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Tuesday 1 October 2024
Bowling Green Man Sentenced to over 3 Years in Federal Prison for Domestic Violence Offense at Mammoth Cave National ParkRead the Press Release
Bowling Green, KY – A Bowling Green man was sentenced today to over 3 years in federal prison for committing a domestic assault in Mammoth Cave National Park.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky and Scott L. Larson, Regional Chief Ranger of the National Park Service Law Enforcement Rangers made the announcement.
“I commend the effort of the National Park Service Law Enforcement Rangers for their outstanding work in this case,” stated U.S. Attorney Bennett. “Working in partnership with the rangers, we will continue to aggressively enforce violations of the law on federal lands located throughout the Western District.”
According to court documents, Rakan F. Elsalem, 40, was sentenced to 37 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for committing a domestic assault as a habitual offender on May 1, 2023, within the Mammoth Cave National Park, a place within the special maritime and territorial jurisdiction of the United States.
At the time Elsalem committed the domestic assault, he had two prior convictions for offenses that would have been, if subject to federal jurisdiction, an assault against a spouse or intimate partner. These included convictions of assault in the fourth degree on September 22, 2020, and on January 24, 2022, in Warren District Court.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the National Park Service Law Enforcement Rangers.
Assistant U.S. Attorney R. Nicholas Rabold, of the U.S. Attorney’s Bowling Green Branch Office, prosecuted the case.
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Bogalusa Man Sentenced for Migratory Game Bird OffensesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –TREVOR TRUAX, (“TRUAX”), age 29, of Bogalusa, La, was sentenced on August 27, 2024, by U.S. District Court Magistrate Judge, Janis van Meerveld, to three years of inactive probation suspending his hunting privileges world-wide, a fine of $15,290.00 and a $40.00 mandatory special assessment fee.
Counts 1 and 2 charged TRUAX with Taking Migratory Birds During Closed Season, in violation of Title 16, United States Code, Sections 703(a)-707(a) and 50 C.F.R. § 20.22. Counts 3 and 4 charged TRUAX with Taking Migratory Birds Over the Limit, in violation of Title 16, United States Code, Sections 703(a)-707(a) and 50 C.F.R. § 20.24.
According to court documents, TRUAX admitted to Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries agents that he illegally duck hunted on multiple occasions in Louisiana and Mississippi. Agents cited TRUAX for the illegal taking of migratory game birds during the closed season and for taking over the limit of ducks/migratory game birds in Washington Parish, Louisiana. TRUAX also previously pled guilty to migratory game bird offenses in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Mississippi.
The United States Attorney’s Office would also like to acknowledge the assistance of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service and the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries with this matter. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mary Katherine Kaufman of the General Crimes Unit.
Belgrade man arraigned on child pornography crimesRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Belgrade man accused of producing and distributing child pornography involving multiple minors appeared today for arraignment on a nine-count indictment, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
The defendant, Tyrell Forest Anderson, 35, also of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, pleaded not guilty to an indictment charging him with three counts of production of child pornography, four counts of distribution of child pornography and two counts of transfer of obscene material to a minor. If convicted of the most serious crime, Anderson faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years to 30 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years to a lifetime of supervised release.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided. Anderson was detained pending further proceedings.
The indictment alleges that on separate occasions in 2023 to March 2024, in Laurel and Bozeman, Anderson knowingly coerced three minors, identified as Jane Doe 1, 2 and 3, to produce sexually explicit images of themselves. The indictment further alleges that in February 2024 in Bozeman, Anderson distributed images of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct to three other minors, identified as Jane Doe 4 and 5 and John Doe 1, using a computer and the internet, and that Anderson, using Snapchat, sent obscene images to two minors, identified as Jane Doe 6 and 7, in Bozeman.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case. The Bozeman Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation.
The charging documents are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
PACER case reference. 24-113.
The progress of cases may be monitored through the U.S. District Court Calendar and the PACER system. To establish a PACER account, which provides electronic access to review documents filed in a case, please visit http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the District Court’s calendar, please visit https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.
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Baxter County Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal Prison for Drug Trafficking & Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
HOT SPRINGS - A Baxter County (Salem) man was sentenced yesterday to a total of 240 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release on one count of Distribution of More Than Fifty Grams of Actual Methamphetamine and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Offense. The Honorable Chief Judge Susan O. Hickey presided over the sentencing hearing in the United States District Court in Hot Springs.
According to court documents, beginning in January of 2021 and into May of 2021, Special Agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Hot Springs Police Department, Special Investigations Division, conducted multiple controlled purchases of methamphetamine from Michael Steven Benedict, age 45. On April 21, 2021, the Special Agents conducted a controlled purchase of methamphetamine, four (4) stolen firearms, and hundreds of rounds of ammunition from Benedict. The suspected methamphetamine was submitted to the DEA Southeast Laboratory and determined to be a total of 361.03 grams of actual methamphetamine.
U.S. Attorney David Clay Fowlkes of the Western District of Arkansas made the announcement.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Hot Springs Police Department, Special Investigations Division, investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Bryan Achorn prosecuted the case.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Related court documents may be found on the Public Access to Electronic Records website @ www.pacer.gov.
Baltimore Man Sentenced to 23 Years in Federal Prison for Sexually Abusing A Minor and Recording the AbuseRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – On September 30, 2024, U.S. District Judge Stephanie A. Gallagher sentenced William Zev Steen, age 46, of Baltimore, Maryland, to 23 years in federal prison, followed by lifetime supervised release, for sexual exploitation of a child.
The sentence was announced by Erek L. Barron, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland; Special Agent in Charge Michael S. McCarthy of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); and Commissioner Richard Worley of the Baltimore Police Department.
According to his guilty plea, from 2005 to 2011, Steen sexually abused the minor victim, from the time she was two until she was eight years old. Steen recorded two of the instances of sexual abuse in 2008 when the minor victim was 5 years old.
Steen also admitted that in 2022, he collected and shared files depicting the sexual abuse of prepubescent minors using a Peer-to-Peer file sharing network. The files documenting Steen’s abuse of the minor victim were located on his digital devices after his arrest in November 2022.
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 Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc. For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.justice.gov/psc and click on the “Resources” tab on the left of the page.
U.S. Attorney Barron commended HSI Baltimore, HSI Tel Aviv, and the Baltimore Police Department for their work in the investigation. Mr. Barron also thanked Assistant United States Attorneys Paul E. Budlow and Michael Aubin, who are prosecuting the case.
For more information on the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit www.justice.gov/usao-md/project-safe-childhood and https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.
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Bvi Man Detained Pending Trial in Human Smuggling CaseRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, VI – United States Attorney Delia L. Smith announced today that Danny Dennevil, 34, of Tortola, British Virgin Islands, will remain in federal custody pending trial on charges related to a human smuggling operation. On September 26, 2024, Dennevil was charged with illegally bringing aliens to the United States and failure to heave to law enforcement.
According to court documents, on September 25, 2024, at approximately 7 p.m., Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations and United States Coast Guard officers intercepted a vessel crossing the international border from the BVI into United States Territory. The unlit vessel, operated by Dennevil, traveled from Tortola, BVI to Leinster Bay, St. John where it offloaded two individuals on the beach. Dennevil immediately departed Leinster Bay and headed back towards Tortola. Officers were forced to disable Dennevil’s vessel after he refused to comply with orders to stop the vessel. Thereafter, officers detained Dennevil and two Dominican Republic nationals who were found on the Leinster Bay trail. Dennevil later admitted to the officers that he smuggled the two Dominican nationals from Tortola to St. John knowing that it was illegal for him to do so. United States Magistrate Allan Teague detained Dennevil and the two Dominican nationals following today’s detention hearing.
This case is being investigated by the United States Coast Guard, Customs and Border Protection and Homeland Security Investigations and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kyle Payne.
United States Attorney Smith reminds the public that a complaint is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Armed Career Criminal Indicted for Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – A Bloomington man has been indicted for illegally possessing a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, on April 28, 2024, Ryan Wayne Lewis, 45, knowingly possessed a Taurus Armas G2C 9mm semiautomatic pistol and ammunition. Because Lewis has prior felony convictions in Dakota, Ramsey, and Anoka counties, he is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms or ammunition at any time.
The indictment charges Lewis with one count of possessing a firearm as a felon. He made his initial appearance in U.S. District Court yesterday before Magistrate Judge Jon T. Huseby, and a detention hearing has been scheduled for October 4, 2024. Lewis was also charged and convicted in Hennepin County for illegal possession of a firearm.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bloomington Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Assistant U.S. Attorney William C. Mattessich is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Allen Man Found Not Guilty of Involuntary ManslaughterRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that an Allen, South Dakota, man was acquitted of Involuntary Manslaughter following a federal jury trial in Rapid City, South Dakota, on September 25, 2024.
Layne Sharp, age 28, was indicted by a federal grand jury in September of 2023.
The charge related to Sharp allegedly operating a motor vehicle on May 15, 2022, near Pine Ridge while under the intoxicating influence of alcohol after which the vehicle crashed resulting in another male being killed.
The investigation was conducted by the Oglala Sioux Tribe – Department of Public Safety and the FBI. The U.S. Attorney's Office prosecuted the case.
21-Year-Old Sentenced to Two Years in Prison for Alien Smuggling ConspiracyRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – Obiel Anthony Ochoa-Renteria, 21, of Tempe, was sentenced last week by United States District Judge Rosemary Márquez to 24 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for his role in an alien smuggling conspiracy. Ochoa-Renteria pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Transport Illegal Aliens for Profit on March 27, 2024.
In September 2022, agents from Homeland Security Investigations initiated an investigation into alien smuggling events being arranged through the social media app Instagram. During the course of the investigation, agents identified an Instagram account belonging to Ochoa-Renteria and discovered multiple occasions in which Ochoa-Renteria recruited participants and coordinated smuggling events between June and September 2022. Then on May 14, 2023, Ochoa-Renteria was stopped by a Department of Public Safety (DPS) trooper for speeding near Sierra Vista. During the traffic stop, DPS officers were assisted by Border Patrol agents who discovered two men dressed in camouflage in the trunk of Ochoa-Renteria’s vehicle. Border Patrol agents determined that the men were Guatemalan and Mexican nationals who were illegally present in the United States. Ochoa-Renteria admitted that he was aware the men were in the United States illegally, and that he had agreed to transport them for $200 to $300 each.
Homeland Security Investigations and Custom’s and Border Protections United States Border Patrol conducted the investigation in this case, with assistance from the Arizona Department of Public Safety. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-23-00802-TUC-RM
RELEASE NUMBER: 2024-131_Ochoa-Renteria# # #
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.
Monday 30 September 2024
Wethersfield Man Pleads Guilty to Fentanyl and Oxycodone Distribution Charge Stemming from Overdose InvestigationRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JIMMY LASSUS, 40, of Wethersfield, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to distribution of fentanyl and oxycodone.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in the early morning of October 6, 2023, Meriden Police responded to a residence on a report of a suspected overdose and found a 27-year-old woman unresponsive in a bedroom. She was transported to the hospital where she was pronounced deceased. The investigation revealed that for several months before the victim’s death, the victim engaged in numerous drug-related text message conversations with Lassus. The text messages revealed that Lassus supplied the victim with oxycodone, and that he supplied her with fentanyl that she ingested in the hours before she died. The victim stated in text messages and in a journal entry that it was her first time using fentanyl.
The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner determined the victim’s death to be caused by acute intoxication due to the combined effects of fentanyl, benzodiazepines, xylazine, and oxycodone.
Judge Dooley scheduled sentencing for December 23, at which time Lassus faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
Lassus has been detained since his arrest on April 11, 2024.
This investigation has been conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration New Haven Task Force and the Meriden Police Department, with the assistance of the Wethersfield Police Department. The Task Force includes members from the DEA, U.S. Marshals Service, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, Connecticut State Police and the New Haven, Waterbury, East Haven, Branford, West Haven, Ansonia, Meriden, Naugatuck, and Shelton Police Departments.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brendan Keefe and Reed Durham.
United States Obtains Consent Decree Against Rose Demolition & Carting for Violating Lead Paint Safety RegulationsRead the Press Release
Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and Lisa F. Garcia, the Regional Administrator of Region 2 of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”), announced today that the United States filed a civil lawsuit against ROSE DEMOLITION & CARTING INC. (“ROSE”), alleging violations of the Toxic Substances Control Act (“TSCA”) and EPA’s Renovation, Repair, and Painting Rule (“RRP Rule”), and simultaneously entered into a Consent Decree resolving that lawsuit. The Consent Decree includes a $100,000 civil penalty and requires ROSE to take steps to mitigate potential harms caused by its conduct.
A link to the Consent Decree is here.
U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “Rose’s failure to contain actual or potential lead dust in the course of demolition work threatened to expose people, including children, to lead poisoning in communities that already suffer disproportionately from public health and environmental hazards. Through this lawsuit and consent decree, we are holding Rose accountable for its misconduct and preventing future violations.”
EPA Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia stated: “This settlement underscores the importance of following the laws designed to protect communities, especially young children, from lead paint hazards. Under the Renovation, Repair, and Painting Rule, work must be conducted by certified firms and individuals who are properly trained and equipped to handle toxic lead paint that could pose a serious threat to families and workers.”
TSCA and the RRP Rule impose safety requirements to minimize the risk that young children, tenants, and renovation workers are exposed to toxic lead dust during renovations of residential buildings. Exposure to lead dust is the most common cause of lead poisoning, which can lead to severe, irreversible health problems, particularly in children. Lead poisoning can affect children’s brains and developing nervous systems, causing reduced IQ, learning disabilities, and behavioral problems.
As alleged in the United States’ complaint filed in Manhattan federal court:
ROSE is a company that performed demolition work in at least 668 residential properties in New York City between 2016 and 2019. In February 2018, the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene inspected a worksite two days after ROSE had completed demolition work and found that ROSE had failed to contain or clean lead dust, resulting in lead dust exceeding federal standards in public hallways, in violation of the RRP Rule. EPA determined that ROSE failed to assign properly certified managers to direct the demolition work, failed to train its workers on lead-safe work practices, and failed to inform the building owner and occupants of the risks of lead poisoning during that renovation. Many of ROSE’s alleged violations occurred in areas of New York City with low-income populations that are already disproportionately burdened by other environmental hazards, raising environmental justice concerns.
In the Consent Decree, ROSE admits, acknowledges, and accepts responsibility for the following conduct:
- Failing to assign a Certified Renovator to direct the demolition work and discharge all of the Certified Renovator responsibilities identified in the RRP Rule;
- Failing to ensure that all workers performing the renovations were Certified Renovators or had received training on lead-safe work practices required by the RRP Rule;
- Failing to adequately contain construction dust, including dust containing high concentrations of lead, in violation of the RRP Rule;
- Failing to post signs clearly defining its work area and warning occupants and other persons not involved in renovation activities to remain outside of the work area in violation of the RRP Rule;
- Failing to provide a lead-hazard information pamphlet to the owner or occupants of the building before commencing work in violation of the RRP Rule; and
- Failing to maintain documentation showing that it provided lead-hazard information pamphlets to the owners or occupants of the building or that it had posted warning signs in the building, in violation of the RRP Rule.
Pursuant to the Consent Decree, ROSE will pay a penalty of $100,000, an amount based on the company’s documented inability to pay the full civil penalty for which it otherwise would be liable, and ROSE must comply with safe work practices and other RRP Rule requirements in the future. Additionally, the Consent Decree requires ROSE to notify residents or owners of the 668 affected properties as well as ROSE employees who worked on the affected properties of potential lead exposure and offer lead-dust inspection, cleanup, and clearance testing. Failure to comply with the Consent Decree will give rise to significant additional penalties.
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To provide public notice and afford members of the public the opportunity to comment on the Consent Decree, the Consent Decree will be lodged with the District Court for a period of at least 30 days before it is submitted for the Court’s approval.
Mr. Williams thanked the attorneys and enforcement staff at EPA Region 2 for their critical work in this matter.
This case is being handled by the Environmental Protection Unit of the Office’s Civil Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mónica P. Folch is in charge of the case.
u.s._v._rose_demolition_carting_complaint.pdfUnited States Justice Department Secures Agreement with Wisconsin Department of Corrections to Improve Communication Access for Incarcerated People who are Deaf or Hard of HearingRead the Press Release
Gregory J. Haanstad, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, joins the Civil Rights Division in announcing a settlement agreement has been reached with the Wisconsin Department of Corrections (WDOC) under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The settlement will help ensure that incarcerated individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing have equal access to WDOC’s programs, services and activities, including educational, counseling, medical, recreational and prison employment programs. The agreement resolves the department’s investigation into complaints that WDOC did not provide auxiliary aids and services, such as sign language interpreters, to incarcerated individuals with hearing disabilities.
