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23 June 2016
Storeowner Admits Selling Drug Paraphernalia, Counterfeit Sports HatsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – An Allegheny County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of selling and offering for sale drug paraphernalia, conspiracy to sell and offer for sale drug paraphernalia, and trademark counterfeiting, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Akhil Mishra, 72, of Glenshaw, Pa., (Indiana Twp.) pleaded guilty to four counts before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.
In connection with the guilty plea, Assistant United States Attorney Troy Rivetti advised the Court that the Mishra family has been selling drug paraphernalia for more than twenty years, mainly through two stores -- Giggles, located in downtown Pittsburgh, and Rock America, located in the North Hills. Akhil Mishra was federally convicted of selling drug paraphernalia in both 1992 and 2000, and he owned and operated the Giggles store, along with his wife. Both Giggles and Rock America, however, carried much of the same merchandise, including various types of drug paraphernalia. In February 2013, agents executed search warrants at the Mishra family businesses (Giggles and Rock America), and at the homes of both Akhil Mishra and his son, Mayank Mishra, and found evidence of drug paraphernalia, including products used to dilute heroin, glassine stamp bags for packaging heroin, various marijuana-related paraphernalia, and more than $900,000 in cash.
Based on the foregoing, Mayank Mishra was arrested and granted bond. Subsequent to his release, agents received information that Mayank Mishra was continuing to sell heroin cutting agents and glassine bags for packaging. Agents then utilized a confidential informant to purchase cutting agents and glassine bags, and the confidential informant successfully recorded the transaction. The confidential informant explicitly asked for “cut” and “bags”, and Mayank Mishra provided a material typically used to dilute heroin and the glassine stamp bags typically used to store heroin. Based on that information, agents obtained another set of search warrants for Mayank Mishra’s business and home. Once again, agents seized additional heroin cutting agents, glassine bags, marijuana paraphernalia, and cash ($86,000). Mayank Mishra was arrested a second time, and he was detained pending trial. Akhil Mishra was present in the courtroom when the evidence against his son was discussed, as well as the illegality of the drug paraphernalia.
The arrest of his son did not stop Akhil Mishra from continuing to sell cut and stamp bags to heroin dealers. The agents received information that Akhil Mishra was continuing to sell that merchandise, and a confidential informant was able to make a controlled purchase from his store in June 2014. That evidence led to the execution of a third set of search warrants at various locations associated with the Mishra family and their businesses in July 2014. Once again, the agents found cut, stamp bags, and marijuana-related paraphernalia.
Separate and apart from the drug paraphernalia investigation, investigators with the Pennsylvania State Police received information that Akhil Mishra was selling counterfeit Major League Baseball Hats. In December 2014, an investigator entered Giggles and observed counterfeit Pittsburgh Pirates winter hats and baseball hats. On Feb. 25, 2015, the same investigator purchased an unlicensed counterfeit Pittsburgh Pirates winter hat. The following day, Pennsylvania State Police investigators obtained and executed a search warrant at Giggles, resulting in the seizure of the following counterfeit merchandise: 137 Pittsburgh Steelers winter hats; seven Pittsburgh Steelers headbands; 79 Pittsburgh Pirates baseball hats; 23 various National Football League winter hats; 14 National Basketball Association winter hats; seven Philadelphia Eagles hats; two Miami Dolphins hats; one Baltimore Ravens hat, one Chicago Bears hat; five Denver Broncos hats; six Seattle Seahawks hats; one Green Bay Packers hat; eight Chicago Bulls hats; and six Los Angeles Lakers hats.
Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for Aug. 25, 2016, at 2:15 pm. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of nine years in prison, a fine of $2,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
The Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force consisting of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Sheriff's Office, Wilkinsburg Police Department, Allegheny County Police Department, Oakdale Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Akhil Mishra.
South Dartmouth Man Indicted on Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A South Dartmouth man was indicted today on child pornography offenses.
Jack L. Bean, Jr., 29, was indicted on one count of receipt of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography. Bean was charged in a criminal complaint and arrested in April 2016.
According to the court documents, in September 2015, a law enforcement investigation identified an Internet-based bulletin board dedicated to the advertisement, distribution and production of child pornography with over 1,500 users who actively post new content and engage in online discussions involving the sexual exploitation of minors. Bean was allegedly identified as a user on the bulletin board. During a search executed by law enforcement officers, Bean admitted that he downloaded and saved child pornography from the Internet, and that he had a sexual preference for girls approximately 14 years old. During the execution of the search warrant, agents identified 40 images and 29 videos of children engaged in sexually explicit conduct on Bean’s laptop.
The charge of receipt of child pornography provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and no greater than 20 years in prison, a mandatory minimum of five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000. The charge of possession of child pornography provides for a sentence of no greater than 20 years in prison, a mandatory minimum of five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Carmen M. Ortiz; Matthew Etre, Special Agent in Charge of the Homeland Security Investigations in Boston; Colonel Richard D. McKeon, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; and Dartmouth Police Chief Robert W. Szala, made the announcement today. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Suzanne Sullivan Jacobus of Ortiz’s Major Crimes Unit.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Slidell Man Pleads Guilty to Receiving Images and Videos Depicting the Sexual Exploitation of ChildrenRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that BRIAN GRACO, age 35, of Slidell, pled guilty today to receiving images and videos depicting the sexual exploitation of children.
According to court documents, on May 27, 2014, law enforcement officials executed a search warrant at GRACO’S residence, during which time they seized several electronic items, including three computers, one external digital storage device, and three removable digital storage devices. A preliminary review of the electronic devices determined that a desktop computer contained images and videos depicting the sexual victimization of children. A more intensive forensic examination of the device revealed that GRACO had used the desktop computer to access Internet websites and networks devoted to the advertisement and distribution of child pornography. Between June 4, 2013 and May 27, 2014, GRACO discussed matters pertinent to the sexual abuse of children to search for, download, and save images and videos of children as young as five (5)-years-old engaging in sexually explicit conduct. The forensic examination determined that GRACO possessed at least10,264 images and 130 videos of children engaging in sexually explicit conduct. After downloading the images and videos, GRACO stored them on special folders he created on his computer.
GRACO faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five (5) years and a maximum penalty of twenty (20) years, followed by up to a life term of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. He can also be required to register as a sex offender. U.S. District Judge Eldon E. Fallon set sentencing for September 29, 2016.
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.”
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys Jordan Ginsberg and J. Ryan McLaren are in charge of the prosecution.
Sentencings for July 16 - 22, 2016Read the Press Release
Scott Michael Lewis, 27, of Lakewood, Colorado, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on June 22, 2016, for operating an unregistered aircraft. Lewis received 36 months of supervised probation and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and a $1,000.00 fine. This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Garrett Ross Castleman, 27, of Casper, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on June 20, 2016, for possession of child pornography. Castleman was arrested in Casper, Wyoming. He received four months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release. Castleman will be required to wear an electronic home monitoring device for the first four months of supervised release. In addition, Castleman was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and a $400.00 fine. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
Amber Lynn Troudt, 28, was sentenced by Federal District Court Alan B. Johnson on June 17, 2016, on two counts of distribution of methamphetamine. Troudt was arrested in Torrington, Wyoming. She was sentenced to 75 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 $400.00. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation.
Karen Michelle Cox, 52, of Salt Lake City, Utah, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on June 16, 2016, for conspiracy to distribute between 1.5 to 3.0 kilograms of methamphetamine. Cox was arrested in Salt Lake City, Utah. She received 121 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and restitution in the amount of $900.00. This case results from an ongoing Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) joint investigation conducted by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and the Internal Revenue Service. 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.
Seattle Area Man who Claimed Fictitious Twin Brother to Collect Additional Federal Benefits Sentenced to 30 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
A SeaTac man who used a second identity to defraud federal and state public assistance programs for more than 20 years was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Seattle to 30 months in prison, announced U.S. Attorney Annette L. Hayes. TRAVIS EDWARD FISCHER, 49, lived with his girlfriend and three children in SeaTac, while also claiming benefits under the name Edward Travis Fischer in Seattle. By pretending to be two completely separate people, FISCHER was able to illegally collect hundreds of thousands of dollars in benefits administered by the Social Security Administration, the Washington Department of Social and Health Services, and the Seattle Housing Authority. At the sentencing hearing, Chief U.S. District Judge Ricardo S. Martinez said FISCHER stole money that should have been used to help other needy beneficiaries. Chief Judge Martinez also added: “These crimes have a corrosive effect on the public’s confidence that these programs can be administered properly.”
According to records filed in the case and testimony at trial, FISCHER applied for Social Security disability benefits in his true name in August 1984, and collects them to the present day. In 1987, FISCHER also applied for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits in the name of Edward Fischer, using a different Social Security number. Benefits were approved and paid to that identity beginning in 1987. In order to keep receiving benefits FISCHER had to make false representations to Social Security at various times over the last 25 years. FISCHER illegally collected more than $160,000 in benefits administered by the Social Security Administration.
The fraud did not stop with Social Security benefits but extended to food and medical assistance from the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) totaling more than $154,000. Further, FISCHER defrauded the Seattle Housing Authority by using the false identity to claim a low income unit in the Queen Anne neighborhood of Seattle while living in SeaTac with his girlfriend and children. From 1990 to 2013, FISCHER used the Queen Anne residence as a home base for his fictitious second identity, and as his address for separate bank accounts and benefits in the Edward name. The housing benefits totaled more than $152,000.
A case manager first noticed the fraud after finding both names in a DSHS database in 2011. When confronted, FISCHER first claimed he was the victim of identity theft, and then claimed that he had a twin brother who was also collecting benefits.
In all, FISCHER was convicted of seven counts of mail fraud, seven counts of theft of government funds, Social Security Fraud, Misuse of a Social Security Number, and two counts of making a false statement to the United States. He was ordered to pay $466,100 to the agencies he defrauded and will be on supervised release for three years following his prison term.
The case was jointly investigated by the Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General (SSA-OIG), the Department of Housing and Urban Development Office of the Inspector General (HUD-OIG) and the DSHS Office of Fraud and Accountability.
The case was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Benjamin Diggs and Assistant United States Attorney J. Tate London. Mr. Diggs is an attorney with the Social Security Administration specially designated to prosecute fraud cases in federal court.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on June 21, 2016, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Daniel Red Horse, Jr., age 45, was sentenced to 24 months in custody, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment of $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Red Horse was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 15, 2016. He pled guilty on April 26, 2016.
