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24 October 2014
Former Army Private Sentenced for Hobbs Act Armed RobberyRead the Press Release
Case is one of many brought as a result of United States Attorney Stephen R. Wigginton’s Metro-East Armed Robbery Initiative
Follow @SDILNewsDenzell D. Grant, 20, a former resident of South Carolina, who was an Army Private stationed at Fort Hood, Texas, at the time he committed the offenses, was sentenced on October 24, 2014, for Interference with Commerce by Robbery (Hobbs Act Robbery) and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Crime of Violence, Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today. The Armed Robbery count is a federal “Hobbs Act Robbery.” The Hobbs Act makes it a crime to obstruct, delay, or affect interstate commerce by robbery, and is used by United States Attorney Wigginton’s office as a way to combat armed robbery in the Southern District of Illinois.
Grant was sentenced to a total of 180 months in federal prison, consisting of 30 months on Count 1 and 150 months on Count 2, each sentence to run consecutively. Grant’s sentence of imprisonment is to be followed by a three year term of supervised release on each count, to run concurrently. Grant was also ordered to pay $10,500 in restitution to R.B., the victim of the armed robbery, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment on each count, for a total special assessment of $200. Because of the amount of the restitution imposed, the Court waived the imposition of a fine.
“Since I announced this initiative [the anti-armed robbery initiative], I have been warning people of the serious consequences of their acts. This case illustrates my point – if you want to be locked away, far from family and friends, keep doing these senseless acts. This is a well-deserved prison sentence for someone who simply should have had better sense. Thank God that no one lost their life over a few dollars.” said United States Attorney Wigginton.
The offense occurred on October 13, 2013, when Grant drove to Swansea with other individuals stationed at Fort Hood, Texas, one of whom had family in Swansea. While in Swansea, Grant and the other individuals developed a plan to rob Max’s One Stop in Swansea. Grant, wearing a mask and armed with a loaded gun, entered Max’s One Stop, and jumped over the counter which led to the area where the lone clerk, R.B., was sitting. Grant put the gun to R.B.’s head and told R.B. to give Grant all of the money. Grant held the gun on R.B. as Grant followed R.B. to the cash register. As R.B. was giving Grant the cash from the register, R.B. stated that Grant told him that Grant was “here to kill him (R.B.).” Hearing this, R.B. decided to grab the gun and the two began struggling over the gun. During the struggle, the firearm discharged, injuring R.B.’s left hand and striking Grant in the right arm.
After being shot, Grant tried to escape by jumping over the counter into the customer area. At the same time, a customer who knew R.B. walked into the convenience store and heard R.B. call for help. The customer and R.B., who now had possession of Grant’s gun, helped prevent Grant from escaping until police arrived.
The case was investigated by the Swansea Police Department, the Illinois State Police Crime Scene Investigation Unit, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Angela Scott.
Former Army Contracting Official Sentenced to Four Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
In Bribery and Kickback Scheme
Defendant Accepted Over $490,000 in Benefits
From Companies He Helped Win Favorable Treatment and Government ContractsWASHINGTON – In Seon Lim, a former contracting official for the U.S. Department of the Army, was sentenced today to four years in prison for his role in a scheme in which he accepted over $490,000 worth of benefits, including cash payments and vacations, from favored contractors. In return, he helped these businesses obtain millions of dollars in federal contracts.
The sentencing was announced by Ronald C. Machen Jr., U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia; Dana J. Boente, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Andrew G. McCabe, Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Washington Field Office; Thomas J. Kelly, Special Agent in Charge of the Washington Field Office of the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI); Peggy E. Gustafson, Inspector General for the Small Business Administration (SBA); Robert E. Craig, Jr., Special Agent in Charge of the Mid-Atlantic Field Office of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), and Frank Robey, Director of the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command’s Major Procurement Fraud Unit (MPFU).
Lim, 48, of Fairfax Station, Va., also known as InSeon Lim, pled guilty in July 2014 in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia to three offenses: conspiracy to commit bribery and honest services wire fraud; bribery; and attempting to interfere with and impede tax laws. He was sentenced by the Honorable Leonie M. Brinkema.
Upon completion of his prison term, Lim will be placed on three years of supervised release. He also must pay restitution, including $250,000 to the Department of Defense and nearly $125,000 to the IRS. In addition, he must pay a forfeiture money judgment of $490,262.
Lim is among 18 individuals and one corporation, Nova Datacom, LLC, to plead guilty to federal charges in an investigation that uncovered the largest domestic bribery and bid-rigging scheme in the history of federal contracting cases. Overall, participants in the scheme stole over $30 million in government money through inflated and fictitious invoices.
According to a statement of offense, signed by Lim as well as the government, Lim was a public official until April 2012. The charges involve his activities as an assistant project manager and product director with the Program Executive Office Enterprise Information Systems, a part of the Army that provides infrastructure and informational management systems.
Until June 2010, Lim resided and worked in Seoul, South Korea. While in South Korea, his primary duties were to oversee and implement communications systems upgrades for the U.S. forces there, which included approximately 10 communications centers and various other special projects at military sites throughout the country. Among other things, Lim coordinated work on a major contract, which, in turn, had numerous sub-contracts.
From June 2010 until his resignation in April 2012, Lim worked as a product director at Fort Belvoir, Va.
In the statement of offense, Lim admits that he secretly used his official position to enrich himself by soliciting and accepting gifts, payments and other things of value from government contractors – totaling more than $490,000 -- in return for favorable official action. Among other things, the statement of offense notes, Lim received payments personally and to accounts that he controlled; payments for travel, vacation, vehicles, cellphones and cellular service for himself and family members; ownership interests in two companies, and other benefits.
In exchange, Lim now admits, he provided favorable official action on subcontracts obtained and retained by the favored government contractors as requested and as opportunities arose. He also disclosed confidential bid information to the favored government contractors.
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“This Army official sold the public trust for a half-million dollars in bribes,” said U.S. Attorney Machen. “Lim is now headed to prison along with many other corrupt officials and government contractors brought down in this sweeping investigation. His fate is a warning shot for other government officials tempted to sell out the American people to line their own pockets that they should think twice. The prison sentences handed out in this case make clear that government officials and business people who corrupt the contracting process put their own freedom at risk.”
“In his role as a federal contracting officer, In Seon Lim betrayed the trust that was placed in him by fellow citizens by taking bribes in exchange for providing favorable action on government contracts,” said Assistant Director in Charge McCabe. “The FBI, with our partners, will continue to investigate and expose fraudulent kickback schemes that tarnish the good and ethical work that procurement officers carry out on behalf of the U.S. government each and every day.”
“The kickback scheme in which In Seon Lim participated disrespected the hard work and dedication of thousands of government employees who are committed to providing honest services in the federal contracting process,” said Special Agent in Charge Kelly. “IRS-Criminal Investigation stands committed to weeding out individuals, who abuse the privilege of their positions as a public official, for their personal gain.”
“Today’s sentencing is a reminder that public servants are accountable for their actions, and individuals who violate the public’s trust will be brought to justice,” said Small Business Administration Inspector General Gustafson. “The actions of In Seon Lim and his conspirators grossly undermine the honest work being done every day by Federal employees and government contractors. I want to thank the U.S. Attorney's Office for its dedicated leadership and professionalism in pursuit of justice served today.”
“As a contracting official for the Department of Defense, In Seon Lim disregarded his duty, lived a lie at the expense of the American taxpayers, and completely violated the trust placed in him by his position,” said Special Agent in Charge Craig. “The Defense Criminal Investigative Service and our law enforcement partners are fully committed to aggressively investigating and prosecuting this kind of illegal activity within the federal procurement process.”
“Mr. Lim admitted that he secretly used his official position to 'enrich himself' when committing these selfish criminal acts,” said Director Robey, of the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command's Major Procurement Fraud Unit. “That attitude and the related criminal actions will not be tolerated in the Department of the Army. Let this again be a warning to all who work with and for the U.S. Army: if you commit contract fraud, we will catch you and do everything within our power to see you brought to justice, just like Mr. Lim.”
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The court documents provide details about numerous contracts and payments. For example:
-Nova Datacom: According to the statement of offense, two former employees of the Northern Virginia company - Alex N. Cho, also known as Young N. Cho, and Nick Park - paid Lim $40,000 in cash in 2007. In addition, Park paid for Lim’s travel, lodging, meals and entertainment during a trip to the Philippines in 2007, and Cho paid for Lim’s lodging, $10,000 cash, and a $1,000 casino chip during a trip later that year to Las Vegas. Lim, meanwhile, agreed to use his official position to recommend the company for a contract valued at nearly $330,000.
-Avenciatech: According to the statement of offense, former officials of Avenciatech, Inc., a government contractor based in Annandale, Va., provided Lim with cash payments; payments for hotel stays for Lim and family members, including a trip to the Atlantis resort in the Bahamas; payments to finance the purchase of a 2010 Lexus automobile, and payments for other things of value. One of the officials, Oh Sung Kwon, also known as Thomas Kwon, also assisted Lim in obtaining financing for the purchase of a home in Fairfax Station, Va., where Lim resided following his reassignment in 2010 to a position at Fort Belvoir. Lim, meanwhile, assisted the company in obtaining more than $3 million in contracts.
-UEI:Nick Park left Nova Datacom in 2007 and co-founded another government contractor, Unisource Enterprise Inc. (UEI), based in Annandale, Va. According to the statement of offense, in exchange for favorable treatment, Lim was given a secret ownership in UEI. Among other things, Lim provided Park with sensitive procurement information. He also assisted the company in obtaining a government sub-contract worth over $1.1 million.
Cho, Park, and Kwon are among those who earlier pled guilty to charges in the case.
In addition to pleading guilty to the conspiracy and bribery charges, Lim admitted that he failed to report the bribes he received on tax returns for the years 2007 through 2011. He also failed to keep records that would allow him to file accurate records for 2012 and 2013.
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In announcing today’s sentence, U.S. Attorney Machen, U.S. Attorney Boente, Assistant Director in Charge McCabe, Special Agent in Charge Kelly, Inspector General Gustafson, Special Agent in Charge Craig, and Director Robey thanked those who investigated the case from the FBI’s Washington Field Office; the Washington Field Office of the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, the Office of the Inspector General for the Small Business Administration; the Department of Defense’s Defense Criminal Investigative Service; the Defense Contract Audit Agency, and the Army Criminal Investigation Command. They also expressed thanks to the U.S. Marshals Service for its assistance on the forfeiture matter.
They also praised the efforts of those who prosecuted the case, including Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael K. Atkinson of the Fraud and Public Corruption Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony Saler of the Asset Forfeiture and Money Laundering Section, of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack Hanly, of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia.
Finally, they expressed thanks for assistance provided by former Assistant U.S. Attorney Bryan Seeley; former Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Dana; Forensic Accountant Maria Boodoo; Paralegal Specialists Tasha Harris, Krishawn Graham, and Taryn McLaughlin; and Legal Assistant Jessica McCormick, all of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.
14-240
First RF Corporation Agrees to Pay $10 Million to Resolve False Claims Act AllegationsRead the Press Release
The Justice Department announced today that First RF Corporation (First RF), an antenna and radio system company located in Boulder, Colorado, has agreed to pay $10 million to settle allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by submitting inflated claims for electronic warfare antennas sold to the U.S. Army to combat Improvised Explosive Devices.
“Misrepresentations during contract negotiations undermine the integrity of the government procurement process,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Joyce R. Branda for the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “The Justice Department will take action where contractors make false statements to inflate the price of goods or services sold to the government.”
The settlement announced today resolves the United States’ investigation into First RF’s conduct in connection with a 2005 Army contract for the sale of electronic warfare antennas. Specifically, the United States alleged that First RF knowingly submitted false data to the Army that misrepresented First RF’s cost to manufacture the antennas, and thereby inflated the price for the antennas and the payments First RF received for them.
“When defense contractors supply our armed forces with equipment, those contractors must be absolutely truthful in their price negotiations,” said U.S. Attorney John Walsh for the District of Colorado. “It is no excuse for dishonesty that the military equipment was urgently needed. Defense contractors that fail to act with integrity in such negotiations should know that they will face consequences.”
“The Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS) is committed to ensuring the integrity of the Defense Department’s procurement process,” said Special Agent-in-Charge Janice M. Flores of the DCIS Southwest Field Office located in Arlington, Texas. “Contractors such as FRF are expected to comply with their statutory obligations and act in good faith when dealing with the U.S. government and this settlement demonstrates that companies will be held accountable for their actions.”
“Our men and women in uniform are putting their lives on the line daily around the world, and the U.S. Army relies heavily on the contracting process to bring the very best to our service men and women,” said Frank Robey, director of the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command’s Major Procurement Fraud Unit. “Shortchanging our troops or the American taxpayers in any way, shape or form will not be tolerated and we are committed to investigating all allegations of possible fraud or misrepresentation of costs with great interest.”
This settlement was the result of a coordinated effort by the Commercial Litigation Branch of the Justice Department’s Civil Division, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado and the Defense Criminal Investigative Service.
The claims resolved by this settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
Federal Jury Convicts Tarrant County Tax Preparers on Conspiracy, Tax and Wire Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
FORT WORTH, Texas — A federal jury in Fort Worth, Texas, has convicted a husband and wife on multiple felony offenses stemming from their operation of a tax return preparation business in Tarrant County, announced U.S. Attorney Sarah R. Saldaña of the Northern District of Texas. The trial began Monday morning before U.S. District Judge John McBryde.
Jacqueline Morrison and Gladstone Morrison, who operated Jacqueline Morrison & Associates (JMA) on North Collins in Arlington, Texas, and on James Street in Fort Worth, Texas, were convicted on all 18 counts of conspiracy, tax offenses and wire fraud as charged in a second superseding indictment returned by a federal grand jury in September 2014. Following the verdict late yesterday, Judge McBryde remanded them into federal custody.
