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Wednesday 16 October 2024
First Circuit Affirms Lower Court: Prosecution of Lucas and Alisa Sirois to ContinueRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Maine: The U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit on Tuesday affirmed the district court’s decision to deny a motion filed by Lucas and Alisa Sirois to end the federal prosecution against them. The defendants failed to show that their marijuana operation complied with Maine’s medical marijuana laws. As a result, the prosecution will continue in federal court.
Lucas and Alisa Sirois sought to enjoin their prosecution by invoking the Rohrabacher-Farr Amendment, which prohibits the Department of Justice from prosecuting cases that would interfere with states’ ability to implement their own medical marijuana laws. But because the defendants could not demonstrate that their operations complied with Maine law, the appellate court held that the U.S. Attorney’s prosecution did not run afoul of the Amendment. Indeed, as reflected in the Court’s opinion, Maine’s Office of Cannabis Policy requested the federal government to investigate the defendants because it believed that they operated as a collective, which was illegal under Maine law. The Court further concluded that Lucas Sirois failed to rebut evidence presented by the government that he knowingly engaged in more than a million dollars’ worth of black-market sales of marijuana.
Lucas Sirois and his coconspirators are alleged to have realized more than $13 million in proceeds over a six-year period through the illicit sale of marijuana, including from black market sales outside of Maine. The alleged conspiracy involved recruiting coconspirators to cultivate marijuana on his behalf, creating an illegal collective, and then laundering the proceeds of the conspiracy through a complex network of corporations he controlled. Sirois currently faces 11 charges, including conspiracy to commit money laundering, bank fraud, and tax evasion. Alisa Sirois faces three charges, including conspiracy to commit money laundering and bank fraud. Five conspirators have pleaded guilty to charges and await sentencing, with charges pending against others.
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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Felon Convicted of Possessing Firearms and Transporting Stolen VehicleRead the Press Release
A man with fifteen prior felony convictions who used a stolen motorcycle to drive from Minnesota to Iowa and broke into a Winneshiek County home to steal firearms and other items pled guilty on October 15, 2024, in federal court in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
Steven Michael Current, age 58, from Canton, Minnesota, was convicted of one count of possession of firearms as a felon and one count of interstate transportation of a stolen motor vehicle.
In a plea agreement, Current admitted that he had fifteen prior felony convictions, and on September 26, 2022, he broke into a rural Winneshiek County home and stole eight firearms. Current also admitted that he drove a stolen 2004 Harley Davidson Motorcycle from Canton, Minnesota, to the burglary scene in Iowa on September 26, 2022. This motorcycle was stolen from a home in Rochester, Minnesota, on June 9, 2022. Current admitted that, during the burglary, he dropped two unscratched Minnesota lottery tickets from his pocket. Current was identified by images captured on a home camera system, and by images from the Minnesota store where Current purchased the lottery tickets.
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.
Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Current remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Current faces a possible maximum sentence of 25 years’ imprisonment, a $500,000 fine, and3 years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick Reinert and was investigated by Winneshiek County, Iowa, Sheriff’s Office, Fillmore County, Minnesota, Sheriff’s Office, and the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 23-CR-02050.
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Federal Jury Convicts McIntosh County Resident of MurderRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced today that David Deval Martin, age 39, of McIntosh County, Oklahoma, was found guilty by a federal jury for the 2013 murder of a Checotah resident.
The jury trial began with testimony on October 8, 2024, and concluded on October 11, 2024, with the verdict of guilty on one count of Murder in Indian Country.
During the trial, the United States presented evidence that on November 7, 2013, Martin killed a Checotah resident with malice aforethought. At trial, the government presented evidence that Martin viciously beat and stabbed the victim, who sustained over 109 separate injuries during the attack, including dozens of injuries to the head and neck. At the scene of the crime, investigators recovered Martin’s DNA mixed with the victim’s own blood from the front door of the home, and Martin’s fingerprint on the handle of a metal rod used to beat the victim. Martin’s DNA was also recovered from the steering wheel of the victim’s abandoned car. The crime occurred in McIntosh County, within the boundaries of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Reservation of Oklahoma, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The guilty verdicts were the result of investigations by the McIntosh County Sheriff’s Office, the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The Honorable Timothy D. DeGiusti, Chief U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Western District of Oklahoma, sitting by assignment, presided over the trial in Oklahoma City and ordered the completion of a presentence report. The sentencing will be scheduled following completion of the report. Martin will remain in the custody of the United States Marshal until sentencing.
Trial Attorneys Jared Hernandez and Bryan Lynch from the Department of Justice Violent Crime and Racketeering Section represented the United States.
Federal Jury Convicts Man of Exploiting Multiple Minor VictimsRead the Press Release
MIAMI – On Oct. 15, a federal jury found Rafael Antonio Saldana, 39, of Miami-Dade County, guilty of three counts of attempted enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity, attempted production of visual depictions involving sexual exploitation of minors, receipt of visual depictions involving sexual exploitation of minors, and possession of visual depictions involving sexual exploitation of minors.
In the summer of 2023, Saldana solicited sexually explicit images from three minor victims and attempted to meet in person for the purposes of engaging in sexual conduct. The three minor victims were aged 14-years-old, 16-years-old, and 17-years-old at the time of the communications. Ultimately, Saldana coordinated a time and location to meet with the 14-year-old victim at a local McDonald’s to then return to Saldana’s home to engage in sexual activity. On July 13, Saldana arrived across the street from the McDonald’s and directed the 14-year-old victim to meet him, as planned. He was arrested that day. The investigation revealed Saldana possessed over sixty images depicting the sexual exploitation of minors.
U.S. District Judge Melissa Damian is scheduled to sentence Saldana on Jan. 7, 2025, after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida; Special Agent in Charge Anthony Salisbury of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Miami Field Office; and Director Stephanie V. Daniels of the Miami-Dade Police Department (MDPD), made the announcement.
HSI Miami and MDPD investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Audrey Pence Tomanelli and Arielle Klepach are prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), 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 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 the Project Safe Childhood initiative and for information regarding Internet safety, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov under case number 23-mj-03384.
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Falfurrias felon sentenced for possessing a firearmRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 57-year-old Falfurrias resident is headed back to prison for illegally possessing a rifle, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.
Gerardo Vargas pleaded guilty July 25.
U.S District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos has ordered Vargas to serve 84 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court heard about Vargas’ extensive criminal history involving burglary, narcotics trafficking and firearms charges and the fact that he was on supervised release for conspiracy to harbor/transport undocumented aliens at the time of the offense. The court also heard that Vargas has been a member of the Texas Syndicate Prison Gang since 1990. In imposing the sentence, the court noted his extensive criminal history, that this was his fifth federal case and his previous revocations.
In December 2022, authorities encountered Vargas hunting with a rifle on private property and took him into custody on related charges. At the time of his arrest, Vargas admitted to having hunted just days prior on another property.
At the time of his arrest, law enforcement knew he was a convicted felon. As such, he is prohibited from possessing firearms per federal law.
Vargas will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Ex-Mexican Secretary of Public Security Genaro Garcia Luna Sentenced to over 38 Years' ImprisonmentRead the Press Release
Genaro Garcia Luna, the former Secretary of Public Security in Mexico from 2006 to 2012, was sentenced today by United States District Judge Brian M. Cogan to 460 months’ imprisonment and a $2 million fine for his decade-long assistance to the Sinaloa Cartel in exchange for millions of dollars in bribes. Following a four-week trial in February 2023, Garcia Luna was convicted by a jury of engaging in a continuing criminal enterprise, international cocaine distribution conspiracy, conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine, conspiracy to import cocaine and making false statements.
Breon Peace, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, Anne Milgram, Administrator, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and Katrina W. Berger, Executive Associate Director, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), announced the verdict.
“Today’s sentencing of Genaro Garcia Luna is a critical step in upholding justice and the rule of law. His betrayal of the public trust and the people he was sworn to protect resulted in more than one million kilograms of lethal narcotics imported into our communities and unleashed untold violence here and in Mexico. This sentence sends a strong message that no one, regardless of their position or influence, is above the law.” stated United States Attorney Peace. “After years of destructive narcotrafficking and deceit, Garcia Luna will spend nearly 40 years where he belongs: federal prison.”
“Today’s sentencing of Mexico’s former Secretary of Public Security, Genaro Garcia Luna, sends a clear message to corrupt leaders around the world who use their positions of power to help the cartels: no amount of power will shield you from justice,” said DEA Administrator Anne Milgram. “Garcia Luna accepted millions of dollars in bribes from the Sinaloa Cartel to allow millions of kilograms of cocaine to flood the streets of the United States. Instead of protecting the citizens of Mexico, Garcia Luna was protecting drug cartels. The DEA will continue to relentlessly pursue drug trafficking organizations and those who protect them.”
“Today’s sentencing sends a powerful message that no one is above the law,” said HSI Executive Associate Director Katrina W. Berger. “HSI continues its partnered commitment to disrupting and dismantling the criminal networks responsible for bringing deadly narcotics into the U.S.”
As proven at trial, from 2006 to 2012, Garcia Luna was Mexico’s top law enforcement official, serving as Secretary of Public Security and, in that capacity, controlled Mexico’s Federal Police Force. Previously, from 2001 to 2005, the defendant was the head of Mexico’s Federal Investigative Agency (AFI). The defendant used his official positions to assist the violent Sinaloa Cartel (the Cartel) in exchange for millions of dollars in bribes. Garcia Luna’s conduct included facilitating safe passage of the Cartel’s drug shipments, providing sensitive law enforcement information about investigations into the Cartel and helping the Cartel attack rival drug cartels, thereby facilitating the importation of multi‑ton quantities of cocaine and other drugs into the United States.
In exchange for bribes, the defendant’s Federal Police Force acted as bodyguards and escorts for the Cartel, allowing Cartel members to wear police uniforms and badges and helping to unload shipments of cocaine from planes at Mexico City’s airport, then delivering the cocaine to the Cartel. The defendant was paid in U.S. currency, stuffed variously in suitcases, briefcases and duffel bags. The bribe amounts increased over the years as the Sinaloa Cartel grew in size and power through the assistance of the defendant. Former members of the Cartel testified that bribe money was handed off to the defendant in a variety of locations, including at a “safe house” located in Mexico City where large amounts of cash were hidden in a false wall, at a car wash in Guadalajara and at a French restaurant in Mexico City across the street from the U.S. Embassy. Further, in exchange for the millions of dollars in bribes, the defendant’s Federal Police Force leaked sensitive information that enabled the Cartel to evade detection by law enforcement or use the information in attacks on rival traffickers. Finally, after moving to the United States in 2012, Garcia Luna submitted an application for naturalization in 2018, in which he lied about his past criminal conduct on behalf of the Cartel in an attempt to become a U.S. citizen.
In connection with post-trial proceedings, the Court also found that, while he was awaiting sentencing, Garcia Luna obstructed justice when he sought to bribe fellow inmates to provide false testimony in an attempt to overturn the jury’s verdict.
The investigation was led by the New York Strike Force, a crime-fighting unit comprising federal, state and local law enforcement agencies supported by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force and the New York/New Jersey High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area. The Strike Force is based at the DEA’s New York Division and includes agents and officers of the DEA, New York City Police Department, New York State Police, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Division, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Secret Service, United States Marshals Service, New York National Guard, Clarkstown Police Department, U.S. Coast Guard, Port Washington Police Department and New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision.
HSI New York’s El Dorado Task Force (EDTF) played an important role in this investigation. The EDTF is comprised of more than 200 law enforcement personnel representing approximately thirty-five (35) federal, state, and local law enforcement and regulatory agencies, including the DEA.
The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s International Narcotics and Money Laundering Section. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Saritha Komatireddy, Erin Reid, Ryan C. Harris, Philip Pilmar and Adam Amir are in charge of the prosecution, with the assistance of Paralegal Specialists Huda Abouchaer and Melissa Bennett.
