12, 2016.
According to court records, on September 10, 2014, McMahon entered a Rite Aid pharmacy in Saco, approached the pharmacy counter, told a pharmacy employee “I’m watching you” and then handed the employee a note which read “Give me oxycontin. If you don’t it will get ugly.” A pharmacist put 18 10 mg. Oxycontin pills worth $49 into a plastic bag and handed it to McMahon who absconded with them. Shortly after the robbery, McMahon was tracked by police to a Saco motel located about one-half mile from the pharmacy. His DNA was also found on a sweatshirt recovered by the police that appeared to have been worn by the robber.
The investigation was conducted by the Saco Police Department.
New York Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Charges Related to Sex Trafficking of a MinorRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – Marcell Greene, age 28, of Wyandanch, New York, pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to commit sex trafficking of a minor and to sex trafficking of a minor.
The guilty plea was announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Rod J. Rosenstein; Special Agent in Charge Andre R. Watson of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); Harford County Sheriff Jeffrey R. Gahler; Colonel William M. Pallozzi, Superintendent of the Maryland State Police; and the Maryland Department of Human Resources, Child Protective Services.
According to his plea agreement, from about February 2015 through April 12, 2015, Greene and a co-defendant advertised a 16 year old female on computer websites for commercial sex acts and transported her from New York to hotels in Virginia and Maryland to engage in commercial sex acts. On April 12, 2015, the victim called 911 from a hotel in Bel Air, Maryland. The victim told responding members of the Harford County Sheriff’s Office and the Department of Social Services that Greene and another man had taken her from New York to Virginia and Maryland to engage in commercial sex acts. The victim advised that on April 12, 2015, the day she called 911, she had something thrown at her because she refused to perform a specific sex act. Law enforcement and a child protective services worker saw swelling and bruising to the victim’s right cheek and right temple.
The investigation revealed that Greene registered and paid for hotel rooms in several locations where the victim performed commercial sex acts. Witnesses identified Greene as being in the area where the victim was engaging in commercial sex acts, and investigators uncovered texts between Greene and the co-defendant discussing commercial sex.
As part of his plea agreement, Greene must register as a sex offender in the place where he resides, where he is an employee, and where he is a student, under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA).
Greene faces a minimum mandatory sentence of 10 years in prison and a maximum of life in prison for sex trafficking of a minor, and up to life in prison for the conspiracy, each followed by up to lifetime of supervised release. U.S. District Judge James K. Bredar has scheduled sentencing for October 14, 2016 at 3:00 p.m.
This case was investigated by the Maryland Human Trafficking Task Force, formed in 2007 to discover and rescue victims of human trafficking while identifying and prosecuting offenders. Members include federal, state and local law enforcement, as well as victim service providers and local community members. For more information about the Maryland Human Trafficking Task Force, please visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/md/priorities_human.html.
Report suspected instances of human trafficking to HSI's tip line at 866-DHS-2ICE (1-866-347-2423) or by completing its online tip form. Both are staffed around the clock by investigators.
United States Attorney Rod J. Rosenstein commended HSI Baltimore, the Harford County Sheriff’s Office, Maryland State Police, and Maryland Department of Human Resources, Child Protective Services, for their work in the investigation. Mr. Rosenstein thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Ayn B. Duaco, who is prosecuting the case.
New Haven Man Pleads Guilty to Role in Scheme to Obtain Oxycodone Through Fraudulent PrescriptionsRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that RAYMOND MORALES, also known as “Freddy,” 32, of New Haven, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Alvin W. Thompson in Hartford to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute oxycodone.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2012, members of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad began an investigation into a drug trafficking organization that manufactured fraudulent prescriptions for oxycodone and distributed the drug in the greater New Haven area. As part of the conspiracy, members of organization obtained the personal identifying information of medical practitioners and used the information to create fraudulent prescriptions. Conspiracy members also purchased legitimate prescriptions for oxycodone from individuals. The organization then used individuals, or “runners,” to fill the fraudulent prescriptions at pharmacies throughout Connecticut. Once a runner provided his or her personal information to a member of the organization, the runner’s information was kept on file and used to create other fraudulent prescriptions.
The investigation revealed that, between February 2013 and September 2015, the organization stole the personal identifying information of more than 50 doctors and medical professionals and fraudulently obtained more than 80,000 oxycodone pills.
Nearly all of the runners employed by the conspiracy held state-sponsored medical insurance, so the costs of the prescriptions were billed to Medicaid. Members of the drug trafficking organization then sold the oxycodone for $20 to $30 per 30 milligram pill.
MORALES recruited runners to fill fraudulent prescriptions. The investigation also revealed that he had a close associate who was employed as a pharmacy technician at a pharmacy in New Haven and assisted MORALES in filling the fake prescriptions.
Judge Thompson scheduled sentencing for October 11, 2016, at which time MORALES faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
A total of 11 individuals have been charged as a result of the investigation. Four of the defendants have previously pleaded guilty and also await sentencing.