Red Horse was convicted in federal court in 1990 for Sexual Abuse of a Minor, and in 2012 for Sexual Contact. Red Horse was released from custody in August 2013. He is required to register as a sex offender and to update his registration within three business days of relocating or changing employment. The current conviction stemmed from Red Horse moving out of his residence in Rapid City, returning to the Cheyenne River Reservation, and failing to update his registration. Red Horse had not registered during the nearly six weeks he was on absconder status from supervised release.
This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller prosecuted the case.
Red Horse was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Pocatello Man Sentenced for Social Security FraudRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – Timmy Adam Allen, 51, of Pocatello, Idaho, was sentenced today to four months in prison for social security fraud, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered Allen to pay restitution to the Social Security Administration. Allen pleaded guilty on January 28, 2016.
According to the plea agreement, Allen admitted that in February 2012, he applied for social security benefits for his son and requested to be the representative payee. As part of the application, Allen falsely represented that his son lived with him. In reliance on that application and the false statement it contained, the Social Security Administration determined the son was eligible for benefits and appointed Allen as the representative payee. From on or about February 9, 2012 through on or about July 3, 2014, Allen received $21,681 in social security benefits for his son. Allen did not spend any of the money on his son or conserve it for his future use. Instead, Allen took the $21,681 and spent it on himself.
The case was investigated by the Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General with assistance from the Power County Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney as part of a partnership venture between the Social Security Administration Office of General Counsel and the United States Attorney’s Office to prosecute social security fraud.
Plaquemines Parish Resident Pleads Guilty to Defrauding the Gulf Coast Claims FacilityRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that SHANQUITTA JONES-DILLON, age 40, of Buras, pled guilty today to a one-count Bill of Information charging her with wire fraud.
According to court documents, in 2010, JONES-DILLON filed a false claim for damages arising out of the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill. As part of the scheme to defraud, JONES-DILLON submitted false documents to the Gulf Coast Claims Facility (GCCF) during the claims process. The fraudulent claim submitted by JONES-DILLON caused the GCCF to release over $63,000 in damage payments to which she was not entitled.
The maximum penalty for wire fraud is twenty years imprisonment and/or a fine of $250,000 or the greater of twice the gross gain to the defendant or twice the gross loss to the victim. U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk set sentencing for September 15, 2016.
This case was brought as part of this District’s partnership with the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF), a nationwide initiative to protect available funds and assistance for those victims of both natural and man-made disasters such as hurricanes, floods, tornadoes and the recent Gulf oil spill. If you have knowledge of fraud, waste, abuse, or allegations of mismanagement involving disaster relief operations, you can contact the NCDF by either calling the hotline at (866) 720-5721, faxing (225) 334-4707, emailing at [email protected] or in writing to National Center for Disaster Fraud, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-4909.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the United States Secret Service in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Richard R. Pickens, II is in charge of the prosecution
Pinellas County Doctor Arrested and Charged with Multiple Offenses Related to Writing Prescriptions for Compounded MedicationsRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – United States Attorney A. Lee Bentley, III announces the unsealing of an indictment charging Dr. Anthony Baldizzi (52, Tierra Verde) with one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States, twenty-one counts of health care fraud, one count of money laundering, one count of making a false statement, and one count of receiving illegal kickbacks. The health care fraud and money laundering counts each carry a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. The remaining counts each carry a maximum penalty of five years. The indictment also notifies Baldizzi that the United States is seeking a money judgment in the amount of at least $5.3 million as proceeds of the conspiracy and health care fraud offenses and forfeiture of a 2015 BMW M3, which is alleged as property traceable to proceeds of the charged conduct.
According to the indictment, Baldizzi is a licensed medical doctor who practices at an urgent care clinic in Pinellas County. In or around 2014, he entered into an agreement with the owners and operators of Lifecare Compounding Pharmacy to receive kickbacks for each prescription he wrote and directed to Lifecare for filling. Later, the principals of Lifecare introduced Baldizzi to the principals of Centurion Compounding, a marketing firm, and these parties entered into another kickback relationship whereby Baldizzi agreed to become a Centurion “in-network” doctor and write prescriptions for compounded creams marketed by Centurion and filled at Lifecare. In exchange, the principals of Lifecare and Centurion jointly paid Baldizzi a kickback of each paid claim, equal to approximately 10% of the after-cost amount of the payment. Many of these prescriptions were written for beneficiaries of TRICARE, a federal health care benefit program. Lifecare submitted to TRICARE claims for prescriptions written by Baldizzi, pursuant to their illegal kickback agreement, totaling approximately $5.3 million. Lifecare also submitted to Medicare claims for prescriptions written by Baldizzi, pursuant to their illegal kickback agreement, totaling approximately $71,312.41.
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 by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Mandy Riedel and Megan Kistler.
Pine Ridge Man Indicted for Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for False Statements Relating to Health Care Matters and Attempt to Obtain Controlled Substance by Fraud.
William Wounded, age 20, was indicted on March 22, 2016. Wounded appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on June 20, 2016, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 5 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 Wounded using a falsified prescription to obtain Hydrocodone on October 21, 2015, at the Indian Health Services Pharmacy in Pine Ridge.
The charges are merely accusations and Wounded is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman is prosecuting the case.
Wounded was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has been set for August 23, 2016.
Philadelphia man sentenced for heroin distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Raheem Cuffee, 32, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania was sentenced today to 110 months in prison for heroin distribution, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Cuffee previously pled guilty to “Distribution of Heroin within 1,000 feet of a Protected Location” He admitted to selling heroin in Morgantown, West Virginia during 2014.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda E. Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigations investigated.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Palm Beach County Resident Pleads Guilty in Stolen Identity Tax Refund Fraud Conspiracy Involving Students and Other Individuals’ Personal Identifying InformationRead the Press Release
A Palm Beach County resident pled guilty for his participation in a stolen identity tax refund fraud conspiracy involving students and other individuals’ personal identifying information (PII).
Wifredo A. Ferrer, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, Kelly R. Jackson, Special Agent in Charge, Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), and Terry L. Rhodes, Executive Director, Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), made the announcement.
Oniel Winston Scarlett, 28, pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, to retain and conceal monies stolen from the United States, and to commit identity theft, all in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371; one count of wire fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343; and one count of aggravated identity theft, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1028A. Sentencing is scheduled for September 30, 2016 before U.S. District Judge Kenneth A. Marra. At sentencing, Scarlett faces a maximum of five years imprisonment for the conspiracy charge, a maximum of twenty years imprisonment for the wire fraud charge, and a mandatory term of two years’ imprisonment, consecutive to any other prison term, for the aggravated identity theft charge.
According to court documents, Scarlett and his co-conspirators fraudulently obtained and exchanged amongst themselves the PII of other individuals, filed fraudulent income tax returns with the IRS using the stolen PII, and directed fraudulent refunds to be deposited onto pre-paid debit cards in the names of other individuals using the stolen PII.
The defendant was in possession of stolen PII during a traffic stop on September 20, 2011. During the traffic stop, the FHP trooper conducted a consent search of Scarlett’s vehicle and found 92 Wal-Mart pre-paid debit cards; printouts of hundreds of peoples’ PII; pre-paid debit card information and money amounts for the cards; more than fifty Palm Beach County School Board’s mainframe database printouts with students’ names, Social Security numbers, and dates of birth; two laptop/notebook computers with accessories; two memory sticks; a cell phone; and a phone book for the Belle Glade, Florida area. The trooper also found bank account information, where it was later determined that nearly $77,000 in federal tax refunds were direct deposited from fifty-two separate fraudulent tax returns filed with the IRS.
Scarlett used the PII to make fraudulent cards to sell to another individual. Scarlett earned between $1,000 to $2,000 a week, for the cards. Some of the PII was also used to file false tax returns with the IRS. On the computer, law enforcement found 228 separate login user identifications used to file false income tax returns claiming approximately $290,000.
Mr. Ferrer commended the investigative efforts of IRS-CI and the FHP. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Carlton.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or on http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov.
Owner of Oklahoma City Employer Organization Charged with More Than $6 Million in Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – A federal grand jury has handed down a 23-count indictment against JANIS ANN EDWARDS, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, for tax evasion, announced Mark A. Yancey, Acting United States Attorney for the Western District of Oklahoma.
According to the indictment, Ms. Edwards was the sole owner of Corporate Resource Management, Inc., and a number of related companies with their principal place of business in Oklahoma City. These companies operated as "professional employer organizations," or "PEOs." In essence, they served small businesses in several states in the central part of the United States by, among other things, taking on responsibilities for paying their employees’ payroll and collecting and paying payroll taxes to the IRS. The employees of small businesses became employees of one of Edwards’s entities, and their payroll taxes were to be paid under the tax identification number of one of those entities.
According to the indictment, Edwards failed to pay substantial amounts of payroll taxes collected from small businesses that had contracted with one of the CRM-related entities. The 23 counts relate to quarterly payroll tax returns filed by Oklahoma Corporate Resource, Inc.; Missouri Corporate Resource, Inc.; and Texas Corporate Resource, Inc., for various quarters in 2010 and 2011. The indictment alleges that Edwards regularly and intentionally directed her own employees to alter these quarterly tax returns to reflect less payroll tax liability than what was actually owed. For the 23 quarters identified in the indictment, Edwards is alleged to be responsible for $6,387,399.09 in unreported payroll taxes.
If convicted, Edwards faces on each count a maximum penalty of five years in prison, three years of supervised release, a fine of $250,000, and the costs of prosecution.
This case is the result of an investigation by IRS-Criminal Investigations. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Scott E. Williams and Jessica L. Perry.
The public is reminded that an indictment is merely an accusation and that the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Reference is made to court filings for further information.
