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Friday 25 October 2013
Jason Pleau Sentenced to Life in Federal Prison for Murder and Robbery of David MainRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Jason W. Pleau, 35, of Providence, R.I., was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Providence to life in federal prison without the possibility of release for the murder and robbery of Woonsocket, R.I., gas station manager David D. Main. Pleau chased, shot at close range and robbed Mr. Main on September 20, 2010, as he approached the doorstep of a Woonsocket bank where he was to have deposited receipts belonging to the gas station that he managed.
Pleau pled guilty on July 31, 2013, to conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery; Hobbs Act robbery; and carrying, using, and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a federal crime of violence, death resulting. Pleau pled guilty as charged in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury on December 14, 2010.
Pleau’s sentence, imposed by U.S. District Court Judge William E. Smith, was announced by United States Attorney Peter F. Neronha; Acting Assistant Attorney General Mythili Raman of the Justice Department's Criminal Division; Rhode Island Attorney General Peter F. Kilmartin; Colonel Steven G. O’DonnellSuperintendent of the Rhode Island State Police; Woonsocket Police Chief Thomas S. Carey; and Vincent B. Lisi, Special Agent in Charge of the Boston field office of the FBI.
Jose A. Santiago, 36, formerly of Springfield, Mass., a co-defendant in this matter, pled guilty on September 5, 2013, to conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery; Hobbs Act robbery; and carrying, using, and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a federal crime of violence, death resulting. Santiago is scheduled to be sentenced on January 9, 2014.
A third defendant in this matter, Kelly Marie Lajoie, 35, formerly of Springfield, Mass., pled guilty on December 9, 2011, to Hobbs Act conspiracy; aiding and abetting a Hobbs Act robbery; and use of a firearm during a federal crime of violence. A sentencing hearing has not been scheduled.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Adi Goldstein and William J. Ferland and Trial Attorney Jacabed Rodriguez-Coss of the Criminal Division's Capital Case Section.
The matter was investigated by the Woonsocket Police Department, Rhode Island State Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
To assist the media and the public, a glossary of federal judicial terms and procedures is available at http://www.justice.gov/usao/justice101/Contact: 401-709-5357
[email protected]Investment Advisor and Real Estate Developer Charged with Causing $5.5 Million Loss to 25 Investors in $9 Million Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
CHICAGO ― A former securities broker and his associate in a real estate business that converted apartments into condominiums were indicted for allegedly fraudulently raising more than $9 million from approximately 25 investors and misappropriating a substantial portion of the money, resulting in a loss of at least $5.5 million. The defendants, MARCIN MALARZ and ARTHUR LIN, allegedly used the investors’ funds for their own personal use, as well as to make Ponzi-type payments to certain investors.
Malarz, 39, formerly of Lake Forest, and Lin, 48, of Palatine, were each charged with three counts of wire fraud in an indictment returned yesterday by a federal grand jury. Lin will be arraigned on date to be determined in U.S. District Court, while Malarz is a fugitive and is believed to be living in Poland.
According to the charges, Lin was a branch office manager of a securities broker-dealer in Itasca and also an officer of Malarz Equity Investments LLC (MEI), which was managed by Malarz and sold condominiums after purchasing apartment buildings and converting the units. Lin recruited investors for Malarz and MEI from his securities firm’s client pool. In some cases, Lin allegedly convinced his clients to take out home equity loans or liquidate their brokerage investments to generate money to invest with MEI.
Between November 2005 and April 2010, Malarz and Lin fraudulently offered and sold investments in promissory notes and obtained loans personally secured by Malarz, while making false representations about the risks involved in investing and lending money to MEI, the charges allege. Specifically, they made false representations about: the solvency and financial condition of MEI and Malarz; the expected and actual returns on investments and loans, the ways the investors’ funds would be used; and Malarz’s ability to personally guarantee the investments and loans, according to the indictment.
Malarz allegedly misappropriated approximately $2 million for his personal use, including funds to pay outside business expenses, travel and living expenses, such as credit card and home mortgage bills, furniture, clothing, and a Mercedes automobile.
Malarz and Lin allegedly paid hundreds of thousands of dollars from investors’ funds to Lin’s wife, often in amounts approximating 10 percent of the funds that Lin brought to MEI. Lin used these funds to pay personal expenses, including credit card and home equity loan payments.
The indictment seeks forfeiture of alleged fraud proceeds totaling at least $5.5 million as well as Lin’s residence in Palatine and additional homes in Palatine and Barrington.
The charges were announced by Zachary T. Fardon, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Robert J. Shields, Jr., Acting Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The Securities and Exchange Commission, which filed its own civil enforcement action against the defendants, provided assistance
The government is being represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rachel Cannon.
Each count of wire fraud carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine, or an alternative fine totaling twice the gross gain or twice the loss, whichever is greater, and restitution is mandatory. If convicted, the Court must impose a reasonable sentence under federal sentencing statutes and the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines.
An indictment contains only charges and is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
The investigation falls under the umbrella of the Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force, which includes representatives from a broad range of federal agencies, regulatory authorities, inspectors general, and state and local law enforcement who, working together, bring to bear a powerful array of criminal and civil enforcement resources. The task force is working to improve efforts across the federal executive branch, and with state and local partners, to investigate and prosecute significant financial crimes, ensure just and effective punishment for those who perpetrate financial crimes, combat discrimination in the lending and financial markets, and recover proceeds for victims of financial crimes. For more information on the task force, visit: www.StopFraud.gov.
Indictment
Informational: Federal Court Initial AppearancesRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney's Office announced that during a federal court session in Great Falls, on October 24, 2013, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Keith Strong, the following individuals were arraigned:
SHANE HIAWATHA DENNY, a 37-year-old resident of Box Elder, appeared on charges of assault with intent to commit murder, assault with a dangerous weapon, and assault resulting in serious bodily injury. He is currently detained. If convicted of these charges, DENNY faces possible penalties of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and 3 years supervised release on the first charge; and 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and 3 years supervised release on each of the last two charges. Assistant U.S. Attorney Danna R. Jackson is the prosecutor for the United States. The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
TYLER LEE BALIBARDIN, a 21-year-old resident of Tacoma, Washington, appeared on (3) charges of sexual abuse of a minor. He is currently released on special conditions. If convicted of these charges, BALIBARDIN faces possible penalties of 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and lifetime supervision on each charge. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan G. Weldon is the prosecutor for the United States. The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
GUILLERMO QUINTERO REGINO, a 43-year-old resident of San Diego, California, appeared on charges of conspiracy to distribute cocaine and conspiracy to distribute heroin. He is currently detained. If convicted of these charges, REGINO faces possible penalties of a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison and could be sentenced to life, a $10,000,000 fine, and 5 years supervised release on each charge. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tara J. Elliott is the prosecutor for the United States. The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
MICHAEL NOLEMANA LOPES, age 27, and LAURA LYNN SEVERANCE, age 26, residents of Helena, each appeared on charges of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime. They are currently detained. If convicted of these charges, they each face possible penalties of a mandatory minimum of 5 years in prison and could be sentenced to 40 years, a $5,000,000 fine, and 4 years supervised release on each of the first (2) charges. In addition, they each face an additional mandatory minimum of 5 years in prison, consecutive to any other sentence, for the possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael S. Lahr is the prosecutor for the United States. The investigation was conducted by the Drug Task Force.
The defendants pled not guilty to the charges.
The charge, an indictment, information or complaint, is merely an accusation and all persons named as defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty. A pre-trial conference and a trial date will be set and the United States will be required to prove the allegations set forth in the indictment beyond a reasonable doubt.
Informational: Federal Court Initial AppearancesRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney's Office announced that during a federal court session in Billings, on October 25, 2013, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Carolyn S. Ostby, the following individuals were arraigned:
CHARLES JOSEPH WALKS, a 29-year-old resident of Crow Agency, appeared on a charge of assault on a federal officer. He is currently detained. If convicted of this charge, WALKS faces possible penalties of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and 3 years supervised release. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lori Harper Suek is the prosecutor for the United States. The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
GEORGE MORRIS PARISIAN, age 50, and TAMMIE MARIE PARISIAN, age 49, residents of Shepherd, appeared on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and money laundering. They are currently detained. If convicted of these charges, they each face possible penalties of a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison and could be sentenced to life, a $4,000,000 fine, and 5 years supervised release on each of the first (2) charges; and 20 years in prison, a $500,000 fine, and 3 years supervised release on the last charge. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lori Harper Suek is the prosecutor for the United States. The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Drug Task Force.
The defendants pled not guilty to the charges.
The charge, an indictment, information or complaint, is merely an accusation and all persons named as defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty. A pre-trial conference and a trial date will be set and the United States will be required to prove the allegations set forth in the indictment beyond a reasonable doubt.
Informational: Federal Court Initial AppearancesRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney's Office announced that during a federal court session in Missoula, on October 24, 2013, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremiah C. Lynch, the following individuals were arraigned:
BARBARA SWEENEY, a 62-year-old resident of Noxon, appeared on a charge of theft of government funds. She is currently released on special conditions. If convicted of this charge, SWEENEY faces possible penalties of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and 3 years supervised release. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chad C. Spraker is the prosecutor for the United States. The investigation was conducted by the Social Security Administration - Office of Inspector General.
AMBER TYLER, a 31-year-old resident of Missoula, appeared on a charge of theft of government funds. She is currently released on special conditions. If convicted of this charge, TYLER faces possible penalties of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and 3 years supervised release. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chad C. Spraker is the prosecutor for the United States. The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services - Office of Inspector General.
The defendants pled not guilty to the charges.
The charge, an indictment, information or complaint, is merely an accusation and all persons named as defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty. A pre-trial conference and a trial date will be set and the United States will be required to prove the allegations set forth in the indictment beyond a reasonable doubt.
Informational: Federal Court ArraignmentRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney's Office announced that during a federal court session in Great Falls, on October 18, 2013, before Chief U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen, the following individual was arraigned:
JAMES ZANDER, a 62-year-old resident of Great Falls, appeared on charges of attempt to evade or defeat income tax and corrupt endeavor to obstruct or impede the due administration of the Internal Revenue laws. He is currently released on special conditions. If convicted of these charges, ZANDER faces possible penalties of 5 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and 3 years supervised release on the first charge; and 3 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and 3 years supervised release on the second charge. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chad C. Spraker is the prosecutor for the United States. The investigation was conducted by the Criminal Investigation Division of the Internal Revenue Service.
The defendant pled not guilty to the charges.
The charge, an indictment, information or complaint, is merely an accusation and all persons named as defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty. A pre-trial conference and a trial date will be set and the United States will be required to prove the allegations set forth in the indictment beyond a reasonable doubt.
Informational: Federal Court ArraignmentRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney's Office announced that during a federal court session in Great Falls, on October 22, 2013, before Chief U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen, the following individual was arraigned:
GARCIA DURAN, a 35-year-old resident of Box Elder, appeared on charges of theft from an Indian Tribal organization. He is currently released on special conditions. If convicted of these charges, DURAN faces possible penalties of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and 3 years supervised release. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chad C. Spraker is the prosecutor for the United States. The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The defendant pled not guilty to the charges.
The charge, an indictment, information or complaint, is merely an accusation and all persons named as defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty. A pre-trial conference and a trial date will be set and the United States will be required to prove the allegations set forth in the indictment beyond a reasonable doubt.
