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Monday 21 September 2015
‘Career Con-man” Sentenced to Nearly Six Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE, R.I. – A ‘career con-man’ with twenty-one previous convictions for fraud has been sentenced to nearly six years in federal prison for devising a scheme to deposit counterfeit bank checks into bank accounts he controlled then withdrawing some or all of the funds, and for violating the terms of supervised release on a previous federal conviction for fraud.
Michael P. Tatro, 45, was sentenced on Friday by U.S. District Court Chief Judge William E. Smith to 46 months in prison for bank fraud and to a consecutive sentence of 24 months in prison for violating the terms of supervised release. Tatro was also ordered to serve 5 years of supervised release upon completion of his current prison term and to pay restitution to the banks defrauded in the amount of $45,427.91.
Tatro’s sentence is announced by United States Attorney Peter F. Neronha and Ted A. Arruda, Resident Agent in Charge of the Providence Office of the U.S. Secret Service.
Tatro pleaded guilty on January 30, 2015, to bank fraud.
At the time of his guilty plea, Tatro admitted to the court that on October 1, 2013, he opened a business account which he controlled at Bank Rhode Island. Tatro admitted that between December 19 and December 30, 2013, he deposited into the account counterfeit cashier’s checks totaling $108,995. Tatro admitted that after making the deposits he took steps to quickly withdraw monies from the account.
In addition, Tatro admitted to the court that on December 30, 2013, and on January 2, 2014, he deposited checks he wrote on his Bank Road Island business account into an account in his name at Greenwood Credit Union and then quickly withdrew monies. Bank Rhode Island returned the checks unpaid to Greenwood Credit Union.
The court found that at the time Tatro defrauded Bank Rhode Island and Greenwood Credit Union he had violated the terms of supervised release on a previous conviction for bank and tax fraud. In January 2009 he was sentenced to 51 months imprisonment to be followed by 5 years supervised release.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lee H. Vilker.
The matter was investigated by the United States Secret Service.
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Contact:
Jim Martin (401) 709-5357
email: [email protected]
on Twitter @USAO_RI
Woman in Prison for BP Oil Spill Fraud Sentenced to Two More Years for Food Stamp Fraud and Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
BIRMINGHAM -- A federal judge today sentenced a McCalla woman to two years in prison for food stamp fraud and evading income taxes. The woman currently is in prison for attempting to defraud the Gulf Coast oil spill claims fund, announced U.S. Attorney Joyce White Vance, Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, Special Agent in Charge Veronica Hyman-Pillot, and U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General, Investigations, Special Agent in Charge Karen Citizen-Wilcox.
U.S. District Judge L. Scott Coogler sentenced SHERICA LACEY LEE, 33, on one count each of tax evasion and wire fraud. Lee pleaded guilty to the charges in August. Lee is serving a one year and day prison sentence for attempting to defraud the Gulf Coast oil spill fund. She is scheduled to complete that sentence in January, and the time she serves between now and then will be applied to the two-year sentenced she received today.
In accordance with Lee's plea agreement with the government on the food stamp fraud and tax evasion charges, Judge Coogler ordered her to forfeit $23,757 to the government as proceeds of illegal activity. She also must pay that same amount in restitution, plus interest, to the Department of Agriculture for food stamp benefits she was not eligible to receive between July 2009 and June 2013, and she must pay $134,448 in restitution, plus interest, to the IRS for taxes not paid in 2008 through 2010. Judge Coogler fined Lee $7,500.
According to Lee's guilty plea, she evaded income taxes for 2008 by preparing and submitting a personal tax return that falsely reported she had no taxable income, when she had $229,147 in taxable income that year. Lee ran a tax preparation business, Lacey's Income Tax Service, with several locations in the Birmingham area. Between 2008 and 2010, Lee's company filed more than 2,000 tax returns and generated about $2.5million in receipts.
Lee committed wire fraud as part of a scheme to obtain federal benefits from the USDA Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. USDA administered SNAP, formerly known as the Federal Food Stamp Program, in conjunction with the Alabama Department of Human Resources.
Although Lee had income in excess of $200,000 in 2009, she applied for SNAP benefits by falsely stating on her application to DHR that she had no household income, cash on hand, or money in the bank, according to her plea. Lee submitted additional false application forms in 2010, 2011 and 2012. Her applications caused the $23,757 in SNAP benefits to be wired to an account established in her name and loaded monthly onto an Electronic Benefit Transfer card, which could be used as a debit card to purchase food.
IRS, Criminal Investigation, and USDA-OIG investigated the case, which Assistant U.S. Attorney Pat Meadows prosecuted.
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Woburn Promoter Charged in Stock Price Manipulation SchemeRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A stock promoter from Woburn was charged today in U.S. District Court in Boston with securities fraud in connection with his participation in a scheme to manipulate the market for the publicly traded stock of a microcap company.
Louis Buonocore, 60, was charged with conspiracy and securities fraud based on his involvement in the manipulation of the stock of YaFarm Technologies, Inc. (YaFarm), a penny stock company that claimed to be entering the stem cell therapy business.
In a parallel action, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) announced securities fraud charges today against Buonocore and another individual, Frank Morelli, in connection with the scheme.
According to the Information, in late 2012, Buonocore and his co-conspirators secretly acquired majority control of YaFarm’s free-trading shares, using nominees to conceal their ownership from the SEC and others. In early 2013, with millions of shares at their disposal, Buonocore and his co-conspirators launched a misleading promotional campaign to persuade investors that YaFarm was acquiring a successful stem cell therapy business and the new laboratory it was building in Cancun, Mexico. In reality, YaFarm had no meaningful operations, the institution being acquired was still in development, and it lacked the funds needed to build the laboratory. As a result of the hype created by the misleading press releases, Buonocore and his co-conspirators were able to sell their YaFarm stock to unwitting investors at artificially high prices.
These charges arise out of a multi-year investigation focusing on preventing fraud in the microcap stock markets. Microcap companies are small publicly traded companies whose stock often trades at pennies per share. Fraud in the microcap markets is of increasing concern to regulators as such markets have proven to be fertile grounds for fraud and abuse. This is, in part, because accurate information about microcap stocks may be difficult for the average investor to find, since many microcap companies do not file financial reports with the SEC.
Today’s charges follow a series of cases filed by the SEC and the U.S. Attorney for the District of Massachusetts in which more than 20 individuals have been criminally charged and convicted for using kickbacks and other schemes to trigger investment in, or manipulate the stock of, thinly-traded stocks.
The charge of securities fraud provides a sentence of no greater than 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of $5 million. The conspiracy charge provides a sentence of no greater than five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000, or twice the gross loss to the victim. 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 Ortiz and Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division, made the announcement today. The criminal case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Christofferson of Ortiz’s Economic Crimes Unit and SEC Attorney Andrew Palid, who was appointed as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney.
The details contained in the charging document are allegations. The defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
This case was brought in coordination with President Barack Obama’s Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force. President Obama established the interagency Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force to wage an aggressive, coordinated, and proactive effort to investigate and prosecute financial crimes. The task force includes representatives from a broad range of federal agencies, regulatory authorities, inspectors general, and state and local law enforcement who, working together, bring to bear a powerful array of criminal and civil enforcement resources. The task force is working to improve efforts across the federal executive branch, and with state and local partners, to investigate and prosecute significant financial crimes, ensure just and effective punishment for those who perpetrate financial crimes, combat discrimination in the lending and financial markets, and recover proceeds for victims of financial crimes.
Wisconsin Woman Remains in Federal Custody on Complaint Alleging She Transported a Minor Child to Another State to Engage in Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
DALLAS — A Janesville, Wisconsin woman, Jennifer Lynn Dougherty, remains in federal custody on a federal criminal complaint alleging she transported a minor child from Texas to Wisconsin to engage in sexual activity, announced U.S. Attorney John Parker of the Northern District of Texas.
A detention hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, September 23, at 2:00 p.m. before U.S. Magistrate Judge Paul D. Stickney.
According to the affidavit filed with the criminal complaint, after being notified early last week of a missing minor child by the child’s parents, the Garland Police Department contacted the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) and entered the victim into the database as a missing juvenile. A review of the minor child’s X-Box 360 gaming system by detectives with the Garland Police Department revealed recent chat communications, sexual in nature, with a particular user, later identified as Dougherty.
On Wednesday, September 16, 2015, officers with the Dallas Police Department assigned to the Dallas Love Field airport, contacted NCIC advising they had located an individual matching the child’s description, in the company of an adult female, at the airport. Upon receipt of this information, officers with the Garland Police Department went to the Dallas Love Field airport and retrieved the missing child and adult female.
The investigation revealed Dougherty and the minor child met while playing online games. On September 12, 2015, Dougherty allegedly traveled from Wisconsin to Texas, picked up the minor child, and transported the child to Wisconsin, where she sexually assaulted the child.
A federal complaint is a written statement of the essential facts of the offenses charged and must be made under oath before a magistrate judge. A defendant is entitled to the presumption of innocence until proven guilty. The maximum statutory penalty for the offense as charged is not less than 10 years or up to life in federal prison, a $250,000 fine and a lifetime of supervised release.
The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative, which was launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice, to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals, who sexually exploit children, and identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc/. For more information about internet safety education, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc/ and click on the tab “resources.”
The FBI and the Garland Police Department are investigating. Assistant U.S. Attorney Camille Sparks is in charge of the prosecution.
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Wichita Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Bank Robbery ChargeRead the Press Release
WICHITA KAN. - A Wichita man pleaded guilty Monday to a bank robbery that ended when he rolled his car in a residential neighborhood, U.S. Attorney Barry Grissom said.
Harold Carl Deloach, Jr., 41, Wichita, Kan., pleaded guilty to robbing the Credit Union of America at 212 S. Ridge Road in Wichita on Jan. 15, 2015. He entered the credit union at about 5 p.m. and gave the teller a note saying, “Put the money in the bag.” He was arrested after rolling his car in a homeowner’s front yard near 13th North and Tyler, about three miles from the bank.
Sentencing is set for Dec. 14. He faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000. Grissom commended the Wichita Police Department, the FBI and Assistant U.S. Attorney for their work on the case.
Vermilion County Man Indicted on Gun ChargeRead the Press Release
Urbana, Ill. – A November 2015 trial date has been scheduled for a Danville, Ill., man indicted on a charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm, as announced by Jim Lewis, U.S. Attorney for the Central District of Illinois. A trial date of Nov. 24, 2015, has been set for Dashun W. Avery, 20, of the 800 block of N. Bowman Ave.
The indictment, returned early this month, had remained sealed pending Avery’s court appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Eric I. Long on Friday, Sept. 18. Judge Long ordered that Avery remain detained in U.S. Marshals Service custody.
The indictment alleges that on July 13, 2015, Avery unlawfully possessed a nine millimeter, semi-automatic pistol with an obliterated serial number after having previously been convicted of a felony offense. If convicted, the statutory maximum penalty is up to 10 years in prison, and a fine of up to $250,000.
The case is being prosecuted by Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney Eugene L. Miller. The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Danville Police Department.
