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Wednesday 13 May 2015
Denver Gang Member Arrested for Being A Felon in Possession of A FirearmRead the Press Release
DENVER – David Nunez-Hernandez, age 21, of Denver, Colorado, has been ordered held without bond following his arrest on the charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm, U.S. Attorney John Walsh and ATF Denver Division Special Agent in Charge Luke Franey announced. Nunez-Hernandez was first arrested on April 29, 2015. He was then charged federally based on a Criminal Complaint on May 1, 2015. He was indicted by a federal grand jury in Denver on May 5, 2015. On May 8, 2015, following a contested detention hearing, U.S. Magistrate Judge Nina Y. Wang ordered he be held without bond pending a resolution of his case.
According to court documents and information proffered to the court during the defendant’s detention hearing, on April 29, 2015 at 5:00 p.m. a Denver Police officer, while on patrol, observed a vehicle without a state-mandated front license plate. The officer then conducted a traffic stop. During the traffic stop the officer learned the driver, David Nunez-Hernandez was driving without a license, which had been revoked based on a car insurance violation. The officer learned that Nunez-Hernandez was going to his friend’s house because his “homie” just got shot. It was later determined that Nunez-Hernandez’s cousin was the one who was shot.
Denver Police obtained permission from Nunez-Hernandez to search his vehicle. While searching the trunk of the car, the officer observed the handle of a firearm. The firearm turned out to be a loaded Smith and Wesson, model 686, .357 magnum caliber revolver. Further investigation revealed that Nunez-Hernandez had been previously convicted of a felony offense, and was therefore prohibited from possessing firearms. Nunez-Hernandez had two convictions out of Denver District Court, one in 2011 for attempted escape from community corrections, and one in 2009 for possession of a Schedule 2 controlled substance. He also had a conviction in Adams County District Court in 2009 for felony menacing real/simulated weapon. Nunez-Hernandez was arrested and charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Nunez-Hernandez then made several appearances in U.S. District Court, including his advisement. During his detention hearing, additional information came out about his background, including the fact that he is an “Eastside Playboy Crip” and that he uses marijuana three times a day.
“Combatting violent street crime requires the close cooperation of federal, state and local law enforcement,” said U.S. Attorney John Walsh. “This arrest is part of federal law enforcement’s ongoing effort to work with our Metro Denver partners to address gang-related gun violence.”
“ATF and our partners at the Denver Police Department will continue to have zero tolerance for convicted felons who possess firearms in our community,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Luke Franey.
Nunez-Hernandez faces one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. If convicted on that count he faces not more than 10 years in federal prison, and up to a $250,000 fine.
This case was investigated by the Project Safe Neighborhood Task Force, which includes the ATF, the Denver Police Department, and the Lakewood Police Department.
The defendant is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Brown.
The charges contained in the indictment are allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Defendant Sentenced to over a Year in Prison for Growing Marijuana and Destruction of the Plumas National ForestRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Alejandro Soto-Silva, 24, a Mexican national, was sentenced today by United States District Judge Kimberly J. Mueller to one year and six months in prison and restitution of $9,572 for growing marijuana and for depredation of public lands, United States Attorney Benjamin B. Wagner announced.
According to court documents, on July 30, 2014, a team of Plumas County Sheriff’s Office deputies and U.S. Forest Service agents raided a large marijuana cultivation site near the Soda Creek drainage on the Plumas National Forest. After entering the marijuana cultivation site, agents and deputies observed Soto-Silva nearby. Shortly after spotting Soto-Silva, deputies and agents arrested him in an area of the marijuana cultivation site used to process marijuana. Close to where they arrested Soto-Silva, law enforcement observed 30-40 pounds of processed marijuana in black plastic bags.
Law enforcement surveyed the marijuana cultivation site and counted 3,724 growing marijuana plants. They also documented habitat destruction to the Plumas National Forest caused by activities associated with marijuana cultivation, including trail building, forest clearing, irrigation, pesticide use, and extensive garbage throughout the cultivation site. Further, law enforcement observed water being diverted from forest waterways in order to cultivate marijuana. Rehabilitating and remediating the National Forest habitat injured by the marijuana cultivation will cost the U.S. Forest Service at least $9,572.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Plumas County Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Forest Service. Assistant United States Attorney Christiaan Highsmith prosecuted the case.
Collin County Woman Sentenced in Plano ISD Embezzlement SchemeRead the Press Release
PLANO, Texas – A 68-year-old Prosper, Texas woman has been sentenced to federal prison in connection with her role in a conspiracy to embezzle millions from the Plano Independent School District, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Carol Ann LaRue pleaded guilty on June 24, 2014, to conspiracy to commit federal program fraud and was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Richard Schell. LaRue was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $1,252,556 to Plano ISD.
According to information presented in court, LaRue owned and operated Fire Systems Specialists (FSS) and Digital Security Solutions (DSS), companies supposedly in the business of maintaining fire safety systems and security systems. Between May 2011 and December 2013, LaRue conspired with Plano Independent School District employee, Kris Wilson Gentz, to defraud Plano ISD by submitting fraudulent invoices for services that were not rendered and products that were not provided. When payment was made to FSS and DSS, LaRue and Gentz would split the profits between themselves. As a result of the fraudulent scheme, LaRue is responsible for losses to Plano ISD of $1.2 million and Gentz was responsible for losses of $2.6 million. Gentz pleaded guilty to the same charges and was sentenced to 51 months in federal prison on Apr. 16, 2015.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Education and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher A. Eason.
Charleston man sentenced to federal prison for home invasion robberyRead the Press Release
Charleston, W.Va. – United States Attorney Booth Goodwin announced today that Robert J. Smith, 36, of Charleston, West Virginia was sentenced in federal court in Charleston for aiding and abetting a robbery affecting interstate commerce. On April 22, 2012, Smith, Robert Barcliff, Keith Glenn, and William Seltzer carried out an armed, home-invasion robbery in Marmet, West Virginia, of drug dealers they believed to be from Detroit, Michigan, and who they expected to have drugs and cash from the illegal drug sales. Barcliff and Smith dressed in dark clothing and stormed the apartment at gunpoint. They stole drug proceeds from the apartment and then fled from the scene. During the robbery, a firearm was discharged inside the apartment.
Smith was sentenced to 70 months in prison for the armed robbery, and upon completion of that sentence, to serve an additional 37 months for violation of a period of supervised release. Smith was on supervised release at the time of the home invasion for a previous drug conviction.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, South Charleston Police Department, and Charleston Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Monica D. Coleman is in charge of the prosecution.
Buffalo Man Sentenced on Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney William J. Hochul Jr. announced today that Ivan Rosario, 20, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, was sentenced to 84 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward H. White, who handled the case, stated that from 2011 through February 4, 2014, the defendant conspired with others to possess and distribute 100 grams or more of heroin and fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance. As part of the conspiracy, Rosario maintained a residence in Buffalo for the purpose of distributing heroin and fentanyl to his customers. The defendant sold the drugs on a daily basis and received cash paid by customers.
The plea was the culmination of an investigation on the part of Special Agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of James J. Hunt, Special Agent in Charge, New York Field Division.
Bloomfield Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Methamphetamine Trafficking ConvictionRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Richard Archuleta, 33, of Bloomfield, N.M., was sentenced today in federal court in Albuquerque, N.M., to 51 months in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release for his drug trafficking conviction. Archuleta was also ordered to forfeit 64 firearms seized from his residence pursuant to a search warrant.
Archuleta was one of 29 individuals charged with drug trafficking offenses as the result of a multi-agency investigation targeting drug trafficking in northwestern New Mexico. The investigation originally culminated on Feb. 26, 2014, when 26 of the defendants were arrested during a law enforcement operation led by Homeland Security Investigation (HSI) and the HIDTA Region II Narcotics Task Force. Two other defendants were arrested during the course of the investigation and the final defendant was arrested on March 3, 2014.
The 29 defendants were charged as a result of Operation “Brown Ice,” a year-long investigation that initially targeted a methamphetamine trafficking organization led by Isaac Anaya that distributed quantities of methamphetamine throughout San Juan County and expanded to include other drug trafficking activity in the area. The investigation was designated as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program, a nationwide Department of Justice program that combines the resources and unique expertise of federal agencies, along with their local counterparts, in a coordinated effort to disrupt and dismantle major drug trafficking organizations.
Thirteen of the defendants, including ringleader Isaac Anaya, 31, of Farmington, were charged in a 15-count federal indictment alleging a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in San Juan County from May 2013 through Sept. 2013. The remaining 16 defendants were charged with state drug trafficking and firearms offenses based on criminal complaints. During the course of the investigation, officers seized approximately five pounds of methamphetamine and five firearms. The law enforcement operation on Feb. 24, 2014, included the execution of eleven federal search warrants at two Bloomfield residences, four Farmington residences, two residences in San Juan County, two Bloomfield businesses, two Farmington businesses and a storage unit in Bloomfield. It also included the execution of three state search warrants at two residences in San Juan County and one Farmington residence. Officers seized numerous firearms, including a fully automatic Glock 19, a short-barreled rifle and a carbine with an obliterated serial number, four blasting caps, four small binary explosives and approximately 31.7 grams of methamphetamine during the execution of the search warrants and the law enforcement operation.
On Sept. 12, 2014, Archuleta pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance. In entering the guilty plea, Archuleta admitted that from May 28, 2013 through Sept. 25, 2013, he and his co-defendants conspired to distribute methamphetamine in San Juan County. Under the terms of his plea agreement, Archuleta was ordered to forfeit 31 rifles, 22 pistols, eight shotguns, two revolvers, firearm magazines and all ammunition that was seized by law enforcement from Archuleta’s residence on Feb. 26, 2014.
The federal and state cases filed as a result of Operation “Brown Ice” were investigated by the HSI office in Albuquerque, San Juan County Sheriff’s Office, HIDTA Region II Narcotics Task Force, Bloomfield Police Department, Farmington Police Department and Aztec Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Reeve L. Swainston is prosecuting the federal case, and Assistant District Attorney David Cowen of the 11th Judicial District Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the state cases.
The HIDTA Region II Task Force is comprised of officers and investigators from the Farmington Police Department, San Juan County Sheriff’s Office, Bloomfield Police Department and Aztec Police Department, and is part of the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) program was created by Congress with the Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1988. HIDTA is a program of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) which provides assistance to federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies operating in areas determined to be critical drug-trafficking regions of the United States and seeks to reduce drug trafficking and production by facilitating coordinated law enforcement activities and information sharing.
Belleville Woman Pleads Guilty to Scheme to Defraud U.S. Marshals Survivors Benefit Fund and the Backstoppers, Inc.Read the Press Release
Pamela Denise Robtoy, 55, Belleville, Illinois, entered pleas of guilty to Mail Fraud and Wire Fraud in a Scheme to Defraud and Embezzle from the U.S. Marshals Survivors Benefit Fund and The BackStoppers, Inc., the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton, announced today. Robtoy faces a prison sentence of up to 40 years, a fine of up to $500,000, up to 3 years’ supervised release after serving her sentence, and a mandatory order of restitution. Sentencing has been set for August 28, 2015.
Robtoy admitted as part of her pleas of guilty that she embezzled funds from the 3rd Annual John Perry Golf Benefit held in October of 2013. The proceeds from the charitable event were to benefit the U.S. Marshals Survivors Benefit Fund and The BackStoppers, Inc. The Annual John Perry Golf Benefit Tournament was a charitable benefit held annually to remember Deputy U.S. Marshal John Brookman Perry, who was killed in the line of duty on March 8, 2011. The wire fraud count charged that Pamela Denise Robtoy sent an email to a Deputy United States Marshal falsely indicating that the checks to the U.S. Marshals Survivors Benefit Fund and The BackStoppers, Inc. had been reissued in an effort to avoid detection of her scheme.
The investigation was conducted by the Postal Inspection Service with the assistance of other federal agencies. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Norman R. Smith.
Beckley area man sentenced to nine years for distributing oxycodoneRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – United States Attorney Booth Goodwin announced today that Boyd Wendell Clark, age 31, of Daniels, West Virginia, was sentenced in federal court in Beckley to nine years of imprisonment, followed by a 5-year term of supervised release. Clark previously pled guilty in January of 2015, to distributing oxycodone to a person cooperating with law enforcement authorities. The drug deal took place on Pine Grove Circle in Daniels, West Virginia. Clark was sentenced under the federal “career offender” guideline, which provides for enhanced sentencing based upon the defendant’s criminal history. This case was investigated by the Beckley Raleigh County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force and is being prosecuted under the Beckley Pill Initiative directed by the United States Attorney’s Office.
This case is 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 prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of pills and heroin in communities across the Southern District.
The sentence was imposed by the Honorable Irene C. Berger.
Baltimore Man Admits to Robbing Six Businesses in Two DaysRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – Nick Hornberger, age 33, of Baltimore, pleaded guilty today to three counts of robbery.
The guilty plea was announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Rod J. Rosenstein; Special Agent in Charge Stephen E. Vogt of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; Chief James W. Johnson of the Baltimore County Police Department; Baltimore County State’s Attorney Scott Shellenberger; Baltimore City State’s Attorney Marilyn Mosby; and Baltimore Police Commissioner Anthony W. Batts.
According to his plea agreement, on March 5, 2014, from 12:40 a.m. to 2:35 p.m. Hornberger robbed the following five stores, stealing a total of $162 from four of these stores:
Royal Farms, Dundalk Avenue, Baltimore County;
Royal Farms, O’Donnell Street, Baltimore City;
7-11, Eastern Boulevard, Baltimore County;
7-11, Wise Avenue, Baltimore County; and
Dunkin Donuts, Kenwood Avenue, Baltimore County.
