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Wednesday 17 June 2015
Albuquerque Man Charged with Violating Federal Firearms LawsRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Marquis Pounds, 27, of Albuquerque, N.M., made his initial appearance in federal court this morning on a criminal complaint charging him with being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. The federal charges were announced by U.S. Attorney Damon P. Martinez, 2nd Judicial District Attorney Kari E. Brandenburg, Special Agent in Charge Thomas G. Atteberry of the Phoenix Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Chief Naithan Gurule of the Los Lunas Police Department, and Chief Gorden Eden, Jr., of the Albuquerque Police Department.
The criminal complaint alleges that Pounds unlawfully possessed a firearm and ammunition on June 5, 2015, in Bernalillo County, N.M. According to the criminal complaint, law enforcement officers executed search warrants on Pounds’ residence in northeast Albuquerque and seized a revolver and ammunition. Subsequent investigation revealed that revolver and ammunition had been reported stolen from a pawn shop in Los Lunas, N.M. According to court documents, in Pounds was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition because he previously had been convicted of receiving or transferring a stolen vehicle, possession of narcotics with intent to distribute, conspiracy to possess narcotics with intent to distribute, and embezzlement.
Pounds was arrested on June 5, 2015, on related state charges and remained in state custody until today when he was transferred to federal custody. The state charges against Pounds will be dismissed in favor of federal prosecution.
If convicted of the charge in the criminal complaint, Pounds faces a statutory maximum penalty of ten years in federal prison. If the court determines that Pounds is an armed career criminal, he faces an enhanced sentence of a mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison to a maximum of life imprisonment. Charges in criminal complaints are mere accusations. Defendants are presumed innocent unless found guilty in a court of law.
This case was investigated by the Albuquerque office of the Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Albuquerque Police Department and the Los Lunas Police Department with assistance from the 2nd Judicial District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Presiliano A. Torrez is prosecuting the case.
This case is being prosecuted as part of a federal anti-violence initiative that targets “the worst of the worst” offenders for federal prosecution. Under this initiative, the U.S. Attorney’s Office and federal law enforcement agencies work with New Mexico’s District Attorneys and state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies to target violent or repeat offenders for federal prosecution with the goal of removing repeat offenders from communities in New Mexico for as long as possible. Because New Mexico’s violent crime rates, on a per capita basis, are amongst the highest in the nation, New Mexico’s law enforcement community is collaborating to target repeat offenders from counties with the highest violent crime rates, including Bernalillo and Valencia Counties, under this initiative.
Acoma Pueblo Man Sentenced to Prison for Federal Sexual Assault ConvictionRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Eric Chino, 33, a member and resident of Acoma Pueblo, N.M., was sentenced this morning in federal court in Albuquerque, N.M., to 36 months in federal prison followed by five years of supervised release for his abusive sexual contact conviction. Chino will also be required to register as a sex offender following his incarceration.
Chino was arrested on Nov. 26, 2014, on an indictment alleging that Chino sexually assaulted an Acoma Pueblo woman on June 24, 2012, in Acoma Pueblo within Cibola County, N.M.
On March 12, 2015, Chino pled guilty to a felony information charging him with abusive sexual contact. In entering the guilty plea Chino admitted engaging in and attempting to engage in sexual contact with the victim by force. He admitted forcefully touching the victim’s breast and genitals despite the victim’s demands that he stop.
This case was investigated by the Laguna/Acoma Agency of the BIA’s Office of Justice Services and the Acoma Pueblo Tribal Police Department, and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David Adams.
The case was brought pursuant to the Tribal Special Assistant U.S. Attorney (Tribal SAUSA) Pilot Project in the District of New Mexico which is sponsored by the Justice Department’s Office on Violence Against Women under a grant administered by the Pueblo of Laguna. The Tribal SAUSA Pilot Project seeks to train tribal prosecutors in federal law, procedure and investigative techniques to increase the likelihood that every viable violent offense against Native women is prosecuted in either federal court or tribal court, or both. The Tribal SAUSA Pilot Project was largely driven by input gathered from annual tribal consultations on violence against women, and is another step in the Justice Department's on-going efforts to increase engagement, coordination and action on public safety in tribal communities.
Tuesday 16 June 2015
Worcester Man Pleads Guilty in Connection with Tax Refund FraudRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Worcester man pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in Worcester today to carrying out a stolen identity refund fraud scheme that netted almost $1 million.
Jose Manuel Abreu-Elicier, 24, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to covert public money. U.S. District Judge Timothy S. Hillman scheduled sentencing for Sept. 16, 2015.
Between November 2011 and November 2012, Abreu-Elicier and other co-conspirators fraudulently obtained and cashed federal income tax refund checks issued in the names of unsuspecting identity theft victims. These checks were issued based on fraudulent federal income tax filings submitted to the IRS using the names, social security numbers, and other stolen personal information of victims. In order to cash the checks, Abreu-Elicier worked with Cynthia Mansfield, who, in exchange for a fee, used her position as a manager of a Worcester-area bank, to cash the checks, falsify bank records, and conceal the existence of the fraud. Over the course of the entire scheme, Abreu-Elicier and his co-conspirators cashed 138 fraudulently obtained U.S. Treasury checks worth $993,158.
This conviction marks yet another success in Operation Point Break, a multi-agency federal law enforcement initiative aimed at combatting stolen identity refund fraud across the country.
Mansfield was charged separately for her role in the conspiracy, and sentenced in April 2015 to five years of probation, 11 months of which must be served in a residential re-entry center, and ordered to pay restitution.
The charging statute provides a sentence of no greater than five years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Carmen M. Ortiz and William P. Offord, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigations Boston, made the announcement today. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordi de Llano of Ortiz’s Major Crimes Unit.
Wetzel County man convicted of oxycodone traffickingRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Jamie Alexander Jones, 28, of Pine Grove, West Virginia, was convicted of oxycodone trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.Jones was discovered in Wetzel County, West Virginia in possession of oxycodone in late 2014 during the course of an investigation by the West Virginia State Police, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Jones pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Oxycodone.” He faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000. 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 defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod Douglas prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp presided.
Washington Men Sentenced for Wire Fraud and Conspiracy to Commit Wire FraudRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Deborah R. Gilg announced that on June 15, 2015, United States District Judge Laurie Smith Camp sentenced Charles V. Garcia of Othello, Washington, age 43, to a 12 month and 1 day term of imprisonment, following his conviction for conspiracy to commit wire fraud. After his release from prison, Garcia will begin a term of supervised release of 3 years. Garcia was also ordered to make restitution in the amount of $605,592.53.
On June 15, 2015, United States District Court Judge Laurie Smith Camp also sentenced Jose L. Sanchez, Jr. of Marysville, Washington, age 48, to a 5 month term of imprisonment, following his conviction for conspiracy to commit wire fraud. After his release from prison, Sanchez will begin a term of supervised release of 3 years. Sanchez was also ordered to make restitution in the amount of $53,054.90.
Previously, on February 2, 2015, United States District Court Judge Laurie Smith Camp sentenced Donald James Wilson of Bothell, Washington, age 44, to a 41 month term of imprisonment, following his conviction for wire fraud. After his release from prison, Wilson will begin a term of supervised release of 3 years. Wilson was also ordered to make restitution in the amount of $605,592.53.
Beginning in 2007 and continuing through 2011, Wilson, Garcia, and Sanchez made materially false and fraudulent representations to ConAgra that Wilson was using GTL Enterprises, Inc., a company owned by Garcia which is located in Othello, Washington, and All Out Athletics, a company managed by Sanchez which was formerly located in Marysville, Washington, as vendors to provide promotional trips, activities, and materials to ConAgra’s customers.
Wilson would submit to ConAgra fake GTL Enterprises, Inc. and All Out Athletics invoices for promotional trips, activities, and materials purportedly provided to ConAgra’s customers. ConAgra made payments related to the fake vendor invoices directly to GTL Enterprises, Inc. and All Out Athletics. Garcia and Sanchez assisted Wilson with the scheme by collecting and cashing the ConAgra payments. From at least November, 2007, and continuing through at least November, 2011, Wilson submitted to ConAgra at least twenty-nine (29) fake vendor invoices for payments totaling $605,592.50.
Wilson, Garcia, and Sanchez used the monies received from ConAgra for personal expenses unrelated to ConAgra and its customers.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Violent Felon Sentenced to 45 Years in Prison for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
BATON ROUGE, LA - United States Attorney Walt Green announced today that U.S. District Judge Shelly D. Dick sentenced JERMAINE J. CHAPMAN, also known as “Dump Truck,” age 33, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to 45 years in prison and ten years of supervised release.
CHAPMAN was sentenced following his conviction by a jury for conspiracy to distribute and to possess with the intent to distribute two hundred eighty grams or more of cocaine base and five or more kilograms of cocaine; possession with the intent to distribute twenty eight grams or more of cocaine base; distribution of five hundred grams or more of cocaine; possession with the intent to distribute cocaine and twenty eight grams or more of cocaine base; possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime; distribution of twenty eight grams or more of cocaine base; possession with the intent to distribute cocaine base; distribution of two hundred eighty grams or more of cocaine base; and possession with the intent to distribute five hundred grams or more of cocaine.
The conspiracy involved multi-kilogram quantities of cocaine being transported from Texas and the use of various residences in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, known as “click” houses, to cook and distribute multi-ounce quantities of “crack” cocaine. The conspirators employed violence and firearms to protect their business.
U.S. Attorney Green stated: “Today’s sentencing should serve as a wakeup call for those violent drug traffickers seeking to do business in this district. Such activity will not be tolerated and severe punishment will follow. This office will continue to work with the DEA, the Baton Rouge Police Department, and our other federal, state, and local partners to ensure that our communities are controlled by their honest, hardworking residents, not drug dealers.”
DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge Joseph W. Shepherd stated: “The message to drug dealers in the Greater Baton Rouge area is simple – DEA, along with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our federal, state, and local partners, will use every resource available to make life for you as unpleasant as the poison that you attempt to peddle to our community. This is just the beginning.”
CHAPMAN’s co-defendants, Jeffery D. Perry, age 32 and Charles Boyer, age 51, both of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, were also convicted by a jury. They are detained and await sentencing.
This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Baton Rouge City Police. This matter was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Robert W. Piedrahita and J. Christopher Dippel.
Unlicensed Money Transmitter Pleads Guilty to Money Laundering ConspiracyRead the Press Release
SAN DIEGO – San Diego-based money transmitter Francisco Cuevas pleaded guilty in federal court today to participating in a money laundering conspiracy.
In a hearing before U.S. Magistrate Judge David H. Bartick, Cuevas admitted that he and coconspirators operated an unlicensed money transmitting business, in criminal violation of the Bank Secrecy Act, and conducted nearly $12 million worth of international financial transactions in an attempt to promote their unlicensed money transmitting business.
According to the plea agreement, Cuevas and his coconspirators operated a commercial enterprise willing and able to transfer cash on behalf of third parties without registering the business with the Secretary of the Treasury, as required by Title 31, United States Code, Section 5330. In turn, the defendants’ customers availed themselves of Cuevas’ services, and those of his alleged co-conspirators, to collect cash anywhere throughout the United States, and transmit it anywhere in the world. The defendants obtained commissions for their services, extracting a fee from the millions of dollars transmitted abroad.
