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Wednesday 30 January 2013
Eastern Idaho Man Sentenced for Distributing MethRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – Ryan Wasia, 26, of Pingree, Idaho, was sentenced yesterday in United States District Court in Pocatello to 40 months in prison followed by four years of supervised release for possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture containing methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also fined Wasia $1,000. He pleaded guilty to the charge on August 29, 2012.
According to the plea agreement, on April 4, 2012, Wasia was stopped in a vehicle in Fort Hall, Idaho, having just left a residence. Law enforcement officers recovered 127 grams of methamphetamine from the vehicle. In a subsequent interview, Wasia admitted the methamphetamine was his and that he had just sold additional methamphetamine to a person at the residence in Fort Hall. Wasia further admitted he possessed the methamphetamine and intended to distribute it to another person.
The case was investigated by the Idaho State Police and the Fort Hall Police Department.
Eagle Butte Man Charged with Distribution of A Controlled SubstanceRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota man has been indicted by a federal grand jury. Philip LaBatte, age 24, was indicted by a federal grand jury on October 16, 2012 for Distribution of a Controlled Substance to a Person Under the Age of 21 and Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance.
LaBatte appeared before US Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 29, 2013 and pled not guilty to the indictment. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years of imprisonment, $250,000 fine, or both; 4 years of supervised release and 2 additional years of supervised release upon revocation. Restitution and a $100 special assessment may also be ordered. The charges are merely accusations, and LaBatte is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe and the Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant United States Attorney Kathryn N. Rich is prosecuting the case. LaBatte was remanded to the custody of the US Marshal. A trial date has not yet been set.
Drug Trafficker Sentenced to More Than 12 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
McALLEN, Texas - Ricardo Hinojosa, of Roma, has been sentenced to 151 months in federal prison following his conviction of possession with intent to distribute in excess of 100 kilograms of marijuana, United States Attorney Kenneth Magidson announced today.
On Sept. 1, 2011, Hinojosa and others agreed to transport approximately 211 kilograms of marijuana from a location near the Rio Grande River in Starr County to another location for further distribution. The others included Javier Gonzalez, Ramiro Reyes, Eric Garza, Rogelio Vela and Jose Ibarra. As part of an additional scheme and before the marijuana transportation took place, Hinojosa and others agreed to steal the load of marijuana from the actual owner. They would steal the marijuana and have the actual marijuana owner believe the marijuana was seized by law enforcement.
Hinojosa, Reyes, Vela Gonzales and Garza were sentenced to respective terms of prison of 151, 63, 60, 32 and 24 months. Ibarra was previously sentenced to 30 months for his role and activities.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jason C. Honeycutt.
Defendant Convicted of Drug and Attempted Witness Retaliation ChargesRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del – Charles M. Oberly, III, United States Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced today that a federal jury after less than four hours of deliberation over lunch found defendant William Boney guilty on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(A), and 846; attempted murder by retaliating against an informant, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1513(a)(1)(B); and soliciting another person to retaliate against an informant by committing murder, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1513(a)(1)(B) and 373. The jury returned its verdict yesterday after a one-week trial.
According to the evidence presented at trial, on November 7, 2010, Boney attempted to broker a seven-kilogram cocaine deal worth approximately $217,000 at his residence in Delaware. Before the cocaine deal could be completed, however, Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”) agents intervened after using a confidential informant to infiltrate the cocaine deal. Boney, along with four other individuals, was arrested, and the DEA seized nearly five kilograms of cocaine. Following his arrest, Boney was released to cooperate with the DEA in ongoing drug investigations.
While released, Boney discovered the identity of the confidential informant who assisted the DEA with the investigation of the November 7, 2010 drug deal. Boney then began to plot this person’s murder. DEA agents, however, uncovered Boney’s plot and inserted a second confidential informant into the Defendant’s scheme to portray the role of a “hit man.” Boney met with the purported “hit man” three times between May 22, 2011 and July 3, 2011. During these meetings, Boney discussed killing the confidential informant. If the informant was not present when the “hit man” entered the informant’s home, Boney requested the “hit man” kill the informant’s young child. Boney also provided critical information to the purported “hit man” to carry out this act. Boney further showed the “hit man” where various individuals lived who he believed possessed large amounts of cash or drugs so that the “hit man” could conduct home invasion robberies of these residences to collect the cash or drugs as payment for the murder of the confidential informant.
A sentencing hearing will be scheduled by the District Court. At sentencing, Boney faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years of imprisonment, and up to life in prison for the drug conspiracy offense. He also faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison for attempted murder by retaliating against an informant; and a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison for soliciting another person to retaliate against an informant by committing murder.
United States Attorney Oberly congratulated the DEA investigators and the prosecution team on a well-earned conviction of a defendant whose ruthlessness included soliciting a hit man to kill the informant and/or his baby. He stated: ?The protection of witnesses and other innocents is of paramount concern and threats, intimidation or other actions against witnesses and others will always be fully investigated and prosecuted fully.”
Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent in Charge David G. Dongilli said, “DEA will not tolerate threats against any person that has provided assistance or cooperated with DEA. I wish to extend my thanks to all of the law enforcement agencies that participated in this investigation, including the Delaware State Police, Delaware Department of Probation and Parole, Wilmington Police Department, Newark Police Department, and the New Castle County Police Department. I also want to extend my appreciation to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware for their dedication, cooperation, professionalism, and support in the investigation and prosecution of this case.”
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jamie M. McCall and Ilana Eisenstein, District of Delaware. For further information, please contact AUSA McCall at 302-573-6079 or AUSA Eisenstein at 302-573-6082.
Danville Woman Pleads Guilty to Stealing Social Security BenefitsRead the Press Release
DANVILLE, VIRGINIA -- A 33-year-old Danville woman pled guilty yesterday morning in the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia in Danville to stealing more than $34,000 of Social Security benefits intended for disabled individuals.
Joie Scott Whitt, 33, of Danville, Va., waived her right to be indicted and pled guilty yesterday morning to a one count Information charging her with theft of government monies. She faces a maximum possible penalty of up to 10 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $250,000.
"Ms. Whitt betrayed the trust of those families who put their loved ones in her care," United States Attorney Timothy J. Heaphy said today. "She stole money that was intended for those suffering from mental health problems, mental retardation and substance abuse issues. We will continue to do all we can to ensure that Social Security benefits assist those who need it rather line the pockets fraudsters like Ms. Whitt."
"Ms. Whitt's actions are another deplorable example of fraud being committed by health care providers as 'just the cost of doing business,'" said Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli. "Providers like Ms. Whitt who bilk the system aren't only defrauding those in their care and the taxpayers, they're also stealing limited Social Security or Medicaid funds and keeping people truly in need from receiving the care they require. We will continue to do all we can to protect Virginia's most vulnerable citizens from predators like Ms. Whitt.”
According to evidence presented at yesterday’s guilty plea hearing by Assistant United States Attorney Charlene R. Day, Whitt worked as the bookkeeper for Alternative Community Experience (ACE), a representative payee organization that provides residential support services and day support services for individuals with mental health illnesses, mental retardation and substance abuse problems.Whitt admitted today that while serving as the bookkeeper she embezzled $34,505 in Social Security Administration benefits from the businesses operating account.
The investigation of the case was conducted by Virginia Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit and the Social Security Administration. Assistant United States Attorney Charlene R. Day and Special Assistant United States Attorney Vaso Doubles are prosecuting the case for the United States.
Cumberland Man Pleads Guilty to Three Armed Bank RobberiesRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland - John Allen Talerico, age 50, of Cumberland, Maryland, pleaded guilty late yesterday to three counts of armed bank robbery.
The guilty plea was announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Rod J. Rosenstein; Special Agent in Charge Stephen E. Vogt of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; Cumberland Police Chief Charles H. Hinnant; Allegany County Sheriff Craig Robertson; Frostburg Police Chief Royce C. Douty; Colonel Marcus L. Brown, Superintendent of the Maryland State Police; and Allegany County State’s Attorney Michael O. Twigg, of the Combined County Criminal Investigations Unit (C3I).
According to his plea agreement, between March 11, 2011, and September 13, 2011, Talerico committed three armed bank robberies in Cumberland, Maryland. During each robbery, Talerico entered the bank, approached the teller and asked about opening an account, then pointed what appeared to be a large black semiautomatic handgun at the teller and demanded money. After the tellers gave Talerico cash, he threatened them and demanded more money from the tellers, then fled the bank. On one occasion, when a customer entered the bank during the robbery, Talerico pointed the gun at the customer, telling the customer to “get out of the way.” During the robberies, Talerico wore distinctive clothing, including a knit hat with a brim, and large framed glasses. Talerico obtained a total of approximately $31,206 from the three bank robberies.
The robberies were captured on bank surveillance video. During a search warrant executed at Talerico’s home on March 30, 2012, numerous articles of clothing matching those worn by the bank robber in the surveillance photos were seized.
Talerico faces a maximum sentence of 25 years in prison, for each of three counts of armed bank robbery. U.S. District Judge Marvin J. Garbis scheduled sentencing for May 3, 2013. Talerico remains detained.
United States Attorney Rod J. Rosenstein praised the FBI, C3I, Cumberland Police Department, Allegany County Sheriff’s Office, Frostburg Police Department, Maryland State Police, and Allegany County State’s Attorney’s Office for their work in the investigation and thanked the Mineral County Sheriff’s Office (WV), Pennsylvania State Police for their assistance. Mr. Rosenstein thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Paul E. Budlow and Mark W. Crooks, who are prosecuting the case.
Coraopolis Man Sentenced to Probation for Possessing WeaponRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Coraopolis has been sentenced in federal court to one year probation on his conviction of possession of a machinegun, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Maurice B. Cohill imposed the sentence on Martin Joseph Saunders, 49.
According to information presented to the court, Saunders transferred parts designed to convert a weapon into a machinegun.
Assistant United States Attorneys Robert S. Cessar and Lee J. Karl prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Saunders.
Conspirator Pleads Guilty in Bank Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland - Kevin Pittman, now using the name “Breona Pittman,” age 33, of Chesapeake, Virginia, pleaded guilty today to bank fraud conspiracy and aggravated identity theft.
The guilty plea was announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Rod J. Rosenstein; Special Agent in Charge Robert Jasinski of the United States Secret Service – Baltimore Field Office; and Harford County Sheriff L. Jesse Bane.
According to her plea agreement, from November 2007, through February 2011, Pittman conspired with others in a scheme to use the stolen identifying information of others to fraudulently obtain money from financial institutions. Specifically, a co-conspirator provided Pittman with fake identification, counterfeit supporting business documents, and counterfeit checks, which contained the stolen personal identifying information of individuals and pictures of Pittman and other conspirators. Pittman used the fake documents to open business and personal bank accounts at various financial institutions. Pittman deposited the counterfeit business checks into these fraudulently opened bank accounts, then withdrew the funds before the checks could be identified as fraudulent. Pittman was paid a commission for each transaction.
