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Wednesday 18 December 2024
25th Patient of Missouri Chiropractic Office that Aided Disability Fraud SentencedRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – The 25th patient of a Jefferson County, Missouri chiropractic office involved in a multi-million dollar disability fraud conspiracy was sentenced Wednesday as part of an ongoing fraud investigation. Six more patients are set for sentencing next year.
U.S. District Judge Stephen R. Clark sentenced Donald Furrer, 67, to one year of probation. Prior to sentencing, Furrer repaid just under $462,000 that he received from the Social Security Administration’s Disability Trust Fund and private disability benefit insurance providers by falsely claiming to be disabled.
The two chiropractors who owned and operated PowerMed Inc., Thomas G. Hobbs and Vivian Carbone-Hobbs, are in federal prison, serving four-year prison terms. Hobbs was ordered to repay $4.3 million; Carbone-Hobbs was ordered to repay $16.4 million.
One employee, Christina Barrera, was sentenced to 14 months in prison. Another, Clarissa Pogue, was sentenced to five years of probation, including six months of house arrest.
Many patients worked at Anheuser-Busch. Some are spouses of other defendants. They have been sentenced in a range from one year of probation to the 15 month term of imprisonment imposed on patient Elizabeth Guetersloh. All were ordered to repay the money they reaped via fraud, ranging from $47,087 to more than $470,000.
James Ralston was sentenced to five years of probation and ordered to repay more than $2.1 million. He was a former Anheuser-Busch union steward who referred his former co-workers and coached them as they falsified their disability applications.
Hobbs charged patients fees of thousands of dollars to prepare disability forms and coach them on how to lie about their ability to perform basic daily tasks such as lifting, standing, walking, sitting and taking care of their personal needs. According to evidence and testimony presented at the trials of Carbone-Hobbs, Barrera, Pogue, and Guetersloh, some patients were presented with a “Disability Package Pricing” sheet that listed the fees ranging as high as $8,600 for PowerMed to handle various disability claims options, including qualifying for Social Security disability, short-term disability, private insurance and insurance that would pay off auto or other loans. The total fees exceeded more than $13,000 for some patients.
Hobbs, who also falsely claimed to have a medical license, submitted fraudulent medical reports to support patient claims. He and Carbone-Hobbs also submitted fraudulent claims for reimbursement to health care benefit programs for medical services that were used to bolster those claims.
Although PowerMed patients claimed to be disabled and unable to work or do many of the basic functions of life, they travelled nationally and internationally, danced, hiked or rode roller coasters. Some bought new homes or second homes with the money.
“This investigation is ongoing, but has already resulted in convictions of 31 people, as well as the recovery of more than $6 million that will go to the Social Security Administration and the private insurers who were defrauded,” said U.S. Attorney Sayler A. Fleming. “This outcome would not have been possible without the dogged work by investigators.”
“Social Security disability benefits are intended for persons who are unable to work because they have a medical condition. Donald Furrer made false statements and misrepresentations to SSA to fraudulently receive disability benefit payments from SSA totaling more than $317,000. This sentence holds him accountable for his criminal behavior,” said Jason Albers, Special Agent in Charge, Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector, Dallas Kansas City Field Division. “In this comprehensive investigation and complex prosecution of this case, involving multiple subjects and agencies, investigators and prosecutors have done exemplary work. I commend them all for their diligent efforts in this years-long process to bring forth justice.”
“When unscrupulous individuals lie to obtain disability benefits, they are taking away resources from those who truly need it,” said FBI Acting Special Agent in Charge Greg Heeb. “I commend our agents and the prosecutors who successfully unraveled such a large conspiracy to recover millions of dollars defrauded from taxpayers who fund this critical program.”
The cases were investigated by the Social Security Administration – Office of Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tracy Berry, Dorothy McMurtry, Diane Klocke and Gwendolyn Carroll have prosecuted the cases.
Anyone who suspects fraud involving the Disability Insurance Benefit Program should contact the Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General Hotline at: 1-800-269-0271 or https://oig.ssa.gov/report/.
Tuesday 17 December 2024
Wisconsin Man Sentenced to 2 Years for Possessing Destructive DevicesRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that James Morgan, 31, Jefferson, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to 2 years in federal prison for possessing destructive devices. He pled guilty to the charge on April 16, 2024.
The FBI received information indicating that Morgan made and possessed destructive devices. Acting on that information, on December 21, 2023, local and federal law enforcement agents executed a federal search warrant at Morgan’s travel trailer in Janesville, Wisconsin. Morgan was living in the trailer at the time. Inside a locked safe in the trailer, agents found six improvised explosive devices. The devices were homemade and had several nails glued to the outside. The devices were rendered safe and sent to the FBI lab for formal testing. Experts from the FBI lab determined that the devices contained explosive powder and were in fact “destructive devices” under federal law.
During an interview with agents, Morgan admitted he made the devices with his father and referred to them as “grenades.” He said he knew they were illegal.
“We take these cases very seriously and will do everything necessary to ensure that individuals who make and possess destructive devices will be prosecuted in federal court,” said U.S. Attorney O’Shea.
“Homemade explosive devices pose a risk to the safety of Wisconsin residents,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Michael Hensle of the Milwaukee Division. “Mr. Morgan’s reckless behavior could have caused destruction and death or serious bodily injuries. The FBI continues to work with our local law enforcement partners to hold criminals accountable and ensure public safety throughout the state.”
At sentencing, Judge Peterson expressed concern over Morgan’s decision to make and possess destructive devices, especially considering Morgan’s history of posting racist and anti-government sentiments on social media. Judge Peterson noted that explosive devices are inherently dangerous and that Morgan’s decision to add nails to the outside of the devices suggested a purpose beyond a simple fascination with explosives. Judge Peterson expressed hope that the federal prosecution would interrupt Morgan’s criminal conduct and give him an opportunity to redirect his life.
Morgan is still facing charges in the Eastern District of Wisconsin for possessing chemical weapons based on chemicals found in his storage locker in Whitewater, Wisconsin, the same day as the destructive devices were found in the Western District of Wisconsin. If convicted of this charge, Morgan faces a maximum penalty of life in prison. Unless and until Morgan is convicted of this charge, he is presumed innocent.
The charges in the Eastern and Western Districts of Wisconsin are the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Janesville Police Department, and the Whitewater Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meredith Duchemin for the Western District of Wisconsin, Assistant U.S. Attorney John Scully for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, and Trial Attorney Justin Sher of the Justice Department’s National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the cases.
Wilmington Man Pleads Guilty in Federal Court to Kidnapping Resulting in DeathRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced today that Kimon Burton-Roberson, age 31 of Wilmington, Delaware, pleaded guilty yesterday to Conspiracy to Commit Kidnapping, which resulted in the death of a Wilmington resident. The Honorable Chief U.S. District Judge Colm F. Connolly accepted the plea.
According to court documents, in the early hours of July 21, 2021, Mr. Burton-Roberson and co-conspirators, entered a residence in Wilmington, Delaware where they knew their victim to be staying. Mr. Burton-Roberson and others beat the victim with a blunt object until the victim was bleeding, tying the victim’s hands together with zip ties. Mr. Burton-Roberson and others then forcibly removed the victim from the residence, placed the victim into Mr. Burton-Roberson’s car, and drove the victim across state lines into Pennsylvania. Members of the conspiracy shot the victim in the head, leaving the victim’s body in an industrial park in Delaware County, Pennsylvania.
Mr. Burton-Roberson will be sentenced on April 24, 2025. He faces a sentence of up to life in prison. Chief Judge Connolly will determine his sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Weiss stated, “By working together across jurisdictions, federal and local law enforcement identified the perpetrator of this heinous crime and brought him to justice. We are proud of the tireless, cooperative efforts of our law enforcement partners.”
"The Yeadon Police Department is pleased to have greatly assisted in bringing this fugitive to justice, which brings closure to this sad, epic story that had unfortunately ended up in Yeadon. We are pleased to be able to work together with our federal partners in the FBI, Department of Justice and regional authorities including our Delaware County DA's Office as well as neighboring boroughs, in bringing this matter to a close. This illustrates how cooperation between law enforcement partners can serve to the benefit of all concerned citizens."
"Crimes like these, in which actors perpetrate offenses across jurisdictional boundaries, underscore the critical importance of our strong partnerships with our partner law enforcement agencies," said Wilmington Police Chief Wilfredo Campos. "It is our hope that the charges in this case, and now this guilty plea, will bring some measure of comfort to the family of the victim in this case."
"With this plea, Burton-Roberson is being held accountable for the horrific murder and cruel disregard he showed his victim. This type of violence is intolerable," said FBI Baltimore SAC William J. DelBagno. "The FBI's Wilmington Violent Crime and Safe Streets Task Force works every day to make our community safer by removing violent criminals like Burton-Roberson from our streets. We are proud of the partnerships and dedication shown by all agencies to bring justice in this case."
This investigation involved close collaboration between the FBI, the Yeadon Borough Police Department, the Wilmington Department of Police and Delaware Probation and Parole. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kevin P. Pierce, Michelle L. Morgan, and Benjamin L. Wallace are prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 22-CR-17-1-CFC.
White River Junction Man Charged with Possession of an Unregistered SilencerRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office stated that Joseph Vaillancourt, 42, of White River Junction, Vermont, has been charged by criminal complaint with possessing a silencer that was neither registered to him nor identified by a serial number.
On December 16, 2024, Vaillancourt appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle, who ordered that Vaillancourt be detained pending further proceedings later this week.
According to court records, on October 18, 2024, Hartford, Vermont police located the silencer along with thirteen firearms and over 1,200 rounds of ammunition during the execution of a search of Vaillancourt’s residence pursuant to an unrelated state warrant. Agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) identified the silencer as subject to the National Firearms Act.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that the complaint contains allegations only and that Vaillancourt is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Vaillancourt faces up to ten years in prison if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the investigatory efforts of the ATF, the Hartford Police Department, and the Windsor County Sheriff’s Department.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Eugenia Cowles. Vaillancourt is represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Sara Puls.
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.
Washington State Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Role in Debt Consolidation SchemeRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Ore.—A Vancouver, Washington man was sentenced to federal prison today for intentionally defrauding customers during a multiyear debt consolidation scheme.
Javier Antonio Banuelas Urueta, 55, was sentenced to 21 months in federal prison and three years’ supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $115,750 in restitution to his victims.
According to court documents, between April 2019 and April 2024, Banuelas and his co-conspirator devised and carried out a scheme whereby they collected money and property from clients in exchange for purported debt consolidation services through their company, ConsoliDebt Solutions, LLC (ConsoliDebt).
Banuelas paid for advertisements offering debt consolidation services on radio stations in Oregon and Washington despite not being licensed to work in the industry or provide such services. When victims called ConsoliDebt they reached Banuelas who would discuss their debts, create monthly payment plans, and falsely claim to consolidate or reduce the victim’s debt.
As part of the scheme, Banuelas directed clients to deposit funds directly into ConsoliDebt bank accounts, transfer funds to the company, or mail in personal checks, cashier’s checks, or money orders. To instill trust in the company, victims received falsified monthly statements detailing account information, payments received, and debt amounts settled. Instead of paying victims’ debts as promised, Bauelas used client funds to pay for personal expenses such as car leases, residential rent, and various wire transfers.
On April 4, 2024, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a seven-count indictment charging Banuelas with conspiring to commit and committing mail and wire fraud.
On August 1, 2024, Banuelas pleaded guilty to conspiring to commit and committing mail and wire fraud.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. It was prosecuted by Rachel K. Sowray, Special Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.