Informational: Federal Court ArraignmentRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney's Office announced that during a federal court session in Great Falls, on October 21, 2013, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Keith Strong, the following individual was arraigned:
ROBERT JAMES SCHEAFFER, JR., a 49-year-old resident of Harlem, appeared on a charge of sexual abuse of a minor. He is currently detained. If convicted of this charge, SCHEAFFER faces possible penalties of 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and lifetime supervision. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica A. Betley is the prosecutor for the United States. The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation/
The defendant pled not guilty to the charge.
The charge, an indictment, information or complaint, is merely an accusation and all persons named as defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty. A pre-trial conference and a trial date will be set and the United States will be required to prove the allegations set forth in the indictment beyond a reasonable doubt.
Indiana Physician Pleads Guilty to Failure to Pay Employment TaxesRead the Press Release
Dr. Ronald Eugene Jamerson of Schererville, Ind., entered a guilty plea to one count of willfully failing to truthfully account for, collect and pay over employment taxes to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the Department of Justice and IRS announced today. Under the terms of the plea agreement, Jamerson also agreed to pay restitution in the amount of $541,083.20 to the IRS.
On June 20, 2012, Jamerson was indicted on 11 counts of willfully failing to file quarterly employment tax returns (Forms 941) with the IRS and willfully failing to pay over to the IRS the federal income taxes and the Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA) taxes due and owing from the second quarter of 2006 through the fourth tax quarter of 2008. According to the indictment and other court pleadings, Jamerson, an ear, nose and throat surgeon who opened his own medical practice in the late 1990s, deducted and collected from his employees’ paychecks federal income taxes and FICA taxes, but he failed to file the employment tax returns and related employment taxes from 2003 through 2008. In the plea agreement, Jamerson agrees that the total tax loss based on his failure to report and pay employment taxes is $541,083.20.
Sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 24. 2014. Jamerson faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a maximum fine of $250,000.
The case was investigated by Special Agents from IRS - Criminal Investigation and prosecuted by Justice Department Trial Attorneys Erin S. Mellen and Chris J. Maietta, with valuable support from the United States Attorney’s Office in Hammond, Indiana.
Illegal Alien Sentenced to 108 Days in PrisonRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK –HERBERTO BALDOMERO COBON-VASQUEZ, age 34, of Cobleskill, New York, was sentenced today to “time served” (108 days) for illegally reentering the United States after removal by United States District Judge Mae A. D’Agostino announced United States Attorney Richard S. Hartunian and Department of Homeland Security Director of Enforcement and Removal Operations Thomas Homan. COBON-VASQUEZ was remanded to the custody of the Department of Homeland Security for removal proceedings. Today’s sentencing followed COBON-VASQUEZ’s August 28, 2013, guilty plea.
COBON-VASQUEZ, a citizen of Guatemala, was deported to Guatemala on February 8, 2001. He unlawfully re-entered the United States and, on July 1, 2013, was found in Cobleskill, New York, after he was involved in a traffic accident and arrested for driving without a license.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey C. Coffman.
Ideal Man Charged with Failure to Register as A Sex Offender, False Statement and Simple AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Loren Running Horse, a/k/a Boe Running Horse, age 43, of Ideal, South Dakota, appeared before U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange on October 22, 2013, and pled guilty to Failure to Register as a Sex Offender, False Statement, and Simple Assault of an Individual Under the Age of 16.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 16 years in custody and/or a $600,000 fine, life of supervised release, and $225 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
On June 6, 1998, Running Horse was convicted of Sexual Abuse of a Minor. As a result of that conviction, Running Horse was ordered to register as a sex offender and was aware of his duty to do so. However, between February 4 and March 4, 2013, Running Horse was living in various locations on Rosebud, and during that time he failed to register as a sex offender. Running Horse was apprehended in Todd County on March 4, 2013. On March 5, 2013, Running Horse told a federal officer that he did not relocate to Rosebud until March 4, when in fact knew this statement to be false. Running Horse relocated to the Rosebud Reservation on or about January 2, 2013.
The assault charge stems from an incident that happened on or between January 19 and 24, 2013, while Running Horse was residing at a home in Rosebud where the victim was also living. Running Horse assaulted the minor victim by pushing him. The victim was 13 years old at the time of the simple assault.
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Marie H. Ruettgers.
A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date was set for January 13, 2014. The defendant was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending sentencing.Houston Man Pleads Guilty to Criminal Copyright Infringement in Connection with Selling Pirated SoftwareRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – Charles Daniel Stephens, 40, of Houston, Texas, pleaded guilty today to criminal copyright infringement.
Dana J. Boente, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, Mythili Raman, Acting Assistant Attorney General for the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, and Lev Kubiak, Director of the National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center, made the announcement after the plea was accepted by United States District Judge James C. Cacheris.
Stephens pleaded guilty to a criminal information filed on October 8, 2013 charging one count of criminal copyright infringement. Stephensfaces a maximum penalty of five years’ imprisonment and forfeiture of over $28,000 when he is sentenced on January 17, 2013.
In a statement of facts filed with the plea agreement, Stephens admitted to selling pirated computer software online, including products from Rosetta Stone Inc., headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, and products from Microsoft, Adobe Systems, Intuit, and Symantec, from September 2008 through November 2012. Stephens received at least $154,000 in proceeds from these sales.
This case was investigated by the HSI–led IPR Center. Assistant United States Attorney Alexander T.H. Nguyen and Special Assistant United States Attorney Peter V. Roman of the Department of Justice’s Computer Crimes and Intellectual Property Section are prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States.
The IPR Center in Washington is one of the U.S. government's key weapons in the fight against criminal counterfeiting and piracy. Working in close coordination with the Department of Justice Task Force on Intellectual Property, the IPR Center uses the expertise of its 21 member agencies to share information, develop initiatives, coordinate enforcement actions and conduct investigations related to intellectual property theft. Through this strategic interagency partnership, the IPR Center protects the public's health and safety and the U.S. economy. To report IP theft or to learn more about the IPR Center, visit www.IPRCenter.gov.
The enforcement action announced today is one of many efforts being undertaken by the Department of Justice Task Force on Intellectual Property (IP Task Force). Attorney General Eric Holder created the IP Task Force to combat the growing number of domestic and international intellectual property crimes, protect the health and safety of American consumers, and safeguard the nation’s economic security against those who seek to profit illegally from American creativity and innovation. The IP Task Force seeks to strengthen intellectual property rights protection through heightened criminal and civil enforcement, greater coordination among federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, and increased focus on international enforcement efforts, including reinforcing relationships with key foreign partners and U.S. industry leaders. To learn more about the IP Task Force, go to www.justice.gov/dag/iptaskforce/.
A copy of this press release may be found on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia at http://www.justice.gov/usao/vae. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia at http://www.vaed.uscourts.gov or on https://pcl.uscourts.gov.Hogsett Announces Guilty Plea in Connection with Testing of A Natural Gas PipelineRead the Press Release
Indianapolis – Joseph H. Hogsett, the United States Attorney, announced today that Eric L. Barnes, age 48, pleaded guilty and was sentenced in the Southern District of Indiana for making false statements in connection with the testing of pipeline welds at a natural gas pipeline compressor station Bainbridge, IN.
“We know all too well the devastation natural gas explosions can cause,” said Steven D. DeBrota, Senior Litigation Counsel for the United States Attorney’s Office. “Maintaining the integrity of our natural gas lines is important to keeping Hoosiers safe.”
The defendant was employed as a Level II Radiograph Technician and from June through October 2008, was responsible for testing pipeline welds at a compressor station under construction in Bainbridge, IN. The process involved taking an x-ray of the weld and creating a report indicating whether the weld was acceptable. On five different occasions, the defendant created a report confirming that certain pipe welds had been tested and were approved when he had not confirmed that the welds had actually been tested. On these occasions, multiple pictures of one weld had been taken and marked with separate identification numbers, to make it appear that the x-ray was of different pipe welds, when only one weld had actually been x-rayed.
The Department of Transportation, Pipeline and Hazardous Material Safety Administration (PHMSA) has jurisdiction over interstate natural gas and hazardous liquid pipelines. Pipeline safety requires nondestructive testing of pipeline welds to confirm the integrity and sufficiency of the welding process. The results of the testing must be maintained for the life of the pipeline.
“This investigation demonstrates our commitment to maintaining the safety and integrity of the nation’s pipelines,” said Michelle T. McVicker, regional Special Agent-In-Charge of the United States Department of Transportation’s Office of Inspector General. “Working with our law enforcement and prosecutorial colleagues, we will continue our vigorous efforts to protect the taxpayers’ investment in our nation’s transportation infrastructure, and prosecute to the fullest extent of the law those who would seek to violate the public trust.” Barnes was sentenced to two years probation and ordered to serve 40 hours of community service. All of the questionable pipe welds were retested before the pipeline was put into operation.
The case was investigated by the Department of Transportation, Office of Inspector General. Senior Trial Attorneys Jennifer Whitfield and David Kehoe of the Justice Department’s Environmental Crimes Section of the Environment and Natural Resources Division along with Senior Litigation Counsel Steven DeBrota of the Southern District of Indiana are the prosecutors in charge of the case.
Heather Lynn Stiltner Sentenced in U.S. District CourtRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney's Office announced that during a federal court session in Billings, on October 23, 2013, before U.S. District Judge Sam E. Haddon, HEATHER LYNN STILTNER, a 35-year-old resident of Billings, was sentenced to a term of:
- ison: 136 months
- ecial Assessment: $100
- rfeiture: firearms
- pervised Release: 5 years
STILTNER was sentenced in connection with her guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
In an Offer of Proof filed by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brendan P. McCarthy, the government stated it would have proved at trial the following:
On October 5, 2012, employees from the UPS store in Billings flagged a suspicious package that was to be sent from Billings to Phoenix, Arizona. The package was intercepted at the UPS freight office on South 20th Street in Billings by a UPS investigator. The UPS investigator received consent from the store owner to open the package, and the package contained $11,000 in cash. The shipper of the package listed her address as a Billings address.
The investigator also discovered that since June of 2012 there were fifteen packages sent from the Billings address to the Phoenix address and fifteen packages sent from Phoenix to addresses in Billings. The investigator notified the Billings Police Department about the package. A Billings Police officer responded to the scene and a canine sniff test was performed. The canine positively identified the presence of narcotics.
On October 31, 2012, detectives spoke with the owner of the UPS store. The owner stated that one week earlier a woman came into the store inquiring about the package. The owner took a photo on his cell phone of the license plate on the car the woman was driving. The detectives then found that the vehicle was registered to STILTNER. The detectives obtained a photo of STILTNER and showed it to the UPS store employee. The employee identified STILTNER as the person who sent the suspicious package.
On November 2, 2013, detectives executed the search warrant for STILTNER's residence in Billings. Detectives found the following items during the search: a torch, 9mm ammunition, a digital scale, a safe, ammunition inside the safe, two cell phones with numerous text messages that appear to be related to drug distribution, $3,700 in U.S. currency, a crystalline substance in a plastic bag, a Bersa handgun B7449 under the mattress, a Pink Lady Revolver under the mattress, a pink piece of paper with the Phoenix address on it, a rifle and magazine inside a black gun case, and additional plastic bags with crystal substance.
The total amount of methamphetamine seized from STILTNER's residence was 306.49 grams. The methamphetamine was subsequently sent to the DEA laboratory for testing, and the results revealed that the total amount of actual (pure) methamphetamine was 253 grams.
Because there is no parole in the federal system, the "truth in sentencing" guidelines mandate that she will likely serve all of the time imposed by the court. In the federal system, she does have the opportunity to earn a sentence reduction for "good behavior." However, this reduction will not exceed 15% of the overall sentence.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Task Force.
