Latest Records
Newest first across public DOJ and U.S. Attorney press releases.
9 January 2013
Jasper County Traffic Stop Puts NC Man in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsBEAUMONT, Texas – A 46-year-old Clinton, NC man has been sentenced to federal prison for drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Enar David Zuniga pleaded guilty on Aug. 29, 2012, to possession with intent to distribute more than 100 kilograms of marijuana and was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Ron Clark.
According to information presented in court, on June 18, 2012, Zuniga was stopped by a Texas Highway Patrol trooper in Jasper County, Texas for a seatbelt violation. During the stop, Zuniga appeared nervous and his answers to the trooper’s questions were suspicious. Zuniga opened the back of the Isuzu truck and gave the trooper permission to search the vehicle’s contents. The trooper inspected the front of the truck and suspected a hidden compartment. A K-9 unit arrived and alerted to the back of the truck where 1,064 pounds of marijuana was discovered. Zuniga was indicted on June 21, 2012 and charged with federal drug trafficking crimes.
This case was investigated by Texas Department of Public Safety and the Drug Enforcement Administration and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Baylor Wortham.
James Kirby King Sentenced in U.S. District CourtRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney's Office announced that during a federal court session in Great Falls, on January 8, 2013, before U.S. District Judge Sam E. Haddon, JAMES KIRBY KING, a 46-year-old resident of Hays and an enrolled member of the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation, appeared for sentencing. KING was sentenced to a term of:
- Prison: 1 year
- Special Assessment: $100.00
- Supervised Release: 10 years
KING was sentenced in connection with his guilty plea to abusive sexual contact.
In an Offer of Proof filed by Assistant U.S. Attorney Danna R. Jackson, the government stated it would have proved at trial the following:
KING caused sexual contact with the victim when he touched her genitalia when he was moving her underwear aside to take pictures of her vagina. The victim was passed out at the time. The contact occurred in KING's home located on the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation.
Because there is no parole in the federal system, the "truth in sentencing" guidelines mandate that KING will likely serve all of the time imposed by the court. In the federal system, KING does have the opportunity to earn a sentence reduction for "good behavior." However, this reduction will not exceed 15% of the overall sentence.
The investigation was a cooperative effort between the Fort Belknap Law Enforcement and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
International Narcotics Trafficker Sentenced in Manhattan Federal Court to 280 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
Preet Bharara, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that JOSE MOSQUERA-PRADO, a top lieutenant of Colombian drug kingpin Francisco Gonzalez-Uribe, was sentenced today in Manhattan federal court to 280 months in prison for conspiring to import and distribute cocaine and heroin into the United States. MOSQUERA-PRADO was convicted in October 2011 following a two-week jury trial before U.S. District Judge Lewis A. Kaplan, who also presided over the sentencing.
Manhattan U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara said: “Mosquera-Prado, and the Colombian-based narco-trafficking organization in which he was a senior player, were responsible for moving massive quantities of cocaine and heroin from country to country, with the ultimate goal of shipping it to the U.S. Thanks to the outstanding work of, and cooperation between, the DEA and international law enforcement partners, he was thwarted and will now pay with his liberty.”
According to the trial evidence, other documents filed in the case, and statements made during court proceedings:
From 2007 through 2009, MOSQUERA-PRADO was a top lieutenant in Gonzalez-Uribe’s international narcotics-trafficking organization, which shipped tons of cocaine and heroin to various locations in Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Venezuela, and other countries. These narcotics were then transported to the United States and various locations in Europe.
During two undercover operations in early 2009 – with the cooperation and assistance of the governments of Colombia and the Dominican Republic – the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”) seized large quantities of cocaine and heroin from members of Gonzalez-Uribe’s narco-trafficking organization. MOSQUERA-PRADO was intercepted on recorded telephone calls personally orchestrating the shipment of the cocaine and heroin, which were destined for sale in New York City. The cocaine and heroin that was seized by the DEA during these operations had an estimated wholesale value of approximately $2,000,000.
In numerous additional recorded telephone calls and emails, MOSQUERA-PRADO negotiated and coordinated the shipments of several multi-ton loads of cocaine through South America and the Caribbean to the United States and other countries. MOSQUERA-PRADO also sent two of his criminal associates to the Dominican Republic to examine a remote military landing strip that he intended to use to land aircraft carrying large shipments of cocaine, and sought to use a number of large, private aircraft – including a DC-8, a DC-10, a Grumman 2, and a King Air 300 – to transport massive shipments of cocaine.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Kaplan sentenced MOSQUERA-PRADO, 36, to five years of supervised release, a $25,000 fine, and a $200 special assessment fee.
Gonzalez-Uribe was designated a Consolidated Priority Organization Target (“CPOT”) by the U.S. Department of Justice – a designation that is reserved for federal law enforcement priority drug trafficking targets. Gonzalez-Uribe was arrested in the Dominican Republic in 2009. In 2010, he pled guilty in Manhattan federal court to narcotics importation and distribution conspiracy charges and was subsequently sentenced to 30 years in prison.
Mr. Bharara praised the outstanding efforts of the DEA, and specifically cited the DEA Caribbean Field Division, the DEA Bogotá Country Office, the DEA Cartagena Resident Office, the DEA Santo Domingo Country Office, and the DEA New York Field Division. He also thanked the Office of International Affairs of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and all other cooperating law enforcement agencies. Mr. Bharara also thanked the Government of the Dominican Republic, the Dominican Direccion Nacional de Control de Drogas, and the Dominican Air Force, and expressed his gratitude to the Government of Colombia and the Colombian Departamento Administrativo de Seguridad for their cooperation and assistance in the investigation and prosecution of Mosquera-Prado.
The case is being handled by the Office's Terrorism and International Narcotics Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Benjamin Naftalis, John P. Cronan, and Randall W. Jackson are in charge of the prosecution.
TweetIndian Leider Sentenced in U.S. District CourtRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney's Office announced that during a federal court session in Great Falls, on January 8, 2013, before U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen, INDIAN LEIDER, a 20-year-old resident of Rocky Boy, was sentenced to a term of:
- Prison: 16 months
- Special Assessment: $100.00
- Supervised Release: 5 years
LEIDER was sentenced in connection with his guilty plea to sexual abuse of a minor.
In an Offer of Proof filed by Assistant U.S. Attorney Danna R. Jackson, the government stated it would have proved at trial the following:
LEIDER is an enrolled member of the Crow Tribe. On January 27, 2012, LEIDER was at a house party located on the Rocky Boy's Indian reservation. Also at the party were under-aged girls. LEIDER has sex with a girl who was thirteen. The girl was drinking and had reported to a medical provider that she "blanked out."
Because there is no parole in the federal system, the "truth in sentencing" guidelines mandate that LEIDER will likely serve all of the time imposed by the court. In the federal system, LEIDER does have the opportunity to earn a sentence reduction for "good behavior." However, this reduction will not exceed 15% of the overall sentence.
The investigation was conducted by a cooperative effort between the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Rocky Boy Law Enforcement and Chippewa Cree Law Enforcement.
Home Health Care Agency Operator Charged with Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS—Yesterday in federal court, the operator of Lucky Home Health Care, Inc., a home health care agency in Minneapolis, was charged with defrauding Medicaid. On January 8, 2013, Abshir Mohammed Ahmed, age 40, of Minneapolis, was charged via an Information with one count of health care fraud.
Allegedly, from January of 2008 through June of 2011, Ahmed defrauded Medicaid, a federal health care benefit program, out of more than $400,000 by submitting fraudulent billings. Ahmed submitted claims that falsely represented that home health care services were purportedly provided by identified Personal Care Assistants (“PCA”) that were not in fact provided by those PCAs.
For example, a claim for reimbursement, submitted on July 16, 2009, billed Medicaid $1,330.56 for PCA services allegedly, but not actually, provided by the identified PCA.
The Medicaid program provides medical care and services to low-income people who meet certain income and eligibility requirements. Home health care, provided by PCAs, is one of the services reimbursed by Medicaid.If convicted, Ahmed faces a potential maximum penalty of ten years in federal prison. All sentences will be determined by a federal district court judge.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David M. Genrich.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office participates in a task force with the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit at the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office that focuses on home health care fraud trends. The task force includes the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services-Office of Inspector General, the FBI, the Internal Revenue Service, and other federal, state, and local law enforcement partners.
As a result of federal convictions for health care fraud, defendants are excluded from participating in federal health benefit programs, including Medicare and Medicaid. Exclusion determinations are made by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Nationwide, more than 3,000 individuals were excluded from program participation in Fiscal Year 2010 based upon criminal convictions or patient abuse or neglect, license revocations, or other factors.
For more information, visit http://www.stopmedicarefraud.gov/
A defendant, of course, is presumed innocent until he or she pleads guilty or is proven guilty at trial.Habraham Enrique Guevara Sentenced to Seven Years in Prison for Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
GREENEVILLE, Tenn. - Habraham Enrique Guevara, 26, of Limestone, Tenn., was sentenced on January 8, 2013, to serve seven years in prison by the Honorable J. Ronnie Greer, U.S. District Judge. Guevara pleaded guilty on Jun. 5, 2012 to conspiring to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. In a separate indictment, Guevara and his mother Rosalva Robledo were charged with document fraud and illegal harboring of aliens crimes.
Information at sentencing established that Guevara, his father, Jose Cruz Guevara, and uncle, Arnoldo Ayala Cazarez, conspired to bring four pounds of high quality Mexican methamphetamine from Oklahoma City to sell in upper East Tennessee. All four pounds were found at the Guevara family home in Limestone, Tenn. One pound was 92.9% pure and qualified as meth ice. Enrique Guevara served as the translator, lookout, and transporter for the deal, which took place on Jan. 31, 2012, and was taken down by law enforcement. The investigation resulted in the conviction of six individuals, all natives of Sinaloa, Mexico, who were illegally present in the United States.
U.S. Attorney William C. Killian said, “The quantity of methamphetamine found at Guevara’s home was the second-largest quantity prosecuted in federal court in the northeastern division of the Eastern District of Tennessee. Methamphetamine is a highly addictive drug and the presence of high quality Mexican methamphetamine in Washington County presented a danger to the safety of that community.”
The indictment and subsequent conviction of Guevara was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Department of Homeland Security Investigations, Washington County Sheriff’s Office, and Second Judicial District Drug Task Force. Assistant United States Attorneys Donald Wayne Taylor and Helen Smith represented the United States in the prosecution.
Fugitive James Hector Acala Arrested at California Port of Entry Attempting to Re-Enter the United StatesRead the Press Release
SALT LAKE CITY – James Hector Alcala, age 44, of Salt Lake City, charged in a 2009 federal indictment with alien smuggling and visa fraud, was arrested on a fugitive warrant as he attempted to re-enter the United States on Christmas Day at the San Ysidro Port of Entry in California. The fugitive arrest warrant was issued for Alcala after he violated conditions of his pre-trial release in Utah and fled the United States in December 2010.
Alcala was taken into custody by the U.S. Marshals Service in San Diego and had an initial appearance in federal court in California on Dec. 26, 2012. Alcala waived his removal hearing, which had been scheduled for Tuesday afternoon in California, and will be transferred to Utah by the Marshals Service. It may take a few weeks for Alcala to be returned to Utah. An initial appearance will be set once he is back in Utah.
Alcala was charged in a federal indictment unsealed in July 2009. In addition to Alcala, the Alcala Law Firm, Westside Property Management, and seven other individuals were charged with conspiracy to commit alien smuggling and visa fraud; encouraging and inducing illegal aliens to come to, enter, or remain in the United States; and visa fraud. The indictment alleged that the defendants in the case circumvented the law to obtain visas for employers and the foreign national workers they were employing in Utah. The indictment alleged defendants conspired to profit financially by assisting Utah employers in obtaining H-2B visas for their foreign-national workers by fraudulently representing to the federal government that the foreign nationals were eligible for visas when, in fact, they were not.