The criminal case is assigned to U.S. District Court Judge Roger T. Benitez (14cr2936). Judge Bartick allowed Cuevas to remain on pretrial release, pursuant to the terms of a bond posted by Cuevas. Cuevas is scheduled to be sentenced on September 21, 2015 at 9 a.m. before Judge Benitez.
DEFENDANT Case Number: 14cr2936 Francisco Cuevas Age: 38 CHARGESMoney Laundering Conspiracy – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1956(h)
INVESTIGATING AGENCIES
Maximum penalty: 20 years’ imprisonment, $500,000 fine, and forfeitureFederal Bureau of Investigation
Drug Enforcement Administration
Internal Revenue ServiceUnited States Settles False Claims Act Allegations Against Jacksonville-Based Home Health Company for $1,293,169Read the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida B United States Attorney A. Lee Bentley, III announces that the United States has settled allegations that a Jacksonville-based home health company knowingly billed the government for millions of dollars of medically unnecessary services by submitting false claims to Medicare. The allegations resolved include liability under the False Claims Act (FCA).
The government has reached a settlement with Advanced Homecare, Inc. In reaching this settlement, the parties have resolved allegations that, from April 2009 until April 2012, Advanced Homecare created a set of “neurocare protocols” wherein the company accepted home health referrals from two neurologists – Dr. Sean Orr and one other provider. Through these protocols, the government alleges that Advanced Homecare accepted and treated patients who were not actually homebound and did not have a valid physician certification of home health need, as required by Medicare. Further, the government alleges that Advanced Homecare recklessly allowed its employees to aggressively market its home health services to this neurology practice and that those marketing employees gained direct access to the practice’s patient files, completed referral forms, and used the doctors’ signature stamps to sign orders, in order to circumvent the physician certification requirement. The government has agreed to accept $1,293,169 to resolve these allegations.
“The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to using every tool at our disposal to prevent, deter, and prosecute health care fraud,” stated U.S. Attorney Bentley. “We will continue to bring FCA cases such as this to safeguard our taxpayer resources and to ensure the integrity of our essential federal health care programs.”
This lawsuit was originally filed under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act by Marsha Yandell, a former employee at Advanced Homecare. Under those provisions, a private party, known as a relator, can file an action on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of the recovery. The relator will receive more than $200,000 as part of today’s settlement.
“Sticking taxpayers with a bill for unnecessary health care services will never be tolerated,” said Special Agent in Charge Shimon R. Richmond of the U.S. Health and Human Services, Office of the Inspector General. “Working in close coordination with our law enforcement partners, we will tirelessly pursue health care companies that threaten the integrity of Federal health care programs.”
This settlement illustrates the government’s emphasis on combating health care fraud and marks another achievement for the Health Care Fraud Prevention and Enforcement Action Team initiative, which was announced in May 2009 by the Attorney General and the Secretary of Health and Human Services. The partnership between the two departments has focused efforts to reduce and prevent Medicare and Medicaid financial fraud through enhanced cooperation. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Since January 2009, the Justice Department has recovered more than $24 billion through False Claims Act cases, with more than $15.3 billion of that amount recovered in cases involving fraud against federal health care programs.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General and Assistant United States Attorneys Collette Cunningham and Jason Mehta.
The claims resolved by this settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
U.S. Attorney’s Kansas Civil Rights Symposium to Be Held at Brown Historic Site in TopekaRead the Press Release
TOPEKA, KAN. - The annual U.S. Attorney’s Statewide Civil Rights Symposium is moving to the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site in Topeka, U.S. Attorney Barry Grissom said.
Registration Form (132.61 KB)
The symposium is set for 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 14, in the auditorium of the Brown site at 1515 SE Monroe in Topeka. There is no charge to attend, but registration is required.
“The Brown historic site is a landmark on this nation’s road to justice,” Grissom said. “What better setting is there for a frank and open conversation about civil rights than the Kansas school building where one of the most important Supreme Court cases in our history originated?”
Grissom urged anyone who wants to attend to register early because space is limited to 100 participants. The symposium annually attracts law enforcement officers and civil rights leaders from across Kansas. This year’s topics will include fighting human trafficking and building trust between police and the communities they serve.
To register, download the registration form at:
http://trncal.kletc.net/RegForms/RegForm2008.pdf
Email the completed form to [email protected]. For more information, contact Heather Buller at 620-694-1537 or Jim Cross at 316-269-6552.
Two Southern Missouri Men Indicted for Child PornRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Tammy Dickinson, United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri, announced that two southern Missouri men were indicted by a federal grand jury today in separate and unrelated cases related to child pornography.
Both of the indictments were returned by a federal grand jury in Springfield, Mo.
USA v. Darst
Dustin L. Darst, 25, of Lebanon, Mo., was charged with one count of possessing child pornography on Aug. 13, 2014.
Today’s indictment also contains a forfeiture allegation, which would require Darst to forfeit to the government any property used to commit the alleged offense, including two desktop computers, a laptop computer, two hard drives, two iPhones, two USB drives and two SD cards.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Abram McGull, II. It was investigated by the Southwest Missouri Cyber Crimes Task Force, the Laclede County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department, the FBI and the Camden County, Mo., Prosecutor’s Office.
USA v. Sartin
David Dean Sartin, 47, of Lockwood, Mo., was charged with one count of possessing child pornography on Feb. 4, 2015.
Today’s indictment also contains a forfeiture allegation, which would require Sartin to forfeit to the government any property used to commit the alleged offense, including an LG smart phone and a Nokia smart phone.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Abram McGull, II. It was investigated by the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Jasper County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department, the Cassville, Mo., Police Department, the Joplin, Mo., Police Department, the Barry County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department, the Missouri Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and the Southwest Missouri Cyber Crimes Task Force.
Dickinson cautioned that the charges contained in these indictments are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.
Project Safe Childhood
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc . For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
Two New Jersey Men Sentenced to Prison for Their Roles in Illegal Online Gambling EnterpriseRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – Two members of a racketeering conspiracy involving the Genovese Crime Family of La Cosa Nostra and an online sports betting operation were sentenced today in federal court, U.S. Attorney Paul J. Fishman announced.
Dominick J. Barone, 45, of Springfield, New Jersey, and Eric Patten, 38, of Bayonne, New Jersey, were sentenced to 18 and 22 months in prison, respectively. Barone and Patten previously pleaded guilty before District Judge Claire C. Cecchi to separate informations charging them with one count of racketeering conspiracy. Judge Cecchi imposed both sentences today in Newark federal court.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
Joseph Graziano, 78, of Springfield, was the principal owner of Beteagle.com, a website located in Costa Rica and used to facilitate illegal online sports betting. Barone worked with Graziano in carrying out the daily activities of the website and both men conspired with the Genovese Crime Family of La Cosa Nostra in the operation of Beteagle.
Joseph Lascala, 80, of Monroe, New Jersey, was the alleged “capo” and a made member of the Genovese family operating in northern New Jersey. He directed the criminal activities of a smaller group of associates, referred to as a crew, whose activities included illegal gambling and the collection of unlawful debt.
Associates of the crew were given access to Beteagle and were considered “agents.” Before the advent of computerized betting, these agents would have been referred to as “bookmakers” or “bookies.” The agents had the ability to track the “sub-agents,” under them and the wagers placed by their bettors. The agent or sub-agent maintained a group of bettors (the “package”) and were responsible for those bettors. Patten was a one of the sub-agents who assisted in the illegal gambling business conducted through the website.
To place bets online, the agent or sub-agent issued the bettor a username and password to access Beteagle. This access was not given online and no money or credits were made or transferred through the website. Associates of the crew paid out winnings or collected losses in person. If a bettor failed to pay his gambling losses, the crew used their La Cosa Nostra status and threats of violence to collect on these debts.
The agent or sub-agent paid a fee to the website for each bettor added to a package. Barone and others made weekly collections of cash in furtherance of the scheme.
In addition to the prison terms, Judge Cecchi ordered Barone and Patten to each serve three years of supervised release and pay a $5,000 fine. As part of his plea agreement, Barone must forfeit $100,000.
Graziano has pleaded guilty to his role in the scheme and is currently scheduled for sentencing on June 25, 2015.
Charges against Lascala are still pending. The charges and allegations against him are merely accusations and he is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
U.S. Attorney Fishman credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Richard M. Frankel in Newark; the Bayonne Police Department, Special Investigations Unit, under the direction of Chief Drew Niekrasz; IRS-Criminal Investigation under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jonathan D. Larsen; the N.J. State Police, under the direction of Superintendent Rick Fuentes; and the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Acting Prosecutor Christopher Gramiccioni, with the investigation leading to today’s sentencing.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony Moscato of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Criminal Division in Newark.
Defense counsel:
Barone: John C. Whipple Esq. Morristown, New Jersey
Patten: Alan Dexter Bowman Esq., Newark
Two Marion Residents Indicted on Heroin/Cocaine ChargesRead the Press Release
Anita L. Argento, a/k/a Anita L. Warren, 43, and Travis L. Boley, 26, both of Marion, Illinois, were indicted on June 2, 2015, on heroin related charges in a four count Indictment returned by a Federal Grand Jury sitting in Benton, Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today.
Count 1 charges that from on or about August 2014, until on or about May 11, 2015, in Williamson County, Argento and Boley did knowingly conspire and agree with others, known and unknown to the Grand Jury, to knowingly and intentionally distribute 100 grams of more of heroin. Count 2 charges that on May 11, 2015, in Williamson County, Illinois, Argento knowingly and intentionally possessed with intent to distribute heroin. Count 3 charges that on May 11, 2015, in Williamson County, Illinois, Argento knowingly and intentionally possessed with intent to distribute twenty-eight grams or more of cocaine base, in the form commonly called "crack cocaine." Count 4 charges that on May 11, 2015, in Williamson County, Illinois, Boley knowingly and intentionally possessed with intent to distribute heroin.
With respect to Count 1, Argento and Boley face 5-40 years in federal prison, up to a $5,000,000 fine, and supervised release of not less than 4 years.
With respect to Count 2, Argento faces up to 20 years in prison, up to $1,000,000 fine, and 2 supervised release of not less than 3 years.
With respect to Count 3, Argento faces 5-40 years in prison, up to a $5,000,000 fine, and supervised release of not less than 4 years.
With respect to Count 4, Boley faces up to 20 years in prison, up to $1,000,000 fine, and supervised release of not less than 3 years.
An Indictment is a formal charge against a defendant. Under the law, a defendant is presumed to be innocent of a charge until proved guilty beyond a reasonable doubt to the satisfaction of a jury.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Illinois State Police, the Marion, Illinois Police Department, and the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office. The Williamson County State’s Attorney’s Office assisted in the investigation of this case.
The case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney George Norwood.
Shannon Meegan Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled a SubstanceRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana, David Capp, announced that Shannon Meegan, 34, of Hammond, Indiana was sentenced to 2 years of probation by Judge James Moody after pleading guilty to the felony offense of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance.
According to documents filed in this case, between 2006 and 2012, Meegan conspired with one of her coworkers at a medical facility in Munster, Indiana to illegally distribute over 200,000 hydrocodone pills. The Drug Enforcement Administration estimates that the drugs distributed had a street value of over $1,000,000.
