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24 February 2025
Charleston Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Edgar Warren Willis Jr., 39, of Charleston, pleaded guilty today to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on February 27, 2024, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at a Red Oak Street residence in Charleston where Willis was staying. Officers found a backpack in a bedroom containing a Lorcin Engineering Model L380 .380-caliber pistol during the search. Willis admitted to possessing the seized firearm.
Federal law prohibits a person with a prior felony conviction from possessing a firearm or ammunition. Willis knew he was prohibited from possessing a firearm because of his prior felony convictions for possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, to-wit heroin, on January 21, 2022, and for wanton endangerment and conspiracy to possess with intent to deliver a controlled substance, to-wit heroin, on August 10, 2015, all in Kanawha County Circuit Court.
Willis is scheduled to be sentenced on June 12, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Charleston Police Department-Street Crimes Unit.
United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Samuel D. Marsh is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:24-cr-89.
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Business Owner Agrees to Pay $1,731,200 to Resolve Allegations He Misappropriated COVID-19 Loan ProceedsRead the Press Release
Bowling Green, KY- Ryan Turtle, of Memphis, TN, has agreed to pay the United States $1,731,200 to resolve allegations that he unjustly enriched himself by misappropriating COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan (“EIDL”) funds obtained from the Small Business Administration (SBA) during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The civil settlement was announced by Michael A. Bennett, United States Attorney for the Western District of Kentucky.
“COVID-19 EIDL funds were intended to help small business owners during difficult economic times and taking advantage of this program will not be tolerated,” said U.S. Attorney Bennett. “Our office is committed to investigating and recovering taxpayer monies that have been diverted or misused.”
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the SBA provided COVID-19 EIDLs to small businesses to be used for “working capital.” Turtle owned the Turtle Company, a Kentucky corporation, which operated Little Caesars franchises in Western Kentucky. On October 27, 2021, Turtle submitted an Amended Loan Authorization and Agreement with the SBA, in which he certified and promised that he would use the loan proceeds as “working capital” for his business as required by the Agreement.
Instead of using the loan proceeds as “working capital” for his business as required, the United States alleges that Turtle transferred the loan proceeds into various cryptocurrency accounts shortly after receiving them from the SBA. By failing to use the loan proceeds as required by the Agreement, the United States contends that Turtle unjustly enriched himself.
The claims resolved by this settlement are allegations.
Assistant U.S. Attorney, Matt Weyand, handled this matter for the United States.
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Barrio Azteca Gang Leader and Member Extradited from Mexico to the United States to Face Charges Related to 2010 U.S. Consulate Murders in JuarezRead the Press Release
Two alleged members of the Barrio Azteca (BA), a transnational criminal organization allied with the Juarez Cartel, were extradited from Mexico to the United States to face charges related to the March 2010 murders of U.S. Consulate employees in Juarez, Mexico. Eduardo Ravelo, also known as Tablas, Tablero, and T-Blas, and Enrique Guajardo Lopez, also known as Kiki, arrived in the United States on Feb. 20 and made their initial appearances today in the Western District of Texas. Ravelo, a former FBI Top 10 Most Wanted Fugitive, and Guajardo were charged in a 12-count third superseding indictment unsealed in March 2011.
“The defendants allegedly participated in the murder of three U.S. Consulate employees in Mexico in March 2010, along with many other acts of senseless violence,” said Supervisory Official Antoinette T. Bacon of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “No U.S. citizen, on either side of our border with Mexico, should have to live in fear of Barrio Azteca, any other violent border gang, or any drug cartel. The defendants’ extradition to the United States is an example of the Department’s unwavering commitment to eliminating transnational criminal organizations and the pursuit of justice for the victims of those tragic murders in Juarez, Mexico.”
“The extradition and U.S. custody of these two defendants, who are both alleged to be members of Barrio Azteca operating along the border, is essential to our mission of disrupting and dismantling these dangerous criminal organizations,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Margaret Leachman for the Western District of Texas. “With the help of our federal, state and local law enforcement partners, this U.S. Attorney’s Office will aggressively prosecute Ravelo and Guajardo throughout this case for their alleged participation in the 2010 Consulate murders and other gang related activity.”
“These extraditions demonstrate the FBI’s commitment to holding violent criminals accountable, no matter where they flee,” said Assistant Director Chad Yarbrough of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division. “The FBI and our partners will continue to aggressively pursue the Barrio Azteca and other transnational gangs wherever they operate and seek justice for the victims affected by their violent actions.”
“The extradition of these two members of the Barrio Azteca transnational criminal organization brings us another step closer to justice for the victims of the 2010 U.S. Consulate murders in Juarez,” said Acting Administrator Derek S. Maltz of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). “DEA never forgets and we never give up. Our commitment to pursue the members of violent criminal organizations threatening American lives is as strong as ever, and our message is clear — DEA will use every resource we have to get justice for American lives lost as a result of these violent networks.”
A total of 35 BA members and associates based in the United States and Mexico were charged in the third superseding indictment for allegedly committing various criminal acts, including racketeering, narcotics distribution and importation, retaliation against persons providing information to U.S. law enforcement, extortion, money laundering, obstruction of justice, and murder. Of the 35 defendants, 10 Mexican nationals, including Ravelo and Guajardo, were charged with the March 13, 2010, murders in Juarez of U.S. Consulate employee Leslie Ann Enriquez Catton; her husband, Arthur Redelfs; and Jorge Alberto Salcido Ceniceros, the husband of another U.S. Consulate employee. All the defendants have been apprehended, and 28 have pleaded guilty. Three defendants have been convicted at trial, one committed suicide before the conclusion of his trial, and one is awaiting extradition from Mexico.
According to court documents and evidence presented at co-defendant trials, the BA is a violent street and prison gang that began in the late 1980s and expanded into a transnational criminal organization. In the 2000s, the BA formed an alliance in Mexico with “La Linea,” which is part of the Juarez Drug Cartel (also known as the Vincente Carrillo Fuentes Drug Cartel or VCF). The purpose of the BA-La Linea alliance was to battle the Chapo Guzman Cartel and its allies for control of the drug trafficking routes through Juarez and Chihuahua. The drug routes through Juarez, known as the Juarez Plaza, are important to drug trafficking organizations because they are a principal illicit drug trafficking conduit into the United States.
The gang has a militaristic command structure and includes captains, lieutenants, sergeants, and soldiers — all with the purpose of maintaining power and enriching its members and associates through drug trafficking, money laundering, extortion, intimidation, violence, threats of violence, and murder.
According to court documents, Ravelo and Guajardo participated in BA activities, including narcotics trafficking and acts of violence by BA members, both in Mexico and the United States. If convicted, Ravelo and Guajardo each face a maximum penalty of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Ravelo’s and Guajardo’s extraditions are the result of close coordination between U.S. law enforcement and the government of Mexico in the investigation and prosecution of this case. The cooperation and assistance of the government of Mexico was essential to achieving the successful extraditions.
The FBI El Paso Field Office; FBI Albuquerque Field Office, Las Cruces Resident Agency; DEA Juarez Division; and DEA El Paso Division investigated the case. Special assistance was provided by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement; U.S. Marshals Service; U.S. Customs and Border Protection; Federal Bureau of Prisons; U.S. Diplomatic Security Service; Texas Department of Public Safety; Texas Department of Criminal Justice; El Paso Police Department; El Paso County Sheriff’s Office; El Paso Independent School District Police Department; Texas Alcohol and Beverage Commission; New Mexico State Police; Dona Ana County, New Mexico Sheriff’s Office; Las Cruces, New Mexico Police Department; Southern New Mexico Correctional Facility and Otero County Prison Facility New Mexico.
Trial Attorney Jay Bauer of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section, Trial Attorney Christina Taylor of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Spitzer for the Western District of Texas are prosecuting the case.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico, the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs, and the Criminal Division’s Office of Enforcement Operations provided significant assistance in this case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
22 February 2025
New Orleans Man Guilty of Machinegun PossessionRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – LADONTE RICHARDSON (“RICHARDSON”), age 22, a resident of New Orleans, pled guilty on February 13, 2025, to possession of a machinegun, announced Acting U. S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson.
RICHARDSON faces a maximum term of 10 years of imprisonment, and/or a fine up to $250,000, up to 3 years of supervised release, and $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
According to court records, on August 29, 2023, RICHARDSON posted a photo on his Instagram page with three train emojis, along with an emoji of a cellphone. Investigators believed this to be an advertisement for selling Tapentadol pills, which are commonly referred to as “trains.” On September 7, 2023, RICHARDSON posted another advertisement for drugs. Based upon these posts, on September 8, 2023, a Federal Bureau Investigation (“FBI”) Task Force Officer (“TFO”) obtained a search warrant for RICHARDSON’s Instagram account that showed RICHARDSON possessing firearms. Specifically, on September 17, 2023, RICHARDSON live streamed himself on a video brandishing a firearm with a laser sight. On September 21, 2023, an arrest warrant was issued for RICHARDSON for two counts of second-degree murder that occurred on December 7, 2022. U.S. Marshals located and arrested RICHARSON in New Orleans. A search of his residence revealed the same firearm brandished by RICHARDSON on his Instagram page, in a bedroom dresser. The firearm was equipped with a switch. The firearm was also stolen.
RICHARDSON admits possessing and knowing it was a machine gun.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U. S. Attorney Mike Trummel of the Violent Crime Unit.
New Orleans Man Guilty of Federal Controlled Substances and Federal Gun Control Acts ViolationsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – ARMOND BURNETTE (“BURNETTE”), age 35, of New Orleans, pled guilty on February 11, 2025 to a three-count indictment charging him with possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C), and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).
BURNETTE faces a maximum penalty of (20) years imprisonment, at least three (3) years of supervised release and a fine of up to $1,000,000, for possession with the intent to distribute controlled substances; and a maximum penalty of fifteen (15) years imprisonment, up to three (3) years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000.00 for the possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. BURNETTE also faces payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee per count.
According to court documents, on June 23, 2023, New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) officers observed BURNETTE who was wanted for multiple attachments, walking in the French Quarter. NOPD officers approached BURNETTE but he fled and was arrested a short time later. BURNETTE was found in possession of a plastic bag with twenty-one (21) individually wrapped baggies containing fentanyl, and 3.39 grams of cocaine. On April 25, 2024, NOPD officers conducting a drug investigation, observed BURNETTE exit a silver BMW in the 600 block of Iberville and enter a bar wearing a backpack. Officers met BURNETTE as he was exiting the bar without the backpack. Officers located the bag, that contained a firearm, near a poker machine inside the bar.
Officers opened the bag and found a firearm. Thereafter, officers searched the silver BMW and recovered one bag containing seven bags of fentanyl, a digital scale, and a small amount of methamphetamine.
After searching the backpack , officers also recovered six dosages of Tapentadol, ecstasy pills, approximately 4 grams of cocaine, and a stolen .40 caliber Smith & Wesson firearm.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun track violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms. Assistant United States Attorney Michael E. Trummel of the Violent Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Kenner Man Enters Guilty of Possession of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – NOAH TORRES (“TORRES”), age 47, of Kenner, pled guilty on February 20, 2025, to Possession of Materials Involving the Sexual Abuse of Minors, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2252(a)(4)(B), announced Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson.
TORRES faces a maximum sentence of twenty (20) years imprisonment, and/or a fine of up to $250,000.00, a term of supervised release of no less than five (5) years and up to life, after release from prison, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
According to court documents, on Monday, July 24, 2023, TORRES was arrested at his Kenner residence by Special Agents with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, after the execution of a federal search warrant. TORRES admitted to possessing 219 images and 340 videos depicting prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
Sentencing in this matter is scheduled for May 22, 2025, before United States District Judge Eldon E. Fallon.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, including the Portland, Oregon and New Orleans, Louisiana offices; the Kenner Police Department; and the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Project Safe Childhood Coordinator and Chief of Financial Crimes Unit.
Honduran Guilty of Illegally Using Social Security Number to Obtain EmploymentRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that CESAR ALVAREZ-ESPINAL (“ALVAREZ-ESPINAL”), a native of Honduras, pleaded guilty on February 20, 2025 to illegally using a social security number to qualify for employment, in violation of Title 42, United States Code, Section 408(a)(7)(B).
ALVAREZ-ESPINAL faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five (5) years, up to three (3) years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.
According to court documents, in November 2024, Homeland Security Investigations received information that certain individuals had used fraudulent Social Security cards in an initial application to obtain employment. Prior to finalizing employment with their prospective company, the individuals were required to report to the Gulf Coast Safety Council. The Gulf Coast Safety Council provides safety courses to applicants applying for work with companies that service petrochemical processing plants. On November 13, 2024, ALVAREZ-ESPINAL arrived at the Gulf Coast Safety Council office in St. Rose, Louisiana to complete the safety course. On that day, ALVAREZ-ESPINAL presented a fraudulent United States Social Security card bearing the name and United States Social Security number of a United States citizen, that he represented to be his own in order to obtain employment.
Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of Homeland Security Investigations in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jon M. Maestri of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Former Army Reservist Sentenced for Conspiracy to Steal Government FundsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – CODY FRANCIS (“FRANCIS”), age 34, of New Orleans, was sentenced on February 13, 2025, by Chief United States District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown. FRANCIS previously pled guilty to conspiracy to commit theft of government funds, having stolen $11,378.27 from the United States Department of the Army by claiming reimbursement for the performance of military funeral honors ceremonies that never happened.