Pittman also used counterfeit documents and compromised identities provided to her by a co-conspirator to incorporate fraudulent businesses with the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation (“MDAT”) and other states’ departments of state, then established matching business checking accounts for those fraudulent businesses for use in the scheme. Finally, Pittman cashed counterfeit checks, which were drawn on real persons’ accounts, at retail supermarkets, using the fraudulent identification documents provided by her co-conspirator as proof of identity.
As a result of the scheme, more than 10 victims lost a total of between $30,000 and $70,000.
Pittman faces a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison for the bank fraud conspiracy and a mandatory two years in prison, consecutive to any other sentence, for aggravated identity theft. U.S. District Judge Richard D. Bennett scheduled sentencing for May1, 2013.
Today’s announcement is part of efforts underway by President Obama’s Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force (FFETF) which was created in November 2009 to wage an aggressive, coordinated and proactive effort to investigate and prosecute financial crimes. With more than 20 federal agencies, 94 U.S. attorneys’ offices and state and local partners, it’s the broadest coalition of law enforcement, investigatory and regulatory agencies ever assembled to combat fraud. Since its formation, the task force has made great strides in facilitating increased investigation and prosecution of financial crimes; enhancing coordination and cooperation among federal, state and local authorities; addressing discrimination in the lending and financial markets and conducting outreach to the public, victims, financial institutions and other organizations. Over the past three fiscal years, the Justice Department has filed more than 10,000 financial fraud cases against nearly 15,000 defendants including more than 2,700 mortgage fraud defendants. For more information on the task force, visit www.stopfraud.gov.
United States Attorney Rod J. Rosenstein thanked the U.S. Secret Service and Harford County Sheriff’s Office for their work in the investigation. Mr. Rosenstein praised Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark W. Crooks, who is prosecuting the case.
Cleveland Woman Charged with Six Counts of Wire FraudRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury in Cleveland returned an indictment charging Diana Geoffrion, age 55, of Cleveland, with six counts of wire fraud related to a $100,000 scheme involving a property in Willowick, said Steven M. Dettelbach, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
Geoffrion was employed by First American Exchange Company, LLC, in its Cleveland office from 2001 through January 2011. In February 2009, she executed a land contract on property at 722 East 305 Street, Willowick, Ohio, 44095, according to the indictment.
She then tried to fraudulently pay off the mortgage and note on the property with First American funds in late 2010, and embezzle and divert additional First American funds for her own benefit, according to the indictment.
Each of the six counts corresponds with a separate transaction, which totaled approximately $101,982.
The indictment results from an investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was presented for indictment by Assistant United States Attorney James V. Moroney.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the court after review of
factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s
role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases, the sentence will not
exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a
fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.Cleveland Heights Indicted on Federal Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury sitting in Cleveland, returned a one-count indictment charging Donte Booker, age 45, of Cleveland Heights, Ohio, with a violation of federal narcotics law, said Steven M. Dettelbach, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
The indictment charges Booker with the attempted possession with the intent to distribute over five kilograms of cocaine.
If convicted, Booker’s sentence will be determined by the court after review of factors unique to this case, including Booker’s prior criminal record, his role in the offense and the unique characteristics of the violation. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward F. Feran following an investigation by the Northern Ohio Law Enforcement Task Force (NOLETF) and the Cleveland Police Department.
The NOLETF is a long standing multi-agency task force comprised of investigators from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority, Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service, Cleveland Division of Police, Cleveland Heights Police Department, Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Office, Euclid Police Department, Regional Transit Authority Police Department, Strongsville Police Department, Westlake Police Department and Shaker Heights Police Department.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Calmes Denied New TrialRead the Press Release
BATON ROUGE, LA – United States Attorney Donald J. Cazayoux, Jr. announced that United States District Judge Lance Africk today denied a new trial request of KEVIN PAUL CALMES, 40, of Denham Springs, Louisiana. CALMES had filed a request for new trial claiming the discovery of new evidence. Judge Africk, in a 6 page opinion, rejected CALMES’ request for a new trial. Judge Africk also ordered KEVIN CALMES to report to jail on Tuesday, February 6, 2013 to begin service of his 30 month term of imprisonment in the custody of the United States Bureau of Prisons.
KEVIN CALMES and CALMES MOTORSPORTS were sentenced for their convictions on August 1, 2012 by a Baton Rouge jury. KEVIN PAUL CALMES was convicted of money laundering, one count of failure to file required reports of cash transactions, and three counts of structuring transactions in order to evade cash reporting requirements. CALMES MOTORSPORTS was convicted of one count of failure to file required reports of cash transactions and three counts of structuring transactions in order to evade cash reporting requirements.
KEVIN PAUL CALMES was sentenced to a 30 month term of imprisonment, two years of supervised release, and forfeiture of all property involved in, or used to facilitate, the money laundering and structuring transactions, including forfeiture of $24,927.99 associated with the sale of two particular motorcycles.
CALMES MOTORSPORTS was a Denham Springs dealership which marketed and sold motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles to the public. KEVIN PAUL CALMES was the sales manager of CALMES MOTORSPORTS, L.L.C. In his role at the dealership, KEVIN PAUL CALMES negotiated and knowingly approved of sales with known drug traffickers, and took various actions to conceal their spending of large amounts of cash generated from narcotics trafficking.
At trial, the United States presented evidence that CALMES MOTORSPORTS, L.L.C. and KEVIN PAUL CALMES conspired with at least seven drug traffickers to launder proceeds of narcotics trafficking and to avoid filing reports of their use of cash greater than $10,000. The laundering of drug traffickers’ cash proceeds occurred between January 2000 and April 2009.
CALMES MOTORSPORTS, L.L.C. was sentenced to pay a fine of $500,000, placed on probation for three years, and ordered to forfeit property involved in, or used to facilitate, the money laundering and structuring transactions. As a condition of probation, the company was also sentenced to certain conditions which will monitor their finances and business operation.
The convictions and sentences are the result of a lengthy investigation by agents of the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Rene Salomon and Shubhra Shivpuri.
Californian Charged with Violating Drug, Money Laundering LawsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of California has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charges of violating federal drug and money laundering laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The two-count superseding indictment named Marlowe Dewayne Wheeler, a/k/a Marzuq Mohammed, a/k/a Marquz Muhamed, 40, as the sole defendant. His charges mirror those faced by over 20 defendants in the pending case of United States v. Ruben Mitchell, et al. at Criminal No. 09-105.
According to the superseding indictment presented to the court, from 2000 through 2010, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, Wheeler conspired with others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine and launder drug money.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $4,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the superseding indictment in this case.
A superseding indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
California Man Pleads Guilty to Failure to Report Foreign Bank Accounts at UBSRead the Press Release
Christopher B. Berg of Portola Valley, Calif., entered a plea of guilty today before the U.S. District Court in San Jose, Calif., to an information charging him with willful failure to file the required report of foreign bank account (FBAR) for an account he controlled at UBS in Switzerland in the year 2005.
According to the information, in 1999, Berg began working as a consultant. In 2000, Berg met with Beda Singenberger, a Swiss financial consultant, and a vice president of banking at UBS in San Francisco regarding setting up a bank account at UBS in Switzerland to shelter a portion of his consulting income from taxation. Beginning in 2001 and continuing through 2005, funds representing $642,069 in compensation earned by Berg from consulting services were deposited by wire transfer to UBS accounts. Berg used the money in these accounts at UBS in Switzerland to purchase a vehicle, to obtain cash while in Europe, and to pay the balance on a Eurocard he used while traveling in Europe. Berg did not disclose the existence of his accounts at UBS in Switzerland to his certified public accountant, and did not disclose the income earned by these accounts or the consulting income deposited to the accounts. The tax harm associated with Berg?s conduct is $270,757.
"Individuals who shirk their civic duty and evade taxes by hiding their income and assets in offshore accounts are making a very poor choice," said Kathryn Keneally, Assistant Attorney General for the Justice Department's Tax Division. "They risk criminal prosecution and jail, still owe the taxes due and may lose most of those assets to severe civil penalties.?"
?Those who hide their assets and income in offshore accounts should realize that there is no safe haven from the IRS,? said Richard Weber, Chief Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation. ?Mr. Berg admitted he disregarded his legal responsibility to file the required report of a foreign bank account and report all his income and interest. He now faces substantial monetary penalties and the risk of incarceration. Combating offshore tax evasion continues to be one of the IRS? top priorities.?
United States citizens and residents who have an interest in, or signature or other authority over, a financial account in a foreign country with assets in excess of $10,000 are required to disclose the existence of such account on Schedule B, Part III, of their individual income tax returns. Additionally, U.S. citizens and residents must file an FBAR with the U.S. Treasury disclosing any financial account in a foreign country with assets in excess of $10,000 in which they have a financial interest, or over which they have signature or other authority.
Sentencing has been scheduled for July 8, 2013. Berg faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
The case was investigated by IRS - Criminal Investigation and prosecuted by trial attorneys from the Tax Division.
Businessman Sentenced to Federal Prison on Tax ChargesRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE, R.I. – William L’Europa, 47, of Scituate, co-operator of McCauley and L’Europa Public Adjusters, LLC and PIA Restoration, LLC, was sentenced today to 27 months in federal prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for conspiring to defraud the United States government and filing false tax returns.
L’Europa’s business partner, former state legislator John J. McCauley, Jr., 54, of Cranston, was sentenced on December 21, 2012, to 27 months in federal prison, to be followed by three years supervised release.
At the time of their guilty pleas before U.S. District Court Chief Judge Mary M. Lisi, who imposed the sentences, L’Europa and McCauley admitted to the court that they underreported business receipts for tax years 2007 – 2010 by nearly $1.8 million dollars, resulting in the underpayment of federal taxes to the Internal Revenue Service of more than $500,000.
According to signed plea agreements filed with the court, McCauley and L’Europa must file accurate, amended federal tax returns for tax years 2007 – 2011.
L’Europa’s sentence was announced by United States Attorney Peter F. Neronha; William P. Offord, Special Agent in Charge of the Boston office of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Criminal Investigation; Richard Deslauriers, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Boston Field Office; Guy N. Thomas, Special Agent in Charge of the Boston Field Office of ATF; and Colonel Steven G. O’DonnellSuperintendent of the Rhode Island State Police.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys William J. Ferland and Sandra R. Hebert.
The matter was investigated by IRS-Criminal Investigation, FBI, ATF, Rhode Island State Police, and the Providence Fire Department Fire Prevention Division.
Contact: 401-709-5357
[email protected]Brooke County Resident Enters Plea of Guilty to Mailing Threatening CommunicationsRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Chris Zumpetta-Parr, Public Affairs SpecialistWHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA - A 42 yera old Brooke County, West Virginia, resident entered a plea of guilty on January 29, 2013, in United States District Court in Wheeling before Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr.