Members of the public are reminded that an indictment is merely an accusation; the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
Urbana Man to Serve 15 Years in Federal Prison for Sexual Exploitation of a MinorRead the Press Release
Urbana, Ill. – An Urbana, Ill., man, Talon G. Wright, 39, of the 900 block of East Harding St., was sentenced this afternoon for sexual exploitation of a minor and possession of child pornography. U.S. District Judge Colin S. Bruce sentenced Wright to a term of 15 years in federal prison and ordered that he remain on supervised release for a period of 10 years following his release from prison.
Wright entered pleas of guilty on May 14, 2015, to the charge of using and coercing a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing visual images of said conduct in late 2011 and early 2012. Further, Wright pled guilty to possession of computer devices containing child pornography on Aug. 1, 2014.
Since Wright’s arrest on Oct. 27, 2014, he has remained detained in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Elly M. Peirson prosecuted the case. The charges were the result of an investigation by the Urbana Police Department and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigation, in cooperation with the office of the Champaign County State’s Attorney and the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services.
The 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 U.S. 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.
U.S. Justice Department Awards Transitional Housing Grant Assistance to Two New Jersey OrganizationsRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – The U.S. Department of Justice Office on Violence Against Woman today awarded more than $550,000 in grants to two New Jersey organizations that provide housing assistance to victims of sexual assault, domestic or dating violence and stalking, U.S. Attorney Paul J. Fishman announced.
Jersey Battered Women’s Services (JBWS) Inc. of Morristown, New Jersey, was awarded a $305,576 grant and 180 Turning Lives Around Inc. of Hazlet, New Jersey, was awarded a $255,284 grant. Both grants were made through the Transitional Housing Grant Assistance program.
The primary purpose of the Transitional Housing Assistance Program is to provide aid to victims of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking who are homeless, or in need of transitional housing, or other housing assistance, including short-term housing assistance and supportive services; and for whom emergency shelter services or other crisis intervention services are unavailable or insufficient. The program also focuses on supporting a holistic, victim-centered approach to provide transitional housing services that move individuals into permanent housing. It is critical that successful transitional housing programs provide a wide range of flexible and optional services that reflect the differences and individual needs of victims and that allow victims to choose the course of action that is best for them.
JBWS will partner with Literacy Volunteers of Morris County for ESL instruction, the Women’s Center for computer classes, the Health Careers Program at the County College of Morris for access to high-earning career tracks, the Northwest New Jersey Community Action Partnership (NORWESCAP) for financial literacy, Child & Family Resources for child care referral as well as parenting education, and the Greater Morristown YMCA for afterschool and summer camp care. These partnerships will provide a broader range of supportive services needed and requested by clients. Housing and supportive services will be co-located in a cluster model facility for 11 families. The project will provide at least 30 victims the tools necessary to become self-sufficient and achieve long-term safety.
180 Turning Lives Around is a non-profit organization located in Monmouth County, New Jersey, a county encompassing both some of the richest and some of the poorest municipalities in the state. Monmouth County, with a population of 629,735, has had either the 2nd or 3rd highest number of domestic violence reports out of New Jersey’s 21 counties during the past five years. 180 will partner with Long Branch Concordance and contracted service providers to support 10 families in the 180 agency owned scattered site townhomes. 180 Turning Lives Around will limit its use of Transitional Housing Assistance Grant Program funds to supportive services. Funds for housing are designated from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
For more information about this grant, contact the Office on Violence Against Women, Outreach and Communications Division, at (202) 307-6026.
U.S. Department of Justice awards law enforcement hiring grants to help build trust, reduce violence and protect schoolsRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON, DC—Today, U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch announced Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) funding awards to two cities in the Eastern District of Louisiana, aimed at creating, and in some cases protecting, 17 law enforcement positions. Over $107 million will be awarded nationally, through the COPS Hiring Program (CHP), including $2,095,846.
The list of this year’s grantees includes:
New Orleans Police Department: $1,875,000 to fund 15 officers
Bogalusa Police Department: $ 220,846 to fund 2 officers
Total Funding Awarded: $2,095,846
“The COPS Office is pleased to assist local law enforcement agencies throughout the country in addressing their most critical public safety issues,” said Ronald L. Davis, Director of the COPS Office. “These grants are not simply about putting more officers on the street, they are about expanding the capacity of law enforcement agencies to engage in community policing.”
"I thank the COPS Office for its continued support of law enforcement efforts in our District,” state U.S. Attorney Polite. “These grant awards will help improve public safety in two important cities in Southeast Louisiana."
CHP provides grants to state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies to hire or rehire community policing officers. The program provides salaries and benefits for officer and deputy hires for three years.
Priority consideration was given this year to agencies that selected any of the Building Trust focus areas or School Based Policing through School Resource Officers. All applicants were encouraged to refer to the report of the President's Task Force on 21st Century Policing for suggested actions to incorporate into their proposed community policing strategy.
The COPS Office is a federal agency responsible for advancing community policing nationwide. Since 1995, COPS has invested over $14 billion to advance community policing, including grants awarded to more than 13,000 state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies to fund the hiring and redeployment of approximately 127,000 officers and provide a variety of knowledge resource products including publications, training, and technical assistance.
For the entire list of grantees and additional information about the 2015 COPS Hiring Program, visit the COPS website at www.cops.usdoj.gov.
U.S. Department of Justice Provides Nearly $3.4 Million to Arizona Law Enforcement Agencies to Create 27 New PositionsRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON, DC — Today, U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch announced that the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (“COPS”) will be awarding a total of $3.375 million in federal funds to two Arizona police departments: Phoenix and South Tucson. These funds are intended to create and protect 27 law enforcement positions in Arizona and are part of a $107 million nationwide funding effort.
“The COPS Office is pleased to assist local law enforcement agencies throughout the country in addressing their most critical public safety issues,” said Ronald L. Davis, Director of the COPS Office. “These grants are not simply about putting more officers on the street, they are about expanding the capacity of law enforcement agencies to engage in community policing.”
“This is great news for the district. The addition of #27 officers in these communities helps build trust in law enforcement, reduce violence and protect our schools, which significantly increases overall public safety in our District.” said U.S. Attorney John S. Leonardo. “I am very pleased that this Department of Justice - Law Enforcement Grant was awarded to these two communities allowing them to maintain their community policing efforts at peak efficiency.”
The COPS Office is a federal agency responsible for advancing community policing nationwide. Since 1995, COPS has invested over $14 billion to advance community policing, including grants awarded to more than 13,000 state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies to fund the hiring and redeployment of approximately 127,000 officers and provide a variety of knowledge resource products including publications, training, and technical assistance.
For the entire list of grantees and additional information about the 2015 COPS Hiring Program, visit the COPS website at www.cops.usdoj.gov.
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RELEASE NUMBER: 2015-085_ COPS_AWARDS
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.
U.S. Department of Justice Awards Law Enforcement Hiring Grants to Help Build Trust, Reduce Violence and Protect SchoolsRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Today, U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch announced Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) funding awards to two cities and one Pueblo in the District of New Mexico, aimed at funding 16 law enforcement positions. Over $107 million will be awarded nationally, through the COPS Hiring Program (CHP), including $1,921,987.00 for three police departments in New Mexico.
The list of this year’s grantees includes: the Hobbs Police Department which was awarded $625,000.00 to fund five officers; the Las Cruces Police Department which was awarded $1,125,000.00 to fund nine officers; and the Pueblo of Laguna Tribal Police Department which was awarded $171,987.00 to fund two officers.
“The COPS Office is pleased to assist local law enforcement agencies throughout the country in addressing their most critical public safety issues,” said Ronald L. Davis, Director of the COPS Office. “These grants are not simply about putting more officers on the street, they are about expanding the capacity of law enforcement agencies to engage in community policing.”
CHP provides grants to state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies to hire or rehire community policing officers. The program provides salaries and benefits for officer and deputy hires for three years.
“Every additional officer on the street helps keep our communities safe,” said U.S. Attorney Damon P. Martinez. “The 16 officers who will be hired with this money will help fight crime in Hobbs, Las Cruces and the Pueblo of Laguna and improve the lives of the people who live there.”
Priority consideration was given this year to agencies that selected any of the Building Trust focus areas or School Based Policing through School Resource Officers. All applicants were encouraged to refer to the Report of the President's Task Force on 21st Century Policing for suggested actions to incorporate into their proposed community policing strategy.
The COPS Office is a federal agency responsible for advancing community policing nationwide. Since 1995, COPS has invested over $14 billion to advance community policing, including grants awarded to more than 13,000 state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies to fund the hiring and redeployment of approximately 127,000 officers and provide a variety of knowledge resource products including publications, training, and technical assistance.
For the entire list of grantees and additional information about the 2015 COPS Hiring Program, visit the COPS website at www.cops.usdoj.gov.
U.S. Department of Justice Awards Law Enforcement Hiring Grants to Help Build Trust, Reduce Violence and Protect SchoolsRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON, DC—Today, U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch announced Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) funding awards to five police departments in the Western District of Washington aimed at creating, and in some cases protecting, ten law enforcement positions. Over $107 million will be awarded nationally, through the COPS Hiring Program (CHP), including $1.25 million for Western Washington.
The list of this year’s grantees includes: the Arlington Police Department – two officers; Issaquah – two officers; Marysville – three officers; the Port Gamble S’Klallam Indian Tribe – one officer; the Tukwila Police Department – two officers.
“Ensuring that local law enforcement officers have the resources they need to serve their communities fairly, faithfully and effectively is among the Justice Department’s highest priorities,” said Attorney General Lynch. “These awards will not only keep more officers on the beat – they will address specific issue areas like violent crime, school safety, homeland security and community trust. They will help our law enforcement agencies become more efficient and more responsive to the needs of their jurisdictions. And they will promote the ongoing efforts of the Department of Justice as we work to build the safe, secure and supportive communities that every American deserves.”
“The COPS Office is pleased to assist local law enforcement agencies throughout the country in addressing their most critical public safety issues,” said Ronald L. Davis, Director of the COPS Office. “These grants are not simply about putting more officers on the street, they are about expanding the capacity of law enforcement agencies to engage in community policing.”
CHP provides grants to state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies to hire or rehire community policing officers. The program provides salaries and benefits for officer and deputy hires for three years.
“Building trust between communities and police is a key component of effective policing,” said U.S. Attorney Annette L. Hayes. “I congratulate these cities and police departments that successfully competed for this grant with proposals aimed and building trust with the communities they serve and keeping our students safe in school.”
Priority consideration was given this year to agencies that selected any of the Building Trust focus areas or School Based Policing through School Resource Officers. All applicants were encouraged to refer to the report of the President's Task Force on 21st Century Policing for suggested actions to incorporate into their proposed community policing strategy.
The COPS Office is a federal agency responsible for advancing community policing nationwide. Since 1995, COPS has invested over $14 billion to advance community policing, including grants awarded to more than 13,000 state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies to fund the hiring and redeployment of approximately 127,000 officers and provide a variety of knowledge resource products including publications, training, and technical assistance.