The following day, Hornberger robbed a pizza restaurant on Holabird Avenue in Baltimore County of $450.
In each robbery, the cashier or employee from whom Hornberger demanded money believed that Hornberger had a weapon, or was pointing a gun or assault rifle from inside of a white plastic bag. Following his arrest, Hornberger identified himself in photos taken from video surveillance at each robbery. A search warrant was executed at Hornberger’s motel room and a car used in the robberies. Law enforcement seized a toy black assault style rifle stuffed inside a white plastic bag.
Hornberger and the government have agreed that if the Court accepts the plea agreement, Hornberger will be sentenced to between 60 to 151 months in prison. U.S. District Judge Richard D. Bennett has scheduled sentencing for August 25, 2015 at 3:00 p.m.
United States Attorney Rod J. Rosenstein commended the FBI, Baltimore City and County Police Departments and Baltimore City and County State’s Attorney’s Offices for their work in the investigation. Mr. Rosenstein thanked Special Assistant United States Attorney Piper F. McKeithen, a cross-designated Baltimore Assistant State’s Attorney assigned to Exile cases, and Assistant United States Attorney Bonnie S. Greenberg, who are prosecuting the case.
Baltimore Drug Dealer Sentenced to 10 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – U.S. District Judge William D. Quarles, Jr. sentenced Earl Hamman Musheer, age 60, of Baltimore, today to 10 years in prison followed by five years of supervised release for conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine.
The sentence was announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Rod J. Rosenstein; Assistant Special Agent in Charge Gary Tuggle of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Baltimore District Office; and Baltimore Police Commissioner Anthony W. Batts.
According to his plea agreement, Musheer had a co-conspirator retrieve packages containing a total of at least five kilograms of cocaine from a store in Baltimore County, Maryland. The cocaine was destined for sale in and around Baltimore.
On November 6, 2014, DEA investigators became aware that a suspicious package was in route to the store. When the parcel was delivered a couple days later to the store, the investigators detected a strong odor emanating from the box. A drug detection dog alerted on the parcel, indicating the presence of a controlled substance. The investigators subsequently opened the parcel pursuant to a search and seizure warrant. The parcel contained more than five kilograms of cocaine, which has a wholesale value of roughly $150,000. After obtaining a second warrant authorizing the installation of a tracking device within the parcel, the investigators inserted the tracking device and returned the package to the store.
On November 10, 2014, the co-conspirator retrieved the package, and was observed driving to meet Musheer in Baltimore City. Musheer placed the package in his own car, after which both were arrested. At the time of his arrest, Musheer had over $40,000 in cash and numerous pre-paid cell phones in his car.
United States Attorney Rod J. Rosenstein praised the DEA and Baltimore Police Department for their work in the investigation. Mr. Rosenstein thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys James G. Warwick and Joshua T. Ferrentino, who prosecuted the case.
Tuesday 12 May 2015
Waterbury Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Firearm and Narcotics OffensesRead the Press Release
Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that BRANDON SAPP, 28, of Waterbury, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton in New Haven to 60 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for possessing a firearm and heroin.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on August 5, 2014, Watertown Police observed SAPP drive up to a residence on Franklin Avenue and conduct what appeared to be a narcotics transaction with another individual standing outside of the home. When officers attempted to stop his car, SAPP pulled away at a high rate of speed. In the ensuing pursuit, SAPP struck a police vehicle, exited his car and fled on foot. He was apprehended a short time later.
A search of the route through which SAPP had fled revealed a 9mm semi-automatic pistol, and a search of his car revealed three 9mm firearm magazines, 15 rounds of 9mm ammunition and approximately 375 baggies of heroin, many of which were marked with the label “Obsession.” SAPP also possessed approximately $990 in cash.
On January 22, 2015, SAPP pleaded guilty to one count of possession of heroin with the intent to distribute, and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Watertown Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Gabriel J. Vidoni.
United States Settles Disability Discrimination Case Involving Residents of a Continuing Care Retirement CommunityRead the Press Release
The United States announced today the filing of a consent order that resolves allegations that Fort Norfolk Retirement Community Inc. (Fort Norfolk) violated the Fair Housing Act by instituting policies that discriminated against residents with disabilities at Harbor’s Edge, a continuing care retirement community in Norfolk, Virginia.
The consent order, which still needs to be approved by the court, was filed yesterday, along with a complaint, in the U.S. District Court of the Eastern District of Virginia. The complaint alleges that beginning in May 2011, Fort Norfolk instituted a series of policies that prohibited, and then limited, residents in the assisted living, nursing and memory support units at Harbor’s Edge from dining in dining rooms or attending community events with independent living residents. The complaint also alleges that when residents and family members complained about these policies, Fort Norfolk retaliated against them. In addition, the complaint alleges that Fort Norfolk had polices that discriminated against residents who used motorized wheelchairs by requiring those residents to pay a non-refundable fee, obtain liability insurance and obtain Fort Norfolk’s permission.
Under the consent order, Fort Norfolk will pay $350,000 into a settlement fund to compensate residents and family members who were harmed by these policies. Fort Norfolk will also pay a $40,000 civil penalty to the United States. In addition, Fort Norfolk will appoint a Fair Housing Act compliance officer and will implement a new dining and events policy, a new reasonable accommodation policy and a new motorized wheelchair policy.
“This consent order will ensure that all residents with disabilities at Harbor’s Edge are treated equally and that spouses and friends will be able to eat and socialize together,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Vanita Gupta of the Civil Rights Division. “We are very pleased with Fort Norfolk’s willingness to work with us to achieve this important resolution.”
Individuals who are entitled to share in the settlement fund will be identified through a process established in the consent order. Persons who believe they were subjected to unlawful discrimination at Harbor’s Edge should contact the Justice Department toll-free at 1-800-896-7743 mailbox #5 or e-mail the Justice Department at [email protected].
The federal Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination in housing based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability and familial status. More information about the Civil Rights Division and the laws it enforces is available at www.justice.gov/crt. Individuals who believe that they may have been victims of housing discrimination can call the Justice Department at 1-800-896-7743, e-mail the Justice Department at [email protected], or contact the Department of Housing and Urban Development at 1-800-669-9777 or through its website at http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/program_offices/fair_housing_equal_opp.
United States Joins Lawsuit Against Bay Area Sleep ClinicsRead the Press Release
SAN JOSE – The United States has joined a whistleblower action pending in the Northern District of California against the owners and operators of Bay Sleep Clinic and their related businesses, Qualium Corporation and Amerimed Corporation, announced United States Attorney Melinda Haag and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Special Agent in Charge, Ivan Negroni.
The action alleges that Saratoga, Calif., residents Anooshiravan Mostowfipour, 57, and Tara Nader, 56, fraudulently billed the Medicare program for diagnostic sleep tests. Defendants Mostowfipour and Nader own Qualium Corporation, which operates sixteen sleep clinics doing business as Bay Sleep Clinic. The defendants also own Amerimed Corporation, which distributes durable medical equipment under the name Amerimed Sleep Diagnostics. The defendants are alleged to have billed Medicare for tests that were conducted at unapproved locations and performed by technicians lacking the licenses or certifications required by Medicare payment rules and regulations. The government also alleges that the defendants fraudulently billed Medicare for medical devices in violation of Medicare rules and regulations that prohibit providers of diagnostic sleep tests from supplying medical devices and from sharing a sleep laboratory location with a durable medical equipment supplier.
The whistleblower action, captioned United States ex rel. Dresser v. Qualium Corp., et al., Civil Action No. 12-1745 (N.D. Cal.), was filed under the qui tam provisions of the False Claims Act. The False Claims Act allows for private persons, such as Elma F. Dresser in this case, to file actions to provide the government information about wrongdoing. Under the statute, if it is established that a person has submitted or caused others to submit false or fraudulent claims to the United States, the government can recover treble damages and $5,500 to $11,000 for each false or fraudulent claim filed. If the government is successful in resolving or litigating its claims, the whistleblower who initiated the action can receive a share of between 15 percent to 25 percent of the amount recovered.
The whistleblower action in this case contained additional allegations. However, the United States is intervening only with regard to allegations that Qualium Corporation (doing business as Bay Sleep Clinic), Amerimed Corporation (doing business as Amerimed Sleep Diagnostics), Tara Nader, and Anooshiravan Mostowfipour submitted false claims to Medicare for durable medical equipment and for sleep tests performed at unapproved locations or by unqualified technicians. The United States is not pursuing the whistleblower’s additional claims against the third-party company used by the defendants to submit claims to Medicare nor claims regarding alleged improper payments made by the defendants to medical providers.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly Friday is handling the case, with assistance from Financial Fraud Investigator Michael Zehr. The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California and the Office of Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services.
The claims asserted in the complaint are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
U.S. Attorney Recognizes National Police Week 2015: Honoring and Remembering Our Fallen Law Enforcement OfficersRead the Press Release
Again this year, communities across the United States will come together during National Police Week—May 10-16—to honor and remember those law enforcement officers who made the ultimate sacrifice, as well as the family members, friends, and fellow officers they left behind.
This year, the names of 273 officers killed in the line of duty are being added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC. These 273 officers include 117 officers who were killed during 2014, plus 156 officers who died in previous years but whose stories of sacrifice had been lost to history until now.
The fallen officers include Deputy U.S. Marshal Josie Wells. DUSM Wells was shot and killed while in Baton Rouge attempting to arrest a fugitive for a double homicide. Just last week, police officers Liquori Tate and Benjamin Deen were killed in the line of duty in nearby Hattiesburg, Mississippi.
All fallen law enforcement officers will be remembered during the following local Police Week services:
- Louisiana State Police Headquarters in Baton Rouge on Thursday, May 14, at 6:00 p.m.;
- Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office, APSP Training Center on St. Landry Road, on Friday, May 15, at 10:00 a.m.
- Baton Rouge Police Department and East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office, Behind Baton Rouge City Hall near Statutes, on Friday, May 15, at 10:00 a.m.
U.S. Attorney Walt Green stated: “This week is a sober reminder of the very real dangers that our brave men and women in law enforcement face every single day. Their dedication to protecting our communities and families despite such dangers is inspiring and humbling. We must never forget their sacrifices and those of their families. I encourage all of us to show our appreciation to those who protect and serve during the events of this week and beyond.”
The names of all 273 fallen officers nationwide will be formally dedicated on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC, during the 27th Annual Candlelight Vigil on the evening of May 13, 2015. So that people across the country can experience this unique and powerful ceremony, the vigil will be webcast live over the Internet beginning at 8 pm (EDT) on May 13th. To register for this free online event, visit www.LawMemorial.org/webcast.
The Candlelight Vigil is one of many commemorative events taking place in the nation’s capital during National Police Week 2015. The national observance is organized by a group of organizations led by the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), Concerns of Police Survivors, the Fraternal Order of Police and the Fraternal Order of Police Auxiliary.
On May 15th each year, the Fraternal Order of Police and the Fraternal Order of Police Auxiliary host a ceremony on the west steps of the U.S. Capitol to honor fallen law enforcement officers and their families.
In tribute to American law enforcement officers and at the request of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, Public Law 103-322 designates May 15th National Peace Officers Memorial Day, which is one of only two days each year during which government agencies, businesses and residents are to fly their U.S. flags at half-staff.
For more information about National Police Week, please visit www.LawMemorial.org/policeweek.
U.S. Attorney Issues Police Week Message to Baltimore City Police OfficersRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Rod J. Rosenstein sent the following message to police officers serving in Baltimore City today:
During National Police Week, we pay tribute to police officers who have died in the line of duty and give thanks to officers who faithfully protect and serve.
In particular, I want to express my gratitude to every police officer who serves with honor and integrity in Baltimore City. Criticism of your department, whether or not justified, should not obscure the good that so many of you do every day. The murder rate in Baltimore City fell dramatically over the past decade, along with most types of crime, thanks in large part to superb work by outstanding officers of the Baltimore Police Department. You have saved many lives.
Some criminals have taken advantage of recent events. Although many agencies are working on long-term solutions, only the Baltimore Police Department can stop criminals from harming victims today. Good police work is essential to hold criminals accountable and deter them from committing more crimes and creating more victims.
Baltimore City police officers have one of the most challenging and most important jobs in Maryland. Thank you for your courage and for your devotion to justice.
U.S. Attorney and Fbi Statement Regarding Identity of Longhorn BanditRead the Press Release
DENVER – U.S. Attorney John Walsh and FBI Denver Special Agent in Charge Thomas Ravenelle today confirmed the individual found dead at the Essex House Motel in Littleton, Colorado, on the evening of Friday, May 8, 2015, was believed by law enforcement to be the person responsible for a string of Metro Denver bank robberies, who had been dubbed by the FBI as the “Longhorn Bandit.” Yesterday, Arapahoe County Coroner Kelly C. Lear-Kaul, M.D. released the identity of the individual as 19 year old Jesus Emmanuel Avila. Earlier last week, the FBI and U.S. Attorney’s Office obtained a sealed Criminal Complaint – now unsealed – charging Avila with one count of bank robbery, and alleging in the complaint he committed two other bank robberies.
Thanks to the investigative work of the FBI and Rocky Mountain Safe Streets Task Force (RMSSTF), Special Agents and Task Force Officers were first able to identify the Longhorn Bandit as Avila. They later determined the location where Avila was believed to be staying. The FBI SWAT Team and RMSSTF members went to the location, the Essex House Motel, in Littleton, Colorado, to execute the arrest warrant. In the process of affecting the arrest of Avila, the defendant shot an FBI SWAT Team member in the leg. The injured FBI Special Agent was immediately transported to a local hospital, where it was determined his injuries were not life threatening. After Avila shot the FBI Agent, he turned the gun on himself. He died from a single gunshot wound to the head (manner of death classified as suicide), according to the Arapahoe County Coroner.