Charges against two individuals charged in the indictment, Daniel Trigo Villavicencio, age 34, of Orem and Gustavo Ballesteros-Munoz, age 49, of West Jordan, have been dismissed by federal prosecutors. A fugitive warrant remains in place for Carlos Enrique Gomez-Alvarez, age 44, of Salt Lake City, who fled the country in 2009 after his arrest and initial appearance on the charges in New York.
Arrest warrants, issued at the time of indictment, are still in place for Florentino Jose Ayal Villarreal, age 42, and Olga Adriana Garza Muniz, age 50, both Mexican nationals.
Carlos Manuel Vorher, age 46, of Tooele; Andres Lorenzo Acosta Parra, age 34, of Salt Lake City; and Westside Property Management have pleaded guilty to charges stemming from their involvement in the case. Sentencing hearings are pending.
Westside Property Management, represented by its president, Janet Alcala, pleaded guilty in October 2012 to two counts of visa fraud. According to the plea agreement, Westside Property Management admitted that the company made false representations on immigration forms for several foreign nationals. Westside Property Management falsely stated on the applications that the individuals would be working for the property management company when, in fact, the company knew that the foreign nationals were going to work for a different Utah-based employer that was another client of the Alcala Law Firm. Mrs. Alcala admitted that the company knew that the false statements would be relied on by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to award temporary employment visas to the individuals. Westside Property Management has agreed to forfeit all interests in several pieces of property purchased with proceeds from the criminal offenses.
Parra pleaded guilty in October 2010 to misprison of a felony, charged in a superseding Felony Information. Parra admitted that he worked for the Alcala Law Firm where he assisted clients in obtaining H-2B visas for their foreign-born employees. Parra, who worked for 10 years as a visa assistant in the U.S. Consulate in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, and was trained in immigration law, said he quickly learned that the law firm was fraudulently obtaining visas. He admitted he was with law firm employees and associates in Mexico when they instructed foreign nationals to falsify information on forms and to give deceptive answers to questions during the visa interview process. Parra admitted that although he knew the law firm was engaged in fraud, he did not notify the government of the fraud. He also admitted that he knew his presence and comments helped lend support and credibility to the fraudulent scheme.
Vorher pleaded guilty in April 2010 to one count of conspiracy to commit alien smuggling and visa fraud, admitting that he worked with others at the law firm to process H-2B visa petitions for clients he knew did not qualify for the visas. He admitted knowing that clients were looking to get visas for their current workforce, which consisted primarily of Mexican nationals who were not legally in the country. Clients were not looking to fill any employment vacancies as envisioned by the H-2B visa program. Vorher is a former U.S. Border Patrol agent.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations; U.S. and Citizenship and Immigration Services; the U.S. Department of Labor; and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Founder of USA Harvest Charged in Seven Count Federal Indictment Charges Include Stealing from the Charity, Tax Fraud, and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
– Hugh “Stan” Curtis charged with stealing $183,354 in donations and failing to report $553,891.67 in personal income from USA Harvest
– Curtis used funds to allegedly pay for personal expenses including meals, entertainment, and travelLOUISVILLE, Ky. – USA Harvest, Kentucky Harvest, and Blessings in a Backpack founder, Hugh “Stan” Curtis was charged in a seven-count federal indictment today, with one count mail fraud, two counts money laundering and four counts filing false income tax returns with the Internal Revenue Service, announced David J. Hale, United States Attorney for the Western District of Kentucky.
According to the indictment returned today by a federal grand jury meeting in Louisville, from September 2005 through September 2007, defendant Curtis, 63, of Louisville, Kentucky, allegedly stole approximately $183,354 in donations that he solicited on behalf of USA Harvest, a non-profit, I.R.C. 501 (c) organization. Of these stolen donations, Curtis deposited $164,620 into his personal account and personally cashed donation checks totaling $18,734 – and thereafter used the funds for his personal benefit. The $164,620 includes an August 29, 2007, donation for $20,000 from Play Like the Pros, LLC and a September 5, 2007, donation for $25,000 from Richemont North America, Inc. In addition, Curtis did not report the $183,354 as income with the Internal Revenue Service.
Further, from 2005 through 2008, it is alleged in the federal indictment, that Curtis failed to report to the Internal Revenue Service approximately $553,891.67 in personal income he received from USA Harvest. The amount includes the $183,354 in stolen donations and $370,537.67 in personal travel expenses that he charged to USA Harvest. More particularly, Curtis used approximately $370,537.67 in USA Harvest funds to pay for personal meals, personal entertainment expenses, and personal travel. In addition, Curtis fraudulently deducted approximately $353,165 in unreimbursed USA Harvest travel expenses on his 2005 through 2007 returns.
Counts four through seven of the indictment charge Curtis with filing false returns with the Internal Revenue Service. In 2005, Curtis failed to report approximately $160,549.56 in income and falsely deducted approximately $134,623 in unreimbursed travel expenses from USA Harvest on his 2005 federal income tax return filed on April 15, 2006. For the year 2006 Curtis failed to report approximately $217,085.18 income and falsely deducted approximately $130,739 in unreimbursed travel expenses from USA Harvest on his 2006 federal income tax return filed on May 9, 2007. For the year 2007 Curtis failed to report approximately $97,264.48 and falsely deducted approximately $87,803 in unreimbursed travel expenses from USA Harvest on his federal income tax return filed on April 15, 2008. For the year 2008 Curtis failed to report approximately $78,992.45 in income from USA Harvest on his 2008 federal income tax return filed on October 16, 2009. The return was filed by Curtis and signed under the penalty of perjury.
At sentencing, Curtis faces a combined maximum term of 52 years in prison, a combined maximum fine of $1,150,000, and a three-year term of supervised release.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Bryan Calhoun and was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations Division.
Fort Thompson Woman Sentenced for Involuntary ManslaughterRead the Press Release
US Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Fort Thompson, South Dakota, woman convicted of Involuntary Manslaughter was sentenced on January 7, 2013, by US District Judge Roberto A. Lange. Leigha Koster, age 20, was sentenced to 33 months of imprisonment, 2 years of supervised release, $100 to the Victim Assistance Fund, and $16,995.18 in restitution.
Koster was indicted for Involuntary Manslaughter and Child Abuse by a federal grand jury on August 14, 2012. The charges stem from an incident on July 28, 2012, when Koster was driving while under the influence of alcohol with her boyfriend in the passenger seat. Koster was stopped for a traffic stop. While the officer was reviewing the license plate on the vehicle, Koster took off. A high speed chase, in excess of 100 miles per hour, ensued. While attempting to make a turn, she lost control of the vehicle, causing it to roll and crash. Her boyfriend was ejected and died at the scene.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant US Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
Koster was immediately turned over to the custody of the US Marshal.
Fort Lauderdale Man Sentenced to Life for Sex Trafficking of MinorsRead the Press Release
Wifredo A. Ferrer, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, Michael B. Steinbach, Acting Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Miami Field Office, and Franklin C. Adderly, Chief of Police, Fort Lauderdale Police Department, announced yesterday’s sentencing of Van Lawson Williams, 49, of Fort Lauderdale, on charges of sex trafficking and attempted sex trafficking of minors, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1591(a). At the sentencing hearing, U.S. District Judge Daniel T.K. Hurley sentenced Williams to life in prison.
On October 30, 2012, a jury found defendant Williams guilty of four counts of sex trafficking of minors and one count of attempted sex trafficking of minors. At trial, six victims, all runaways at the time they met Williams, testified that they worked or were recruited to work as prostitutes at Williams’ residence. According to the trial evidence, Williams sought out minor female runaways in his neighborhood and invited them to stay with him at his Fort Lauderdale residence, promising them food and shelter. Williams would then convince the girls to work as prostitutes, telling them that they could not stay for free but rather had to earn money to pay the bills. The victims testified that on most occasions, they were required to give Williams the money they collected for their prostitution services. Several of the victims testified that Williams provided them with illegal narcotics, including marijuana and crack cocaine, and that he engaged in or attempted to engage in sexual activity with them.
At the sentencing hearing, one of the victims read a letter she had written to the Court, describing the shame she still feels every day when she looks in the mirror. Another victim, only 12 when she was prostituted by Williams, wrote a letter to the Court in which she described the damage that she had suffered as a result of Williams’ actions, and wrote of her dream to one day meet and marry a sweet man.
Mr. Ferrer commended the investigative efforts of the FBI and the Fort Lauderdale Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mark Dispoto and Corey Steinberg.
A copy of this press release may be found on the website of the United States Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Florida at http://www.usdoj.gov/usao/fls. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at http://www.flsd.uscourts.gov or on http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov.
Former “Panama Unit” Officers IndictedRead the Press Release
McALLEN, Texas – A federal grand jury has returned a six-count indictment against Jonathan Trevino, Alexis Rigoberto Espinoza, Fabian Rodriguez and Gerardo Mendoza-Duran, United States Attorney Kenneth Magidson announced today.
The indictment includes one count of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine, which charges all four men, as well as five substantive counts of attempting to aid and abet the possession with the intent to distribute cocaine. Espinoza and Duran are charged with four of the substantive counts, while Trevino and Rodriguez were indicted on one of those charges.
Trevino, 28, Espinoza, 29, Rodriguez, 28, and Mendoza-Duran, 30, were previously charged by criminal complaint last month and subsequently arrested following a multi-agency investigation conducted in 2012.
The indictment alleges Trevino and Espinoza, former officers with the Mission Police Department, along with Rodriguez and Duran, former deputies with the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office, attempted to utilize their positions as law enforcement personnel in order to assist drug traffickers with the distribution of cocaine. On several occasions in October and November 2012, the defendants allegedly provided protective escorts for suspected loads of cocaine as they traveled throughout Hidalgo County.
If convicted, the four face a minimum of 10 years imprisonment and a maximum of life in prison, along with a potential fine up to $10 million.
The case is being investigated by the FBI, Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Office of Professional Responsibility, Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, the Texas Rangers and Department of Justice – Office of the Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorneys Anibal Alanis and James Sturgis are prosecuting the case.
Former Murray County Sheriff's Deputy Indicted for Obstructing Civil Rights InvestigationRead the Press Release
ROME, Ga. – A former Murray County Sheriff’s Deputy has been indicted by a federal grand jury for obstructing a pending civil rights investigation while he was still employed as a Sheriff’s Deputy with Murray County. Joshua Lamar Greeson, 25, of Chatsworth, Georgia, will be arraigned today at 2 p.m., before United States Magistrate Judge Walter E. Johnson. The federal grand jury indicted Greeson on January 3, 2013.
United States Attorney Sally Quillian Yates said, “Greeson is charged with breaching the public trust by lying to agents and concealing information in order to obstruct a civil rights investigation. Now, he faces his own federal charges and potential time in federal prison. Our office is continuing to work with our law enforcement partners to investigate this important matter.”Mark F. Giuliano, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Atlanta Field Office, stated: “The conduct alleged in this indictment is a clear breach of the public trust by a law enforcement officer whom we rightfully hold to a higher standard. Understanding the importance of this trust, the FBI remains committed to bringing forward for prosecution any such similar allegations of criminal conduct.”
“The Georgia Bureau of Investigation aggressively investigates alleged criminal activity by law enforcement officers. The State of Georgia will not tolerate criminal activity by those officials with the duty to enforce its laws,” said Vernon Keenan, GBI Director.
According to United States Attorney Yates, the charges and other information presented in court, on August 14, 2012, then Murray County Sheriff's Department Deputy
Joshua Greeson performed a traffic stop on a vehicle in Murray County, Georgia. During the traffic stop, Greeson found methamphetamine in a metal can hidden under the driver's side rear wheel well of the vehicle. After locating the drugs, Greeson arrested both the front seat passenger who owned the vehicle and the driver. Shortly thereafter, GBI agents received information that the drugs had been planted under the vehicle by another individual (not Greeson) in order to falsely inculpate the vehicle owner.On August 23, 2012, when GBI agents interviewed Greeson, he allegedly lied to them regarding information he had previously received concerning a lookout on this vehicle. Agents later learned that Greeson had deleted information relevant to the investigation from his cell phone. Greeson was fired from the Sheriff’s Department on August 29, 2012.