United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced that: JAMES W. RICHARD entered a plea of guilty to “Mailing Threatening Communications.” RICHARD, who was previously convicted in Brooke County Circuit Court of breaking and entering, domestic assault X2 and brandishing a deadly weapon, was incarcerated at the Northern Regional Jail and Correctional Center in Moundsville. On April 16, 2012, while incarcerated, RICHARD deposited and mailed a letter which contained threats to injure individuals involved in his underlying criminal convictions in Brooke County. RICHARD, who is in custody pending sentencing, faces up to 5 years imprisonment and a $250,000 fine.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stephen L. Vogrin and investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service.
Bridgeport Men Involved in Gang-related Narcotics Trafficking Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
January 30, 2013David B. Fein, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that two men involved in a violent narcotics trafficking ring in Bridgeport were sentenced earlier this week in New Haven federal court to lengthy prison terms.
On January 28, United States District Judge Janet Bond Arterton sentenced STEFAN WINSTON, also known as “Cuda” and “Pooh,” 31, to 165 months of imprisonment and five years of supervised release. On January 29, Judge Arterton sentenced ALEXIS RAMOS, also known as “Snake Rattle,” 31, to 100 months of imprisonment and four years of supervised release.
This matter stems from “Operation Slim Fast,” a joint law enforcement investigation that focused on two drug trafficking organizations, one that operated out of Bridgeport and one that operated out of Bridgeport, Puerto Rico, and Springfield, Mass. In 2010, members of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Bridgeport Safe Streets Task Force initiated an investigation of narcotics trafficking activity in and around the Marina Village Housing Complex in Bridgeport that focused primarily on the Marina Village Bloods, a violent narcotics trafficking organization. Members of the Marina Village Bloods have been responsible for, or connected to, multiple shootings in Bridgeport.
According to court documents and statements made in court, WINSTON, RAMOS and others were members of the Sex, Money, Murder set of the Marina Village Bloods and sold large quantities of narcotics from an abandoned residence at 105/107 Johnson Street, which is located across from the street from the Marina Village Housing Complex. On multiple occasions, gang members were intercepted over court-authorized wiretaps discussing their narcotics trafficking activities. The wiretapped conversations further revealed that members of the Marina Village Bloods alternately referred to the Johnson Street residence as the “kitchen,” “trap” or “white house.”
The investigation revealed that, in addition to narcotics trafficking, WINSTON was involved in the straw purchase of two firearms, and also possessed and used firearms on a regular basis. At the time of his arrest on January 5, 2011, WINSTON possessed an assault rifle and a handgun, both of which were loaded.
On August 16, 2011, WINSTON pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin and 28 grams or more of cocaine base (“crack cocaine”). His criminal history includes multiple felony convictions, including convictions for unlawful possession of a firearm and armed robbery.
On August 14, 2012, RAMOS pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of cocaine base. His criminal history includes multiple convictions for sale and possession of narcotics and possession of weapons.
WINSTON and RAMOS have been detained since their arrests on January 5, 2011.
As a result of this investigation, 19 individuals have been charged in federal court with various narcotics and firearms related offenses, and law enforcement officers seized approximately four kilograms of cocaine, one kilogram of crack cocaine, a quantity of heroin, an SKS assault rifle, five handguns and more than $150,000 in cash.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Bridgeport Safe Streets Task Force – which is composed of personnel from the FBI, the Bridgeport, Norwalk and Trumbull Police Departments – with assistance from the United States Marshals Service, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, Connecticut State Police, and Hartford, Stratford and Stamford Police Departments.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Tracy Dayton, Doug Morabito and Jonathan Freimann.
PUBLIC AFFAIRS CONTACT:
U.S. ATTORNEY'S OFFICE
Tom Carson
(203) 821-3722
[email protected]Braxton County Resident Sentenced on Methamphetamine ChargeRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Chris Zumpetta-Parr, Public Affairs SpecialistCLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA - A 37 year old Shock, West Virginia, resident was sentenced on January 29, 2013, in United States District Court in Clarksburg by Judge Irene M. Keeley.
United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced that: DANIEL RAY KING was sentenced to 6 months imprisonment to be followed by two years of supervised release with the first six months of his supervised release to be served under home confinement. KING entered a plea of guilty on October 5, 2012, to “Possession of Material used in the Manufacture of Methamphetamine” on February 1, 2012, in Gilmer County, West Virginia.
KING, who is on bond, will self report to the designated Federal institution on March
4, 2013.The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stephen D. Warner and was investigated by the West Virginia State Police.
Bethlehem Man Sentenced to 70 Months’ Imprisonment for Committing Six Bank RobberiesRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Senior United States District Court Judge James M. Munley today sentenced Fawzi Atra, age 43, of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, to 70 months’ imprisonment for the robbery of six financial institutions in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
Atra had previously pleaded guilty to all six counts that were contained in a Criminal Information charging the following robberies:
- KNBT BANK, located at 2170 Union Boulevard, Bethlehem,
Pennsylvania, on April 3, 2012;
- PNC BANK, located at 307 West Route 70, Marlton, New Jersey, on April 4, 2012;
- PNC BANK, located at 942 West Street Road, Warminster, Pennsylvania, on April 11, 2012;
- PNC BANK, located at 800 Denow Road, Unit F, Pennington, New Jersey, on April 14, 2012;
- QNB BANK, located at 901 South West End Boulevard, Quakertown, Pennsylvania, on April 17, 2012; and
- ESSA BANK & TRUST, located at 601 Route 940, Mount Pocono, Pennsylvania, on April 19, 2012.A police officer with the Pocono Mountain Regional Police Department arrested Atra shortly after the ESSA BANK & TRUST robbery on April 19, 2012. A search incident to the arrest revealed the presence of the money stolen from the Essa Bank and a pellet gun. Atra has been detained in federal custody since his arrest.
In additional to the 70-month term of imprisonment, Judge Munley also ordered that Atra be placed on supervised release for a period of three years following the service of his sentence. Judge Munley further specified that the supervised release term would be on a non-reporting basis in the event that Atra is deported to Jordan, his country of citizenship, following service of his sentence. In addition, Judge Munley ordered that Atra make restitution of $9,688, representing the total amount of money netted as a result of the six robberies.
The case was investigated by special agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pocono Mountain Regional Police Department, the Richland Township, Pennsylvania Police Department, the Bethlehem, Pennsylvania Police Department, the Evesham Township, New Jersey Police Department, the Hopewell, New Jersey Police Department, and the Warminster, Pennsylvania Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John Gurganus.Bergen County, N.J., Man Admits His Role in Large-Scale Identity Theft Ring and Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A Bergen County man today admitted his role in a large-scale and sophisticated identity theft scheme, U.S. Attorney Paul J. Fishman announced.
Sang-Kyu Seo, 63, of Palisades Park, N.J., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Katharine S. Hayden to a five-count Information that charged him with conspiracy to unlawfully produce identification documents and false identification documents (Count One), aggravated identity theft (Count Two), conspiracy to commit wire fraud (Count Three); conspiracy to commit bank fraud (Count Four), and tax evasion (Count Five). He was arrested on Sept. 16, 2010, and released on $250,000 bail.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in Newark federal court:
Seo was the owner and operator of Hang Jin Yi Inc., d/b/a Hwangini, a salon located in North Bergen, N.J., and Pier 7 Corporation, a purported small business located in Palisades Park. Seo conspired with Sang-Hyun Park, a/k/a “Jimmy,” and others to obtain a Social Security card beginning with the prefix “586” for another individual. These “586” Social Security cards were issued by the United States to individuals, usually from China, who were employed in American territories, such as Guam. Park is alleged to have been the leader of a criminal organization headquartered in Bergen County, N.J. that obtained, brokered, and sold identity documents to customers for the purpose of committing credit card fraud, bank fraud, tax fraud, and other crimes. Park pleaded guilty on Jan. 9, 2012, to his role in the enterprise and is awaiting sentencing.
The Park Criminal Enterprise engaged in the fraudulent “build up” of credit scores associated with the Chinese identities. They did so by adding the Chinese identity as an authorized user to the credit card accounts of various co-conspirators who received a fee for this service – members of the enterprise’s credit build up teams. By attaching the Chinese identities to these existing credit card accounts, the teams increased the credit scores associated with the Chinese identities to between 700 and 800. The members of the build up teams knew neither the real person to whom the identity belonged nor virtually any of the customers who had purchased the identities.
After building up the credit associated with these identities, Park and his co-conspirators directed, coached, and assisted the customers in opening bank accounts and obtaining credit cards. Park and his co-conspirators then used these accounts and credit cards to commit fraud. In particular, Park relied on several collusive merchants who possessed credit card processing, or swipe, machines. For a fee, known as a “kkang fee,” these collusive merchants charged the fraudulently obtained credit cards, although no transaction took place. After receiving the money into their merchant accounts from the credit cards related to these fraudulent transactions, the collusive merchants gave the money to Park and his co-conspirators, minus their “kkang fee.”Seo admitted that he obtained a “586” Social Security card and counterfeit driver’s licenses through Park for a family member, who then used this identity to “bust out” credit cards.
Seo also admitted that he gave his corporate and personal credit cards to Park for the purpose of “busting out” these maxed out credit cards. In furtherance of this conspiracy, Park and his co-conspirators issued worthless checks, drawn on bank accounts that had been established using the “586” identities, as payment toward the balances on Seo’s credit cards. Before the banks and credit card companies realized that these checks were bogus, Park and his co-conspirators charged Seo’s credit cards through collusive merchants or used them to purchase merchandise. On Oct. 3, 2009, Park and Seo spoke over the phone concerning this scheme. During this intercepted call, the following conversation ensued:
Park: You know it. If you don't pay for the debt, the score becomes bad.
Seo: That's right. Anyhow, it was already dropped.
Park: And then, you don't have to worry about if someone will come from a bank.
Seo: Yes, yes. Anyway, later . . . . I will declare Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy.
Seo also admitted that in mid-2007, with the assistance of a loan broker, fraudulently obtained a $100,000 commercial loan on behalf of Pier 7. Seo admitted that he and the loan broker made false statements to obtain the loan, including falsely representing this his business’ annual revenue was approximately $620,000.
Finally, Seo admitted that he committed tax evasion by issuing checks to himself and others, representing income derived through the operation of Hwangini, and then failing to report this income on his personal tax returns. For example, Seo admitted that on or about April 15, 2008, he filed an individual income tax return for tax year 2007. This return declared that his taxable income for calendar year 2007 was approximately $197, and the amount of tax due and owing was approximately $19. Seo admitted that this return failed to include $304,848 in additional taxable income that he had received in 2007, thus having an additional tax of $81,643 due and owing to the United States.
Seo faces the following statutory maximums: 15 years in prison (Count One); two years in prison, mandatory minimum (Count Two); 30 years in prison (Counts Three and Four); and five years in prison (Count Five). Sentencing is scheduled for May 14, 2013.
U.S. Attorney Fishman praised special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special
Agent in Charge David Velazquez in Newark; IRS – Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Shantelle P. Kitchen; the Department of Homeland Security’s
Immigration and Customs Enforcement, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Andrew M. McLees; and the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor John L. Molinelli and the Office’s Chief of Detectives Steven Cucciniello, for the investigation leading to today’s plea.The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony Moscato of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Organized Crime/Gangs Unit in Newark.