This case was the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Chicago Strike Force and DEA’s Diversion Group. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas M. McGrath.
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S.T.Y.L.E. - Second Training SessionRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Kenyen R. Brown of the Southern District of Alabama announced today that his Office as well as the Mobile FBI and Mobile Police Department will host another Successful Tips for Youth on Law Enforcement Encounters training session, also known as S.T.Y.L.E. In partnership with the Mobile Field Office of the FBI and the Mobile Police Department, the U.S. Attorney’s Office will make this program available to churches from June-September and local schools from October-May. Once again, the S.T.Y.L.E. program is specifically tailored for high school students, who will participate in several mock scenarios involving how to engage law enforcement. These scenarios will include instruction on how to respond when approached by law enforcement officers while driving a car, on the street or at home. Additionally, in order to afford students with the opportunity gain an appreciation for the split-second life or death decisions law enforcement officers make on a daily basis, they will also have the opportunity to observe their chaperones participate in the FATS Simulator, which is a life sized video firearms training tool used by law enforcement. The students will also observe an explosives demonstration and conclude the training with smaller groups of students participating in roundtable discussions about the day’s events over lunch with individual officers.
According to U.S. Attorney Brown, “In the wake of so many tragic events across the country in recent years it is vitally important that we continue to ‘bridge the gap’ between our youth and law enforcement officers. The past has shown us that these tragic events can occur in smaller cities and rural areas as well as larger metropolitan areas. I commend Mobile Police Chief James Barber and FBI Special Agent in Charge Robert Lasky for their proactive efforts to build mutual understanding and rapport with the community.” U.S. Attorney Brown continued, “The first execution of the S.T.Y.L.E. program was extremely well received by the participating students and law enforcement officers alike. In the second instalment of the S.T.Y.L.E. program we hope to continue building trust one person at a time.” The first program took place on May 7, 2015, during which 28 students were hosted from Blount High School.
“Engaging Mobile’s younger generation with local law enforcement is key in creating long-lasting, effective communication practices for citizens as well as officers,” said Mobile Police Chief James Barber. “The Department’s partnership with the U. S. Attorney’s Office and the FBI will help achieve the mission to make Mobile the safest city in America with respect for everyone.”
The second S.T.Y.L.E. training session will take place on June 19, 2015, during which time 38 youth from Mt Hebron Church will be hosted.
Churches, schools or civic organizations desiring to have their youth participate in a future S.T.Y.L.E. training session can contact Assistant United States Attorney, Suntrease Williams-Maynard at the email address [email protected] or by phone at 251-415-7163. More specific media inquiries related to the location of the S.T.Y.L.E. training on June 19th can be directed to Tommy Loftis at 251-415-7131.
Roswell Man Sentenced to Prison for Violating the Federal Firearms LawsRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE –Brandon Warford, 32, of Roswell, N.M., was sentenced this morning in federal court in Las Cruces, N.M., to 37 months in prison followed by two years of supervised release for being a felon in possession of firearms.
Warford was arrested on federal charges on Aug. 5, 2014, in Roswell, N.M., under a criminal complaint charging him with being a felon in possession of firearms. According to the complaint, the Roswell Police Department (RPD) was notified by the Roswell Independent School District that Warford was carrying a firearm during a high school graduation ceremony. In response to questioning by the RPD, Warford admitted that he possessed a firearm during the graduation ceremony. At the time, Warford was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition because he previously had been convicted for being a felon in possession of a firearm in 2008 and burglary in 2002.
Warford was indicted on Oct. 16, 2014, and charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition on May 24, 2014, in Chaves County, N.M. Warford pled guilty to the indictment on Jan. 7, 2015, without the benefit of a plea agreement.
This case was investigated by the Las Cruces office of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms and Explosives, the Roswell Police Department and the Roswell Independent School District. Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Y. Armijo of the Las Cruces branch office of the U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted this case.
Rhode Island Businessman Pleads Guilty to Aggravated Identity Theft, Tax Charges in $3.5 Million Tax Refund ScamRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Anthony Delfarno, 53, of East Greenwich, R.I., pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in Providence today to using personal identifying information of his children and other family members, a girlfriend, and from more than a dozen corporations that he created in order to file fraudulent tax returns seeking more than $3.5 million dollars in tax refunds.
Appearing before U.S. District Court Judge John J. McConnell, Jr., Delfarno admitted that for four years he repeatedly made false representations on personal and business tax documents he filed with the IRS seeking $3.5 million in tax refunds, and that he collected more than $1.4 million dollars to which he was not entitled.
Delfarno’s guilty plea to eleven counts of mail fraud, twenty-eight counts of theft of government funds and three counts of aggravated identity theft is announced by United States Attorney Peter F. Neronha; William P. Offord, Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation; and Colonel Steven G. O’DonnellSuperintendent of the Rhode Island State Police.
According to court documents and information presented to the court, Delfarno filed twenty-five false individual income tax returns for tax years 2008 through 2011 in his own name, the names of several family members, including five of his children, and in the name of a girlfriend, claiming fraudulent refunds totaling $1.1 million dollars. Delfarno signed the returns either electronically or manually. Approximately $400,000 was paid to the defendant.
Additionally, Mr. Delfarno filed thirty false corporation income tax returns, for which he claimed refunds of $2.4 million dollars. $1 million dollars was paid to the defendant. The corporations were formed by Delfarno in order to execute the scheme.
Wire fraud is punishable by statutory penalties of up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000; false claims against the United States is punishable by a statutory penalty of up to 5 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000; and aggravated identity theft is punishable by a statutory penalty of a mandatory sentence of two years in federal prison, to be served consecutive to all other penalties imposed.
Delfarno, who has been released with GPS monitoring since his arrest and arraignment on December 18, 2014, is scheduled to be sentenced on September 16, 2015.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard W. Rose.
The matter was investigated by IRS Criminal Investigation and the Rhode Island State Police.
This law enforcement action is part of President Barack Obama’s Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force. The President 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.###
To assist the media and the public, a glossary of federal judicial terms and procedures is available at http://www.justice.gov/usao/justice101/
Contact: 401-709-5357
[email protected]Registered Nurse Co-Owner of Ultimate Care Home Health Services, Inc. Pleads Guilty to Role in Healthcare Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
DALLAS — A 52-year-old registered nurse from Cedar Hill, Texas, who owned a home health company, appeared in federal court this afternoon and pleaded guilty to her role in a health care fraud conspiracy, announced John Parker, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas.
Pat Akamnonu, along with her husband, Cyprian (Cy) Akamnonu, owned Ultimate Care Home Health Services, Inc. (Ultimate). She pleaded guilty this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Irma C. Ramirez to one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud, which carries a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine. A sentencing date was not set. Cy Akamnonu pleaded guilty to the same offense and is currently serving a 120-month federal prison sentence. Cy Akamnonu was also ordered to pay approximately $25 million in restitution.
According to the filed factual resume, Pat Akamnonu maintained a valid Medicare group provider number for Ultimate in order to submit Medicare claims for home health services that were medically unnecessary or that were not provided to Medicare beneficiaries.
In her capacity as co-owner and head of nursing for Ultimate, Pat Akamnonu attended at least one meeting where she and co-defendants Dr. Jacques Roy, Teri Sivils, and Cy Akamnonu discussed recruiting additional Medicare beneficiaries to Ultimate to receive home health care services for which they did not qualify and did not need. This meeting also included a discussion about illegal patient recruiting being performed by co-defendants James Veasey and Cynthia Stiger.
As part of the conspiracy, Ultimate exchanged paperwork with Medistat Group Associates, P.A. (Medistat) that was controlled by Dr. Roy for these beneficiaries. These documents were then executed under Dr. Roy’s signature, certifying the patient was under his care. Several of the documents used to certify home health care for these individuals are signed under the name of Pat Akamnonu.
Over the course of a five-year period, from January 2006 through November 2011, more than 78% of Ultimate’s beneficiaries were certified by Dr. Roy or another Medistat physician acting at his direction. Ultimate billed more than $43 million to Medicare for skilled nursing services for these beneficiaries.
Of the seven defendants charged in the $375 million health care fraud scheme led by Dr. Roy, three defendants have now pleaded guilty. Teri Sivils, 47, of Midlothian, Texas, who was Medistat’s office manager, pleaded guilty in April 2015 to one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud. She faces a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine. Sentencing is set for September 21, 2015.
A trial date has not been set for the remaining defendants, Dr. Roy, Cynthia Stiger, 51, of Dallas, Wilbert James Veasey, Jr., 63, of Dallas, and Charity Eleda, R.N., 54, of Rowlett, Texas.
The case is being investigated by the FBI, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General and the Texas Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit and was brought as part of the Medicare fraud Strike Force supervised by the Criminal Division Fraud Section and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael C. Elliott, P. J. Meitl, and John DeLaGarza, and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole Dana are prosecuting.
Readout of First Meeting between U.S. Attorney General Lynch and Mexican Attorney General Gómez GonzálezRead the Press Release
Attorneys General of the United States and Mexico Agree to Boost Bilateral Collaboration
In their first meeting since assuming their current positions, Attorney General Loretta E. Lynch of the United States and Attorney General Arely Gómez González of Mexico reviewed the current law enforcement agenda between the two countries and pledged to work together to fight transnational crime, including drug trafficking organizations, fraud and financial crime, and human trafficking and smuggling.
During the meeting, which was held in the offices of the U.S. Department of Justice in Washington, D.C., both officials agreed to begin a new push for collaboration between the two nations in the context of reciprocity and respect.
“I am pleased to have had the opportunity to host this historic meeting, and to reaffirm our partnership with the Office of the Attorney General of Mexico,” said Attorney General Lynch. “Attorney General Gómez González and I are committed to working closely to fight transnational crime, whatever form it takes – whether trafficking in drugs, or trafficking in persons; whether violent gangs, or financial fraudsters. Together, we will build on the strong record of cooperation between our two countries to advance the common mission that our nations share.”
The Attorneys General discussed the process of institutional transformation that Mexico's justice system is undergoing, with the entry into force of the New System for Criminal Justice, as well as other reforms designed to move towards a modern Attorney General’s Office.
“We are changing the institution,” said Attorney General Gómez González. “We want modern, transparent law enforcement that guarantees full respect for human rights and is based on technical, scientific investigations which produce results. That is how we will strengthen public confidence.”
Attorney General Lynch was joined by Deputy Attorney General Sally Yates, Assistant Attorney General Leslie Caldwell of the Criminal Division and Bruce Swartz, Deputy Assistant Attorney General of the Criminal Division and Counselor for International Affairs.
Those from Mexico’s Attorney General's Office who participated in the meeting included Deputy Attorney General José Alberto Rodríguez Calderón of Legal and International Affairs, Deputy Attorney General Felipe de Jesús Muñoz Vázquez, Specializing in Organized Crime, Deputy Attorney General Eber Omar Betanzos Torres of Human Rights, Crime Prevention and Community Services, and Chief Director Tomás Zerón de Lucio of the Criminal Investigation Agency.
Pottawattamie County Resident Sentenced to 84 Months in Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA - On June 12, 2015, Ruben Toledo Jr., a 20 year-old resident of Council Bluffs, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose to 84 months in prison for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Nicholas A. Klinefeldt. Toledo was also ordered to serve five years of supervised release following imprisonment, and to pay $100 towards the Crime Victim Fund.