The Defendant:
GENARO GARCIA LUNA
Age: 56
Miami, FloridaE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 19-CR-576 (S-1) (BMC)
Erie Man Charged with Theft of Supplemental Security IncomeRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on a charge of theft of government property, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Gregg Edward Siddons, 64, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, from in and around January 2021 to in and around March 2024, Siddons stole approximately $33,417 in Supplemental Security Income to which he was not entitled because of unreported income Siddons obtained through operating an unauthorized taxi service.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Social Security Administration - Office of the Inspector General conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Ex Secretario De Seguridad Pública Mexicana Genaro Garcia Luna Condenado a Mas De 38 Años De PrisiónRead the Press Release
Genaro García Luna, ex secretario de Seguridad Pública de México de 2006 a 2012, ha sido condenado hoy por el juez de distrito de Estados Unidos Brian M. Cogan a 460 meses de prisión y una multa de 2 millones de dólares por su ayuda durante una década al cártel de Sinaloa a cambio de millones de dólares en sobornos. Tras un juicio de cuatro semanas en febrero de 2023, García Luna fue declarado por un jurado culpable de participar en una organización criminal continue, conspiración para la distribución internacional de cocaína, conspiración para distribuir y posesión con intención de distribuir cocaína, conspiración para importar cocaína, y hacer declaraciones falsas.
Breon Peace, Fiscal de los Estados Unidos para el Distrito Este de Nueva York, Anne Milgram, Administradora de la Agencia Antidroga de los Estados Unidos (DEA), y Katrina W. Berger, Directora Ejecutiva Asociada de Investigaciones de Seguridad Nacional (HSI), anunciaron el veredicto.
"La sentencia dictada hoy contra Genaro García Luna es un paso fundamental en la defensa de la justicia y el Estado de Derecho. Su traición a la confianza pública y a las personas a las que había jurado proteger dio lugar a la importación de más de un millón de kilogramos de estupefacientes letales en nuestras comunidades y desató una violencia incalculable aquí y en México. Esta sentencia envía un mensaje contundente de que nadie, independientemente de su posición o influencia, está por encima de la ley," declaró el Fiscal de los Estados Unidos Peace. "Tras años de engaño y narcotráfico destructivo, García Luna pasará casi 40 años donde debe de estar: en una prisión federal".
"La sentencia dictada hoy contra el ex Secretario de Seguridad Pública de México, Genaro García Luna, envía un mensaje claro a los líderes corruptos de todo el mundo que utilizan sus posiciones de poder para ayudar a los cárteles: ningún poder les protegerá de la justicia", declaró la administradora de la DEA, Anne Milgram. "García Luna aceptó millones de dólares en sobornos del Cártel de Sinaloa para permitir que millones de kilogramos de cocaína inundaran las calles de Estados Unidos. En lugar de proteger a los ciudadanos de México, García Luna protegía a los cárteles de la droga. La DEA seguirá persiguiendo implacablemente a las organizaciones de narcotraficantes y a quienes las protegan."
"La sentencia dictada hoy envía un poderoso mensaje de que nadie está por encima de la ley", declaró Katrina W. Berger, Directora Ejecutiva Asociada de HSI. "HSI continúa con su compromiso conjunto de desarticular y desmantelar las redes delictivas responsables de introducir narcóticos mortales en Estados Unidos."
Como se demostró en el juicio, de 2006 a 2012, García Luna fue el máximo responsable de la aplicación de la ley en México, ocupando el cargo de Secretario de Seguridad Pública y, como tal, controlaba la Policía Federal de México. Anteriormente, de 2001 a 2005, el acusado fue jefe de la Agencia Federal de Investigación (AFI) de México. El acusado utilizó sus cargos oficiales para ayudar al violento Cártel de Sinaloa (el Cártel) a cambio de millones de dólares en sobornos. Las actividades de García Luna incluían facilitar el paso seguro de los cargamentos de droga del Cártel, proporcionar información confidencial acerca de las fuerzas de seguridad y sus investigaciones del Cártel, y ayudar al Cártel a atacar a otros cárteles de droga rivales, facilitando así la importación de cantidades de varias toneladas de cocaína y otras drogas a Estados Unidos.
A cambio de sobornos, la Policía Federal del acusado actuaba como guardaespaldas y escolta del cártel, permitiendo a los miembros del cártel llevar uniformes e insignias policiales y ayudando a descargar los cargamentos de cocaína de los aviones en el aeropuerto de Ciudad de México, para después entregar la cocaína al Cártel. Al acusado se le pagó en moneda estadounidense, metida en varias maletas, portafolios, y bolsas de lona. Las cantidades de los sobornos aumentaron a lo largo de los años a medida que el cártel de Sinaloa crecía en tamaño y poder gracias a la ayuda del acusado. Antiguos miembros del cártel testificaron que el dinero de los sobornos se le entregaba al acusado en diversos lugares, como en una "casa segura" situada en Ciudad de México, donde se ocultaban grandes cantidades de dinero en efectivo en una pared falsa, en un lavadero de coches de Guadalajara, y en un restaurante francés de Ciudad de México situado frente a la embajada de Estados Unidos. Además, a cambio de los millones de dólares en sobornos, la Policía Federal que el demandado lideraba filtró información confidencial que permitió al Cártel eludir la detección por parte de las fuerzas de seguridad, o utilizar dicha información en ataques contra traficantes rivales. Finalmente, después de mudarse a Estados Unidos en 2012, García Luna presentó una solicitud de naturalización en 2018, en la que mintió sobre su conducta criminal pasada en nombre del Cártel en un intento por convertirse en ciudadano estadounidense.
En relación con los procedimientos posteriores al juicio, el Tribunal también determinó que, mientras esperaba la sentencia, García Luna obstruyó la justicia cuando intentó sobornar a otros reclusos para que prestaran falso testimonio en un intento de anular el veredicto del jurado.
La investigación fue dirigida por la New York Strike Force, una unidad de lucha contra la delincuencia compuesta por organismos policiales federales, estatales y locales que cuenta con el apoyo de la Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force y la New York/New Jersey High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area. La Strike Force tiene su base en la División de Nueva York de la DEA y cuenta con agentes y funcionarios de la DEA, el Departamento de Policía de la Ciudad de Nueva York, la Policía del Estado de Nueva York, Investigaciones de Seguridad Nacional, la División de Investigación Criminal del Departamento de Hacienda, la Oficina de Alcohol, Tabaco, Armas de Fuego y Explosivos, Aduanas y Protección de Fronteras de EE.UU., el Servicio Secreto de EE.UU., el Servicio de Alguaciles de Estados Unidos, la Guardia Nacional de Nueva York, el Departamento de Policía de Clarkstown, la Guardia Costera de EE.UU., el Departamento de Policía de Port Washington, y el Departamento de Correccionales y Supervisión Comunitaria del Estado de Nueva York.
La El Dorado Task Force (EDTF) de HSI en Nueva York desempeñó un papel importante en esta investigación. La EDTF está compuesta por más de 200 miembros de las fuerzas del orden que representan a unos treinta y cinco (35) organismos policiales y reguladores federales, estatales y locales, incluida la DEA.
El caso del gobierno está siendo tramitado por la Sección Internacional de Estupefacientes y Lavado de Dinero de la Oficina. Los fiscales adjuntos Saritha Komatireddy, Erin Reid, Ryan C. Harris, Philip Pilmar y Adam Amir están a cargo de la acusación, con la asistencia de las paralegales especialistas Huda Abouchaer y Melissa Bennett.
El Acusado:
GENARO GARCIA LUNA
Edad: 56
Miami, FloridaE.D.N.Y. Expediente No.: 19-CR-576 (S-1) (BMC)
Dell Rapids Man Sentenced for Attempted Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Lawrence L. Piersol has sentenced a Dell Rapids, South Dakota, man convicted of Attempted Receipt of Child Pornography. The sentencing took place on October 15, 2024.
Dylan Ryan, age 25, was sentenced to five years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100. Upon his release from federal prison, Ryan must register as a sex offender.
Ryan was indicted by a federal grand jury in April of 24. He pleaded guilty on July 29, 2024.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on March 9, 2024, when Ryan, while using his cellular phone and the social media application Reddit, attempted to receive images of child pornography from an undercover agent posing as a 13-year-old female. Ryan drove to a park in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, to meet with the undercover agent and was subsequently arrested.
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 Homeland Security Investigations, the South Dakota Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the Sioux Falls Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth A. Ebert-Webb prosecuted the case.
Ryan was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Delaware Man Sentenced to More Than 23 Years in Prison for Two Violent Delco CarjackingsRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced that Keenan Righter, 21, of New Castle, Delaware, was sentenced yesterday by United States District Court Chief Judge Mitchell S. Goldberg to 280 months in prison, five years of supervised release, restitution of $1,919, and a $500 assessment, in connection with two armed carjackings in Delaware County in January of 2023.
Righter was convicted by a jury in May of conspiracy, two counts of carjacking, and two counts of using or carrying a firearm during a crime of violence arising from his role in the two carjacking incidents. Codefendant Jamar Miller pleaded guilty to these offenses in March of 2023 and is awaiting sentencing.
On January 14, 2023, at approximately 9 p.m., Righter and others drove in Miller’s car to a Wawa on Route 322 in Upper Chichester Township, Delaware County. Righter and another male then ambushed a 23-year-old college student who was walking to his car after leaving the store. The men, each brandishing firearms and wearing masks to disguise their identities, demanded the victim’s vehicle at gunpoint. They pistol-whipped the victim in the back of the head and fled the scene in the victim’s car.
On January 24, 2023, at approximately 1:30 a.m., Righter and another male drove in Miller’s car to a Wawa on Edgmont Avenue in Brookhaven, Delaware County. Again, they wore masks and carried firearms as they carjacked a 33-year-old victim at gunpoint in the parking lot of the Wawa. The men pistol-whipped the victim multiple times in the head with a firearm as they stole his belongings and fled the scene in his car.
The defendant was apprehended after an intensive investigation by FBI Philadelphia’s Newtown Square Resident Agency, in conjunction with the Brookhaven and Upper Chichester Police Departments. Digital forensic evidence and more linked the defendant to both carjackings.
“Imagine the shock of being violently ambushed on a Wawa run, of all things,” said U.S. Attorney Romero. “Keenan Righter targeted and terrorized total strangers, just to steal their cars. Armed criminals who think they can victimize innocent people with impunity should take a good hard look at 21-year-old Mr. Righter’s 23-year prison sentence. Keep doing what you’re doing, and you’ll earn your own long stay in one of our federal facilities.”
“Such brazen and senseless acts, like the ones in this case, not only devastate the victims but our community at large,” said Wayne A. Jacobs, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Philadelphia. “This sentencing exemplifies the value of partnerships in combatting violent crime. Our office will continue to work alongside our local law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to keep violent offenders off the streets and ensure our neighborhoods are a safer place to live.”
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The case was investigated by the FBI, the Brookhaven Police Department, and Upper Chichester Police Department, and is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorneys Brian Doherty and Branwen McNabb O’Donnell.
Data Center Company CEO Indicted for Major Fraud and Making False Statements to the U.S. Securities and Exchange CommissionRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury in the District of Columbia returned an indictment yesterday charging a Maryland man with major fraud against the United States and making false statements to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for his alleged participation in a scheme to deceive the SEC into thinking his company’s data center was certified at the highest rating level for reliability, availability, and security, when it was not.
According to the indictment, Deepak Jain, 49, of Potomac, was the CEO of an information technology services company (referred to in the indictment as Company A) that provided data center services to customers, including the SEC. From 2012 through 2018, the SEC paid Company A approximately $10.7 million for the use of Company A’s data center in Beltsville, Maryland.
As alleged in the indictment, Jain created an entity called Uptime Council, which purported to inspect and audit data centers. In order to obtain the SEC data center contract and conceal that Company A did not meet the SEC contract’s requirements, Jain allegedly drafted Uptime Council certification letters, which falsely claimed Uptime Council had certified Company A’s data center as a Tier IV data center, the highest possible rating for reliability, availability, and security. Throughout the pendency of the contract between Company A and the SEC, the SEC experienced several issues with Company A’s data center, including issues with security, cooling, and power — all of which were subjects of the standard referenced in the fraudulent Uptime Council certification letters.
“As alleged in the indictment, Jain orchestrated a years-long scheme to defraud the SEC by falsely certifying that his company’s data center met the highest rating level, when the actual rating did not satisfy the SEC contract,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Jain allegedly sought to enrich himself and his company at the expense of the reliability, availability, and security of the SEC’s electronic data. Yesterday’s charges make clear that the Criminal Division will not tolerate fraud schemes that threaten the security of the government’s electronic data.”
“This indictment demonstrates our shared commitment with the Justice Department to hold bad actors accountable for engaging in schemes to defraud the SEC that undermine the integrity and fairness of the government procurement process,” said Inspector General Deborah Jeffrey of the SEC.
