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Tuesday 15 October 2024
Defendants prosecuted on federal firearms, drug chargesRead the Press Release
SAVANNAH, GA: Newly returned indictments in the Southern District of Georgia include felony charges for illegal firearms possession and drug distribution, while additional defendants have been sentenced to federal prison or await further proceedings after pleading guilty to federal gun charges.
“Illegally possessed guns, particularly those converted to automatic fire, are a persistent threat to public safety,” said Jill E. Steinberg, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia. “With our law enforcement partners, we are committed to eliminating these sources of violence in our communities.”
The cases are prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods in collaboration with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the FBI, to reduce violent crime with measures that include targeting convicted felons who illegally possess guns.
Those indicted in October include:
- Javon Edwards, 30, of Savannah, charged with Possession of a Machine Gun, referring to a pistol converted to automatic fire with a “Glock switch”; and,
- Travis Sanders, 44, of Savannah, charged with Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon.
All indicted defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Defendants recently adjudicated on federal firearms charges include:
- Laron Thompson, a/k/a “Hollywood,” 38, of Savannah, was sentenced to 115 months in prison after pleading guilty to a drug conspiracy charge and to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. Thompson is one of 10 defendants, including Tyquian Bowman, a/k/a “Quando Rondo,” 24, of Savannah, indicted in 2023 in a Savannah-area drug trafficking conspiracy.
- Jacqueline Christmas, 50, of Statesboro, was sentenced to 33 months in prison after pleading guilty to False Statement During the Purchase of a Firearm. An ATF investigation determined that Christmas purchased multiple handguns from a Bulloch County gun store, falsely claiming a legal owner was the buyer of the guns when they were actually purchased by and delivered in New York to Christmas’ brother-in-law, who since has pled guilty to related federal firearms charges.
- Jakobian Sentell Jones, 25, of Warrenton, Ga., was sentenced to 60 months in prison and fined $1,500 after pleading guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon and Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine and Methamphetamine. Georgia State Patrol troopers found Jones in possession of a revolver during a traffic stop, and in possession of cocaine and methamphetamine during a subsequent search.
- Othnell Christian Ferguson, 27, of Pembroke, Ga., was sentenced to 70 months in prison and fined $1,500 after pleading guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. Statesboro police officers determined Ferguson possessed a pistol during a foot chase following a February 2023 traffic stop.
- Kenyatta Dunn Nero, 40, of Augusta, awaits sentencing after pleading guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. Richmond County deputies found a pistol in Nero’s vehicle during a July 2023 traffic stop. Nero has multiple previous criminal convictions on state charges that include illegal gun possession.
- Jamal Brashad Hawkins, 22, of Swainsboro, Ga., awaits sentencing after pleading guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. Emanuel County deputies found Hawkins in possession of a pistol after a traffic stop in June 2023.
- Darnell Harold Miller, 25, of Savannah, awaits sentencing after pleading guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. Savannah police in January found Miller in possession of a pistol while investigating a domestic disturbance.
- Nathan Sparks, 27, of Savannah, awaits sentencing after pleading guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. Savannah police found a pistol in Sparks’ waistband during a traffic stop.
- Anthony McQuarters, 31, of Hardeeville, S.C., awaits sentencing after pleading guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. A Georgia State Patrol trooper arrested McQuarters on state charges following a chase on I-16 by multiple law enforcement agencies through Laurens, Treutlen, Emanuel, and Candler counties, and found pistols in his possession.
- Christopher Jeramy Blair, 44, of Pembroke, Ga., awaits sentencing after pleading guilty to Possession of Firearms by a Convicted Felon. Acting on a tip, investigators from the Bulloch County Sheriff’s Office and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives seized 11 handguns, rifles, and shotguns during a search of Blair’s residence.
The cases are being prosecuted for the United States by the Southern District of Georgia U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Under federal law, it is illegal for an individual to possess a firearm if he or she falls into one of nine prohibited categories including being a felon; illegal alien; or unlawful user of a controlled substance. Further, it is unlawful to possess a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense or violent crime. It is also illegal to purchase – or even to attempt to purchase – firearms if the buyer is a prohibited person or illegally purchasing a firearm on behalf of others. Lying on ATF Form 4473, which is used to lawfully purchase a firearm, also is a federal offense.
For more information from the ATF on the lawful purchasing of firearms, please see: https://www.atf.gov/qa-category/atfw-form-4473
Chicopee Housing Authority Settles Disability and Race Discrimination LawsuitRead the Press Release
BOSTON – The Chicopee Housing Authority (CHA) and its former Executive Director, have resolved a lawsuit alleging that the CHA and its Director engaged in a pattern or practice of discrimination against CHA tenants based on race, national origin, or disability.
The Consent Order requires CHA to pay $435,000 to compensate individuals harmed by its discriminatory practices and a $25,000 civil penalty to the United States. The settlement also requires CHA to make broad changes to protect the rights of tenants with disabilities, including hiring a Disability Rights Coordinator, implementing new policies for handling tenant requests for reasonable accommodations and transfers and building nine new accessible housing units for persons with disabilities. The Consent Order also bars future discrimination and requires CHA to implement new discrimination complaint procedures and employee training.
Pursuant to the agreement, CHA Director, Monica Blazic will resign from her role at CHA by the end of 2024 and will not have further involvement with CHA.
The matter arose from an investigation by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), which, in March 2021, found that CHA and Blazic violated the Fair Housing Act by failing to allow a tenant with end stage renal disease to transfer to a first floor or elevator accessible one-bedroom unit needed for her to receive daily in-home dialysis. The United States initially filed suit against the defendants in April 2021 for failing to make reasonable accommodations. In December 2021, the United States amended its lawsuit to include additional claims that the defendants had engaged in a pattern of disability discrimination. Specifically, the amended complaint alleged that CHA, for years, had systematically postponed requests for reasonable accommodations made by tenants with disabilities who were seeking to transfer apartments for medical reasons. Additionally, the United States alleged that the defendants discriminated against Black and Hispanic tenants when Blazic made discriminatory statements about and to Black and Hispanic tenants, including using racial slurs and other derogatory language.
“It is completely unacceptable for public housing officials to discriminate based on race and disability. This settlement will compensate the tenants who were harmed by CHA’s illegal practices and ensure that the housing authority will move forward with new leadership and new systems in place to protect its tenants from discrimination in the future,” said Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy. “By creating new accessible housing units, CHA will also be better able to meet the needs of the community.”
“Racial and national origin discrimination, and discrimination against persons living with disabilities, are unlawful and will not be allowed in our country’s housing market,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Diane M. Shelley of the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity. “HUD applauds the Justice Department for reaching this settlement and will continue supporting its efforts to hold housing providers accountable when they fail to meet their obligations under the nation’s housing laws.”
CHA tenants may be eligible to participate in the settlement fund if they previously requested to transfer apartments to accommodate a disability, and the transfer was improperly delayed or denied by CHA. Those tenants are encouraged to contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office by calling 617-275-8756 or by emailing [email protected].
Acting U.S. Attorney Levy; Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke; and HUD Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Shelley made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Hillary Harnett, Anuj Khetarpal, Gregory Dorchak, Michelle Leung and Jennifer Serafyn from the Civil Rights Unit handled the matter. The resolution of this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
The Civil Rights Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office was established in 2015 with the mission of enhancing federal civil rights enforcement. For more information on the Office’s civil rights efforts, please visit www.justice.gov/usao-ma/civil-rights.
Camden Men Sentenced to Prison for String of Armed Robberies and CarjackingsRead the Press Release
CAMDEN, N.J. – Two Camden men have been sentenced to prison for their respective roles in conspiracies that involved committing armed carjackings and robbing multiple gas stations in southern New Jersey, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.
Kamau Bradshaw, 22, was sentenced today to 108 months in prison; Paul Rogers, 30, was sentenced on Aug. 7, 2024, to 188 months in prison. Both defendants previously pleaded guilty before Chief U.S. District Judge Renée Marie Bumb to informations charging them with one count of conspiring to commit armed robberies, one count of committing an armed robbery, and one count of conspiring to commit armed carjackings. Judge Bumb imposed the sentences in Camden federal court.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
On Sept. 14, 2021, two masked individuals carrying an AR-style rifle robbed a gas station in Pennsauken, New Jersey. One of the robbers wore a gray Nike hooded sweatshirt and scuffed tan work boots. The second robber wore a tan hooded sweatshirt with “REACTIVE” printed on the sleeves and striped boxer shorts. They obtained cash and cigarettes while brandishing the firearm. Shortly after the robbery, two individuals were seen returning to a residence in Camden with a large duffle bag. On Sept. 17, 2021, law enforcement officers executed a federal search warrant at the Camden residence and recovered, among other items, a duffle bag, an AR-style rifle, a gray Nike sweatshirt, scuffed tan work boots, and a tan hooded sweatshirt with “REACTIVE” printed on the sleeves. Bradshaw and Rogers were present when law enforcement agents executed the search warrant, at which time Bradshaw was wearing striped boxer shorts consistent with those worn by one of the robbers during the robbery.
Rogers and Bradshaw each admitted their role in eight gas station robberies or attempted robberies in addition to the Sept. 14, 2021, robbery in Pennsauken, including robberies in Haddon Township on Aug. 30, 2021; Pennsauken on Aug. 30, 2021; Bridgeton on Aug. 31, 2021; Brooklawn on Aug. 31, 2021; Vineland on Aug. 31, 2021; Pennsauken on Sept. 1, 2021; Haddon Township on Sept. 1, 2021; and Haddon Township on Sept. 16, 2021. Two of the gas stations were victimized more than once. At each gas station, at least one member of the conspiracy brandished what appeared to be an assault weapon in order to threaten the gas station attendant.
For several of the robberies, Bradshaw and Rogers used a car they obtained by committing an armed carjacking in Philadelphia. Members of the carjacking conspiracy traveled from Camden to Philadelphia and brandished what appeared to be an assault weapon in order to force a driver and passenger from an automobile. They returned to Camden with the victims’ car, which they proceeded to use to drive to and from some of their gas stations robberies.
In addition to the prison term, Chief Judge Bumb sentenced Rogers and Bradshaw each to three years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents with Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Newark Field Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge L.C. Cheeks, with the investigation leading to the sentencings. He also thanked the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office, Bridgeton City Police Department, Brooklawn Borough Police Department, Camden County Police Department, Haddon Township Police Department, New Jersey State Police, Oaklyn Police Department, Pennsauken Township Police Department, Vineland Police Department, and the Philadelphia Police Department.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Bender of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Camden.
Camden County Man Pleads Guilty to Violent Armed Robberies of Three Corner Stores in Philadelphia’s Kensington SectionRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced that Jared Stanley, 32, of Lindenwold, New Jersey, entered a plea of guilty on Friday, October 11, 2024, before United States District Court Judge John F. Murphy to three counts of Hobbs Act robbery and one count of carrying, using, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, in connection with the armed robberies of three corner stores in Philadelphia’s Kensington section.
Stanley committed all three robberies during a two-week span in late January and early February of this year.
On January 21, 2024, the defendant entered the Birch Mini-Market, located at 2001 East Birch Street. He approached the counter, pointed a gun at the cashier, and demanded money. When the cashier didn’t understand him, Stanley started screaming at them. He repeatedly hit the cashier in the head with the gun, stole approximately $550 from the register, and fled.
On January 28, 2024, Stanley and an unidentified co-conspirator entered the Capricorno Grocery, located at 2000 East Orleans Street. Stanley walked to the employee area of the store, displayed a firearm, grabbed the employee by the shirt and forcibly pulled him away, pistol whipped him repeatedly, and stood guard over him while his accomplice went back to the register and stole approximately $500.
On February 2, 2024, Stanley and an unidentified co-conspirator entered Bonifacios Grocery, located at 3052 Frankford Avenue. They pushed an employee to the cash register, told him to get on the ground and then pistol whipped him in the head. Stanley and his accomplice then stole approximately $500 from the cash register and fled the store on foot.