Gaines County Man Admits Possessing Prepubescent Child PornographyRead the Press Release
LUBBOCK, Texas — Jose Fidencio Perez, 40, of Seagraves, Texas, pleaded guilty today, before U.S. District Judge Sam R. Cummings, to one count of possession of prepubescent child pornography and aiding and abetting. Judge Cummings ordered a presentence investigation report with a sentencing date to be set after the completion of that report. Perez, who remains on bond, faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in federal prison, a $250,000 fine and a lifetime of supervised release. Today’s announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Sarah R. Saldaña of the Northern District of Texas.
According to documents filed in the case, Perez used a file sharing program on his computer to download child pornography. In the course of searching for depictions of sexually explicit conduct, Perez downloaded and viewed numerous videos depicting minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative, which was launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice, to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals, who sexually exploit children, and identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc/. For more information about internet safety education, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc/ and click on the tab “resources.”
The investigation is being conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Office of the Attorney General of New Mexico Investigations Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven M. Sucsy is in charge of the prosecution.
Four Men Sentenced to 60 Years Each for Multiple Armed Robberies During December 2012 Holiday SeasonRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – Keith Willie Reed, 24, of Washington, D.C.; Tobias Richard Dyer, 21, of Upper Marlboro, Md.; Anthony Cannon, 24, of Washington, D.C.; and Stanley Winston, 23, of Washington, D.C., were each sentenced today to 60 years in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for conspiracy, robbery affecting interstate commerce, armed robbery of a credit union, use of a firearm during crimes of violence, and being felons in possession of firearms. They were also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $76,915.15.
Dana J. Boente, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Valerie Parlave, Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Washington Field Office, made the announcement after sentencing by United States District Judge Claude M. Hilton
Reed, Dyer, Winston, and Cannon were found guilty after a jury trial on June 21, 2013. According to court records and evidence adduced at trial, the defendants committed three armed robberies in Northern Virginia during the December 2012 holiday season. Specifically, on December 7, they robbed VVM, Inc., located in Fairfax County, Virginia. Two days later, they robbed the Shoppers Food Warehouse on Jefferson Davis Highway in Alexandria, Virginia. Then, on December 22, they robbed the Navy Federal Credit Union on Randolph Street in Arlington, Virginia. The total loss amount from these three armed robberies was over $75,000. In each robbery, three of the defendants entered masked while the fourth waited in a stolen getaway car. All four were arrested within an hour of the Navy Federal Credit Union robbery when law enforcement was able to track the money.
This case was jointly investigated by FBI’s Washington Field Office and Baltimore Field Office, and the Metropolitan, Fairfax County, Arlington County, and Alexandria Police Departments. Assistant United States Attorneys Patricia T. Giles and Rebeca H. Bellows are prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States.
A copy of this press release may be found on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia at http://www.justice.gov/usao/vae. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia at http://www.vaed.uscourts.gov or on https://pcl.uscourts.gov.Four Men Sentenced for Fraud Involving Sports MemorabiliaRead the Press Release
ROCKFORD – Three men were sentenced today in federal court by U.S. District Judge Philip G. Reinhard on separate fraud schemes involving the sports memorabilia business and the purchase and sale of equipment and uniforms used by professional and collegiate athletes: BERNARD GERNAY, 39, a resident of Howell, N.J., involved in the business operations of Pro Sports Investments, Inc., a New Jersey business, and JARROD OLDRIDGE, 39, a resident of Las Vegas, involved in business operations of JO Sports, Inc., a Nevada business, were each sentenced to 6 months in federal prison; and BRADLEY HORNE, 41, a Sunset, S.C. resident, involved in the business operations of Authentic Sports Memorabilia, Inc., a South Carolina business, was sentenced to 3 months in federal prison. In addition, each defendant was also ordered to serve 3 years of supervised release following release from prison, and restitution for each defendant will be determined within 60 days of sentencing.
All three men pled guilty to mail fraud charges on Nov. 21, 2011. According to the plea agreements, each case involved the sale, consignment, or auction of jerseys, in which each defendant falsely and fraudulently represented to buyers that the jerseys were “game used,” when they were not. Jerseys worn by professional and collegiate athletes during a game are usually known as “game used” or “game worn,” and are commonly bought and sold by collectors and others. The value of game used jerseys varies based on the popularity of the player that used the jersey and how long it had been since the player had actively played the sport. The value of a jersey was greater if it was game used. The fraud charges also involved the defendants selling what were represented to be game used jerseys to other persons knowing the jerseys were intended to then be sold to sports trading card companies. As stated in the charges, to increase the value and price of packages of sports trading cards, manufacturers frequently purchase game used jerseys, cut the jerseys into small pieces, and insert the pieces into card packages. When game used jerseys were purchased for this purpose, the manufacturers often required that the seller provide a "certificate of authenticity" that the jerseys were authentic game used jerseys.
Gernay, Oldridge and Horne each admitted the jerseys they sold were altered to appear game worn, such as replacing the name and number on a jersey from one player to another more noteworthy player, changing the shape of the jerseys, and adding patches or other identifiable marks on the jerseys. Even though jerseys were not game used, the three men sold the jerseys to other persons they knew intended to re-sell, consign, and auction the jerseys, or to sports trading card companies and others, by falsely representing the jerseys were game used.
A fourth man, Bradley Wells, 32, of St. Petersburg, Fla., was charged in an indictment on Oct. 25, 2011, with a similar fraud scheme between 2005 and 2009 under the name Authentic Sports, Inc., Historic Auctions, LLC, and his own name, to market and sell fraudulent sports memorabilia represented as “game used.” Wells pled guilty to mail fraud on Sept. 6, 2012, and was sentenced on Oct. 16, 2013, to 6 months in federal prison, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release, with restitution to be determined within 60 days of his sentencing.
The sentencings were announced today by Zachary T. Fardon, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Robert J. Shields, Jr., Acting Special Agent-In-Charge of the Chicago Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation
The government was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael D. Love.
Fort Worth Man Faces up to 30 Years in Federal Prison for Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
FORT WORTH, Texas — Dwight L. Looney, 62, appeared this morning before U.S. District Judge John McBryde and pleaded guilty to one count of production of child pornography. He faces a statutory penalty of not less than 15 years or more than 30 years in federal prison, up to a $250,000 fine and up to a lifetime of supervised release. He will remain in custody pending sentencing, which is set for February 7, 2014, before Judge McBryde. Today’s announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Sarah R. Saldaña of the Northern District of Texas.
According to the factual resume filed in the case, in May 2010, Looney knowingly used, persuaded and enticed “Jane Doe” to engage in sexually explicit conduct, and Looney used a digital camera to take a still image of that conduct. Jane Doe was younger than 16 years old at the time.
The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative, which was launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice, to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals, who sexually exploit children, and identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc/. For more information about Internet safety education, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc/ and click on the tab “resources.”
The investigation is being conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Fort Worth Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aisha Saleem is in charge of the prosecution.
Former USAID Senior Official to Pay Civil Penalty for<br /> Alleged Conflict of Interest ViolationRead the Press Release
David Ostermeyer, who retired from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) in 2012, will pay the government a $30,000 penalty to settle allegations that he participated in a matter in which he had a financial interest that conflicted with his duties when he was Chief Financial Officer of the agency, the Justice Department announced today.
“We expect government officials to earn and maintain the trust of taxpayers by acting with the highest integrity,” said Stuart F. Delery, Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Division. “This requires, at a minimum, that they do their work free of prohibited conflicts of interest. The Justice Department will pursue those who violate their ethical obligations.”The government alleged that shortly before Ostermeyer retired from USAID, he helped the agency draft a contract solicitation for a senior advisor – a position that Ostermeyer intended to apply for after he retired . In an effort to ensure he would be awarded the position, Ostermeyer allegedly tailored the solicitation to his specific skills and experiences.
Federal conflict of interest laws prohibit executive branch employees from participating personally and substantially in matters in which they have a financial interest. Since Ostermeyer had a financial interest in the contract solicitation, the government alleged that he could not participate in drafting it and, therefore, violated 18 U.S.C. § 208(a).
“To maintain public trust in our institutions, it is vital that those in government adhere to the highest standards of integrity,” said Michael Carroll, Acting Inspector General for USAID. “The exceptional work of the investigators and attorneys on this case reflects our resolve to uphold these standards.”This settlement was the result of a coordinated effort by the Justice Department’s Civil Division and USAID’s Office of Inspector General. The claims resolved by this settlement are allegations only; there has been no determination of liability.
Former Hip-Hop Manager James Rosemond, Leader of A Notorious Drug Trafficking Organization, Sentenced to Life in PrisonRead the Press Release
Earlier today, James Rosemond, also known as “Jimmy Henchman,” was sentenced to mandatory life imprisonment in federal court in Brooklyn, New York, for leading a continuing criminal enterprise (the “Rosemond Organization”) that distributed thousands of pounds of cocaine, the majority of which was sold on the streets of Brooklyn and Queens. Rosemond was also sentenced for numerous narcotics conspiracy offenses, firearms possession, money laundering, structuring, and obstruction of justice. Rosemond was convicted of all thirteen counts in his indictment, following a three-week jury trial in May 2012. As part of the sentence, Rosemond forfeited $10 million, along with property worth approximately $4 million.
The sentence was announced by Loretta E. Lynch, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, Brian Crowell, Special Agent-in-Charge, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), New York, and Tony Weirauch, Special Agent-in-Charge, Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Criminal Investigation, New York. The sentence was imposed by United States District Judge John Gleeson.
ARosemond styled himself a hip hop mogul, bringing the music of the streets to a wider audience and expanding opportunities of artists. In reality, his image as a music impresario was a cover for the real Jimmy Rosemond – a thug in a suit who flooded those same streets with cocaine, and shuttled drugs and money from coast to coast. Today’s life sentence is a fitting end to the Henchman’s two-faced machinations,” stated United States Attorney Lynch. “Along with our partners in law enforcement, this Office is committed to ridding our communities of the scourge of drugs and guns.@ Ms. Lynch extended her grateful appreciation to the DEA, the IRS, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the United States Marshals Service, and the Department of Justice, Office of Inspector General, for their work on the case.
DEA Special Agent-in-Charge Crowell stated, “A life of luxury as an entertainment CEO built on a foundation of drug trafficking has resulted in a lifetime prison sentence. Drug trafficking does not pay off at the end of the day. As the head of this organization, Rosemond was overseeing the distribution of 50 to 100 kilos of cocaine per month into our communities while utilizing his position in the music industry to evade law enforcement. He oversaw an $11 million a year cocaine trafficking enterprise that transported cocaine in exchange for cash which was hidden in music equipment across the country. I commend the men and women of the DEA New York, Los Angeles, and Atlanta Divisions, as well as the IRS, USMS, USPS, DOJ OIG, and the United States Attorney’s Office, Eastern District of New York, whose diligence uncovered and completely dismantled this organization.”
IRS Special Agent-in-Charge Weirauch stated, “It is a good day for the American public whenever a narcotics trafficking organization is dismantled. As is typical in these investigations, the government has not only taken a supplier of illegal drugs off the streets, but has seized the assets that can be used in the fight against other such enterprises. IRS-Criminal Investigation proudly stands with our law enforcement partners in recognizing this accomplishment and looks forward to sharing our financial investigative expertise in the investigation and prosecution of other narcotics organizations.”