Jain is charged with six counts of major fraud against the United States and one count of making false statements. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison on each count of major fraud and a maximum penalty of five years in prison on the making false statements count.
The SEC Office of Inspector General is investigating the case.
Senior Litigation Counsel Vasanth Sridharan and Trial Attorney Spencer Ryan of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case.
If you believe you are a victim in this case, please contact the Fraud Section’s Victim Witness Unit toll-free at (888) 549-3945 or by email at [email protected].
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Dandridge Man Sentenced to Life in Prison for Sexual Exploitation of A Child, Production of Child Pornography, and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – On October 16, 2024, Glenn Fred Glatz, 68, currently of Dandridge, Tennessee, was sentenced to life in prison by the Honorable Thomas A. Varlan, United States District Judge, in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee at Knoxville.
On July 28, 2023, a federal jury found Glatz guilty of four counts of production of child pornography in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2251(a) and (e); one count of receiving child pornography in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2252A(a)(2)(A); three counts of transferring obscene matter to a minor under 16 years of age in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1470; and one count of possession of child pornography in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2252A(a)(5)(B).
According to court filed documents, this is the third conviction of Glatz for sexual crimes against children. The evidence presented at trial showed that Glatz used DeviantArt.com, a social media platform, to befriend young girls which he then groomed and sexually exploited. Witnesses testified that Glatz was on the sex offender registry for prior convictions involving the molestation of a young girl. The evidence further demonstrated that he enticed at least two girls, ages 13 and 14, to produce live sexually explicit videos and images of themselves for Glatz to view over social media. Additionally, Glatz sent the victims nude images to other young females in hopes of enticing other minors to send him sexual images of themselves.
U.S. Attorney Francis M. Hamilton, III of the Eastern District of Tennessee; and Special Agent in Charge Joseph E. Carrico of the Federal Bureau of Investigation made the announcement.
The criminal indictment was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This investigation was led by FBI Special Agent Bianca L. Pearson.
Assistant United States Attorneys Jennifer Kolman and Suzanne H. Sullivan represented the United States at trial.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), 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 Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, PSC 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 PSC, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.justice.gov/psc/resources.html and click on the tab "resources.”
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Connecticut Fisherman Sentenced for Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
A Connecticut man was sentenced today to one year and one day in prison for evading taxes on income he earned from commercial fishing in Massachusetts.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Brian Kobus, of Durham, worked as a commercial fisherman and deckhand for various fishing companies in Massachusetts. After each fishing trip, the companies paid Kobus by check. Despite receiving over $1.2 million in fishing income between 2011 through 2013, and 2017 through 2021, Kobus never filed a federal income tax return or paid the taxes that he owed. To conceal the source and disposition of his income from the IRS, Kobus regularly cashed his paychecks from the fishing companies and used the cash to fund his personal lifestyle.
In total, Kobus caused a tax loss to the IRS of approximately $377,839.90.
In addition to his prison sentence, U.S. District Court Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton for the District of Massachusetts ordered Kobus to serve one year of supervised release and to pay $377,839.90 in restitution to the United States.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Acting U.S. Attorney Joshua S. Levy for the District of Massachusetts made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case.
Trial Attorney Matthew L. Cofer of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Victor Wild for the District of Massachusetts prosecuted the case.
California Man Sentenced to 114 Months in Prison for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
CAMDEN, N.J. – A California man was sentenced today to 114 months in prison for his role in a narcotics conspiracy involving approximately 1.9 kilograms of a substance containing methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.
Aaron Joseph, 41, of Los Angeles, California, previously pleaded guilty before Chief U.S. District Judge Renée Marie Bumb to an information charging conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Chief Judge Bumb imposed the sentence today in Camden federal court.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
From October 2020 through July 2022, Joseph participated in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Joseph shipped packages from California to conspirators located in Camden County, New Jersey, who then distributed the methamphetamine in southern New Jersey. Joseph received payment via Cash App from a conspirator for the shipments. On Feb. 14, 2022, Joseph shipped a package containing 5,100 pills from California to New Jersey. The pills contained methamphetamine and weighed approximately 1.9 kilograms.
In addition to the prison term, Chief Judge Bumb sentenced Joseph to six years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Nelson I. Delgado in Newark; special agents of Homeland Security Investigations Newark, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Spiros Karabinas; postal inspectors of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, under the direction of Inspector in Charge Christopher A. Nielsen, Philadelphia Division, and the New Jersey State Police, under the direction of Col. Patrick J. Callahan, with the investigation leading to the sentencing.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph McFarlane of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Camden.
Bronx, New York Man, Sentenced to 13 Years in Prison for Distributing Heroin and Fentanyl from Two Drug Mills in the Bronx, Causing Death of 15-Month-Old ChildRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A Bronx, New York, man was sentenced today to 156 months in prison for distributing heroin and fentanyl into New Jersey from two drug mills in the Bronx, which resulted in the death of a 15-month-old child, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.
Jhan Carlos Capellan Maldonado, 35, previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Esther Salas to a superseding information charging him with one count of distributing heroin and fentanyl from a drug mill in the Bronx in December 2018. Capellan Maldonado admitted that his distribution of fentanyl caused the death of a 15-month-old child. Judge Salas imposed the sentence today in Newark federal court.
Capellan Maldonado also pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl from a separate drug mill in the Bronx in February 2019. Six other individuals – Reimon Genao Rosario, 28; Dilson Vazquez Genao, 28; Eddie Urena Rodriguez, 39; Francisco Mercedes Gil, 36; Daury Contreras Ulerio, aka “Majimbou,” 39; and Jose Antonio Vazquez Pena, aka “Tono,” 51 – also of the Bronx, all have previously pleaded guilty to the same charge before Judge Salas and have been sentenced. Judge Salas imposed Capellan Maldonado’s sentence today in Newark federal court.
“In December 2018, a 15-month-old child ingested fentanyl and died. The toddler was in a Bronx apartment being used by Capellan Maldonado to run his drug distribution operation, preparing and packaging heroin and fentanyl. His drug mill led directly to the death of this child. The punishment he received today will not bring the child back, but the defendant is being brought to justice for the terrible effects of his role in trafficking this poison. The fentanyl epidemic has caused enormous pain and suffering to our communities, including the death of the child in this case.”
U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
On Dec. 27, 2018, Capellan Maldonado was operating a drug mill at an apartment in the Bronx where he employed four individuals to store, mix, and package heroin and fentanyl in quantities for distribution into New Jersey. Capellan Maldonado admitted that while the group was preparing the heroin and fentanyl, a 15-month-old child present in the apartment ingested some of the fentanyl and died as a result. The four other individuals have been charged with homicide by the District Attorney’s Office in the Bronx.
In early February 2019, law enforcement officers learned that Capellan Maldonado was again using an apartment in Bronx to store, mix, and package heroin and fentanyl in distribution quantities. Pena stayed at the apartment in order to safeguard the narcotics and narcotics supplies. Maldonado employed five workers at a time – including Rodriguez, Ulerio, Rosario, Gil, and Genao – to assist in preparing the heroin and fentanyl for distribution, which Maldonado then distributed to customers in New Jersey.
On Feb. 27, 2019, law enforcement searched Maldonado’s apartment and found seven individuals inside, including Rodriguez, Ulerio, Rosario, Gil, Maldonado, Pena, and Genao. All seven defendants attempted to escape out a window, and all but one – Rosario – were apprehended and arrested by law enforcement officers waiting outside. Rosario was arrested at a later date. Law enforcement recovered nearly a kilogram of fentanyl from the apartment, along with materials to grind and package fentanyl for distribution.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Salas sentenced Maldonado to five years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of Homeland Security Investigations Newark, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Spiros Karabinas, and special agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New York Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Frank Tarentino, with the investigation leading to the sentencing.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney DeNae Thomas of the Health Care Fraud Unit in Newark.
Brighton Man Sentenced to 90 Months in Connection with Gun Incident That Injured Bystander at Gaylord HotelRead the Press Release
DENVER – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces that Sonny Perez, age 33, of Brighton, was sentenced to 90 months in prison, and four years of supervised release after pleading guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute 40 grams and more of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl and one count of possession of ammunition by a convicted felon.
According to the plea agreement, on May 29, 2023, Perez was at the Gaylord Hotel in Aurora to sell methamphetamine. According to security footage, when Perez exited the hotel, he had his right hand in his pants pocket. Individuals outside the hotel reported hearing a loud sound and seeing a bystander with blood dripping down his leg. That person received medical treatment for a gunshot wound to the leg. Investigators traced Perez to his home, where they found narcotics, evidence of drug distribution, and ammunition. Perez has a prior felony conviction and is prohibited from possessing ammunition.
“Felons should be on notice—they will face long sentences if they continue to arm themselves,” said Acting United States Attorney for the District of Colorado Matt Kirsch. “I thank our partners for joining us in the fight to keep guns and ammunition out of the hands of felons and drugs off our streets.”
"Violent, illegally-armed, drug-trafficking felons present a persistent and serious danger to innocent citizens everywhere,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Brent Beavers. "ATF, in close partnership with the Aurora Police Department and the RAVEN Task Force, relentlessly pursue these violent criminals every day with the full force of local, state, and federal law enforcement resources.”
"I am grateful for the swift actions of our officers and detectives that led to the arrest of the suspect just two days after the initial shooting," said Aurora Police Investigations Divisions Chief Mark Hildebrand. “This outcome reflects our agency’s commitment to public safety and our determination to hold those who endanger our community accountable."
"This case exemplifies the commitment of the RAVEN Task Force, it's member agencies, and the U.S. Attorney's Office to hold those who commit gun violence accountable. RAVEN is at work every day to protect our communities,” said Lieutenant DJ Tisdale, RAVEN Task Force Commander.
Judge Regina M. Rodriguez presided over the sentencing. The ATF, the RAVEN Task Force, and the Aurora Police Department handled the investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Celeste Rangel and Brian Dunn handled the prosecution.
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.
Case Number: 1:23-cr-00334-RMR-1
Brevard County Felon Sentenced to More Than 17 Years in Federal Prison for Drug and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Wendy W. Berger has sentenced Shawndell Johnson (32, Melbourne) to 17 years and 7 months in federal prison for distribution of a controlled substance, possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The court also ordered Johnson to forfeit the firearms and ammunition used in the offenses. Johnson entered a guilty plea on June 7, 2024.
According to court documents, Johnson twice distributed fentanyl to a confidential source in September 2022. Following his arrest on state fentanyl distribution charges in March 2023, a search of Johnson’s residence uncovered more than 600 grams of fentanyl, over 400 grams of pure methamphetamine, and over 500 grams of cocaine. Additionally, agents located two loaded firearms. At the time of the search, Johnson had previously been convicted of multiple felonies, including murder in the third-degree without design and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. As a previously convicted felon, Johnson is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Florida Highway Patrol, and the Rockledge Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Megan Testerman.
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.
Brazoria man heads to prison for exploiting 13-year-old child through nude photos and explicit textsRead the Press Release
GALVESTON, Texas – A 46-year-old man has been ordered to federal prison following his conviction for sending obscene photos and messages to a minor, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.
U.S. District Judge Jeffrey Brown convicted George Jimenez April 23 following a one-day trial earlier that month. Prior to trial, Jimenez pleaded guilty to two counts of transfer of obscene material to a minor.
Judge Brown has now sentenced Jimenez to 24o and 120 months for the coercion and enticement of a minor and transfer of obscene material to a minor convictions, respectively. They will run concurrently for a total 240-month-term of imprisonment. At the hearing, the court also heard additional information including testimony from four victims detailing how Jimenez’s actions affected them. In handing down the prison terms, the court noted the reprehensibility of Jimenez’s conduct and the need for a severe sentence to deter and prevent future criminal conduct. Jimenez was further ordered to serve 10 years on supervised release following completion of his prison term. During that time, he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. Jimenez will also be ordered to register as a sex offender.
“Today’s sentence should be a deterrence to individuals who commit serious online crimes against minors, even when there has been no physical contact,” said Hamdani. “Jimenez preyed on vulnerable victims who were unaware they were communicating with an adult male.”
In April 2019, law enforcement discovered Jimenez had sent pictures of his genitals to a 13-year-old girl and other contacts in his phone. Five were the minors’ 12 and 13-year-old classmates.