“The hard work of the FBI and the Safe Streets Task Force led to the identification and location of a serial bank robber,” said U.S. Attorney John Walsh. “As the subject’s actions firing on law enforcement agents and wounding an FBI agent show, the robber was armed, dangerous and posed a grave risk to the public. Our thoughts are with the injured FBI Special Agent, with best wishes for a speedy recovery.”
“On behalf of the FBI, I want to express my sincere gratitude to those Agents, Officers, Paramedics and agencies, especially the Littleton Police Department, who provided invaluable assistance in response to the shooting on Friday,” said Special Agent in Charge Thomas Ravenelle. “We are very thankful the wounds sustained by our Agent are not more serious. He has received outstanding treatment from the professionals at the Swedish Medical Center, and we look forward to his return to duty upon recovering from his injuries.”
The Criminal Complaint charging Avila has been unsealed and dismissed as a result of the defendant’s suicide.
Two More Defendants from Georgia Plead Guilty in Credit Card Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
BOISE – Rashine Kale, 38, and Jean Estinville, 26, both of Lawrenceville, Georgia, each pleaded guilty today to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft for their roles in a credit card fraud scheme that targeted local retailers in October of 2014, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced.
According to the plea agreements, Kale and Estinville each admitted to traveling to the District of Idaho, along with their co-defendants, for the purpose of making fraudulent purchases of gift cards and prepaid debit cards from retail stores, using stolen credit card numbers encoded onto stock debit cards. Both Kale and Estinville admitted to obtaining the stock debit cards encoded with unauthorized credit card numbers, and making purchases at retail stores on October 5, 2014.
In his plea agreement, Kale admitted to traveling to seven separate retail stores, and making 21 total purchases, using eight different credit card numbers that he was not authorized to use. Upon his arrest, officers found 188 access devices in his rental vehicle, consisting of various gift cards and pre-paid debit cards, and three gift cards in his possession. Sentencing is set for July 22, 2015, before Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill.
In his plea agreement, Estinville admitted to traveling to three separate retail stores, and making 14 total purchases, using six different credit card numbers that he was not authorized to use. Upon his arrest, officers found 55 access devices in his rental vehicle, consisting of various gift cards and pre-paid debit cards, as well as a Citizen EcoDrive watch in his possession that was purchased with an unauthorized credit card number. Sentencing is set for August 4, 2015, before Judge Winmill.
Conspiracy to commit wire fraud is punishable by up to 20 years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a term of supervised release of not more than three years, and a $100 special assessment. Aggravated identity theft is punishable by a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of two years, a term of supervised release of not more than one year, a maximum fine of $250,000, and a special assessment of $100. As part of their pleas, the defendants also agreed to forfeit $49,953.41 in cash proceeds of the charged offenses.
Kale and Estinville were indicted, along with Rakeen Anderson, 31, of Atlanta, Georgia, Kyandre Banks, 34, of Lilburn, Georgia, Clarence Collins, 34, of Douglasville, Georgia, Mikki Williams, 24, of Atlanta, Georgia, Charles Moore, 25, of Stone Mountain, Georgia, Jonathan Penn, 20, of Suwanee, Georgia, Terrance Barimah, 26, of Floranceville, Georgia, and Brian Treadwell, 25, of Buford, Georgia, on charges relating to a wire fraud and identity theft scheme. Collins, Banks, Estinville, Kale, Moore, Penn, Williams and Treadwell were each charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, and aggravated identity theft. Anderson was charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and wire fraud. Barimah was charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and illegal possession of device-making equipment.
Co-Defendant Rakeen Anderson is scheduled for a change of plea hearing before Chief U.S. Magistrate Candy W. Dale on May 26, 2015. Co-defendants Treadwell and Williams are scheduled for sentencing on June 16, 2015. Co-defendant Clarence Collins is scheduled for sentencing on June 17, 2015. Co-defendant Charles Moore is scheduled for sentencing on July 7, 2015. Co-defendants Jonathan Penn and Terrance Barimah are scheduled for sentencing on July 8, 2015. The defendants will be sentenced before Judge Winmill. Co-defendant Kyandre Banks remains a fugitive.
The case was investigated by the United States Secret Service and the Boise Police Department.
Two Former Hall County Sheriff's Office Employees Plead Guilty to Bribery and Possession of DrugsRead the Press Release
GAINESVILLE, Ga. - David M. Treadwell and Austin Herring have pleaded guilty in separate cases to criminal charges arising from corrupt actions they took when they were employed by the Hall County Sheriff's Office. Treadwell pleaded guilty to accepting a bribe to tip off a person he believed was a drug dealer, if the person came under investigation by Hall County law enforcement. Herring pleaded guilty to attempting to possess cocaine with intent to distribute.
“Both of these defendants breached the trust of the people of Hall County by taking actions that—had they occurred outside the context of an undercover investigation—could have endangered others or permitted other crimes to occur,” said Acting U.S. Attorney John A. Horn. “Each defendant has now forfeited his career in law enforcement, and could face prison as a result of his corrupt actions.”
“Ethics and integrity is paramount for those working within law enforcement due to the many temptations that can arise and lead to an officer violating their oath of office as well as the law,” said J. Britt Johnson, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Atlanta Field Office. “These guilty pleas represent two cases where two promising law enforcement officers gave in to those temptations and now face serious consequences for their criminal actions.”
“Few crimes are as reprehensible as those committed by officers who violate the very laws they are sworn to uphold,” said Hall County Sheriff Gerald Couch. “The actions of David Treadwell and Austin Herring undermines the efforts of all law enforcement that honorably perform their duties.”
According to Acting United States Attorney Horn, the charges, and other information presented in court: In late 2014, while Treadwell was employed as a deputy sheriff with the Hall County Sheriff's Office, he accepted $200 or $300 on five occasions from a person he believed was a drug dealer. In exchange for the money, Treadwell agreed to alert the drug dealer if Treadwell learned that the drug dealer was under investigation in Hall County.
In February 2015, while Herring was employed as a jailer with the Hall County Sheriff's Office, he was paid $500 on two occasions to take a package he was told contained cocaine to an inmate inside the jail. On each occasion Herring took the package to the inmate who was cooperating with the investigation. The inmate then turned the package over to investigators. Herring did not open or tamper with either package, but on each occasion he was specifically told by the person who gave it to him that the package contained cocaine from Mexico. In actuality, neither package contained a controlled substance.
David M. Treadwell, 33, of Gainesville, Georgia, and Austin Herring, 19, of Murrayville, Georgia, have both been fired by the Hall County Sheriff's Office.
Both cases are being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the North Georgia Major Offenders Task Force which includes deputy sheriffs from the Hall County Sheriff's Office.
Assistant United States Attorney William L. McKinnon, Jr. is prosecuting both cases.
For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at [email protected] or (404) 581-6016. The Internet address for the home page for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia Gainesville Division is http://www.justice.gov/usao/gan/.
Twenty-three Defendants Charged in Heroin Distribution OrganizationRead the Press Release
United States Attorney James L. Santelle announced today that the following twenty-three (23) defendants have been charged in a criminal complaint with drug trafficking offenses related to the distribution of heroin:
Rayford WILLIAMS, age 43
David WILLIAMS, age 45
Mark HAYNIE, age 42
William PHILLIPS, age 51
Margaree CAMPBELL, age 59
George SEALS, age 50
Kendall MCCLURE, age 45
Michael SMITH, age 47
Larry HINES, age 66
Jahir MURPHY, age 26
Brenda NORTH, age 38
Darnell WALKER, age 43
Lionel WATKINS, age 50
Sharon YOUNG, age 50
Yolanda PARKER, age 38
Rashid TALIB, age 51
Antwon CONEY, age 33
Walton WILLIAMS, age 52
Tom HORTON, age 54
Melvin YOUNG, age 53
Alvera GADDIS, age 43
Freddie L. FOSTER, age 42
Pakeeta SKEETS, age 47.All of the defendants except Haynie, Phillips, and Campbell reside in the greater Milwaukee area. Haynie, Phillips and Campbell all reside in Chicago, Illinois.
The defendants are charged with drug offenses including: distribution of and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances and conspiracy. If proven that the offenses involved more than a kilogram of heroin, each defendant will face up to life in prison, with a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years in prison. A number of the defendants charged are believed to be members of the Four Corner Hustlers Street Gang, and all of them operated in either Milwaukee, Wisconsin, or Chicago, Illinois.
Today, law enforcement officers arrested twenty-one of these defendants. Two are still at large, including: Jahir Murphy and Freddie Foster. In addition, law enforcement located and arrested a fugitive in an unrelated case.
In addition to today’s arrests, law enforcement officers executed 10 federal search warrants in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and one in Chicago, Illinois, targeting members of this organization. Approximately 200 federal and state officers participated in these arrests and searches. Law enforcement recovered approximately ½ ounce of heroin, one pound of marijuana, nine firearms, $2300, two vehicles, and drug paraphernalia.
In making today’s announcement about the federal charges, searches, and defendant arrests, United States Attorney Santelle stated: “These charges are the result of an aggressive, multi-state, coordinated approach to eradicate heroin trafficking organizations from the streets of Milwaukee and across state lines. Anyone who assists these organizations, whether through providing, selling or transporting heroin will be held accountable. Make no mistake, with our partners in law enforcement, my office will use all lawful tools to stem the onslaught of heroin distribution in the Eastern District of Wisconsin.” United States Attorney Santelle specifically commended all of the federal, state, and local law enforcement officers and units involved in the investigation for their hard work and inter-agency cooperation.
The investigating agencies included the U.S. Department of Justice, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Milwaukee Police Department (MPD), Wisconsin Department of Justice – Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI), the Waukesha County Sheriff’s Department, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), West Allis Police Department, Wisconsin State Patrol, South Milwaukee Police Department, Chicago Police Department, Wisconsin HIDTA, and Chicago HIDTA. The United States Marshals Service, the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office, Oak Creek Police Department, Racine Police Department, Greenfield Police Department, and the Wisconsin Department of Corrections also assisted with the arrests and search warrants.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Gail J. Hoffman and Benjamin W. Proctor.
An indictment is merely the formal method of charging an individual and does not constitute inference of his or her guilt. An individual is presumed innocent until such time, if ever, that the government establishes his or her guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
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Three Members of al-Shabaab Plead Guilty to Conspiring to Provide Material Support to the Terrorist OrganizationRead the Press Release
Earlier today, Madhi Hashi, 25, of Somalia, Ali Yasin Ahmed, 30, of Sweden, and Mohamed Yusuf, 32, of Sweden, pleaded guilty to conspiring to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization, al-Shabaab.
The guilty plea was announced by Assistant Attorney General for National Security John P. Carlin, Acting U.S. Attorney Kelly T. Currie of the Eastern District of New York and Assistant Director in Charge Diego Rodriguez, of the FBI’s New York Field Office.
The guilty plea took place before U.S. District Judge John Gleeson of the Eastern District of New York. At sentencing, each of the defendants faces a maximum of 15 years in prison and automatic removal from the United States.
As stated in court today and according to court documents, between approximately December 2008 and August 2012, the defendants served as members of al-Shabaab in Somalia, where they agreed with others to support al-Shabaab and its extremist agenda. Defendants Mohamed Yusuf and Ali Yasin Ahmed fought in battles in Somalia against African Union forces. Defendant Madhi Hashi was a close associate of American-born jihadist Omar Hammami, with ties to a known al-Shabaab suicide bomber. In addition, defendant Yusuf is featured in an al-Shabaab propaganda video titled “Inspire the Believers.”
In early August 2012, the defendants were apprehended together in East Africa by local authorities shortly after leaving Somalia on their way to Yemen. On Nov. 14, 2012, the FBI took custody of the defendants and brought them to the Eastern District of New York for prosecution.
“Hashi, Ahmed and Yusuf all pleaded guilty to conspiring to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization, al-Shabaab,” said Assistant Attorney General Carlin. “The National Security Division remains committed to identifying, disrupting and holding accountable all who seek to provide material support to terrorists both at home and abroad. I would like to thank all of the agents, analysts and prosecutors who are responsible for this case.”
“The defendants were committed supporters of al-Shabaab, a violent terrorist organization that has demonstrated its capabilities and motives in numerous terrorist attacks overseas, and has publicly called for attacks against the United States,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Currie. “We will use every tool at our disposal to combat terrorist groups, deter terrorist activity, and incapacitate individual terrorists around the world. Today’s convictions demonstrate that criminal prosecution is an effective tool in our efforts to combat international terrorism.”
Assistant Attorney General Carlin joined Acting U.S. Attorney Currie in thanking the federal, state and local law enforcement agencies who participate in the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force in New York.
The government’s case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shreve Ariail, Seth D. DuCharme and Richard M. Tucker of the Eastern District of New York and Trial Attorney Annamartine Salick of the National Security Division's Counterterrorism Section. Trial Attorneys Shanna Batten Aguirre and Dan Stigall of the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided valuable assistance.
Three Members of Al-Shabaab Plead Guilty to Conspiring to Provide Material Support to the Terrorist OrganizationRead the Press Release
Earlier today, Madhi Hashi, Ali Yasin Ahmed and Mohamed Yusuf pleaded guilty to conspiring to provide material support to al-Shabaab, a designated foreign terrorist organization. Today’s plea took place before United States District Judge John Gleeson. At sentencing, each of the defendants faces a maximum of 15 years in prison and automatic removal from the United States.
The guilty pleas were announced by Kelly T. Currie, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, John P. Carlin, Assistant Attorney General for National Security and Diego Rodriguez, Assistant Director-in-Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office.