On January 8, 2015, Toledo pled guilty to this charge, which was the result of an investigation by law enforcement of drug trafficking that occurred in and around the Southern District of Iowa and the District of Nebraska. Beginning as early as February of 2014, continuing through September of 2014, Toledo conspired with others to distribute methamphetamine in the Southern District of Iowa.
The investigation was conducted by the Southwest Iowa Narcotics Task Force and the Drug Enforcement Administration. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Pottawattamie County Resident Sentenced to 135 Months in Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA - On June 12, 2015, Oscar Arriaga Martinez, a 25 year-old citizen of Mexico who resided in Council Bluffs, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose to 135 months in prison for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Nicholas A. Klinefeldt. Arriaga Martinez was also ordered to serve five years of supervised release following imprisonment, and to pay $100 towards the Crime Victim Fund.
On January 8, 2015, Arriaga Martinez pled guilty to this charge, which was the result of an investigation by law enforcement of drug trafficking that occurred in and around the Southern District of Iowa and the District of Nebraska. Beginning as early as February of 2014, continuing through September of 2014, Arriaga Martinez conspired with others to distribute over 500 grams of methamphetamine in the Southern District of Iowa.
The investigation was conducted by the Southwest Iowa Narcotics Task Force and the Drug Enforcement Administration. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Philadelphia, PA man convicted of selling heroin near local universityRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Qaaim Clark, 34, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was convicted of selling heroin near a local university campus, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
An investigation by the West Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Mon Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force revealed that Clark was involved in a drug distribution operation in which heroin and prescription painkillers were transported across state lines from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to Morgantown, West Virginia for redistribution and sale.
Specifically, Clark sold heroin in April 2014 in Monongalia County, West Virginia near West Virginia University. He pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Heroin within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location.” He faces between one and forty years in prison and a fine of up to $2,000,000.00. 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 defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Magistrate Judge John S. Kaull presided.
Parole Officer Enters Guilty Plea for Accepting Money from a Parolee Under Her SupervisionRead the Press Release
DALLAS, Texas — Breanna Polk, 32, of Dallas, Texas, charged with one count of wire fraud plead guilty June 16, 2015, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Irma Ramirez, announced Acting U.S. Attorney John R. Parker of the Northern District of Texas.
She faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years imprisonment, $250,000 fine and not more than three years of supervised release. A sentencing date of October 1, 2015 has been scheduled.
According to plea documents filed in the case, on August 2, 2007 a parolee with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) reported to his parole officer, Polk at the Garland, Texas parole office. Polk advised the individual she planned to take a trip to Florida to celebrate her birthday. The parolee left approximately $500 on Polk’s desk. On at least two other occasions between August 2007 and March 2010, the same individual paid over $500 to receive favorable treatment from Polk concerning the conditions of his parole.
In or around March 2010, the parolee absconded to Mexico to avoid DEA law enforcement in connection with his illegal drug distribution. The parolee paid Polk $2,000 to assist him in avoiding law enforcement by indicating he reported to parole, when he had not. Additionally Polk agreed to check for any arrest warrants and notify the parolee if he had an active arrest warrant. On June 8, 2010 Polk conducted a search on a National Crime Information Center database to determine if the parole had an active arrest warrant, Polk transmitted the search by means of a wire communication.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Texas Department of Criminal Justice – Office of the Inspector General were involved in the investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine Pfeifle is prosecuting the case.
Page County Resident Sentenced to Five Years of Probation for Conversion of Mortgaged PropertyRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA - On June 12, 2015, Gary Matthew Johnston, a 34 year-old resident of Nodaway, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose to five years of probation, and was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $113,754.20, for converting the proceeds from the sales of approximately 176 head of cattle that were mortgaged by the Farm Service Agency of the United States Department of Agriculture, announced United States Attorney Nicholas A. Klinefeldt.
On March 5, 2015, Johnston pled guilty to the charge of conversion of mortgaged property, which was the result of an investigation by law enforcement after Johnston was involved in multiple sales of collateral at livestock auctions that were not reported to the Farm Service Agency as required.
The investigation was conducted by the United States Department of Agriculture, Office of the Inspector General, and this case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Omar Gonzalez Sentenced to 17 Months in Prison for Armed Intrusion on White House GroundsRead the Press Release
Omar Gonzalez, 43, of Copperas Cove, Texas, was sentenced today to 17 months in prison on charges stemming from an incident in which he climbed a fence and ran toward and into the White House while armed with a folding knife.
The sentencing was announced by Acting U.S. Attorney Vincent H. Cohen, Jr. for the District of Columbia and Acting Special Agent in Charge James M. Murray of the Washington Field Office for the U.S. Secret Service.
Gonzalez pleaded guilty on March 13, 2015, in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia to two federal offenses: one count of unlawfully entering a restricted building or grounds, while carrying a deadly or dangerous weapon and one count of assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers or employees. He was sentenced by the Honorable Rosemary M. Collyer. Upon completion of his prison term, Gonzalez will be placed on three years of supervised release.
Judge Collyer also prohibited Gonzalez from entering the District of Columbia for the duration of his supervision, except for court appearances and meetings with his attorney. He also will be required to participate in a psychiatric evaluation and cooperate fully with the Secret Service in any assessments they deem necessary to make of Gonzalez’s risk.
“Mr. Gonzalez is now paying the price for his foolish decision to jump the fence and run inside the White House,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Cohen. “When he finishes his prison term, he will be barred from entering the District of Columbia and must receive psychiatric treatment. The prison sentence imposed by the court should deter others from taking actions that needlessly put the First Family and White House employees at risk.”
According to the government’s evidence, on Sept. 19, 2014, at about 7:19 p.m., Gonzalez climbed over the north fence of the White House. While he was climbing over the fence, officers with the U.S. Secret Service’s Uniformed Division ran towards him and repeatedly yelled at him to stop and get down. Gonzalez, however, ignored the commands and landed on the north grounds of the White House.
Moments later, after ignoring additional, repeated commands from uniformed officers to stop, Gonzalez went through the north doors of the White House, knocking a uniformed officer backwards. Another uniformed officer then tackled him inside the White House.
Gonzalez was searched and a folding knife, with a serrated blade that was over three and one-half inches long, was discovered in his right front pants pocket. After his arrest, he gave oral consent to search his vehicle, located on Constitution Avenue NW. The vehicle contained hundreds of rounds of ammunition, in boxes and in magazines, hatchets and a machete.
Gonzalez has been in custody since his arrest on Sept. 19, 2014.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Secret Service and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys David Mudd and Thomas A. Gillice of the National Security Section for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.
Omar Gonzalez Sentenced to 17 Months in Prison for Armed Intrusion on White House GroundsRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Omar Gonzalez, 43, was sentenced today to 17 months in prison on charges stemming from an incident in which he climbed a fence and ran toward and into the White House while armed with a folding knife.
The sentencing was announced by Acting U.S. Attorney Vincent H. Cohen, Jr. and James M. Murray, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Washington Field Office, U.S. Secret Service.
Gonzalez, formerly of Copperas Cove, Texas, pled guilty on March 13, 2015, in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia to two federal offenses: one count of unlawfully entering a restricted building or grounds, while carrying a deadly or dangerous weapon, and one count of assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers or employees. He was sentenced by the Honorable Rosemary M. Collyer. Upon completion of his prison term, Gonzalez will be placed on three years of supervised release.
Judge Collyer also prohibited Gonzalez from entering the District of Columbia for the duration of his supervision, except for court appearances and meetings with his attorney. He also will be required to participate in a psychiatric evaluation and cooperate fully with the Secret Service in any assessments they deem necessary to make of Gonzalez’s risk.
“Mr. Gonzalez is now paying the price for his foolish decision to jump the fence and run inside the White House,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Cohen. “When he finishes his prison term, he will be barred from entering the District of Columbia and must receive psychiatric treatment. The prison sentence imposed by the court should deter others from taking actions that needlessly put the First Family and White House employees at risk.”
According to the government’s evidence, on Sept. 19, 2014, at about 7:19 p.m., Gonzalez climbed over the north fence of the White House. While he was climbing over the fence, officers with the U.S. Secret Service’s Uniformed Division ran towards him and repeatedly yelled at him to stop and get down. Gonzalez, however, ignored the commands and landed on the north grounds of the White House.
Moments later, after ignoring additional, repeated commands from uniformed officers to stop, Gonzalez went through the north doors of the White House, knocking a uniformed officer backwards. Another uniformed officer then tackled him inside the White House.
Gonzalez was searched and a folding knife, with a serrated blade that was over three and one-half inches long, was discovered in his right front pants pocket. After his arrest, he gave oral consent to search his vehicle, located on Constitution Avenue NW. The vehicle contained hundreds of rounds of ammunition, in boxes and in magazines, hatchets, and a machete.
Gonzalez has been in custody since his arrest on Sept. 19, 2014.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Secret Service and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys David Mudd and Thomas A. Gillice, of the National Security Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.
Ohio County woman convicted of heroin traffickingRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Tracy McWhorter, 35, of Triadelphia, West Virginia, was convicted of heroin trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
McWhorter pled guilty to a criminal Information charging her with one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin.” She further admitted to violations of a period of supervised release stemming from a previous conviction. As a result of the plea agreement executed today, McWhorter will be sentenced to 24 months in prison.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney John Parr prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Wheeling Police Department, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp presided.
Northglenn Man Sentenced to 16 Months in Federal Prison for Possession of a Controlled SubstanceRead the Press Release
DENVER – Richard Jackson, age 30, of Northglenn, Colorado, was sentenced yesterday by Chief U.S. District Court Judge Marcia S. Krieger to serve 16 months in federal prison, followed by 1 year on supervised release, the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the FBI announced. Jackson, who appeared at the sentencing hearing in custody, was remanded at its conclusion.
Jackson was first charged by Criminal Complaint on September 27, 2014. He was indicted by a federal grand jury in Denver on November 3, 2014. He pled guilty to possession of a controlled substance before Chief Judge Krieger on March 18, 2015. He was sentenced yesterday, Monday, June 15, 2015.
According to court documents, Jackson was the subject of a drug investigation, where investigators found evidence of methamphetamine. On September 26, 2014, FBI agents with the Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF) executed a search warrant at Jackson's Northglenn residence. During the execution of the warrant agents and officers found ammunition, magazines, but no firearms. They also found residue of heroin and methamphetamine on a scale, in glass pipes, and in a sink drain. A baggie of Oxycodone pills, along with multiple cells phones and a Department of Corrections identification card were found in a safe inside the residence. Jackson maintained Nazi insignia in his residence and posted rules on a wall of his basement. Two of the rules were, “Violence is a must to secure our race” and “We do not cooperate with law enforcement.” The defendant had a number of prior convictions, including one for felony menacing with a real or simulated weapon. That conviction resulted in a four year prison term in the State Department of Corrections, although he was paroled before serving the entire prison sentence.