The National Defense Authorization Act of 2000 authorizes military funeral honors for active-duty soldiers, retirees, and veterans. At a family’s request, eligible persons can receive military funeral honors, including the folding and presenting of the United States flag and the playing of “Taps.”
Chief Judge Brown sentenced FRANCIS to one year probation, 100 hours of unpaid community service, the payment of $11,378.27 in restitution to the Department of the Army, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the United States Army Criminal Investigation Command. Assistant United States Attorney Andre J. Lagarde of the Public Integrity Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Bogalusa Man Indicted for Federal Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FERNANDO BRISTER (“BRISTER”), age 35, and resident of Bogalusa, Louisiana was indicted on January 31, 2025, announced Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson. Count One of the indictment charged him with distribution of Methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C). Count Two charged him with being a felon in possession of firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1), 924(a)(8), and 942(e).
If convicted, BRISTER faces up to 20 years’ imprisonment, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least 3 years of supervised release for Count One. For Count Two, BRISTER faces not less than 15 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to 3 years of supervised release. BRISTER also faces payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee as to both counts.
According to court documents, on January 31, 2023, BRISTER knowingly and intentionally distributed methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, to an undisclosed person. On February 6, 2023, BRISTER was a felon and knowingly possessed a Glock Model 43, nine--millimeter caliber pistol and ammunition.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Washington Parish Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Troy Bell of the Violent Crime Unit.
21 February 2025
“La Empresa” Member Sentenced in El Paso to Nearly 20 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
EL PASO, Texas – An El Paso transnational criminal organization (TCO) member was sentenced in federal court Thursday to 235 months in prison for his role in a hostage taking conspiracy.
According to court documents, a man was forcefully kidnapped at gunpoint from his motel room in Juarez, Mexico, on Aug. 24, 2023, and was held hostage until Sept. 5, 2023. During that time, the victim’s family received threatening phone calls from multiple unknown subjects demanding payment. Ultimately, the family paid approximated $9,000 to the TCO for safe travel and release of the victim.
Luis Edward Castro, 28, worked for the TCO, “La Empresa.” Armed with a handgun, he recorded and sent proof-of-life videos to the victim’s family. In the videos, the victim appeared visibly scared and stated he was in El Paso. An investigation led law enforcement to Castro’s address, where they searched the residence and found six undocumented noncitizens and multiple firearms.
Castro was arrested Sept. 5, 2023 and charged with six counts pertaining to harboring and transporting undocumented noncitizens for financial gain, hostage taking, and the possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number. He pleaded guilty to the hostage taking charge on Sept. 26, 2024.
“This case highlights some of the many dangers posed by TCOs on both sides of our southern border, and Castro’s sentencing of two decades in federal prison is a significant penalty,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Margaret Leachman for the Western District of Texas. “I am thankful for our partners at the FBI, HSI and the U.S. Border Patrol, whose investigative skill and expertise led to the recovery of these kidnapping victims and the outcome of this case.”
“TCOs such as La Empresa will find no refuge whatsoever in our communities," said Special Agent in Charge John Morales for FBI’s El Paso Field Office. "These ruthless networks exploit the vulnerable through human smuggling, drug trafficking, and violent extortion, as seen in Castro’s crimes where innocent people were held hostage to extract more money from their families. This sentencing serves as a clear warning: the FBI and our partners at the U.S. Border Patrol are relentless in our pursuit of those who seek to profit from suffering. We will dismantle these criminal enterprises, protect our communities, and bring every perpetrator to justice—because we will never tolerate those who threaten the safety and dignity of our people.”
"This criminal was recognized as both a stash house operator and enforcer for a transnational criminal organization, thanks to our diligent collaboration with law enforcement partners." said Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) El Paso Special Agent in Charge Jason T. Stevens. “This prison sentence delivers a powerful message to human smugglers who engage in holding hostage and exploiting vulnerable individuals: we are fully committed to collaboration and the protection of our communities, and we will relentlessly hold these ruthless transnational criminal organizations accountable.”
“Criminal organizations like ‘La Empresa’ and other TCOs are not in the business of helping people. Their sole motive is profit, with no regard for human life,” said El Paso Sector Chief Walter N. Slosar. “The U.S. Border Patrol remains committed to working alongside our law enforcement partners to dismantle these criminal networks. Those who put innocent lives at risk will be identified, apprehended, and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
The FBI, ICE HSI, and USBP investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mathew Engelbaum and Kyle Myers prosecuted the case.
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Woman Sentenced to 70 Months in Prison for Burning Down Local BusinessRead the Press Release
SAN DIEGO – Carey Alice Hernandez was sentenced in federal court today to 70 months in prison for intentionally setting fire to Off Road Warehouse to cover up the disappearance of more than $700,000 while she was in charge of company finances.
In April 2024, after a four-day trial, jurors found Hernandez guilty of malicious destruction of a building by means of fire, witness tampering and making false statements.
In late 2018, the owner of Off Road Warehouse, also known as ORW, which sold and installed automotive parts and gear for off-roading, decided to sell the business located at 7915 Balboa Avenue. The prospective purchaser conducted an audit of ORW, which revealed that between January 2015 and March 2019, while Hernandez was serving as bookkeeper and controller in charge of the company books and records, $744,621 had gone missing from the company.
The jury found that in the early morning hours of March 28, 2019, Hernandez started the fire at Off Road Warehouse, causing the building to burn to the ground.
“This defendant intentionally set a dangerous inferno in what appears to have been an attempt to conceal a massive theft. And then she leaned on her minor daughter to try and cover up her crimes,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Andrew Haden. “Fortunately, no one was physically hurt, but this devastating loss for ORW, and the extraordinary danger of intentionally setting a fire, demanded accountability. And today, justice was served.”
At today’s hearing, U.S. District Judge Jinsook Ohta described the defendant’s actions as “wanton, deliberate and destructive” and “a very dangerous crime” that put firefighters at risk. She noted the crime was made even worse when she asked her daughter to lie for her.
According to evidence presented at trial, surveillance footage showed the defendant driving an SUV with dark rims near her home and the fire scene. The following day, she lied to federal agents and ORW employees, claiming her SUV had light rims. Video footage from the area contradicted her claims about the vehicles rims, leading to convictions for witness tampering and false statements.
ATF’s National Response Team (NRT) investigated this case in conjunction with San Diego’s Metro Arson Strike Team (MAST). The NRT is ATF’s mobile, rapid response team which investigates the cause and origin of large fires, explosions and bombings at the request of local public safety agencies.
“Arson crimes are not victimless,” said Acting ATF Los Angeles Field Division Special Agent in Charge Jose Medina. “These criminal acts destroy lives, property, and businesses. In this case, the motive was greed—fire was used as a cover-up for criminal activity. ATF remains steadfast in its mission to bring arsonists to justice and ensure safer communities. We will relentlessly pursue and remove these offenders from society. I want to acknowledge the dedication of our National Response Team and San Diego’s Metro Arson Strike Team (MAST) for their work in determining the fire’s origin and cause.”
A hearing to determine the restitution that Hernandez owes the victims of her crimes is scheduled for March 14, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. before Judge Ohta.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew Brehm and Carl Brooker.
DEFENDANT Case Number 22cr145-JO
Carey Alice Hernandez Age: 46 Rathdrum, Idaho
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Malicious Destruction of Building by Means of Fire – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 844(i)
Maximum penalty: No less than five years in prison and no more than 20 years and $250,000 fine
Witness Tampering – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1512(b)(3)
Maximum penalty: Twenty years in prison and $250,000 fine
False Statements – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1001(a)(2)
Maximum penalty: Five years in prison and $250,000 fine
INVESTIGATING AGENCY
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives
Wolcott Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
Marc H. Silverman, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that JOSE COLON, 37, of Wolcott, pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Vernon D. Oliver in Hartford to unlawful possession of ammunition by a felon.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on March 13, 2024, Waterbury Police arrested Colon after he discarded a privately made 9mm handgun (“ghost gun”) loaded with six rounds of ammunition during a foot pursuit.
Colon’s criminal history includes felony convictions in Connecticut for assault, weapon, and risk of injury offenses. It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.
Judge Oliver scheduled sentencing for May 13, at which time Colon faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years.
Colon has been detained since his arrest.
This matter is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the Waterbury Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth L. Gresham.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit www.justice.gov/psn.
Wenatchee Sex Offender Sentenced to Federal Prison for Receipt of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that Chief United States District Judge Stanley A. Bastian sentenced Justin Boyd Renteria, age 34, of Wenatchee, Washington, to 15 years in federal prison for Receipt of Child Pornography. Chief Judge Bastian also imposed a lifetime of supervised release.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, in summer 2023, the Chelan County Sheriff’s Department learned Renteria was in possession of several videos depicting young children being sexually abused by adults. At the time, Renteria was on supervised release for his federal conviction for possession of child sexual abuse material.
On October 13, 2023, United States Probation executed a supervised release search of Renteria’s property. Officers seized a knife, drug paraphernalia, and multiple electronic devices. On a phone seized in the search, the FBI located more than 200 images and videos of adults sexually abusing young children.
“Mr. Renteria’s case highlights the serious consequences of repeat criminal behavior and U.S. Attorney’s Office’s commitment to holding accountable those who repeatedly possess or receive child sex material,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Richard Barker. “I am grateful for the prosecutors and law enforcement agents, who devote their careers to protecting the most vulnerable members of our community.”
“Tragically, Mr. Renteria did not learn his lesson from his previous conviction and continued to possess harmful child sexual abuse material,” said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle field office. “These photos and videos are extremely damaging to vulnerable minors, now more than ever because digital copies are so difficult to completely eliminate in the internet age. We hope this sentence sends a message to would-be predators that the FBI and our law enforcement partners take these crimes seriously, and engaging in them can have serious consequences.”
This case was investigated by the FBI. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Alison L. Gregoire and Rebecca R. Perez.
2:24-cr-00023-SAB
Vero Beach Meth Dealer Found Guilty at TrialRead the Press Release
MIAMI – A South Florida federal jury has found Denzil Olajuwon Stewart, 30, guilty of narcotics distribution crimes for selling 276.7 grams of pure methamphetamine.
On Dec. 28, 2023, law enforcement officers observed Stewart drive away from his Vero Beach home in a white Porsche SUV, arrive at another residence about 30 minutes away, and sell what they later discovered was 276.7 grams of pure methamphetamine to a buyer. The buyer resold the methamphetamine, which was inside a plastic shopping bag, to a confidential informant. Stewart’s fingerprints were on the bag.
The jury found Stewart guilty of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine actual, and distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine actual. He faces between 10 years and life in prison.
U.S. Attorney Hayden P. O’Byrne for the Southern District of Florida; Special Agent in Charge Deanne L. Reuter of the DEA, Miami Field Division, and Indian River County Sheriff Eric Flowers made the announcement.
DEA Port Saint Lucie and the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher Hudock and Michael Porter prosecuted it.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case number 24-cr-14058.
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Two Rock Hill Men Sentenced to Federal Prison for Their Role in Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Emmanuel Deon Foster, 36, and Bobby Antoinios Hall, 41, both of Rock Hill, have been sentenced for their involvement in a conspiracy to distribute quantities of fentanyl, crack cocaine, cocaine, methamphetamine, and heroin.
Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that Foster and Hall had a close relationship with the leader of the conspiracy. Based upon law enforcement efforts, they learned both Foster and Hall purchased fentanyl-lased pills during the time of the conspiracy from the leader. These pills were then sold to other dealers in the Rock Hill area. Foster also purchased and sold cocaine, crack cocaine, heroin, marijuana, and methamphetamine. These drugs were purchased from other members of the conspiracy and sold to other dealers. This operation has been responsible for the arrest and conviction of more than 20 individuals during its existence.
United States District Mary Geiger Lewis sentenced Foster to a total of 120 months imprisonment, to be followed by a five-year term of court-ordered supervision. Hall was sentenced to 84 months imprisonment to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This joint law enforcement activity and prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
This case was investigated by the FBI Columbia Field Office, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Drug Enforcement Administration, York County Multijurisdictional Drug Enforcement Unit, South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, and the Richland County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney William K. Witherspoon is prosecuting the case.
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Tri-Cities Based Drug Traffickers Caught with More Than 100,000 Fentanyl Pills, 50 Pounds of Methamphetamine, and a Kilo of Cocaine Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Richland, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced today that two men responsible for trafficking large amounts of drugs across Eastern Washington have been sentenced to federal prison. Chief United States District Judge Stanley A. Bastian sentenced Angel Ramon Barajas-Zarate, age 26, from Colima, Mexico, to 132 months in prison and 5 years of supervised release. Hector Sanchez-Mendez, age 42, of Oaxaca, Mexico, was sentenced to 72 months in prison and 5 years of supervised release.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearings, in February 2022, Investigators developed information that Barajas-Zarate was using the United State Postal Service to ship multiple-pound quantities of dangerous controlled substances, including thousands of fentanyl-laced pills and methamphetamine. Sanchez-Mendez also operated a drug stash house for Barajas-Zarate.
On December 14, 2022, investigators executed several search warrants in Richland, Washington, involving three homes as well as several vehicles identified during the investigation. In the attic of the stash house operated by Sanchez-Mendez, investigators found 45 pounds of methamphetamine in the process of being packaged for sale. Investigators also located 13 firearms around the house. Investigators then searched Barajas-Zarate’s truck and located several large bags of methamphetamine and several thousand fentanyl-laced pills packaged for distribution.