As for other members of the Park Criminal Enterprise, the charges and allegations contained in the Complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Defense Counsel: Wanda M. Akin Esq., Newark
Seo Information
Baltimore Man Indicted on Gun and Drug Conspiracy Charges Resulting in Two MurdersRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland - A federal grand jury has indicted Kyle Stevens, a/k/a “Cappo,” age 22, of Remington, Maryland, on two counts of use of a firearm in furtherance of a drug conspiracy related to two murders and one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin, cocaine, crack cocaine and oxycodone. The indictment was returned on January 17, 2013, and unsealed on January 29, 2013, upon Stevens’ arrest.
The indictment was announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Rod J. Rosenstein; Special Agent in Charge Stephen E. Vogt of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; Special Agent in Charge Steven L. Gerido of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives - Baltimore Field Division; Chief James W. Johnson of the Baltimore County Police Department; Colonel Marcus L. Brown, Superintendent of the Maryland State Police; Commissioner Anthony W. Batts of the Baltimore Police Department; Anne Arundel County Police Chief Larry W. Tolliver; Secretary Gary D. Maynard of the Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services; Baltimore County State’s Attorney Scott Shellenberger; Baltimore City State’s Attorney Gregg L. Bernstein; and Anne Arundel County State’s Attorney Frank R. Weathersbee.
The three-count indictment alleges that beginning in 2005 Stevens was part of a conspiracy to distribute heroin, powder and crack cocaine, and oxycodone. Further, the indictment alleges that in furtherance of the drug conspiracy, on January 24, 2006, Stevens used a .45 caliber semiautomatic handgun to murder James Wright, a/k/a Ronnie Mo; and on September 21, 2007, used a .380 caliber semiautomatic handgun to murder Keith Ray, a/k/a Keithy.
Stevens faces a maximum sentence of life in prison for each of two counts of use of a firearm in furtherance of a drug conspiracy, and for the drug conspiracy charge. Stevens had his initial appearance on January 29, 2013 in U.S. District Court in Baltimore. Stevens is detained. A detention hearing is scheduled for Monday, February 4, 2013, at 11:30 a.m., before U.S. Magistrate Judge Beth P. Gesner, Courtroom 7B, U.S. District Court in Baltimore.
An indictment is not a finding of guilt. An individual charged by indictment is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty at some later criminal proceedings.
Mr. Rosenstein praised the FBI, ATF, Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services; Baltimore County Police Department; Anne Arundel County Police Department; Baltimore City Police Department; the Maryland State Police; Baltimore County State’s Attorney’s Office; Baltimore City State’s Attorney’s Office; and Anne Arundel County State’s Attorney’s Office for their assistance in this investigation and prosecution.
United States Attorney Rod J. Rosenstein thanked Assistant United States Attorneys Robert R. Harding and Christopher J. Romano, who are prosecuting this Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force case.
Atlantic County, N.J., Man Sentenced to 151 Months in Prison for Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
CAMDEN, N.J. – An Atlantic County, N.J., man was sentenced today to 151 months in prison for robbing Wells Fargo Bank in Atlantic City, N.J., and Sun National Bank in Ventnor, N.J., on Jan. 12, 2012, U.S. Attorney Paul J. Fishman announced.
Larry Patrick Kearns, 46, of Landisville, N.J., previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Jerome B. Simandle to an Information charging him with two counts of bank robbery. Judge Simandle imposed the sentence today in Camden federal court.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
On Jan. 12, 2012, Kearns entered a Wells Fargo Bank in Atlantic City, approached a bank teller, threatened her, and demanded money from her. The bank teller complied with Kearns’ demand, and Kearns fled the bank with the money. Kearns traveled to Margate, N.J., and stole a car, which he used in the robbery of the Sun National Bank in Ventnor that same day. Again, Kearns approached a bank teller, threatened her, and demanded money from her. The bank teller complied and Kearns fled the bank with the money in the stolen car. While fleeing from the robbery, Kearns crashed the stolen car into a tree and was apprehended by police.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Simandle sentenced Kearns to three years of supervised release and ordered him to pay $9,458 in restitution.
U.S. Attorney Fishman credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Acting Special Agent In Charge David Velazquez in Newark, as well as the Atlantic City Police Department, the Ventnor Police Department, the Margate Police Department and the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office for the investigation leading to today’s sentence.
The government was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Diana Carrig of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Criminal Division in Camden.
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Defense counsel: Maggie Moy Esq., Assistant Federal Public Defender, CamdenAssistant Attorney General Lanny A. Breuer Announces Departure from Department of JusticeRead the Press Release
The Justice Department announced today that Assistant Attorney General Lanny A. Breuer of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division will leave the department on March 1, 2013.
“Lanny has led one of the most successful and aggressive Criminal Divisions in the history of the Department of Justice, accomplishing record penalties in corruption cases at home and abroad and dismantling major organized crime and health care fraud networks around the country while also protecting the integrity of our banking systems and fighting financial fraud,” said Attorney General Eric Holder. “Throughout his tenure, Lanny has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the mission of this Department and I want to thank him for his dedication and exceptional service.”
“Serving as Assistant Attorney General for the Criminal Division has been the greatest privilege of my professional life,” said Assistant Attorney General Breuer. “From my first day on this job, nearly four years ago, I have loved it, and I am so proud of what the Criminal Division has accomplished over the past four years. I have had no higher honor than to work alongside the talented and dedicated men and women of the Criminal Division, and I will forever be grateful for the opportunity to serve the American people together with them.”
Assistant Attorney General Breuer was unanimously confirmed by the U.S. Senate on April 20, 2009, and is the longest-serving head of the Criminal Division in recent history.
Under the leadership of Assistant Attorney General Breuer, the Criminal Division has taken significant steps to fight corruption at home and abroad, including by developing the innovative Kleptocracy Asset Recovery Initiative to identify and forfeit the proceeds of foreign official corruption – ensuring that corrupt officials from other countries are prevented from hiding their ill-gotten gains in the United States. The Criminal Division has also substantially increased enforcement of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA), convicting three dozen individuals for FCPA-related offenses – a record number – and entering into more than 40 corporate resolutions involving eight of the top 10 largest FCPA penalties in history. The Criminal Division also partnered with the Securities and Exchange Commission to publish groundbreaking guidance on FCPA enforcement.Assistant Attorney General Breuer was asked by the Attorney General to oversee the Deepwater Horizon Task Force – created to investigate conduct leading up to, and following, the Deepwater Horizon explosion on April 20, 2010. The Task Force reached the largest criminal resolution in U.S. history with BP. On Jan. 29, 2013, BP was ordered to pay $4 billion in criminal fines and penalties after previously having agreed to plead guilty to 11 felony manslaughter charges, environmental crimes and obstruction of congress. The Criminal Division brought charges against four individuals in connection with the explosion and its aftermath as part of the ongoing investigation. Additionally, Assistant Attorney General Breuer has overseen efforts to combat fraud arising from the oil spill, as well as to detect and deter fraud in the wake of natural disasters such as Hurricane Sandy, through the Disaster Fraud Task Force.
Protecting the integrity of the banking system and fighting financial fraud have been hallmarks of the Criminal Division during Assistant Attorney General Breuer’s tenure. The division’s aggressive, ongoing investigation into manipulation of the London Interbank Offered Rate by global financial institutions has thus far led to nearly $2 billion in criminal penalties, as well as a guilty plea by a UBS subsidiary and charges against individuals. Assistant Attorney General Breuer also spearheaded the development of the division’s Money Laundering and Bank Integrity Unit to pursue financial institutions and individuals who violate money laundering statutes and the Bank Secrecy Act. Along with U.S. Attorney partners, the groundbreaking unit already has secured approximately $3.1 billion in criminal forfeitures from major financial institutions – including the largest forfeiture ever by a bank.
The Criminal Division has also prosecuted, together with U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, numerous significant perpetrators of financial fraud, including Lee Bentley Farkas, former chairman of Taylor, Bean & Whitaker, who perpetrated an approximately $3 billion bank fraud; and R. Allen Stanford, former chairman of Stanford International Bank, who perpetrated a $7 billion investment fraud scheme. Both were convicted at trial and are serving 30 and 110 years in prison, respectively.
Assistant Attorney General Breuer has also focused on combating healthcare fraud, helping to expand the Medicare Fraud Strike Force from two to nine cities and to carry out the two largest Medicare fraud takedowns in history, one involving 111 defendants charged and the other involving $452 million in alleged fraudulent billings.
The Criminal Division under Assistant Attorney General Breuer’s leadership, working alongside its partners at U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, has pursued innovative cybercrime and intellectual property crime prosecutions. Those prosecutions include the indictment of Megaupload and its leadership for intellectual property infringement in one of the largest criminal copyright cases brought by the United States.
During Assistant Attorney General Breuer’s tenure, the Criminal Division has made great strides in the fight against violent crime along the southwest border and across the country. Among other successes, the division, along with several U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, brought charges against 127 members and associates of La Cosa Nostra in the largest traditional organized crime takedown in U.S. history. The Criminal Division and U.S. Attorney partners also have brought prosecutions against 35 Barrio Azteca gang members and associates – including those allegedly responsible for the death of a U.S. Consular official and others in Juarez, Mexico, on March 13, 2010; individuals allegedly responsible for the murder of ICE Special Agent Jaime Zapata; and dozens of members and associates of the Aryan Brotherhood of Texas, including the gang’s top “generals.” Assistant Attorney General Breuer has traveled frequently to Mexico to develop close relationships with Mexican counterparts and created new prosecutorial units dedicated to targeting Mexican cartels and seizing their assets. In 2012, the Criminal Division secured 115 extraditions from Mexico, a record for a calendar year.
Along with these new or expanded teams and initiatives, Assistant Attorney General Breuer has taken significant steps to reform the Criminal Division to meet the needs of the modern law enforcement climate, including creating the Organized Crime and Gang Section and the Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section, and hiring hundreds of talented prosecutors and several new Section Chiefs into the division.
In his role as head of the Criminal Division, Assistant Attorney General Breuer has engaged on issues of criminal law policy throughout the United States and around the world, delivering dozens of keynote and special addresses across the country as well as in Russia, the Ukraine, the United Kingdom, Romania, Sweden, Liechtenstein, Spain and at the World Bank and United Nations.
Prior to joining the Justice Department, Assistant Attorney General Breuer was a partner in the law firm of Covington and Burling LLP. He earlier served as special counsel to President William Jefferson Clinton, and began his legal career as an Assistant District Attorney in Manhattan. He is a graduate of Columbia College and Columbia Law School.
Armed Drug Dealer Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE, R.I. – James P. Perry, 35, of Pawtucket, was sentenced today to 10 years in federal prison on drug and firearm charges, announced United States Attorney Peter F. Neronha and Pawtucket Police Chief Paul King. Perry was arrested by Pawtucket Police on March 15, 2012, during an undercover investigation into the trafficking of crack cocaine.