Authorities executed a federal search warrant and discovered Jimenez was using the TextNow application to disguise himself as a teenage boy to engage in sexually explicit conversations with minors.
From March until April 2019, Jimenez engaged in those communications, including sending at least five pictures of his genitals to the 13-year-old child. In approximately 17 communications, Jimenez asked the minor victim for pictures of either her breasts, buttocks or genital area.
In a text exchange, the minor shared information with Jimenez that she shaved her genital region. Jimenez then sent messages asking to see images of it.
At the time of the trial, the defense attempted to convince the court the messages he sent to the minor did not arise to the level of attempting to persuade the minor to send him sexually explicit photos of herself. He did not believe those claims and found Jimenez guilty as charged. In his ruling, the court stated, “these requests were direct, specific and unambiguous. They were not shrouded in innuendo or bashfulness. Simply put, there is no question that Jimenez repeatedly asked [the minor] to take and send him pictures of her genitals and pubic area.”
He will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
FBI conducted the investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Karen M. Lansden and Sherin S. Daniel prosecuted the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources tab on that page.
Boone County Man Pleads Guilty to Child Pornography CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Trenton Alan Cremeans, 23, of Seth, pleaded guilty today to possession of prepubescent child pornography.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on January 17, 2024, Cremeans possessed approximately 115 images and 22 videos of child pornography on his cell phone. Cremeans admitted that these images and videos include depictions of prepubescent minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Cremeans further admitted that he downloaded these images and videos online, and had used his cell phone to search online for child pornography and related information by using specific search terms.
Cremeans is scheduled to be sentenced on January 16, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, at least five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. Cremeans must also register as a sex offender.
United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security-Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Rada Herrald is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:24-cr-41.
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Bienville Parish Man Sentenced for Illegal Possession of Crack Cocaine and a Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced that Martino Antwion Hill, 42, of Ringgold, Louisiana, was sentenced today for illegal possession of narcotics and a firearm and ammunition. United States District Judge S. Maurice Hicks, Jr. sentenced Hill to 156 months (13 years) in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release for possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine and being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.
On February 25, 2022, deputies with the Bienville Parish Sheriff’s Office observed Hill and another individual standing outside of a vehicle which they believed had been driven by Hill. Deputies were aware that Hill had several active felony warrants and approached the vehicle. As law enforcement officers approached, Hill began to walk away from the vehicle and refused to follow the commands of officers to stop as they approached. Hill resisted arrest and the officers took him into custody. They searched his person and discovered over $5,000 in cash and approximately 11.32 grams of crack cocaine. A search of his vehicle was conducted, and officers discovered a Ruger model 5.7, caliber 5.728 firearm and ammunition on the rear seat of the vehicle.
Hill has previous felony convictions for possession with intent to distribute a controlled dangerous substance on two occasions and possession of a firearm by a felon. He admitted that he was a convicted felon at the time of this offense and knew he was prohibited from possessing any firearm or ammunition.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Bienville Parish Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert F. Moody.
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Armed hotel robbery of $30 lands young man in prisonRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 22-year-old Corpus Christi resident has been sentenced following his conviction of robbery and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.
Rudy Feregrino pleaded guilty May 23.
U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos has now ordered him to serve a total of 90 months in prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release.
On Jan. 20, at approximately 1:44 a.m., Feregrino entered the Holiday Inn Express on Brookhaven Dr. in Corpus Christi. He was wearing distinctive grey high-top Nike sneakers and a black windbreaker with white reflective stripes. He went directly to the front desk and pointed a black and tan firearm at the clerk and demanded money from the register. The frightened clerk complied, after which Feregrino left.
Several hours later, law enforcement saw an individual that matched Feregrino’s description entering a vehicle. They discovered the vehicle had been reported stolen and conducted a traffic stop.
Feregrino was still wearing the same distinctive clothes from the robbery. Authorities also found the black and tan firearm.
Feregrino has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation with assistance from the Corpus Christi Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel Dunn prosecuted the case.
Armed Robbery Crew Charged After Attempting to Rob Temecula Pharmacy and Following a Six-Week Armed Robbery SpreeRead the Press Release
RIVERSIDE, California – Four individuals were charged in a criminal complaint today alleging their involvement in a six-week armed robbery spree across Southern California.
The following defendants are charged with attempted interference with commerce by robbery (Hobbs Act):
- Aaron Carter, 39, of Fontana;
- Diamond Lucious, 25, of Victorville;
- Isaac Penaldoza, 35, of San Bernardino; and
- Kamaria Kendrick, 25, of Menifee
According to the complaint affidavit, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Orange County Violent Crime Task Force (OCVCTF) has been investigating a series of armed robberies of pharmacies across Southern California – in Woodland Hills, Temecula, Newport Beach, and Fullerton. During each of the robberies, three male suspects would enter the pharmacies wearing hooded sweatshirts and face masks. Two of the suspects would be armed with guns, force employees to the ground, steal cash from the registers, and violently drag employees around the store. The third suspect would grab a trash can from inside the pharmacies and put stolen medications in the trash can.
The complaint affidavit alleges that on October 14, 2024, Kendrick scouted the Apollo Pharmacy in Temecula, California, by walking around the pharmacy building while on her phone and then driving around the building several times. Carter, Lucious, and Penaldoza then entered the pharmacy wearing hooded clothing, gloves, and masks while Kendrick waited in the car. Surveillance video at the Apollo Pharmacy shows that Carter, Lucious, and Penaldoza allegedly jumped over the counter and Lucious and Penaldoza brandished guns at employees, yelled at the employees, and then grabbed the employees and forced them to lie on the ground. Carter went directly to the safe in the back of the store and Penaldoza allegedly forced an employee at gunpoint to walk towards the safe. After an employee said that there was nothing in the safe, Carter, Lucious, and Penaldoza allegedly fled to the getaway car driven by Kendrick.
OCVCTF agents attempted to arrest the suspects when Kendrick allegedly tried to evade them and struck one of the unmarked law enforcement vehicles. While law enforcement immobilized the getaway car, a 9mm pistol fell out of the car. All four were arrested at the scene without further incident.
Carter, Lucious, and Penaldoza, are not legally permitted to possess firearms because they have all been previously convicted of multiple felonies and were on post-release community supervision or parole at the time of their arrest.
A complaint affidavit contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.
Operation Safe Cities establishes strategic enforcement priorities with an emphasis on prosecuting the most significant drivers of violent crime. Across this region, the most damaging and horrific crimes are committed by a relatively small number of particularly violent individuals. This strategic enforcement approach is expected to increase the number of arrests, prosecutions and convictions of recidivists engaged in the most dangerous conduct. It is designed to improve public safety across the region by targeting crimes involving illicit guns, prohibited persons possessing firearms, or robbery crews that cause havoc and extensive losses to retail establishments.
The ATF OCVCTF is investigating this matter. The OCVCTF was formed to investigate violent crime, with a focus on serial robberies throughout Southern California. The ATF-led task force is comprised of personnel from the Brea Police Department, the Fullerton Police Department, the Santa Ana Police Department and the Orange County District Attorney’s Office.
Assistant United States Attorneys Kevin J. Butler and Jena A. MacCabe of the Violent and Organized Crime Section are prosecuting this case.
Ardmore Resident Sentenced for Federal Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Ricky Gene McGee, Jr., age 38, of Ardmore, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 27 months in prison for illegally possessing a firearm and ammunition.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Chickasaw Nation Lighthorse Police, and the Ardmore Police Department.
On February 26, 2024, McGee pleaded guilty to one count of Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition. According to investigators, on October 12, 2022, law enforcement officers conducting a routine traffic stop along Sam Noble Parkway in Ardmore, Oklahoma, saw McGee throw an object from the vehicle. During the stop, officers discovered McGee in possession of a pistol magazine loaded with eleven rounds of 9mm ammunition. Law enforcement also recovered a semiautomatic firearm lying in a nearby ditch along the route travelled by McGee’s vehicle prior to the stop. The loaded firearm contained twelve rounds of 9mm ammunition inside a magazine that matched the magazine found on McGee’s person. McGee knowingly possessed the firearm and ammunition after having been previously convicted of a crime punishable by more than one year imprisonment.
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. McGee will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshal pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan E. Soverly represented the United States.
Anson ISD Janitor Allegedly Used AI to Create Child Pornography with Students’ FacesRead the Press Release
An Anson ISD employee who allegedly used AI to superimpose the faces of students onto the faces of adult subjects in pornographic videos has been federally charged, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Leigha Simonton.
Daril Martin Gonzales, 55, was indicted last Wednesday on one count of possession and attempted possession of child pornography and one count of possession and attempted possession of obscene visual representation of a child. He was arraigned on Thursday before Magistrate Judge John R. Parker, who on Tuesday ordered him detained pending trial.
At Tuesday’s detention hearing, prosecutors noted that Mr. Gonzales, who works as a janitor for Anson ISD, moonlighted as a school sports and cheerleading photographer, taking pictures of middle and high school students for free. Without the children’s consent, he allegedly used artificial intelligence (AI) to superimpose the faces of pre-pubescent students onto the faces of adult subjects in sexually explicit videos or to attach AI-generated nude bodies to the faces of the girls.
According a police report admitted into evidence at the detention hearing, Mr. Gonzales allegedly described his crimes as a “power trip” and admitted to viewing child pornography for up to six hours per day for the past 20 to 25 years.
“Knowing he took those [photographs] and what he does with them, it really makes me sick to my stomach,” a victim said in late August, after being informed about the AI images. “I feel gross, I know it’s not me, but it makes me feel gross and violated and disrespected.”
“I felt disgusted, embarrassed, and scared. I was worried that photos of me could be posted or sold somewhere,” said another. “I was embarrassed cause I didn’t want people to think of me in this way when I hadn’t done anything.”
“I know I can’t do anything about what he did,” said a third. “I don’t think I did anything wrong. He’s in the wrong.”
An indictment is merely an allegation of criminal conduct, not evidence. Like all defendants, Mr. Gonzales is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in federal prison followed by a possible lifetime of supervised release.
Homeland Security Investigations’ Dallas Field Division – Abilene Resident Agency, Abilene Police Department, the Texas Rangers, and the Anson Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Whitney Ohlhausen is prosecuting the case.
Alleged Members of Potomac Gardens Drug Trafficking Conspiracy Arrested and Charged with Distributing Fentanyl, Cocaine, and MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – This morning, six people were arrested on charges connected to a wide-ranging conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, cocaine base, cocaine, and methamphetamine, in the Potomac Gardens Housing Project in Southeast Washington D.C., announced U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves and FBI Acting Special Agent in Charge David Geist of the Washington Field Office.
Arrested were Robert Hunt, 40, Garrett Isley, 42, Maurice Tutt, 50, Vera Jackson, 74, all of Washington, D.C., Michael Augment, 36, of Lorton, Virginia, and Lawrence Smith, 54, of Fairfax, Virginia. Each made their initial appearance this afternoon in U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia.
“This is the latest federal indictment charging a D.C.-based crew with narcotics and firearms offenses” said U.S. Attorney Graves. “Drug trafficking operations, like the one alleged in the indictment, not only peddle poison, but they are also magnets for gun violence. We will continue to aggressively prosecute these crews that are undermining community safety.”
“Fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine have no place in our community,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Geist. “Today's arrests stem from a yearslong investigation by the FBI and our law enforcement partners and mark a step forward in our efforts to reduce drug trafficking in the nation’s capital.”
The multi-agency law enforcement operation included members of the FBI’s Washington Field Office, the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), the Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD), District of Columbia Housing Authority Police, Virginia State Police, and Fairfax County and City police departments.
According to the indictment, between January and October of 2024, the defendants engaged in a conspiracy to distribute narcotics in and around the District of Columbia. It is further alleged that Hunt unlawfully distributed fentanyl and carried a gun in furtherance of drug trafficking. Isley is charged with unlawful possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, cocaine, cocaine base, and methamphetamine.
The indictment arises from a long-term investigation by the FBI, MPD, and the Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD) into drug and firearms trafficking in Potomac Gardens. In December 2023, MCPD learned that defendant Hunt regularly was selling fentanyl from an apartment in the housing complex. An undercover officer (UC) purchased narcotics, in particular fentanyl, from Hunt. Hunt initially used “runners” to deliver the narcotics to the UC. However, after a few buys, Hunt began to deal directly with the undercover officer. From approximately January 2024 through September 2024, the UC purchased approximately 215.87 grams of fentanyl powder and approximately 2,950 fentanyl pills from Hunt. The UC also purchased a .357 “ghost gun” from Hunt.