As stated in court today and according to court documents, between approximately December 2008 and August 2012, the defendants served as members of al-Shabaab in Somalia, where they agreed with others to support al-Shabaab and its extremist agenda. In early August 2012, the defendants were apprehended in East Africa by local authorities while on their way to Yemen. On November 14, 2012, the Federal Bureau of Investigation took custody of the defendants and brought them to the Eastern District of New York for prosecution.
“The defendants were committed supporters of al-Shabaab, a violent terrorist organization that has demonstrated its capabilities and motives in numerous terrorist attacks overseas, and has publicly called for attacks against the United States,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Kelly T. Currie. “We will use every tool at our disposal to combat terrorist groups, deter terrorist activity, and incapacitate individual terrorists around the world. Today’s convictions demonstrate that criminal prosecution is an effective tool in our efforts to combat international terrorism.”
“Hashi, Ahmed and Yusuf all pleaded guilty to conspiring to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization, al-Shabaab,” said Assistant Attorney General Carlin. “The National Security Division remains committed to identifying, disrupting and holding accountable all who seek to provide material support to terrorists both at home and abroad. I would like to thank all of the agents, analysts and prosecutors who are responsible for this case.”
During the time of the charged conspiracy (and thereafter), al-Shabaab successfully recruited individuals from around the world, like the defendants, to come to Somalia and join the organization. These individuals, known within al-Shabaab as “foreign fighters” and muhajireen, lived, trained, and often fought separately from, but in coordination with, other al-Shabaab fighters. They were also especially valuable to al-Shabaab for several reasons. For example, al-Shabaab frequently made Western foreign fighters the face of its fund-raising and propaganda efforts as part of a broader strategy of emphasizing that the conflict in Somalia was part of a global jihad aimed at creating an Islamic caliphate. Indeed, one of the defendants, Mohamed Yusuf, is featured in an al-Shabaab propaganda video in which he encouraged young men to travel to Somalia and join al-Shabaab and threatened a cartoonist who had depicted the prophet Mohammad. In addition, Yusuf and defendant Ali Yasin Ahmed fought in battles in Somalia against African Union forces. Defendant Madhi Hashi was a close associate of American-born al-Shabaab leader Omar Hammami.
Assistant Attorney General Carlin joined Acting U.S. Attorney Currie in thanking the federal, state and local law enforcement agencies who participate in the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force in New York.
The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s National Security and Cybercrime Section. Assistant United States Attorneys Shreve Ariail, Seth D. DuCharme, and Richard M. Tucker, along with Trial Attorney Annamartine Salick of the Department of Justice’s Counterterrorism Section, are in charge of the prosecution. Trial Attorneys Shanna Batten and Dan Stigall of the Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs also provided invaluable assistance.
The Defendants:
MADHI HASHI, also known as “Talha”
Age: 25
Nationality: Somali
ALI YASIN AHMED, also known as “Ismail”
Age: 30
Nationality: Swedish
MOHAMED YUSUF, also known as “Abu Zaid,” “Hudeyfa” and “Mohammed Abdulkadir”
Age: 32
Nationality: Swedish
Telephone Customer Service Representative Pleads Guilty to Wire Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Michael J. Moore, United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia, announced that Lavrinda Hamilton, aged 40, of Albany, Georgia, entered a plea of guilty on May 12, 2015, to an information charging her with conspiracy to commit wire fraud before the Honorable Leslie J. Abrams, U.S. District Court Judge, in Albany, Georgia.
According to the information, between March 2011 and September 2012, Ms. Hamilton accessed personal identity and customer account data for over fifty different telephone customers from a computer at her job site at Teleperformance in Albany, Georgia. She then sent the account and identity data to unknown conspirators and received payment via pre-paid debit cards. The unknown conspirators filed insurance claims for lost or stolen phones and received replacement phones at third-party addresses.
Ms. Hamilton faces a maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment, a maximum fine of $250,000, or both. She will be sentenced in about 60 days following a pre-sentence investigation by the U.S. Probation Office.
The case was investigated by the United States Secret Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jim Crane is prosecuting the case for the Government.
“Identity theft is one of the most prolific crimes in the country and in the seventy counties of the Middle District of Georgia. This is the second case my office has seen in a week where an employee has abused the trust placed in them by both the employer and the customer to perpetrate a fraud for personal gain. We will vigorously prosecute these cases whenever they come to us,” said United States Attorney Michael Moore.
"As identity theft becomes more prevalent, the Secret Service will remain steadfast in aggressively investigating those responsible for using stolen identities to commit fraud. Along with our law enforcement partners, we will continue to pursue those committing these crimes," said Resident Agent in Charge Clint Bush, U.S. Secret Service, Albany, Georgia.
Questions concerning this case should be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603.
Tax Preparer Sentenced to 30 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Roy B. Dalton, Jr. sentenced Aaron Valley yesterday to 30 months in federal prison for aiding in the preparation of false tax returns. As part of his sentence, he was also ordered to pay $265,000 in restitution to the IRS. Valley pleaded guilty on February 19, 2015.
According to his plea agreement, Valley prepared tax returns from his home for clients for tax years 2009 and 2010. As part of his scheme, Valley did not identify himself as the paid preparer on any of the tax returns. He was able to generate large refunds for his clients by preparing tax returns that claimed false filing status, fraudulent W-2 earnings, false Schedule C business expenses, and losses to maximize the earned income tax credit allowed to certain taxpayers. He charged up to $1,000 to prepare the tax returns. To ensure that he could collect his fees, Valley had the refunds deposited into a number of different bank accounts that he controlled or was able to access.
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn P. Napier.
Summer Camps Must Reasonably Accommodate Children with DisabilitiesRead the Press Release
Summer camps are legally required to make reasonable accommodations to accept children with disabilities, U.S. Attorney Deb Gilg announced today.
With summer approaching, parents are beginning to think about sending their children to summer camps. To help ensure that children with disabilities receive the opportunity to attend summer camp, the U.S. Attorney’s Office will be sending a flyer to summer camps located within the District of Nebraska reminding them of their obligations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”).
Under the ADA, summer camps, both private and those run by municipalities, must make reasonable modification to enable campers with disabilities to participate fully in all camp programs and activities. This generally means that children with disabilities are entitled to attend any camp or activity that non-disabled children attend, that camps must evaluate each child on an individual basis, and that camps must train their staff in the requirements of the ADA. Camps are obligated to pay for the cost of any reasonable modifications necessary for disabled children to participate in camp activities, and parents should not be charged any additional fee beyond standard camp enrollment costs.
“Summer camps present tremendous growth opportunities for children to learn independence, try new activities and gain self-confidence,” Gilg said. “The law requires camps to provide equal opportunities to disabled children whose needs can be reasonably accommodated.”
Additional information about the ADA is available at www.ada.gov, or through contacting the Department of Justice ADA Information Line at 800-514-0301 (voice); 800-514-0383 (TTY) or the U.S. Attorney’s Office at (402) 661-3700.
Springfield Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing Crack CocaineRead the Press Release
Boston – Dmitri Major, 37, pleaded guilty to distributing crack cocaine after being indicted in June 2014. U.S. District Court Judge Mark G. Mastroianni scheduled sentencing for Sept. 3, 2015.
On Oct. 9 and 17, 2013, Major sold crack cocaine to an undercover law enforcement officer next to the Indian Motorcycle Building in Springfield.
The charging statute provides a sentence of no greater than 20 years in prison, five years of supervised release, and a fine of $1 million. 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 Vincent B. Lisi, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division, made the announcement today. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin O’Regan, Chief of Ortiz’s Springfield Branch Office.
Six Sentenced for Narcotic Distribution and Firearm ViolationsRead the Press Release
GREENVILLE - United States Attorney Thomas G. Walker announced that CEDRIC SHARROD WILLIAMS, 32, of Scotland Neck, ALONZO KEITH CARTER, 36, of Rocky Mount, DERRICK LAMONT HANNON, 24, of Scotland Neck, HERMAN LEE COLEY, III, 40, of Rocky Mount, JERRY KEITH PITTMAN, JR., 26, of Sharpsburg, and JOSEPH LAMAR NORRIS, 31 of Rocky Mount, were each sentenced resulting from their earlier guilty pleas to distributing large quantities of heroin, cocaine and cocaine base (crack). The charges involved a large scale narcotics ring responsible for selling 2,493 grams of heroin, 255.15 grams of cocaine, and 49 grams of crack from sometime in 2011 until February 2014 centered in the Rocky Mount area.
“We are making a difference when it comes to getting major drug dealing organizations out of communities. We are working toward diminishing the quantity of illegal drugs that enter our city,” said Rocky Count Police Chief James Moore. “However it’s not just a Rocky Mount problem. It’s a North Carolina and an America problem – and until we address the issue of the unquenchable thirst for drugs in this country, it will be a perpetual cycle of apprehension and distribution, no matter how much enforcement we do.”
All 6 defendants were sentenced by Senior Judge Malcolm J. Howard. WILLIAMS was sentenced to 480 months. CARTER was sentenced to 120 months; HANNON was sentenced to 66 months imprisonment; COLEY was sentenced to 60 months imprisonment; PITTMAN was sentenced to 41 months; and NORRIS was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment.
According to the investigation, the co-conspirators were members of a heroin trafficking organization, organized by WILLIAMS, and centered in the Rocky Mount, North Carolina, area. The conspirators were involved in the distribution of heroin from sometime in 2011 until February 2014. Further investigation revealed that WILLIAMS maintained a source of supply for heroin in New Jersey and he traveled to New Jersey on multiple occasions with HANNON, COLEY, and others to obtain heroin for sale in the Rocky Mount area.
On June 15, 2012, agents received information from a confidential informant (CI) that WILLIAMS returned the previous day from New Jersey with a large quantity of heroin. Agents
conducted surveillance of WILLIAMS and they observed him conduct multiple drug transactions from a vehicle on Sunset Avenue in Rocky Mount. Officer’s conducted traffic stops on three individuals who had purchased narcotics from WILLIAMS. All three individuals, who were arrested on state charges, admitted that they purchased heroin from WILLIAMS. Officers recovered 72 bindles (1.44 grams) of heroin from the occupants of the vehicle. Upon his arrest, WILLIAMS confessed to agents that he traveled to New Jersey with HANNON and COLEY on June 13, 2012, to purchase heroin. WILLIAMS advised agents that there was heroin, money, and a shotgun at his residence in Rocky Mount. During a search of the residence officers recovered 22 bricks (22 grams) of heroin, a 12 gauge shotgun, one box of .45 caliber ammunition, two boxes of 12 gauge shotgun shells, and $4,358. WILLIAMS also admitted to having thrown drugs out of his vehicle prior to being arrested. As a result, agents were able to recover an additional 60 bindles (1.2 grams) of heroin. During the conspiracy, WILLIAMS confessed to purchasing approximately 20 grams per week from his source in New Jersey. Over the course of the investigation, WILLIAMS was caught possessing numerous illegal firearms in furtherance of his drug trafficking activities.Investigation of this case was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF), Drug Enforcement Administration-Raleigh, Rocky Mount Police Department, and the Nash County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney James Kurosad is handling the prosecution for the government.
Shreveport woman sentenced to 27 months in prison for health care fraud, wire fraudRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced that the owner and operator of a Shreveport intensive outpatient program company was sentenced Monday to 27 months in prison for charging Medicare for services never rendered.
Sharon Monroe, 43, of Shreveport, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge S. Maurice Hicks Jr. for one count of health care fraud and one count of wire fraud. She was also sentenced to three years of supervised release and was ordered to pay $992,479.08 restitution. According to evidence presented at the September 11, 2014 guilty plea, Monroe, owner of Monroe Medical Management LLC, submitted fraudulent claims to Medicare for Part B psychotherapy services from 2007 to 2011. As a result of the fraudulent claims, she improperly received payments from Medicare. Monroe filed claims for psychotherapy services that were never performed. She also used physicians’ Medicare provider numbers to submit claims without the physicians’ knowledge. In some cases, she claimed her employees rendered services in excess of 24 hours a day, that some of her employees were qualified to perform services when they were not, and that some of the services were performed at medical offices when they were not.
The FBI and Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Earl M. Campbell prosecuted the case.
Settlement with Honolulu to Prevent Hazardous Air Emissions at Kapaa LandfillRead the Press Release
The Department of Justice and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today announced a settlement with the city and county of Honolulu to resolve air violations at its closed Kapaa Landfill in Kailua, Oahu, by requiring the city and county of Honolulu to pay a civil penalty of $875,000 and build a $16.1 million solar power system. This environmental project involves the installation of photovoltaic arrays on more than 250,000 square feet of buildings and open space area at the city’s waste-to-energy H-POWER (Honolulu Program of Waste Energy Recovery) facility by 2020.
Because decomposing refuse in a large landfill generates hazardous air pollutants such as benzene, carbon tetrachloride, chloroform, ethylene dichloride, perchloroethylene, trichloroethylene, vinyl chloride and vinylidene chloride, the federal Clean Air Act requires a system to collect and control the gases. The city failed to install and operate the gas collection and control system by its deadline in 2002. The gas collection and control system at the landfill was not in place until April 2013 and is currently operational.
“This settlement holds Honolulu accountable for past failures to collect and control toxic gases and greenhouse gas emissions from the Kapaa Landfill, but it also lays the foundation for better environmental stewardship in the future,” said Assistant Attorney General John C. Cruden for the Department of Justice’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “Residents who call Oahu home will realize the benefits of this agreement – which includes clean solar power production and reduced reliance on fossil fuels – for many years to come.”
“Air emissions from a closed landfill are toxic and can contribute to global warming,” said Administrator Jared Blumenfeld of EPA for the Pacific Southwest. “If the proper systems had been in place at the landfill, over 343,000 tons of methane and 6,800 tons of hazardous air pollutants and volatile organics, would not have escaped to the atmosphere.”