The charges each carry a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. In determining the actual sentence, the Court will consider the United States Sentencing Guidelines, which are not binding but provide appropriate sentencing ranges for most offenders.
Members of the public are reminded that the indictment only contains charges. The defendant is presumed innocent of the charges and it will be the government's burden to prove the defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
This case is being investigated by Special Agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.
Assistant United States Attorneys Michael Herskowitz, Jeffrey Davis, and Timothy Storino are prosecuting the case.
For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Information Office at [email protected] or (404) 581-6016. The Internet address for the HomePage for the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Georgia is www.justice.gov/usao/gan.
(Download Greenson Indictment )
Former Dallas Firefighter Sentenced to 46 Months in Federal Prison for Robbing A Chase Bank in Dallas in April 2012Read the Press Release
DALLAS — Jesus Ventura, 37, of Irving, Texas, was sentenced this morning by U.S. District Judge Ed Kinkeade to 46 months in federal prison following his guilty plea in September 2012 to one count of bank robbery, announced U.S. Attorney Sarah R. Saldaña of the Northern District of Texas.
According to the factual resume filed in the case, on April 10, 2012, Ventura robbed the Chase Bank, located at 1881 Sylvan Avenue in Dallas.
The affidavit filed with the criminal complaint states that when Ventura entered the bank, he asked an employee if he could use the restroom. The employee provided Ventura with the door code and informed him that the restroom was located in the office building’s lobby. Ventura left the bank lobby, but soon returned and was greeted by a teller offering her assistance. Ventura replied in a low-toned voice, “I am sorry to do this to you, I really am. Give me all the money.”
The affidavit further states that the teller, who had only been employed at the bank for two weeks, stared at the robber, and he repeated several more times for her to give him the money. She stood at the counter, and Ventura’s voice became more aggressive when he said, “Give me all the money” and raised his black backpack as he continued demanding money. The teller feared that he had a weapon in the backpack. She gave Ventura the money and he took a $20 bill from the money and slid it underneath the glass to the teller and stated, “Here is a tip for you.”
Officers with the Dallas Police Department (DPD) arrested Ventura a short time after the robbery. Officers recovered no weapon, but recovered the black backpack and the money stolen from Chase Bank.
The FBI and the DPD investigated; Assistant U.S. Attorney Keith Robinson was in charge of the prosecution.
Former Consultant Wesley Wang Sentenced in Manhattan Federal Court for Insider TradingRead the Press Release
Preet Bharara, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that WESLEY WANG, a former consultant with Trellus Management, was sentenced today to two years of probation for his participation in insider trading schemes in which WANG provided material, nonpublic information (“Inside Information”) about various publicly-traded companies to several individuals, including Doug Whitman, the president and founder of Whitman Capital. WANG pled guilty in July 2012 to two counts of conspiracy to commit securities fraud pursuant to a cooperation agreement with the government. He was sentenced in Manhattan federal court by U.S. District Judge Jed S. Rakoff.
According to the Information, statements made during WANG’s guilty plea proceeding, WANG’s testimony during the criminal trial of Doug Whitman, and the Government’s sentencing submission in WANG’s case:
From 2005 through 2008, WANG provided Whitman, among others, Inside Information on Cisco with the understanding that Whitman would use the Information to trade securities. In exchange for this Inside Information, Whitman provided WANG with Inside Information on other publicly-traded companies, including Marvell and Polycom, which WANG in turn provided to others. In addition, from 2002 to 2005, WANG was involved in a separate conspiracy, in which he exchanged Inside Information about various publicly traded companies with other individuals, with the expectation the information would be used to trade securities.
In addition to his probation, WANG, 39, was ordered to pay a $200 special assessment fee.
Whitman was convicted in a jury trial on August 20, 2012 of four counts of conspiracy and securities fraud.
Mr. Bharara praised the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. He also thanked the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
This case was brought in coordination with President Barack Obama’s Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force, on which Mr. Bharara serves as a Co-Chair of the Securities and Commodities Fraud Working Group. President Obama established the interagency Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force to wage an aggressive, coordinated, and proactive effort to investigate and prosecute financial crimes. The task force includes representatives from a broad range of federal agencies, regulatory authorities, inspectors general, and state and local law enforcement who, working together, bring to bear a powerful array of criminal and civil enforcement resources. The task force is working to improve efforts across the federal executive branch, and with state and local partners, to investigate and prosecute significant financial crimes, ensure just and effective punishment for those who perpetrate financial crimes, combat discrimination in the lending and financial markets, and recover proceeds for victims of financial crimes.
The case is being handled by the Office’s Securities and Commodities Fraud Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher L. LaVigne and Jillian Berman are in charge of the prosecution.
Former Chief of St. Clair Fire Protection District and Ladue Fire Department Indicted on Federal Fraud and Tax ChargesRead the Press Release
St. Louis, MO - Eric Hinson was indicted on fraud and multiple tax evasion charges involving his alleged misuse of approximately $593,236 of St. Clair Fire Protection District funds between January 2006 and September 2011. As a result of the federal investigation, Hinson resigned his positions as Chief at both the St. Clair Fire Protection District and the Ladue Fire Department.
The St. Clair Fire Protection District (District) provides fire protection service for Franklin County, Missouri, and has four fire houses, 18 full-time fire fighters and between 25-50 volunteer fire fighters. The District is primarily funded by public funds, through real estate tax, personal property tax and sales tax. Eric Hinson began with the District as a volunteer firefighter during 1985, was elected to the Board of Directors for the District in 1997, and as Treasurer of the District in 1999. During January, 2011, he became the Fire Chief for the District while continuing to perform his duties as Treasurer until his resignation from the District on September 28, 2011. As Treasurer, Hinson was responsible for preparing the annual budgets, facilitating the annual financial statement audit, gaining approval from the District's Board of Directors for expenditures, reconciling bank statements and performing other accounting related activities, in the QuickBooks general ledger system, other than for payroll. He also had the ability to access the QuickBooks system remotely from outside the District offices.
According to the indictment, Hinson used the District credit cards to pay for family vacations to Hawaii and Florida, to pay for personal items such as sporting goods and other items, limousine rentals, tickets to Six Flags, Big Surf Water Park and other entertainment expenses, restaurant meals, gasoline and hotel rooms, as well as to obtain significant cash advances. Without the knowledge and authority of the District, Hinson directed that these personal credit card charges be paid with District funds. Further, on several occasions, Hinson wrote District checks to pay for his own personal expenses, including checks to Ford Credit for a pickup truck, to Macy's for furniture, to John Deere Credit for tractor parts and checks to Bank of America and Fifth Third Bank for other personal expenses. The indictment states that in order to conceal his scheme, Hinson accessed the District's QuickBooks to alter reported general ledger activity by backdating certain of his fraudulent transactions and by changing the payee in order to manipulate the District's accounting records so as to hide the existence of his fraudulent transactions. Through his fraudulent conduct, Hinson obtained approximately $593,236 from the St. Clair Fire Protection District.
Additionally, the indictment alleges that Hinson filed false tax returns for five years, 2006 through 2010, under reporting his taxes during those years in a combined amount of approximately $400,000.
ERIC HINSON, St. Clair, MO, was indicted by a federal grand jury today on one felony count of mail fraud and five felony counts of tax evasion.
If convicted, mail fraud carries a maximum penalty of 20 years and a fine of up to $250,000; each count of tax evasion carries a maximum penalty of 5 years and a fine of up to $100,000. In determining the actual sentences, a Judge is required to consider the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which provide recommended sentencing ranges.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Hal Goldsmith is handling the case for the U.S. Attorney's Office.
As is always the case, charges set forth in an indictment are merely accusations and do not constitute proof of guilt. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Flint Store Owner Sentenced for Conspiracy to Commit Food Stamp FraudRead the Press Release
A 55-year-old Flint man was sentenced to more than four years in prison and more than $600,000 in restitution on Jan. 8, 2013, for conspiring to commit food stamp fraud, U.S. Attorney Barbara L. McQuade announced today.
McQuade was joined in the announcement by Joe N. Smith, Special Agent in Charge of USDA - Office of Inspector General and Robert D. Foley, III, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Detroit.
U.S. District Judge Mark A. Goldsmith sentenced Noha T. Fofana to 51 months in federal prison to be followed by a three-year term of supervised release. Fofana was also ordered to pay $612,980.96 in restitution to the USDA-Food and Nutrition Service. This amount is to be paid jointly and severally with Fofana’s co-defendant, Akhir K. McFarland, who was sentenced on Dec. 18, 2012, to 16 months in federal prison for his participation in the conspiracy.
Evidence introduced during the trial established that Fofana, the owner of Mandingo African Market, redeemed more than $750,000 in food stamp benefits from February 2009 to July 2011, approximately $612,000 of which was obtained utilizing fraudulent "food stamps-for-cash" exchanges. The U.S. Department of Agriculture -- Office of Inspector General, (USDA-OIG) which funds the food stamp program, calculated that during that same time period, Mandingo's average food stamp redemption amount was $26,798 per month - compared to an average of $5,479 monthly redemption for other convenience stores in the area.
Witnesses testified during the trial that Fofana and others conspired to fraudulently submit bridge card numbers for cash benefits. Members of the conspiracy agreed to pay customers, including undercover law enforcement agents, roughly 50 cents for each $1 charged against their cards.
USDA-OIG Special Agent in Charge Joe N. Smith stated, "The Office of Inspector General (OIG) will continue to dedicate resources to the investigation of retailers who commit fraud in vital USDA food assistance programs. OIG's objectives are to protect the integrity of USDA nutrition assistance programs such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and to stop unscrupulous retailers such as Noha Fofana from taking advantage of low-income individuals during these tough economic times. As we conduct fraud investigations throughout the State of Michigan, we appreciate the support of our Federal and State law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorney's Office's long-term commitment to prosecuting crimes against SNAP."
FBI Special Agent in Charge Foley stated, “"Crimes involving food stamp fraud steal funds from a system designed to feed those in need. The FBI is committed to stopping this type of illegal activity."
“Taxpayers fund food stamps to provide food for the needy, not to create a revenue stream for store owners,” McQuade said. “We hope that other merchants will become aware of prosecutions like this one and be deterred from engaging in similar fraud schemes.”The case was investigated by special agents from the United States Department of Agriculture-Office of Inspector General and special agents of the FBI.
The case was prosecuted by the Flint branch of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan.
Five Bridgeport Men Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
January 9, 2013David B. Fein, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that five Bridgeport men charged as a result of an FBI Bridgeport Safe Streets Task Force and Connecticut State Police Statewide Narcotics Task Force investigation into narcotics trafficking activity and violent criminal activity in and around the Trumbull Gardens housing complex in Bridgeport have been sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Alvin W. Thompson in Hartford.
Today, MICHAEL NEWSOME, also known as “Cream” and “DooDoo,” 29, was sentenced to 30 months of imprisonment, and RAHSHIM CARTER, also known as “Jinks” and “Mace,” 24, was sentenced to 18 months of imprisonment. On Monday, January 7, HASSAN ROGERS, also known as “Boobie,” 41, was sentenced to 30 months of imprisonment, JAMIEL THOMPSON, also known as “Jamil” and “Tre,” 23, was sentenced to 18 months of imprisonment, and ALEX SANTANA, 19, was sentenced to 10 months of imprisonment followed by four months of community detention.
The investigation revealed that several individuals were selling narcotics from parking lots within Trumbull Gardens and utilized lookouts to detect the presence of law enforcement. Between June 2011 and May 2012, Task Force officers made dozens of controlled purchases of narcotics from ROGERS, his sons THOMPSON and CARTER, and NEWSOME, who is THOMPSON’s uncle. During the investigation, officers also purchased a semi-automatic handgun, through ROGERS, from SANTANA.