Stanley is scheduled to be sentenced on January 29, 2025. He faces a mandatory minimum sentence of seven years in prison and a maximum possible sentence of life imprisonment, five years of supervised release, a $1,250,000 fine, and a $500 special assessment.
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 and the Philadelphia Police Department and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert E. Eckert.
California drug supplier receives life for role in fentanyl overdose death of Fairbanks manRead the Press Release
FAIRBANKS, Alaska – A California drug supplier was sentenced today to life in prison for his connection to the fatal fentanyl overdose of a Fairbanks man in October 2020.
Junior Gafatasi Tulali, 48, was convicted by a federal jury of distributing fentanyl resulting in death with an enhanced statutory penalty on April 19, 2024. According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, around Oct. 13, 2020, Tulali agreed to sell 500 Oxycodone M30 pills to a Florida resident who agreed to distribute the pills in Fairbanks, where they could be sold for a higher price than Outside. The pills were shipped in a parcel from California and arrived in Fairbanks on Oct. 17. Inside the parcel were at least 480 counterfeit Oxycodone M30 pills containing a mixture of acetaminophen and an unknown amount of fentanyl.
The individual who retrieved the shipment distributed the counterfeit pills to several other dealers in the area. On Oct. 26, the victim purchased two pills from the shipment. Sometime between the evening of Oct. 26 and Oct. 28, the victim used the pills he obtained and was found dead in his home on Oct. 28. Medical examiners determined cause of death was acute toxic effects of fentanyl, which was contained in the pills that originated from Tulali.
Evidence presented at trial connected two additional non-fatal fentanyl overdoses to Tulali’s shipment of counterfeit pills. Both of the dealers in Fairbanks who were involved in selling the fentanyl pills to the victim were convicted for their role in the offence in 2022.
“In 2023, Alaska had the highest overdose death rate in the nation. Fentanyl poisoning is devastating our state, largely due to drug suppliers like Mr. Tulali, who gamble with human lives every time they sell a counterfeit pill,” said U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker for the District of Alaska. “Thanks to the outstanding investigative and prosecutorial work done in this case, we traced the pills that tragically killed the victim back to the source and held three people accountable for the irreparable damage they caused. My office is committed to collaborating with law enforcement at all levels to keep fentanyl out of our communities and prosecute those who jeopardize that mission.”
“Fentanyl traffickers like Mr. Tulali are willing to risk the lives of their customers in order to make money peddling drugs,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “The sentence today shows that these actions have grave consequences, a lesson Mr. Tulali will spend many years learning.”
“This case is a great example of how far our officers are ready to go to make sure we provide justice for victims in our community. We take our job of protecting Fairbanks seriously and will continue to hold criminals responsible when they threaten the safety of our residents,” said Fairbanks Police Chief Ron Dupee.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, Fairbanks Police Department, North Pole Police Department and Alaska State Troopers, with assistance from the FBI Anchorage Field Office, investigated the case as part of the Fairbanks Area Narcotics Team (FANT) High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys and Carly Vosacek and Alana Weber prosecuted the case.
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California Businessman Sentenced for Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
A California man was sentenced today to 15 months in prison for evading more than $1 million of individual and corporate income taxes owed to the IRS and California Franchise Tax Board.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Haim Jerry Kohen owned and operated a business that bought and sold bulk quantities of used clothing. Between 2005 and 2017, Kohen evaded his taxes by, among other things, filing false individual and corporate income tax returns with federal and state taxing authorities on which he underreported income.
He also attempted to conceal this income from the IRS by diverting it from his business to himself and by dealing in cash. Kohen collected cash payments owed to his business from a significant customer and kept the cash for himself instead of depositing it into his business’ bank account. Kohen did not report the diverted cash on either the corporate tax returns or on his individual income tax returns. Kohen continued this conduct even after he became aware that he was under criminal investigation by the IRS.
Additionally, in November 2013, that same customer owed Kohen’s business over $648,000. Kohen and the customer executed a promissory note where the customer agreed to repay the debt to Kohen personally, and not to his business. Kohen received payments pursuant to the note in cash and did not report them on any tax return. Over the years, Kohen also loaned money to people and did not report the interest payments he received on his personal returns.
Kohen also did not report rental income from two properties he owned in Beverly Hills and Tarzana, California. Kohen bought the Beverly Hills property in 2011 and soon thereafter deeded it to close family members. However, Kohen continued to collect the rental income for the property and exercised ownership and control over it. He also did not report the rental income he received from the Tarzana property.
In total, Kohen caused a tax loss to the IRS and State of California of $1,471,323.
In addition to the term of imprisonment, U.S. District Judge Stanley Blumenfeld, Jr. ordered Kohen to serve one year of supervised release, pay a fine of $95,000 and to pay $1,471,323 in restitution.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada for the Central District of California made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation’s International Tax and Financial Crimes group investigated the case.
Senior Litigation Counsel Mark F. Daly and Trial Attorneys Sara E. Henderson and John C. Gerardi of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Ranee Katzenstein for the Central District of California prosecuted the case.
Convicted Felon Charged with Unlawful Possession a FirearmRead the Press Release
St. Croix, VI – United States Attorney Delia L. Smith announced today that Jahmar Frederick, 31, of St. Croix, was charged with unlawful possession of a firearm after having been convicted of felony offenses.
According to court documents, on May 11, 2024, Virgin Islands Police Officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop after Frederick was observed operating a Ford F-150 pickup truck with no license plate. Frederick fled from VIPD officers and ultimately lost control of his vehicle and slid off the roadway. Frederick then placed a ski-mask over his face and attempted to flee on foot but was apprehended. Officers recovered a loaded Glock Model 22 Gen4 .40 Caliber firearm after taking Frederick into custody. In 2023, Frederick was convicted of obtaining money by false pretenses, and in 2018, he was convicted of forgery, both felonies. If convicted, Frederick faces a maximum sentence of up to 15 years in prison. A district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
This case is being investigated by the Virgin Islands Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel H. Huston. This case is part of the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods Initiative. Project Safe Neighborhoods is a nationwide initiative that brings together federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement officials, prosecutors, and community leaders to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in a community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. For more information on the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods, please see: https://www.justice.gov/psn.
United States Attorney Smith reminds the public that a criminal complaint is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.Baldwinsville Man Pleads Guilty to Sexual Exploitation of a Child and Distribution and Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Kenneth Koegel, Jr., age 40, of Baldwinsville, New York pled guilty today to seven (7) counts of Sexual Exploitation of a Child, one count of Commission of a Felony Offense Involving a Minor by a Registered Sex Offender, one count of Distribution of Child Pornography, and one count of Receipt of Child Pornography. United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) made the announcement.
As part of his guilty plea today, Koegel admitted that he was previously convicted in 2004 in Monroe County (New York) Court of Sexual Abuse in the First Degree for exposing his penis to a 6-year-old girl in a public park and touching her vagina with his hand, and that he was required to register as a sex offender because of that conviction. He further admitted that starting in or about 2014 and continuing until October 2022, he sexually abused a girl from the time she was approximately 2 years old until she was approximately 9 years old. During that time, Koegel created numerous sexually explicit images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of his victim, including Koegel subjecting her to multiple sex acts. He also used a social messaging application to distribute the material he produced to someone else, with whom he also traded thousands of other child pornography files.
Sentencing is scheduled for March 5, 2025, before United States District Judge Glenn T. Suddaby. If the Court accepts the parties’ agreed-upon disposition, Koegel will be sentenced to serve between 35 and 50-years imprisonment, with a lifetime term of supervised release to follow. Koegel also will have to pay restitution to the victim of his exploitation and to the victims in whose depictions he trafficked. He also will continue to be required to register as a sex offender upon release.
The case was investigated by the FBI’s Albany Division Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force – comprised of FBI Special Agents, and state and local police investigators, including from the New York State Police. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Michael D. Gadarian and Adrian S. LaRochelle as part of Project Safe Childhood.
Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice, Project Safe Childhood is led by United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS). Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Audubon County Woman Sentenced to Federal Felony Charge after Straw Purchasing Firearm for Her Felon BoyfriendRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – An Exira, Iowa woman was sentenced on October 10, 2024 for a federal felony charge of straw purchasing a firearm.
According to public court documents, Leslie Nicole Moton, also known as Leslie Caniglia, 24, purchased a firearm in August 2023 for her significant other, Rey Moton, 23, of Elk Horn. Leslie Moton knew Rey Moton was a felon at the time she purchased the handgun for him and falsely represented at the time of the purchase that she was acquiring the firearm for herself. Less than a week later, Rey Moton possessed the handgun in Atlantic, Iowa and used it during a burglary.
Rey Moton was charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm. In March 2024, Rey Moton was sentenced to a 63-month prison term, followed by a three-year term of supervised release.
Leslie Moton received a five-year term of probation.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Cass County Sheriff’s Office, and the Atlantic Police Department.
This case was prosecuted under the new criminal provisions of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which Congress enacted and the President signed in June 2022. The Act is the first federal statute specifically designed to target the unlawful trafficking and straw-purchasing of firearms.
Acting U.S. Attorney Alerts Public to Charity Scams in Wake of Hurricanes Helene and MiltonRead the Press Release
DENVER – Acting United States Attorney for the District of Colorado Matt Kirsch issued a public safety alert advising the public to be vigilant to hurricane relief fraud in the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
“These serious weather events are tragic, and I appreciate the public’s interest in helping others during these difficult times,” said Acting United States Attorney for the District of Colorado Matt Kirsch. “I do, however, want people to be vigilant when donating and to be aware that criminals often try to exploit tragedy for personal gain.”
On Sept. 26, Hurricane Helene made landfall in Florida’s Big Bend Region and quickly caused major devastation there and across states including Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, and others. On October 9, Hurricane Milton made landfall in Florida. In the wake of previous national disasters, fraudsters have targeted victims of the storm along with citizens across the country who want to do what they can to help people affected by the storm. These criminals send fraudulent communications through email or social media and create deceptive websites designed to solicit contributions.
The public should exercise diligence before giving contributions to anyone soliciting donations or individuals offering to assist those affected by Hurricane Helene. Solicitations can originate from phone calls, texts, social media, e-mail, door-to-door collections, flyers, mailings, and other similar methods. Before donating to benefit victims of Hurricane Helene, people should adhere to certain guidelines, including:
• Make contributions directly to known organizations rather than relying on others to make the donation on your behalf.
• Do not be pressured into making contributions, as reputable charities do not use such tactics.
• Do not respond to any unsolicited communications (e.g., emails and texts), and never click links contained within those messages because they may be targeting your personal information, to include bank and credit card account information, and other identifiers such as dates of birth and social security numbers.
• Rather than clicking on a purported link to a charity, verify its legitimacy by utilizing various internet-based resources that may assist in confirming whether the organization is a valid charity.
• Beware of organizations with copy-cat names similar to but not exactly the same as those of reputable charities.
• Avoid cash donations if possible. Pay by credit card or write a check directly to the charity. Do not make checks payable to individuals.
• Know that legitimate charities do not normally solicit donations via money transfer services, and their website will normally end in .org rather than .com.
• Be cautious of emails that claim to show pictures of the disaster areas in attached files because the files may contain viruses. Only open attachments from known senders.
