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3 October 2024
Dubois couple sentenced for tax fraudRead the Press Release
Tammy Bushnell, 59, and Scott Bushnell, 64, of Dubois, Wyoming, were sentenced yesterday to eight months of home confinement with three years of probation for conspiracy to defraud the United States by underreporting gross income and filing a false tax return.
According to court documents, the Bushnells owned and operated Trails End Guns and Trails End Motel in Dubois. During the 2017 through 2021 tax years, the Bushnells failed to provide all their gross receipts to their CPA and inflated some expenses, thus understating their tax liability for those years. The investigation began in 2021 when the couple listed the motel for sale. Undercover agents posed as potential buyers and were provided with financial statements that reflected substantially more receipts and profits for both businesses than what was reported on the couple’s tax returns. In furtherance of the conspiracy to defraud, the couple routinely destroyed business documents that would reveal true cash receipts and submitted false business records/reports to their accountant.
“Scott and Tammy Bushnell had many chances to correctly report their income; however, they instead used a variety of tactics to conceal income and falsify business expenses,” said Tom Demeo, Acting Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation Denver Field Office. “Tax evasion will continue to be a priority for IRS-CI and we will aggressively pursue those who do not comply with their income tax obligations.”
Both defendants waived indictment and pleaded guilty to an Information earlier in the year. Chief U.S. District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl imposed the sentences and ordered the defendants to pay $122,112.46 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service and $57,882 to the State of Wyoming. They were both fined $13,161 by the court as well. This crime was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation.
Case No. for Tammy Bushnell: 24-CR-00052; Case No. for Scott Bushnell: 24-00090.
Department of Justice Awards More Than $172 Million in Grants to Western District of Texas RecipientsRead the Press Release
SAN ANTONIO – U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza today announced that the Department of Justice’s Office of Justice Programs awarded a total of $172,686,219.00 in grant funds to agencies and services across the Western District of Texas. The funding, distributed among 53 applications, addresses priorities such as mental health response, law enforcement training, improving forensic service processes, supporting rural crime victims, and more. Recipients include the Texas Office of the Governor, the Attorney General of Texas, Texas State University, the Texas Department of Public Safety, the Bexar County Auditor, the Council on At-Risk Youth, and various county and city offices along with universities and programs.
“The Justice Department’s OJP grants program is a testament to our federal government’s commitment to enhancing the safety, well-being and security of communities across the Western District of Texas,” said U.S. Attorney Esparza. “These grants provide crucial support to initiatives that ensure public safety, promote justice, provide support to crime victims, and improve the lives of Americans.”
The awards announced above are being made as part of the regular end-of-fiscal year cycle. More information about 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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Decatur Man Sentenced for Attempting to Sell Thousands of Counterfeit Pills Containing FentanylRead the Press Release
ATLANTA – Gregory Buckner has been sentenced to federal prison for possessing with the intent to distribute fentanyl and heroin and attempting to sell thousands of fentanyl pills disguised as oxycodone tablets.
“Fentanyl and heroin pose an especially insidious danger to the public because they are so often disguised as counterfeit pills,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan. “This investigation and prosecution are the product of our collaborative efforts with our law enforcement partners to remove these deadly drugs from our communities and hold accountable individuals, such as Buckner, who attempt to distribute and profit from them.”
“Keeping our communities safe is our highest priority,” said Robert J. Murphy, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division. “The investigation and subsequent conviction of this drug dealer demonstrates the DEA’s commitment to fight drug traffickers who have no regard for the citizens of our community.”
According to U.S. Attorney Buchanan, the charges, and other information presented in court: In April 2023, Buckner attempted to sell 10,000 pills that purported to be oxycodone, but actually contained fentanyl. When investigators confronted Buckner in a vehicle just prior to this drug transaction, he jumped out of his car and fled on foot. DEA special agents then searched a storage unit rented by Buckner and found a kilogram of fentanyl and more than a kilogram of heroin. Buckner was arrested three months later as part of a fugitive operation.
Gregory Buckner, 48, of Decatur, Georgia, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Leigh Martin May to six years, 11 months in prison to be followed by four years of supervised release. Buckner was convicted of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, after he pleaded guilty on May 23, 2024.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with valuable assistance provided by the Georgia State Patrol and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Eric J. White and John T. DeGenova 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.
Crip Gang Member Sentenced to 40 Years in Prison for Trafficking Fentanyl and MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A Crip Gang member from Winston Salem was sentenced today to 480 months in prison for trafficking fentanyl and methamphetamine in the Raleigh area. On April 25, 2024, Marquis Peterson, age 30, was convicted by a federal jury of three charges including conspiracy to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, possession with the intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, and conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, Peterson was identified as a source of supply for fentanyl and methamphetamine with accomplice, Twalondus Simmons (5:23-CR-00023-D-RN-2). Simmons pled guilty for his trafficking role in March of 2024, and was sentenced to 84 months in June. During the investigation, law enforcement conducted a number of controlled purchases of fentanyl and methamphetamine from Peterson.
While in custody and pending trial, Peterson orchestrated the sale and transport of drugs into the Piedmont Regional Jail in Farmville, Virginia and engaged in witness intimidation by trying to coerce his girlfriend to lie to the grand jury. When she told him that she told the truth, he called her a “rat” and told her “you dead.” Peterson, a convicted felon, was accountable for over 9 kilograms of methamphetamine, and 428 grams of fentanyl. His previous conviction was for robbery with a deadly weapon.
Michael Easley, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. The Drug Enforcement Administration investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelly L. Sandling and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Aria Q. Merle prosecuted the case.
The prosecution of Peterson was a part of Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force Operation (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launders, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:23-CR-00023-D-RN-1.
Cornville Man Pleads Guilty After Sending Covert FBI Agent Child Sexual Abuse Material over Kik MessengerRead the Press Release
BANGOR, Maine: A Cornville man pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court in Bangor to accessing child sexual abuse material.
According to court records, in August 2020, an individual using the Kik Messenger app contacted an FBI online covert employee (OCE) after the OCE posted on an online bulletin board known to be frequented by people with a sexual interest in children and/or child pornography. The username for the Kik account and associated email address were traced to Wade Willette, 46. In January 2022, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) received a cyber tip from Kik revealing that the same username had uploaded three videos containing child sexual abuse material the previous month.
In March 2023, investigators executed a search warrant at Willette’s residence, and FBI agents interviewed Willette. In the interview, he confirmed the Kik account was his, that he had searched for and viewed child sexual abuse material on his phone, and that he had engaged in online conversations about child pornography in the past. Two images of young children being sexually abused were recovered from his phone.
Willette faces up to 20 years imprisonment and a fine up to $250,000. Any sentence will be followed by five years to life of supervised release. He will be sentenced after the completion of a presentence investigative report by the U.S. Probation Office. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The FBI investigated the case.
To report an incident involving the possession, distribution, receipt or production of child pornography: Child sexual abuse material – in legal terms, “child pornography” – captures the sexual abuse and exploitation of children. These images document victims’ exploitation and abuse, and they suffer revictimization every time the images are shared or viewed. File a report with the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at https://report.cybertip.org or 1-800-843-5678. If you are in Maine and you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted or abused, you can get help by calling the free, private 24-hour statewide sexual assault helpline at 1-800-871-7741.
Project Safe Childhood: This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Department’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-me/psc.
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Convicted Felon Sentenced to 37 Months in Prison on Gun ChargeRead the Press Release
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – A convicted felon has been sentenced for illegally possessing a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Special Agent in Charge Marcus Watson.
Chief U.S. District Court Judge R. David Proctor sentenced Antony Daizshaun Zyquan Kirksey, aka “Antony Carson Kirksey,” 24, of Anniston, to 37 months in prison. In June, Kirksey pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court documents, on October 12, 2023, an Anniston Police Department officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle. Kirksey was a passenger in the vehicle. When asked by the officer if there were weapons in the vehicle, Kirksey admitted to having a firearm in a bag he was wearing across his chest. The officer recovered a loaded Glock 9mm pistol and a loaded extra magazine.
Kirksey is prohibited from possessing a firearm because of prior felony convictions.
The ATF investigated the case along with the Anniston Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristy M. Peoples prosecuted the case.
Construction Company CEO and Foreperson Charged with Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud in Connection with Newark Lead Service Line Replacement ProgramRead the Press Release
Video Statement
NEWARK, N.J. – The chief executive officer of a construction company and a foreperson for the company were arrested today for their roles in a conspiracy to commit wire fraud in connection with the Newark Lead Service Line Replacement (LSLR) Program, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.
Michael Sawyer, 57, of Burlington, New Jersey, and Latronia Sanders, aka “Tee,” 55, of Roselle, New Jersey, are each charged by complaint with conspiracy to commit wire fraud. They are scheduled to appear today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael A. Hammer in Newark federal court.
“As our complaint alleges, Michael Sawyer and Latronia Sanders worked for a company hired by the city of Newark to replace lead pipes, but instead, they intentionally left lead pipes in the ground. By causing misleading photographs and verification forms to be submitted, Sawyer and Sanders concealed that they intentionally did not replace lead pipes and defrauded Newark by collecting payment for work they did not properly perform. Today, we begin the process of holding them accountable.”
U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger
“For years, lead pipes that transport drinking water to homes in Newark remained buried in the ground after the city hired a company to replace them,” Newark FBI Acting Special Agent in Charge Nelson I. Delgado said. “The business, along with others, were paid to replace the water service lines because any amount of lead exposure is detrimental to people's health, particularly for children. We allege the subjects in this investigation knew they were not replacing the lead pipes, and then passed off misleading photos to conceal the ones they left in the ground. We are asking anyone who sees something or knows something they want to report to please call FBI Newark at 973-792-3000. We will hold accountable anyone who sees a payday in ripping off governmental agencies entrusted to protect the communities they serve.”
“These defendants allegedly undercut Newark’s lead service line replacement project that sought removal of all lead lines throughout the city,” Special Agent in Charge Tyler Amon with Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Criminal Investigation Division in New Jersey said. “Violators who employ deception to compromise the integrity of important public drinking water related projects will be criminally investigated and held to account.”
“The EPA OIG is committed to doggedly pursuing criminal activity that targets critical water infrastructure funding," said Special Agent in Charge Nicolas Evans of the EPA Office of Inspector General. "Taking government funds but failing to replace lead service lines defrauds the program and hurts Americans’ access to safe drinking water.”
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
Beginning in 2016, high levels of lead were found in the drinking water in some of Newark’s schools. From 2017 to 2019, periodic testing of Newark’s drinking water by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) showed lead levels that were among the highest of any major city in the United States.
In March 2019, Newark announced plans to replace approximately 18,000 lead service lines within city limits as part of its LSLR Program. Newark hired an engineering firm to oversee the implementation of the program and contractors to complete the replacement work. JAS Group Enterprise Inc. (JAS) was one of the contractors hired by Newark. Prior to being hired as a contractor, JAS also worked on the LSLR Program as a subcontractor for another construction company.
Sawyer was the president and chief executive officer of JAS and responsible for overseeing and managing JAS’s operations. Sanders was employed by JAS as a foreperson of JAS crews assigned to replace lead pipes in Newark during the LSLR Program. Sawyer, Sanders, and others conspired to defraud Newark and others in connection with JAS’s performance as a contractor and as a subcontractor during the LSLR Program.
As alleged in the complaint, Sawyer, Sanders, and others intentionally failed to replace all lead pipes at certain locations as required under the terms of the relevant contracts, yet caused the submission of payment applications to Newark falsely representing that JAS completed the work in accordance with the contracts. Sawyer, Sanders, and others submitted false or misleading documents to support payment applications with respect to certain work sites. These materials included photographs that visually represented that the lead replacement was done or was unnecessary, but in fact were taken in a way to conceal that lead pipes were left in place.
At other sites where the water service lines already consisted entirely of copper pipes, Sawyer, Sanders, and others conspired to falsely represent that JAS had installed those copper pipes after removing lead pipes. Sawyer, Sanders, and others then caused the submission of fraudulent payment applications for work that JAS never completed, and induced Newark to pay JAS for work that JAS did not perform.
The charge of conspiracy to commit wire fraud is punishable by a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000, twice the gross profits, or twice the gross loss suffered by the victims of the offense, whichever is greatest.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Delgado in Newark; the EPA, Criminal Investigation Division Northeast Area Branch, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Amon; the EPA Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Evans, and the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General, Northeast Region, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Mellone, with the investigation.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Edeli Rivera, Clara Kim, and Katherine Calle of the Special Prosecutions Division in Newark.
The charge and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
sawyersanders.complaint.pdfCo-Conspirators Sentenced to Multiple Years in Prison for Possessing MachinegunsRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – Alfredo Macias, 20, Daniel Alfredo Galvan, 20, both of Phoenix, and Jesus David Vega-Rivera, 26, of Mexico, were sentenced to prison last week by United States District Judge Krissa M. Lanham for Conspiracy to Possess Machineguns. Macias and Vega-River were each sentenced to 51 months in prison, and Galvan was sentenced to 42 months in prison. All three defendants were also sentenced to 36 months of supervised release following their release from prison.