At trial, the evidence established that Rosemond was the leader of a large-scale, bi-coastal narcotics-trafficking organization that shipped cocaine from Los Angeles, California, to the New York City metropolitan area and that, in turn, shipped cash proceeds from narcotics sales back to Los Angeles. The organization used a variety of shipping methods as part of its operation, including Federal Express and UPS to ship boxes of mustard-covered cocaine and drug money, as well as a music equipment shipping company to transport cocaine and drug money concealed in music equipment cases.
During the investigation, federal law enforcement agents made multiple seizures of drugs, money, firearms, and tools of the narcotics distribution trade belonging to the Rosemond Organization. For example, in April 2010, law enforcement seized 27 kilograms of cocaine. As part of the seizure, law enforcement conducted a search of one of Rosemond’s stash houses in Queens, which yielded 12 kilograms of cocaine, a machine gun, ammunition, and a variety of drug trafficking paraphernalia, including kilo presses, scales, and vacuum sealed bags used to package drugs and money. On that same day, law enforcement also seized a vehicle containing a trap designed to conceal contraband. In December 2010, law enforcement seized over $785,000 in cash proceeds from narcotics trafficking, stored in a music equipment case at a rehearsal studio in Manhattan. In total, between 2008 and 2010, law enforcement in New York and California seized over $2.8 million of the Rosemond Organization=s drug proceeds.
Trial testimony also established that on May 11, 2011, Rosemond sold a kilogram of cocaine to a cooperating witness. After a warrant was issued for his arrest later that day, Rosemond fled, resulting in a manhunt lasting nearly two months that ended when he was apprehended in late June 2011.
To date as a result of this investigation, 19 members and associates of the Rosemond Organization have been convicted.
The government’s case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Todd Kaminsky, Soumya Dayananda, Lan Nguyen, Una A. Dean, Carolyn Pokorny, and Karin Orenstein.
The Defendant
JAMES ROSEMOND
Brooklyn, NY
Age: 48EDNY Docket No. CR-11-424 (JG)
Former Elementary School Principal in Texas Found Guilty for Attempting to Entice A Minor to Engage in Unlawful Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
Wifredo A. Ferrer, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, Dave Aronberg, State Attorney, Office of the State Attorney for Palm Beach County, Alysa D. Erichs, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI), and Jeffrey S. Katz, Chief, Boynton Beach Police Department (BBPD), announce that Stephen Anthony Paulsen, 54, of Fort Worth, Texas, was convicted yesterday of attempting to entice a minor to engage in an illegal sexual activity, after a four day jury trial before U.S. Senior District Judge Daniel T.K. Hurley. At sentencing, the defendant faces a 10 year mandatory term in prison and a maximum term of life.
In July 2013, Paulsen sent numerous sexually explicit messages via a web-based social media application to an undercover officer who posed as 15 year old boy. Paulsen then attempted to meet the minor to engage in illegal sexual activity when Paulsen believed the boy was home alone, at which point he was arrested. At the time of his arrest, Paulsen was in South Florida visiting family.
U.S. Attorney Wifredo A. Ferrer stated, “This conviction represents the fruits of a cooperative effort by local, state and federal authorities in the investigation and prosecution of child exploitation cases. During this time when our children are at ever increasing risk from predators who use social media and the internet, I am thankful to Dave Aronberg and the Palm Beach State Attorney’s Office for joining forces in the cross designation of state prosecutors to attack the problem.”
State Attorney Dave Aronberg commented, “This case is an example of our continued close working relationship with local, state and federal authorities. This combined effort will help remove these sexual predators from our community and make our county and state a safer place to live.”
“Homeland Security Investigations is committed to stopping child predators and their elicit behaviors, especially those individuals in positions of trust with access to children” said Alysa D. Erichs, Special Agent in Charge of HSI Miami. “This case is another example of the extraordinary collaborative efforts among law enforcement in Florida to protect those who can’t protect themselves”.
Chief Jeffrey Katz of the Boynton Beach Police Department added, “One of the primary objectives of the Boynton Beach Police Department is the protection of our community's youth. The Boynton Beach Police Department - in cooperation with our valued federal law enforcement and prosecutorial partners - have taken important steps to protect our children from those who seek to shamelessly exploit their innocence. We remain committed to similar operations going forward.”
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Project Safe Childhood was launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice and is led by United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS). Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Mr. Ferrer and Mr. Aronberg commended the investigative efforts of ICE-HSI and the Boynton Beach Police Department. This case was adopted from state prosecution in cooperation with the Palm Beach County State Attorney’s Office and the South Florida Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam McMichael and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney and Assistant State Attorney Gregory Schiller.
A copy of this press release may be found on the website of the United States Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Florida at http://www.usdoj.gov/usao/fls. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at http://www.flsd.uscourts.gov or on http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov.
Former California Rap Artist Sentenced to 9+ Years in Prison for Bank Fraud, Access Device Fraud and Aggravated ID TheftRead the Press Release
A California rap artist who performed under the name “Guerilla Black” was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Seattle to 110 months in prison and five years of supervised release for a scheme to use credit card numbers stolen in Seattle in other states, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. CHARLES TONY WILLIAMSON, 36, of Torrance, California, was on the user end of the fraud involving hacks of point of sale credit card processing at businesses in Seattle and Shoreline, Washington, and at various businesses across the U.S. WILLIAMSON purchased credit card numbers in bulk from a hacker based in Maryland and from various ‘carding’ websites so that he and his associates could use them for fraud. At sentencing U.S. District Judge Ricardo S. Martinez said, “the impact of the crime is tremendous …from the banks and small businesses” to the runners who now have felony records.
“Undeterred by his first arrest and indictment, this defendant continued to direct platoons of co-schemers to use stolen credit card numbers and continue his digital crime spree,” said U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. “I commend the dedicated agents who tracked his fraud through cyberspace – using critical skills and techniques to trace both the hacks and the frauds to dismantle the network.”
WILLIAMSON was indicted in July 2012, following the investigation into point of sale hacking at a restaurant in the Magnolia neighborhood of Seattle and a retail store in Shoreline, Washington. Two men have already been sentenced for their roles in the hacking scheme. David Benjamin Schrooten, 21, a Dutch citizen arrested in Romania, where he operated a carding website making the credit card numbers available for fraud was sentenced in February 2012 to 12 years in prison. Christopher A. Schroebel, 21, of Keedysville, Maryland, who hacked into point of sale systems to steal credit card information was sentenced to seven years in prison in August 2012. Schroebel was a key supplier of credit card information to WILLIAMSON.
Between January 11, 2011 and February 26, 2012, WILLIAMSON received and possessed at least 27,257 stolen credit card numbers, including cards issued by American Express, Visa, MasterCard and Discover. The total number of stolen card numbers exceeds 30,000 following WILLIAMSON’s criminal conduct during the period of his pretrial release. Federal law allows for a formula to determine the scope of the fraud by attributing a loss of $500 per credit card number, resulting in an estimated fraud loss in this case of $15 million.
Records in the case reveal how WILLIAMSON communicated by email with co-conspirators, telling them that he wanted to purchase “dumps” of stolen credit card numbers “in bulk,” that is lots of 100, 500 or more. WILLIAMSON indicated that he wanted “freshly” stolen numbers so they would be easier to use, since the customers would not yet know their information had been stolen. Additional records show that while WILLIAMSON was on release pending trial, he continued his criminal conduct by producing counterfeit credit cards and using stolen credit card numbers. WILLIAMSON was rearrested following a lengthy investigation by the Manhattan Beach Police Department, the U.S. Secret Service (USSS) Electronic Crimes Task Force in Seattle and USSS Los Angeles Fraud Task Force. In his plea agreement WILLIAMSON admits the credit card fraud both before and after his arrest on the indictment in the Western District of Washington. WILLIAMSON has remained in custody since his arrest in January 2013.
The case was investigated by the Seattle U.S. Secret Service Electronic Crimes Task Force and Seattle Police Department as part of the Task Force, with assistance provided by the Manhattan Beach (California) Police Department and the Los Angeles Field Office, U.S. Secret Service. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kathryn Warma.
Former Brokerage Firm Operations Head Indicted for Tax CrimesRead the Press Release
An indictment was unsealed today charging Dominick Pannitti, formerly of North Bellmore, N.Y., with tax crimes, the Justice Department announced.
According to the indictment, which was returned by a grand jury on Sept. 26, 2013, Pannitti was Head of Operations at a securities brokerage firm in Syosset, N.Y. The securities firm had an automated system designed to adjust customers’ trading accounts for amounts less than $1,000. During 2005 and 2006, Pannitti used the automated system to credit his own trading accounts hundreds of times in increments less than $1,000. Pannitti was not entitled to most of these credits, which totaled over $570,000. Pannitti concealed from his accountant the income he obtained and failed to report the income on his tax returns.
A trial date has not been scheduled. An indictment merely alleges that a crime has been committed, and a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Pannitti faces a potential maximum sentence of eight years in prison and a potential fine of up to $500,000.
The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) - Criminal Investigation and the FBI. The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorneys Mark Kotila and Jeffrey Bender of the Justice Department’s Tax Division.
Former Bartlett Selectman Convicted of Child Pornography PossessionRead the Press Release
CONCORD, NEW HAMPSHIRE: Jonathan Tanguay, 42, a former selectman of Bartlett, New Hampshire, was convicted in United States District Court for the District of New Hampshire on one count of possession of child pornography, announced United States Attorney John P. Kacavas.
A search warrant executed at Tanguay's home revealed a laptop computer, external hard drive and compact disc containing child pornography images. Tanguay is facing a maximum term of ten years in prison and is scheduled to be sentenced on January 30, 2014.
Special Agent Phil Bleezarde led the investigation for Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement Division and Concord Police Detective Mark Dumas, a member of the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, was the lead computer forensic examiner on the case. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Seth R. Aframe and Nick E. Abramson.
This case was prosecuted under Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative by the U.S. Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Florida Fraudster GuiltyRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that Florida man Craig Lee Workman, age 42, pleaded guilty before Judge William K. Sessions in federal court in Burlington yesterday to a fraud conspiracy.
Workman admitted that during 2010‑12, he used identification information belonging to other persons to file false income tax returns under their names, claiming tax refunds. The fraudulent filings directed the IRS to wire refunds to bank accounts controlled by Workman in Florida and Vermont. He did this about 125 times, 25 times successfully, causing the IRS to pay out around $180,000 in refunds to his banks. There were about 100 unsuccessful 1040 filings, which did not result in refunds. Workman and his spouse bought, among other things, a Mercedes Benz with the proceeds.
In April, 2011, Workman and his spouse visited five different H&R Block offices in northeastern Vermont and nearby New Hampshire. In each, they sought assistance filing tax returns for other persons, whom they described as incarcerated family members.
Workman faces a maximum term of imprisonment of not more than 10 years. The case was investigated by the IRS Criminal Investigation Division. Workman has been detained by the U.S. Marshal=s Service since his arrest in Florida several months ago. He is represented by Federal Public Defender David McColgin. The United States is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney William Darrow.
Erwin Residents Sentenced for Conspiracy to Manufacture MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
GREENEVILLE, Tenn. – Four individuals involved in a conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine were sentenced on Oct. 23, 2013, by the Honorable J. Ronnie Greer, U.S. District Judge. Tim Smith, 29, of Erwin, Tenn., was sentenced to serve 92 months in prison. Crystal Williams, 40, of Erwin, Tenn., was sentenced to serve 90 months in prison. Misty Potter, 36, of Erwin, Tenn., was sentenced to serve 66 months in prison. Doug Gaskins, 53, of Erwin, Tenn., was sentenced to serve 54 months in prison.