Omaha Man Sentenced to 71 years in Prison for Multiple RobberiesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Deborah R. Gilg announced that Emmanuel Chaplain, age 26, of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced by the Honorable Laurie Smith Camp after a federal jury convicted him of multiple robberies and firearms charges in March. The jury found Chaplain guilty of seven counts of interference with commerce by means of robbery, three counts of using or possessing a firearm in furtherance of three of the robberies and felon in possession of a firearm. Chaplain was sentenced to 14 years’ imprisonment for the robberies. He was additionally sentenced to 57 years for using the firearms in furtherance of the robberies to be served after the sentence on the robbery charges. By statute, he faced a minimum of at least five years consecutive to the first robbery in which he used a gun, and 25 years consecutive on each of the other two charges of possessing and using a firearm in furtherance of the particular robberies for which he used a gun. He received a sentence of 10 years for being a felon in possession of a firearm. That sentence will be served at the same time as the other sentences. He was also ordered to pay $4,643.50 in restitution and serve 5 years of supervised release
On June 19, 2014, Chaplain and Shane Seizys robbed the Jiffy Lube located at 5819 Maple Street. Later that day they robbed a second Jiffy Lube at 1221 South 120th Street. On June 23, 2014, they robbed the Subway at 5005 Center Street and Chaplain was found guilty of possessing and using a firearm during that robbery. When they left Subway, they went to O’Reilly Auto Parts at 3620 North 72nd Street and robbed it. Within an hour of those two robberies they went to the Kum & Go at 1010 South 154th Street and robbed it. The jury found that Chaplain possessed and used a firearm during the Kum & Go robbery. On July 16, 2014, Chaplain and Seizys robbed the Game Stop at 9959 Redick Circle using a firearm and about 15 minutes later, robbed the KFC located at 7601 North 30th Street.
A bandana found in a car Chaplain was riding in on June 23, following the Kum & Go robbery, was tested for DNA. The probability that the bandana did not belong to Chaplain was one in 20 sextillion.
After the Game Stop and KFC robberies, three people matching the description of the robbers were seen changing clothes at a vehicle approximately one block away. Omaha Police Officers quickly responded to the area. Seizys and Dilang Dat were immediately arrested. Chaplain fled from police but was caught a short time later. The vehicle they ran from belonged to Chaplain’s brother. In addition to finding clothes in the car that matched those worn in the robberies, there were 5 video game boxes from Game Stop that had Chaplain’s fingerprints on them.
Seizys previously pleaded guilty and received a sentence of 29 years’ imprisonment. Dilang Dat was involved in two robberies. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 6½ years’ imprisonment.
The case was investigated by the Omaha Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Northwest Arkansas Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
Fayetteville - Kenneth Elser, United States Attorney for the Western District of Arkansas, announced that Stacy Len Lisenbery, aka Stacy Lisenberry, age 47, of Lincoln, Arkansas, was sentenced yesterday to 180 months in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release and ordered to pay a $15,000 fine on one count of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine. The Honorable Timothy O. Brooks presided over the sentencing hearing in the United States District Court in Fayetteville.
According to court records, in April of 2014, Lisenbery was arrested on an outstanding warrant and found to be in possession of three individual baggies of methamphetamine along with $1500.00 in currency. After being released on bond, he was again arrested in February of 2015 when he attempted to take possession of a package containing approximately two pounds of methamphetamine that had been shipped to him from California. He was indicted by a federal grand jury in February, 2015 and pleaded guilty to the charge in April of 2015.
This case was investigated by the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the 4th Judicial District Drug Task Force. Assistant United States Attorney Kimberly Davis Harris prosecuted the case for the United States.
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Related court documents may be found on the Public Access to Electronic Records website @ www.pacer.gov
Northern California Man Sentenced to 210 Months’ Imprisonment for Production and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SAN FRANCISCO – Lesley James McNeal was sentenced to 210 months in prison for production and possession of child pornography, announced United States Attorney Brian J. Stretch and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Special Agent in Charge Ryan L. Spradlin. The sentence was handed down on June 21, 2016, by the Honorable William Alsup, U.S. District Judge.
McNeal, 53, of San Francisco, pleaded guilty on March 15, 2016, to one count of production of child pornography, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2251(a); and one count of possession of child pornography, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2252(a)(4)(B). According to his guilty plea, McNeal acknowledged that, beginning on or about March 26, 2011, and through September 28, 2013, he made 14 videos depicting a girl under the age of 12 engaged in sexually explicit conduct. McNeal further admitted he then installed a program into a computer that allowed others to see and download the videos. McNeal also acknowledged that, on December 14, 2014, he possessed electronic devices that contained no fewer than 26,000 images and 700 videos of child pornography. McNeal was indicted on August 18, 2015, and charged with one count each of production of child pornography and possessing child pornography.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Alsup also sentenced the defendant to a 10-year period of supervised release and ordered him to pay restitution.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Maffei prosecuted the case with the assistance of Rawaty Yim and Patricia Mahoney. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by HSI and the San Francisco Police Department.
Nine Defendants Sentenced in $11.1 Million Tax Refund and Food Stamp Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Nine defendants have been sentenced for conspiracy, theft of government funds, and aggravated identity theft. The sentences were announced by Christopher P. Canova, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
The defendants and sentences are:
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John Walter Simmons, 35, Tampa, Florida, 168 months in prison;
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Daria Patrice Simmons, 34, Tampa, Florida, 65 months in prison;
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Jazzman Shabazz Simmons, 27, Tallahassee, Florida, 65 months in prison;
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Anre’ Juardon Davis, 34, St. Petersburg, Florida, 36 months in prison;
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Rashard LaVonta McMillian, 27, Quincy, Florida, 36 months in prison;
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Ronald Edward Brown, 28, Quincy, Florida, 30 months in prison;
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Addrain Montez McMillan, 30, Overland Park, Kansas, 18 months in prison;
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Ja’baree Vazquez Allen, 27, Tallahassee, Florida, 3 years of probation, 600 hours community service;
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Mercedes Shevon Sutton, 25, Tampa, Florida, 3 years of probation, 300 hours of community service; and
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Jasmine Junae Robinson, 26, Tallahassee, Florida, sentencing hearing scheduled for August 19, 2016.
During their guilty pleas in February 2016, the defendants admitted that they conspired to file fraudulent income tax returns using stolen personal identifying information (PII) from approximately 2,800 individuals. The PII sources included an insurance provider, an online database, and an area hospital. The stolen PII was used to file 1,466 fraudulent income tax returns, claiming refunds of approximately $11.1 million and resulting in $2,695,253 being issued by the IRS. During their pleas, Sutton, John Simmons, and Jazzman Simmons also acknowledged their involvement in a scheme to file fraudulent Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) applications. Between August 2013 and January 2014, stolen PII was used to electronically submit 165 fraudulent food stamp applications, seeking $176,704 in benefits.
“These conspirators stole the personal information of thousands of real victims and used their identities to fraudulently obtain millions of dollars from government programs and lawful taxpayers,” said U.S. Attorney Christopher P. Canova. “I commend our law enforcement partners for their hard work investigating this case.
“This case is a good example of the continuing efforts of IRS Criminal Investigation and our local law enforcement partners working in concert to combat identity theft,” said Kimberly A. Lappin, Special Agent in Charge of the Tampa Field Office for IRS Criminal Investigation. “This crime can make honest taxpayers face a more difficult time obtaining their lawful refund or bring more pain to the families whose deceased relative was also a victim. This sentence demonstrates that criminals will have a price to pay for their roles in perpetrating these crimes.”
This case resulted from an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, Tallahassee Police Department, and the Leon County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Jason R. Coody prosecuted the case.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
For more information, contact: Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, [email protected]-
Nigerian National Sentenced to Federal Prison for Collecting Millions of Dollars in a Stolen Identity Refund Fraud (SIRF) SchemeRead the Press Release
In Austin today, 32-year-old Adefemi Olokodana (aka “Coker Akosua Paul”), a Nigerian national residing in Austin, was sentenced to six years in federal prison for his role in a scheme to collect millions of dollars in tax refunds using stolen identification information announced United States Attorney Richard L. Durbin, Jr. and Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) Special Agent in Charge William Cotter.
In addition to the prison term, U.S. District Judge Lee Yeakel ordered that Olokodana pay approximately $4.3 million restitution and be placed on supervised release for a period of three years after completing his prison term.
Stolen Identity Refund Fraud or "SIRF" is a category of schemes that victimize both the United States Treasury and individual taxpayers. Under such schemes, perpetrators file false income tax returns using the identities of actual taxpayers, including the taxpayers' true personal identifiers such as Social Security numbers, addresses, and employers. The identities are stolen, and the taxpayers are unaware of the returns. The returns claim refunds, and the perpetrators arrange for the IRS to pay the fraudulent refunds to them, rather than to the owners of the stolen identities. Perpetrators of such schemes often file the false returns and receive the fraudulent refunds electronically, through intermediaries, and using false identities.
On January 22, 2016, Olokodana pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. By pleading guilty, Olokodana admitted that from January 2010 until May 2015, he used stolen personal identification information to file hundreds of fraudulent tax returns. Olokodana collected millions of dollars in refunds based on those fraudulent tax returns.
In May 2015, authorities with the Department of Homeland Security apprehended Olokodana in Laredo, TX, as he attempted to cross the border into Mexico using a counterfeit Ghanaian passport in the name of Coker Akosua Paul to avoid prosecution. He has remained in federal custody since his arrest.
“Today's sentencing of Adefemi Olokodana for running a stolen identity refund fraud scheme is another triumph for the American taxpayer, and another defeat for identity thieves,” said IRS-Criminal Investigation San Antonio Field Office Special Agent in Charge William Cotter. “When Adefemi Olokodana made the mistake of making a run for the border to escape American justice, he sealed his fate. IRS-CI special agents are relentless in our pursuit of those who attempt to steal from the U.S. Treasury.”
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI). Assistant United States Attorneys Alan Buie and Matt Harding prosecuted this case on behalf of the Government.
New Orleans Man Sentenced in Heroin ConspiracyRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that LARRY HARDY, age 50, of New Orleans, was sentenced today after having previously pled guilty to one count of conspiring to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin.
U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier sentenced HARDY to 90 months of incarceration, to be followed by 5 years of supervised release.
HARDY was one of twelve defendants charged in a 23-count Indictment on July 25, 2014. According to court documents, this Indictment sprung from an investigation into a heroin-trafficking organization operating in New Orleans East. This organization was responsible for distributing at least 15 kilograms of heroin in the New Orleans area. As part of the arrests in this case, federal agents have seized from the twelve defendants approximately $1,200,000 in assets (a combination of vehicles, currency, jewelry, and real property) as proceeds made from the sale of heroin.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Brandon S. Long was in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty in Conspiracy to Traffick Heroin Using MegabusRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that REGINALD WASHINGTON, age 32, of New Orleans, pled guilty today to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute over 100 grams of heroin.