The U.S. Department of Justice established the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) in the wake of Hurricane Katrina to deter, investigate, and prosecute fraud in the wake of disasters. More than 50 federal, state, and local agencies participate in the NCDF, which reminds the public to be aware of and report any instances of alleged fraudulent activity related to relief operations and funding for victims. Complaints of fraud may be reported online at www.justice.gov/DisasterComplaintForm. Complaints may also be reported to the NCDF at (866) 720-5721, a hotline that is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
ARRESTED: Fourth and Fifth Suspects in Connection with Dozens of ATM Robberies and Auto Thefts Around the DMV AreaRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Today, federal law enforcement arrested the fourth and fifth defendants charged in connection with a series of burglaries and robberies of commercial businesses, ATMs, and vehicles in the D.C. and Maryland area. Jonathan Winston, 35, of Hagerstown, Maryland, and Jeffery Felder, 37, of Bowie, Maryland, were arrested this morning in Georgia by the U.S. Marshals Service. They are charged along with Stefon Janey, 32, of Accokeek, Maryland; Thomas Hughes, 37, of Cheverly, Maryland; Jenarro Hewett, 33 of Upper Marlboro, Maryland, with interference with interstate commerce by robbery (also known as Hobbs Act Robbery) and conspiracy. They are believed to be responsible for more than 75 robberies between August 2023 and June 2024.
The arrest and indictment were announced by U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves, FBI Special Agent in Charge William J. DelBagno of the Baltimore Field Office and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
“As alleged in the indictment, this crew conspired to commit roughly 40 brazen robberies where they used ‘Jaws of Life’ and similar tools to peel open ATM machines inside stores and outside banks,” said U.S. Attorney Graves. “Even though the defendants destroyed surveillance footage and took other steps to cover their tracks, our prosecutors and law enforcement officers worked tirelessly to identify the members of this crew who terrorized our region. With all the defendants now arrested, we can work equally hard to hold them accountable for their crimes.”
“Undoubtedly, Prince George’s County is safer with these defendants locked up where they can no longer terrorize local businesses and their employees. Their crimes were aggressive, reckless and dangerous. Now they will face the consequences for each of those crimes,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge DelBagno. “The FBI and our law enforcement partners will always work together to make our communities safer and bring violent criminals to justice.”
According to the indictment and other court documents, the defendants would: target commercial businesses with ATM machines, enter the business wearing masks and gloves, and would utilize tools common to fire/rescue, such as “Jaws of Life” to pry open or cut open the doors of the store and the ATMs. The suspects sometimes carried firearms, utilized stolen vehicles, communicated via handheld radios, and destroyed surveillance.
Prior to each robbery, the co-conspirators would meet in vehicles at a predetermined location. At these “meet-up” locations, the co-conspirators would transfer to a different car to carry out the robberies. They carried out multiple robberies over the course of a single evening and would often communicate with each other using handheld radios.
After arriving at a store, the defendants would divide up, with one conspirator remaining in the car as the getaway driver, pry open the outer door, and then at least one of the defendants would subdue the store employees, sometimes directing them to enclosed areas of the store. At least one defendant would attempt to destroy the store’s surveillance and network equipment. At least one defendant would utilize a “Jaws of Life” style tool to open the ATM and remove the cash cassettes. They would flee the store and escape in the robbery vehicle.
Between August 2023 and June 2024, the indictment charges these defendants with robbing or attempting to rob at least 75 ATM machines, laundering at least some of the proceeds at casinos, and related offenses.
Law enforcement arrested Hughes, Hewett, and Janey on July 24, 2024 and, as a result of the arrests and searches, agents and officers recovered 12 firearms, more than $80,000 in cash, hundreds of rounds of ammunition, and thousands of dollars’ worth of high-end clothing and merchandise. During the arrests of Felder and Winston on October 15, 2024, law enforcement recovered three additional firearms among other evidence.
This is an ongoing investigation being handled by the MPD Carjacking Task Force and FBI-Baltimore with assistance from local law enforcement, including Howard County Police Department.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cameron Tepfer and Kyle McWaters.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Sunday 13 October 2024
Youngsville Man Guilty of Possession of Materials Involving Sexual Exploitation of MinorsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that COY DAVID MILLER (“MILLER”), age 49, of Youngsville, LA, pled guilty on October 9, 2024 to Possession of Materials Involving the Sexual Exploitation of Minors, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2252(a)(4)(B) and (b)(2). MILLER faces up to twenty (20) years imprisonment, and/or up to a fine of $250,000.00, or the greater of twice the gross gain to the defendant or twice the gross loss to any person of the offense. In addition, MILLER faces a term of supervised release of no less than five (5) years and up to life as well as payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
According to court documents, on October 17, 2023, MILLER was searched by U.S. Customs and Border Protection and special agents with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, at the Louis Armstrong International Airport upon his return from Cancun, Mexico. Federal agents found MILLER in possession of images and videos of pre-pubescent child pornography.
Sentencing in this matter is scheduled for January 15, 2024 before United States District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office would also like to acknowledge the assistance of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Chief of the Financial Crimes Unit.
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New Orleans Man Sentenced for Being Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, RAYMOND BROWN (“BROWN”), age 41, resident of Orleans Parish, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Brandon S. Long to 37 months imprisonment, three years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee, after previously pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).
According to court documents, in April 2023, the New Orleans Police Department (“NOPD”) responded to report that there were people under the I-10 overpass with guns. Upon their arrival, New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) saw BROWN, wearing a black sweatshirt and camouflage pants, holding a rifle in his hand. BROWN then fled from police, ran through the backyard of a Touro Street residence, and discarded the firearm, before his eventual arrest.
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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the New Orleans Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Inga Petrovich of the Violent Crime/Strike Force Unit.
New Orleans Man Indicted for Federal Drug and Weapons OffensesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that BRANDON ALEXANDER (“ALEXANDER”), age 37, of New Orleans, was indicted on October 10, 2024 for violations of the Federal Controlled Substances and Gun Control Acts.
ALEXANDER is charged in Count 1 with Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin and Buprenorphine (Suboxone), in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and (b)(1)(E). He is charged in Count 2 with Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i). He is charged in Count 3 with being a Felon in Possession of Firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8). He is charged in Count 4 with Receipt of a Firearm While Under Felony Information, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(n) and 924(a)(1)(D)
Count 1 carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least three years of supervised release. Count 2 carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years up to life in prison, which must run consecutively to all other sentences, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to five years of supervised release. Count 3, carries a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release. Count 4, carries a maximum sentence of 5 years in prison, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release. Each count also carries a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.
According to court records, on August 30, 2024, ALEXANDER possessed heroin and Suboxone, with the intent to distribute those drugs, and possessed a Glock Model 20, ten-millimeter semi-automatic pistol, in furtherance of that crime. ALEXANDER is prohibited from possessing a firearm because of a prior felony conviction. He is also prohibited from receiving a firearm, because he is charged by felony information with aggravated assault with a firearm, in the 22nd Judicial District Court.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
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 Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations and the Louisiana State Police. Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crime Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Guilty of Federal Drug and Weapons ViolationsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – GEOURVON SEARS (“SEARS”), age 27, of New Orleans, pleaded guilty on October 10, 2024 before Chief U.S. District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown to Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, Tapentadol, and Marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 841(b)(1)(D), and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i).
According to court documents, on June 6, 2024, New Orleans Police Department officers executed a search warrant at SEARS’s residence and recovered his backpack, containing methamphetamine, tapentadol, and marijuana, that SEARS intended to sell. Officers also recovered two loaded firearms—a Romarm/Cugir Model Mini Draco semi-automatic pistol and a Norinco Model SKS rifle—that SEARS possessed, in furtherance of his possession with intent to distribute those controlled substances.
As to his drug trafficking conviction, SEARS faces up to 20 years in prison, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least three years of supervised release. As to his conviction for possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years up to life in prison, which is to run consecutively to all other sentences, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to five years of supervised release. Each count also carries a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crime Unit.
New Orleans Man Guilty of Conspiracy and Possession of Cocaine with Intent to DistributeRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Today, U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evansannounced that DERRICK WASHINGTON (“WASHINGTON”) a/k/a “Eyes,” age 53, a resident of New Orleans, pled guilty on October 9, 2024, before United States District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo to Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute, five hundred grams or more of cocaine, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court documents, WASHINGTON, and other co-conspirators, distributed multi-kilogram quantities of cocaine within the Eastern District of Louisiana.
During the investigation, law enforcement, led by the Drug Enforcement Administration, seized over forty (40) kilograms of cocaine, twelve (12) kilograms of fentanyl, 4.5 kilograms of heroin, and more than $1,200,00.00 in U.S. Currency and other seized property.
As to the charged count, WASHINGTON faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five (5) years up to a maximum term of forty (40) years imprisonment, a fine of up to $5,000,000.00, at least four years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
This investigation was led by the Drug Enforcement Administration – New Orleans Field Division Office and was assisted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Border Patrol, the Gretna Major Crimes Task Force, the Kenner Police Department, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, the St. John’s Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the New Orleans Police Department. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.
Multiple Tangipahoa Parish Residents Indicted for Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced the October 9, 2024 unsealing of a thirteen-count indictment charging the following individuals:
- JOHN TICKLES JR., (“TICKLES JR.”), age 28, of Hammond, Louisiana
- LONNIE YANCY III, (“YANCY III”), age 27, of Ponchatoula, Louisiana
- RASHUN HUTCHINSON, (“HUTCHINSON”), age 24, of Ponchatoula, Louisiana
- ROBERT HINES, (“HINES”), age 45, Ponchatoula, Louisiana
- BRYCE HIGHTOWER, (“HIGHTOWER”), age 22, of Ponchatoula, Louisiana
- RINGO MITCHELL JR., (“MITCHELL JR.'), age 36 of Natalbany, Louisiana
- RODNEY BERRY, (“BERRY”), age 41, of Ponchatoula, Louisiana
All seven individuals were indicted in Count 1 for Conspiracy to Distribute, and Possess with Intent to Distribute, Controlled Substances, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), 841(b)(1)(B), and 846. If convicted of Count 1, they face a minimum of 10 years and up to life imprisonment, up to a $10,000,000 fine, and at least 5 years of supervised release following imprisonment.
TICKLES JR. and HINES were indicted in Count 3, TICKLES JR. and BERRY were indicted in Count 6, TICKLES JR. and MITCHELL JR. were indicted in Count 9, and TICKLES JR. and HIGHTOWER were indicted in Count 12, for illegal Use of a Communications Facility, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 843(b) and 18 U.S.C. § 2. If convicted of Counts 3, 6, 9, or 12, they face up to 20 years imprisonment, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least 3 years supervised release following imprisonment.
TICKLES JR. was indicted in Counts 2 and 11 for Distribution of Fentanyl and, on Counts 8 and 5, for Distribution of Methamphetamine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B). If convicted of either of these four Counts, TICKLES JR. faces a minimum of 5 years and, up to 40 years imprisonment, up to a $5,000,000 fine, and at least 4 years of supervised release following imprisonment.
HINES and HIGHTOWER were indicted in Counts 4 and 13 for Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B). If convicted of Counts 4 and 13, they face a minimum of 5 years and, up to 40 years imprisonment, up to a $5,000,000 fine, and at least 4 years of supervised release following imprisonment.
MITCHELL JR and BERRY were indicted in Counts 7 and 10 for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B). If convicted of Counts 7 and 10, they face a minimum of 5 years and up to 40 years imprisonment, up to a $5,000,000 fine, and at least 4 years of supervised release following imprisonment.
As to each count in which one of these individuals is charged, they also face payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
According to the indictment, from a time unknown but continuing until at least September 10, 2024, these seven individuals conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine, throughout Tangipahoa Parish. The conspiracy was carried out through wire and electronic communications.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at http://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
United States Attorney Evans praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, Hammond Police Department, Jefferson Parish Sherriff’s Office, and the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Lauren Sarver of the Narcotics Unit.
Laplace Woman Indicted for False Statements to Small Business Administration and Falsification of Bankruptcy RecordsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that LATRICIA HOPE HAYNES MOLIERE (“MOLIERE”), age 50, a resident of LaPlace, was indicted on October 4, 2024 for False Statements to the Small Business Administration (SBA), and for Falsification of Records in a Bankruptcy Case, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1001 and 1519.