The DEA Tactical Diversion Squad includes members from the New Haven, Hamden, Greenwich, Shelton, Bristol, Vernon, Wilton and Milford Police Departments.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Amy C. Brown and Robert M. Spector.
Morgantown man convicted, sentenced for escapeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Franklin McVay, 30, of Morgantown, West Virginia, was convicted and sentenced today for escape, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
In March 2016, McVay escaped from custody at the Dismas Charities of Clarksburg Halfway House in Harrison County, West Virginia.
McVay pled guilty today to an Information charging him with one count of “Escape.” He was sentenced today to twelve months and one day in prison.Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew R. Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The United States Marshals Service investigated.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Mission Man Sentenced for Child Abuse and Aiding and AbettingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Child Abuse was sentenced on June 13, 2016, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Tate Luta Red Feather, age 25, was sentenced to 18 months in custody, followed by 2 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Red Feather was indicted for Child Abuse and Making False Statements to a Federal Agent by a federal grand jury on October 14, 2015. He pled guilty to Child Abuse on March 8, 2016.
On June 3, 2015, Red Feather was drinking and using marijuana with another adult and a teenager. At one point, the group took Red Feather’s vehicle and drove to the store to buy more alcohol, taking the defendant’s four-year-old son with them. They continued to consume alcohol as they drove around.
At approximately 6:20 pm, the group was traveling on BIA 1, south of St. Francis, in an area where the posted speed limit is 25 miles per hour. The teenager was driving, the adult was in the passenger seat, and Red Feather was in the back seat with his son. The vehicle was traveling at approximately 57 miles per hour when it came upon a curve, failed to negotiate the curve, overcorrected, and left the roadway before rolling multiple times.
Red Feather, the child, and the adult passenger were not wearing seat belts and were ejected from the vehicle. As a result of the wreck, the child suffered fractures to his skull and one closed rib fracture, and Red Feather suffered injuries to his head, neck, and left shoulder. The adult passenger died as a result of his injuries. Blood tests subsequently indicated both Red Feather’s and the teenager’s blood alcohol level to be above .10. The defendant’s blood test also indicated he had used marijuana.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk W. Albertson prosecuted the case.
Red Feather was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Man Sentenced for Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of two counts of Assaulting, Resisting, Opposing, and Impeding a Federal Officer was sentenced on June 13, 2016, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Lambert James Gunhammer, age 33, was sentenced to 22 months in custody, 3 years supervised release, a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, and $3,516.00 in restitution.
Gunhammer was indicted for two counts of Assaulting a Federal Officer by a federal grand jury on December 8, 2015. He pled guilty on March 7, 2016.
In the early morning hours of November 18, 2015, Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services responded to a call for service at the Rosebud Casino, when the casino manager reported Gunhammer as a danger. When the officers approached Gunhammer, he told the officers he smoked marijuana prior to going to the casino. Gunhammer was placed under arrest for drug charges and transported to the Adult Correctional Facility (ACF) in Rosebud. Gunhammer was released from tribal custody several hours later; however, he remained in the lobby of the ACF and refused to leave the building. At approximately 1:00 p.m. that day, a law enforcement officer approached Gunhammer in an effort to try to get him to leave the ACF facility. Gunhammer eventually agreed to leave the building with the officer; however, once outside, he attempted to pull the officer back into the building. He was arrested for disorderly conduct and escorted to the booking area of the ACF facility, where he was placed in the observation cell in the booking area and continued to yell at correctional officers.
At approximately 2:30 p.m. that same day, a corrections officer attempted to enter the observation cell. Gunhammer complied with the officer's initial instructions to stand away from the door, but as the officer attempted to open the door, Gunhammer charged and forced his way through to the booking area. The officer was able to place his arms around Gunhammer, but he continued to struggle with the officer. A second corrections officer was at a nearby computer station and immediately responded to the assault. The struggle moved from the door of the observation cell to behind the computer desk in the booking area. Gunhammer was able to free his left arm and began to throw any item he could reach to the ground, including several computer monitors. The struggle caused the second officer to fall into a concrete barrier by the computer station, where he hit his upper neck against a corner of the concrete. The second officer remained conscious but was dazed. At one point, Gunhammer grabbed a computer monitor and threw it to the ground, and the monitor hit the second officer in the head. The first officer deployed pepper spray in Gunhammer's face, and he attempted to run to another part of the facility.
Additional correctional officers then responded to the attack. Approximately 30 seconds after the attack began, the officers were able to enter the area and intercept Gunhammer as he moved from the computer desk to the open portion of the intake area. Gunhammer struck a third officer in the face while trying to evade the officers, who were then able to subdue him.
This case was investigated by Rosebud Sioux Tribe Adult Corrections Services and Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carrie G. Sanderson prosecuted the case.