Each of these individuals pleaded guilty to a March 2013 federal indictment charging a total of 25 individuals with conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine. Three additional separate but related conspiracies to manufacture methamphetamine cases from in and around the Erwin area were also recently prosecuted in U.S. District Court, resulting in the conviction of a total of 52 individuals. Sentencing is currently pending for approximately 17 of these individuals involved in these conspiracies.
The methamphetamine manufacturing conspiracy that these individuals admitted to being a part of involved a network of overlapping associates that relied on coordinated efforts to procure methamphetamine precursors which they then used to make methamphetamine using a "shake and bake" manufacturing method. The drugs the conspirators were responsible for making were being distributed both for profit and for use by people within the conspiracy.
The indictment and subsequent conviction of these individuals was the result of an ongoing and collaborative investigation conducted by the Unicoi County Sheriff’s Department, Washington County Sheriff’s Department, Erwin Police Department, First Judicial District Drug Task Force, Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, and Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney J. Christian Lampe represented the United States.
U.S. Attorney Bill Killian commended the hard work and joint cooperation of the law enforcement agencies who worked the investigation. “I appreciate the efforts of all the law enforcement agencies coming together to rid this community of a large number of methamphetamine makers and users.”
Washington County Sheriff Ed Graybeal said that he appreciates everyone’s great effort in combating the methamphetamine problem that targets our area. “Law enforcement working together with the caring people of the community…we are all making a difference!” said Graybeal.
Sheriff Mike Hensley said, “This cooperative effort has dramatically reduced the overall drug problem in Unicoi County. We hope that these harsh sentences will serve as a deterrent for other individuals that are involved with manufacturing methamphetamine. Everyone involved in this investigation has done an extraordinary job to bring this to pass.”
Erwin Residents Sentenced for Conspiracy to Manufacture MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
GREENEVILLE, Tenn. – Four individuals involved in a conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine were sentenced on Oct. 23, 2013, by the Honorable J. Ronnie Greer, U.S. District Judge. Tim Smith, 29, of Erwin, Tenn., was sentenced to serve 92 months in prison. Crystal Williams, 40, of Erwin, Tenn., was sentenced to serve 90 months in prison. Misty Potter, 36, of Erwin, Tenn., was sentenced to serve 66 months in prison. Doug Gaskins, 53, of Erwin, Tenn., was sentenced to serve 54 months in prison.
Each of these individuals pleaded guilty to a March 2013 federal indictment charging a total of 25 individuals with conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine. Three additional separate but related conspiracies to manufacture methamphetamine cases from in and around the Erwin area were also recently prosecuted in U.S. District Court, resulting in the conviction of a total of 52 individuals. Sentencing is currently pending for approximately 17 of these individuals involved in these conspiracies.
The methamphetamine manufacturing conspiracy that these individuals admitted to being a part of involved a network of overlapping associates that relied on coordinated efforts to procure methamphetamine precursors which they then used to make methamphetamine using a "shake and bake" manufacturing method. The drugs the conspirators were responsible for making were being distributed both for profit and for use by people within the conspiracy.
The indictment and subsequent conviction of these individuals was the result of an ongoing and collaborative investigation conducted by the Unicoi County Sheriff’s Department, Washington County Sheriff’s Department, Erwin Police Department, First Judicial District Drug Task Force, Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, and Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney J. Christian Lampe represented the United States.
U.S. Attorney Bill Killian commended the hard work and joint cooperation of the law enforcement agencies who worked the investigation. “I appreciate the efforts of all the law enforcement agencies coming together to rid this community of a large number of methamphetamine makers and users.”
Washington County Sheriff Ed Graybeal said that he appreciates everyone’s great effort in combating the methamphetamine problem that targets our area. “Law enforcement working together with the caring people of the community…we are all making a difference!” said Graybeal.
Sheriff Mike Hensley said, “This cooperative effort has dramatically reduced the overall drug problem in Unicoi County. We hope that these harsh sentences will serve as a deterrent for other individuals that are involved with manufacturing methamphetamine. Everyone involved in this investigation has done an extraordinary job to bring this to pass.”
Edna Cuts the Rope Sentenced in U.S. District CourtRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney's Office announced that during a federal court session in Billings, on October 24, 2013, before U.S. District Judge Sam E. Haddon, EDNA CUTS THE ROPE, a 34-year-old resident of Billings, was sentenced to a term of:
- ison: 76 months
- ecial Assessment: $100
- pervised Release: 5 years
CUTS THE ROPE was sentenced in connection with her guilty plea to possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine.
In an Offer of Proof filed by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica T. Fehr, the government stated it would have proved at trial the following:
In October of 2010, the FBI Safe Streets Task Force (BSSSTF) received information about a large scale methamphetamine distribution organization operating in Yellowstone County.
In the spring of 2011, law enforcement began performing electronic surveillance on Carlos Menjivar, an individual living in Billings. Investigators discovered that Menjivar, Dawn Marie Menjivar, and Armando Hernandez-Vaca began supplying the larger methamphetamine organization in late 2010 with methamphetamine after the prior source of supply had a run in with law enforcement. During the investigation law enforcement learned that Armando Hernandez-Vaca delivered methamphetamine to Carlos Menjivar, his co-conspirator, Dawn Marie Menjivar, and several other individuals from approximately April 2011 to October 2011. Hernandez-Vaca regularly transported two to three pounds of methamphetamine per trip during his involvement in the conspiracy.
In approximately July of 2011, Carlos Menjivar was incarcerated on non-drug related charges. Dawn Marie Menjivar took over the distribution of methamphetamine and collection of money for the organization.
As the investigation developed, agents began purchasing methamphetamine from an individual in Billings. The individual introduced the undercover agents to his source of supply, CUTS THE ROPE. CUTS THE ROPE was known to investigators as a methamphetamine distributor who at one time received methamphetamine from Micah Waltenbaugh. Agents had also heard from individuals on the street, as well as informants, that Waltenbaugh was distributing methamphetamine, with his source of supply Carlos Menjivar. This same information was confirmed through jail house phone calls between the Menjivars. CUTS THE ROPE then began distributing methamphetamine directly to the individual in quantities ranging from "eight balls" to half-ounces at a time.
The individual in Billings was later signed up as an FBI Confidential Human Source (CHS), and continued to make methamphetamine purchases directly from CUTS THE ROPE. In all, the CHS purchased a total of 53.3 grams of methamphetamine from CUTS THE ROPE. CUTS THE ROPE also enlisted the CHS for rides to purchase plastic baggies, cutting agents, as well as to pay debts to her source of supply and to get more methamphetamine from her source.
In July of 2011, CUTS THE ROPE's source of supply for methamphetamine was identified as Armando Hernandez-Vaca. Agents watched CUTS THE ROPE meet with Hernandez-Vaca to obtain methamphetamine, which the agents then purchased from CUTS THE ROPE.
From July 2011, and continuing thereafter until late January 2012, CUTS THE ROPE possessed with the intent to distribute at least 500 grams of a substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, including the 53.3 grams she sold directly to the CHS.
Carlos and Dawn Menjivar, Hernandez-Vaca, and Waltenbaugh pled guilty to federal charges.
Because there is no parole in the federal system, the "truth in sentencing" guidelines mandate that CUTS THE ROPE will likely serve all of the time imposed by the court. In the federal system, CUTS THE ROPE does have the opportunity to earn a sentence reduction for "good behavior." However, this reduction will not exceed 15% of the overall sentence.
The investigation was conducted by the Billings Big Sky Safe Streets Task Force.
Dupree Man Sentenced for Striking, Beating or Wounding and Simple AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Dupree, South Dakota, man has pled guilty to Assault by Striking, Beating or Wounding and Simple Assault and was sentenced on October 22, 2013, by U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno
Jeryn Big Eagle, age 37, was sentenced to one year probation on each count, home confinement for 60 days, and a $20 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
The conviction stems from an incident that occurred on July 29, 2011, when Big Eagle consumed several alcoholic beverages over the course of the evening and became upset after he heard reports pertaining to his sister and the victim. Later in the evening, Big Eagle saw the victim standing on a street in Cherry Creek, approached him, and an argument ensued. At some point during the argument, Big Eagle struck the victim in the head, chest and abdomen.
The investigation was conducted by the Cheyenne River Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.
Drug Trafficking Organization Operating in the San Juan Seaport Indicted for Conspiracy to Import Controlled SubstancesRead the Press Release
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – On October 23, a federal grand jury indicted a group of longshoremen working at the seaport in San Juan, Puerto Rico, a co-owner of a company that provides freight transportation services and their associates, with conspiracy to import and conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, announced United States Attorney Rosa Emilia Rodríguez-Vélez.
The individuals charged conspired and coordinated the purchase of kilogram quantities of cocaine and heroin from sources in Colombia and Dominican Republic. The drugs were placed inside containerized cargo vessels that were scheduled to arrive in the seaport in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Once in Puerto Rico, longshoremen and other individuals working for private companies, providing services at the San Juan port, would use their employment credentials and privileges to gain access inside the containerized cargo vessels and secure areas inside the seaport to retrieve the controlled substances and deliver them to others waiting outside the seaport. Some of the drugs smuggled were distributed in Puerto Rico and some were further transported to the continental United States for eventual resale.
The defendants who work at the seaport in San Juan are: José E. Gonzàlez-Santiago, aka “Fanfa;” Jesús Negrón-Rossy, aka “Primo Tito;” Noralbert Martínez-López, aka “Norel;” Sergio Ferrer-Rivera, aka “Flaco;” José A. Ortiz-Soto, aka “Chelito;” and Nestor Prestamo-Torres aka “Mopa.” The other co-conspirators are: Rawel Encarnación-Cleto, aka “El Domi;” Carlos E. Acosta, aka “Carlitos;” José Israel Ruiz-Caceres, aka “El Viejo;” and Rodney Caceres-Valentin. The conspirators engaged in this scheme since late 2010.
“These arrests demonstrate the continued commitment of federal and local law enforcement agencies in the fight against drug,” said Rosa Emilia Rodríguez-Vélez, U.S. Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico. “The Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force will continue maximizing all of its combined resources to investigate and prosecute those who disregard our laws and try to smuggle illegal contraband into our jurisdiction.”
The indictment is the result of a long term investigation led by special agents from Homeland Security Investigation (HSI) assigned to the Border Enforcement Security Task Force (BEST), a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) initiative to identify, disrupt, and dismantle criminal organizations that seek to exploit vulnerabilities along U.S. borders, in collaboration with the Puerto Rico Police Department (PRPD), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), United States Coast Guard (USCG), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Puerto Rico Port Authorities.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Carlos R. Cardona from the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program. The defendants are facing a minimum of 10 years up to life in prison.
Criminal indictments are only charges and not evidence of guilt. A defendant is presumed to be innocent until and unless proven guilty.
District Man Sentenced to More Than Four Years in Prison for Stabbing Man at Southeast Washington Apartment Building-Defendant Was on Probation for A Drug Offense-Read the Press Release
WASHINGTON – David E. Harris, 32, of Washington, D.C., has been sentenced to a prison term of four years and two months for stabbing a man earlier this year at an apartment building in Southeast Washington, U.S. Attorney Ronald C. Machen Jr. announced.
Harris, also known as “Bam Bam,” was found guilty by a jury in August 2013 of charges of assault with a dangerous weapon, assault with significant bodily injury, carrying a dangerous weapon, and felony threats. The verdict followed a trial in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. Harris was sentenced Oct. 22, 2013 by the Honorable Robert I. Richter. Upon completion of his prison term, Harris will be placed on three years of supervised release.