On May 9, 2012, one individual was killed by multiple gunshots and another was shot in the chest and abdomen while visiting the Trumbull Gardens housing complex. On May 24, 2012, federal arrest warrants were issued after the government adopted pending state charges against the five defendants. To date, no one has been charged in the shooting incident.
NEWSOME, CARTER, ROGERS and THOMPSON each previously pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute and distribution of heroin. SANTANA pleaded guilty to one count of illegally engaging in the business of dealing in firearms.
Each of the defendants will serve a three-year term of supervised release following their release from prison. They have been detained since their arrests on May 24, 2012.
This matter has been investigated by the FBI’s Bridgeport Safe Streets Task Force, which includes the Bridgeport, Norwalk, and Trumbull Police Departments, in coordination with the Connecticut State Police Statewide Narcotics Task Force. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Tracy Lee Dayton and Rahul Kale.
PUBLIC AFFAIRS CONTACT:
U.S. ATTORNEY'S OFFICE
Tom Carson
(203) 821-3722 [email protected]Financial Planner Sentenced on Tax ConvictionsRead the Press Release
A financial planner from Richfield was sentenced to eight months of home confinement after previously pleading guilty to two counts of willful failure to file tax returns, said Steven M. Dettelbach, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, and Darryl Williams, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigations office in Cincinnati.
Jon D. Zapisek, 41, worked as a financial planner for John Hancock Financial between 2006 and 2010. During that time, he failed to report more than $600,000 in taxable income, which resulted in more than $100,000 in unpaid taxes, according to court documents.
Zapisek was also ordered to pay restitution.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin J. Roberts following an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigations.
Federal Grand Jury Returns Indictments in Plano, TexasRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsPLANO, Texas –A federal grand jury returned multiple indictments today charging individuals with separate federal crimes in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Tuan Truong, of Plano, Texas, has been indicted for possession with intent to distribute marijuana. If convicted, he faces up to 40 years in federal prison. This case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stevan A. Buys.
Vincente Botello-Segundo, 31, of Dallas, has been indicted for illegally entering the United States after having been deported and possession of a firearm by an illegal alien. If convicted, he faces up to 10 years in federal prison and deportation. This case is being investigated by ICE/HSI and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stevan A. Buys.
A grand jury indictment is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.Federal Grand Jury in Fort Wayne Returns IndictmentRead the Press Release
Fort Wayne, INCThe United States Attorney's Office announced that a Grand Jury sitting in Fort Wayne, Indiana, returned the following Indictment on December 18, 2012: Troy A. Ditiway, 26, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, is charged in a single count Indictment with possession of one or more matters containing visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct on or about September 20, 2012. The Indictment also seeks for the forfeiture of a computer and a thumb drive. This charge was filed as the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Fort Wayne Police Department. This case has been assigned to and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley J. Miller Lowery.
The United States Attorney's Office emphasized that an Indictment is merely an allegation and that all persons charged are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.
If convicted in court, any specific sentence to be imposed will be determined by the judge after a consideration of federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
##END##Federal Grand Jury Charges Fort Worth Man with Unlawful Possession of A Firearm and Fraudulent Production of an Identification DocumentRead the Press Release
DALLAS — A federal grand jury in Dallas returned an indictment late yesterday charging Azeez Ahmed Al-Ghaziani with one count of possession of a firearm by an unlawful user of a controlled substance and one count of fraudulent production of an identification document. Al-Ghaziani, 30, of Fort Worth, Texas, has been in custody since his arrest in October 2012 by officers with the Hurst Police Department. Today’s announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Sarah R. Saldaña of the Northern District of Texas.
The indictment alleges that on October 2, 2012, Al-Ghaziani, an unlawful user of, and addicted to, a controlled substance, knowingly possessed a .40 caliber Smith & Wesson pistol and a Hawk Industries 12-gauge shotgun. It further alleges that on the same date, Al-Ghaziani produced fraudulent U.S. military and U.S. government identification badges that appear to have been issued by, or under the authority of, the United States.
According to the criminal complaint filed in the case, officers with the Hurst Police Department were contacted on October 2, 2012, about a suspicious truck that was parked behind a strip center on Grapevine Highway in Hurst. When officers arrived and looked through the truck’s windows, they noticed two gun carrying cases. Officers determined that Al-Ghaziani was the vehicle’s owner, but after all efforts failed to locate him, and because law enforcement believed the vehicle may have been used for military law enforcement purposes, officers decided to enter the unlocked truck to locate contact information for the owner and safeguard any firearms that might be in the truck.
Inside, officers located a duffle bag that contained fraudulent identification badges, an unloaded .40 caliber Smith & Wesson pistol, chrome tape that appeared to have been used to mimic the appearance of a microchip on the identification badges, three Department of Defense (DoD) vehicle registration decals and zip-lock type bags commonly used in the distribution of illegal narcotics. An unloaded 12-gauge shotgun, ammunition for the shotgun and a magazine containing approximately 12, .40 caliber rounds were also found in the truck.
Al-Ghaziani was questioned after officers noticed him exiting a dry-cleaning business that he said he owned in the strip center. Officers obtained a state search warrant for the business and seized additional fraudulent U.S. military and U.S. government identification badges and other items including plastic badge holders containing fraudulent Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) credentials; DoD military credentials, methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, a laptop computer and thumb drive.
An indictment is an accusation by a federal grand jury, and a defendant is entitled to the presumption of innocence unless proven guilty. However, if convicted, the firearm count carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine and the production of identification documents count carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The investigation is being conducted by the Hurst Police Department, the Naval Criminal Investigative Service and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Errin Martin is in charge of the prosecution.
Federal Employee Charged with Accessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
An employee of the Social Security Office of Disability Adjudication and Review was arrested today on a criminal complaint charging him with accessing child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. THOMAS JOSEPH BARRETT, 49, of Lynnwood, Washington was taken into custody at his place of work. Search warrants were executed at his home and workplace. BARRETT is employed as Senior Case Technician. SSA immediately placed BARRETT on indefinite leave. BARRETT will make his initial appearance in U.S. District Court in Seattle at 2:30 today.
According to the complaint filed in the case, SSA obtained evidence of inappropriate internet use by BARRETT during work hours in November 2012 and immediately initiated an investigation. The Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General (SSA-OIG) investigated BARRETT’s computer use, reviewing his internet history and examining his computer’s hard drive. The analysis produced evidence that BARRETT had viewed child pornography using the computer. In addition, some of the website analysis revealed that BARRETT had accessed news stories about the penalties for possessing and distributing child pornography. According to SSA, SSA’s network and data were never compromised.
Accessing child pornography with intent to view is punishable by up to ten years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The charges contained in the complaint are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The case is being investigated by the Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General, Homeland Security Investigation and the Washington State Patrol.
The case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Seth Wilkinson and Assistant United States Attorney Marci Ellsworth. Mr. Wilkinson is an attorney with the Social Security Administration specially designated to prosecute cases in federal court.
Eagle Butte Man Sentenced for AssaultRead the Press Release
US Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that an Eagle Butte man charged with Assaulting, Resisting or Impeding a Federal Officer was sentenced on January 8, 2013, by US District Judge Roberto A. Lange. Matthew Dupris, age 24, was sentenced to 13 months in custody, 2 years of supervised release, and a $100 assessment to the Victim Assistance Fund.
Dupris was indicted for the above charge by a federal grand jury on June 12, 2012. The charge stems from an incident occurring on March 8, 2012, in which Dupris assaulted a federal officer after being detained on suspicion of driving under the influence. Dupris was placed under arrest after failing the sobriety tests. At the detention facility, Dupris swung at an officer, hitting him in the face with his fists. The officer suffered a concussion as a result of the assault.
The investigation was conducted by Cheyenne River Sioux Tribal Law Enforcement Services, and Assistant United States Attorney Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case.
Dupris was immediately turned over to the custody of the US Marshal.
Detroit Man Sentenced Following Federal Weapons ConvictionRead the Press Release
A Detroit man was sentenced yesterday in federal court on charges of being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Barbara L. McQuade.
McQuade was joined in the announcement by David McCain, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
Jerry Burton, 31, was sentenced to 63 months in federal prison and will serve two years of supervision following his release from federal prison. Burton pleaded guilty last October and was sentenced by Judge Nancy G. Edmunds on January 8, 2013. The court noted that Burton’s numerous previous convictions demonstrated that he was a continuing danger to the community.
During the guilty plea and in memoranda and argument submitted to the court at sentencing, the evidenced showed that ATF agents identified Burton as someone who had expressed an interest in illegally selling firearms in Detroit. On January 4, 2012, Burton sold an assault rifle to an undercover agent and an undercover Detroit Police Office. The semi-automatic rifle was fully functional and capable of accepting a magazine that holds 30 rounds of ammunition. Burton also sold the undercover officers two 30-round, large capacity magazines, one of which was loaded with 20 rounds of ammunition.
U.S. Attorney Barbara McQuade said: “We are committed to removing dangerous weapons from the hands of felons and from those engaged in illegal gun sales. We believe that removing illegal guns from our streets will help reduce our intolerably high homicide rate.”
McQuade praised the work of the Detroit Police Officers and ATF agents, demonstrated the highest levels of dedication and professionalism in their aggressive and thorough investigation of the case.
Darvell Hall Sentenced to 7 Years for Filing False Tax Returns and Wire FraudRead the Press Release
DARVELL HALL, age 32, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was sentenced today by United States District Judge Sarah Vance to seven (7) years for making false claims to an agency of the United States and Wire Fraud, announced United States Attorney Dana Boente. In addition to the term of imprisonment, Judge Vance ordered HALL to pay full restitution in the amount of $317,389. HALL was also ordered to pay a $200.00 special assessment fee.
According to court documents, HALL prepared, and caused to be prepared, taxes for individuals located throughout the New Orleans metropolitan area without their knowledge or authorization. To do this, HALL obtained personal information, including the name, date of birth, and Social Security Number, of individuals without their knowledge or permission, and he used this information to file unauthorized tax returns in the names of these individuals. Many of these individuals were either minors or incarcerated at the time the tax returns were filed. The individuals did not know HALL and did not authorize HALL to prepare or file a tax return using their name or on their behalf. HALL prepared and filed with the Internal Revenue Service, approximately forty-eight (48) United States Individual Tax Returns from March 2009 through in or about March 2011 resulting in an attempted loss to the Government of approximately $317,389. When preparing those forty-eight (48) tax returns, HALL included a variety of false statements and information designed to qualify the returns for various credits and refunds. HALL arranged to have the refunds electronically deposited into bank accounts under his control. He neither informed the individuals for whom he was filing tax returns that he was filing such returns, nor shared any of the refund with the individuals.
The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigations Division. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg.
Daniel Thomas Morrow Sentenced in U.S. District CourtRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney's Office announced that during a federal court session in Billings, on January 9, 2013, before Senior U.S. District Judge Jack D. Shanstrom, DANIEL THOMAS MORROW, a 57-year-old resident of Billings, appeared for sentencing.
MORROW to a term of:
- Prison: 120 months
- Special Assessment: $ 200.00
- Supervised Release: 8 years
MORROW was sentenced in connection with his guilty plea to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
In an Offer of Proof filed by Assistant U.S. Attorney Marcia K. Hurd, the government stated it would have proved at trial the following:
In an Offer of Proof filed by Assistant U.S. Attorney Marcia K. Hurd, the government stated it would have proved at trial the following:
Law enforcement developed a confidential source from Yakima, Washington, who could distribute methamphetamine in the Billings area. Around September 24, 2011, Cassandra Seal contacted the source and wanted to purchase methamphetamine. Communication between the two continued up until October 14th. Seal and the source set up a deal for half a pound of methamphetamine where half would be paid for and the other half would be fronted. Seal told the source she could sell the fronted four ounces in a few hours and come back with the cash.
On October 14, 2011, the source arrived in Laurel for the drug transaction.