Macias and Galvan negotiated with another person to purchase machineguns, with the intention of trafficking those firearms to Mexico. The parties exchanged text messages depicting the firearms and cash. At the time of the in-person exchange, Vega-Rivera was present with the cash for the machineguns. All three individuals were arrested by ATF agents.
Before handing down the sentence, Judge Lanham explained the seriousness and danger of machineguns being able to fire many rounds in rapid succession and the capability to cause immense injury to multiple people.
Macias pleaded guilty to Possession or Transfer of a Machinegun on July 2, 2024. Galvan pleaded guilty to Possession or Transfer of a Machinegun on June 7, 2024. And Vega-Rivera pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Possess or Transfer a Machinegun on June 7, 2024.
This case was part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation in this case. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Phoenix, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-24-00258-PHX-KML
RELEASE NUMBER: 2024-136_Macias# # #
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.Clearfield County Man Sentenced to 70 Months in Prison for Conspiring to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A former resident of Morrisdale, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 70 months in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Davin Gower, 30.
According to information presented to the Court, from December 2019 to April 2020, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Gower conspired to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. Gower was intercepted on a federal wiretap obtaining quantities of methamphetamine that he distributed to others.
Assistant United States Attorney Maureen Sheehan-Balchon prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Olshan commended the Drug Enforcement Administration and Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Gower. Additional agencies participating in this investigation include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service, Homeland Security Investigations, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, Clearfield County District Attorney’s Office, Erie County District Attorney’s Office, Millcreek Police Department, Erie Bureau of Police, and other local law enforcement agencies.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
City Man Pleads Guilty to Robbing a Northeast Philadelphia Business, Carjacking a Mother and Daughter Outside Their Home in September 2022Read the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced that Amir Harvey, 24, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, entered a plea of guilty today before United States District Court Judge Paul S. Diamond to Hobbs Act robbery, carjacking, and felon in possession of ammunition, in connection with the robbery of a commercial business and a carjacking, both in Northeast Philadelphia.
Harvey was arrested and charged by complaint in September of 2022 and then indicted on these charges in October of that year.
On September 9, 2022, at approximately 11 p.m., the defendant and three others approached the Hook and Reel restaurant, located at 9763 Roosevelt Boulevard. Upon encountering an employee of the restaurant outside, Harvey and the others forced him inside, ransacked the office, stole about $400 from the cash drawers, and fled.
In the early morning hours of September 19, 2022, Philadelphia police officers responded to a report of a robbery in progress on the 8900 block of Maxwell Place, where the victim reported that her car had just been stolen by an armed individual as she and her teenage daughter were about to leave for school.
The victim stated that around 6:15 a.m., she started her vehicle using an application on her cell phone. A short time later, she and her daughter exited their house and walked to the car parked in the front driveway, when they were approached by an armed individual, later identified as the defendant, who pointed a firearm, later found to be a replica, at their heads.
The defendant grabbed the victim’s keys and purse and sped away in her vehicle. The victim then used its location tracking feature on her cell phone app and informed police, who responded to that location on the 2000 block of Griffith Street, about 2½ miles from the victim’s home. Using neighborhood video surveillance footage, investigators traced the movement of the victim’s vehicle and the defendant to a nearby apartment complex.
“Amir Harvey ambushed a worker just trying to wrap up his shift, and a mom and daughter looking to start their day,” said U.S. Attorney Romero. “Robbing innocent people at gunpoint, even if the gun’s not real, is no game. It’s a serious crime — and an excellent way to earn an extended stay in federal prison. My office and our partners on the Philadelphia Carjacking Task Force will continue to make Philly safer, as we lock up violent criminals with regard for neither the law nor other people.”
“Violence against innocent Philadelphia victims — in this case a business employee, mother, and daughter — will not stand,” said Eric DeGree, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF Philadelphia Field Office. “ATF is on the frontline in the fight against violent crime, particularly carjackings and robberies. We hope this case deters those willing to use violence in our community. We will continue to work with our local, state, and federal partners to prevent and prosecute violent crime when it occurs.”
The swift action to investigate and federally charge this defendant is the work of the Philadelphia Carjacking Task Force, which comprises members of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Violent Crime Unit; the FBI; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; and the Philadelphia Police Department. The goal of the Task Force is to stem the wave of armed carjackings and violent crimes through investigative and enforcement techniques meant to identify, and refer for federal prosecution, all who terrorize innocent victims through commission of these offenses within Philadelphia and surrounding areas.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Philadelphia Police Department and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Robert E. Eckert and Lauren E. Stram.
Cincinnati man pleads guilty to conspiring to steal mail from USPS collection boxes, faces 4 years in prisonRead the Press Release
CINCINNATI – DuJuane L. Samuels, 25, of Cincinnati, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court today to conspiring to commit mail theft.
The plea agreement includes a recommended sentence of 48 months in prison.
According to court documents, at 3am on March 11, Samuels unlawfully possessed a postal key, which he used to access mail collection boxes on Cornell Road in Cincinnati.
Samuels stole mail from the boxes, including a GPS device that was monitored by the United States Postal Inspection Service.
The GPS data led investigators back to Samuels’s residence on Republic Avenue in Cincinnati.
During a subsequent search of the property, agents discovered a stolen USPS arrow key, a firearm and numerous stolen checks.
Samuels was indicted on March 25.
Kenneth L. Parker, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; and Lesley Allison, Inspector in Charge, U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), Pittsburgh Division announced the guilty plea entered today before Senior U.S. District Judge Timothy S. Black. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy S. Mangan is representing the United States in this case.
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Carencro Man Sentenced to More than 38 Years in Federal Prison for Trafficking NarcoticsRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. – United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced that Oliver J. Martin, 40, of Carencro, Louisiana, has been sentenced by United States District Judge Robert R. Summerhays to 465 months (38 years, 9 months) in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and for related firearms crimes.
Law enforcement agents with the Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit began an investigation into Martin and his drug trafficking activities in Lafayette Parish in 2019. Agents conducted surveillance of Martin’s residence and on October 5, 2019, executed a search warrant for his residence located on LA Highway 1252 in Carencro. Inside the residence, agents discovered multiple narcotics, which included approximately 320 grams of heroin, 445 grams of methamphetamine, 970 grams of cocaine, 2,925 grams of marijuana, and ecstasy tablets. In addition, agents found an SKS rifle with an obliterated serial number, a Ruger LCP handgun with an obliterated serial number, a Beretta 92 pistol, a Smith & Wesson .38 caliber revolver, numerous rounds of ammunition, and over $250,000 in cash, along with a notebook used as a drug ledger, a digital scale and money counter. Martin was not present at the time that the search warrant was executed. The suspected narcotics were sent to the crime lab for testing and were confirmed to be scheduled narcotics.
On October 9, 2019, agents located Martin at a gas station in Carencro and when officers with the Carencro Police Department attempted to approach Martin’s vehicle, he fled the scene and a chase ensued with Martin driving at high rates of speed in excess of 100 miles per hour. During the pursuit, Martin lost control of his vehicle and his vehicle overturned. He was subsequently taken into custody and law enforcement agents found a large amount of narcotics in his possession. At the time of his arrest, Martin had other outstanding warrants for his arrest. He has a lengthy criminal history dating back to 2001.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office, and Carencro Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Craig R. Bordelon and LaDonte A. Murphy.
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Canonsburg Resident Indicted on 11 Counts Involving Sexual Exploitation of MinorsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal laws regarding the sexual exploitation of minors, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.
The 11-count Indictment named Justin A. Darby, 36, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, Darby received and attempted to receive material involving the sexual exploitation of a minor on five separate occasions during September and October of 2021, as well as on one occasion in February 2024. Darby is also alleged to have distributed such material on one occasion in September 2021. The Indictment further alleges that, from September 20, 2021, through October 29, 2021, Darby accessed with intent to view material involving the sexual exploitation of minors, and that, on February 6, 2024, Darby induced a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of such conduct. Additionally, Darby is charged with altering, destroying, concealing, or covering up records and documents associated with a messaging application on his cellular telephone on two separate dates.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 30 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Darby was ordered to be detained.
Assistant United States Attorney Heidi M. Grogan is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Camden Businessman and Associate Charged with Conspiracy to Commit Tax FraudRead the Press Release
CAMDEN, N.J. – Two men from Camden, New Jersey, were indicted for their roles in conspiring to defraud the IRS by concealing cash wages paid to a business’s employees, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced today.
Tri Anh Tieu, 53, and Andy Tran, 49, both of Camden, New Jersey, were both charged with one count of conspiring to defraud the United States. They were arraigned before U.S. Magistrate Judge Elizabeth A. Pascal in Camden federal court on Oct. 2, 2024, and were each released on $100,000 unsecured bond.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
Tieu owed Tri States Staffing LLC, a business based in Pennsauken, New Jersey. Tran was an employee of Tri States Staffing who, at times, served as its representative. Tri States Staffing provided temporary workers to New Jersey businesses located in Gloucester and Burlington Counties. As part of its agreement with its customer businesses, Tri States Staffing was responsible for collecting and paying over to the IRS the payroll taxes due and owing on the wages paid to the temporary workers provided by Tri States Staffing.
Between the third quarter of 2018 and the second quarter of 2022, Tri States received more than $2.5 million in payments from its customer businesses. Tieu and Tran paid Tri States’s employees in cash and failed to pay over the payroll taxes due and owing on those wages. Tieu and Tran also filed false individual income tax returns that falsely omitted the income each received from Tri States Staffing. Tieu spent at least some of the unpaid payroll taxes on personal expenditures, including gambling.
The count of conspiracy to defraud the United States carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Amy MacNeely in Philadelphia and Special Agent in Charge Jenifer L. Piovesan in Newark, with the investigation leading to the charge.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Bender of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Camden.
The charges and allegations contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
tieutran.indictment.pdfCalifornia woman charged with international parental kidnapping after attempting to flee to Canada with 12-year-old-daughterRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Mei Tian, 55, of Irvine, CA, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with international parental kidnapping and making a false statement to Customs and Border Protection officers. The charges carry a maximum penalty of eight years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, on the evening of September 27, 2024, Tian and her 12-year- old daughter were riding in an Uber vehicle, and attempted to make entry into Canada, but were refused because an officer had suspicions related to Tian’s admissibility as a visitor. She presented a letter indicating that she had permission from her husband to bring her daughter to Canada, but the officer questioned the authenticity of the letter and believed the signature on it was forged. As a result, Tian and her daughter re-entered the United States at the Rainbow Bridge Port of Entry in Niagara Falls, NY. Customs and Border Protection primary queries returned a positive alert, with records indicating that Tian had no legal right to take her daughter out of the country. The vehicle was referred to secondary for additional processing. During secondary inspection, CBP officers discovered several alert records related to Tian and her daughter. One indicated that Tian’s daughter was prohibited by court order from departing the United States, and that Tian and her daughter had been “on the run” since August 2024 and were not supposed to leave Orange County, California, without court approval.
Tian and her daughter were traveling with multiple pieces of luggage and multiple travel documents, including a U.S. Passport, a People’s Republic of China Passport, several cancelled People’s Republic of China passports, an Orange County Certificate of Live Birth, and a handwritten letter with a signature and notarized in the name of the father that purportedly gave permission to Tian to travel out of the country with her daughter.
Subsequent investigation determined that once in Canada, Tian was allegedly planning to travel to China with her daughter. In addition, investigators learned that the Riverside County, California, District Attorney’s Office was investigating the abduction of Tian’s daughter, and that the daughter’s father is the sole custodian of the minor child. The daughter was on a visitation with Tian, and was scheduled to be returned to her father on August 11, 2024, but was never returned.
Tian made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge H. Kenneth Schroeder, Jr. and is being held pending a detention hearing on October 3, 2024, at 1:00 p.m.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by Customs and Border Protection, under the direction of Director of Field Operations Rose Brophy, and Homeland Security Investigations Border Enforcement and Security Task Force (Best), under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Butte County Man Indicted for Child EnticementRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned an indictment today against Kevin Leslie Gipson, 58, of Oroville, charging him with attempted coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, Gipson attempted to persuade, coerce, and entice a minor to engage in oral copulation and to commit lewd and lascivious acts on a child under 14 years old.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Sacramento Sheriff’s Office, the Sacramento Valley Hi-Tech Crimes Task Force/Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica Delaney is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Gipson faces a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison and a $250,000 fine. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. Click on the “resources” tab for information about internet-safety education.
Browning woman admits lying to FBI in investigation of apartment fire on Blackfeet Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Browning woman admitted today to lying to the FBI during an investigation of a fire at an apartment building on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
The defendant, Amorette Diederika Ground, 33, pleaded guilty to false statement. Ground faces a maximum of five years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for Feb. 5, 2025. Ground was released pending further proceedings.