For the entire list of grantees and additional information about the 2015 COPS Hiring Program, visit the COPS website at www.cops.usdoj.gov.
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U.S. Department of Justice Awards Grant to VI to Hire 15 Law Enforcement Officers to Help Build Trust, Reduce ViolenceRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON, DC—Today, U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch announced Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) funding awards, including a $1,838,023 award to the Virgin Islands Police Department for 15 additional law enforcement positions. Over $107 million will be awarded nationally, through the COPS Hiring Program (CHP).
“The COPS Office is pleased to assist local law enforcement agencies throughout the country in addressing their most critical public safety issues,” said Ronald L. Davis, Director of the COPS Office. “These grants are not simply about putting more officers on the street, they are about expanding the capacity of law enforcement agencies to engage in community policing.”
CHP provides grants to state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies to hire or rehire community policing officers. The program provides salaries and benefits for officer and deputy hires for three years.
“These grants demonstrate the US Department of Justice’s and the US Attorney’s Office’s commitment to ensuring public safety by getting more officers on the streets,” said Ronald W. Sharpe, United States Attorney for the District of the Virgin Islands. “Moreover, by having these officers engage in community policing, the community is assured that progressive steps, such as ending excessive use of force and promoting accountability systems, are being taken to build trust between law enforcement officers and the community.”
U.S. Attorney Sharpe said that when there is trust between law enforcement officers and the community, both victims and witnesses are more likely to provide law enforcement with
information needed to resolve crimes and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.Priority consideration for the grants was given this year to agencies that selected any of the Building Trust focus areas or School Based Policing through School Resource Officers. All applicants were encouraged to refer to the report of the President's Task Force on 21st Century Policing for suggested actions to incorporate into their proposed community policing strategy.
The COPS Office is a federal agency responsible for advancing community policing nationwide. Since 1995, COPS has invested over $14 billion to advance community policing, including grants awarded to more than 13,000 state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies to fund the hiring and redeployment of approximately 127,000 officers and provide a variety of knowledgeresource products including publications, training, and technical assistance. For the entire list of grantees and additional information about the 2015 COPS Hiring Program, visit the COPS website at www.cops.usdoj.gov.
U.S. Department of Justice Awards $1.5 Million Law Enforcement Hiring Grant to Waterbury to Help Build Trust, Reduce Violence and ProtectRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Deirdre M. Daly, in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Justice Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office), today announced that the COPS Office has awarded $1.5 million to the City of Waterbury to fund 12 law enforcement positions. The award is part of more than $107 million in funds awarded this year through the COPS Hiring Program (CHP) to create and protect numerous law enforcement positions across the country.
“The COPS Office is pleased to assist local law enforcement agencies throughout the country in addressing their most critical public safety issues,” said Ronald L. Davis, Director of the COPS Office. “These grants are not simply about putting more officers on the street, they are about expanding the capacity of law enforcement agencies to engage in community policing.”
CHP provides grants to state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies to hire or rehire community policing officers. The program provides salaries and benefits for officer and deputy hires for three years.
Priority consideration was given this year to agencies that selected any of the Building Trust focus areas or School Based Policing through School Resource Officers. All applicants were encouraged to refer to the report of the President's Task Force on 21st Century Policing for suggested actions to incorporate into their proposed community policing strategy.
“Enhancing community policing and maintaining our schools as a safe and enriching learning environment are critically important, and I am pleased to join the COPS Office in announcing this grant,” said U.S. Attorney Daly. “This funding will help provide Waterbury with the resources needed to accomplish this vital mission.”
The COPS Office is a federal agency responsible for advancing community policing nationwide. Since 1995, COPS has invested over $14 billion to advance community policing, including grants awarded to more than 13,000 state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies to fund the hiring and redeployment of approximately 127,000 officers and provide a variety of knowledge resource products including publications, training, and technical assistance.
For the entire list of grantees and additional information about the 2015 COPS Hiring Program, visit the COPS website at www.cops.usdoj.gov.
U.S. Department of Justice Announces over $23.2 Million in Funding for Body Worn CamerasRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Attorney General Loretta Lynch today announced that the Justice Department has awarded grants totaling more than $23.2 million to 73 local and tribal agencies in 32 states to expand the use of body-worn cameras and explore their impact. The investment includes $19.3 million to purchase body-worn cameras, $2 million for training and technical assistance and $1.9 million to examine the impact of their use. The grants, awarded by the Department’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP), are part of President Obama’s proposal to purchase 50,000 body-worn cameras for law enforcement agencies within three years.
“This vital pilot program is designed to assist local jurisdictions that are interested in exploring and expanding the use of body-worn cameras in order to enhance transparency, accountability and credibility,” said Attorney General Lynch. “The impact of body-worn cameras touches on a range of outcomes that build upon efforts to mend the fabric of trust, respect and common purpose that all communities need to thrive.”
The Albuquerque Police Department received a $250,000.00 grant. “As we support the men and women of APD in their work to protect our community, we are mindful that effective public safety depends not simply on taking criminals off the streets, but on winning – and keeping – the confidence of the people our officers are sworn to serve,” said U.S. Attorney Damon P. Martinez. “As the first police department to implement court-ordered reforms that include a body-worn camera program, this money will help APD implement reforms that will enhance officer interaction with the public and build community trust.”
The grants, which require a 50/50 in-kind or cash match, can be used to purchase equipment and require that applicants establish a strong implementation plan and a robust training policy before purchasing cameras. The long term costs associated with storing this information will be the financial responsibility of each local agency.
In addition to funds to help purchase body-worn cameras and train officers in their use, grants under the Bureau of Justice Assistance’s (BJA’s) Smart Policing Initiative will support police departments in Miami, Milwaukee, and Phoenix as they examine the impact of body-worn cameras on citizen complaints, internal investigations, privacy, community relationships and cost effectiveness. Each of these three departments will partner with a research institution to gain insight on the merits of deploying body-worn camera programs.
Lynch announced the award today during a White House Champions of Change event co-hosted by the Office of Justice Programs and the Community Oriented Policing Services Office (COPS). The event honored law enforcement officers and young people who are leading efforts to improve relationships between law enforcement and youth in their communities.BJA has launched a comprehensive online toolkit that consolidates research, promising practices, model policies and other tools that address issues surrounding body-worn cameras, including implementation requirements; image retention; concerns of policy makers, prosecutors, victim and privacy advocates; and community engagement and funding considerations. The toolkit is available at: https://www.bja.gov/bwc/.
OJP’s Bureau of Justice Statistics is collecting data on body-worn camera usage through surveys of law enforcement agencies. It is also designing data collection forms for future surveys of prosecutors and public defenders to measure how body-worn camera footage is being used by the courts in criminal cases.
For additional information about the BWC Pilot Implementation Program, visit
http://www.bja.gov/bwc/pdfs/BWCPIP-Award-Fact-Sheet.pdf.
About the Office of Justice Programs (OJP). OJP, headed by Assistant Attorney General Karol V. Mason, provides federal leadership in developing the nation’s capacity to prevent and control crime, administer justice and assist victims. OJP has six components: the Bureau -of Justice Assistance; the Bureau of Justice Statistics; the National Institute of Justice; the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention; the Office for Victims of Crime and the Office of Sex Offender Sentencing, Monitoring, Apprehending, Registering and Tracking. More information about OJP can be found at www.ojp.gov.
U.S. Department of Justice Awards Law Enforcement Hiring Grants to Help Build Trust, Reduce Violence, and Protect SchoolsRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch announced the 2015 Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) Hiring Program Awards, including a $1,875,000 grant to the Tallahassee Police Department in the Northern District of Florida to fund 15 law enforcement positions.
The COPS Hiring Program provides grants to state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies to hire or rehire community policing officers. The program provides salaries and benefits for officer and deputy hires for three years. More than $107 million nationally and more than $7,000,000 in Florida will be awarded through this program.
“The COPS Office is pleased to assist local law enforcement agencies throughout the country in addressing their most critical public safety issues,” said Ronald L. Davis, Director of the COPS Office. “These grants are not simply about putting more officers on the street, they are about expanding the capacity of law enforcement agencies to engage in community policing.”
“Keeping our communities safe is the primary role of our criminal justice system, and grants such as this one help accomplish that goal,” said Christopher P. Canova, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. “My office is committed to maintaining partnerships with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to help protect Tallahassee’s citizens and the communities within the Northern District of Florida.”
Priority consideration was given this year to agencies that selected any of the Building Trust focus areas or School Based Policing through School Resource Officers. All applicants were encouraged to refer to the President's Task Force on 21st Century Policing Final Report for suggested actions to incorporate into their proposed community policing strategy.
The COPS Office is a federal agency responsible for advancing community policing nationwide. Since 1995, COPS has invested more than $14 billion to advance community policing, including grants awarded to more than 13,000 state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies to fund the hiring and redeployment of approximately 127,000 officers and provide a variety of knowledge resource products including publications, training, and technical assistance.
For the entire list of grantees and additional information about the 2015 COPS Hiring Program, visit the COPS website.
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. The office strives to protect and serve the citizens of the Northern District of Florida through the ethical, vigorous, and impartial enforcement of the laws of the United States, to defend the national security, to improve the safety and quality of life in our communities through the protection of civil rights, and to protect the public funds and financial assets of the United States. To access available 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]
U.S. Department of Justice Awards Law Enforcement Hiring Grants to Help Build Trust, Reduce Violence and Protect SchoolsRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON, DC—Today, U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch announced Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) a funding award to Metropolitan Dade County, in the Southern District of Florida, aimed at creating, and in some cases protecting twenty-five (25) Miami-Dade County Police Department law enforcement positions. Over $107 million will be awarded nationally, through the COPS Hiring Program (CHP), including $3,125,000 to be awarded to Metropolitan Miami-Dade County.
The list of this year’s grantees includes Metropolitan Miami-Dade County (the Miami-Dade County Police Department).
“The COPS Office is pleased to assist local law enforcement agencies throughout the country in addressing their most critical public safety issues,” said Ronald L. Davis, Director of the COPS Office. “These grants are not simply about putting more officers on the street, they are about expanding the capacity of law enforcement agencies to engage in community policing.”
CHP provides grants to state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies to hire or rehire community policing officers. The program provides salaries and benefits for officer and deputy hires for three years.
“The CHP grants support law enforcement’s ability to advance public safety and strengthen community relations.” stated U.S. Attorney Wifredo A. Ferrer. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida applauds Metropolitan Miami-Dade County for receiving an award that will augment the crime prevention efforts of our local law enforcement partner, the Miami-Dade County Police Department.”
Priority consideration was given this year to agencies that selected any of the Building Trust focus areas or School Based Policing through School Resource Officers. All applicants were encouraged to refer to the report of the President's Task Force on 21st Century Policing for suggested actions to incorporate into their proposed community policing strategy.
The COPS Office is a federal agency responsible for advancing community policing nationwide. Since 1995, COPS has invested over $14 billion to advance community policing, including grants awarded to more than 13,000 state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies to fund the hiring and redeployment of approximately 127,000 officers and provide a variety of knowledge resource products including publications, training, and technical assistance.