Gunhammer was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Metairie Man Sentenced for Trafficking in over $150,000 in Counterfeit GoodsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Politce announced that BOUBACAR DIALLO, age 36, of Metairie, was sentenced today after previously pleading guilty to trafficking in counterfeit goods.
U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk sentenced DIALLO to five years probation and to pay restitution as follows: $760.65 to Polo by Ralph Lauren; $980 to Louis Vuitton; $400 to Hermes; and $170 to Nike.
According to court documents, on March 12, 2015, investigators with the Office of the Attorney General Investigation Division and agents with the United States Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations, acting on information that DIALLO was involved in the purchase and subsequent sale of large quantities of counterfeit merchandise, met DIALLO at his residence in Metairie. Law enforcement officials observed numerous cardboard boxes full of counterfeit merchandise. They subsequently verified as counterfeit 111 pairs of “True Religion” blue jeans; 166 “Michael Kors” purses; 67 “Michael Kors” pocketbooks; 87 “Michael Kors” watches; 6 pair of “Nike” tennis shoes; 9 pair of “Polo” pants; 8 pair of “Polo” shirts; and 693 counterfeit Michael Kors labels. The collective fair market value of all the counterfeit items and was approximately $158,049. DIALLO admitted that he knew the items he was selling were counterfeit and that he had purchased them from individuals in Atlanta and New York City. DIALLO also admitted to renting storage units to hide and store the counterfeit merchandise.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Louisiana Department of Justice / Office of the Attorney General Investigation Division and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg was in charge of the prosecution.
Member of Violent Home Invasion Robbery Crew Sentenced to 420 Months for Conspiring to Commit Drug Robberies, Conspiring to Distribute Cocaine and Heroin, and Illegally Using A FirearmRead the Press Release
Nelson Nolasco was sentenced today to 420 months in prison by United States District Judge I. Leo Glasser at the federal courthouse in Brooklyn. In the middle of his jury trial held in November 2011, Nolasco pleaded guilty to robbery conspiracy, cocaine trafficking conspiracy, and firearm charges.
The sentence was announced by Robert L. Capers, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, and James J. Hunt, Special Agent-in-Charge, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), New York Division.
Nolasco is the last of 25 defendants to be sentenced in this prosecution of a violent robbery crew that targeted drug traffickers. During some of these robberies, members of the robbery crew posed as law enforcement officers, staged fake arrests of narcotics traffickers, and then forcibly seized the traffickers’ drugs and drug proceeds. Members of the robbery crew often restrained their victims with handcuffs, rope, or duct tape. The crew members often brandished firearms and physically assaulted victims. Crew members sold the stolen drugs and divided the proceeds among themselves. To date, the prosecution has resulted in the conviction of two NYPD officers and one NYPD auxiliary officer, all of whom participated in multiple drug robberies.
Nolasco was a particularly violent member of the robbery crew who participated in at least 15 robberies and attempted robberies, during which he and his co-conspirators robbed narcotics traffickers of at least 118 kilograms of cocaine and $150,400 in U.S. currency.
During one such robbery in upper Manhattan in 2005, Nolasco shot and killed a narcotics trafficker who refused to reveal the location of drugs. Nolasco and his co-conspirator later recovered two kilograms of cocaine from the victim’s apartment. During an attempted robbery of a residence in the Bronx in 2005, Nolasco and his co-conspirators broke down the rear door with a sledgehammer, entered the residence, and handcuffed four occupants of the house. Nolasco then personally threatened these victims at gunpoint. During a robbery in Queens in 2006, Nolasco and his co-conspirators, impersonating police officers, abducted a drug trafficker and brought him to his stash house. While forcing the drug trafficker into the stash house, the crew encountered two additional drug traffickers. Nolasco jumped on one of the drug traffickers and placed a gun to his head until he revealed the location of drugs at the stash house.
In another incident in June 2006, Nolasco attempted to murder two drug traffickers in the Bronx. A few weeks earlier, the drug traffickers had provided Nolasco with 10 kilograms of cocaine to sell. When the drug traffickers met with Nolasco to collect the narcotics proceeds, Nolasco shot them rather than pay them the money from the sale. After shooting both drug traffickers in the abdomen, Nolasco tried to complete the murder with shots to each victim’s head but his gun jammed twice. Both drug traffickers survived the shooting.
Mr. Capers extended his grateful appreciation to the DEA New York Drug Enforcement Task Force, comprising agents and officers of the DEA, New York City Police Department, and New York State Police; and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations.
The government’s case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Alexander Solomon, Douglas M. Pravda, and Sylvia S. Shweder.
The Defendant:
NELSON NOLASCO
Age: 44
Dominican RepublicE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 08-CR-242
Medway Man Sentenced for Extortion ActivitiesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Medway man was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Worcester in connection with his role in an extortion scheme.