In total, the FBI and its local law enforcement partners seized more than 100,000 fentanyl-laced pills (to include pink and rainbow-colored pills), more than 50 pounds of methamphetamine, and approximately 1 kilogram of cocaine, making it one of the larger drug seizures in Eastern Washington history. The FBI and its local partners also seized approximately $15,000 in U.S. Currency and several money counters, which typically are used by banks to count large amounts of U.S. Currency. More than 20 firearms were seized, along with a significant amount of ammunition.
“This case serves as a powerful reminder that those who engage in trafficking dangerous drugs, including fentanyl, will be held accountable for the harm they cause in our communities. The FBI and our law enforcement partners have demonstrated tremendous skill and dedication in dismantling these criminal operations. This case also highlights the unwavering commitment of our team of dedicated prosecutors, who has have dedicated their careers to combating the opioid crisis and the dangerous drug trade that threatens the safety and well-being of Eastern Washington,” stated Acting United States Attorney Richard Barker. “Our office will continue to work tirelessly to protect our district from individuals who profit from the devastation caused to Eastern Washington communities and families.”
“Putting a stop to these two men’s crimes may have saved countless lives,” said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Seattle field office. “This is an extraordinary amount of dangerous drugs and firearms taken off our streets. When investigating these kinds of complex cases, partnerships are absolutely crucial, and I would like to thank our federal, state, and local partners on the Southeast Washington Safe Streets Task Force for their work on this case and safeguarding our communities.”
This case was investigated by the FBI Southeast Washington Safe Streets Task Force, along with the United States Postal Inspection Service. The FBI Southeast Washington Safe Streets Task Force was assisted by multiple local law enforcement entities, including the Benton County Sheriff’s Office, Richland Police Department, Kennewick Police Department, Pasco Police Department, West Richland Police Department, Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, the METRO Drug Task Force, and the Washington State Department of Corrections. The Drug Enforcement Administration and the United States Border Patrol also provided assistance. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie Van Marter.
4:22-cr-06052-SAB
Three New Haven Men Guilty of Charges Related to Counterfeit Pill Production, Narcotics TraffickingRead the Press Release
Marc H. Silverman, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that a jury in Hartford has found AQUARIUS GUMBS, also known as “Q,” “Ice,” and “Diamond,” 50; GORDON LAURIA, 54; and MARKOS PAPPAS, also known as “Speedy,” 51; all of New Haven, guilty of offenses related to the large-scale trafficking of fentanyl and methamphetamine pills disguised as legitimate prescription medication, as well as other controlled substances.
According to court documents and the evidence presented during the trial, this matter stems from an investigation by the DEA New Haven’s Tactical Diversion Squad and the FBI’s New Haven Safe Streets/Gang Task Force targeting the manufacture and distribution of counterfeit oxycodone tablets containing fentanyl and counterfeit Adderall tablets containing methamphetamine, and the distribution of heroin and cocaine, in the New Haven area. The investigation revealed that Willis Taylor, with the assistance of Lauria, Pappas, Gumbs, and others, coordinated the manufacture and distribution of counterfeit narcotic pills. Taylor distributed the pills to others and arranged counterfeit pill transactions between second and third parties, sometimes using Gumbs as a source of supply. Gumbs also distributed controlled substances to his own customers. After Taylor’s arrest in November 2022, Pappas conspired with others, including Lisa Fausel, of New Haven, to distribute controlled substances.
During the investigation, investigators seized more than two kilograms of fentanyl, including thousands of counterfeit Oxycodone tablets; approximately two kilograms of methamphetamine, including thousands of counterfeit Adderall pills; three kilograms of cocaine and other drugs; four pill-press machines; one industrial mixer; five firearms; and more than $200,000 in cash. Two of the firearms and $13,250 in cash were seized from Gumbs, a previously convicted felon, on November 18, 2022.
Fourteen individuals were charged as a result of this investigation.
Today, the jury found Lauria and Gumbs guilty of one count, and Pappas guilty of two counts, of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, controlled substances. Gumbs was also found guilty of one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of cocaine; one count of possession with intent to distribute marijuana; one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and one count of unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.
The jury found a fourth defendant, Julio Echevarria, of New Haven, not guilty of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, controlled substances.
Gumbs, Lauria, and Pappas are detained pending sentencing, which is not scheduled.
Taylor previously pleaded guilty and awaits sentencing. On October 21, 2024, Fausel was sentenced to 42 months of imprisonment.
This matter is being investigated by the DEA New Haven’s Tactical Diversion Squad, the FBI’s New Haven Safe Streets/Gang Task Force, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and the U.S. Marshals Service. The DEA Tactical Diversion Squad is composed of personnel from the DEA, the Connecticut State Police, and the West Haven, Hamden, Manchester, Bristol, Fairfield, and Seymour Police Departments. The FBI Task Force includes participants from the FBI, the Connecticut State Police, the Connecticut Department of Correction, and the New Haven, Milford, East Haven, West Haven, and Wallingford Police Departments.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ross Weingarten, John T. Pierpont, Jr., Konstantin Lantsman, and Katherine Boyles through the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Program. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs and transnational criminal organizations through a prosecutor-led and intelligence-driven approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Texan extradited to face multiple firearms chargesRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – A 39-year-old resident of Laredo is back on U.S. soil on charges of aiding and abetting straw purchasing, being a felon in possession of a firearm and transferring a firearm to a prohibited person, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Jesus Guadalupe Covarrubias had previously fled to Mexico. He is expected to make his initial appearance Feb. 24 before U.S. Magistrate Judge Diana Song at 9:30 a.m.
A federal grand jury returned an indictment against him and others Oct. 5, 2021.
In August 2021, authorities had been conducted surveillance at a house in Laredo, according to the charges. During the operation, they allegedly observed Covarrubias and others as they exited and entered the house or garage and appeared to be placing items into nearby vehicles. The charges allege Covarrubias eventually left the house with two others and went to a second home.
There, law enforcement observed the movement of three rifles from a truck into the house and took Covarrubias and others into custody.
The charges allege they had been involved in fraudulently purchasing firearms since Dec. 4, 2019.
Covarrubias is a convicted felon, according to the charges. As such, he is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition per federal law.
After his arrest, he was permitted release on bond and fled to Mexico where he was ultimately arrested and later returned to United States authorities.
If convicted, Covarrubias faces up to 10 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosive conducted the investigation with assistance from the Webb County Sheriff’s Office and Laredo Police Department. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs worked with law enforcement partners in Mexico to secure the arrest and extradition of Covarrubias. U.S. Marshals Service completed the removal of Covarrubias from Mexico to the Southern District of Texas. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian Bajew is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
Two Tallahassee Men Found Guilty in Large-Scale Conspiracy to Distribute MarijuanaRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Tyquan M. Watson, 28, and Dezaneil D. Cosby Jr., 27, both of Tallahassee, Florida, were found guilty by a federal jury of conspiring to distribute marijuana as part of a large-scale conspiracy distributing hundreds of pounds of marijuana per week. The guilty verdict, returned at the conclusion of a four-day trial, was announced by Michelle Spaven, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
Trial testimony and evidence demonstrated that Watson was purchasing hundred-pound quantities of marijuana per week from farms and brokers in California and reselling the marijuana in Tallahassee and surrounding areas. Evidence demonstrated that Watson had purchased at least 3169 pounds of marijuana between September 24, 2023, and January 10, 2024, with proceeds of at least $2.4 million during that period.
The long-term investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE). On October 13, 2022, FDLE conducted a controlled purchase of 28 pounds of marijuana from a subsequently charged codefendant. During the surveillance, FDLE agents observed the codefendant obtaining the marijuana from Cosby’s residence immediately prior to the controlled purchase. Both the codefendant and Watson’s fingerprints were identified on packaging material associated with the purchased marijuana. On October 28, 2022, DEA executed a federal search warrant at Cosby’s residence and seized 238 pounds of marijuana and a firearm.
Watson and Cosby were both convicted of distribution of marijuana related to the October 13, 2022, controlled purchase. Cosby was also convicted of possession with intent to distribute 100 kilograms or more of marijuana for the October 28, 2022, search warrant.
Watson and Cosby were arrested together on federal arrest warrants on March 11, 2024, at another residence in Tallahassee. During that arrest, law enforcement seized another 183 pounds of marijuana and a firearm.
Sentencing is scheduled for May 2, 2025, at 11:00am (Watson) and 2:00pm (Cosby) at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee before Chief United States District Judge Mark E. Walker.
This conviction was the result of a joint investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Tallahassee Police Department, and the Bay County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorneys James A. McCain and Harley Ferguson prosecuted the case.
This prosecution was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. More information about OCDETF may be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Superseding Indictment Charges Two Brothers and a City Mayor’s Assistant with Tax Fraud, Public Corruption, and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
CLEVELAND – A federal grand jury returned a 32-count superseding indictment charging Zubair Mehmet Abdur Razzaq Al Zubair, 42, recently of Bratenahl, Ohio, his brother Muzzammil Muhammad Al Zubair, 31, recently of Pepper Pike, Ohio, and their associate Michael Leon Smedley, 56, of Cleveland, with multiple fraud, tax fraud, money laundering, and public corruption schemes. The initial 22-count indictment was issued Jan. 24, 2024.
All three defendants were charged with conspiracy to commit bribery concerning programs receiving federal funds, conspiracy to commit honest services wire fraud, and Hobbs Act conspiracy. The Al Zubair brothers were both charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, 13 counts of wire fraud, money laundering conspiracy, four counts of money laundering, theft of government funds, and aiding and assisting in the preparation of a false tax return. Zubair Al Zubair was also charged with harboring a fugitive and willful failure to file a tax return.
According to court documents, from June 2020 through August 2023, the Al Zubair brothers allegedly employed several deceptive strategies to obtain money and property from victims. Their schemes involved investment fraud, a Small Business Administration COVID-19 relief Emergency Income Disaster Loan, cryptocurrency mining, and commercial and residential real estate transactions.
One scheme was international in scope and involved military munitions. After the Al Zubair brothers found a buyer who was looking to purchase military-grade weapons, they made contact with individuals in Romania, the United Arab Emirates, Indonesia, and New York about finding sources to supply the munitions their buyer was seeking. The true intent was not the actual sale of the munitions, but rather to convince the purchaser to transfer a commission to the brothers for arranging the transaction.
The Al Zubair brothers’ ill-gotten proceeds allowed them to acquire a trove of jewelry, luxury timepieces and vehicles, as well as more than 80 firearms. Zubair Al Zubair also leased a high-end residential property in Bratenahl, Ohio, before being evicted in August 2023.
The superseding indictment alleges that the two made exorbitant claims about their extraordinary wealth and government connections. Zubair Al Zubair said he was a member of the royal family of the United Arab Emirates through his marriage to a princess. His brother, Muzzammil, claimed to be a hedge fund manager. According to the superseding indictment, he was not registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission or as a broker with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, and his only education on hedge funds came from watching YouTube videos. Using the illusion of being extremely educated, successful, and well-connected, the brothers befriended a public official employed with the city of East Cleveland to help them to carry out their elaborate and deceptive plots.
As the chief of staff and executive assistant to the mayor of East Cleveland, Smedley allegedly used his position to help navigate red-tape bureaucracy and obtain specific outcomes for the Al Zubair brothers in return for things of value including checks, food and meals at high-end restaurants, and offers of future employment. For example, Smedley secured official letters on city letterhead to sway administrative and judicial proceedings, helped obtain appointment of Zubair Al Zubair as an International Economic Advisor to the city, obtained city business cards in Zubair Al Zubair’s name, and even provided the brothers with City of East Cleveland Police Badges.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. The defendants are entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
If convicted, each defendant’s sentence will be determined by the court after review of actors unique to this case. These include each defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, role in the offense, and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum, and in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
This case is being investigated by the FBI Cleveland Division and the IRS−Criminal Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew W. Shepherd and Om Kakani for the Northern District of Ohio.
Stowe Man Charged with the Deaths of Jahim Solomon and Eric WhiteRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on February 20, 2025, a federal grand jury returned a superseding indictment charging Theodore Bland, 29, of Stowe, Vermont, with conspiracy to distribute cocaine base, possession of cocaine base and fentanyl with intent to distribute, using and carrying a firearm in relation to a drug trafficking crime, discharging that firearm during the commission of the offense, and through his use and carrying of a firearm in relation to a drug trafficking crime causing the deaths of Jahim Solomon and Eric White in circumstances that constitute murder under federal law.
Bland’s arraignment on the new charges will occur on a date to be determined by the United States District Court for the District of Vermont. Bland is currently detained pending trial on charges included in the original indictment in the case.
According to court records, on October 12, 2023, Bland used, carried, and discharged a firearm, in relation to his drug trafficking activities. Also according to court records, Bland’s October 12 firearm discharges caused the deaths of Jahim Solomon and Eric White. Bland used social media messaging to communicate with his co-conspirators regarding, among other topics, the procurement of controlled substances for distribution, the pricing of controlled substances for sale to drug customers, and the distribution of controlled substances to drug customers. Bland also used social media messaging to communicate with his co-conspirators following the homicides of Solomon and White on October 12, 2023, including communications about his attempts to conceal the homicides. Court documents also state that Bland induced others to help him move the bodies of Solomon and White to two wooded areas in Eden, Vermont, where the bodies were discovered by law enforcement on October 24 and 25, 2023.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that Bland is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. If convicted of the new charges in the superseding indictment, there is a possibility the federal death penalty could apply. The United States has not yet reached a decision whether it will pursue the death penalty against Bland. If convicted of the new charges Bland also faces a potential prison term of up to life. Any prison sentence, however, would be determined by the Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of the Vermont State Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Morristown Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Lamoille County Sheriff’s Department.