Under the settlement agreement, WDOC will provide inmates with hearing disabilities appropriate auxiliary aids and services, such as sign language interpreters, video telephones, visual notification systems and hearing aids when necessary. WDOC must also make reasonable modifications to its policies, practices and procedures to accommodate inmates with disabilities, such as handcuffing in front to allow an individual who uses sign language to communicate, and allowing additional time for telephone calls that rely on an interpreter.
“The ability for incarcerated people with hearing disabilities to understand and to be understood is a critical protection provided by the ADA,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Civil Rights Division is committed to ensuring that correctional institutions eliminate barriers, including communication barriers, that prevent inmates with disabilities from participating fully in prison programs.”
“People with disabilities in Wisconsin deserve equal access, and that does not change when they are incarcerated,” said U.S. Attorney Haanstad. “Our office remains dedicated to supporting efforts to improve access and inclusion for everyone in Wisconsin.”
As a result of the agreement announced today, WDOC will implement a process that begins at intake, and continues throughout incarceration, to identify and accommodate inmates with hearing disabilities; develop individualized communication assessment and plans; provide training on the ADA to staff; and pay $15,000 to compensate three incarcerated individuals who were harmed.
The Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Wisconsin handled the matter.
The Justice Department plays a central role in advancing the nation’s goal of equal opportunity, full participation, independent living and economic self-sufficiency for people with disabilities. For more information on the Civil Rights Division, please visit www.justice.gov/crt. For more information on the ADA, please call the department’s toll-free ADA Information Line at 800-514-0301 (TDD 800-514-0383) or visit www.ada.gov. ADA complaints may be filed online at www.ada.gov/complaint. Additional information about the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Civil Rights Programs is available at www.justice.gov/usao-edwi/civil-rights.
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U.S. Attorney's Office Announces Sentencing of Datil Man for Filing Fraudulent $20 Million Lien Against Federal EmployeeRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Datil man previously prohibited from filing liens without court approval, was sentenced to 27 months in prison for retaliating against a federal employee by filing a fraudulent $20 million lien in Catron County.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on November 28, 2022, Trapper Killsmany, 68, formerly known as David Goldsmith, filed a fraudulent $20 million lien with the Catron County Clerk's Office against several individuals, including a federal employee. The liens were determined to be false, as the listed debtors had no financial relationship or obligations to Killsmany.
Killsmany's actions were in retaliation for the termination of certain Social Security Administration benefits. Killsmany operated a Facebook page titled "Truth for Trapper Killsmany," where he openly stated that the purpose of the liens was to expose alleged frauds and criminal activities by government employees.
Killsmany had previously been prohibited by a United States District Court in Alaska from filing liens without court approval. In his plea agreement, Killsmany admitted he was aware of the fraudulent nature of his actions.
Upon his release from prison, Killsmany will be subject to 2 years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with the assistance of Catron County Sheriff’s Office and the Social Security Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ry Ellison is prosecuting the case.
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U.S. Attorney Esparza Announces $7.8 Million in Justice Department Grants to Support the Uvalde CommunityRead the Press Release
SAN ANTONIO – U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza today announced the award of $7,821,753 in a Department of Justice grant to help the Texas Office of the Governor, Public Safety Office, Victim Services Team (VOCA) by enabling them to serve victims of the May 24, 2022, shooting at the Robb Elementary School in Uvalde. Program funds will support necessary and ongoing trauma-informed, evidence-based healing- and resiliency-related services connected to crisis response and consequence management support for victims of the attack. The grant was awarded by the Department’s Office of Justice Programs.
“We are firmly committed to supporting Uvalde on its path toward healing and providing the tools for enduring resilience following the senseless, heartbreaking events at Robb Elementary in May 2022,” said U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza for the Western District of Texas. “This funding is a vital step in addressing the trauma caused by those events, providing essential services to the community, and ensuring victims and their families have the appropriate resources to continue recovery in the face of unimaginable loss.”
The award announced above is being made as part of the regular end-of-fiscal year cycle. More information about this and other OJP awards can be found on the OJP Grant Awards Page.
About the Office of Justice Programs
The Office of Justice Programs provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance, and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime; advance equity and fairness in the administration of justice; assist victims; and uphold the rule of law. More information about OJP and its program offices – the Bureau of Justice Assistance, Bureau of Justice Statistics, National Institute of Justice, Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, Office for Victims of Crime, and SMART Office – can be found at www.ojp.gov.
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U.S. Attorney Dena J. King Urges the Public to Beware of Scams and Price Gouging in the Aftermath of Hurricane HeleneRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina, is reminding the public to beware of emerging scams and price gouging in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, and to report suspected fraud and price gouging to the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) hotline at 1-866-720-5721, or online at www.justice.gov/DisasterComplaintForm.
“It is unfathomable that scammers will try to profit from the devastation caused by a natural disaster, but fraudsters will stop at nothing to fill their pockets,” said U.S. Attorney King. “I urge the public to be extra vigilant about potential scams related to Hurricane Helene, and to report suspected fraud and price gouging to the National Center for Disaster Fraud hotline at 1-866-720-5721, or online at www.justice.gov/DisasterComplaintForm. Reporting scams and price gouging will help law enforcement identify, investigate, and prosecute those who are attempting to exploit the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene for their benefit, and warn others about emerging disaster fraud schemes.”
Possible types of natural disaster scams include:
- Fraudulent charities soliciting donations for disaster victims that often mimic the names of well-known organizations or appearing linked to the disaster.
- Scammers impersonating government officials, offering disaster relief in exchange for personal information or money.
- Fraudsters posing as insurance representatives to collect payments or personal data.
- Scammers promoting non-existent businesses or investment opportunities related to disaster recovery, such as rebuilding or flood-proofing.
- Fraudsters promising expedient home repairs requiring upfront payment or down payment.
- Price gouging for essential goods and services needed by disaster victims.
- Theft from evacuated homes and businesses during or after the disaster.
How to protect yourself from disaster fraud scams:
- Donate only to well-known charities after verifying them through trusted sources.
- Do not respond to unsolicited requests for donations via email, phone, or text, and do not click on links in unsolicited messages.
- Do not assume that online or social media charity solicitations are legitimate. Verify first!
- Use credit cards or checks for donations, instead of sending cash, via wire transfers, or via peer-to-peer mobile payment apps.
- Always keep in mind that government agencies and legitimate organizations will not ask for money or personal information via phone or email. When in doubt, contact the agency directly using a verified phone number or website.
- For storm related repairs, hire contractors that are reputable and always verify references. Beware of contractors who knock on your door or make unsolicited contact, and/or make promises that are too good to be true. Avoid making a large down payment or paying in full before the repairs are finished.
To report disaster-related fraud, contact the NCDF at (866) 720-5721, or online at www.justice.gov/DisasterComplaintForm.
U.S. Attorney Announces Guilty Plea in Navajo Nation Assault CaseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man pleaded guilty today in federal court to assault resulting in serious bodily injury after slicing another man's throat during a gathering.
According to court documents, on September 10, 2022, Darron Smith, 24, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, was attending a small gathering at an apartment within the Navajo Nation reservation. Shortly after midnight, without warning or provocation, Smith removed a 7.5-inch blade from a knife block and sliced the throat of John Doe.
Doe was rushed to the emergency room and hospitalized. He suffered a 5 ½ inch laceration on his neck which required 13 sutures.
At sentencing, Smith faces up to ten years in prison. Upon his release from prison, Smith will be subject to up to three years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with the assistance of the Navajo Nation Police Department and the Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew J. McGinley and Mark A. Probasco are prosecuting the case.
View the Plea Agreement (Smith).pdf# # #
U.S. Attorney Announces Charges Against 18 Defendants in Scheme to Manufacture and Distribute Millions of Deadly Counterfeit Pharmaceuticals Through Fake Online PharmaciesRead the Press Release
Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York; Katrina W. Berger, the Executive Associate Director of Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”); Anne Milgram, the Administrator of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”); William S. Walker, the Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Office of HSI; Frank A. Tarentino III, the Special Agent in Charge of the New York Division of the DEA; and Daniel B. Brubaker, the Inspector in Charge of the New York Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (“USPIS”), announced today the unsealing of charges against FRANCISCO ALBERTO LOPEZ REYES, a/k/a “Frank,” and 17 other defendants located in the United States, Dominican Republic, and India for their involvement in a scheme to advertise, sell, manufacture, and ship millions of deadly pills disguised as legitimate pharmaceuticals. These counterfeit pills were purchased by tens of thousands of victims from fake online pharmacies run by LOPEZ REYES and his co-conspirators. At least nine of those victims later died of narcotics poisoning. Federal authorities have seized nine website domains used by the defendants and their co-conspirators to sell counterfeit pills, four of which are named in the Indictment. The case is assigned to U.S. District Judge John P. Cronan.
U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “The proliferation of fake online pharmacies is fueling this nation’s fentanyl epidemic. As alleged, Francisco Lopez Reyes, a/k/a “Frank,” and his lieutenants have run a global network of these websites and aggressively marketed, manufactured, sold, and distributed millions of deadly fentanyl pills meant to mimic legitimate prescription drugs. The victims of the scheme include people from all walks of life—people of all ages and occupations—from all 50 states, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Germany, and Slovenia. At least nine victims who purchased counterfeit pills from the defendants died of narcotics poisoning, including a 45-year-old army veteran who thought she was purchasing real oxycodone. Today’s charges show this Office’s unrelenting commitment to fighting the proliferation of fentanyl and counterfeit pharmaceuticals. I commend the career prosecutors of the Southern District of New York and our partners at the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, and the United States Postal Inspection Service for their tireless efforts to bring those poisoning our communities to justice.”
HSI Executive Associate Director Katrina W. Berger said: “Trafficking counterfeit pharmaceuticals is not just a crime; it is a threat to public health. HSI is committed to working with our partners to stop those who poison our neighborhoods for the sake of profit.”
DEA Administrator Anne Milgram said: “The 18 defendants in this case operated a sophisticated network of fake online pharmacies and pill mills in India, the Dominican Republic, and the United States that preyed on Americans who believed they were purchasing legitimate medications from legitimate pharmacies. The defendants exploited the online pharmacy market to sell counterfeit pills laced with fentanyl and methamphetamine to unsuspecting victims. These individuals sold millions of dangerous fake pills to victims in every U.S. state and the District of Columbia. The defendants did this to make money by driving addiction with deadly, highly-addictive fentanyl. The DEA is relentlessly focused on saving lives by finding these criminal networks and shutting them down.”
HSI Special Agent in Charge William S. Walker said: “In just the last few months, Homeland Security Investigations agents, analysts, and task force officers in New York City have intercepted hundreds of pounds of fentanyl and other deadly narcotics. Investigators uncovered illicit clandestine drug labs operating in residential basements, and seized fentanyl from parcel facilities where day-to-day mail is processed. We further uncovered strategies allegedly used by those who deal death to exploit parcel systems in furtherance their illegal enterprise. HSI is on the frontlines of the fentanyl epidemic, doing everything in our power to prevent the deadly narcotic from reaching just one more victim. We stand shoulder-to-shoulder with grieving families who were forced to say goodbye to their loved ones too soon.”
DEA Special Agent in Charge Frank A. Tarentino III said: “Over the past year, our DEA New York team, along with our law enforcement partners, targeted those individuals involved in the operation of illegal pill mills in the Bronx and Manhattan, producing deadly fake pills made up of fentanyl and methamphetamine. This investigation demonstrates the complexity and global influence that predatory drug trafficking organizations have on our communities, families, and young people; many times, leaving a trail of devastation in its path.”
USPIS Inspector in Charge Daniel B. Brubaker said: “We are proud to be working with our law enforcement partners on this impactful case. These arrests represent the progress we have made to disrupt and ultimately dismantle this illegal narcotics distribution network. The defendants allegedly took advantage of the online pharmaceutical space and preyed upon innocent victims who were in need of medication, people suffering with legitimate ailments. Postal Inspectors will constantly be vigilant in this fight against fentanyl and all illicit drugs, to preserve the integrity of the mail and most importantly to keep our employees and the American public safe.”
According to the allegations contained in the Indictment:[1]
The proliferation of unregulated online pharmacies has fueled the nation’s fentanyl epidemic, enabling drug traffickers to peddle direct-to-consumer counterfeit pharmaceuticals, which are devoid of the medication they purport to contain and are instead comprised of deadly narcotics like fentanyl and its analogues.
For at least the last two and a half years, a network of individuals located in the U.S., the Dominican Republic, India, and elsewhere have exploited Americans’ reliance on online pharmacies by advertising, selling, manufacturing, and shipping through the mail millions of unregulated counterfeit prescription pills to tens of thousands of victims. Instead of prescription drugs at a bargain, what customers actually received were phony pills made of fentanyl, para-fluorofentanyl—an analogue of fentanyl—and methamphetamine. Shaped, dyed, and stamped to be indistinguishable from actual prescription medication, these tablets were in fact manufactured by the defendants in industrial-scale milling facilities, or pill mills, located in the basements of several residential buildings in, among other places, Manhattan and the Bronx, New York.
As part of this scheme, the defendants shipped counterfeit pharmaceuticals to victims across the United States and around the world, including in all 50 U.S. states, Washington, D.C., the U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Germany, and Slovenia. The victims of this criminal enterprise range in age from at least 23 to 77 years old. They include veterans, doctors, lawyers, musicians, artists, politicians, economists, restaurant managers, personal trainers, dancers, former schoolteachers, administrative executives, and first responders, among others.
Between in or about August 2023 and in or about June 2024, at least nine victims—all of whom purchased counterfeit prescription pills from the defendants—died of narcotics poisoning. One victim, Victim-1, a 45-year-old woman, was a veteran who had served for 12 years in the U.S. Army National Guard. Victim-1 believed she was purchasing 30-milligram oxycodone, also known as “M30s,” from the defendants’ online pharmacy, but the pills were, in fact, made of fentanyl and para-fluorofentanyl. After receiving the pills, Victim-1 conducted research to attempt to learn whether the pills were genuine, but, because the defendants made the pills look real, Victim-1 was unable to tell the difference. Five days after receiving counterfeit oxycodone pills advertised, sold, manufactured, and shipped by the defendants, Victim-1 died from acute fentanyl intoxication. The fake oxycodone pills that killed Victim-1, which were recovered from her bedside, are pictured below:
LOPEZ REYES led the enterprise, orchestrating and controlling every facet of the scheme from the Dominican Republic. With his co-conspirators, LOPEZ REYES set up dozens of online pharmacy websites, designed to appear legitimate in order to lure customers into buying, at reduced prices, tablets of fentanyl, para-fluorofentanyl, and methamphetamine disguised as real prescription medications, including oxycodone, hydrocodone, Adderall, and Xanax, among others. LOPEZ REYES also relied on others, including SADIQ ABBAS HABIB SAYYED, a/k/a “Rakesh Sharma,” a/k/a “Jonathan Acosta,” KHIZAR MOHAMMAD IQBAL SHAIKH, and ALBA GONZALEZ to sell counterfeit pills to Americans over the internet and through encrypted messaging platforms. The homepage of one such website, Curecog.com (“Curecog”), is pictured below. Curecog purported to be a “US-based online pharma store” that was “approved” by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”), which “serve[s] affordable medicines . . . approved by specialists and manufactured by trusted brands.” Curecog, however, was neither legitimate nor FDA approved. Instead, Curecog was a fraudulent storefront that peddled the defendants’ controlled substances, including fentanyl.
To fulfill pill orders, LOPEZ REYES enlisted JUAN EFREN PAULINO, a/k/a “Freddy,” and JUAN MOISES PEREZ MENDEZ, a/k/a “Caballero,” as his principal lieutenants to oversee the operation of multiple pill mills in New York City. At those pill mills, workers used dyes with specific colors and specialized equipment with custom molds to press powdered narcotics so as to mimic the color, shape, size, and markings of commercially manufactured prescription pills, at rates of up to 100,000 pills every 12 hours. Law enforcement raided at least three of these pill mills and two other narcotics storage locations, seizing approximately 625,000 counterfeit pills—the majority of which contained fentanyl, para-fluorofentanyl, and/or methamphetamine—10 industrial pill presses, commercial mixers, industrial-grade gas masks, and more. At these facilities, law enforcement also seized staggering quantities of not yet processed narcotics. In total, law enforcement seized approximately 255 pounds of para-fluorofentanyl, 100 pounds of fentanyl, and 215 pounds of methamphetamine, in pill, powder, and crystal form. Each of these seizures were a mere snapshot in time, representing only a single day’s working supply at these pill mills and storage locations. Multiple defendants—including EFREN PAULINO, PEREZ MENDEZ, WELLINGTON EUSTATE ESPINAL, a/k/a “Roni,” HERIBERTO EUSTATE ESPINAL, a/k/a “Daulin,” EUSEBIO PERALTA BAUTISTA, a/k/a “Luis Collazo Santos,” HECTOR BIENVENIDO FELIZ FELIZ, a/k/a “Tacoma,” and LUIS PAULINO—worked at these pill mills day and night. A photograph of the over 190,000 pills seized from just one of the defendants’ pill mills is pictured below:
After the defendants manufactured the counterfeit pills containing fentanyl and methamphetamine, a network of shippers, including MIGUEL CONCEPCION BRITO, CYNTHIA ONEGA, EDWARD EUSTATE JIMENEZ, a/k/a “Chino,” ROBERT JUNIOR RAMOS HENRIQUEZ, a/k/a “Junior,” a/k/a “Kiko,” JOSE CONCEPCION BRITO, ANGEL VALDEZ BRITO, and WILIANYI ALMANZAR POLANCO, packaged and mailed the pills to customers across the country at the direction of LOPEZ REYES, who specified to whom and where to ship particular types and quantities of pills. After orders were delivered, the defendants and their co-conspirators bombarded customers with aggressive and manipulative marketing tactics to pressure their victims to order more illegal pills, including by providing unsolicited free samples via mail of counterfeit pills containing addictive and deadly fentanyl and near-daily outreach by phone call or text message. One victim had to block up to 30 phone numbers in an effort to stop the harassment.