“Defendant Jackson has shown a substantial disregard for the safety of others and a lack of respect for the law,” said U.S. Attorney John Walsh. “Thanks to the work of the FBI, and the members of the Joint Terrorism Task Force, this felon will spend time in federal prison for his crime.”"The sentence handed down represents the FBI’s dedication to pursuing those intent on harming the citizens of our communities, whether through direct action or general criminal activity that threatens the safety of our neighborhoods” said FBI Denver Special Agent in Charge Thomas Ravenelle. "The FBI will continue to work through our strong law enforcement partnerships to protect our communities from those engaged in these types of activities."
This case was investigated by the FBI’s JTTF, the ATF, the Northglenn Police Department and the North Metro Drug Task Force. The search warrant was executed by the Northglenn, Thornton and Broomfield SWAT teams.
North Jersey Real Estate Developer Charged with Soliciting Bribes for Palisades Park OfficialRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A real estate developer and landlord of commercial buildings in Palisades Park, New Jersey, appeared in federal court today to face a criminal complaint charging him with allegedly soliciting a $50,000 bribe payment for a Palisades Park borough official, U.S. Attorney Paul J. Fishman announced.
Chung S. Kho, 68, of Fort Lee, New Jersey, is charged by complaint with one count of using facilities in interstate commerce to promote bribery. Kho appeared this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Cathy L. Waldor in Newark federal court and was released on $50,000 unsecured bond.
According to the complaint:
Beginning in October 2010, Kho met with an individual (“Individual #1”) who sought to open a karaoke business at a multi-unit commercial building owned by Kho. Kho guaranteed that there would be no problem in obtaining a necessary change of use permit from Palisades Park to operate a karaoke business at the location. Kho bragged about his close relationship with a Palisades Park borough official who had previously assisted him with the development of other large-scale commercial buildings in Palisades Park.
Individual #1 entered into a lease agreement with Kho in October 2010 for the commercial space to open the karaoke business. In December 2010, Kho allegedly told Individual #1 that the official would obtain the necessary approvals for the karaoke business if Individual #1 paid the official a $50,000 bribe. Over the next few days, Individual #1 attempted to negotiate a lower amount, but was eventually told by Kho that the official would accept nothing less than $50,000 in cash. By the time Individual #1 agreed to pay $50,000 to the official, Kho informed Individual #1 that it was too late to make the payment. On Dec. 15, 2010, Individual #1’s application for a change of use was denied by the Palisades Park Planning Board.
The charge of using facilities in interstate commerce to promote bribery with which Kho is charged carries a maximum potential penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine, or twice the gain or loss from the offense.
U.S. Attorney Fishman credited special agents of the FBI’s Newark Division, Garret Mountain Resident Agency, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Richard M. Frankel; special agents of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of the Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Christina Scaringi; and special agents of IRS – Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jonathan D. Larsen, with the investigation.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jacques S. Pierre of the Special Prosecutions Division in Newark.
The charge and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Defense counsel: Robert C. Scrivo, Esq., Morristown, New Jersey
New Jersey Tax Preparer Convicted of Tax FraudRead the Press Release
TRENTON, N.J. – A Union County, New Jersey, tax preparer was today convicted of tax fraud for getting unearned tax refunds for his clients to make extra money for himself, U.S. Attorney Paul J. Fishman announced.
Courtney Johnson, 45, of Union Township, New Jersey, was convicted of six counts of aiding and assisting in the preparation of false federal income tax returns following a two week trial before U.S. District Judge Anne E. Thompson in Trenton federal court. The jury deliberated four hours before delivering the verdicts.
According to documents filed in this case and the evidence at trial:
Johnson prepared and filed federal individual income tax returns that were false and fraudulent as to material matters. The returns attached schedules for fictitious businesses that the taxpayers did not own or operate, inflated charitable contributions, fabricated itemized deductions – all to generate fraudulently inflated refunds.
His wife, Carol Johnson, 44, who ran the business with him, previously pleaded guilty to misprision of a felony and is awaiting sentencing. The Johnsons operated tax preparation businesses in South Orange and Jersey City, New Jersey.
Each false tax return count carries a maximum potential penalty of three years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Sentencing for Courtney Johnson is scheduled for Sept. 25, 2015.
U.S. Attorney Fishman credited special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jonathan D. Larsen, with the investigation leading to today’s guilty verdict.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jane H. Yoon and Jillian J. Reyes of the Criminal Division in Newark.
Defense counsel: Thomas R. Ashley Esq., NewarkMulti-state heroin trafficking operation based in Baltimore, Maryland fractured by federal indictmentRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Multiple individuals were arrested today pursuant to a 163-count federal indictment charging 41 people with facilitating an extensive, multi-state heroin trafficking operation, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, West Virginia State Police Colonel Jay Smithers, and FBI Special Agent in Charge Scott Smith, announced.
Maryland resident Brian Alexander Hall, 27, is alleged to have orchestrated a far-reaching heroin distribution network in which a large group of individuals repeatedly travelled across state lines to procure quantities of heroin from Hall in Baltimore, Maryland, and the surrounding region. The individuals then returned to locations in West Virginia, Maryland, Virginia, and Pennsylvania to redistribute the heroin obtained from Hall. Officers utilized a variety of investigative tools to uncover the communication and interstate travel patterns underlying the drug distribution operation.
"Today's arrests are just one element in a continuing effort to combat the epidemic of drug abuse in our region," noted U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld. "It is particularly troubling when drug dealers send their product across state lines and target vulnerable populations for purely economic gain. Federal and local law enforcement officers from multiple jurisdictions leveraged cutting-edge surveillance techniques to conduct a sophisticated and expedient investigation in this case, and I commend them for their efforts."
"These charges and arrests highlight the importance of the 'High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area' designation that Berkeley County received last year through the Washington/Baltimore HIDTA," said West Virginia State Police Colonel Jay Smithers. "The future growth of and participation in HIDTA initiatives will greatly benefit the citizens of the Eastern Panhandle. All those involved in this collaborative effort should be commended for their continued hard work and dedication to combat the illegal drug culture which is destroying our communities and families."
This morning, the indictment was unsealed and 35 of the defendants were taken into custody as part of a coordinated, multi-state arrest operation. Those arrested today include:
• Jared Michael Belanger, 35, of Martinsburg, West Virginia,
• Lindsay Bohrer, 37, of Berkeley Springs, West Virginia,
• Shawn Blain Bowers, 36, of Braddock Heights, Maryland,
• Theresa Brewer, 61, of Braddock Heights, Maryland,
• Kenneth Bryan Crowley, 38, of Rockville, Maryland,
• James R. Dove, 30, of Keyser, West Virginia,
• Veronica Gladden, 32, of Martinsburg, West Virginia,
• Harmony Hahn, 31, of Martinsburg, West Virginia,
• Bonnie Hanna, 34, of Martinsburg, West Virginia,
• James Francis Hansen, Jr., 48, of Berkeley Springs, West Virginia,
• Javier Lewis Howard, 32, of Martinsburg, West Virginia,
• James Miner Jenkins, 36, of Martinsburg, West Virginia,
• Jessica Kesecker, 33, of Berkeley Springs, West Virginia,
• Brandon Kidwell, 23, of Berkeley Springs, West Virginia,
• Darla Kinser, 29, of Martinsburg, West Virginia,
• Edward Lee Knotts, a.k.a. “Eddie,” 32, of Ranson, West Virginia,
• Jeffery David Murphy, a.k.a. “J.D.,” 34, of Martinsburg, West Virginia,
• Brandon Lee Odell, 32, of Inwood, West Virginia,
• Scott Andrew Ours, a.k.a. “D,” 32, of Martinsburg, West Virginia,
• Melissa Portrey, a.k.a. “Missy,” 47, of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia,
• Josh Reid, 32, of Martinsburg, West Virginia.
• Craig Rhodes, 46, of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania,
• Cassandra Elaine Riggs, a.k.a “Casey Braithwaite,” 25, of Martinsburg, West Virginia,
• James Michael Ross, 32, of Martinsburg, West Virginia,
• Cortney Blaire Saylor, a.k.a “C,” 29, of Martinsburg, West Virginia,
• Megan Saylor, 32, of Martinsburg, West Virginia,
• Robert Hamilton Shanley-Sexton, a.k.a. “Robbie,” 23, of Gaithersburg, Maryland,
• Frederick Smitherman, a.k.a. “Freddy,” 36, of Inwood, West Virginia,
• William Thomas Stine, a.k.a. “Tom,” 39, of Martinsburg, West Virginia,
• Cameron Steinbaugh, 28, of Berkeley Springs, West Virginia,
• Teddy Edward Threadgill, 46, of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia,
• Veronica Thomas, 24, of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania,
• Bruce Morton Vaudrien, Jr., 45, of Kearneysville, West Virginia,
• Michelle Lynn Warnick, 32, of Kearneysville, West Virginia,
• William Lee Wasson, a.k.a. “Bill,” 38, of Falling Waters, West Virginia, and
• Sarah Marie Weant, 26, of Kearneysville, West Virginia.Two defendants are currently in state custody, including:
• Clinton Dunlap, a.k.a. “K.D.,” 31, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, and
• Steward Eugene Whitehead, Jr., a.k.a. “Geno,” 29, of Inwood, West Virginia.Several individuals have not yet been located, including:
• Roma Michelle Bland, 37, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, and
• James Wesley Faircloth, 34, of Martinsburg, West Virginia.Anyone with information on the whereabouts of the aforementioned individuals is encouraged to contact the Federal Bureau of Investigation at (412) 432-4000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Krasinski is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the West Virginia State Police, and the Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, are leading the investigation. The United States Marshals Service and the Baltimore County Police Department in Maryland are also supporting the investigation.
An indictment is merely an accusation, and all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
More Than Two Dozen Charged after FBI Task Force Investigation into Hartford Drug and Gun TraffickingRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, Patricia M. Ferrick, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Hartford Police Chief James C. Rovella, today announced that 29 individuals have been charged with federal offenses stemming from the gang-related distribution of heroin and crack cocaine in Hartford’s South End.
According to allegations made in court, in September 2014, the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force initiated an investigation into narcotics distribution, firearms trafficking and acts of violence carried out by members and associates Los Solidos in Hartford’s South End. The investigation has included the use of court-authorized wiretaps, controlled purchases of heroin, crack cocaine and firearms, and the execution of more than 15 searches. These law enforcement efforts have resulted in the seizure of 24 firearms, approximately $74,000, two kilograms of crack cocaine, two kilograms of powder cocaine, one kilogram of heroin, 7000 bags of packaged heroin, 10 pounds of marijuana and four vehicles.
This prosecution stems from Project Longevity, a comprehensive initiative to reduce gun violence in Connecticut’s major cities. Through Project Longevity, community members and law enforcement directly engage with members of groups that are prone to commit violence. A critical component of the Project Longevity strategy is the “call-in,” a face-to-face meeting where Project Longevity partners engage group members and deliver a community message against violence, a law enforcement message about the consequences of further violence and an offer of help for those who want it. Members of Los Solidos attended call-ins that were held in April 2014 and August 2014.
Last week, a grand jury in Hartford returned eight indictments charging 28 individuals. Twenty-four of the defendants were arrested yesterday, two defendants were already incarcerated, and two defendants are still being sought by law enforcement. One additional individual was charged by criminal complaint after being arrested during the course of yesterday’s operation.