The prosecutors are Assistant United States Attorneys Jason Turner and Paul Van de Graaf. Bland is represented by David Sleigh, Esq.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
Sextortionist gets 24 years for victimizing minors onlineRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 22-year-old New York native has been sentenced for production of child pornography, coercion and enticement of minors and cyberstalking, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Tyler N. Grundstrom pleaded guilty Oct. 8, 2024.
U.S. District Judge Andrew Hanen has now sentenced Grundstrom to a total of 288 months in federal prison. When he is eventually released, he will be on supervised release for the rest of his life, during which time he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. Grundstrom will also be ordered to register as a sex offender.
“The significant sentence in this case is a reminder of how seriously the Department of Justice takes the online victimization of minors,” said Ganjei. “Gone are the days where the predator lives next door or down the street; now a would-be exploiter can be thousands of miles away. Grundstrom, and similar online predators, are the reason why parents need to know who is talking to their child online.”
“This case is a chilling reminder there are twisted criminals, like Tyler Grundstrom, who use the internet’s anonymity to manipulate children’s innocence for their own sick ends,” said FBI Houston Special Agent in Charge Douglas Williams. “I want to remind every child and parent to remain vigilant, especially on social media, because predators regularly use these platforms to find their victims. Today’s sentencing shows the FBI will relentlessly hunt down those who harm children, no matter where they live, and ensure they face the full force of the law for their vile crimes.”
Grundstrom used popular online communication platforms to identify and target young girls for extortion and exploitation. Grundstrom would manipulate, threaten and coerce the victims into producing explicit and offensive content. The investigation revealed more than one victim in at least two states had been targeted, and the abuse occurred from 2021 and continued through 2022.
He will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the future.
FBI Houston and FBI Atlanta’s Athens Resident Agency conducted the investigation.
The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources link on that page.
Seventeen Defendants Sentenced to Prison in Multi-State Drug Trafficking and Money Laundering ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – Senior United States District Judge John Antoon II has sentenced Dudzinski Poole and sixteen co-conspirators to federal prison terms ranging from six years, up to life, imprisonment in a multi-state drug trafficking and money laundering conspiracy. Poole was the leader of a drug trafficking organization (DTO) that was responsible for distributing thousands of kilograms of methamphetamine and fentanyl with sources of supply or distributors in California, multiple other states, and China. The organization also laundered millions of dollars in drug money. Two of Poole’s co-conspirators (Michael Chester and George King, Jr.) were convicted after a ten-day jury trial in July 2024. The rest of the defendants entered guilty pleas. A summary chart of the sentences is below:
Name (Age, Residence)
Charges
Sentence
Dudzinski Edwinn Poole
a/k/a “Zink”
(50, Apopka, FL)
Possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine
(two counts)
Drug trafficking conspiracy
Money laundering conspiracy
21 years, 10 months’ imprisonmentMelvin Tyrone Patterson, Jr.
a/k/a “Goon”
(34, Wildwood, FL)
Possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine (two counts)
Drug trafficking conspiracy
Money laundering conspiracy
18 years, 7 months’ imprisonmentAndrew Woodruff, Jr.
a/k/a “Smurf”
(40, Mount Dora, FL)
Drug trafficking conspiracy
Money laundering conspiracy
30 years’ imprisonmentJose Ivan Carbajal
a/k/a “Primo”
(35, California)
Drug trafficking conspiracy
Money laundering conspiracy
40 years’ imprisonmentAntonio Holmes
a/k/a “Tone”
(36, Davenport, FL)
Possession with intent to distribute fentanyl
Drug trafficking conspiracy
15 years, 8 months’ imprisonmentDiego Navarro- Martinez
a/k/a “Shooter”
(34, California)
Drug trafficking conspiracy
Money laundering conspiracy
15 years’ imprisonmentMichael Andre Chester
a/k/a “Dre”
(50, Apopka, FL)
Drug trafficking conspiracy
Money laundering conspiracy
Life in prisonSamantha Tiesha King
a/k/a “Mamp”
(34, Altamonte Springs, FL)
Drug trafficking conspiracy
Money laundering conspiracy
17 years, 6 months’ imprisonmentGeorge Nelvin King, Jr.
(47, Altamonte Springs, FL)
Drug trafficking conspiracy
Money laundering conspiracy
14 years, 8 months’ imprisonmentFelisha Denise Williams
a/k/a “Lil Momma”
(35, Apopka, FL)
Drug trafficking conspiracy
Money laundering conspiracy
12 years, 7 months’ imprisonmentNathaniel Donnell, Jr.
a/k/a “Bob”
(60, Wildwood, FL)
Drug trafficking conspiracy
Money laundering conspiracy
13 years’ imprisonmentRodrieka Lashay Manning
a/k/a “Drieka”
(27, Apopka, FL)
Drug trafficking conspiracy
Money laundering conspiracy
11 years, 3 months’ imprisonmentMohammed McDowell
a/k/a “Mo”
(45, Wildwood, FL)
Drug trafficking conspiracy
Money laundering conspiracy
10 years, 10 months’ imprisonmentJanice Denise Anderson
a/k/a “Butter”
(67, Mount Dora, FL)
Drug trafficking conspiracy
Money laundering conspiracy
10 years, 4 months’ imprisonmentLatonya Sharee Conley
a/k/a “Hershey”
(47, Mount Dora, FL)
Drug trafficking conspiracy
Money laundering conspiracy
10 years’ imprisonmentOveda Denise Miller
a/k/a “Gangsta Granny”
(62, Mount Dora, FL)
Drug trafficking conspiracy
Money laundering conspiracy
10 years’ imprisonmentRoland Richardson
(65, Mount Dora, FL)
Drug trafficking conspiracy
Money laundering conspiracy
6 years’ imprisonmentAccording to court records and the evidence presented at trial, between 2017 and 2023, the DTO operated largely out of Lake County, Florida, where Poole received hundreds of shipments of methamphetamine and fentanyl from sources of supply in California, including Jose Carbajal. The drugs were transported or shipped via commercial planes and through the mail. DEA seized more than 250 pounds of drugs (mostly methamphetamine and fentanyl) during the course of the investigation.
The defendants played various roles in the DTO, such as suppliers, distributors, couriers, and courier coordinators. The couriers would fly to California from Florida with large sums of cash to purchase drugs and transport checked luggage full of drugs back to Florida on commercial flights. The conspirators sometimes purchased tickets and checked the suitcases full of drugs or cash at the airport but did not fly on the plane. The suitcases would travel to the destination where they would be picked up by other conspirators awaiting their arrival. Nearly all the flights were between the Orlando International Airport (MCO) in Florida and the Palm Springs Airport (PSP) or the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) in California. Flight records during a two-year period show more than 400 flights between California and Orlando among the various conspirators.
The DTO also used couriers to transport large amounts of methamphetamine from Orlando to Virginia via train. In April 2022, one of these couriers was arrested at a train station in Virginia with approximately 10 pounds of methamphetamine inside a suitcase.
In addition to transporting drugs on commercial flights and trains, Poole and his associates had multiple stash houses and received hundreds of mailed packages of methamphetamine and fentanyl from California and other drugs, including fentanyl, from China. Poole’s source of supply in California (Carbajal) would ship packages that contained an average of five to ten pounds of drugs at a time. Poole would provide Carbajal various addresses to ship the drugs, including co-conspirators’ residences. Investigators identified almost 400 packages that were shipped from California as part of this conspiracy from 2019 to 2023.
The members of this DTO also conspired with one another to engage in money laundering. Poole developed an entertainment business that he used to promote concerts with famous rap artists, whom he paid with drug proceeds. Poole then commingled the profits from the ticket sales with the drug proceeds in the same business account. Members of the conspiracy also used drug proceeds to pay for various expenses of the DTO (such as flights) or funneled the proceeds through numerous financial accounts into purchases of expensive jewelry, vehicles, residences, and payments to coconspirators.
“This multi-state drug trafficking organization used a vast network to move methamphetamine and fentanyl to poison our communities,” said DEA Miami Field Division Special Agent in Charge Deanne L. Reuter. “I’m proud of the way our agents and numerous law enforcement partners worked together to bring this criminal element to justice.”
“Greed is the biggest motivation these criminal organizations know,” said Ron Loecker, Special Agent in Charge of IRS – Criminal Investigation’s Tampa Field Office. “Motivated by money, they will try to place themselves above the law to the detriment of our communities. Fortunately, our agents and staff are extremely skilled at following the money to ensure these perpetrators face justice. We are proud to work alongside our partner agencies to put a stop to these dangerous drug trafficking organizations and ensure they are held accountable.”
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the United States Secret Service; the Florida Department of Law Enforcement; the Orlando Police Department’s Special Enforcement Division and Crime Center and Forensics Division; the Orange County Sheriff’s Office’s including the Gang Enforcement Unit; the Florida Highway Patrol; the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office; the Casselberry Police Department; the Metropolitan Bureau of Investigation; the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office; the Marion County Sheriff’s Office; the Lake County Sheriff’s Office; the Kissimmee Police Department; the St. Cloud Police Department; the Winter Park Police Department; the St. Cloud IRS Financial Crimes Task Force; and the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office (California). It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Tyrie K. Boyer and Belkis H. Callaos.
This case was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Sanford Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for Enticement of A MinorRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Carlos E. Mendoza has sentenced Matthew Reed Dione (37, Sanford) to 20 years in federal prison for enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity. Dione will also forfeit two hard drives and a cellphone, which were used to commit the offense. Dione entered a guilty plea on July 2, 2024.
According to court documents, Dione met a minor victim on a teen dating website when Dione was 32 years old. He engaged in inappropriate chats with the minor victim prior to picking up the victim from the victim’s home late at night and taking the victim to his home. At his home, Dione sexually abused the victim and recorded the activity.
In January 2023, the FBI executed a search warrant at Dione’s home and seized multiple electronic devices. During a forensic extraction of the seized devices, the FBI located numerous videos and images of sexual abuse. In many of those videos and images, the minors had Dione’s name written on their bodies. The FBI was able to identify three additional victims from the sexual abuse material found on Dione’s devices. The evidence on the devices showed that Dione had been targeting teenage girls for more than a decade.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Courtney D. Richardson-Jones.
This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
San Diego Gang Member Sentenced in Organized Crime ConspiracyRead the Press Release
SAN DIEGO – Odyssey Carrillo, a member of the Emerald Hills Bloods gang, was sentenced in federal court today to 168 months in prison for his role in a racketeering conspiracy involving coordinated violent crimes by street gangs.
Carrillo is the ninth and final member of the conspiracy to be sentenced. He pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Conduct Enterprise Affairs Through a Pattern of Racketeering Activity and Hobbs Act Robbery. According to court documents, the crimes committed by the enterprise included armed robbery, sex trafficking, prostitution, violence and other profit-driven illegal activities.
The defendants were charged with racketeering conspiracy - the statute’s original inspiration was to combat organized-crime syndicates and mobsters. But as criminal street gangs have become more sophisticated and prolific in their illicit business pursuits, this statute has become an effective tool to address all aspects of coordinated violent criminal conduct.
Previously sentenced defendants include Jerome Brunson, Cedric Jordan, Stephen Nathaniel Calhoun, Jr., Carl Moore, Maurice Johnson, Dajay Leon Scott, Taashawn Henderson and Sergio Valentin Louden.
In his plea agreement, Carrillo admitted that he joined the conspiracy that engaged in a pattern of racketeering activity that included robbery, prostitution and sex trafficking. Carrillo further admitted to committing racketeering activity himself, including two specific armed robberies.
Carrillo, Calhoun and Moore admitted to participating in the January 19, 2019, armed robbery of San Carlos Jewelers in San Diego and the February 11, 2019, armed robbery of the Bert Levi Family Jewelers in San Diego.
Calhoun also admitted to robbing the Medicine Shoppe in San Diego by gunpoint on May 20, 2019. Calhoun and Moore both admitted to being Lincoln Park Bloods (LPK) gang members; Carrillo admitted to being an Emerald Hills gang member, a Bloods-aligned street gang that often works cooperatively with LPK. Calhoun and Moore were sentenced by U.S. District Judge Cynthia Bashant to 176 months and 105 months in custody, respectively.
According to their plea agreements, in furtherance of the racketeering conspiracy, Jerome Brunson admitted to being an LPK member who participated in the November 19, 2019, armed robbery of a Jared’s jewelry store in National City. Judge Bashant sentenced Brunson to 57 months in custody. Dajay Scott and Sergio Louden admitted to being LPK members who robbed numerous women of their purses outside nail salons in January 2020. Judge Bashant sentenced Scott and Louden to 48 months and 72 months in custody, respectively.
Cedric Jordan, Maurice Johnson, and Taashawn Henderson admitted to being LPK members who, during the course and in furtherance of the conspiracy, engaged in sex offenses related to sex trafficking and transportation for purposes of prostitution. Judge Bashant sentenced Jordan, Johnson, and Henderson to 63 months, 60 months, and 58 months in custody, respectively.