In court documents, the government alleged that on July 23, 2023, law enforcement and emergency services responded to multiple calls to Blackfeet dispatch of a fire at the Death Row apartments in Browning, on the Blackfeet Reservation. The burned apartment belonged to Blackfeet Housing Authority and had been rented previously by Ground. A state fire investigator arrived the next morning and determined that the fire was deliberately set. An FBI agent also arrived the same day and conducted interviews in conjunction with the fire investigator and Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services. A witness reported that Ground had been at the witness’ house the evening before and that the fire broke out right after Ground left. That same day, the FBI interviewed Ground regarding her whereabout the night before. Ground denied being near the apartments on the previous evening. The agent advised Ground that it was a federal crime to lie to a federal agent. Ground continued to deny being at the witness’ house the day before. Eventually, Ground admitted to having been at the residence the night before.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case. The FBI, Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services and Montana Division of Criminal Investigation’s Fire Prevention and Investigation Section conducted the investigation.
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Bronx Man Sentenced to More Than Two Years in Prison for Fentanyl DistributionRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Bronx man was sentenced yesterday for travelling to the Worcester area to distribute approximately one kilogram of fentanyl.
Jose Luis Lopez Genao, 32, of Bronx, N.Y., was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Mark G. Mastroianni to 30 months in prison to be followed by four years of supervised release. In June 2024, Genao pleaded guilty today to one count of distribution of and possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl. Sentencing is scheduled for Sept. 23, 2024. Genao was arrested and charged in December 2022.
In and around June 2021, Genao and other subjects were identified as receiving large shipments of fentanyl from outside the United States and then distributing it throughout the Springfield and New England areas. On Dec. 8, 2022, Genao travelled from New York to the Worcester area to deliver approximately one kilogram of fentanyl. Genao was arrested immediately after he delivered the fentanyl to a government witness.
Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy and Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by Homeland Security Investigations in New England; Massachusetts State Police; the Chicopee, West Springfield and Easthampton Police Departments; and the Berkshire, Hampden and Franklin County Sherriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Neil L. Desroches of the Springfield Branch Unit prosecuted the case.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative, which 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. 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.
Billings woman admits to meth trafficking, straw purchase of gunRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Billings woman accused of trafficking methamphetamine and of buying a firearm for a juvenile in which the gun was used in a burglary admitted charges today, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
The defendant, Ali Sage Hausmann, 25, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute meth and to false statement during a firearms transaction. Hausmann faces a mandatory minimum of five years to 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine and at least four years of supervised release on the drug charge and a maximum of 10 years in prison, $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release on the firearm charge.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for Feb. 5, 2025. Hausmann was released pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that on May 9, 2022, Hausmann purchased a Beretta 9mm semi-automatic pistol in Billings. Hausmann was accompanied by a juvenile, identified as H., and her boyfriend. Hausmann filled out an ATF Form 4473 and indicated she was the actual purchaser of the firearm. The next day, H. burglarized a home in Billings with the Beretta 9mm. Another juvenile who participated in the burglary told law enforcement that H. was in possession of a Beretta 9mm pistol. The other juvenile indicated that the firearm was purchased for H. by a female, known to him as Ali, the day prior to the burglary. Hausmann’s boyfriend confirmed to law enforcement that Hausmann purchased the Beretta 9mm for H. On May 25, 2022, Hausmann pawned the Beretta pistol.
During the investigation into the firearm purchase, law enforcement learned that Hausmann was selling drugs. Information from Hausmann’s Facebook account indicated she sold and purchased meth, and that she bought the firearm for H. In December, law enforcement served a search warrant on Hausmann’s residence and located a small amount of meth in her room and a different firearm in her purse. Hausmann admitted to selling drugs.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Billings Police Department conducted the investigation.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
This case was prosecuted under the new criminal provisions of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which Congress enacted, and the President signed in June 2022. The Act is the first federal statute specifically designed to target the unlawful trafficking and straw-purchasing of firearms.
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BLM Activist Sentenced to Prison for Wire Fraud and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
TOLEDO, Ohio - Sir Maejor Page, 35, of Toledo, has been sentenced to 42 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey Helmick after a jury convicted him of wire fraud and money laundering for defrauding donors of more than $450,000 that they collectively gave to his nonprofit “Black Lives Matter of Greater Atlanta” (BLM of Greater Atlanta) based on Page’s false representations. He was also ordered to pay a $400 special assessment fee.
Page continued to collect donations to his purported social justice charity through the organization’s Facebook page even after its tax-exempt status was revoked for failure to submit IRS Form 990 for three consecutive years. He regularly posted content to Facebook about social and racial issues to give his nonprofit the appearance of legitimacy, despite no longer being tax-exempt. He also used Facebook to message privately with users, and he falsely represented that their donations would be used to “fight for George Floyd” and the “movement.” As a result, approximately 18,000 people donated to the BLM of Greater Atlanta charity through its Facebook account, which Page administered.
Page used the donations to BLM for his own personal benefit. He purchased entertainment, hotel rooms, clothing, firearms, and a property that he intended to use as his personal residence. He attempted to conceal the purchase of the property by using the name “Hi Frequency Ohio” and asked the seller to sign a nondisclosure agreement that would have prevented the seller from listing Page as the actual buyer.
“Mr. Page took advantage of a cause meant to fight social injustices, using it instead to line his own pockets with thousands of dollars of donations,” said U.S. Attorney Rebecca C. Lutzko for the Northern District of Ohio. “People donate their hard-earned money to support causes they believe in, and when a fraudster like Page comes along and tries to get away with a fake charity scheme, it hurts legitimate nonprofit organizations that rely on the generosity of others to advance their missions and make positive change in the world. This Office will hold accountable those who try to profit by scamming unsuspecting people out of their money like Page did here.”
"The FBI will aggressively investigate individuals, like Sir Maejor Page, who engage in fraudulent charity schemes at the expense of the American public,” said FBI Cleveland Special Agent in Charge Greg Nelsen. “Page is a calculating criminal who willingly conspired to steal hundreds of thousands of dollars through the trusting public. Today’s sentence holds him accountable and demonstrates that the FBI will steadfastly pursue perpetrators who target American citizens.”
This case was investigated by the FBI Cleveland Division and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Gene Crawford and Rob Melching.
Armed Career Criminal Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Being A Felon in Possession of A FirearmRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—Marcus Venson, a multi-convicted felon, will spend the next 15 years in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Jonathan D. Ross, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, announced the sentence, which was handed down on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, by Chief United States District Judge Kristine G. Baker.
On August 24, 2023, Venson, 45, of Little Rock, pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm. Chief Judge Baker also sentenced Venson to three years supervised release. Venson was indicted on November 2, 2022, in a second superseding indictment, on one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.
An investigation revealed that on March 18, 2018, the Little Rock Police Department responded to a call of a theft that just occurred at a residence. The caller at the scene advised officers that a person drove to a nearby residence and entered the residence. Officers located Venson’s car outside and discovered he was inside the residence and carrying a television toward the front door. Venson, who was ordered to put the television down and show his hands, stated, “I’m just trying to steal stuff.” At this time, officers observed a silver firearm in Venson’s pocket, but Venson stated he did not have a firearm, while at the same time touching the firearm. Venson was placed into custody after officers ordered him to come out of the residence. During a search of Venson, officers recovered a firearm, ammunition, and phencyclidine (PCP).
Venson is classified as an armed career criminal offender due to his violent criminal history that includes convictions for aggravated assault, terroristic threatening, residential burglary, and battery in the second degree. There is no parole in the federal system.
The investigation was conducted by the Little Rock Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jordan Crews and John Ray White.
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Additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
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@USAO_EDAR
2 October 2024
법무부와 콜로라도 사법부, 영어 능력이 제한된 개인을 위한 법원의 언어 접근성 개선Read the Press Release
법무부는 오늘 콜로라도 사법부가 주 법원 시스템과 상호 작용하는 제한된 영어 능력(LEP)을 가진 사람들이 의미 있는 언어 접근을 보장하기 위해 중요한 조치를 취했다고 발표했습니다.
2023년 7월, 법원이 1964년 민권법 제6조(Title VI)에 따라 LEP를 갖춘 개인에게 필요한 언어 서비스를 제공하지 않는다는 불만을 접수한 후 법무부 민권부는 콜로라도 사법부와 합의했습니다. 제6조는 연방 재정 지원을 받는 사람들의 인종, 피부색 및 국적을 바탕으로 차별을 금지합니다.
법무부의 조사에 따라 콜로라도 사법부는 불만 사항에서 제기된 우려 사항을 해결하기 위해 이미 취한 사전 조치를 확인하고 부서와 협력하여 언어 접근 프로그램을 다양하게 개선했습니다.
법무부 민권부의 Kristen Clarke 법무차관보는 "법정 안팎에서 정확하고 시기적절하게 통역 서비스를 제공하는 것은 모든 법원 사용자가 사법부에 동등하게 접근할 수 있도록 보장하는 데 가장 중요합니다. 콜로라도 사법부가 취한 조치는 강력한 언어 접근 프로그램을 구축하기 위한 진정한 의지를 보여주는 모델입니다."라고 말했습니다.
법무부가 콜로라도 사법부와 협력하기 시작한 해에 법원은 새로운 언어 접근 코디네이터를 고용하고, 언어 접근 금융 정책국을 개정하고, 통역사를 위한 새로운 스케줄링 시스템을 만들기 시작했으며, 헤드셋과 아이패드를 포함한 법원 통역에 사용할 새로운 장비를 구입하고, 법원 직원과 통역사를 교육하고, 기타 주요 개선 사항을 구현했습니다.
부서는 계속해서 이러한 변경 사항 실행을 모니터하고 대중들의 피드백도 받을 것입니다. 차별적 관행에 대한 불만은 민권부 웹사이트(civilrights.justice.gov)를 통해 신고할 수 있습니다.
민권부에 대한 더 많은 정보는 웹사이트(www.justice.gov/crt)에서 이용 가능합니다. www.lep.gov에서 제한된 영어 능력과 제6조에 대한 정보를 확인할 수 있으며, 법원별 정보는 www.lep.gov/state-courts에서 확인할 수 있습니다.
司法部和科羅拉多州司法機構改善英語能力有限人士在法院的無障礙語言使用情況Read the Press Release
司法部今日宣佈，科羅拉多州司法機構已採取重大措施，確保使用州法院系統的英語能力有限 (LEP) 人士能以有意義的方式無障礙地使用他們的語言。
司法部民權司於 2023 年 7 月收到投訴，指法院未有按照 1964 年《民權法案》第六章下的規定，向英語能力有限的人士提供所需的語言服務。其後，民權司就此事宜與科羅拉多州司法機構聯絡。《民權法案》第六章禁止接受聯邦財務援助的實體因個人的種族、膚色和國籍而作出歧視。
為回應司法部的查詢，科羅拉多州司法機構現已採取積極措施，以解決該投訴提出的問題，並與該部門合作，進一步改善其無障礙語言使用計劃。
司法部民權司助理檢察長 Kristen Clarke 表示：「在法庭內外提供準確及時的口譯服務，能確保所有法庭使用者都能平等地獲得司法保護。“科羅拉多州司法機構所採取的行動堪稱典範，更顯示出他們積極履行建立一個強大的無障礙語言使用計劃的承諾。”
司法部已與科羅拉多州司法機構合作一年。該法院目前已聘請了一名新的語言使用協調員，也修訂了語言使用辦公室的財務政策，更開始為口譯員建立新的排班系統。此外，他們也購置了適用於法院口譯的新設備（包括耳機和 iPad）和對法院工作人員和口譯員進行培訓，也落實了其他重要的改善措施。
司法部會繼續跟進和監測這些改善措施的落實情況，並歡迎公眾提出相關意見。您可以透過民權司網站civilrights.justice.gov舉報或投訴任何歧視性行爲。
有關民權司的更多資訊，請前往 www.justice.gov/crt。 有關英語能力有限和《民權法案》第六章的資訊，請瀏覽 www.lep.gov，而有關法院的特定資訊，請前往 www.lep.gov/state-courts。
司法部和科罗拉多州司法机构改善英语水平有限的个人在法庭上的语言使用Read the Press Release
司法部今天宣布，科罗拉多州司法机构已采取重要措施，确保英语水平有限 (LEP) 与州法院系统互动的人能够获得有意义的语言服务。
2023 年 7 月，司法部民权司收到科罗拉多州司法机构的投诉，称法院没有按照 1964 年《民权法案》第六章的要求向 LEP 个人提供所需的语言服务。《民权法案》第六章禁止接受联邦财政援助的实体基于种族、肤色和民族血统做出歧视行为。
为了回应该部门的询问，科罗拉多州司法机构确定了 已经采取的积极措施解决投诉中提出的问题，并与该司合作对其语言访问计划进行了各种其他改进。
“在法庭内外提供准确、及时的口译服务对于确保所有法庭使用者都能平等诉诸司法至关重要，”司法部民权司助理司法部长克里斯汀·克拉克说。“科罗拉多州司法机构采取的行动堪称典范，体现了对建立强大的语言准入计划的真正承诺。”
自司法部开始与科罗拉多州司法机构合作以来，法院聘请了一位新的语言协调员；修订了语言使用办公室的财务政策；开始为口译员创建新的排班系统；购买了用于法庭口译的新设备，包括耳机和 iPad；培训了法庭工作人员和口译员；并实施了其他重要改进。
该部门将继续监督这些改革的实施，并欢迎公众提供反馈意见。有关歧视性做法的投诉可通过民权部门的网站进行举报：civilrights.justice.gov
有关民权部门的更多信息，请访问其网站： www.justice.gov/crt. 有关英语水平有限和第六章的信息，请访问： www.lep.gov, 关于法院的信息可以在以下网址找到：www.lep.gov/state-courts.