Utah Man Sentenced to Prison After Fraudulently Collecting over Half a Million Dollars in Disability BenefitsRead the Press Release
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Robert Anthony Monsen, 49, of Herriman, Utah, was sentenced today to 18 months’ imprisonment, three years’ supervised release, and ordered by the court to pay over $561,000 in restitution to the Social Security Administration (SSA) and Medicare after he fraudulently collected over 13 years’ worth of SSA disability and Medicare benefits.
The sentence, imposed by Senior U.S. District Court Judge Ted Stewart, comes after Monsen pleaded guilty in September 2024 to theft of public money, property, or records.
According to court documents and statements made at Monsen’s change of plea and sentencing hearings, Monsen collected SSA disability and Medicare benefits for the period of September 2010 to November 2023, claiming severe back injuries that rendered him unable to work. Mr. Monsen continually claimed that he was too disabled to work. However, he worked several jobs – including active work for the bail bonds, security, and restaurant businesses. During this time, Monsen concealed his income and functionality from SSA, in part by routing his paychecks through an LLC in another individual’s name. He also took several vacations in the U.S. and overseas, snorkeling, enjoying the beach, and assisting fighters inside the ring at a mixed martial arts event.
According to court documents, until November 2023, Monsen continued to receive Title II Disability benefits at a rate of $1,981.00 per month for himself, in addition to other family benefits. During the 13 years of disability benefits, he did not report any improvements in his condition to SSA, despite continuous reminders that he was obligated to do so if his health improved or if he was able to begin work. In total, Monsen fraudulently obtained over half a million dollars ($561,050.70) in federal funds set aside for some of society’s most vulnerable members. The calculation includes $274,479.10 in Title II disability benefits, $59,492.00 in child auxiliary benefits, and $227,079.60 in Medicare claims.
“Mr. Monsen not only fraudulently obtained over half a million dollars from taxpayers, but he took benefits reserved from individuals who cannot work due to a severe medical condition,” said U.S. Attorney Trina A. Higgins. “Protecting the community and vulnerable populations is a priority for my office and we will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to seek justice through prosecution.”
“This 18-month prison sentence was based on Mr. Monson’s deceitful and criminal scheme to defraud SSA. Social Security disability insurance benefits are vital to individuals and their families who qualify to receive them. My office will continue to protect these essential benefits by pursuing perpetrators,” said Hannibal “Mike” Ware, Acting Inspector General for SSA. “I thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Sachiko J. Jepson for prosecuting this case.”
The case was investigated by the Social Security Administration, Cooperative Disability Investigations Unit.
Special Assistant United States Attorney Sachiko J. Jepson of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah prosecuted the case.
U.S. Attorney's Office Secures Guilty Pleas for Theft and Bank FraudRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Two Chimayo women pleaded guilty in federal court to a theft in Indian Country and a bank fraud scheme targeting multiple financial institutions across Sandoval, Santa Fe, and Rio Arriba Counties.
According to court documents, on May 22, 2022, shortly after 4:00 AM, Billie Jo Gussler and Angelica Dominguez entered the Valero gas station located on Tesuque Pueblo and stole property valued at over $1,000, including lottery tickets and cigarettes. Neither Gussler nor Dominguez is a member of a federally recognized Indian tribe.
Furthermore, between January 6, 2020, and August 19, 2022, Gussler and Dominguez engaged in an extensive bank fraud scheme across Sandoval, Santa Fe, and Rio Arriba Counties. The pair targeted multiple federally insured financial institutions, including Del Norte Credit Union, Bank of America, U.S. Bank, Century Bank, Enterprise Bank and Trust, Washington Federal Bank, and SoFi Bank.
The fraudulent activities involved altering and forging checks to withdraw funds unlawfully from account holders and financial institutions.
Gussler and Dominguez will remain in custody pending sentencing, which has not yet been scheduled. At sentencing, Gussler and Dominguez each face up to 30 years imprisonment. Upon their release from prison, Gussler and Dominguez will be subject to up to five years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez made the announcement today.
The Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated the theft case with assistance from the Tesuque Tribal Police and Quay County Sheriff’s Office. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service investigated the fraud case with the assistance of the Santa Fe Police Department, Espanola Police Department, and New Mexico State Police. Assistant United States Attorneys Meg Tomlinson and Maria Stiteler are prosecuting the cases.
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U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich announces dismantling of Great Falls fentanyl trafficking ringRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich, for the District of Montana, along with multiple law enforcement partners, today announced the dismantling of a large fentanyl trafficking ring that brought tens of thousands of pills to the community from Washington for distribution and led to convictions of 10 individuals on federal charges. The investigation also led to individuals facing charges in state court.
U.S. Attorney Laslovich, along with Great Falls Police Chief Jeff Newton and Cascade County Attorney Joshua Racki, discussed the investigation during a news conference at the Great Falls Civic Center and were joined by representatives of the Russell Country Drug Task Force. The drug task force is composed federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, including the Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Homeland Security Investigations, Montana Division of Criminal Investigation and Great Falls Police Department and Cascade County Sheriff’s Office.
“Taking down fentanyl trafficking rings to reduce drug-related violence and overdoses and death caused by this extremely dangerous drug is critical to the health and safety of our communities, like Great Falls. These traffickers try to move in and enlist local dealers to profit off persons who are addicted to fentanyl. Dismantling this drug organization was possible only through the unwavering commitment and cooperation of our law enforcement partners and prosecutors to bring these defendants to justice. We know the work needs to continue and we will continue to do it,” U.S. Attorney Laslovich said.
“Already this year, in 2024, the Russell Country Drug Task Force interdicted a huge shipment of methamphetamine destined for Great Falls, and the amount of cocaine they’ve seized is nearly triple that of 2023,” Great Falls Police Chief Newton said.
“The Cascade County Attorney’s Office is dedicated to combatting the influx of illicit drugs by holding accountable those who bring them into our communities,” Cascade County Attorney Racki said.
The investigation into fentanyl trafficking in the Great Falls area began in the fall of 2022 and led to a supplier in the Tacoma, Washington, area. The supplier, Joseph Allen Conner, was arrested in June 2023, followed by the arrests of most of the other defendants in a coordinated multi-agency takedown in October 2023 in Great Falls. Several remaining federal defendants were sentenced in October in U.S. District Court in Great Falls.
The investigation determined that Conner made multiple trips to Montana, including Great Falls, to sell fentanyl pills and to distribute to other local dealers. Conner possessed "buckets full" of fentanyl pills and was seen with what one individual described as a "volleyball size bag" of pills. Conner was sentenced in May to five years in federal prison after he pleaded guilty to a conspiracy charge. Overall, the investigation led to the seizure of tens of thousands of fentanyl pills and at least seven firearms.
In addition to defendant Conner, nine other individuals were charged in federal indictments and convicted.
The federal defendants include:
- Joseph Allen Conner, of Yakima, Washington: conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances. Sentenced to five years in prison.
- Nicholas Cocklin, of Great Falls: possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. Sentenced to one year in prison.
- Alanna Corcoran, of Great Falls: conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. Sentenced to Glacier drug court.
- Terry McIntire, of Great Falls: conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. Sentenced to two- and one-half years in prison.
- Michael McIntire, of Great Falls: possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. Sentenced to 12 months and one day in prison.
- Paul Regimbal, of Great Falls: possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. Sentenced to 12 months and one day in prison.
- Iesha Berry-Harris, of Tacoma, Washington: possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. Sentence to 15 months in prison.
- David Prien-Pinto, of Great Falls: possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. Sentenced to five years in prison.
- Courtney Price, of Great Falls: possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. Sentenced to three years and two months in prison.
- Casey Louis Ream, of California: possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and prohibited person in possession of a firearm. Sentenced to eight years and eight months in prison.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the cases. The Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Russell Country Drug Task Force, Great Falls Police Department and the Cascade County Attorney’s Office investigated the case.
The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF.
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Two Washington Men Found Guilty of Producing and Distributing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – United States Attorney Vanessa R. Waldref announced that a jury returned a verdict in the trial of Tony J. Bolen, age 43, and Casey Allen Greer, age 47. Bolen and Greer were found guilty of Production of Child Pornography, Conspiracy to Produce Child Pornography, and Commission of a Felony Sex Offense by an Individual Required to Register as a Sex Offender. Greer was additionally found guilty of Distribution of Child Pornography, and Bolen was found guilty of one count each of Receipt and Transportation of Child Pornography.
Based on court documents and evidence presented at trial, beginning in October 2021, and continuing to December 2021, Bolen and Greer worked together to produce child sexual abuse material of a young child that Greer had been sexually abusing since as early as May 2021. Both Bolen and Greer discussed when Greer would have access to the minor and how Greer would medicate the victim to ensure the victim’s compliance during the sexual abuse. Greer also repeatedly sent images and videos of the sexual abuse to Bolen. In written text messages, Bolen also directed Greer to sexually abuse the victim in a specific way, record the abuse, and send it to him.
Bolen and Greer both have prior Washington State convictions for Child Molestation. Because of these convictions, Bolen and Greer were required under state and federal law to register as sex offenders.
“My heart goes out to the young victim in this case. The harm and trauma that Mr. Bolen and Mr. Greer caused will last long after this trial, but I am hopeful the guilty verdicts provide some comfort and closure to the victim and their loved ones. I am grateful for the investigators and prosecutors that work every day to prevent horrific victimization of children, remove dangerous offenders from our community, and protect the most vulnerable among us.”
“HSI special agents won’t ever relent when it comes to protecting children and arresting individuals like Bolen and Greer who prey on the most vulnerable population,” said Matthew Murphy acting Special Agent in Charge, HSI Seattle. “Child sex abuse is one of the most serious crimes HSI investigates due to the lasting psychological and physical damage it can inflict on victims. We are proud to work closely with our law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to make Washington safer from predators like these.”
“The Washington State Patrol is honored to be a part of the team that successfully worked this case. We will always do our best to protect our vulnerable children and make our communities safer,” said Chief John R. Batiste.
United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke presided over the trial for Bolen and Greer, which began December 9, 2024. Sentencing in this matter is set April 23, 2025, in Spokane, Washington.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated jointly by Homeland Security Investigations, the Washington State Patrol, and Spokane Police Department, as part of the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Ann T. Wick and Laurel J. Holland.
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Two New York Men Sentenced to Lengthy Prison Sentences for Committing Three Gunpoint Robberies and Conspiring to Commit Additional RobberiesRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – Two Brooklyn, New York, men were sentenced to lengthy prison terms today for their roles in three gunpoint robberies of check cashing locations in different parts of New Jersey in 2021 and 2022, as well as conspiring to commit robberies in New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.
Ramel Harris, a/k/a Ramel Harrison, 43, of Brooklyn, and Neville Brown, 40, of Brooklyn, were both sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Claire C. Cecchi in Newark federal court to 186 months in prison. Both men previously pleaded guilty before Judge Cecchi to three counts of an Indictment charging them with Hobbs Act conspiracy, Hobbs Act robbery, and using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, namely the Hobbs Act robbery.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
On several dates between January 2021 and January 2022, two individuals, later identified as Harris and Brown, attempted to rob a check cashing location in Nanuet, New York, and thereafter successfully robbed three check cashing locations in Parsippany, New Jersey, Old Bridge, New Jersey, and Hackettstown, New Jersey while brandishing a firearm and using zip ties to restrain female employees at each location. During those robberies, Harris and Brown stole approximately $563,566.35.