Phone calls were exchanged and Seal arrived at the motel with MORROW and Ali Khan. The individuals talked for a while until the methamphetamine was displayed. Seal stated she had $7,000 cash on her for the deal. MORROW took the meth and spoke about the quality. MORROW poured the methamphetamine out of the bag and onto a plastic tray to further inspect it. Khan assisted him in getting the tray ready to pour the methamphetamine onto. MORROW and Khan then looked at and talked about the quality of it. Law enforcement entered the room and all three individuals were taken into custody.
As Khan was patted down, two semiautomatic handguns were located concealed on his person. One was in a shoulder holster, and it had a loaded magazine and a bullet in the chamber; the other one was in his sweatshirt pocket, and it had a loaded magazine.
MORROW, Khan and Seal conspired with each other to possess methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it, and possessed the methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it.
Seal and Khan pled guilty to federal crimes. Seal has been sentenced and Khan is awaiting sentencing.
Because there is no parole in the federal system, the "truth in sentencing" guidelines mandate that MORROW will likely serve all of the time imposed by the court. In the federal system, MORROW does have the opportunity to earn a sentence reduction for "good behavior." However, this reduction will not exceed 15% of the overall sentence.
The investigation was a cooperative effort between the Billings Big Sky Safe Streets Task Force, the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force, and the Montana Division of Criminal Investigation.
Dallas Woman Admits Embezzling at Least $3.4 Million from Women’s Southwest Federal Credit Union (WSFCU)Read the Press Release
Theresa Portillo Was Chief Executive Officer at the Now Defunct WSFCU
DALLAS – Theresa Portillo, 44, of Dallas, pleaded guilty late yesterday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Renée Harris Toliver to a felony Information charging one count of embezzlement of funds from a credit union, announced U.S. Attorney Sarah R. Saldaña of the Northern District of Texas. Portillo faces a maximum statutory sentence of 30 years in federal prison, a $1 million fine and restitution. In addition, according to the terms of the plea agreement, Portillo voluntarily agrees to forfeit several parcels of real estate in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, as well as personal property and a timeshare in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Portillo will remain on bond pending sentencing, which is set for May 10, 2013, before U.S. District Judge Barbara M. G. Lynn.
According to documents filed in the case, from 2001 to October 2012, while employed at the credit union, including the time she served as its Chief Executive Officer, Portillo used deception to fraudulently obtain at least $3,421,000 from 18 different financial institutions in connection with her sale of several certificates of deposits (CDs). She used online services to contact several financial institutions interested in purchasing CD accounts at the credit union.
When a financial institution was willing to purchase a CD, Portillo gave the financial institution wiring instructions to send the purchase funds to a JP Morgan Chase account in the name of the credit union. Portillo used this Chase account to enable the embezzlement because she knew that credit union officials thought the account was inactive; the account wasn’t recorded on the credit union’s general ledger; and she had sole control of the account. Portillo also concealed her theft of stolen credit union funds by opening a separate credit union account using a false and fictitious name. Portillo avoided detection of the scheme by writing checks using this fictitious name to disburse stolen credit union funds.
After the financial institutions wired funds into the Chase account, Portillo fraudulently disbursed and used these embezzled and stolen credit union funds to purchase motor vehicles, real property and jewelry for her personal use, as well as for family and friends. She also used embezzled funds to pay credit card bills, fund vacations, pay family medical expenses and remodel houses.
The case was investigated by the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Jarvis is in charge of the prosecution.
Dallas County Man Sentenced for East Texas Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas – A 43-year-old Mesquite, Texas man has been sentenced to federal prison for drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Harold Dickens pleaded guilty on Mar. 19, 2012 to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and was sentenced to 210 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Leonard Davis.
According to information presented in court, up until May of 2011, Dickens conspired with others to acquire methamphetamine for distribution in East Texas. Dickens admitted that he was responsible for the distribution of more than 150 grams of pure methamphetamine in the Eastern District of Texas. Dickens and six others were indicted on Nov. 2, 2011 and charged with drug trafficking offenses. Matthew Dean Willis was sentenced to 15 months in federal prison on June 12, 2012. David Christopher Wheeler and Raelene Dawn Ferguson were each sentenced to 46 months in federal prison on July 16, 2012. Terri Rhea Young was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison on July 23, 2012. One additional co-defendant is awaiting sentencing.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Rusk County Sheriff’s Office, and the Kilgore Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Baldwin.
Colchester Man Charged with Possessing Fake U.S. Marshals Service BadgeRead the Press Release
January 9, 2013David B. Fein, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JOHN W. CARROLL, 42, of Colchester, was arrested today on a federal criminal complaint charging him with the unauthorized possession of an imitation United States Marshals Service badge.
The criminal complaint alleges that, on October 9, 2012, CARROLL possessed a fake U.S. Marshals Service badge that was substantially similar to an authentic badge, and two fake U.S. Marshals Service identification cards.
CARROLL was arrested this morning. Following his arrest, he appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Joan G. Margolis in New Haven and was released on a $10,000 bond.
If convicted of the charge, CARROLL faces a maximum term of imprisonment of six months and a fine of up to $5,000.
U.S. Attorney Fein stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is being investigated by the United States Marshals Service and state and local law enforcement agencies. The case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Anjna R. Kapoor and Assistant United States Attorney David E. Novick.
PUBLIC AFFAIRS CONTACT:
U.S. ATTORNEY'S OFFICE
Tom Carson
(203) 821-3722 [email protected]Citizen of Mexico Sentenced to Federal Prison for Illegally Reentering the U.S. After DeportationRead the Press Release
January 9, 2013David B. Fein, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JESUS ROJAS-REYES, 22, a citizen of Mexico recently residing in Brooklyn, N.Y., was sentenced today by Chief United States District Judge Alvin W. Thompson in Hartford to six months of imprisonment for illegally reentering the United States following his deportation.
According to court documents and statements made in court, ROJAS-REYES has been deported from the United States to Mexico on three prior occasions. In September 2011, he illegally reentered the United States through Arizona. On November 14, 2011, ROJAS-REYES was arrested by the Norwalk Police Department on a charge of unlawful restraint.
ROJAS-REYES, who has been detained since his arrest, pleaded guilty to the state charge on September 5, 2012. On September 6, 2012, he waived his right to indictment and pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of illegal reentry of a removed alien.
This case was investigated by ICE Homeland Security Investigations and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Hal Chen.
PUBLIC AFFAIRS CONTACT:
U.S. ATTORNEY'S OFFICE
Tom Carson
(203) 821-3722 [email protected]Citizen of Mexico Sentenced to 30 Months in Prison for Illegally Reentering the U.S.Read the Press Release
January 9, 2013David B. Fein, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that CARLOS GONZALEZ-VALDOVINOS, 45, a citizen of Mexico recently residing in New Haven, was sentenced today by United States District Judge Robert N. Chatigny in Hartford to 30 months of imprisonment for illegally reentering the United States following his deportation.
According to court documents and statements made in court, GONZALEZ-VALDOVINOS was deported from the United States to Mexico after he was convicted of state sexual assault and narcotics offenses. In 2000, GONZALEZ-VALDOVINOS illegally reentered the United States without first obtaining the consent of the Attorney General of the United States or his successor, the Secretary for the Department of Homeland Security, to reapply for admission into the United States.
GONZALEZ-VALDOVINOS has been detained in federal custody since his arrest on March 27, 2012. On August 30, 2012, he waived his right to indictment and pleaded guilty to one count of illegal reentry of a removed alien.
This case was investigated by ICE Homeland Security Investigations and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Hal Chen.
PUBLIC AFFAIRS CONTACT:
U.S. ATTORNEY'S OFFICE
Tom Carson
(203) 821-3722 [email protected]Christopher J. Lindsey Sentenced in U.S. District CourtRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney's Office announced that during a federal court session in Missoula, on January 4, 2013, before U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen, CHRISTOPHER J. LINDSEY, a 45-year-old resident of Helena, was sentenced to a term of:
- Probation: 5 years
- Special Assessment: $100.00
- Forfeiture: $288,000.00
LINDSEY was sentenced in connection with his guilty plea to conspiracy to maintain a drug-involved premises.
The investigation was conducted by the following federal, state and local law enforcement agencies: the Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's Homeland Security Investigations, Criminal Investigation Division of the Internal Revenue Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Environmental Protection Agency-Criminal Investigation Division, U.S. Customs and Border Protection-Border Patrol, and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. These federal agencies were assisted by local High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area task forces, the Northwest Drug Task Force, the Kalispell Police Department, the Flathead County Sheriff's Office, the Missoula Police Department, the Missoula County Sheriff's Office, the Missoula High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force, the Great Falls Police Department, the Cascade County Sheriff's Office, the Central Montana Drug Task Force, the Billings Police Department, the Yellowstone County Sheriff's Office, the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, the Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force, the Dillon Police Department, the Beaverhead County Sheriff's Office, the Park County Sheriff's Office, the Bozeman Police Department, the Gallatin County Sheriff's Office, the Belgrade Police Department, the Missouri River Drug Task Force, the Helena Police Department, the Lewis & Clark Sheriff's Office, and the Eastern Montana Drug Task Force - Miles City.
Chicago Man Pleads Guilty to Transporting Woman Across State Lines for ProstitutionRead the Press Release
Montell Williams, of Chicago, pleaded guilty today in Hammond, Ind., to violating the Mann Act by transporting a woman across state lines for the purpose of having her engage in prostitution. Williams was indicted on Oct. 4, 2012 and indicted on additional charges on Dec. 13, 2012.
According to court documents, Williams admitted that on several occasions between June 2011 and Feb. 5, 2012, Williams drove an adult woman across state lines from Indiana to Illinois so that she could engage in prostitution.
Williams faces up to 10 years in prison. Sentencing has been set for April 25, 2013, before U.S. District Judge Rudy Lozano.
“The guilty plea of Mr. Williams brings justice to the young woman who fell victim to his scheme and was led into prostitution at his hands,” said Thomas E. Perez, Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division. “We are committed to combating human trafficking and prosecuting those who sexually exploit vulnerable women for financial benefit.”
"The FBI is the lead agency for investigating violations of federal civil rights and human trafficking is one of our top civil rights violation priorities. Through partnerships with our local, state, federal and international law enforcement partners, we investigate human trafficking and sexual exploitation. Our goal is to ensure the safety of victims and that those involved in this systematic abuse and degradation are brought to justice,” said Special Agent in Charge Robert A. Jones, FBI Indianapolis.
The case was investigated by the FBI and the Gary Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jill Koster, Civil Rights Division Special Litigation Counsel John Richmond, and Civil Rights Division Trial Attorney Amanda Gregory.
Cherokee County Man Sentenced for Drug Trafficking in East TexasRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsBEAUMONT, Texas – A 44-year-old Alto, Texas man has been sentenced to federal prison for drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Kerry Wayne Griffin pleaded guilty on Aug. 29, 2012, to conspiracy to posses with intent to distribute over 15 kilograms or more of cocaine and was sentenced to 240 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Ron Clark.
According to information presented in court, from 2008 to June 20, 2012, Donald Dixon, a.k.a. “Black”, Cedrick Fowler, a.k.a. “C” and “C-Murder”, Kerry Wayne Griffin, a.k.a. “Big Boy”, Omar Paunetto, Jose Angel Bustillos, Michael John Pereira, Rodney Stevenson, a.k.a. “Arod”, Darius Thorn, a.k.a. “Bs” and “Beez”, Tremaine Smith and Anthony Fowler conspired to traffic cocaine and crack cocaine throughout East Texas.
Griffin's role in the organization was to acquire powder cocaine from Dixon, and then redistribute the cocaine and cocaine base through others. Griffin and Thacker first began obtaining cocaine from Dixon in 2008, and in 2009 Griffin became the source of supply for C. Fowler. C. Fowler utilized the assistance of Stevenson, Thorn, A. Fowler, and Smith in the subsequent distribution of cocaine and cocaine base. Federal agents learned of the drug trafficking activity and conducted an extensive investigation of Griffin and his associates. On May 25, 2012, investigators executed an arrest and search warrant at Griffin’s residence and seized approximately $18,450 in cash as well as three firearms.