The government presented evidence that Jacqueline, who is a Certified Public Accountant, and Gladstone Morrison conspired to willfully aid and assist in and advise the preparation and presentation to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) of false and fraudulent individual income tax returns.
Many of the tax returns were false and fraudulent because to increase client refunds, the returns claimed Schedule C business losses from income for which the Morrisons knew the taxpayers were not entitled. The Morrisons and JMA tax return preparers, who the Morrisons trained, would use the substantial losses reported on the false Schedules C to offset wage income, resulting in clients recovering all or most of their tax withholding. The Morrisons benefitted from this practice by charging higher fees for additional schedules, creating client loyalty and increasing their business through client referrals.
As part of the conspiracy, the Morrisons, according to evidence presented, developed a series of forms for the client to sign at the time the return was prepared. These forms were intended to protect the Morrisons by placing all the responsibility for any false information on the client, no matter how transparently implausible or unsubstantiated the information on the return.
During the time of the conspiracy, the Morrisons collected more than $2 million in fees from clients. They also attempted to profit by using JMA’s fraud to build a large client list, which they then leveraged into a lucrative franchise agreement with Express Tax Services, a subsidiary of H&R Block. However, after they entered the franchise agreement, the IRS terminated the Morrisons’ Electronic Filing Identification Numbers (EFINs) because of their fraudulent activities. To conceal that fact and perpetuate the continuation of the franchise agreement, the Morrisons provided Express Tax Services EFINs that belonged to a business associate.
Regarding the wire fraud offenses that occurred during the time of the conspiracy, the government presented evidence that the franchise agreement provided for the payment of $750,000 from Express Tax to the Morrisons. To secure the agreement, the Morrisons falsely represented to Express Tax that JMA was not under investigation, when in fact, they well knew JMA was the subject of a federal criminal investigation by IRS-Criminal Investigation.
Unbeknownst to Express Tax, the Morrisons entered into a separate agreement to sell JMA to an individual named V.H. Gladstone Morrison misled V.H. about the true nature of JMA’s relationship with Express Tax by telling V.H. that the arrangement was nothing more than a “co-branding” or “co-marketing” agreement.” Gladstone Morrison also tried to prevent Express Tax from learning they had executed an agreement to sell JMA to V.H. by falsely telling Express Tax that V.H. was only the Morrison’ office manager. By entering into parallel agreements with separate entities — Express Tax and V.H., the Morrisons received payments from both entities for the same asset.
When the Morrison’s agreements with both Express Tax and V.H. fell apart, they again tried to profit by selling JMA to RealTex Ventures LLC, owned by “D.A.” for $425,000. Again, the Morrisons represented that JMA was not under investigation, when it was.
Specifically, Jacqueline and Gladstone Morrison were each convicted on one count of conspiracy to aid and assist in the preparation and presentation of false and fraudulent tax returns. Jacqueline Gladstone was also convicted on 13 counts, and Gladstone Morrison on 12 counts, of aiding and assisting in the preparation and presentation of false and fraudulent tax returns. Jacqueline was convicted on three counts, and Gladstone on four counts, of wire fraud.
The conspiracy count carries a maximum statutory penalty of five years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine. Each count of aiding and assisting in the preparation and presentation of a false and fraudulent return carries a maximum statutory penalty of three years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine. Each count of wire fraud carries a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine. Restitution could also be ordered. Sentencing is set for February 6, 2015, before Judge McBryde.
The case was investigated by IRS Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Douglas Allen and Chris Wolfe are prosecuting.
Federal Grand Jury Indicts Three in Alleged Sex Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE, R.I. – A federal grand jury in Providence returned a seven-count indictment on Thursday charging three individuals with allegedly participating in a conspiracy to traffic young females from Boston to Rhode Island with the intent to force them to participate in commercial sexual activity, announced United States Attorney Peter F. Neronha; Vincent B. Lisi, Special Agent in Charge of the Boston field office of the FBI; Pawtucket Police Chief Paul King; Colonel Steven G. O’DonnellSuperintendent of the Rhode Island State Police; United States Marshal Jamie A. Hainsworth; and Arlington, Mass., Police Chief Frederick Ryan.
According to the indictment, it is alleged that on separate occasions between August 18, 2014, and August 25, 2014, Ricky Wallace, a/k/a Justice, 33, of Pawtucket, recruited two females, one of them under the age of 17, at the direction of Kemont Bowie, a/k/a Daddy, 34, of Providence, and, along with Raechyl Spooner, a/k/a Kitty, 20, of Pawtucket, against the will of the females, drove them to Spooner’s Pawtucket residence where they were forced into prostitution.
The indictment charges Wallace and Bowie with conspiracy; sex trafficking of a child; transportation of a minor for sexual activity; sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion; and transportation an individual for prostitution. Additionally, the indictment charges Spooner with conspiracy.
Arraignment dates have not yet been scheduled by the court.
Ricky Wallace was arrested on August 29, 2014, on a bench warrant issued from the Providence Superior Court, and is detained at the ACI; Kemont Bowie was charged in this matter by way of a federal criminal complaint and arrested on August 26, 2014, and is detained in federal custody; Raechyl Spooner will be summonsed to appear in federal court for arraignment.
The cases are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Pamela E. Chin.
The ongoing investigation is being conducted by the FBI, United States Marshals Service, Rhode Island State Police, Pawtucket Police and the Arlington, Mass. Police Department.
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[email protected]Federal Court Sentences Former University of Iowa Hospital Employee on Mail Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA - On October 23, 2014, Jennifer Robyn Whitmore-Meier, age 37, of Avon, Colorado, was sentenced by United States Chief District Court Judge James E. Gritzner to three years of probation, after pleading guilty to three counts of mail fraud, announced United States Attorney Nicholas A. Klinefeldt. Whitmore-Meier was also ordered to pay $300 to the Crime Victim Fund and restitution.
Whitmore-Meier worked for the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics as an IT consultant from 2002 to 2011. Between February 8, 2003, and November 2, 2011, Whitmore-Meier purchased at least 567 items with University funds without approval or notice by the University, and then sold the items on eBay for gross proceeds of $122,374.87. Whitmore-Meier also used University funds to pay for accessories, shipping materials, and shipping costs affiliated with the items that she sold on eBay and also used University funds for personal eBay purchases. Over this same time period, Whitmore-Meier electronically transferred $118,553 in proceeds to her personal bank account. Whitmore-Meier admitted that she acted with the intent to defraud in executing this scheme.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the State of Iowa Auditor's Office. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
(Download Press Release)
Fairbanks Man Indicted for Child Exploitation CrimesRead the Press Release
Anchorage, Alaska – United States Attorney Karen L. Loeffler announced today that a federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment against Clint Michael Landry, 57, of Fairbanks, Alaska, charging him with attempted production of child pornography, and attempted coercion and enticement of a minor.
According to court documents, between May 18, 2014, and May 19, 2014, Landry attempted to coerce a minor into engaging in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of that conduct.
The case was the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Kyle Reardon is prosecuting the case.
If convicted of attempted production of child pornography, Landry faces a maximum statutory penalty of not less than 15 and up to 30 years imprisonment. If convicted of attempted coercion and enticement, Landry faces a maximum statutory penalty of not less than 10 years and up to life. Both counts carry fines of up to $250,000, as well as the possibility of a lifetime period of supervised release following any sentence of imprisonment. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This prosecution is part of the Department of Justice’s ongoing Project Safe Childhood (PSC) initiative which was launched to increase federal prosecutions of sexual predators of children, and to reduce the number of Internet crimes against children including child pornography trafficking. As a part of PSC, the United States Attorney’s Office has teamed with state and local agencies and organizations to increase law enforcement presence on the Internet, and to educate the public about safe Internet use, thereby reducing the risk that children might fall prey to online sexual predators. For additional information on the PSC initiative, please go to www.projectsafechildhood.gov or call the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Alaska.
El Paso Man Sentenced to over 17 Years for Online Enticement of A MinorRead the Press Release
Brunswick, GA: Aaron Flores, 26, of El Paso, Texas, who was more recently stationed at Kings Bay, Georgia, was sentenced earlier this week by United States District Court Chief Judge Lisa Godbey Wood to over 17 years in prison, followed by 20 years of supervised release, for the Online Enticement of a Minor to Engage in Sexual Activity. He will also be required to register as a sex offender. Flores pled guilty to the crime on May 20, 2014.
United States Attorney Edward Tarver said, “The defendant’s predatory behavior warrants the significant sentence imposed. The U. S. Attorney’s Office aggressively prosecutes individuals, like this defendant, who are involved in such destructive acts towards our children.”
Evidence presented during the guilty plea and sentencing hearings revealed that Flores, then 25, but posing as a 15-year-old on a social media profile page, engaged in numerous online communications through “Tagged.com” and “Kik” in an effort to meet with minors to engage in illicit sexual conduct, and to receive illicit images from the minors. In early September 2013, Flores contacted a 13-year-old girl living in Camden County and, through a series of chats, convinced her to sneak out of her home during the night and travel with him to his on-base apartment to engage in sexual activity. A short time later, a concerned neighbor alerted the girl’s parents that the girl had snuck out, which led to law enforcement involvement. Images and chats on Flores’s phone, as well as further investigative efforts in other jurisdictions, revealed efforts to solicit other minors. The Court cited to Flores’s “ruinous acts” of sneaking a 13-year-old girl onto a military base and engaging in oral sex in support of the lengthy sentence.
This prosecution was the result of a cooperative investigation conducted by the U. S. Naval Criminal Investigative Service, Kingsland Police Department, and St. Mary’s Police Department. Assistance was also provided by the Denver Police Department and Royal Canadian Mounted Police. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, which is a nationwide U. S. Department of Justice initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims.
Assistant United States Attorney Nancy Greenwood, Deputy Criminal Chief and Project Safe Childhood Coordinator, prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. For additional information, please contact First Assistant United States Attorney James D. Durham at (912) 201-2547.
Doctor Charged with Illegally Writing Prescriptions for Addictive Narcotics and Laundering Proceeds of His Drug DealingRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – A San Gabriel Valley doctor has pleaded not guilty to federal drug trafficking charges that allege he illegally distributed drugs that include the powerful and addictive painkiller oxycodone.
Dr. Daniel Cham, 47, was arraigned on a 31-count indictment late Thursday afternoon, at which time a trial was scheduled for December 16. Cham was arrested Wednesday afternoon at his residence in Covina. At yesterday’s arraignment, bond was set at $140,000, and Cham was ordered to serve home detention while free on bond and was prohibited from practicing medicine.
The indictment, which was returned by a federal grand jury on October 7 and unsealed when the defendant was arrested, charges Cham with drug trafficking, money laundering, fraud and making false statements to federal authorities. The indictment focuses on prescriptions Cham wrote at various locations, including his medical offices in La Puente and Artesia. The drugs involved in the allegedly illegal prescriptions include oxycodone (a powerful narcotic painkiller best known under the brand name OxyContin), hydrocodone (a narcotic painkiller often sold under the brand names Vicodin and Norco), alprazolam (commonly known by the brand name Xanax), and carisoprodol (as muscle relaxer best known as Soma).
“The problem of pharmaceuticals being diverted to the black market continues to grow, which feeds drug addiction and leads to additional criminal acts by addicts,” said Acting United States Attorney Stephanie Yonekura. “Unscrupulous doctors who prescribe controlled substances without a legitimate medical purpose are simply fueling a black market of narcotics. These doctors are the same as street dealers who face lengthy sentences in federal prison.”
In May 2014, investigators executed federal search warrants at 13 locations, including Cham’s residence and medical offices. According to the affidavit in support of the search warrants, which was unsealed at Cham’s arraignment, the doctor often saw patients between 8 p.m. and 2 a.m. on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, and he post-dated prescriptions to make them appear to have been written on weekdays. In the year that ended in March 2014, Cham issued more than 5,500 prescriptions for controlled substances – primarily for oxycodone, hydrocodone, alprazolam and carisoprodol – and he issued more than 42,000 such prescriptions since July 2010, according to the affidavit.
The affidavit also discussed how an undercover officer made three visits to Cham’s La Puente office earlier this year, and how Cham wrote prescriptions for controlled substances in exchange for $200 or $300 in cash or money orders. As discussed in the affidavit, Cham issued a prescription for oxycodone even though the undercover operative said he “had been high and drunk while receiving controlled substance prescriptions” previously from Cham. On another occasion, Cham prescribed oxycodone even though the undercover law enforcement officer presented, in lieu of photo identification, a written notice that his license had been suspended for driving under the influence.
“Daniel Cham's arrest sends a clear message to doctors who violate their sworn public duty by selling prescriptions for highly addictive opioids – the DEA will shut down your operation and put you behind bars,” said Anthony D. Williams, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA’s Los Angeles Field Division. “Along with our law enforcement partners, we continue to aggressively target medical professionals who act as drug traffickers cloaked in a white lab coat.”
In addition to counts related to the undercover operation, the indictment charges Cham with fraudulently issuing prescriptions for controlled substances to Tracy Townsend, who used at least five false identities. Townsend, 51, of Studio City, is also charged in the indictment, but his whereabouts are currently unknown.
An investigation by IRS - Criminal Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Financial Investigation Group showed that Cham used at least four bank accounts to launder the proceeds of his illegal prescriptions. The indictment charges Cham with concealing proceeds derived from the undercover visits by depositing them into an account held in the name of a separate business.
An indictment contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
If convicted of the 31 counts in the indictment, Cham would face a statutory maximum sentence of 339 years in federal prison.
The investigation into Cham was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, IRS - Criminal Investigation, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Health Authority Law Enforcement Task Force, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the California Medical Board and the Los Angeles Police Department.
Release No. 14-139
Dix Hills Man Sentenced to Twenty-Five Years’ Imprisonment for Child ExploitationRead the Press Release
Earlier today, Thomas J. Carey, Jr., a 36-year-old Dix Hills resident, was sentenced to a term of imprisonment of twenty-five years and lifetime supervised release following his conviction for sexual exploitation of a child. The proceeding was held before United States District Judge Denis R. Hurley at the United States Courthouse in Central Islip, New York.