During the subsequent investigation, law enforcement learned that the conspirators surveilled check cashing locations in the following locations: Mount Kisco, New York, Allentown, Pennsylvania and West Chester, Pennsylvania. Law enforcement obtained video surveillance footage that ultimately linked Harris and Brown to the robberies. Furthermore, historical cell phone records indicate that Harris’s and Brown’s cellular telephones were in or around the locations of the various robberies around the times that they were committed.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Cecchi sentenced Harris and Brown to five years of supervised release.U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited members of the FBI’s New Jersey field office, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Nelson I. Delgado; members of the FBI’s New York field office, under the leadership of Assistant Director In Charge James E. Dennehy; members of the FBI’s Philadelphia field office, under the leadership of Special Agent in Charge Wayne A. Jacobs; members of the Hackettstown Police Department, under the direction of Police Chief Aaron Perkins; members of the Old Bridge Police Department, under the leadership of Chief of Police Thomas J. Montagna; members of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department, under the leadership of Police Chief Richard Pantina; members of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, under the leadership of Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll; members of the Clarkstown Police Department, under the leadership of Police Chief Jeffrey Wanamaker; members of the Westchester County (New York) Department of Public Safety; and members of the Borough of West Chester (Pennsylvania) Police Department, with the investigation leading to the charges.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Levin, Chief of the General Crimes Unit in Newark.
harrisbrown.indictment.pdf
Two Men Sentenced to Federal Prison in Connection with an Assault on the Pine Ridge ReservationRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced two Pine Ridge, South Dakota men. The sentencings took place on November 18, 2024.
Angelo Poor Bear, 40, was convicted of Misprision of a Felony and sentenced to one year and one day in federal prison, followed by one year of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Jadan Poor Bear, 31, was convicted of Aiding and Abetting Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury and sentenced to one year and eight months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. The Court ordered Jadan Poor Bear’s prison sentence to be served consecutively to a one year and eight months sentence he received for another assault he committed on the Pine Ridge Reservation.
Angelo and Jadan Poor Bear were indicted for Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury and Assault with a Dangerous Weapon by a federal grand jury in February 2024. Jadan pleaded guilty on August 27, 2024, and Angelo pleaded guilty on September 5, 2024.
The charges stemmed from Jadan beating the victim with a baseball bat, causing serious injuries, and Angelo taking steps to prevent law enforcement from discovering the crime. The assault occurred on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in January 2024.
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 Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigations Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Lindrooth prosecuted the case.
Both men were immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Two Maryland Men Sentenced to Imprisonment for Participating in a Romance Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
BISMARCK – United States Attorney Mac Schneider announced that on December 17, 2024, U.S. District Court Judge Daniel M. Traynor sentenced Chinedu Ikenna Nwafor, age 42, from Bowie, Maryland, to serve 25 months in federal prison, 3 years of supervised release, and payment of $180,000.00 in restitution after he pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Mail Fraud for participating in a romance fraud scheme that targeted elderly women.
Additionally, on August 8, 2024, Judge Traynor sentenced Nwafor’s codefendant, Vitus Uzoma Uzowuru, age 56, from Glendale, Maryland, to time served imprisonment, which amounted to approximately 10 months’ imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and payment of $50,000.00 in restitution after he pleaded guilty to Aiding and Abetting Mail Fraud for participating in a romance fraud scheme that targeted elderly women.
Finally, on April 12, 2023, a federal grand jury located within the District of North Dakota returned an Indictment charging Juliet Chinyere Molenda with Wire Fraud related to her participation in a romance fraud scheme. The United States District Court for the District of North Dakota has scheduled her trial date for July 24, 2025, before U.S. District Court Judge Daniel Hovland. An indictment is an accusation and notice of charges. Juliet Molenda is presumed innocent under the law unless and until proven guilty.
As noted in court documents filed by the United States Attorney’s Office—which documents the nature and extent of this romance fraud scheme—foreign actors falsely and fraudulently posed as high-ranking United States military members, stated they were deployed to a foreign country, and created fake social media or internet profiles, which advanced these falsehoods. Thereafter, the foreign actors, while falsely pretending to be military members, targeted elderly females by contacting them through social media or internet profiles and entered into what the romance fraud victims believed were legitimate romantic relationships. Over time, the foreign actors cultivated the romance fraud victims trust and fraudulently induced them to send money at their request to United States based coconspirators, including Nwafor, Uzowuru, and Molenda, normally by concocting elaborate and false stories that convinced the victims to send money to these coconspirators—such as requesting that the victims pay for a sudden legal issue or customs dispute that prevented the purported military officer or his property from traveling to the United States.
Nwafor served as a United States based middleman to the foreign actors by obtaining money from romance fraud victims and then sent a large portion of these funds to the international actors. As noted in court documents, Nwafor admitted that he received a package from a New Town, North Dakota, victim that contained a $150,000.00 cashier’s check, which foreign actors fraudulently obtained from this New Town victim as part of a romance fraud scheme by posing as either a “General Joseph Martins” or a “Diplomat David Jones.” Uzowuru also served as a United States based middleman to both Nwafor and the foreign actors. As noted in court documents, Uzowuru admitted that he also received a package from the New Town, North Dakota, victim that contained $50,000.00, which foreign actors fraudulently obtained from this New Town, North Dakota, victim.
“This sentence shows that romance scammers will face justice in United States District Court when they target the hard-earned savings of North Dakotans,” Schneider said. “It’s also a reminder to be vigilant about protecting yourself and your loved ones against schemes like this one. Fraudsters will be pursued by law enforcement and prosecuted federally for their crimes, but the best course is to prevent fraud before it occurs.”
"These individuals preyed on the trust and emotions of vulnerable victims, exploiting their desire for connection," said Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr. "Today's sentencing serves as a reminder that the FBI will continue to investigate and dismantle these scams, working to safeguard the American people from such exploitation."
To report elder fraud, contact the dedicated National Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-FRAUD-11 or 1-833-372-8311and visit the FBI’s IC3 Elder Fraud Complaint Center at IC3.gov.
To learn more about the U.S. Department of Justice’s elder justice efforts, please visit the Elder Justice Initiative page HERE.
Further, please visit the US Attorney’s Office’s press release on World Elder Abuse Awareness Day for awareness and increased understanding of the many forms of elder abuse, as well as resources available to those at-risk HERE.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, and the Williams County Sheriff’s Office, and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan J. O’Konek.
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Two KC Men Indicted for Illegally Trafficking FirearmsRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Two Kansas City, Mo., men were indicted by a federal grand jury today for their roles in a conspiracy to illegally traffic firearms and for illegally possessing firearms.
Ernest L. Hall, 61, and Rodney O. Ellison, 57, were charged in a 12-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Kansas City, Mo. Today’s indictment replaces federal criminal complaints that charged Hall and Ellison separately on Nov. 27, 2024. Both Hall and Ellison remain in federal custody without bond.
The indictment alleges that Hall and Ellison participated in a conspiracy to traffic firearms from June 15 to Nov. 26, 2024. The indictment also charges Hall and Ellison together with one count of engaging in firearm sales without a license, and charges Hall and Ellison separately with five counts each of trafficking firearms. Hall and Ellison each also are charged with being a felon in possession of firearms.
According to an affidavit filed in support of the original criminal complaint, a confidential informant working with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives purchased firearms from both Ellison and Hall on several occasions at their residences. Between June 18, 2024, and Nov. 25, 2024, the confidential informant allegedly purchased six firearms from Ellison and five firearms from Hall.
On Nov. 26, 2024, law enforcement officers executed search warrants at the residences of both Hall and Ellison. Ellison was arrested at his residence but Hall left his residence carrying a large bag and drove away as officers were approaching. When law enforcement began to follow him, Hall turned off his headlights and drove into oncoming traffic to elude them. Investigators then executed the search warrant for Hall’s residence and seized one firearm. Officers seized seven firearms from Ellison’s residence, including two firearms with obliterated or missing serial numbers.
Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition. Hall has three prior felony convictions for armed criminal action, two prior felony convictions for robbery, and prior felony convictions for tampering with a motor vehicle, voluntary manslaughter, unlawful use of a weapon, assault, and endangering the welfare of a child. Ellison has prior felony convictions for murder, armed criminal action, and tampering with service utility.
The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney D. Michael Green. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Project Safe Neighborhoods
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.
Two Colombian Human Smugglers Arrested on U.S. ChargesRead the Press Release
Note: View a copy of the indictment here.
On Dec. 13, Colombian authorities arrested two men charged with human smuggling conspiracy for moving migrants through Colombia en route to the United States. In the course of that conspiracy, the defendants are alleged to have put lives in jeopardy, including by placing some of the 40 migrants and two boat captains on a boat that disappeared on its way to Nicaragua after leaving San Andres Island on Oct. 21, 2023.
Hernando Manuel de la Cruz Rivera Orjuela, 52, and Luis Enrique Linero Pinto, 40, both Colombian nationals, were arrested in Colombia at the request of the United States for their alleged roles in the transnational human smuggling operation, based on an indictment obtained on Oct. 23 from a federal grand jury sitting in the Western District of Texas.
According to the indictment unsealed yesterday, the defendants participated in a conspiracy that unlawfully smuggled migrants, transporting them from other locations to San Andres Island, and from there to Nicaragua via boats, north through Central America and Mexico, before reaching their final destination in the United States. Allegedly, Rivera Orjuela and Linero Pinto advised the migrants how to get to San Andres Island, personally received them once they arrived on the island, arranged for their accommodation, and brought them to the boats that transported them to Nicaragua so they could enter the United States illegally. Linero Pinto is alleged to have bribed uniformed service members of the Colombian Navy to acquire real-time intelligence about the position of Navy patrol vessels located between San Andres Island and Nicaragua, enabling the boats carrying migrants to avoid detection.
“Through coordination with our domestic and international law enforcement partners, we have secured the arrest of two Colombian nationals we allege took part in a human smuggling operation that resulted in the disappearance of a boat carrying 40 migrants,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “As this indictment makes clear, Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA) continues to be one of the Justice Department’s most effective tools for countering insidious human smuggling operations that fuel suffering and exploitation.”
“For over three years, JTFA has deployed every tool at our disposal to disrupt and dismantle human smuggling networks,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco. “This latest indictment demonstrates the Department’s continuing commitment to combat human smuggling across the Western hemisphere and bring those responsible to justice.”
“The indictment alleges that, as part of their participation in a conspiracy to smuggle migrants to the United States, these defendants put several migrants on the boat that disappeared off the coast of Nicaragua in October 2023,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “This indictment reflects the importance of JTFA’s expansion to address human smuggling in and through Colombia. Today’s announcement also underscores the Criminal Division’s commitment to investigating and prosecuting the transnational criminal organizations whose business model puts human lives at risk for financial gain.”
“As alleged in the indictment, these defendants are charged for their roles in the disappearance of dozens of migrants, and the allegations detail many of the dangers we see too often in combating human smuggling — from bribery to the deadly risks migrants take every day,” said U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza for the Western District of Texas. “I appreciate the combined efforts of JTFA, our international partners, and the prosecutors involved. These partnerships are essential in dismantling the criminal organizations that impact us all and prioritize illicit financial gain over human life.”
“These alleged conspirators orchestrated a complex human smuggling operation that recklessly risked human lives for ill-gotten gain,” said Executive Associate Director Katrina W. Berger of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). “The devoted Special Agents of HSI work diligently to combat criminal enterprises that profit from the victimization of innocent people. HSI remains committed to dismantling human smuggling networks that exploit and subject their victims to hazardous and oppressive conditions. These transnational organizations profit by preying on vulnerable individuals, and HSI will continue to dismantle such operations.