“Every member of our community is put at risk when criminal street gangs engage in armed robberies, sex trafficking, and other violent criminal acts,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Andrew Haden. “This case is the result of outstanding teamwork and collaboration between our local and federal law enforcement partners. We will continue to hold these violent groups accountable, using the RICO tools at our disposal, to bring justice to crime victims and to make our community safer.”
“Today’s sentencing reflects the hard work, determination, and collaboration of multiple agencies to dismantle an organized crime conspiracy,” said FBI San Diego Special Agent in Charge Stacey Moy. “The violent crime and gang threats are too diverse, too dangerous, and too all-encompassing for any of us to tackle alone. FBI will continue to work with our partners to disrupt violent crime, human traffickers, and violent gangs whose criminal acts devastate our communities.”
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mario J. Peia, Katherine E. A. McGrath, and Matthew Brehm.
DEFENDANTS Case Number 21cr2909-BAS
Jerome Brunson Age: 27 San Diego, CA
Cedric Jordan Age: 36 San Diego, CA
Stephen Nathaniel Calhoun, Jr. Age: 24 San Diego, CA
Carl Moore Age: 34 San Diego, CA
Maurice Johnson Age: 34 San Diego, CA
Dajay Leon Scott Age: 26 San Diego, CA
Taashawn Henderson Age: 29 San Diego, CA
Sergio Valentin Louden Age: 36 San Diego, CA
Odyssey Carrillo Age: 23 San Diego, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Conspiracy to Conduct Enterprise Affairs Through a Pattern of Racketeering Activity – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1962(d)
Maximum penalty: Twenty years in prison and $250,000 fine
Interference with Commerce by Robbery – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1951
Maximum penalty: Twenty years in prison and $250,000 fine
Brandishing a Firearm During and In Relation to a Crime of Violence – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 924(c)
Maximum penalty: Life in prison with a seven-year mandatory minimum and $250,000 fine
INVESTIGATING AGENCIES
Federal Bureau of Investigation
San Diego Police Department
San Diego Human Trafficking Task Force
San Diego County Sheriff’s Department
National City Police Department
San Diego County District Attorney’s Office
*The charges and allegations contained in an indictment or complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.
San Carlos Man Charged with Arson for Causing Watch Fire on San Carlos Apache Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – Keanu Rudy Dude, 25, an enrolled member of the San Carlos Apache Tribe and a San Carlos, Arizona resident, was arrested today on an outstanding indictment issued by a federal grand jury in Phoenix. He is charged with Arson for the July 2024 Watch Fire on the San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation.
The Watch Fire burned over 2,000 acres of land owned by the San Carlos Apache Tribe. Twenty-one homes identified in the indictment were destroyed by the fire. Four hundred families had to be evacuated from their homes and the areas surrounding San Carlos. Dude will have his initial appearance on Monday, February 24, 2025.
An indictment is merely an allegation of criminal conduct, not evidence. An individual is presumed innocent until evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
The FBI’s Phoenix Field Office, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the San Carlos Apache Police and Fire Departments and the San Carlos Ranger and Forestry Departments conducted the investigation in this case. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Phoenix, is handling the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-24-1579-PHX-DJH
RELEASE NUMBER: 2025-022_Dude# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on X @USAO_AZ for the latest news.Saad Healthcare Agrees to Pay $3M to Settle False Claims Act Allegations That It Billed Medicare for Ineligible Hospice PatientsRead the Press Release
Saad Enterprises Inc., doing business as Saad Healthcare, has agreed to pay $3 million to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by knowingly submitting false claims for the care of hospice patients in Alabama who were ineligible for the Medicare hospice benefit because they were not terminally ill.
Hospice care is special, end-of-life care intended to comfort terminally ill patients. Patients admitted to hospice care generally stop receiving traditional medical care designed to cure their terminal condition and instead receive medical care focused on providing them with relief from the symptoms, pain, and stress of a terminal illness. Medicare patients are considered to be terminally ill and hospice-eligible when they have a life expectancy of six months or less if their illness runs its normal course.
“Respectful and appropriate end-of-life care is the crux of the hospice benefit under Medicare,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “The Department will hold accountable those who exploit this benefit for their own gain.”
“Caring for terminally ill people is a responsibility the United States and the Medicare program take seriously,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Keith A. Jones for the Southern District of Alabama. “Patients and taxpayers deserve not to be cheated, and the Department of Justice will continue to protect them.”
The settlement resolves allegations that between 2013 and 2020 Saad submitted, or caused the submission of, false claims to Medicare for 21 patients who did not meet the eligibility requirements for the Medicare hospice benefit as defined by statute and regulation, despite Saad knowing the patients were ineligible for the Medicare hospice benefit.
The civil settlement resolved a lawsuit filed under the qui tam or whistleblower provision of the False Claims Act, which permits private parties to file suit on behalf of the United States for false claims and share in a portion of the Government’s recovery. The qui tam lawsuit was filed by Melissa Wolff and Whitney Sims, former Saad employees, and is captioned United States ex rel. Wolff & Sims v. Saad Enterprises, Inc., Case No. 1:19-cv-00040 (S.D. Ala.). Ms. Wolff and Ms. Sims will receive $540,000 in connection with the settlement.
The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort amongst the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section; the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Alabama; and the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General.
The investigation and resolution of this matter illustrates the government’s emphasis on combating healthcare fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement, can be reported to the Department of Health and Human Services at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).
Assistant U.S. Attorney Nina Herring for the Southern District of Alabama and Trial Attorney Rory Skaggs of the Civil Division handled the matter.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.
Saad Healthcare Agrees to Pay $3M to Settle False Claims Act Allegations That It Billed Medicare for Ineligible Hospice PatientsRead the Press Release
Note: View the settlement here.
Saad Enterprises Inc., doing business as Saad Healthcare, has agreed to pay $3 million to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by knowingly submitting false claims for the care of hospice patients in Alabama who were ineligible for the Medicare hospice benefit because they were not terminally ill.
Hospice care is special, end-of-life care intended to comfort terminally ill patients. Patients admitted to hospice care generally stop receiving traditional medical care designed to cure their terminal condition and instead receive medical care focused on providing them with relief from the symptoms, pain, and stress of a terminal illness. Medicare patients are considered to be terminally ill and hospice-eligible when they have a life expectancy of six months or less if their illness runs its normal course.
“Respectful and appropriate end-of-life care is the crux of the hospice benefit under Medicare,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “The Department will hold accountable those who exploit this benefit for their own gain.”
“Caring for terminally ill people is a responsibility the United States and the Medicare program take seriously,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Keith A. Jones for the Southern District of Alabama. “Patients and taxpayers deserve not to be cheated, and the Department of Justice will continue to protect them.”
The settlement resolves allegations that between 2013 and 2020 Saad submitted, or caused the submission of, false claims to Medicare for 21 patients who did not meet the eligibility requirements for the Medicare hospice benefit as defined by statute and regulation, despite Saad knowing the patients were ineligible for the Medicare hospice benefit.
The civil settlement resolved a lawsuit filed under the qui tam or whistleblower provision of the False Claims Act, which permits private parties to file suit on behalf of the United States for false claims and share in a portion of the Government’s recovery. The qui tam lawsuit was filed by Melissa Wolff and Whitney Sims, former Saad employees, and is captioned United States ex rel. Wolff & Sims v. Saad Enterprises, Inc., Case No. 1:19-cv-00040 (S.D. Ala.). Ms. Wolff and Ms. Sims will receive $540,000 in connection with the settlement.
The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort amongst the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section; the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Alabama; and the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General.
The investigation and resolution of this matter illustrates the government’s emphasis on combating healthcare fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement, can be reported to the Department of Health and Human Services at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).
Assistant U.S. Attorney Nina Herring for the Southern District of Alabama and Trial Attorney Rory Skaggs of the Civil Division handled the matter.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.
Robber Sentenced for Stealing 87-Year-Old’s Wallet at a McDonald’s in Northwest D.C.Read the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Aaron Herndon, 39, of Suitland, MD, was sentenced today to 18 months in prison for the robbery of an 87-year-old in Northwest D.C. on May 5, 2024, announced U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin, Jr. and Chief Pamela Smith, of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
Herndon pleaded guilty on December 17, 2024. Superior Court Judge Jason Park also ordered three years of supervised release.
According to the government’s evidence, at approximately 1:00 p.m., on May 5, 2024, the 87-year-old victim was purchasing gift cards from the McDonald’s restaurant located at 4100 Wisconsin Avenue NW. Video footage from the restaurant shows the defendant approach the victim from behind, as he was exiting the restroom, and reach into the victim’s jacket pocket, and take his wallet. Multiple witnesses observed Herndon flee on foot. Herndon was subsequently arrested later the same day by law enforcement, wearing the same clothing he wore at the time of the robbery.
This case was investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Negar Kordestani and Trisha Jhunjhnuwala of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Hannah Skopicki.
Richmond fraudster sentenced to four years in prison for using false documents to take possession of vacant propertiesRead the Press Release
RICHMOND, Va. – A Richmond man was sentenced to four years in prison for mail fraud relating to his scheme to acquire real estate properties through forgeries and filing false documents.
According to court documents, from August of 2019 through September of 2022, Ali Mif Bey, formerly Richard Lewis Miffin, 45, engaged in a scheme to fraudulently transfer title and ownership of real estate properties from the legitimate owners to himself and entities affiliated with and controlled by Bey. Bey, a self-proclaimed member of the Moorish sovereign citizen movement, identified and targeted properties to unlawfully deed to himself and to entities that were either fictitious or alter egos of Bey, or entities that he operated and controlled and for which he served as the registered agent. The properties Bey targeted were generally in pre-foreclosure or foreclosure. In some instances, the owners were deceased and the properties were subject to probate court proceedings.
Bey created fraudulent property deeds purporting to convey ownership. Bey also forged or caused to be forged the signatures of the legitimate owners of the properties onto the fraudulent deeds he created without the property owners' knowledge and consent. Bey would have the fraudulent deeds notarized, typically at UPS stores, to give them the appearance of legitimacy and to satisfy the recording requirements of county recorders. Bey filed the fraudulent deeds with either the Richmond Circuit Court Clerk's Office, the Henrico County Circuit Court Clerk's Office, or the Chesterfield County Circuit Court Clerk's Office.
On more than one occasion, Bey attempted to purchase foreclosed properties at auction using fraudulent money orders purportedly backed by and redeemable at the United States Treasury.
At one auction, Bey signed a memorandum of sale and submitted for payment a fraudulent money order in the amount of $250,000. After discovering the fraudulent nature of the money order, the law firm handling the foreclosure sale sent Bey a letter prohibiting Bey from bidding on any future sale held by the law firm, and the law firm scheduled another auction for the property. In response, Bey mailed a letter to the law firm demanding that the firm stop the auction and asserting that Bey would file another lien on a related third party and would seek to enforce a lien previously filed against the law firm if the sale continued.
Bey appeared at another auction, signed the entry sheet, and brought with him a fraudulent money order for $250,000. As part of the check-in process for auction participants, Bey presented the money order to an employee of the auction. Because of the suspicious appearance of the money order and Bey's behavior, however, he was not allowed to participate in the auction.
After fraudulently deeding the properties to himself, Bey used various means to attempt to stop the legitimate owners or custodians of those properties from completing lawful transfers of the properties. Bey would occupy, possess, repurpose, and/or rent the properties for his personal gain. Typically, he would change the locks on the properties, display a flag associated with the Moorish sovereign citizen movement, post written ''No Trespassing" notices on the properties, and arrange public utility services for the properties. Bey personally occupied and resided in at least one of the properties that he fraudulently acquired. Bey listed some of the properties for rent. His tenants were unaware that Bey was not the legitimate owner of the properties and had no authority to offer them for rent.
Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Stanley M. Meador, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Richmond Field Office, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge David J. Novak.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas A. Garnett and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Kashan K. Pathan prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:24-cr-14.
Repeat Drug Offender Sentenced to Federal Prison for Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard Barker announced today that on February 19, 2025, United States District Judge Thomas O. Rice sentenced Nicholas J. Kloepfel, age 41, of Graham, Washington, to 96 months in prison on one count of Felon in Possession of a Firearm. Judge Rice also imposed 3 years of supervised release.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, on January 20, 2024, Officers with the Kalispel Police Department identified Kloepfel at the Northen Quest Casino engaged in what was believed to be illegal activity. Klopefel was on federal supervision out of the Western District of Washington and did not have permission to be on this side of the state. Officers learned Kloepfel had an extensive history related to drug trafficking and was on federal supervised release after having been sentenced to more than 190 months previously for a federal firearm and drug trafficking conviction. Through Kalipsel Police Department’s ongoing investigation, they requested the assistance of the Airway Heights Police Department to conduct a traffic stop of Kleopfel. Officers also confirmed there was an active warrant for Kloepfel’s arrest for multiple violations of his federal supervised release. Officers conducted a traffic stop a short distance away and took Kloepfel into custody.
Investigators executed a state search warrant and searched Kloepfel’s vehicle, which had been identified in connection with a drug investigation in Eastern Washington. Investigators located three loaded handguns, ammunition, a fake silencer, a small amount of drugs, and drug paraphernalia. Based on Kloepfel’s extensive criminal history, he was prohibited from the possession of firearms.