For the entire list of grantees and additional information about the 2015 COPS Hiring Program, visit the COPS website at www.cops.usdoj.gov.
U.S. Department of Justice Awards Law Enforcement Hiring Grants to Help Build Trust, Reduce Violence and Protect SchoolsRead the Press Release
$1,585,858 Awarded to Kentucky Law Enforcement Agencies
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – U.S. Attorney John E. Kuhn, Jr. today announced the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) funded twelve law enforcement positions in the Western District of Kentucky. These hiring grants, totaling $1,460,858.00, are aimed at creating and in some cases continuing law enforcement positions in two police departments and one sheriff’s department in the District. Another hiring grant also was awarded today in the Eastern District of Kentucky, for a total award of $1,585,858.00 to Kentucky.
“This federal grant money enables local law enforcement agencies to hire officers who will be dedicated to specific community policing focus areas: community outreach, gun violence, school-based policing, or homeland security,” stated U.S. Attorney John Kuhn. “The goal of these hiring grants is to use a community policing model to improve public safety and relationships between the police and the community they serve.”
In the Western District of Kentucky, grants were awarded to the Albany Police Department for one officer in the amount of $98,888; to the Louisville Metro Police Department for ten officers in the amount of $1,248,371; and to the Todd County Sheriff’s Department for one officer in the amount of $113,604.
“The COPS Office is pleased to assist local law enforcement agencies throughout the country in addressing their most critical public safety issues,” said Ronald L. Davis, Director of the COPS Office. “These grants are not simply about putting more officers on the street, they are about expanding the capacity of law enforcement agencies to engage in community policing.”
U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch made the announcement today in Washington. Over $107 million will be awarded nationally this year, through the COPS Hiring Program (CHP). CHP provides grants to state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies to hire or rehire community policing officers. The program provides salaries and benefits for officer and deputy hires for three years.
Priority consideration was given this year to agencies that selected any of the Building Trust focus areas or School Based Policing through School Resource Officers. All applicants were encouraged to refer to the report of the President's Task Force on 21st Century Policing for suggested actions to incorporate into their proposed community policing strategy.
The COPS Office is a federal agency responsible for advancing community policing nationwide. Since 1995, COPS has invested over $14 billion to advance community policing, including grants awarded to more than 13,000 state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies to fund the hiring and redeployment of approximately 127,000 officers and provide a variety of knowledge resource products including publications, training, and technical assistance.
For the entire list of grantees and additional information about the 2015 COPS Hiring Program, visit the COPS website at www.cops.usdoj.gov.
U.S. Department of Justice Awards Law Enforcement Hiring Grants to Help Build Trust, Reduce Violence and Protect SchoolsRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – Today, U.S. Attorney Thomas G. Walker announced the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) funding awards to 3 agencies in the Eastern District of North Carolina, aimed at creating, and in some cases protecting, 9 law enforcement positions. Over $107 million will be awarded nationally, through the COPS Hiring Program (CHP), including $1,075,523 for the Eastern District.
The agency names, award amount, and number of positions are:
Elizabeth City Police Department, $120,074 - 1 position
Greenville Police Department, $500,000 - 4 positions
Lumberton Police Department, $455,449 - 4 positions
“The COPS Office is pleased to assist local law enforcement agencies throughout the country in addressing their most critical public safety issues,” said Ronald L. Davis, Director of the COPS Office. “These grants are not simply about putting more officers on the street, they are about expanding the capacity of law enforcement agencies to engage in community policing.”
CHP provides grants to state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies to hire or rehire community policing officers. The program provides salaries and benefits for officer and deputy hires for three years.
Priority consideration was given this year to agencies that selected any of the Building Trust focus areas or School Based Policing through School Resource Officers. All applicants were encouraged to refer to the report of the President's Task Force on 21st Century Policing for suggested actions to incorporate into their proposed community policing strategy.
The COPS Office is a federal agency responsible for advancing community policing nationwide. Since 1995, COPS has invested over $14 billion to advance community policing, including grants awarded to more than 13,000 state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies to fund the hiring and redeployment of approximately 127,000 officers and provide a variety of knowledge resource products including publications, training, and technical assistance.
For the entire list of grantees and additional information about the 2015 COPS Hiring Program, visit the COPS website at www.cops.usdoj.gov.
U.S. Department of Justice Awards Law Enforcement Hiring Grants to Help Build Trust, Reduce Violence and Protect SchoolsRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON, DC—Today, U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch announced an Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) funding award to one county in the Eastern District of Tennessee, aimed at creating, and in some cases protecting, six law enforcement positions. Over $107 million will be awarded nationally, through the COPS Hiring Program (CHP), including $621,318.00 awarded to the Eastern District of Tennessee.
The list of this year’s grantees includes the Sevier County Sheriff’s Department, which was awarded the entire $621,318.00 referenced above to fund six additional officers.
“The COPS Office is pleased to assist local law enforcement agencies throughout the country in addressing their most critical public safety issues,” said Ronald L. Davis, Director of the COPS Office. “These grants are not simply about putting more officers on the street, they are about expanding the capacity of law enforcement agencies to engage in community policing.”
CHP provides grants to state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies to hire or rehire community policing officers. The program provides salaries and benefits for officer and deputy hires for three years.
“We are pleased that this grant will provide Sevier County funding to hire more officers for the safety of not only Sevier County residents, but the large number of tourists who visit Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, the Smoky Mountain National Park and surrounding areas within the county,” said U.S. Attorney William C. Killian.
Priority consideration was given this year to agencies that selected any of the Building Trust focus areas or School Based Policing through School Resource Officers. All applicants were encouraged to refer to the report of the President's Task Force on 21st Century Policing for suggested actions to incorporate into their proposed community policing strategy.
The COPS Office is a federal agency responsible for advancing community policing nationwide. Since 1995, COPS has invested over $14 billion to advance community policing, including grants awarded to more than 13,000 state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies to fund the hiring and redeployment of approximately 127,000 officers and provide a variety of knowledge resource products including publications, training, and technical assistance.
For the entire list of grantees and additional information about the 2015 COPS Hiring Program, visit the COPS website at www.cops.usdoj.gov.
U.S. Department of Justice Awards Law Enforcement Hiring Grants to Help Build Trust, Reduce Violence and Protect SchoolRead the Press Release
United States Attorney General Loretta Lynch and United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger today announced Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) funding awards to five cities and counties in the District of Minnesota, aimed at creating, and in some cases protecting, 23 law enforcement positions. Over $107 million will be awarded nationally, through the COPS Hiring Program (CHP), including $2,875,000 in the District of Minnesota.
The list of this year’s grantees includes: The City of Aitkin, the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Department, the Mille Lacs County Sheriff’s Department, St. Cloud Police Department, and the City of St. Paul.
“Working with our local law enforcement partners on a wide array of cases is critical to upholding justice in Minnesota,” said U.S. Attorney Luger. “COPS grants to grow local police and sheriff’s departments are an important resource from the federal government to benefit local cities and counties. I am gratified that our local partners are benefitting from this investment in our communities.”
“The COPS Office is pleased to assist local law enforcement agencies throughout the country in addressing their most critical public safety issues,” said Ronald L. Davis, Director of the COPS Office. “These grants are not simply about putting more officers on the street, they are about expanding the capacity of law enforcement agencies to engage in community policing.”
CHP provides grants to state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies to hire or rehire community policing officers. The program provides salaries and benefits for officer and deputy hires for three years.
Priority consideration was given this year to agencies that selected any of the Building Trust focus areas or School Based Policing through School Resource Officers. All applicants were encouraged to refer to the report of the President's Task Force on 21st Century Policing for suggested actions to incorporate into their proposed community policing strategy.
The COPS Office is a federal agency responsible for advancing community policing nationwide. Since 1995, COPS has invested over $14 billion to advance community policing, including grants awarded to more than 13,000 state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies to fund the hiring and redeployment of approximately 127,000 officers and provide a variety of knowledge resource products including publications, training, and technical assistance.
For the entire list of grantees and additional information about the 2015 COPS Hiring Program, visit the COPS website at www.cops.usdoj.gov.
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
U.s. Department of Justice Awards Law Enforcement Hiring Grants to Help Build Trust, Reduce Violence and Protect SchoolsRead the Press Release
Contact: Donald E. Clark
Assistant United States Attorney
Tel: (207) 780-3257Washington, DC—Today, U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch announced Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) funding awards to four municipalities and one county in the District of Maine aimed at creating five law enforcement positions. Over $107 million will be awarded nationally, through the COPS Hiring Program (CHP), including $625,000 in Maine.
The list of this year’s grantees includes: the Cumberland County Sheriff's Department and the municipalities of Fort Kent, Norway, Old Town and Winslow.
“The COPS Office is pleased to assist local law enforcement agencies throughout the country in addressing their most critical public safety issues,” said Ronald L. Davis, Director of the COPS Office. “These grants are not simply about putting more officers on the street, they are about expanding the capacity of law enforcement agencies to engage in community policing.”
CHP provides grants to state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies to hire or rehire community policing officers. The program provides salaries and benefits for officer and deputy hires for three years.
Thomas E. Delahanty II, United States Attorney for the District of Maine, said that COPS has been a highly successful program for 20 years and that Maine law enforcement agencies have received many grants that have provided much needed resources for a variety of projects. The five grants to Maine agencies this year will be used to assist the agencies in different ways.
Naldo Gagnon, Chief Deputy Sheriff for Cumberland County, said that they will use to funds to provide a School Resource Officer for the Town of Gray which does not have its own police department. It will be of great assistance to that town.
Thomas Pelletier, Chief of Police of Fort Kent, said that the grant will allow Fort Kent to add an officer increasing the size of the department by 25 percent. The police have had a noticeable increase in calls for assistance over the past few years, but the town has been unable to finance an additional officer. The police assist with security at the community hospital which serves the region and responds to calls from the University of Maine at Fort Kent and at the border, given the town's proximity to a major border crossing.
Together with the Norway, Old Town and Winslow Police Departments, the five recipients will receive a total of $650,000, at $125,000 for each position.
Priority consideration was given this year to agencies that selected any of the Building Trust focus areas or School Based Policing through School Resource Officers. All applicants were encouraged to refer to the report of the President's Task Force on 21st Century Policing for suggested actions to incorporate into their proposed community policing strategy.
The COPS Office is a federal agency responsible for advancing community policing nationwide. Since 1995, COPS has invested over $14 billion to advance community policing, including grants awarded to more than 13,000 state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies to fund the hiring and redeployment of approximately 127,000 officers and provide a variety of knowledge resource products including publications, training, and technical assistance.
For the entire list of grantees and additional information about the 2015 COPS Hiring Program, visit the COPS website at www.cops.usdoj.gov.
U.S. Attorney Paul J. Fishman Announces over $5 Million in Law Enforcement Hiring Grants to Help Build Trust, Reduce Violence and Protect Schools in New JerseyRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – U.S. Attorney Paul J. Fishman, in conjunction with the U.S. Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office), today announced funding awards to four New Jersey cities and counties, aimed at creating and, in some cases, protecting 39 law enforcement positions.