The defendants are each charged with one count of conspiracy to encourage and induce unlawful aliens to come to, enter, and reside in the United States and with placing a life in jeopardy during that conspiracy. If convicted, the defendants face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
HSI is leading the investigation with participation from their McAllen, El Paso, and Cartagena Field Offices. HSI’s Human Smuggling Unit, Customs and Border Protection’s National Targeting Center International Interdiction Task Force, and the Justice Department’s Office of Overseas Prosecutorial Development, Assistance and Training (OPDAT); Office of International Affairs (OIA); and Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section (NDDS)’s Judicial Attaché Office in Bogotá provided valuable assistance. The Justice Department thanks Colombian law enforcement officials, who were instrumental in furthering this investigation.
JTFA Co-Director Jim Hepburn and Deputy Director Daria Andryushchenko of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section (HRSP) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jose Luis Acosta for the Western District of Texas are prosecuting the case.
The indictment of these defendants is the result of the coordinated efforts of JTFA. Attorney General Merrick B. Garland created JTFA in June 2021 to marshal the investigative and prosecutorial resources of the Justice Department, in partnership with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), to combat the rise in prolific and dangerous smuggling and trafficking groups operating in Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras. In June 2024, the initiative was expanded to Colombia and Panama to combat human smuggling in the Darién. JTFA comprises detailees from U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along the southwest border, including the Southern and Western Districts of Texas, District of New Mexico, District of Arizona, and Southern District of California. Dedicated support is provided by numerous components of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, led by HRSP and supported by OPDAT, NDDS, the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section, Office of Enforcement Operations, OIA, and Violent Crime and Racketeering Section.
JTFA also relies on substantial law enforcement investment from DHS, FBI, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and other partners. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in over 345 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of human smuggling; over 290 U.S. convictions; over 240 significant jail sentences imposed; and forfeitures of substantial assets.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Tunica Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Possession of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Aberdeen, MS – A Tunica man was sentenced today to 10 years in prison for possession of child sexual abuse material by U.S. District Court Judge Sharion Aycock.
According to court documents, Michael Ray Hall, 32, was indicted by a federal grand jury in August 2023, and charged in a two count Indictment with distribution of child sexual abuse material on or about October 12, 2022, and possession of child sexual abuse material on or about October 26, 2022. On August 27, 2024, Hall pled guilty to Count 2 of the Indictment.
“People like this defendant who possess and disseminate images of the sexual abuse of young children belong in prison – period,” stated US Attorney Clay Joyner. “This case serves as an example of what the continued cooperation between this office, the FBI, and the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office can accomplish.”
“Working together, the FBI, my office, and the U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner’s office have helped put another predator behind bars before he could do more harm,” said Attorney General Lynn Fitch. “My office is dedicated to removing these predators from our communities and serving justice to their victims, and we are grateful to have such strong partners in these efforts.”
"The FBI is committed to ensuring that predators who seek to exploit the youth of our communities will not go unpunished,” said FBI SAC Robert A. Eikhoff. “Mr. Hall 's deliberate actions in targeting children is a danger to society. The FBI, USAO, and the Mississippi AGO will continue to aggressively investigate and prosecute those that prey on our most vulnerable population- our children."
The Mississippi Attorney General’s Office and Federal Bureau of Investigation Task Force Officers David Allen and Brian Taylor investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Roberts prosecuted the case.
Tucson Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Distributing Fentanyl Resulting in DeathRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – Thomas Franklin Wilson, also known as “Tee Woopin,” 29, of Tucson, was sentenced last week by United States District Judge Rosemary Márquez to 10 years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release. On March 13, 2024, Wilson pleaded guilty to Distribution of Fentanyl connected to the overdose death of a 17-year-old that occurred in April 2021.
In April 2021, Wilson sold 13 pills to the teen and her friend, which caused the teen to overdose and die from fentanyl toxicity.
Homeland Security Investigations, Bureau of Indian Affairs, and the Tohono O’odham Police Department conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stefani Hepford, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-22-02452-TUC-RM
RELEASE NUMBER: 2024-176_Wilson# # #
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.Thirty-four Individuals Indicted for Drug Trafficking within the Puerto Rico Prison SystemRead the Press Release
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – On December 12, 2024, a federal grand jury in the District of Puerto Rico returned an indictment charging 34 individuals with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances within the Puerto Rico prison system, and other offenses, including charges relating to four overdose deaths.
According to court documents, defendants distributed fentanyl, suboxone, heroin, cocaine, marijuana, and synthetic marijuana within Puerto Rico Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation facilities. Members of the drug organization smuggled the drugs into the jails using unmanned aerial vehicles (“drones”) that carried packages containing the illegal substances. Other smuggling methods included the use of legal mail, family visits, official corruption/indifference, catapulting or throwing drugs into the prison yards (“picheos”), and hiding drugs inside other items brought into the prisons (e.g., PlayStations, remote controls, food items, and bags of ice).
During the time period relevant to the Indictment, the illegal substances introduced by this drug trafficking organization also caused many overdoses, including at least four overdose deaths attributed to a drug mixture containing fentanyl.
Many of the defendants arrested today were part of a prison gang known as Group 31 or “Los Tiburones”. Group 31 established and maintained control of the distribution of significant quantities of illegal substances within numerous institutions operated by the Puerto Rico Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. Those institutions included, but were not limited to: Institución Correccional Guerrero, Aguadilla; Complejo Correccional Las Cucharas Sgto. Pedro Joel Rodríguez Matos, Ponce; Institución Correccional Bayamón (501); and Institución Correccional Guayama Máxima Seguridad (1000). The defendants charged in the indictment are:
[1] Juan Carlos Ortiz-Vázquez, a.k.a. “Flaco”
[2] Cristina Guevara-Casellas
[3] Elías Martínez-Rivera, a.k.a. “Viejo-Coli”
[4] José Luis Audain-Rodríguez, a.k.a. “Wichy/Negre/Doble V-W/Dobleta”
[5] Christopher Sánchez-Asencio, a.k.a. “Guayna”
[6] Moisés Mojica-Torres, a.k.a. “Moi”
[7] Ernesto Malavé-Santiago, a.k.a. “Ponce”
[8] Steve Vergeli-Negrón, a.k.a. “Bocillo”
[9] Jim Almodóvar-Quirindongo, a.k.a. “Jim Ball”
[10] Ángel Abdiel Archilla-Montalvo
[11] Efraín González-Serrano, a.k.a. “El Señor De Los Cielos/Junito”
[12] Ernesto Vargas-Rodríguez, a.k.a. “Golo”
[13] Eddiber Pérez-Burgos, a.k.a. “Coamo”
[14] Abraham Rodríguez-Cruz, a.k.a. “Bebe”
[15] Alexander Alvarado-Almestica, a.k.a. “Bala”
[16] Jensen Medina Cardona
[17] Edgardo Santiago-Colón, a.k.a. “Cuco”
[18] Edwin Sánchez-Rijos, a.k.a. “Tocayo”
[19] Félix Serrano-Román, a.k.a. “Coba”
[20] Harry Acevedo-Méndez, a.k.a. “La H”
[21] Heriberto Romero-Corchado, a.k.a. “Eri”
[22] James Santana-González, a.k.a. “Pilin”
[23] Julio Vargas-Jiménez, a.k.a. “Julio Gatillo”
[24] Kervin López-Torres, a.k.a. “Beethoven/Gordo/Gemelo”
[25] Kevin Hernández-Ruiz, a.k.a. “Pesadilla”
[26] Miguel González-Concepción, a.k.a. “Omy Barber/Omy Gallina”
[27] Luis Meléndez-García, a.k.a. “Luisito Humacao”
[28] Aníbal Ramírez-Alicea, a.k.a. “Nibby/Aníbal Martínez-Alicea”
[29] Benny Rodríguez-Mercado
[30] Christian Candelaria-Feliciano, a.k.a. “Garbanzo”
[31] Donato Cortés-Matos
[32] Wesley Correa-López
[33] Milagros Jeanette Rivera-González, a.k.a. “Janet”
[34] Minerva Román-Domínguez
“Gang activity poses a grave risk of harm to our communities and within correctional institutions,” said W. Stephen Muldrow, United States Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico. “For several years, these gang members and their associates distributed significant quantities of lethal drugs within the local prison system, through the enforcement of strict rules and violence. This indictment is the culmination of a coordinated federal and state law enforcement investigation aimed at dismantling this criminal organization.”
“This operation represents a critical step in our fight against the influx of fentanyl and other dangerous drugs into Puerto Rico’s correctional facilities,” said Denise Foster, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Caribbean Division. “By dismantling this organization and disrupting their use of drones to smuggle contraband, we are not only holding criminals accountable, but also saving lives. This success highlights the power of collaboration between federal, state, and local agencies, and underscores our commitment to protecting the people of Puerto Rico from the devastating effects of drug trafficking.”
The defendants are scheduled for their initial court appearances today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Giselle López Soler of the U.S. District Court for the District of Puerto Rico. If convicted, they face a maximum sentence of life in prison on the drug trafficking and firearm charges, and a maximum sentence of ten years for the money laundering charges. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The Drug Enforcement Administration is in charge of the investigation with the collaboration of the Puerto Rico Police Bureau Ponce Strike Force, Puerto Rico Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, Puerto Rico Department of Justice, Puerto Rico Forensic Sciences Institute, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the United States Border Patrol, United States Customs and Border Protection, the United States Marshals Service, the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area, and Homeland Security Investigations.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jorge L. Matos of the Transnational Organized Crime Section is prosecuting the case.
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.
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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Taylor County Man Sentenced for Firearms OffenseRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – David Allen Starkey, 37, of Flemington, West Virginia, was sentenced to 165 months in federal prison for the unlawful possession of a firearm.
According to court documents and statements made in court, officers were executing an arrest warrant for another defendant for a parole violation at a home in Barbour County. Starkey was hiding inside, where officers also found an assault rifle and a handgun. Starkey has prior drug, burglary, grand larceny, firearms, and battery convictions, prohibiting him from having firearms.
Starkey will serve three years of supervised release after his prison sentence.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Mountain Region Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the United States Marshals Service; and the Barbour County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Tahlequah Resident Sentenced for Federal Firearm CrimeRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Heath Tyler Bryan, age 34, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 92 months in prison for one count of illegally possessing a firearm and ammunition.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
On May 15, 2024, Bryan pleaded guilty to one count of Felon in Possession of Firearm and Ammunition. According to investigators, on January 1, 2024, troopers discovered Bryan in possession of a loaded .38 special revolver and one round of ammunition. Bryan possessed the firearm and ammunition despite knowing that he had been previously convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year.
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 Honorable Ronald A. White, Chief U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. Bryan will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Edith Singer and Rachel Geizura represented the United States.
St. Paul Man Pleads Guilty to Armed Robbery of Postal EmployeesRead the Press Release
ST. PAUL, Minn. – A St. Paul man has pleaded guilty to the armed robbery of U.S. Postal Service employees on two separate occasions, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, on November 18, 2023, Rubin David Adams, 26, assisted another person who approached a letter carrier in Edina, pointed a handgun at them, and demanded the “mailbox key,” which the victim did not have. Instead, the victim handed over two sets of USPS vehicle keys. The following day, Adams himself approached another USPS letter carrier in Brooklyn Center. Adams pointed a handgun at the victim’s head, demanded and then stole two USPS mailbox keys. Mailbox keys are valuable to criminals who use them to steal mail, cash, checks, and other financial instruments. Mailbox keys are the property of the USPS, and it is a federal offense for an unauthorized person to possess one.