የፍትህ ዲፓርትመንት እና የኮሎራዶ የህግ ተርጓሚ በፍርድ ቤት ውስጥ ውስን የሆነ የእንግሊዘኛ ቋንቋ ችሎታ ያላቸውን ሰዎች የቋንቋ ተደራሽነት አሻሽለዋል።Read the Press Release
የኮሎራዶ የህግ ተርጓሚ አካላት ውስን የሆነ የእንግሊዘኛ ቋንቋ ችሎታ ያላቸው ሰዎች (LEP) እና የፍርድ ቤት ጉዳይ ያላቸው ሰዎች ትርጉም ያለው የቋንቋ ተደራሽነት እንዲኖራቸው ትልቅ እርምጃ መውሰዳቸውን የህግ ክፍል በዛሬው እለት አሳውቋል።
ጁላይ 2023 ላይ የዲፓርትመንቱ የሲቪል መብቶች ክፍል የኮሎራዶ ህግ ተርጓሚን ያገኘ ሲሆን ይህም የሆነው ፍርድ ቤቶች ውስን የሆነ የእንግሊዘኛ ቋንቋ ችሎታ ላላቸው ሰዎች በሲቪል መብቶች አዋጅ 1964 (ርእስ VI) መሰረት አስፈላጊ የሆነ የቋንቋ አገልግሎት ካለማቅረባቸው ጋር በተያያዘ ቅሬታ ከተቀበለ በኋላ ነው። ርእስ VI በዘር፣ ቀለም እና የፌደራል ፋይናንስ ድጋፍን ለሚቀበሉ በብሄራዊ መገኛ መሰረት ማግለልን ይከለክላል።
ክፍሉ ባቀረበው የምርመራ ጥያቄ መሰረት የኮሎራዶ የህግ ተርጓሚ የተነሱትን ቅሬታዎች በሚመለከት ቀድመው የተወሰዱ እርምጃዎችን የለየ ሲሆን ከቋንቋ ተደራሽነት ፕሮግራም ጋር በተያያዘ ተጨማሪ የተለያዩ ማሻሻያዎችን ለማድረግ ከክፍሉ ጋር ስራ ሰርቷል።
“ትክክለኛ እና ጊዜውን የጠበቀ የማስተርጎም አገልግሎት በፍርድ ቤት ውስጥ ማቅረብ ሁሉም የፍርድ ቤት ተጠቃሚዎች እኩል የሆነ የፍትህ ተደራሽነት እንዲኖራቸው የሚያደርግ ቁልፍ ነገር ነው” ሲሉ የፍትህ ክፍሉ የሲቪል መብቶች ምክትል አቃቤ ህግ ክሪስቲን ክላርክ ተናግረዋል። “በኮሎራዶ የህግ ተርጓሚ የተወሰዱት እርምጃዎች ለሌሎች ምሳሌ የሚሆኑ ሲሆን ጠንካራ የሆነ የቋንቋ ተደራሽነትን ለማቅረብ ያለውን እውነተኛ ቁርጠኝነትን የሚያሳይ ነው።"
DOJ ከኮሎራዶ የህግ ተርጓሚ ጋር መስራት ከጀመረበት አመት ጀምሮ ፍርድ ቤቱ አዲስ የቋንቋ ተደራሽነት አስተባባሪን ቀጥሯል፣ የቋንቋ ተደራሽነት ፋይናንስ ፖሊሲን ከልሷል፣ አዲስ የቀጠሮ ስርአትን ለአስተርጓሚዎች ዘርግቷል፣ የጆሮ ማዳመጫ እና አይፓዶችን ጨምሮ ለፍርድ ቤት ማስተርጎም አገልግሎት እንዲሆን አዳዲስ መሳሪያዎችን ገዝቷል፣ የፍርድ ቤት ሰራተኞችን እና አስተርጓሚዎችን አሰልጥኗል እና ሌሎች ቁልፍ የሆኑ ማሻሻያዎችን ተግብሯል።
ክፍሉ የእነዚህን ለውጦች መተግበር መቆጣጠር ይቀጥላል እና ከህዝቡ ደግሞ ግብረመልሶችን ይቀበላል። ከማግለል ጋር ግንኙነት ያላቸው ቅሬታዎች በሲቪል መብቶች ክፍል ድረገጽ civilrights.justice.gov በኩል መቅረብ ይችላሉ።
ስለ ሲቪል መብቶች ክፍል ተጨማሪ መረጃ በ www.justice.gov/crtይገኛል። ውስን የሆነ የቋንቋ ችሎታ መረጃ እና ርእስ VI www.lep.gov ላይ የሚገኝ ሲሆን ከፍርድ ቤቶች ጋር ግንኙነት ያለው መረጃ ደግሞ www.lep.gov/state-courts ላይ ይገኛል።
وزارة العدل والقضاء في كولورادو يحسنان توفير الخدمات اللغوية في المحاكم للأفراد ذوي الكفاءة المحدودة في اللغة الإنجليزيةRead the Press Release
أعلنت وزارة العدل اليوم أن القضاء في كولورادو اتخذ خطوات مهمة لضمان إتاحة هامة للخدمات اللغوية للأشخاص ذوي الكفاءة المحدودة في اللغة الإنجليزية (LEP) الذين يتعاملون مع نظام المحكمة بالولاية.
في يوليو/تموز 2023، تعاقد قسم الحقوق المدنية التابع للوزارة مع القضاء في كولورادو بعد تلقي شكاوى تفيد بأن المحاكم لم تقدم الخدمات اللغوية اللازمة للأفراد ذوي الكفاءة المحدودة في اللغة الإنجليزية كما هو مطلوب بموجب الباب السادس من قانون الحقوق المدنية لعام 1964 (الباب السادس). يحظر الباب السادس التمييز على أساس العرق واللون والأصل القومي من قبل المتلقين للمساعدات المالية الفيدرالية.
حدد القضاء في كولورادو، ردًا على استفسار الوزارة، خطوات استباقية تم اتخاذها بالفعل لمعالجة المخاوف التي أثيرت في الشكوى وعمل مع القسم لإجراء مجموعة متنوعة من التحسينات الأخرى على برنامج إتاحة الولوج للغة.
"صرحت مساعدة المدعي العام كريستين كلارك من قسم الحقوق المدنية بوزارة العدل: "إن توفير خدمات الترجمة الدقيقة وفي الوقت المناسب داخل قاعة المحكمة وخارجها أمر بالغ الأهمية لضمان تكافئ اللجوء إلى العدالة لجميع مَن يترددون على المحكمة". "تشكل الإجراءات التي اتخذتها السلطة القضائية في كولورادو نموذجًا وتُظهر التزامًا حقيقيًا ببناء برنامج قوي لإتاحة الولوج للغة".
قامت المحكمة في العام الذي مرّ، منذ أن بدأت وزارة العدل العمل مع السلطة القضائية في كولورادو، بتعيين منسق جديد لإتاحة الخدمات اللغوية؛ ومراجعة السياسة المالية لمكتب إتاحة الخدمات اللغوية؛ وبدأت في إنشاء نظام جدولة جديد للمترجمين؛ وشراء معدات جديدة لاستخدامها في الترجمة في المحكمة بما في ذلك سماعات الرأس وأجهزة iPad؛ وتدريب موظفي المحكمة والمترجمين؛ وتنفيذ تحسينات رئيسية أخرى.
سوف تستمر الوزارة في مراقبة تنفيذ هذه التغييرات، وترحب بملاحظات عامة الناس. يمكن الإبلاغ عن الشكاوى المتعلقة بالممارسات التمييزية من خلال موقع قسم الحقوق المدنية عبر الإنترنت على civilrights.justice.gov
تتوفر المزيد من المعلومات حول قسم الحقوق المدنية على موقعه عبر الإنترنت على www.justice.gov/crt. تتوفر معلومات حول الكفاءة المحدودة للغة الإنجليزية والباب السادس على الموقع www.lep.gov، ويمكن العثور على معلومات خاصة بالمحاكم على الموقع www.lep.gov/state-courts.
Министерство юстиции и судебные органы штата Колорадо упрощают доступ к судебной системе для лиц с ограниченным владением английским языкомRead the Press Release
Сегодня Министерство юстиции объявило о том, что судебные органы штата Колорадо предприняли серьезные меры для обеспечения полноценного языкового доступа к судебной системе штата для лиц с ограниченным владением английским языком (LEP).
В июле 2023 года Отдел по гражданским правам при Министерстве юстиции обратился в судебные органы штата Колорадо, получив несколько жалоб относительно того, что суды не предоставляют необходимые языковые услуги лицам с ограниченным владением английским языком, как того требует Раздел VI Закона о гражданских правах 1964 года (Раздел VI). Раздел VI запрещает дискриминацию по признаку расы, цвета кожи и национального происхождения в отношении лиц, получающих федеральную финансовую помощь.
В ответ на прошение министерства судебные органы штата Колорадо утвердили превентивные меры, которые уже предпринимались ранее для урегулирования вопросов, поднятых в поданных жалобах, а также доработали программу языкового доступа, согласуя свои действия с Отделом по гражданским правам.
«Предоставление качественных и своевременных услуг устного перевода в зале суда и за его пределами имеет первостепенное значение для обеспечения равного доступа к системе правосудия для всех участников судебного процесса», — заявила помощник генерального прокурора Кристен Кларк из Отдела по гражданским правам при Министерстве юстиции. «Меры, предпринятые судебными органами Колорадо, являются образцовыми и демонстрируют твердое намерение создать эффективную программу, гарантирующую комплексный языковой доступ».
За год, прошедший с тех пор, как Министерство юстиции начало сотрудничать с судебными органами штата Колорадо, суд назначил нового координатора по языковому доступу; пересмотрел финансовую политику Управления языкового доступа; приступил к созданию новой системы планирования для переводчиков; закупил новое оборудование для использования при судебном переводе, в том числе гарнитуру и iPad; провел обучение для сотрудников суда и переводчиков; а также провел иные немаловажные доработки.
Министерство продолжит следить за внедрением этих изменений и будет радо обратной связи от общественности. Жалобы на дискриминационные действия можно подавать через веб-сайт Отдела по гражданским правам по адресу civilrights.justice.gov
Более подробную информацию о работе Отдела по гражданским правам читайте на сайте по адресу www.justice.gov/crt. Информация об ограниченном владении английским языком и содержание Раздела VI доступны на сайте www.lep.gov, а информация в отношении судов доступна на сайте www.lep.gov/state-courts.
Young man sent to prison for attempted murder-for-hire plotRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – A 23-year-old Mexican national residing in Houston has been sentenced following his conviction of murder-for-hire using interstate and foreign commerce facilities, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.
Alejandro Cardona-Rodriguez pleaded guilty May 11, 2023.
U.S. District Judge Diana Saldana has now ordered Cardona-Rodriguez to serve the statutory maximum of 10 years in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court heard about his assaultive conduct against another inmate while pending sentencing. In handing down the sentence, the court noted his continued propensity for violence and the seriousness of the offense that involved negotiating with someone to kill another human being.
Cardona-Rodriguez came to the attention of law enforcement around January 2023. He had been in communication with someone via Facebook as well as WhatsApp text and voice messages negotiating a fee for the murder of one of his ex-girlfriend’s boyfriends. He also provided the location and photos of where the potential victim could be found.
At the time of his plea, Cardona-Rodriguez admitted to using interstate and foreign facilities with the intent to commit murder and promise or agreement to pay for the murder.
He will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The FBI and the Laredo Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mary Ellen Smyth and Mike Makens prosecuted the case.
Young Houstonians admit to carjacking in failed smuggling attemptRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A second man has now pleaded guilty to carjacking a McAllen resident, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.
Jesus Rodriguez, 19, entered his plea Sept. 23, admitting he had recruited Christian Hardy, 18, to accompany him from Houston to the Rio Grande Valley to smuggle two people because he didn’t have a driver’s license. He also claimed the vehicle they were driving had mechanical problems, and they needed to steal a car. Hardy has now also admitted to his role in the crime.
While in McAllen May 19, Rodriguez and Hardy approached a male victim outside his car at a Stripes gas station near a mechanic shop. Rodriguez asked to use the victim’s phone, while Hardy got into the driver’s seat.