U.S. District Court Judge John J. McConnell, Jr., also ordered Perry to serve three years supervised release upon completion of his prison term. Perry pleaded guilty on August 1, 2012, to possession with the intent to distribute cocaine base and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to information presented to the court, Pawtucket Police executed a court authorized search of Perry’s Pawtucket residence on March 15, 2012, and seized approximately 4.5 grams of crack cocaine; a .357 revolver, a speed loader and 50 rounds of ammunition; and various items used in the preparation, packaging and sale of crack cocaine.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Milind M. Shah.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives assisted Pawtucket Police in the investigation of the firearm seized in this is matter.
Contact: 401-709-5357
[email protected]Arizona Man Sentenced in Methamphetamine CaseRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Scottsdale, Arizona man was sentenced on January 28, 2013 by United States District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
David Scott Wright, age 49, was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 1, 2012 for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture containing methamphetamine. He pled guilty to the offense on November 6, 2012. He was sentenced to 37 months in custody to be followed by 4 years of supervised release.
Wright was part of a group of people who agreed to distribute methamphetamine in South Dakota and elsewhere. Between August 2011 and January 2012, Wright distributed methamphetamine to co-conspirators who had traveled to Arizona and then returned to South Dakota to distribute the drug.
This case was investigated by the SD Division of Criminal Investigation and the US Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant US Attorney John E. Haak prosecuted the case.
Wright was immediately turned over to the custody of the US Marshal.
Anmoore Resident Enters Plea to Distribution of Crack Cocaine Within 1,000 Feet of A Protected LocationRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Chris Zumpetta-Parr, Public Affairs SpecialistCLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA - A 60-year old Anmoore, West Virginia, resident entered a plea of guilty on January 29, 2013, in United States District Court in Clarksburg before Judge Irene M. Keeley.
United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced that: RAYMOND RITCH a/k/a “RAY” entered a plea of guilty to “Distribution of Crack Cocaine within 1,000 feet of the Clarksburg City Park” on March 22, 2012. RITCH, who is in custody pending sentencing, faces a sentence of at least 1 and up to 40 years imprisonment and a $2,000,000 fine.
The case was prosecuted by Criminal Chief Shawn A. Moran and investigated by the
Greater Harrison County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force.Albuquerque Man Charged with Robbing Pharmacy at Gunpoint to Obtain Prescription PainkillersRead the Press Release
Defendant Charged with Violating Safe Doses ActALBUQUERQUE – James Phillip Tafoya, 42, of Albuquerque, N.M., made his initial appearance in federal court this morning on a three-count indictment charging him with (1) violating the Hobbs Act by robbing a business involved in interstate commerce, (2) using a firearm in relation to a crime of violence, and (3) theft of medical products. Tafoya remains in custody pending his arraignment and detention hearing which are scheduled for Jan. 31, 2013.
Count 1 of the indictment alleges that Tafoya robbed an employee of an Albuquerquearea CVS Pharmacy at gunpoint on Nov. 3, 2012, and stole Oxycodone and Oxycontin. Count 2 alleges that Tafoya used a firearm to perpetuate the robbery, and Count 3 alleges that Tafoya violated the Safe Doses Act by using violence and the threat of violence to unlawfully take preretail medical products.
The Safe Doses Act was enacted in Oct. 2012, to fight medical theft and protect patients from unknowingly using stolen and mishandled drugs. The Act provides for enhanced sentences for individuals who rob pharmacies of controlled substances; individuals who steal medical products; and “fences” who knowingly obtain stolen medical products for resale in the supply chain.
If convicted, Tafoya faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison on the Hobbs Act charge and 30 years in prison on for theft of medical products charge. If convicted on the firearms charge, Tafoya will be sentenced to a mandatory seven-year term of imprisonment to be served consecutive to any prison term imposed on the other two charges.
U.S. Attorney Kenneth J. Gonzales said that this case was brought as part of a new law enforcement initiative launched in July 2012, by the FBI’s Violent Crimes and Major Offender Squad and the Albuquerque Police Department’s Armed Robbery Unit that targets suspects implicated in commercial armed robberies. This new initiative is part of a federal anti-violence initiative that targets “the worst of the worst” offenders for federal prosecution. Under the antiviolence initiative, the U.S. Attorney’s Office and federal law enforcement agencies work with New Mexico’s District Attorneys and state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies to target violent or repeat offenders for federal prosecution with the goal of removing repeat offenders from our communities for as long as possible.
The case was investigated by the Albuquerque office of the FBI and the Albuquerque Police Department, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jon K. Stanford.
Charges in indictments are only accusations. All criminal defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Tuesday 29 January 2013
Wellsburg Resident Sentenced for Use of A Stolen ATM CardRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Chris Zumpetta-Parr, Public Affairs SpecialistWHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA - A 27-year old Wellsburg, West Virginia, resident was sentenced on January 28, 2013, in United States District Court in Wheeling by Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr.
United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced that: LINDSEY OILER was sentenced to 4 months imprisonment to be followed by three years of supervised release and ordered to make restitution in the amount of $7,083.
OILER entered a plea of guilty on October 29, 2012, to Access Device Fraud. According to Court records, OILER stole an ATM card and proceeded to use it 42 times between July 10 and July 28, 2011, stealing $7,083. OILER was remanded to the custody of the United States Marshal pending designation to a Federal institution.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael D. Stein and was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Warrior Bank Employee Indicted for EmbezzlementRead the Press Release
BIRMINGHAM – A federal grand jury today indicted a Hayden woman for embezzling from the Warrior bank where she worked, announced U.S. Attorney Joyce White Vance and U.S. Secret Service Special Agent in Charge Roy Sexton.
The one-count indictment filed in U.S. District Court charges FRANCES DUCKWORTH, 51, with embezzling from Superior Bank and its successors between November 2009 and August 2012. Duckworth worked as head teller at the Warrior bank branch during that time. The bank is now Cadence Bank.
The indictment seeks to have Duckworth forfeit $202,994 as proceeds of illegal activity.
The embezzlement charge carries a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and a $1 million fine.
The Secret Service investigated the case, which Assistant U.S. Attorney Henry Cornelius is prosecuting.
An indictment is merely an allegation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Virginia Man Sentenced to Serve 168 Months in Prison on Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – An Orange County, Va., man was sentenced today to serve 168 months in prison following his March 2011 guilty plea to child pornography charges that originated in three different federal districts.
The sentence was announced by Assistant Attorney General Lanny A. Breuer of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Heaphy of the Western District of Virginia, U.S. Attorney Neil H. MacBride of the Eastern District of Virginia and U.S. Attorney Wifredo A. Ferrer of the Southern District of Florida.
Anthony C. Jeffries was sentenced by Senior U.S. District Judge Norman K. Moon in the Western District of Virginia. On March 28, 2011, Jeffries pleaded guilty to one count of distributing child pornography and one count of possessing child pornography on charges contained in an indictment filed in the Western District of Virginia and two separate one-count criminal informations originally filed in the Eastern District of Virginia and the Southern District of Florida, each charging him with distributing child pornography. Jeffries was sentenced to 168 months in prison for each count of distributing child pornography and 120 months in prison for possessing child pornography. The prison sentences for each count will be served concurrently. In addition to his prison term, Jeffries was sentenced to serve lifetime supervised release.
According to information presented in court, Jeffries assisted in running an online forum from his Orange County home that was dedicated to posting pictures and chatting about young girls. The defendant was responsible for one-fourth of the images available on the forum.
In February 2010, undercover FBI agents working in Richmond, Va., and Miami logged onto a peer-to-peer file sharing network and downloaded numerous images of child pornography from Jeffries. In June 2010, a search warrant was obtained and computer equipment was seized from the defendant’s Virginia home. A forensic examination of that equipment revealed thousands of image files, including images of young children engaged in sexual acts with adults.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, the FBI, the Charlottesville, Va., Police Department, the University of Virginia Police Department and the High Technology Investigative Unit of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS). Assistant U.S. Attorney Nancy Healey and Trial Attorney Darcy Katzin with the Criminal Division’s CEOS are prosecuting the case for the Western District of Virginia. Elizabeth Wu is prosecuting the case for the Eastern District of Virginia.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ offices and 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.Virginia Man Sentenced to Eight Years in Prison for Distribution and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON - John Patrick Swain, 45, of Sterling, Va., was sentenced today to eight years in prison on federal charges of distribution and possession of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Ronald C. Machen Jr., Debra Evans Smith, Acting Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI's Washington Field Office, and Cathy L. Lanier, Chief of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
Swain pled guilty to the charges in September 2012 in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. He was sentenced by the Honorable James E. Boasberg. Upon completion of his prison term, Swain will be placed on 10 years of supervised release. He also must register as a sex offender for 25 years following his release from prison.
According to the government's evidence, on June 27, 2012, Swain contacted a man he believed to be the father of a 12-year-old girl, using a social network site. That man turned out to be an undercover officer with the FBI's Child Exploitation Task Force. Over the next few days, Swain engaged in online conversations with the undercover officer. During this period, Swain sent the undercover officer 13 images of child pornography, including videos of adult men engaged in sexual acts with children.
Upon execution of a search warrant on the defendant’s residence in Sterling, members of the FBI’s Child Exploitation Task Force recovered a desktop computer as well as various external storage devices containing numerous videos and images of child pornography.
This case was brought as part of the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood initiative and investigated by the FBI’s Child Exploitation Task Force, which includes members of the FBI’s Washington Field Office and MPD. Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov
In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Machen, Acting Assistant Director in Charge Smith and Chief Lanier praised the work of the MPD Detectives and Special Agents of the FBI Child Exploitation Task Force. They also commended the efforts of Assistant U.S. Attorney Ari Redbord, who prosecuted the case.
13-031Two Plead Guilty, Face up to Life in Federal Prison in Record Seizure of 19 Kilos of HeroinRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Jorge Daniel Estrada of Providence, R.I., and Angel Feliz of Dorchester, Mass., face up to life in federal prison, after pleading guilty in U.S. District Court in Providence today to drug trafficking charges in connection with the single largest seizure of pure heroin from the streets of Rhode Island.
The seizure of 19 kilos of pure heroin valued at approximately $4.5 million, and the arrest of Estrada and Feliz in October 2012, was prompted by information developed by Providence Police detectives during an on-going investigation into street-level drug dealing. A joint investigation by Providence Police and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Drug Task Force resulted in the seizure of the heroin and the arrest of Estrada and Feliz.
Estrada pleaded guilty to one count of possessing with the intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin, punishable by a maximum sentence of up to life imprisonment, with a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in federal prison; up to a term of supervise release for life, with a minimum mandatory term of 5 years; and a fine of up to $10,000,000.
Feliz pleaded guilty to one count of attempting to possess with the intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin, punishable by a maximum sentence of up to life imprisonment, with a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in federal prison; up to a term of supervise release for life, with a minimum mandatory term of 5 years; and a fine of up to $10,000,000.