WASHINGTON was one of eight defendants charged in a 21-count Superseding Indictment on September 18, 2015. According to court documents, this Superseding Indictment resulted from an FBI investigation into a heroin-trafficking organization operating primarily around Loyola Avenue and Harmony Street in Central City. The sources of heroin for this organization traveled via Megabus from Houston to New Orleans, carrying half-kilogram quantities of heroin for distribution in the New Orleans area.
As a result of a prior felony drug offense, WASHINGTON is facing not less than 10 years and a maximum of life imprisonment, as well as a possible fine of up to $8,000,000. U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier will sentence WASHINGTON on October 13, 2016.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the FBI New Orleans Gang Task Force (NOGTF), Saint Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the New Orleans Police Department in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Brandon S. Long is in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Charged with Conspiracy to Commit Federal Bribery and Honest Services Wire FraudRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that LESTER MORNAY, 68, of New Orleans, was charged in a one-count Bill of Information charging him with conspiracy to commit bribery and honest services wire fraud.
According to the Bill of Information, beginning in September 2013 and continuing until January 2015, MORNAY and several others participated in a conspiracy to commit bribery and honest services wire fraud.
The Bill of Information alleges that IRA THOMAS, in his role as an Orleans Parish School Board Member, engaged in a scheme to defraud Orleans Parish and its citizens of his honest services through bribery and a kickback scheme, whereby THOMAS used his public office and official capacity to provide favorable treatment, including attempting to facilitate the awarding of a contract, that was designed to benefit the business and financial interest of an individual who provided him with a bribe and kickback in the form of cash payment disguised as a campaign contribution.
According to the Bill of Information, in September 2013, a cooperating witness (“CW”) was approached by ARMER BRIGHT, an OPSB employee, who offered the CW a janitorial services contract that would soon be up for bid by the OPSB in exchange for a monetary payoff. During the fall of 2013, the CW, THOMAS, BRIGHT, and at times MORNAY, met to discuss this contract. These conversations were recorded by the CW with the assistance of the FBI. Ultimately, it was decided that the CW would pay $5,000 to THOMAS in the form of a “campaign contribution” in exchange for THOMAS’ and the OPSB employee’s assistance regarding the janitorial services contract. In December 2013, the CW delivered $5,000 in cash to MORNAY acting as a conduit for THOMAS, which was video recorded. This money was then delivered to THOMAS. During the fall of 2014, THOMAS and BRIGHT discussed over recorded telephone conversations how to alter the bid process so that the CW would be given an improper advantage in bidding for the janitorial services contract, which was valued over $5,000.
If convicted of conspiring with others to commit bribery and honest services wire fraud, MORNAY faces statutory penalties of up to five years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.
The Bill of Information also contains Notice of Forfeiture which puts the defendant on notice that the Government intends on forfeiting any and all property and profits concerned with and/or derived from any illegal activity referenced in the Bill of Information.
U.S. Attorney Polite reiterated that today’s Bill of Information describes allegations and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean Toomey is in charge of the prosecution.
New Jersey Man Sentenced for Smuggling Cocaine Through IAHRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 30-year-old New Jersey man has been ordered to prison following his conviction of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine, announced U.S. Attorney Kenneth Magidson. Christopher Curi, of Totowa, New Jersey, pleaded guilty Jan. 14, 2016.
Today, U.S. District Judge Sim Lake ordered him to serve 70 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by four years of supervised release.
On Feb. 21, 2015, Curi arrived at George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston aboard a United Airline flight from Lima, Peru. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers conducted an inspection of Curi’s checked baggage and discovered several gel-like figurines, packages of powdered condiments, a bottle of liquor and picture frames. The figurines emitted an unusual order and appeared to be cracking. The figurines ultimately field tested positive for cocaine.
The packages of condiments were opened and found to contain a white powder which also turned out to be cocaine. In addition, there was cocaine secreted inside the picture frames and the bottle of liquor.
Curi will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation along with CBP. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stuart A. Burns prosecuted the case.
Navajo Man from Buffalo Springs Sentenced to Prison for Federal Voluntary Manslaughter ConvictionRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Jay Barton, 48, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation who resides in Buffalo Springs, N.M., was sentenced today in federal court in Albuquerque, N.M., to 97 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for his voluntary manslaughter conviction.
Barton was arrested on Aug. 26, 2015, on a criminal complaint charging him with killing a Navajo man on the Navajo Indian Reservation in McKinley County, N.M., on Aug. 21, 2015. The crime occurred during an argument between Barton and the victim while Barton and the victim were drinking alcoholic beverages. Barton was subsequently indicted on a voluntary manslaughter charge on Sept. 22, 2015.
On Jan. 28, 2016, Barton pled guilty to the indictment charging him with voluntary manslaughter. In entering the guilty plea, Barton admitted killing the victim by stabbing him in the chest, abdomen and back during an argument that became physical. According to the plea agreement, both Barton and the victim were intoxicated when Barton committed the crime.
This case was investigated by the Gallup office of the FBI and the Navajo Nation Division of Public Safety and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Elaine Y. Ramirez.
Mississippi Sports Medicine to Pay Civil Penalty for Violating the Comprehensive Drug Abuse and Control ActRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss - The United States has reached a civil settlement with Mississippi Sports Medicine & Orthopaedic Center, PLLC (MSM) in connection with allegations that MSM violated federal regulations related to record keeping violations regarding the issuance of numerous controlled substance prescriptions, announced U.S. Attorney Gregory K. Davis.
A Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) investigation of MSM records determined that there were grounds for action against MSM based on the Comprehensive Drug Abuse and Control Act of 1970, including monetary penalties and damages as a result of violations of Title 21 U.S.C. 829 and 842, as MSM employees failed to comply with regulations required by Title 21 C.F.R. 1306.04 and 1306.05. DEA Investigators found record keeping violations affecting numerous prescriptions for Schedule II-V controlled substances.
As a result of the DEA investigation, MSM will pay a civil penalty in the amount of $726,000 to the U.S. Department of Justice. MSM cooperated in the investigation of their records and has already taken steps to more closely monitor its prescription writing practices.
Prescriptions for controlled substances are subject to strict record keeping requirements due to the potential for harm, abuse and diversion. DEA is tasked with ensuring that DEA registrants, to include practitioners and pharmacies, meet federal record keeping requirements to ensure the proper regulation and deter diversion of controlled substances.
DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge Daniel C. Comeaux stated: “Prescription drug abuse has reached epidemic proportions in this country. The rules, regulations and record keeping requirements set in place by The Controlled Substances Act, as supported by the Code of Federal Regulations, exist to prevent the illegitimate diversion of controlled substances as well as protect our citizens from harm. Failure to follow these rules and regulations will result in an investigation, action and penalties for DEA Registrants. Today’s civil settlement, based on DEA’s investigation, sends a resounding message that such activities will not be tolerated.”
The investigation of MSM was conducted by the Jackson DEA office in conjunction with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi. The United States was represented by Assistant United States Attorney Lynn Murray.Mexican National Sentenced for Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that NAVOR SOLIS-GARCIA, a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced today after previously pleading guilty to a one-count indictment that charged him with illegal reentry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8 U.S.C. Section 1326(a).
U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier sentenced SOLIS-GARCIA to time served and ordered him to pay a special assessment of $100. SOLIS-GARCIA will be surrendered to the custody of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement for removal proceedings.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Spiro G. Latsis was in charge of the prosecution.
Mexican National Pleads Guilty to Assaulting Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Samuel Antonio Flores-Murillo, 38, a Mexican national, pled guilty yesterday afternoon in federal court in Las Cruces, N.M., to assaulting a federal officer. The guilty plea was announced by U.S. Attorney Damon P. Martinez, Chief Patrol Agent Jeffrey D. Self of the U.S. Border Patrol El Paso Sector, and Special Agent in Charge Terry Wade of the Albuquerque Division of the FBI.
Flores-Murillo was arrested on April 9, 2016, and charged by criminal complaint with assaulting a federal agent of the U.S. Border Patrol on April 9, 2016, in Doña Ana County, N.M. The complaint indicates that Flores-Murillo struck the agent in the forehead and bit the agent on the right forearm while the agent was attempting to apprehend Flores-Murillo.
During yesterday’s proceedings, Flores-Murillo pled guilty to a felony information charging him with assaulting a federal officer and inflicting bodily injury. In entering the guilty plea, Flores-Murillo admitted that on April 9, 2016, he struck a U.S. Border Patrol agent in the forehead causing the agent to bleed, and bit the agent on his right forearm which punctured the agent’s skin. Flores-Murillo further admitted that he resisted and assaulted the agent while he was attempting to flee from Border Patrol.
At sentencing, Flores-Murillo faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. Flores-Murillo will be deported after completing his prison sentence. He remains in federal custody pending a sentencing hearing which has yet to be scheduled.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Border Patrol and the Las Cruces office of the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Marisa A. Lizarraga of the U.S. Attorney’s Las Cruces Branch Office is prosecuting the case.
Mexican Citizen Heads to Federal Prison for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A Mexican citizen who had been living in Corpus Christi has pleaded guilty to possession of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Kenneth Magidson. Rogelio Alfaro Carrillo, 27, pleaded guilty Feb. 4, 2016.
Today, U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos ordered he serve a total of 72 months in federal prison. He was further ordered to serve 10 years of supervised release following completion of his prison term. During the hearing, the court heard testimony from an agent with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) who testified that some of the images and videos depicted children as young as four years old engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Carrillo will also be ordered to register as a sex offender.
At the time of his plea, the court heard that officers with the Corpus Christi Police Department (CCPD), while using peer-to-peer software, were able to successfully download of various files containing child pornography from an IP address that was associated with Carrillo.
In August 2015, agents executed a search warrant at Carrillo’s residence, at which time they seized various electronic devices. Forensic analysis on those devices revealed more than 1,400 images and more than 20 videos of child pornography. Carrillo admitted having an sexual interest in children and having downloaded child pornography.
Carrillo will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
HSI conducted the investigation with the assistance of CCPD - Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
This case, prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Hugo R. Martinez, 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."