Adams pleaded guilty today to two counts of armed robbery of a mail carrier in U.S. District Court before Judge Eric C. Tostrud. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later date.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the FBI, Hennepin County Violent Offenders Task Force, Edina Police Department, the Brooklyn Center Police Department, the St. Louis Park Police Department, and the Minnesota Alcohol and Gambling Enforcement Division.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily A. Polachek is prosecuting the case.
St. Francis Man Sentenced to Five Years in Federal Prison for Assault with a Dangerous WeaponRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Schulte has sentenced a St. Francis, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault With a Dangerous Weapon. The sentencing took place on December 16, 2024.
Martin Metcalf, age 52, was sentenced to five years in federal prison, followed by two years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Metcalf was indicted by a federal grand jury in December 2023. He pleaded guilty on September 19, 2024.
The conviction stems from an incident that occurred on November 24, 2023, in Todd County, South Dakota, within the boundaries of the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation. On that date, Metcalf entered his girlfriend’s home and threatened to kill her and her children with an AR-15-style rifle. At one point, Metcalf struck his girlfriend on the arm with the rifle. One of the children called 911 while Metcalf was distracted, and law enforcement responded shortly thereafter. Metcalf will forfeit ownership of the firearm to the United States.
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 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.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Senior Litigation Counsel Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Metcalf was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Springfield Business Owner Sentenced for $14 Million Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Springfield, Mo., business owner was sentenced in federal court today for his role in a nearly $14 million wire fraud conspiracy that utilized his businesses, as well as fake businesses, to fraudulently receive loans under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.
John Michael Felts, 49, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Stephen R. Bough to two years in federal prison without parole. The court also ordered Felts to pay $8,173,736 in restitution. Felts also must forfeit to the government personal property and real estate purchased with the proceeds of the wire fraud conspiracy as asserted in two civil forfeiture complaints. That property includes four parcels of real estate in Springfield, six vehicles, a yacht, two Rolex watches, five additional pieces of valuable jewelry, a 1952 Topps Jackie Robinson baseball card, a 1980-1981 Topps Larry Bird, Julius Erving, and Magic Johnson card (signed by all three players), and a 1909-1911 Ty Cobb baseball card.
On July 31, 2023, Felts pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of wire fraud.
Felts was the owner of several restaurants, including Taco Habitat in Springfield and Branson, Mo. Felts admitted that he participated in a wire fraud conspiracy that fraudulently attempted to obtain $13,925,534 through commercial loans as well as Paycheck Protection Program loans and Economic Injury Disaster loans and grants under the CARES Act from January 2018 to Sept. 13, 2022. Although Felts admitted that he attempted to obtain almost $14 million, the court today ruled that the actual loss amount was $8,173,736, for which Felts must pay restitution.
The purpose of the CARES Act was to provide emergency financial assistance due to the economic impact caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The CARES Act authorized the Small Business Administration to provide low-interest Economic Injury Disaster Loans to eligible small businesses that experienced substantial financial disruption due to the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) authorized forgivable loans to small businesses to retain workers and maintain payroll, and make mortgage interest payments, lease payments, and utility payments. Under the PPP, both the principal and interest on those loans were eligible for forgiveness.
Felts and another person, a San Antonio, Texas, resident identified in court documents as “Individual-1,” applied for PPP loans and Economic Injury Disaster loans and grants for various businesses they controlled. The conspirators made material misrepresentations about the businesses in the applications, including the purpose of the funding, and submitted fake and forged documents as a part of the application process.
Felts and Individual-1 also created fake businesses that they controlled, under fake identities they created. The conspirators then used these fake businesses and identities, as well as false financial and business documents, to apply for loans.
Felts did not utilize the loan proceeds for the purpose he represented to the lenders in the application process. Instead, he utilized proceeds for his own personal benefit (including vehicles, a yacht, jewelry, rare sports cards, and construction related to personal residences) and for the benefit of other businesses he controlled.
According to a parallel federal civil complaint filed on Sept. 13, 2022, Felts applied for 12 PPP loans using several different companies under his ownership or control. Most of these companies did not have employees and were not in operation at the time of application. Felts also applied for 13 PPP loans using synthesized or fabricated identities and companies under his control.
$2 Million Fraudulent Diagnostic Equipment, Inc., Loans
For example, in January 2020 Felts and Individual-1 set up a business, Diagnostic Equipment, Inc., for the purpose of representing it as a legitimate business, when in fact it was not and did not have any business operations. On April 26, 2020, they submitted a fraudulent PPP loan application for Diagnostic Equipment. Felts, using a fake identity, submitted false materials in support of the PPP loan application, such as false tax statements and payroll summaries. On June 18, 2020, they applied for an EIDL in the name of Diagnostic Equipment.
After receiving $1,029,100 in PPP and EIDL proceeds, Felt spent $157,000 of the proceeds to pay off a personal real estate loan, spent $39,000 to pay off a loan for a 2018 Cadillac CT6, spent $40,000 to pay off a loan for a 2018 Jeep Wrangler (which he gave as a gift to a relative), and spent $5,000 to make a down payment for the purchase of personal real estate.
On April 25, 2021, Felts submitted a fraudulent PPP loan application for Diagnostic Equipment for a second round of PPP loans. Felts received $1,054,494 in PPP loan proceeds and spent $150,000 for a corporate suite sponsorship with the Kansas City Chiefs, spent $213,000 to pay a loan on a 2021 Galeon 470SKY Yacht, spent $30,000 for construction on his personal residence, and spent $12,180 on sports memorabilia.
$310,000 Fraudulent Taco Habitat Loan
In May 2020, Felts and Indivdiual-1 submitted a PPP loan application for Taco Habitat in Branson. This application contained material misrepresentations, including the number of employees for the business.
After Felts received $310,000 in PPP proceeds for Taco Habitat in Branson, he spent $58,594 to purchase a 2020 Jeep Wrangler (which he gave as a gift to another individual) and spent $125,707 for the purchase of personal real estate.
This criminal case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Casey Clark and the civil case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony M. Brown. Both the criminal and civil cases were investigated by IRS-Criminal Investigation.
Spokane Valley Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – On December 17, 2024, United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke sentenced Shannon Ray Ault, age 38, of Spokane Valley, Washington, to 10 years in prison on drug distribution charges. Judge Dimke also imposed 5 years of supervised release.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, in February of 2024, investigators with the Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) conducted a “controlled buy” of two pounds of methamphetamine from Ault. The controlled buy, which involved the purchase of the illegal drugs, was carefully monitored and controlled by ATF agents.
After the controlled buy, Ault was arrested in Spokane. At the time of her arrest, Ault was sitting inside her car with several fentanyl pills in her lap. In connection with her arrest, agents searched Ault’s car. During the search, ATF located $1,627 in cash and an airsoft gun that looked like an AR-style rifle. ATF also recovered drug ledgers, which confirmed that Ault was distributing relatively large quantities of methamphetamine and illicit fentanyl pills.
“Ms. Ault was responsible for distributing a significant quantity of deadly drugs into our community, said U.S. Attorney Waldref. “Working closely with federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement, my office will continue to vigorously disrupt the sources of drugs in our communities to keep neighborhoods safe from illegal narcotics and criminal drug networks.”
“ATF will always investigate those causing great harm to our communities,” said ATF Seattle Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Blais. “Ms. Ault is one of those, and this sentence is appropriate for her illegal actions.”
This case was investigated by the ATF and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
2:24-cr-00034-MKD.
Sioux Falls Woman Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, woman convicted of Possession of Child Pornography. The sentencing took place on December 16, 2024.
Asha Graystone, age 34, was sentenced to ten years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, restitution in the amount of $6,000, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100. Upon release from federal prison, Graystone must register as a sex offender.
Graystone was indicted by a federal grand jury in May 2023. She pleaded guilty on October 2, 2024.
The conviction stemmed from incidents between December 6, 2022, and January 10, 2023, when Graystone knowingly possessed digital files depicting minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Graystone has a prior state-level conviction for possession of child pornography out of Minnehaha County, South Dakota in 2020 for which she received a probation sentence.
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 the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the Sioux Falls Police Department, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, and Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth A. Ebert-Webb prosecuted the case.
Graystone was allowed to self-surrender to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service on or before January 6, 2024.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Nearly Four Years for Possessing and Selling a Firearm as a FelonRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schrier has sentenced a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person. The sentencing took place on December 16, 2024.
Jerad Wade Olson, 35, was sentenced to three years and 10 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Olson was indicted for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person by a federal grand jury in May 2024. He pleaded guilty in September 2024.
In December 2023, Olson was identified by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) as a seller of firearms in the Sioux Falls area. Olson is prohibited from possessing firearms due to previous felony convictions. ATF conducted an operation targeting Olson on December 13, 2023, during which an agent established contact with Olson and posed as a buyer of firearms. Olson agreed to sell the agent a Walther 9mm pistol for $500. The agent met with Olson and completed the sale later that day at Olson’s residence in Vermillion.
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.
This case was investigated by the ATF and the Sioux Falls Police Department. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Joyce prosecuted the case.
Olson was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced to 12 ½ Years in Federal Prison for Transportation of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Transportation of Child Pornography. The sentencing took place on December 16, 2024.
Jeffrey Michael Dicus, age 40, was sentenced to 12 years and seven months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, restitution in the amount of $3,000, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100. Upon release from federal prison, Dicus must register as a sex offender.
Dicus was indicted by a federal grand jury in June 2023. He pleaded guilty on September 24, 2024.
The conviction stemmed from incidents between January 5, 2017, and February 8, 2023, when Dicus transported child pornography using his Dropbox account. Dicus created his Dropbox account in 2017 and used the online platform to trade images and videos of child pornography with other individuals. He was found in possession of over 5,000 videos and almost 20,000 images of child pornography. The videos and images contained depictions of victims as young as toddler-age engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
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 the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the Sioux Falls Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth A. Ebert-Webb prosecuted the case.
Dicus was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux City Man Sentenced to 106 Months in Federal Prison for Meth and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – A Sioux City man was sentenced today to 106 months in federal prison for possessing a distribution quantity of methamphetamine and a firearm in furtherance of his drug trafficking.
According to public court documents, Rodney Lamard Hall, II, 31, was found in possession of a distribution quantity of pills containing approximately 37 grams of methamphetamine, marijuana, and a loaded nine-millimeter pistol with an extended magazine. At the time he committed this offense, he was on probation for possessing a firearm and marijuana in April 2023, with the Iowa District Court for Woodbury County.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Hall will be required to serve a four-year term of supervised release. 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 Harrison County Sheriff’s Office and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement.
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.
Shelby Man Is Sentenced to Prison for Two Armed RobberiesRead the Press Release
ASHEVILLE, N.C. – Raymond Tracy Mintz, III, 32, of Shelby, N.C., was sentenced today to 178 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release for the armed robberies of two local businesses, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.
Cardell T. Morant, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in North Carolina and South Carolina, and Chief Brad Fraser of the Shelby Police Department, join U.S. Attorney King in making today’s announcement.
According to court documents and the sentencing hearing, on November 10, 2022, Mintz entered the Vape and Brew store in Shelby. Mintz was armed with a firearm and was wearing gloves, a beanie, and a bandana over his mouth. He also wore black sweatpants with a small “Tasmanian Devil” cartoon character on one pant leg and sneaker-style shoes with distinct gold accents. Mintz brandished his firearm at two employees and threatened to shoot them. Court records show that Mintz then walked behind the counter and stole more than $1,600 before he fled the scene.