Information about safe, legal internet pharmacies is available. According to the FDA, a safe, legal internet pharmacy:
- always requires a doctor’s prescription;
- has a physical address and telephone number in the United States;
- is licensed in the state(s) in which they are operating;
- is licensed in all states in which they do business; and
- has a state-licensed pharmacist on staff to answer patient questions.
The FDA also maintains the BeSafeRx campaign, with resources and tools to help make safer, more informed decisions when purchasing prescription medicine from an online pharmacy. That resource is available at: https://www.fda.gov/drugs/quick-tips-buying-medicines-over-internet/besaferx-your-source-online-pharmacy-information.
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A chart containing the charges and minimum and maximum penalties each defendant faces is attached.
The statutory minimum and maximum penalties are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants will be determined by a judge.
Mr. Williams praised the outstanding investigative work of the El Dorado Task Force International Narcotics and Money Laundering Unit, which is comprised of law enforcement officers and investigators from the DEA, HSI, the New York City Police Department, the New York State Police, the USPIS, the Internal Revenue Service, and the Kings County District Attorney’s Office; the New York City Border Enforcement Security Task Force Contraband Group; the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces’ (“OCDETF”) New York Strike Force; the USPIS New York Division Contraband Interdiction and Investigations Team; HSI New York; and the DEA New York Field Division. Mr. Williams also thanked HSI Santo Domingo, the DEA Dominican Republic Country Office, the U.S. Marshals Service Dominican Republic Foreign Field Office, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey, and the Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs for their assistance.
The OCDETF New York Strike Force provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations to disrupt and dismantle the most significant drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations. The specific mission of the New York Strike Force is to target, disrupt, and dismantle drug trafficking and money laundering organizations, reduce the illegal drug supply in the U.S., and bring criminals to justice. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
This case is being handled by the Office’s Narcotics Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Maggie Lynaugh, Adam Sowlati, Chelsea Scism, Katherine Cheng, Camille Fletcher, and Lisa Daniels are in charge of the prosecution.
The charges contained in the Indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Defendant
Age
Charges
Minimum and Maximum Penalties
FRANCISCO ALBERTO LOPEZ REYES, a/k/a “Frank”
44Continuing criminal enterprise (principal); narcotics trafficking conspiracy resulting in death; distribution of narcotics resulting in death; conspiracy to commit money launderingMandatory life in prisonJUAN EFREN PAULINO, a/k/a “Freddy”
53Continuing criminal enterprise; narcotics trafficking conspiracy resulting in deathMandatory minimum of 20 years in prison; life in prisonJUAN MOISES PEREZ MENDEZ, a/k/a “Caballero”
56Continuing criminal enterprise; narcotics trafficking conspiracy resulting in deathMandatory minimum of 20 years in prison; life in prisonSADIQ ABBAS HABIB SAYYED, a/k/a “Rakesh Sharma,” a/k/a “Jonathan Acosta”39Narcotics trafficking conspiracy resulting in deathMandatory minimum of 20 years in prison; life in prisonKHIZAR MOHAMMAD IQBAL SHAIKH33Narcotics trafficking conspiracy resulting in deathMandatory minimum of 20 years in prison; life in prisonWELLINGTON EUSTATE ESPINAL, a/k/a “Roni”42Narcotics trafficking conspiracy resulting in deathMandatory minimum of 20 years in prison; life in prisonHERIBERTO EUSTATE ESPINAL, a/k/a “Daulin”28Narcotics trafficking conspiracy resulting in deathMandatory minimum of 20 years in prison; life in prisonEUSEBIO PERALTA BAUTISTA, a/k/a “Luis Collazo Santos”59Narcotics trafficking conspiracy resulting in deathMandatory minimum of 20 years in prison; life in prisonHECTOR BIENVENIDO FELIZ FELIZ, a/k/a “Tacoma”45Narcotics trafficking conspiracy resulting in deathMandatory minimum of 20 years in prison; life in prisonLUIS PAULINO66Narcotics trafficking conspiracy resulting in deathMandatory minimum of 20 years in prison; life in prisonMIGUEL CONCEPCION BRITO27Narcotics trafficking conspiracy resulting in deathMandatory minimum of 20 years in prison; life in prisonCYNTHIA ONEGA22Narcotics trafficking conspiracy resulting in deathMandatory minimum of 20 years in prison; life in prisonEDWARD EUSTATE JIMENEZ, a/k/a “Chino”22Narcotics trafficking conspiracy resulting in death; distribution of narcotics resulting in deathMandatory minimum of 20 years in prison; life in prisonROBERT JUNIOR RAMOS HENRIQUEZ, a/k/a “Junior,” a/k/a “Kiko”34Narcotics trafficking conspiracy resulting in death; distribution of narcotics resulting in deathMandatory minimum of 20 years in prison; life in prisonALBA GONZALEZ36Narcotics trafficking conspiracy resulting in death; distribution of narcotics resulting in deathMandatory minimum of 20 years in prison; life in prisonJOSE CONCEPCION BRITO28Narcotics trafficking conspiracy resulting in deathMandatory minimum of 20 years in prison; life in prisonANGEL VALDEZ BRITO29Narcotics trafficking conspiracy resulting in deathMandatory minimum of 20 years in prison; life in prisonWILIANYI ALMANZAR POLANCO34Narcotics trafficking conspiracy resulting in deathMandatory minimum of 20 years in prison; life in prisonU. S. Attorney Hairston Cautions Against Disaster Fraud in the Wake of Hurricane HeleneRead the Press Release
GREENSBORO, NC – United States Attorney for the Middle District of North Carolina Sandra J. Hairston today reminded everyone to guard against and report disaster-related fraud following Hurricane Helene.
“The impact of disasters affecting our citizens are not just from the events themselves, but also from fraudsters who take advantage of disaster victims and good-hearted people who want to help those affected,” said U.S. Attorney Hairston. “These criminals take advantage of victims before, during, and after a natural disaster strikes, targeting people when they are most vulnerable, and their methods to commit fraud are wide-ranging. My office works closely with the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF), which tracks and manages complaints of fraudulent activity – like phony charities or fake contractors who prey on victims of hurricanes, floods, tornadoes, and more. If you suspect that someone is trying to take advantage of your situation after a natural disaster or if you are the victim of disaster-related fraud, please contact the NCDF at (866) 720-5721 or online at http://www.justice.gov/DisasterComplaintForm and complete the online form.”
The NCDF is the result of a partnership between the U.S. Department of Justice and various law enforcement and regulatory agencies to form a national coordinating agency within the Criminal Division of the Department of Justice to improve and further the detection, prevention, investigation, and prosecution of fraud related to natural and man-made disasters, and to advocate for the victims of such fraud.
Here are examples based on over 200,000 disaster fraud complaints submitted to the NCDF:
- Fake charities immediately soliciting donations either using the names of well-known charities or appearing reasonable as related to a disaster;
- Individuals impersonating government officials advising that disaster assistance will be made available should the potential victim provide a sum of money or personal identifiers such as date of birth, social security number, and bank account information (name of financial institution, routing number, and account number);
- Individuals impersonating insurance provider representatives requesting money and personal identifiers as described above;
- Individuals soliciting victims to invest in non-existent businesses and ventures offering recovery efforts such as cleanup, rebuilding, and making structures (homes) more resistant to future disasters (e.g., elevation to minimize future flood risks);
- Individuals overcharging for goods and services needed by victims of disaster (aka price-gouging).
In addition, based on the type of disaster, individuals are frequently victimized by theft of property from businesses and residences abandoned because of a disaster (either evacuation pre-disasters such as flooding, hurricanes, and wildfires or to obtain living accommodations because of damaged apartments and homes).
Recommended Measures to Avoid Becoming a Victim
- Only make donations to known charities and only after contacting the charity directly and not in response to an email, instant message, phone call, text, etc. A recommended step is to research the charity by visiting recognized charity information/rating websites such as the www.Give.org, CharityNavigator.org, and CharityWatch.org.
- Never click on a link in an unsolicited email, instant message, text, etc.
- Never assume that charity solicitations posted on the internet and social media are legitimate.
- Avoid cash donations to charities - use a credit card or pay with a check. Never transmit donations to a named individual.
- Charities do not seek donations via electronic fund (financial institution)/wire transfers.
- Avoid being victimized by impersonators of government officials, insurance companies, investment companies, etc., by terminating the phone call or other exchange of information (e.g., email, texts) and calling the actual government agency, insurance company, and/or investment company directly using a well-advertised/posted phone number and/or email address.
- Check with your state contracting board before hiring a contractor to repair storm damage.
- Cautiously rely on recommendations from family and friends.
- Consider purchasing materials on your own from a reliable supplier and having them delivered to your damaged structure to avoid putting down money before work is started.
- Consider paying for repairs as they are completed.
- Do not be forced into making repair decisions by a high-pressure contractor.
Protect yourself and your neighbors. If you or someone you know has been targeted by fraudsters or been the victim of disaster-related fraud, contact the NCDF at (866) 720-5721 or online at www.justice.gov/DisasterComplaintForm.
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Two Individuals Detained in Ongoing Elder Fraud InvestigationsRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE, RI – Two individuals have been ordered detained in federal custody, charged in ongoing federal, state, and local law enforcement investigations into online scams targeting Rhode Island seniors, announced United States Attorney Zachary A. Cunha.
On September 26, Jirui Liu, 22, of Scarborough, Ontario, Canada, appeared before a U.S. Magistrate, having been charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and money laundering. It is alleged that he participated in a scheme that caused a 79-year-old man to turn over to $35,000 in cash and gold bars valued at $130,000 to members of the conspiracy.
On September 23, 2024, Kush J. Patel, 22, of Bridgeport, CT, was ordered detained following his initial appearance in U.S. District Court, having been charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and money laundering. It is alleged that Patel participated in a scam that defrauded a Rhode Islander of nearly $200,000.
As reflected in court documents in the matter of the United States v. Jiri Liu, while shopping online, a 79-year-old Narragansett man received a pop-up message that falsely claimed that he was under investigation for attempting to purchase child pornography. He was directed him to call a telephone number provided to him to address the issue. When he called the number, scammers falsely told him that his Social Security number had been compromised and is involved in money laundering activity, and that the government was attempting garnish his assets. The scammers then put the victim in touch with co-conspirators who impersonated federal authorities and a bank employee who instructed the victim to turn over his assets to the government so that they could be secured during the investigation. It is alleged that as part of the scheme, in early September, an unknown member of the conspiracy traveled to the victim’s home, where the victim provided him with $35,000 in cash. Several days later, at the direction of the conspirators, the victim purchased $135,000 in gold bars and delivered them to members of the conspiracy.
On September 24, 2024, the scammers attempted to arrange for the victim to deliver an additional $160,000 in gold bars. Before that occurred, however, the victim contacted law enforcement to report that he had been scammed. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) arranged for the production of fake gold bars, which were provided to the victim for the third delivery. HSI agents surveilled the delivery as it was made, as is alleged, to Liu, who was arrested outside of the victim’s home.
In a separate investigation that resulted in the arrest of Kush J. Patel, HSI joined Tiverton, RI, Police after learning that a 72-year-old individual was the likely victim of online scammers. That investigation determined that a separate victim responded to an online pop-up message claiming that his computer contained a virus, and was falsely told that his identity had been compromised and that drug trafficking, money laundering, and child pornography had been associated with his name. The victim was advised that he would need to speak with a Federal Trade Commission agent about the matter, at which point this purported agent told the victim that, in order to resolve the issue privately, his assets would need to be frozen. Over the next several weeks, the fake FTC agent directed the victim to make three purchases of gold bullion from a specific gold dealer in New York via wire transfer, and that the gold was to be delivered to the victim’s home. As a result of these instructions, the victim made three purchases of gold bullion in amounts totaling $96,093.96 $101,233.79; and $165,762.32, respectively. The first two deliveries of bullion were picked-up by an unknown member of the conspiracy.
On September 21, at the direction of law enforcement, the victim substituted the contents of the third package before meeting with and delivering the package to an unknown individual, later identified allegedly as being Patel. The delivery occurred under law enforcement surveillance in a restaurant parking lot. Patel was followed as he left the parking lot and was arrested following a traffic stop by Connecticut State Police.
A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Denise M. Barton.
These matters were investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the East Providence Police Department, with substantial assistance from the Narragansett and Tiverton Police Departments. Assistance was also provided by the Providence, Warwick, Pawtucket, Cranston, and Newport Police Departments, and the Rhode Island and Connecticut State Police.
A series of joint federal, state, and local law enforcement investigations into online scams presently targeting victims in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New Hampshire remain ongoing.
Reporting fraud and fraud attempts is critical to law enforcement’s efforts to investigate and prosecute schemes targeting older adults. If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has been a victim of financial fraud, help is available the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833 FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). This Department of Justice Hotline, managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, is staffed by experienced professional who provide personalized support to callers by assessing the needs of the victim and identifying next steps. Case managers will identify appropriate reporting agencies, provide information to callers to assist them in reporting or connect them with agencies, and provide resources and referrals on a case-by-case basis. The hotline is staffed seven days a week from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.[ET]. English, Spanish, and other languages are available. More information about the Department’s elder justice efforts can be found on the Department’s Elder Justice website, www.elderjustice.gov.
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kush_patel_criminal_complaint_aff.pdf jirui_criminal_complaint_aff.pdfTD Securities to Pay $15.5M in Connection with Scheme to Defraud U.S. Treasuries MarketsRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – TD Securities (USA) LLC (TD Securities), a securities firm based in New York, has entered into a resolution with the Justice Department to resolve criminal charges concerning a scheme to defraud that involved hundreds of episodes of unlawful trading in the secondary (cash) market for U.S. Treasuries.
TD Securities entered into a deferred prosecution agreement (DPA) in connection with a criminal information filed today in the District of New Jersey charging the company with one count of wire fraud. Under the terms of the DPA, TD Securities will pay over $15.5 million in a criminal monetary penalty, forfeiture, and victim compensation. Under the DPA, TD Securities will pay the equivalent of the statutory maximum criminal fine in connection with the offense (approximately $9.4 million) and will ensure that victims of the offense are made whole through a claims administration process (approximately $4.7 million in victim compensation).
The former head of the TD Securities desk that was responsible for trading U.S. Treasuries, Jeyakumar Nadarajah, was indicted on Nov. 7, 2023, in the District of New Jersey in connection with this scheme and is awaiting trial. An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
“TD Securities placed hundreds of orders to buy and sell U.S. Treasuries that it never intended to execute, in order to deceive market participants and manipulate prices by creating the false appearance of supply and demand,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Such efforts to profit through unlawful trading undermine public confidence in U.S. Treasuries markets and defraud other market participants. The Criminal Division is committed to ensuring the integrity of our financial markets and holding accountable those who engage in deceptive trading practices.”
“The American public places trust in our financial institutions and relies on companies to be truthful and execute their obligations to traders in an ethical manner,” said Inspector in Charge Eric Shen of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS)’s Criminal Investigations Group. “The USPIS’ DOJ Mail Fraud team found there was a blatant violation of that trust, as this individual placed billions of dollars in spoof orders, distorting supply and demand and causing significant losses. These charges send a clear message that such deceptive practices will not be tolerated, and we are dedicated to protecting the integrity of our markets and the interests of honest investors.”
According to court documents and admissions, Nadarajah, a former director and head of the TD Securities U.S. Treasuries trading desk, engaged in a scheme to defraud in connection with the purchase and sale of U.S. Treasuries in the secondary market. In hundreds of instances, Nadarajah placed orders to buy and sell U.S. Treasuries with the intent to cancel those orders before execution. Nadarajah did so in an attempt to profit by injecting false and misleading information concerning the existence of genuine supply and demand for U.S. Treasuries, thereby deceiving other market participants and fraudulently inducing those participants to trade at prices, quantities, and times that they otherwise would not have traded.