The COPS Hiring Program (CHP) will award over $107 million nationally, including $5,187,015 in New Jersey. The list of this year’s grantees includes:
State and Agency Name
Number of Officers Funded
Award Amount
Camden County Police Department
15
$2,187,015
City of East Orange
12
$1,500,000
Essex County Sheriff’s Office
6
$750,000
Wildwood Police Department
6
$750,000
“There is no doubt that community policing is integral to our crime prevention strategy,” U.S. Attorney Fishman said. “These federal grants help mitigate the effect of diminishing resources on our local law enforcement partners who use face-to-face engagement to build better relationships with their communities.”
“The COPS Office is pleased to assist local law enforcement agencies throughout the country in addressing their most critical public safety issues,” said Ronald L. Davis, Director of the COPS Office. “These grants are not simply about putting more officers on the street, they are about expanding the capacity of law enforcement agencies to engage in community policing.”
CHP provides grants to state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies to hire or rehire community policing officers. The program provides salaries and benefits for officer and deputy hires for three years.
Priority consideration was given this year to agencies that selected any of the Building Trust focus areas or School Based Policing through School Resource Officers. All applicants were encouraged to refer to the report of the President's Task Force on 21st Century Policing for suggested actions to incorporate into their proposed community policing strategy.
The COPS Office is a federal agency responsible for advancing community policing nationwide. Since 1995, COPS has invested over $14 billion to advance community policing, including grants awarded to more than 13,000 state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies to fund the hiring and redeployment of approximately 127,000 officers and provide a variety of knowledge resource products including publications, training, and technical assistance.
For the entire list of grantees and additional information about the 2015 COPS Hiring Program, visit the COPS website at www.cops.usdoj.gov.
U.S. Attorney Booth Goodwin and other Federal, State and local officials to provide update on efforts to address opiate abuseRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Booth Goodwin, together with public health, treatment, prevention and law enforcement professionals, will provide an update on current strategies to address opiate abuse in southern West Virginia and the Kanawha Valley, in particular, and discuss next steps in turning back the tide of heroin addiction.
WHEN: Tuesday, September 22, 2015, 10:00am
WHERE: Kanawha-Charleston Health Department, 108 Lee Street East, Charleston, WV
WHO: Booth Goodwin, United States Attorney, SDWV
Brent Webster, Chief Charleston Police Department
Dr. Michael Brumage, Kanawha-Charleston Health Department
Suzan Williamson, RAC Drug Enforcement Administration
Chuck Miller, Kanawha County Prosecuting Attorney
Mike Rutherford, Chief Deputy Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department
Mark Strickland, Captain Charleston Fire Department
Dana Petroff, Prestera Center for Mental Health Services
Steve Burton, First Choice Health Systems
Kristi Justice, Kanawha Communities that Care
Kenny Burner, Appalachia HIDTA
Kim Walsh, West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, Bureau for Behavioral Health and Health Facilities
Two St. Louis Area Men Sentenced for Role in Cocaine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today that on September 18, 2015, Steven Syms, 41, of St. Louis, Missouri, and Antoine Jenkins, 27, of Cahokia, Illinois, were sentenced for their involvement in a drug distribution organization that funneled cocaine from Houston, Texas, to the St. Louis metro area between April 2011 and February 2013. Syms, a leading co-conspirator, was sentenced to 151 months in prison, 5 years’ supervised release, and ordered to pay a $500 fine and a $100 special assessment. Jenkins was sentenced to 27 months in prison, 3 years’ supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 fine and a $100 special assessment. Jenkins’ 27 month sentence was ordered to run consecutive (in addition) to a previously imposed sentence of 308 months for kidnapping and using or carrying a firearm during or in relation to kidnapping. To date, ten other members of the drug trafficking organization have been convicted and sentenced.
Evidence in support of the sentencing was obtained in an investigation which was conducted under the auspices of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). The OCDETF initiative is designed to bring federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies and resources together to identify, target and dismantle large national and international drug trafficking organizations. This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Laura V. Reppert and Special Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan S. Drucker.
Two Plead Guilty to Trafficking Firearms into ProvidenceRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Kinmonte Markell Brown, 28 and Dennis Wells, 24, of Greenville, North Carolina pleaded guilty in federal court in Providence on Friday to trafficking more than a dozen firearms from North Carolina into Providence between November 2014 and January 2015.
The defendants pleaded guilty to conspiracy to deal firearms without a license, dealing firearms without a license, being felons in possession of a firearm and possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number.
The guilty pleas are announced by United States Attorney Peter F. Neronha; Rhode Island Attorney General Peter F. Kilmartin; Michael J. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New England Field Division; Daniel J. Kumor, Special Agent in Charge of the Boston Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; and Providence Police Chief Colonel Hugh T. Clements, Jr.
Information that led to the arrest of Brown and Wells and the interruption of the flow of the firearms from North Carolina to an apartment in the Hartford Park neighborhood was developed as a result of the Rhode Island Urban Violent Crime Initiative - a wide-ranging collaboration of local, state and federal law enforcement and federal and state prosecutors who are targeting violent crime and violent criminals in urban neighborhoods of Rhode Island.
In late 2013, the Initiative began targeting the distribution of heroin and crack cocaine in Providence and the importation of firearms onto the streets of Providence. Simultaneously, and in close coordination, the FBI’s Safe Street Task Force and Providence Police began targeting gang members and associates engaged in violent crime, including gun crimes, in Providence.
Information gathered during these investigations led to a separate investigation by DEA, ATF, Providence Police, and state and federal prosecutors which resulted in the interruption of the flow of illegal firearms into Providence from Greenville, North Carolina, and the arrest of Kinmonte Brown and Dennis Wells.
According to information presented to the court, beginning in late November 2014, and continuing through January 2015, a person working at the direction of DEA began a series of negotiations with Brown and Wells for the purchase and shipment of illegal firearms into Rhode Island. The ongoing negotiations led to a series of sales and delivery of 15 illegal firearms and ammunition from North Carolina to Providence by Brown and Wells. Each time firearms were delivered they were quickly secured by law enforcement.
On January 31, 2015, as previously arranged by the person working at the direction of DEA, Brown and Wells drove to Rhode Island from North Carolina to sell and deliver seven firearms, including a .357 magnum revolver with an obliterated serial number, a .38 caliber handgun and several shotguns and rifles. Browns and Wells were detained moments after they delivered the firearms.
The defendants, who have been detained since their arrest, are scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Court Chief Judge William E. Smith on December 18, 2015.
The case is being prosecuted by in federal court by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul F. Daly, Jr. and Joseph J. McBurney, Special Assistant R.I. Attorney General
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Contact:
Jim Martin (401) 709-5357
email: [email protected]
on Twitter @USAO_RI
Two Mexican Nationals plead guilty to credit card fraudRead the Press Release
Charleston, W.Va. – United States Attorney Booth Goodwin announced that Marco Carrillo, 22, and Luis Vazquez, 24, both of Sonora, Mexico, plead guilty in federal court in Charleston today to conspiring to commit credit card fraud. During their plea hearings, Carrillo and Vazquez admitted that they traveled to Charleston, West Virginia from Mexico to pick up a package at Federal Express that contained 100 fraudulent credit cards. They admitted that they intended to use the fraudulent cards to buy electronic goods and gift cards. The package containing the fraudulent credit cards was intercepted by Federal Express and turned over to law enforcement agents prior to Carrillo and Vazquez picking it up. When Carrillo and Vazquez arrived at the Federal Express facility and picked up the package, they were arrested by agents from the United States Secret Service and Homeland Security Investigations. Carrillo and Vazquez were stopped by law enforcement before they used any of the fraudulent credit cards.
Carrillo and Vazquez face up to 5 years of imprisonment when they are sentenced on December 21, 2015.
The United States Secret Service and Homeland Security Investigations were in charge of the investigation. They were also assisted by the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team. Assistant United States Attorney Blaire L. Malkin is handling the prosecution.
Two Bakersfield Men Plead Guilty in Large Methamphetamine Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Two Bakersfield residents pleaded guilty today to drug trafficking offenses, United States Attorney Benjamin B. Wagner announced.
Guillermo Magallanes, 36, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, and Pasqual Gonzales Magallanes, 44, pleaded guilty to distribution of methamphetamine.
According to court documents, the defendants conspired with Juan Lascano Jr. 32, of Bakersfield, to distribute pound-quantities of methamphetamine in the Bakersfield area. In addition to the criminal charges, the United States is seeking the forfeiture of $31, 242, a 2014 Lexus IS250 F Sport, and a 2012 Acura TL sedan as proceeds of the illegal drug trafficking activity. Lascano pleaded guilty on July 27, 2015, to distribution of methamphetamine.
This case is the product of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation by: the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Kern County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bakersfield Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Brian K. Delaney is prosecuting the case.
Guillermo Magallanes and Pasqual Gonzales Magallanes are scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Lawrence J. O'Neill on December 14, 2015. Lascano is scheduled to be sentenced October 19, 2015. Guillermo Magallanes faces a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison and a $5 million fine and Pasqual Gonzales Magallanes and Juan Lascano Jr. face a maximum statutory penalty of 40 years in prison and a $2 million fine. The actual sentences, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
Third Defendant Sentenced in Cross-Border Cocaine Smuggling CaseRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. —Jose Luis Montoya-Salazar, aka Rafael Salazar-Sanchez (Montoya), 43, a native and citizen of Mexico, was sentenced today to five years in prison for conspiring with Jimmy Gil, 35, of Shafter; and Luis Ricardo Eslava-Corral (Eslava), 42, of Sinaloa, Mexico, to import, distribute, and possess with intent to distribute 38 kilograms, or about 84 pounds, of cocaine, United States Attorney Benjamin B. Wagner announced. In a prior civil proceeding, U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. O’Neill ordered the forfeiture of $3,104,661 in cash that drug agents seized during the investigation of the criminal case.
Montoya’s sentence follows his guilty plea in May. In pleading guilty, Montoya admitted that he had conspired to offload the cocaine in Bakersfield that had been smuggled into the United States from Mexico. Follow-up investigation resulted in the seizure of over $3 million in cash hidden in an asphalt roller. The seized cocaine has a street value of over $3 million.
On July 27, 2015, Gil was sentenced to five years in prison, and on July 20, 2015, Eslava was sentenced to 20 months in prison.
This case was the product of an investigation by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Southern Tri-County High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) task force, the Kern County Sheriff’s Office, the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bakersfield Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Karen Escobar prosecuted the criminal case, and Assistant United States Attorney Kevin Khasigian handled the civil forfeiture proceeding.
Texas Man Pleads Guilty to Defrauding Company of $300,000Read the Press Release
Memphis, TN – A Texas man has pled guilty to maintaining a scheme that defrauded a labor service provider of $300,000. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the guilty plea today.
According to information presented in open court, Robert Ross was employed by Impact Logistics for two decades. Impact was a cost per unit labor service provider for large distribution companies such as Home Depot, Ryder Truck Rentals, and Discount Tire. Among the services provided by the company were loading and unloading trailers, performing assembly line work, sorting, and shrink wrapping products.