The sentence was announced by Loretta E. Lynch, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, and James T. Hayes, Jr., Special Agent-in-Charge, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), New York.
Carey was arrested in June 2009, after HSI agents obtained a search warrant for his residence based upon a lead from the Swiss National Police and Interpol. Computer equipment and digital cameras belonging to Carey which were seized pursuant to that warrant contained 161 images of Carey molesting the minor victim between 2007 and 2009, when the victim was 8 to 10 years old.
“This sentence is fitting for a predator who destroyed the innocence of an eight-year-old child,” stated United States Attorney Lynch. “This sentence stands as a strong warning to those who would abuse children that we will prosecute them to the full extent of the law.” Ms. Lynch expressed her grateful appreciation to Homeland Security Investigations for its assistance in this case.
The government’s case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Allen Bode.
The Defendant:
THOMAS J. CAREY, JR.
Dix Hills, New York
Age: 36
District Woman Sentenced to Four Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
For Death of Her Infant Son
Defendant Admitted Drug Use, Also Pled Guilty to Insurance FraudWASHINGTON – Tisheena Louise Brown, 32, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced today to four years in prison on a charge of voluntary manslaughter in the death last year of her seven-week-old son, U.S. Attorney Ronald C. Machen Jr. announced.
In a related matter, Brown was sentenced to three months in prison on a charge of second-degree insurance fraud. That sentence will run concurrently with the manslaughter term.
Brown pled guilty to both charges in May 2014 in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. She was sentenced by the Honorable Lynn Leibovitz. Upon completion of her prison term, Brown will be placed on five years of supervised release. Judge Leibovitz ordered that Brown receive mental health treatment and drug treatment while she is incarcerated and then while she is on supervised release.
According to a proffer of facts presented at the plea hearing, Brown has a history of prescription drug abuse, which began in 2007 or 2008. Her reported prescription drugs of choice were Percocet (Oxycodone) and Dilaudid (Hydromorphone), both of which are Schedule II controlled prescription drugs. She also used Promethazine (a non-controlled prescription drug).
Brown admitted frequenting local hospitals in an effort to unlawfully obtain drug prescriptions (including Oxycodone, Dilaudid, and Promethazine) while using fraudulent identifiers. She would also go to multiple hospitals, using her own name and obtaining prescriptions, which would then be filled and paid by Medicaid. While using her own name, Brown secured prescriptions for drugs without advising the doctor that she had obtained the same prescription on the same date for the same medicine from another doctor and hospital. When purchasing her drugs, she used Medicaid to pay for the drugs.
In a four-month period from September 2013 through December of 2013, Brown had over 1,700 pills prescribed to her from a variety of doctors.
On Sept. 17, 2013, Brown was at her home in the 2900 block of Akron Place SE. She reported that, around 10:30 p.m., her seven-week old son, Hakeem, was fussy and so she provided him Promethazine, a drug which had been prescribed for her. She provided the infant with this drug even though the label warned that it was not to be administered to children under the age of two. Sometime after 2 a.m., on Sept. 18, 2013, Brown looked over at her son and noticed that he was “blue and wasn’t breathing.” She then called 911. The District of Columbia Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department arrived at her home, where they found the infant unconscious and not breathing. Hakeem was taken by ambulance to a hospital, and pronounced dead at about 3:20 a.m. Brown initially told police the only thing she gave her son was an “over the counter” gas relief medication, which was not true.
On Sept. 19, 2013, the District of Columbia’s Office of the Chief Medical Examiner conducted an autopsy. The cause of death was ruled a homicide and the manner of death was a lethal dose of Promethazine. In October 2013, the D.C. Office of the Chief Medical Examiner’s Forensic Toxicology Unit determined that the autopsy drug screen was positive for Promethazine. Promethazine, commonly referred to by the brand name Phenergan, is a non-controlled prescription medication which is prescribed for allergy, motion sickness, nausea, vomiting, nighttime sedation, pain relief following surgery, and to help certain narcotic pain relievers work better. It is prescribed with the warning that it should not be used in children younger than two years old because it may cause serious (possibly fatal) slow/shallow breathing.
Brown has been in custody since her arrest in January 2014.
In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Machen commended the work of the detectives, officers, and others who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department, as well as an agent from the FBI who assisted with investigation of the insurance fraud. He also expressed appreciation to the District of Columbia Office of the Medical Examiner and the District of Columbia Department of Forensic Sciences for assistance in the investigation. Finally, he acknowledged the efforts of those who worked on the case from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, including Paralegal Specialists Kelly Blakeney and Mia Beamon, Victim/Witness Advocate Marcia Rinker, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Cynthia G. Wright, who prosecuted the case.
14-242District Man Sentenced to 20 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
For Attacking Woman Inside Her Northwest Washington Home
-Defendant Approached Victim as She Was Locking Outside Security Gate-WASHINGTON – Omar Rimmer, 39, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced today to 20 years in prison for an early-morning attack in which he forced his way into a woman’s residence and attempted to sexually assault her, U.S. Attorney Ronald C. Machen Jr. announced.
Rimmer was found guilty by a jury in August 2014 of assault with intent to commit first-degree sexual assault, attempted first-degree sexual assault, first-degree burglary, and kidnapping. The verdict followed a trial in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. He was sentenced by the Honorable Russell F. Canan. Upon completion of his prison term, Rimmer will be placed on 10 years of supervised release. He also must register as a sex offender for the rest of his life.
According to the government’s evidence, on Feb. 5, 2011, at about 3:15 a.m., the victim was walking home in the 500 block of Florida Avenue NW. Rimmer approached her from behind and began making small talk. When she reached her home, Rimmer continued walking. The victim unlocked the security gate and door. When she turned to close the security gate, Rimmer reappeared and asked the victim if he knew her. She did not.
As the victim turned the key to lock the security gate, Rimmer pulled the gate open, breaking the key off in the lock. Rimmer then forced his way inside the residence and pushed the victim to the floor. He got on top of the victim and began choking her while trying to remove her clothing. The victim was able to scream her male roommate’s name, which caused Rimmer to hesitate. The victim seized that opportunity to escape and lock herself in an upstairs bathroom and call 911.
In his haste to flee, Rimmer left behind a cigarette butt and a scarf inside the residence. These items contained his DNA, which led to his arrest.
In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Machen commended the work performed by those who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department. He also acknowledged the efforts of those who handled the case for the U.S. Attorney’s Office, including Victim/Witness Advocate Elsa Resendiz; Criminal Investigator Nelson Rhone; Paralegal Specialist Jason Manuel; David Foster and La June Thames, of the Victim/Witness Assistance Unit; and Information Technology Specialist Anisha Bhatia. Finally, he praised the work of Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeff T. Cook, who investigated and prosecuted the matter.
14-243Des Plaines Man Sentenced to More Than 17½ Years in Federal Prison for Murder-For-Hire of Estranged Wife and Her FriendsRead the Press Release
CHICAGO — A former Des Plaines man who solicited two undercover law enforcement officers to kill his estranged wife and her friends was sentenced today to 17 years and 7 months in federal prison. The defendant, ZENON GRZEGORCZYK, has been in federal custody since he was arrested and charged in May 2012, following an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. He pleaded guilty this past July in U.S. District Court.
Grzegorczyk, 51, was sentenced to serve 151 months in prison for murder-for-hire, consecutive to 60 months for possession of a firearm while arranging the murders. He must serve at least 85 percent of his 211-month sentence and there is no parole.
“Other than actually committing the murders, it doesn’t get much more serious than this,” U.S. District Judge Elaine Bucklo said in imposing the sentence.
Grzegorczyk’s conduct posed a real risk to several potential victims and to the community at large, Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennie H. Levin and Matthew M. Schneider argued at sentencing. Grzegorczyk met with undercover officers on three occasions in April and May 2012 to discuss the murder of his estranged wife and her friends. Initially, Grzegorczyk met with the officers to discuss the sale and shipment of firearms to Poland when he turned the conversation to murder-for-hire.
Grzegorczyk told the officers that he wanted the proposed victims to be burned alive and said, “grab them, go some quiet place ― then burn them. Believe me, I want to see those faces, I want to see those faces ― but can’t”
Later, Grzegorczyk showed the officers several photos of intended victims and said he was willing to pay $5,000 for each person killed. He then identified the address of his estranged wife’s residence and told the officers that they should conduct surveillance because the intended victims spent time there. He said the number of victims could change depending on who was present because he did not want any witnesses, and he agreed to pay them a $3,000 deposit for the murders.
At their third meeting, Grzegorczyk gave the officers several additional photos of intended victims and opened a brief case containing $45,000 in cash and a 9mm semi-automatic handgun with two magazines of ammunition. Grzegorczyk said that he intended to leave for Poland in early June.
The sentence was announced today by Zachary T. Fardon, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Carl J. Vasilko, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Office of ATF.
Deli Shop Worker Pleads Guilty to Food Stamp FraudRead the Press Release
Buffalo, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney William J. Hochul, Jr., announced today that Nasser Ali Ghanem, 34 of Buffalo, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Court Judge Richard J. Arcara, to unauthorized acquisition of food stamp benefits. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo, who is handling the case, stated that the defendant participated in the operation of a deli shop known as Hollywood Nights Prime Shop on Jefferson Avenue in Buffalo. From October 2008 through January 2011, Ghanem purchased food stamp benefits from food stamp recipients for cash at less than their full value. The total loss amount to the United States Department of Agriculture is estimated at $67,139.00.
Sentencing is scheduled for February 26, 2015 at 1:00 p.m. before Judge Arcara.
The plea was the culmination of an investigation on the part of Special Agents of the United States Department of Agriculture, Office of Inspector General, under the direction of William G. Squires Jr., Special Agent in Charge, Northeast Region.Delaware, Ohio Man Sentenced to 180 Months for Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, OHIO – Jeremy L. Wallace, 38, of Delaware, Ohio was sentenced in U.S. District Court to 180 months in prison and lifetime supervised release for producing child pornography.
Carter M. Stewart, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio and Christopher White, Assistant Inspector in Charge, U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) announced the sentence handed down today by U.S. District Court Judge Algenon L. Marbley.
According to court documents, Wallace caused the creation of videos and images of a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Between August and September 2013, Wallace met a minor female on a social networking site and communicated with her via KIK messenger and Skype. He coerced the victim to send him numerous images and videos of her engaged in sexually explicit activity.
Investigators discovered hundreds of child pornography files and online sexual communications on Wallace’s computer.
“The forensic analysis of the defendant’s computer revealed that the defendant’s communications progressed to outright coercion and manipulation,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Hill told the court. “The defendant consistently urged the victim to engage in sexually explicit acts, directed her to engage in specific acts and made promises or threats of what he would do if she did or did not comply with his directions.”
Wallace pleaded guilty on January 29 to one count of production of child pornography. Wallace has been in custody since his arrest.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov/.
U.S. Attorney Stewart commended the investigation by the USPIS, as well as Assistant United States Attorney Heather Hill, who is representing the United States in this case.
Dallas Woman Sentenced to 41 Months in Prison for Cocaine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. –United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced today that a Dallas woman was sentenced to 41 months in prison for her role in a cocaine conspiracy in Northwest Louisiana and Texas.
Ericka M. Ruffins, 41, of Dallas, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Elizabeth E. Foote for one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine. She was also sentenced to three years of supervised release. According to evidence presented at the June 12, 2014 guilty plea, Ruffins would transport cocaine for co-defendant Renando Johnson from Dallas to Shreveport for distribution in the Shreveport area. Ruffins was recorded in early 2013 discussing cocaine transactions and plans to transport cocaine. The investigation also revealed that Renando Johnson obtained 4 to 6 ounces of powder cocaine from Ruffins a week. It is estimated that she delivered approximately 1.7 kilos of powder cocaine from January to May of 2013.
Ruffins is the last of six defendants to be sentenced in this case. Renando Johnson was sentenced to 38 months in prison, Elijah Johnson was sentenced to 42 months in prison, Emmitt Williams IV was sentenced to 24 months in prison, and Eady J. Horton was sentenced to time served for one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine in June and July of 2014. Tracy Russell was sentenced to 15 months in prison on June 13, 2014 for one count of unlawful use of a communication facility. They were all sentenced to three years of supervised release.
The defendants were arrested as part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) Operation code named “Hustle Hard.” The DEA, Louisiana State Police, Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office, Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office, DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office, Shreveport Police Department and Bossier City Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney James G. Cowles Jr. prosecuted 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 disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations, and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets.
Coos County Tax Protestors Convicted of Tax CrimesRead the Press Release
EUGENE, Ore. – Amanda Marshall, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon, announced that a federal jury in Eugene, Oregon has returned verdicts convicting Ronald Joling, 71, and Dorothea Joling, 72, both of Coquille, Oregon, of federal criminal tax violations. Ronald Joling was found guilty of conspiracy to defraud the United States by obstructing the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), tax evasion, and filing false income tax returns. Dorothea Joling was likewise convicted of conspiracy to defraud the United States by obstructing the IRS. Chief U.S. District Judge Ann Aiken presided over the trial and will sentence the Jolings on February 11, 2015.
U.S. Attorney Marshall noted, “Most citizens pay their taxes as part of being responsible members of society. When people like the Jolings refuse to pay their fair share, and then threaten, harass, and file liens against people who are just trying to do their jobs, my office will aggressively prosecute them and work with the IRS to hold them accountable.”