According to the government’s evidence, at about 8:30 p.m. on March 9, 2013, Harris approached the victim, who was entering an apartment building in the area of 16th and V Streets SE. Harris grabbed the victim by the shirt, brandished a knife, and stabbed him twice. The victim, who managed to flee, received more than 20 stitches for his stab wounds. Earlier in the day, Harris had unfairly accused the victim of stealing a drug stash he hid in the area and threatened to kill him. The victim notified police and returned to the area. Harris, who was on probation at the time for a drug conviction, was arrested four days after the stabbing.
In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Machen praised those who investigated the case for the Metropolitan Police Department. He also commended the efforts of those who worked on the case from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, including Paralegal Specialists Lynette Briggs, Lynda Randolph, Tony Griffith and Todd McClelland; Information Technology Specialists Claudia Gutierrez and Anisha Bhatia; former intern Taylor Jones, and David Foster, James Brennan, Michael Hailey, and M. Laverne Forrest, all of the Victim Witness Assistance Unit. Finally, he expressed appreciation for the work of Assistant U.S. Attorney Philip Selden, who investigated and prosecuted the case.
13-366District Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for Killing A Man by Setting Him on Fire-Attack Took Place in June 2013 in Southeast Washington-Read the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Shawn Lewis, 42 of Washington D.C., was sentenced today to 20 years in prison for killing a man in June 2013 by setting him on fire at an apartment building in Southeast Washington, U.S. Attorney Ronald C. Machen Jr. announced.
Lewis pled guilty in July 2013, in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia, to a charge of second-degree murder. He was sentenced by the Honorable Russell F. Canan. Upon completion of his prison term, Lewis will be placed on five years of supervised release.
According to the government’s evidence, at about 6:25 p.m. on June 28, 2013, Lewis returned to the apartment building where he was living in the 1600 block of 21st Place SE. He then went to the back porch of the building, holding a lit piece of newspaper and a container of ignitable liquid. Lewis threw the liquid on the victim, Douglas Farley, 38, who was on the back porch. He ignited the liquid with the lit newspaper, engulfing Mr. Farley in flames. Lewis was arrested on the scene at about 9:25 that evening.
Mr. Farley was taken to the Washington Hospital Center, where he died on July 3, 2013. A post-mortem examination determined that Mr. Farley died as a result of complications from thermal and inhalation injuries sustained by the flames.
In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Machen praised the work of the detectives, officers, and crime scene technicians who investigated the case for the Metropolitan Police Department. He also commended the efforts of those who worked on the case from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, including Paralegal Specialist Debra Joyner, Victim/Witness Advocate Jennifer Clark, and Intelligence Specialist Sharon Johnson. Finally, he recognized the efforts of Assistant U.S. Attorneys Philip Selden, Kathryn Rakoczy, and Jonathan Kravis, who investigated and prosecuted the case.
13-369District Man Sentenced to 10-Year Prison Term for Drug Distribution and Gun Charges-Traffic Stop Led to Defendant’s Arrest-Read the Press Release
WASHINGTON - Guthrie Wright, 47, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced today to a 10-year prison term on federal narcotics distribution and weapon charges, announced U.S. Attorney Ronald C. Machen Jr.
Wright pled guilty in July 2013 in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia to charges of unlawful possession with the intent to distribute cocaine and using, carrying, and possessing a firearm during a drug trafficking offense. The plea, which called for a 10-year sentence, was contingent upon the approval of the Honorable Beryl A. Howell. Judge Howell accepted the plea agreement today and sentenced Wright accordingly. Upon completion of his prison term, Wright will be placed on five years of supervised release.
According to the government’s evidence, at about 1:45 a.m. on Nov. 9, 2012, Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officers stopped Wright’s vehicle for traffic violations in the 2400 block of 9th Street NW. The officers then arrested Wright for possession of an open container of alcohol.
During a search of Wright, MPD officers recovered several narcotics packaged for sale, including about 3.9 grams of cocaine. The officers later conducted a consensual search of Wright’s belongings at his mother’s apartment in Northwest Washington, where he had been staying. During the search, they found additional packaged drugs, including about 48.9 grams of cocaine, drug distribution paraphernalia, and two fully loaded handguns. One handgun was found in a backpack that also held the recovered narcotics and a document addressed to Wright.
Wright has seven previous convictions. His last conviction, which occurred in 2001, was for possession with the intent to distribute heroin.
In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Machen commended the MPD officers who participated in Wright’s arrest and recovered the drugs and firearms. He also acknowledged the efforts of Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Nalina Sombuntham, who prosecuted the case.
13-368District Man Pleads Guilty to Sexually Assaulting Woman at Apartment Complex in Northwest Washington-Defendant Was Identified Through Video Surveillance-Read the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Jahlani Brown, 21, of Washington, D.C., pled guilty today to a charge stemming from the recent sexual assault of a rental office employee at an apartment building in Northwest Washington, U.S. Attorney Ronald C. Machen Jr. announced.
Brown pled guilty in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia to first-degree sexual abuse. The Honorable John Ramsey Johnson scheduled sentencing for Jan. 10, 2014. In addition to prison time, Brown will be required to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life.
According to the government’s evidence, on Sept. 17, 2013, at about 9 a.m., the victim reported to her office in the Shaw area of Northwest Washington and began preparing for her workday. Brown, who was captured on video surveillance, entered the office and locked the door. He sexually assaulted, threatened, and robbed the victim before leaving the office.
The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) released surveillance images to the media in hopes of generating information, and neighboring businesses and community members cooperated with law enforcement in getting the word out about the attack. Brown was arrested two days after the assault and has been in custody ever since.
In announcing the plea, U.S. Attorney Machen commended the work performed by those who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department’s Sexual Assault Unit. He also praised those who handled the case for the U.S. Attorney’s Office, including Paralegal Specialist D’Yvonne Key and Assistant U.S. Attorney Mervin A. Bourne, Jr., who investigated and prosecuted the matter.
13-370Delaware Woman Sentenced to 81 Months on Fraud and Identity Theft ChargesRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. - Charles M. Oberly, III, United States Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced that Carolyn Wall, age 37, of Newark, Delaware, was sentenced yesterday by the Honorable Sue L. Robinson, United States District Judge for the District of Delaware, to 81 months imprisonment and full restitution, after being convicted by a jury of 30 counts of fraud and identity theft. The defendant was convicted of violations of 18 U.S.C. § 1349 (Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud), 18 U.S.C. § 1343 (Wire Fraud); 18 U.S.C. § 1028(a)(7) (Identity Theft), 18 U.S.C. § 1029(a)(3) and (c)(1)(a) (Access Device Fraud), 42 U.S.C. § 408(a)(7)(B) (Fraudulent Use of a Social Security Number), and 18 U.S.C. §1028A (Aggravated Identity Theft).
From in or around July 2010 through in or around May 2011, the defendant engaged in a check fraud and identity theft scheme. The defendant used a sophisticated computer software program, specialty check paper, and a particular type of “MICR compliant” check-writing ink to make hundreds of counterfeit checks. The defendant also utilized real bank names and routing numbers, but the account numbers on the checks were fabricated. The defendant and other members of the scheme then presented these fraudulent checks at area retail stores, including Acme, Wal-Mart, Happy Harry’s, Lowe’s, Boscov’s, Target, Safeway, Best Buy and Kohl’s. Checks created by the defendant were presented to retail stores more than 700 times, and more than 250 of the checks were honored, costing the stores more than $100,000 in less than a year.
In order to bypass the stores’ security systems, the defendant and the other members of the scheme amassed more than 200 names and social security numbers of individuals in Delaware and elsewhere. More than 65 social security numbers were used in attempts to cash the fraudulent checks. The defendant also collected a significant amount of driver’s licenses and other identification documents for the members of the scheme to use in cashing the fraudulent checks.
The defendant also used the Social Security number of another person to obtain the lease on her residence, as well as to obtain cable and power service.
The defendant admitted during the trial that she had been involved in creating fraudulent checks for nearly ten years. The defendant was arrested for her role in check fraud activities in 2008, in Stafford County, Virginia. The defendant was convicted of felony forgery and false statement charges in Virginia, and she served nearly two years in prison. The defendant was released and placed on probation in early June 2010. She began making fraudulent checks within a few weeks, in July 2010.
The defendant was convicted of all thirty counts of the Indictment, following a six-day jury trial in April, 2013. The sentence handed down by Judge Robinson yesterday represents a mandatory consecutive 24-month term of imprisonment on the Aggravated Identity Theft charges (18 U.S.C. §1028A), and a 57- month term of imprisonment on the remaining counts.
U.S. Attorney Oberly said of the sentence, “This case should send a clear signal that the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware takes this type of persistent, organized, and far-reaching identity theft scheme very seriously. I applaud the commitment of the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General, to vigorously investigate identity theft and financial fraud cases that harm innocent citizens. We will seek incarceration where necessary to deter offenders such as Ms. Wall and to protect the community from future harm.”
This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General, and it was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lauren Paxton.DEA Holds Prescription Drug Take-Back Event October 26Read the Press Release
With public participation at an all-time high after six prior events in three years, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and its national, tribal, and community partners will hold a seventh National Prescription Drug Take Back Day at thousands of sites across America on Saturday the 26th. These Take Back Days give the public the opportunity to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused, or unwanted prescription drugs. Collection sites are open 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. local time. The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked.
Prescription drugs that languish in medicine cabinets create a public health and safety concern because they are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high; almost twice as many Americans (6.8 million) currently abuse prescription drugs than the number of those abusing cocaine, hallucinogens, heroin, and inhalants combined, according to the 2012 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet.
Floridians participating in DEA’s six previous Take-Back Days turned in nearly 45 tons—of prescription drugs, and had a record setting event this past April collecting over 13 tons of expired or unwanted medication at more than 229 sites operated by over 160 of DEA’s law enforcement partners.
U.S. Attorney Wifredo A. Ferrer stated, “I encourage everyone to take advantage of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Prescription Drug Take-Back Day on October 26. At a time when prescription drug abuse is causing more deaths than illicit drugs, this is a tremendous opportunity to safely dispose and rid your homes of expired, unused or unwanted prescription drugs, and the possible misuse or abuse of these drugs.”
DEA Special Agent in Charge Mark R. Trouville stated, “I applaud all Floridians who have participated in these Take-Back events. Their actions have reflected a strong commitment to protecting their families and the community. The DEA will continue to collaborate with our law enforcement partners to host these public safety events to greatly reduce the misuse and abuse of prescription drugs.”
The public can find a nearby collection site by visiting www.dea.gov, clicking on the “Got Drugs?” icon, and following the links to a database where they can enter their zip code. Or they can call 1-800-882-9539.
DEA is in the process of drafting regulations to implement the Secure and Responsible Drug Disposal Act of 2010, which amends the Controlled Substances Act to allow an “ultimate user” (the patient or patient’s caregiver, including the owners of animals being treated by veterinarians) of controlled substance medications to dispose of them by delivering them to entities authorized by the Attorney General to accept them. The Act also allows the Attorney General to authorize long term care facilities to dispose of their residents’ controlled substances in certain instances.
A copy of this press release may be found on the website of the United States Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Florida at http://www.usdoj.gov/usao/fls. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at http://www.flsd.uscourts.gov or on http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov.