Through a court-authorized wiretap on Hunt’s phone, agents learned of several of his co-conspirators and the roles they each played. Agents also placed a camera outside Hunt’s apartment and outside the apartment of one of his supplier’s, defendant Isley. Through a wiretap on Isley’s phone, agents learned of additional members of the conspiracy. MPD stopped Isley in a traffic stop on June 19, 2024, during which they recovered 468 blue, suspected fentanyl pills, about 37.4 grams of cocaine base, approximately 24.5 grams of cocaine, and about 60 grams of methamphetamine and other narcotics.
On October 16, 2024, law enforcement executed search warrants at various stash houses and residences of the co-conspirators. Agents recovered five firearms, approximately $31,000 in cash, approximately 500 grams of suspected fentanyl and smaller amounts of other narcotics, two money counters, and additional drug paraphernalia.
This operation 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.
This case is being investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office. Valuable assistance was provided by the DEA Washington Field Office, District of Columbia Housing Authority Police, Virginia State Police, and Fairfax County and City police departments.
It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nihar Mohanty and Solomon Eppel of the Violence Reduction and Trafficking Offenses section. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the District of Maryland and the Eastern District in Virginia in helping to coordinate search warrants and arrests.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
AM/NS Calvert is sentenced for violating the Clean Air ActRead the Press Release
MOBILE, AL – AM/NS Calvert, LLC was sentenced to a three years’ probation and a $750,000 fine on October 10, 2024, for failure to report violations under the Clean Air Act.
According to court documents, AM/NS Calvert, LLC owns and operates a steel production facility, which includes an acid regeneration plant, in Calvert, Alabama. In February 2015, the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) issued a Clean Air Act Permit for the acid regeneration plant designed to run on water. In April 2015, the permit was amended to require a caustic solution, which was necessary to meet air emission standards.
In August 2017, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and ADEM conducted a joint inspection of the AM/NS Calvert acid regeneration plant. During the inspection, the facility was not using caustic solution in violation of the permit. Further investigation revealed the AM/NS Calvert acid regeneration plant did not use caustic for approximately 700 days during a two-year period.
United States Attorney Sean P. Costello said, “Together with our partners, we will continue to coordinate and do all that we can to protect the environmental resources in the Southern District of Alabama that are so fundamental to our communities, our economy, and our lifestyles.”
The Environmental Protection Agency investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael D. Anderson and attorneys from the Environmental Crime Section of the Department of Justice prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
16 Hells Angels & Red Devils Members Face Charges Related to Violent Racketeering EnterpriseRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A single federal indictment in the Eastern District of North Carolina charges 16 members of two outlaw motorcycle gangs – the Hells Angels Motorcycle Club (HAMC) and the Red Devils Motorcycle Club (RDMC) – for their alleged roles as part of an enterprise engaging in violent criminal activity in and around Raleigh and Fayetteville. The RDMC is the main support club nationwide for the HAMC.
Five of the defendants are charged with Murder in Aid of Racketeering for the killing of a member of the Pagan’s Motorcycle Club (PMC), a rival gang, on January 1, 2023, in Raleigh. Two additional defendants are charged with accessory after the fact for their actions following that murder.
Eight defendants are charged with Attempted Murder in Aid of Racketeering and Assault with a Dangerous Weapon in Aid of Racketeering for their alleged role in a July 22, 2023 violent assault of a PMC member in the parking lot of a Dairy Queen restaurant in Wade, North Carolina.
One defendant is charged with obstruction for attempting to dissuade a witness from assisting the criminal investigation of this case.
“Two years ago we launched a Violent Crime Action Plan to partner with local law enforcement to identify the individuals and groups driving violence in North Carolina, especially criminal enterprises that support and encourage violence by their members,” said U.S. Attorney Michael F. Easley, Jr. “We’ll keep pursuing cases like this one, charging violent crimes in aid of racketeering, to expose patterns of violence and hold gang members and those who enable them accountable.”
“According to the indictment, these defendants were leaders, organizers, and members of the Hell’s Angels Motorcycle Club and committed multiple crimes to advance their positions in this violent gang,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The gang’s alleged violent acts included the murder of a rival gang member on a public street, and the assault and attempted murder of other rival gang members in a restaurant parking lot. This indictment demonstrates that, along with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners, the Criminal Division is committed to holding accountable those response for acts of violence that terrorize local communities.”
“Outlaw motorcycle gangs are notorious for lawless and violent behavior,” said Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Special Agent in Charge Bennie Mims. “These criminal organizations are responsible for a long list of illegal activities, such as assault and homicide and operate with absolutely no regard for the safety of law enforcement or the community. ATF is proud to stand with our law enforcement partners and be part of an effort to disrupt and disband violent and dangerous networks.”
“I am proud to stand with my federal, state, and local partners in investigating and disrupting violent organizations,” said Raleigh Police Chief Estella Patterson. “The Raleigh Police Department and our community will not tolerate destructive behavior and will work tirelessly with our law enforcement partners to identify those responsible to ensure they are held accountable. I am grateful to United States Attorney Michael F. Easley, Jr., and his team for their continued dedication and steadfast commitment to public safety. I also thank the ATF, the Fayetteville Police Department, and the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office for their strong partnership in these cases.”
“Operation Broken Halo has been an ongoing investigation with the Fayetteville Police Department and the ATF into an alleged criminal enterprise connected to an outlaw motorcycle gang,” said Fayetteville Police Chief Kemberle Braden. “Through collaboration and partnership with the ATF and other supporting agencies, we were able to successfully bring charges against numerous members of this outlaw motorcycle gang and their supporting clubs. The Fayetteville Police Department remains committed to our partnership with federal, state, and local agencies to remove violent criminals from our community.”
“I want to make it clear: violent activity is not tolerated in Cumberland County,” said Cumberland County Sheriff Ennis W. Wright. “The Sheriff's Office is 100% committed to maintaining a safe and peaceful community. We thoroughly investigate all tips, and it's vital for the community to continue to report what they see because we cannot do it alone. We are grateful for our partnerships with the community, the Department of Justice, and federal and local law enforcement agencies. Together, we do and will continue to make a difference.”
Most of the charges are being brought under the Violent Crimes in Aid of Racketeering Activity (VICAR) statute, which makes it illegal to commit violent crimes, including murder, kidnapping, maiming, assault with a dangerous weapon, assault resulting in serious bodily injury, or threatening to commit a crime of violence for the purpose of joining, remaining with, or moving up in rank within an enterprise.
The indictment alleges that all 16 defendants are members or associates of the HAMC, a violent outlaw motorcycle group alleged to use violence, threats, and intimidation to carry out its perceived mission and enforce its rules.
The indictment alleges that HAMC members are under a standing order to attack, injure, and potentially kill members of the PMC. The indictment also alleges that HAMC members commonly commit physical assaults, including murder, threats to injure, and intimidation to keep witnesses to their criminal conduct silent.
The indictment charges the following offenses:
Vidaul Rashaad Reed, aka “Hootie,” Anthony Edward Cheever, aka “Rowdy,” David William Stephens, aka “007,” Martinus Jermaine Starks, aka “Tee,” and Tyler Scott Grissom, aka “Snow,” are all members of the RDMC and are each charged with one count of Murder in Aid of Racketeering and one count of discharge of a firearm in connection with a crime of violence and, in doing so, causing death; all for allegedly murdering a member of the PMC on January 1, 2023. Murder in Aid of Racketeering carries a mandatory life sentence upon conviction and the other charged offenses carry a sentence of up to life in prison.
Christopher Dylan Manor and Robert Scott Brown are both charged with accessory after the fact to the January 1, 2023 murder. Manor was a member of RDMC at the time of the alleged offense and Brown is a member of the HAMC. Each face up to 15 years in prison if convicted.
Jason Lee Hathaway, Fred Joseph Prosperi, aka “Freddy” and “Snow Boy,” William Scott Gardner, aka “Big Will,” Terry Lewis Akins, Jr., J.R. Nevarez Darr, Darrell Dewayne Strickland, Jr., William Franklin Beasley and David Lee Woodall are charged with Attempted Murder in Aid of Racketeering and Assault with a Deadly Weapon in Aid of Racketeering related to the attempted murder and assault with a dangerous weapon of members of the PMC on July 22, 2023 in the parking lot of a Dairy Queen restaurant in Wade, North Carolina. They are all were members of the HAMC at the time of the offense and each face up to thirty years in prison if convicted.
Jonathan Michael Robarge is charged with tampering with a witness, victim or informant by harassment, Robarge has ties to both HAMC and RDMC, and faces up to three years in prison if convicted.
The ATF, the Raleigh and Fayetteville Police Departments, and the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office are investigating the case.
Trial Attorney Alyssa Levey-Weinstein and Deputy Chief Kelly Pearson of the Justice Department’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kelly L. Sandling and Robert Dodson of the Eastern District of North Carolina are prosecuting the case.
This investigation was an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launders, 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.
Tuesday 15 October 2024
Waukee Man Sentenced to Nine Years in Federal Prison for Wire Fraud and Money Laundering Investment SchemeRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – A Waukee man was sentenced on October 11, 2024, to nine years in federal prison for wire fraud and money laundering.
According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, William Jack Berg, 52, defrauded approximately 17 victims by purporting to be a financial advisor in central Iowa, St. Louis, Missouri, and elsewhere. Over an eight-year period, Berg deceived victims to invest in companies he created and controlled: W. Holdings of Iowa and Excel Performance Management. To further his fraud, Berg provided his victims with fictitious investment agreements, account statements, and created a website for one of the purported investment companies. Berg spent the victim’s money for his own personal expenses. Once alerted to his federal indictment, Berg attempted to destroy documents and left the state.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Berg will be required to serve a three-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Berg was also ordered to pay more than $1.6 million in restitution.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Iowa Insurance Division’s Fraud Bureau and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Adam Kerndt prosecuted the case.
This investigation was part of the Elder Justice Initiative, which supports the efforts of state and local prosecutors, law enforcement, and other elder justice professionals to combat elder abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation, with the development of training, resources, and information. Learn more about the Justice Department’s Elder Justice Initiative at http://www.justice.gov/elderjustice. If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has been a victim of financial fraud, help is available at the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311).
This U.S. Department of Justice hotline, managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, can provide personalized support to callers by assessing the needs of the victim and identifying relevant next steps. Case managers will identify appropriate reporting agencies, provide information to callers to assist them in reporting, connect callers directly with appropriate agencies, and provide resources and referrals, on a case-by-case basis. Reporting is the first step. Reporting can help authorities identify those who commit fraud and reporting certain financial losses due to fraud as soon as possible can increase the likelihood of recovering losses. The hotline is open Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET. English, Spanish and other languages are available. The Department of Justice provides a variety of resources relating to elder fraud victimization through its Office for Victims of Crime, which can be reached at https://www.ovc.gov.
Virginia Contractor Settles False Claims Act Liability for Failing to Secure Medicare Beneficiary DataRead the Press Release
ASRC Federal Data Solutions LLC (AFDS), headquartered in Reston, Virginia, has agreed to resolve False Claims Act allegations in connection with a government contract related to its storage of unsecured personally identifiable information of Medicare beneficiaries. Under the resolution, AFDS will pay $306,722. It will also waive any rights to reimbursement for remediating a data breach involving the information, including at least $877,578 in costs it incurred notifying beneficiaries and providing credit monitoring. AFDS promptly notified the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) of the data breach, worked with CMS to address the impact of the breach, cooperated with the Justice Department’s investigation and took other remedial measures.
“Government contractors that handle personal information must take required steps to safeguard that information from cyberattacks,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “We will vigilantly pursue contractors that fail to comply with required cybersecurity protocols, while at the same time extending cooperation credit where warranted for self-disclosure, cooperation and remediation.”
AFDS provided certain Medicare support services under a contract with CMS. The settlement resolves allegations that from March 10, 2021, through Oct. 8, 2022, AFDS and a subcontractor stored screenshots from CMS systems containing personally identifiable information and potentially personal health information of Medicare beneficiaries on the subcontractor’s server without individually encrypting the files to protect them against exposure in the event of a breach. The subcontractor’s server employed disk-level encryption that protected files from unauthorized access but not from access using authorized credentials. The subcontractor’s server was breached by a third party in October 2022 and the unencrypted screenshots were allegedly compromised during that breach.