On June 20, 2012, a federal grand jury returned a 10-count indictment charging 10 defendants, including Griffin, with drug trafficking violations.
This case is the result of an ongoing Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) joint investigation. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations, and those primarily responsible for the nation’s illegal drug supply.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Nacogdoches Police Department, and the Nacogdoches County Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Baylor Wortham.
Canton Man Charged with Producing, Distributing and Receiving Child PornographyRead the Press Release
January 9, 2013David B. Fein, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Bruce M. Foucart, Special Agent in Charge of ICE Homeland Security Investigations in New England, today announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven returned an indictment yesterday charging MICHAEL CRAWFORD, 35, of Canton, with one count of production of child pornography, one count of distribution of child pornography and one count of receipt of child pornography.
CRAWFORD was arrested today. Following his arrest, he appeared before United States Magistrate Judge William I. Garfinkel in Bridgeport. CRAWFORD is detained pending a hearing that is scheduled for January 14.
The indictment alleges that, between September and December 2011, CRAWFORD produced depictions of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct, and then distributed the images. The indictment also alleges that CRAWFORD received visual depictions of other minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
If convicted of the charge of production of child pornography, CRAWFORD faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 15 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years. The charges of distribution of child pornography and receipt of child pornography carry a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
U.S. Attorney Fein stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case has been assigned to United States District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford.
This matter is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from the Connecticut State Police and the Canton Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Sarala V. Nagala and Anastasia E. King.
This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.
PUBLIC AFFAIRS CONTACT:
U.S. ATTORNEY'S OFFICE
Tom Carson
(203) 821-3722 [email protected]Canadian Citizen Sentenced in Scheme to Defraud Consumers Purchasing Pharmaceuticals OnlineRead the Press Release
A Canadian citizen was sentenced to four years in prison today for his role in a scheme to defraud consumers purchasing pharmaceuticals online, the Justice Department announced. Andrew J. Strempler was also ordered to pay a forfeiture of $300,000 and a fine of $25,000. A restitution hearing was set for February 26, 2013.
In October 2012, Strempler pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail fraud in connection with his role as owner and president of Mediplan Health Consulting Inc., a Canadian company that also operated under the name RxNorth.com. RxNorth was an Internet, mail and telephone order pharmacy, through which Strempler and others marketed and sold prescription drugs to residents of the United States.
According to court documents, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advised Strempler in a 2001 letter that his prescription drug sales would be illegal in the United States if the drugs were not FDA approved. The FDA letter explained that the FDA approves drugs based on evidence that they are safe and effective, and that the quality of drugs from foreign sources could not be assured.
Strempler and his co-conspirators unlawfully enriched themselves by selling prescription drugs to individuals in the United States, falsely representing that RxNorth was selling safe prescription drugs in compliance with regulations in Canada, the United Kingdom and the United States. Strempler obtained the prescription drugs from various other source countries without properly ensuring the safety or authenticity of the drugs. In fact, some of the drugs sold by Strempler included counterfeit drugs.
Strempler caused prescription drugs from foreign countries to be shipped to a facility that Strempler operated in the Bahamas. Prescription orders made through RxNorth were then filled at the Bahamas facility, with labels on the vials and drug cartons stating they had been filled by RxNorth in Canada. Strempler then used indirect routes involving multiple countries to ship packages with prescription drugs from the Bahamas to individuals in the United States. Shipments mailed from the Bahamas, containing packages addressed to individuals in the Southern District of Florida, included counterfeit prescription drugs.
“Internet websites that illegally sell potentially substandard, counterfeit or otherwise unsafe pharmaceuticals, pose a real threat to consumers,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart F. Delery. “The sentence handed down today serves as an effective deterrent to those who would peddle counterfeit pharmaceuticals—particularly those drugs trafficked over the Internet.”
U.S. Attorney Wifredo A. Ferrer stated, “Counterfeit prescription drugs sold through the internet pose a serious health hazard to consumers in the United States. These drugs can be adulterated, ineffective and unsafe. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to assisting the FDA enforce regulations to protect American consumers from these unsafe drugs.”
“FDA’s Office of Criminal Investigations, working in concert with the United States Attorney’s Office and other foreign and domestic government agencies, will protect the public health by aggressively targeting those responsible for counterfeiting prescription drugs,” said David W. Bourne, Special Agent in Charge of the FDA Office of Criminal Investigations Miami Field Office. “This case highlights that even when complex criminal networks engage in such illegal activities on a global scale from a foreign-based location, without regard for risk to human life, they are still held accountable for their actions in the United States. We commend the United States Attorney’s Office in Miami and our international law enforcement partners for their tireless efforts in connection with the investigation and subsequent prosecution of this case.”
U.S. District Judge Jose E. Martinez presided over the sentencing.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ana Maria Martinez of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida, Roger J. Gural of the Justice Department’s Consumer Protection Branch, and Nathan Sabel of the Food and Drug Administration, Office of Chief Counsel. The case was investigated by the FDA Office of Criminal Investigations.
To learn more about safely buying medicines over the Internet, consumers should consult FDA’s BeSafeRX campaign at http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/ResourcesForYou/Consumers/BuyingUsingMedicineSafely/BuyingMedicinesOvertheInternet/default.htm.
Canadian Citizen Sentenced in Scheme to Defraud Consumers Purchasing Pharmaceuticals OnlineRead the Press Release
Former Owner of Online Pharmacy Sentenced to 48 Months in Prison
Wifredo A. Ferrer, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, Stuart F. Delery, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General of the Justice Department’s Civil Division, and David W. Bourne, Special Agent in Charge, Food and Drug Administration’s Office of Criminal Investigations (FDA-OCI), Miami Field Office, announced today’s sentencing of Andrew J. Strempler, of Canada. At today’s hearing, U.S. District Judge Jose E. Martinez sentenced Strempler to 48 months in prison for his role in a scheme to defraud consumers purchasing pharmaceuticals online. Strempler was also ordered to pay a forfeiture of $300,000. A hearing to determine the amount of restitution has been scheduled for February 26, 2013.
In October 2012, Strempler pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail fraud in connection with his role as owner and president of Mediplan Health Consulting Inc., a Canadian company that also operated under the name RxNorth.com. RxNorth was an Internet, mail and telephone order pharmacy, through which Strempler and others marketed and sold prescription drugs to residents of the United States.
According to court documents, the FDA advised Strempler in a 2001 letter that his prescription drug sales would be illegal in the United States if the drugs were not FDA approved. The FDA letter explained that the FDA approves drugs based on evidence that they are safe and effective, and that the quality of drugs from foreign sources could not be assured.
Strempler and his co-conspirators unlawfully enriched themselves by selling prescription drugs to individuals in the United States, falsely representing that RxNorth was selling safe prescription drugs in compliance with regulations in Canada, the United Kingdom and the United States. Strempler obtained the prescription drugs from various other source countries without properly ensuring the safety or authenticity of the drugs. In fact, some of the drugs sold by Strempler included counterfeit drugs.
Strempler caused prescription drugs from foreign countries to be shipped to a facility that Strempler operated in the Bahamas. Prescription orders made through RxNorth were then filled at the Bahamas facility, with labels on the vials and drug cartons stating they had been filled by RxNorth in Canada. Strempler then used indirect routes involving multiple countries to ship packages with prescription drugs from the Bahamas to individuals in the United States. Shipments mailed from the Bahamas, containing packages addressed to individuals in the Southern District of Florida, included counterfeit prescription drugs.
“Counterfeit prescription drugs sold through the internet pose a serious health hazard to consumers in the United States,” said Wifredo A. Ferrer, I.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida. “These drugs can be adulterated, ineffective and unsafe. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to assisting the FDA enforce regulations to protect American consumers from these unsafe drugs.”
“Today’s sentencing should send a clear message to anyone who operates an online pharmacy that sidesteps the FDA protections and defrauds consumers,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart F. Delery of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “Consumers need to be aware that prescription drugs purchased online may be counterfeit, substandard, or unsafe.”
“FDA’s Office of Criminal Investigations, working in concert with the United States Attorney’s Office and other foreign and domestic government agencies, will protect the public health by aggressively targeting those responsible for counterfeiting prescription drugs,” said David W. Bourne, Special Agent in Charge of the FDA-OCI’s Miami Field Office. “This case highlights that even when complex criminal networks engage in such illegal activities on a global scale from a foreign-based location, without regard for risk to human life, they are still held accountable for their actions in the United States. We commend the United States Attorney’s Office in Miami and our international law enforcement partners for their tireless efforts in connection with the investigation and subsequent prosecution of this case.”
Mr. Ferrer thanked the FDA-OCI for its work in this investigation. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ana Maria Martinez of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida, Roger J. Gural of the Justice Department’s Consumer Protection Branch, and Nathan Sabel of the FDA’s Office of Chief Counsel. To learn more about safely buying medicines over the Internet, consumers should consult FDA’s BeSafeRX campaign at www.fda.gov/Drugs/ResourcesForYou/Consumers/BuyingUsingMedicineSafely/BuyingMedicinesOvertheInternet/default.htm
A copy of this press release may be found on the website of the United States Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Florida at http://www.usdoj.gov/usao/fls. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at http://www.flsd.uscourts.gov or on http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov.
Camden County, N.J., Man Admits Conspiring to Distribute 13 Kilograms of CocaineRead the Press Release
Was Free on Bail Pending State Murder Charges at the Time
CAMDEN, N.J. – A Camden County, N.J. man today admitted attempting to purchase 13 kilograms of cocaine for distribution in and through New Jersey, U.S. Attorney Paul J. Fishman announced.
Jamal Herrin, 40, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Joseph H. Rodriguez to an Information charging him with one count of knowingly and intentionally conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court: The investigation into Herrin began in April 2012, when the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration learned that Herrin – who was on bail pending state murder charges – was interested in purchasing large quantities of cocaine. Herrin admitted that he negotiated the purchase of 13 kilograms of cocaine and amassed more than $325,000 to purchase the cocaine.Herrin faces a mandatory minimum term of 10 years in prison and a maximum potential penalty of life in prison, and a $10 million fine. Sentencing is scheduled for April 15, 2013.
U.S. Attorney Fishman credited special agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Camden Resident Office, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Robert G. Koval in Newark; the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office; the Rowan University Police Department; the Winslow Township Police Department; the Gloucester County Prosecutor’s Office; and local law enforcement agencies in support of the Camden division of the Philadelphia-Camden High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas task force.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alyson M. Oswald of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Criminal Division in Camden.
13-019
Defense counsel: Brian J. McMonagle Esq., Philadelphia
Herrin Information
Business Manager Sentenced for Tax Evasion in $257,000 Embezzlement SchemeRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Tammy Dickinson, United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri, announced that a Columbia, Mo., woman was sentenced in federal court today for tax evasion related to unreported income from the theft of more than $257,000 from her employer.
Christine Diane Todd, 37, of Columbia, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Nanette Laughrey to 15 months in federal prison without parole. The court also ordered Todd to pay $318,938 in restitution.
Todd was employed as the branch credit manager for Major Brands, Inc., in Columbia. Todd, who pleaded guilty on Nov. 28, 2011, admitted that she engaged in a scheme to defraud Major Brands and its customers from January 2003 to October 2006.
In her position as credit manager, Todd’s duties included processing payments that were received from customers, including both cash received from truck drivers and/or salesman and checks that were received in the mail. Todd admitted that she stole a portion of the cash received from the customers, totaling $257,688 over the four-year period.
Todd pleaded guilty to making an income tax return that falsely reported her income in 2005. Todd’s 2006 income tax return did not report $100,832 that she embezzled from Major Brand Foods in 2005.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lawrence E. Miller. It was investigated by IRS-Criminal Investigation, the FBI and the Columbia, Mo., Police Department.