“The U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners will use the full weight of federal law to make our cities safer by identifying violent gangs and prosecuting members and associates involved in drug trafficking and related activity,” stated U.S. Attorney Daly. This investigation removed two dozen firearms from the street. “I commend the work of the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force, which is committed to investigating serious criminal behavior in Hartford and rooting out violent individuals from our communities. Project Longevity exists to give every member of a group participating in criminal behavior a new path to become a contributing member of society. This prosecution should send a clear message to those who choose to resist a lifestyle change that the path they’re currently taking may very well lead to a federal courtroom.”
“The distribution of narcotics allegedly undertaken by members and associates of the Los Solidos street gang has been seriously disrupted as a result of this successful long-term investigation by the Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force,” stated FBI Special Agent in Charge Ferrick. “It is our hope that our continuing investigations will break the stronghold certain gangs believe they have over Hartford neighborhoods.”
“This operation, which embedded Hartford Police Department patrol officers and detectives with our federal partners for several months, is an example of our strong relationships and continued cooperation with all of our local, state and federal partners,” stated Hartford Police Chief Rovella. “We continue to support these efforts and relationships to cooperatively enhance a safer city.”
The following individuals are charged in an indictment with conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute heroin:
MELVIN CASTRO, a.k.a. “Humacoa,” 22, of Hartford
LUIS CASTRO, a.k.a. “Cano,” 43, of Hartford
FRANCISCO SANCHEZ-REYES, a.k.a. “Chino,” 37, of Hartford
HERNAN GONZALEZ, 26, of Hartford
MANUEL LOZADO, a.k.a. “Mayo,” 25, of HartfordThis indictment also charges MELVIN CASTRO with 12 counts and GONZALEZ and LOZADO each with one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, heroin. The indictment further charges MELVIN CASTRO with three counts of possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon, and WILLIAM MARRERO, 22, of East Hartford, with one count of possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon.
The following individuals are charged in a separate indictment:
FELIX JIMENEZ, a.k.a. “P.R.,” 30, of Hartford
ROGELIO ORTEGA, 45, of Manchester
SANDRO RUIZ, a.k.a. “Domi” 41, of Hartford
RICHARD CRUZ, a.k.a. “Gotti,” 25, of Windsor Locks
JOANNA NEGRON, 36, of HartfordJIMENEZ and ORTEGA are charged with conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute cocaine base (“crack cocaine”). JIMENEZ is also charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of heroin, one count of use of telephone in the commission of a drug trafficking felony, and two counts of possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon. CRUZ is charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin, one count of use of telephone in the commission of a drug trafficking felony and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes. RUIZ and NEGRON are each charged with one count of use of telephone in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
The following individuals are charged in an indictment with conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute cocaine base:
VINCENTE RIVERA, a.k.a. “Macho,” 35, of Hartford
BASILIA GOMEZ, 30, of Hartford
JORGE GOMEZ, a.k.a. “Joe,” 29, of Hartford
PEDRO ROMAN, a.k.a. “Tony,” 38, of HartfordThis indictment also charges RIVERA with 11 counts of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, cocaine base, and one count of possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon. In addition, the indictment charges WILLIAM PEREZ, a.k.a. “Jay,” 30, of East Hartford, with one count of possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon, and EDWARD BLAIR, 33, of Hartford, MORRIS LANIER, 23, of Hartford, and NAHKIA ROBERTS, 30, of Willimantic, each with one count of use of a telephone in the commission of a drug trafficking felony.
Another indictment charges EDUARDO ZAYAS, a.k.a. “Za,” 31, of East Hartford, and MICHAEL KELLEY, 34, of New Britain, with conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute cocaine base. ZAYAS is also charged with possession with intent to distribute cocaine base, possession with intent to distribute heroin, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes, and possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon. KELLEY is also charged with possession with intent to distribute cocaine base (two counts), possession with intent to distribute cocaine, possession with intent to distribute marijuana, and maintaining a drug-involved premises.
This indictment also charges SHAWN KARJOHN, 37, of Hartford, RICHARD JEWELL, 40, of Hartford and CHRISTOPHER ROSA, 32, of Hartford, with use of telephone in the commission of a drug trafficking felony. KARJOHN is also charged with possession with intent to distribute cocaine base.
Charged in four separate indictments are:
EDGARDO TORRES, a.k.a. “Eggy,” 36, of East Hartford, with 14 counts of possessing with intent to distribute, and distribution, of heroin and crack cocaine.
JOSE SERRANO, 30, of Hartford, with one count of possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon.
ERIC ORTIZ, a.k.a. “Nice,” 34, of Hartford, with four counts of possession with intent to distribute heroin.
MIGUEL DIAZ, a.k.a. “Smooth,” 35, of Wethersfield, with two counts of possession with intent to distribute heroin, one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and one count of possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon.
CARLOS RIVERA, 24, of Hartford, was arrested on a criminal complaint charging him with possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon and possession with intent to distribute heroin and crack cocaine.
U.S. Attorney Daly stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force. The FBI Task Force includes members of the Hartford Police Department, East Hartford Police Department, Connecticut State Police and Connecticut Department of Correction. The Hartford Police Department’s Vice and Narcotics Squad, Major Crimes Unit, Shooting Task Force and South Conditions Unit are providing valuable assistance to the investigation, and the U.S. Marshals Service and Capitol Region Emergency Response Team (CREST) assisted with the arrests.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael J. Gustafson and Gabriel J. Vidoni.
Mobile County Man Sentenced to 46 Months for Illegal Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney Kenyen Brown announces that Leroy Eugene Wells, a 33 year old, resident of Grand Bay, was sentenced today to 46 months incarceration followed by three years of supervised release for possession of a Taurus pistol after being convicted of two felonies, namely, Assault 2nd degree and a prior felon in possession crime.
On March 18, 2015, Mr. Wells pled guilty to being a felon in possession of the Taurus pistol after a traffic stop revealed that he was carrying it as a concealed weapon.
Special agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case and presented it to the U.S. Attorney=s Office for prosecution. The prosecutor assigned to the case is Assistant United States Attorney, Gina S. Vann.
Mescalero Apache Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Voluntary Manslaughter ChargeRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Jerrick Blake, 22, a member of the Mescalero Apache Nation who resides in Mescalero, N.M., pleaded guilty this morning in Las Cruces, N.M., to a voluntary manslaughter charge.
According to court filings, Blake killed the victim on the afternoon of Nov. 3, 2014, by stabbing him in the chest with a knife. The crime occurred during an argument between Blake and the victim on the Mescalero Apache Reservation in Otero County, N.M.
During today’s proceedings, Blake pled guilty to a felony information charging him with voluntary manslaughter. In entering his guilty plea, Blake admitted killing the victim by stabbing him in the chest during a sudden quarrel.
At sentencing, Blake faces a statutory maximum penalty of 15 years in prison followed by at least three years of supervised release. Blake has been in federal custody since his arrest and remains detained pending a sentencing hearing which has yet to be scheduled.
This case was investigated by the Mescalero Agency of the BIA’s Office of Justice Services and the Mescalero Apache Tribal Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron O. Jordan of the U.S. Attorney’s Las Cruces Branch Office is prosecuting the case.
Mertztown Woman Charged in Conspiracy Involving Construction CompaniesRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA - Judy Noll, 52, of Mertztown, PA, was charged today by Information with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, announced United States Attorney Zane David Memeger. Noll, President of Karen Construction Company, Inc. (Karen Construction) engaged in a scheme to defraud the United States Department of Transportation through the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise program (DBE) by posing as a DBE, when in fact it was not, in order to secure contracts on federally funded highway projects under the DBE program. From approximately January 2002 through October 2011, Noll, as President of Karen Construction, wrongfully obtained DBE subcontracts totaling an estimated $11.9 million involving approximately 133 federally funded projects.
If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison, two years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000, and a $100 special assessment.
The case was investigated by the United States Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Department of Labor Office of Inspector General/Office of Labor Racketeering and Fraud Investigations. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mary Kay Costello.
Media Advisory: Safe Streets Task Force Makes ArrestsRead the Press Release
Cedar Rapids, Iowa – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Iowa will join members of the FBI coordinated Cedar Rapids Safe Streets Task Force in holding a joint press conference on June 18, 2015, where they will announce federal gun-related criminal charges against ten individuals. The purpose of the joint law enforcement action is to reduce incidences of gun violence.
Event Details
When: Thursday, June 18, 2015
Where: Cedar Rapids Police Department (Community Room), 505 1st Street SW, Cedar Rapids, IA.
Time: 11:30 am.
Program
A press release and interview opportunities will be available at the end of the press conference.
Man Pleads Guilty to Charge of Illegally Landing Airplane in Federal WildernessRead the Press Release
Spokane - Michael C. Ormsby, the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced that Brent Dawson of Walla Walla, Washington recently plead guilty to illegally landing his airplane on Smooth Ridge during the fall of 2013 and 2014. Smooth Ridge is located in the Wenaha-Tucannon Wilderness area.
According to information disclosed during court proceedings, in the fall of 2014 a group of hunters, deep in the Wilderness, observed an airplane flying low and landing in a meadow on Smooth Ridge. These hunters were upset. As reported to Forest Service Law Enforcement Officer Austin Hess, this was the second year an individual had accessed the Wilderness using the same airplane, with the plane’s tail numbers being removed in 2014. The hunters reported that they had spent time and energy accessing this remote, secluded area of the Wilderness to hunt, only then to discover that a pilot (that is, Dawson) simply flew his plane into the area. One of the hunters came forward, reported the incidences, and ultimately received a cash reward for his cooperation in the investigation.
Photos and detailed description of events provided by the hunters led to the identification of Dawson as being the owner of the plane. Forest Service Officer Hess confirmed that Dawson was the registered owner of the plane and that the area where he landed was in fact within the bounds of the Wilderness and thus not a designated landing area.
Michael C. Ormsby said, "Federal Wilderness lands are a treasure – especially here in the Northwest. This guilty plea shows our office’s commitment to preserving that treasure for future generations to enjoy."
The 1964 Wilderness Act defines "Wilderness" as areas where the earth and its communities of life are left unchanged by people, where the primary forces of nature are in control, and where people themselves are visitors who do not remain. Wilderness act regulations prohibit the use or operation of motorized or mechanized equipment within a designated Wilderness Area. The crime of operating a motor vehicle in the wilderness is a Class B misdemeanor that has a maximum fine of $5000 and 6 months in jail.
The investigation was conducted by the United States Forest Service. The case was prosecuted by Legal Intern Corey Sewell and Assistant United States Attorney Tyler H.L. Tornabene.
Lead Defendant in Curry County Drug Trafficking Ring Sentenced 78 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Christopher Jason Kidd, 38, of Clovis, N.M., was sentenced today in Albuquerque, N.M., to 78 months in prison for his methamphetamine trafficking conviction. Kidd will be supervised release for five years after completing his prison sentence.
Kidd and his three co-defendants, Tina Tafoya, 33, and John Jesse Perez, Jr., 46, both of Clovis, N.M., and Jeannette Driever, 37, of Grady, N.M., were indicted in Feb. 2014, on federal methamphetamine trafficking charges. Count 1 of the three-count indictment charged the four defendants with conspiring to distribute methamphetamine in Curry County, N.M., between Sept. 2013 and Nov. 2013. Count 2 charged Kidd and Tafoya with possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute on Nov. 6, 2013. Count 3 charged Driever and Perez with possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute also on Nov. 6, 2013.