The guilty pleas were announced by United States Attorney Peter F. Neronha; Providence Public Safety Commissioner Steven M. Paré; Providence Police Chief Colonel Hugh T. Clements, Jr.; John J. Arvanitis, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA’s New England Field Division; and Rhode Island Attorney General Peter F. Kilmartin
According to information provided to the court, an individual previously arrested by Providence Police for the alleged possession of narcotics agreed to cooperate with law enforcement to arrange controlled deliveries of heroin. Two deliveries of a kilo of heroin took place on the evening of October 23, 2012, and on the following afternoon, witnessed by a team of law enforcement agents and officers from the DEA Drug Task Force and Providence Police. The drugs were quickly seized by law enforcement.
Later in the day on October 24, 2012, the informant working with law enforcement received a call and was provided with a location to meet with a person who would be traveling from Massachusetts to Rhode Island to pick-up the two kilos of heroin. Law enforcement provided the informant with two fake kilos of heroin and watched as the delivery was made.
A search of Estrada’s Providence residence resulted in the seizure of an additional 17 kilos of heroin.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sandra R. Hebert.
Estrada is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Court Chief Judge Mary M. Lisi on April 18, 2013. Feliz is scheduled to be sentenced on May 9, 2013.
Contact: 401-709-5357
[email protected]Two Pembroke, Georgia Brothers Sentenced to Life Imprisonment for Role in Two KidnappingsRead the Press Release
STATESBORO, GA - Antonio Lamont Murray, 39, and Cecil DeWitt Nelson, 33, two brothers from Pembroke, Georgia, were each sentenced to life in prison today by Senior U.S. District Court Judge B. Avant Edenfield for their roles in two separate kidnappings in the Bryan County area. For additional firearm convictions associated with the kidnappings, Murray was also sentenced to a consecutive 57-year prison sentence. There is no parole in the federal system.
United States Attorney Edward J. Tarver stated, “The kidnappings committed by these defendants and others were violent and shameless. Because of timely action by the FBI and its partners in the law enforcement community, the United States Attorney’s Office was able to prosecute those responsible for these horrendous crimes. The United States Attorney’s Office will continue to have as its highest priority the protection of U.S. citizens.”
Murray was convicted of conspiracy to commit kidnapping, two kidnappings, three firearm charges and obstruction by a federal jury after a three-day trial in August, 2012. Nelson pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit kidnappings shortly before trial. The evidence presented during Murray’s trial and Nelson’s guilty plea hearing revealed that Murray, Nelson and others conspired to commit two separate kidnappings in the Bryan County area in late 2011 and early 2012. The first kidnapping occurred on December 1, 2011. During this incident, the victim was abducted at gunpoint and later released only after a ransom was paid. The second kidnapping occurred on January 12, 2012. The second victim was also abducted at gunpoint and released only after a ransom was paid. A codefendant, Gary Lenion McDonald, 36, from Pembroke, pled guilty to his role in the kidnappings and testified against Murray at trial. McDonald’s sentencing date has yet to be scheduled.
The convictions of Murray, Nelson and McDonald resulted from a joint investigation by the FBI, the U.S. Marshals, NCIS, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, the Georgia State Patrol, the Bryan County Sheriff’s Office, the Tattnall County Sheriff’s Office, the Bulloch County Sheriff’s Office, the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office, the Richmond Hill Police Department, the Pooler Police Department, the Pembroke Police Department and the Hinesville Police Department.
Assistant United States Attorneys Brian T. Rafferty and Carlton R. Bourne, Jr. prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. For additional information, please contact First Assistant United States Attorney James D. Durham at (912) 201-2547.
Two Individuals Involved in Pill Ring Sentenced in Federal CourtRead the Press Release
1125 Chapline Street, Federal Building, Suite 3000 ● Wheeling, WV 26003
(304) 234-0100 ● Contact: Chris Zumpetta-Parr, Public Affairs SpecialistWHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA - Two individuals sentenced on January 28, 2013, in United States District Court in Wheeling by Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. for their roles in a Florida to West Virginia pill ring.
United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced that:
JOHN T. BOWIE, III, age 39, of Longwood, Florida, was sentenced to six months imprisonment to be followed by three years of supervised release with the first six months of his supervised release to be served on home confinement. BOWIE entered a plea of guilty on November 28,2013, to “Possession with Intent to Distribute Schedule II Controlled Substances” on September 12, 2012, in Moundsville. BOWIE was remanded to the custody of the United States Marshal pending designation to a Federal institution.
AMY M. YONTZ, age 23, of Moundsville, West Virginia, was sentenced to three months imprisonment to be followed by three years of supervised release. YONTZ entered a plea of guilty on December 6, 2012, to “Aiding and Abetting the Distribution of Oxycodone” on April 17, 2012, in Moundsville. YONTZ, was remanded back to state custody, where she is facing state charges for felony child neglect and driving under the influence.
In a joint investigation, involving the Marshall County Sheriff’s Department, the DEA, United State Postal Service, and the West Virginia State Police, beginning in the spring of
2012, agents received information that an apartment in Marshall County was being used to distribute pills being brought to West Virginia from Florida typically via rental vehicles. During the investigation, two traffic stops occurred during which $5,500 in drug proceeds were seized which will be forfeited to the United States as proceeds from the drug activity.This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John C. Parr.
Two Grey Hills, N.M., Man Sentenced to a Year and a Day in Prison for Federal Assault ConvictionRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – This morning a federal judge in Albuquerque sentenced Travis Cohoe, 44, a member and resident of Navajo Nation who resides in Two Grey Hills, N.M., to a year and a day in prison for his assault conviction. Cohoe will be on supervised release for three years after he completes his prison sentence. Cohoe also was ordered to pay $7,176.41 in restitution to the victim of his crime.
Cohoe was charged on June 7, 2011, in a two-count indictment with assault resulting in serious bodily injury and assault with a dangerous weapon. The indictment alleged that Cohoe assaulted a Navajo man and caused him serious bodily injury on April 13, 2010, on the Navajo Indian Reservation.
On Sept. 24, 2012, Cohoe pled guilty to Count 1 of the indictment charging him with assault resulting in serious bodily injury. During his plea hearing, Cohoe admitted that on April 13, 2010, he seriously injured a Navajo man by running over him with his vehicle during the course of an argument. The victim sustained a broken left femur, broken left wrist, broken facial bones, a concussion, and various abrasions as a result of the assault. Cohoe was intoxicated when he committed the assault. Cohoe has been in federal custody since entering his guilty plea.
Count 2 of the indictment was dismissed after sentence was imposed on Cohoe.
The case was investigated by the Farmington office of the FBI and the Shiprock Division of the Navajo Nation Department of Public Safety, and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack E. Burkhead.
Tonawanda Man Sentenced for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-- U.S. Attorney Williams J. Hochul, Jr. announced today that Anthony F. Amato, Jr., 40, of Tonawanda, N.Y., who was convicted of possession of child pornography, was sentenced to three years in prison and five years supervised release by U.S. District Court Judge Richard J. Arcara.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango, who handled the case, stated that on December 17, 2007, a search warrant was executed at the defendant's residence. Officers found three videos and 17 images of child pornography on a computer and disks. Amato admitted that he obtained the videos and images over the internet.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by 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 to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
The sentencing is the culmination of an investigation on the part of Special Agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Christopher M. Piehota, Special Agent in Charge and the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Daniel Derenda. Additional assistance was provided by the Western New York Regional Computer Forensics Laboratory, which conducted the forensic analysis of the computer.
Tohono O’odham Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Killing Rival Gang MemberRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – On Jan. 28, 2013, Jalen Michael Montana, 36, of Sells, AZ, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Cindy K. Jorgenson to 15 years in the federal Bureau of Prisons. Montana was sentenced following a guilty plea on Sept. 10, 2012, to one felony count of voluntary manslaughter for the New Year’s Eve stabbing of another Tohono O’odham member.
On Dec. 31, 2009, Montana and the 17 year old victim, members of rival gangs, were both attending a dance on the Tohono O’odham Indian Reservation. Following a brief confrontation earlier that evening, Montana re-approached the victim on the dance floor, just as midnight approached, and stabbed him twice in the chest. Tohono O’odham police arrived minutes later and began administering CPR. However, the victim’s heart had been punctured and he died almost immediately. Montana fled the scene. He was eventually captured by Tohono O’odham authorities and indicted for murder by a federal grand jury on May 11, 2011.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Tohono O’odham Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Tucson Office. The prosecution was handled by Micah Schmit, District of Arizona, Tucson.
CASE NUMBER: CR-11-1750-TUC-CKJ
RELEASE NUMBER: 2013-010_MontanaFor more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Todd County, Kentucky Woman Sentenced for Filing False Income Tax Returns and Identity TheftRead the Press Release
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – A Todd County, Kentucky woman was sentenced to 41 months in prison followed by a 3 year period of supervised release today, by Senior Judge Thomas B. Russell, for filing a false income tax return with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), aiding and assisting in the preparation of false income tax returns filed with the IRS, and identity theft, announced David J. Hale, United States Attorney for the Western District of Kentucky.
Louisa A. Edmonds, age 44, of Elkton Kentucky, was charged in a 24 count federal indictment on November 9, 2011. Edmonds pleaded guilty on August 29, 2012 to all 24 counts including five counts of filing a false income tax return with the IRS, fifteen counts of aiding and assisting in the preparation of false income tax returns filed with the IRS, and four counts of identity theft.
During the plea hearing, Edmonds admitted that she filed false income tax returns for 2005 through 2009, for herself, that contained various false deductions including those for dependents, Schedule A medical and dental expenses, charitable contributions, attorney and accounting fees, and fraudulent credits including the Child Tax Credit, the Additional Child Tax Credit, the First-Time Homebuyer Credit, and the Earned Income Tax Credit. Additionally, Edmonds admitted that she prepared false income tax returns for others that claimed deductions and credits that they were not entitled to receive. These fraudulent items include false dependents, fraudulent filing status, First-Time Homebuyer Credit, Earned Income Tax Credit, and Child Tax Credit. Edmonds agreed to an entry of an order of restitution in the amount of $37,139.00 to the IRS.
During the hearing Edmonds also admitted that she knowingly used the identification of another person without his/her permission to make a false claim against the United States by filing a false income tax return with the IRS.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Bryan Calhoun and was investigated by the IRS division of Criminal Investigation.
Three Federally Indicted in Tax Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA B Three defendants have been charged with conspiring to defraud the United States in the filing of false tax returns. The 31-count indictment, unsealed today, also charges wire fraud, false claims, and aggravated identity theft. The indictment was announced today by Pamela C. Marsh, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
Amber Sasha-Rashawn Simmons, 22, and Joshua Clayton Thomas, 23, both of Tampa, and Spencer Larry Parson, 25, of Tallahassee, are charged with conspiring to file false claims for more than $818,000 in federal tax refunds between August 2011 and June 2012. The indictment alleges that the conspirators created the fraudulent returns using taxpayer identification numbers and other personal identifying information stolen from both living and deceased individuals, who had been patients of the Tallahassee Memorial Hospital.