The victim attempted to stop the theft and jumped into the passenger side, pushed Hardy out of the vehicle and managed to move into the driver seat. However, Rodriguez then got into the passenger seat, pointed a firearm at the victim and said the vehicle was not worth his life.
The victim got out of the car, at which time both men fled. Rodriguez still had the victim’s phone, which he later tossed out of the vehicle so the victim would not be able to call authorities. Hardy and Rodriguez then picked up two non-U.S. citizens from a stash house in McAllen and proceeded to the Falfurrias Border Patrol Checkpoint.
After witnessing nervous behavior, law enforcement referred them to secondary inspection where they found the two undocumented people hiding in the trunk of the vehicle.
Upon their arresting Hardy and Rodriguez, authorities discovered a firearm in Rodriguez’s waistband. The investigation also led to the discovery that the car Hardy was driving had been stolen out of Hidalgo County.
U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzalez Ramos will impose sentencing Jan. 28, 2025. At that time, the pair face up to 15 years in federal prison.
Hardy was permitted to remain on bond pending that hearing, while Rodriguez is in custody.
Homeland Security investigations conducted the investigation with assistance from the Edinburg Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel Dunn is prosecuting the case.
Yankton, South Dakota Woman Sentenced for Escape from Federal CustodyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Jordon Whipple, age 30, of Yankton, South Dakota, was sentenced on October 2, 2024, in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska for escape from federal custody. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Whipple to 6 months’ imprisonment, consecutive to her previously imposed sentence, which she had yet to complete when she escaped from custody. There is no parole in the federal system. After Whipple’s release from prison, she will begin a 1-year term of supervised release.
In September 2022, Whipple was sentenced to the Bureau of Prisons for a term of 41 months following her conviction for involuntary manslaughter. On November 21, 2023, Whipple was transferred to a Residential Reentry Center (RRC) in Omaha to complete her federal sentence, which was set to expire on May 12, 2024. On April 13, 2024, Whipple left the RRC without permission or authorization while she was still in the custody of the Attorney General or his designee. Whipple was placed in escape status until she was arrested June 11, 2024.
This case was investigated by the United States Marshal Service.
Yakima Man Who Violated No-Contact Order Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing FirearmsRead the Press Release
Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced today that Benjamin Cliett, pleaded guilty to one charge of Person Subject to a Court Order in Possession of Firearms. United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke accepted Cliett’s guilty plea and scheduled a sentencing hearing for March 4, 2025, in Yakima, Washington.
According to the plea agreement, testimony from an earlier trial, and other court filings, on July 23, 2022, officers with the Yakima Police Department (YPD) were dispatched to Cliett’s residence in Yakima. Dispatch told the YPD that neighbors had called to report screaming and other loud noises coming from the residence. YPD also observed groceries spoiling in the sun. When YPD knocked on the front door, all noises stopped from inside the residence.
Aware that Cliett had a no-contact order protecting his intimate partner and fearing that a domestic violence incident was occurring inside, YPD entered the residence. YPD conducted a protective sweep of the residence and found Cliett hiding in a dog kennel in the back yard. Cliett was arrested for violating the no-contact order. While conducting the sweep, YPD observed a tall gun safe in Cliett’s bedroom.
The gun safe was forcibly opened and found to contain more than 14 firearms. Cliett’s residence was also found to contain more than two dozen ammunition magazines as well as hundreds of rounds of ammunition. Cliett had previously declared under penalty of perjury before the City of Yakima Municipal Court that he did not have any firearms in his possession.
In October 2022, U.S. Attorney Waldref announced her office’s Safe Homes, Safe Community Initiative to prevent domestic violence homicides and prevent abusers who have previously been convicted of domestic violence offenses from having access to firearms. Partnering with the Yakima Police Department, Yakima County Prosecutor’s Office, Spokane Police Department, and Spokane County Prosecutor’s Office, and domestic violence prevention advocates, the U.S. Attorney’s Office focuses enforcement on individuals identified as repeat domestic violence abusers who unlawfully possess firearms.
“The unlawful possession of firearms by domestic violence abusers is too often deadly for victims of intimate partner violence and lethal for law enforcement officers responding to emergency calls. In this case, Mr. Cliett possessed more than a dozen firearms he knew he should not have and that he did not disclose when the Yakima Municipal Court issued a no-contact order for his partner,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “My Office’s Safe Home Safe Community Initiative focuses on curbing gun violence by removing firearms unlawfully possessed by individuals with a track record of violent crime and domestic violence – these efforts protect victims, law enforcement, and the entire community.”
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Yakima Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael J. Ellis.
Wichita brothers plead guilty to defrauding the governmentRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. – Two Kansas men pleaded guilty to taking part in a scheme to defraud a federal healthcare program.
According to court documents, Todd Eck, 60, of Wichita, and Bradley Eck, 56, of Wichita, both pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States.
From January 2017 to April 2019, Todd Eck and Bradley Eck utilized four healthcare related companies they created to enroll to receive Medicare reimbursements for billed medical procedures. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is responsible for the Medicare Program, a federal healthcare benefits program.
The Ecks concealed their ownership and control of the businesses on the Medicare enrollment form and omitted background information about themselves. Each omission was material to determine if Todd Eck and Bradley Eck were eligible to enroll, thus, all billing reimbursements made by Medicare to the Ecks were fraudulent.
Brad Eck’s license to practice chiropractic medicine was revoked by the Kansas Board of Healing Arts in 2013 for gross negligence, professional incompetency, and dishonesty.
Todd Eck had his license to practice chiropractic medicine revoked by the Kansas Board of Healing Arts in 2018 for violation of an order, fraud during license renewal, practicing medicine without a license, fraudulent medical records, and failure to maintain records.
As part of the plea agreement, the Eck brothers must pay $3.4 million in restitution.
Todd Eck and Bradley Eck are scheduled to be sentenced on January 13, 2025. The brothers face a maximum penalty of five years in prison.
The U.S. Department of Defense- Defense Criminal Investigative Service and Defense Contract Audit Agency, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General, and IRS-Criminal Investigation are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Smith is prosecuting the case.
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Vice President of Asphalt Paving Company Pleads Guilty to Bid RiggingRead the Press Release
A senior executive of a Michigan asphalt paving company pleaded guilty today for his role in two separate conspiracies to rig bids for asphalt paving services contracts in Michigan.
According to court documents, David A. Coppola, vice president of Taylor-based Al’s Asphalt Paving Company Inc. (Al’s Asphalt), conspired with Asphalt Specialists LLC (ASI), F. Allied Construction Company Inc. (Allied) and employees from those companies to rig their bids. Coppola participated in the two conspiracies from March 2013 through November 2018, and from June 2013 through June 2019, respectively.
Today’s guilty plea is the ninth in the Antitrust Division’s ongoing investigation into collusion in the Michigan asphalt paving industry. Coppola’s employer, Al’s Asphalt, and its president pleaded guilty in January, and, in 2023, Allied and two of its executives pleaded guilty, as did ASI and two of its former executives. On July 31, Al’s Asphalt was sentenced to pay a fine of $795,661.31.
In both charged conspiracies, the co-conspirators coordinated each other’s bid prices so that the agreed-upon losing company submitted intentionally non-competitive bids. These bids gave customers the false impression of competition when, in fact, the co-conspirators had already decided who would win the contracts.
“Americans expect and deserve the benefits of competitive markets — including for vital aspects of our transportation infrastructure like asphalt paving services,” said Director of Criminal Enforcement Emma M. Burnham of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division. “The division and our law enforcement partners will continue to hold accountable executives who seek to profit at the expense of consumers.”
“The Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General (DOT OIG) continues to work closely with our law enforcement partners and the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division to target individuals who knowingly participate in bid rigging and other anti-competitive activities,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Anthony Licari of DOT OIG’s Midwestern Region. “Today’s guilty plea shows our commitment to bringing to justice those who engage in illegal and unfair practices that adversely impact transportation projects.”
“Activities related to bid-rigging and collusion do not promote an environment conducive to open competition which harms the consumer,” said Executive Special Agent in Charge Kenneth Cleevely of the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) Office of Inspector General. “The guilty plea in this case represents a win for all law enforcement agencies who investigate those who engage in this type of harmful conduct to ensure that justice is served.”
Coppola pleaded guilty to two counts of violating Section One of the Sherman Act. Coppola faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $1 million fine. The fine may be increased to twice the gain derived from the crime or twice the loss suffered by the victims of the crime if either amount is greater than the statutory maximum fine. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The Antitrust Division’s Chicago Office and Offices of Inspectors General for the DOT and USPS investigated the case, as part of an ongoing operation investigating bid rigging and other anticompetitive conduct in the asphalt paving services industry.
Anyone with information in connection with this investigation should contact the Antitrust Division’s Complaint Center at 888-647-3258 or visit www.justice.gov/atr/report-violations.
U.S. Attorney’s Office for District of New Jersey and Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division Reach Proposed Consent Decree with New Jersey to Resolve Claims of Unconstitutional Conditions in New Jersey’s State-Run Veterans HomesRead the Press Release
Link to video statement:
https://youtu.be/pl3o8-n5p6w
NEWARK, N.J. – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey and the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division today filed a complaint against the state of New Jersey and joined with the state in filing a proposed consent decree to address findings of unconstitutional conditions at the New Jersey Veterans Memorial Homes at Menlo Park and Paramus.
The proposed consent decree, which must still be approved by the court, would resolve the department’s claims that New Jersey violates the Constitution by failing to keep the residents of its Veterans Homes safe from harm and an unreasonable risk of harm. The proposed consent decree requires the state to meet specific standards of clinical care, to overhaul its infection control and emergency operations practices and to implement measures for improved leadership and accountability. The proposed consent decree also asks the court to appoint an independent monitor who will oversee and assess the state’s compliance with the terms of the proposed consent decree.
“Our veterans, who have sacrificed so much, should never have been subject to deficient care. This consent decree provides a detailed roadmap and expert oversight to ensure they are protected, so that they and their families can rely on the veterans homes. We look forward to working with the state and the independent monitor to implement this decree and ensure that every resident of the veterans homes lives with the safety and dignity that they so richly deserve.”
U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger
“Our veterans deserve to receive appropriate care, as required by law, and their families deserve to have confidence that their loved ones’ needs will be met,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “This agreement requires the state to deliver that care and have the oversight in place to provide families that confidence. The Justice Department will work diligently with the state to ensure the reforms are properly implemented.”
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey and the Civil Rights Division initiated the investigation into the Veterans Homes in October 2020 under the Civil Rights of Institutionalized Persons Act (CRIPA). CRIPA authorizes the department to take action to address a pattern or practice of deprivation of federal rights of individuals in the custody of state or local governments.
In September 2023, the department notified the state that it found reasonable cause to believe the residents of the New Jersey Veterans Memorial Homes at Menlo Park and Paramus face unreasonable harm and risk of harm due to inadequate infection control practices and inadequate medical care. The department also identified the remedial measures necessary to address those unlawful conditions. Specifically, the department concluded that the state failed to provide the residents of its Veterans Homes with conditions of reasonable care and safety, in violation of the 14th Amendment.
Additional information about the Civil Rights Division of the Justice Department is available on its website at www.justice.gov/crt. Additional information about the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey is available on its website at www.justice.gov/usao-nj/civil-rights-enforcement.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Susan Millenky and Thandiwe Boylan of the U.S. Attorney’s Civil Rights Division; Michael Campion, Chief of the Civil Rights Division; Caroline Sadlowski, Executive Assistant U.S. Attorney; and attorneys from the Special Litigation Section of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division.
veterans.consentdecree.pdf veterans.complaint.pdfU.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland Secures Agreement with Maryland Department of State Police to Resolve Allegations of Race and Gender Discrimination in State Trooper Hiring ProcessRead the Press Release
Washington – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland announced today that it has reached a settlement agreement with the Maryland Department of State Police (MDSP) to resolve the United States’ claims that MDSP’s hiring process for state troopers violates Title VII of the Civil Rights Act. Specifically, the United States alleges that MDSP uses a written test that discriminates against Black candidates and a physical fitness test that discriminates against female candidates. The agreement must still be approved by a federal judge.
The settlement agreement resolves a civil pattern and practice investigation the U.S. Attorney’s Office opened on July 15, 2022. As part of the investigation, the U.S. Attorney’s Office conducted an in-depth review of MDSP’s hiring practices, the composition of its sworn personnel, applicant data, and information received from the Maryland State Police, and concluded the State’s written and physical fitness tests do not meaningfully distinguish between applicants who can and cannot perform the position of Trooper. These tests also had the effect of disqualifying Black and female applicants from the hiring process at significantly disproportionate rates. The U.S. Attorney’s Office thus concluded that these tests violate Title VII.
“This settlement agreement is a reflection of our continued mission to protect the civil rights of all Marylanders, including those of our sworn law enforcement officers,” said U.S. Attorney Erek L. Barron for the District of Maryland. “Law enforcement agencies have a responsibility to protect all citizens equally. We are pleased that MDSP is committed to ensuring that its hiring processes will not discriminate on the basis of race or gender.”