According to court documents, on or about March 13, 2021, MOLIERE falsely stated that she was a sole proprietor with an average monthly payroll of $8,041 on a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan application (Count One). In support of the PPP application, MOLIERE attached a fraudulent Internal Revenue Service Form 1040 Schedule C. In addition, beginning on or about May 3, 2021 and continuing until at least September 13, 2021, MOLIERE made false statements in a bankruptcy case, including, by failing to disclose her receipt of PPP funds (Count Two).
If convicted of Count One, MOLIERE faces a prison term of up to five years, up to three years of supervised release and, a fine of up to $250,000. If convicted of Count Two, MOLIERE faces a prison term of up to twenty years, up to three years of supervised release and, a fine of up to $250,000. As to each count, MOLIERE also faces payment of a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case was investigated by the United States Secret Service. Assistant United States Attorney Maria M. Carboni of the Financial Crimes Unit is handling the prosecution.
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Honduran Man Sentenced for Possessing False Immigration DocumentRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced the sentencing of YEFFERSON DAVID PEREZ (“PEREZ”), age 19, a citizen of Honduras, who pled guilty on October 8, 2024 to possession of a fraudulent immigration document, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1546(a). United States District Judge Greg G. Guidry sentenced PEREZ to time served, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
According to court documents, a United States Border Patrol agent received information that a specific vehicle was in the area of Interstate 10 near Slidell, Louisiana whose owner was in the United States illegally. During a traffic stop of the vehicle, the agent encountered PEREZ as a passenger. During questioning, PEREZ was unable to produce identification but instead, handed the agent what appeared to be a Lawful Permanent Resident card. A forensic document examiner determined that the card was fraudulent and that PEREZ carried the fraudulent card to imply that he was authorized to be present in the United States and to obtain employment.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Border Patrol, the mobile, uniformed law enforcement arm of United States Customs and Border Protection in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jon M. Maestri of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Saturday 12 October 2024
U.S. Attorney Alerts Public to Charity Scams in Wake of Hurricanes Helene and MiltonRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr issued a public safety alert today advising the public to be vigilant to hurricane relief fraud in the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
On Sept. 26, Hurricane Helene made landfall in Florida’s Big Bend Region and quickly caused major devastation there and across states including Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, and others. On October 9, 2024, Hurricane Milton made landfall in Florida. As we have seen in the wake of previous national disasters, fraudsters will target victims of the storms along with citizens across the country who want to do what they can to assist individuals affected by the storms. Unfortunately, criminals exploit disasters for their own gain by sending fraudulent communications through email or social media and by creating deceiving websites designed to solicit contributions.
The public should exercise diligence before giving contributions to anyone soliciting donations or individuals offering to assist those affected by these storms. Solicitations can originate from phone calls, texts, social media, e-mail, door-to-door collections, flyers, mailings, and other similar methods. Before making a donation to benefit victims of Hurricanes Helene or Milton, individuals should adhere to certain guidelines, including:
- Make contributions directly to known organizations rather than relying on others to make the donation on your behalf.
- Do not be pressured into making contributions as reputable charities do not use such tactics.
- Do not respond to any unsolicited communications (e.g., e-mails and texts), and never click links contained within those messages because they may be targeting your personal information, to include bank and credit card account information, and other identifiers such as dates of birth and social security numbers.
- Rather than clicking on a purported link to a charity, verify its legitimacy by utilizing various Internet-based resources that may assist in confirming whether the organization is a valid charity.
- Beware of organizations with copy-cat names similar to but not exactly the same as those of reputable charities.
- Avoid cash donations if possible. Pay by credit card or write a check directly to the charity. Do not make checks payable to individuals.
- Know that legitimate charities do not normally solicit donations via money transfer services, and their website will normally end in .org rather than .com.
- Be cautious of e-mails that claim to show pictures of the disaster areas in attached files because the files may contain viruses. Only open attachments from known senders.
The U.S. Department of Justice established the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) in the wake of Hurricane Katrina to deter, investigate, and prosecute fraud in the wake of disasters. More than 50 federal, state, and local agencies participate in the NCDF, which reminds the public to be aware of and report any instances of alleged fraudulent activity related to relief operations and funding for victims. Complaints of fraud may be reported online at www.justice.gov/DisasterComplaintForm. Complaints may also be reported to the NCDF at (866) 720-5721, a hotline that is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Lengthy Sentences in Federal Prison Handed Down in Ongoing Large Scale Drug Conspiracy and Money Laundering CaseRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced four individuals convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering.
Nathan Johnson, age 39, from Denver, Colorado, pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Conspiracy to Launder Monetary Instruments on June 17, 2024. He was sentenced to 36 years and eight months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200. Johnson was sentenced in September of 2024.
Michele Johnson, age 48, from Steen, Minnesota, pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Conspiracy to Launder Monetary Instruments on July 29, 2024. She was sentenced to 31 years and eight months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200. She was sentenced in October of 2024.
Jesse Richmond, age 51, from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Conspiracy to Launder Monetary Instruments on June 18, 2024. He was sentenced to 24 years and four months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200. Richmond was sentenced in September of 2024.
Tony Hunter, age 53, from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance on May 29, 2024. He was sentenced to 27 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. Hunter was sentenced in September of 2024.
Nathan Johnson, Michele Johnson, Matthew Thomas, Jesse Richmond, and Tony Hunter were originally indicted by a federal grand jury in August of 2023. A third superseding indictment was filed in May of 2024 adding defendant, Alfred Siani.
From December of 2022 to July of 2023, the above-mentioned defendants alongside numerous other co-conspirators transported large loads of methamphetamine from California to Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Nathan Johnson, acting as the leader of the conspiracy, would travel from his home in Denver, Colorado to meet with his source of supply in Southern California. While there, Nathan Johnson would receive approximately 150-pounds worth of methamphetamine which would go on to be further distributed in Denver, Colorado, as well as South Dakota.
While in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Nathan Johnson would distribute bulk amounts of methamphetamine to his co-conspirators: Jesse Richmond, Tony Hunter, and Michele Johnson. Richmond, Hunter, and Michele Johnson would go on to further distribute the methamphetamine throughout the Sioux Falls community and into southwest Minnesota.
The amount of methamphetamine involved was in excess of 300 pounds and over $450,000 in drug proceeds were laundered during the existence of this conspiracy.
“The multi-decade sentences obtained thus far illustrate the seriousness of the crimes and the dogged commitment of every agency involved to focus our resources on those criminals who choose to distribute dangerous substances in our state,” said United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell. “We are grateful for the collaboration of more than a dozen federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies and joint task forces, as well as out-of-state agencies, which resulted in the takedown of a network of drug dealers responsible for bringing hundreds of pounds of illegal narcotics into South Dakota. We are fortunate to have such dedicated men and women doing the difficult investigative and prosecutorial work required to keep our communities safe.”
“These sentences should serve as a wake-up call to anyone transporting or distributing methamphetamine into South Dakota communities,” Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Omaha Division Special Agent in Charge Steve Bell said. “These four people are facing a combined 119 years in federal prison. Each sentence should provide the offender with ample time to reflect on the damage and destruction they’ve inflicted on so many lives.”
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (including the Rocky Mountain Field Division, Omaha Field Division, Mexico City Country Office, Los Angeles Field Division, Special Operations Division), as well as South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force, FBI, South Dakota Highway Patrol, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, IRS Criminal Investigation team, El Paso Intelligence Center, and collaboration received from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado, Bureau of Indian Affairs, U.S. Marshals Service, Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office, Sioux Falls Police Department, Mitchell Police Department, Denver Police Department, Las Vegas Metro Police Department, Worthington Police Department, Brookings Police Department, Rock County Sheriff’s Office, Lake Superior Violent Offender Task Force, Central Minnesota Violent Offender Task Force, Minnesota River Valley Drug Task Forde, and the Colorado Department of Corrections. Assistant U.S. Attorney Paige Petersen prosecuted the case.
All four defendants were immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Brookings Man Charged with Production of Child Pornography and CyberstalkingRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a federal grand jury has indicted a Brookings, South Dakota, man for Production of Child Pornography and Cyberstalking.
Jaykob Elijah Varner, age 24, was indicted in October of 2024. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on October 8, 2024, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The Indictment alleges that between August 1, 2023, and April 13, 2024, Varner knowingly induced, enticed, and coerced a minor female to create images and videos of herself engaged in sexually explicit conduct, then send those images and videos to Varner. The Indictment further alleges that Varner used online applications to harass, intimidate, and keep the minor female under surveillance in order to harass and intimidate her into making such images and videos which caused her substantial emotional distress.
If convicted, Varner faces a possible maximum penalty of up to 30 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, life of supervised release, and up to $200 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges are merely accusations and Varner is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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.
The investigation is being conducted by Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth A. Ebert-Webb is prosecuting the case.
Varner was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Friday 11 October 2024
Urine Drug Testing Laboratory and Owner Agree to Resolve False Claims Act AllegationsRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – U.S. Attorney Dena J. King announced today that LabXperior Corporation (LabXperior) and owner Tina Ball (Ball) have paid $235,000 to resolve allegations that they violated the Federal False Claims Act and North Carolina False Claims Act by knowingly billing North Carolina Medicaid (Medicaid) for urine drug tests that were medically unnecessary and resulted from violations of the Anti-Kickback Statute.
The United States and State of North Carolina alleged that from September 28, 2016, through December 20, 2017, LabXperior submitted claims to Medicaid for urine drug tests that were false. The claims were false because they were the result of an illegal kickback arrangement between LabXperior and BPolloni Consulting, LLC (BPolloni), an entity that referred urine drug tests to LabXperior. Under the arrangement, LabXperior paid BPolloni a percentage of the revenue or profit from the Medicaid reimbursement for each urine drug test that BPolloni arranged for another entity, Do It 4 the Hood Corporation (D4H), to send to LabXperior. The Chief Executive Officer of BPolloni and other individuals who operated D4H previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit health care fraud and Anti-Kickback Statute violations arising from D4H’s illegal kickback arrangements with urine drug testing laboratories.
In addition to being tainted by illegal kickbacks, the United States and State of North Carolina alleged that claims for drug tests that LabXperior submitted to Medicaid were false because the tests were medically unnecessary. Specifically, the orders for the tests were not patient-specific and did not reflect a qualified medical provider’s determination of the patient’s need for the testing.
The civil settlement and resolution of claims obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the FBI in Charlotte, with assistance from the Medicaid Investigations Division of the North Carolina Attorney General’s Office, the Office of Inspector General of the United States Department of Health and Human Services, and the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations.
The investigation and resolution of this matter illustrates the government’s emphasis on combating health care fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act.
Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement, can be reported to the Department of Health and Human Services at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).
United States Attorney’s Office Releases 2024 Third Quarter Immigration Enforcement StatisticsRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – Today, the United States Attorney’s Office announced its immigration enforcement statistics for July 1, 2024, to September 30, 2024. These cases are prosecuted in partnership with the Tucson and Yuma Sectors of the Customs and Border Protection’s U.S. Border Patrol, along with Homeland Security Investigations, and assistance from other federal, state, and county agencies. In the three-month period ending September 30, 2024, the United States brought criminal charges in Arizona against 2,611 individuals who illegally entered or re-entered the United States. In its ongoing effort to deter unlawful immigration, the United States also filed 364 cases against individuals responsible for smuggling undocumented noncitizens to and within the District of Arizona. In this time period, the United States also prosecuted 67 reactive drug cases arising out of immigration ports of entry and checkpoints.
Reducing migrant smuggling and mitigating the risk to communities impacted by these offenses continue to be priorities for the Office and its law enforcement partners. Some of these prosecutions are directed against leaders and coordinators of alien smuggling organizations. Other prosecutions are aimed at deterring young adult drivers, often recruited over social media platforms, from engaging in this dangerous activity. Prosecutions against young drivers include cases brought against two juvenile smugglers during this time period.
Protecting law enforcement officers is a key part of border vigilance. During this time period, federal prosecutors brought charges against one defendant accused of assaulting federal officers.