Member of Cherry Hill Gang ‘UDH’ Sentenced to over 21 Years in Federal Prison for Racketeering Conspiracy, Including MurderRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – U.S. District Judge George L. Russell, III sentenced Cornell Harvey, a/k/a “Little Head,” age 29, of Baltimore, today to 262 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for conspiracy to participate in a racketeering enterprise in connection with his gang activities as a member of the UDH organization, which operates in the Cherry Hill section of Baltimore. Harvey’s federal sentence will be served concurrent to the two life sentences he received on state charges for an unrelated murder in Cherry Hill.
The sentence was announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Rod J. Rosenstein; Special Agent in Charge Daniel L. Board, Jr. of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives - Baltimore Field Division; Commissioner Kevin Davis of the Baltimore Police Department; and Baltimore City State’s Attorney Marilyn Mosby.
“Disputes between rival drug gangs lead to many shootings and murders in Baltimore City,” said U.S. Attorney Rod J. Rosenstein. “Thanks to a lengthy and intensive investigation, we will hold accountable the criminals who turned Cherry Hill into a war zone.”
According to his plea agreement, from at least 2007 to 2013 Harvey was a member of the UDH organization, which operates in the area of Cherry Hill known as “Up the Hill” or “Up da Hill.” UDH members and associates have been in a long-running dispute with members of an organization known as “Coppin Court” that is involved in criminal activity in the part of Cherry Hill known as “Down the Hill,” and since at least January 2011, have been in a dispute with members of “Little Spelman,” another organization that is involved in criminal activity in the Down the Hill section of Cherry Hill. UDH members and associates used violence and intimidation to protect themselves, the organization, and their control of the drug trade in part of Cherry Hill.
Harvey admitted that as a member of UDH he sold crack cocaine, heroin and other narcotics with UDH members. In addition to selling drugs, Harvey admitted that on October 5, 2010, he and co-defendant Dominic Evans committed an armed robbery of two individuals who were selling marijuana in the area, but who were not UDH members. After stealing $150 from one of the victims, Harvey began to shoot at the two individuals. One of the victims was shot once and survived his wound, but the other victim, who was shot at least three times, died from her wounds. The murder was captured on CCTV. A Baltimore City jury acquitted Harvey and Evans of this murder.
Finally, on January 29, 2011, at approximately 1:30 am, Harvey, and other gang members were arrested riding around Cherry Hill in a stolen 1997 green Cadillac Seville. Upon trying to stop the vehicle, a chase ensued, and all four occupants bailed out in the rear of the 2800 block of Bookert. Harvey was chased by an officer who saw him toss a fully loaded 9mm .357 handgun. Officers also recovered from the vehicle: a box containing 39 rounds of .38 special ammunition; a plastic bag containing 33 rounds of 9mm ammunition; a ski mask; and a glove.
According to Harvey’s plea agreement, the green Cadillac Seville was stolen late on January 27, 2011, after the victim was approached by three men as he was filling the vehicle at a gas station at North Avenue and McCulloh Street, in Baltimore City. After giving the three men a ride, the victim was ordered out of the vehicle at gunpoint in the 1800 block of Eutaw Place, where he was shot and left for dead.
Throughout the course of Harvey’s involvement in the UDH drug conspiracy Harvey knew that the conspiracy involved between 840 grams and 2.8 kilograms of crack cocaine and between 3 and 10 kilograms of heroin.
Co-defendant Dominic Evans, a/k/a “FlatLine,” age 25, of Baltimore, previously pleaded guilty to his role in the racketeering conspiracy and was sentenced to 30 years in prison.
United States Attorney Rod J. Rosenstein praised the ATF, Baltimore Police Department, and Baltimore City State’s Attorney’s Office for their work in the investigation. Mr. Rosenstein thanked Assistant United States Attorneys Andrea L. Smith, Seema Mittal, and Patricia C. McLane, who are prosecuting this Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force case.
Media Advisory: Press Conference Follow Sentencing Hearing TomorrowRead the Press Release
WHO: United States Attorney A. Lee Bentley, III
Special Agent in Charge Michelle S. Klimt
Federal Bureau of Investigation, Jacksonville Division
United States Marshal William B. Berger, Sr.
Undersheriff Pat Ivey, Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office
Investigative Agencies
Baker County Sheriff’s Office
Bethune-Cookman University Department of Public Safety
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives
Clay County Sheriff’s Office
Daytona Beach Police Department
Florida Department of Law Enforcement
St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office
State Attorney’s Office, 4th Judicial Circuit
State Attorney’s Office, 7th Judicial Circuit
U.S. Probation
WHAT: Press Conference
Press conference following the sentencing of Aaron M. Richardson. In March 2016, a federal jury found Richardson guilty of attempting to assassinate United States District Judge Timothy Corrigan as well as multiple federal firearm offenses. The sentencing hearing is set for Friday, June 24, 2016, before United States District Judge L. Scott Coogler at 9:00 a.m. in courtroom 12A. The press conference is scheduled to begin at 11:00 a.m. in the jury assembly room on the 1st floor of the courthouse.
WHEN:
FRIDAY, JUNE 24, 2016
11:00 A.M. EST (Following 9:00 A.M. sentencing hearing)
WHERE:
Bryan Simpson U.S. Courthouse
300 North Hogan Street
Jury Assembly Room (1st Floor)
Jacksonville, Florida 32202
OPEN PRESS
NOTE: All media must present government-issued photo I.D. (such as a driver’s license). Media may begin arriving for the 11:00 press conference at 10:15 A.M. There will be evidence on display for photo ops.
Please RSVP to [email protected] by 5:00 p.m. today.
Individuals attending the 9:00 A.M. sentencing hearing will not be permitted to bring any electronic media into the courtroom. All electronic equipment must be kept in the jury assembly room. Please arrive by 8:15 A.M. to allow time to clear security and store equipment prior to the hearing.
Man from Mexico incarcerated in St. Mary Parish pleads guilty to reentering the U.S. illegallyRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced today that a Mexican citizen pleaded guilty to a charge that he reentered the United States illegally twice.
Mario Albert Mora-Villa, 41, of Mexico, pleaded guilty before by U.S. Magistrate Judge Patrick Hanna to one count of illegal reentry of a removed alien. The plea will become final when accepted by U.S. District Judge Donald E. Walter. According to the guilty plea, immigration officers encountered Mora-Villa in the St. Mary Parish Detention Center. He admitted that he had been previously removed from the United States in March of 2007 and November of 2011, and he had not obtained permission to return to the country.
Mora-Villa faces two years in prison, one year of supervised release and a $250,000 fine. A sentencing date of October 11, 2016 was set.
United States Immigrations and Customs Enforcement and the St. Mary Parish Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Dominic Rossetti is prosecuting the case.
Louisiana Man Sentenced to 6 Years in Prison After Pleading Guilty to Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney, Kenneth A. Polite announced that ERIN PITRE, age 37, of Cut Off, Louisiana, was sentenced today after previously pleading guilty to possessing images and videos depicting the sexual exploitation of children under the age of twelve-years old.
U.S. District Judge Mary Ann Vial Lemmon sentenced PITRE to 72 months in prison, to be followed by ten years of supervised release. PITRE was also ordered to pay both victims $1,500 each in restitution. Additionally, the Court ordered PITRE to register as a sex offender.
According to court documents, law enforcement officials executed a search warrant at PITRE’S residence on January 22, 2015, during which time they seized an external digital storage device that contained images and videos of child pornography. A forensic examination of the device revealed that PITRE used peer-to-peer file sharing programs on his computer to search for, download, and store images and videos of children as young as two-years-old engaging in sexually explicit conduct. The forensic examination determined that PITRE possessed approximately 185 images and 7 videos of children engaging in sexually explicit conduct. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation is investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordan Ginsberg was in charge of the prosecution.
Lancaster Resident Charged with Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
Filimon Mendez-Perez,” a/k/a “Alfredo Lopez-Perez,” 34, of Lancaster, 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 February 25, 2016, Mendez-Perez, an alien, and native and citizen of Mexico, was found in the United States after having been deported from the United States on or about December 7, 2009, June 2, 2010, and July 30, 2011.
If convicted the defendant faces a maximum possible sentence of ten years.
The case was investigated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations (“ERO”), and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Roberta Benjamin.
An Indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Justice Department Settles Immigration-Related Discrimination Claim Against New Jersey Staffing CompanyRead the Press Release
The Justice Department reached an agreement today with Powerstaffing Inc., a temporary staffing agency based in Edison, New Jersey. The agreement resolves allegations that Powerstaffing’s North Bergen, New Jersey, office discriminated against work-authorized non-U.S. citizens in violation of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).
The department’s investigation found that from June 20, 2014, until at least Dec. 15, 2015, Powerstaffing had a pattern or practice of requesting specific immigration documents from non-U.S. citizens for the Form I-9 and E-Verify processes. In contrast, Powerstaffing allowed U.S. citizens to present whichever valid documents they wanted to present to prove their work authorization. Under the INA, all workers, including non-U.S. citizens, must be allowed to choose whichever valid documentation they would like to present from the lists of acceptable documents to prove their work authorization, such as a driver’s license and unrestricted social security card. It is unlawful for an employer to limit employees’ choice of documentation because of their citizenship or immigration status.
Upon learning of the department’s investigation, Powerstaffing promptly re-trained its staff on proper Form I-9 and E-Verify practices. Among other things, the settlement agreement requires Powerstaffing to pay $153,000 in civil penalties, be subject to department monitoring and review its hiring policies.
“All employers should ensure that when creating Form I-9 and E-Verify compliance plans, they fully understand the relevant rules so that they don’t discriminate against workers based on their citizenship status, immigration status or national origin,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Vanita Gupta, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The department applauds Powerstaffing for its prompt action to address and resolve this issue.”
The Office of Special Counsel for Immigration-Related Unfair Employment Practices (OSC) is responsible for enforcing the anti-discrimination provision of the INA. The law prohibits, among other things, citizenship, immigration status and national origin discrimination in hiring, firing or recruitment or referral for a fee; unfair documentary practices in employment eligibility verification; retaliation and intimidation. This matter was handled by Senior Trial Attorney Liza Zamd of OSC.