The United States alleged that the storing of screenshots on the subcontractor’s server violated AFDS’ contractual cybersecurity requirements, and that AFDS knowingly billed CMS in violation of these requirements.
“Safeguarding patients’ sensitive personal information is of paramount importance,” said Special Agent in Charge Stephen Niemczak of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “This settlement demonstrates the commitment by HHS-OIG and our law enforcement partners to use every available tool to protect the health care data of all Americans and to investigate allegations of fraud, waste and abuse against the public and taxpayer-funded health care programs.”
On Oct. 6, 2021, Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco announced the department’s Civil Cyber-Fraud Initiative, which aims to hold accountable entities or individuals that put U.S information or systems at risk by knowingly providing deficient cybersecurity products or services, knowingly misrepresenting their cybersecurity practices or protocols or knowingly violating obligations to monitor and report cybersecurity incidents and breaches. Information on how to report cyber fraud can be found here.
The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Civil Division's Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, and HHS-OIG.
Senior Trial Counsel Jonathan H. Gold of the Civil Division’s Fraud Section handled the matter.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only. There has been no determination of liability.
Settlement
United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Alabama Provides Stand Against Firearm Endangerment (SAFE) Student Pledge to SchoolsRead the Press Release
MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Acting United States Attorney Kevin Davidson announced that this week the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Alabama is working with schools across the district to encourage students to participate in the Stand Against Firearm Endangerment (SAFE) Student Pledge. With a focus on keeping schools and communities safe, students in middle school and high school are signing a voluntary pledge promising that they will assume that any gun they see might be loaded, they will never take a gun to school, they will never resolve a dispute with a gun, and they will use their influence to prevent friends from using guns to resolve disputes. Elementary school children are making a similar commitment—pledging that they will not play with a gun and that, if they see a gun, they will not touch it and they will tell a teacher or a trusted adult. Students are making the SAFE Student Pledge this week in conjunction with the National Day of Concern for Young People and Gun Violence, which will be observed on October 16, 2024.
The SAFE Student Pledge recognizes the role young people play in reducing gun endangerment and violence by making responsible decisions. The pledge also seeks to foster discussions among students and their families about the necessity of gun safety and non-violent ways to resolve disputes.
Nearly 30 schools are participating in the SAFE Student Pledge this week, with over 10,000 students expected to take the pledge. Participating schools are located in a variety of counties within the Middle District of Alabama, including Chambers, Chilton, Coffee, Covington, Crenshaw, Dale, Geneva, Lee, Lowndes, Macon, Montgomery, Pike, and Russell.
Schools or youth organizations may also participate in the SAFE Student Pledge throughout the year by visiting www.justice.gov/usao-mdal/safe-student-pledge and submitting a request.
The SAFE Student Pledge initiative is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a national program that has been historically successful in bringing together law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.
Union County Tax Preparer Admits Assisting in Preparation of Fraudulent Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A Union County, New Jersey, tax preparer admitted assisting in the preparation of fraudulent tax returns on behalf of his clients, resulting in improperly large refunds for the tax preparer’s clients, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced today.
Emmanuel Amenyo, 59, of Union, New Jersey, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Madeline Cox Arleo in Newark federal court on Oct. 10, 2024, to an information charging him with aiding and assisting in the preparation of a false and fraudulent tax return.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
From tax years 2018 through 2021, Amenyo ran a tax preparation business in which he prepared and submitted individual tax returns to the IRS on behalf of clients. Amenyo filed numerous false tax returns on behalf of his clients and subscribed to false tax returns with respect to his own taxes. These tax returns falsely claimed charitable contributions, itemized deductions, child and dependent care expenses, and other qualified expenses to which Amenyo and his clients were not entitled, resulting in improperly large tax refunds, as Amenyo knew and intended. Amenyo’s conduct caused a tax loss of $250,466.
The charge that Amenyo pleaded guilty to carries a maximum penalty of three years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Sentencing is scheduled for April 1, 2025.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the IRS-Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jenifer L. Piovesan, with the investigation leading to the guilty plea.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Stern of the Opioid Abuse Prevention and Enforcement Unit in Newark.
amenyo.information.pdfU.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Tennessee Observes Domestic Violence Awareness MonthRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – October marks the observance of Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM). Acting U.S. Attorney Reagan Fondren joins the U.S. Department of Justice in commemorating DVAM, paying tribute to victims and survivors, and saluting the dedication of advocates, service providers, justice professionals, law enforcement officers, and first responders who tirelessly work in support of survivors.
DVAM serves as an important reminder to raise awareness and engage the community in efforts to end intimate partner violence. According to the Justice Department’s Office on Violence Against Women, domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behavior in any relationship, used by one partner to gain or maintain power and control over another intimate partner. Domestic violence can be physical, sexual, emotional, economic, psychological, or technological actions or threats of actions or other patterns of coercive behavior that influence another person within an intimate partner relationship. Domestic violence can happen to anyone regardless of race, age, sexual orientation, religion, sex, or gender identity. Domestic violence affects people of all socioeconomic backgrounds and educational levels and occurs in both opposite-sex and same-sex relationships. It can also happen to intimate partners who are married, living together, dating, or share a child.
“Domestic violence is more prevalent than most people realize,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Fondren. “We want the community to know that federal prosecutors for the Western District of Tennessee are using all the tools at our disposal — and leveraging our partnerships with local law enforcement and prosecutors — to ensure victims have a viable path to safety and justice. Our office will continue to prioritize the prosecution of domestic violence offenders who unlawfully possess firearms, or whose criminal conduct occurs online or crosses state lines.”
Domestic violence, dating violence, and intimate partner violence can have long-lasting impacts and consequences. Data from the National Domestic Violence Hotline suggests that approximately one in four women and one in seven men will experience severe domestic violence in their lifetimes. Rates are disproportionately higher for historically underserved populations, including LGBTQI+ individuals, persons with disabilities, and racial and ethnic minorities. DVAM provides an opportunity to spread awareness about domestic violence and encourage everyone to play a role in ending gender-based violence.
Purple Thursday, observed this Thursday, October 17, 2024, is a National Day of Action during DVAM. It is an opportunity to raise awareness about domestic violence and to show commitment to promoting safe communities. Please join us on October 17 by wearing purple and starting a conversation about domestic violence.
If you need help, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or the Strong Hearts Native Helpline at 1-844-762-8483. For more information on domestic violence, visit: https://www.justice.gov/ovw/domestic-violence#dv.
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For more information, please contact the Media Relations Team at [email protected]. Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office on Facebook or on X at @WDTNNews for office news and updates.
U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Tennessee Observes Domestic Violence Awareness MonthRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – October marks the observance of Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM). Acting U.S. Attorney Reagan Fondren joins the U.S. Department of Justice in commemorating DVAM, paying tribute to victims and survivors, and saluting the dedication of advocates, service providers, justice professionals, law enforcement officers, and first responders who tirelessly work in support of survivors.
DVAM serves as an important reminder to raise awareness and engage the community in efforts to end intimate partner violence. According to the Justice Department’s Office on Violence Against Women, domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behavior in any relationship, used by one partner to gain or maintain power and control over another intimate partner. Domestic violence can be physical, sexual, emotional, economic, psychological, or technological actions or threats of actions or other patterns of coercive behavior that influence another person within an intimate partner relationship. Domestic violence can happen to anyone regardless of race, age, sexual orientation, religion, sex, or gender identity. Domestic violence affects people of all socioeconomic backgrounds and educational levels and occurs in both opposite-sex and same-sex relationships. It can also happen to intimate partners who are married, living together, dating, or share a child.
“Domestic violence is more prevalent than most people realize,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Fondren. “We want the community to know that federal prosecutors for the Western District of Tennessee are using all the tools at our disposal — and leveraging our partnerships with local law enforcement and prosecutors — to ensure victims have a viable path to safety and justice. Our office will continue to prioritize the prosecution of domestic violence offenders who unlawfully possess firearms, or whose criminal conduct occurs online or crosses state lines.”
Domestic violence, dating violence, and intimate partner violence can have long-lasting impacts and consequences. Data from the National Domestic Violence Hotline suggests that approximately one in four women and one in seven men will experience severe domestic violence in their lifetimes. Rates are disproportionately higher for historically underserved populations, including LGBTQI+ individuals, persons with disabilities, and racial and ethnic minorities. DVAM provides an opportunity to spread awareness about domestic violence and encourage everyone to play a role in ending gender-based violence.
Purple Thursday, observed this Thursday, October 17, 2024, is a National Day of Action during DVAM. It is an opportunity to raise awareness about domestic violence and to show commitment to promoting safe communities. Please join us on October 17 by wearing purple and starting a conversation about domestic violence.
If you need help, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or the Strong Hearts Native Helpline at 1-844-762-8483. For more information on domestic violence, visit: https://www.justice.gov/ovw/domestic-violence#dv.
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For more information, please contact the Media Relations Team at [email protected]. Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office on Facebook or on X at @WDTNNews for office news and updates.
U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont Observes Domestic Violence Awareness MonthRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont — During Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) this October, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont reaffirms our unwavering commitment to supporting survivors, raising awareness, and promoting justice for all affected by domestic violence.
DVAM serves as a crucial opportunity to shed light on the profound impacts of domestic violence and emphasize the importance of collective action. Each year, millions of individuals are impacted by intimate partner violence, and far too many families endure the tragic consequences of domestic abuse. We are committed to ensuring that survivors are heard and perpetrators are held accountable and to strengthening partnerships with communities to prevent domestic violence.
This year is a special year to commemorate DVAM because it is also the 30th anniversary of the Violence Against Women Act. In 1994, the passage of this landmark, bipartisan legislation transformed the way our nation addresses domestic and dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking by increasing protections for survivors, providing critical federal resources to support a coordinated community response to these crimes, and awarding grants at the local, state, territory, Tribal, and national levels.
“At the U.S. Attorney’s Office, we are determined to use all of our tools to combat domestic violence,” said U.S. Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest. “To that end, we work with our partners in state, county, and local law enforcement to promote the rights of domestic violence victims and to hold domestic abusers accountable. Too often in these cases, we see the intersection of domestic violence and firearms. Safe firearm storage can help prevent this dangerous intersection. One of the tools we created with our partners is www.gunsafevt.org, a website where individuals can find resources for safe firearm storage. We encourage victims and survivors and anyone who works in support of survivors to use this resource.”
Domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking can have long-lasting impacts and consequences, and survivors in underserved communities are disproportionately impacted due to the lack of resources or barriers to accessing services. DVAM provides an opportunity to spread awareness about domestic violence and encourage everyone to play a role in ending gender-based violence.
We also encourage everyone to learn more about domestic violence and take steps to support friends, family, co-workers, and neighbors who may be affected. By understanding the signs of abuse, providing a safe space for survivors, and connecting them to available resources, we can all play a role in creating safer communities.
Victims of domestic violence deserve safety, dignity, and justice. We are committed to prosecuting those who violate federal laws, collaborating with local law enforcement and prosecutors to identify domestic violence offenders who violate federal firearms prohibitions, and ensuring survivors have access to the resources they need for safety and healing. Together, we can bring hope to those in need and build a future free from domestic violence. For more information on resources, please see a PDF version of our 2023 Vermont Victim Services Resource Guide and the mobile downloadable version at https://vtvictimresources.com/.”
U.S. Attorney's Office Announces Election Day ProgramRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – United States Attorney Dena J. King announced today that Assistant United States Attorneys (AUSAs) Michael Savage in Charlotte, and Don Gast in Asheville, will lead the efforts of the Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 5, 2024, general election.
AUSAs Michael Savage and Don Gast have been appointed to serve as District Election Officers (DEOs) for the Western District of North Carolina, and in that capacity they are responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.
United States Attorney King said, “Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election. Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence. The Department of Justice will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process.”
The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud. The Department will address these violations wherever they occur. The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.
Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice. The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English).
U.S. Attorney King stated that, “The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy. We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise can exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice.”
In order to respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, AUSAs/DEOs Savage and Gast will be on duty in this District while the polls are open. AUSA Savage can be reached by the public in Charlotte at 704-344-6222, and AUSA Gast can be reached in Asheville at 828-271-4661.
In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day. The local FBI field office can be reached by the public at 704-672-6100.
Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ or by phone at 800-253-3931.
U.S. Attorney King said, “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the assistance of the American electorate. It is important that those who have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud make that information available to the Department of Justice.”
Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities. State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.
U. S. Attorney’s Office Announces Nearly $1.5 Million in Grants for Domestic Violence and Victims Services During Domestic Violence Awareness MonthRead the Press Release
The U.S. Attorney for the District of Wyoming joins the U.S. Department of Justice and the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) in announcing $1,483,668 in domestic violence and victim services grants to combat intimate partner violence and assist victims of violence, survivors, and their families in Wyoming. This comes as the nation observes October as Domestic Awareness Month.
Domestic violence is prevalent in nearly every Wyoming community, and affects all people regardless of age, socio-economic status, sexual orientation, gender, race, religion, or nationality. The devastating consequences of domestic violence can cross generations and last a lifetime. Approximately one in four women and one in seven men will experience severe domestic violence in their lifetimes; however, rates are disproportionately higher for American Indian and Alaska Native populations, women of Color, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, two-spirit people, and people with disabilities.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month is an opportunity for the U.S. Attorney’s Office to remind the community that the Office is committed to working with the community to ensure that victims and survivors can find safety and justice. The Office collaborates with local partners year-round to strengthen Wyoming’s awareness of available resources, prevent domestic violence and hold offenders accountable.
The following grants were awarded to Wyoming recipients by the Office on Violence Against Women:The Attorney General of Wyoming received $833,657 for the STOP (Services, Training, Officers, Prosecutors) Violence Against Women Formula Grant Program. It was authorized by the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) of 1994 and reauthorized by subsequent legislation. The STOP Formula Grant Program encourages partnerships between law enforcement, prosecution, courts, and victim services organizations to enhance victim safety and hold offenders accountable in cases of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. The goal of the grant program is to develop and strengthen law enforcement, prosecution, and court strategies to combat violent crimes against women and to develop and strengthen victim services, including community based, culturally specific services, in cases involving domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. This grant will help support the designated special prosecutor in Fremont County announced in September.
The Wyoming Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault was awarded $367,379 for the OVW State and Territory Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Coalitions Program. This grant supports coordinating victim services activities, collaborating and coordinating with federal, state, territory, and local entities engaged in violence against women activities.The following grant was awarded by the Office of Justice Program and the Office for Victims of Crime:
The Northern Arapaho Tribe was awarded $282,632 for the OVC FY24 Tribal Victim Services Set-Aside (TVSSA) Formula Program. This grant will be used to implement services for victims of crime that meet needs identified by the community and reflect tribal community values and traditions. This aligns with the Congressional intent for the set-aside from the Crime Victims Fund, which was created in 2018 to improve services for victims of crime in Tribal communities.The awards announced above are being made as part of the regular end-of-fiscal year cycle and are not a comprehensive list of all grants awarded in Wyoming. More information about these and other OJP awards can be found on the OJP Grant Awards Page.
Two Hudson County Men Sentenced to Prison for Gas Station Robberies and Attempted CarjackingRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – Two Hudson County, New Jersey, men were sentenced to prison terms for their involvement a string of armed robberies of gas stations, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced today.
Wendell Bradley Jr., 27, of Bayonne, New Jersey was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Madeline Cox Arleo in Newark federal court on Oct. 10, 2024, to 160 months in prison. Joseph Brown, 26, of Jersey City, New Jersey, was sentenced by Judge Arleo on Oct. 3, 2024, to 92 months in prison. Bradley previously pleaded guilty before Judge Arleo to one count of conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery, one count of Hobbs Act robbery, one count of attempted carjacking, and one count of brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. Brown previously pleaded guilty to one count of attempted Hobbs Act robbery and one count of Hobbs Act robbery.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
From Jan. 3, 2022, to Feb. 4, 2022, Bradley – either alone or with Brown – would drive to a gas station, pull up to a gas pump, ask the gas station attendant to put gas in the car’s tank, and, while the tank was being filled, would pull a gun on the attendant and demand money. On Jan. 20, 2022, in Union, Brown pointed a gun at a gas station attendant, demanded money, and threated to kill him. Bradley then grabbed the attendant from behind, but the attendant was able to break free and escape into the gas station before Brown or Bradley could take any money from him.
The spree ended after Bradley and Brown robbed a gas station attendant at gunpoint in Secaucus, New Jersey. Bradley and Brown fled, and officers chased them from Secaucus to Newark, where Bradley crashed his car. While both men were running away from police, Bradley pulled his gun, approached an off-duty Essex County Sheriff’s officer, and demanded that the officer give Bradley his car. The officer disarmed Bradley and detained him.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Arleo sentenced Bradley and Brown to three years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the ATF, under the direction of special Agent in Charge L.C. Cheeks, Newark Field Division; the Clifton Police Department, under the direction of Chief Thomas Rinaldi, the Hillside Police Department, under the direction of Chief Vincent P. Ricciardi, Jr, the Jersey City Department of Public Safety, under the direction of Director James Shea, the Newark Police Department, under the direction of Emanuel Miranda, the North Bergan Police Department, under the direction of Chief Peter Fasilis, the Secaucus Police Department, under the direction of Chief Dennis Miller, and the Union Police Department, under the direction of Police Director Chris Donnelly, with the investigation.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Webman of the Economic Crimes Unit and Megan Linares of the Cybercrime Unit in Newark.
Tip to CyberTipline Leads to 3 1/2-Year Sentence for Former Portland Educator Who Possessed Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Maine: A Portland man was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Portland for possessing child sexual abuse material.
U.S. District Judge Nancy Torresen sentenced Travis McCutcheon, 54, to 42 months in prison, to be followed by eight years of supervised release. McCutcheon pleaded guilty on May 15, 2024.
According to court records, in December 2022, the Maine State Police Computer Crimes Unit (MSPCCU) received a CyberTip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) that in November 2022, two video files containing child sexual abuse material had been detected in a cloud-based storage account serviced by Google Drive. Investigators traced the related subscriber information and IP addresses used to access the Google Drive account to McCutcheon. Investigators executed a search warrant on the account and found two additional video files containing child sexual abuse material and emails from McCutcheon in which he solicited child sexual abuse material.
“Although the evidence discovered does not reflect that Mr. McCutcheon possessed materials involving any of his students, his conduct was egregious,” said U.S. Attorney Darcie N. McElwee. “Child sexual abuse material documents the exploitation and abuse of children who suffer revictimization every single time the images are shared or viewed. That an educator could be engaged in such child victimization is unconscionable.”
Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the MSPCCU investigated the case.
To report an incident involving the possession, distribution, receipt or production of child pornography: Child sexual abuse material – in legal terms, “child pornography” – captures the sexual abuse and exploitation of children. These images document victims’ exploitation and abuse, and they suffer revictimization every time the images are shared or viewed. File a report with the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at https://report.cybertip.org or 1-800-843-5678. If you are in Maine and you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted or abused, you can get help by calling the free, private 24-hour statewide sexual assault helpline at 1-800-871-7741.
Project Safe Childhood: This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Department’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-me/psc.
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Tax preparer imprisoned for tax fraud resulting in over half a million in lossesRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A local tax business owner has been sentenced for aiding and assisting in the preparation and filing of false income tax returns, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.
Krystal Wright pleaded guilty April 17.
U.S. District Judge Jeffrey V. Brown has now ordered Wright to serve 24 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by one year of supervised release. She was also ordered to pay $525,404 in restitution. At the hearing, the court heard how her criminal history, the length of her scheme and the harm to the taxpayers warranted a prison sentence. In handing down that sentence, the court noted that he hoped Wright would learn from her actions.
Wright was the sole owner and only tax preparer at WW2F in Freeport for six years.
Most of Wright’s clients did not have a business nor did they discuss any business income or expenses with her. After Wright completed a tax return, she did not review the completed documents with clients and only provided them with the refund amount and first two pages of the return. This prevented her clients from identifying overstated or false items on their tax returns.
From 2017 through 2020, Wright prepared and filed approximately 83 federal income tax returns that contained false and fraudulent items. Some included qualified solar electric property costs, gifts by cash or check, business expenses, wages, salaries, tips and supplies.
The false and fraudulent filings resulted in a total sustained tax harm of $525,404.
She will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
IRS Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rodolfo Ramirez and James Hu prosecuted the case.
Syracuse Man Sentenced to 84 Months in Federal Prison for Drug and Firearm CrimesRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Anthony Beverly, age 34, of Syracuse, was sentenced today to serve 84 months in federal prison following his convictions for possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance and possession of a firearm and ammunition by a prohibited person (convicted felon).
United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman, Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and Joseph L. Cecile, Chief of the Syracuse Police Department (SPD), made the announcement.
As part of his previous guilty plea, Beverly admitted that on October 26, 2023, he knowingly possessed in his Onondaga County apartment three pistols, extended ammunition magazines, and approximately 615 rounds of ammunition of various calibers. Beverly further admitted that when he possessed the firearms and ammunition, he knew that he had previously been convicted of a felony. Specifically, in 2015 he was sentenced in Onondaga County Court to 2 to 6 years’ imprisonment as a result of his conviction of possession of a forged instrument in the first degree. Beverly further admitted that in his apartment he possessed various controlled substances which he intended to distribute to others, including cocaine base, powder cocaine, N,N-Dimethylpentylone (sold as “molly”), fentanyl, and methamphetamine.
Chief United States District Judge Brenda K. Sannes also imposed a 3-year term of supervised release to follow his term of imprisonment.
The FBI and Syracuse Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew J. McCrobie prosecuted the case as 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.
Statement of United States Attorney Clare E. Connors Regarding November 2024 General ElectionRead the Press Release
HONOLULU – United States Attorney Clare E. Connors announced today that Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Michael Nammar will lead the efforts of her Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 5, 2024, general election. AUSA Nammar has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the District of Hawaii, and in that capacity is responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.
“Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election,” said United States Attorney Connors. “Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence. The Department of Justice will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process.”
The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud. The Department will address these violations wherever they occur. The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.
Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice. The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English).
United States Attorney Connors stated that: “The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy. We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise can exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice. In order to respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, AUSA/DEO Nammar will be on duty in this District while the polls are open. He can be reached by the public at the following telephone number: 808-541-2850.”
In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day. The local FBI field office can be reached by the public at 808-566-4300.
Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ or by phone at 800-253-3931.
United States Attorney Connors said, “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the assistance of the American electorate. It is important that those who have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud make that information available to the Department of Justice.”
Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities. State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.
San Diego Man Admits to Sexual Exploitation of 14-Year-Old GirlRead the Press Release
SAN DIEGO – Eric Jin of San Diego pleaded guilty in federal court today, admitting that he persuaded a 14-year-old girl to send him sexually explicit photographs of herself, including an image of her leg where she had carved the defendant’s name into her skin with a knife at his direction.
Jin was indicted on May 15, 2024. He pleaded guilty to Sexual Exploitation of a Minor in connection with his online communications with the girl. For example, according to his plea agreement, Jin demanded that she take sexually graphic pictures of herself without clothing in December 2022 and again in February 2023. The girl did as Jin directed and sent him the photos. It was on the February date that he ordered her to carve his first name into her skin and send him a photo.
Jin also admitted to sending the victim images of other minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
“This defendant repeatedly victimized, exploited, and literally scarred a child,” said U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath. “This horrific crime serves as a reminder to keep a very close eye on who kids are talking to online.”
“While all crimes we investigate are deplorable, the sexual exploitation of children is an especially flagitious violation,” said FBI San Diego Acting Special Agent in Charge Houtan Moshrefi. “Let Eric Jin’s guilty plea be a clear message that the FBI and its partners will aggressively pursue people who intend to exploit children in such a despicable manner.”
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew Sherwood and Katie Grammenidis.
The defendant is scheduled to be sentenced on January 24, 2025.
DEFENDANT Case Number 24cr1071-JO
Eric Jin Age: 30 San Diego, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Sexual Exploitation of a Minor – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 2251(a) and (e)
Maximum penalty: Thirty years in prison, with a mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison and a $500,000 fine
INVESTIGATING AGENCY
Federal Bureau of Investigation
Sallisaw Resident Pleads Guilty to Federal Ammunition ChargeRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Devon Ray Gillispie, age 33, of Sallisaw, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to an Information of one count of Felon in Possession of Ammunition.