“As part of his arguments at sentencing, Mr. Kloepfel asserted that he possessed the firearms and drugs because of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, resulting from his prior incarceration and from being a gang dropout. The defendant even compared to being a Vietnam veteran,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Barker. “As AUSA Stephanie Van Marter put it at the sentencing hearing, Mr. Kloepfel’s comparison of himself with a Vietnam veteran is simply ‘offensive.’”
“The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) deeply values its strong partnership with the Kalispel Tribe, which acted swiftly to address this matter. The heightened sentence of this repeat offender underscores the gravity with which Indian Country law enforcement treats crimes committed on and in connection to their lands,” said BIA-DDE Deputy Associate Director Tom Atkinson. “The offender's lack of remorse highlights the necessity of addressing such cases. The BIA - Division of Drug Enforcement (DDE) remains committed to collaborating with tribes to improve their lands and enhance public safety across all their communities.”
This case was investigated by the Kalispel Tribal Police. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie Van Marter.
2:24-cr-00045-TOR
Railroad employee pays to settle False Claims Act liabilityRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 53-year-old federal railroad employee has agreed to pay $24,000 to resolve potential violations related to his submission of unemployment benefit claims under the Railroad Unemployment Insurance Act during the COVID-19 pandemic, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Between April 20, 2020, and Aug. 27, 2021, Chad Gillingwater, Katy, allegedly falsely claimed federal unemployment benefits.
Gillingwater was not entitled to those funds because he was already receiving state unemployment benefits and/or paid leave from his employer at the same time. Gillingwater also received additional benefits under The Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act, which extended unemployment insurance benefits for railroad workers sidelined during COVID-19.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office conducted the investigation with assistance from the Railroad Retirement Board - Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney (AUSA) Michelle Luong handled the matter.
Previously Convicted Sex Offender Sentenced to Life in Prison for Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Victor Armando Simms, 54, a previously convicted sex offender who most recently lived in Southeast Washington D.C., was sentenced today to life in federal prison in connection with his sexual abuse of multiple young girls, recording many of the incidents, and amassing a library of 3,300 still images and over 250 videos depicting the sexual abuse of children.
The sentencing was announced by U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin, Jr., FBI Special Agent in Chief Sean Ryan of the FBI Washington Field Office Criminal and Cyber Division, and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department.
Simms, aka “Stacey Patrick Simms,” pleaded guilty on May 20, 2024, before U.S. District Judge Tanya S. Chutkan to first degree child sexual abuse with aggravating circumstances, two counts of aggravated sexual abuse with children, three counts of sexual exploitation of children, and possession of child pornography.
According to court documents, law enforcement was called on January 15, 2023, when a young girl discovered explicit images of child sexual abuse depicting herself on an iPad belonging to Simms. The same day, Simms was formally placed under arrest and charged by complaint with one count of first-degree child sexual abuse in D.C. Superior Court.
On January 17, 2023, the FBI’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force executed a search warrant at Simms’s residence and seized multiple electronic devices including an iPad and a one-terabyte external hard drive. In addition, law enforcement agents seized numerous pills and pill bottles, which were believed to be used to sedate the young victims. Many of the videos produced by Simms showed the young victims asleep during the sexual assaults.
The forensic examination of the external hard drive revealed 3300 still images and 250 videos depicting the sexual abuse of children, many of which included metadata indicating the date, time, and location where the file was initially produced. The metadata indicated that the minor female victims were sexually exploited and abused by Simms in Washington D.C., and at hotels in Maryland and Virginia. The investigation into this matter also revealed that Simms has engaged in acts of child sexual abuse and sexual exploitation of minors since approximately 1997.
According to court documents, Simms is a previously adjudicated sex offender. He was convicted in North Carolina in 2005 of indecent liberties with a six-year-old child and a felony child sex act.
According to court documents, Simms used drugs to incapacitate some of the children, but not all, to make it easier to abuse them and to ensure they had no memory of his criminal conduct. He recorded the sexual abuse of these children, including anally and vaginally penetrating them, to ensure he had souvenirs of his crimes to carry with him. He raped and abused at least ten young victims.
This case was investigated by the FBI Washington Field Office’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force. The task force is composed of FBI agents and detectives from the Metropolitan Police Department, along with other federal agents and detectives from northern Virginia and the District of Columbia. The task force is charged with investigating and bringing federal charges against individuals engaged in the exploitation of children and those engaged in human trafficking.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jocelyn Bond, Sarah Folse, and Caroline Burrell. The prosecution team received valuable assistance from Victim-Witness Advocate Yvonne Bryant and Paralegal Specialist Melissa Macechko, as well as former Paralegal Specialist Alexis Spencer-Anderson.
23cr41
Parmelee Man Sentenced for Domestic Assault by an Habitual OffenderRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Schulte has sentenced a Parmelee, South Dakota, man convicted of Domestic Assault by an Habitual Offender. The sentencing took place on February 20, 2025.
William Verlin Fool Bull, Sr., age 45, was sentenced to five years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Fool Bull was indicted by a federal grand jury in January 2024. He pleaded guilty on November 19, 2024.
By October 4, 2023, Fool Bull had been in a relationship with his girlfriend for approximately 10 years. They lived together with their two young children in Parmelee, which lies within the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation. On October 4, Fool Bull punched his girlfriend in the face several times and suffocated her in their home. The assault stopped when Fool Bull’s girlfriend kicked him in the knee and fled. Fool Bull has two prior convictions for domestic abuse.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian Country be prosecuted in Federal court as opposed to State court.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carl Thunem prosecuted the case.
Fool Bull was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
O’Fallon, Missouri Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Prison on Child Sex ChargesRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Sarah E. Pitlyk on Friday sentenced a man who engaged in sexual activity with a 15-year-old that he met online and discussed sex with another 15-year-old to 25 years in prison.
Andrew Haller, 34, met two 15-year-old girls on Tumblr before moving their conversations to the encrypted app Telegram.
The 15-year-old California victim came forward in October of 2023 and told the FBI that Haller was sexually abusing another teen. She said Haller told her that he had imposed rules on the other victim, and proposed rules for the California victim. The rules included that she would have to ask his permission once a day to urinate, wear a collar and refer to him only as “Sir,” Dad” or “Daddy.” He also asked her for nude photos and sent her photos and videos of the other victim.
After identifying Haller and performing a court-approved search of his home in November of 2023, the FBI identified that other victim. The victim told the FBI that she met Haller in person twice in 2023 and engaged in sexual activity. Haller struck her during the first visit and took pictures and videos of her, his plea says. He also told her he wanted to abuse children too young to talk or remember the abuse. She sent Haller sexually explicit photos at his direction.
In a letter to the court, the second victim said Haller won her trust by claiming that he suffered mental illness, as she did. Then he began controlling her, making demands and ordering her to carve his initial into her thigh. “He wanted me to have kids so he could abuse them,” she wrote.
Haller also possessed 195 images and 92 videos of known or suspected child sexual abuse material and sent that material to others via Telegram and Signal, another encrypted app, his plea says.
Haller pleaded guilty in October to two counts of coercion and enticement of a minor, one count of distribution of child pornography and one count of receipt of child pornography.
The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Hayes prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Department of Justice Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Orleans Parish Resident Guilty of Controlled Substances and Gun Control Acts ViolationsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael Simpson announced today that DAVID KELLUP JR., (“KELLUP”), age 45, of New Orleans, pled guilty on February 13, 2025 before U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier to Counts 2, 4, 5, and 8 of the indictment pending against him. Sentencing is scheduled for May 24, 2025.
KELLUP was charged in Count 2 with Possession with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances, in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), and 841(b)(1)(C). At sentencing, he faces a minimum of 5 years and up to 40 years imprisonment, up to a $5,000,000 fine, and at least 4 years of supervised release.
KELLUP was charged in Count 4 with possessing firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes, in violation of Title 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1). At sentencing, he faces a mandatory minimum of 5 years up to life imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to 5 years of supervised release following imprisonment. Any sentence on Count 4 must run consecutive to any other sentence.
KELLUP was charged in Count 5 with possessing firearms after being convicted of certain felonies, in violation of Title 18 U.S.C. §922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8). At sentencing, he faces up to fifteen years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to 3 years of supervised release following imprisonment.
KELLUP was charged in Count 8 with maintaining a drug-involved premises, in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. § 856(a) and Title 18 U.S.C. § 2. Count 8 carries up to 20 years imprisonment, up to a $500,000 fine, and at least 3 years of supervised release following imprisonment. All four counts also carry a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
According to the indictment, beginning on a time unknown but continuing until at least May 8, 2024, KELLUP and other individuals, maintained three residences in the Algiers neighborhood of New Orleans for the purpose of packaging and distributing narcotics, including fentanyl, cocaine, and heroin. Several of these individuals furthered this drug trafficking conspiracy by possessing firearms.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Louisiana State Police, and the New Orleans Police Department. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Stuart Theriot of the Narcotics Unit.
Orange Park Man Sentenced to Two Years’ Imprisonment for Firearms ViolationRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – Senior United States District Judge Brian J. Davis has sentenced D’eante Corker (25, Orange Park) to two years in federal prison for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Corker was found guilty on November 26, 2024, following a bench trial.
According to court documents, on March 27, 2024, a deputy from the Clay County Sheriff’s Office conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Corker. During the stop, a canine officer arrived at the scene and his canine alerted to the presence of narcotics in the vehicle, which led to a search of Corker’s vehicle. During the search, a loaded Smith & Wesson pistol was found under the hood of the vehicle. Corker admitted to knowing about the firearm under the hood and that he was unable to lawfully possess firearms as a convicted felon.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Clay County Sherriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John Cannizzaro.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Oklahoma City Woman Sentenced for Stealing More than $1.1M from her EmployerRead the Press Release
TULSA, Okla. – Today, U.S. District Judge Gregory K. Frizzell sentenced Amy D. Shelton, 38, for Bank Fraud and Willfully Making and Subscribing a False Federal Income Tax Return. Judge Frizzell ordered Shelton to be imprisoned for 30 months, followed by five years of supervised release. Further, Judge Frizzell ordered Shelton to pay $870,934.67 in restitution to her former employer and $309,167 to the IRS.
“Shelton not only stole from a local business owner, but she also betrayed her employer’s trust,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “This deliberate decision not only affected her employer but also defrauded the government, harming taxpayers.”
“Ms. Shelton’s sentence sends a clear message that tax fraud is not a victimless crime, and the government will hold these criminals accountable for their actions,” said Christopher J. Altemus Jr., Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Dallas Field Office. “She broke the trust of her former employer by embezzling more than a million dollars and then chose not to include all her income when she filed her taxes. The women and men of IRS Criminal Investigation will continue to bring people to justice who blatantly disregard their civic duty and willfully break the law by filing false tax returns. As part of her plea agreement and sentencing, Ms. Shelton is ordered to pay almost $1.2 million in restitution to her former employer and the IRS for back taxes, penalties, and interest.”
According to court documents, Shelton began working as an account manager for her employer in 2015. She was entrusted with handling payroll, paying bills, collecting rent, and updating financial documents. From May 2019 through November 2022, Shelton wrote more than 150 checks to herself, totaling more than 1.1 million dollars. With those funds, Shelton purchased luxury items, including recreational vehicles, purses, jewelry, and dozens of firearms. Further, Shelton did not report her income accurately and falsified her tax refunds.
Shelton was permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons.
The IRS-Criminal Investigations and the U.S. Secret Service investigated the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Elliot P. Anderson prosecuted it.
Ohio doctor agrees to pay $600,000 to settle False Claims Act allegationsRead the Press Release
CINCINNATI – An Ohio physician has agreed to pay the United States $600,000, plus contingent payments, to resolve False Claims Act allegations that he submitted fraudulent Medicare claims related to electro-acupuncture devices.
Ronald F. Ambrosia, 56, of Powell, Ohio, is a doctor licensed in Ohio who provided electrical nerve pulse stimulation services to patients in facilities across the state.
From 2016 until 2018, Ambrosia allegedly improperly billed Medicare for the application of percutaneous electrical nerve pulse stimulation devices (the “P-Stim Device”) in an office setting. The P-Stim Device is a device for treatment of chronic pain that, pursuant to manufacturer’s instructions, is affixed behind a patient’s ear using an adhesive. Needles are inserted into the patient’s ear and affixed using another adhesive. Once activated, the device then provides intermittent stimulation by electrical pulses. It is a single-use, battery-powered device designed to be worn for several days until its battery runs out, at which time the device is thrown away.
The procedures allegedly did not involve any surgery, anesthesia, or take place in an operating room (or even at a facility with such capabilities) but were billed to Medicare as surgically implanted neurostimulators, contrary to repeated guidance from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.
Kelly A. Norris, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, announced the settlement. This matter was investigated by agents with the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorneys Linda Mindrutiu and W. Hunter West are representing the United States in this matter.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.
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New Orleans Man Sentenced for Attempted Carjacking and Federal Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that WARREN ROLAND (“ROLAND”), age 33, was sentenced on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, by United States District Judge Brandon S. Long, after previously pleading guilty to the indictment pending against him. Count 1 of the indictment charged ROLAND with attempted carjacking, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2119(1). Count 2 charged him with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2).
ROLAND was sentenced to 137 months imprisonment as to Count 1 and 120 months as to Count 2, both counts to run concurrently. Judge Long also ordered that ROLAND be placed on supervised release for 3 years and pay a $200 mandatory special assessment fee.