To learn more about the protections against employment discrimination under immigration laws, call OSC’s worker hotline at 1-800-255-7688 (1-800-237-2515, TTY for hearing impaired); call OSC’s employer hotline at 1-800-255-8155 (1-800-237-2515, TTY for hearing impaired); sign up for a free webinar at www.justice.gov/crt/about/osc/webinars.php; email [email protected] or visit OSC’s website at www.justice.gov/crt/about/osc.
Applicants or employees who believe they have been subjected to: different documentary requirements based on their citizenship, immigration status or national origin; or discrimination based on their citizenship, immigration status or national origin in hiring, firing or recruitment or referral should contact OSC’s worker hotline for assistance.
Powerstaffing Settlement Agreement
Justice Department Reaches Settlement to Reform Criminal Justice System in Hinds County, MississippiRead the Press Release
The Justice Department today reached a landmark settlement agreement to reform the criminal justice system in Hinds County, Mississippi. The agreement resolves the department’s findings that the Hinds County Adult Detention Center and the Jackson City Detention Center – which together form the Hinds County Jail – failed to protect prisoners from violence and excessive force and held them past their court-ordered release dates, in violation of the Civil Rights of Institutionalized Persons Act (CRIPA).
The settlement agreement is the first of its kind to incorporate broader criminal justice system reform through diversion at the front end and reentry to the community after incarceration. It creates a criminal justice coordinating committee that will help ensure the county’s systems operate effectively and efficiently, develop interventions to divert individuals in appropriate cases from arrest, detention and incarceration, and engage in community outreach. To promote successful reentry, the agreement includes mechanisms for notifying community health providers when a person with serious mental illness is released to help the person transition safely back to the community. The agreement also addresses unlawful enforcement of court-ordered fines and fees by ensuring that the county cannot incarcerate an individual for non-payment if the court does not first assess whether the individual is indigent.
“Across the board, this settlement will make the Hinds County criminal justice system smarter and fairer,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Vanita Gupta, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “If implemented, these reforms will make pretrial detainees, prisoners, corrections staff and the entire community safer, while also ensuring that vulnerable individuals get access to the treatment, care and community services they need and deserve. We commend the county for its commitment to making these reforms a reality.”
“For too long, the conditions in the Jail have posed a serious challenge to law enforcement and the safety of our community,” said U.S. Attorney Gregory K. Davis of the Southern District of Mississippi. “I appreciate the commitment made by Hinds County officials to turn the page and begin making necessary reforms.”
The settlement agreement – subject to approval by the U.S. District Court of the Southern District of Mississippi – requires the county to implement a series of reforms across various stages of the criminal justice system, including the following:
- Improve safety and security within the jail through better staffing and supervision, revised policies and physical plant improvements;
- Limit the use of segregation and improve access to screening, treatment and community-based services for special needs prisoners, including juveniles and prisoners with serious mental illness;
- Improve mental health and youth services, including better integration of jail operations with local community mental health and youth programs;
- Enhance communication and coordination among different agencies involved with the criminal justice process; and
- Ensure compliance with due process liberty protections as prisoners navigate the criminal justice system.
Together these reforms aim to improve communication and coordination among criminal justice entities and community service providers to help individuals with mental illness transition back to the community and to reduce recidivism. If approved by the federal district court, an independent monitor will be appointed to assess the county’s compliance.
In May 2015, the Justice Department completed a comprehensive investigation – which included on-site inspections, document reviews and stakeholder interviews by department experts and staff – and issued a findings letter that determined that Hinds County Adult Detention Center and the Jackson City Detention Center violated CRIPA by failing to protect prisoners from violence by other prisoners and from improper use of force by staff. The department also found that inadequate staffing and training, a backlog in record filing and a lack of centralized information resulted in prisoners being held beyond court-ordered release dates.
CRIPA authorizes the department to seek a remedy for a pattern or practice of conduct that violates the constitutional rights of persons confined in a jail, prison or other correctional facility. For more information on the Civil Rights Division’s work in this area, please visit www.justice.gov/crt.
Hinds County Settlement Agreement
Hinds County Fact Sheet
Jacksonville Man Sentenced to 24 Years for Manufacturing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina announced that in federal court yesterday, United States District Judge Terrence W. Boyle sentenced Melvin Dean smith, 45, of Jacksonville, North Carolina, to 290 months imprisonment, followed by twenty years of supervised release. The Court also ordered SMITH register as a sex offender.
smith was named in an Indictment filed on July 7, 2015. On September 4, 2015, SMITH pled guilty to one count of Manufacturing Child Pornography.
In 2012, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in Wilmington initiated an online investigation related to the distribution of child pornography through photo sharing websites. The investigation revealed a moniker that was later identified as belonging to SMITH.
On February 19, 2014, agents received information from a online foreign undercover agent who had received three images of child pornography labeled “new and homemade” from SMITH’s moniker.
On October 2, 2014, agents executed a federal search warrant at SMITH’S residence in Jacksonville. Based on the investigation, SMITH manufactured child pornography on one occasion by producing at least 13 images of a nude 2-3 year old female while acting as her babysitter. On Septebmer 25, 2015, SMITH provided a written statement in which he apologized and accepted responsibility for his actions related to the instant offense.
Investigation of this case was conducted by the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigations (SBI), the Jacksonville Police Department and the Onslow County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Ethan Ontjes represented the government.
This case was part of the Project Safe Childhood initiative, a national program aimed at ensuring that criminals exploiting children are effectively prosecuted by making full use of all available law enforcement resources at every level. For more information about this important national project, Project Safe Childhood, go to www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Iowa City Head Shop Owner Charged with Conspiring to Distribute Synthetic DrugsRead the Press Release
Hadi Sharairi, age 45, from Iowa City, has been charged with conspiring to distribute synthetic drugs. The charges are contained in an Indictment unsealed on June 16, 2016, in United States District Court in Cedar Rapids.
The Indictment alleges that, between at least February 10, 2014, and May 7, 2014, Sharairi conspired to distribute drugs called AB-FUBINACA and THJ-2201. The Indictment alleges that AB-FUBINACA is a Schedule I controlled substance and THJ-2201 was a controlled substance analogue in May 2014. Testimony at a hearing on June 21, 2016, showed Sharairi was the former owner of Zombies, a head shop located in Iowa City. An officer testified that Sharairi was warned by the Iowa City Police Department in June 2013 not to sell synthetic cannabinoid products (commonly known as “K2,” “Spice,” or “incense”). In May 2014, however, law enforcement searched Zombies and a storage unit associated with the business and found packages labeled “Bizarro,” which contained THJ-2201, and other packages labeled “Super Nova,” which contained AB-FUBINACA.
If convicted, Sharairi faces a possible maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment, a $1,000,000 fine, $100 in special assessments, and a lifetime of supervised release following any imprisonment.
Sharairi appeared on June 16, 2016, in federal court in Cedar Rapids and on June 21, 2016, was released on bond. Sharairi’s next appearance for a status hearing is set for July 20, 2016.
As with any criminal case, a charge is merely an accusation and a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The case was investigated by the Iowa City Police Department and as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program of the United States Department of Justice through a cooperative effort of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Task Force consisting of the DEA, the Linn County Sheriff's Office, the Cedar Rapids Police Department, the Marion Police Department, the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, and the Sixth Judicial District Department of Correctional Services; and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dan Chatham.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 16-CR-48-1-LRR.
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Illegal Alien Sentenced to 30 Months on Federal Gun ChargeRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – Juan Carlos Sepulveda-Castro, 31, a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced yesterday by Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill to 30 months in prison for possession of a firearm by an illegal alien, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Sepulveda-Castro pleaded guilty on March 30, 2016.
Idaho Falls police arrested Sepulveda-Castro on December 5, 2015 after a report that he had threatened several others with a gun during a dispute. Sepulveda-Castro admitted possessing a loaded, Sig Sauer Model 522, .22 caliber, assault-style rifle. Sepulveda-Castro is prohibited from possessing firearms because he is an alien illegally and unlawfully in the United States.
The case was investigated by Idaho Falls Police, U.S. Immigration and Custom Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
This case was prosecuted by the new Special Assistant U.S. Attorney hired by the Eastern Idaho Partnership and the State of Idaho. The Eastern Idaho Special Assistant U.S. Attorney was hired to bolster ongoing efforts to prosecute regional drug trafficking, gun and gang violence, internet based crimes against children, and other serious crimes with a federal nexus. The Eastern Idaho Partnership is a collaboration of elected officials and law enforcement from 12 counties and 18 cities across eastern Idaho, in partnership with the Idaho Department of Correction and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Houston Man Pleads Guilty in Methamphetamine Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
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U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that MICHAEL RAY TAYLOR, age 47, of Houston, Texas, pled guilty today to one count of conspiring to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing methamphetamine.
TAYLOR faces a minimum term of imprisonment of ten years, a maximum life sentence, a fine of up to $10,000,000, and up to five years of supervised release. U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier set sentencing for October 13, 2016.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, with assistance from the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office and Louisiana State Police in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Long is in charge of the prosecution.
Harrisburg Woman Pleads Guilty to Filing A False and Fraudulent Personal Income Tax ReturnRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Aida Crespo, age 44, pleaded guilty yesterday to one count of an Indictment that charged her with submitting a false and fraudulent tax return to the Internal Revenue Service. Crespo was previously indicted by a federal grand jury on October 7, 2015.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, between the years 2007 and 2011, Crespo made numerous false representations in the preparation of income tax returns for herself and for others in order to maximize refund amounts. The fraudulent preparation included misrepresenting Schedule C income, listing fictitious dependents and manipulating filing status. As a result, the United States Treasury issued refunds to citizens which exceeded the amount that they were entitled to receive.
The investigation was conducted by the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Division. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Chelsea Schinnour.
Indictments and informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law for submitting a false claim to the United States is 5 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine.
Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant’s educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Hanson Man Indicted for Sexual ExploitationRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Hanson man was indicted today in connection with sending sexually explicit videos of two pre-teen girls.
Mark L. Leach, 48, was indicted today on one count of sexual exploitation of a minor and coercion and enticement of a minor. In April 2016, Leach was charged in a criminal complaint.
According to court documents, law enforcement learned that Leach had used the Skype screen name “funtimehockey” to send sexually explicit messages via text, live video and audio with two pre-teen girls. One of the minor victims occasionally babysat for Leach’s daughter. The victims told law enforcement that Leach asked them to send naked and sexually explicit photos and videos of themselves. Leach also allegedly exposed himself.