Officers located Mintz at an area hotel where he was staying two days later. Mintz was arrested and the pistol Mintz was suspected of using during the robbery was recovered. During the investigation, law enforcement reviewed the hotel’s video surveillance footage from the day of the robbery which showed Mintz walking towards the dumpster with a distinctly colored trash bag and then returning to his room without it. Law enforcement located the trash bag which contained the black sweatpants with a small “Tasmanian Devil” emblem and the sneaker shoes that Mintz wore during the Vape and Brew robbery.
According to filed court documents, the second armed robbery occurred on December 1, 2023. On that date, Mintz robbed the Curve View Express in Shelby. Court records show that Mintz entered the store, brandished a black handgun with an extended magazine at two store clerks, and fled on foot with $1,604, which he had placed in a black grocery-style bag. An officer found Mintz shortly after the robbery near the Curve View Express carrying the black grocery-style bag. Mintz ran from the officer when the officer attempted to speak to him. The officer caught up to Mintz who was now openly carrying a firearm down by his side. Mintz then threw the black handgun with an extended magazine into the nearby grass. Officers arrested Mintz and recovered the stolen $1,604 from the black bag, as well as the firearm that Mintz used during the robbery.
On August 14, 2024, Mintz pleaded guilty to Hobbs Act Robbery and possessing and brandishing of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. He is in federal custody and will be transferred to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.
The investigation was handled by HSI and the Shelby Police Department, with the assistance of the Kings Mountain Police Department.
Special Assistant United States Attorney Annabelle Chambers of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Asheville prosecuted the case. Ms. Chambers is a state prosecutor with the office of the 43rd Prosecutorial District and was assigned by District Attorney Ashley Welch to serve as SAUSA with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Asheville. Ms. Chambers is sworn in both state and federal courts. The SAUSA position is a reflection of the partnership between the office of the 43rd Prosecutorial District and the United States Attorney’s Office. The SAUSA position helps ensure the effective and vigorous prosecution of federal court cases that impact the counties within the 43rd Prosecutorial District.
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.
Securities Trader Sentenced for Market Manipulation ConspiracyRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A securities trader was sentenced yesterday for his role in a sophisticated, multi-year market manipulation conspiracy involving securities traded on exchanges within the United States, including the New York Stock Exchange and NADSAQ.
Xiaosong Wang, 36, of Upton, Mass., was sentenced by U.S. Senior District Court Judge William G. Young to 30 days in prison. Wang was also ordered to forfeit $1,041,084 in illicit proceeds and ordered removed to China upon completion of his prison sentence. On Sept. 12, 2024, Wang pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit securities fraud.
From approximately 2013 through 2018, Wang participated in the manipulative trading activity of a group of securities traders located in China and, at times, in Massachusetts. Specifically, Xiaosong Wang and his co-conspirators, including Jiali Wang, used several brokerage accounts in their names, and in the names of others with whom Xiaosong Wang and Jiali Wang had relationships, to artificially depress or inflate the prices of thinly traded securities. They did so by repeatedly placing relatively small sell (or buy) orders designed to send a false signal about a security’s supply (or demand) and to depress (or inflate) the security’s price. Xiaosong Wang and his co-conspirators then immediately placed relatively large buy (or sell) orders on the other side of the market to take advantage of their manipulations. Once the large orders executed, Xiaosong Wang and his co-conspirators canceled their outstanding manipulative orders.
Jiali Wang pleaded guilty in August 2022 and was sentenced in December 2022 to time served (three months in prison) and nine months of home detention. Jiali Wang was also ordered to forfeit $7.75 million in illicit proceeds and was later ordered removed to China.
United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy and Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney James R. Drabick of the Securities, Financial & Cyber Fraud Unit prosecuted the case.
Sanford Felon Pleads Guilty to Possessing Firearms and Distributing Narcotics Near A PlaygroundRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that San’Drevious Jerome Lane (23, Sanford) has pleaded guilty to carrying a firearm during a drug trafficking crime and distributing narcotics near a playground. Lane faces a minimum penalty of six years, up to life, in federal prison. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for March 13, 2025.
According to court records, Lane was convicted of felony offenses in 2022 and was released from the Florida Department of Corrections on April 3, 2024. On May 21, 2024, Lane distributed cocaine in Sanford. During the transaction, he possessed a firearm. Officers located two fingerprints on the firearm, one belonging to Lane. As a convicted felon, Lane is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law. In addition, on June 3, 2024, Lane sold approximately 28 grams of cocaine. The transaction took place approximately 800 feet from a playground.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Adam J. Nate.
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.
Rutherfordton Man on State Probation Is Sentenced to Prison for Illegal Possession of Multiple FirearmsRead the Press Release
ASHEVILLE, N.C. – Kailyn Leroy Flack, 29, of Rutherfordton, N.C., was sentenced today to 92 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for possession of a firearm by a felon, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.
According to court documents and court proceedings, on September 26, 2022, North Carolina probation officers were attempting to locate Flack, after the defendant, who was on state probation for a drug trafficking conviction, had removed his electronic ankle monitor. When the probation officers arrived at Flack’s residence, they observed Flack’s vehicle in the driveway with all the doors open. The probation officers drove to a nearby location and waited for back up. While they were waiting, Flack drove up to the probation officers and was subsequently placed under arrest. When law enforcement searched Flack, they found a handgun holster on his hip. Law enforcement then searched Flack’s vehicle, where they found multiple firearms, including a Smith & Wesson, model M&P, .40 caliber pistol, a Sig Sauer, model 516, 556/.223 caliber rifle loaded with a 30-round magazine, a Smith & Wesson, .38 special revolver, and a Taurus, model The Judge, .45/.410 caliber revolver. Three of the four recovered firearms had been reported stolen.
On June 27, 2024, Flack was found guilty of possession of a firearm by a felon following a bench trial. He is in federal custody and will be transferred to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.
The investigation was handled by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the North Carolina Department of Public Safety’s Division of Community Supervision, and the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Don Gast and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Annabelle Chambers of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Asheville prosecuted the case. Ms. Chambers is a state prosecutor with the office of the 43rd Prosecutorial District and was assigned by District Attorney Ashley Welch to serve as SAUSA with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Asheville. Ms. Chambers is sworn in both state and federal courts. The SAUSA position is a reflection of the partnership between the office of the 43rd Prosecutorial District and the United States Attorney’s Office. The SAUSA position helps ensure the effective and vigorous prosecution of federal court cases that impact the counties within the 43rd Prosecutorial District.
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.
Rochester business owner sentenced on tax chargeRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that James Leonardo, 56, of Rochester, NY, who was convicted of filing a false tax return, was sentenced to time served and one year supervised release by Chief U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford. Leonard was also ordered to pay restitution totaling $2,267,315.42.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard A. Resnick, who handled the case, stated that Leonardo is the sole member and owner of MY PI, LLC. The company owns a 110-foot yacht named “Pure Insanity,” which resulted in rental income for MY PI, LLC. Leonardo was required to report net profits or losses from the business use of the yacht on his personal federal income tax returns. For the years 2015 through 2018, Leonardo reported the rental income received by MY PI, LLC. However, to reduce the taxes owed, he falsely deducted all the losses incurred with respect to operation and maintenance by falsely claiming that the yacht was used 100% of the time for business purposes. In actuality, the yacht was only used for business purposes one-third of the time. As a result, Leonardo was only entitled to deduct one-third of the losses generated for operation and maintenance. As a result, he failed to report and pay additional income taxes totaling $872,869 for 2015 through 2018.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division, under the direction of Harry Chavis, Acting Executive Special Agent in Charge, New York Field Office, and the Department of Defense, Office of Inspector General’s, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, under the direction Special Agent-in-Charge Patrick J. Hegarty, Northeast Field Office.
Rochester business owner pleads guilty to tax evasionRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Scott Reeves, 72, of Victor, NY, pleaded guilty before Chief U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford to tax evasion, which carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard A. Resnick, who is handling the case, stated that Reeves owns Fussy Contracting Inc. aka Mr. Fussy, a roofing business that operated out of a Portland Avenue location in Rochester during the tax years 2017 through 2022. After providing roofing services to residential and commercial customers, Fussy Contracting was paid primarily by check, which Reeves deposited to bank accounts and also cashed at a local check casher. Reeves was required to pay income taxes based on income he received from Fussy Contracting. For the tax years 2017 through 2022, he failed to file his Individual Income Tax Returns as well as the Income Tax Returns for the corporation, which resulted in no taxes being paid on the profits earned from operating Fussy Contracting. For the tax years 2017-2022, Reeves failed to report gross receipts totaling $5,398,008.27. After paying material expenses, labor expenses, and check cashing fees, Reeves kept the remaining $1,538,215.00, resulting in a tax loss of $248,394.00 to the IRS.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division, under the direction of Harry Chavis, Acting Executive Special Agent in Charge, New York Field Office.
Sentencing is scheduled for March 3, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. before Judge Wolford.
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Repeat Offender Sentenced to 12 Years in Prison for Distributing MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Boston man was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for distributing methamphetamine hydrochloride (“crystal meth”).
Vincent Lambert, 41, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Indira Talwani to 12 years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release. In June 2024, Lambert pleaded guilty to three counts of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. In June 2023, Lambert was indicted by a federal grand jury.
In August 2022, Lambert was identified as a supplier of crystal meth in the Boston area by a cooperating source. Lambert distributed 24 grams of crystal meth to the cooperating source in Boston on Feb. 15, 2023. On March 2, 2023, Lambert distributed another 110 grams of crystal meth in Cambridge to the cooperator. On April 4, 2023, Lambert distributed another 83 grams of crystal meth in Dorchester to the cooperator.
On June 7, 2023, 1,102 grams of crystal meth; 4,437 grams of butanediol; 100 grams of fentanyl; 43 grams of ketamine; 39 grams of cocaine; and 25 grams of MDMA were seized during a search of Lambert’s residence.
Lambert, a career offender, was sentenced to 18 months in prison for drug charges in West Roxbury District Court in 2017. In 2019, Lambert was sentenced to one year in prison for drug charges in Cambridge District Court. Later in 2019, Lambert was also sentenced to 3.5-5 years in prison for additional drug charges in Suffolk Superior Court.
Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy and Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Samuel R. Feldman of the Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit prosecuted the case.
Real Estate Developer Sentenced to Nearly 13 Years in Prison for Embezzling Millions from the Failed Washington Federal Bank in ChicagoRead the Press Release
CHICAGO — A federal judge in Chicago has sentenced a real estate developer to nearly 13 years in prison for participating in a conspiracy that embezzled millions of dollars from the failed Washington Federal Bank for Savings in Chicago.
Washington Federal, which was based in Chicago’s Bridgeport neighborhood, was shut down in 2017 after the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency determined that the bank was insolvent and had at least $66 million in nonperforming loans. For more than a decade, developer MAREK MATCZUK was part of a conspiracy that embezzled millions of dollars in bank funds. The embezzled funds were disguised as purported real estate development loan disbursements to Matczuk and others. The conspirators were not required to repay these purported loans, and they never did.
A jury in federal court last year convicted Matczuk, 61, of Park Ridge, Ill., of conspiring to commit embezzlement and falsify bank records, and aiding and abetting embezzlement by bank employees. On Monday, U.S. District Judge Virginia M. Kendall sentenced Matczuk to 12 years and eleven months in prison and ordered him to pay more than $5.9 million in restitution.