These statistics represent United States Attorney’s Office prosecutions only. The numbers do not include individuals apprehended by immigration enforcement officials and subjected solely to administrative process.
RELEASE NUMBER: 2024-137_2024 Third Quarter Immigration Enforcement Statistics
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For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on X @USAO_AZ for the latest news.U.S. Army Soldier Sentenced to 14 Years in Prison for Attempting to Assist ISIS to Conduct Deadly Ambush on U.S. TroopsRead the Press Release
Cole Bridges, also known as Cole Gonzales, 24, of Stow, Ohio, was sentenced to 168 months in prison followed by 10 years of supervised release for attempting to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization and attempting to murder U.S. military service members, based on his efforts to assist the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS) to attack and kill U.S. soldiers in the Middle East.
Bridges pleaded guilty to terrorism charges on June 14, 2023. According to court documents, Bridges joined the U.S. Army in approximately September 2019 and was assigned as a cavalry scout in the Third Infantry Division based in Fort Stewart, Georgia. Before he joined the Army, beginning in at least 2019, Bridges began researching and consuming online propaganda promoting jihadists and their violent ideology, and began to express his support for ISIS and jihad on social media. In or about October 2020, approximately one year after joining the Army, Bridges began communicating with an FBI online covert employee (the OCE), who was posing as an ISIS supporter in contact with ISIS fighters in the Middle East. During these communications, Bridges expressed his frustration with the U.S. military and his desire to aid ISIS. Bridges then provided training and guidance to purported ISIS fighters who were planning attacks, including advice about potential targets in New York City. Bridges also provided the OCE with portions of a U.S. Army training manual and guidance about military combat tactics, with the understanding that the materials would be used by ISIS in future attack planning.
In or about December 2020, Bridges began to supply the OCE with instructions for the purported ISIS fighters on how to attack U.S. forces in the Middle East. Among other things, Bridges diagrammed specific military maneuvers intended to help ISIS fighters maximize the lethality of future attacks on U.S. troops. Bridges also provided advice about the best way to fortify an ISIS encampment to ambush U.S. Special Forces, including by wiring certain buildings with explosives to kill the U.S. troops. Then, in January 2021, Bridges provided the OCE with a video of himself in his U.S. Army body armor standing in front of a flag often used by ISIS fighters and making a gesture symbolic of support for ISIS. Approximately one week later, Bridges sent a second video in which Bridges, using a voice manipulator, narrated a propaganda speech in support of the anticipated ambush by ISIS on U.S. troops.
The FBI's New York Joint Terrorism Task Force investigated the case, with valuable assistance provided by the FBI field offices in Washington, Atlanta, and Cleveland; U.S. Army Counterintelligence, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Georgia, Air Force Office of Special Investigations, U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command, and U.S. Army Third Infantry Division.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sam Adelsberg and Matthew Hellman for the Southern District of New York prosecuted the case, with assistance from Trial Attorney Michael Dittoe of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.
U.S. Army Soldier Sentenced to 14 Years in Prison for Attempting to Assist ISIS to Conduct Deadly Ambush on U.S. TroopsRead the Press Release
Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced today that COLE BRIDGES, a/k/a “Cole Gonzales,” was sentenced to 14 years in prison for attempting to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization, and attempting to murder U.S. military service members, based on his efforts to assist the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (“ISIS”) to attack and kill U.S. soldiers in the Middle East. BRIDGES pled guilty on June 14, 2023, before U.S. District Judge Lewis J. Liman, who imposed today’s sentence.
U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “Cole Bridges used his U.S. Army training to pursue a horrifying goal: the brutal murder of his fellow service members in a carefully plotted ambush. Bridges sought to attack the very soldiers he was entrusted to protect and, making this abhorrent conduct even more troubling, was eager to help people he believed were members of a deadly foreign terrorist organization plan this attack. This is a betrayal of the worst order. Today’s sentence makes clear that that this Office—along with our partners in law enforcement and the U.S. military—will work tirelessly to bring to justice those who, like Bridges, seek to harm members of our Armed Forces.”
According to the Complaint, the Indictment, and other documents in the public record, as well as statements made in public court proceedings:
BRIDGES joined the U.S. Army in approximately September 2019, and was assigned as a cavalry scout in the Third Infantry Division based in Fort Stewart, Georgia. Before he joined the Army, beginning in at least 2019, BRIDGES began researching and consuming online propaganda promoting jihadists and their violent ideology, and began to express his support for ISIS and jihad on social media. In or about October 2020, approximately one year after joining the Army, BRIDGES began communicating with a Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”) online covert employee (the “OCE”), who was posing as an ISIS supporter in contact with ISIS fighters in the Middle East. During these communications, BRIDGES expressed his frustration with the U.S. military and his desire to aid ISIS. BRIDGES then provided training and guidance to purported ISIS fighters who were planning attacks, including advice about potential targets in New York City. BRIDGES also provided the OCE with portions of a U.S. Army training manual and guidance about military combat tactics, with the understanding that the materials would be used by ISIS in future attack planning.
In or about December 2020, BRIDGES began to supply the OCE with instructions for the purported ISIS fighters on how to attack U.S. forces in the Middle East. Among other things, BRIDGES diagrammed specific military maneuvers intended to help ISIS fighters maximize the lethality of future attacks on U.S. troops. BRIDGES also provided advice about the best way to fortify an ISIS encampment to ambush U.S. Special Forces, including by wiring certain buildings with explosives to kill the U.S. troops. Then, in January 2021, BRIDGES provided the OCE with a video of himself in his U.S. Army body armor standing in front of a flag often used by ISIS fighters and making a gesture symbolic of support for ISIS. Approximately one week later, BRIDGES sent a second video in which BRIDGES, using a voice manipulator, narrated a propaganda speech in support of the anticipated ambush by ISIS on U.S. troops.
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In addition to the prison term, BRIDGES, 24, of Stow, Ohio, was sentenced to 10 years of supervised release.
Mr. Williams praised the outstanding efforts of the FBI’s New York Joint Terrorism Task Force, which principally consists of agents from the FBI and detectives from the New York City Police Department, and over 50 other federal, state, and local agencies. Mr. Williams also thanked U.S. Army Counterintelligence, the FBI Washington Field Office, the FBI Atlanta Field Office and its Savannah Resident Agency, the FBI Cleveland Field Office, the FBI’s Counterterrorism Division, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Georgia, the Air Force Office of Special Investigations, U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command, the U.S. Army Third Infantry Division, and the Counterterrorism Section of the Department of Justice’s National Security Division for their assistance.
This prosecution is being handled by the Office’s National Security and International Narcotics Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sam Adelsberg and Matthew Hellman are in charge of the prosecution, with assistance from Trial Attorney Michael Dittoe of the Counterterrorism Section.
Tonawanda man arrested, charged with distribution and possession of child pornographyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Trevor Knapp, 32, of Tonawanda, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with distribution and possession of child pornography. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of 20 years, and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, in April 2024, a 17-year-old minor female contacted the Flagstaff, Arizona Police Department stating that she was being harassed by a 32-year-old male named Tyler Knapp online. The minor victim met Knapp in 2020, when she was 13-years-old, on a website called, “mylol,” a friend finding website that she no longer uses. As the two began communicating, the conversations became sexual in nature. Knapp sent sexually explicit videos of himself to the minor victim. He also asked that she send naked images of herself, but she declined. However, the minor victim would get out of the shower naked while the two were video chatting and Knapp would screen capture an image of her. The two also messaged through Google Chat and Knapp utilized multiple Google email accounts. The minor victim, who was uncomfortable with how he was talking, would delete or block Knapp but he would utilize a new account to regain contact. Knapp also located the minor victim’s Instagram account and messaged her on that platform as well. The minor victim advised Knapp multiple times of her real age.
The minor victim requested for months that Knapp leave her alone, stating that she had a boyfriend. Knapp then requested images of the minor victim and her boyfriend having sex. He also sent her a naked image of a second minor victim, a female living in Pennsylvania. The two minor victims began communicating, and the second minor victim described Knapp as “the pedophile.” Subsequent investigation traced Knapp back to the Western District of New York.
On October 10, 2024, a search warrant was executed at Knapp’s residence, during which investigators seized his cell phone. A preliminary search recovered a sexually explicit video that included Knapp and the first minor victim.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Flagstaff, Arizona Police Department, under the direction of Chief Sean Connolly, the Town of Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of Chief James Stauffiger, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Tigerton Man Indicted for Shotgun Assault on a Postal CarrierRead the Press Release
Gregory J. Haanstad, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on October 8, 2024, a federal grand jury issued an indictment alleging that Benjamin L. Joos (age: 43) of Tigerton, Wisconsin, assaulted a federal employee in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 111(a) and 111(b).
According to the indictment, on or about September 24, 2024, Joos “knowingly and by means and use of a dangerous weapon, namely a shotgun, did forcibly assault, oppose, impede, intimidate, and interfere” with a female postal carrier while she was performing her official duties. If convicted of the offense, he faces up to 20 years’ imprisonment and a maximum $250,000 fine.
This case was investigated by the Shawano County Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel R. Humble.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove his guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
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Ten Defendants Associated with “Everybody Shines Together” Street Gang Sentenced in Federal Drug and Gun ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – This week the last of ten defendants, each of whom were associated with the “Everybody Shines Together” street gang (also knowns as “EST”), was sentenced as part of a conspiracy involving federal drug and firearms offenses.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Michael E. Stansbury of the FBI Louisville Field Office, and Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
“I commend the outstanding work of our prosecutors, federal law enforcement agents, and our local law enforcement partners who worked tirelessly to ensure the successful prosecution of the defendants in this case,” stated U.S. Attorney Bennett. “These are significant federal prison sentences for serious violations of the law. Together, we will continue to investigate and aggressively prosecute those who seek to flood our streets and neighborhoods with drugs while illegally using and possessing firearms.”
"With the sentencing of Mr. Mosley comes the conclusion of a years-long collaborative effort across all levels of law enforcement to put some of Louisville's most hardened criminals behind bars and disrupt one of the area's most consequential street gangs," said Special Agent in Charge Michael E. Stansbury. "With multiple significant federal prison sentences, we hope this case serves as a warning sign. As long as you continue to exploit the young and vulnerable and fill our neighborhoods with senseless gun violence and harmful drug operations, the FBI will use every available resource to identify and dismantle your operation."
“This sentencing highlights the result of countless hours of dedicated effort from officers and investigators from LMPD and our partner agencies,” stated Chief Paul Humphrey. Each day they place their life on the line to remove criminals such as these from the streets, making Louisville a safer, better place. The men and women of LMPD will not stop fighting against the scourge of violence and gang activity in our city. There is more work to do, but this particular group of criminals being sentenced and removed from our community is a move in the right direction.”
According to court documents, Eric D. Mosley, 33, of Louisville, was sentenced on October 10, 2024, to 20 years in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, distribution of methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and possession of a stolen motor vehicle. Mosley was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offenses.
On December 1, 2015, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Mosley was convicted of enhanced possession of a controlled substance in the first degree, enhanced possession of drug paraphernalia, enhanced possession of marijuana, and enhanced possession of heroin.
On December 1, 2014, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Mosley was convicted of enhanced trafficking in a controlled substance in the first degree, first offense, less than 4 grams of cocaine, receiving stolen property (firearm), enhanced possession of marijuana, and trafficking in a controlled substance in the first degree, first offense (less than 2 grams of heroin).
Zaman Taylor, 24, of Louisville, was sentenced on October 3, 2024, to 20 years in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute controlled substances, eight counts of distribution of methamphetamine, two counts of possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
Darrian Toogood, 27, of Louisville, was sentenced on June 6, 2024, to 6 months in prison, followed by 2 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute controlled substances and two counts of distribution of methamphetamine.