Leach was arrested by law enforcement in April 2016 as he was leaving his home. During a consensual interview, Leach admitted that he had set up the Skype account to communicate with the minor girls, and requested that the girls expose themselves to him during conversations and send him sexually explicit pictures. He also admitted that he masturbated in front of them during Skype sessions.
The charge of sexual exploitation of a minor provides for a minimum mandatory sentence of 15 years and no greater than 30 years in prison, up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The charge of coercion and enticement of a minor provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and no greater than life imprisonment, up to lifetime of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Carmen M. Ortiz; Shelly Binkowski, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service; Colonel Richard D. McKeon, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; Hanson Police Chief Michael Miksch; and Whitman Police Chief Scott D. Benton, made the announcement today. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth G. Shine of Ortiz’s Major Crimes Unit.
Members of the public who have questions, concerns or information related to this case, or any information relating to the sexual exploitation of children, should call (617) 478-3274.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Grand Jury Indicts Two Dallas Men on Federal Felony Offenses Stemming from Their November 2015 Armed Assault on Federal OfficersRead the Press Release
DALLAS — A federal grand jury returned a six-count indictment yesterday charging two Dallas men, Victor Manuel Solorzano, 30, and his cousin, Edgar Solorzano, 23, on felony offenses stemming from their November 19, 2015, armed assault of two federal law enforcement officers in southwest Dallas, announced U.S. Attorney John Parker of the Northern District of Texas.
“The charges in this indictment clearly demonstrate that violent drug traffickers will be vigorously prosecuted by this office, particularly when their violence is directed at law enforcement officers, and the punishment they face upon conviction will be substantial,” said U.S. Attorney Parker.
The indictment charges each defendant with one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and two counts of assault of a federal officer. Victor Solorzano is also charged with two counts, and Edgar Solorzano with one count, of using, carrying, brandishing and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. Victor Solorzano is also charged with one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
During the early morning hours of November 19, 2015, the defendants, allegedly armed with assault rifles, opened fire on two U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Task Force Officers engaged in the performance of their official duties.
That same day, as part of the investigation, Victor Solorzano, was found to be in possession of numerous firearms in furtherance of the commission of a drug trafficking crime, namely possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
An indictment is an accusation by a grand jury and a defendant is entitled to the presumption of innocence unless proven guilty. If convicted, the methamphetamine distribution count and each of the assault counts carry a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in federal prison. Victor Solorzano is also charged with three firearm offenses. If convicted, one of those, relating to the drug count, is punishable by not less than five years and up to life, and the other two, relating to the two assault counts, are each punishable by not less than 25 years and up to life. These sentences must run consecutive to each other and consecutive to any sentences for the drug and assault offenses. Edgar Solorzano is also charged with one firearm offense, and it relates to one of the assault counts. If convicted, because it involves the discharge of a firearm, it is punishable by not less than 10 years and up to life, and this sentence must run consecutive to any sentences for the drug and assault offenses.
The indictment also includes a forfeiture allegation that would require the defendants, upon conviction, to forfeit 22 firearms and assorted ammunition, as well as nearly $4,000 in cash seized from them on November 19, 2015.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Dallas Police Department are conducting the investigation. Deputy Criminal Chief Assistant U.S. Attorney Gary Tromblay and Assistant U.S. Attorney John Kull are in charge of the prosecution.
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Glassport Man Admits Guilt in Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court on a charge of wire fraud, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
William B. Rusnock, 35, of Glassport, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge Gustave Diamond.
According to the information presented to the court, Rusnock made fraudulent purchases of sporting event tickets on StubHub! without paying for them, defrauding StubHub!, PayPal and Huntington Bank by using a deceptive scheme. The fraud totaled approximately $44,000.
Judge Diamond scheduled the sentencing for Oct. 18, 2016 at 10 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000.00, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Secret Service conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
Fort Thompson Woman Charged with Involuntary Manslaughter and Child AbuseRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Fort Thompson, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Involuntary Manslaughter and Child Abuse.
Bonita Keeble, a/k/a Bonita Hare, age 34, was indicted on April 13, 2016. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on June 21, 2016, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction of Involuntary Manslaughter is up to eight years in custody, and conviction of Child Abuse is up to 15 years in custody. Each charge carries a penalty of up to a $250,000 fine, three years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
It is alleged that around July 27, 2015, Keeble killed a minor child under the age of seven by acting in a grossly negligent manner by overlaying and smothering the child.
The charge is merely an accusation and Keeble is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the case.
Keeble was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Former Supervisory Contracting Officer Pleads Guilty to Accepting Bribes from Foreign Defense ContractorRead the Press Release
A former Department of Defense (DoD) supervisory contracting officer pleaded guilty today to charges that he accepted bribes from the owner of the foreign defense contractor at the center of a massive bribery and fraud scandal.
Assistant Attorney General Leslie R. Caldwell of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Laura E. Duffy of the Southern District of California, Acting Director Dermot O’Reilly of the DoD’s Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS) and Director Andrew Traver of the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) made the announcement.
Paul Simpkins, 61, of Haymarket, Virginia, was a senior DoD contracting official who supervised contracting officers responsible for awarding and administering U.S. Navy contracts. Sentencing was set for Sept. 9, 2016.
According to admissions made in connection with his plea, from approximately May 2006 until September 2012, Leonard Glenn Francis, owner of Singapore-based Glenn Defense Marine Asia (GDMA), provided cash, travel expenses and the services of prostitutes in return for Simpkins’s efforts to steer contracts to GDMA and intervene on GDMA’s behalf in contracting disputes with the U.S. Navy. Simpkins admitted that during the years-long scheme, Francis provided him with hundreds of thousands of dollars through wire transfers to a bank account in Japan controlled by Simpkins’s former wife. After Francis transferred the funds to Simpkins’s wife’s account, Simpkins caused payments to be remitted to a U.S. bank account held in his own name.
According to his plea, Simpkins admitted that, in return, he used his influence within the U.S. Navy to benefit GDMA. Among other things, Simpkins admitted that he extended GDMA’s contract after a subordinate recommended the contract not be extended due to high costs; instructed U.S. Navy officials in Hong Kong to discontinue using meters that ensured proper accounting of the amount of waste that GDMA removed from U.S. Navy ships to ensure that no overbilling occurred; and instructed a U.S. Navy official to ignore invoices that GDMA submitted after Francis complained that U.S. Navy personnel were asking questions.
Including Simpkins, 14 individuals have been charged in connection with this scheme; of those, 11 have pleaded guilty, including Rear Admiral Robert Gilbeau, Captain (Select) Michael Misiewicz, Captain Daniel Dusek, Lieutenant Commander Todd Malaki, NCIS Special Agent John Beliveau, Commander Jose Luis Sanchez and Petty Officer First Class Dan Layug. On Jan. 21, 2016, Layug was sentenced to 27 months in prison and a $15,000 fine; on Jan. 29, 2016, Malaki was sentenced to 40 months in prison and to pay $15,000 in restitution to the Navy and a $15,000 fine; on March 18, 2016, Alex Wisidagama, a former GDMA employee, was sentenced to 63 months in prison and to pay $34.8 million in restitution to the Navy; on March 25, 2016, Dusek was sentenced to 46 months in prison and to pay $30,000 in restitution to the Navy and a $70,000 fine; and on April 29, 2016, Misiewicz was sentenced to 78 months in prison and to pay a fine of $100,000 and to forfeit $95,000 in proceeds for the scheme. Francis and Ed Aruffo, a former GDMA employee, as well as GDMA, the corporate entity, have pleaded guilty and await sentencing. Retired Captain Michael Brooks, Commander Bobby Pitts and Lieutenant Commander Gentry Debord were charged by a federal grand jury on May 25, 2016, and their cases remain pending.
The ongoing investigation is being conducted by NCIS, DCIS and DCAA. Assistant Chief Brian R. Young of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mark W. Pletcher and Patrick Hovakimian of the Southern District of California are prosecuting the case.
Those with information relating to fraud, corruption or waste in government contracting should contact the NCIS anonymous tip line at www.ncis.navy.mil or the DOD Hotline at www.dodig.mil/hotline, or call (800) 424-9098.
Former Supervisory Contracting Officer Pleads Guilty to Accepting Bribes from Foreign Defense ContractorRead the Press Release
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mark W. Pletcher (619) 546-9714 and Patrick Hovakimian (619) 546-9718
NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY – June 23, 2016
SAN DIEGO, CA – Former Department of Defense supervisory contracting officer Paul Simpkins pleaded guilty today to charges that he accepted bribes from Leonard Glenn Francis, the foreign defense contractor at the center of a massive bribery and fraud scandal.
Paul Simpkins, 62, of Haymarket, Virginia, supervised contracting officers responsible for awarding and administering U.S. Navy contracts. According to admissions made in his plea agreement, from approximately May 2006 until September 2012, Francis provided cash, travel expenses and the services of prostitutes in return for Simpkins’s efforts to steer contracts to his company, Glenn Defense Marine Asia (GDMA), and intervene on GDMA’s behalf in contracting disputes with the U.S. Navy. Simpkins admitted that during the years-long scheme, Francis provided him with hundreds of thousands of dollars through wire transfers to a bank account controlled by Simpkins’s former wife.
Sentencing is scheduled for September 9, 2016 at 9 a.m. before Judge Janis L. Sammartino.
Including Simpkins, 14 individuals have been charged in connection with this scheme; of those, 11 have pleaded guilty, including Rear Admiral Robert Gilbeau, Captain (Select) Michael Misiewicz, Captain Daniel Dusek, Lieutenant Commander Todd Malaki, NCIS Special Agent John Beliveau, Commander Jose Luis Sanchez and Petty Officer First Class Dan Layug.
On Jan. 21, 2016, Layug was sentenced to 27 months in prison and a $15,000 fine; on Jan. 29, 2016, Malaki was sentenced to 40 months in prison and to pay $15,000 in restitution to the Navy and a $15,000 fine; on March 18, 2016, Alex Wisidagama, a former GDMA employee, was sentenced to 63 months in prison and to pay $34.8 million in restitution to the Navy; on March 25, 2016, Dusek was sentenced to 46 months in prison and to pay $30,000 in restitution to the Navy and a $70,000 fine; and on April 29, 2016, Misiewicz was sentenced to 78 months in prison and to pay a fine of $100,000 and to forfeit $95,000 in proceeds for the scheme.