The sentence was announced by Morris Pasqual, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois; Vincent R. Zehme, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Region of the FDIC’s Office of Inspector General; Machelle L. Jindra, Special Agent-in-Charge of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's Office of Inspector General in Chicago; Ramsey E. Covington, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation Chicago Field Office; Korey Brinkman, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Central Region of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, Office of Inspector General; Douglas S. DePodesta, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI; Andrea Peacock, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Department of the Treasury, Office of Inspector General; Deborah Witzburg, City of Chicago Inspector General; and Kathryn B. Richards, Chicago Housing Authority Inspector General. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Trustee Program. The government was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michelle Petersen, Kristin Pinkston, and Jeffrey Snell, and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian Netols.
The federal investigation into the collapse of Washington Federal led to criminal charges against 16 defendants, including the bank’s Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer, and other high-ranking employees, for conspiring to embezzle at least $31 million in bank funds. Matczuk and three others were convicted after jury trials, while ten defendants pleaded guilty and two entered into deferred prosecution agreements.
Much of the embezzled money was transferred to Chicago attorney ROBERT M. KOWALSKI and other individuals outside the bank without all of the required documentation and often without any documentation whatsoever. A jury convicted Robert Kowalski on bankruptcy fraud, bank embezzlement, and false statement charges. Judge Kendall in August sentenced Robert Kowalski to 25 years in federal prison. Robert Kowalski’s sister, JAN R. KOWALSKI, also an attorney, pleaded guilty and was sentenced to more than three years in prison for fraudulently enabling her brother to conceal more than $357,000 from creditors and the trustee in his bankruptcy case.
Three former members of Washington Federal’s Board of Directors pleaded guilty to conspiring to falsify bank records to deceive the OCC. WILLIAM M. MAHON was sentenced to 18 months in prison; GEORGE F. KOZDEMBA was sentenced to a year in prison; and JANICE M. WESTON was sentenced to three months in prison.
Chicago attorney PATRICK D. THOMPSON was convicted by a jury in 2022 of making false statements to the FDIC regarding the amount of money he received from Washington Federal via a purported loan and other unsecured payments. He was also convicted of filing tax returns in which he falsely deducted interest that he had not actually paid to Washington Federal. Thompson was sentenced to four months in federal prison.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to 2 ½ Years in Federal Prison for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance.
Jeffrey Cooley, age 36, was sentenced to two years and six months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Cooley was indicted by a federal grand jury in April 2024 and pleaded guilty on September 20, 2024.
Cooley was part of a drug conspiracy to distribute cocaine in South Dakota. He obtained the cocaine from a co-conspirator on multiple occasions and distributed it to others in South Dakota. The co-conspirator would send packages containing cocaine to Cooley’s home. In April 2023, law enforcement intercepted one of these packages, which contained approximately half a pound of cocaine. In total, the group moved multiple kilograms of cocaine during Cooley’s involvement.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team from Rapid City, and the Internal Revenue Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Hodges prosecuted the case.
Cooley was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service following sentencing.
Randolph County Man Admits to Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – William Durnal, 60, of Elkins, West Virginia, has admitted to methamphetamine possession and distribution.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Durnal was part of a drug trafficking organization that was supplying large amounts of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine in Morgantown, West Virginia. In a separate case, during a search of his home, officers found hundreds of grams of methamphetamine.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zelda Wesley and Stephen Warner are prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government.
Investigative agencies include the Mon Metro Drug Task Force and the Mountain Region Drug Task Force, both HIDTA-funded initiatives.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. 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 https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
U.S. Magistrate Michael John Aloi presided.
Placer County Man Pleads Guilty to Child Exploitation ChargesRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Randy Anger, 57, of Carnelian Bay, pleaded guilty today to distribution and receipt of child pornography, United States Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, in May 2021, Anger distributed and received child sexual abuse material on the Kik Messenger app while communicating with Brent Hooton. Hooton was separately charged and convicted in the Eastern District of California with production and distribution of child pornography and was sentenced to 27 years in prison. In November 2021, Anger also received several images of child sexual abuse material on the Wickr app.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance by Homeland Security Investigations and the Placer County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Denise N. Yasinow is prosecuting the case.
Anger is scheduled to be sentenced on March 31, 2025, by U.S. District Judge Dale A. Drozd. On both the distribution and receipt counts, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years in prison and a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison per count. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
This case was 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 those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. Click on the “resources” tab for information about internet-safety education.
Peoria Man Sentenced to 102 Months in Prison for Heroin and Cocaine Trafficking Involving Firearms and for Violating Federal Supervised ReleaseRead the Press Release
Peoria, Ill. – A Peoria, Illinois man, Terrance J. Shaw, 43, was sentenced on December 12, 2024, to 102 months in federal prison for heroin and cocaine trafficking offenses involving firearms and for violating the terms of his federal supervised release. His sentence includes a six-year term of supervised release to be served upon completion of his term of confinement.
At the sentencing hearing before U.S. District Judge Jonathan E. Hawley, the government established that in early March 2024, Peoria Police responded to two ShotSpotter alerts of gunfire in the 700 Block of Lasalle Street. Officers located shell casings and focused their investigation on a residence associated with Shaw. At that time, Shaw was on federal supervised release for trafficking crack cocaine and possession of a firearm by a felon. On March 7, 2024, federal agents of the Peoria Area Federal Firearms Task Force and Peoria Police executed a search warrant at Shaw’s home. During the search, agents located 82 grams of heroin, 10 grams of cocaine, 312 grams of cannabis, drug packaging materials, digital scales and utensils with cocaine residue, multiple cellphones, a 9mm pistol and ammunition, and an AR-15 rifle with .223 caliber ammunition. Agents also located over $14,000 in U.S. currency in the home.
A criminal complaint was filed against Shaw in March 2024. A federal grand jury returned an indictment on March 19, 2024, charging him with drug trafficking offenses and firearms offenses. In August 2024 he pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute heroin, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Shaw also admitted that he had violated the terms of his supervised release by committing the new drug and firearm offenses.
Shaw’s total sentence of 102 months is a combination of the terms of imprisonment on the drug trafficking and gun offenses and a term of imprisonment for violating supervised release.
The statutory penalties for possession with intent to distribute the quantities of heroin and cocaine involved in the case are up to 30 years imprisonment, followed by 6 years of supervised release. The penalties for possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime are 5 years to life imprisonment, followed by 2 to 5 years of supervised release. Imprisonment on the firearm count must be served consecutive to the other counts.
The Peoria Area Federal Firearms Task Force, comprised of agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Peoria Police Department; the Peoria County Sheriff’s Department; Illinois Department of Corrections; and the Illinois State Police, investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ronald L. Hanna represented the government in the prosecution.
The case against Shaw 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.
Parmelee Man Sentenced to Nearly Five Years in Federal Prison for Assaulting a Fellow Jail Inmate and Possessing a Firearm While a FelonRead 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 Assault with a Dangerous Weapon and Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person. The sentencing took place on December 16, 2024.
Daryl John Plumman, age 32, was sentenced to four years and nine months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Plumman was indicted by a federal grand jury in September 2023. He pleaded guilty on July 24, 2024.
The convictions stem from two different incidents that occurred in 2023 in the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation. On April 21, 2023, law enforcement was looking for Plumman in Parmelee in connection with an alleged assault that happened earlier in the day. Plumman was located sitting in the driver seat of a parked vehicle, with a loaded 9 mm pistol under his seat. He was previously convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact in federal court. As a result of this conviction, it is illegal for Plumman to possess firearms or ammunition.
On July 29, 2023, Plumman was an inmate at the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Adult Correctional Facility. On that day, Plumman and another man attacked a fellow inmate and assaulted him with a pencil.
The assault 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 Services and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kirk Albertson and Brian Murphy prosecuted the case.
Plumman was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Ocala Man Indicted for Double RobberyRead the Press Release
Ocala, FL – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Danny Anzardo (45, Ocala) with two counts of interference with commerce by robbery and one count of brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. If convicted of the robbery offenses, Felix faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison for each robbery. The firearm offense carries a minimum sentence of seven years, up to life, in federal prison, which must be served consecutively to any prison term imposed for the robberies.
According to court documents, Anzardo robbed two establishments—a general retail store and a jewelry store—on October 29, 2024. During the first robbery, Anzardo pointed a firearm at the cashier, demanding money from the cash register. Anzardo took approximately $88 from the cash register and fled. A few hours later, Anzardo robbed the jewelry store. Anzardo implied to the victim that he had a firearm inside his backpack and threatened to kill the victim. Anzardo stole approximately $13,000 worth of jewelry from the store. Anzardo was arrested the following day and confessed to both robberies. He admitted that he used a firearm during the first robbery and that he disposed of it in a lake before he robbed the jewelry store.
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 Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Ocala Police Department, and the Marion County Sheriff’s Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Belkis H. Callaos.
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.
New York City Man Arrested for Drug DistributionRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A New York City man has been arrested and charged for allegedly distributing multiple kilograms of fentanyl in the greater Boston area that he transported from New York.
Cesar Nunez Lopez, 42, was charged with three counts of distribution and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. Lopez was arrested on Dec. 13, 2024 and, following an initial appearance in federal court in Boston later that day, agreed to voluntary detention.
According to the charging documents, in November 2024, Lopez was identified as a fentanyl trafficker. On Nov. 15, 2024, in a supermarket parking lot in the greater Boston area, Lopez distributed 99.4 grams of fentanyl wrapped in a clear plastic bag inside a black sock. It is further alleged that on Nov. 25, 2024, Lopez distributed approximately 500 grams of suspected fentanyl at a store parking lot in Watertown.
On the morning of Dec. 13, 2024, Lopez allegedly travelled from New York to a parking lot in Watertown where he distributed approximately 2.5 kilograms of fentanyl inside shopping bag.
The charge of distribution and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, at least three years and up to life of supervised release and a fine of up to $1 million. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy and Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Office made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Watertown and Waltham Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steve Hassink of the Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit is prosecuting the case.
This investigation was led by members of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Boston Strike Force. 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 https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Muskogee Resident Pleads Guilty to Federal Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Rickey Everett Ballard, age 29, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition.
The Superseding Indictment alleged that between May 1, 2024, and May 29, 2024, Ballard knowingly possessed a semiautomatic .300 blackout caliber pistol and twenty-nine rounds of ammunition after having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Muskogee Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
The Honorable D. Edward Snow, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report. Ballard will remain in the custody of the United States Marshal Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan E. Soverly represented the United States.
Michigan Man Pleads Guilty to Hate Crime for Plotting Mass Shooting of Gay CommunityRead the Press Release
A Michigan man pleaded guilty today to one count of committing a hate crime by attempting to carry out a mass killing.
According to court documents, Mack Davis, 22, of Owosso, admitted that he attempted to conduct a mass killing of individuals at a political party headquarters and a nearby bar in the Eastern District of Michigan because he associated both locations with gay people.
“This defendant amassed an arsenal of firearms, rounds of ammunition and bombmaking parts that he intended to use to carry out the mass killing of gay people. This kind of vile and heinous hate-fueled violence, intended to target innocent people based on their sexual orientation, runs contrary to our values as Americans,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Bias-motivated crimes targeting the LGBTQI+ community will not be tolerated. The Justice Department will continue using every tool at our disposal to protect communities from the scourge of hate-fueled violence by prosecuting those who carry out or attempt to carry out such crimes.”
“Davis’ plans were chilling. He intended to commit mass shootings at two locations — destroying countless lives and devastating our community — all because of his fanatical hatred for gay people,” said U.S. Attorney Dawn N. Ison for the Eastern District of Michigan. “I applaud the work of law enforcement in disrupting this awful plot and arresting Davis before he could carry out his planned attacks. Today’s guilty plea is a reflection of my office’s commitment to prosecuting bias crimes and is a critical step in holding this defendant accountable for his actions.”