The Information alleged that on January 31, 2022, Gillispie, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, and knowing of such conviction, possessed forty-two rounds of ammunition which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Sallisaw Police Department.
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. Gillispie will remain in the custody of the United States Marshal Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan E. Soverly represented the United States.
Ringleader Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for Key Role in Methamphetamine Trafficking OrganizationRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Derrell Cashawn Massey, also known as “Rell” and “Fat Rell,” 34, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced today to 20 years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, for distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Massey admitted to a leading role in a drug trafficking organization (DTO) responsible for distributing large quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl in the Southern District of West Virginia.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on May 3, 2023, Massey distributed approximately 1 pound of methamphetamine to a confidential informant at a Ninth Street residence in Huntington where Massey was living. The confidential informant had called Massey beforehand to arrange the transaction, agreeing to pay $2,000 in exchange for the methamphetamine.
Massey admitted to the transaction and further admitted to participating in the DTO from at least November 2022 through November 2023. Massey’s participation included arranging for quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl to be transported from Detroit and other areas to Huntington for distribution. Massey also distributed at least 30 pounds of methamphetamine to a specific customer in Nitro, West Virginia, and directed other individuals to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl to various customers. Massey admitted that he aided and abetted the distribution of a total of 8.6 pounds of methamphetamine on 10 separate occasions between February 27, 2023, and September 7, 2023.
Massey and other DTO participants used multiple residences to store and distribute quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl, including Massey’s Ninth Avenue residence in Huntington. On September 12, 2023, law enforcement officers seized six 9mm semiautomatic pistols at Massey’s Ninth Avenue residence.
Massey is among 27 individuals indicted in a 53-count indictment that charges the defendants with distributing methamphetamine and fentanyl transported from Detroit, Michigan, in Huntington and other locations within the Southern District of West Virginia.
Massey is also among 21 defendants who have pleaded guilty in the main case. One other of the 27 indicted individuals pleaded guilty to a related offense in a separate case. The indictment against the remaining defendants is pending. An indictment is merely an allegation and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Cabell County Sheriff’s Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT), the West Virginia State Police, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. MDENT is composed of the Charleston Police Department, the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office, the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, the Nitro Police Department, the St. Albans Police Department and the South Charleston Police Department.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorneys Joseph F. Adams and Stephanie Taylor prosecuted the case.
The investigation was part of the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). The program was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and is the keystone of the Department of Justice’s drug reduction strategy. OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:23-cr-180.
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Repeat Sex Trafficker Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Traffic Four Women Using Violence and ThreatsRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Stoughton man, previously convicted of multiple counts of sex trafficking, pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston to sex trafficking multiple adult women.
Marvin Pompilus, 39, pleaded guilty to four counts of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion and one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine. Pompilus was previously arrested and charged in in November 2023, and indicted by a federal grand jury in January 2024. U.S. District Court Judge William G. Young scheduled sentencing for Jan. 23, 2025.
In February 2018, Pompilus was convicted in Suffolk Superior Court of multiple counts of trafficking a person for sexual servitude and deriving support for prostitution. He was sentenced to six years in state prison and was released in October 2021.
“Marvin Pompilus targeted and brutalized his victims, and this was promptly after he was released from jail following his conviction on similar state charges,” said Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy. “These crimes are a violation of human dignity and human rights. Our office, along with our federal, state and local partners, are dedicating substantial resources to both protecting victims of trafficking and holding defendants accountable by prosecuting them to the fullest extent of the law. This is especially true for repeat offenders like Mr. Pompilus.”
“This defendant callously picked up right where he left off when he was released from state prison, believing that he could profit by peddling drugs and misery to people suffering with substance abuse issues,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The defendant specifically targeted victims who were struggling with addiction to opioids and cocaine, coerced them into sex trafficking and cruelly exploited them because of their vulnerability. The Justice Department will continue to investigate and prosecute human traffickers who exploit for their own personal gain the most vulnerable members of society, such as those experiencing substance abuse disorders.”
“Marvin Pompilus admitted today that after being released from state prison for sex trafficking, he started doing it again, targeting and exploiting four vulnerable women using violence and threats to force them to engage in commercial sex. What he did is unconscionable, and the harm he’s inflicted on these women is immeasurable,” said Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation Boston Division. “The FBI will do everything in its power to protect trafficking victims from further harm and see the predators who so viciously abuse them brought to justice.”
Following his release from state custody in October 2021, Pompilus conspired to exploit and recruit multiple women into the commercial sex trade, using a combination of physical violence, sexual violence, threats of violence, verbal abuse and withholding of controlled substances from drug dependent victims to coerce and/or force them to engage in commercial sex acts. He then collected all of the proceeds. Pompilus required his victims to check in with him, forbade them from interacting with other men, and precluded them from obtaining drugs from anyone other than him. If one of the victims attempted to keep any of the proceeds from commercial sex or attempted to refuse to see a sex buyer, Pompilus would become physically violent, at times striking the victim in the face and kicking them. Pompilus would also engage in other forms of abuse as well such as using degrading names toward his victims, spitting on them, and throwing drinks on them, as well as isolating them from others.
If you or someone you know may be impacted or experiencing commercial sex trafficking, please contact [email protected].
The charge of conspiracy to sex traffic by force, fraud, or coercion provides for a sentence of up to life in prison, at least five years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, at least two years of supervised release and a fine of up to $1,000,000. 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.
Acting U.S. Attorney Levy; AAG Clarke; and FBI SAC Cohen made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police and the Boston and Randolph Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Riley, Chief of the Human Trafficking & Civil Rights Unit and Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan Tokash of the Justice Department’s Human Trafficking Protection Unit are prosecuting the case.
Repeat Offender Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Illegally Possessing AmmunitionRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Jamar Johnson, 30, of Fresno, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Thurston to 10 years in prison for being a felon in possession of ammunition, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, on Dec. 8, 2019, a shooting occurred at the ARCO station at Fresno and C Streets in Fresno. During the incident, Johnson drove his silver Mercedes in the ARCO lot and fired a handgun at another vehicle. After the Johnson left the area, a cellphone belonging to Johnson was found in the parking lot where the Mercedes had been parked along with .45 caliber shell casings.
The judge noted a number of factors supporting the sentence, including this being Johnson’s third firearms-related conviction, each of the firearms-related convictions involving Johnson discharging a firearm, Johnson’s history of violating the terms of his supervision, and continued risky behavior that put the community in danger. At the time of this offense, Johnson was on federal supervised release for a federal conviction for conspiracy to engage in the business of dealing firearms without a license and being a felon in possession of a firearm. He violated the terms of his supervised release on that conviction within 71 days of commencing supervision.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Fresno Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly A. Sanchez prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the U.S. Department of Justice 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.
Repeat Federal Offender to Federal Prison for Meth DistributionRead the Press Release
Jermiah Preston, 41, from Fort Dodge, Iowa was sentenced on October 9, 2024, in federal court in Sioux City. Preston pled guilty May 22, 2024, to distribution of methamphetamine.
In March 2017, Preston was convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm and distributing a controlled substance in the United States District Court in Northern District of Iowa.
Evidence at the plea and sentencing hearings showed that on January 23, 2023, law enforcement, utilizing a confidential informant, set-up and conducted a 1.5 ounce controlled methamphetamine transaction from Preston. During a traffic stop after the transaction, Preston was observed to throw two bags of methamphetamine out the window of the vehicle. The controlled buy money expended was found on Preston’s person and DNA came back on each bag of methamphetamine matching Preston.
Sentencing was held before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand. Preston was sentenced to 66 months’ imprisonment which was imposed consecutive to his 24-month sentence previously imposed on the revocation of his previous federal supervised release. Preston must also serve a term of four years of supervised release following the imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. Preston remains in custody of the United States Marshal until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn S. Wehde and was investigated by the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Iowa DCI Laboratory, Webster County Sheriff’s Office, the Iowa State Patrol, and the Fort Dodge Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 23-3029. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.
Poplar Bluff Man Sentenced to 100 Months in Prison for Selling MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
CAPE GIRARDEAU – U.S. District Judge Stephen N. Limbaugh Jr. on Monday sentenced a man who sold methamphetamine to an undercover officer to 100 months in prison.
Rashad Marshall, 33, of Poplar Bluff, Missouri, pleaded guilty in July to one count each of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and distribution of methamphetamine. He admitted conspiring with Joshua E. Forbes and two others to sell methamphetamine. A member of the Southeast Missouri Drug Task Force purchased meth from the conspirators on six occasions between June and August of 2023.
In May, Judge Limbaugh sentenced Forbes to 12 years in prison. He pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and three counts of distribution of methamphetamine.
The Southeast Missouri Drug Task Force, the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Poplar Bluff Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie Hunter is prosecuting the case.
Pineville Woman Sentenced to Consecutive Life Sentences in Prison for Kidnapping, Murder of Pregnant Arkansas Woman and Unborn ChildRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Pineville, Mo., woman was sentenced in federal court today for the kidnapping and murder of a pregnant Arkansas woman and her victim’s unborn child.
Amber Waterman, 44, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Stephen R. Bough to consecutive life sentences in federal prison without parole.
On July 30, 2024, Amber Waterman pleaded guilty to one count of kidnapping resulting in death and one count of thereby causing the death of a child in utero. Waterman admitted that she kidnapped Ashley Bush in order to claim her unborn child, Valkyrie Willis, as her own. Waterman transported Ashley Bush from Maysville, Ark., to Pineville. The kidnapping resulted in the deaths of both Ashley Bush and Valkyrie Willis.
Her husband, Jamie Waterman, 44, pleaded guilty today before U.S. Magistrate Judge David P. Rush to one count of being an accessory after the fact to the kidnapping resulting in death. Jamie Waterman admitted that he knew Amber Waterman had kidnapped Bush, causing the death of her unborn child, and provided assistance in order to hinder or prevent the apprehension, trial, and punishment of Amber Waterman.
Amber Waterman, using a false name, contacted Bush, who was approximately 31 weeks pregnant, via Facebook. Amber Waterman pretended to help Bush obtain employment, suggesting she had a job opportunity for her. That prompted an in-person meeting between the two women on Oct. 28, 2022, at the Gravette, Ark., public library. They agreed to meet again on Oct. 31, 2022.
On Oct. 31, 2022, at roughly 11:45 a.m., Bush met Amber Waterman at the Handi-Stop convenience store in Maysville, Ark. Under the pretext that Amber Waterman was taking her to meet a supervisor to further discuss employment, Bush got into a truck driven by Amber Waterman. Amber Waterman then kidnapped and abducted Bush, driving her from Maysville to the Waterman residence in Pineville.
According to court documents, Amber Waterman led Jamie Waterman to Bush’s body. Jamie Waterman assisted in hiding and disposing of the body.
At about 5 p.m. on Oct. 31, 2022, first responders reported to the Longview store in Pineville for an emergency call of a baby who was not breathing. Amber Waterman admitted that she claimed to first responders that she had given birth to the child in the truck while on the way to the hospital. But in reality, she admitted, the child was Bush’s child, who died in utero, as a result of Amber Waterman’s kidnapping that resulted in the death of Bush.
An autopsy indicated that Bush died as a result of penetrating trauma of the torso and her death was classified as a homicide.
Under federal statutes, Jamie Waterman is subject to a sentence of up to 15 years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephanie L. Wan and James J. Kelleher. It was investigated by the FBI, the Benton County, Ark., Sheriff’s Department, and the McDonald County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department in conjunction with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Western District of Arkansas and the Benton County, Ark., Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.
Pine Ridge Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Domestic Violence ChargeRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon. The sentencing took place on October 10, 2024.
Kristopher Kerbaugh, Sr., 36, was sentenced to a total of two years and nine 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.
Kerbaugh was indicted for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon and Assault Resulting in Substantial Bodily Injury to an Intimate Partner by a federal grand jury in May of 2024. He pleaded guilty on July 15, 2024.
The conviction stems from Kerbaugh stabbing the victim, his wife of ten years. Kerbaugh, who at the time was intoxicated, became angry with the victim while accusing her of infidelity and stabbed her three times with a pocketknife. He also beat her. After stabbing her, he attempted to cover her wounds with duct tape. A third party called the police, and the victim was airlifted to the hospital for treatment of her injuries. In sentencing Kerbaugh, District Judge Schreier stated this was one of the more serious assaults she had seen between a husband and wife.
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. Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Lindrooth prosecuted the case.
Kerbaugh was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.