As part of the DPA, TD Securities, and its U.S. parent company, TD Group US Holdings LLC (TDGUS), have agreed to, among other things, continue to cooperate with the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section in any ongoing or future investigations by the Fraud Section begun before or during the term of the DPA. As part of its cooperation, TD Securities and TDGUS are required to report evidence or allegations of conduct that may constitution a violation of the U.S. anti-fraud, securities, and commodities laws as defined in the DPA. In addition, TD Securities and TDGUS have also agreed to enhance TD Securities’ compliance program where necessary and appropriate, and to report to the government regarding remediation and implementation of their enhanced compliance program.
The department reached this resolution with TD Securities based on numerous factors, including the nature and seriousness of the offense conduct, which involved placing hundreds of fraudulent spoof orders amounting to tens of billions of dollars of false supply and demand in the secondary market for U.S. Treasuries, and TD Securities’ failure to voluntarily self-disclose the offense conduct to the department.
TD Securities received credit for its cooperation with the department’s investigation and for remedial measures taken, including terminating Nadarajah, and reviewing and continuing to enhance the compliance function.
Today, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority announced a separate settlement with TD Securities in connection with a related, parallel proceeding. Under the terms of that resolution, TD Securities agreed to pay a fine of approximately $6 million. Also today, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) announced a separate settlement with TD Securities in connection with a related, parallel proceeding. Under the terms of that resolution, TD Securities agreed to pay approximately $7 million, which includes a civil monetary penalty of approximately $6.5 million, as well as approximately $400,000 in disgorgement and $135,000 in prejudgment interest. A portion of the forfeiture agreed to in the department’s DPA will be credited against payments made to the SEC under a separate agreement with the SEC.
USPIS is investigating the case.
Trial Attorney John J. Liolos of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section is prosecuting the case. Former Deputy Assistant Chief Scott Armstrong of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section provided substantial assistance.
South Florida U.S. Attorney’s Office Charges an Attorney, Former SBA Employee, Tax Preparer, and others with COVID-19 Fraud SchemesRead the Press Release
MIAMI – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida remains a leader in COVID-19 pandemic relief prosecutions, holding a range of actors accountable for these crimes. Over this summer alone, the district has charged 17 individuals with COVID-19 relief fraud cases, with scheme amounts totaling over $21 million.
In 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. In 2022, the Southern District of Florida’s U.S. Attorney’s Office was selected to head one of three national COVID-19 Fraud Strike Force Teams. Together, with federal, state and local law enforcement partners, the U.S. Attorney’s Office targets fraudsters that took advantage of programs that offered assistance during the pandemic. Since the pandemic, more than 185 people have been charged in the Southern District of Florida for schemes involving more than around $220 million.
“These defendants have in common a willingness to exploit federal programs created to help people in a global pandemic for their own gain,” stated U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners will continue to uncover COVID-19 related financial fraud schemes and hold people accountable – regardless of their role in the community. We will not allow limited federal tax dollars, which were intended to provide a lifeline to small businesses as they struggled to stay afloat during the economically devastating pandemic lockdown, to be stolen to support criminal actors.”
“The Department of Justice remains committed to the prosecution of those who engaged in COVID-19 benefits program fraud and the return of recovered funds to the American taxpayers. I appreciate the dedication of the prosecutors and investigators who brought these people to justice and worked to protect the integrity of our federal benefits programs,” said Mandy Riedel, Director of COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement.
The following cases were charged this summer.
Cases Against Federal Employees
A number of federal employees and former federal employees have been charged with COVID loan schemes, including:
U.S. v. Malaina Chapman, Case No. 24-CR-20321: Chapman, 37, of Hialeah, Fla., a former SBA employee, was indicted in July 2024. The indictment alleges that, while employed by the SBA, Chapman became involved in multiple schemes to defraud the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, as well as to defraud local credit unions and local and state programs designed to assist those affected by the Covid-19 pandemic pay their rent. United States Postal Service Office of Inspector General (USPS OIG) and the U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General (SBA OIG) investigated this case. This case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Bernstein.
“Fraudulent exploitation of SBA's pandemic relief programs diverts critical resources from the small businesses that truly need them,” said Amaleka McCall-Brathwaite, Special Agent in Charge of the SBA OIG’s Eastern Region. “Our office is committed to protecting taxpayer funds and ensuring that individuals who attempt to defraud SBA programs are brought to justice. I want to thank the U.S. Attorney’s office and our law enforcement partners for their collaboration and dedication to justice.”
Unemployment Insurance Fraud
A number of defendants in Florida were charged with defrauding the California Employment Development Department of millions of dollars by making false claims for unemployment with the personally identifiable information of the victims of identity theft. These cases were investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General (DOL OIG), SBA OIG, and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
This includes:
U.S. v. Harold Eubanks and Myotha Francois, Case No. 24-CR-20335: handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Roger Cruz.
U.S. v. Kenneth Dikari Stevens, Jr. and Giovanni Kymani Paul Matthews, Case No. 24-CR-20293: handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sean Cronin and Aimee Jimenez.
U.S. v. Zachary Ramyard, Case No. 24-CR-20382: handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joesph Egozi.
“These cases represent the continued commitment of the FBI and many other federal agencies to identify and hold accountable those who engaged in COVID relief fraud,” said Jeffrey B. Veltri, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Miami Field Office. “The intent of these programs was to provide a financial safety net to eligible businesses during a time of economic duress – not as a way for criminals to fund their lifestyles. While the relief programs have ended, our pursuit of the fraudsters has not. The amount of fraud we’ve seen is staggering. We continue to work hard every day to investigate these fraud schemes and protect the public from being swindled.”
“This funding was intended to mitigate the risk to Americans and businesses impacted by an unprecedented global pandemic but was stolen by individuals for their own personal gain” said Anthony Salisbury Special Agent in Charge Homeland Security Investigations in Miami “Criminally taking advantage of programs designed to help our communities will not be tolerated. HSI and their partners will vigilantly pursue all those who seek to exploit these programs to ensure that Americans properly in need of this kind of support have access.”
COVID-19 Procurement Fraud
This office continues to investigate and pursue individuals who capitalized on the pandemic by illegally profiting on personal protective equipment (PPE), including:
U.S. v. Nabil Nahlah, Case No. 24-CR-20434: Nahlah, 49, of Miami Beach, Fla., was charged with one count of fraud against the United States, arising from his efforts to sell millions of dollars of PPE to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to allegations contained in the charging documents filed Sept. 25, Nahlah, through his company The Noble Attorney, made bids on various procurement requests from the VA for items like medical masks and examination gloves. Nahlah won the contracts by making false and fraudulent representations to the VA, namely by claiming that his firm was an authorized distributor or reseller of the PPE manufacturers and that he had the qualifying PPE in stock and available for immediate delivery. Nahlah furthered the scheme to defraud the VA by creating a fake web domain and email address for a PPE manufacturer and using it to submit a phony authorized distributor letter to the VA. Once awarded the lucrative contracts, Nahlah shipped non-conforming PPE to the VA, including counterfeit medical masks. This case was investigated by the VA Office of Inspector General’s (VA OIG) and the FDA Office of Criminal Investigations. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jon Juenger.
U.S. v. Rodrigo Mera, Case No. 24-CR-20148: In August 2024, Mera pled guilty to stealing gloves and other PPE from his employer during the pandemic. Mera admitted he sold the stolen PPE under false pretenses and profited over $1 million. This case was investigated by the United States Secret Service (USSS). This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Bernstein.
“The charges included in today’s announcement highlight the VA Office of Inspector General’s dedication throughout the pandemic to protect veterans and VA employees from those who would exploit the opportunity for fraudulent gain,” said Special Agent in Charge David Spilker with the VA OIG Southeast Field Office. “The VA OIG remains steadfast in our commitment to work with our law enforcement partners to ensure the integrity of VA’s vital supply chain.”
“The FDA continues to monitor the marketplace to ensure that medical devices are safe and effective for American consumers,” said Special Agent in Charge Justin Fielder, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations’ Miami Field Office. “Today’s announcement should serve as a reminder that the FDA is continuing to collaborate with our fellow law enforcement partners to bring to justice those who place profits above the public health.”
Cases Against COVID-19 Loan Preparers
A number of loan preparers have been charged, including:
U.S. v. Pete Andrew Cohen, Case No. 24-CR-60017: Cohen, 56 of Miramar, Fla., was the president of Taxez Taxez Taxez Incorporation in Miramar. From June 2020 through June 2021, the defendant caused the filing of approximately $3 million in fraudulent PPP loan applications that falsely and fraudulently inflated the number of employees and payroll figures for the applicants. The defendant also arranged for PPP loan borrowers to create false and fraudulent payroll information using a payroll service. Cohen pled guilty and is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 17, before U.S. District Judge Rodney Smith. This case was investigated by Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) and Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Office of Inspector General (FDIC-OIG). This case is being prosecuted by Senior Litigation Counsel Michael N. Berger.
U.S. v. Marc Prince, Case No. 24-CR-20214: Prince, 41 of Miramar, reached out to various small business owners, directly or indirectly, to offer to obtain PPP loans. From June 2020 through April 2021, Prince caused the filing of approximately $3 million in fraudulent PPP loan applications that falsely and fraudulently inflated the number of employees and payroll figures for the applicants. Prince charged a fee, typically, of around 20 percent of the value of the PPP loan. Prince pled guilty and is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 17, before U.S. District Judge Darrin P. Gayles. This case was investigated by IRS-CI, FDIC-OIG, and HSI. This case is being prosecuted by Senior Litigation Counsel Michael N. Berger.
“These charges demonstrate the FDIC OIG's commitment to working with our law enforcement partners to investigate allegations of fraud in COVID-19 relief programs and other financial crimes that threaten to undermine the safety and soundness of our Nation's financial institutions,” said Special Agent in Charge Kyle A. Myles, of the FDIC OIG Atlanta Region.
“It has been four years after the enactment of a key pandemic-era law and IRS-CI still continues to investigate cases related to the CARES Act,” said Matthew D. Line, Special Agent in Charge of the IRS-CI Miami Field Office. “These cases cover a wide range of criminal activity, including tax, money laundering, fraudulently obtained loans, credits and payments meant for American workers, families, and small businesses. In the last year alone, IRS-CI has opened nearly 700 new COVID fraud investigations nationwide that collectively add up to $5 billion. If you committed fraud, know that we are working hard every single day to find you and hold you accountable.”
Theft of Employee Retention Credit Checks
This office has charged the theft of employee retention checks, for example:
U.S. v. Madelein Olivia, Case No. 24-CR-20323: Olivia, 52, of Miami, was indicted by a grand jury for stealing a $7 million Employee Retention Credit (ERC) check issued to a victim business where she was not employed. ERC checks are refundable tax credits for certain eligible businesses and tax-exempt organizations that had employees and were affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) investigated the case. This case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Altanese Phenelus.
An indictment, information, and complaint contain mere allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
For more information regarding the Department of Justice’s response to the pandemic visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus. Additional information regarding the Strike Force may be found at https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-announces-covid-19-fraud-strike-force-teams.
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 at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov under the case numbers referenced above.
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South Carolina Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Shipping Counterfeit Pills Containing Fentanyl to North GeorgiaRead the Press Release
ROME, Ga. - Onesepherous L. Grissette has been sentenced to federal prison for shipping thousands of counterfeit pills containing fentanyl from South Carolina to North Georgia using the U.S. Mail.
“The danger posed by counterfeit pills and fentanyl is a real and continuing threat to our citizens and has claimed many lives,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan. “Our office and agency partners are continually developing new and innovate investigative strategies for identifying traffickers who peddle these dangerous drugs and to hold them accountable for causing irreparable harm to our communities.”
“The US Postal Inspection Service is charged with defending the nation’s mail system from illegal use,” said Tommy D. Coke, Inspector in Charge of the Atlanta Division. “We remain steadfast to seek justice to the end and to keep communities safe through continued collaborative investigative efforts with our law enforcement partners.”
According to U.S. Attorney Buchanan, the charges, and other information presented in court: In July 2022, investigators with the United States Postal Inspection Service seized a shipment of pills mailed from South Carolina that were addressed to an individual who resided in Chickamauga, Georgia. The pills resembled the prescription drug oxycodone, but testing confirmed that the tablets contained fentanyl. The investigation revealed that Grissette shipped more than 4,500 pills to this individual for nearly two years and that the individual paid Grissette approximately $85,000.
Onesepherous L. Grissette, 43, of Conway, South Carolina, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge William M. Ray, II to five years, 10 months in prison to be followed by 10 years of supervised release. Grissette was convicted of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute a controlled substance on June 24, 2024, after he pleaded guilty.
This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service with valuable assistance provided by the Lookout Mountain Drug Task Force and the Horry County, South Carolina Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Calvin A. Leipold, III prosecuted the case.
The Office of the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia recommends that parents and children learn about the dangers of drugs at the following websites: www.justthinktwice.gov; www.operationprevention.com/; and www.dea.gov/onepill.
For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at [email protected] or (404) 581-6016. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.
Somerset County Man Sentenced to 64 Months’ Incarceration for Concealing Material Support to HamasRead the Press Release
TRENTON, N.J. – A Somerset County, New Jersey, man was sentenced today to time served – 64 months – for concealing his attempts to provide material support to Hamas, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger, Assistant Attorney General Matt Olsen of the U.S. Department of Justice’s National Security Division, FBI-Newark Acting Special Agent in Charge Nelson I. Delgado Jr., and FBI Assistant Director for Counterterrorism David J. Scott announced.
Jonathan Xie, 25, of Basking Ridge, New Jersey, previously pleaded guilty by videoconference before U.S. District Judge Michael A. Shipp to an information charging him with one count of concealing attempts to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization. Judge Shipp imposed the sentence today in Trenton federal court.
“Jonathan Xie not only admitted sending money that he hoped would be used by the terrorist organization Hamas to fund violent acts against civilians in Israel, he professed his desire to travel to Gaza to join them. Brandishing a gun and holding a Hamas flag, he also posted that he was going to shoot everybody at a pro-Israel march and ruminated how one could go on a rampage by ramming pro-Israel demonstrators with a car. This supporter of Hamas learned the true cost of supporting terrorists.”
U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger
“Xie is an unfortunate example of an emerging and extremely dangerous threat the FBI Newark Joint Terrorism Task Force is seeing with much more frequency,” Newark FBI Acting Special Agent in Charge Nelson I. Delgado said. “The average age of the international and domestic terrorism subjects we investigate is under 21 years old, and they're being radicalized in only a few months. Xie was a teenager when he decided to send money in support of a terrorism organization and then threaten to carry out a plan to kill pro-Israeli people. We need this case to serve as a warning to parents and guardians - pay attention to what your teenagers are doing online.”
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
Xie knowingly concealed and disguised the nature, location, source, ownership and control of his attempt to provide material support and resources to Harakat alMuqawamah al-Islamiyya and the Islamic Resistance Movement, an organization that is commonly referred to as Hamas. Xie admitted that he knew Hamas was a designated foreign terrorist organization and has engaged in terrorist activities. He said he attempted to conceal his attempted support believing it would be used to commit or assist in the commission of a violent act.
In December 2018, Xie sent $100 via Moneygram to an individual in Gaza who Xie believed to be a member of the Al-Qassam Brigades – a faction of Hamas that has conducted attacks, to include suicide bombings against civilian targets inside Israel. At approximately the same time that Xie sent the money, he posted on his Instagram account “Just donated $100 to Hamas. Pretty sure it was illegal but I don’t give a damn.”
In April 2019, Xie appeared in an Instagram Live video wearing a black ski mask and stated that he was against Zionism and the neo-liberal establishment. When asked by another participant in the video if he would go to Gaza and join Hamas, Xie stated “yes, If I could find a way.” Later in the video, Xie displayed a Hamas flag and retrieved a handgun. He then stated “I’m gonna go to the [expletive] pro-Israel march and I’m going to shoot everybody.” In subsequent Instagram posts, Xie stated, “I want to shoot the pro-israel demonstrators . . . you can get a gun and shoot your way through or use a vehicle and ram people . . . all you need is a gun or vehicle to go on a rampage . . . I do not care if security forces come after me, they will have to put a bullet in my head to stop me.”
In April 2019, Xie sent a link to a website for the Al-Qassam Brigades to an FBI employee who was acting online in an undercover capacity. Xie described the website as a “Hamas” website and stated he had previously sent a donation to the group. Xie then sent screenshots of the website to the undercover employee and demonstrated how to use a new feature on the website that allows donations to be sent via Bitcoin. On April 18, 2019, when the undercover employee asked whether Bitcoin was anonymous, Xie responded: “yah… i think thats why hamas is using it now because money transfer is not that anonymous.”