In addition to conspiracy, Simmons, Thomas, and Parson are also charged with ten substantive counts of filing false claims against the United States and ten counts of wire fraud. The defendants also face charges of aggravated identity theft based upon the unauthorized use of victims’ personal identifying information.
If convicted, the defendants face maximum sentences of ten years in prison for conspiracy, five years for filing false claims, and twenty years for wire fraud. If convicted of aggravated identity theft, Simmons, Thomas, and Parson each face a separate mandatory minimum term of two years’ imprisonment, which must be served consecutively to any other sentence.
U.S. Attorney Marsh commended the work of the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigations, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Leon County Sheriff’s Office, whose joint investigation led to the indictment in this case.
The government’s case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Coody.
- The case is being prosecuted as part of a Department of Justice initiative to fight stolen identity refund fraud (SIRF). In September of last year, the Department issued Tax Division Directive 144, which sets forth expedited Department review procedures for SIRF cases, enabling law enforcement to respond quickly and effectively to the grave challenges presented in SIRF cases and to prevent the victimization of innocent taxpayers whose identities are stolen by fraudsters.
An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government's burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Three Charged with Improper Entry into the United StatesRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigrations and Customs Enforcement, announced that three individuals were charged with being in the United States illegally in separate cases.
According to United States Attorney Peter J. Smith, Informations were filed Monday against: Adolfo Lopez-Perez, age 24, and Antonio Rios, age 42, natives and citizens of Mexico, both found in Adams County and Tomas Justino Mercado-Mendoza, age 26, a native and citizen of El Salvador, found in York County. The three came to the attention of authorities after eluding examination or inspection by immigration officers.
The investigations were conducted by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement and are being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Alice Song Hartye.
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 these particular cases, the maximum penalty under the federal statute is six months’ 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.
Tax Preparer Sentenced to More Than Five Years for Identity Theft and Tax FraudRead the Press Release
BOSTON - A Milford woman, and former tax preparer, was sentenced today to 61 months in prison for filing hundreds of false income tax returns for her clients and identity theft.
Rosa Ivette Colon, 44, was sentenced by District Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton to 61 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $400,000 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service. In August 2012, Colon pleaded guilty to a 32-count indictment charging her with aggravated identity theft, filing false claims with the Internal Revenue Service, and forging endorsements on United States Treasury checks.
Colon operated a business called X-Press Taxes in Somerville, Mass. During the tax years 2004 through 2010, Colon prepared hundreds of false income tax returns for her clients. On numerous occasions, when preparing income tax returns for clients, Colon prepared two different versions of the return. Colon gave one version of the return to the client, but filed another version seeking a larger refund with the IRS, and kept the additional fraudulent amount for herself. In addition, Colon submitted false personal income tax returns to the IRS on her own behalf. Colon claimed fraudulent refunds by attaching bogus W-2 forms claiming nonexistent wages and withholdings.
Additionally, Colon unlawfully used the identities of three individuals in connection with her fraudulent tax refund scheme. In two instances, she filed tax returns in individuals’ names without their knowledge, and in one instance, she claimed a client’s two-year old child as a dependent on another client’s tax return, charging $1,000 for this service.
“Filing false tax returns and taking advantage of innocent taxpayers is a serious crime,” said United States Attorney Carmen M. Ortiz. “It is especially troubling when such fraud is committed by professionals who were trusted by their clients to submit accurate returns to the IRS. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to investigate tax fraud and hold perpetrators accountable.”
“The Justice Department is committed to stopping return preparers who violate the trust of ordinary taxpayers, and to prosecute them for their tax crimes,” said Kathryn Keneally, Assistant Attorney General for the Justice Department’s Tax Division.
“IRS Criminal Investigation has made investigating refund fraud and identity theft a top priority," stated William P. Offord, Special Agent in Charge of the Boston Field Office. “Stealing identities and filing fraudulent tax returns is a serious crime that hurts innocent taxpayers. This sentencing should serve as a strong warning to those considering similar conduct.”
“Cooperation between law enforcement has allowed us to focus our resources and respond quickly to uncover criminal activity such as this type of financial fraud,” said Steven D. Ricciardi, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service Boston Field Office.
U.S. Attorney Ortiz, Assistant Attorney General Keneally, SAC Offord, and SAC Ricciardi, made the announcement today. The case was prosecuted by Trial Attorney Sean R. Delaney of the Tax Division, who is on detail to the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Tallahassee Man Indicted for Tax FraudRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA– Kraig Antonio Davis, 23, of Tallahassee, Florida,was arraigned in federal court today on charges of filing false tax claims, aggravated identity theft, and mail fraud. The indictment was announced today by Pamela C. Marsh, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
The five-count indictment alleges that between January and July 2011, Davis filed false claims for federal tax refunds using personal identifying information stolen from taxpayers. Davis is alleged to have used the stolen personal identifying information to submit applications for prepaid debit cards to be used to deposit the fraudulently obtained refunds.
Davis is scheduled for trial on April 1, 2013 before United States District Judge Robert L. Hinkle.
If convicted, Davis faces a maximum of ten years in prison on each count of mail fraud, up to five years in prison for filing false claims, and a mandatory term of two years’ imprisonment for aggravated identity theft. The mandatory two-year sentence must be served consecutively to any other sentence that may be imposed in the case.
U.S. Attorney Marsh praised the work of the Leon County Sheriff’s Office, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the Internal Revenue Service — Criminal Investigations, whose joint investigation led to the indictment in the case.
- The case is being prosecuted as part of a Department of Justice initiative to fight stolen identity refund fraud (SIRF). In September 2012, the Department issued Tax Division Directive 144, which sets forth expedited Department review procedures for SIRF cases, enabling law enforcement to respond quickly and effectively to the grave challenges presented in SIRF cases and to prevent the victimization of innocent taxpayers whose identities are stolen by fraudsters.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Winifred Acosta NeSmith.
An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
State of Alabama Employee Indicted for Providing Stolen Identies to A Million Dollar Identity Theft SchemeRead the Press Release
Montgomery, Alabama - A federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Lea’Tice Phillips for conspiring to file false tax returns using stolen identities, announced George L. Beck, Jr., U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Alabama. The thirty-seven count indictment charges Phillips with conspiracy to file false claims, wire fraud, computer fraud, and aggravated identity theft.
According to the court documents, Lea’Tice Phillips worked for an Alabama State agency and had access to state databases which contained means of identification of individuals. Between October 2009 and April 2012, Lea’Tice Phillips conspired with Antoinette Djonret and others to file false tax returns using stolen identities. On multiple occasions, Phillips accessed a state database to obtain means of identification. Phillips used her state email to send means of identification to Djonret. Djonret and others used those means of identification to file false tax returns. Djonret and her co-conspirators filed most of the tax returns from her residence in Montgomery, Ala. Djonret and her co-conspirators used an elaborate network of individuals to launder the tax refunds. They recruited individuals to purchase prepaid debit cards and to provide the cards to Djonret and her co-conspirators. The fraudulent tax refunds were directed to the prepaid debit cards. Djonret and her co-conspirators would then use the prepaid debit cards to obtain the proceeds. Some of the prepaid debit cards were in the name of Lea’Tice Phillips. In total, Djonret filed over 1,000 false tax returns that claimed over $1.7 million in fraudulent tax refunds.
On August 9, 2012, a federal grand jury in Montgomery, Ala., returned a superseding indictment charging Antoinette Djonret, Angelique Djonret, Tabitha Stinson, Melba Wilson, Chantresa Hayes, and Corey Means for their roles in the same conspiracy.
An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. If convicted, Phillips faces 10 years imprisonment for the conspiracy to file false claims, 20 years for each wire fraud count, 10 years imprisonment for each computer fraud count, and a mandatory 2-year sentence for the aggravated identity theft counts. She is also subject to fines, mandatory restitution, and forfeiture.
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 United States Attorney Todd Brown are prosecuting the case.
Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found at justice.gov/tax.
PRESS CONTACT: Clark Morris
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: (334) 551-1755
Fax: (334) 223-7617Southeast and Southcentral Residences charged with illegally transporting, possessing and selling marine mammalsRead the Press Release
Anchorage, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Karen L. Loeffler announced today that two Southeast Alaska residents, Raymond P. Chatham, 65, of Edna Bay, Alaska, and Joshua Wodyga, 31, of Ketchikan; Alaska, and two Southcentral Alaska residents, John K. Boone, 55, of Valdez, Alaska, and David K. Johnson, 53, of Anchorage, Alaska, were charged with crimes under the Marine Mammal Protection Act.
Raymond Chatham was charged with illegally transporting 87 dead sea otters and illegal possession of marine mammal parts; in this case, 14 sea otter skulls arising from activities in 2008. Joshua Wodyga, was also charged with one count of illegally selling a sea otter hide. In other filings, John K. Boone was charged with illegally selling two sea otter hides, while David K. Johnson was charged with one illegal sale of a sea otter hide and one count of illegally selling an unhandicrafted walrus tusk. These charges also arose from activities undertaken in 2008.
The charges arose from Operation Enhydra, an investigation conducted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service into the illegal selling of marine mammal parts. Since the investigation ended, 5 individuals have pled guilty and have been sentenced for the illegal take and sale of sea otters, sea otter parts, Steller’s Sea Lion parts, and spotted seal skin parts being sold for commercial gain.
The United States Fish and Wildlife Service, Office of Law Enforcement (USFWS-OLE) led the investigation that led to the prosecution of these individuals and the investigation benefitted significantly from the support of Alaska Wildlife Troopers, NOAA Fisheries’ Office of Law Enforcement, U. S. Forest Service, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, U.S. Marshals Service, the State of Alaska Attorney General’s Office, the Alaska Bureau of Alcohol and Drug Enforcement, and the U. S. Attorney’s Office.
Scottsdale Man Sentenced for Stealing Cacti from Public LandsRead the Press Release
PHOENIX – On Jan. 28, 2013, Kenneth Brian Cobb, 46, of Scottsdale, Ariz., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Roslyn O. Silver to five years supervised probation with eight months of weekend incarceration and was ordered to pay $32,000 in restitution. Cobb pleaded guilty on Sept. 10, 2012, to theft of government property and a violation of the Endangered Species Act.
“The saguaro cactus is a symbol of the Sonoran desert and Arizona. Saguaros are protected by state and federal law to avoid their becoming threatened by the very actions of people like the defendant.” stated U.S. Attorney John Leonardo. “The defendant stole these precious resources from federal lands and sold them for profit. This prosecution demonstrates that such activity will not be tolerated.”
“Our protected natural resources are so important to our landscapes and so well-loved by our citizens,” said Nick Chavez, the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service’s (Service) Southwest Region Special Agent in Charge. “We take violations of the Endangered Species Act very seriously”
Cobb admitted that between Jan. 1, 2010, and Feb. 28, 2010, he took eight saguaro cacti from federal land managed by the U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, near Wickenburg. He later sold the cacti for approximately $2,000 each. In addition, on Jan. 21, 2011, Cobb exported two saguaro cacti from the United States to Austria without a valid export permit.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management and Fish and Wildlife Service. The prosecution is being handled by Jennifer Levinson, Assistant U.S. Attorney, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: CR-12-01594-PHX-ROS
RELEASE NUMBER: 2013-011_CobbFor more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Scotland County Residents SentencedRead the Press Release
Defendants Face 57 to 108 Months in Federal PrisonGREENSBORO, N.C. – Ripley Rand, United States Attorney for the Middle District of North Carolina, announced the results in three recent federal prosecutions involving offenders from Scotland County, North Carolina.