On March 24, 2022, a concerned citizen called 9-1-1 after seeing a person acting suspiciously and openly carrying a firearm in his hand on Read Boulevard, in New Orleans East. The caller described the suspect and New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) officers saw a man matching that description, who was later identified as ROLAND. The officers attempted to stop ROLAND for questioning, but he fled on foot. A NOPD officer chased ROLAND on foot and saw him grab a black firearm from his waistband while running.
ROLAND ran into traffic on Read Boulevard, grabbed the front passenger side doorhandle of a stopped Toyota SUV, and tried to open the door while brandishing the firearm. The driver of the SUV attempted to drive away, but ROLAND held the handle and discharged a round from his firearm.
ROLAND eventually let go and was arrested. The firearm, a nine-millimeter Smith and Wesson Model SD9 pistol, loaded with 14 live rounds, was recovered at the scene. One spent shell casing was also found in the chamber of the weapon.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the New Orleans Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Dawkins of the Violent Crime Unit.
Nevada Woman Indicted in Romance Scheme to Defraud SeniorsRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas, Nevada, woman has been charged in a 21-count superseding indictment for allegedly luring older men she met through online dating services and stealing their monies for her personal benefit.
Aurora Phelps, 43, with residences in Las Vegas and Guadalajara, Mexico, is charged with seven counts of wire fraud; three counts of mail fraud; six counts of bank fraud; three counts of identity theft; one count of kidnapping; and one count of kidnapping resulting in death. Phelps is currently in custody in Mexico.
According to allegations contained in the superseding indictment, from July 1, 2021, to December 9, 2022, Phelps would meet older men on dating websites or services, then meet them in-person. It was part of her scheme to drug the older men to gain unauthorized access to and steal money from their financial accounts to personally benefit herself and her family members.
The superseding indictment stems from a two-year investigation by the FBI Las Vegas Division. The superseding indictment was returned by a federal grand jury in September 2023.
Photo of defendant Aurora Phelps, from court document in United States of America v. Aurora Phelps, number 2:23-cr-0167-CDS-DJA, in U.S. District Court for the District of Nevada.
In romance scams, the scammer gains an unsuspecting individual’s affection and trust, then uses the illusion of a romantic or close relationship to manipulate and/or steal from the victim. These schemes not only cause significant financial losses, but also deeply impact the lives of victims.
If convicted on all counts, Phelps faces a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison.
The charges were announced by Acting United States Attorney Sue Fahami for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans for the FBI Las Vegas Division.
The investigation is a result of the close cooperation between the United States and Mexican authorities. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs is providing significant assistance in this case. Assistant United States Attorneys Daniel R. Schiess and Steven J. Rose are prosecuting the case.
An FBI website has been established seeking to identify potential victims. Any individuals who believe they or someone they know may have been victimized by Phelps or otherwise have information related to the case are encouraged to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or complete a survey via this website https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/victim-services/seeking-victim-information/seeking-victim-information-in-aurora-phelps-investigation.
If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has experienced financial fraud, experienced professionals are standing by at the National Elder Fraud Hotline 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). This Justice Department hotline, managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, can provide personalized support to callers by assessing the needs of the victim and identifying relevant next steps. Case managers will identify appropriate reporting agencies, provide information to callers to assist them in reporting, connect callers directly with appropriate agencies, and provide resources and referrals, on a case-by-case basis. Reporting is the first step. Reporting can help authorities identify those who commit fraud and reporting certain financial losses due to fraud as soon as possible can increase the likelihood of recovering losses. The hotline is open Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET. English, Spanish and other languages are available.
More information about the department’s efforts to help older Americans is available at its Elder Justice Initiative webpage, which can be found at elderjustice.gov. For more information about the Consumer Protection Branch and its enforcement efforts, visit www.justice.gov/civil/consumer-protection-branch. Elder fraud complaints can be filed with the FTC at www.reportfraud.ftc.gov/ or at 877-FTC-HELP. The Justice Department provides a variety of resources relating to elder fraud victimization through its Office for Victims of Crime, at www.ovc.gov.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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aurora_superseding_indictment_coversheet_508_0.pdf aurora_ex_parte_motion_to_unseal_coversheet_508_0.pdfMujer De Nevada Acusada De Estafa Romántica De Adultos MayoresRead the Press Release
Las Vegas – Se le han imputado 21 cargos a una mujer de Las Vegas, Nevada, en una acusación formal modificada por presuntamente seducir a hombres mayores que conoció a través de servicios de citas en línea y robarles su dinero para beneficio personal.
Aurora Phelps, de 43 años de edad y con residencias en Las Vegas, Nevada y Guadalajara, México, está acusada de siete cargos de fraude electrónico; tres cargos de fraude postal; seis cargos de fraude bancario; tres cargos de robo de identidad; y dos cargos de secuestro. Phelps se encuentra actualmente detenida en México.
Según las acusaciones contenidas en la acusación formal modificada, desde el 1 de julio de 2021 hasta el 9 de diciembre de 2022, Phelps conocía a hombres mayores por medio de sitios web o servicios de citas, y luego los conocía en persona. Parte de su plan era drogar a los hombres para obtener acceso no autorizado y robar dinero de sus cuentas financieras para beneficiarse personalmente a si misma y a los miembros de su familia.
La acusación formal modificada se deriva de una investigación de dos años realizada por la División del FBI de Las Vegas. La acusación formal modificada fue presentada por el gran jurado federal en septiembre de 2023.
Foto de la acusada Aurora Phelps, tomada del documento judicial en Estados Unidos de América vs. Aurora Phelps, número 2:23-cr-0167-CDS-DJA, en el Tribunal de Distrito de los Estados Unidos para el Distrito de Nevada.
En las estafas de romance, el estafador gana el afecto y la confianza de un individuo desprevenido, luego utiliza la ilusión de una relación romántica o cercana para manipular y/o robar a la víctima. Estos esquemas no solo causan pérdidas financieras, sino que también tienen un profundo impacto en la vida de las víctimas.
Si es declarada culpable de todos los cargos, Phelps se enfrenta a una pena máxima de cadena perpetua.
Los cargos fueron anunciados por la fiscal interina de los Estados Unidos Sue Fahami para el Distrito de Nevada y el agente especial a cargo Spencer L. Evans para la División del FBI de Las Vegas.
La investigación es el resultado de la estrecha cooperación entre las autoridades estadounidenses y mexicanas. La Oficina de Asuntos Internacionales del Departamento de Justicia está proporcionando asistencia significativa en este caso. Los fiscales federales adjuntos Daniel R. Scheiss y Steven J. Rose están procesando el caso.
Se ha creado un sitio web del FBI que busca identificar posibles víctimas. Se recomienda a cualquier persona que crea que él o alguien que conoce puede haber sido víctima de Phelps o que tenga información relacionada con el caso, se comunique con el FBI al 1-800-CALL-FBI o complete una encuesta a través del sitio web https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/victim-services/seeking-victim-information/seeking-victim-information-in-aurora-phelps-investigation.
Si usted o alguien que conoce tiene 60 años o más y ha experimentado fraude financiero, los profesionales con experiencia están a la orden por la Línea Informativa Nacional de Fraude a Personas Mayores, 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). Esta línea directa del Departamento de Justicia, administrada por la Oficina de Victimas de Delitos, puede brindar apoyo personalizado a quienes llamen evaluando las necesidades de la victima e identificando los próximos pasos pertinentes. Los administradores de casos identificarán a los organismos de informes apropiados, proveerán información a las personas que llamen para ayudarles a denunciar, conectar directamente con los organismos apropiados y facilitarán recursos y recomendaciones, basado en los particulares de cada caso. Denunciar es el primer paso y puede ayudar a las autoridades a identificar a quienes cometen fraude. De igual manera, denunciar ciertas pérdidas financieras debido a fraude lo más antes posible, puede aumentar la probabilidad de recuperar las pérdidas. La línea directa esta abierta de lunes a viernes de 10:00 a.m. a 6:00 p.m., hora oficial del oriente. El inglés, español y otros idiomas están disponibles.
Más información sobre los esfuerzos del departamento para ayudar a los estadounidenses de edad avanzada está disponible en la página web de la Iniciativa de Justicia para Ancianos, que se puede encontrar en www.elderjustice.gov. Para obtener más información sobre la Subdivisión de Protección al Consumidor y sus medidas de aplicación, visite www.justice.gov/civil/consumer-protection-branch. Las denuncias por fraude a personas mayores pueden presentarse ante la Comisión Federal de Comercio en www.reportfraud.ftc.gov/ o llamando al 877-FTC-HELP. El Departamento de Justicia proporciona una variedad de recursos relacionados con la victimización por fraude a personas mayores a través de su Oficina para Víctimas de Delitos en www.ovc.gov.
Una acusación formal es simplemente una alegación. Todos los acusados se presumen inocentes hasta que se demuestre su culpabilidad más allá de toda duda razonable en un tribunal de justicia.
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aurora_superseding_indictment_coversheet_508_0.pdf aurora_ex_parte_motion_to_unseal_coversheet_508_0.pdfMississippi Woman Pleads Guilty to Scheme to Defraud COVID-19 Relief Program of over $5,000,000Read the Press Release
Memphis, TN – A Mississippi woman has pled guilty to defrauding the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), a federal program intended to help small businesses survive the COVID-19 pandemic, of over $5,000,000. Reagan Fondren, Acting United States Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the guilty plea today.
On February 20, 2025, Lisa Evans, 42, of Olive Branch, Mississippi, pled guilty before United States District Judge Thomas L. Parker to conspiracy to commit wire fraud. She will be sentenced on May 22, 2025 and faces a maximum term of 20 years in federal prison. There is no parole in the federal system.
According to information presented in court, Evans submitted fraudulent PPP loan applications for numerous individuals who were not entitled to PPP loans. The applications Evans submitted contained false representations, including fake federal tax documents. When the individual borrowers obtained the PPP loan funds, they then paid Evans kickbacks of 20 to 30 percent. The loss to the PPP program was $5,126,258.
Acting U.S. Attorney Fondren stated: “Individuals cheating the Paycheck Protection Program stole money from U.S. taxpayers who desperately needed these loans to keep their small businesses afloat and pay their employees during the COVID-19 pandemic. I would especially like to commend and thank the federal law enforcement agencies who uncovered this fraud and brought this defendant to justice: the Federal Housing Finance Agency Office of Inspector General; the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Office of Inspector General; the U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, Gulf States Field Division; the U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General; the U.S. Secret Service, Memphis Field Office; and the Pandemic Response Accountability Committee. My office will continue to work with these law enforcement partners to bring those who committed pandemic benefit fraud in the Western District of Tennessee to justice and to recover stolen pandemic relief funds.”
Acting U.S. Attorney Fondren also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Tony Arvin, who prosecuted this case.
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For more information, please contact the Media Relations Team at [email protected]. Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office on Facebook or on X at @WDTNNews for office news and updates.
Michael White Sentenced to 100 Years on Federal Charges Related to Murder of Big Stone Gap Police Officer Michael ChandlerRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va. – Michael Donivan White was sentenced today to 100 years in federal prison on federal charges related to the November 2021 murder of Big Stone Gap Police Officer Michael Chandler and a wide-ranging drug conspiracy.
White, 36, of South Carolina, pled guilty to eight counts in relation to the murder of Officer Chandler. Specifically, he pled guilty to one count of causing the death of a person using a firearm, in which the killing was first-degree murder, in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, one count of conspiring to distribute or possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, one count of possessing with the intent to distribute 5 grams or more of methamphetamine, one count of using a place for the purpose of distributing or using a controlled substance, one count of using a communication facility in committing any felony-controlled substance offense, one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, one count of possession of a stolen firearm, and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and using, brandishing and discharging that firearm in relation to a drug trafficking crime.
“Today in U.S. District Court in Abingdon, Michael White was sentenced to spend the next 100 years of his life in federal prison for murdering Big Stone Gap Police Officer Michael Chandler,” Acting United States Attorney Zachary T. Lee said today. “No matter how righteous our prosecution was or how just this sentence is, no amount of jail time can bring back Officer Chandler. Our only hope is that today’s sentence brings some level of closure to Officer Chandler’s friends and family, the Big Stone Gap Police Department, and the Southwest Virginia law enforcement community. To all of the men and women who worked tirelessly to bring Michael White and his co-conspirators to justice, the Department of Justice is eternally grateful.”
"We can never bring Officer Michael Chandler back, and no sentence will ever fill the void left in the hearts of his family, friends, law enforcement community, and the Big Stone Gap community. But today's hearing helped bring some closure to his family. Michael White will spend decades behind bars for the cold-blooded murder of a hero. We will never stop fighting for those who put their lives on the line for our safety and security. Officer Chandler, you will never be forgotten,” said Attorney General Jason Miyares. “I commend the entire law enforcement community in Southwest Virginia and Northeast Tennessee for their dedicated work on this case, including the lead agencies, the Virginia State Police, ATF, the Wise County Sheriff’s Office, the Big Stone Gap Police Department, in addition to all agencies who assisted with this case. This case highlights the important collaboration between our federal and state partners, and I wish to specifically thank Virginia Senior Assistant Attorney General Suzanne Kerney-Quillen for her key role in this case. My office stands firmly with law enforcement across the Commonwealth and will continue to pursue all avenues possible to ensure that anyone who harms or kills a police officer is held fully accountable. I am honored that my office could support the investigation and prosecution concerning the senseless death of Big Stone Gap Police Officer Michael Chandler."