Devonzo Summers, 27, of Louisville, was sentenced on March 21, 2024, to 15 years in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute controlled substances, four counts of distribution of fentanyl, distribution of controlled substances, distribution of methamphetamine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
Barry Reed, 27, of Louisville, was sentenced on December 18, 2023, to 15 years in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute controlled substances, four counts of distribution of fentanyl, distribution of controlled substances, two counts of distribution of methamphetamine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and possession of a stolen motor vehicle.
Dazaray Rice, 30, of Louisville, was sentenced on November 9, 2023, to 3 years of probation, for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute controlled substance and two counts of distribution of fentanyl.
Aerion Cook, 24, of Louisville, was sentenced on November 2, 2023, to 10 years in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute controlled substances and three counts of distribution of methamphetamine.
Khasi Jones, 31, of Louisville, was sentenced on November 2, 2023, to 5 years in prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute controlled substances and six counts of distribution of fentanyl.
Cedric Palmer, 28, of Louisville, was sentenced on October 12, 2023, to 5 years in prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute controlled substances, distribution of controlled substances, and distribution of methamphetamine.
Ricos Mosley, 36, of Louisville,was sentenced on August 17, 2023, to 5 years in prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute controlled substances.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the FBI and LMPD, with assistance from the ATF, IRS-CI, DEA, Nelson County Sheriff’s Office, Bullitt County Sheriff’s Office, and Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Frank Dahl and Josh Porter prosecuted the case with assistance from Paralegal Aaron Cooper.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
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Suburban Chicago Man Charged with Possessing and Transporting Child PornographyRead the Press Release
CHICAGO — A suburban Chicago man who allegedly possessed and transported sexually explicit images of children has been indicted on federal child pornography charges.
EMAD SAGHIR, 42, of Evanston, Ill., is charged with possession and transportation of child pornography, according to an indictment unsealed today in U.S. District Court in Chicago. According to the indictment, Saghir last year possessed in his Google account an image of child pornography involving a prepubescent minor. On several occasions last year Saghir also transported images of child pornography via his computer, the indictment states.
Saghir was arrested this morning. He pleaded not guilty during his arraignment today in federal court in Chicago. A detention hearing was set for Tuesday at noon.
The indictment was announced by Morris Pasqual, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Douglas S. DePodesta, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Maione.
Transportation of child pornography is punishable by a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in federal prison and a maximum of 20 years. Possession of child pornography involving a prepubescent minor is punishable by up to 20 years. The public is reminded that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
If you believe you are a victim of sexual exploitation, you are encouraged to contact the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children by logging on to www.missingkids.com or by calling 1-800-843-5678. The service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
saghir_indictment.pdfStratford Man Sentenced to 4 Years in Federal Prison for Gun Trafficking OffenseRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that ESKAVAIL GORDON, also known as “Vail,” 21, of Stratford, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Omar A. Williams in Hartford to 48 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for a firearm trafficking offense.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on July 26, 2023, Stefan Bagley, Jr. was shot and wounded while traveling in his vehicle in Bridgeport. Later that same day, Bagley’s vehicle was used in another shooting incident in Bridgeport. An investigation revealed that, between October 2022 and October 2023, Bagley purchased approximately 20 9mm handguns from licensed firearm dealers and then trafficked the guns to a network of customers, including Gordon. Bagley typically scratched the serial numbers off of the firearms before providing them to his customers, making the guns more difficult to trace.
During the investigation, a search of Bagley’s text messages revealed communications with Gordon in which the two discussed Bagley purchasing a Glock handgun for Gordon. Gordon then paid Bagley $750 for the gun.
Gordon was arrested on December 18, 2023, and investigators seized a 9mm firearm from Gordon on the date of his arrest.
Gordon was previously convicted in state court of possession of a firearm in a motor vehicle, and he was on state probation at the time of his criminal conduct in this case. It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.
On May 20, 2024, Gordon pleaded guilty to receipt of a trafficked firearm. He has been detained since his arrest.
Bagley pleaded guilty to a related charge and awaits sentencing.
Most of the firearms trafficked by Bagley are unaccounted for.
U.S. Attorney Avery noted that this case is being prosecuted, in part, under the new criminal provisions of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which Congress enacted and the President signed in June 2022. The Act is the first federal statute specifically designed to target the unlawful trafficking and straw-purchasing of firearms.
This matter is being investigated by Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the Bridgeport Police Department, and the Connecticut State Police. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth L. Gresham.
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 gun violence and other violent crime, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. In May 2021, the Justice Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit www.justice.gov/psn.
Spokane Man Sentenced to over 15 Years in Federal Prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute Controlled SubstancesRead the Press Release
COEUR D'ALENE – Joshua Alan Berg, 47, of Spokane, was sentenced to 188 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced today. U.S. District Court Judge Amanda K. Brailsford also ordered that upon completion of his prison sentence, Berg be required to complete four years of supervised release.
According to court records, on February 8, 2023, law enforcement officers responded to an overdose incident in St. Regis, Montana. During that investigation Berg was identified as a person with knowledge about the incident and other agencies in the surrounding area were notified to be on the lookout for him. Officers in Shoshone County, Idaho, identified Berg shortly thereafter and attempted to stop the vehicle he was driving. Berg led officers on a high-speed pursuit, crashed his vehicle into a snowbank and fled on foot. Officers continued their pursuit and eventually arrested Berg near the abandoned vehicle. Berg possessed approximately a pound and a half of methamphetamine and a half pound of fentanyl pills when arrested, and discarded a firearm he had been carrying while officers were pursuing him. The firearm was located and retrieved by officers.
U.S. Attorney Hurwit commended the work of Shoshone County Sheriff’s Office, law enforcement agencies in Mineral County, Montana, and the North Idaho Narcotics Enforcement (NINE) Taskforce, which led to the charges.
The NINE Task Force is a multi-jurisdictional group of law enforcement officers working together to target drug trafficking in North Idaho. The task force is comprised of agents and officers from the Idaho State Police, Coeur d’Alene Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Bureau of Indian Affairs, U.S. Border Patrol, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the National Guard Counter Drug Program.
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Sparta Man Pleads Guilty to Killing A Bald EagleRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Robert Garner Gambill, 91, of Sparta, N.C., appeared in federal court in Charlotte today and pleaded guilty to killing a bald eagle, in violation of the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.
Douglas Ault, Special Agent in Charge with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Office of Law Enforcement (USFWS), Southeast Region, joins U.S. Attorney King in making today’s announcement.
According to filed plea documents and today’s court proceedings, on June 5, 2024, Gambill, without being permitted to do so, set his firearm on a fencepost, and aimed, shot, and killed a bald eagle that was perched in a tree near the Farmers Fish Camp Road Bridge in Sparta. Gambill killed the federally protected bird with a Ruger M77 Mark 2 22-250 rifle with an attached Nikon Monarch MR31 4x16-42 scope. As Gambill admitted in court today, after killing the bald eagle, Gambill left the scene in his vehicle, abandoning the eagle carcass on the bank of the New River. The carcass was recovered with the assistance of two individuals who witnessed the incident and was subsequently taken into the custody of the USFWS. A necropsy performed by a USFWS forensic laboratory identified injuries suffered by the bald eagle that were consistent with a gunshot wound from a high-powered rifle.
In 1940 Congress enacted the Eagle Protection Act, predecessor to today’s Bald Eagle and Golden Eagle Protection Act (BGEPA), to protect the bald eagle from extinction. The BGEPA makes it a crime against the United States to hunt, take, capture, kill, possess, and to otherwise deal with the bald or golden eagle, or any part, nest or egg thereof, except as authorized by a valid permit issued by the U.S. Secretary of Interior.
Gambill pleaded guilty to unlawful taking of a bald eagle, which carries a maximum sentence of one year in prison and a $100,000 fine or twice the gross gain or loss derived from the offense. Gambill also agreed to pay a fine in the amount of $9,500. Gambill was released on bond. A sentencing date has not been set.
In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney King commended the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for the investigation of the case and thanked the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission and the Alleghany County Sheriff’s Office for their substantial assistance with the investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine Armstrong of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte is prosecuting the case.
For immediate assistance with fishing or hunting violations, please contact the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission or local law enforcement. If you have information about any other wildlife crime, please follow the link https://www.fws.gov/wildlife-crime-tips, or call 1-844-397-8477. Please do not leave reports requesting assistance for injured wildlife/birds. Learn more about what to do with injured or orphaned wildlife here.
Sex Offender Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison on Child Pornography ChargeRead the Press Release
MOBILE, AL – William Bradley Noletto, age 44, was sentenced today to 10 years in prison after entering a guilty plea to Possession of Child Pornography. Noletto entered his guilty plea on May 15, 2024.
According to court documents, in October 2021 and May 2022 the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (“NCMEC”) received a tip from an internet service provider that files containing child pornography had been uploaded by a user with an email address associated with Noletto. In February 2023, members of the Mobile County Sheriff’s Office (“MCSO”) executed a search warrant at Noletto’s residence. A number of devices were seized and examined. There were approximately 2500 images and 300 videos of child pornography found. Noletto was initially charged with state crimes and was released on bond.
On August 4, 2023, an MCSO deputy was conducting an online investigation to identify people who were sharing child pornography online. The deputy was able to download two files of suspected child pornography from a local internet user and was then able to identify that user as Noletto. In September 2023 members of the MCSO executed a second search warrant at Noletto’s address. Multiple electronic devices were seized. An exam of the cell phone belonging to Noletto revealed approximately 50 images of child pornography.
At his plea, Noletto admitted that he possessed over 600 images/videos of child pornography, including images of prepubescent children. Noletto received an enhanced sentence because he had previously been convicted in Mobile County Circuit Court of Attempted Sexual Abuse of a Child Less than 12.At sentencing, Judge DuBose imposed a 120-month sentence of incarceration, with credit for time served, and a twenty-year term of supervised release upon Noletto’s discharge from prison. During his term of supervised release, Noletto will be subject to sex offender treatment, substance abuse testing and treatment as well has mental health treatment. Noletto will be required to register as a sex offender and is to have no contact with minors. Noletto was ordered to pay $100 in special assessments.
Mobile County Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kacey Chappelear and Beth Stepan prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about Internet safety education, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc/publications-resources
Seminole County Resident Sentenced for Federal Firearms OffenseRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Rian Reid Miller, age 23, of Wewoka, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 120 months in prison for one count of using, carrying, brandishing, and discharging a firearm during a federal crime of violence.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Seminole Nation Lighthorse Police, and the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation.
On February 7, 2024, Miller pleaded guilty to the charge. According to investigators, on April 29, 2023, Miller shot an individual twice with a .380 Smith and Wesson handgun during an assault at a Wewoka residence. Miller then fled the scene but was identified by the victim, who survived the assault. Law enforcement later apprehended Miller, who was found hiding in the crawlspace of an area residence in possession of a .380 Smith and Wesson handgun. The crime occurred in Seminole County, within the boundaries of the Seminole Nation of Oklahoma Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, Chief Judge in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. Miller 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.
San Diego Physician and Medical Practice Pay $3.8 Million to Resolve False Claims Act AllegationsRead the Press Release
SAN DIEGO – Dr. Janette J. Gray of San Diego and her former medical practice, The Center for Health & Wellbeing in San Diego, have agreed to pay $3.8 million to settle allegations that they violated the False Claims Act by knowingly submitting false claims to the Medicare and TRICARE programs.
Dr. Gray and The Center claimed to operate an “alternative,” “integrative,” and “holistic” clinic, which was staffed by medical doctors, nurse practitioners, naturopathic doctors, chiropractors, acupuncturists, and mental health professionals, along with ancillary medical and administrative staff. Dr. Gray and The Center promoted IV infusion therapy, hormone/supplement therapy, and a variety of other alternative treatments.