“Equal employment opportunities in law enforcement are not just a core civil right but essential to ensuring that those who serve reflect the rich racial and gender diversity of the communities they are sworn to protect,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The underrepresentation of Blacks and women in law enforcement undermines public safety and runs contrary to the principle of equal opportunity which is central in our job market. This agreement requires the Maryland Department of State Police to institute meaningful reforms, remove unlawful barriers in its hiring process, and provide restitution and relief to those already harmed, ensuring that all qualified applicants have a fair chance to serve. The Justice Department will continue working to ensure equal access to employment opportunities for all Americans.”
The complaint, filed today in the District of Maryland, alleges that MDSP’s use of a written test called the Police Officer Selection Test (POST) disproportionately excludes Black candidates, and its use of a physical fitness test called the Functional Fitness Assessment Test (FFAT) disproportionately excludes female candidates, from employment as troopers. The United States alleges that MDSP’s uses of the POST and the FFAT are not job related or consistent with business necessity, and thus, violate Title VII.
Under the terms of the consent decree, MDSP will:
- Adopt written and physical fitness tests that do not discriminate in violation of Title VII;
- Provide data to the United States on the administration of the new tests to ensure compliance;
- Pay $2.75 million in back pay to applicants who were disqualified by MDSP’s use of the challenged tests; and
- Hire up to 25 applicants who were unfairly disqualified by those tests and who successfully complete MDSP’s new trooper screening and selection process.
Title VII is a federal statute that prohibits employment discrimination based on race, sex, color, national origin, and religion. Title VII prohibits not only intentional discrimination but also employment practices that result in a disparate impact on a protected group, unless such practices are job related and consistent with business necessity.
You can learn more about the contents of the agreement from this fact sheet.
The full and fair enforcement of Title VII is a top priority of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland. More information about the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland can be found at https://www.justice.gov/usao-mdand more information about the Office’s Civil Rights and Special Victims Section can be found at https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/civil-rights.
This matter is being handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Kimberly Phillips and Sarah Marquardt for the District of Maryland and Senior Trial Attorneys Emily Given and Cheyenne N. Chambers of the Civil Rights Division’s Employment Litigation Section.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Announces over $6.2 Million in Justice Department Grants to Tribal Communities and Organizations in ArizonaRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – United States Attorney Gary M. Restaino today announced $6,285,698 in Department of Justice (DOJ) grants to tribal communities and organizations in the District of Arizona. The grants were awarded by the Department’s Office of Justice Programs to prevent and reduce crime and by the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) to bolster coordinated community responses aimed at bringing an end to domestic violence.
Specifically, the following organizations received funding:
- Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community awarded $1,250,000 under OVW Violence Against Women Tribal Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Initiative.
- San Carlos Apache Tribal Council awarded $963,000 under Byrne Discretionary Community Project Grants Program.
- Gila River Indian Community awarded $873,094 under Adult Treatment Court Program.
- Tuba City Regional Health Care Corporation awarded $610,000 under OVW Tribal Sexual Assault Services Program.
- Southwest Indigenous Women’s Coalition awarded $414,147 under OVW Grants to Tribal Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Coalitions.
- Hopi-Tewa Women’s Coalition to End Abuse awarded $414,147 under OVW Grants to Tribal Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Coalitions.
- San Carlos Apache Tribal Council awarded $315,724 under OVC Tribal Victim Services Set-Aside Formula Program.
- Hopi Tribe awarded $315,724 under OVC Tribal Victim Services Set-Aside Formula Program.
- Gila River Indian Community awarded $282,632 under OVC Tribal Victim Services Set-Aside Formula Program.
- Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community awarded $282,632 under OVC Tribal Victim Services Set-Aside Formula Program.
- White Mountain Apache Tribe awarded $250,000 under SMART Support for Adam Walsh Act Implementation Grant Program.
- Yavapai Apache Nation awarded $229,973 under OVC Tribal Victim Services Set-Aside Formula Program.
- Pascua Yaqui Tribe awarded $66,071 under OVW Special Tribal Criminal Jurisdiction Reimbursement Program.
- Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indican Community awarded $18,554 under OVW Special Tribal Criminal Jurisdiction Reimbursement Program.
The U.S. Attorney’s office will hold its annual Tribal Listening Conference in November, during which it convenes with its law enforcement and sovereign tribal partners to listen to, engage with, and educate one another. While the issues covered by these grants are long-standing challenges in tribal communities, the Tribal Listening Conference will provide an opportunity for all of the stakeholders to rededicate themselves to preventing crime and violence in the affected communities.
The awards announced above are being made as part of the regular end-of-fiscal year cycle. More information about these and other OJP awards can be found on the OJP Grant Awards Page.
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. More information about the Office of Violence Against Women, along with the recent grants, can be found at www.justice.gov/ovw.
RELEASE NUMBER: 2024-133_OJP Grant Awards
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For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on X @USAO_AZ for the latest news.U.S. Attorney Steinberg cautions against disaster fraud in the wake of Hurricane HeleneRead the Press Release
SAVANNAH, GA: Southern District of Georgia U.S. Attorney Jill E. Steinberg reminds residents to be wary of disaster-related fraud in the wake of Hurricane Helene’s destructive path.
“Like moths to a flame, scam artists and profit-chasing individuals too often prey on vulnerable victims of natural disasters, such as those devastated by Hurricane Helene,” said U.S. Attorney Steinberg. “Vigilance is the first defense against fraudsters who would compound the misery of a natural disaster by stealing from those in desperate need of assistance in recovery, and our office stands ready to assist in holding accountable individuals who would take advantage of disaster victims.”
President Joe Biden has approved a major disaster declaration for Georgia, ordering federal aid to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by Hurricane Helene. Of the 43 counties in the Southern District of Georgia, 30 are included in the disaster declaration.
Established in 2005 after Hurricane Katrina, the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) is a partnership of the U.S. Department of Justice and law enforcement and regulatory agencies that coordinates detection, prevention, investigation, and prosecution of fraud related to natural and man-made disasters, and to advocate for victims of fraud.
Of more than 200,000 disaster fraud complaints submitted to the NCDF, here are some examples of common complaints:
- Fake charities soliciting donations either using the names of well-known charities or appearing to be related to the disaster.
- Scammers impersonating government officials, offering disaster relief in exchange for personal information or money.
- Individuals posing as insurance provider representatives to collect payments or personal information.
- Fraudsters promising expedient home repairs requiring upfront or partial payment.
- Price-gouging for goods and services needed by victims of disaster.
Take these measures to protect yourself from disaster fraud:
- 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.
- Use credit cards or checks for donations. Don’t send cash, or use wire transfers or mobile payment apps.
- Remember that government agencies and legitimate organizations will never ask for money or personal information via phone or email.
- Beware of contractors who knock on your door or make unsolicited contact, and/or make promises that sound too good to be true.
- Cautiously rely on recommendations from family and friends.
- Do not be forced into making repair decisions by a high-pressure contractor.
Protect yourself and your neighbors. To report disaster-related fraud, contact the NCDF at (866) 720-5721 or online at www.justice.gov/DisasterComplaintForm.
U.S. Attorney Announces Criminal Charges in Multi-Year Fraud Scheme in the Market for Carbon CreditsRead the Press Release
Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and James E. Dennehy, the Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), announced today the unsealing of charges against KENNETH NEWCOMBE and TRIDIP GOSWAMI in connection with a scheme to commit fraud in the carbon markets, which resulted in their company, CQC Impact Investors LLC (“CQC”), fraudulently obtaining carbon credits worth tens of millions of dollars and fraudulently securing an investment of over $100 million.
Also announced today was the decision not to bring criminal charges against CQC, despite the alleged conduct of NEWCOMBE and GOSWAMI, in light of CQC’s voluntary and timely self-disclosure of misconduct, full and proactive cooperation, timely and appropriate remediation, and agreement to cancel or void certain VCUs.
Also unsealed today is the guilty plea of Jason Steele in connection with his participation in the conduct. Steele pled guilty pursuant to an Information before U.S. District Judge Margaret M. Garnett. Steele is cooperating with the Government.
U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “As alleged, Kenneth Newcombe and Tridip Goswami, among others, engaged in a multi-year scheme to fraudulently obtain carbon credits by using manipulated and misleading data. They then sold those credits to unsuspecting buyers in the multi-billion-dollar global market for carbon credits. The alleged actions of the defendants and their co-conspirators risked undermining the integrity of that market, which is an important part of the fight against climate change. Protecting the sanctity and integrity of the financial markets continues to be a cornerstone initiative for this Office, and we will continue to be vigilant in rooting out fraud in the market for carbon credits.”
According to the allegations contained in the Indictment:
The market for carbon credits emerged from an effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. While most carbon credits are created through, and trade in compliance markets, there is also a voluntary carbon market. Voluntary markets revolve around companies and entities that voluntarily set goals to reduce or offset their carbon emissions, often to align with goals from employees or shareholders. In voluntary markets, the credits are issued by non-governmental organizations, using standards for measuring emission reductions that they develop based on input from market participants, rather than on mandates from governments. The non-governmental organizations issue voluntary carbon credits to project developers that run projects that reduce emissions or remove greenhouse gases from the atmosphere.
CQC was a for-profit company that ran projects to generate carbon credits—including a type of credit known as a voluntary carbon unit (“VCU”)—by reducing emissions of greenhouse gases. CQC profited by selling VCUs it obtained, often to companies seeking to offset the impact of greenhouse gases they emit in the course of operating their businesses.
One type of project that CQC ran to obtain VCUs involved installing cookstoves in rural Africa and Southeast Asia, among other places (collectively, the “Cookstove Projects”). The cookstoves, if installed and used properly, were more efficient than the preexisting cooking methods many people in those regions used. To obtain VCUs from its Cookstove Projects, CQC collected data through surveys about, among other things, how much fuel people saved by using CQC’s cookstoves, as opposed to the preexisting cooking methods, and the number of CQC’s stoves that were installed and operational. That data went into a formula that an issuer of VCUs (“Issuer-1”) used to calculate the emission reductions CQC had achieved and to determine how many VCUs to issue to CQC.
From at least in or about 2021, through 2023, NEWCOMBE, the CEO of CQC, and GOSWAMI, the Head of CQC’s Carbon & Sustainability Accounting Team (“CSAT”), along with others at CQC, including Jason Steele, the company’s Chief Operating Officer, submitted false and misleading data to Issuer-1, tricking Issuer-1 into giving CQC VCUs for emission reductions that, according to Issuer-1’s methodology for calculating such reductions, had not in fact been achieved.
Members of the conspiracy manipulated data to make it appear as if certain of the Cookstove Projects were far more successful in reducing carbon emissions than was actually the case. For example, in or about August 2021, CQC received survey data for two projects in Malawi and two in Zambia. GOSWAMI reported to NEWCOMBE and Steele that the survey data reflected emission reductions that were only approximately half of what CQC had anticipated. NEWCOMBE responded by writing that “[t]his is a disaster for us.” NEWCOMBE, GOSWAMI, and Steele exchanged emails about possible solutions, and GOSWAMI ultimately informed them that the “[o]nly option left” was “to ‘revise’ the survey results.” Ultimately, NEWCOMBE, GOSWAMI, and Steele agreed to manipulate the survey data for the Malawi and Zambia projects and enlist a person from outside CQC to fill out fraudulent survey forms to reflect the manipulated numbers. CQC sent the manipulated survey data to Issuer-1 when claiming VCUs for the Malawi and Zambia Projects.
NEWCOMBE, GOSWAMI, and Steele also fraudulently obtained VCUs from Issuer-1 by providing false and misleading information about the number of operational stoves in CQC’s projects. Issuer-1’s methodology for calculating emission reductions was designed to ensure that project developers, such as CQC, would receive VCUs only for stoves that were operational and in use.
Beginning in or around 2020, NEWCOMBE set a new direction for CQC and decided to rapidly and aggressively increase the size of CQC’s Cookstove Projects. CQC’s rapid growth caused significant problems for the quality of its Cookstove Projects. To meet the targets set by NEWCOMBE, CQC had to rely on partners that did poor work installing stoves; installed stoves in locations that were outside of a project’s scope (e.g., installing stoves in a suburban area, instead of a rural area, because it was easier to meet targets in more populated areas); and sometime claimed to install stoves that they never installed. These logistical issues posed a meaningful problem for the number of VCUs that the company’s projects might generate—if stoves were not installed properly, or at all, it was likely that surveys would show low levels of stoves in operation, which could reduce the number of stoves for which CQC could claim VCUs.
Rather than writing off and not claiming credits for stoves that were missing, broken, or not installed in correct locations, NEWCOMBE, GOSWAMI, and Steele conspired to conceal from Issuer-1 the true extent of problems with CQC’s Cookstove Projects. One way in which the members of the conspiracy concealed these issues and manipulated survey data about the number of stoves in use was by instituting a practice of having CQC employees rebuild or fix stoves in samples that were missing or broken, then reporting those stoves as operational.