Evidence at trial detailed the Jolings’ illegal efforts over close to twenty years to keep the IRS and the Oregon Department of Revenue from collecting almost $2 million they owed in back taxes, penalties and interest. The Jolings’ efforts to thwart the IRS included their use of sham trusts, a corporation, sole bank accounts in the names of nominees, a warehouse bank, bogus money orders, bills of exchange, bonds, and filing false tax returns with the IRS. When those efforts failed, the Jolings resorted to intimidation tactics and threats. Witnesses testified that in response to attempts to collect taxes owed, the Jolings threatened them with arrest, criminal prosecution and lawsuits. In one instance, the Jolings took out a newspaper advertisement in the Coquille Valley Sentinel accusing a local government employee of malfeasance just for performing her job. The Jolings also filed retaliatory bogus liens against federal judges, the federal court clerk’s office, and federal prosecutors who were involved in the criminal case.
Rather than pay their taxes, the Jolings spent about $750,000 on a motel and restaurant in Coquille and tracts of land in Linn County. They attempted to conceal their interest in these properties from the IRS by placing them in sham trusts.
“Every American who pays his or her taxes is harmed by those who use abusive trusts and other schemes to avoid paying their fair share,” said Special Agent in Charge Teri Alexander, IRS Criminal Investigation. “We owe it to every American taxpayer to use all lawful means to identify and prosecute those who evade their taxes.”
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Scott E. Bradford and Chris Cardani.
Columbia Violent Gangs Task Force Arrests 24 Gang Cocaine SuppliersRead the Press Release
Contact Person: JD Rowell (803) 929-3000
Columbia, South Carolina ---- Twenty four (24) defendants made initial appearances in Federal Court today on Indictments charging them with conspiracy to traffic cocaine/crack cocaine and money laundering offenses based on those defendants supplying local street gangs with illegal drugs. The defendants were arrested over the past two days by members of the Columbia Violent Gangs Task Force. The investigation began in early 2013, and has continued up through the arrests yesterday and today.
U.S. Attorney Bill Nettles said, “The aim of the Violent Gangs Task Force is to take the criminal network out of operation – from the top supplier to the street corner operative - and in so doing hand the streets back over to the law-abiding citizens. These kinds of cases take time to build and FBI Special Agent Dave Thomas and I want to thank the law enforcement agencies that worked to put the case together, particularly the City of Columbia Police Department, Richland County Sheriff’s Department and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, for the time put in.”
Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge David Thomas stated, “Dismantling violent gangs is a continuing priority for the FBI. We share a long commitment with our law enforcement partners to address the dangerous threat facing our communities today. The arrests demonstrate our focus and determination to strike at gang related enterprises and to eliminate the terror these groups inflict on our neighborhoods.”
This case is being investigated by the Columbia Violent Gangs Task Force (CVGTF), led by agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The CVGTF is part of the FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force initiative. The CVGTF is an investigative and enforcement partnership between the FBI, Richland County Sheriff’s Department (RCSD), Columbia Police Department (CPD), and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED).Archie Indictment
Alexander Indictment
Colorado Man Charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute A Controlled SubstanceRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that an Aurora, Colorado, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance.
Nathan Van Weeda, age 43, was indicted on October 15, 2014. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on October 15, 2014, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 years in custody and/or a $1,000,000 fine, a mandatory 3 years up to life of supervised release, and $200 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on or about October 1, 2014, Weeda knowingly and intentionally distributed and possessed with intent to distribute a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, and marijuana, a Schedule I controlled substance.The charges are merely an accusation and Weeda is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the South Dakota Highway Patrol and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller is prosecuting the case.
Weeda was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Chillicothe Man Pleads Guilty to Bank Embezzlement and to Filing False Income Tax Returns with the IRSRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, OHIO – Joseph P. Molnar, 50, of Chillicothe, Ohio, pleaded guilty one count of embezzlement from a financial institution and to one count of willfully filing a false federal income tax return with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Molnar faces a maximum prison term of 30 years and a fine of up to $1,000,000.
Carter M. Stewart, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, Kathy A. Enstrom, Special Agent in Charge, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Cincinnati Field Office, and Kevin R. Cornelius, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Cincinnati Field Division, announced the guilty plea entered before U.S. District Judge Algenon L. Marbley.
According to court documents, between July 2005 and July 2012 Joseph Molnar was an employee of Huntington National Bank. Specifically, Molnar was a Managing Director for a Huntington subsidiary, Huntington Community Development Corporation. Molnar misapplied and embezzled approximately $4,076,189.44 of Huntington National Bank’s funds by falsely representing that he was paying “placement fees” or “advisory fees” for property management companies as part of several affordable housing property deals that had closed with Huntington National Bank. Instead, Molnar withdrew the funds under false pretenses and placed that money into his own accounts for his own personal use.
In addition, Molnar omitted these funds as income on his own income tax returns. Molnar filed a false income tax return with the IRS for the 2009 income tax year by falsely stating that he had an adjusted gross income of $94,358, when in actuality his income was approximately $1,226,103.16.
For 2008 through 2012 income tax years, Molnar underreported his income by a combined total of $3,054,064.44, which has resulted in total tax due and owing in the amount of approximately $987,011.66 to the IRS.
Molnar was release on bond pending his sentencing, for which a date was not set.
“The FBI is committed to identifying and holding accountable those executives and employees of federally insured financial institutions who violate their fiduciary responsibilities and illegally divert the trusted deposits of America's banking customers for their own personal use,” said Kevin R. Cornelius, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Cincinnati Field Division.
“This investigation uncovered a multi-million dollar embezzlement scheme laced with a web of financial lies.” said Kathy A. Enstrom, Special Agent in Charges, IRS Criminal Investigation, Cincinnati Field Office. “If you are thinking about participating in a fraudulent tax scheme, including failing to report all forms of income, you should stop in your tracks and simply look at the consequences of taking the next step.”
U.S. Attorney Stewart commended the investigation by the IRS and FBI, Assistant United States Attorneys Daniel A. Brown and Laura M. Fulton, who are prosecuting this case.Cedar Rapids Businessman IndictedRead the Press Release
William B. Aossey, Jr., 73, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, has been charged with one count of conspiracy to make false statements, sell misbranded meat, and commit mail and wire fraud; seven counts of making or causing false statements to be made on export applications; seven counts of wire fraud; three counts of money laundering; and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering. The charges are contained in an Indictment filed last evening in United States District Court in Cedar Rapids. The indictment also contains two forfeiture allegations for proceeds and property involved in some of the offenses.
The conspiracy charge is punishable by up to five years imprisonment; each count of making a false statement on an export application is punishable by up to three years imprisonment; each count of wire fraud is punishable by up to twenty years imprisonment; and each count of money laundering, including the money laundering conspiracy, is punishable by up to twenty years imprisonment. A fine of up to $250,000 may also be imposed on each count, along with a term of supervised release.
As with any criminal case, a charge is merely an accusation and a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Richard L. Murphy and was investigated by the Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General, and the Internal Revenue Service.
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 14-CR-00116-LRR.
Canistota Woman Sentenced for Tax FraudRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Veronica Fairchild, age 42, of Canistota, South Dakota, and Okaboji, Iowa, who was previously found guilty of four counts of tax fraud, was sentenced on October 22, 2014.
Fairchild was sentenced to 33 months in custody and ordered to pay over $214,000 in restitution to the U.S. Department of Treasury, Internal Revenue Service, for unpaid taxes.
Fairchild was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 9, 2013. The investigation stemmed from Fairchild’s late filing of her 2005 through 2008 income tax returns in 2010. Bank records revealed she had failed to claim over $850,000 in income over the four-year period of time. Fairchild claimed the unreported income she received from performing private shows as an exotic dancer was a gift.
A jury trial commenced in Sioux Falls on June 24, 2014, and completed on June 26, 2014, with the jury convicting Fairchild on all four counts of the Indictment.
“The sentenced handed down in this case should make things very clear. No matter your rationale and no matter what you do for a living, if you evade paying your fair share of taxes, you’ll face the consequences,” said U. S. Attorney Johnson.
“IRS Criminal Investigation is diligent when it comes to enforcing the laws directed at those who attempt to defraud our nation’s tax system," said Karl Stiften, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the St. Paul Field Office. “The sentence of 33 months in a federal prison shows how seriously the courts take federal tax crimes. Together with the Department of Justice, we will continue to investigate and prosecute those who violate our tax system.”
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
Fairchild will self-report to the U.S. Marshals Service in November of 2014 to begin serving her sentence.
California Man Charged with Identity Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office announced the return of an indictment yesterday by a federal grand jury in Williamsport charging Phil Nguyen of Garden Grove, California, with aggravated identity theft, and related offenses, in connection with a scheme to fraudulently obtain luxury wrist watches from jewelry stores in State College, Pennsylvania, and in New York, New Jersey, and Nevada.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, the indictment alleges that from January 2014 through July 20, 2014, Nguyen used counterfeit California driver’s licenses in the names of other persons to purchase and attempt to purchase Rolex and Omega watches from Kranich’s Jewelers in State College and four other jewelry stores in Orchard Park, New York, Marlton and Wayne, New Jersey, and Las Vegas, Nevada. According to the indictment, Nguyen also used counterfeit California driver’s licenses and fraudulent credit cards in submitting on-line credit applications to Wells Fargo, GE Capital Retail Bank, and TD Bank to pay for the watches.
Nguyen, age 67, faces a combined maximum penalty of 67 years in prison, a fine of $2.25 million, and a supervised release term of five years.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of the Patton Township Police Department and the Centre County District Attorney’s Office. Prosecution is assigned to Assistant United States Attorney George J. Rocktashel.
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.
Brunswick Man Sentenced Prison for Theft of Social Security and Medicare BenefitRead the Press Release
Brunswick, GA: Jerry Barnett, 64, of Brunswick, Georgia, was sentenced this week by United States District Court Chief Judge Lisa Godbey Wood to serve 5 months in prison and 5 months’ house arrest, to repay $82,864 in stolen proceeds, and to forfeit an additional $75,000 after earlier pleading guilty to stealing just over $82,000 in Social Security and Medicare benefits.
According to evidence presented at the guilty plea and sentencing hearings, Barnett was deemed unable to work and approved to receive disability benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA) in 2005. Barnett returned to work in May 2007, however, and concealed his employment income from SSA by accepting payment in his spouse’s name. When offered an opportunity to correct his status in March 2013, Barnett falsely denied he had any employment income and certified that he remained unable to work. From May 2007 until October 2013, Barnett wrongfully collected $75,161 in disability payments and $7,703.18 in Medicare benefits. As part of his sentence, Barnett was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $82,864.18 to the SSA and Medicare. In addition to restitution, the Court ordered Barnett to forfeit another $75,000.00 to the U. S. Government.
United States Attorney Edward Tarver stated, “Federal benefits programs are meant to help those who are truly in need. Our Office will continue to aggressively prosecute federal program fraud to recover the taxpayers’ money and ensure it is put to its proper use.”
Thomas Caul, Special Agent in Charge for the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General, Atlanta Field Division (Southeast), said, “The Office of the Inspector General has no higher priority than the investigation and prosecution of those who violate the public trust. I’m grateful that the U. S. Attorney’s Office shares our determination to ensure the integrity of SSA’s programs.”
The case was investigated jointly by the Office of the Inspector General for the Social Security Administration and the Office of the Inspector General for Health and Human Services. Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer G. Solari prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. For additional information, please contact First Assistant United States Attorney James D. Durham at (912) 201-2547.
Albion Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine OffenseRead the Press Release
Follow @SDILNewsDillion Wayne Bailey, 30, of Albion, Illinois, pled guilty today in United States District Court in Benton to an indictment charging him with one count of possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois. The indictment, returned by a Federal Grand Jury on July 8th, alleged that the offense occurred on June 13th in White County. The charges stemmed from a traffic stop conducted by the Grayville Police Department during which Bailey was found to be in possession of 2 ounces of crystal methamphetamine, digital scales, drug packaging material, and several glass pipes used to smoke methamphetamine. Bailey was also in possession of $2131 in cash.
Sentencing was set for February 18, 2015, at 1:30 p.m. at the United States Courthouse in Benton. At that time, Bailey faces up to 20 years in federal prison, a $1 million fine, and 3 years to life on supervised release following his incarceration.
Bailey has been held without bond in the custody of the United States Marshal since his arrest on federal charges in July. He was returned to the custody of the Marshal to await sentencing.
The case was investigated by the Carmi office of the Southern Illinois Drug Task Force and the Grayville Police Department with the assistance of the Edwards County Sheriff’s Department whose drug detection dog was utilized during the traffic stop.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney James M. Cutchin.
Alabama Woman Sentenced to Prison for Stolen Identity Refund FraudRead the Press Release
A Dothan, Alabama, woman was sentenced to serve 34 months in prison by the Honorable Judge Myron H. Thompson of the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Alabama in connection with her role in committing stolen identity tax refund fraud, announced Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Larry Wszalek of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney George L. Beck Jr. for the Middle District of Alabama.
On July 16, a jury found Nina Macena, 32, guilty of conspiring to defraud the government through the filing of false tax returns, three counts of wire fraud and three counts of aggravated identity theft. U.S. District Court Judge Thompson also ordered Macena to pay restitution in the amount of $109,480.
According to court documents and evidence from the trial, Macena provided stolen identities to Ivory Bolen, also of Dothan, who used the identities to file false tax returns that fraudulently requested refunds from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Bolen would attempt to have the refunds deposited onto prepaid debit cards, which would be mailed to addresses controlled by Bolen and Macena. Macena obtained the identities from Roderick Neal, a former bail bondsman in Dothan, who had access to the personal information of individuals who had been detained at the Dothan City Jail. Both Bolen and Neal previously pleaded guilty to their involvement in the scheme. Altogether, Bolen filed tax returns claiming more than $300,000 in refunds using the stolen identities that Macena provided, butthe IRS successfully stopped a number of the fraudulent returns. Macena was ultimately convicted by the jury on all counts in the indictment.
Macena testified in her own defense at trial and admitted that she had obtained information from Neal for Bolen, but claimed that she was unaware of the nature of the information. She also testified that she stored items for Bolen in her storage unit but that she was unaware of what she was storing. At sentencing, the judge found that her testimony was not credible and consequently increased her prison time.