Columbia County Men Charged in Internet "Bath Salts" and "Spice" Trafficking NetworkRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced the unsealing of a seven-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Williamsport on October 10, 2013 charging Paul Chomiak, Lindsay Lee-Lampshire, Adam Stein, and Kyle Savitski with mail fraud conspiracy, conspiracy to distribute controlled substance analogues, distribution of controlled substance analogues, conspiracy to introduce and introduction of misbranded drugs, and conspiracy to commit money laundering offenses. The indictment also charged four businesses allegedly used to commit the offenses, Reflectionz and Symplegades Requiem, both based in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania and Anima Entertainment, LLC and Extelligence Internet Services based in Kalamazoo, Michigan.
The indictment was unsealed following the arrests.
According to United States Attorney Peter J. Smith, the indictment alleges that from September 2009 through the present, Chomiak, Lee-Lampshire, Stein, and Savitski marketed and distributed controlled substance analogues and misbranded drugs, commonly referred to as “bath salts” and “spice,” using Internet web sites and two stores in Bloomsburg operated as Symplegades Requiem and Reflectionz. The indictment alleges that the defendants fraudulently marketed the products as novelties not for human consumption, when in fact the products were being used to obtain the same physical effects as controlled substances.
Chomiak, age 47, and Stein, age 23, and Savitski, age 23, reside in Bloomsburg. Lee-Lampshire, age 30, is a resident of Kalamazoo, Michigan.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Food and Drug Administration, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Columbia County Drug Task Force. Prosecution has been 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.
In this case, the maximum penalty under the federal statute is 20 years’ imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant’s educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
Collin County Convicted Felon Sentenced to Federal Prison for Firearms ViolationRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsPLANO, Texas – A 27-year-old McKinney, Texas man has been sentenced to federal prison for a firearms violation in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Quincy Reshawn Gilstrap pleaded guilty on Aug. 21, 2012, to charges of being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm and was sentenced to 262 months in federal prison on Oct. 24, 2013, by U.S. District Judge Richard A. Schell.
According to information presented in court, in December 2011, Gilstrap was arrested by Plano Police for a drug offense and evading arrest and found in possession of a firearm. Further investigation revealed Gilstrap had been previously convicted in Collin County, Texas for evading arrest in 2004, manufacture/delivery of a controlled substance in 2008 and robbery in 2008. Convicted felons are prohibited by federal law from owning or possessing firearms or ammunition. A federal grand jury returned an indictment in March 2012 charging Gilstrap with being a felon in possession of a firearm.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Plano Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tracey M. Batson.Car Stop Robber Sentenced to More Than 12 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
RICHMOND, Va. – Na Phoun Chhim, 28, of North Chesterfield, Va., was sentenced today to 150 months in prison for robbery and for brandishing a firearm during that robbery. Chhim was also ordered to pay $1500 in restitution to the victims. In addition to being ordered to pay restitution, Chhim was also ordered to forfeit two firearms (not used in the robbery) and ammunition for three different firearms, each of which was recovered from inside Chhim’s residence.
Dana J. Boente, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Jeffrey C. Mazanec, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Richmond Field Office; and Colonel Thierry Dupuis, Chief of Police for the Chesterfield County Police Department made the announcement after sentencing by United States District Judge Henry E. Hudson.
In a statement of facts filed in support of this guilty plea, Chhim admitted that he entered the Car Stop, a convenience store located on Jefferson Davis Highway in Northern Chesterfield, Virginia, a few minutes before noon. He “racked,” and then brandished, a black handgun. Chhim did not speak during the robbery, but motioned first to the clerk to put money into a bag, and then motioned to one of the owners to remove United States currency from a drawer. During the robbery, Chhim also brandished the firearm in the direction of a customer. The total amount of money Chhim stole from the Car Stop was $1500.
After stealing the money, Chhim ran from the store in the direction of Alcott Road. Shortly thereafter, Chesterfield police responded to the crime scene. A tracking K-9 named Alvin, and his partner, Officer Moody, tracked a scent from the Car Stop, through a wooded area, and up to a shed located behind the Chhim family residence. It was later learned that Chhim lived in this shed, which he used as his bedroom. Several eyewitnesses reported that they had observed an individual jumping over a fence, and then enter the shed. A short while later, Chhim was observed leaving the shed in his father’s truck. The stolen money and the firearm that was brandished during the robbery were never found.
Store security video showed the robber wearing a gray Champion® sweatshirt, and gray Champion® sweatpants, with a white cloth covering his face. Clothing matching the clothes worn by the robber was found inside Chhim’s bedroom. An eyewitness also reported seeing the suspect’s red boxer shorts as he jumped over a fence. At the time of his arrest, Chhim was wearing red pajama pants and red boxer shorts. Forensic evidence, including DNA analysis and fingerprints, also linked Chhim to the crime. Chhim entered a plea of guilty to both charges on July 30, 2013, just days before trial was scheduled to commence.
This case was investigated by the Chesterfield County Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Angela Mastandrea-Miller prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
A copy of this press release may be found on the website of the United States Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Virginia at http://www.justice.gov/usao/vae. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia at http://www.vaed.uscourts.gov or on https://pcl.uscourts.gov.British Man Sentenced to Five Years in Prison for 2009 Hammer Attack on College Campus-Defendant Fled United States for Four Years After Assault-Read the Press Release
WASHINGTON Mohammed Niazi, 46, of the United Kingdom, was sentenced today to five years in prison on charges stemming from a hammer attack on a George Washington University student in a campus bathroom, announced U.S. Attorney Ronald C. Machen Jr.
Niazi was found guilty in August 2013 by a jury in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia of assault with a dangerous weapon, assault with significant bodily injury, and carrying a dangerous weapon. He was sentenced by the Honorable Stuart G. Nash.
According to the evidence presented at trial, on Oct. 9, 2009, at about 3 p.m., Niazi entered Duques Hall, an academic building in the 2200 block of G Street NW. He entered a men’s bathroom on the second floor and began striking the victim in the back of the head with a metal hammer. The victim attempted to defend himself against Niazi, who continued the attack inside a foyer located between the hallway and the main bathroom. As the bleeding victim stumbled out of the bathroom, students rushed to his aid. Niazi fled down the stairs and out of the building.
Detectives with the George Washington University Police Department and the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) obtained images of the suspect from security video taken in Duques Hall and issued a campus-wide e-mail alert. A response to the alert led police to a coffee shop nearby where Niazi had been seen shortly before the attack. Using security video and credit card transaction records from the coffee shop, police were able to obtain Niazi=s name and his Virginia driver=s license photo.
The day after the attack, Niazi purchased an airline ticket to London, and he fled the country the very next day. On April 4, 2013, Niazi was apprehended when he tried to travel through Panama and was returned to the United States to face charges. He has been in custody ever since.
In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Machen expressed his appreciation to the Metropolitan Police Department, the George Washington University Police Department, and the U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service. U.S. Attorney Machen also commended the work of Paralegals Allison Gregory Daniels, Victim Advocate Jennifer Clark, and Litigation Technology Specialist Leif Hickling. Finally, he commended former Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Scruggs, who investigated the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Sroka, who indicted and tried the case.
13-367Bossier City Man Sentenced to 37 Months in Prison for Counterfeiting $20 Bills in ApartmentRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced that Dakota Mallory Robinson, 25, of Bossier City, La., was sentenced Thursday before U.S. District Judge Tom Stagg to 37 months in prison and three years of supervised release for making counterfeit Federal Reserve notes. Robinson pleaded guilty July 24, 2013.According to evidence presented at the guilty plea, a duplex manager called the Bossier City Police Department to report that a maintenance worker had observed Robinson making counterfeit money in his apartment with the door open to the public. A search of the apartment February 8, 2013 revealed $2,020 worth of counterfeit $20 bills, a printer, uncut sheets of counterfeit $20 bills and other related items.
The U.S. Secret Service, Shreveport Office and Bossier City Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon B. Brown prosecuted the case.
Blackfoot Man Sentenced for Simple Assault and Abusive Sexual Contact with A ChildRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a man from Blackfoot, South Dakota, convicted of Simple Assault and Abusive Sexual Contact with a Child was sentenced on October 23, 2013, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Ta-Sunka-Hinz Thunder Hawk, age 18, was sentenced to 24 months in custody, 5 years of supervised release, and a $110 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Thunder Hawk was indicted by a federal grand jury on two separate cases, and on July 23, 2013, Thunder Hawk pled guilty to Simple Assault in the first case and to Abusive Sexual Contact with a Child in the second case.
In the first case, Thunder Hawk went into a room at the Tiospaye Topa High School in March of 2013 and grabbed a female school employee in a bear hug. The victim was forced to struggle in order to get free.
In the second case, in March 2013, Thunder Hawk had sexual contact with a child under the age of 12 at a residence near Blackfoot.The Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Division conducted the investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mikal Hanson.
Thunder Hawk was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service to begin serving his sentence.
Amos Patton Charged with Two Felonies Following Shooting at Millington National Guard Recruiting StationRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Amos Patton, 42, of Cordova, TN, was charged today in a criminal complaint
# # # #
with one count of assault within the maritime and territorial jurisdiction of the United States, and
one count of carrying and using a firearm during and in relation to a federal crime of violence,
announced U.S. Attorney Edward L. Stanton III; Special Agent in Charge of the Memphis
Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, A. Todd McCall; Naval Criminal Investigative
Service Special Agent Michael C. Cote; and Millington Police Chief Rita Stanback.
According to the affidavit filed with the complaint, on October 24, 2013 Patton was directed by
his commanders to come to the Tennessee Army National Guard Recruiting Center, located at
5650 Attu, Millington, TN. During this meeting, Patton was notified that he was being relieved
of duty, recommended for reduction in rank, and recommended for separation from the active
guard reserve because of misconduct.
Following the meeting, Patton was directed to return government equipment believed to be in his
government vehicle. When he returned from the car, Patton had in his possession a “fanny pack.”
When he attempted to access the pack, one of the Tennessee Army National Guardsmen yelled
“Gun.”
At that point, a senior non-commissioned officer (NCO) attempted to subdue Patton. Patton was
able to fire his weapon, and rounds struck three Tennessee Army National Guard personnel in
the room. Patton ran from the building, followed by the senior NCO, who caught Patton,
subdued him, and held him until the Millington Police Department arrived and took Patton into
custody. The handgun was recovered at the scene of the shooting.
If convicted, Patton could receive up to 20 years for the assault charge and could receive a
minimum of 10 years for the firearms charge. There is no parole in the federal system. This case
is being investigated by the FBI and the NCIS. Assistant U.S. Attorney Fred Godwin is
representing the government.
The charges and allegations contained in the criminal complaint are merely accusations, and the
defendant is considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.Alabama Man Pleads Guilty to His Involvement in an<br /> Identity Theft Scheme Using Stolen Prisoner Names and a Corrupt Postal EmployeeRead the Press Release
Harvey James pleaded guilty to one count of mail fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft for his role in a Stolen Identity Refund Fraud (“SIRF”) scheme , announced Assistant Attorney General Kathryn Keneally of the Justice Department's Tax Division and U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Alabama George L. Beck Jr.
According to court documents and court proceedings, Harvey James obtained stolen identities from individuals who had access to inmate information from the Alabama Department of Corrections. For several years, James, his sister, Jacqueline Slaton, and others used those inmate names to file false federal and state tax returns. James and Slaton directed some of the false refunds to be sent to either prepaid debit cards or issued via check. In 2012, James and Slaton enlisted the assistance of U.S. Postal Service mail carrier Vernon Harrison in the scheme. Harrison, who provided James and his co-conspirators with mailing addresses to which they could mail debit cards, retrieved the debit cards from the mail and delivered them to James and his co-conspirators. In exchange, Harrison received substantial payments. Between 2010 and 2012, James and his co-conspirators filed hundreds of federal and state income tax returns that claimed over $1,000,000 in fraudulent tax refunds.