Baljit Singh Rehal, a/k/a Joel Rehal, 32, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Timothy S. Hillman to 33 months in prison, three years of supervised release and ordered to pay $180,000 in restitution to the victim, and to forfeit an additional $180,000 to the government. In October 2014, Rehal and Nicholas D. Valorie, III, of Milford, were charged with collection of extension of credit by extortionate means. Rehal pleaded guilty to the charges in August 2015.
Between December 2012 and January 2014, Rehal, Valorie and others perpetrated a scheme in which they convinced a man that he owed money to the FBI for an alleged whistleblower investigation. They proceeded to collect payments on the $180,000 debt from the man. When the man could not make the payments, Rehal and others would purportedly loan him money and have him sign promissory notes to repay the money to them. Rehal used extortionate means to collect an extension of credit made to the victim, or to punish him for the non-repayment.
Valorie was released on pretrial diversion. If he completes the conditions of pretrial diversion, including repaying the victim, the case against him will be dismissed.
United States Attorney Carmen M. Ortiz; Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division; Milford Police Chief Thomas O’Loughlin; and Medway Police Chief Allen M. Tingley made the announcement. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle L. Dineen Jerrett of Ortiz’s Worcester Branch Office.
Media Advisory: Elder Justice Task Force LaunchedRead the Press Release
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The United States Attorney’s Office was selected as one of 10 nationwide districts to form an Elder Justice Task Force (http://go.usa.gov/cSngj). The task force’s charge is to foster a collaborative working relationship among all levels of government, advocacy groups, and others charged with the care and protection of our more vulnerable citizens. Ensuring the integrity of all government expenditures by eliminating fraud, waste, and abuse in health programs and protecting seniors from financial fraud schemes are primary goals of the task force.
U.S. Attorney Kevin W. Techau will be present at the press conference and will be joined by some task force members. This event is being held at an area church that serves as a senior center and congregate lunch location during the week. Seniors will be present.
Event Details
When: Monday, June 20, 2016
Where: Oakhill Jackson Community Church, 1202 10th St. S.E., Cedar Rapids, IA
Time: 11:00 a.m.
A press release will be provided and interview opportunities will be available.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Matthew Martin Indicted for Multiple Armed RobberiesRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that a federal grand jury indicted Matthew T. Martin, 31, from the Springfield area of Vermont, for armed robberies of a bank in Brattleboro and a credit union in Ludlow. Martin appeared in federal court on June 14, 2016 for his arraignment on the two-count indictment. Magistrate Judge John M. Conroy ordered Martin remanded to custody and detained pending trial.
As charged in the indictment, on December 14, 2015, Martin committed an armed robbery of a branch of the People’s United Bank in Brattleboro, Vermont. In committing this offense, Martin assaulted others by using a dangerous weapon and device. Specifically, Martin robbed the bank by using a BB gun that resembled a firearm and by using a device that purported to be a bomb.
Shortly thereafter, on December 21, 2015, Martin committed an armed robbery of a branch of the Heritage Family Credit Union in Ludlow, Vermont. Again, Martin assaulted others by using a dangerous weapon, specifically, a BB gun that resembled a firearm.
Martin surrendered in December 2015 after the U.S. Marshals publicly named him a “Fugitive of the Week” based on outstanding arrest warrants in both New Hampshire and Vermont arising out a string of armed robberies. Authorities are continuing to investigate Martin for additional robberies he may have committed in 2015, other than the two robberies charged in the indictment announced by the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
The charges against Martin are merely accusations and Martin is presumed innocent until and unless he is proven guilty. If convicted, Martin faces a maximum penalty of up to twenty-five years in prison for each of the two counts of armed robbery. The actual sentence upon conviction will be advised by the federal sentencing guidelines.
The collaborative team investigating Martin has included federal, state, and local law enforcement agents, including those from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Vermont State Police, the New Hampshire State Police, and the police departments in Brattleboro, Springfield, and Ludlow.
The United States is represented in this case by Assistant United States Attorney Kunal Pasricha. Martin is represented by attorney Jordana Levine.
Manteca Man Indicted for Attempted Sexual Exploitation of a MinorRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a four-count indictment today against Michael Tamblin, 51, of Manteca, charging him with attempted sexual exploitation of a minor, Acting U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to the indictment, in September and October of 2015, Tamblin surreptitiously filmed a child on numerous occasions using a hidden camera.
According to court documents, Tamblin was a technician at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), which is a secured federal laboratory owned by the United States Department of Energy. All internet searches on the LLNL network are recorded and periodically audited. A routine review of internet searches on Tamblin’s computer revealed potentially inappropriate activity. Further investigation led law enforcement officers to obtain a search warrant for Tamblin’s residence. On February 19, 2016, Tamblin was arrested and has remained in custody since that date.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Energy, Office of Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorney Rosanne Rust is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Tamblin faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison and a maximum statutory penalty of 30 years in prison and a $250,000 fine per count. 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.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. Click on the “resources” tab for information about internet safety education.