This case was investigated by special agents of the IRS-Criminal Investigation. Trial Attorneys Jason Poole and Charles M. Edgar Jr. of the Tax Division prosecuted the case with the assistance of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Alabama.
Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found at the division website.
Additional Charges for Franklinville, N.J., Man Who Allegedly Used Fraudulent Invoices to Steal from Schools and CollegesRead the Press Release
Charged Last Week in Similar Scheme
CAMDEN, N.J. – A Franklinville, New Jersey, man was arrested today by federal agents of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service – for the second time this month – for allegedly mailing fraudulent invoices for non-existent advertisements to colleges and trade schools throughout the United States, U.S. Attorney Paul J. Fishman announced.
Robert S. Armstrong, 44, was charged by superseding complaint with two counts of mail fraud. He appeared this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Karen M. Williams in Camden federal court for an initial appearance on the superseding complaint. Armstrong had previously been arrested on Oct. 16, 2014, for allegedly committing a similar mail fraud scheme.
According to documents filed in this case:
Postal inspectors learned Armstrong – while out on bail following his Oct. 16, 2014, court appearance on the initial charge – was continuing to ask for and pick up mail in the name of one of his companies, Scholastic School Supply. On Oct. 21, 2014, he picked up mail from a Post Office box in Malaga, New Jersey, which he had opened in the names of Scholastic and another of his companies, The Trend Publishing. Armstrong had retrieved mail, opened it and discarded what appeared to be two check stubs bearing the names of two colleges and written in the amount of $495 payable to Trend. A postal employee sent the discarded check stubs to postal inspectors.
A postal inspector contacted the two colleges listed on the check stubs and received a copy of the invoice from Trend addressed to Victim College 1. It appeared very similar in format to the Scholastic invoices except that it sought payment for what is believed to be advertising for the college: $495 for a 5-inch by 8-inch glossy ad to be placed in the “College Edition (Fall 2014 Edition).” The invoice included a telephone number and a Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) for Trend. As with the Scholastic scheme, both numbers were phony.
The dean of finance from the second college listed on the check stubs said his office had mailed a check for $495 to Trend and that no one in the purchasing department had any knowledge of ordering any advertisement from the company.
On Oct. 22, 2014, the postal inspector received bank records from Wells Fargo Bank for accounts opened by Armstrong, including an account in the name of Trend. From July 2014 through August 2014, Armstrong deposited 59 checks for $495 each from various colleges and trade schools throughout the United States – including a law school and a medical school – for a total of $29,205. Bank records revealed that he deposited additional $495 checks from various businesses, several of which appear to be related to automobile sales and service.
Employees at three additional colleges confirmed to postal inspectors that they had received invoices from Trend seeking payment for $495 for similar advertising and they mailed payments to Trend. They also said they did not know what the “College Edition (Fall 2014 Edition)” was.
On Oct. 16, Armstrong was arrested and charged with mail fraud for allegedly mailing more than 73,000 fraudulent invoices for non-existent workbooks to schools throughout the United States.
Each count of mail fraud is punishable by a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison and a fine of the greater of $250,000, twice the gross profits to Armstrong or twice the gross losses to the victims of his offense.
U.S. Attorney Fishman credited law enforcement officers of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, under the direction of Inspector in Charge David Bosch in Philadelphia; the Gloucester County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Sean F. Dalton; the Gloucester County Office of Consumer Protection, under the direction of Harold Spence, Director of Consumer Affairs; the Washington Township Police Department, under the direction of Raphael Muniz, Chief of Police; and the Franklin Township Police Department, under the direction of Mike Rock, Chief of Police, with the continuing investigation leading to today’s arrest.
Individuals with any information about possible fraudulent conduct may call postal inspectors at 877-US MAIL 5 (877-876-2455).
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Diana Carrig of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Camden.
The charges and accusations in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until convicted.
14-386
Defense counsel: Rocco C. Cipparone Jr., Esq. Haddon Heights, N.J.
Armstrong, Robert, Superseding Complaint
ASPCA Assists U.S. Attorney's Office, FBI, Columbia Police in South Carolina Drug, Dog Fighting InvestigationRead the Press Release
Contact Person: Jane Taylor (803) 929-3000
Columbia, South Carolina ---- At the request of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of South Carolina (USASC) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the ASPCA® (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) is assisting with a federal operation involving drugs and dog fighting in and around the Columbia, S.C. area.
In early 2013, as a result of community complaints, the FBI’s Columbia Violent Gang Task Force (CVGTF) – comprised of agents of the FBI, the Columbia Police Department, the Richland County Sheriff’s Office, South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) and the South Carolina National Guard -- initiated an investigation into the drug activity occurring in and around a downtown Columbia neighborhood. Agents obtained evidence about a drug organization that was allegedly peddling cocaine and crack cocaine in the area, and that were also engaged in robberies and other acts of violence. During the course of the investigation, agents learned that the individual who supplied cocaine to the organization was also involved in purchasing, breeding, and fighting dogs.
A search warrant was executed Friday during which agents seized a dozen dogs from a property in Gaston, SC. Upon arriving at the scene, ASPCA responders found dogs exhibiting scars and injuries commonly associated with dog fighting. The dogs were found chained and anchored to car axles, with trash barrels being used as makeshift shelters. Adult dogs and puppies were found severely emaciated and dehydrated, and the remains of deceased dogs were also discovered on the premises, along with dog fighting paraphernalia. This was the second warrant executed on this property this month.
On October 1, agents searched the residence of the alleged drug supplier for evidence of his involvement in drug trafficking and dog fighting. At that time, agents seized 35 dogs, along with drugs, guns, and cash. The Lexington County Animal Shelter provided daily care for the seized dogs until the ASPCA was able to transport those dogs to a temporary shelter in an undisclosed location. The ASPCA managed the removal and transport of dogs involved in the investigation, and will continue to oversee forensic evidence collection, as well as the dogs’ veterinary care and sheltering.
Columbia Police Chief Skip Holbrook, who has made it a priority to protect innocent citizens of Columbia from gangs and gang activity, said, “It should come as no surprise that gangs, drug dealing, and violence often go hand in hand. However, gangs are often involved in other organized criminal activity. In this case, that criminal activity is dog fighting.”
“Organized dog fighting is a highly lucrative and brutal crime where dogs are forced to fight often to their death,” said Tim Rickey, vice president of ASPCA Field Investigations and Response. “The truth is that dog fighting happens all over the country, but it’s an underground activity that goes mostly unnoticed by the public. Dog fighting is often linked to other illegal activities including drugs and gambling, and we’re pleased to work alongside state, federal and local law enforcement agencies in ending these dogs’ suffering and seeing justice served.”
On October 21, a federal grand jury returned an Indictment charging Eric Dean Smith, 41, of Gaston, and seven others in a conspiracy to traffic cocaine and crack cocaine. The others charged were Gerald Montez Burris, 46, Amos Donnell Jones, 34, Stephoni Vernard Sumter, 28, Tony L. Gunter, 36, Travis Santale Sulton, 31, Dion W. Jones, 31, and Travis Leon Gilbert, 27, all of Columbia. The dogfighting investigation continues.
The ASPCA will provide daily care for the dogs at the temporary shelter until custody is determined by the court. PetSmart Charities® provided supplies including pet crates, toys and treats to support the rescue operation.
Dog fighting is a felony in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Earlier this year, the Farm Bill was signed by President Obama, making it a federal offense to attend an organized animal fight and imposing additional penalties for bringing a minor to a fight.
About the ASPCA®
Founded in 1866, the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) is the first animal welfare organization in North America and serves as the nation’s leading voice for animals. More than two million supporters strong, the ASPCA’s mission is to provide effective means for the prevention of cruelty to animals throughout the United States. As a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation, the ASPCA is a national leader in the areas of anti-cruelty, community outreach and animal health services. For more information, please visit www.ASPCA.org, and be sure to follow the ASPCA on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.
All charges in the indictment are merely allegations, and the defendants remain innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.40 Charged in Pittsburgh-Area Drug Trafficking ConspiraciesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - After a lengthy investigation into drug trafficking in the Homewood section of the City of Pittsburgh and other communities in the Greater Pittsburgh area, 40 people have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today. On Oct. 21, 2014, a federal grand jury issued one superseding indictment and five indictments, all related to one another, naming 35 residents of Western Pennsylvania, one resident of Cleveland, Ohio, two residents of Clarksburg, W.Va., and two residents of Southern California.
"The law-abiding, hard-working people of Homewood deserve safe streets and peaceful neighborhoods, stated U.S. Attorney Hickton. “The goal of this investigation to disrupt and ultimately dismantle these gang-related drug distribution networks in Pittsburgh, in Western Pennsylvania and throughout the country."
“Today’s operation, which was centered in the City of Pittsburgh’s Homewood neighborhood, highlights the critical role our task forces play in combating heroin and cocaine trafficking and the violent criminal enterprises that attempt to take root in our neighborhoods,” said Special Agent in Charge Scott S. Smith of the FBI’s Pittsburgh Field Office. “Federal penalties for drug trafficking are severe, and the FBI will continue to work with our local, state and Federal partners to stop the flow illegal drugs and to dismantle the violent criminal enterprises that facilitate the flow, as we have done here today. Like our partners, the Pittsburgh Division of the FBI is committed to improving the quality of life in the communities we serve.”
“The announced federal indictment and subsequent arrests sends a firm message to our City’s youth not to join gangs and not to pursue a criminal way of life,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Sam Rabadi. “The arrests yesterday underscore ATF’s continuing efforts to fight violent crime by working closely with our Federal, state and local partners, to remove violent drug dealers from our communities, and return gang-infested neighborhoods to our fellow citizens.”
The first indictment (superseding), containing two counts, named:
- Lionel Cannon, aka Cannon, 49, of Cleveland, OH, currently incarcerated;
- Cecil Pinnix, aka C-Bone, 45, of Pittsburgh, PA, currently incarcerated;
- Misha Cannon, 44, of San Bernardino, CA;
- Jason Hunter, aka Jay, 40, of Los Angeles, CA, currently incarcerated;
- Tieriq Pinnix, 21, of Pittsburgh, PA;
- Devonte White, 22, of Pittsburgh, PA;
- Ellis Harris, 44, of Pittsburgh, PA;
- Aaron Reed, aka Bean, 33, of Wilkinsburg, PA;
- Douglas Smith, Jr., aka Crush, 41, of Penn Hills, PA; and
- Gregory Price, 38, of aka Stink, Penn Hills, PA.
According to the superseding indictment, from in and around December 2013, and continuing thereafter to in and around August 2014, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, the defendants conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine. Also according to the superseding indictment, during that same time frame, Lionel Cannon, Cecil Pinnix, Ellis Harris and Douglas Smith, Jr. conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 100 grams or more of heroin.
The law provides for a maximum sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $10,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
The second indictment, containing three counts, named:
- Tracey Yancey, 52, of Pittsburgh, PA;
- John Alexander, 50, of Pittsburgh, PA;
- Andre Collington, 43, of Pleasant Hills, PA;
- David Irwin, 43, of White Oak, PA;
- Abdul Boyd, 38, of Penn Hills, PA;
- Brittanie Dickerson, 25, of Penn Hills, PA;
- Lavon Hudgins, aka Lavaughn Hudgins, 44, of Wilkinsburg, PA;
- Sidney Pinnix, 48, of Pittsburgh, PA;
- Lamaca Davis, 42, of Pittsburgh, PA; and
- Edwina Yancey, aka Edwina Brown, 30, of Pittsburgh, PA.
According to the indictment, from in and around December 2013, and continuing thereafter to in and around August 2014, the defendants conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute cocaine; Tracey Yancey, John Alexander, David Irwin and Abdul Boyd are charged with conspiring to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine. Also according to the indictment, on July 28, 2014, Tracey Yancey, a convicted felon, unlawfully possessed a firearm. Also according to the indictment, on July 28, 2014, Edwina Yancey falsified of a firearms purchase form in connection with the purchase of that firearm (i.e., was involved in the straw purchase of the gun).
The law provides for a maximum sentence on the drug charges of not less than five years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of $2,000,000, or both. The law provides for a maximum sentence on the firearms charges of up to 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
The third indictment, containing one count, named:
- John Alexander, 50, of Pittsburgh, PA;
- Andre Collington, 43, of Pleasant Hills, PA;
- Roxanne Thompson, 26, of Pittsburgh, PA;
- Mark Spearman, 33, of Pittsburgh, PA;
- Harold Neal, 53, of Pittsburgh, PA;
- Larry Washington, 63, of Wilkinsburg, PA; and
- Cora Everett, 42, of Pittsburgh, PA.
According to the indictment, from in and around December 2013, and continuing thereafter to in and around August 2014, the defendants conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute crack cocaine. John Alexander and Andre Collington are charged with conspiring to possess with intent to distribute and distribute more than 28 grams of crack cocaine.
The law provides for a maximum sentence of not less than five years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
The fourth indictment, containing three counts, named:
- Abdul Qawwee Daniels, aka Qawwee, 38, of Monroeville, PA;
- Eddie Garrett, aka Eddie Garrett, Jr., 43, of Clarksburg, WV;
- David Earl Hamilton, 45, of Clarksburg, WV;
- Kadesha Marie Mitchell, 37, of Pittsburgh, PA; and
- Brian Torrey Smith, 22, of Swissvale.
According to the indictment, from in and around December 2013, and continuing to in and around June 2014, defendants Abdul Daniels, David Earl Hamilton, Kadesha Marie Mitchell, and Brian Torrey Smith conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute crack cocaine. Abdul Daniels, David Earl Hamilton, and Kadesha Marie Mitchell are charged with conspiring to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 280 grams or more of crack cocaine. Also according to the indictment, on or about March 20, 2014, defendants Eddie Garrett and David Earl Hamilton possessed with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of crack cocaine. Also according to the indictment, on or about May 30, 2014, defendant Brian Torrey Smith possessed with intent to distribute crack cocaine.