Sentencing has not yet been scheduled. James faces a minimum sentence of two years in prison and a maximum sentence of twenty-two years in prison, three years of supervised release, restitution and a maximum fine of $250,000. Slaton already pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 70 months in prison. In July 2013, Harrison was found guilty by a jury for his role in the scheme. Harrison will be sentenced on Oct. 31, 2013.
The case was investigated by Special Agents of the IRS - Criminal Investigation. Trial Attorneys Jason H. Poole and Michael Boteler of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Todd Brown are prosecuting the case.
Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found at www.justice.gov/tax.
Thursday 24 October 2013
Yakima Felon Sentenced to 112 Months in Federal Prison for Possessing A FirearmRead the Press Release
Spokane – Michael C. Ormsby, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced that Antonio Victor Mirelez, age 26, of Yakima, Washington, was sentenced today after having previously pleading guilty to the crime of being a previously convicted felon in possession of a firearm. United States District Court Judge Thomas O. Rice sentenced Mirelez to a 112 month term of imprisonment, to be followed by a three year term of court supervision following release from Federal prison.
According to information disclosed during the court proceedings, on February 1, 2013, law enforcement officers with the Yakima City Police Department initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle Mirelez was driving. The law enforcement officers apprehended Mirelez after he attempted to flee. The officers subsequently discovered an Enfield rifle, .303 caliber, model No. 4 MK1 inside the vehicle Mirelez had been driving. Mirelez was charged with being a previously convicted felon in possession of a firearm and he pleaded guilty to that crime on July 23, 2013. He has been in custody since mid-June.
Michael C. Ormsby said, "Prosecuting firearms-related crimes continues to be a priority for the United States Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Washington. In this case, the Yakima City Police Department partnered with Special Agents working for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives to successfully prosecute this Federal case. Previously convicted felons should be aware that there are serious criminal penalties connected with possessing any firearm and that we are committed to aggressively prosecute the cases."
This investigation was conducted by the Yakima City Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. This case was prosecuted by Benjamin D. Seal, an Assistant United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington.
WASHINGTON – Tarrish Tellis of Montgomery County, Ala., Pleaded Guilty Today to Conspiracy, Theft of Public Funds and Aggravated Identity Theft, Announced Assistant Attorney General Kathryn Keneally of the Justice Department's Tax Division and U.S.Read the Press Release
ALABAMA MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO STEALING TAX REFUNDS
According to court documents, Tellis obtained and used the stolen means of identification of individuals, including their names, dates of birth and Social Security numbers, for the purpose of filing false federal income tax returns. Tellis instructed his co-conspirators and others to provide him with bank account numbers for accounts at financial institutions that were used to receive the fraudulently obtained tax refunds. Tellis used the account numbers and stolen means of identification to file false tax returns that claimed over $700,000 in false refunds. As a result of his plea, Tellis faces a maximum sentence of 17 years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000 per count.
This case was investigated by special agents of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) - Criminal Investigation. Trial Attorneys Charles M. Edgar Jr. and Michael Boteler of the Justice Department’s Tax Division prosecuted the case.
13-1133Vaughn SentencingRead the Press Release
BATON ROUGE, LA - Acting United States Attorney Walt Green announced the sentencing of a former Operations Manager in connection with a wide ranging and ongoing investigation into corruption and fraud involving compliance with federal environmental laws.
U.S. District Judge James J. Brady sentenced MICHAEL J. VAUGHN, age 33, of Addis, Louisiana, to 12 months incarceration at a federal half-way house, a five year term of probation, forfeiture of approximately $23,000, and restitution to the victims in an amount to be determined.
The defendant’s sentence is the result of his pleading guilty to making false statements within the jurisdiction of the federal government and conspiring to defraud the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and to violate the Safe Drinking Water Act. Such convictions stem from actions he took while serving as the Operations Manager of FAS Environmental Services, a transportation and disposal company based in Belle River, Louisiana. In that role, the defendant oversaw all operations and employees at the company.
While working as the FAS Operations Manager, the defendant took over $22,000 in kickbacks during 2011 and 2012 from a wastewater brokerage firm in exchange for illegally using an FAS injection well in Belle River to dispose of over 380,000 gallons of industrial wastewater in violation of the Federal Safe Water Drinking Act. As part of the scheme, the defendant and his fellow conspirators created and used over 100 false documents, including manifests and work orders, in addition to submitting false reports to regulators in Baton Rouge. Such false and fraudulent documents were designed to conceal the scheme from federal and state government officials and the brokerage firm’s unsuspecting clients.
FAS ownership was unaware of the defendant’s scheme, which resulted in the misuse of FAS resources to the sole benefit of the defendant personally and his fellow conspirators. FAS has cooperated fully throughout the investigation and terminated the defendant’s employment with the company upon learning of the scheme.
Acting U.S. Attorney Green stated: “Prosecuting corporate fraud and violations of our nation’s environmental laws continues to be a high priority for this office. We look forward to continuing to work with our very able federal, state, and local partners to aggressively pursue such important matters.”
Ivan Vikin, Special Agent-in-Charge of EPA’s criminal enforcement program in Louisiana, stated: “One of EPA’s primary missions is to ensure that federal laws protecting human health and the environment are enforced fairly and effectively. Violators who submit false information and illegally dispose of waste into injection wells undermine the government’s efforts to protect the public and the environment. These illegal actions cannot and will not be tolerated. EPA and its partner agencies will vigorously pursue those who knowingly falsify official information and place the public at potential risk.”
Secretary Peggy Hatch of the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality stated: “Breaking the law and disregarding Louisiana’s environmental regulations can have serious consequences. With federal and state governments aggressively working together to enforce federal and state environmental laws, we can provide the citizens of Louisiana with a better environment and quality of life.”
This ongoing investigation is being conducted by this office, the Criminal Investigation Division of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and the Criminal Investigation Division of the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Corey R. Amundson who serves as the Senior Deputy Chief of the Criminal Division.
United States Attorney's Office<br /> Is Now on TwitterRead the Press Release
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana has opened a Twitter account to assist in providing the citizens in our communities with information about news, events, and special announcements through this social media channel, announced U.S. Attorney Kenneth Allen Polite, Jr.
“We want to use social media in a responsible fashion to ensure that justice reaches all citizens of Southeast Louisiana,” Polite said. “The Office’s Twitter account will help inform the public about the work we are doing with taxpayer dollars. Further, increased awareness of our efforts will have a deterrent effect on crime.”
To follow us on Twitter, go to http://twitter.com/EDLAnews, or add our Twitter address, @EDLAnews, to your smartphone Twitter app. In addition to Twitter, the U.S. Attorney’s Office also maintains a website that is the primary source of information relating to all functions of the office. Please visit us at http://www.justice.gov/usao/lae.
United States Attorney's Office Supports the Drug Enforcement Administration's Nationwide Drug Take-Back DayRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia, the Drug Enforcement Administration and local law enforcement encourage all citizens to safely dispose of unwanted and expired medicines by participating in the Nationwide Drug Take-Back Day on October 26, 2013 between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.Unwanted or expired medications and drugs may be turned in for disposal at the locations listed below:
Bibb County Sheriff’s Office – Walmart – 5955 Zebulon Road – Macon, GA
Macon Police Department - 600 Pio Nono Avenue – Macon, GA
Cook County Sheriff’s Office – 1000 County Farm Road – Adel, GA
Early County Sheriff’s Office – Harvey’s Supermarket – 12246 Columbia Street – Blakely, GA
Eatonton Police Department – 214 West Marion Street – Eatonton, GA
Forsyth Police Department – 220 South Kimball Street – Forsyth, GA
Ft. Benning Military Police – Ft. Benning Main Exchange – Bldg. 9222 Marne Road - Ft. Benning, GA
Franklin County Sheriff’s Office – 1 James Little Street – Carnesville, GA
Hart County Sheriff’s Office – 890 Vickery Street – Hartwell, GA
Jones County Sheriff’s Department – 123 Holmer Hawkins Drive – Gray, GA
Lee County Sheriff’s Office – 119 Pinewood Road – Leesburg, GA
Monroe County Sheriff’s Office – 145 L. Carey Bittick Drive – Forsyth, GA
Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office – 119 Old Monticello Road – Milledgeville, GA
Hancock County Sheriff’s Department – 67 Spring Street – Sparta, GA
Madison Police Department – 118 N. Main Street – Madison, GA
Milledgeville Police Department – 125 W. McIntosh Street – Milledgeville, GA
Washington Co. Sheriff’s Department – 1735 Kaolin Road – Sandersville, GA
Wilkinson Co. Sheriff’s Department – 108 Bacon Street – Irwinton, GA
Miller County Sheriff’s Office – 300 West Pine Street – Colquitt, GA
Seminole County Sheriff’s Office – 208 Court Street – Donalsonville, GA
Sylvester Police Department – Glenn’s Corner Pharmacy – 631 E. Franklin St. – Sylvester, GAJoin the effort, find a Take-Back location near you and take the pledge to stop prescription medicine abuse. Go to http://www.justice.gov/dea/index.shtml for more information.
Inquiries regarding the case should be directed to Sue McKinney, Public Affairs Specialist, United States Attorney's Office at (478) 621-2602.
United States Attorney Announces Guilty Verdict Against Anderson Man on Federal Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS – Joseph H. Hogsett, the United States Attorney, announced today that Dr. Bruce E. Jones, PhD, age 66, of Anderson, has been found guilty of illegally possessing firearms and ammunition after a four day jury trial before U.S. District Judge Tanya Walton Pratt. The defendant, a previously licensed family and addiction counselor in Madison County, now faces up to thirty years in federal prison.
“Thanks to the tireless efforts of prosecutors and our law enforcement partners, we have brought to justice a person whose total disregard for the rule of law was a danger to this community,” Hogsett said. “This case represents exactly what our Violent Crime Initiative is all about – collaborating across jurisdictions to make Central Indiana a safer place to live and work.”
An investigation of Jones was launched by the Federal Bureau of Investigation in 2010, and search warrants were executed in May of that year. Investigators found evidence of federal firearms violations at three different properties owned by Jones. This included two locations in Madison County, as well as a cabin in rural Montana. The FBI was assisted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, as well as local law enforcement agencies.
All told, those search warrants revealed an illegal arsenal of four dozen firearms and 14,000 rounds of ammunition. Jones was not entitled to possess these weapons due to his 1984 conviction for dealing in a controlled substance. The defendant served three years in prison for that crime, but later became a practicing counselor with a doctorate degree.
This indictment comes as part of the U.S. Attorney’s Violent Crime Initiative (VCI). Launched in March 2011, the VCI has produced a dramatic increase in the number of gun-related charges brought federally. In the year preceding the initiative, there were just 14 defendants charged with federal gun crimes by the U.S. Attorney’s Office. In the nearly two years since, more than 200 defendants have been charged.
According to Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bradley Shepard and Nicholas Surmacz, who prosecuted the case for the government, Jones now faces up to ten years in prison and significant fines on each federal gun charge. He was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service today, where he will remain until a scheduled sentencing hearing on February 20, 2014, in Indianapolis. Jones is also scheduled to go to trial in January on federal health care fraud charges.
An Indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.