Buffalo Man Sentenced for Selling Prescription DrugsRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.--U.S. Attorney William J. Hochul, Jr. announced today that DeShawn McLorn, 39, of Buffalo, N.Y., who was convicted of conspiring to distribute OxyContin pills, was sentenced by Chief District Judge William M. Skretny to 57 months in prison.
According to Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael L. McCabe, who handled the case, in 2009 and 2010, McLorn distributed approximately 1,000 Oxycontin tablets at a location on Strauss Street in Buffalo. The defendant obtained these tablets from codefendant Michael McCall who was sentenced to nine years in prison for his role on January 8, 2012.
McLorn was arrested along with 33 others following a long-term investigation into the widespread illegal sale of prescription drugs in the City of Buffalo and its eastern suburbs. All 34 defendants have been convicted and McLorn is the final defendant to be sentenced.
The sentencing is the culmination of an investigation on the part of Special Agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Brian R. Crowell, New York Field Division, the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Christopher Cummings, the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Daniel Derenda, the Cheektowaga Police Department, under the direction of Chief David Zack, the West Seneca Police Department, under the direction of Chief Edward Gehen, and the Lancaster Police Department, under the direction of Chief Gerald Gill.
British Businessman Christopher Tappin Sentenced to Federal Prison for Aiding and Abetting the Illegal Export of Defense ArticlesRead the Press Release
In federal court in El Paso this morning, 66-year-old British businessman Christopher Tappin of Orpington, Kent, was sentenced to 33 months in federal prison for attempting to export to Iran a special component of the Hawk Air Defense Missile announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman and Acting Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Special Agent in Charge Dennis Ulrich, El Paso.
In addition to the prison term, U.S. District Judge David Briones ordered that Tappin pay an $11,357.14 fine and be placed under supervised release for a period of three years after completing his prison term.
“In this case, Mr. Tappin admitted his role in trying to facilitate the shipment of specialized batteries to Iran. These batteries are used to make Hark missiles operational, and Mr. Tappin admitted that he submitted false shipping documentation to circumvent U.S. export control regulations. Those who violate federal law for monetary gain, and in the process put the national security of the United States and its allies at risk, will face prosecution and punishment for their callous disregard for the public’s safety,” said United States Attorney Robert Pitman.
On November 1, 2012, Tappin appeared in federal court, reversed his original not-guilty plea and admitted culpability in the scheme. Tappin pleaded guilty to one count of aiding and abetting the illegal export of defense articles and by doing so, waived his right to appeal his conviction or challenge the sentence handed down in this case.
By pleading guilty, Tappin admitted that from December 2005 to January 2007, he knowingly aided and abetted others, including his Cyprus-based business associate Robert Frederick Gibson and Portland, OR, resident Robert Caldwell in an illegal attempt to export Zinc/Silver Oxide Reserve Batteries to Iran. These particular batteries, a special component of the Hawk Air Defense Missile, are designated as a defense article on the U.S. Munitions List and require a license or written authorization from the U.S. State Department for export from the United States.
According to the factual basis filed in this case, which Tappin admitted was truthful and accurate, Tappin knowingly violated U.S. law by obtaining the specialized batteries under false pretenses. Tappin engaged in phone and email communications with an undercover federal agent to discuss payment and delivery arrangements. In October 2006, Tappin wired approximately $25,000 from a London financial institution to a bank account in the United States as payment for five of the specialized batteries. Using false shipping documentation, Tappin arranged for the transfer of the batteries to the United Kingdom without an export license through his specifically designated freight forwarders in violation of export control regulations.
During the investigation, Tappin even agreed to reimburse the undercover agent for $5,000 in fines purportedly being assessed against him by U.S. Customs authorities after they had seized the shipment of batteries.
Tappin, admittedly, also caused Caldwell to travel to San Antonio in January 2007 to take delivery of the batteries, ensure that they were shipped to him (Tappin) and to pay the undercover agent $5,000 for the current fines. Tappin, in court, acknowledged that his anticipated profit from the transaction was $11,357.14.
“Protecting our national security is one of HSI’s highest priorities,” said Dennis A. Ulrich, acting special agent in charge of HSI El Paso. “And this sentence is the result of more than six years of tenacious investigative work by HSI special agents, who were relentless in their efforts to prevent U.S. military products from being illegally exported and falling in the hands of our adversaries.”
In 2007, Gibson and Caldwell were sentenced to 24 months and 20 months, respectively, in federal prison for their roles in the scheme.
U.S. Attorney Pitman also commended HSI for investigating this matter as well as the United States Marshals Service and British authorities for their assistance during the extradition process.
Assistant United States Attorney Greg McDonald prosecuted this case on behalf of the Government.
Bismarck Man Sentenced on Assault ChargesRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Bismarck, North Dakota, man convicted of Simple Assault and Assault by Striking, Beating or Wounding was sentenced on January 8, 2013, by U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno. Harlan J. Fisher, age 44, was sentenced to 12 months in custody and a $20 special assessment.
Fisher was indicted by a federal grand jury on June 12, 2012. He pled guilty to a superseding information on January 8, 2013. The conviction stems from an incident on June 2, 2012, when Fisher unlawfully assaulted the victim by striking the victim in the mouth and also on top of her head, causing injury.
This case was investigated by Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy Morley prosecuted the case.
Fisher was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshal.
Arthur Dion Longee Sentenced in U.S. District CourtRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney's Office announced that during a federal court session in Great Falls, on January 9, 2013, before U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen, ARTHUR DION LONGEE, a 25-year-old resident of Poplar, appeared for sentencing. LONGEE was sentenced to a term of:
- Prison: 24 months
- Special Assessment: $ 100.00
- Supervised Release: 10 years
LONGEE was sentenced in connection with his guilty plea to sexual abuse of a minor.
In an Offer of Proof filed by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica A. Betley, the government stated it would have proved at trial the following:
During the evening of July 15, 2011, the victim went to the powwow in Poplar. While at the powwow, the victim sent a text message to LONGEE to see if there was a party occurring. The victim left the powwow to meet up with LONGEE and a few friends. At the party, the victim drank liquor and became pretty drunk. At one point, a fight broke out and the victim left the house with LONGEE as the morning sky started to get lighter. They walked to LONGEE's grandmother's house.
The next thing the victim remembered was waking up to LONGEE having sex with her. She told him to stop several times and finally he did. LONGEE then received a phone call from the police and he told the victim someone had turned him into the cops. He told the victim to shower and wash up good, and threw a towel at her.
Prior to the sexual assault, the victim's mother called the police to report her daughter was missing. An officer learned the victim had been last seen potentially with LONGEE. Officers went to LONGEE's house, and at one point, the victim peaked out the window and saw the police outside. But, LONGEE would not let her leave. The victim was later able to leave the house and told her mother she had been sexually assaulted.
A sexual assault examination was completed at the hospital and law enforcement collected physical evidence. The FBI Laboratory analyzed the swabs taken from LONGEE and it was determined that the victim was the major female contributor of DNA to this sample.
Because there is no parole in the federal system, the "truth in sentencing" guidelines mandate that LONGEE will likely serve all of the time imposed by the court. In the federal system, LONGEE does have the opportunity to earn a sentence reduction for "good behavior." However, this reduction will not exceed 15% of the overall sentence.
The investigation was a cooperative effort between the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Fort Peck Tribes Criminal Investigation Division.
Andover Man Indicted for Receiving Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Boston - An Andover man was indicted today on child pornography charges.
William S. Thomas, 64, was charged in an indictment with seven counts of receipt of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography. The indictment alleges that on various dates in 2011, Thomas knowingly received films depicting minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. The items were seized from Thomas’ home during the execution of a federal search warrant in September 2012.
If convicted, Thomas faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and up to 20 years in prison on the receipt of child pornography charges and up to 10 years in prison on the possession of child pornography charge. Thomas also faces up to a lifetime of supervised release and a $500,000 fine on each count.
United States Attorney Carmen M. Ortiz; Kevin Niland, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service; and Chief Brian J. Pattullo of the Andover Police Department made the announcement today. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth G. Shine of Ortiz’s Major Crimes Unit.
The details contained in the indictment are allegations. The defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Alabama Businessman Pleads Guilty to Fraud, Paying BribesRead the Press Release
NORFOLK, Va. – Huffman Earl Monk, 52, Brookwood, Ala., pleaded guilty today to wire fraud and paying bribes to a U.S. Coast Guard Transportation Officer.
Neil H. MacBride, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Otis E. Harris, Jr., Special Agent in Charge, Coast Guard Investigative Service, Chesapeake Region; and Michael P. Dawson, Special Agent in Charge, Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General, Washington Field Office, made the announcement after the plea was accepted by United States District Judge Mark S. Davis.
Monk was indicted on May 23, 2012, by a federal grand jury on charges of conspiracy, wire fraud, and paying bribes to a public official. Monk faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison when he is sentenced before Judge Mark S. Davis on April 24, 2013.
“In two years, Mr. Monk paid out more than $220,000 in bribes to Dunn in exchange for receiving over-priced and false shipping contracts,” said U.S. Attorney MacBride. “Rooting out criminals who abuse the public’s trust strengthens the integrity of – and our confidence in – the government’s procurement process.”
“As a steward of public funds, the Coast Guard Surface Forces Logistics Center holds its members and contracting partners to high standards of conduct,” said Special Agent in Charge Harris. “We will continue to work closely with Coast Guard units and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to pursue and deal appropriately with threats to the integrity of the contracting process wherever they may occur.”
According to a statement of facts filed with his plea agreement, Monk was the owner and operator of 12 fright brokerage companies that were headquartered in a single office in Brookwood, Ala. Many of Monk’s freight brokerage companies contracted with Department of Defense Transportation Command (TransCom) to ship military-related freight. Nathan Allen Dunn was an active duty U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) Petty Officer assigned as a Transportation Administrator at the Surface Forces Logistics Center in Norfolk, Va. Dunn’s primary duty was to coordinate the shipping of large freight such as boats, trailers, generators, etc. between USCG bases located throughout the United States. Dunn utilized the TransCom automated system to bid out and then contract the shipments with authorized freight brokerage companies
In September 2009, Monk traveled to Norfolk to meet with Dunn and told him that in exchange for Dunn issuing USCG freight contracts to Monk’s freight companies, Monk would kickback a percentage of the profits to Dunn. Dunn agreed to Monk’s offer and, shortly thereafter, the Monk began offering monetary bribes to Dunn by providing him with debit cards linked to several of Monk’s business bank accounts. In order to inflate the profits Monk and Dunn would make from each contract Monk encouraged Dunn to fraudulently manipulate various data entered into the TransCom computer system in order to artificially inflate the price of the shipping contracts Dunn steered to Monk’s companies. Monk and Dunn also engaged in creating false shipping contracts for shipments that did not exist, and thereafter awarding the contract and profits to one or more of Monk’s companies. Since no freight was actually being shipped pursuant to these false contracts, the USCG payments to Monk was all profit, resulting in Dunn also receiving a larger kickback from Monk. Over a two-year period, Monk paid out over $220,000 in bribe payments to Dunn. The total fraud loss to the United States based on these fraudulent military shipping contracts was over $1 million.
The military has recently implemented a number of internal changes to TransCom’s computer systems to enhance the integrity of the bidding and contracting process used by Department of Defense and Department of Homeland Security Transportation Officers.
This investigation was brought as part of the Hampton Roads Procurement Fraud Initiative, a collaboration of defense investigative agencies, Inspectors General, and law enforcement dedicated to strengthening the integrity of the federal procurement system.This case was investigated by the United States Coast Guard Investigative Service and the Department of Homeland Security, Office of the Inspector General, Washington Field Office, with the cooperation and assistance of the Coast Guard Surface Forces Logistics Center. Assistant United States Attorneys Stephen W. Haynie and V. Kathleen Dougherty are prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States.