Impact operated in multiple states including Tennessee, California, Texas, Georgia, Mississippi, Illinois, and Pennsylvania. The company maintained a corporate office in Memphis. Impact employees were paid through direct deposit or prepaid debit cards titled "Transcards."
Ross held the position of senior director prior to his termination, according to court information. Under the role, he was responsible for managing Impact’s operations in Atlanta, Georgia and Dallas, Texas. He reportedly ensured that all billing and payroll was done accurately and submitted to the corporate office.
From February 2013 to June 2015, Ross defrauded Impact of $300,000 by making fraudulent representations regarding the employment status of former employees. He also made fraudulent entries in payroll records.
According to court information, Ross executed his scheme by intentionally failing to notify Impact when an employee resigned from the company. Thus, the former employee was not removed from the Impact payroll. Ross would falsely claim that the employees had lost their Transcards and requested for new prepaid cards to be activated. Impact would subsequently mail new Transcards from Memphis to Ross’
Mansfield, Texas residence. After receiving the Transcards, Ross submitted falsified time records in the name of the former employees to reflect that they had worked and were entitled to payment, according to court information. When Impact loaded money on the Transcards to pay the former employees, Ross used the funds for his personal benefit. Ultimately, he defrauded Impact of approximately $300,000.
Ross faces up to 20 years imprisonment for wire fraud and a fine of up to $250,000. He’s scheduled to be sentenced by Judge John T. Fowlkes Jr. on Thursday, December 17th.
The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Carroll Andre is prosecuting the case on the government’s behalf.
Texas Man Pleads Guilty in Manhattan Federal Court to Operating Bitcoin Ponzi SchemeRead the Press Release
Preet Bharara, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced today that TRENDON SHAVERS, a/k/a “pirateat40,” pled guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah Netburn to one count of securities fraud stemming from his involvement in a Bitcoin-related Ponzi scheme. SHAVERS was the founder and operator of Bitcoin Savings and Trust (“BCS&T”), which offered and sold Bitcoin-based investments through the Internet. In total, SHAVERS fraudulently obtained approximately 146,000 Bitcoin in BCS&T investments, which amounted to approximately $807,380 based on the average price of Bitcoin over the duration of the scheme. SHAVERS is expected to be sentenced before U.S. District Judge Lewis A. Kaplan on February 3, 2016.
Bitcoin are a decentralized form of electronic currency, existing entirely on the Internet and not in any physical form. The currency is not issued by any government, bank, or company, but rather is generated and controlled automatically through computer software operating on a “peer-to-peer” network. Bitcoin transactions are processed collectively by the software-enabled computers composing the network.
U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara said: “Trendon Shavers has admitted that his high-yield Bitcoin investment program yielded high returns for himself rather than his investors. Instead of reaping gains, his investors were largely swindled out of their money in a cyber-age Ponzi scheme. Shavers now awaits sentencing for his crime.”
According to the Indictment, other public records, and statements made today in court:
From at least September 2011 up through and including September 2012, SHAVERS operated a Ponzi scheme. Specifically, SHAVERS solicited investments in BCS&T on the “Bitcoin Forum” – a public, Internet-based forum where, among other things, Bitcoin investment opportunities were posted. SHAVERS’s offer to investors was straightforward: investors who loaned Bitcoin to BCS&T would be paid up to seven percent interest weekly – an annualized interest rate of 3,641% per year – and investors could withdraw their investments in BCS&T at any time. SHAVERS claimed that the Bitcoin invested by BCS&T investors would be used to support a Bitcoin market-arbitrage strategy, which included (i) lending Bitcoin to others for a fixed period of time; (ii) trading Bitcoin via online exchanges; and (iii) selling Bitcoin locally via private, off-markets transactions – i.e., “over-the-counter transactions.” SHAVERS also personally guaranteed that he would cover any losses in the event of a market change. In truth, SHAVERS largely failed to execute the claimed market arbitrage strategy, failed to honor all of his investors’ redemption requests as well as his personal guarantee, and failed to deliver the agreed-upon rates of interest.
In the end, BCS&T was simply a Ponzi scheme through which SHAVERS used Bitcoin from new investors to make purported interest payments and cover investor withdrawals on outstanding BCS&T investments. In addition, SHAVERS diverted investors’ Bitcoin for day trading in his own account on a Bitcoin currency exchange, and exchanged investors’ Bitcoin for U.S. dollars to pay his personal expenses. At the peak of the scheme, SHAVERS raised, and had in his possession, about seven percent of all the Bitcoin that was in public circulation at the time. At least 48 of approximately 100 investors lost all or part of their investment in BCS&T.
* * *
SHAVERS, 33, pled guilty to one count of securities fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a maximum fine of $5 million, or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense. The maximum potential sentence in this case is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes only, as the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the judge.
On September 18, 2014, in a separate civil action, the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas entered final judgment against both SHAVERS and BCS&T, and ordered SHAVERS to pay more than $40 million in disgorgement and prejudgment interest, and a civil penalty of $150,000 related to BCS&T.
Mr. Bharara praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and thanked the Securities and Exchange Commission for its invaluable assistance.
The charges were brought in connection with the President’s Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force. The task force was established to wage an aggressive, coordinated and proactive effort to investigate and prosecute financial crimes. With more than 20 federal agencies, 94 U.S. attorneys’ offices, and state and local partners, it’s the broadest coalition of law enforcement, investigatory and regulatory agencies ever assembled to combat fraud. Since its formation, the task force has made great strides in facilitating increased investigation and prosecution of financial crimes; enhancing coordination and cooperation among federal, state and local authorities; addressing discrimination in the lending and financial markets; and conducting outreach to the public, victims, financial institutions and other organizations. Since fiscal year 2009, the Justice Department has filed over 18,000 financial fraud cases against more than 25,000 defendants. For more information on the task force, please visit www.StopFraud.gov.
This case is being handled by the Office’s Securities and Commodities Fraud Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel S. Goldman and Michael Ferrara are in charge of the prosecution.
Taylor County, WV man sentenced for possession of child pornographyRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Terry V. Austin, Sr., 50, of Grafton, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 15 months in prison for possession of child pornography, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Austin was discovered in possession of multiple images and videos of child pornography in Barbour County, West Virginia. He pled guilty in May 2015 to one count of “Possession of Child Pornography.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Suspect in Multiple Bank Robberies ArrestedRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Patricia M. Ferrick, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, today announced that MATTHEW DRAGONE, 31, of Middletown, has been charged by federal criminal complaint with the robbery of the Liberty Bank in Durham earlier this month. DRAGONE also is a suspect is five other recent Connecticut bank robberies and one attempted bank robbery.
DRAGONE was arrested on September 18, 2015, in Middletown. He appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah A. L. Merriam in New Haven and currently is detained.
According to the criminal complaint, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Connecticut State Police and several local police departments have been investigating a series of bank robberies that occurred in August and September.
The complaint alleges that, on September 3, 2015, DRAGONE, wearing dark sunglasses, a blue-striped long sleeve dress shirt and a white baseball cap with a “Coors Lite” logo, entered the Liberty Bank located at 357 Main Street in Durham. Holding a cellphone to his ear, DRAGONE approached the teller counter and presented to a teller a bank-style bag with a note affixed to the front. The note demanded money and an order not to include a dye pack or GPS. The teller placed approximately $1,490 in cash in the bag and handed it to DRAGONE. DRAGONE then exited the bank and drove away.
Investigators found a Coors Lite baseball cap and a blue-striped shirt on the side of the road approximately 50 yards from the bank. Laboratory analysis of the discarded shirt revealed DNA consistent with DRAGONE’s DNA on the shirt’s collar.
The complaint further alleges that DRAGONE is a suspect in the robbery of the Webster Bank at 145 Highland Avenue in Cheshire on August 12, the TD Bank at 1127 Farmington Avenue in Berlin on August 13, the Liberty Bank at 151 Main Street in Deep River on August 17, the TD Bank at 25 Wells Road in Wethersfield on August 31, the Webster Bank at 377 Cromwell Avenue in Rocky Hill on September 9 (attempt), and the TD Bank at 184 Clinton Road in Killingworth on September 11.
As alleged in the complaint, a search of DRAGONE’s residence on September 16 revealed clothing and sunglasses consistent with those worn during the Durham robbery, and a bank-style bag consistent with the one used during several of the bank robberies.
The investigation is ongoing.
The charge of bank robbery carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
U.S. Attorney Daly stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This investigation is being conducted by the FBI, the Connecticut State Police and the Middletown, Cheshire, Berlin, Wethersfield, and Rocky Hill Police Departments. The Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection, Division of Scientific Services is assisting the investigation. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito.
Stuttgart Man Pleads Guilty to Arson at County Courthouse AnnexRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—Christopher R. Thyer, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, and Grover Crossland, Resident Agent in Charge for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF), announced that Donald Aaron, age 34, of Stuttgart, appeared before United States District Court Judge J. Leon Holmes on Monday and pled guilty to an indictment charging him with the arson of the Stuttgart Courthouse Annex building.
On September 23, 2014, a fire destroyed the Stuttgart Courthouse Annex building in downtown Stuttgart. This building housed the Arkansas County Sherriff’s Office, offices of the Arkansas State Police, the 911 coordinator, the Office of Emergency Management, the Arkansas County Tax Assessor, the County Tax Collector, the County Judge and the Emergency Operations Center. The building eventually had to be demolished with a total loss of approximately $2.2 million.
In January 2015, a federal grand jury returned a two-count Indictment charging Aaron with arson for the fire at the Annex. After Aaron pled guilty to one count of maliciously destroying a building that is used in interstate commerce by means of fire, with injury resulting from the fire, the remaining count in the Indictment of maliciously destroying by means of fire a building which receives federal funds was dismissed. Under 18 U.S.C. § 844(i), the arson count carries with it a mandatory sentence of not less than seven years, not more than 40 years imprisonment, with not more than five years of supervised release to follow. Aaron will also be required to pay restitution in the amount of $2,207,334.25.
Through investigation the ATF determined that the fire at the Annex was incendiary. Based upon photographs taken of the fire, examination of the scene, and witness interviews, the fire investigators determined that the fire originated in the rear hallway of the first floor of the structure. Surveillance cameras from various businesses in downtown Stuttgart showed an individual, later determined to be Aaron, walking to and from the area of the Annex just prior to the fire, at times carrying objects and at other times hiding his face. Aaron is seen in the area near a broken first-floor window, which was the entry point to the locked Annex building.
According to the facts read at Monday’s hearing, following the return of the indictment in January Aaron was arrested and admitted to lighting the fire that destroyed the Annex. Aaron was attempting to smoke methamphetamine using tin foil and a lighter when flame from the foil shot up approximately 18 inches high. Aaron then threw the flaming foil down on the ground and fled the building, while the foil was still on fire. This fire caught the building on fire.
Aaron will be sentenced by Judge Holmes at a later date.