Kidd entered a guilty plea on Nov. 17, 2014, and admitted that he conspired with his co-defendants to distribute methamphetamine in Curry County. More specifically Kidd admitted that he and Tafoya supplied quantities of methamphetamine to others, including Driever and Perez, who resold the methamphetamine in smaller quantities to users. According to Kidd’s plea agreement, on Nov. 9, 2013, Kidd and Tafoya supplied a pound of methamphetamine to Driever and Perez. On that day, Kidd and Tafoya possessed another half-pound of methamphetamine at their residence. The methamphetamine was seized later that day pursuant to search warrants.
Driever and Perez entered guilty pleas to federal drug trafficking charges on Nov. 20, 2014. Each pled guilty to participating in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in Curry County. Driever admitted that she and Perez obtained quantities of methamphetamine from Kidd and Tafoya and then distributed the methamphetamine to others. Perez acknowledged participating in a methamphetamine trafficking conspiracy that involved Driever, Kidd, Tafoya and others. Tafoya entered a guilty plea on Dec. 17, 2014, and admitted conspiring with Kidd, Driever and Perez to distribute methamphetamine in Curry County in fall of 2013.
Kidd’s co-defendants remain in federal custody pending their sentencing hearings, which have not been scheduled. Under the terms of their plea agreements, they will be sentenced to serve the following prison sentences: Tafoya will be sentenced to 78 months; Driever will be sentenced to 60 months; and Perez will be sentenced to 36 months. Each will serve a five year term of supervised release after completing his or her prison sentence.
This case was investigated by the Las Cruces Agency Office of the FBI’s Albuquerque Division, the Region V Drug Task Force and the New Mexico State Police, with assistance from the Ninth Judicial District Attorney’s Office. The Region V Drug Task Force is comprised of the Clovis Police Department, the Portales Police Department, Curry County Sheriff’s Office and the Roosevelt County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.SAttorney Nicholas Jon Ganjei is prosecuting the case.
Kutztown Steel Company and Owners Charged with ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA - Dennis Weber, 66, Dale Weber, 51, and Carl M. Weber Steel Service, Inc. (Weber Steel), all of Kutztown, PA, were charged today by Information with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, announced United States Attorney Zane David Memeger. Dennis Weber, President of Weber Steel, and Dale Weber, Vice President, engaged in a scheme to defraud the United States Department of Transportation through the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise program (DBE). Weber Steel, a bridge and highway construction contractor located in Kutztown, PA was not a certified DBE, but set up and utilized a sham DBE called Karen Construction Co., Inc. (Karen Construction) to obtain DBE subcontracts for bridge and highway construction. From approximately April 1995 through November 2011, Karen Construction, posing as a DBE, obtained an estimated $18.7 million from approximately 224 federally funded projects, when, in reality, it was controlled by Weber Steel, a non-DBE.
If convicted, defendants Dennis and Dale Weber each face a maximum sentence of five years in prison, two years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000, and a $100 special assessment. Defendant Weber Steel faces a maximum sentence of five years of probation, a fine of up to $500,000, and a $100 special assessment.
The case was investigated by the United States Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Department of Labor Office of Inspector General/Office of Labor Racketeering and Fraud Investigations. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mary Kay Costello.
Justice Department Wins Lawsuit Against Texas Employer That Discriminated Against U.S. CitizenRead the Press Release
The Justice Department announced today that it won a lawsuit against Estopy Farms regarding allegations that the company discriminated against a U.S. citizen by preferring to hire foreign workers. The case was decided by the Office of the Chief Administrative Hearing Officer, the administrative court authorized to hear discrimination cases under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).
The court found that Estopy Farms, a farm that harvests crops in Texas, violated the INA when it refused to hire a qualified U.S. worker to operate agricultural equipment because the company preferred to hire foreign workers under the H-2 visa program. The case now moves to the remedial phase for the court to determine what Estopy Farms must do to remedy the violation, which includes the possibility of paying civil penalties.
“Companies cannot manipulate visa programs to discriminate against U.S. workers because of their citizenship,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Vanita Gupta of the Civil Rights Division. “This ruling sends a strong message to all employers that discrimination against U.S. workers will not be tolerated.”
The case was litigated by the Justice Department’s Office of Special Counsel for Immigration-Related Unfair Employment Practices (OSC), which is responsible for enforcing the anti-discrimination provision of the INA. The statute prohibits employers from discriminating because of citizenship or national origin in hiring, firing, or recruitment or referral for a fee. The statute also prohibits employers from placing additional documentary burdens on work-authorized applicants or employees during the employment eligibility verification process because of their citizenship status or national origin.
For more information about protections against employment discrimination under immigration laws, call OSC’s worker hotline at 1-800-255-7688 (1-800-237-2515, TTY for hearing impaired); call OSC’s employer hotline at 1-800-255-8155 (1-800-237-2515, TTY for hearing impaired); sign up for a free webinar at www.justice.gov/crt/about/osc/webinars.php; email [email protected]; or visit OSC’s website at www.justice.gov/crt/about/osc.
Applicants or employees who believe they were subjected to discrimination based on their citizenship, immigration status or national origin in hiring, firing, or recruitment or referral for a fee, or different documentary requirements based on their citizenship, immigration status or national origin, should contact OSC’s worker hotline for assistance.
Jury Convicts Waltham Man of Insider Trading of Stock in American Superconductor CorporationRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Waltham man was convicted today of conspiracy and insider trading in connection with tipping friends and fellow golfers with inside information about the business activities of American Superconductor Corporation (AMSC).
Eric McPhail, 41, was convicted following a seven-day jury trial and one and one half hours of jury deliberations of conspiring to commit securities fraud and securities fraud. McPhail had been indicted in July 2014. U.S. District Court Judge Denise J. Casper scheduled sentencing for Sept. 17, 2015.
According the evidence presented at trial, starting around July 2009, McPhail, who is a competitive amateur golfer, began giving his friends inside information about AMSC’s business activities and upcoming earnings announcements. McPhail obtained this information during golf games at the Oakley Country Club in Watertown and other social outings with a close friend who was a senior executive at AMSC. The executive, however, trusted McPhail to keep the information to himself and was unaware that McPhail was using it to tip his friends.
Over a two-year period spanning July 2009 to April 2011, several of McPhail’s friends repeatedly traded on the inside information. According to evidence presented at trial, McPhail ’s tippees successfully traded on material, nonpublic information about AMSC on at least five occasions, making a total of over $500,000 in illicit gains. One of McPhail’s tippees, Douglas Parigian, who is also a competitive amateur golfer, previously pleaded guilty to securities fraud charges on May 12, 2015.
The securities fraud charge provides a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a $5 million fine. The conspiracy charge provides for a maximum sentence of five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a $250,000 fine. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Carmen M. Ortiz; Vincent B. Lisi, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division; and Paul Levenson, Regional Director of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Boston Regional Office, made the announcement today. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew E. Lelling and Seth B. Kosto of Ortiz’s Economic Crimes Unit.
Jefferson County, Kentucky, Man Sentenced to 51 Months in Prison for Transporting Adult Females with the Intent That They Engage in ProstitutionRead the Press Release
Most were psychologically abused and physically assaulted
LOUISVILLE, Ky. - A Jefferson County, Kentucky, man was sentenced today in U.S. District Court by Senior Judge Thomas B. Russell to 51 months in prison for transporting adult females, with the intent that they engage in prostitution, announced Acting U.S. Attorney John E. Kuhn, Jr.
Dwayne Watkins, age 37, transported at least six females from Kentucky to other states to engage in prostitution between 2007 to August 2014. Five of the six females were often psychologically abused and physically assaulted as a means to coerce them. Watkins used various internet websites such Craigslist, Eros, and Backpage to advertise prostitutes working for his prostitution business and facilitate communication with potential clients.
Watkins transported the females, (at least one of the victims was homeless), from Kentucky to Indiana, North Carolina, Illinois, Georgia, Florida, Virginia and Ohio, to engage in prostitution.
Further, Watkins told one of the victims that he would be her modeling “Agent”. However, at the direction of Watkins, the female victim became a working prostitute and was forced to give Watkins every dollar made from prostitution.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joshua Judd and was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Louisville Metro Police Department, and Jefferson County Sherriff’s Office.
Inland Empire Siblings Plead Guilty to Stealing of Hundreds of Identities from Escrow Company and Fraudulently Obtaining CreditRead the Press Release
RIVERSIDE, California – A brother and sister from the Inland Empire have pleaded guilty to federal charges of conspiring to steal identities of hundreds of would-be homeowners from North American Title Company and using those stolen identities to obtain credit cards from major national retailers.
Charlie Rickie Jackson III, 43, of Corona, and Bridgette Lenet Jackson, 45, of Riverside, both pleaded guilty yesterday to conspiracy to commit access device fraud. Charlie Jackson also pled guilty to possession of 15 or more unauthorized access devices (credit cards).
In late 2013, Bridgette Jackson was a temporary employee at North American Title Company’s office in Temecula, where she was responsible for processing escrow documents and copying loan documents. Simply put, Bridgette Jackson allowed Charlie Jackson to come and take documents from the office when no other employees were around. According to court documents, the Jacksons stole personal identifying information belonging to well over 250 would-be homebuyers that was found in the North American Title Company documents.
Using the would-be homeowners’ personal identification information – including social security numbers, dates of birth, and bank account numbers – Charlie Jackson opened credit card accounts from major national retailers, and he used the unauthorized access devices to purchase goods online. Jackson then pawned the purchased items in exchange for cash, netting him tens of thousands of dollars.
During the course of the investigation, Charlie Jackson twice was caught in possession of hundreds of stolen identities, according to his plea agreement. The first time, in February 2014, he had hundreds of title documents from North American Title Company, sensitive medical documents containing personal identifying information, and credit cards he opened in the names of victims. In July 2014 he was caught with scanned copies of the stolen North American Title Company documents as well as a spiral notebook with personal identification information of other victims.
North American Title Company provides real estate settlement services and is a subsidiary of Lennar Homes, a national home builder. Lennar Homes has sustained thousands of dollars in losses due to the payout claims for victim homebuyers who experienced identity theft due to the breach of the secure documents.
The Jacksons pleaded guilty yesterday before United States District Judge Jesus G. Bernal, who is scheduled to sentence both defendants on August 31.
As a result of their guilty pleas, Charlie Jackson faces a statutory maximum sentence of 15 years in federal prison and Bridgette Jackson faces a statutory maximum sentence of 5 years in federal prison
“Mr. Jackson’s activity paints a disturbing picture in which confidential information was compromised for personal greed at the expense of the public,” said Robert Wemyss, Postal Inspector in Charge of the Los Angeles Division.
This investigation in this case was conducted by the United States Postal Inspection Service.
Release No. 15-061
IAP Worldwide Services Inc. Resolves Foreign Corrupt Practices Act InvestigationRead the Press Release
Former Company Vice President Pleads Guilty to Participating in Bribery Scheme
A Florida defense and government contracting company, IAP Worldwide Services Inc. (IAP), entered into a non-prosecution agreement and agreed to pay a $7.1 million penalty to resolve the government’s investigation into whether the company conspired to bribe Kuwaiti officials in order to secure a government contract. A former vice president of IAP also pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to violate the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) for his involvement in the bribery scheme.