Manchester Man Sentenced on Bank Robbery ChargeRead the Press Release
CONCORD, N.H. – Eric Michael D’Aoust, 30, of Manchester, New Hampshire, appeared in U.S. District Court today and was sentenced to 63 months in federal prison for committing three bank robberies in Manchester, New Hampshire in November of last year.
The defendant, who was identified by bank personnel and through surveillance video, robbed the Granite State Credit Union at 1415 Elm Street on November 9, 2015. On November 12, 2015 D’Aoust robbed the TD Bank at 300 Franklin Street and on November 13, 2015 D’Aoust robbed the TD Bank at 1255 South Willow Street. In the course of each robbery, the defendant entered the bank and passed a note to the teller demanding that the teller give him all the cash in the drawers.
The defendant was arrested on November 13, 2015 in the area of the TD Bank on South Willow Street shortly after the robbery. At the time of his arrest, the defendant had an amount of money on his person consistent with the amount stolen from the TD Bank. In January, 2016, the defendant was indicted by a Federal Grand Jury and on March 8, 2016, D’Aoust pled guilty before United States Chief Judge, Joseph Laplante.
The defendant will be supervised by United States Probation for a period of three years after his release from prison.
This case was investigated by the Manchester Police Department with the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Helen White Fitzgibbon.
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Long Island Man Pleads Guilty to Defrauding Homeowners in Multi-Million Dollar Loan Modification SchemeRead the Press Release
Earlier today, David Gotterup pleaded guilty at the federal courthouse in Brooklyn, New York, to conspiracy to commit wire fraud by defrauding distressed homeowners in a loan modification scheme. When sentenced, Gotterup faces up to 30 years in prison, as well as restitution, criminal forfeiture, and a fine.
The guilty plea was announced by Robert L. Capers, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York; Diego Rodriguez, Assistant Director-in-Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI); Christina Scaringi, Special Agent-in-Charge, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General (HUD/OIG); and Christy Goldsmith Romero, Special Inspector General for the Troubled Asset Relief Program (SIGTARP).
According to court filings and facts presented at the guilty plea proceeding, from 2008 to 2012, Gotterup and his co-conspirators made a series of false promises to convince more than a thousand distressed homeowners seeking relief through government mortgage modification programs to pay thousands of dollars each in advance fees to numerous companies owned or controlled by Gotterup, including Express Modifications, Express Home Solutions, True Credit Empire, LLC, Green Group Today, Inc., The Green Law Group, Inc., and JG Group. Among other things, Gotterup directed telemarketers and salespeople to lie to distressed homeowner victims by telling them that they were preapproved for loan modifications and that they were retaining a law firm and an attorney who would complete their mortgage relief applications and negotiate with the banks to modify the terms of their mortgages. Contrary to these representations, Gotterup and his co-conspirators did little or no work in connection with these fraudulently induced advanced fees. Gotterup was arrested in October 2015 and remains incarcerated.
In announcing the guilty plea, Mr. Capers extended his appreciation to the agencies that led the government’s investigation and thanked the U.S. Small Business Administration and the Staten Island District Attorney’s Office for their assistance.
Today’s guilty plea took place before United States District Judge Nicholas G. Garaufis.
The government’s case is being prosecuted by the Office’s Business and Securities Fraud Section. Assistant United States Attorneys Sylvia Shweder and Bonni Perlin are in charge of the prosecution.
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This prosecution was the result of efforts by President Obama’s Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force (FFETF) which was created in November 2009 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, visit http://www.StopFraud.gov.
The Defendant:
DAVID GOTTERUP
Age: 36
Oceanside, New YorkE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 15-CR-498 (NGG)
Lockport Man Pleads Guilty to Gun ChargeRead 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 Bob Odrzywolski, 72, of Lockport, NY, pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of firearms before U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Woldford. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney George C. Burgasser, who is handling the case, stated that the defendant, a convicted federal felon, obtained ammunition from a local retailer. Subsequently, a search warrant was executed at Odrzywolski’s Crosby Road residence. During the search, officers recovered seven handguns and approximately 6000 rounds of ammunition. The defendant was previously convicted of a federal crime and could not legally possess firearms.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Niagara County Sheriff’s Department, under the direction of Sheriff James Voutour and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Delano A. Reid, New York Field Division.Sentencing is scheduled for September 21, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. before Judge Wolford.
Kyle Man Indicted for Assaulting a FemaleRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Kyle, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury.
Wilbur Hunter, age 52, was indicted on May 24, 2016. Hunter appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on June 10, 2016, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges relate to Hunter using a blunt object to assault a female at Kyle on March 10, 2016.
The charges are merely accusations and Hunter is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Office of Justice Services, and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen is prosecuting the case.
Hunter was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has been set for August 16, 2016.