In addition to the prison term, Judge Shipp sentenced Xie to 20 years of supervise release, including six months of home detention with location monitoring for the first six months.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger and Assistant Attorney General Olsen credited special agents of the FBI and task force officers of the Joint Terrorism Task Force, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Nelson I. Delgado; and the U.S. Department of Defense, Army Counterintelligence, 902d Military Intelligence Group, with the investigation leading to the sentencing. He also thanks the U.S. Secret Service for its assistance.
The government is represented by Joyce M. Malliet, Chief of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s National Security Unit and Trial Attorney Taryn Meeks of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Counterterrorism Section of the National Security Division (currently detailed to the Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section).
Siemens Energy, Inc. pleads guilty to stealing confidential competitor information in $104M resolution after former corporate executive and others were sentencedRead the Press Release
RICHMOND, Va. – Siemens Energy, Inc. (Siemens), pleaded guilty today and has agreed to pay $104 million to resolve the Justice Department’s criminal investigation into violations related to the misappropriation of confidential competitor information. Additionally, Siemens has agreed to a three-year term of organizational probation.
Siemens is a U.S.-based subsidiary of a Germany-based global manufacturing conglomerate, Siemens Energy AG (SMNEY), whose technology is responsible for one sixth of electricity production worldwide.
“Corporate accountability remains a top priority for the Department of Justice,” said Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. “The actions of these defendants undermined the integrity of the competitive marketplace, harming both competitors and consumers. The Department has established whistleblower programs to encourage corporations and individuals to come forward with timely information regarding misconduct and criminal behavior. Failing to do so invites prosecution and serious consequences.”
“The FBI will work to hold those accountable who steal confidential information to obtain a competitive advantage, whether they be agents, employees, executives, or corporations themselves,” said Stanley M. Meador, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Richmond Field Office. “We will rigorously investigate those who criminally conspire to defraud companies for their personal gain.”
“Corporate fraud schemes ultimately end up hurting the consumers they serve,” said Damon E. Wood, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service – Washington Division. "Protecting the U.S. Mail from these schemes will always be a top priority for the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. We are proud to work alongside our law enforcement partners to bring this case to a successful conclusion.”
According to court documents, in 2019, Dominion Energy, Inc. (Dominion), a utility company based in Richmond that provides electricity to four million customers in Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina, sought to build a “Peaker” combustion turbine power plant in the greater Richmond metropolitan area. Peaker power plants are specifically designed to add electricity generation capacity to alleviate high grid load and improve electric grid resiliency. The electricity infrastructure project had projected cost of upwards of $500 million.
To build the power plant, Dominion opened a competitive, closed bid process soliciting requests for proposals from qualified companies. Three companies bid for the work: General Electric Company (GE), Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI), and Siemens. All companies executed non-disclosure agreements restricting the disclosure of confidential information provided to Dominion during the bid.
After GE and MHI submitted their closed bids to Dominion in May 2019, Account Manager, Michael P. Hillen of Siemens coordinated with a Dominion insider, Director of Generation System Planning Theodore S. Fasca, who used his sensitive position to improperly obtain GE and MHI confidential information. Hillen and Fasca funneled the pilfered GE and MHI bid information through private email accounts, including Hillen’s wife’s Hotmail email address, before sending the confidential information to Hillen’s Siemens email address. Hillen then disseminated the confidential information to Siemens Account Manager Mehran Sharifi, who analyzed the confidential bid information with other employees. Realizing that Siemens had a less competitive bid than GE by some metrics, Sharifi recommended to Siemens Executive Vice President and Head of Sales for North America, John Gibson, that Siemens resubmit a lowered bid to undercut GE’s bid price. Gibson, Sharifi, Hillen, and Fasca all knew the GE and MHI bid information was improperly obtained and that Siemens should not have had access to this information.
Gibson strategically disseminated the confidential information to other Siemens senior executives, to leaders within Siemens’ business intelligence unit, and to representatives of Siemens’ then-parent company in Germany. Gibson’s dissemination of the information was calculated to provide Siemens with a competitive advantage in the bid for the Dominion project, improve Siemens’ business intelligence, and provide Siemens with a competitive advantage in future bids, all to the detriment of GE and MHI.
After learning of GE’s and MHI’s bids for the Dominion project, Gibson authorized and obtained approvals within Siemens, including from the Chief Executive Officer for Power Generation and representatives of Siemens’ then-parent company in Germany, to resubmit a lower bid for the Dominion project, undercutting GE’s bid. Siemens won the bid with Dominion. Even after submitting the lowered bid, Siemens continued misappropriating GE and MHI confidential information on numerous occasions throughout June 2019.
Siemens Energy Inc. is scheduled to be sentenced on Dec. 5. The company’s plea today comes after Gibson, Hillen, Fasca, and Sharifi entered guilty pleas for their roles in the criminal misconduct.
Gibson pled guilty to conspiracy to convert trade secrets and was sentenced to three years and seven months in prison.
Hillen and Fasca each pled guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and were sentenced to three years and one month in prison.
Sharifi pled guilty to conspiracy to convert trade secrets and is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 11. He faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Avi Panth, Kenneth R. Simon, Jr., and Brian J. Samuels are prosecuting the case. Former Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael R. Gill assisted the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case Nos. 3:24-cr-141 (Siemens Energy, Inc.), 3:23-cr-137 (John Gibson), 3:23-cr-83 (Theodore S. Fasca), 3:24-cr-20 (Mehran Sharifi), and 3:23-cr-120 (Michael P. Hillen).
Seven Year Sentence Handed Down for the Carjacking of a Rideshare DriverRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Tykel Wilson, 22, of the District of Columbia, was sentenced on Friday for the armed carjacking of a rideshare driver, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves and Chief Pamela A Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
Wilson pleaded guilty on June 28, 2024, to one count of carjacking and one count of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence. On September 27, 2024, Superior Court Judge Robert Salerno sentenced Wilson to seven years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release.
According to the government’s evidence, with which Wilson agreed, at approximately 1:43 p.m., on April 29, 2023, in the 900 block of Allison Street, NW, the victim, a rideshare driver, had pulled his car over after dropping off a passenger. While parked, Wilson approached the victim’s car, armed with a silver firearm, and demanded that the victim exit his car. The victim complied with the Wilson’s demands and Wilson drove off in the victim’s car.
In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Graves and Chief Smith commended the work of those who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department. They also commended the work of Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kathryn Bartz and Randle Wilson, who prosecuted the case.
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San Joaquin County Skydiver Sentenced to Two Years in Prison for Running Unauthorized Tandem Skydiving Instructor CoursesRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Robert Allen Pooley, 49, of Acampo, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William B. Shubb to two years in prison for wire fraud related to tandem skydiving instructor courses, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced. Pooley was convicted by a federal jury in May 2024 after a seven-day trial.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, in 2010, Pooley obtained ratings as a “tandem examiner” with the U.S. Parachute Association (USPA) and with Uninsured United Parachute Technologies LLC (UPT), a manufacturer of tandem parachute systems. He then began conducting training courses for candidates seeking to obtain their USPA Tandem Instructor ratings and/or their certifications to use UPT tandem parachute systems. The Tandem Instructor certifications Pooley provided enabled students to conduct tandem jumps with members of the public throughout the United States and abroad. Pooley charged money for these courses and conducted them at a skydiving business located in Acampo.
In August 2015, USPA and UPT suspended Pooley’s tandem examiner ratings, which meant that he could no longer conduct the tandem instructor courses on his own. Nevertheless, he continued running USPA and UPT tandem instructor rating courses without authorization, and he concealed his suspensions from tandem instructor candidates. Pooley falsely told students that he was a tandem examiner, led them to believe they could obtain USPA and UPT tandem ratings through his courses, hid the fact that he had been suspended, and helped students fill out USPA and UPT rating paperwork to further the impression that the students would legitimately get their tandem ratings through his courses.
As part of the scheme, Pooley used a digital image of the signature of another properly rated USPA and UPT tandem examiner to sign off on training that Pooley himself had conducted when the other tandem examiner was not even in the country. In 2016, Pooley accepted numerous students in this manner from around the world, including the Republic of Korea, Chile, and Mexico. Each student paid approximately $1,100 for these courses. The signed documents that Pooley provided some of the students led them to believe they were certified to conduct tandem skydives with members of the public. On Aug. 6, 2016, one such student fell to his death in a tandem skydiving accident with a customer who also perished. After those deaths, numerous victims of Pooley’s scheme asked for their money back, but he did not repay them, and several students had to pay for entirely new tandem instructor courses at other locations. In sentencing Pooley, Judge Shubb found that Pooley’s offense involved a conscious or reckless risk of death or serious bodily injury and, based on that finding, applied a sentencing enhancement.
This case was the product of an investigation by the U.S. Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Katherine T. Lydon and Dhruv M. Sharma prosecuted the case.
Romanian National Indicted for Federal Access Device FraudRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that DORU ADAMESC a/k/a Petru Golban (“ADAMESC”), age 32, a national of Romania, was indicted on September 26, 2024 with four counts of access device fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1029(e)(8).
According to court documents, between May 19, 2024 and May 20, 2024, ADAMESC possessed scanning receivers capable of recording electronic device data at four locations in the Eastern District of Louisiana. If convicted, ADAMESC faces up to fifteen years imprisonment, up to three years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100, as to each count.
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 Department of Agriculture – Office of Inspector General; the United States Secret Service; the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office; the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office; the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office; and the New Orleans Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Maria M. Carboni of the Financial Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Rochester man with gun and fentanyl sentenced to 10 years prisonRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Jaomi Delgado, 31, of Rochester, NY, who was convicted of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, was sentenced to serve 120 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Charles J. Siragusa.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert A. Marangola, who handled the case, stated that on May 18, 2022, law enforcement observed Delgado, who had been under investigation for months, drive into a parking on Norton Street in Rochester and enter a restaurant. Investigators observed a firearm in plain view near the center console of Delgado’s vehicle. He was taken into custody as he exited the restaurant. Delgado’s vehicle was towed and searched. During the execution of a search warrant, officers recovered a loaded .40 caliber handgun, 60 fentanyl pills, four cell phones, and $17,875.00 in cash.
The sentencing is the culmination of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Bryan Miller, New York Field Division, and the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief David Smith.
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Remarks of United States Attorney Todd Gee Regarding the Department of Justice’s Efforts in 2024 to Protect the Vote and Secure ElectionsRead the Press Release
Thank you, Assistant Special Agent in Charge Dimachkie.
It has been a long-standing priority of the Department of Justice to ensure that all qualified voters have the opportunity to cast their ballots and have their votes counted free of discrimination, intimidation, or criminal activity in the election process. The Department is also committed to ensuring that our elections are secure and free from foreign malign interference.
In order to achieve these goals, we want to share some information with the public about steps the Department is taking to protect the right to vote and prevent federal election crimes in Mississippi and throughout the nation during this year’s federal elections in November. These measures are consistent with longstanding Justice Department practices and policies.
The Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, in partnership with U.S. Attorney’s Offices, is responsible for ensuring compliance with the civil provisions of federal statutes that protect the right to vote, and with federal criminal laws that prohibit discriminatory interference with that right. Throughout the election cycle, attorneys with the Civil Rights Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi will be available to receive and review complaints of potential violations of these laws.
Individuals with complaints related to possible violations of federal voting laws can call the Justice Department’s hotline at 1-800-253-3931, and can also submit complaints through the Department’s website at www.civilrights.justice.gov/.
Additionally, as part of the Justice Department’s efforts to secure the election, each U.S. Attorney’s office – including the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi – has partnered with the local FBI field office to respond to reports of federal election crimes, such as alleged destruction of ballots, vote-buying, multiple voting, submission of fraudulent ballots or registrations, and alteration of votes.
The FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s offices are also responsible for enforcing federal criminal law prohibiting unlawful threats to election workers. As part of these efforts, each U.S. Attorney’s Office has designated an Assistant U.S. Attorney, who is a career public servant, to serve as the District Election Officer responsible for overseeing potential election-crime matters in their districts, and for coordinating with the Department’s election-crime experts at the Public Integrity Section in Washington, D.C.
The FBI has also designated a specially trained agent in each field office as an Election Crime Coordinator who will be on duty while polls are open to receive complaints from the public. The FBI’s Election Crime Coordinator and the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s District Election Officer will also work closely with the Office of the Mississippi Secretary of State and other state and local officials regarding alleged election crimes.
Members of the public in Mississippi can report election-crime complaints to the Jackson FBI Field office at 1-800-CALL-FBI, or online at https://tips.fbi.gov/.
The Department of Justice has also launched a website with information about its efforts to secure elections and the right to vote at www.justice.gov/voting.
Protecting the right to vote, prosecuting election crimes, and securing our elections in Mississippi and throughout the nation are essential to maintaining the confidence of all Americans in our democratic system of government. The Justice Department encourages anyone with information regarding concerns in these subject areas to contact the appropriate authorities.
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Registered Sex Offender Sentenced After Sharing over Seventy Images Depicting the Sexual Abuse of ChildrenRead the Press Release
TULSA, Okla. – U.S. District Judge John D. Russell sentenced Bryon Alan Lee, 32, of Sapulpa, for Production, Receipt, Distribution, and Possession of Child Pornography in Indian Country. Judge Russell ordered Lee imprisoned for 360 months, followed by ten years of supervised release. Upon his release, Lee will also be required to register as a sex offender and ordered to pay $6,300 in restitution.
“Online and sexual predators like Lee know how to manipulate their way into a child’s life,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “I cannot stress enough that parents and guardians need to know who their children are talking to online. This sentencing shows the unwavering commitment of our office and law enforcement partners to hold sex offenders accountable for their actions and to protect children.”
“The lengthy sentence of this repeat offender sends a clear message to those who would attempt to exploit our most vulnerable citizens – our children,” said Travis Pickard, acting Special Agent in Charge HSI Dallas. “HSI through the collaboration of all our law enforcement partners will use every available resource to hold child sexual predators like this defendant accountable for their actions.”
According to court documents, in October 2023, the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children received several CyberTips about an individual online uploading videos and images that contained the sexual abuse and exploitation of children. The investigation revealed that Lee possessed or uploaded more than seven videos and 68 images to social media and file-sharing platforms. Further, Lee would “chat” about his fantasies of raping and abusing young children.
In April of 2021, Lee was convicted in State court of Using Technology to Engage in Sexual Communication with a Minor. Even after receiving a ten-year suspended sentence in state court and having to register as a sex offender, Lee continued to exploit minors and created sexually explicit images.
Lee is a citizen of the Cherokee Nation and will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons.
Homeland Security Investigations and the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case, which Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ashley Robert and Joshua Carmel prosecuted.
To learn more about the sex offender registries from all 50 states, please visit the National Sex Offender Public Website.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources tab on that page.
Readout of Assistant Attorney General Matthew Olsen’s Participation at United Nations General Assembly High-Level Side EventRead the Press Release
On Thursday, Sept. 26, Assistant Attorney General (AAG) Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division traveled to New York City to lead a multilateral side meeting on stopping the destabilizing flow of sensitive technology as part of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) High-Level Week. AAG Olsen chaired the meeting, which was co-led by Ukrainian Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin and European Commissioner for Justice Didier Reynders. In total, officials from 18 countries and the EU attended the meeting, which was held at the Reiss Center on Law and Security at NYU’s School of Law in Manhattan.
©Creighton: Courtesy of NYU Photo Bureau.In the first session, presenters described the threats and risks posed by the acquisition of sensitive technology by malign actors.
“Stopping our adversaries from acquiring sensitive, emerging technology is one of our top national security priorities at the Department of Justice and across the U.S. government. And it’s not something we can do alone,” said Assistant Attorney General Olsen.
The second session of the meeting focused on the sharing of attendees’ experiences using legal authorities and other tools to stop the illicit flow of sensitive technology, as well as opportunities for collaboration and partnership. During his remarks, AAG Olsen highlighted the work of the Disruptive Technology Strike Force, an interagency enforcement effort co-led with the Department of Commerce to prevent critical technologies from being unlawfully acquired and used by foreign adversaries.
“Today’s meeting reflects the understanding that this type of partnership is foundational to our ability to turn the tide against malign uses of sensitive technology — it requires partnership and collaboration within our own governments, and it requires us to come together and find ways to work together on an international level,” said Assistant Attorney General Olsen.
©Creighton: Courtesy of NYU Photo Bureau. ©Creighton: Courtesy of NYU Photo Bureau.Along with AAG Olsen, presenters from the U.S. delegation were:
- Matthew Axelrod, Assistant Secretary for Export Enforcement at U.S. Department of Commerce;
- Breon Peace, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York; and
- Tom West, head of the Office of Sanctions Coordination at the U.S. Department of State.
Presenters from other delegations were:
- Yamazaki Kazuyuki, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Permanent Representative of Japan to the UN;
- Ivars Lasis, the Undersecretary of State – Political Director at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Latvia;
- Brendan Dowling, Australia’s Ambassador for Cyber Affairs and Critical Technology; and
- Mina Noor, Head of Counterterrorism and National Security Division and Special Envoy for Counterterrorism at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for The Netherlands.