The settlement resolves allegations that from 2012 to 2022, Dr. Gray and her practice billed Medicare and TRICARE for services that were not covered under either program by disguising the rendering provider, misrepresenting the services provided, “unbundling” services (by billing for a procedure or service in separate parts instead of a single code), or billing for services not medically necessary. In addition to paying $3.8 million to resolve the allegations, Dr. Gray will now be excluded from participating in Medicare, Medicaid, and all other Federal health care programs for five years.
“There’s no price tag on the integrity of our healthcare system,” said U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath. “When a doctor engages in billing fraud, we will protect patients and taxpayers from deceit.”
“The civil settlement holds Dr. Gray and her former medical practice accountable for questionable actions that circumvented the TRICARE billing guidelines and allowed them to receive payments for services that should not have been reimbursed by TRICARE, costing American taxpayers millions of dollars,” said Bryan D. Denny, Special Agent in Charge of the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), Western Field Office. “DCIS and its partners will always aggressively investigate those who defraud TRICARE, because those deceptive actions ultimately harm those defending our country and their families.”
“This investigation is proof that the FBI and its law enforcement partners remain committed to investigating and bringing to justice anyone who tries to violate the American health care system,” said FBI San Diego Acting Special Agent in Charge Houtan Moshrefi.
The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of California; the United States Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General; DCIS; and the FBI. This matter was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Maritsa A. Flaherty.
The resolution of this matter illustrates the government’s emphasis on combating healthcare fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement can be reported to the Department of Health and Human Services at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
San Bernardino County-Based Home Health Agency and Owner Settle False Claims Act Allegations Related to Improper COVID-Relief LoanRead the Press Release
SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT
LOS ANGELES – Allstar Health Providers Inc., a Rancho Cucamonga-based home health agency, and its owner, Maria Chua, have agreed to pay $399,990 to the United States to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act when they knowingly received and retained more than one Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan prior to Dec. 31, 2020, in violation of PPP rules, the Justice Department announced today.
The PPP, an emergency loan program established by Congress in March 2020 under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act and administered by the Small Business Administration (SBA), was intended to support small businesses struggling to pay employees and other business expenses during the COVID-19 pandemic. A borrower applying for a PPP loan was required to make multiple certifications relating to its eligibility and compliance with program rules. Among other things, PPP loan applicants in 2020 were required to certify that they would not receive more than one PPP loan prior to Dec. 31, 2020.
The United States alleged that Chua submitted two PPP loan applications on behalf of Allstar Health Providers in May 2020, and in both applications, she certified that the company would not receive more than one loan prior to Dec. 31, 2020. Despite these certifications, the United States alleged that Allstar Health Providers received two PPP loans in 2020, and thereafter knowingly and improperly retained the second, duplicate loan. According to the United States, Allstar Health Providers failed to repay the duplicate loan, which resulted in a loss to the SBA when it purchased the loan guaranty on the duplicate loan.
“When an individual violates the False Claims Act by fraudulently receiving and retaining PPP loans, taxpayers lose,” said U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada for the Central District of California. “Those who violate the law by fraudulently receiving and retaining PPP loans will be held accountable.”
“PPP loans were intended to provide critical relief to small businesses,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “The department is committed to pursuing those who knowingly violated the requirements of the PPP or other COVID-19 assistance programs and obtained relief funds to which they were not entitled.”
“This is another excellent example of the success of the combined investigative efforts of the Small Business Administration and the Department of Justice in aggressively pursuing instances of misconduct and recovering funds from those who choose to commit fraudulent acts against SBA’s COVID-relief programs,” said General Counsel Therese Meers of SBA.
The settlement resolves claims brought under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act by J. Bryan Quesenberry. Under those provisions, a private party can file an action on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of any recovery. The qui tam case is captioned U.S. ex rel. Quesenberry v. 2 Evil Geniuses et al., No. 20-cv-8495 (C.D. Cal.). Mr. Quesenberry will receive a total of approximately $60,000 in connection with this settlement.
Assistant United States Attorney Frank D. Kortum of the Civil Division’s Civil Fraud Section and Justice Department Trial Attorney Jared S. Wiesner of the Civil Division handled the matter.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Justice Department in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The task force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international actors committing civil and criminal fraud and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the department’s response to the pandemic, please visit www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud affecting COVID-19 government relief programs can be reported by visiting the webpage of the Civil Division’s Fraud Section, which can be found here. Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can also report it by calling the Justice Department’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at NCDF Disaster Complaint Form.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only. There has been no determination of liability.
Russian woman charged with attacking CBP officerRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Olesia Sumina, 43, of Russia, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with assault on a federal officer, which carries a maximum penalty of eight years in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew J. Henning, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, on October 9, 2024, Sumina traveled to Canada with her two children to file an asylum claim. The claim was refused by Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), which resulted in Sumina being driven by CBSA to the Peace Bridge Point of Entry. CBSA officers informed Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers that Sumina became difficult to deal with during transport and that she had spit inside their vehicle.
CBP officers attempted to interview Sumina utilizing a language translation application but were unsuccessful. Sumina was uncooperative throughout the interview and was also reluctant to provide her personal information. As officers attempted to gain access to Sumina’s cellular telephone, she grabbed the phone and quickly put it in her pocket. As officers attempted to retrieve the phone, Sumina quickly became aggressive towards them. As they attempted to render control, Sumina grabbed their shirts and scratched and dug into one officer’s wrists and left hand. Following the altercation, medical aid was administered to the officer’s wounds from the altercation by a colleague before she was transported to the hospital for further treatment.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by Customs and Border Protection, under the direction of Director of Field Operations Rose Brophy, and Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Rochester man pleads guilty to secretly recording minor victim in showerRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Gregory M. Brooks, 53, of Rochester, NY, pleaded guilty to receipt of child pornography before U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr. The charge carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of 20 years, and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas M. Testani, who is handling the case, stated that in February 2021, Brooks secretly placed a video camera in a bathroom where he knew that a Minor Victim showered. He positioned the camera to capture naked videos of the Minor Victim entering and exiting the shower. Between February 2021, and August 31, 2023, Brooks received and stored the videos of child pornography captured by the video camera on his cellular telephone.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, and the Greece Police Department, under the direction of Chief Michael Wood.
Sentencing is scheduled for February 6, 2025, before Judge Geraci.
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Repeat Felon Sentenced to over Seven Years in Prison for Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – An Oakdale man has been sentenced to 90 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for illegally possessing a firearm as a felon, announced United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, on February 13, 2023, an officer from the New Hope Police Department initiated a traffic stop after observing a maroon Chevy Suburban commit several traffic violations. The officer noticed the smell of marijuana as he approached the vehicle and saw drug paraphernalia in the center console. Officers subsequently searched the vehicle and found a Glock model 17 GEN5 9mm caliber pistol equipped with a switch and a large capacity magazine hidden in a compartment underneath the cupholders. They also found a second large capacity magazine and additional ammunition on the driver’s side of the vehicle. DNA from the firearm’s textured grip and slide serrations matched the driver, Detroit Davis-Riley, 35. It was also later discovered that the firearm had previously been reported as stolen.
Because Davis-Riley has multiple prior felony convictions in Hennepin County, he is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms or ammunition at any time.
On March 14, 2024, Davis-Riley pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm as a felon. He was sentenced on October 9, 2024, in U.S. District Court by Judge Michael J. Davis.
This case was the result of an investigation conducted by the New Hope Police Department, Crystal Police Department, Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary S. Riverso prosecuted the case.
Repeat Felon Pleads Guilty to Illegal Possession of a Firearm After Shootout at Gas StationRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – A convicted felon has pleaded guilty to illegal possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, on March 17, 2023, Samit Mao, 43, entered a gas station in St. Paul and tried unsuccessfully to purchase a cash card using reward points. Mao then punched the glass window in front of the cash register with one hand and was asked to leave the store by a cashier and a security guard. After the security guard and Mao exited the store, they exchanged gunfire. Mao was hit in the left arm. The defendant entered his car and fled the scene. Responding officers apprehended Mao in his vehicle nearby the gas station. Underneath Mao’s seat in the vehicle, officers recovered a Springfield model Hellcat 9mm semiautomatic pistol containing eight rounds and a round in the chamber.
Because Mao has multiple prior felony convictions, he is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms or ammunition at any time.
Mao pleaded guilty yesterday in U.S. District Court before Judge Michael J. Davis to one count of illegal possession of a firearm as a felon. A sentencing hearing will take place at a later date.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the St. Paul Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew S. Ebert is prosecuting the case.
Recidivist Fraudster and Identity Thief Sentenced to More Than Three Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
MOBILE, AL – A Birmingham woman was sentenced to 39 months in prison for bank fraud and aggravated identity theft.
According to court documents, Valnica Strong Garner, 41, stole checks from a 94-year-old woman’s mailbox in Baldwin County. On November 17, 2023, Garner forged the stolen checks, which bore the elderly victim’s personal and bank account information, and used the forged checks to buy more than $1,000 in merchandise at Walmart stores in Bay Minette and Daphne. On December 8, 2023, Garner again used the victim’s forged checks to buy more than $400 in merchandise at a Walmart in Chelsea.
On January 21, 2024, deputies in Alabaster arrested Garner in possession of stolen social security cards belonging to eight different people and stolen checks. At the time Garner committed the offenses in this case, she was on federal supervised release. Garner has five prior federal convictions, all in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Alabama: (1) theft of mail (2003); (2) theft of mail and check forgery (2004); (3) theft of mail (2010); (4) aggravated identity theft (2016); and (5) bank fraud (2020).
In addition to the 39-month prison term, Senior United States District Judge Callie V.S. Granade ordered Garner to serve a five-year term of supervised release upon her release from prison, during which time she will be subject to drug testing and treatment, will receive mental health evaluation and treatment, and will be subject to credit restrictions. The court did not impose a fine, but Judge Granade ordered Garner to pay $1,034.65 in victim restitution and $200 in special assessments.
U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello of the Southern District of Alabama made the announcement.
The United States Postal Inspection Service, the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office, and the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Roller prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
Readout of the Justice Department’s Interagency Convening on Advancing Equity in AIRead the Press Release
The Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division on Wednesday convened principals of federal agency civil rights offices and senior government officials to foster AI and civil rights coordination.
This was the fourth such convening by the Civil Rights Division, coming up on the one-year anniversary of President Biden’s Executive Order on the Safe, Secure and Trustworthy Development and Use of Artificial Intelligence (EO 14110), which tasks the Civil Rights Division with coordinating federal agencies to use our authorities to prevent and address unlawful discrimination and other harms that may result from the use of AI in programs and benefits, while preserving the potential social, medical and other advances AI may spur.
The convening highlighted a recent Justice Department symposium on AI focusing on combating technology-enabled crime — including crime facilitated by AI. The Civil Rights Division’s Chief Technologist presented remarks at the symposium, and the event included discussion of the department’s role in negotiating the first international agreement providing a shared baseline for using AI in a way that is consistent with respect for human rights, democracy and the rule of law.
To strengthen the division’s efforts to ensure equity in AI, the Civil Rights Division recently retained a Chief Technologist, Dr. Laura Edelson. She is helping to systematically expand the division’s AI enforcement capacity and to increase the efficiency of its operations by harnessing technological modernization.
At the convening, agency technologists and researchers, including Dr. Edelson, discussed the role of auditing in preventing, investigating, monitoring, and remedying algorithmic bias. Auditing is used to verify that algorithms generate accurate results, as opposed to reflecting historical bias against protected classes.
Agencies discussed their efforts to safeguard civil rights through robust enforcement, policy initiatives, rulemaking and ongoing education and outreach. These accomplishments include:
- A Federal Trade Commission report finding that large social media and video streaming companies engaged in vast surveillance of their users, including kids and teens, with insufficient privacy controls;
- An Equal Employment Opportunity Commission report highlighting barriers to equal opportunity in the high tech workforce and sector and calling for concerted efforts to address discriminatory barriers;
- A Department of Labor (DOL) sponsored resource to help employers consider disability inclusion and accessibility in AI hiring technologies; and
- A Department of Education guide that reminds developers who design for education with AI that they share responsibility with educators for advancing equity and protecting students’ civil rights.