Justice Department settles disability-based housing discrimination lawsuit with developer and architectRead the Press Release
The Justice Department announced today that Dean Windham and Milton Studer, a real estate developer and an architect in Ohio, as well as several companies that they owned and controlled, have agreed to pay a total of $160,000 to resolve allegations that they violated the Fair Housing Act by designing and constructing two neighboring condominium complexes in Hartville, Ohio, with a variety of features that made them inaccessible to persons with disabilities.
Under the terms of the agreement, which must still be approved by the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Ohio, the defendants will pay $100,000 to current condominium owners at Windham Bridge Condominiums and Hampton Court Condominiums who choose to make accessibility modifications to their units. These modifications include eliminating steps and excessive slopes in the walkways to the front entrances of their units; widening doorways; removing or lowering thresholds; installing removable cabinets in kitchens and bathrooms to increase maneuvering space for wheelchair use and relocating toilets, showers and sinks to provide access to a wheelchair user.
“This settlement makes clear that those who design and build multifamily housing must comply with the accessibility provisions of the Fair Housing Act,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Vanita Gupta, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “We will continue to protect the rights of people with disabilities to live in their communities without facing barriers like inaccessible housing.”
“Accessible housing benefits the entire community,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Carole S. Rendon of the Northern District of Ohio. “It provides living options for people with mobility impairments, and helps ensure that our older residents can stay in their homes as long as possible. The Department of Justice is committed to enforcing the laws which protect this important right.”
Under the agreement, the defendants will also pay $10,000 to the Tri-County Center for Independent Living and $10,000 to the Fair Housing Advocates Association, two fair housing community organizations that expended resources in connection with this matter, as well as a $40,000 civil penalty to vindicate the public interest. The lawsuit arose out of complaints that Tri-County Center for Independent Living and the Fair Housing Advocates Association originally filed with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). After investigating the complaints, HUD determined that the defendants had violated the Fair Housing Act and referred the matter to the Justice Department.
“One out of five persons in America lives with some type of physical disability, making it more important than ever that architects and builders comply with the Fair Housing Act’s accessibility requirements,” said Gustavo Velasquez, HUD’s Assistant Secretary for Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity. “Today’s settlement reaffirms HUD and the Justice Department’s commitment to ensuring that housing providers meet that obligation.”
The federal Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination in housing on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, familial status, national origin and disability. Individuals who believe that they have been victims of housing discrimination can call the Justice Department at 1-800-896-7743 or e-mail the Justice Department at [email protected]. Such persons may also contact the Department of Housing and Urban Development at 1-800-669-9777.
Fair housing enforcement is a priority of the Civil Rights Division. More information about the Civil Rights Division and the laws it enforces is available at http://www.justice.gov/crt.
Justice Department Statement on Amendment 4720 to the Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations BillRead the Press Release
Press Secretary Dena Iverson released the following statement regarding proposed amendment 4720 to the Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies (CJS) Appropriations Bill by Senator Dianne Feinstein.
“The Justice Department supports Senator Feinstein's amendment to help keep guns out of the hands of individuals believed to be engaged in terrorism. The amendment gives the Justice Department an important additional tool to prevent the sale of guns to suspected terrorists by licensed firearms dealers while ensuring protection of the department's operational and investigative sensitivities. We also continue to support universal background checks as a necessary tool to prevent suspected terrorists from lawfully obtaining firearms."
Justice Department Settles Disability-Based Housing Discrimination Lawsuit with Ohio Developer and ArchitectRead the Press Release
The Justice Department announced today that Dean Windham and Milton Studer, a real estate developer and an architect in Ohio, as well as several companies that they owned and controlled, have agreed to pay a total of $160,000 to resolve allegations that they violated the Fair Housing Act by designing and constructing two neighboring condominium complexes in Hartville, Ohio, with a variety of features that made them inaccessible to persons with disabilities.
Under the terms of the agreement, which must still be approved by the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Ohio, the defendants will pay $100,000 to current condominium owners at Windham Bridge Condominiums and Hampton Court Condominiums who choose to make accessibility modifications to their units. These modifications include eliminating steps and excessive slopes in the walkways to the front entrances of their units; widening doorways; removing or lowering thresholds; installing removable cabinets in kitchens and bathrooms to increase maneuvering space for wheelchair use and relocating toilets, showers and sinks to provide access to a wheelchair user.
“This settlement makes clear that those who design and build multifamily housing must comply with the accessibility provisions of the Fair Housing Act,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Vanita Gupta, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “We will continue to protect the rights of people with disabilities to live in their communities without facing barriers like inaccessible housing.”
“Accessible housing benefits the entire community,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Carole S. Rendon of the Northern District of Ohio. “It provides living options for people with mobility impairments, and helps ensure that our older residents can stay in their homes as long as possible. The Department of Justice is committed to enforcing the laws which protect this important right.”