On December 13, 2012, United States District Judge Thomas D. Schroeder sentenced MICHAEL WAYNE HILL, 54, of Laurinburg to 63 months in prison and three years of supervised release. Hill pled guilty on September 5, 2012 to both counts of a federal indictment charging him with possessing crack cocaine with the intent to distribute it and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Information from Hill’s guilty plea and sentencing hearings reflected that on June 11, 2011, officers with the Scotland County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant at Hill’s apartment in Laurinburg as the result of an undercover purchase of drugs there. That search yielded 7 grams of crack cocaine, individually wrapped in 15 plastic baggies, and a loaded .32 caliber S&W revolver. Hill illegally possessed the revolver after previously being convicted of felonies in 2006.
On December 14, 2012, Judge Schroeder sentenced DEQUAN FITZGERALD HENDERSON, age 25, of Laurinburg to 57 months in federal prison and three years of supervised release. Henderson pled guilty on September 5, 2012 to possessing the twelve rounds of ammunition after having been convicted of a felony. Henderson had prior felony convictions from 2004 and 2009.
On December 13, 2012, Judge Schroeder also sentenced TITUS TYRONE REDDICK, age 32, of Laurinburg to 105 months imprisonment and three years of supervised release. Information from Reddick’s September 5, 2012 guilty plea and his December 13, 2012 sentencing indicated that on August 26, 2011 Reddick possessed a .380 caliber semiautomatic pistol. Reddick had a prior felony conviction from 2004.
U.S. Attorney Rand commended the efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, as well as officers with the Laurinburg Police Department and Scotland County Sheriff’s Office. “Our office places top priority on combating gun and violent crime, and our success in these cases is a direct result of our close partnerships with federal, state, and local law enforcement,” Rand stated. “We will continue to work closely with the Laurinburg Police Department, the Scotland County Sheriff’s Department, the office of District Attorney Kristy Newton, and other federal, state, and local law enforcement to prosecute felons, domestic violence offenders, and others who possess guns and ammunition illegally and to make our communities safer for all.”
Laurinburg Interim Police Chief Kimothy Monroe added, “Convicted felons in Laurinburg are on notice that this office is working hard with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Scotland County District Attorney’s office to prevent violent crimes, especially those committed by convicted felons with guns. We plan to keep in communication with both offices to ensure that gun cases have the highest priority.”
Scotland County Sheriff Shep Jones noted, “We look forward to working with federal authorities to make sure that federal prosecutors have what they need to pursue federal criminal charges for violent crimes committed in Scotland County. Guns in the hands of felons and other prohibited persons are unacceptable.”
Roanoke Man Sentenced on Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
LYNCHBURG, VIRGINIA -- A former independent financial advisor who bilked his clients out of nearly $1 million dollars with the promise of high investment returns, was sentenced today in the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia in Lynchburg on fraud charges.
In October, Michael D. Leamnson, 56, of Roanoke, Va., waived his right to be indicted and pled guilty to a two-count Information charging him with one count of wire fraud and one count of mail fraud. This morning in District Court, Leamnson was sentenced to 40 months in Federal prison.
“In perpetrating his long-running Ponzi scheme, Mr. Leamnson stole money from his elderly clients and deprived many of their life savings,” United States Attorney Timothy J. Heaphy said today. “Leamnson falsely promised high investment returns, then used client funds for his personal benefit. This case shows our continuing commitment to prosecute investor fraud, particularly when such fraud targets vulnerable victims like our seniors. We will also continue to do what we can to warn our communities about fraud and encourage due diligence when evaluating investment opportunities.”
Leamnson previously admitted that he recruited investors for his company, Capital Creation. The defendant promised these “investors,” many of whom were senior citizens, that he would invest their money in safe and accessible investments. Leamnson told investors they could access their principle “on demand,” plus interest.However, Leamnson admitted that instead of using funds for safe investments, he instead simply deposited investor money into a general checking account which he used for personal expenses and outside business interests, including a small concrete company and a school fund-raising business. The defendant also used investors funds to cover “interest” payments owed to existing customers. All told, Leamnson defrauded his investors out of nearly $1 million.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the United States Secrete Service, the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations and the Virginia State Police. Assistant United States Attorneys Thomas Cullen and Daniel Bubar will prosecute the case for the United States.
Richland County Woman Sentenced on Methamphetamine Related ChargesRead the Press Release
Christine L. Hagen, 28, of Olney, Illinois, was sentenced in federal district court to federal prison on methamphetamine-related charges, Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today. Hagen was sentenced to 115 months in prison, to be followed by six years supervised release, and fined $200.
Hagen had previously pleaded guilty to a two count federal indictment. Count 1 charged that from November 2011, until on or about April 14, 2012, in Richland County, Hagen conspired with others known and unknown to the grand jury to manufacture methamphetamine. Count 2 charged that from January 2011, to on or about April 14, 2012, in Richland County, Hagen possessed pseudoephedrine, knowing and having reasonable cause to believe that the pseudoephedrine would be used to manufacture methamphetamine.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Richland County Sheriff’s Office.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney George A. Norwood.
Real Estate Developer sentenced to three years for making false statementsRead the Press Release
Anchorage, Alaska - U.S. Attorney Karen L. Loeffler announced today that an Anchorage man was sentenced in federal court in Anchorage for twelve counts of false statements to a credit union.
Lee E. Baker, Jr., 57, from Anchorage, Alaska, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Court Judge Ralph R. Beistline, to 36 months in prison.
According to Assistant U.S. Attorney Retta Randall, who prosecuted the case, Baker made false statements to Denali Alaskan Federal Credit Union (DAFCU) while drawing down the proceeds of a $9.2 million construction loan obtained for a proposed 85 unit apartment project, “Bryn Mawr,” located on Northern Lights Boulevard in Anchorage. Baker, as President of Discovery Construction, Inc., submitted 12 draw requests certifying each time that certain work had been completed on the Bryn Mawr project, when actually, very little work had been done and the total amount Baker verified as completed was false. The Bryn Mawr project was never completed. As a result of his false statements, approximately $4.3 million was disbursed to Baker by DAFCU before he defaulted on the loan.
Judge Beistline, after imposing sentence, stated, “Ultimately the success of the banking industry and the construction industry depends on integrity.” Judge Beistline went on to acknowledge that the construction industry in Alaska faces challenges, but insisted that, “When facing challenges, the highroad must be taken.” He further indicated that fundamental principles of honesty and integrity are necessary to deal with problems before others get hurt and that the community cannot tolerate this kind of deception. Giving Discovery Construction credit for work completed on the Byrn Mawr project, Baker was ordered to pay $3 million in restitution.
United States Attorney Karen Loeffler noted, “Financial crimes such as those committed by Baker create significant and lasting harms on the community as well as the businesses affected. The Alaska federal law enforcement community is dedicated to working together to investigate and prosecute these serious crimes.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge, Mary Rook, stated, “The FBI will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to address significant financial crimes which impact a wide range of individuals, businesses, and industries. As is frequently the case, the impact of this crime was more widespread than just those immediately identified as victims, as the losses sustained by Denali Alaskan Federal Credit Union were also felt by its members.”Ms. Loeffler commends the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division for the investigation of this case.
Ranch Owner in Young County Admits Shooting A Crop-Dusting Aircraft Flying Near His RanchRead the Press Release
Multiple Bullets Struck and Damaged Aircraft
WICHITA FALLS, Texas — Stephen Paul Riley, 41, of Olney, Texas, appeared in federal court in Wichita Falls, Texas, this morning and pleaded guilty, before U.S. District Judge Reed C. O’Connor, to an Indictment charging one count of destruction of an aircraft. Riley, who will remain on bond, faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine. Sentencing is set for May 21, 2013, before Judge O’Connor. 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, at approximately 11:40 a.m., on February 22, 2008, as a pilot flew his crop-dusting aircraft over property adjacent to the Flying Lead Ranch (FLR), a commercial hunting and residential property owned and occupied by Riley, Riley shot the aircraft with a firearm, striking it with multiple bullets and damaging the aircraft. One bullet struck the rudder cable and nearly severed it. A bullet or bullet fragment also struck the V-strut bar, approximately one and one-half inches from the connector bolt. Bullets, or bullet fragments, caused a hole in the aircraft’s left rear wing and indentations on the plane’s left side. The bullet holes and other damage indicated that the aircraft had been shot by someone on the ground discharging a firearm upward into the air. The aircraft was leased by Keeter Aerial Spraying, of Olney, for commercial crop-dusting services in Texas and Oklahoma.
Documents filed further state that prior to the above-stated date, Riley threatened Keeter’s owner, both in person and by phone, that he would shoot down any crop-duster that flew over his hunting ranch. In August 2010, officials with Texas Parks and Wildlife, seeking evidence of illegal hunting, executed a search warrant at the FLR and discovered a disc that contained video footage of Riley firing approximately 23 shots at another Keeter aircraft spraying the same field in July 2007. In September 2010, when questioned by a Texas Ranger, Riley admitted to shooting at Keeter aircraft on more than one occasion, as he had threatened to do.
The case is being investigated by the Texas Rangers and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine Miller is in charge of the prosecution.
Prior Felon from Las Cruces Sentenced to Thirty Months in Prison for Unlawful Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Yesterday afternoon, Alfonso Levya, 34, of Las Cruces, was sentenced to 30 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. The sentence was announced by U.S. Attorney Kenneth J. Gonzales and Thomas G. Atteberry, Special Agent in Charge of the Phoenix Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
Levya was arrested on a criminal complaint in Sept. 2011, and subsequently was indicted in Jan. 2012, and charged with unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition. According to the indictment, Levya unlawfully possessed a firearm and ammunition in Dona Ana County, N.M., on April 7, 2010. At the time, Levya was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition because he previously had been convicted of a marijuana importation charge in the United States District Court for the Western District of Texas.
Levya pled guilty to the indictment on May 7, 2012, under a plea agreement that required Levya to forfeit the firearm and ammunition that were in his possession on April 7, 2010.
ATF Special Agent in Charge Atteberry stated, “Today’s sentencing serves as an example that law enforcement in the state of New Mexico will not tolerate the criminal possession of firearms by prohibited individuals. I would like to recognize the efforts of our law enforcement partners in removing another potential threat from our community.”
The case was investigated by the Las Cruces office of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Las Cruces/Dona Ana County Metro Narcotics Unit, the New Mexico State Police Narcotics Unit and the Las Cruces Police Department Targeting Neighborhoods Threats (TNT) Unit, and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron O. Jordan of the U.S. Attorney’s Las Cruces Branch Office.