“Mack Davis’ guilty plea to a federal hate crime highlights the unwavering dedication of law enforcement to uphold the safety and security of every community in Michigan,” said Special Agent in Charge Cheyvoryea Gibson of FBI Detroit Field Office. “This case serves as a stark reminder that there is no tolerance for hate-fueled violence. Davis confessed to devising a plan motivated by his deep-seated hatred, targeting innocent individuals associated with the LGBTQIA+ community. The FBI’s Detroit Field Office, Flint Resident Agency, in collaboration with the Owosso Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF), and the Michigan State Police, acted swiftly to prevent this malicious scheme from being carried out. Our collective action disrupted a serious threat and reaffirmed our commitment to protecting vulnerable communities from harm. Michigan law enforcement remains committed to ensuring all individuals live free from fear of violence or discrimination. We are dedicated to combating hate, protecting the safety and well-being of Michigan residents, and fostering a safe environment where everyone, regardless of identity, can thrive in peace.”
According to court documents, from at least July 2023 through June 2024, Davis accessed search engines and social media sites to research, post about, and pay tribute to mass killers, and wrote about dozens of mass killers in journals and on other items in his home. During that period, Davis also began to plot his own mass killing, by, among other things, drafting lists of weapons and tactical gear he owned and intended to acquire for use in his mass killing. By June, Davis had crossed off every item on the list of weapons and tactical gear he intended to acquire, and had amassed an arsenal that included two firearms, magazines, hundreds of rounds of ammunition, a crossbow and arrows, assorted bomb-making parts, smoke grenades, tactical gear and clothing and several knives. Davis inscribed one of the knives with the anti-gay slur, “FAGGOT Killer.”
From April through June, Davis solidified his plan to commit the mass killing. Among other acts, Davis posted on a social media site that he intended to commit a mass killing at a political party headquarters, which Davis referred to as “Location 1,” that Davis wrote was “filled with far-left liberal, faggot scum.” Davis wrote that he would continue the mass killing at “Location 2,” a nearby bar that Davis wrote was “a faggot bar.” Davis researched both locations online, conducted physical surveillance of both locations and posted about his research and surveillance on the social media site. During that period, Davis also vandalized two cars that belonged to his neighbors, whom he knew to be gay, by spray-painting the word “fag” on one of the cars. Days later, Davis also test-fired one of his firearms, an illegal short-barreled rifle, by firing approximately 60 bullets into several of his neighbors’ properties, including one of the cars that he had previously vandalized.
The Owosso Police Department arrested Davis for that shooting. Davis was later transferred to federal custody, where he has remained since.
A sentencing hearing will be scheduled for a later date. Because Davis’s hate crime involved an attempt to kill, he faces 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.
The FBI Detroit Field Office investigated the case, with assistance the from the Owosso Police Department, ATF and Michigan State Police.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Frances Lee Carlson and Christopher W. Rawsthorne for the Eastern District of Michigan and Trial Attorney Erin Monju of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section are prosecuting the case.
Mexican National Indicted for Illegal Re-Entry of Removed AlienRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that JUAN CARLOS MORALES-HINOJO (“MORALES-HINOJO”), age 39, a native of Mexico, was indicted on December 13, 2024 for illegal reentry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a) and (b)(1).
According to the indictment, on November 8, 2024,MORALES-HINOJO reentered the United States after being previously deported on August 15, 2019. For this offense, MORALES-HINOJO faces up to ten years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, up to one year of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
United States Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement Removal Operations in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Katherine Kaufman of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Meriwether County Man Sentenced to Prison for Armed Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, Ga. – A West Georgia resident with a criminal past who is currently serving a life sentence in a state prison, was sentenced to serve more than 14 years in a federal prison after he was convicted at a bench trial of firearms and drug trafficking charges.
Howatdrick Jamal Jones, 32, of Woodbury, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 175 months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release to run concurrently to his state prison sentence by U.S. District Judge Clay Land on Dec. 17. Jones was found guilty of one count of possession of cocaine base with intent to distribute, one count of possession of a firearm during a drug trafficking crime and one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon following a bench trial on Sept. 23. There is no parole in the federal system.
“Violent reoffenders must be held accountable for their crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “This case is a testament to the ongoing collaboration with our law enforcement partners from every level to bring to justice those creating the most havoc in our communities.”
“Guns, drugs and violence are unfortunately all too common tools of the drug trafficking organizations operating in our communities,” said Robert J. Murphy, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division. “Cases like this clearly demonstrate the resolve of the DEA to hold violent drug traffickers accountable.”
“I would like to thank all of the law enforcement entities involved for their hard work on this case,” said Waverly Hall Police Chief Jason Durham. “This is another proven example that illegal drugs and guns will not be tolerated.”
According to the evidence at trial, Jones was stopped by a Waverly Hall Police Department officer on Oct. 16, 2019, after the officer’s automatic license plate reader triggered an alert that the owner of the car had active arrest warrants. The officer smelled marijuana and searched the vehicle, finding cocaine, a digital scale and a razor blade next to the drugs. Jones was concealing a .45 caliber pistol. At the time, Jones had several prior felony drug convictions; it is illegal for a convicted felon to possess a firearm. Jones was convicted of bank robbery on Sept. 20, 2023, in the Superior Court of Pike County, Georgia, and is serving a life sentence for his crime.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Waverly Hall Police Department with valuable assistance from the FBI and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher Williams and Crawford Seals prosecuted the case for the Government.
Member of Cypress Gangsta Crips Gang Charged with 2015 MurderRead the Press Release
Earlier today, a two-count indictment was unsealed in federal court in Brooklyn charging Jason Soto, also known as “Twin,” a member of the Cypress Gangsta Crips (CGC), a subgroup of the Eight Trey Crips based in the Cypress Hills Houses of East New York, Brooklyn, with the February 2015 murder of Shakim Rivera, the leader of the CGC. The defendant was arrested this morning and will be arraigned before United States Magistrate Judge Sanket J. Bulsara.
Breon Peace, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, James E. Dennehy, Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI) and Jessica S. Tisch, Commissioner, New York City Police Department (NYPD), announced the arrest and indictment.
“This indictment makes clear that my Office and our law enforcement partners are relentless in our pursuit of violent gang members who have committed murders and harmed communities like the Cypress Hills Houses for far too long,” stated United States Attorney Peace. “We are reducing gang and gun-related violence and saving lives through a coordinated effort to target the most violent offenders, like this defendant.”
“Jason Soto, a Crips gang member, allegedly appointed himself as judge, jury, and executioner to murder his own leader as twisted justice for the death of a fellow member. Soto’s alleged actions contributed to the infestation of gang violence plaguing a Brooklyn housing complex and endangered the lives of thousands of its residents. With the assistance of our law enforcement partners, the FBI will continue to apprehend any gang member wreaking havoc in our communities,” stated FBI Assistant Director in Charge Dennehy.
“The residents of the Cypress Hills Houses, along with all New Yorkers in every neighborhood, deserve to live their lives without fear,” stated NYPD Commissioner Tisch. “The NYPD and our law enforcement partners are dedicated to systematically dismantling the gangs and crews responsible for crime and violence in New York City. I commend the collaborative efforts of our NYPD investigators, the FBI, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York in identifying and holding accountable those who terrorize our communities.”
As detailed in the indictment and other court documents, since at least February of 2015, Soto was a member of the CGC, which operated in the Cypress Hills Houses and elsewhere. CGC members committed acts of violence to promote the gang, enforce the rules of the gang, keep rivals in fear of CGC and earn money for the gang through firearm and narcotics trafficking and robberies.
The investigation revealed a deadly gang turf war fought in the Cypress Hill Houses—in the midst of residential buildings, stores and a playground—between gangs that have aligned themselves by where their members live within the housing complex. The Bloods gang associated with the “Frontside” section of Cypress feuded with the CGC members of the “Backside” and “Teamside” sections of Cypress. An internal war broke out in 2015 within the CGC when high-ranking member Demetrius Graham, also known as “Duke,” was murdered on February 19, 2015. Believing that CGC leader Shakim Rivera was responsible for Graham’s murder, members of CGC planned retaliation.
On February 19, 2015, Soto traveled from Pennsylvania to Brooklyn to carry out Rivera’s murder. On February 22, 2015, Soto lured Rivera to the vicinity of 9011 Bayview Place in the Canarsie neighborhood of Brooklyn. As alleged, Soto and another member of the CGC shot and killed Rivera, the leader of CGC, in retaliation for Graham’s murder.
The indictment is the result of a long-term investigation initiated by the FBI, the NYPD and the Office in 2015 in response to gang-related violence in and around the Cypress Hills Houses. The investigation has resulted in charges against over 20 defendants for drug trafficking, illegal weapons possession, robbery and murder.
If convicted, the defendant faces a mandatory sentence of life in prison, or possibly the death penalty.
The charges announced today are allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Organized Crime and Gangs Section. Assistant United States Attorneys Emily J. Dean and Andy Palacio are in charge of the prosecution, with the assistance of Paralegal Specialist Theodore Rader.
The Defendant:
JASON SOTO
Age: 36
Queens, New YorkE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 24-CR-511 (RER)
McAlester Resident Pleads Guilty to MaimingRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Cody Ray McFadden, age 36, of McAlester, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of Maiming in Indian Country.
The Indictment alleged that on July 17, 2022, McFadden, intending to maim and disfigure, disabled the victim.
The crimes occurred in Pittsburg County, within the boundaries of the Choctaw Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Pittsburg County Sheriff’s Office, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The Honorable Jason A. Robertson, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report. McFadden will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua Satter represented the United States.
Maryland Woman Charged with Tax Refund FraudRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury in Greenbelt, Maryland, returned an indictment, unsealed last week, charging a Maryland woman with tax fraud and theft of government funds.
According to the indictment, from 2014 to 2024, Monica Patricia McGinley assisted with the preparation and filing false tax returns, so that McGinley could receive large refunds from the IRS to which she was not entitled. On those returns, McGinley allegedly claimed nonexistent payments or withholdings and requested nearly $12 million in refunds. The IRS allegedly issued refunds to McGinley totaling over $1.5 million. In one instance, she allegedly received a U.S. Treasury check for over $1 million.
If convicted, McGinley faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for the theft of government funds charge and a maximum penalty of three years in prison for each of the six counts of aiding and assisting in the preparation and presentation of false tax returns. Upon conviction, a federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case.
Trial Attorneys Christina Grimes and Jeffrey McLellan of the Justice Department’s Tax Division are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Man Who Conspired to Sexually Exploit a Child Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
A man who conspired to sexually exploit a child and who possessed child sexual abuse material pled guilty today in federal court in Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Benjamin Paul Egli, age 30, from North Liberty, Iowa, was convicted of one count of conspiracy to sexually exploit a child and one count of possession of child pornography.
At court hearings and in a plea agreement, Egli admitted that on multiple occasions in 2023, he used Snapchat to make video calls to another person. In those video calls, at Egli’s request, the other person engaged in sexually explicit conduct with a toddler. Egli screen-recorded the sexual conduct and saved those videos on his phone. He also possessed other images and videos of child sexual abuse material on his phone, including images of children performing sexual acts on animals and sadistic and masochistic conduct.
This case was 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.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Egli remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Egli faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of 50 years’ imprisonment, a $500,000 fine, $77,200 in special assessments, and a life term of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Devra T. Hake and was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, the Tipton Police Department, and the Joint Forensic Analysis Cyber Team.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 24-CR-53.
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