The Disruptive Technology Strike Force is an interagency law enforcement strike force co-led by the Departments of Justice and Commerce designed to target illicit actors, protect supply chains and prevent critical technology from being acquired by authoritarian regimes and hostile nation states.
Pilates Instructor Sentenced After Fraudulently Obtaining Disability BenefitsRead the Press Release
Salt Lake City, Utah – Hillary Brown, 41, of Taylorsville, Utah, was sentenced today to 12 months’ home detention, five years’ probation, and ordered by the court to pay $148,310.25 in restitution after defrauding the Social Security Administration (SSA) and other government agencies for approximately 15 years.
On July 9, 2024, Brown pleaded guilty to wire fraud before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. She was then sentenced before Senior U.S. District Court Judge David Sam.
According to court documents and statements made at Brown’s sentencing hearing, beginning by at least May 13, 2009 and continuing until June 1, 2023, Brown deceived SSA to fraudulently obtain funds from the United States. She did so by providing the government with false and exaggerated information. Brown falsely claimed she was experiencing debilitating effects from an October 2008 stroke to such a degree that she had right side paralysis and could not work.
On December 15, 2009, Brown underwent a psychiatric assessment to support her application for SSA benefits. The examining doctor documented Brown’s self-reports that she was struggling with brain damage. However, just days prior, Brown completed upper-level college coursework with As and Bs. Unaware of this mismatch in information, SSA granted Brown Title II disability benefits on December 16, 2009. From the outset of her benefits, SSA provided several notices to regularly remind Brown of her obligation to report any improvements in her condition to SSA. However, within months of receiving benefits and claiming cognitive and physical disabilities, Brown graduated from college. She later obtained a driver’s license by certifying that she did not have a condition that impaired her ability to drive, despite claims to SSA that she could not drive due to crippling physical symptoms. She also obtained various physical certifications, including a Pilates Mat Teacher Training program diploma in July 2010, a certification indicating she completed 850 hours of requirements and testing to become a certified Pilates instructor in June 2015, and a 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training certification in October 2018. Meanwhile, Brown continued to receive disability benefits and did not report any improvements in function to SSA.
After learning Brown was active and working, on February 13, 2021, SSA sent Brown a letter explaining she was not eligible to receive disability benefits and had received overpayment. Brown requested that the overpayment be waived and continued to claim she was too disabled to engage in substantial work, while also continuing to teach physically active classes and post about them on social media.
Social Security AdministrationIn the winter of 2022-2023, Brown submitted more false statements to SSA about her ability to work – claiming that right-side paralysis and other ailments still prevented her from working, and that they made basic functions like walking, standing, or using her arms difficult. However, during the same time frame, SSA agents observed and recorded hours of footage documenting Brown’s capable lifestyle and active Pilates teaching.
Once SSA had the opportunity to review Brown’s activities since receiving disability benefits, it became clear that she was never eligible for benefits. In fact, evidence from 2009 to 2023 indicates that Brown was highly functional within months of her stroke.
“Since 2009, Ms. Brown defrauded the government and stole from benefit programs that provide a critical safety net to those who truly need them and legally apply,” said U.S. Attorney Trina A. Higgins for the District of Utah. “My office, and our law enforcement partners, are committed to protecting these important benefits for their rightful recipients and holding to account those who fraudulently drain them.”
“For 15 years, Hillary Brown defrauded SSA by feigning a disabling condition. By purporting debilitating effects from a stroke and partial paralysis, her false exaggerations caused SSA to improperly pay her disability benefits. This sentence holds her accountable for her criminal acts,” said Michelle L. Anderson, Acting Inspector General for the Social Security Administration. “I am grateful for the outstanding work of our Cooperative Disability Investigations Division for conducting this investigation and continually working to protect SSA disability benefits for those who are truly eligible to receive them. I thank Special Assistant United States Attorney Sachi J. Jepson for prosecuting this case.”
The case was investigated by the Social Security Administration Cooperative Disability Investigations Unit.
Special Assistant United States Attorney Sachi J. Jepson of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah prosecuted the case.
Pennsylvania Man Pleads Guilty to Fraudulently Obtaining Unemployment and COVID-19 BenefitsRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Scott Christie, 38, of Petrolia, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty today to theft of public money, property or records. Christie fraudulently obtained $34,801 or more in unemployment benefits, including COVID-19 supplementary funds, while a resident of Leon, West Virginia.
According to court documents and statements made in court, between February 29, 2020, and August 22, 2020, and between February 27, 2021, and August 14, 2021, Christie fraudulently applied for unemployment benefits from WorkForce West Virginia, which administers the unemployment compensation program for the State of West Virginia. Christie submitted a total of 50 weekly certifications to WorkForce West Virginia that failed to disclose his employment during those time periods. As a result of his fraudulent scheme, Christie received 52 unemployment benefits payments from WorkForce West Virginia totaling $34,801 or more that he was not entitled to receive.
The unemployment benefits fraudulently obtained by Christie included supplementary funds provided by the Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation Program (FPUC) of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. As part of his fraudulent scheme, Christie falsely stated in the weekly certifications he submitted that he was unemployed because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Christie is scheduled to be sentenced on January 13, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a $250,00 fine. Christie also owes up to $34,801 in restitution.
United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the West Virginia State Police – Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI).
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney J. Parker Bazzle II is prosecuting 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, 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 https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
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 at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:24-cr-107.
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Pearl River Man Pleads Guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine on the Choctaw Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
Jackson, MS – A Pearl River man pled guilty to possession of over 15 grams of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute in the Pearl River Community of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians.
Bill Clemons, Jr., 37, was indicted by a federal grand jury in January 2024 for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
Clemons is scheduled to be sentenced on January 14, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of twenty years in prison. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Todd Gee, Assistant Special Agent in Charge Anessa Daniels-McCaw of the Drug Enforcement Administration, and Regional Agent in Charge Whitney Woodruff of the Bureau of Indian Affairs made the announcement.
The Choctaw Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kevin J. Payne and Brian K. Burns prosecuted the case.
Ozark Man Sentenced to 25 Years for Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – An Ozark, Mo., man and a Springfield, Mo., man have been sentenced in federal court for their roles in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
Robert Jason Smith, 48, of Ozark, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge M. Douglas Harpool to 25 years in federal prison without parole. Smith was sentenced as a career criminal due to his prior felony convictions.
In a separate but related case, Aaron A. Keltner, 41, of Springfield, was sentenced on Thursday, Sept. 26, to 21 years and 10 months in federal prison without parole.
On Feb. 15, 2024, Smith pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Smith admitted that he sold 25.17 grams of methamphetamine to a confidential informant on June 22, 2021. The next day, law enforcement officers conducted a traffic stop while Smith was driving a black GMC pickup. An officer searched the truck and found a small black backpack on the rear floorboard behind the driver’s seat. Inside the backpack was a Ziploc bag that contained 217.98 grams of methamphetamine and $4,000 in cash. The officer found another backpack, which contained hundreds of rounds of assorted handgun, rifle, and shotgun ammunition, in the bed of the pickup.
Officers executed a search warrant at Smith’s residence the same day, on June 22, 2021. In the master bedroom, officers found a Ziploc bag that contained 53.86 grams of methamphetamine as well as a Taurus .22-caliber semi-automatic pistol under the mattress.
Smith told investigators he purchased a pound of methamphetamine each week from a co-defendant who was working with Keltner, for which he paid $5,000, and a pound of methamphetamine every two or three weeks from a separate source of supply.
According to court documents, Smith is responsible for the distribution of more than 12 kilograms of methamphetamine.
Smith has 13 prior felony convictions, six of which were for selling drugs.
Smith is the first defendant to be sentenced in this case. Two co-defendants have pleaded guilty and await sentencing. Two co-defendants are scheduled for trial.
Keltner, who was charged separately, pleaded guilty on March 11, 2024, to his role in the drug-trafficking conspiracy and to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court documents, Keltner regularly coordinated trips to acquire 14 to 16 kilograms of methamphetamine from Oklahoma per trip, using women to make the trips for him. He would then divide up the methamphetamine for re-distribution.
Keltner admitted that he was in possession of an Anderson Manufacturing AR-15 style .223/5.56mm semi-automatic rifle, a Savage Arms .223-caliber bolt-action rifle, and a Marlin .22-caliber bolt-action rifle. The firearms were found by law enforcement officers when they executed a search warrant at Keltner’s residence.
Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition. Keltner has numerous prior felony convictions, including for the distribution, delivery, or manufacture of a controlled substance.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica R. Eatmon. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Christian County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department, the Springfield, Mo., Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Greene County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department.
Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Ovintiv USA to Pay $5.5M Penalty and Upgrade Facilities in Utah to Resolve Clean Air Act ViolationsRead the Press Release
The Justice Department and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today announced a more than $16 million settlement with Ovintiv USA Inc. resolving Clean Air Act violations at the company’s oil and gas production facilities on the Uintah and Ouray Reservation in Utah and Utah state lands. The settlement requires Ovintiv to pay the United States and the state of Utah a civil penalty of $5.5 million. It also requires Ovintiv to implement extensive compliance measures to achieve major reductions in pollutants emitted from 139 of its facilities across the state.
The settlement resolves a civil suit, filed jointly by the United States and the state of Utah, alleging that Ovintiv failed to comply with federal and state requirements to capture and control air emissions and comply with inspection, monitoring and recordkeeping requirements from 22 of its oil and gas production facilities in the Uintah Basin. These violations resulted in illegal emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOC), which contribute to asthma and increase susceptibility to respiratory illnesses. Additionally, greenhouse gases, including methane, were released in large quantities, contributing to climate change.
Along with the civil penalty, the settlement requires Ovintiv to take corrective action and mitigation projects estimated to cost over $10 million at 139 of its facilities that will eliminate over 2,000 tons of VOC emissions annually. It will also eliminate methane emissions equivalent to a reduction of over 50,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually, a reduction similar to taking nearly 13,000 gas powered cars off the road each year.
“This case is a win for the environment and for consumers,” said Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “The work required under the consent decree will significantly reduce the amount of gas Ovintiv facilities vent into the atmosphere and return some of that gas to the sales pipeline where it can be sent to productive use.”
“As climate change accelerates and wreaks havoc in communities across the nation, EPA is doing everything possible to limit the methane emissions that are among the most powerful drivers of climate change,” said Assistant Administrator David M. Uhlmann of EPA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “Today’s settlement with Ovintiv will significantly reduce emissions across 139 facilities on Tribal and state lands and provides another example of how EPA is delivering on its climate enforcement strategy and holding companies accountable for climate pollution.”
The settlement requires Ovintiv to invest in extensive compliance measures for the proper design of Ovintiv’s oil and gas facilities to capture all VOC emissions and send the emissions to an appropriate control device. Compliance measures also include periodic infrared camera inspections, enhanced maintenance requirements and installation of storage tank pressure monitors at many facilities. The settlement is part of EPA’s National Enforcement and Compliance Initiative, Mitigating Climate Change. This initiative focuses, in part, on reducing methane emissions from oil and gas and landfill sources. Like all of EPA’s national enforcement initiatives, this initiative prioritizes communities already overburdened by pollution and other potential environmental justice concerns.
More information on the settlement agreement is available on EPA’s webpage at www.epa.gov/enforcement/ovintiv-usa-inc-2024-clean-air-act-stationary-source-case-summary.
The complaint and proposed consent decree were filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Utah. The consent decree is subject to a 30-day comment period. A copy of the complaint and the proposed consent decree are available at www.justice.gov/enrd/consent-decrees.
The EPA investigated the case.
Attorneys with the Environment and Natural Resources Division’s Environmental Enforcement Section are handling the case.
New Orleans Man Charged with Transporting Minor to New Orleans Area for Commercial SexRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that AARON TEROD JOHNSON (“JOHNSON”), age 36, from New Orleans, was charged on September 26, 2024 in a three-count indictment with Sex Trafficking of a Minor, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1591(a)(1) and 1591(b)(2); Coercion and Enticement of a Minor to Engage in Prostitution, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2422(b); and Transportation of a Minor to Engage in Criminal Sexual Activity, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 18 U.S.C. § 2423(a).
According to court documents, JOHNSON, a local high school teacher, drove to Vicksburg, Mississippi in March 2024 to pick up a 16-year-old female. JOHNSON then brought the juvenile to his apartment in New Orleans, where he had sex with her in exchange for $200.
If convicted, JOHNSON faces a minimum of ten (10) years imprisonment up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and a $100 mandatory special assessment as to each count. The defendant also faces supervised release for a term of five years up to life, and mandatory participation in the sex offender registration and notification program.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that an indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
Authorities with Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”) are seeking information that may help identify potential victims JOHNSON may have engaged or exploited. HSI encourages the public to report any suspicious activity through its toll-free Tip Line at 877-4-HSI-TIP or by email at [email protected].
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 Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of HSI, the United States Marshals Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office, in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Maria Carboni of the Financial Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Morgantown Construction Company Owner Indicted for Harboring Individuals Unlawfully in the United StatesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Hetzon Marroquin Reyes, owner and operator of A&M Homes, LLC, in Morgantown, West Virginia, was arrested today on charges involving the harboring and concealing of persons who were not citizens and unlawfully in the United States, announced United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld.
According to the filed indictment unsealed today, Reyes, also known as “Hector,” age 40, hired and harbored individuals who were not citizens and otherwise unlawfully in the United States to work for his company. Reyes used the social security numbers of others to create tax documents for the individuals who were unlawfully in the country. He also created false driver’s licenses and immigration forms to provide to the West Virginia Division of Labor inspectors.
Reyes is charged with one count of conspiracy to harbor aliens for commercial advantage and private financial gain, 32 counts of false representations regarding social security numbers, one count of corrupt interference with due administration of tax code, and one count of fraud related to visas and other documents.
Reyes faces up to 10 years in federal prison for each of the conspiracy and fraud counts. He faces up to five years for each of the false representations counts and up to three years for the corrupt interference count. If convicted, a federal district court judge would determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod Douglas and Carly Nogay is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
The case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations, and the Social Security Administration-Office of Inspector General.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and each defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Montana Man Sentenced for Federal Wildlife Trafficking Charges as Part of Yearslong Effort to Create Giant Hybrid Sheep for Captive HuntingRead the Press Release
A Montana man was sentenced today to six months in prison for committing two felony wildlife crimes — a conspiracy to violate the Lacey Act and substantively violating the Lacey Act — as part of an almost decade-long effort to create giant sheep hybrids in the United States with an aim to sell the species to captive hunting facilities.
Arthur “Jack” Schubarth, 81, of Vaughn, is the owner and operator of Sun River Enterprises LLC, also known as Schubarth Ranch, which is a 215-acre alternative livestock ranch in Vaughn. The Schubarth Ranch is engaged in the purchase, sale and breeding of “alternative livestock” such as mountain sheep, mountain goats and various ungulates. The primary market for Schubarth’s livestock is captive hunting operations, also known as shooting preserves or game ranches.
According to court documents, Schubarth conspired with at least five other individuals between 2013 and 2021 to create a larger hybrid species of sheep that would garner higher prices from shooting preserves. Schubarth brought parts of the largest sheep in the world, Marco Polo argali sheep (Ovis ammon polii), from Kyrgyzstan into the United States without declaring the importation. Average males can weigh more than 300 pounds, with horns that span more than five feet. Marco Polo argali are native to the high elevations of the Pamir region of Central Asia. They are protected internationally by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) and domestically by the Endangered Species Act, and are prohibited in the State of Montana to protect native sheep from disease and hybridization.
Schubarth sent genetic material from the argali parts to a lab to create cloned embryos. Schubarth then implanted the embryos in ewes on his ranch, resulting in a single, pure genetic male Marco Polo argali that he named “Montana Mountain King” or MMK.
December 2023 photo of MMK from the sentencing memo, United States v. Arthur “Jack” Schubarth case number 24-cr-0006 in U.S. District Court for the District of Montana.Court documents explain that Schubarth worked with the other unnamed coconspirators to use MMK’s semen to artificially impregnate various other species of ewes — all of which were prohibited in Montana — and create hybrid animals. Their goal was to create a larger and more valuable species of sheep to sell to captive hunting facilities, primarily in Texas.
To move the prohibited sheep into and out of Montana, Schubarth and others forged veterinary inspection certificates, falsely claiming that the sheep were legally permitted species. On occasion, Schubarth sold MMK semen directly to sheep breeders in other states. According to court documents, disease introduction was a risk associated with Schubarth’s conduct and at least two sheep from the scheme died from Johne’s disease. Johne’s disease is a contagious, chronic wasting disease easily spread between animals directly or through environmental contamination.
Court documents also describe how Schubarth illegally obtained genetic material from wild-hunted Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep in Montana. Schubarth purchased parts of these wild-hunted sheep in violation of Montana law, which prohibits the sale of game animal parts within the state and prohibits the use of Montana game animals on alternative livestock ranches. Schubarth transported and sold the bighorn parts in interstate commerce.