Honolulu is the owner/operator of the landfill encompassing approximately 215 acres that includes the smaller Kalaheo Landfill. The landfill first received solid waste in 1969 and closed in May 1997. From 1990 to 2002, Gas Recovery Systems Inc. installed and operated a gas collection system and turbine on behalf of the city for the generation of electric energy. Gas Recovery Systems Inc. ceased operation of the gas turbine due to its failure in 2002.
Effective gas controls at a landfill reduce the release of these hazardous gases and poorly controlled gas. Many air pollutants identified in landfill gas are either known or suspected carcinogens. Air emissions of methane from landfills can also contribute to global methane emissions, a greenhouse gas with about 25 times the global warming potential of carbon dioxide.
The solar panels will be installed at the city’s H-POWER facility in Campbell Industrial Park. The new solar panels will have a capacity of 3.1 megawatts and will generate over five million kilowatt-hours of electricity per year, enough to power 800 Oahu households on average. This action will lead to less reliance on fossil fuels on Oahu.
Today’s proposed Clean Air Act consent decree, lodged in the U.S. District Court in Hawaii, is subject to a 30-day public comment period and court approval and is now available for review at www.justice.gov/enrd/Consent_Decrees.html
For more information about Clean Air Act landfill regulations, please visit the EPA’s web site at www.epa.gov/outreach/lmop/faq/landfill-gas.html
San Felipe Pueblo Man Pleads Guilty to Assaulting His Intimate PartnerRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Michael V. Tenorio, 23, a member and resident of San Felipe Pueblo, N.M., pleaded guilty today in federal court in Albuquerque, N.M., to assaulting his intimate partner. Under the terms of his plea agreement, Tenorio will be sentenced to 24 months in federal prison followed by a term of supervised release to be determined by the court.
Tenorio was arrested on Nov. 18, 2014, on a criminal complaint charging him with assaulting an intimate partner by strangulation and assault with a dangerous weapon. According to the complaint, on Nov. 7, 2014, BIA agents responded to call reporting an assault occurring on San Felipe Pueblo in Sandoval County, N.M. The complaint alleged that Tenorio assaulted the victim, a non-Indian woman, by threatening her with a rifle and choking her. Tenorio was subsequently indicted on Dec. 16, 2014, and charged with assault of an intimate partner by strangulation and assault with a dangerous weapon.
During today’s proceedings, Tenorio pled guilty to assault of an intimate partner by strangulation. In entering his guilty plea, Tenorio admitted that on Nov. 7, 2014, he choked the victim by wrapping his hands around her neck and squeezing, causing her breathing to be affected by the pressure.
This case was investigated by the Southern Pueblos Agency of the BIA’s Office of Justice Services and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Elaine Y. Ramirez.
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.
Rochester Man Pleads Guilty to Sex Crime Against MinorRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney William J. Hochul Jr. announced today that Todd Glenn Dean, 50, of Rochester, NY, pleaded guilty to enticing a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity before U.S. District Judge David G. Larimer. The charge carries a minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, a maximum of life, and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney John J. Field, who is handling the case, stated that in September 2014, a minor male was approached by the defendant. Dean handed the minor a piece of paper with his telephone number on it. The minor then reported the incident to his mother who exchanged text messages with the defendant. Based on the exchanges, the mother notified law enforcement.
In October 2014, a law enforcement officer, posing as a 15 year old male, exchanged texts with Dean. The two arranged to meet in Genesee Valley Park for the purpose of having sex. The defendant was arrested when he arrived at the park.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Child Exploitation Task Force which includes the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, the Rochester Police Department, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations.
Sentencing is scheduled for August 18, 2015 at 10:00 before Judge Larimer.
Rochester Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of Counterfit MoneyRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney William J. Hochul Jr. announced today that Terrance Williams, 25, of Rochester, NY, pleaded guilty to possession of counterfeit money before District Court Judge David G. Larimer. The charges carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000fine.
Assistant U.S. Melissa M. Marangola, who is handling the case, stated that on March 1, 2015, law enforcement officers responded to 453 Hollenbeck Street in Rochester to investigate a possible burglary in progress. As officers approached the defendant, they learned he had an outstanding warrant on an unrelated matter. Williams was arrested and taken to the Monroe County Jail. While there, officers removed $1,140.00 in counterfeit United States currency the defendant. The money was then examined by Secret Service agents who determined it was counterfeit.
The plea is the culmination of an investigation on the part of the Secret Service, under the direction of C. Todd Laster.
Sentencing is scheduled for August 8, 2015 at 12:00 p.m. before Judge Larimer.
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney William J. Hochul Jr. announced today that Terrance Williams, 25, of Rochester, NY, pleaded guilty to possession of counterfeit money before District Court Judge David G. Larimer. The charges carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000fine.Assistant U.S. Melissa M. Marangola, who is handling the case, stated that on March 1, 2015, law enforcement officers responded to 453 Hollenbeck Street in Rochester to investigate a possible burglary in progress. As officers approached the defendant, they learned he had an outstanding warrant on an unrelated matter. Williams was arrested and taken to the Monroe County Jail. While there, officers removed $1,140.00 in counterfeit United States currency the defendant. The money was then examined by Secret Service agents who determined it was counterfeit.
The plea is the culmination of an investigation on the part of the Secret Service, under the direction of C. Todd Laster.
Sentencing is scheduled for August 8, 2015 at 12:00 p.m. before Judge Larimer.Rochester Man Charged with Participating in Jamaican Lottery ScamRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney William J. Hochul Jr. announced today that Charles Hanks, 46, of Rochester, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with mail fraud. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney John J. Field, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, Hanks participated in a Jamaican lottery scam. In this fraud, individuals were told that they had won a lottery and other prizes, and in order to collect the winnings, they needed to remit thousands of dollars in “fees.” The scam targeted the elderly, some of whom lost their life savings. The defendant received money from the victims which he then forwarded to Jamaica after keeping a portion of the funds for himself.
The defendant made an initial appearance today before Magistrate Judge Jonathan W. Feldman. Hanks was released on conditions pending further proceedings on July 14, 2015, at 11:00 a.m.
The criminal complaint is the culmination of an investigation on the part of the United States Postal Inspection Service, under the direction of Shelly Binkowski, Inspector in Charge, Boston Division.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.Pennsylvania Man Sentenced to Two Years in Prison for His Role in $65 Million Stolen Identity Income Tax Refund Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A Hazleton, Pennsylvania, man was sentenced today to 24 months in prison for his role in one of the nation’s largest and longest-running stolen identity refund fraud schemes ever prosecuted, U.S. Attorney Paul J. Fishman announced.
Porfirio Paredes, 47, previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Claire C. Cecchi to an information charging him with one count of conspiracy to commit theft of government funds, one count of theft of government funds and one count of aggravated identity theft. Judge Cecchi imposed the sentence today in Newark federal court.
The conspiracy caused more than 8,000 fraudulent U.S. income tax returns to be filed, which sought more than $65 million in tax refunds and resulted in losses to the United States of more than $12 million.
According to documents filed in the case and statements made in court:
Stolen Identity Refund Fraud (SIRF) is a common type of fraud that results in over $2 billion in losses annually to the U.S. Treasury. SIRF schemes generally share a number of hallmarks:
- SIRF perpetrators obtain personal identifying information, including Social Security numbers and dates of birth, from unwitting individuals, who often reside in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico;
- SIRF participants complete Individual Income Tax Return 1040 Forms using the fraudulently obtained information and falsifying wages earned, taxes withheld and other data. Perpetrators use data to make it appear that the “taxpayers” listed on the fraudulent 1040 form are entitled to tax refunds – when in fact, the various tax withholdings indicated have not been paid and no refunds are due;
- SIRF perpetrators direct the U.S. Treasury Department to issue the refunds through checks to locations they control or can access, in various ways;
- SIRF perpetrators generate cash proceeds. Some sell the checks at a discount to face value. The buyers then cash the checks at banks or check cashing businesses or deposit them into bank accounts.
Federal law enforcement agencies, recognizing that SIRF was a serious problem, created a multi-agency task force in New Jersey comprised of investigators from the IRS and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, along with the U.S. Secret Service, and with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration (the “New Jersey Task Force”).
An investigation led by the New Jersey Task Force with assistance from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations has revealed that starting as early as 2007, dozens of individuals in the New Jersey and New York area have been engaged in a large-scale, long-running SIRF scheme.
Members of the conspiracy obtained personal identifiers, such as dates of birth and Social Security numbers, belonging to Puerto Rican citizens. They used those identifiers to create fake 1040 forms, which falsely reported wages purportedly earned by the “taxpayers” and taxes purportedly withheld, to create the appearance that the “taxpayers” were entitled to tax refunds. The returns were filed electronically. By tracing the specific IP addresses that submitted them, law enforcement officers learned just a handful of IP addresses created many of the fraudulent forms that led to the issuance of tax refund checks.
Paredes and the other members of the conspiracy then gained control of checks, sometimes bribing mail carriers to intercept checks and deliver them to other members of the conspiracy. Paredes used conspirators in Michigan and North Carolina to negotiate the fraudulently obtained treasury checks that he bought and sold.
During the course of the investigation, members of the task force identified certain “hot spots” of activity and intercepted more than $22 million in fraudulently applied for refund checks before they were delivered to members of the conspiracy.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Cecchi sentenced Paredes to serve two years of supervised release and ordered him to pay restitution of $1,887,912.98.
U.S. Attorney Fishman praised special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jonathan D. Larsen; the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, under the direction of Inspector in Charge Maria L. Kelokates; the U.S. Secret Service, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Carl Agnelli; and the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Carl. J. Kotowski, for the investigation leading to today’s sentencing.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Danielle Alfonzo Walsman of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Health Care and Government Fraud Unit.
Defense counsel: Alex Jardines Esq., Union City, New Jersey
Pacifica Bookeeeper Charged with Bank Fraud, Identity Theft and Filing False Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
SAN FRANCISCO – A federal grand jury indicted Krisinda Messer on charges of bank fraud, aggravated identity theft, and filing false tax returns, announced United States Attorney Melinda Haag and Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, Special Agent in Charge José M. Martinez.
According to the indictment, from 2007 through 2011, Messer, of Pacifica Calif., was employed as a bookkeeper by a San Francisco company, whose initials are J.A.E., Inc. Messer did not have signatory authority over J.A.E., Inc.’s account with Bank of America. She did, however, have signatory authority over a Wells Fargo Bank account held in the name of American Backflow Company (ABC), a company owned by a member of Messer’s family. ABC provided no goods or services to J.A.E., Inc. The indictment alleges that from May 12, 2008, through August 31, 2011, Messer executed a scheme to defraud Wells Fargo Bank by drafting J.A.E., Inc. checks payable to ABC, on which she forged her supervisor’s signature and then deposited the checks into the ABC bank account. Messer also unlawfully used her supervisor’s identification to make several of these transactions. The indictment further alleges Messer filed false tax returns for the 2009, 2010, and 2011 tax years that did not report to the IRS the income she received from her embezzlement activities. In sum, Messer is charged with twelve counts of bank fraud, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1344; four counts of aggravated identity theft, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1028A; and three counts of filing false tax returns, in violation of 26 U.S.C. § 7206(1).
Messer is scheduled to make her initial appearance in federal court in San Francisco on May 28, 2015, at 9:30 a.m., before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jacqueline Scott Corley in San Francisco.
An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of thirty years in prison and a fine of $1,000,000 for each count of bank fraud. In addition, the maximum sentence for aggravated identity theft is two years in prison, consecutive to underlying felony for bank fraud. If convicted for filing a false tax return, the maximum penalties are three years in prison and a fine of $250,000 for each count of filing a false tax return. However, any sentence following conviction would be imposed by the court after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of a sentence, 18 U.S.C. § 3553.
Special Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Tolkoff and Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas Moore are prosecuting the case. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation.
Owner of Miami Home Health Care Company Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Lead Role in $13 Million Medicare Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
An owner of a Miami home health care company was sentenced today to 10 years in prison for his leading role in a $13 million Medicare fraud scheme that involved paying kickbacks and bribes to patient recruiters, Medicare beneficiaries and others in South Florida doctors’ offices and medical clinics.
Assistant Attorney General Leslie R. Caldwell of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Wifredo A. Ferrer of the Southern District of Florida, Special Agent in Charge George L. Piro of the FBI’s Miami Field Office and Special Agent in Charge Shimon R. Richmond of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General’s (HHS-OIG) Miami Regional Office made the announcement.
Alexander Lara, 46, of Hollywood, Florida, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Chris M. McAliley of the Southern District of Florida on Feb. 17, 2015, to one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud. According to admissions made as part of his guilty plea, Lara was an owner and operator of Longcare Home Health Corporation (Longcare Home Health), a Miami home health care agency that purported to provide home health and therapy services to Medicare beneficiaries, but the company fraudulently billed the Medicare program for, among other things, expensive physical therapy and home health care services that were not medically necessary or not provided at all. From approximately January 2009 through November 2014, Medicare paid approximately $13.7 million for fraudulent claims submitted by Longcare Home Health, according to court documents.
Lara admitted that he personally paid kickbacks and bribes to patient recruiters and to Medicare beneficiaries in exchange for referrals. He also admitted to paying kickbacks and bribes in doctors’ offices and clinics in exchange for fraudulent home health prescriptions for medically unnecessary therapy and services. These prescriptions and recruited patients were used to fraudulently bill the Medicare program for home health care services.
In addition to his sentence, Lara was ordered to pay $13,771,528.94 in restitution and to forfeit $13,771,528.94, which represents the proceeds traceable to his criminal conduct at Longcare Home Health. Lara was sentenced by Chief U.S. District Judge K. Michael Moore of the Southern District of Florida.