The case was investigated by ATF Special Agents Timothy Boles and David Oliver, with assistance from the Arkansas State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Chris Givens prosecuted the matter for the United States.
Statement by U.S. Attorney John Walsh regarding jury finding Harold Henthorn guilty of murderRead the Press Release
“Today a jury in federal court has spoken – finding Harold Henthorn guilty of the First Degree Murder of his wife, Toni Henthorn. Henthorn, who has been in custody since his arrest, will not again experience life outside a prison cell. Thanks to the hard work of the Assistant U.S. Attorneys Suneeta Hazra and Valeria Spencer, and the federal agents, FBI Special Agent John Grusing and National Park Service Special Agent Beth Shott, the facts of this murder were uncovered and justice was obtained. Toni Henthorn’s family, especially her daughter and the entire Bertolels family, can now rest easier knowing that justice has been done. I also want to recognize the Rishell family, Henthorn’s first wife, who has also experienced great pain. Finally, I would like to thank the jurors for their service. These individuals, who were asked to see graphic photos and listen to difficult testimony, should be recognized for their dedication to justice and their service as citizens of this great state.”
John Walsh, United States Attorney, District of Colorado.
Springfield Woman Pleads Guilty to Tax Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Tammy Dickinson, United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri, announced that a Springfield, Mo., woman pleaded guilty in federal court today to her role in a fraudulent tax return preparation scheme that claimed nearly $340,000 in fraudulent income tax refunds.
Claudia Dorsey, 33, of Springfield, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge David P. Rush to participating in a conspiracy to defraud the government with respect to claims.
Co-defendant Cherie Christine Dupuis, 43, of Springfield, pleaded guilty on July 21, 2015, to leading the fraudulent tax return preparation conspiracy. Dupuis admitted that she and co-conspirators defrauded the government by filing false claims for income tax refunds from February 2009 to March 2012. In the false and fraudulent federal income tax returns they prepared and filed, conspirators claimed refunds from the IRS totaling approximately $340,630, of which approximately $336,839 was false. Over the course of the scheme, the total actual tax loss to the IRS was $284,169.
Dupuis admitted that she filed fraudulent federal income tax returns in her own name and for at least 19 other individuals. Dupuis would usually split the fraudulent refunds with her co-conspirators. The total amount of the false claims Dupuis personally prepared and/or filed was approximately $298,708, with approximately $256,281 being paid on these false claims and a loss to the government of approximately $213,711.
During the 2009, 2010 and 2011 tax years, Dorsey assisted Dupuis in the conspiracy by permitting Dupuis to use her laptop computer and to list her address on tax returns. Dorsey also filed false tax returns in her own name during those years in which she falsely listed wages that had not been earned and federal income tax withholdings that had not been withheld. As a result, Dorsey fraudulently received a total of $27,791 in fraudulent income tax refunds. Dorsey also prepared and filed a false federal income tax return for another person who claimed a false refund of $10,237 for the 2011 tax year.
Dorsey is the 11th defendant to plead guilty to her role in the scheme. In addition to Dupuis, co-defendants Amanda Leigh Boyd, 33, Johnny L. Cooper, 28, and Jeannie Marie Rhodes, 34, all of Springfield; Heather Nicole Drennen, 32, of Cameron, Mo., formerly of Springfield; Shawna Marie Hughey, 37, of Joplin, Mo., formerly of Springfield; William J. Coonce, 29, of Otterville, Mo.; Jeannette R. Dunn, 48, of Huntsville, Ark., formerly of Springfield; Asia Michelle Couchman, 26, of Oak Grove, Mo.; and Delbert L. Allen, 37, of Pleasant Hope, Mo., formerly of Springfield, have also pleaded guilty.
Under federal statutes, Dorsey is subject to a sentence of up to 10 years in federal prison without parole, plus a fine up to $250,000 and an order of restitution. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven M. Mohlhenrich. It was investigated by IRS-Criminal Investigation.
Springfield Man Charged with Enticement of MinorRead the Press Release
Springfield, Ill. – A Springfield, Ill., man, arrested in Decatur in late July, made his initial appearance in federal court in Urbana late Friday, Sept. 18, indicted on a charge of enticement of a minor. Jeffrey Parkhurst, 58, of the 1100 block of Reynolds St., entered his plea of not guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Eric I. Long. Trial for Parkhurst has been scheduled on Nov. 24, 2015. The indictment of Parkhurst was returned by the grand jury earlier this month but had remained sealed pending his federal court appearance.
The indictment alleges that on July 27, 2015, Parkhurst used the Internet and a cellular telephone to persuade, induce, and entice an individual whom he believed had not attained the age of 18 years to engage in illegal sexual activity. Parkhurst was arrested on July 27, 2015, in Decatur, and was initially charged in state court in Macon county.
Parkhurst has remained in the custody of law enforcement since his arrest. Judge Long ordered that Parkhurst remain in custody pending his detention hearing scheduled on Tuesday, Sept. 22.
If convicted, the statutory penalty for enticement of a minor is 10 years to life in prison plus a fine of up to $250,000.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Elly M. Peirson. The charges are the result of an investigation by the Decatur Police Department and the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations in cooperation with the Macon County State’s Attorney’s office.
Members of the public are reminded that an indictment is merely an accusation; the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
The 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 U.S. 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.
Six charged in federal cigarette smuggling indictmentRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging six individuals with unlawful cigarette smuggling, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Mohamed Abdo Elbarati, 30, of Winchester, Virginia, Farouk Mohamed Aldaylam, 28, of Queens Village, New York, Amir Mohamed Alsaidi, 37, of Baltimore, Maryland, Fahd Hamood Aljahaf, 37, of Bronx, New York, Galal Hameed Kassim, 29, and Muneer Kaid Khaled, 25, both of Brooklyn, New York, are alleged to have conspired to profit from the unlawful sale of contraband cigarettes. The indictment charges that the defendants transported large quantities of cigarettes across state lines for redistribution and sale. The cigarettes were acquired in Virginia, where the tax rate for cigarettes is one of the lowest in the nation, and sold in New York, which has one of the nation’s highest tax rates. The cigarettes were possessed and transported in West Virginia.
Tobacco retailer Smoke Palace, LLC, of Winchester, Virginia, which was owned and operated by defendant Elbarati, was responsible for the acquisition of the contraband. Smoke Palace and Elbarati are alleged to have purchased millions of dollars worth of cigarettes from various wholesalers in the region, primarily with cash, before reselling them to out of state smugglers for a profit.
"We will not allow the Commonwealth of Virginia to become a home base for this kind of large, organized criminal enterprise," said Virginia Attorney General Mark R. Herring. "This case is a textbook example of how collaboration and cooperation, even across state lines, can get results, and I'm proud that my team was able to help out."
Each of the six defendants is charged with one count of “Conspiracy.” Elbarati is further charged with four counts of “Transportation of Contraband Cigarettes.” Aldaylam is further charged with two counts of “Transportation of Contraband Cigarettes.” Alsaidi is further charged with two counts of “Transportation of Contraband Cigarettes.” Each of the defendants faces up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 on each of the aforementioned counts. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.
"The New York State Tax Department has a vigorous and coordinated effort to battle the sale of untaxed cigarettes," said New York State Commissioner of Taxation and Finance Jerry Boone. "As we see in this case, working closely with our law enforcement partners is, more and more, leading to success."
“Organizations that attempt to systematically defraud state and local governments and profit through crime are sorely mistaken,” said Glenn Sorge, acting special agent in charge HSI New York. “HSI’s El Dorado Task Force and its law enforcement partners are committed to investigating financial crime and contraband smuggling activities that pose a threat to our public safety and the economic well-being of the United States.”
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael Stein and Shawn Adkins are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. Homeland Security Investigations, the Frederick County, Virginia Sheriff’s Office, the Virginia Office of Attorney General, the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, the West Virginia State Police, the New York Department of Taxation and Finance, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation led the inquiry.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Seattle IRS Revenue Agent Charged with Soliciting and Accepting BribeRead the Press Release
A Revenue Agent for the Internal Revenue Service was arrested this morning after he accepted payment from a Seattle businessman after allegedly soliciting a bribe, announced U.S. Attorney Annette L. Hayes. PAUL G. HURLEY, 42, of Seattle, is charged with Soliciting and Agreeing to Receive a Bribe by a Public Official and two counts of Receiving a Bribe by a Public Official. HURLEY appeared in U.S. District Court in Seattle this afternoon and was released on his personal recognizance. A preliminary hearing on the charges is scheduled for October 5, 2015.
According to the criminal complaint, HURLEY has been a revenue agent with the IRS since 2009. Between July and September 2015, HURLEY was involved in the audit of the 2013 and 2014 tax returns of a Seattle marijuana business. Because marijuana remains illegal under federal law, no business deductions are allowed on federal tax returns and the gross revenue is taxable. HURLEY presented the owner of the marijuana business with his tax bill for both years, totaling more than $290,000. However, HURLEY told the business owner he had saved the business owner more than a million dollars. HURLEY then asked the business owner for $20,000 in cash. The business owner alerted his lawyer, who contacted law enforcement. Law enforcement observed two meetings where HURLEY accepted money delivered by the business owner. HURLEY was arrested following the second meeting this morning.
Both offenses, Soliciting and Agreeing to Receive a Bribe by a Public Official and Receiving a Bribe by a Public Official are punishable by up to 15 years imprisonment and a $250,000 fine.
The charges contained in the complaint are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The case is being investigated by the FBI and the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (“TIGTA”).
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Justin Arnold.
Rochester Men Plead Guilty to Receipt of Stolen GoodsRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX: (716) 551-3051
ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney William J. Hochul, Jr. announced today that Igor Kasap, 34, and Arkadiy Kasap, 29, both of Rochester, NY, pleaded guilty to possession of stolen goods before U.S. District Court Judge Charles J. Siragusa. The charge is punishable by 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig R. Gestring, who is handling the case, stated that the defendants operated a shipping company located at 500 Trolley Boulevard in Rochester. The shipping company operated under various names, one of which was A.S.A.P. Trans, Inc.
In September, 2011, A.S.A.P. Trans was involved in shipping 16 pallets of synthetic jet engine oil from an Exxon-Mobil plant in Edison, New Jersey to a facility in Portland, Oregon. Each pallet contained 40 cases of oil and was valued at $14,000 per pallet. While in transit from New Jersey to Oregon, one of the pallets was stolen and diverted to the defendant’s Trolley Boulevard warehouse.
The defendants advertised the pallet of stolen oil using eBay in an attempt to sell it. However, investigators saw the online posting and set up an undercover operation during which they recovered the stolen oil from the defendants.
The plea is the culmination of an investigation on the part of Special Agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, under the direction of James V. Buthorn, Acting Inspector in Charge of the Boston Division, and Officers and Investigators of the Gates Police Department, under the direction of Chief James VanBrederode.Sentencing is scheduled for January 6, 2016, before Judge Siragusa.
Richard Johnson Jr. pleads guilty to filing a false tax returnRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced today that Richard Z. Johnson Jr. pleaded guilty to filing a false federal income tax return.