Through this fraud scheme, CQC received millions more VCUs than it otherwise would have, which were worth tens of millions of dollars at then-prevailing prices for VCUs. CQC sold VCUs it had fraudulently obtained to unsuspecting purchasers, who thought they were purchasing VCUs that reflected emission reductions calculated in accordance with Issuer-1’s methodology.
Relying on data about those fraudulently obtained VCUs, NEWCOMBE and others at CQC also deceived an investor (“Investor-1”) into agreeing to invest up to $250 million in CQC. The agreement included Investor-1 purchasing some of NEWCOMBE’s shares in CQC for more than $16 million.
* * *
NEWCOMBE, 77, of Santa Barbara, California, and GOSWAMI, who resides in India, are charged with wire fraud conspiracy, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; wire fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; commodities fraud conspiracy, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison; and commodities fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. NEWCOMBE is also charged with securities fraud conspiracy, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison, and securities fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.
The maximum potential sentences are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants will be determined by a judge.
Steele, 47, of Arlington, Virginia, pled guilty earlier today to a three-count Information, which charged him with wire fraud conspiracy, commodities fraud conspiracy, and securities fraud conspiracy for his participation in the fraud scheme. A sentencing date has not yet been scheduled.
The Office of the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York has declined prosecution of CQC in connection with the scheme to fraudulently inflate the number of VCUs issued to CQC projects. This decision reflects a careful weighing of factors set forth in the United States Attorneys’ Offices Voluntary Self-Disclosure Policy, https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdny/press-release/file/1569411/dl, and the Principles of Federal Prosecution of Business Organizations, Justice Manual (“J.M.”) § 9-28.300. Those factors include, among others: the voluntary and timely self-disclosure of the misconduct by CQC—specifically, CQC truthfully and completely disclosed all criminal conduct in which officers, employees, and agents of CQC had been engaged promptly after becoming aware of it, which misconduct had not previously been made public and was not already known to the Office or to any component of the Department of Justice; CQC’s full and proactive cooperation in this matter (including its provision of all known relevant facts about the misconduct and information about all of the individuals involved in the misconduct) and agreement to continue to cooperate with the Office’s ongoing investigation and any prosecution that might result in the future from the investigation; CQC’s timely and appropriate remediation, including terminating employees involved in the misconduct and instituting appropriate compliance measures to deter and detect similar misconduct in the future; and CQC’s agreement to cancel or void a number of VCUs equal to the number of VCUs that CQC improperly obtained through the fraudulent scheme.
Mr. Williams praised the outstanding work of the FBI. Mr. Williams further thanked the Commodity Futures Trading Commission and the Securities and Exchange Commission, each of which today filed parallel civil actions.
The case is being prosecuted by the Office’s Securities and Commodities Fraud Task Force and Complex Frauds and Cybercrime Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas Burnett, Nicholas W. Chiuchiolo, and Kevin Mead 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.
A link to the declination letter is here.
Two defendants await sentencing after pleading guilty in shooting, armed carjacking during drug dealRead the Press Release
SAVANNAH, GA: Two Chatham County men await sentencing after pleading guilty to charges stemming from an armed carjacking in Savannah, while investigators are seeking the third defendant in the case.
Brandon McCall Williams, a/k/a “Doughboy,” 33, of Savannah, awaits sentencing after pleading guilty to Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute, and to Distribute, Methamphetamine and Heroin; Carjacking Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury; and Conspiracy to Use a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence and a Drug Trafficking Crime, said Jill E. Steinberg, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia.
At the start of his trial on Sept. 23, Robert Moss, a/k/a “Fat Boy,” 33, of Savannah, agreed to plead guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, and also awaits sentencing. Williams faces up to 65 years in prison, while Moss faces up to 10 years. There is no parole in the federal system.
“This violent crime exemplifies the dangers of drugs, guns and gangs to our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Steinberg. “Our law enforcement partners need the public’s assistance in apprehending the fugitive in this case, and delivering justice for the wounded victim.”
As described in court documents and testimony, a drug dealer – identified as M.M. – met the defendants in the parking lot of a Savannah apartment complex in October 2021 to sell them large amounts methamphetamine and heroin. Instead, the three men robbed M.M. at gunpoint, taking his bag containing drugs, cash and a firearm, and then shot M.M. in the buttocks when he escaped.
The defendants then stole M.M.’s vehicle and fled, leaving behind a pickup that had been rented by Williams. Port Wentworth police recovered Williams’ personally owned car with the bag and drugs in it after a brief car chase from which Williams escaped. Williams and Moss later were located and taken into custody.
Also indicted in the case was Graylyn Simmons, a/k/a “Shake,” a/k/a “Crane,” 28, of Savannah. Anyone with information on Simmons is asked to contact the FBI at 800-Call FBI (800-225-5324).
The indictment naming Simmons includes only charges. He is considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.
U.S. District Court Judge Lisa Godbey Wood will schedule sentencing for Williams and Moss upon completion of presentence investigations by U.S. Probation Services.
“Williams and Moss participated in a violent act to profit off illegal drugs,” said FBI Atlanta Assistant Special Agent in Charge Brian Ozden. “We work alongside our federal, state, and local partners to work hand in hand to disrupt and ultimately triumph over the shadow of drug trafficking, making our communities safer places to live.”
“This investigation showcases the unwavering commitment of law enforcement to rid our streets of violent offenders,” said Beau Kolodka, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the Atlanta Field Office of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. “Through close collaboration and relentless pursuit, we will continue to dismantle criminal networks and protect the citizens of Savannah from those who seek to bring chaos and violence.”
This case is being investigated by the FBI, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Savannah Police Department, and prosecuted for the United States by Southern District of Georgia Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bradley R. Thompson and Frank M. Pennington II.
Two Luzerne County Brothers Indicted on Drug Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
SCRANTON- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Akilees Kadeem Hobson, age 26, of Edwardsville, Pennsylvania, and Armand Kierran Hobson, age 27 of Plymouth, Pennsylvania, were indicted yesterday by a federal grand jury on drug trafficking charges.
According to United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam, the indictment alleges that in August and September 2024, Akilees Hobson distributed cocaine and fentanyl over a dozen times in Luzerne County. The indictment further alleges that on September 12, 2024, Armand Hobson assisted Akilees with the distribution of fentanyl. It is also alleged that on September 25, 2024, Akilees Hobson possessed with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine and Armand Hobson possessed with intent to distribute fentanyl and marijuana.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Luzerne County Drug Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenny P. Roberts is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is 30 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
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Two KC Men Sentenced in Scheme to Steal Firearms from VehiclesRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Two Kansas City, Mo., men were sentenced in federal court today for their roles in the thefts of more than 100 firearms from numerous vehicles in the Westport entertainment district and elsewhere in the metropolitan area, which were later sold on social media accounts.
Rayquan Duane Pettaway, 25, and Roy Rushing, 27, were sentenced in separate appearances before U.S. District Judge Greg Kays. Pettaway was sentenced to 11 years and eight months in federal prison without parole; the court ordered the federal sentence be served consecutively to Pettaway’s sentence in two unrelated cases in Cass County, Mo., and Harris County, Texas. Rushing was sentenced to nine years and two months in federal prison without parole; the court ordered the federal sentence be served consecutively to Rushing’s sentence in two unrelated cases in Jackson County, Mo., and Cass County. The court also ordered Pettaway and Rushing to pay $1,500 in restitution, for which all of the defendants in this case are jointly and severally liable.
On Oct. 26, 2023, Pettaway pleaded guilty to his role in the conspiracy to receive, possess, and dispose of stolen firearms and to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Pettaway admitted that he participated in a conspiracy to break into vehicles and steal firearms and other items. Conspirators used social media to advertise the stolen firearms for sale, which included sales to individuals who were prohibited by law from possessing firearms. According to court documents, Pettaway and his co-conspirators stole more than 100 firearms obtained from vehicle break-ins from June 18 to Nov. 19, 2021.
Pettaway also admitted that he was in possession of a Glock 9mm handgun and a Glock .40-caliber handgun when he was arrested on July 11, 2021.
Police patrol cars converged on a location in the Westport entertainment district when officers saw Pettaway and co-defendant Drevion Hooker, 22, of Kansas City, Mo., acting suspiciously. Hooker attempted to flee on foot but was detained. Pettaway fled in a silver Chevrolet Impala at a high rate of speed. Investigators attempted to follow and eventually located the Impala south of 39th Street and Central Street. Pettaway fled from the vehicle — which had sustained damage — and was apprehended. Officers found the Glock 9mm handgun on the floorboard of the driver’s seat and the Glock .40-caliber handgun in the front passenger’s seat of the vehicle.
Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition. Pettaway has a felony conviction for felony assault and unlawful use of a weapon.
On July 26, 2023, Rushing pleaded guilty to possessing stolen firearms. Rushing admitted he was in possession of a Radical Firearms AR-type rifle, a Glock .40-caliber handgun, and a Glock .45-caliber handgun, all of which had been reported as stolen, on Nov. 4, 2021. Federal agents found seven firearms, including the three stolen firearms, when they executed a search warrant at Rushing’s residence.
Hooker was sentenced on Sept. 4, 2024, to seven years and one month in federal prison without parole.
Co-defendant Bobby Lamb, 22, was sentenced on July 27, 2024, to 11 years in federal prison without parole after pleading guilty to his role in the conspiracy and to possessing marijuana with the intent to distribute, possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime, and possessing a stolen firearm.
The final defendant in this case, Treyon Bloodsoe, 22, of Kansas City, Mo., is scheduled to be sentenced on Thursday, Oct. 3. Bloodsoe pleaded guilty on Oct. 26, 2023, to his role in the conspiracy and to possessing a stolen firearm.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stefan C. Hughes. It was investigated by the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Two Armed Robbers Sentenced After Carjacking and RobberyRead the Press Release
TULSA, Okla. – Today, U.S. District Judge Gregory K. Frizzell sentenced Ray Alexander Villalba, 22, from Goodyear, Arizona, for Carjacking, Carrying, Obstructing, Delaying, and Affecting Commerce by Robbery and two counts of Using a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence. Judge Frizzell ordered Villalba to 220 months imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release.
Villalba’s codefendant, Elijah Paul Titone, 26, of Sand Springs, was sentenced in August for the same counts. Titone was ordered to 190 months imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release for his involvement.
On December 4, 2022, Villalba was messaging a male victim through a dating application and agreed to meet up. Upon arrival, the victim’s vehicle was rushed by two armed individuals, Villalba and Titone. They entered the victim's vehicle and zip-tied him. Villalba drove the vehicle away as Titone sat in the backseat with his gun pointed at the victim. Villalba threatened to kill the victim if he did not cooperate with their demands. They drove to several banks, attempting to withdraw funds from the victim's checking account, and left him on the side of the road.
During a second incident on December 6th, Villalba and Titone broke into a home in Broken Arrow. Armed, they demand money and weed. Villalba struck the victim in the eye with his gun, causing the victim to lose sight.
Villalba and Titone will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Broken Arrow Police Department, and the Tulsa Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth Elmore and John Brasher prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about PSN, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
Three Sentenced for Robbing Armored Car Driver of Cash, GunRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Sarah E. Pitlyk on Wednesday sentenced the last of three men who robbed an armored car driver of cash and a firearm in Overland, Missouri in 2023.
Judge Pitlyk sentenced Phillip Keith Smith, 65, to 11 years in prison. Herman Leon Woods, 31, was sentenced last week to 42 months. David C. Greenwade, 62, received a 20-year sentence in July.
All three admitted participating in the robbery in the 9400 block of Midland Avenue in Overland, Missouri on April 14, 2023. The armored car driver was making a cash drop at a store when two men wearing black clothing, ski masks and body armor arrived in a black Jeep. One robber, who has not yet been identified, approached the driver and said, “Don’t die over this money.” The robber pointed his handgun at the driver when the driver didn’t immediately turn over his gun.
The driver handed over his firearm and then ran into the store for help. Smith, who was armed with a short-barreled rifle, and the other robber took a bag containing $2,000 and a duffel bag containing empty bank bags.
Greenwade was driving the Jeep and planned the robbery. Woods, Greenwade’s nephew, owned the Jeep and allowed it to be used for the robbery and for practice runs.
Woods and Greenwade each pleaded guilty to one count of robbery. Smith pleaded guilty to robbery and one count of use of a firearm during a crime of violence.
In a separate case, Smith pleaded guilty to a money laundering charge and Greenwade pleaded guilty to a drug conspiracy charge, a money laundering conspiracy charge and money laundering. Both men admitted helping to sell illegal drugs and launder the proceeds.
The case was investigated by the FBI and the Overland Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Torrie J. Schneider prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Three Plead Guilty to Possession with Intent to Spend Counterfeit Currency on the Choctaw Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
Jackson, MS – Three defendants pled guilty to possession with intent to spend counterfeit currency in the Pearl River Community of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians.