The case was investigated by the FBI and HHS-OIG, and was brought as part of the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, supervised by the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Southern District of Florida. The case was prosecuted by Trial Attorney Anne P. McNamara of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section.
Since its inception in March 2007, the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, now operating in nine cities across the country, has charged nearly 2,100 defendants who have collectively billed the Medicare program for more than $6.5 billion. In addition, the HHS’s Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with the HHS-OIG, is taking steps to increase accountability and decrease the presence of fraudulent providers.
To learn more about the Health Care Fraud Prevention and Enforcement Action Team (HEAT), go to: www.stopmedicarefraud.gov.
Owner of Fairfield Ohio Car Dealership Indicted on Money Laundering and Currency Transaction Report ChargesRead the Press Release
CINCINNATI – A federal grand jury has charged Bryan Barbarawi, 35, of West Chester, Ohio with committing money laundering and with filing a false currency transaction report in an indictment returned in Cincinnati.
Carter M. Stewart, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, Joseph P. Reagan, Special Agent in Charge, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and Kathy A. Enstrom, Special Agent in Charge, Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Criminal Investigation, Cincinnati Field Office, announced the indictment that was unsealed on May 8, 2015 following the arrest of Barbarawi on May 7, 2015.
The indictment alleges that since February 2011 Barbarawi owned and operated a car dealership in Fairfield, Ohio under the names Nationwide Credit Solutions, LLC d/b/a Auto Max, Extreme Imports and Falcon Auto Sales, Inc.
Upon receiving more than $10,000 in cash in a trade or business, the trade or business is required to file a currency transaction report, specifically a Form 8300, with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) or the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FINCEN) by the 15th day after the date the cash was received.
It has been alleged that in November 2014 Barbarawi committed money laundering by concealing the source and ownership of the proceeds from narcotics trafficking, as represented to Barbarawi by an undercover law enforcement officer, while conducting a financial transaction.
Also, in November 2014, it has been alleged that Barbarawi received approximately $21,533.50 in cash from two related transactions in connection with the sale of a vehicle and Barbarawi filed, and caused the employees of his car dealership to file, a false currency transaction report, Form 8300, Report of Cash Payments Over $10,000 Received in a Trade or Business. Barbarawi falsely reported, and caused his employees to falsely report, the purchaser of the vehicle and the source of the funds used to purchase the vehicle.
Money laundering carries a maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment and failing to file a currency transaction report carries a maximum sentence of five years imprisonment.
“Federal laws that regulate the reporting of financial transactions are in place to detect and stop illegal activities,” said Kathy A. Enstrom, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Cincinnati Field Office. “IRS Criminal Investigation is committed to enforcing these laws and following the money, wherever it leads.”
Barbarawi was released on bond following his arraignment before U.S. Magistrate Judge Stephanie K. Bowman.
U.S. Attorney Stewart commended the investigation of this case by the DEA and IRS, and Assistant United States Attorneys Jessica W. Knight and Karl Kadon, who are prosecuting the case.
An indictment merely contains allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
Operator of Stroudsburg Business Charged Federally with Conspiring to Unlawfully Structure Financial TransactionsRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that a Criminal Information was filed today in U.S. District Court in Scranton, charging Mirela Desouza, age 45, of Bangor, Northampton County, Pennsylvania, with conspiring to violate federal currency transaction requirements for the purpose of sending the proceeds of illegal activities out of the United States.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, Desouza allegedly conspired with others from January 2008 through December 2011 to use a Stroudsburg-based money transmitter service operated under the name of Tropic Express, Inc., to send money electronically to the Dominican Republic in varying amounts and using names of “nominee” senders and receivers of the funds, to fraudulently evade federal record keeping and reporting requirements.
The government charges include a claim of forfeiture of property involved in the offense including a bank account at M&T Bank in the name of Tropical Express, Inc. and a $25,000 money judgment.
The charges stem from an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations.
The government also filed a plea agreement with Desouza, which is subject to the approval of the court.
According to the United States Attorney’s Office, the alleged crime of structuring consists of conducting transactions in currency for the purpose of evading federal reporting requirements. Banking institutions are required to file currency transaction reports (CTRs) with the Internal Revenue Service for each deposit, withdraw and/or exchange of currency, or a payment that involves currency of over specified amounts, in this case $3,000. The law also prohibits evading or attempting to evade record keeping requirements.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Olshefski.
Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law is 5 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a $ 250,000 fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Officer and Co-Defendant Arrested in Conspiracy to Traffic CocaineRead the Press Release
McALLEN, Texas – A federal grand jury has returned a two-count indictment against a Rio Grande City Police Department investigator and a second defendant in a conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine, announced U.S. Attorney Kenneth Magidson. The investigator, Noel Pena, 29, of Rio Grande City, and Hector Salinas-Hinojosa, 21, of Roma, are charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute as well as possession with intent to distribute cocaine.
The indictment is the result of an investigation that began last year and resulted in a sting operation that occurred last month. Salinas-Hinojosa was arrested April 17, 2015, upon the filing of a criminal complaint. Pena was taken into custody the following morning.
The criminal complaint alleged Pena and Salinas-Hinojosa conspired to provide a ‘fake’ police report to an undercover officer who was acting as a cocaine trafficker. The undercover “cocaine trafficker” claimed to need assistance in stealing the majority of a 10-kilogram cocaine load he was holding for the drug cartels. On April 9, 2015, Salinas-Hinojosa and Pena met with the undercover officer and agreed to provide the ‘fake’ police report to make it appear that 10 kilograms of cocaine had been seized by law enforcement, according to the charges. In exchange they were allegedly supposed to be paid $10,000. The complaint alleged that at the time of the meeting, the undercover officer provided $5,000 as a down payment for the report.
The scheme alleged in the complaint involved Pena, as an investigator assigned to the Starr County High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force, being tipped off to the location of the cocaine. He would then stage a law enforcement operation.
On April 11, 2015, two kilograms of cocaine was left at a stash house location in Garceno. After being ‘tipped’ off the location, Pena allegedly proceeded to the residence and ‘found’ the cocaine and then obtained a search warrant to seize it. Subsequently, on April 17, 2015, Salinas-Hinojosa provided the ‘fake report’ to the undercover officer and was paid the remaining $5,000.
All three counts carry a minimum of 10 years and up to life in federal prison as possible punishment, as well as a possible $10 million fine.
The charges are the result of investigation conducted by Homeland Security Investigations, Drug Enforcement Administration, Texas Department of Public Safety and FBI with assistance from the Texas Rangers and the Starr County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Juan F. Alanis and Ted Imperato are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence.
A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.New Iberia man pleads guilty to role in methamphetamine distribution conspiracyRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced today that a New Iberia man pleaded guilty to his role in a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy in the New Iberia and Lafayette areas.
Corey F. Freyou, 37, of New Iberia, La., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Richard T. Haik to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. According to the guilty plea, Freyou, along with codefendants Elliot Jolet, 35, and Anita Desormeaux, 43, both of New Iberia, conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine in the New Iberia and Lafayette areas from October 2013 until September of 2014. Jolet and Desormeaux purchased methamphetamine in Texas and transported it to the south central Louisiana area. Freyou traveled with Jolet, Desormeaux and others, purchased methamphetamine in Texas, stored methamphetamine in his home, and sold the methamphetamine. Freyou was supplied with half an ounce of methamphetamine per week and admitted responsibility for at least 500 grams during the conspiracy. Freyou also forfeited his F-250 truck, which was used in the conspiracy.
Freyou, Jolet and Desormeaux are three of 14 defendants charged in a 20-count indictment returned on November 12, 2014. The other defendants are: Gary Hunt, 59, of Spendora, Texas; Ko Chanhkongshinh, 38, of Youngsville, La.; Jenee Lynn Hargrave, 29, of Scott, La.; David Lowery, 33, of New Iberia; Everette Dupuis, 39, of New Iberia; Michael Guidry, 45, of Erath, La.; Tyrone Howard, 43, of Youngsville; Kevin Jefferson, 31, of New Iberia; Nared Souphannavong, 29, of New Iberia; Brandi Boullion, 28, of New Iberia; and Dewey Migues, 36, of New Iberia. The investigation also resulted in the seizure of crystal methamphetamine, more than $5,000 in cash, a vehicle, and several firearms.
Freyou faces up to 20 years in prison, up to a $1 million fine, and at least three years supervised release. A sentencing date was not set.
The defendants were arrested as part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) Operation. The DEA, Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Office, Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office, Vermilion Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Lafayette Police Department investigated the case. The OCDETF program is a joint federal, state and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking and is the nation’s primary tool for targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations, coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources, and disrupting and dismantling of major drug trafficking organizations.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Myers P. Namie, Daniel J. McCoy and Robert F. Moore are prosecuting the case.
Muskogee Man Pleads Guilty to Robbery ConspiracyRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that MATTHEW EUGENE TRIPLETT, age 44, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, pled guilty to CONSPIRACY TO INTERFERE WITH COMMERCE BY ROBBERY, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1951.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Muskogee Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation Violent Crime Task Force.
The Indictment alleged that from on or about January 15, 2014, through on or about January 22, 2014, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, MATTHEW EUGENE TRIPLETT, conspired with others, known and unknown to the grand jury, to commit robbery, which unlawfully obstructed, delayed, and affected commerce.
The Honorable Kimberly E. West, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the guilty plea and ordered the completion of a presentence report. Sentencing will be scheduled following its completion. The defendant will remain in the custody of the United States Marshal Service.
The statutory range of punishment is not more than 20 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000.00 fine or both.
Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace represented the United States.
Multi-Agency Law Enforcement Operation Tackles Violent Crime, Drug Trafficking, Firearms Offenses, and Gang Activity in Broward CountyRead the Press Release
Wifredo A. Ferrer, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, Hugo J. Barrera, Special Agent in Charge, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Miami Field Office, A.D. Wright, Special Agent in Charge, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Miami Field Office, Scott Israel, Sheriff, Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO), John Brooks, Chief, Sunrise Police Department (SPD), Amos Rojas Jr., United States Marshal, United States Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force, and J.D. Patterson Jr., Director, Miami-Dade Police Department (MDPD), announce the filing of federal charges against 29 defendants in 5 separate cases for their alleged participation in criminal conduct, including a violent racketeering (RICO) conspiracy, armed Hobbs Act robberies, a narcotics conspiracy, drug trafficking, and firearms violations by convicted felons.
The referenced indictments are, in large part, the result of initiatives which stem from the Violence Reduction Partnership, launched by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in 2011. Through these Partnerships, the U.S. Attorney’s Office and its federal and local law enforcement allies have sought to dismantle the most violent criminal networks that plague communities in Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach Counties. The Partnerships strive to combat violent crime, narcotics trafficking, gang activity and firearms offenses by prosecuting offenders and working with community leaders and non-profit entities to provide preventive services to the local populations.
The members of the Violence Reduction Partnership, and participating agencies, include the United States Attorney’s Office, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Miami Field Office, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Miami Field Office, Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO), Sunrise Police Department (SPD), United States Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force, Miami-Dade Police Department (MDPD), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Miami Field Office, Hollywood Police Department, Homestead Police Department, United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI), North Miami Beach Police Department (NMBPD), Miami-Dade Police Department, City of Miami Police Department, Palm Beach County Sherriff’s Office, Broward County Office of the State Attorney, and Miami-Dade Office of the State Attorney.
United States Attorney Wifredo A. Ferrer stated, “The continued collaboration between federal and local law enforcement agencies to attack violent crime, drug trafficking, and gang activity is of paramount importance. Today’s charges demonstrate that we are dedicated to improving public safety and the quality of life for law-abiding residents by protecting neighborhoods, adopting proactive law enforcement initiatives, and prosecuting repeat offenders, firearms violators and criminal networks. We will continue to prosecute individuals whose violent criminal conduct infects our communities.”
“Today’s arrest demonstrates law enforcement’s relentless effort to reduce violent crime and rid our streets of criminal gangs,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Hugo J. Barrera. “In conjunction with our Federal, State and Local partners, we continue to work together to end the gang violence that erodes the quality of life in our neighborhoods. The arrests today sends a clear message that our community will not tolerate the heinous activity perpetrated by violent felons and evidences our commitment to work together to dismantle violent street gangs.”
DEA Special Agent in Charge A.D. Wright stated, “The DEA is proud to work with our law enforcement partners to target these violent offenders. Taking these gang members off the street makes Florida a safer place.”
U.S. Marshal Amos Rojas, Jr. stated, “This operation demonstrates the willingness of Federal, State and local law enforcement agencies to work together to combat violent criminal gangs in our communities”
“The Miami-Dade Police Department remains committed to work with fellow law enforcement agencies in arresting those who harm our communities,” said MDPD Director J.D. Patterson.
Today, U.S. Attorney Ferrer, joined by members of federal and local law enforcement agencies announce the most recent results of their investigative efforts. The cases announced today include:
1. United States v. Juan Alvarez, a/k/a “King Juanma,” et. al., Case No. 15-60094-CR-Cohn
The indictment charges 23 members and associates of the Latin Kings, an organized criminal street gang operating in the Southern District of Florida, for their alleged participation in a violent racketeering conspiracy, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1962(d).