Johnson, 58, of Mansfield, La., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge S. Maurice Hicks Jr. to a one count bill of information charging him with making or subscribing a false tax return. According to the guilty plea, Johnson reported a total income of $126,197 on his 2011 U.S. individual tax return but willfully failed to report additional income in the amount of $78,717.
Johnson faces up to three years in prison, one year of supervised release, a $250,000 fine and restitution of taxes owed to the U.S. Treasury. A sentencing date of February 17, 2016 was set.
The IRS conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys William J. Flanagan and Seth D. Reeg are prosecuting the case.
Rhode Island Resident Sentenced for Operating Meth LabRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Nicholas Selser, 33, of Cranston, R.I., has been sentenced to 24 months in federal prison for manufacturing methamphetamine (meth) inside a residence of the D’Evan Manor housing complex in Cranston, announced United States Attorney Peter F. Neronha, Cranston Police Chief Colonel Michael J. Winquist and Michael Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA’s New England Field Division.
A co-defendant in this matter, Michael Fortes, 48, of Cranston, R.I., is scheduled to be sentenced on October 29, 2015.
At sentencing on September 18, 2015, U.S. District Court Chief Judge William E. Smith also ordered Nicholas Selser to serve three years supervised release upon completion of his prison term. Selser and Fortes pleaded guilty in July as charged in a grand jury indictment returned in March 2015, to one count each of conspiracy, knowingly manufacturing methamphetamine, possession of pseudoephedrine with the intent to manufacture methamphetamine and possessing equipment to manufacture methamphetamine.
On February 18, 2015, Cranston Police, the R.I. DEA Drug Task Force and a DEA Clandestine Laboratory Enforcement Team executed a court authorized search of the defendants’ D’Evan Manor apartment and seized various chemicals, supplies and items used in the manufacture of meth.
Information was developed and evidence was seized by law enforcement that indicated that the defendants had manufactured meth inside the apartment of the densely populated complex approximately eleven times. The defendants admitted to the court that they used the “one pot” method to manufacture meth, a simple but potentially dangerous method of manufacturing meth in approximately one hour. The manufacture of methamphetamine is often times a dangerous process which may result in explosion or fire.
Selser and Fortes have been detained in federal custody since their arrest on February 18, 2015.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John P. McAdams.
Pittsburgh Felon Sentenced to 57 Months in Prison for Possessing Crack, GunRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A former resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to a 57-month term of imprisonment on each of his convictions of possession with intent to distribute less than 28 grams of crack cocaine and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, followed by supervised release for a term of three years on each of his convictions, to be served concurrently. In addition, Poindexter was ordered to pay a Special Assessment in the amount of $200.00.
United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Cornell Poindexter, 29, formerly of Pittsburgh, Pa.
According to information presented to the court, on or about July 2, 2014, Poindexter possessed with the intent to distribute less than 28 grams of a mixture and substance which contained cocaine base, in the form commonly known as “crack,” a Schedule II controlled substance. Further, on or about July 2, 2014, Poindexter, who has previously been convicted of carrying a firearm without a license, fleeing and eluding a police officer, and escape, was found to be in possession of two 9 millimeter pistols. Federal law prohibits an individual who has been convicted of a felony from possessing a firearm.
Assistant United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for conducting the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Poindexter.
This case is being prosecuted under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaborative effort by federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and communities to prevent, deter, and prosecute gun crimes.
New York Tax Return Preparer Pleads Guilty to Preparing False Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
A Brooklyn, New York, tax return preparer pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York to two counts of aiding and assisting in the preparation of false income tax returns, announced Acting Assistant Attorney General Caroline D. Ciraolo of the Justice Department’s Tax Division.
According to the indictment, Awilda Rosario owned and operated Edujas Multiservices Corporation, a tax preparation business located in Brooklyn. She prepared false federal individual income tax returns for clients for tax years 2008 through 2013. Rosario attached false schedules to the returns that reported business losses that the clients did not incur and reported inflated or fictitious deductions. She also attached forms claiming fictitious education and fuel tax credits that the clients were not entitled to receive.
The indictment further alleges that after the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) revoked the electronic filing identification number (EFIN) for Edujas Multiservices Corporation, Rosario obtained at least two different EFINs and continued to prepare and submit false tax returns for her clients, listing a different paid tax return preparer and tax preparation firm.
Rosario faces a statutory maximum sentence of three years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000 for each count of aiding and assisting in the preparation of false income tax returns. Rosario’s sentencing is set for Jan. 8, 2016.
Acting Assistant Attorney General Ciraolo commended the special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, who investigated the case, and Assistant Chief Jorge Almonte and Trial Attorney Shawn T. Noud of the Tax Division, who are prosecuting the case.
New York City Man Sentenced to 18 Months on Counterfeit Credit Card ChargesRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that a New York City man was sentenced today to 18 months imprisonment for possessing 62 counterfeit credit cards. In addition to the 18 months imprisonment, Dawill Almonte was also ordered by U.S. District Court Judge William J. Caldwell to serve two years on supervised release following his release from prison.
Almonte, age 23, from the Bronx, New York, was arrested on November 19, 2013, with two co-defendants, Danilo Vargas, age 27, and Jeriel Delosangeles, age 26, both also from the Bronx, following a Pennsylvania State Police traffic stop for speeding on Route 30 near Hellam Township, York County.
Searches of the defendants’ vehicle yielded 62 counterfeit Mastercard, American Express and Visa credit cards and a counterfeit Florida and Connecticut driver’s licenses. The drivers’ licenses bore the photographs of Almonte and Vargas. Fifty Four of the 62 counterfeit credit cards were in Almonte’s name.
The government’s investigation revealed no charges had as yet been incurred on any of the counterfeit credit cards. On March 9, 2015, Almonte, Delosangeles and Vargas all pleaded guilty to an Indictment charging them with one count of Possession of 15 or More Counterfeit or Unauthorized Access Devices.
The case was investigated by the Harrisburg Office of U.S. Secret Service and the Pennsylvania State Police and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kim Douglas Daniel.
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New York City Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Heroin and Cocaine TraffickingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that a 32 year old New York City resident was sentenced Friday, September 18, 2015 to serve 10 years in federal prison by U.S. District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani for selling cocaine, crack and heroin in Lackawanna and Luzerne County.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, Timothy Smart pleaded guilty in December 2014 to distributing cocaine, crack and heroin between 2012 and September 2013. The conviction and sentence were the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police into the sale of drugs at motels in Luzerne and Lackawanna Counties. FBI Agents arrested Smart on September 20, 2013, following a “controlled buy” of crack cocaine at a Lackawanna County motel. A subsequent search of the motel room resulted in the seizure of 84 bags of heroin, crack cocaine and a digital scale.
Judge Mariani also ordered Smart to be placed on three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John C. Gurganus, Jr.
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Meriden Man Charged with Producing and Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MARK W. IRVIN, 63, of Meriden, has been charged by federal criminal complaint with production and possession of child pornography.
IRVIN was arrested on September 18. He appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah A. L. Merriam in New Haven, who ordered IRVIN detained.
As alleged in the criminal complaint, law enforcement officers received information from a teenage male that IRVIN had had repeated sexual contact with him since he was 15 years old, and that there are cameras in IRVIN’s residence recording all the time. The male also stated that he had observed IRVIN engaged in sexual contact with other minors at the residence.
On September 8, 2015, law enforcement officers conducted a search of IRVIN’s residence and observed cameras in several rooms, including cameras in the bathroom of the residence. Officers seized camcorders, computers, VHS tapes, CDs, DVDs and multiple thumb drives and data storage devices. The forensic analysis of the devices is only in its initial stages, but the complaint alleges that one of the devices contained sexually explicit photographs of a 13 year old male.
The charge of production of child pornography carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 15 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years. The charge of possession of child pornography carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.
U.S. Attorney Daly stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by the Meriden Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations and the Connecticut State Police. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Neeraj N. Patel.
Citizens with information that may be relevant to this ongoing investigation should call the Meriden Police Department at 203-238-1911.
This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.
Mauldin Man Sentenced to 77 Months on Conspiracy and Weapons ChargesRead the Press Release
Contact Person: Bill Watkins 864-282-2100
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Bill Nettles stated today that Denis B.L. Kearney, age 32, of Mauldin, South Carolina, was sentenced to 77 months for conspiracy to steal mail, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371, and for making a false statement to purchase a firearm, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(a)(6). United States District J. Michelle Childs of Greenville sentenced Kearney to 77 months in the Federal Bureau of Prisons.
The evidence at the change of plea hearing established that Kearney was part of a conspiracy to steal mail, make fraudulent identification documents, create counterfeit checks, and create fraudulent prescriptions. On January 25, 2014, law enforcement recovered fraudulent prescriptions, multiple false identification documents, and genuine means of identification, from a vehicle driven by Kearney and his associates. The materials seized were used by Kearney to aid in the commission of fraud.
Further investigation revealed that four days prior to the search of the automobile, Kearney used a false identification document when purchasing a firearm from a licensed dealer in Anderson, South Carolina. Multiple prior felony convictions barred Kearney from owning or possessing any firearm.
The case was investigated by agents the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Greer Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Bill Watkins of the Greenville office handled the case.
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Maryland man sentenced for failing to register as a sex offenderRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Richard Shawn Edwards, 40, of Cumberland, Maryland, was sentenced today to 30 months in prison for failing to register as a sex offender, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Edwards was previously convicted of “Second Degree Rape” in 1993 in the Circuit Court of Allegany County, Maryland. As a result of that conviction, he was required to register as a sex offender. Further, Edwards has been convicted on three separate occasions in Mineral County, West Virginia for failing to register as a sex offender.
An investigation by the United States Marshals Service, the Ridgeley, West Virginia Police Department, and the Cumberland, Maryland Police Department, revealed that in late 2014, Edwards moved from Ridgeley, West Virginia to Cumberland, Maryland without updating his sex offender registration.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Camilletti prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Man Pleads Guilty to Failing to Update His Sex Offender RegistrationRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Jeremy Lynn Rasmussen, age 38, pleaded guilty today to failing to update his sex offender registration, announced United States Attorney Richard S. Hartunian and U.S. Marshal David McNulty of the Northern District of New York.
Rasmussen faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a maximum $250,000 fine, and a term of supervised release of between 5 years and up to life when he is sentenced on January 19, 2016 by United States District Judge Gary L. Sharpe.
Rasmussen pleaded guilty to a violation of the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (“SORNA”), which requires a convicted sex offender to register where he or she resides, is employed, or is enrolled as a student, and to keep any registration current.
Rasmussen was prosecuted after abandoning his Albany residence in January 2015 and then moving to Pittsfield, Mass., without updating his sex offender registration. Rasmussen is required to register as a sex offender as a result of a 2002 conviction, from Jefferson County, New York, for first-degree rape and second-degree kidnapping.
This case was investigated by the United States Marshals New York/New Jersey Regional Fugitive Task Force, with assistance from the Pittsfield Police Department, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael Barnett.
This case is prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices, 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 identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc/.