According to court documents, in March of 2024, Christopher Nolan, 39, Astra High, 43, both of Philadelphia, and Bailey Gonzales, 25, of Pascagoula, possessed with intent to spend counterfeit currency in the Pearl River Community of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians.
Gonzales and High pled guilty in U.S. District Court today. Nolan pled guilty on September 12, 2024.
The three defendants are scheduled to be sentenced on February 4, 2025, and they each face 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 and Special Agent in Charge Patrick Davis of the U.S. Secret Service made the announcement.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Secret Service with assistance from the Choctaw Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kevin J. Payne and Brian K. Burns prosecuted the case.
Three Individuals Charged in Gun Trafficking CaseRead the Press Release
SCRANTON- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Naquann Simmons, age 30, of New York, New York, Eva Kelly Smith, age 31, of Scranton, Pennsylvania, and Eugene David Deininger, age 50, of Hanover Township, Pennsylvania, were indicted yesterday by a federal grand jury on drug trafficking and firearms charges.
According to United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam, the indictment alleges that on September 22, 2022, Simmons and Kelly went to a gun store in Wilkes-Barre Township, Luzerne County and provided false information on an application where two firearms were obtained. The indictment further alleges that on that same date Simmons possessed a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. It is further alleged that on August 15, 2023, Simmons and Deininger went to a gun store in Plains Township, Luzerne County and provided false information on an application for two firearms.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Luzerne County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenny P. Roberts is prosecuting the case.
The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is lifetime imprisonment for Simmons and 10 years imprisonment for Smith and Deininger, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
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Three Big Game Guides Indicted for Conspiracy and Lacey Act ViolationsRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – A federal grand jury sitting in Pocatello returned a thirteen-count indictment on August 27, 2024, charging Chad Michael Kulow, 44, and Andrea May Major, 44, both of Kuna, Idaho, along with LaVoy Linton Eborn, 47, of Paris, Idaho, with conspiracy to violate the Lacey Act and additional Lacey Act violations, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced today.
In connection with illegal big game outfitting and guiding, Kulow was indicted on twelve counts including one felony count of conspiracy and eleven counts of felony Lacey Act violations. Major was indicted on seven counts including one felony count of conspiracy and six felony Lacey Act violations. Eborn was indicted on eight counts including one felony count of conspiracy and seven counts of felony Lacey Act violations.
The thirteen-count indictment returned on August 27, 2024, alleges that in late 2021, Kulow, Major, and Eborn were licensed guides in the State of Idaho, employed by a licensed outfitter. During late 2021, Kulow, Major, and Eborn conspired together to commit Lacey Act violations, when they began illegally acting in the capacity of outfitters, by independently booking mountain lion hunting clients, accepting direct payment, and guiding hunts in southeast Idaho and Wyoming, outside of the licensed and federally permitted outfitting service for which they worked. Between December 2021 and February 2022, the defendants unlawfully sold hunts and carried out guiding activities on the Caribou-Targhee National Forest in southeast Idaho and the Bridger-Teton National Forest in western Wyoming. The illegally guided hunts resulted in the kills of at least eleven mountain lions in Idaho, and a Boone and Crockett record mountain lion in western Wyoming. Several Big Game Mortality Reports were falsely submitted to Idaho Fish and Game with inaccurate outfitter business information, and at least three mountain lions were shipped directly to Texas, without having been presented to Idaho Fish and Game for completion of the required Big Game Mortality Reports. Mountain lions killed during the hunts were transported from National Forest land, to or from Idaho, Utah, Wyoming, Montana, Alaska, Texas, and North Carolina, in violation of the federal Lacey Act and multiple Idaho state laws.
Kulow and Major were both arrested on September 24, 2024, and booked with the U.S. Marshals Service in Boise. Eborn was arrested on September 25, 2024, and booked with the U.S. Marshals Service in Pocatello. Major attended her initial court appearance on September 26, 2024, Kulow attended his initial court appearance on September 27, 2024, and Eborn attended his initial court appearance on September 30, 2024. All three defendants appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Debora K. Grasham and entered not guilty pleas. A jury trial is scheduled for November 18, 2024, at the federal courthouse in Pocatello, before Senior U.S. District Court Judge B. Lynn Winmill.
The alleged Lacey Act violations are punishable by up to five years in federal prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office of Law Enforcement, the Idaho Department of Fish and Game, and the U.S. Forest Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Paskett is prosecuting this case.
An indictment is a means of charging a person with criminal activity. It is not evidence. The person is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Texas Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Role in $800,000 PPP Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Jacob Liticker, 27, of Houston, Texas was sentenced to two years in federal prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
Liticker was charged in the District of South Carolina for his role in a national fraud scheme related to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Congress authorized the PPP program to provide emergency economic relief to businesses suffering economic harm during and as a result of the pandemic.
According to evidence presented in court, Liticker led a scheme that submitted 86 fraudulent PPP loan applications for himself and others, many of whom resided in South Carolina. The scheme resulted in more than $870,000 in fraudulent PPP loans being issued to recipients who were not entitled to the pandemic relief funds. Liticker attempted to obtain more – he requested nearly $1.8 million in fraudulent PPP loans.
Liticker drafted PPP loan applications that falsely claimed businesses suffered financial harm as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, he manufactured false and fraudulent documents submitted with the applications, he submitted the loan applications himself, he tracked the progress of the loans, and he helped co-conspirators obtain full forgiveness for the loans. He did so while having no criminal record and in college studying business. In exchange for his services, Liticker received a portion of the fraudulently obtained funds. During the pendency this case, Liticker also violated his bond, his bond was revoked, and he is now in the custody of the U.S. Marshals.
United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis sentenced Liticker to 24 months in federal prison, to be followed by three years of court-ordered supervision and ordered him to pay $807,990.09 in restitution to the Small Business Administration. There is no parole in the federal system.
“Every dollar defrauded from the PPP program represents money stolen from legitimate businesses who needed support during a difficult time in our country,” said Adair Ford Boroughs, U.S. Attorney for the District of South Carolina. “This scheme took advantage of the public’s generosity by stealing almost a million dollars from taxpayers. We thank our law enforcement partners for bringing accountability in this case.”
“Jacob Liticker’s sentencing should stand as a clear warning to those who seek to prey upon and defraud government programs,” said Special Agent in Charge Christopher Dillard, Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), Mid-Atlantic Field Office. “DCIS will vigorously pursue perpetrators who employ Service Members in furtherance of their crimes, as well as Service Members who willingly participate in criminal behavior against the American people, the very people they swore an oath to protect.”
The case was investigated by the Airforce Office of Special Investigations, Department of Defense – Defense Criminal Investigative Service, with assistance from the U.S. Secret Service. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Winston Marosek, who also serves as the Office’s Coronavirus Fraud Coordinator, and Elliott B. Daniels prosecuted the case.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, 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.
Texas Man Sentenced to 10 Months for Failing to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan T. Lehr announced that Garrett Hannes, age 37, of Houston, Texas, was sentenced on October 2, 2024, in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska for failing to register as a sex offender. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Hannes to 10 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After his release from prison, Hannes will be placed on a 5-year term of supervised release.
On June 29, 2021, Hannes was convicted of felony possession of child pornography in the 268th Judicial District of Fort Bend County, Texas. The conviction carried with it a 6-year period of supervision, and included a condition that he does not reside in any household with children under the age of 18 without approval. Hannes was also required to register as a sex offender pursuant to the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA), a federal law.
In October 2023, Hannes moved from Texas to an apartment in Omaha, Nebraska to reside with a woman and her son. Hannes then moved in with a second woman and her three children at an address in Omaha, Nebraska in December 2023 and again in January 2024. Although Hannes was in contact with his supervising officer in Texas in February 2024 and was instructed to register in Nebraska, Hannes refused to do so.
Among the special conditions of supervision imposed by Judge Buescher are that Hannes has no contact with children under the age of 18, including his own children, and that he does not loiter near schools, parks, and playgrounds and other places primarily used by children under the age of 18, unless approved in advance by his supervising U.S. probation officer.
This case was investigated by the United States Marshals Service.
Texas Hospital CEO to Pay over $5.3M to Settle Kickback Allegations Involving Laboratory TestingRead the Press Release
Former hospital chief executive officer (CEO) Jeffrey Madison, of Georgetown, Texas, has agreed to pay $5,343,630 to resolve allegations under the False Claims Act involving illegal payments to physicians for laboratory referrals in violation of the Anti-Kickback Statute. Madison also has agreed to cooperate with the Justice Department’s investigations of, and litigation against, other participants in the alleged schemes.
“The Justice Department will continue to pursue individuals — including C-suite executives — who commit health care fraud,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “Kickbacks to physicians from laboratories or other healthcare providers can undermine healthcare decision-making, subject patients to unnecessary medical services and waste taxpayer funds.”
The Anti-Kickback Statute prohibits offering, paying, soliciting or receiving remuneration to induce referrals of items or services covered by Medicare, Medicaid and other federally funded health care programs. The Anti-Kickback Statute is intended to ensure that medical providers’ judgments are not compromised by improper financial incentives and are instead based on the best interests of their patients.
The settlement announced today resolves allegations in a lawsuit alleging that Madison, the former CEO of Little River Healthcare (Little River), a critical access hospital in Rockdale, Texas, caused the submission of false claims for laboratory testing to Medicare, Medicaid and TRICARE from January 2015 to June 2018. Madison allegedly agreed to a kickback scheme in which Little River paid commissions to recruiters who used purported management service organizations (MSOs) to pay kickbacks to doctors to induce their laboratory testing referrals to Little River. The settlement resolves allegations that Madison knowingly signed, and caused others to sign, false certifications in Medicare cost reports regarding Little River’s compliance with the Anti-Kickback Statute, and thereby caused the submission of false claims to federal health care programs.
In addition, the settlement resolves allegations in the same lawsuit that, after defendant Doyce Cartrett Jr., M.D., of Silsbee, Texas, informed Little River of his potential laboratory testing referral volume, Madison agreed to have Little River pay Cartrett $2,000 per month in kickbacks disguised as purported medical director fees from February 2015 to May 2017, to induce Cartrett to shift his laboratory testing referrals to Little River. Madison allegedly agreed for Little River to pay the monthly fees, even though Little River did not receive any genuine medical director services from Dr. Cartrett.
Madison did not contest, and accepted responsibility for, the allegations against him in the United States’ amended complaint. Under the terms of the settlement agreement, Madison was excluded from participating in federal healthcare programs for 25 years. The lawsuit is captioned United States, et al. ex rel. STF LLC v. True Health Diagnostics LLC et al., No. 4:16-cv-547 (EDTX).
“Seeing past a corporate entity and holding individuals responsible for making the decisions to engage marketers to pay providers for their laboratory referrals is what justice requires,” said U.S. Attorney Damien M. Diggs for the Eastern District of Texas. “This settlement is a testament to our continued efforts to combat fraud against our federal healthcare programs and to hold accountable all participants who profited from knowingly violating the laws meant to guard against overutilization of medical services and protect the public fisc.”
“Illegal kickback payments, even when disguised as medical director fees, undermine and corrupt the medical decision-making process,” said Special Agent in Charge Jason E. Meadows of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “Both the payer and recipient benefit from these schemes, but it is ultimately the taxpayers who foot the bill. HHS-OIG will continue collaborating with law enforcement and prosecutors to protect the Medicare trust fund that millions of Americans depend on.”
“Our nation’s uniformed military service members and their families should never have to question the integrity of their healthcare providers,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Ryan Settle of the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), Southwest Field Office. “Medical decisions influenced by greed destroy the fundamental element of trust in patient care. This settlement reinforces the commitment the DCIS shares with our law enforcement partners and the Justice Department to pursue all available remedies against those who conspire to commit fraud against our Military Health System.”
The settlement was the result of a coordinated effort between the Civil Division’s Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Texas, with assistance from HHS-OIG and DCIS. The United States has recovered over $52 million relating to conduct involving MSO kickbacks to health care providers, which includes recoveries from 46 physicians.
Trial Attorneys Christopher Terranova and Gavin Thole of the Civil Division’s Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys James Gillingham and Betty Young for the Eastern District of Texas handled the case.
The government’s pursuit of this matter illustrates the government’s emphasis on combating health care fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse and mismanagement can be reported to HHS at 1-800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).
Settlement
Tampa Man Indicted for Receiving Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the unsealing of an indictment charging Steven Dennis Mack (40, Tampa) with eight counts of receiving child sexual abuse material. If convicted, Mack faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 5 years, up to 20 years, in federal prison for each count. The indictment also notifies Mack that the United States intends to forfeit a cellphone and laptop, which are alleged to be used to commit the offense.
According to the indictment, on several days in June and December 2023, Mack knowingly received visual depictions of minors being sexually abused.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the United States Air Force Office of Special Investigations Detachment 340 at MacDill Air Force Base and the Tampa Police Department. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ross Roberts.
This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.