Charged in the twenty (20) count indictment are Juan Alvarez, a/k/a “King Juanma,” 30, of Miami, Arturo Andrade, a/k/a “King Tu,” 25, of Miami, Sean Buendia, a/k/a “King Chill,” 32, of Davie, Lazaro Castellon, a/k/a “King Speedy,” a/k/a “Laz,” 36, of Hialeah, Domenic Enrique, a/k/a “King Bolo,” 28, of Pembroke Pines, Tony Estevez, a/k/a “King Kilo,” 29, of Miami, Samuel German, a/k/a “King Traffic,” 31, of Hollywood, Alberto Hernandez, Jr., a/k/a “King Gordo,” 20, of Miami, Christopher Isabel, a/k/a “King Nano,” 33, of Plantation, Barbara Lee, a/k/a “Queen Flaka,” 49, of Fort Lauderdale, Andres Lugo, a/k/a “King Ghost,” 33, of Plantation, Danielle Lucatorto, a/k/a “Cookie,” 29, of Margate, John Martins, a/k/a “King Slowdown,” 28, of Lake Worth, Alain Medero, a/k/a “King C-Low,” 31, of Miami, Fernando Moreno, a/k/a “King Boom,” 32, of West Palm Beach, Jorge Perez-Hernandez, 44, of Tampa, Luis Rivera, a/k/a “King Tato,” 32, of Miami Beach, Giovanny Rocha-Collado, a/k/a “King Joker,” 35, of Miami, Barbaro Sanchez, a/k/a “King Tata,” 28, of Miami, Bobbie Tejada, a/k/a “King Riko,”32, of Fort Lauderdale, Jerry Vazquez, 35, of West Palm Beach, Giovanny Viera, a/k/a “King Hollywood,” 35, of Miami, and Juan Marcos Vega, 22, of Homestead.
The indictment alleges that the Latin Kings are one of the largest and most well organized gangs operating in the United States. Chapters of the Latin Kings operate in at least 39 states, including Florida. The gang's primary source of income is generated through offenses related to the distribution of narcotics, assault, robbery, burglary, and identity theft. Members of the gang commit these criminal acts with the intent to benefit, promote, and further the interest of their organization, and to increase their own standing or position within the Latin Kings organization. The Latin Kings adhere to a local, regional, state, and a national hierarchical system. The local chapter reports to the regional officers, the regional officers report to the state officers, and the state officers report to the national officers. State and local chapters, often also referred to as tribes, are comprised of a five person leadership structure, intended to represent the five points of a king’s crown. These positions are identified by the titles of Inca or first crown, Cacique or second crown, Enforcer or third crown, Treasurer or fourth crown, and Secretary or fifth crown. Together, the crowns ensure the Latin Kings members follow the rules and regulations set forth in the Latin King Manifesto, referred to as the “KMC.” Members are required to pay dues, the source of which is usually generated through criminal activity, attend regular meetings and adhere to the gang’s established policies. Failure to adhere to the rules can result in disciplinary action. The Latin Kings colors are Black and Gold. Gang markings consist of a 5 or 3-point "sacred crown," the letters LK (Latin Kings), ALK (Almighty Latin Kings), ALKN (Almighty Latin King Nation), ALKQN (Almighty Latin King Queen Nation), and drawings of the Lion. Once accepted into the organization, members choose a “King” name by which they become known.
At various times, defendants Isabel, Tejada, Rivera, Alvarez, Castellon, Viera, Estevez, German, Medero, Lugo, Rocha-Collado, and Moreno held leadership positions within the state and/or local chapters of the Latin Kings. In their respective positions, these defendants conducted meetings, collected dues, and maintained discipline among members of the Latin Kings.
The twenty-three charged defendants were allegedly employed by and associated with the Latin Kings, a criminal enterprise that affected interstate and foreign commerce, and conspired to violate the federal RICO statute through a pattern of racketeering activity that consisted of multiple acts and threats involving murder, robbery, kidnaping, narcotics trafficking, witness tampering and retaliation, and fraud.
In addition to the racketeering conspiracy charge, many of the defendants were also indicted for their alleged participation in other criminal activity.
Defendants Tejada, Lugo, and Lucatorto are charged with committing a Hobbs Act robbery in Broward County, on or about June 11 and June 12, 2014, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1951(a) and 2. The indictment alleges that the defendants attempted to forcibly rob an individual of controlled substances (narcotics). Tejada and Lugo were also charged with possessing a firearm during the commission of the armed robbery, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 924(c)(1)(A) and 2.
Defendants Alvarez and Vega were also charged with committing a Hobbs Act Robbery in Miami-Dade County, on or about September 28, 2014. The indictment alleges that the defendants used a firearm to forcibly rob an individual of narcotics and personal items.
Defendant Buenida is also charged with committing a Hobbs Act Robbery in Broward County, on or about June 6, 2014. The indictment alleges that the defendant forcibly robbed an individual of narcotics.
Defendants Rocha-Collado, Medrero, Estevez, Tejada, German and Lee were also charged, with distributing a controlled substance (either cocaine or molly) in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties, on dates on or about and between December 30, 2013 and October 30, 2014, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 841(a)(1).
Isabel, Moreno, Perez-Hernandez, and Vazquez were also charged with conspiring to distribute a controlled substance (heroin), in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 846.
Tejada, Alvarez, Viera, Enrique and Castellon were each also charged with being felons in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1).
During the course of the investigation, law enforcement seized 31 firearms and recovered a variety of narcotics, including cocaine, crack, heroin, and molly.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Julia Vaglienti and Lawrence LaVecchio.
2. United States v. Jonathan Gonzalez, III, a/k/a “King Charlie,” Case. No. 15-60059-CR-Cohn
On March 26, 2015, Jonathan Gonzalez III, a/k/a “King Charlie,” 32, Plantation, was charged in a single count indictment for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to the indictment, on February 21, 2014 in Broward County, convicted felon Gonzalez was in possession of a .38 caliber revolver that affected interstate and foreign commerce.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Dispoto.
3. United States v. Jonathan Jose Castro-Guerra and Chavon Hernandez, Case No. 15-20098-CR-Moore
On February 26, 2015, Jonathan Jose Castro-Guerra, 29, of Hollywood, and Chavon Hernandez, 33, of Hollywood, were charged in a single count indictment for being felons in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
According to the indictment, on or about September 18, 2014 in Miami-Dade County, convicted felons Castro-Guerra and Hernandez possessed a 9mm semi-automatic pistol and three rounds of 9mm ammunition that affected interstate and foreign commerce.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Bruce Brown.
4. United States v. Victor Martinez-Otero, Jr., a/k/a “King Bless” and Luis Almodovar-Alvarez, a/k/a “King Bolillo,” Case. No. 15-60092-CR-Dimitrouleas
On May 5, 2015, Victor Martinez-Otero, a/k/a “King Bless,” 25, and Luis Almodovar-Alvarez, a/k/a “King Boliollo,” 20, both of Kissimmee, were charged in a two count indictment for unlawfully possessing firearms and ammunition.
According to this indictment, on or about August 7, 2014 in Broward County, Martinez-Otero and Almodovar-Alvarez were unlawfully receiving a 9mm semi-automatic handgun and eight rounds of 9mm ammunition that affected interstate commerce, while under a separate indictment. At the time of possession, Martinez-Otero was allegedly a convicted felon.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney William Shockley.
5. United States v. Oscar Valdivia, a/k/a “King Oscar,” a/k/a “King Two Times,” Case. No. 15-60090-CR- Cohn
On May 5, 2015, Oscar Valdivia, a/k/a “King Oscar,” a/k/a “King Two Times,” 21, of Sunrise, was charged in a six count indictment for illegally possessing and selling firearms and ammunition.
According to this indictment, on four separate dates in Broward County, Valdivia did unlawfully receive firearms and ammunition that affected interested commerce, while under a separate indictment. This indictment alleges that he received: two .40 caliber semiautomatic handguns and a .357 revolver on February 25, 2014; a .22 caliber rifle on March 18, 2014; a 12 gauge pump-action shotgun on April 15, 2014; a 5.56 mm semiautomatic rifle, a 9mm semi-automatic handgun, and 1,000 rounds of ammunition on May 3, 2104; a semiautomatic receiver on May 8, 2014. The indictment further alleges that on June 20, 2014, Valdivia sold a .22 caliber handgun and ammunition to a person he believed was a convicted felon.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney William Shockley.
If convicted, the defendants face the following possible statutory sentences for their charged offenses: up to twenty years in prison for the RICO conspiracy, up to twenty years in prison for the Hobbs Act robbery; a term of imprisonment not less than seven years for possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence (if the firearm is brandished, otherwise not less than five years) consecutive to other terms of imprisonment; up to ten years in prison for possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon; up to life in prison for conspiring to possess controlled substances with the intent to distribute; and up to forty years in prison for possession of controlled substances with the intent to distribute.
Mr. Ferrer thanked the law enforcement agencies, community leaders, and social service providers involved in the Violence Reduction Partnership, the South Florida High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force and the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). Mr. Ferrer also commended the investigative efforts of ATF, DEA, BSO, Sunrise Police Department, United States Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force, FBI, Hollywood Police Department, Homestead Police Department, ICE-HSI, North Miami Beach Police Department, Miami-Dade Police Department, City of Miami Police Department, Palm Beach County Sherriff’s Office, Broward County Office of the State Attorney, and Miami-Dade Office of the State Attorney.
An indictment is only an accusation and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
A copy of this press release may be found on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida at www.usdoj.gov/usao/fls. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or on http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov.
Mini Market Store Owner Sentenced to Federal Prison for Selling Synthetic Marijuana and Bath SaltsRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that United States District Court Judge Yvette Kane sentenced Kulwinder Singh Grewal, age 42, of Myerstown, today to 1 ½ years’ imprisonment for selling bath salts and synthetic marijuana.
Grewal pled guilty in February 2014 to the sale of misbranded drugs under names such as Eight Ballz, Fusion Herbal Potpourri, Joy, Crunky Monkey and Purple Haze.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, Grewal operated a mini-mart and sold these items from his store and other stores he helped to supply. The substances were determined to be either controlled substances or analogues of controlled substances. The substances were packaged for retail sale and contain warning labels that they were not for human consumption.
Grewal admitted that he was aware that these products were being ingested by customers to get high. During a search of Grewal’s home in April 2012, agents recovered a white plastic bag in a tool box in the garage that contained packages marked “Eight Balls.” The DEA lab determined that the substances were α-PVP, Pentylone, 4-MEC, and α-PBP, all cathinones and analogues of Methcathinone, a controlled substance.
A substance is an analogue if it is substantially similar to the chemical structure of a schedule I or II substance which has a stimulant, depressant, or hallucinogenic effect on the central nervous system similar to or greater than that of the schedule I or II controlled substance. These substances (bath salts and synthetic marijuana) mimicked marijuana, a Schedule I controlled substance or methcathinone, a Schedule II controlled substance.
Proceeds from the sales of these products were deposited by co-defendant, Amerjit Singh Grewal, into business accounts. Funds from these accounts were withdrawn and used to purchase synthetic marijuana and bath salts products from vendors such as DZE, located in Houston, Texas. Grewal was ordered to forfeit the funds seized from these accounts which totaled almost $500,000. Co-defendant Amerjit Singh Grewal was previously sentenced by Judge Kane to 33 months imprisonment.
“The public is put at risk by the sale and distribution of potentially dangerous drugs that are disguised as innocuous consumer products,” said Special Agent in Charge Antoinette V. Henry of the FDA Office of Criminal Investigations’ Metro-Washington Field Office. "We will continue to work to prevent such drugs from reaching the market and to bring to justice those who endanger the public health by circumventing FDA’s regulatory process."
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Food and Drug Administration Office of Criminal Investigations, the United States Attorney=s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Dauphin and Cumberland County Drug Task Forces, Homeland Securities Investigations, the Lancaster and Lebanon County Drug Task Forces, the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, the Lewistown Police Department and Drug Task Force, Coal Township, Elizabethtown and Ephrata Police Departments.
Prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney William A. Behe.
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Miami-Dade County Resident Sentenced for Being a Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
A Brownsville resident was sentenced to 63 months for being a felon in possession of a firearm yesterday.
Wifredo A. Ferrer, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, Hugo J. Barrera, Special Agent in Charge, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Miami Field Division, and J.D. Patterson, Director, Miami-Dade Police Department (MDPD), made the announcement.
Contrell Leo Floyd, a/k/a “Kevin Wells,” 34, was convicted in a two-day trial before U.S. District Judge Federico A. Moreno for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
On October 20, 2014, in the early afternoon, two Robbery Intervention Detail MDPD Detectives in an unmarked vehicle saw Floyd in front of Brownsville middle school and began to approach Floyd to ask him questions. Before they could speak with him, Floyd quickly stopped, turned toward the car, and pulled up his shirt to flash a handgun that was tucked in his waistband. Immediately upon seeing the gun, one detective drew his weapon and announced “police!” Floyd fled and threw the firearm into a public park in front of Brownsville middle school. The police apprehended Floyd after a short pursuit and recovered the loaded handgun.
Mr. Ferrer commended the investigative efforts of ATF and MDPD. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Timothy Abraham and Vanessa Snyder.
A copy of this press release may be found on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida at www.usdoj.gov/usao/fls. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or on http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov
Meth Conspiracy Lands Three in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
VICTORIA, Texas - The final defendant in a three-defendant methamphetamine conspiracy has been ordered to federal prison, announced U.S. Attorney Kenneth Magidson.
Michael Gregory Oertli, 40, of Brookshire, pleaded guilty in November 2014 to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Today, Senior U.S. District Judge John D. Rainey sentenced Oertli to 70 months imprisonment to be followed by four years of supervised release.
Howard Gene Hicks, 46, and Kathrine Dovey Sexton, 38, both of Port Lavaca, also pleaded guilty in November 2014 to the same charge. Judge Rainey ordered Sexton to serve 63 months imprisonment, while Hicks will serve a 60-month-term. Both sentences will also be followed by four years of supervised release.