Under the agreement, the defendants will also pay $10,000 to the Tri-County Center for Independent Living and $10,000 to the Fair Housing Advocates Association, two fair housing community organizations that expended resources in connection with this matter, as well as a $40,000 civil penalty to vindicate the public interest. The lawsuit arose out of complaints that Tri-County Center for Independent Living and the Fair Housing Advocates Association originally filed with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). After investigating the complaints, HUD determined that the defendants had violated the Fair Housing Act and referred the matter to the Justice Department.
“One out of five persons in America lives with some type of physical disability, making it more important than ever that architects and builders comply with the Fair Housing Act’s accessibility requirements,” said Gustavo Velasquez, HUD’s Assistant Secretary for Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity. “Today’s settlement reaffirms HUD and the Justice Department’s commitment to ensuring that housing providers meet that obligation.”
The federal Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination in housing on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, familial status, national origin and disability. Individuals who believe that they have been victims of housing discrimination can call the Justice Department at 1-800-896-7743 or e-mail the Justice Department at [email protected]. Such persons may also contact the Department of Housing and Urban Development at 1-800-669-9777.
Fair housing enforcement is a priority of the Civil Rights Division. More information about the Civil Rights Division and the laws it enforces is available at http://www.justice.gov/crt.
Noble Homes Consent Order
Jefferson County Man Arrested for Terroristic Threat in BeaumontRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas – A 23-year-old Beaumont, Texas man has been arrested for federal violations in the Eastern District of Texas announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales.
Lance Giovanni Fontenot was arrested on Wednesday, June 15, 2016 pursuant to a criminal complaint issued by the U.S. District Court charging him with maliciously conveying false information about explosive materials. Fontenot appeared in federal court this afternoon on the charges.
According to information presented in court, on June 15, 2016, the ExxonMobil refinery located in Beaumont, Texas received a call from an individual claiming explosive devices had been placed at the refinery and were set to explode. An investigation led authorities to Fontenot. Fontenot was questioned by federal agents and admitted to placing the telephone call.
If convicted, Fontenot faces up 10 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
This case is being investigated by the Joint Terrorism Task Force including agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Beaumont Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, the U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Services, and the Port Arthur Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lesley Woods.
It is important to note that a complaint, arrest, or indictment should not be considered is evidence of guilt and that all persons charged with a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Jamaican Citizen Pleads Guilty to Illegal Re-Entry After DeportationRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH -- A citizen of Jamaica pleaded guilty to Illegal Re-Entry in the United States after Deportation and was sentenced in federal court to twelve months on his conviction, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Dwayne Lawrence Facey, a/k/a Dwayne Brown; Kimarley Williams; Damien Weatherspoon; Dameon Weatherspoon; Euvin Hunter; Roy Facey; “Euvin,” 40, formerly of Jamaica.
According to information presented to the court, Dwayne Facey, an alien who was removed from the United States by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement on September 22, 2000, and again on September 21, 2006, was found on August 5, 2015, by law enforcement authorities in Pittsburgh, PA.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Homeland Security Investigations, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and U.S. Marshals Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Dwayne Facey.
Inmate at United States Penitentiary Enters Guilty Plea to Assault of Corrections OfficerRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that a federal inmate at the United States Penitentiary at Canaan pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion in Scranton to the charge of assaulting a federal corrections officer.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, Orlando Garcia-Mata, age 24, formerly of Texas, admitted to throwing a punch at a corrections officer at the United States Penitentiary at Canaan on March 22, 2016.
Garcia-Mata was indicted by a federal grand jury in Scranton in April 2016, as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Prisons Special Investigative Service
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. O’Hara
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.
In this case, the maximum penalty which can be imposed under federal law is 8 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a $100,000 fine.
Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Indiana Man Sentenced to Life Imprisonment for Muscatine Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA- On June 16, 2016, Thomas Alexander Davis III, age 40, of Indiana, was sentenced by Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey to life imprisonment for bank robbery announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. A jury found Davis guilty of this offense on February 11, 2016. Davis had been previously convicted in 1995 of armed bank robbery in the Southern District of Indiana, and robbery with a deadly weapon in Hancock, Indiana. At sentencing the government presented evidence, including certified records and testimony from a FBI Special Agent, an Indiana Deputy U.S. Marshal, a FBI-Biometrics Division Certified Ten Print Examiner, and the Chief of Police from Greenfield, Indiana, to identify Davis as the same person who committed these prior two offenses. Because these two prior robbery convictions qualified as "serious violent felonies" under a federal sentencing statute, this third conviction for robbery of the US Bank mandated life imprisonment. Davis was also ordered to serve five years on supervised release, pay restitution, and a $100 special assessment to the Crime Victims Fund.