“Schubarth not only violated federal and state law and international treaties, but he and others illegally conspired to conceal their actions from authorities,” said Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “Violations of the Lacey Act, CITES and other laws can be devastating for our domestic populations of wild animals, which is why we are unwavering in our commitment to enforce them.”
“Schubarth’s criminal conduct is not how Montanans treat our wildlife population,” said U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich for the District of Montana. “Indeed, his actions threatened Montana’s native wildlife species for no other reason than he and his co-conspirators wanted to make more money. Schubarth’s greed drove their conspiracy to bring to Montana parts of the largest sheep in the world from Kyrgyzstan. Such actions to create hybrid animals are as unnatural as they are illegal, and I applaud the extensive collaboration and diligence of all of our law enforcement partners to bring Schubarth to justice.”
“This case exemplifies the serious threat that wildlife trafficking poses to our native species and ecosystems,” said Assistant Director Edward Grace of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Office of Law Enforcement. “Mr. Schubarth's actions not only violated multiple laws designed to protect wildlife, but also risked introducing diseases and compromising the genetic integrity of our wild sheep populations. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service remains committed to working with our partners to investigate and prosecute those who exploit protected species for personal gain. This sends a clear message that we will not tolerate the illegal importation, sale and transport of wildlife, especially when it endangers our natural heritage.”
“This case is complex and is a great example of how we work together with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to protect resources no matter where the investigation takes us,” said Chief of Law Enforcement Ron Howell of Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks.
In addition to his prison sentence, Schubarth was ordered to pay a $20,000 fine to the Lacey Act Reward Fund, a $4,000 payment to the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and a $200 special assessment.
The Lacey Act prohibits interstate trade in wildlife that has been taken, possessed, transported or sold in violation of federal or state law. The Lacey Act also prohibits the interstate sale of wildlife that has been falsely labeled. The Act is one of the most powerful tools the United States has to combat wildlife trafficking and prevent ecological invasion by injurious wildlife.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks are investigating the case.
Trial Attorney Sarah M. Brown and Senior Trial Attorney Patrick M. Duggan of the Environment and Natural Resources Division’s Environmental Crimes Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Starnes for the District of Montana are prosecuting the case.
Man Sentenced to 35 Years in Prison for Attempting to Murder Two Jewish Men Leaving L.A. Synagogues Last YearRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – A man who last year shot and wounded two Jewish men as they left religious services in the Pico-Robertson area of Los Angeles was sentenced today to 420 months in federal prison.
Jaime Tran, 30, formerly of Riverside, was sentenced by United States District Judge George H. Wu, who set a restitution hearing for December 2, 2024.
Tran pleaded guilty on June 3 to two counts of hate crimes with intent to kill and two counts of using, carrying, and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
“Targeting people for death based solely on their religious and ethnic background brings back memories of the darkest chapters in human history,” said United States Attorney Martin Estrada. “Such hate-fueled violence has no place in America. We hope the sentence imposed today sends a strong message to all in our community that we will not tolerate antisemitism and hate of any sort. For those who engage in hate crimes, the punishment will be severe.”
“After years of spewing antisemitic vitriol, the defendant planned and carried out a two-day attack attempting to murder Jews leaving synagogue in Los Angeles,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “Vile acts of antisemitic hatred endanger the safety of individuals and entire communities, and allowing such crimes to go unchecked endangers the foundation of our democracy itself. As millions of Jewish Americans prepare to observe the High Holidays of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, the Justice Department reaffirms its commitment to aggressively confronting, disrupting, and prosecuting criminal acts motivated by antisemitism, or by hatred of any kind. No Jewish person in America should have to fear that any sign of their identity will make them the victim of a hate crime.”
“This country was founded by many who fought for religious freedom, and practicing our religion continues to be a sacred and fundamental right,” said Akil Davis, the Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office. “The FBI will always defend that constitutional right. Those who violate the First Amendment by violent acts, those who would target the innocent based on hatred, will be held accountable.”
“While this sentencing cannot fully restore the sense of safety stolen from the two victims and the Jewish community, it is a decisive step towards justice and a clear message that such acts of hate and violence will not be tolerated,” said Los Angeles Police Chief Dominic Choi.
According to the government’s sentencing position, Tran obsessed over his antisemitic hatred for years leading up to the attack. In 2018, Tran left graduate school after making antisemitic comments about other students. From August 2022 to December 2022, Tran’s antisemitic statements escalated and included increasingly violent language, including messages to former classmates such as “I want you dead, Jew,” and “Someone is going to kill you, Jew.” Tran described himself as a “ticking time bomb” and maintained social media accounts with the handle “k1llalljews.”
In November 2022, Tran emailed two dozen former classmates a flyer containing antisemitic propaganda, including the statement, “EVERY SINGLE ASPECT OF THE COVID AGENDA IS JEWISH.” The following month, Tran emailed his former classmates excerpts from an anti-Semitic website further denigrating Jewish persons.
As a result of previous mental health holds, as of 2023, Tran was prohibited from purchasing firearms. In January 2023 in Phoenix, Tran asked a third party to buy two firearms for him. Tran selected the firearms he wanted and paid approximately $1,500 in cash to the third party, who then purchased them. Law enforcement identified the third party, who has now pleaded guilty in Arizona to illegally selling Tran the firearm used in the shootings. Messages later retrieved from his phone reflected that Tran had asked multiple people to purchase firearms for him and had offered to pay more if no background check was performed.
In early February 2023, Tran sent an online message stating: “it’s time to kill all Jews.” On the morning of February 15, 2023, Tran used the internet to research locations with a “kosher market,” planning to shoot someone near a kosher market because he believed there would be Jewish people in the area. Tran drove to Pico-Robertson and shot a Jewish victim wearing a yarmulke as he was leaving religious services at a synagogue. Tran, believing the victim was Jewish, shot him at close range centimeters from his spine, intending to kill him. Tran then fled the scene in his car.
The next morning, February 16, 2023, Tran returned to the Pico-Robertson area, intending to shoot another Jewish person. Tran shot a second Jewish victim, also wearing a yarmulke and leaving a synagogue after attending religious services. Tran shot the victim at close range, intending to kill him, as the victim crossed the street. Tran again fled the scene.
Both victims survived the attacks. Law enforcement arrested Tran on February 17, 2023, after a witness reported seeing someone shooting a firearm behind a motel. When he was arrested, Tran told law enforcement that he was “practicing” with his assault weapon. In its sentencing position, the government argued that “[h]ad [Tran] not been caught the night of his second shooting, his campaign of terror would likely have continued.”
The FBI and the Los Angeles Police Department investigated this matter. The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, the Cathedral City Police Department, the Fountain Valley Police Department, the Beverly Hills Police Department, and the UCLA Police Department provided substantial assistance.
Assistant United States Attorneys Kathrynne N. Seiden of the Terrorism and Export Crimes Section and Frances S. Lewis of the Public Corruption and Civil Rights Section prosecuted this case.
Man Sentenced for Threatening to Place Pipe Bombs on School Buses in IndianaRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – Amir Safavi Farokhi, 29, of Fishers, Indiana, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Scott H. Rash last week to over 11 months’ custody for threatening to blow up school buses in Castleton, Indiana. Farokhi pleaded guilty on July 17, 2024, to one count of Making an Interstate Threat.
Between October 21 and October 24, 2023, while staying at a residence in Tucson, Farokhi made several cell phone calls to hospitals, police departments, schools, and businesses in both Tucson, Arizona and Indiana. Farokhi pleaded guilty to calling the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department and threatening that he was going to blow up three school buses with pipe bombs. Farokhi was arrested on October 25, 2023, in Tucson, and he remained in federal custody throughout the duration of his case.
Following his release from custody, Farokhi will be placed on supervised release for a period of three years, during which he will be required to participate in mental health treatment.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pima County Sheriff’s Department, as part of the FBI’s Southern Arizona Violent Crime and Gang Task Force, conducted the investigation in this case. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-23-01845-TUC-SHR
RELEASE NUMBER: 2024-129_Farokhi# # #
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.MDC Correctional Officer Charged with Federal Civil Rights ViolationRead the Press Release
Earlier today, a complaint was unsealed in Brooklyn federal court charging Leon Wilson, a correctional officer at the Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC-Brooklyn), with willfully depriving an individual of his constitutional rights while acting under color of law. Last fall, Wilson, while on duty and driving a Bureau of Prisons (BOP)-issued minivan, allegedly chased a civilian vehicle from the MDC-Brooklyn staff parking lot and through a large section of Brooklyn before firing three gunshots towards the car, at least one of which struck one of its occupants. Wilson was taken into federal custody yesterday and is scheduled to be arraigned this afternoon before United States Magistrate Judge Marcia M. Henry.
Breon Peace, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, Ryan T. Geach, Special Agent in Charge, Department of Justice, Office of the Inspector General, Northeast Region (DOJ-OIG) and James E. Dennehy, Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI), announced the charges.
“Correctional officers are sworn to uphold the law but, as alleged, this defendant violated his oath and position by starting a dangerous car chase through the streets of Brooklyn ending with him shooting wildly at the passengers in the other car without justification, and wounding one,” stated United States Attorney Peace. “My Office is committed to protecting the civil rights of everyone in this district and will hold accountable those who violate them.”
Mr. Peace expressed his appreciation to the New York City Police Department (NYPD) and the United States Department of Justice Civil Rights Division for their work in this case.
“Today’s complaint alleges that Wilson recklessly pursued another vehicle through the streets of Brooklyn and fired a weapon three times, harming a passenger and endangering countless New Yorkers. His alleged conduct was dangerous, illegal, and antithetical to the behavior we expect from an officer of the law,” said Ryan T. Geach, Special Agent in Charge, Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General, Northeast Region.
“Leon Wilson, a correctional officer, allegedly failed to report an unlawful on-duty shooting to the Bureau of Prisons following an unauthorized high-speed vehicle pursuit from the Metropolitan Detention Center. The defendant’s alleged actions exceeded the boundaries of his authority and recklessly endangered countless civilians. The FBI is committed to pursuing those who willingly disregard public safety and violate policies designed to protect constitutional rights,” stated FBI Assistant Director in Charge Dennehy.
As alleged in court documents, Wilson was on duty at MDC-Brooklyn on September 4, 2023 when he chased a BMW out of the facility’s staff parking lot and off MDC-Brooklyn property. Wilson had no authority to pursue the BMW past MDC-Brooklyn’s property line, but he did so anyway, ultimately chasing the BMW to the edge of the Brooklyn Bridge, approximately five miles from the facility. During the chase, Wilson exceeded the speed limit, passed other vehicles, and ran red lights. Approximately two minutes after the chase began—and nearly a mile from MDC-Brooklyn—Wilson fired three shots at the BMW, one of which penetrated the rear of the vehicle and struck a passenger in the back seat. Wilson continued to chase the BMW for several minutes after firing his weapon. He never reported the on-duty shooting to the NYPD, MDC-Brooklyn, or BOP personnel.
The charges in the complaint are merely allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, Wilson faces up to ten years in prison.
The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Civil Rights and Public Integrity Sections. Assistant United States Attorneys Erin Reid and Eric Silverberg are in charge of the prosecution, with assistance from Eastern District of New York Special Agent Anthony Cunder and Paralegal Specialist Nadya Osman.
The Defendant:
LEON WILSON
Age: 49
Bronx, New YorkE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 24-MJ-553 (SJB)
Long Beach Man Pleads Guilty to Participating in Smash-and-Grab Robbery at Beverly Hills Jeweler that Caused $2.6 Million in LossesRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – A Long Beach man pleaded guilty today to a federal criminal charge for participating in the daylight smash-and-grab robbery of a Beverly Hills jewelry store in 2022 in which more than $2.6 million in merchandise was stolen – and which he later displayed on Instagram.
Ladell Tharpe, 39, pleaded guilty to one count of interference with commerce by robbery (Hobbs Act).
According to his plea agreement, on March 23, 2022, Tharpe, Deshon Bell, 22, of Long Beach, and Jimmy Lee Vernon III, 33, also of Long Beach, and other co-conspirators robbed a luxury jewelry store in Beverly Hills. Before, during, and after the robbery, Tharpe led the cars used to transport the robbers and the getaway vehicle to the location. Bell was one of the getaway drivers. Tharpe conducted surveillance and acted as the lookout for the co-conspirators.
Once they had arrived outside the jewelry store, some of the robbers – including Vernon – got out of one of the cars, entered the store and used heavy tools to smash the store’s display cases while employees and customers were present.
The thieves removed from the store’s display cases at least 19 bracelets, seven pairs of earrings, four necklaces, a pair of obelisks, eight rings, and 20 watches, all of which was valued at approximately $2,674,600. The robbers then returned to the car in which Bell was waiting and then fled the scene.
Tharpe posted images of large amounts of cash on Instagram after the robbery with the text “Robbery Gang.”
United States District Judge George H. Wu scheduled a January 6, 2025, sentencing hearing for Tharpe, who will face a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison. Tharpe has been in federal custody since March 2023.
Bell and Vernon each have pleaded guilty to one count of Hobbs Act robbery. Judge Wu on February 26 sentenced Bell to one year and one day in federal prison and ordered him to pay $2,674,600 in restitution. The sentencing hearing for Vernon, who has been in federal custody since September 2022, is scheduled for December 5.
The FBI and the Beverly Hills Police Department investigated this matter.
Assistant United States Attorneys Kevin J. Butler of the Violent and Organized Crime Section and Kevin B. Reidy of the Major Frauds Section are prosecuting this case.
Leader of International Drug Trafficking Group’s Chicago Operations Sentenced to 16 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
CHICAGO — The leader of an international drug trafficking group’s Chicago operations has been sentenced to 16 years in federal prison.
ANTONIO CARRAZCO-MARTINEZ ran the Chicago operations of a Mexico-based drug trafficking organization allegedly led by PABLO ANIBAL VAZQUEZ-DUARTE. In 2016 and 2017, Carrazco-Martinez conspired with members of the organization to traffic cocaine and heroin from Mexico to the Chicago area. Carrazco-Martinez was responsible for receiving large amounts of drugs, maintaining a stash house, distributing the drugs to the group’s customers, and sending illicit cash proceeds back to Mexico.
A federal jury in Chicago last year convicted Carrazco-Martinez, 43, of Fort Valley, Ga., on drug trafficking charges. U.S. District Judge Sharon Johnson Coleman imposed the 16-year sentence on Thursday during a hearing in federal court in Chicago.
The sentence was announced by Morris Pasqual, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Sheila G. Lyons, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Division of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. Substantial assistance was provided by the Chicago Police Department, Illinois State Police, Waukegan, Ill. Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, and IRS Criminal Investigation. The government was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew Erskine, Alejandro Ortega, and Kirsten Moran.
The case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles drug traffickers and other criminal offenders 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 against criminal networks.
Carrazco-Martinez is one of nine defendants convicted as part of the investigation. Three other defendants, including Vazquez-Duarte, are considered fugitives and believed to be residing in Mexico.
Las Vegas Doctor Sentenced to over Two Years in Prison for Unlawful Distribution of Opioid MedicationsRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS — A Las Vegas doctor was sentenced today by United States District Judge Cristina D. Silva to 27 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release, and a fine of $75,000 for unlawfully distributing opioid pain medications without a medically legitimate purpose.
“By prescribing medically unnecessary prescription medications in exchange for cash payments, the defendant put vulnerable patients at risk,” said Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans for the FBI Las Vegas Division. “The FBI will continue to work with our federal, state, and local partners to find and investigate practitioners in the medical community who target and victimize vulnerable populations.”
According to court documents, Dr. William Alvear (69) unlawfully distributed Hydrocodone without a legitimate medical purpose and outside the usual course of professional practice. Instead, he prescribed opioids when a patient offered to pay him cash. In addition, Alvear unlawfully distributed and dispensed Alprazolam, common brand name Xanax.
Alprazolam is a Schedule IV controlled substance that also has the potential for abuse and can lead to psychological or physical dependence. Hydrocodone, a Schedule II controlled substance, has a high potential for abuse and can lead to severe psychological or physical dependence.
In November 2023, following a six-day jury trial, Alvear was found guilty of three-counts of distributing a controlled substance – Schedule II and five-counts of distributing or dispensing a controlled substance – Schedule IV.
United States Attorney Jason M. Frierson for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Evans made the announcement.
The FBI investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorneys for the District of Nevada prosecuted the case.
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Laredo man imprisoned for producing child pornography, including sexual assault of minor relativeRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – A 25-year-old man has been sentenced for sexual exploitation of a child and possession of child sexual abuse material, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.
Aaron Hernandez pleaded guilty May 29.