Francis and Ed Aruffo, a former GDMA employee, as well as GDMA, the corporate entity, have pleaded guilty and await sentencing. Retired Captain Michael Brooks, Commander Bobby Pitts and Lieutenant Commander Gentry Debord were charged by a federal grand jury on May 25, 2016, and their cases remain pending.
The investigation is being conducted by NCIS, DCIS and DCAA. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mark W. Pletcher and Patrick Hovakimian of the Southern District of California are prosecuting the case along with Assistant Chief Brian R. Young of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section.
Those with information relating to fraud, corruption or waste in government contracting should contact the NCIS anonymous tip line at www.ncis.navy.mil or the DOD Hotline at www.dodig.mil/hotline, or call (800) 424-9098.
DEFENDANT Case Number: 15-CR-0530
Former Department of Defense supervisory contracting officer Paul Simpkins Age 62
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Conspiracy to Commit Bribery, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 371
Maximum Penalty: 5 years in prison, $250,000 fine
Bribery, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 201 (b) (2) (A) and (C)
Maximum Penalty: 5 years in prison, $250,000 fine
INVESTIGATING AGENCIES
Defense Criminal Investigative Service
Naval Criminal Investigative Service
Defense Contract Audit Agency
Former Letter Carrier Pleads Guilty to Worker’s Compensation FraudRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A former U.S. Postal Service employee pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court in Boston to fraudulently obtaining worker’s compensation for medical travel.
Joseph Bouchard, 67, of Georgetown, pleaded guilty to one count of fraud in obtaining federal employee compensation. U.S. District Court Magistrate Judge Marianne Bowler scheduled sentencing for Sept. 14, 2016
From January 1986 to December 2009, Bouchard was employed as a letter carrier in Reading, Mass. While on medical leave from 2008 to 2014, Bouchard submitted dozens of travel vouchers to fitness centers in Lexington, Lynnfield and Bedford for dates when he did not actually use those gyms or used a different gym of closer proximity. Bouchard’s fraudulent submissions totaled approximately $50,000.
The charging statues provides a sentence of no greater than one year in prison, one year of supervised release, a fine of $100,000, or twice the gross gain/loss, whichever is greater, restitution and forfeiture. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than maximum penalties. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Carmen M. Ortiz and Eileen Neff, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Postal Service, Office of the Inspector General in Boston, made the announcement today. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Eugenia M. Carris of Ortiz’s Public Corruption and Special Crimes Unit.
Former Law Firm Executive Sentenced for Embezzling over $230,000 from FirmRead the Press Release
ATLANTA - Mary Suzanne Creach has been sentenced to federal prison for wire fraud as part of her scheme to steal over $230,000 from her former employer, an Atlanta-based law firm.
“Even though well-paid as the Executive Director of her firm, Creach used her position to embezzle money routinely and to pad her comfortable lifestyle,” said U. S. Attorney John Horn. “Stealing is illegal whether it’s from someone's home or from your employer, and in this instance a law firm lost several hundred thousand dollars due to the actions of an unscrupulous senior employee.”
“This case is another unfortunate example of an individual who violated her position of trust to illegally enrich herself,” said Malcolm D. Wiley, Sr., Acting Special Agent in Charge of the United States Secret Service, Atlanta Field Office. “The United States Secret Service will continue to collaborate with its law enforcement partners to target and arrest individuals who commit these types of crimes.”
According to U.S. Attorney Horn, the charges and other information presented in court: From August 2013 until June 2015, Creach was the law firm’s Executive Director, and part of her responsibilities were managing the firm's financial affairs, including employee payroll. Despite being paid a considerable salary well in excess of six-figures, Creach used her authority to initiate unauthorized bank transfers and payroll adjustments that almost doubled what she earned in salary.
At the beginning of her scheme, Creach initiated fraudulent transfers and payroll adjustments in the $1,000 to $3,000 range. She grew considerably bolder over time, and towards the end of the scheme, she was routinely authorizing transfers to herself in the $6,000 to $7,000 range, with some transfers well over $10,000. By the time her theft was discovered by the firm, she had stolen $232,933.40.
Mary Suzanne Creach, 53, of Dunwoody, Georgia, has been sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Thomas W. Thrash, to one year, six months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $232,933.40. Creach pleaded guilty on March 28, 2016.
This case was investigated by the United States Secret Service.
Assistant United States Attorney Lynsey M. Barron prosecuted the case.
For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at [email protected] or (404) 581-6016. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.
Five Persons Sentenced on Tax Refund Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
SCRANTON- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that five persons who previously pleaded guilty in related cases to filing false claims for federal tax refunds were sentenced this week, in federal court in Scranton, by United States District Judge Robert Mariani.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, the following persons were sentenced as indicated:
Russell F. Trauger, age 67, Factoryville, pleaded guilty in December 2012 to making a false claim against the government. Trauger was sentenced by Judge Mariani on June 20, 2016 to serve 24 months in prison and to make restitution to the government in the amount of $233,686.55.
Donald K. Murley, age 64, Cresco, pleaded guilty in December 2012 to making a false claim against the government. Murley was sentenced by Judge Mariani on June 21, 2016 to serve 21 months in prison and to make restitution to the government in the amount of $243,462.62.
Harold C. Trauger, Jr., age 70, Factoryville, pleaded guilty in December 2012 to making a false claim against the government. Murley was sentenced by Judge Mariani on June 21, 2016 to 2 years’ probation conditioned upon 6 months’ of home confinement and electronic monitoring. Harold Trauger was also ordered to pay a fine of $7,500.
Bryan Cavage, age 36, Florida, pleaded guilty in August 2013 to making a false claim against the government. Murley was sentenced by Judge Mariani on June 23, 2016 to serve 5 months in prison and to make restitution to the government in the amount of $37,152.38.
Laura Laporta, age 49, Cresco, pleaded guilty in December 2012 to making a false claim against the government. Laporta was sentenced by Judge Mariani on June 23, 2016 to serve 4 months in prison and to make restitution to the government in the amount of $32,564.
The individuals sentenced this week were charged after an investigation conducted by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation that revealed that the charged individuals were involved in a scheme to defraud the government through the filing of false Forms 1099-OID in support tax returns that fraudulently claimed refunds. Similar abusive tax fraud schemes have been investigated and prosecuted nationwide.
The cases were prosecuted by former Assistant U.S. Attorney Wayne Samuelson and Assistant U.S. Attorney William Houser.
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Eustis Man Sentenced for Receiving and Distributing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Deborah R. Gilg announced that Gregory J. Rhoadarmer, 46, formerly of Eustis, Nebraska., was sentenced in Lincoln, Nebraska, to 63 months in prison by United States Senior District Judge Richard G. Kopf, for receipt and distribution of child pornography. After his release from prison, Rhoadarmer will serve a period of five years on supervised release and be required to register as a sex offender.
While conducting investigations into the sharing of child pornography files, investigators from the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office were able to obtain a number of video files which contained child pornography as defined by federal law. On June 11, 2015, an IP address was identified as using a file sharing program and was traced to Rhoadarmer’s residence.
A search warrant was executed at Rhoadarmer’s residence in Eustis, Nebraska on July 16, 2015. Various items of computer equipment were seized and have been forfeited. Rhoadarmer was interviewed by law enforcement and admitted that he had installed the file sharing program on his computer and had been downloading and sharing files containing child pornography. A forensic examination revealed over 100 videos and images of child pornography on Rhoadarmer’s computer.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. 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 better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
This case was investigated by the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office.
English Avenue Drug Market Intervention Targets Drug Dealer Who Recruited Juveniles into the Drug TradeRead the Press Release
ATLANTA - Tovias Dunton, has been arraigned on federal charges of conspiring to possess heroin with the intent to distribute, distribution of heroin, and using a minor to distribute and attempt to distribute heroin. The defendant was indicted as part of the Drug Market Initiative (DMI), which is an on-going commitment to eradicate the heroin market in the English Avenue neighborhood.
“The cycle of drug trafficking in the English Avenue community is perpetuated by people like Dunton, who allegedly tried to avoid his own prosecution by enlisting minors to traffic heroin,” said U. S. Attorney John Horn. “We won’t sit on the sidelines when drug dealers attempt to pull the young people in their community into the drug trade.”
“Although we are very pleased with the success of this operation, it highlights the persistence of narcotics trafficking and demonstrates that this type of crime is real and must be continuously battled,” said Assistant Special Agent in Charge John Schmidt, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Atlanta Field Division.
“The arraignment of Tovias Dunton on federal charges related to heroin distribution is a win for the City of Atlanta,” said Chief George N. Turner, Atlanta Police Department. “The cowardly method of using children to commit your crimes shows just how far a criminal will go to carry out his deeds. We will remain committed to working with our federal partners to protect our youth from every type of threat.”
“This indictment illustrates that drug trafficking at any level will not be tolerated in the state of Georgia. It is paramount that violators of drug laws and criminals that utilize juveniles to distribute drugs be held accountable. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is fully committed to working with our local and federal partners in drug enforcement to address these types of crimes,” said Vernon Keenan, Director, Georgia Bureau of Investigation.
According to U.S. Attorney Horn, the charges, and other information presented in court: Dunton’s indictment stems from the latest phase of the DMI investigation of drug trafficking in the English Avenue community. Dunton was identified by law enforcement as a heroin seller in the English Avenue community when he allegedly conducted a hand-to-hand transaction with a confidential informant in February 2016. Beginning that same month, Dunton allegedly conspired with a 15-year old boy and others to possess heroin with the intent to distribute. On two separate occasions in April and May 2016, Dunton allegedly used the minor distribute and attempt to distribute heroin.
Tovias Dunton, 37, of Atlanta, Georgia, was indicted by a federal grand jury on June 14, 2016, and was arraigned before United States Magistrate Judge Catherine M. Salinas.
Members of the public are reminded that the indictment only contains charges. The defendant is presumed innocent of the charges and it will be the government’s burden to prove the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
This case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Atlanta Police Department, and Georgia Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas Hartigan is prosecuting the case.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Atlanta recommends parents and children learn about the dangers of drugs at the following web site: www.justthinktwice.com.
For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at [email protected] or (404) 581-6016. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.