Assistant Attorney General Leslie R. Caldwell of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Dana J. Boente of the Eastern District of Virginia, Assistant Director in Charge Andrew G. McCabe of the FBI’s Washington, D.C., Field Office and Special Agent in Charge Robert E. Craig Jr. of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS) Mid-Atlantic Field Office made the announcement.
James Michael Rama, 69, of Lynchburg, Virginia, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Court Judge James C. Cacheris of the Eastern District of Virginia to one count of conspiracy to violate the anti-bribery provisions of the FCPA. Sentencing is scheduled for Sept. 11, 2015.
In 2004, Kuwait’s Ministry of the Interior (MOI) initiated the Kuwait Security Program (KSP), a project that was intended to provide nationwide surveillance capabilities for several Kuwaiti government agencies primarily through the use of closed-circuit television. The project was divided into two phases: a planning and feasibility period called “Phase I” and an installation period called “Phase II.” The MOI was responsible for overseeing the KSP, including selecting contractors to facilitate its implementation. Revenues from the Phase II contract were expected to be substantially greater than from Phase I.
According to admissions made in connection with both the non-prosecution agreement and Rama’s plea agreement, IAP and Rama schemed to ensure that IAP worked as the consultant for Phase I so that it could tailor the requirements for the Phase II contracts to IAP’s strengths, which would give the company an advantage in the Phase II bidding. To that end, both IAP and Rama admitted that in February 2006, executives and senior employees of IAP, including Rama, set up a shell company called “Ramaco” to bid on Phase I, in part to conceal IAP’s role in crafting the Phase II requirements and its conflict of interest in connection with securing the Phase II contract.
Ultimately, Ramaco secured the Phase I contract for approximately $4 million. According to admissions made in connection with both agreements, the Rama and IAP agreed that half of that amount would be diverted to a consultant who would pay bribes to Kuwaiti government officials to assist IAP in obtaining and retaining the Phase I contract and to obtain the Phase II contract. IAP and Rama admitted that they disguised the payments by transferring funds Ramaco received to an IAP bank account and then to the consultant through a series of accounts and intermediaries. According to the factual statements incorporated into both the non-prosecution agreement and Rama’s plea agreement, between September 2006 and March 2008, IAP and its co-conspirators paid the consultant approximately $1,783,688 understanding that some or all of the funds would be used to bribe Kuwaiti government officials.
Based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to IAP’s cooperation, the Criminal Division entered into a non-prosecution agreement with the company. The non-prosecution agreement requires IAP’s continued cooperation. In addition, the non-prosecution agreement requires IAP to conduct a review of its existing internal controls, policies and procedures, and make any necessary modifications to ensure that the company maintains accurate record keeping and a rigorous anti-corruption compliance program. The non-prosecution agreement further requires IAP to report periodically to the Criminal Division and to the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Eastern District of Virginia regarding remediation and implementation of the aforementioned compliance program and internal controls, policies and procedures.
The investigation is being conducted by the FBI’s Washington, D.C., Field Office and the DCIS Mid-Atlantic Field Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant Chief Tarek Helou and Trial Attorney James P. McDonald of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul J. Nathanson of the Eastern District of Virginia. The United Kingdom’s Serious Fraud Office and the Criminal Division’s Office of International Affairs also provided assistance during the investigation.
Additional information about the Justice Department’s FCPA enforcement efforts can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal/fraud/fcpa.
IAP NPA
Rama Plea Agreement
Huntington man sentenced for federal heroin crimeRead the Press Release
Huntington, W.Va. – United States Attorney Booth Goodwin announced today that Steven Dale McCallister, age 41, of Huntington, West Virginia was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Huntington to 44 months in federal prison. McCallister previously pled guilty in March of 2015, admitting that in November of 2014 he possessed heroin that he had intended to sell from his Barboursville residence. The heroin was discovered when agents of the Huntington Violent Crime Drug Task Force executed a search warrant at McCallister’s home.
At the time McCallister was found with the heroin, he was on supervised release for a federal gun charge. McCallister, who admitted to the court that his possession of heroin violated the terms of his supervised release, was sentenced to an additional period of incarceration of 24 months to be served after the 44 months sentence on the heroin charge.
This case is being prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of heroin and prescription drugs. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal heroin and pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers in communities across the Southern District.
Hudson woman sentenced to two years in prison for firearms convictionRead the Press Release
A Hudson woman was sentenced to two years in prison for making false statements related to the purchase of three firearms, said Steven M. Dettelbach, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
Marcia M. Masters, 47, was convicted earlier this year following a trial before U.S. District Judge Benita Pearson.
Masters acted as a straw purchaser of a firearm from Semi-Arms Inc. in Broadview Heights, Ohio. She did this by lying on the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Form, falsely stating that she was the actual buyer and recipient of a Smith and Wesson Model 317 .22mm revolver, a Colt Model AR15 .223mm rifle and another Colt Model AR15 .223mm rifle.
She was employed as a police officer at the time of the purchases.
Assistant United States Attorneys Marisa Darden and Matthew Kall are prosecuting the case following an investigation by the ATF.
Heroin Dealer Gets 10 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A Pittsburgh resident was sentenced in federal court to 10 years of incarceration on his conviction of federal heroin trafficking charges, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Omar Rashad Smith, 26.
According to information presented to the court, on June 21, 2012, Smith was apprehended by federal agents and Pittsburgh narcotics detectives fleeing a house where heroin was being actively packaged into individual dosage units commonly called “stamp bags.” The items located in the residence included various tools commonly used in heroin packaging, such as a scale, masks, a food processor and enough heroin to make well over 3,000 stamp bags-- worth nearly $30,000 on the street. Police also located a stolen firearm within an arm’s length of the table where the heroin was being processed.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Hornak considered the sentences imposed as a result of the defendant’s three previous convictions for felony drug offenses in Allegheny County and stated that the 10-year sentence was sufficient but not greater than necessary to deter others from heroin dealing. Judge Hornak also imposed 7 years of supervision by the United States Probation Office after Smith’s release, in order to help protect the public from further crimes of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt prosecuted this case on behalf of the government and ensured that the drug money seized by police was forfeited. By forfeiting drug money, drug dealers ease the burden on taxpayers and actually help to investigate and prosecute future drug dealers.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Allegheny County Probation Office for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Smith.
Hayden Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing Grenade FusesRead the Press Release
BIRMINGHAM -- A Hayden man pleaded guilty today in Federal Court to charges of Distribution of Grenade Fuses to an Unlicensed Person, announced U.S. Attorney Joyce White Vance and Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Special Agent in Charge David Hyche.
U.S. District Judge Madeline M. Haikala took the guilty plea from Matthew Joseph Smith, 56, on charges stemming from an October 22, 2014, incident where approximately 1,340 M228 grenade fuses were distributed by Smith to another individual who did not have a license to possess the fuses. The sentencing in the case is set for September 15, 2015.
“This conviction sends a message to those who deal in explosive materials without proper authority in the Northern District of Alabama. Individuals who hold a license to possess explosive materials owe a duty to act within the boundaries of the law at all times. When those boundaries are exceeded, we will actively pursue prosecution to ensure the safety of the public,” said U.S. Attorney Joyce White Vance.
“ATF remains committed to utilizing its dual criminal/regulatory role to identify, disrupt and prosecute those who criminally use explosives that put our communities at risk,” said Steven L. Gerido, ATF Special Agent in Charge.
ATF investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Brad Felton is prosecuting the case.
Hancock County man convicted of heroin traffickingRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Raymond James Ripley, Sr., 28, of Newell, West Virginia, was convicted today of heroin trafficking, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.
Ripley conspired with others to possess and sell heroin in Hancock County, West Virginia throughout 2013 and 2014. He pled guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Heroin,” following an investigation by the Hancock, Brooke, Weirton Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative. He faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000.
In another matter, Cornelius Johnson, Jr., 38, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was convicted today of cocaine trafficking. An investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, revealed that Johnson engaged in cocaine trafficking in Ohio County, West Virginia throughout 2014.
Johnson pled guilty today to:
• Four counts of “Use of a Telephone to Facilitate the Distribution of Cocaine Base.” He faces up to four years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 on each count,
• Four counts of “Distribution of Cocaine Base within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location.” He faces between one and forty years in prison and a fine of up to $2,000,000 on each count,
• One count of “Maintaining a Drug Involved Premises,” for which he faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000, and
• One count of “Felon in Possession of a Firearm,” for which he faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.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 defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Vogrin prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government.
Senior U.S. District Judge Frederick P. Stamp presided.
Franklin County Man Indicted on Heroin and Heroin Death Related ChargesRead the Press Release
Erik Scott Brown, 26, of West Frankfort, IL, was indicted on June 2, 2015, on heroin related charges in a two count Indictment returned by a Federal Grand Jury sitting in Benton, Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today.
Count 1 charges that on or about December 2, 2014, in Franklin County, Brown knowingly and intentionally distributed heroin, a Schedule I Controlled Substance, to Steven Keith Scott, and that Scott died as a result of the use of the heroin which Brown had distributed. Count 2 charges that on December 3, 2014, in Franklin County, Illinois, Brown knowingly and intentionally possessed with intent to distribute heroin.
With respect to Count 1, Brown faces a minimum of 20 years, to life in federal prison, up to $1,000,000 fine, and supervised release of not less than 3 years.
With respect to Count 2, Brown faces up to 20 years in prison, up to $1,000,000 fine, and supervised release of not less than 3 years.
An Indictment is a formal charge against a defendant. Under the law, a defendant is presumed to be innocent of a charge until proved guilty beyond a reasonable doubt to the satisfaction of a jury.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Illinois State Police, the West City Police Department, the Benton Police Department, the West Frankfort Police Department, and the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office. The Franklin County State’s Attorney’s Office assisted in the investigation of this case.
The case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney George Norwood.
Fort Hall Man Sentenced for Tribal TheftRead the Press Release
POCATELLO - Demetrius Anthony Gomez, 28, of Fort Hall, Idaho, was sentenced today to time served—eight months in prison, including 90 days tribal jail time—for theft from a tribal organization, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. U.S. District Judge Edward J. Lodge also ordered Gomez to pay $1,984.00 in restitution, and to serve three years of supervised release. Gomez pleaded guilty on February 25, 2015.
On April 2, 2014, Gomez, an off-duty employee of the Sage Hill Travel Center, a gas station, convenience store and casino on the Fort Hall Indian Reservation, near Exit 89 from Interstate 15, entered the travel center at about 3:50 am. The defendant told his fellow employee at the front desk that he was checking the schedule. The defendant went to the rear office and a few minutes later walked out and exited the store. The fellow employee became suspicious of the defendant and checked the back room. He reviewed the surveillance recording of the room and saw that the defendant had removed money from the safe in the room. A review of the surveillance recording in the front part of the store later showed that the defendant re-entered the store while the fellow employee was checking the back office. The defendant then removed additional money from a box under the cash register. An audit showed $1,984.00 missing from the Sage Hill Travel Center.
The case was investigated by the Fort Hall Police Department.