The defendants would travel to Sexton’s source of supply in Houston and then distribute the drugs in the Victoria/Port Lavaca area. Hicks and Oertli were charged following a traffic stop in which they were found in possession of methamphetamine. The investigation later led to the identification of Sexton and the discovery that the group would travel to Houston several times a week and return with approximately two ounces of methamphetamine on each occasion.
All have been in custody since their arrests, where they remain pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be designated in the near future.
The charges stem from an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, Victoria Police Department and Texas Department of Public Safety.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lance Watt.
Maryland Man Sentenced to 13 Years in Prison for Operating Ponzi Scheme That Cost Investors over $28 Million in LossesRead the Press Release
Garfield M. Taylor, 56, of Rockville, Maryland, was sentenced today to 13 years in prison and ordered to pay over $28.6 million in restitution for operating a Ponzi scheme that resulted in investors losing money they invested with Taylor and companies he controlled.
The sentencing was announced by Acting U.S. Attorney Vincent H. Cohen Jr. of the District of Columbia, Assistant Director in Charge Andrew G. McCabe of the FBI’s Washington Field Office and Acting Commissioner Chester A. McPherson of the District of Columbia’s Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking.
Taylor pleaded guilty in March 2014 in the U.S. District Court of the District of Columbia to securities fraud. He was sentenced by Chief District Judge Richard W. Roberts of the District of Columbia. Upon completion of his prison term, Taylor will be placed on three years of supervised release. In addition to the $28.6 million order of restitution, the judge entered a forfeiture judgment in the same amount. Taylor was taken into custody after the sentencing.
In a parallel action, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission obtained a civil judgment against Taylor for his fraudulent conduct.
“Garfield Taylor masterminded a Ponzi scheme to bilk local investors out of over $28 million,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Cohen Jr. “When his scheme collapsed, his lies left the families and charities who believed his empty promises holding the bag. This 13-year prison sentence is a reflection of the seriousness of financial crimes and our dedication to vigorous prosecution of securities fraud.”
“Mr. Taylor now faces the consequences of his role in a $28 million fraud scheme that defrauded clients for his own personal gain,” said Assistant Director in Charge McCabe. “With our partners, the FBI remains committed to investigating those who hide behind deceptive financial fraud schemes.”
“Today’s sentencing demonstrates that defrauding investors in the District of Columbia carries significant consequences,” said Acting Commissioner McPherson. “Mr. Taylor deceived investors out of millions causing significant financial harm that justifies this sentence. Together with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the FBI, the Securities and Exchange Commission and national and local law enforcement, my department will continue to protect investors from the illegal and deceptive practices Mr. Taylor used to defraud investors out of their hard earned money and savings.”
According to the government’s evidence, Taylor devised and employed a scheme from in or about September 2006 through in or about September 2010 in which he convinced investors to invest with him by promising them substantial returns on their investment, telling them that he used a sophisticated securities trading strategy that protected against loss and claiming that he had a proven track record of using this strategy effectively.
During the course of this scheme, however, Taylor never used the trading strategy that he told investors that he would use. With the investments he made during this period, Taylor either lost money or made minimal profits far below what was needed to pay the amounts he owed. The only way that Taylor was able to pay the substantial interest rates was to use portions of the principal invested by new investors to pay amounts that were owed to earlier investors.
In one example from the government’s evidence, Taylor, in April 2010, used approximately half of an investor’s $425,000 investment to pay interest and principal that was due to earlier investors, rather than using those funds to invest in securities, as he had promised to do. Taylor paid only a portion of the interest payments he was required to pay the investor, before telling the investor that, because of trading losses, he was unable to make any more interest payments or to return the investor’s principal.
At the time of the scheme’s collapse, Taylor owed investors over $28.6 million just to cover the principal he was contractually required to return to them.
In announcing the sentence, Acting U.S. Attorney Cohen, Assistant Director in Charge McCabe and Acting Commissioner McPherson commended the work of those who investigated the case from the FBI’s Washington Field Office and the District of Columbia’s Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking. They also expressed appreciation to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission for its significant assistance. They also acknowledged the efforts of those who worked on the case from the U.S. Attorney’s Office. The case was also investigated and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matt Graves, Lionel André, Catherine K. Connelly, Della Sentilles and Zia Faruqui of the District of Columbia. Former Assistant U.S. Attorney Bridget Fitzpatrick of the District of Columbia also investigated the matter.
Maryland Man Sentenced to 13 Years in Prison for Operating Ponzi Scheme That Cost Investors over $28 MillionRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON - Garfield M. Taylor, 56, of Rockville, Md., was sentenced today to 13 years in prison and ordered to pay over $28.6 million in restitution for operating a Ponzi scheme that resulted in investors losing money they invested with Taylor and companies he controlled.
The sentencing was announced by Acting U.S. Attorney Vincent H. Cohen Jr., Andrew G. McCabe, Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Washington Field Office, and Chester A. McPherson, Acting Commissioner of the District of Columbia Department of Insurance, Securities, and Banking.
Taylor pled guilty in March 2014 in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia to securities fraud. He was sentenced by the Honorable Chief Judge Richard W. Roberts. Upon completion of his prison term, Taylor will be placed on three years of supervised release. In addition to the $28.6 million order of restitution, the judge entered an identical forfeiture judgment in the same amount. Taylor was taken into custody after the sentencing.
In a parallel action, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission obtained a civil judgment against Taylor for his fraudulent conduct.
“Garfield Taylor masterminded a Ponzi scheme to bilk local investors out of over $28 million,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Cohen. “When his scheme collapsed, his lies left the families and charities who believed his empty promises holding the bag. This 13-year prison sentence is a reflection of the seriousness of financial crimes and our dedication to vigorous prosecution of securities fraud.”
“Mr. Taylor now faces the consequences of his role in a $28 million fraud scheme that defrauded clients for his own personal gain,” said Assistant Director in Charge McCabe. “With our partners, the FBI remains committed to investigating those who hide behind deceptive financial fraud schemes.”
“Today’s sentencing demonstrates that defrauding investors in the District of Columbia carries significant consequences,” said Acting Commissioner McPherson, of the D.C. Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking. “Mr. Taylor deceived investors out of millions causing significant financial harm that justifies this sentence. Together with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the FBI, the Securities and Exchange Commission and national and local law enforcement, my department will continue to protect investors from the illegal and deceptive practices Mr. Taylor used to defraud investors out of their hard earned money and savings.”
According to the government’s evidence, Taylor devised and employed a scheme from in or about September 2006 through in or about September 2010 in which he convinced investors to invest with him by promising them substantial returns on their investment, telling them that he used a sophisticated securities trading strategy that protected against loss, and claiming that he had a proven track record of using this strategy effectively.
During the course of this scheme, however, Taylor never used the trading strategy that he told investors that he would use. With the investments he made during this period, Taylor either lost money or made minimal profits far below what was needed to pay the amounts he owed. The only way that Taylor was able to pay the substantial interest rates was to use portions of the principal invested by new investors to pay amounts that were owed to earlier investors.
In one example from the government’s evidence, Taylor, in April 2010, used approximately half of an investor’s $425,000 investment to pay interest and principal that was due to earlier investors, rather than using those funds to invest in securities, as he had promised to do. Taylor paid only a portion of the interest payments he was required to pay the investor, before telling the investor that, because of trading losses, he was unable to make any more interest payments or to return the investor’s principal.
At the time of the scheme’s collapse, Taylor owed investors over $28.6 million just to cover the principal he was contractually required to return to them.
In announcing the sentence, Acting U.S. Attorney Cohen, Assistant Director in Charge McCabe, and Acting Commissioner McPherson commended those who investigated the case from the FBI’s Washington Field Office and the D.C. Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking. They also expressed appreciation to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission for its significant assistance. They also acknowledged the efforts of those who worked on the case from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, including Paralegal Specialists Tasha Harris, John Lowell and Ida Anbarian; former Litigation Technology Specialist Joseph Calvarese; Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matt Graves, Lionel André, Catherine K. Connelly, Della Sentilles, and Zia Faruqui, who investigated and prosecuted the matter; and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Bridget Fitzpatrick, who investigated the matter.
Lynn Michael Lavictor of Sault Ste. Marie Sentenced to 355 Months for Sexual AssaultRead the Press Release
MARQUETTE, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney Patrick A. Miles, Jr., announced today that Lynn Michael LaVictor, 44, of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge R. Allan Edgar to 355 months imprisonment for sexually assaulting his then- girlfriend in Sault Ste. Marie, attempting to tamper with a witness and contempt of court. The sentences will run concurrently. Judge Edgar also ordered LaVictor to have no contact with the victim in the case. Judge Edgar commented during the sentencing that there was a "manifest need to provide protection for the public and those who have been abused by [the defendant] in the past."
The assault took place last July. The victim’s injuries from the assault required her to be transported by ambulance to the hospital, where she underwent surgery later in the day. Nevertheless, LaVictor repeatedly contacted the victim and attempted to influence her testimony, even after his arrest and the placement of a no-contact order. A federal jury convicted LaVictor in December, following a four day trial.
"Fighting the victimization of women in Indian country is a main priority in the Western District of Michigan," stated U.S. Attorney Patrick A. Miles, Jr., "and those who engage in this behavior will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law."
The Sault Ste. Marie Tribal Police and the FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jeff J. Davis and Hannah N. Bobee prosecuted the case.
Luzerne County Man Charged with Heroin and Cocaine OffensesRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that a grand jury sitting in Scranton, Pennsylvania has returned an indictment charging Roberto Sanchez, age 37, of Hazleton, Pennsylvania, with conspiracy to distribute more than a kilogram of heroin and more than 500 grams of cocaine. The grand jury also charged Sanchez with counts relating to the possession with the intent to distribute more than 100 grams of heroin, and an additional count charging that he possessed with the intent to distribute an unspecified quantity of cocaine. The indictment further seeks forfeiture of $54,283.00 in US Currency.
According to U.S. Attorney Peter Smith, the charges in the indictment stem from Robert Sanchez’s arrest by United States Marshals on a warrant issued by New York authorities. In the process of the arrest, the Marshals determined that there were drugs on the premises and contacted agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration to assist. Ultimately, Sanchez was found to have in his possession within the residence more than 300 grams of heroin, more than 100 grams of cocaine, and $54,283.00 in United States currency.
The maximum penalty under the federal statute for conspiracy to distribute more than 1 kilogram of heroin is life imprisonment. Sanchez also faces a term of supervised release following imprisonment and a fine, if convicted. Sanchez is presently in custody at the Luzerne County Correctional Facility.
Prosecution of the case is assigned to Assistant U.S. Attorney John Gurganus.
Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilty is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant’s educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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La Vergne Woman Pleads Guilty to Counterfeit Check SchemeRead the Press Release
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – May 12, 2015 - Christine Smith, 49, of La Vergne, Tennessee, pleaded guilty yesterday to a felony charge of possessing counterfeit securities, announced David Rivera, United States Attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee.
During a plea hearing before Judge Aleta A. Trauger, Smith admitted taking part in a counterfeiting scheme in which she manufactured a variety of counterfeit checks, using fake accounts, and then used the checks to purchase stamps at various U.S. Post Office locations. Smith then sold the stamps to another individual and on eBay at a reduced rate.
On October 2, 2013, U.S. Postal Inspectors conducted a search of Smith’s residence and found a counterfeit check. Smith admitted that she knew the check was counterfeit and that she had intended to use it to purchase more stamps from the U.S. Postal Service. Smith also acknowledged that she had negotiated approximately 50 counterfeit checks at various Post Office locations, which totaled more than $5,000.
Smith faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 when she is sentenced by Judge Trauger on August 17, 2015.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the U.S. Secret Service. The case has been prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys William F. Abely and Scarlett S. Nokes.
Justice Department Signs Agreements with Chaves County, New Mexico, to Ensure Civic Access for People with DisabilitiesRead the Press Release
The Justice Department announced today an agreement with Chaves County, New Mexico, to improve access to civic life for persons with disabilities. The agreement was reached under Project Civic Access (PCA), the department’s wide-ranging initiative to ensure that cities, towns and counties throughout the country comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This agreement is the fifth so far this year, as the department recognizes the 25th anniversary of the ADA, which the Civil Rights Division plays a critical role in enforcing.
As part of PCA, Justice Department staff survey state and local government facilities, services and programs in communities across the country to identify changes needed to comply with the ADA. The agreements detail the remedial actions a city or county must take to improve access. The department has a PCA agreement in every state, and this is the first agreement in southern New Mexico.
Under the agreement, the county will remove barriers to accessibility at county facilities, including the county courthouse, administration building, health centers, medical complexes, detention center and juvenile detention center. The county will make physical modifications to those facilities so that parking, routes into buildings, entrances, service areas and counters, restrooms, elevators and drinking fountains are accessible to people with disabilities. The county will also survey other facilities and programs and make modifications wherever necessary to achieve full compliance with ADA requirements. In addition to physical accessibility, the county will administer a grievance procedure for resolving ADA complaints, provide effective communication for county programs and services including law enforcement, provide improved access to polling places and the voting process and ensure that the county’s official website and other web-based services are accessible to people with disabilities.
“Providing access to local government programs, services, and activities is critical to ensure equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Vanita Gupta of the Civil Rights Division. “I commend county officials for their cooperation in working with us and for making this commitment to provide equal access to their residents and visitors with disabilities.”
Today’s agreement was reached under Title II of the ADA, which prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities by state and local governments. The department will actively monitor compliance with the agreement, which will remain in effect for three years.
For more information about the ADA, today’s agreement, and the PCA initiative, individuals can access the ADA web page at www.ada.gov or call the toll-free ADA Information Line at (800) 514-0301 or (800) 514-0383 (TTY).