The law provides for a maximum sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $10,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
The fifth indictment, containing four counts, named:
- Carlos M. White, Jr., 26, of Pittsburgh, PA (currently incarcerated).
According to the indictment, from in and around December 2013, and continuing thereafter to in and around March 2014, Carlos M. White, Jr. conspired to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin. Also according to the indictment, White, Jr. possessed with intent to distribute and distributed heroin on January 29, 2014, February 10, 2014, and March 6, 2014.
The law provides for a maximum sentence of not less than five years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
The sixth indictment, containing nine counts, named:
- Antwon Lamar Richards, 29, of Pittsburgh, PA;
- Christopher James Brooks, 32, of Pittsburgh, PA;
- Altony Boyd, aka Bobby Lee Boyd, aka Pooh Hard, 35, of Pittsburgh, PA;
- Gaston Pleas Bradshaw, 27, of Pittsburgh, PA;
- Allen T. Finley, aka Torri Finley, aka T-Boy, 39, of Penn Hills, PA;
- Kenneth Marcel Higginbotham, 38, of Washington, PA;
- Hasan Sharif Reed, aka Nas, 36, of Coraopolis, PA;
- Antwon Lamar Stanton, aka Twon, 35, of Pittsburgh, PA; and
- Shaey Lee Williams, 23, aka Shiz, of Swissvale, PA.
According to the indictment, from in and around October 2013, and continuing thereafter to in and around April 2014, the defendants conspired with one another to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 500 grams or more of powder cocaine, and 280 grams or more of crack cocaine. Also according to the indictment, defendants Christopher James Brooks, Altony Boyd, Hasan Sharif Reed, and Antwon Lamar Stanton conspired to possess and carry firearms in furtherance, and during and in relation to, that drug trafficking crime. Also according to the indictment, on November 26, 2013, defendant Christopher James Brooks possessed with intent to distribute and distributed 28 grams or more of crack cocaine and possessed with intent to distribute and distributed crack cocaine on October 8, 2013, October 14, 2013, October 24, 2013, February 4, 2014, and February 12, 2014. Also according to the indictment, on October 8, 2013, defendant Altony Boyd possessed with intent to distribute and distributed crack cocaine. Also according to the indictment, on December 5, 2013 defendants Allen T. Finley and Hasan Sharif Reed possessed with intent to distribute and distributed crack cocaine. Finally, on February 4, 2014, and February 12, 2014, defendant Gaston Pleas Bradshaw possessed with intent to distribute and distributed crack cocaine.
The law provides for a maximum sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $10,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorneys Troy Rivetti and Tonya Sulia Goodman are prosecuting these cases on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Street Task Force, including agents from the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Postal Inspectors, and the Pennsylvania State Police, along with the Wilkinsburg Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Munhall Police Department, Duquesne Police Department, McKeesport Police Department, Monroeville Police Department, Allegheny County Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department, Bellevue Police Department, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the indictments in these cases.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
11th Henrico Drug Conspirator Sentenced to Four Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
RICHMOND, Va. – Dante Beard, 33, of Henrico County was sentenced yesterday to four years in prison for possession with intent to distribute cocaine. He is the 11th person sentenced as a result of a federal investigation of Henrico County cocaine dealers who were supplied by a dealer in North Carolina.
Dana J. Boente, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Shannon L. Taylor, Commonwealth Attorney for Henrico County; Karl C. Colder, Special Agent in Charge for Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Washington Field Division; and Douglas A. Middleton, Chief of Henrico Police Division, made the announcement after the sentencing before United State District Judge Henry E. Hudson.
Beard pled guilty on October 10, 2014 to one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine. According to the Statement of Facts filed with his plea agreement, authorities intercepted a telephone conversation between Beard and his Henrico supplier, Darryl Delaney, during which Beard ordered cocaine. Beard subsequently admitted that he had been purchasing approximately two ounces of cocaine at a time, twice a month from Delaney.
Delaney and another Henrico dealer, Gordon Shelton, had been obtaining approximately 375 grams of cocaine at a time from Carlos Cooke, in North Carolina. Cooke’s courier, Tomeka Wimbush, would transport the drugs to Virginia. In connection with a Statement of Facts in support of his guilty plea, Cooke acknowledged that between 2007 and 2013 he distributed between five and fifteen kilograms of cocaine to Delaney and Shelton in quantities of 375 grams at a time. They, in turn, would then distribute the drugs to local dealers, including Beard, Kevin Lee, Kelley Brown, Charles Kates, Stevenson Silencieux, Eric Wingate and Michael Epps. Those individuals would then redistribute the cocaine in the local area.
This case was part of an 18-month OCDETF investigation, Operation Carolina and Back. Cooke was sentenced to 288 months in prison on August 8, 2014; and Wimbush was sentenced to 51 months in prison on August 5, 2014. Delaney was sentenced to 156 months in prison on May 14, 2014; Shelton was sentenced to 120 months in prison on April 18, 2014; Silencieux was sentenced to 48 months in prison on September 19, 2014; Lee was sentenced to 108 months on September 19, 2014; Brown was sentenced to 48 months in prison on September 19, 2014; Kates was sentenced to 72 months in prison on October 3, 2014; and Wingate was sentenced to 41 months prison on October 16, 2014. Epps, of Urbana, Virginia, was sentenced to 40 months in prison on October 3, 2014.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Henrico Police Division. Assistant United States Attorney David T. Maguire and Matthew Ackley, Special Assistant United States Attorney and Henrico County Regional Drug Prosecutor are prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States.
A copy of this press release may be found on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case Nos. 3:14-cr-070, 3:14-cr-003, 3:14-cr-016 and 3:14-cr-030"Aiken Safe Communities:" Two Men Enter Guilty Pleas on Federal Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
Contact Person: Lance Crick (864) 282-2100
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney William N. Nettles, stated today that, earlier this week, two Aiken men, Jesse James Quarles, 33, and Kenneth Islar, 27, each entered guilty pleas in federal court in Columbia to the charge of felon in possession of a firearm, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1).
Quarles and Islar were indicted in July by a federal grand jury in separate indictments. United States District Judge J. Michelle Childs of Columbia accepted the pleas and will impose sentence after she has reviewed pre-sentence reports that will be prepared by the U.S. Probation Office. Quarles and Islar previously waived their right to a detention hearing, and remain in custody.
Mr. Nettles stated the penalty for felon in possession is a fine of $250,000 and/or imprisonment for 10 years, plus a special assessment of $100. However, should either Quarles or Islar be classified based on prior criminal history as an Armed Career Criminal, they would be subject to enhanced penalties--a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 15 years and a maximum term of life in prison, a fine of $250,000, a five-year term of supervised release, and a special assessment fee of $100.
Launched in early 2013, the Aiken Safe Communities Initiative is a unified, proactive community approach to engage, educate, and encourage recurring offenders to change their behavior and make healthy life choices. The initiative also bands together local, state, and federal law enforcement to expedite the investigation and prosecution of individuals who reoffend in lieu of accepting opportunities and assistance offered by the community during public notification meetings held at Aiken City Hall several times a year.
From 2012-2013, the city of Aiken experienced an 86% reduction in murders. Earlier this year, the South Carolina Community Development Association presented the city of Aiken with its 2014 Award of Excellence, recognizing community development efforts that have significantly improved the quality of life in the community.
Both cases were investigated by the Aiken Department of Public Safety, the 2nd Circuit Solicitor’s Office (Aiken, Bamberg, and Barnwell counties), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). These prosecutions as well as the United States Attorney’s Office ongoing commitment to the Aiken Safe Communities Initiative are part of Operation CeaseFire. CeaseFire is a joint local, state, and federal initiative which seeks to prosecute aggressive individuals who unlawfully use, possess, or transfer firearms. Both cases are assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Lance Crick of the Greenville office.
23 October 2014
Youngstown Man Charged with Cocaine DistributionRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury returned a one-count indictment charging Antwan M. Grissett, 44, of Youngstown, with possession and attempted possession with intent to distribute cocaine, said Steven M. Dettelbach, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
The indictment alleges that on or about October 2, 2014, Grissett possessed and attempted to possess with the intent to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violations. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and, in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The matter is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David M. Toepfer.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Wise County Men Convicted of Multiple Counts Related to Distribution of Synthetic DrugsRead the Press Release
BIG STONE GAP, VIRGINIA – United States Attorney Timothy J. Heaphy announced today that a Big Stone Gap jury returned a verdict of guilty on multiple counts related to controlled substance analogues in a trial that concluded on October 22, 2014.
Following a six-day jury trial, Cecil A. McConnell, Jr., 68, of Pound, Va., was convicted of one count of conspiracy to distribute controlled substance analogues, one count of distribution of controlled substance analogues, one count of maintaining a place for the purpose of distributing controlled substance analogues, misbranding of a drug with the intent defraud, and one count of possession with the intent to distribute a controlled substance analogue.
“These defendants operated a lucrative illegal business selling dangerous synthetic drugs,” United States Attorney Timothy J. Heaphy said today. “These substances are extremely dangerous and can lead to harmful consequences for users. Those of us who work in law enforcement will continue to remove this harmful material from our communities. We must also ensure that the people of Southwest Virginia understand that these synthetic drugs are unsafe and illegal.”
Douglas Eugene Stephens, 63, of Pound, Va., was convicted of one count of conspiracy to distribute controlled substance analogues, one count of maintaining a place for the purpose of distributing controlled substance analogues, misbranding of a drug with the intent defraud, and one count of offering for sale drug paraphernalia.
Six other defendants had previously pleaded guilty to charges related to the scheme to distribute synthetic cannabinoids in Florida and Southwest Virginia. Those defendants are:
Emmanual Vestal, 43, of Interlachen, Fla., previously pleaded guilty to one count of misbranding a drug with the intent to defraud and one count of conspiracy to misbrand a drug with the intent to defraud.
Victoria Hoyt, 41, of Interlachen, Fla., previously pleaded guilty to one count of misbranding a drug with the intent to defraud and one count of conspiracy to misbrand a drug with the intent to defraud.
Vicki Curry, 33, Gainesville, Fla., previously pleaded guilty to one count of misbranding a drug with the intent to defraud.
Cynthia Johns, 53, Hollister, Fla., previously pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute controlled substance analogues.
James Pirtle, 72, Coeburn, Va., previously pleaded guilty to one count of misbranding a drug with the intent to defraud and one count of conspiracy to misbrand a drug with the intent to defraud.
Linda Pirtle, 66, Coeburn, Va., previously pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance analogue.
According to evidence presented at the jury trial by Assistant United States Attorney, Zachary Lee, Cecil A. McConnell, Jr., assisted in the operation of Cecil’s Variety, a store located in Pound, Virginia. Douglas Eugene Stephens operated Get It Here, also a store in Pound, Virginia. Both distributed illegal synthetic cannabinoid products, namely, XLR-11, UR144, PB-22, and 5F-PB-22, marketing their products as legal “potpourri” or “incense” in order to attempt to evade federal and state law. The products sold by Stephens and McConnell were obtained from Emmanuel Vestal and Victoria Hoyt who operated stores named Smokeez in both Gainesville, Florida and Coeburn, Virginia.
The jury heard evidence that employees of Smokeez would mix chemicals received from China containing synthetic cannabinoids with acetone and plant materials before packaging the products and shipping them to Virginia. These products were then distributed in large quantities to stores in Southwest Virginia, including Get It Here, Cecil’s Variety, Get It Gone in Pound, Virginia, which was operated by James Pirtle, and Linda’s Place in Coeburn, Virginia, which was operated by Linda Pirtle. These businesses then sold the products to their customers in packaging claiming the products were “potpourri” and “incense.” The operators of these businesses also attempted to conceal their illegal activity by claiming that the products were “not for human consumption” even though the testimony of many witnesses at trial was that operators of the stores knew their products were being smoked by the purchasers in order to achieve effects similar to smoking marijuana.
The evidence at trial demonstrated that the Southwest Virginia Regional Drug Task Force in Big Stone Gap and the Wise County Sheriff’s Office began investigating the operations of McConnell, Stephens, Vestal, Jim Pirtle, Linda Pirtle, and others, in 2012. This investigation included numerous controlled purchases of synthetic cannabinoids, surveillance, package interceptions, financial investigation, and interviews. Law enforcement in Wise County coordinated their investigation with ongoing investigations being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Drug Enforcement Administration, Gainesville Police Department, Alachua County Sheriff’s Department, and Palatka Police Department.
On September 27, 2013, nine state and federal search warrants were executed by local, state and federal law enforcement in Wise County, Virginia, Gainesville, Florida, and Palm Coast, Florida at businesses and residences of those involved in the illegal distribution ring. As a result of the search warrants, law enforcement seized more than forty kilograms of synthetic cannabinoid products and more than $50,000 in United States currency. Evidence heard by the jury from employees of the businesses involved included that the cannabinoid products were sold at a price of $10 a gram and that daily sales for each store ranged from $800 - $2,000 a day. During the trial, experts in pharmacology testified that the products sold by McConnell, Stephens, and others, were extremely harmful when ingested by humans causing seizures, organ damage, hallucinations, and agitation.
At sentencing, Cecil A. McConnell, Jr., faces a potential maximum sentence of eighty-three years imprisonment and fines of up to $3,750,000. His sentencing is scheduled for January 22, 2015.
At sentencing, Doulas Eugene Stephens faces a potential maximum sentence of forty-four years imprisonment and fines of up to $1,750,000. His sentencing is scheduled for January 22, 2015.
At sentencing, Emmanuel Vestal faces a potential maximum sentence of eight years imprisonment and a fine of up to $500,000. His sentencing is scheduled for January 8, 2015.
At sentencing, Victoria Hoyt faces a potential maximum sentence of eight years imprisonment and a fine of up to $500,000. Her sentencing is scheduled for January 8, 2015.