U.S. District Judge Diana Saldaña has now sentenced Hernandez to 360 and 240 months for the production and possessing of child pornography convictions, respectively. They will run partially concurrent for a total 420-month term of imprisonment. At the hearing, the court also heard from the victim’s father detailing how Hernandez’s conduct greatly affected the family and that children do not deserve this harm. Additionally, Hernandez self-described himself as a monster, an animal and a pig. In handing down the prison terms, the court noted this was one of the most egregious forms of conduct she has seen and how his conduct destroyed the lives of the victim and her family and how there is nothing Hernandez can do or say that will make it better. Hernandez was further ordered to pay $3,000 in restitution to a known victim and will serve 10 years on supervised release following completion of his prison term. During that time, he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. Hernandez will also be ordered to register as a sex offender.
The investigation began after law enforcement learned of a person in Laredo sharing child pornography through a WhatsApp account linked to Hernandez.
On Oct. 30, 2023, authorities executed a search warrant at Hernandez’s home and seized his electronic devices.
Hernandez admitted to sending a video containing child pornography on WhatsApp and possessing videos containing child pornography on his computer. Hernandez also confessed to touching two minor relatives inappropriately.
Authorities found 11 videos and 10 pictures containing child pornography in Hernandez’s devices. Of all the files, 11 included self-produced content of him sexually assaulting a minor relative on two different occasions.
“A home should be a sanctuary for every child, not a place where their innocence is exploited by those who are meant to protect it,” said Hamdani. “Today’s sentence sends a clear message: those who commit unthinkable acts against children, especially those entrusted with their care, will be held accountable. We will continue to relentlessly pursue justice for victims and fight to protect them.”
“Children deserve to live in a safe environment - free from child predators. This is especially true when they are with members of their own families,” said Special Agent in Charge Aaron Tapp of the FBI’s San Antonio field office. “Aaron Hernandez stole that safety from every child who was exploited by his actions. The FBI and the Laredo Child Exploitation Task Force continue to work tirelessly to bring anyone who would harm a child to justice.”
Hernandez has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The FBI conducted the investigation with assistance from the Laredo Child Exploitation Task Force.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christine A. Cortez prosecuted the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources tab on that page.
Lab Owner Pleads Guilty to $14M COVID-19 Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
An Illinois man pleaded guilty today for his role in a COVID-19 testing fraud scheme.
According to court documents, Zishan Alvi, 45, of Inverness, owned and operated a laboratory in Chicago that performed testing for COVID-19. From February 2021 through February 2022, Alvi caused claims to be submitted to the Department of Health and Human Services’ Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) for COVID-19 tests that were not performed as billed. As part of the scheme, the laboratory released negative COVID-19 test results to patients, even though the laboratory either had not actually tested the specimens or the results were inconclusive. Alvi knew that the laboratory was releasing negative results for tests that were not performed or were inconclusive, but still caused the laboratory to submit claims to HRSA for those tests. HRSA paid the laboratory over $14 million as a result of the fraudulent claims Alvi caused to be submitted to HRSA.
Alvi pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Feb. 7, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; Acting U.S. Attorney Morris Pasqual for the Northern District of Illinois; Assistant Director Chad Yarbrough of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division; and Special Agent in Charge Mario Pinto of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) made the announcement.
The FBI and HHS-OIG are investigating the case.
Trial Attorney Claire T. Sobczak of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jared Hasten and Misty Wright for the Northern District of Illinois are prosecuting the case.
The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,400 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $27 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.
Justice Department’s Office on Violence Against Women Awards $228.5 Million in Awards, Contributing to a Total of over $690 Million in Awards this Year to Combat Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, Dating Violence, and StalkingRead the Press Release
The Justice Department’s Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) is today awarding over $228.5 million in grants to enhance a wide range of supportive services for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking. The awards will go toward court-based programs, legal assistance, and initiatives tailored for older adults, rural communities, and other underserved groups. This set of awards also includes funding with a special emphasis on reducing barriers and enhancing access to services, safety, and healing for survivors in culturally specific communities.
These awards are part of the $690 million in grants administered by OVW that the Department announced earlier this month as part of the commemoration of the 30th anniversary of the Violence Against Women Act. Over the past month, many of these grants have been distributed to communities across the country. Those awards will enhance coordinated community responses to domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking across all states, territories, and numerous Tribal nations. They also build on an additional $86 million in awards announced earlier this week by OVW’s Office of Tribal Affairs.
This funding comes as the Justice Department is preparing to kick off National Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) in collaboration with survivors, victim service providers, law enforcement agencies, advocates, and other community partners nationwide. DVAM encourages expanding access to justice and supportive services, particularly for underserved and historically marginalized communities, and promoting best practices in addressing domestic violence. It calls for strengthening prevention efforts and enhancing responses to meet the diverse needs of survivors. The impact of domestic violence extends beyond individuals, affecting entire communities, including workplaces and schools. The Justice Department acknowledges the critical work of first responders and victim service providers who support those affected by domestic violence.
“The Justice Department is committed to ensuring the safety of all Americans, and that includes addressing and preventing the harm caused by domestic violence,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “This year, we are investing over $690 million, through the Office on Violence Against Women, in funding awards to prevent domestic and dating violence, as well as sexual assault and stalking; to hold offenders accountable; and to reach survivors in every community, territory, and Tribal nation. These awards reflect our steadfast dedication to ending these forms of violence and helping survivors find safety and healing.”
Beyond direct service funding, OVW invests in training and technical assistance through the Training and Technical Assistance Initiative. With grant awards exceeding $39 million to implement more than 59 training and technical assistance projects, this initiative will enhance the capacity of professionals within the civil and criminal justice systems and provide increased training and support for victim service providers nationwide. This funding supports effective responses to domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking while also strengthening a coordinated community response and fostering partnerships among organizations that have not traditionally collaborated in addressing these issues.
“As we celebrate three decades of progress since the passage of the Violence Against Women Act, the landscape of gender-based violence continues to evolve,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco. “Prosecutors, law enforcement, and victim service providers must be equipped to meet emerging challenges and support victims, as well as hold violent actors to account. The grants announced today will bolster services for survivors and provide the tools necessary to address violence against women and advance public safety.”
- The release of grants also coincides with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) and Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSI) weeks, highlighting the importance of preventing and addressing violence among younger generations to break the cycle of violence and support healthy relationships. The Department has announced targeted grants focusing on two crucial areas: violence in higher education settings and programs designed specifically for children and youth. To enhance initiatives to prevent and address domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking including online harassment and technology-facilitated abuse, college campuses nationwide will receive support from $12.19 million in grants from the Grants to Reduce Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault, and Stalking on Campus Program. Additionally, OVW will distribute $9.48 million through the Strengthening Culturally Specific Campuses’ Approaches to Address Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault, and Stalking Initiative. This funding aims to bolster programs at historically Black colleges and universities, Hispanic-serving institutions, and Tribal colleges and universities. Grants totaling more than $8.8 million from the Grants to Prevent and Respond to Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault, Stalking, and Sex Trafficking Against Children and Youth Program will support comprehensive, community-based efforts to develop or expand prevention, intervention, treatment, and response strategies for children and youth impacted by gender-based violence.
“We must prevent and address dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking on our campuses and in the lives of our young people,” said Principal Deputy Associate Attorney General Benjamin C. Mizer. “By empowering campuses and providing resources to support children and youth, we can create environments where all are free to pursue their educational and personal aspirations without fear of violence.”
“As we commemorate Domestic Violence Awareness Month and the 30th anniversary of the Violence Against Women Act, we reaffirm our commitment to a future where everyone can live free from the threat of violence," said OVW Director Rosie Hidalgo. "Every survivor of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking deserves access to trauma-informed, comprehensive services to seek safety, justice, and healing. Through these grants, we support our grantees to provide crucial support, advancing our shared mission to eradicate gender-based violence. We are dedicated to bringing together key partners to advance this vital work through a coordinated community response.”
Additional grant program awards and their respective amounts include:
- Grants totaling more than $22.97 million through the Grants to Enhance Culturally Specific Services for Victims of Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault, and Stalking Program will support community-based programs that provide culturally specific services for survivors of gender-based crimes, as well as the developing innovative culturally specific strategies and projects that enhance access to services and resources for survivors who face obstacles to using more traditional services and resources.
- Grants totaling more than $8 million through OVW's Sexual Assault Services Culturally Specific Program will support nonprofit organizations that focus primarily on culturally specific communities and have experience working with survivors of sexual assault.
- Grants totaling more than $10.82 million through its Grants for Outreach and Services to Underserved Populations Program will support efforts to develop or enhance population-specific outreach and victim services to adult and youth victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking in underserved populations.
- Grants totaling more than $36.09 million from OVW's Rural Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault, and Stalking Program will enhance efforts to support victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking in rural areas and fund projects uniquely designed to address and prevent these crimes in rural areas.
- Grants totaling more than $39.29 million through the Legal Assistance for Victims (LAV) Grant Program will provide funds for comprehensive direct civil and criminal legal assistance to survivors of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking by providing assistance with legal matters arising out of that abuse. Additionally, grants totaling more than $3.14 million through the LAV Grant Program’s Expanding Legal Services Initiative will support community-based organizations establishing legal representation programs for survivors.
- Grants totaling more than $14.66 million from the Justice for Families Program will support court-based and court-related programs such as supervised visitation and safe exchange by and between parents; training for people who work with families in the court system; and civil legal assistance.
- Grants totaling more than $1.42 million from the Training and Services to End Violence and Abuse Against Individuals with Disabilities and Deaf People Program will support efforts to improve the response to survivors of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, and caregiver abuse who have disabilities or are Deaf, and to hold perpetrators of such crimes accountable.
- Grants totaling $3 million from the National Deaf Services Program Initiative will be used to support the continued efforts of Activating Change to reduce barriers and strengthen services for Deaf victims and survivors and to implement recommendations in the report, Expanding Deaf-Specific Victim Services Nationwide: A 5-Year Strategy.
- Grants totaling more than $6.87 million from the Training and Services to End Abuse in Later Life Program will support a comprehensive approach to addressing abuse in later life, including domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, neglect, abandonment, economic abuse, or willful harm committed against victims who are 50 years of age or older.
- Grants totaling more than $3.35 million from the Grants to Engage Men and Boys as Allies in the Prevention of Violence Against Women and Girls Program will support efforts to create educational and community-based programming designed to encourage men and boys to work as allies with women and girls to prevent domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, and sex trafficking.
- Grants totaling $3.6 million from OVW's Research and Evaluation Initiative will support efforts to research and evaluate approaches to preventing and addressing domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking so that communities that benefit from VAWA funding will be better equipped to align their work with practices that are known to be effective.
- Grants totaling more than $1.48 million for a new program, the Expanding Sexual Assault Victim Services on Campus Pilot Program, will support institutions of higher education in improving victim services on campus by expanding access to holistic sexual assault services and creating a promising practices guide for higher education institutions that wish to expand their sexual assault services and advocacy.
- Grants totaling $1.5 million for the STOP Formula Training and Technical Assistance program, which will support the efforts of all states and territories to successfully implement projects through the use of STOP Formula funds to strengthen and build the capacity of civil and criminal justice system professionals and victim service providers across the nation to respond effectively to domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking and to foster partnerships among organizations that have not traditionally worked together to address these crimes.
- Grants totaling $600,000 from the Specialized Training and Technical Assistance for Sexual Assault Victim Response will continue to support the Pennsylvania Coalition to Advance Respect and the North Carolina Coalition Against Sexual Assault to provide frequent and sufficient training, resources, and technical assistance to those working with sexual assault survivors and to provide scholarships for advocates to attend the National Sexual Assault Conference.
- Grants totaling $1.5 million for the Electronic Service Protection Order Court Pilot will be used to support courts that have multidisciplinary partnerships to develop and implement a program for serving protection orders through electronic communication methods and develop best practices relating to such electronic services.
OVW provides leadership in developing the nation’s capacity to reduce violence through the implementation of the Violence Against Women Act and subsequent reauthorizing legislation. Created in 1995, OVW has awarded more than $11 billion in funding to communities across the country that are developing programs, policies, and practices aimed at ending domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. In addition to overseeing federal grant programs, OVW supports policy development and undertakes special initiatives in response to community-identified needs. Learn more at www.justice.gov/ovw.
View the Sexual Assault Services Culturally Specific Program Awards here.
View the ALL Awards here.
View the Campus Awards here.
View the CS Campus Awards here.
View the Culturally Specific Services Program Awards here.
View the CY Awards here.
View the Deaf Services Awards here.
View the Disability Awards here.
View the ELSI Awards here.
View the EM Awards here.
View the ESPOC Awards here.
View the Expanding Sexual Assault Victim Services on Campus Pilot Program Awards here.
View the LAV Awards here.
View the R&E Awards here.
View the Rural Awards here.
View the SA TA Awards here.
View the STOP-TA Awards here.
View the Underserved Awards here.
View the JFF Awards here.
Justice Department to Monitor Compliance with Federal Voting Rights Laws in AlaskaRead the Press Release
Note: Yuvriryukuvgu Yugtun, una neg'arrluku.
The Justice Department announced today that it will monitor compliance with federal voting rights laws in the State of Alaska, for the Oct. 1 Regional Education Attendance Area (REAA) elections. The department will monitor in the Bethel Dillingham and Kusilvak Census Areas, as well as the Northwest Arctic and North Slope Boroughs.
The Justice Department will assign federal observers to monitor the election in the Dillingham and Kusilvak Census Areas to observe compliance with the Voting Rights Act. A federal court previously issued an order to resolve claims under Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act regarding the rights of Yup’ik-speaking voters. The order authorizes federal observers to monitor election day activities in these two census areas. The department is also sending its staff to monitor compliance in the Bethel Census Area, Northwest Arctic Borough and North Slope Borough, Alaska.
The department regularly deploys its staff to monitor for compliance with federal civil rights laws in elections in communities across the country. In addition, the department also deploys federal observers from the Office of Personnel Management, when authorized by federal court order.
The Civil Rights Division’s Voting Section, working with U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, enforces the civil provisions of federal statutes that protect the right to vote, including the Voting Rights Act, National Voter Registration Act, Help America Vote Act, Civil Rights Acts and the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act.
More information about voting and elections is available at www.justice.gov/voting. Learn more about the Voting Rights Act and other federal voting laws at www.justice.gov/crt/voting-section. Information on the language requirements of Section 203 of the Voting Rights and about voting rights generally is available in Yup’ik on the department’s website. Complaints about possible violations of federal voting rights laws can be submitted through the Civil Rights Division at civilrights.justice.gov or by telephone at 1-800-253-3931.
Justice Department Secures Agreement with Wisconsin Department of Corrections to Improve Communication Access for Incarcerated People who are Deaf or Hard of HearingRead the Press Release
The Justice Department today announced a settlement agreement with the Wisconsin Department of Corrections (WDOC) under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The settlement will help ensure that incarcerated individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing have equal access to WDOC’s programs, services and activities, including educational, counseling, medical, recreational and prison employment programs. The agreement resolves the department’s investigation into complaints that WDOC did not provide auxiliary aids and services, such as sign language interpreters, to incarcerated individuals with hearing disabilities.
Under the settlement agreement, WDOC will provide inmates with hearing disabilities appropriate auxiliary aids and services, such as sign language interpreters, video telephones, visual notification systems and hearing aids when necessary. WDOC must also make reasonable modifications to its policies, practices and procedures to accommodate inmates with disabilities, such as handcuffing in front to allow an individual who uses sign language to communicate, and allowing additional time for telephone calls that rely on an interpreter.
“The ability for incarcerated people with hearing disabilities to understand and to be understood is a critical protection provided by the ADA,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Civil Rights Division is committed to ensuring that correctional institutions eliminate barriers, including communication barriers, that prevent inmates with disabilities from participating fully in prison programs.”
“People with disabilities in Wisconsin deserve equal access, and that does not change when they are incarcerated,” said U.S. Attorney Gregory J. Haanstad for the Eastern District of Wisconsin. “The Wisconsin Department of Corrections has now committed to removing barriers to participation for inmates with disabilities in WDOC facilities, including inmates with hearing disabilities. Our office remains dedicated to supporting efforts to improve access and inclusion for everyone in Wisconsin.”
As a result of the agreement announced today, WDOC will implement a process that begins at intake, and continues throughout incarceration, to identify and accommodate inmates with hearing disabilities; develop individualized communication assessment and plans; provide training on the ADA to staff; and pay $15,000 to compensate three incarcerated individuals who were harmed.
The Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Wisconsin handled the matter.
The Justice Department plays a central role in advancing the nation’s goal of equal opportunity, full participation, independent living and economic self-sufficiency for people with disabilities. For more information on the Civil Rights Division, please visit www.justice.gov/crt. For more information on the ADA, please call the department’s toll-free ADA Information Line at 800-514-0301 (TDD 800-514-0383) or visit www.ada.gov. ADA complaints may be filed online at www.ada.gov/complaint. Additional information about the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Civil Rights Programs is available at www.justice.gov/usao-edwi/civil-rights.