The interagency convening's attendees included representatives from the Departments of Agriculture, Commerce, Education, Energy, Health and Human Services, Homeland Security, Interior, Labor, Transportation and Treasury, as well as the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, Federal Trade Commission and Social Security Administration. Director Naomi Barry-Perez of the DOL’s Civil Rights Center and Department of Transportation Civil Rights Director Irene Marion were in attendance to provide updates for their agencies.
All participants pledged to continue collaboration to protect the American public against any harm that might result from the increased use and reliance on AI, algorithms and other advanced technologies. The agencies also agreed to partner on external stakeholder engagement around their collective efforts to advance equity and civil rights in AI.
For more information, see the Civil Rights Division’s webpage, which centralizes content related to the division’s work on AI and civil rights. This resource provides information about how advanced technologies can result in unlawful discrimination and what the division can do to assist victims of discrimination. The webpage also includes key resources on AI and civil rights from enforcement agencies throughout the federal government.
Previously Convicted Felon Pleads Guilty to Possessing Loaded Firearm with Obliterated Serial NumberRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Haverhill man has pleaded guilty to unlawfully possessing a firearm and ammunition.
Rashad Diggs, a/k/a “Summers,” 37, pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of firearm and ammunition. U.S. District Court Judge Indira Talwani scheduled sentencing for Jan. 14, 2025.
In December 2022 in Revere, Diggs possessed a semiautomatic pistol with an obliterated serial number loaded with over 40 rounds of ammunition. Due to prior felony convictions, including for unlawful firearms possession, Diggs is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition.
The charge of being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition provides for a sentence of up to 15 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. 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 United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy; James Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Boston Field Division; and Malden Police Chief Glenn Cronin made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Hoefle of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit is prosecuting the case.
Owner of Tax Preparation Company Sentenced to More Than Four Years in Prison for Bank Fraud and $2.1 Million COVID Relief FraudRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Lawrence woman was sentenced in federal court in Boston for using stolen identities of taxpayers and businesspeople to defraud the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), a bank, and the Small Business Administration (SBA).
Luz Paulino, 42, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Richard G. Stearns to 54 months in prison, four years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $37,056 in restitution to MetaBank and $456,300 to the Small Business Administration. In June 2024, Paulino pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud conspiracy, one count of bank fraud, two counts of wire fraud and two counts of aggravated identity theft.
Paulino was arrested in December 2020 and indicted by a federal grand jury in January 2021. While on pretrial release, Paulino fled the United States and remained a fugitive for 19 months. Panamanian authorities ultimately returned her to the United States, where she was arrested for a second time.
Paulino owned and operated Agape Financial Services, a Lowell-based company that provided tax preparation and notary services. In 2019 and early 2020, Paulino filed false and fraudulent federal tax returns using the stolen identities, names and Social Security numbers of individual victims. The fraudulent tax returns reported false information regarding wages, employers and dependents, among other things, to claim tax refunds. To conceal her involvement, Paulino falsely represented to the IRS that the returns had been prepared by two former employees of Agape. Paulino then used the fraudulent returns to obtain Refund Advance Loans from a bank in the names of her victims. Paulino and others she recruited then cashed the loan checks using false identification documents and forged signatures.
Paulino separately used stolen identities of businesspeople living in California, Michigan, Indiana and elsewhere to apply to the SBA for $2.1 million in COVID-19 Emergency Injury Disaster Loans. Between June 2020 and October 2021, Paulino’s false applications listed fictitious companies that purportedly lost revenue during the pandemic. She used the fraudulently obtained loan proceeds to wire more than $395,000 to the Dominican Republic and to buy a 2020 Cadillac for $86,000, among other purchases.
Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy; Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division; Harry Chavis, Jr., Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigations; and Melix Bonilla, Acting Chief of the Lawrence Police Department made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Victor A. Wild of the Securities, Financial & Cyber Fraud Unit prosecuted the case.On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the department's response to the pandemic, please visit Justice.gov/Coronavirus and Justice.gov/Coronavirus/CombatingFraud.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice's National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline via the NCDF Web Complaint Form.
Okemah Resident Pleads Guilty to Felony AssaultRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Cainen Isaac Shephard, age 22, of Okemah, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to an Indictment charging him with one count of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country.
The Indictment alleged that on July 2, 2024, Shephard assaulted the victim with a dangerous weapon. The crime occurred in Okfuskee County, within the boundaries of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Okemah Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The Honorable Jason A. Robertson, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report. Shephard was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal Service pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael E. Robinson represented the United States.
Ohio Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison on Child Sexual Exploitation ChargeRead the Press Release
NASHVILLE – Barron M. Poole, 50, of Ripley, Ohio, was sentenced today to 15 years in federal prison after having pled guilty to attempted sexual exploitation of a minor, announced Thomas J. Jaworski, Acting United States Attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee.
According to court documents, on February 2, 2023, a user with the profile of “Barron read bio,” who was later identified as Barron M. Poole, contacted an FBI online covert employee (“OCE”) on an online dating application that is frequented by minors and those who seek to exploit them. The OCE was conducting an online covert investigation utilizing a profile of an 18-year-old female, which contained a photo of a female’s face. Above the photo was a status block, which contained the text, “hi im really 13.” Poole messaged and texted with the OCE, who he believed to be a 13-year-old girl, asked her to send him nude photographs, sent her photos of nude adult females in the poses he wanted the OCE to recreate, and sent her photographs of his penis and abdomen which had distinctive tattoos. The communications continued for a week. When he was arrested at his home in Ohio, Poole admitted to using the online dating application, and admitted that “Barron read bio” was his profile with his photograph.
After serving his sentence, Poole will be on supervised release for 5 years.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Clarksville Resident Agency, Nashville Field Office, and assisted by the FBI’s Cincinnati Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Monica R. Morrison prosecuted the case.
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New York Man Sentenced to 54 Months’ Imprisonment for Investment Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Gregory J. Haanstad, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on October 10, 2024, Charles Lawrence (age 50) of Northpoint, New York, was sentenced to 54 months’ incarceration for committing an investment fraud scheme that resulted in a loss of over $4,000,000 to investors across the country and abroad.
Court records established the following: Lawrence was an investment advisor who held Series 7, 55, and 63 securities licenses from 1996 to 2006. By 2020, Lawrence became associated with various entities using the name “Landes,” including Landes Trust, Landes & Compagnie Trust Prive, and Landes Prive LLC. Lawrence used these entities to solicit money from unsuspecting victims by selling them an opportunity to join a “trading program” that he claimed would net them significant returns. As part of the scheme, Lawrence lured individuals into soliciting investments on his behalf by promising, and paying, “finder’s fees.” He used these unsuspecting “finders” to make himself, and the trading program, appear legitimate. Once a finder located a potential investor, Lawrence sent written communications and contracts that promised that the victims’ initial investment would be segregated in a separate account and would not be at any risk. Lawrence also promised that profits of 50% or more were possible and likely.
After the victims agreed to invest with Lawrence, Lawrence directed them to wire money into a bank account that he controlled. Lawrence also provided his victims a web portal to a Landes bank account on which they could see their initial investment, and provided frequent false updates about how their investment was performing. The web portal, Lawrence’s promises, and his updates were all fraudulent. Lawrence never invested any of the nearly $5,000,000 he received from his victims. Instead, Lawrence spent the money to fund an extravagant lifestyle that included lavish vacations, trips on private jets, spending hundreds of thousands at luxury retailers, and purchasing a 10.8-carat diamond Cartier ring.
In announcing his sentence, United States District Judge Lynn Adelman focused on the sophisticated nature of the scheme, noting that Lawrence’s victims took false comfort in the website where they could see their funds. Judge Adelman noted that Lawrence’s “lies were brazen,” that this was “a scam from the very beginning,” and that Lawrence was motivated solely by greed.
In addition to the 54-month period of incarceration, Lawrence was ordered to pay restitution to his victims in the amount of $4,030,263.51, and to forfeit the 10-carat Cartier ring and a Range Rover he purchased using $91,000 of his victims’ money.
“This scheme had a devastating impact on the victims taken in by Lawrence’s false promises and the elaborate measures he took to convince them that their investments were safe and lucrative,” said U.S. Attorney Haanstad. “I commend the excellent work of all involved in bringing Mr. Lawrence to justice for his actions.”
“The defendant in this case was held accountable for fraudulently obtaining millions of dollars through an investment scam and using those stolen funds to enrich himself, at the expense of unsuspecting victims. The defendant’s lulling activity included the creation of a website purporting to be that of a bank,” Special Agent in Charge Vince Zehme of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Office of Inspector General (FDIC OIG) said. “The FDIC OIG remains committed to working with our law enforcement partners to investigate and bring to justice those who participate in fraudulent schemes and threaten to undermine the integrity of our Nation’s banking system.”
The case was referred to the U.S. Attorney’s Office by the Securities and Exchange Commission. It was investigated by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Office of the Inspector General and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Julie F. Stewart and Farris Martini.
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Myrtle Beach Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Unlawful Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
FLORENCE, S.C. — Joshua Levon West, 39, of Myrtle Beach was sentenced to nearly three years in federal prison after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Evidence presented to the court showed that on March 9, 2023, following a traffic stop, officers with the Myrtle Beach Police Department discovered West in possession of a loaded, stolen firearm. West is prohibited from possessing a firearm based on his prior convictions for armed robbery, strong arm robbery, attempted strong arm robbery, and possession of a weapon during commission of a violent crime.
United States District Judge Joseph Dawson, III sentenced West to 30 months imprisonment, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Myrtle Beach Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Hummel is prosecuting the case.
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More indicted in nationwide business email compromise schemeRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A total of seven people in multiple states have been charged in a superseding indictment related to a large business email compromise (BEC) scheme, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.
Authorities have now arrested Houston resident Amber Bush, 29. She is expected to make her initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Christina A. Bryan Oct. 15 at 2 p.m.
The three-count superseding indictment also charges Houston residents Bolaji Okunnu, 30, and Philip Ogbeide Jr., 34, along with Ayodeji Okunnu, 25, Austin; Victor Rubio Jr., 27, and Bougar Robert Linares Soto, 42, both of Los Angeles, California.
Another Houston resident - Destini Godfrey, 30 – is considered a fugitive and a warrant remains outstanding for his arrest. Anyone with information about his whereabouts is asked to contact the FBI at 713-693-5000.
All are charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering.
The BEC scheme involved deceiving victims into sending money to others and causing millions in losses, according to the charges.
Conspirators allegedly posed as legitimate businesses and fraudulently diverted money from victim bank accounts into accounts they controlled. According to the allegations, they gained access to business email accounts and spoofed email addresses to deceive victims into believing they were making legitimate payments.
The superseding indictment indicates fraudulently diverted payments from numerous victims throughout the United States, including a financial services company from Oregon, a township in New Jersey, a demolition company in Texas, a healthcare liability insurance company in Georgia and a nutrition products manufacturer outside Texas.
Conspirators allegedly used email accounts to request payment for services to be sent to new bank accounts that did not belong to the vendor, according to the charges.
They allegedly deceived victims into wiring millions to fraudulent bank accounts the conspirators opened instead of actually paying the vendor. The charges further allege conspirators laundered the funds in a manner designed to conceal the source, ownership and control of the funds by quickly transferring the money from the receiving account to other bank accounts they controlled.
They then withdrew the fraud proceeds incrementally in cash, according to the charges.
If convicted, they face up to 20 years in prison on the conspiracy and money laundering conspiracy charges as well as five years for the money laundering and illegal money transmitting charge. Each charge carries a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
The FBI-Bryan Resident Agency and IRS-Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation with valuable assistance from the Middlesex County District Attorney’s Office and the Edison Police Department in New Jersey and other law enforcement agencies and U.S. Attorney’s Offices throughout the United States. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Belinda Beek and James Hu are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.