At sentencing, James Pirtle faces a potential maximum sentence of eight years imprisonment and a fine of up to $500,000. His sentencing is scheduled for January 6, 2015.
At sentencing, Linda Pirtle faces a potential maximum sentence of twenty years imprisonment and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Her sentencing is scheduled for January 8, 2015.
At sentencing, Vicki Curry faces a potential maximum sentence of three years imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000. Her sentencing is scheduled for January 6, 2015.
At sentencing, Cynthia Johns faces a potential maximum sentence of twenty years imprisonment and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Her sentencing is scheduled for January 8, 2015.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Southwest Virginia Regional Drug Task Force in Big Stone Gap, Virginia, Wise County Sheriff’s Office, St. Paul Police Department, St. Paul, Virginia, Coeburn Police Department, Coeburn, Virginia, Virginia Alcohol Beverage Control, Virginia State Police, Gainesville Police Department, Gainesville, Florida, Alachua County Sheriff’s Department, Gainesville, Florida, Palatka Police Department, Palatka, Florida, Drug Enforcement Administration, United States Marshals Service, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The Wise County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office and the United States Attorney’s Offices for the Northern and Middle Districts of Florida assisted in the investigation and prosecution of this case. Assistant United States Attorney Zachary Lee prosecuted the case for the United States.
Williamsville Man Sentenced on Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.--U.S. Attorney William J. Hochul, Jr. announced today that Norman Charnock, 51, of Williamsville, NY, who was convicted of possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, was sentenced to 60 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Frank T. Pimentel, who handled the case, stated that on August 7, 2013, federal and state law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at the defendant’s Williamsville residence and found a rifle, 36 rounds of ammunition, an assortment of prescription drugs, and $1,400 cash all stored in a safe in the residence. They also located a loaded revolver in the garage. Among the prescription drugs found in the safe were drugs of the same type that Charnock had sold to a confidential informant three weeks prior to the search warrant.
Today’s sentencing is the culmination of an investigation by Special Agents of the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge James S. Higgins, New York Field Division, and by deputies of the United States Marshals Service, under the direction of Charles Salina.Wilkes-Barre Man Found Guilty of Heroin Trafficking and Firearm Charges After Five Day Federal TrialRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that on Monday a federal jury in Scranton returned seven guilty verdicts against Terrell Stevenson, a/k/a “Inf”, age 36, of Wilkes-Barre, on charges involving trafficking in excess of 100 grams of heroin and related firearm offenses.
Following a 5-day trial before United States District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani, the jury deliberated for about 2 ½ hours before returning guilty verdicts on 1 count of conspiracy to distribute 100 or more grams of heroin within 1,000 feet of a protected area (an elementary school), 1 count of possession with intent to distribute heroin, 1 count of unlawful use of a communication facility in furtherance of a violation of a controlled substance offense, 1 count of unlawful possession of a stolen firearm, 1 count of felon in possession of firearm, 1 count of fugitive from justice in possession of a firearm, and one count of unlawful possession of a means of identification as an aid in the commission of a federal violation. Stevenson was found not guilty of 1 count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense.
The defendants were first charged in a criminal complaint filed in 2012. The others charged include: William Nelson, age 42, and Merisol Merry, age 42, both of Brooklyn, New York; Lamar Thomas, age 40, Gregory Bush, age 52, both from Scranton; Michael Blondell, age 35, of Blakely; Christopher Taylor, age 26, of Binghamton, New York; and Sean Martinelli, 29, of Philadelphia. All pleaded guilty and await sentencing.
At Stevenson’s trial, the Government presented the testimony of 16 witnesses and evidence from a federal wiretap investigation. Communications between the co-conspirators and the defendant were played in court, admitted into evidence and presented to the jury. The communications involved discussions focused on possession and distribution of heroin, quantities of heroin, and drug proceeds.
Stevenson faces a possible maximum life sentence based on the offenses and his prior criminal record. A sentencing date has not been scheduled.
This case arose from a joint investigation by the Drug Enforcement Agency Scranton office, the Lackawanna County District Attorney’s Office – Detective Division, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Scranton and Wilkes-Barre Police Departments. Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Olshefski prosecuted the case.
Wheeling Man Sentenced to 30 Months in Prison for Possessing Stolen FirearmRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistWHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Wilbur W. Barr, IV, 22, of Wheeling, West Virginia, was sentenced to 30 months in prison for possession of a stolen firearm, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Barr pled guilty in June 2014 to one count of "Possession of a Stolen Firearm" after he was discovered in possession of a stolen 9mm pistol that he received in exchange for methamphetamine. The pistol was originally reported stolen in Marshall County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Steve Vogrin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Ohio and Marshall County Sheriff's Departments, and the Ohio Valley Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative.
Chief U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
West Virginia Man Sentenced for Failure to Update Sex Offender RegistrationRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Convicted sex offender Charles D. Abrams, Jr., 33, was sentenced to one year and one day in prison for failure to update his sex offender registration, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Abrams was convicted in June 2001 in Norfolk, Virginia of carnal knowledge of a minor. In early 2014, Abrams relocated from Marlinton, West Virginia to Virginia Beach, Virginia and failed to update his sex offender registration. He pled guilty in August 2014 to one count of “Failure to Update Sex Offender Registration” after an investigation by the West Virginia State Police and the United States Marshals Service.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Morgan prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
Chief U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Warren Man Charged with Assaulting Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment charging George Rafidi, 60, of Warren, with assault on a federal officer and with possession of a firearm in connection with a violent felony, said Steven M. Dettelbach, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
The indictment alleges that on or about October 8, 2014, Rafidi forcibly assaulted, resisted, impeded and interfered with federal law enforcement officers, who were engaged in their official duties, and brandished a firearm during the assault.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violations. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and, in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the United States Department of Agriculture, Office of Inspector General, the United States Marshals Service, Homeland Security Investigations and the Lordstown Police Department. The matter is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David M. Toepfer.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Utah Man Pleads Guilty to Traveling into the District of ColumbiaRead the Press Release
To Engage in Illicit Sexual Conduct With a Minor
WASHINGTON – Marc Val Singleton, 35, of Salt Lake City, Utah, pled guilty today to traveling interstate to engage in illicit sexual conduct with a minor, announced U.S. Attorney Ronald C. Machen Jr., Andrew G. McCabe, Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Washington Field Office, and Cathy L. Lanier, Chief of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
Singleton entered the guilty plea in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. The Honorable Rosemary M. Collyer is to sentence him on Jan. 23, 2015. Singleton faces a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison as well as a fine of $250,000.
According to the government's evidence, on or about June 10, 2014, Singleton contacted an undercover officer with the FBI's Child Exploitation Task Force, through a social network site. Over the course of that one day, Singleton engaged in an instant message conversation with the undercover officer, whom the defendant believed was the father of an under-aged girl. During the course of this conversation, Singleton arranged with the undercover officer to meet for the purpose of engaging in sexual acts with the child.
On June 10, 2014, Singleton traveled from a hotel in Bethesda, Md., where he was staying for a conference, to a pre-arranged meeting place in Washington, D.C. When he arrived at the meeting place he was arrested.
This case was brought as part of the Department of Justice's Project Safe Childhood initiative and investigated by the FBI's Child Exploitation Task Force, which includes members of the FBI's Washington Field Office and MPD. In February 2006, the Attorney General created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorney's Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov
In announcing the guilty plea, U.S. Attorney Machen, Assistant Director McCabe and
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Chief Lanier commended the work of the MPD Detectives and Special Agents of the FBI’s Child Exploitation Task Force. They also expressed appreciation for the efforts of Assistant U.S. Attorney Ari Redbord, who is prosecuting the case.Undocumented Aliens from Honduras Charged with Illegal Use of Social Security NumbersRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that RONY RIVERA-GONZALES, age 23, FRANCISCO MUNOZ, age 26, and ESMIN ESPINOZA-ERAZO, age 24, all three from Honduras and most recently residing in Hammond, Louisiana, were separately charged today in one-count indictments with illegal use of a Social Security Number, in violation of 42 U.S.C. '408(a)(7)(B).
According to the indictments, RIVERA-GONZALES, MUNOZ, and ESPINOZA-ERAZO used Social Security Numbers that had not been assigned to them to obtain Louisiana Identification Cards.
If convicted, RIVERA-GONZALES, MUNOZ, and ESPINOZA-ERAZO each face a maximum term of imprisonment of five years, a maximum fine of $250,000, a maximum term of supervised release of three years, and a mandatory $100 special assessment.
U. S. Attorney Polite reiterated that an Indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendants must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations, and the Louisiana State Police in investigating this matter. Assistant U. S. Attorney Spiro G. Latsis is in charge of the prosecution.
(Download Indictment - Espinoza-Erazo )
(Download Indictment - Munoz )
(Download Indictment - Rivera-Gonzalez )
Undocumented Alien, Alvaro D. Campos, Charged with Illegal Reentry After Previously Being DeportedRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that ALVARO D. CAMPOS, age 39, from Guatemala, was charged today in a one-count indictment with illegal reentry into the United States after having been previously deported, in violation of 8 U.S.C. '1326(a).
According to the indictment, CAMPOS was found by United States Border Patrol agents in the Eastern District of Louisiana after records showed he had been previously deported from the United States to Guatemala on November 14, 2013.
If convicted, CAMPOS faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two years, a maximum fine of $250,000, a maximum term of supervised release of one year, and a mandatory $100 special assessment.
U. S. Attorney Polite reiterated that an Indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security and the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Department in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Rick Veters is in charge of the prosecution.
Two Sentenced to Seven Years in Prison for Violent Crimes Committed on the Red Lake Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger today announced the unrelated sentencings of FERNANDO LUIS MAY-GIL-GARCIA, 29, and AVERY WADE SCHOENBORN, 25, each to 84 months in federal prison for unrelated violent offenses committed on the Red Lake Indian Reservation. Both defendants are enrolled members of the Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians. They were sentenced yesterday in U.S. District Court in Duluth before Senior Judge Richard H. Kyle.
According to MAY-GIL-GARCIA’S guilty plea and documents filed in court, MAY-GIL- GARCIA repeatedly struck a female victim multiple times with his fists. During the assault, the victim was holding a baby in her arms and she was unable to fend off the blows. The baby was also struck during the assault. MAY-GIL-GARCIA also bit the victim in the face and on the back. As a result of the assault, the victim suffered multiple broken bones in her face.
As proven at trial in the SCHOENBORN case, SCHOENBORN sexually assaulted an intoxicated victim. While the victim was unconscious in a friend’s home, SCHOENBORN entered the house and proceeded to sexually assault the victim. The victim was later taken to a hospital where she regained consciousness and was treated and released. The trial lasted two days in U.S. District Court in Duluth. The jury deliberated for less than two hours before returning a guilty verdict.
These cases resulted from investigations conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Red Lake Police Department.
Both cases were prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Clifford Wardlaw.
Defendant Information: FERNANDO LUIS MAY-GIL-GARCIA, 29
Red Lake, Minn.
Convicted: • Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury, 1 count
Sentenced: • 84 months in prison
AVERY WADE SCHOENBORN, 25
Red Lake, Minn.
Convicted: • Sexual Abuse, 1 count
Sentenced: • 84 months in prison###
Two Men Indicted for Orchestrating A Bank Fraud Conspiracy in the Twin CitiesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger today announced a federal indictment charging two individuals with orchestrating a $1 million bank fraud conspiracy in the Minneapolis/St. Paul metro area. VINH XUAN NGO, a/k/a “Houng Van Tran,” 36, and NORINH INTHONEPRADITH, a/k/a “Chau Ngo,” 38, are charged with Aggravated Identity Theft, and Conspiracy to Commit Bank Fraud and Access Device Fraud, in a 15-count indictment.
According to the indictment, from approximately December 2012 through February 2014, NGO and INTHONEPRADITH conspired to defraud several individuals and financial institutions throughout the Twin Cities. The defendants created false identification documents from stolen information and assumed the victims’ identities to gain control over bank and credit card accounts. In addition, NGO and INTHONEPRADITH opened new bank accounts, conducted transactions, and obtained cash and merchandise through fraud.
According to the indictment, from approximately January 2013 through June 2013, NGO and INTHONEPRADITH used counterfeit permanent resident cards and driver’s licenses to open bank accounts and post office boxes, and to complete applications to reroute the delivery of victims’ mail, including mail related to bank and credit card accounts. Using victims’ names, identification and bank account information, NGO and INTHONEPRADITH made more than $46,000 in fraudulent deposits, withdrawals, and transfers at various financial institutions. The defendants also used counterfeit checks and credit cards to purchase approximately $20,000 worth of merchandise and gift cards at multiple retailers.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by Homeland Security Investigations and the United States Postal Inspection Service.
Assistant U.S. Attorney John E. Kokkinen is prosecuting the case.
Defendant Information: VINH XUAN NGO, 36
Brooklyn Park, Minn.
Charges: • Conspiracy, 1 count
• Bank Fraud, 6 counts
• Access Device Fraud, 2 counts
• Aggravated Identity Theft, 2 counts
NORINH INTHONEPRADITH, 38
Brooklyn Center, Minn.
Charges: • Conspiracy, 1 count
• Bank Fraud, 5 counts
• Access Device Fraud, 2 counts
• Aggravated Identity Theft, 2 counts###
The charges contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Two Individuals Charged, Third Pleads Guilty for Roles in Costa Rican Telemarketing Schemes Targeting U.S. ResidentsRead the Press Release
A California woman pleaded guilty today for her role in a half-million-dollar “sweepstakes fraud” scheme that was run from Costa Rica and targeted U.S. residents. A Costa Rican national and an Ohio resident were also indicted for their roles in separate but similar schemes earlier this week.
Assistant Attorney General Leslie R. Caldwell of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and U.S. Attorney Anne M. Tompkins of the Western District of North Carolina made the announcement.
Patricia Diane Clark, 56, of Sacramento, California, pleaded guilty today before U.S. Magistrate Judge David S. Cayer of the Western District of North Carolina to conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering, all in connection with a Costa Rican telemarketing fraud scheme that targeted U.S. residents.