A copy of this press release may be found on the website of the United States Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Virginia at http://www.justice.gov/usao/vae. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia at http://www.vaed.uscourts.gov or on https://pcl.uscourts.gov.Adrien John Matuck Sentenced in U.S. District CourtRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney's Office announced that during a federal court session in Great Falls, on January 7, 2013, before U.S. District Judge Sam E. Haddon, ADRIEN JOHN MATUCK, a 26-year-old resident of Poplar and an enrolled member of the Hualapai Tribe in Arizona, appeared for sentencing. MATUCK was sentenced to a term of:
- Prison: Life
- Special Assessment: $100.00
- Restitution: $6,677.00
- Supervised Release: 5 years
MATUCK was sentenced after a federal district court trial in which he was found guilty of first degree murder. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jessica A. Betley and Kris A. McLean prosecuted the case for the United States.
At trial, the following evidence and testimony was presented to the jury.
During the evening of August 6, 2011, and into the early morning hours of August 7, 2011, in Poplar, MATUCK met up with a few other people, including R.B.,the victim.
At one party during the night, MATUCK, who is a former Marine, grabbed a man around the neck with his hands. MATUCK yelled he had killed a bunch of people while in the Marines while he lunged at this man.
Sometime around 4 a.m. on August 7, 2011, MATUCK, M.V., L.S., and J.W. went to J.W.'s car. The victim was passed out in the backseat of the car. M.V. told the victim to get up, and in response, the victim slapped M.V. MATUCK became angry and punched the victim.
Due to the commotion, J.W. stopped the car and MATUCK got out of the passenger seat. L.S., M.V., and the victim also got out of the car. The victim punched MATUCK a few times in the face. M.V. walked away from the car and would not come back. MATUCK's nose bled from the punches he received from the victim and he pulled off his shirt to wipe his face. He pointed his finger at the victim and said, "I'm going to get you." He further added, "I'm a Marine, I know how to kill."
J.W., L.S., MATUCK, and the victim got back into the car and drove to J.W.'s trailer. L.S. and J.W. fell asleep soon thereafter. The victim sat in a recliner chair and also fell asleep, which left MATUCK as the only person awake in the trailer.
Y.H. and her son, G.G., live down the alley from J.W.'s trailer house. They heard their dog barking around 7 a.m. that morning. Y.H. looked out the window and saw MATUCK walking west and cut across their yard. Y.H. told G.G. what she observed. G.G. looked out the window and observed MATUCK go to the house next door and pull a piece of a gray shirt from his right pocket. He placed this piece of shirt under a stone rain gutter. MATUCK then asked the next door neighbor for kool-aid when she looked outside. MATUCK continued to walk through the neighborhood and stopped by another house until he got into a fight and was told to leave sometime around 9 a.m.
Meanwhile, L.S. and J.W. began to wake up in J.W.'s trailer. MATUCK was not in the trailer when they both woke up. The victim was still in the recliner and looked like he was passed out. L.S. yelled at the victim to get up. The back door opened and MATUCK came inside. J.W. asked MATUCK where he had been and MATUCK replied, "I don't know, I was upstairs." L.S. and J.W. did not know what MATUCK meant by that statement because the trailer was only one story. MATUCK then laid down on a mattress positioned on the living room floor in front of the recliner where the victim sat. L.S. went over to the victim and grabbed his face. The victim felt cold to L.S.'s touch and she observed his tongue was sticking slightly out with saliva dripping from his mouth. J.W. checked for a pulse and did not feel anything and he called 911.
Medical personnel pronounced the victim dead at the scene. Y.H. called the police when she learned MATUCK was a suspect in the victim's death. G.G. recovered the piece of shirt from beneath the rain gutter and Y.H. placed the evidence in a plastic bag. Investigators observed the piece of gray shirt was actually rolled into the shape of a ligature.
An autopsy revealed the victim died of a ligature strangulation. An instrument was
It appeared the ligature was tightened from behind, and pulled up and to the left of the victim's head. Petechial hemorrhages about the victim's eyes and lips indicated pressure was applied to the victim's neck for a period of at least 30 seconds.
The FBI laboratory analyzed a piece of fabric from the top rear of the recliner where the victim was found. MATUCK could not be excluded as a potential minor contributor of DNA to the fabric. The piece of shirt turned over by Y.H. was analyzed, as well. MATUCK and the victim could also not be excluded as potential contributors to of DNA to the fabric.
A carpet sample was taken from the floor behind the recliner. Yellow nylon carpet-type fibers that exhibited the same microscopic characteristics and optical properties as the fibers from this sample were found on MATUCK's shirt and shorts collected from him at the jail, as well as on fabric from the top of the recliner. These same fibers were also found on the shirt and plastic bag provided by Y.H.
The crime took place within the exterior boundaries of the Fort Peck Indian Reservation.
Because there is no parole in the federal system, the "truth in sentencing" guidelines mandate that MATUCK will likely serve all of the time imposed by the court. In the federal system, MATUCK does have the opportunity to earn a sentence reduction for "good behavior." However, this reduction will not exceed 15% of the overall sentence.
The investigation was a cooperative effort between the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Fort Peck Tribes Criminal Investigation Division.
18th Street Gangmember Sentenced to Life in Federal Prison for Racketeering Offenses Related to Fatal Shooting of 23-Day-Old InfantRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – A member of the 18th Street criminal street gang was sentenced today to life in federal prison for his conviction on racketeering offenses arising out of the September 2007 shooting of a street vendor near MacArthur Park that resulted in the murder of a 23-day-old infant.
Javier Perez, 35, received the life prison sentence from United States District Judge Dean D. Pregerson. There is no parole in the federal system.
Perez was one of four defendants – all of whom were members or associates of the Columbia Lil’ Cycos (CLCS) clique of the 18th Street gang – who were found guilty of federal racketeering offenses last May.
The three other defendants found guilty after last May’s trial are: Eduardo Hernandez, 35; Vladimir Iraheta, 31; and Leonidas Iraheta, 31. Judge Pregerson is scheduled to sentence those defendants on January 24 and 25.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, the CLCS used violence and intimidation to control narcotics distribution in an area adjoining MacArthur Park in the Westlake District of Los Angeles. Under the orders of CLCS leadership, narcotics suppliers and street dealers paid “rent” – typically a percentage of proceeds from the sale of narcotics – in exchange for permission from the CLCS to sell narcotics in the gang’s territory. Those who paid rent received the exclusive authorization to sell narcotics in CLCS territory, as well as protection from rivals. Street vendors operating in CLCS Organization territory also were required to pay rent to the organization in order to be allowed to sell their wares near MacArthur Park. Evidence presented at trial showed that the CLCS Organization made tens of thousands of dollars a week through its collection of rent. The failure or refusal to pay rent and otherwise follow the gang’s rules would result in retribution, including acts of violence.
A street vendor who refused to make a $50 rent payment to the CLCS was targeted to be killed by members of the gang in a shooting on September 15, 2007. The man survived despite being shot four times, but a 23-day-old infant sleeping in a stroller next to the vendor was struck and killed.
Shortly after the failed attempt to murder the vendor and the resulting death of the child, CLCS Organization leaders ordered the kidnaping and murder of the shooter in order to make amends with the Mexican Mafia. The shooter was thereafter taken to Mexico by Javier Perez – who had been released from prison only 10 days before – and other CLCS gangsters, under the false pretense that the shooter would hide out from the police there. Once in Mexico, the shooter was driven to a remote area where he was strangled and his lifeless body was thrown over a cliff. Unbeknownst to the would-be killers, the shooter survived the attempt on his life. The CLCS associate who assisted Perez in strangling the shooter was convicted in state court and sentenced to life without parole.
The four convicted at trial were among 43 members and associates of the CLCS Organization who were charged in a 2009 federal racketeering indictment that alleged acts of violence, narcotics distribution, money laundering and various violent crimes in aid of racketeering (VICAR). The charged defendants included local criminal defense attorney Isaac Guillen, who laundered more than $1.3 million in drug and extortion proceeds on behalf of the CLCS Organization and Mexican Mafia member Francisco "Puppet" Martinez. Guillen is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Pregerson tomorrow.
Thirty-seven of the defendants named in the indictment have been convicted in either federal or state court. The remaining six defendants are fugitives.
The CLCS racketeering case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Los Angeles Police Department.
Release No. 13-004
8 January 2013
Woman Pleads Guilty to Failure to File Federal Tax ReturnRead the Press Release
A woman who failed to file a federal tax return for tax years 2005 through 2008 pled guilty today in federal court in Sioux City.
Elaine Ubben, from Stratford, Iowa, was convicted of one count of willfully failing to file a tax return for tax year 2008.
In a plea agreement, Ubben admitted that she worked for Stratford Mutual Telephone Company and served as the bookkeeper for her husband’s business from 2005 through 2009. Ubben further admitted that she and her husband were required to file a tax return for each tax year between 2005 and 2008 because of the income the couple made from her job and her husband’s business. Ubben admitted she was responsible for filing tax returns for the couple and she knew she was required to file a return for each year, but she willfully and intentionally failed to do so. For the years 2005 to 2008, the Ubbens owed over $120,000 in federal income taxes.
“IRS Criminal Investigation directs its efforts at the portion of American taxpayers who willfully and intentionally violate their known legal duty to voluntarily file income tax returns. The term voluntary compliance means that each of us is responsible for filing a tax return when required and for determining and paying the correct amount of tax,” said Tanya Brewer, Acting Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation.
Sentencing before United States Magistrate Judge Leonard Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Ubben faces a possible maximum sentence of one year imprisonment, a $100,000 fine, a $25 special assessment, and one year of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Morfitt and was investigated by IRS Criminal Investigation.
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 12-3056.
Williamsburg Men Sentenced for Manufacturing MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – Patrick Dubois, 57, and Glenn Dubois, 36, of Williamsburg, Va., were sentenced Monday. Patrick Dubois received 152months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and Glenn Dubois received 192 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release. On December 15, 2011, search warrants were executed at five locations in James City and York counties which located significant evidence of methamphetamine manufacturing. Glenn and Patrick Dubois admitted to buying pseudoephedrine for the purpose of manufacturing methamphetamine and in fact manufactured methamphetamine over the course of 2011.
Neil H. MacBride, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, made the announcement after sentencing by United States District Judge Mark S. Davis.
Both Glenn and Patrick Dubois pleaded guilty on May 3, 2012, to possessing precursors with intent to manufacture methamphetamines.According to court documents, a total of nine individuals were involved in the manufacturing of methamphetamine over five different properties in Williamsburg and York County. They went together to purchase pseudoephedrine at multiple locations over an extended period.
The following individuals involved previously pled guilty:
- David Black, 56, scheduled for sentencing on 2/1/13;
- Richard Savage, 65, sentenced to 70 months;
- Mitchell Jacobs, 56, scheduled for sentencing on 1/28/13
- Lori Dennis, 31, sentenced to 66 months;
- Amy Savage, 44, sentenced to 70 months;
- Sheri Black, 56, scheduled for sentencing on 2/1/13;
- Heidi McMahon, 48, scheduled for sentencing on 2/27/13.
A copy of this press release may be found on the website of the United States Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Virginia at http://www.justice.gov/usao/vae. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia at http://www.vaed.uscourts.gov or on https://pcl.uscourts.gov.
This case was investigated by the Drug enforcement Administration and the Virginia State Police Tri-Rivers Task Force. Assistant United States Attorney Eric M. Hurt prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.Two Charged with Violating Federal Gun LawsRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Ridgway, Pa., and a resident of Johnsonburg, Pa., have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
The five-count indictment named Francis Anthony Milliard, 55, and David Allen Blashaw, 55, as defendants.
According to the indictment, Milliard and Blashaw entered into a conspiracy for Milliard to possess firearms while being a convicted felon and Blashaw aided Milliard in the crime by storing and providing firearms to Milliard. Blashaw is charged with providing firearms to a convicted felon and possession of firearms by a drug user.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 25 years in prison, a fine of $750,000, or both for each defendant. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.
Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.