The evidence at trial in this case showed that on November 28, 2012, Davis entered the US Bank in Muscatine. Davis presented the teller with a black bag with an Angry Birds cartoon, demanded money, and displayed a handgun. A bank customer was also present at the teller counter during the robbery. The teller placed US Bank cash in the bag. Davis fled the bank and escaped in a black Cadillac driven by Stacey Fincher, also of Indiana. Davis and Fincher drove back to Indiana. Davis was arrested on February 12, 2015, in Indiana. On April 8, 2016, Stacey Fincher was sentenced to a deferred judgment in Muscatine County District Court after pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit a forcible felony.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Muscatine Police Department, and prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
High-speed chase leads to firearms charges for Maurice manRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced today that a man from Maurice pleaded guilty to having an unregistered sawed-off shotgun.
Kevin Patrick Abshire, 31, of Maurice, La., pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Carol B. Whitehurst to one count of possession of an unregistered firearm; namely, a shotgun having a barrel less than 18 inches in length. The plea will become final when accepted by U.S. District Judge Dee D. Drell. According to the guilty plea, Abshire admitted that on June 6, 2015, he was involved in a high-speed car chase within the city limits of Lafayette and Lafayette Parish, after he nearly struck an officer of the Lafayette Police Department while that officer was directing traffic at an accident scene. Instead of following the directions of the officers on the scene to turn off the engine to his vehicle, Abshire admitted that he drove away at a high rate of speed, causing officers of the Lafayette Police Department and the Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office to pursue Abshire’s vehicle. Abshire was involved in a single-vehicle accident near the Ridge Road area of Lafayette, and upon exiting the vehicle, officers noticed that he was in possession of a shotgun. Officers were successful in subduing Abshire and placing him into custody. The investigation revealed that the shotgun Abshire possessed when he exited the vehicle was not registered to him in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record, was loaded, and had a barrel length of 13-7/8 inches.
Abshire faces up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a $250,000 fine. A sentencing date has not been set.
The ATF, Lafayette Police Department and Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel J. McCoy prosecuted the case.
Guilty Pleas in Federal Firearms, Violent Crime CasesRead the Press Release
Rock Island, Ill. – Three felons entered pleas of guilty in separate, unrelated cases today in federal court in Rock Island, Ill. Each remains in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending their respective sentencing hearing.
During court proceedings and according to court documents, Gregory F. Young, 37 of South Bend, Ind., admitted that he possessed a loaded .40 caliber Smith & Wesson semi-automatic pistol, an SKS-type 7.62mm rifle with folding stock and bayonet, about 13 rounds of .40 caliber ammunition, and about 221 rounds of 7.62 ammunition loaded in eight SKS high capacity magazines when he was stopped by Illinois State Police on Nov. 20, 2015, in Henry County, Ill. At that time, Young was the subject of an active arrest warrant from Indiana. Young also has prior felony convictions from the State of Indiana for burglary and other offenses. At sentencing, set for Oct. 20, 2016, for possession of firearms and ammunition by a felon, Young faces a penalty of up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three years supervised release following release from prison. Assistant U.S. Attorney Don Allegro is prosecuting the case which was investigated by the Illinois State Police and the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives.
In an unrelated case, Robert Ford, 22, of Rock Island, Ill., pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm and ammunition by a felon. According to court documents, Ford was stopped by Moline, Ill., police officers during the early morning hours of Dec. 2, 2015. The officers had received an alert that Ford and others might be planning to take retaliatory action against a citizen of Moline in connection with a shooting in Rock Island on Dec. 2, 2015. Ford was searched and found to be carrying a loaded .38-caliber, 2-shot handgun in a jacket pocket. Ford has prior felony convictions for aggravated battery and burglary from Rock Island County, Ill. At sentencing, also set for Oct. 20, 2016, Ford faces a penalty of up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three years supervised release following release from prison. Assistant U.S. Attorney Don Allegro is prosecuting the case which was investigated by the Moline Police Department and the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives.
Walker Hampton, 41 of Viola, Ill., pled guilty to robbery of U.S. government property from a post office, brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence, being a felon in possession of a firearm(s), and possession of stolen firearms. Hampton admitted to the Jan. 24, 2015, robbery of the Taylor Ridge, Ill., Post Office, during which he brandished a firearm at the two postal workers, and took money from a postal bag. Hampton was taken into custody on Feb. 25, 2015, by the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office. Following his arrest, in Hampton’s home, officers found the Jimenez Arms 9mm pistol Hampton used in the robbery. In addition, officers found a Mossberg 12-gauge shotgun and a Smith & Wesson .40 caliber handgun. Both of those weapons were found to have been stolen during a burglary of a home in Rock Island County, which Hampton admitted committing. Hampton has a prior felony conviction for possession of a controlled substance in Muscatine, Iowa. At Hampton’s sentencing, scheduled on Oct. 20, 2016, he faces up to 25 years in prison for the robbery, a consecutive seven years for brandishing a firearm during the crime, and up to 10 years in prison for the possession of a firearm and stolen firearms, up to a $250,000 fine and up to five years of supervised release. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Linda Mott. The Rock Island County Sheriff’s Office, the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation of the charges.