According to Clark’s plea agreement, from approximately 2007 through February 2013, her co-conspirators called U.S. residents from Costa Rican call centers, falsely informing them that they had won a substantial cash prize in a “sweepstakes.” The victims, many of whom were elderly, were told that in order to receive the prize, they had to send money for a purported “refundable insurance fee.” Clark admitted that she picked up money from the victims and sent it to her co-conspirators in Costa Rica. Clark also admitted that she managed others who picked up money from the victims in the United States and that she kept a portion of the victims’ payments.
Also according to Clark’s plea agreement, once the victims sent money, Clark’s co-conspirators contacted the individuals again and falsely informed them that the prize amount had increased, either because of a clerical error or because another prize winner was disqualified. The victims then had to send additional money to pay for new purported fees to receive the now larger sweepstakes prize. The attempts to collect additional money from the victims continued until an individual either ran out of money or discovered the fraudulent nature of the scheme.
Clark admitted that, along with her co-conspirators, she was responsible for approximately $640,000 in losses to hundreds of U.S. citizens.
Additionally, earlier this week, Marco Vinicio Fallas Hernandez, 41, a Costa Rican citizen, was charged in a superseding indictment in the Western District of North Carolina with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, ten counts of wire fraud, one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering, and nine counts of international money laundering in connection with a similar telemarketing scheme. According to the indictment, Hernandez and his co-conspirators were responsible for causing approximately $10,000,000 in losses to hundreds of U.S. citizens, many of whom are elderly. Eight individuals, including Hernandez, are charged in the superseding indictment.
Separately, Paul Ronald Toth Jrj., 38, a resident of Bloomingdale, Ohio, was indicted in the Western District of North Carolina this week on one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering and six counts of international money laundering. According to the indictment, between November 2009 and November 2010, Toth and others he supervised received money from victims of a Costa Rican telemarketing scheme. Toth allegedly kept some of the proceeds and wired the remainder to Costa Rica using numerous persons as senders and recipients, all in a manner designed to conceal and disguise the fraudulent source and nature of the transactions. Toth is alleged to have received more than $300,000 of illegal proceeds during the scheme.
The charges contained in an indictment are merely accusations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
These cases were investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, FBI, Internal Revenue Service, Federal Trade Commission, and Department of Homeland Security. These cases are being prosecuted by Senior Litigation Counsel Patrick Donley and Trial Attorneys William Bowne and Anna Kaminska of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section.
Two Chestertown Men Indicted for Conspiring to Illegally Obtain Firearms for A Prohibited PersonRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – A federal grand jury has indicted Daniel P. Welch, age 36, of Crumpton and Chestertown, Maryland, and Jonathan M. Sutton, age 36, of Chestertown, on charges of conspiring to unlawfully obtain firearms for a prohibited person. The indictment also charges Welch with being a felon in possession of firearms. The indictment was returned on October 22, 2014.The indictment 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; Queen Anne’s County Sheriff R. Gery Hofmann III; Chief George A. Baker of the Chestertown Police Department; and Queen Anne’s County State’s Attorney Lance G. Richardson.
The four count indictment alleges that Welch is a previously convicted felon and therefore is prohibited from possessing firearms. According to the indictment, between January 29, 2011 and January 31, 2014, Sutton obtained six firearms for Welch through private sellers and through “straw purchases” by Sutton from a federally licensed firearms dealer. A “straw purchase” occurs when an individual, who is ineligible to lawfully purchase a firearm, such as a previously convicted felon, solicits another to conduct the transaction. As part of the purchase, the middleman-buyer must complete the ATF Form 4473, which notifies the buyer that such purchases are unlawful. On the first page of the form, the buyer is asked: “Are you the actual transferee/buyer of the firearm . . .?” The question is followed by a warning in bold print that states: “Warning: You are not the actual buyer if you are acquiring the firearm(s) on behalf of another person.” Finally, the buyer’s certification explicitly states that falsely answering “yes” to the actual buyer question is a crime punishable as a felony.
Specifically, the indictment alleges that on January 29, 2011, Welch and Sutton visited four ATMs in Stevensville, Maryland, near a federally licensed firearms dealer, and Welch withdrew approximately $1,700 in cash. Welch and Sutton then went to the firearms dealer and selected firearms for Sutton to purchase for Welch. Sutton purchased a Smith & Wesson MP5-22, a Mossberg Persuada 500, and a Century Arms SKS. Sutton completed Form 4473 indicating the he was the actual buyer of the firearms and was not acquiring the firearms for another person. On February 1, 2011, Sutton picked up the guns, which he then transferred to Welch. According to the indictment, on February 11, 2011, Sutton purchased a Marlin rifle from the firearms dealer, again completing the Form 4473 and falsely indicting that he was buying the gun for himself. In 2012, Sutton acquired a Remington Arms 597 and a Ruger Single Six, both .22 caliber, through private purchases. The indictment alleges those guns were subsequently possessed by Welch.
The defendants face a maximum sentence of five years in prison for the conspiracy and Welch faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for each of three counts of being a felon in possession for a firearm. An initial appearance has been scheduled for Sutton on November 7, 2014 in U.S. District Court in Baltimore. No court appearance has been scheduled for Welch, who is currently in state custody on unrelated charges.
An indictment is not a finding of guilt. An individual charged by indictment is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty at some later criminal proceedings.
United States Attorney Rod J. Rosenstein praised the FBI, Queen Anne’s County Sheriff’s Office, Chestertown Police Department and the Queen Anne’s County State’s Attorney’s Office for their work in the investigation. Mr. Rosenstein thanked Assistant United States Attorney Zachary A. Myers, who is prosecuting the case.
Three Sentenced for Painkiller DistributionRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Tara Tighe, Public Affairs SpecialistCLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Three Clarksburg area men, including a former Harrison County Process Server, were sentenced for collaborating to distribute oxycodone, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced today.
Former Harrison County Sheriff’s Department Process Server Jason Marple, 36, of Clarksburg, was sentenced to 21 months for distributing oxycodone near the Clarksburg City Park – North View playground and an additional 60 months because he was in possession of a firearm at the time. These sentences will run consecutively for a total of 81 months in prison. He pled guilty in June 2014 to one count of “Distribution of Oxycodone within 1000’ of a Protected Location – Aiding and Abetting,” and one count of “Possession/Use/Carrying of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime.”
Russell Powers, 50, of Clarksburg, was sentenced to 21 months in prison. He pled guilty in June 2014 to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Oxycodone – Aiding and Abetting.”
Chad Alton Register, 32, of Bridgeport, West Virginia, was sentenced to 12 months and one day in prison. He pled guilty in July 2014 to one count of “Distribution of Oxycodone – Aiding and Abetting.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Morgan prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. The investigation was led by the Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Three Men Indicted in $2.5 Million Fraud Scheme Using Stolen Social Security NumbersRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – A federal grand jury has indicted Benjamin Bland, age 39, of Glen Allen, Virginia; Michael Westbrook age 36; and Anthony Simpson, age 43, both of Baltimore, on charges arising from a scheme to allow individuals with poor credit histories and criminal records to obtain money and property using misappropriated social security numbers and fraudulently established credit histories. The second superseding indictment, which was returned on October 14, 2014 and unsealed late yesterday, adds Bland as a defendant and seeks the forfeiture of at least $2.5 million and luxury vehicles.
The second superseding indictment was announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Rod J. Rosenstein and Special Agent in Charge William Winter of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).Bland owned New Credit History, a company headquartered in Richmond, Virginia that hosts a website and purports to provide individuals with new credit through the issuance of a “secondary credit number.” Westbrook owned The Westbrook Project, a home renovation company incorporated in Maryland.
According to the 17 count indictment, from February 2012 to October 2014, the defendants obtained social security numbers previously issued to other persons and sold the misappropriated social security numbers by email and cell phone text messaging to individuals. The defendants provided these individuals with counterfeit social security cards and driver’s licenses with materially false information that would link the user to the misappropriated social security numbers. The defendants instructed the individuals to submit false credit applications to commercial lenders and retailers to generate improved credit scores, and to prepare and submit false loan applications to lenders to receive money and property.
The indictment charges Westbrook with acquiring fraudulent credit accounts for his clients and himself to enhance their fraudulent credit histories.
The defendants face a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison for conspiring to commit wire fraud and for each of four counts of wire fraud; five years in prison on each of five counts for social security fraud; and a mandatory minimum of two years in prison consecutive to any other sentence on each of seven counts for aggravated identity theft. An initial appearance and arraignment for Bland was held on October 21, 2104, in U.S. District Court in Baltimore. Bland was released under the supervision of U.S. Pretrial Services. No court appearance has been scheduled for Westbrook and Simpson, who were arrested previously and remain released under the supervision of U.S. Pretrial Services.
An indictment is not a finding of guilt. An individual charged by indictment is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty at some later criminal proceedings.
Co-defendant Donneltric Johnson, age 36, of Baltimore, previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud for his role in the scheme and is scheduled to be sentenced on December 5, 2014, at 9:30 a.m.
Today’s announcement is part of efforts underway by President Obama’s Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force (FFETF) which was created in November 2009 to wage an aggressive, coordinated and proactive effort to investigate and prosecute financial crimes. With more than 20 federal agencies, 94 U.S. attorneys’ offices and state and local partners, it’s the broadest coalition of law enforcement, investigatory and regulatory agencies ever assembled to combat fraud. Since its formation, the task force has made great strides in facilitating increased investigation and prosecution of financial crimes; enhancing coordination and cooperation among federal, state and local authorities; addressing discrimination in the lending and financial markets and conducting outreach to the public, victims, financial institutions and other organizations. Since the inception of FFETF in November 2009, the Justice Department has filed more than 12,841 financial fraud cases against nearly 18,737 defendants including nearly 3,500 mortgage fraud defendants. For more information on the task force, visit www.stopfraud.gov.
United States Attorney Rod J. Rosenstein commended the HSI Baltimore for its work in the investigation. Mr. Rosenstein praised the HSI Richmond, Virginia; Baltimore and Anne Arundel Counties Police Departments; Henrico County, Virginia Police Department; the Eastern District of Virginia United States Attorney’s Office; U.S. Secret Service Richmond Field Office; and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, Richmond, for their assistance in the investigation. Mr. Rosenstein thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark W. Crooks, who is prosecuting the case.
Three Found Guilty on Drug CountsIn Federal Jury Trial in TopekaRead the Press Release
TOPEKA, KAN. – Three defendants were convicted on drug charges Thursday during a federal jury trial in Topeka, U.S. Attorney Barry Grissom said.
Convicted were:Raymond Alcorta, 41, Downey, Calif., one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
Adrienne Lopez, 27,Pico Rivera, Calif., one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
Angela Marie Lopez, 35, El Monte, Calif., one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine,and one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.During trial before U.S. District Court Judge Daniel D. Crabtree, prosecutors presented evidence that Adrienne and Angela Lopez were arrested June 21, 2013, in Seward County, Kan., when they were caught hauling approximately four pounds of methamphetamine from Los Angeles to Kansas City. Subsequent investigation tied them to Alcorta, who headed the drug trafficking organization.
Sentencing is set for Feb. 9, 2014. They face a penalty of not less than 10 years and not more than life and a fine up to $10 million. Grissom commended the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Kansas Highway Patrol, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation and Assistant U.S. Attorney Tony Mattivi for their work on the case.
Stockton Man Sentenced to over Three Years in Prison Possessing Sawed Off ShotgunRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Jorge Leal, 21, of Stockton, was sentenced today by United States District Judge Troy L. Nunley to three years and one month in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm and for possessing an unregistered sawed-off shotgun, United States Attorney Benjamin B. Wagner announced.
According to court documents, On December 2, 2013, Stockton police officers pulled over Leal, who was bicycling down N. Wilson Way in Stockton at night without a light. Leal was wearing a backpack that contained a sawed-off shotgun. Because Leal was a convicted felon—he had been convicted of first degree burglary in February 2012—he was prohibited from possessing a firearm. Further, because the sawed-off shotgun had a shortened barrel, Leal was required to register the firearm on the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. The firearm, however, was not registered. Leal has been in custody since making an initial appearance on these charges.
This case was the product of an investigation by the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosive and the Stockton Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Christiaan Highsmith prosecuted the case.Stafford Woman Sentenced to 11 Years in Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Hydromorphone, Oxycodone, and OxymorphoneRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – Robin Anne Krohn, 31, of Stafford, Virginia, was sentenced today to 143 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release for conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.
Dana J. Boente, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Adam S. Lee, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Richmond Field Office; Andrew G. McCabe, Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Washington Field Office; and Charles E. Jett, Stafford County Sheriff, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Cacheris.
Krohn pleaded guilty on July 22, 2014. According to court documents, Krohn is a former patient of Dr. Nibedita Mohanty, who was indicted on charges of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, distribution of controlled substances, aiding and abetting health care fraud, and aiding and abetting money laundering on July 24, 2014.
Krohn was a patient of Dr. Mohanty from approximately February 2010 through December 2011. During that time, Dr. Mohanty prescribed excessive dosages of controlled substances to Krohn. Krohn both abused the medication she was prescribed, snorting up to 150 pills per day, and distributed a large portion of the controlled substances prescribed by Dr. Mohanty for a profit, earning between $3,000 - $5,000 per week throughout the course of the conspiracy.
Knowing that Dr. Mohanty freely prescribed excessive dosages of controlled substances, Krohn was also responsible for recruiting a number of individuals to see Dr. Mohanty in order to obtain unnecessary prescriptions, which Krohn and her conspirators would later abuse and distribute for profit.
This case was initiated and investigated by the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office and assisted by the FBI’s Richmond and Washington Field Offices. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gene Rossi and Special Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennifer Ballantyne and Nicole Grosnoff prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release may be found on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:14-cr-256.