“Virginia State Police is pleased to have been able to help bring Michael White to justice and provide some closure to the family and friends of Officer Michael Chandler,” said Lieutenant Colonel Matthew Hanley, Interim Superintendent of Virginia State Police. “Officer Chandler was working to make the Commonwealth a better place and made the ultimate sacrifice.”
“We offer our deepest sympathies to the family, friends, and colleagues of Officer Michael Chandler as they continue to navigate this horrific tragedy “said ATF Washington Field Division Special Agent in Charge Anthony Spotswood. “We hope that this sentencing provides comfort to Officer Chandler’s family. It is also our hope that this sends a clear message of accountability to those that actively engage in violent crime especially when it results in injury or death to those who devote their lives to protecting and serving our communities. Prioritizing violent crime and enforcing federal firearms laws remain at the forefront of our daily mission.”
According to court documents, beginning in August 2021 and continuing even after the time of his arrest, White and 18 other defendants participated in a conspiracy to distribute more than 15 kilograms of methamphetamine, in addition to heroin and fentanyl.
Tragically, at approximately 4:00 a.m. on November 13, 2021, Big Stone Gape Police Officer Michael Chandler responded to a dispatch call at 2505 Orr Street in Big Stone Gap, known locally as “the red house.” Upon arriving at the red house, Officer Chandler encountered a vehicle outside the residence. Officer Chandler requested backup, telling dispatch, “This car is taking off on me.” Inside the vehicle, Michael White told a female co-defendant, Misty Ward, to “get the fu*k out of there” because there were drugs in the vehicle and that “he was not going back to jail.” Ward started to drive off as directed, but then stopped and got out of the vehicle. At that point, White attempted to flee the scene, however the vehicle got stuck in the grass. Officer Chandler approached the vehicle on the driver’s side.
White brandished a Taurus 9mm pistol and immediately fired eight shots through the driver’s side window and door, striking Officer Chandler’s wrist and abdomen just below his bulletproof vest.
Officer Chandler died later that evening from his injuries.
Following the shooting, law enforcement identified White as a suspect. White was later located at a motel in Kingsport, Tennessee and a subsequent search of the motel room found a Taurus, 9mm pistol. Further testing ultimately proved this firearm to be the same one that fired the shots that killed Officer Chandler.
This investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Virginia State Police, the United States Marshal’s Service, the Wise County Sheriff’s Office, the City of Norton Virginia Police Department, the Kingsport Tennessee Police Department, the Big Stone Gap Police Department, the Wise County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, the East Tennessee Drug Task Force, and the Southwest Virginia Drug Task Force, which is comprised of investigators from the Virginia State Police, Lee County Sheriff’s Office, Scott County Sheriff’s Office, Wise County Sheriff’s Office, City of Norton Police Department, and Big Stone Gap Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lena L. Busscher and Danielle Stone prosecuted the case with the valuable assistance of Jim Patterson of the Department of Justice’s Capital Case Section.
Miami Resident Charged with Leading Money Laundering Operation for Transnational Criminal OrganizationsRead the Press Release
Earlier today, at the federal courthouse in Brooklyn, an indictment was unsealed charging Alain Bibliowicz Mitrani, a resident of Miami, Florida and a citizen of France and Colombia, with conspiracy to commit money laundering and conspiracy to operate an unlicensed money transmitting business. The defendant was charged for his role as a leader of a scheme to launder more than $300 million, including for persons affiliated with cartels and other transnational criminal organizations engaged in drug trafficking, such as the Sinaloa Cartel. The defendant is scheduled to make his initial appearance today in federal court in the Southern District of Florida. He will be arraigned in the Eastern District of New York at a later date.
John J. Durham, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, Michael Alfonso, Acting Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations, New York (HSI), and Harry T. Chavis, Jr., Special Agent in Charge, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, New York (IRS-CI), announced the charges.
“As alleged, the defendant used a seemingly legitimate technology company as a front for engaging in a multi-million dollar scheme that deliberately flouted federal laws to launder over $300 million, including for cartels and transnational criminal organizations engaged in drug trafficking,” stated United States Attorney Durham. “Today’s arrest demonstrates that this Office will arrest and vigorously prosecute those who help facilitate financing for international drug traffickers.”
“Alain Bibliowicz Mitrani’s alleged money laundering scheme crumbled today, as did any façade of legitimacy behind his purported technology business. These accusations mark the beginning of the end for an alleged criminal organization that stands accused of defrauding financial institutions and enabling the availability of narcotics to American communities. Every day, HSI’s El Dorado Task Force stands alongside our law enforcement partners in utilizing every tool in its belt to ensure the public’s wellbeing is always the priority,” Stated HSI Acting Special Agent in Charge Alfonso.
“With no regard for the rule of law, Bibliowicz supposedly laundered more than a quarter billion dollars in drug money. It’s alleged he is complicit in the moving of these illicit funds through shell companies to locations around the globe. It’s time that he was stopped, and this arrest means Bibliowicz is no longer in the dirty-cash-washing business,” said Harry T. Chavis, Jr., IRS-CI New York Special Agent in Charge.
As alleged in the indictment and court filings, from approximately 2020 to 2024, the defendant was an owner and leader of a company (the “Company”) that laundered drug proceeds through United States financial institutions. The defendant and his co-conspirators sought to have the Company appear as a legitimate technology business. In reality, the Company’s public-facing operations were a cover for an elaborate multi-million-dollar money laundering enterprise based in Florida and Colombia.
Cartels and other transnational criminal organizations that engage in drug trafficking operate vast criminal enterprises that generate significant revenue globally by trafficking illicit narcotics. Because these organizations generate billions of dollars in revenue annually from trafficked narcotics, they must find ways to repatriate these proceeds back to their home countries to fund their ongoing enterprises. In many cases, drug trafficking organizations rely on separate money laundering operations, such as the Company, to repatriate their funds. In exchange, money laundering organizations and their associates, like the defendant, earn a significant commission for taking on the risk of laundering illicit proceeds for these criminal organizations.
Here, the defendant established numerous shell companies that were used to open bank accounts that transmitted the illegal proceeds in an effort to obscure the source of the funds. To protect the scheme from detection, the defendant lied to U.S. financial institutions about the purpose and activities of these companies, and he failed to register as a money transmitting business as required under state and federal law. In total, financial records show that the defendant and his organization laundered more than $300 million.
The defendant used his profits from this scheme for personal expenses and to fund his lavish lifestyle, including to purchase diamond pendant jewelry from designer jewelry company Van Cleef & Arpels, make payments towards his approximately $4 million Miami mansion, and fund luxury travel, including more than $16,000 on luxury hotel stays abroad in April 2023.
If convicted of the money laundering conspiracy offenses, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of 20 years’ and 10 years’ imprisonment on each count. If convicted of the unlicensed money transmitting conspiracy offense, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of five years’ imprisonment on that count.
The charges in the indictment are allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s International Narcotics and Money Laundering Section. Assistant United States Attorneys Adam Amir and Philip Pilmar are in charge of the prosecution.
The Defendant:
ALAIN BIBLIOWICZ MITRANI
Age: 51
Miami, FloridaE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 25-CR-39 (CBA)
25-cr-39_alain_tzvi_bibliowicz_mitrani_indictment.pdfMexican National Sentenced to 5 Years Federal Prison for Illegal Reentry Following Multiple DeportationsRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, S.C. — Fermin Ortuno Valdovinos, 47, of Summerville, has been sentenced to five years in federal prison for illegal reentry of an alien after removal, subsequent to a conviction of an aggravated felony, and violation of supervised release.
Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that Valdovinos has a lengthy criminal history. He has reentered the country three times following three separate deportations. Additionally, Valdovinos has convictions for child sex crimes in the U.S.
On July 13, 2009, ICE officers encountered Valdovinos in the Anaheim City Jail in California where he was being held for charges of lewd and lascivious acts upon a child under 14 and forcible lewd and lascivious acts upon a child under 14. Valdovinos was interviewed and questioned regarding his immigration status in the United States and admitted entering the United States without being inspected, admitted, or paroled by an Immigration Officer.
On March 28, 2011, Valdovinos was convicted in the California Superior Court in Orange County, California of the offense of lewd and lascivious acts upon a child under 14 and sentenced to six years’ imprisonment, and for two counts of the offense of forcible lewd and lascivious acts upon a child under 14. He was sentenced to 12 years’ imprisonment.
While serving his sentence for child sex crimes, an Immigration official in San Berdino, California ordered Valdovinos to be removed to Mexico. Valdovinos was removed from the United States to Mexico on July 2, 2019.
Days later on July 11, 2019, near Sasabe, Arizona, Valdovinos illegally entered the United States and was encountered by a United States Border Patrol (USBP) agent. On Oct. 1, 2019, Valdovinos pleaded guilty to illegal reentry into the United States, subsequent to a conviction for a felony, in the United States District Court for the District of Arizona. On Jan. 6, 2020, Valdovinos was sentenced to 24-months’ imprisonment and 36-months’ supervised release.
On April 14, 2021, the Order of Removal was executed, whereby Valdovinos was removed from the United States to Mexico for a second time.
On July 8, 2022, in San Clemente, California, Valdovinos illegally entered the United States and was encountered by the USBP. On Sept. 21, 2022, Valdovinos pled guilty to improper attempted entry by an alien, in the United States District Court for the Southern District of California. He received a six month sentence. On Oct. 31, 2022, Valdovinos was found to be in violation of the terms of his supervised release in the United States District Court for the Southern District of California and was sentenced to eight months’ imprisonment and 24 months’ supervised release.
On July 5, 2023, the Order of Removal was executed, whereby Valdovinos was removed from the United States to Mexico for the third time.
At some point following the third removal, Valdovinos again reentered the U.S. On June 20, 2024, the Berkeley County, South Carolina Sheriff’s Office arrested Valdovinos for failing to register as a sex offender.
Valdovinos was charged with illegal reentry of an alien after removal, subsequent to a conviction of an aggravated felony. United States District Judge Richard M. Gergelsentenced Valdovinos to 50 months imprisonment, to be followed by a three-year term of supervised release. Judge Gergel also sentenced Valdovinos to 10 months imprisonment for violation of supervised release, to be served consecutive to the 50-month term of imprisonment.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security-U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement- Enforcement and Removal Operations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Dean H. Secor is prosecuting the case.
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Mexican National Pleads Guilty to Illegal Reentry into the United StatesRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – Acting United States Attorney Sara C. Sweeney announces that Jose Salazar Jimenez (28, Mexico) has pleaded guilty to illegal reentry of a removed alien. Salazar Jimenez faces a maximum penalty of two years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to court documents, between August 2019 and August 2024, Salazar Jimenez voluntarily entered the United States, with knowledge that he had previously been removed, and that he was not legally permitted to so enter. On August 18, 2024, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) officers found Salazar Jimenez in Hillsborough County.
Salazar Jimenez is a native and citizen of Mexico and was previously removed from the United States on four occasions between 2014 and 2019.
This case was investigated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO). It was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Joseph Wheeler, III and Assistant United States Attorney Lindsey Schmidt.
Mexican National Indicted for Aggravated Identity Theft and Passport FraudRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – Acting United States Attorney Sara C. Sweeney announces the return of an indictment charging Jose Manuel Ortiz Perdomo (41) with aggravated identity theft and making a false statement on a passport application. If convicted, Ortiz Perdomo faces a minimum sentence of 2 years, up to 12 years, in federal prison.
According to court records, on October 18, 2024, Ortiz Perdomo applied for a passport in a name that was not his own. Prior to applying for the passport, Ortiz Perdomo obtained means of identification in the victim’s name. When Ortiz Perdomo applied for the passport, he pretended to be the victim and submitted the fraudulent identification as his own.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service (DSS). It is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Michael Leath.
Mexican National Indicted After Traffic Stop for Alleged Criminal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
AUSTIN, Texas – A federal grand jury in Austin returned an indictment this week charging a Mexican national with one count of possession of firearm by illegal alien.
According to court documents, Marcelo Olvera-Moreno was stopped while driving in Hutto, Jan. 24. A Williamson Country Sheriff’s Office deputy conducted the traffic stop after allegedly observing the passenger in Olvera-Moreno’s vehicle fire a handgun from the front passenger window. Olvera-Moreno admitted to law enforcement that he knew that he was illegally and unlawfully in the United States and that he had purchased the pistol at a flea market approximately three months prior.
Olvera-Moreno made his initial court appearance Jan. 28. If convicted, he faces up to 15 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting U.S. Attorney Margaret Leachman for the Western District of Texas made the announcement.
Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Williamson Country Sheriff’s Office are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Gabriel Cohen and Daniel Castillo are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Mexican Man Sentenced to Prison for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – A Mexican citizen was sentenced yesterday to two years in federal prison for illegally returning to the United States after being deported.
According to public court documents, Juan Carlos Solis Roan, 40, had previously been deported from the United States four times between 2008 and 2020. Solis Roan had been convicted twice of illegal reentry, including in 2019 in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Iowa. In January 2024, law enforcement encountered Solis Roan, and in March 2024, Solis Roan was convicted in the Iowa District Court for Polk County of contempt for violating his probation for a 2006 drug conviction. There is no parole in the federal system.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations.