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5 September 2024
U.S. Attorney’s Office Secures Sentence for Dulce Man Convicted of Sexual AbuseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Dulce man was sentenced to two years in prison and 15 years of supervised release for the sexual abuse of a 14-year-old girl.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on July 2, 2022, Amadius Archuleta, then 21-years-old, had sex with 14-year-old Jane Doe in an abandoned house on the Taos Pueblo. The investigation determined that Archuleta communicated with Jane Doe on Instagram, arranged to meet with her, provided her with alcohol and marijuana, and then had sex with her. Law enforcement determined that Archuleta knew about the age gap between himself and Jane Doe when he was communicating with her and before engaging in sexual acts with her.
After lengthy plea negotiations, Archuleta pleaded guilty to one count of sexual abuse of a minor.
Upon his release from prison, Archuleta must register as a sex offender.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Santa Fe Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Taos Pueblo Department of Public Safety. Assistant United States Attorneys Alexander F. Flores and Zachary Jones prosecuted this case as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
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U.S. Attorney's Office Secures Sentencing in Tohatchi Assault CaseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – An Albuquerque man was sentenced to 14 days in prison and three years of supervised release for a violent family dispute that escalated into a near-fatal stabbing.
According to court records, on the morning of December 9, 2022, Eric Watson, 23, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, confronted a family member outside of a residence in Tohatchi, New Mexico. The confrontation escalated to a physical altercation and Watson’s uncle, John Doe, stepped in to stop the fight. Watson and John Doe began to fight instead, and John Doe’s parents stepped in to stop that fight. John Doe then went inside of the residence to Watson’s bedroom with the intent of destroying Watson’s video game console. Watson then came up behind John Doe and repeatedly stabbed him in the back.
John Doe suffered various injuries from the stabbing including a collapsed lung, other stab wounds to the upper back and neck area, and one stab wound inches away from his spinal cord.
Watson will be subject to 3 years of supervised release with special conditions requiring his residence at a residential reentry facility for up to 180 days, treatment for substance abuse and mental health, and 40 hours of community service.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez made the announcement today.
The Navajo Police Department and the Navajo Department of Criminal Investigation investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney Mark A. Probasco prosecuted the case.
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U.S Department of Justice and Washington State Parks resolve complaint over Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) violationsRead the Press Release
Seattle – The U.S. Department of Justice and the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission (Washington State Parks) announced today that they have reached a settlement agreement to resolve a complaint that parks facilities fail to conform with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The original complaint concerned a camping area at Paradise Point State Park in southwest Washington. The complainant and his spouse reported non-conforming conditions at what was supposed to be a camping space for persons with disabilities. Deep ruts in the camping area resulted in injuries to the complainant, who has mobility issues. The settlement agreement sets the agency on a multi-year plan to identify and remediate ADA violations at all Washington State Parks.
“I am pleased that Washington State Parks leadership quickly realized that they need to act systematically on ADA compliance statewide,” said U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman. “Some of the work identifying non-conforming structures and paths had already been done by Washington State Parks. This agreement will ensure that access for those with disabilities is a factor that is addressed in all park projects going forward.”
“At Washington State Parks, we believe that the outdoors are for everyone’s enjoyment,” said Washington State Parks Director Diana Dupuis. “We appreciate the collaboration with the U.S. Department of Justice to help our visitors with accessibility needs better access state parks. The agency continues to make progress on increasing accessibility, with more work to come. We encourage anyone with accessibility requirements looking to visit a state park to learn more at our website, parks.wa.gov, or call our customer service team.”
The ADA requires that structures or improvements to public facilities such as parks, which were constructed after 1992, meet certain requirements to allow access to people with disabilities. The investigation by the U.S. Attorney’s Office revealed that Washington State Parks does not have formal procedures for identifying and addressing maintenance of accessible features in parks. The agency also had no routine to ensure new construction and alterations satisfy the ADA.
Under the terms of the settlement, Washington State Parks has 90 days to propose new policies and procedures for maintaining accessible features and ensuring that new construction and alterations are ADA compliant. The policies will be implemented to provide for routine inspections to ensure ADA standards are being met.
Within one year, Washington State Parks will provide the U.S. Attorney’s Office with a list of noncompliant buildings and facilities with a remediation plan and a timeline for making the facilities ADA compliant, with remediations to begin as soon as October 1, 2025.
The settlement also calls for Washington State Parks to establish ADA “grievance procedures” for those complaining about accessibility issues. Washington State Parks has an ADA Coordinator who will investigate any complaints and will respond. The coordinator will have the authority to request changes to address access issues.
Washington State Parks will post information about the ADA policies and coordinator on its website, and will log all inspections, complaints, and repairs of accessible features for review by the U.S. Attorney’s Office. All Washington State Parks employees who are involved in planning, development or implementation of any new construction or alterations will be trained on the ADA program outlined in the settlement.
The terms of the settlement will last for 7 years, with reports to the U.S. Attorney’s Office on progress every six months.
The settlement was negotiated by Assistant United States Attorney Susan Kas, Civil Rights Coordinator in the Civil Division of the U.S. Attorney’s Office. For more information on the Civil Rights Unit visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdwa/civil-rights
Trafficker Who Smuggled Fentanyl from Southern California to DC Sentenced to 108 MonthsRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Trayveon James Johnson, 20, of Alexandria, Va., was sentenced today to 108 months in prison for participating in a wide-spread narcotics trafficking conspiracy that distributed hundreds of thousands of fentanyl-laced counterfeit oxycodone pills purchased in Southern California to destinations throughout the United States, including the District of Columbia. Johnson was one of 24 co-defendants arrested over the course of 2023 in D.C., Virginia, Maryland, San Diego, and Los Angeles and charged in the conspiracy.
The sentence was announced by U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves, DEA Special Agent in Charge Jarod Forget of the DEA Washington Division, Inspector in Charge Damon Wood of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service Washington Division, and Chief Pamela A. Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department.
Johnson, aka “Treyski,” pleaded guilty on April 19, 2024, to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl. In addition to the 108-month prison term, U.S. District Court Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly ordered Johnson to serve five years of supervised release.
According to court documents, Johnson’s role in the conspiracy was to travel to Southern California where he purchased fentanyl-laced counterfeit oxycodone pills to bring them back to the District of Columbia. Johnson and his co-conspirators smuggled the pills concealed in luggage and/or personal carry-on items, or alternatively, used commercial mail carriers to ship them to the District. Johnson then conspired with his D.C.-based co-conspirators to redistribute the drugs.
The impetus for the investigation was the overdose death of Diamond Lynch, a young mother in Southeast D.C. In addition to investigating and prosecuting the death resulting case,[1] law enforcement followed the evidence and uncovered a vast network of traffickers who transported fentanyl from Mexico to Los Angeles to the District of Columbia. Since then, investigators have seized more than 450,000 fentanyl pills, 1.5 kilograms of fentanyl powder, and 30 firearms.
Although Johnson entered this conspiracy after Ms. Lynch’s death, the lethality of fentanyl-laced counterfeit oxycodone pills was well known to him. For example, on December 15, 2022, Johnson received a text message asking if a coconspirator, Mathias Tsegaye, “still got blues.” In January 2023, Tsegaye was found dead, with the cause of death determined to be a drug overdose involving fentanyl. Despite this knowledge of fentanyl’s risks, Johnson continued to traffic the deadly pills.
Johnson was arrested on November 9, 2023, in Alexandria, Va.
This investigation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (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.
DEFENDANT
AGE
LOCATION
CHARGES/SENTENCE
Hector David Valdez,
aka “Curl”
26
Santa Fe Springs, California
Conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl;
Conspiracy to commit international money laundering.
Craig Eastman
20
Washington, D.C.
Pleaded guilty July 25, 2024, to conspiracy to distribute more than 400 grams of fentanyl.
Sentencing: January 7, 2025
Charles Jeffrey Taylor
20
Washington, D.C.
Conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl;
Possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
Raymond Nava, Jr.
20
Bell Gardens,
California
Pleaded guilty May 9, 2024, to conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.
Sentencing: September 17, 2024.
Ulises Aldaz
28
Bell Gardens,
California
Sentenced June 28, 2024, to 95 months in prison, four years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.
Max Alexander Carias Torres
26
Bell Gardens,
California
Conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl;
Conspiracy to commit international money laundering
Teron Deandre McNeil, aka “Wild Boy”
34
Washington, D.C.
Conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.
Marvin Anthony Bussie,
aka “Money Marr”
21
Washington, D.C.
Sentenced June 28, 2024, to 120 months in prison, five years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.
Marcus Orlando Brown
28
Washington, D.C.
Pleaded guilty March 11, 2024, to conspiracy to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl.
Sentencing: October 3, 2024.
Columbian Thomas, aka
"Cruddy Murda”
26
Washington, D.C.
Pleaded guilty June 4, 2024, to conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.
Sentencing: October 22, 2024.
Wayne Rodell Carr-Maiden
29
Washington, D.C.
Sentenced April 29, 2024, to 45 months in prison, five years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl.
Andre Malik Edmond,
aka “Draco”
23
Temple Hills, Maryland
Sentenced July 22, 2024, to 130 months incarceration, 5 years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.
Treyveon James Johnson,
aka “Treyski”
20
Alexandria, Virginia
Sentenced Sept. 5, 2024, to 108 months in prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl.
Karon Olufemi Blalock,
aka “Fat Bags”
30
Alexandria, Virginia
Conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl
Ronte Ricardo Greene,
aka “Cardiddy”
28
Washington, D.C.
Conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl;
Possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
Melvin Edward Allen, Jr., aka “21”
38
Washington, D.C.
Conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.
Darius Quincy Hodges,
aka “Brick”
34
Glen Allen, Virginia
Conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.
Lamin Sesay,
aka “Rock Star”
27
Alexandria, Virginia
Conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.
Paul Alejandro Felix
25
Glendale,
California
Pleaded guilty July 1, 2024, to conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.
Sentencing: November 6, 2024
Omar Arana,
aka “Frogs”
27
Cudahy,
California
Conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl
Edgar Balderas, Jr., aka “Nano”
26
San Diego,
California
Conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.
Raul Pacheco Ramirez
30
Long Beach,
California
Pleaded guilty July 19, 2024, to conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.
Sentencing: November 26, 2024.
Giovani Alejandro Briones
30
Victorville, California
Conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl;
Conspiracy to commit international money laundering.
Alfredo Rodriguez Gonzalez
26
Rosarito, Mexico
Conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl;
Conspiracy to commit international money laundering.
The prosecutions followed a joint investigation by the DEA Washington Division and the USPIS Washington Divison in partnership with the Metropolitan Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), with additional support from the DEA Los Angeles, San Diego, and Riverside Field Offices, the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Washington Field Office, and the Charles County, Maryland Sheriff’s Office. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices in the Central and Southern Districts of California, the Eastern District of Virginia, and the District of Maryland.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew W. Kinskey, Solomon S. Eppel, and Iris McCranie, of the Violence Reduction and Trafficking Offenses (VRTO) Section.
23cr73
[1] https://www.justice.gov/usao-dc/pr/brother-and-sister-sentenced-drug-conspiracy-involving-fentanyl-sales
Three Mexican Nationals Charged with Meth TraffickingRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Three Mexican nationals were charged in federal court today after they were caught with more than 56 pounds of methamphetamine during a traffic stop on Interstate 29.
Pedro Alberto Quiroz Ayala, 20, Apolinar Gocovachi Pacheco, 24, and Pablo De Jesus Peralta Anguis, 25, all of whom are citizens of Mexico, were charged with possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute in a complaint filed in the U.S. District Court. They remain in federal custody pending a detention hearing on Tuesday, Sept. 10.
According to an affidavit filed in support of the federal criminal complaint, a Missouri State Highway Patrol trooper pulled over a gray 2011 Acura MDX on Interstate 29, near the N.W. 112th Street exit in Kansas City, Mo., at about 9:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 3. Ayala, who did not have a valid driver’s license, was driving the Acura, with a female juvenile in the front passenger seat and Pacheco and Anguis in the back seats.
When the trooper searched the vehicle, he found a large duffle bag in the third-row seating area that contained approximately 55.6 pounds of methamphetamine. He also found a grocery bag that contained approximately one pound of methamphetamine on the floorboard where the female juvenile had been sitting, and a loaded firearm in the driver’s door pouch.
When the four occupants got out of the vehicle for the search, the affidavit says, Ayala and Anguis fled on foot. A manhunt ensued; Ayala was apprehended about half an hour later and Anguis was apprehended after about 12 minutes.
Ayala told investigators they had picked up the drugs at a Walmart parking lot in Omaha, Nebraska. Ayala said he was going to receive $2,000 for transporting the drugs.
The charge contained in this complaint is simply an accusation, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charge must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brad K. Kavanaugh. It was investigated by the FBI and the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
Texas man charged with drug traffickingRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. – A federal grand jury in Wichita returned an indictment charging a Texas man with charges related to drug trafficking.
According to court documents, Mario Guerrero, Jr, 33, of Houston is charged with one count of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and one count of possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute.
The Drug Enforcement Administration is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Katie Andrusak is prosecuting the case.
OTHER INDICTMENTS
Humberto Argueta-Zavala, 42, of Wichita is charged with one count of unlawful re-entry after deportation and one count of possession of a firearm by an illegal alien. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Office of Enforcement and Removal Operations is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ola Odeyemi is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Tampa Man Indicted for Distribution of Cocaine, Possessing AK-47 Pistol, Silencer, Cocaine, and Machinegun SwitchRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Joshua Black (38, Tampa) with several counts of distribution of cocaine, possession of firearms after having been convicted of a felony offense, and possession of an unregistered silencer and machinegun switch. If convicted of all counts, Black faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison.
According to the indictment and criminal complaint, between February and March 2024, Black distributed cocaine from a residence in Tampa. On April 10, 2024, law enforcement officers with the Tampa Police Department executed a search warrant at the residence. In Black’s bedroom, law enforcement found a 9 mm “Freedom Ordinance” pistol, a “Zastava Arms” AK-47 pistol, a ballistic vest, a silencer, a machinegun switch which had the ability to convert firearms into machineguns, and various items indicative of drug trafficking, including glass bowls and plates containing crack cocaine, individually wrapped marijuana bags, crack cocaine, two digital scales, and $30,000 in cash hidden inside a hollowed out book.
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 investigation was led by the Tampa Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Diego F. Novaes.
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.
TV Presenter Who Worked for Channel One Russia Charged with Violating U.S. Sanctions Imposed on RussiaRead the Press Release
Note: View the indictments for District of Columbia cases #24-cr-403 and #24-cr-404.
The Department of Justice today unsealed two indictments charging Dimitri Simes, 76, and Anastasia Simes, 55, both of Huntly, Virginia, and Russia with two separate schemes to violate U.S. sanctions.
As alleged in the first indictment, Dimitri and Anastasia Simes participated in a scheme to violate U.S. sanctions for the benefit of sanctioned Russian broadcaster Channel One Russia and to launder funds obtained from that scheme. Channel One Russia, a state-owned Russian television station, was sanctioned by the Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) on May 8, 2022, for being owned or controlled by, or for having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, the Government of the Russian Federation.
From at least in or around June 2022 through the present, Dimitri Simes, Anastasia Simes and others allegedly participated in a scheme to violate the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), by providing services to Channel One Russia, including by serving as a presenter and producer of programming, and by receiving over $1 million, a personal car and driver, a stipend for an apartment in Moscow, Russia, and a team of 10 employees from Channel One Russia following its designation by OFAC. The indictment alleges that Dimitri and Anastasia Simes also engaged in a scheme to commit money laundering, knowing the transactions were intended to conceal the proceeds of IEEPA violations.
Dimitri and Anastasia Simes maintain a home in Huntly, Virginia. They remain at large and are believed to be in Russia. They are each charged with one count of conspiracy to violate the IEEPA, one count of violating the IEEPA, and one count of conspiracy to commit international money laundering. If convicted, they face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for each count.
As alleged in the second indictment, Anastasia Simes further participated in a scheme to violate U.S. sanctions for the benefit of, and to receive funds from, sanctioned oligarch Aleksandr Yevgenyevich Udodov. Udodov was sanctioned by OFAC on Feb. 23, 2023 for operating or having operated in the management consulting sector of the Russian Federation economy. From at least in or around February 2023 through the present, Anastasia Simes and others allegedly participated in a scheme to violate IEEPA by purchasing art and antiques for the benefit of Udovov from galleries and auction houses in the United States and Europe, and having the items shipped to her residence in Huntly, Virginia, where they were stored for onward shipment to Russia. In return, Anastasia Simes was reimbursed and received a service fee. The indictment alleges that Anastasia Simes also engaged in a scheme to commit money laundering, knowing the transactions were intended to conceal the proceeds of IEEPA violations. Below are photographs of some of the art and antiques intended for Udodov and stored in Anastasia and Dimtiri Simes’s residence.
In connection with this scheme, Anastasia Simes is charged with one count of conspiracy to violate the IEEPA, one count of violating the IEEPA, and one count of conspiracy to commit international money laundering. If convicted, she faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison on each count.
Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division, U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves for the District of Columbia, and Executive Assistant Director Robert Wells of the FBI’s National Security Branch made the announcement.
The FBI Washington Field Office is investigating both cases.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexandra Hughes for the District of Columbia and Trial Attorneys Menno Goedman and Sean O’Dowd of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the case.
The investigation was coordinated through the Justice Department’s Task Force KleptoCapture, an interagency law enforcement task force dedicated to enforcing the sweeping sanctions, export controls and economic countermeasures that the United States, along with its foreign allies and partners, has imposed in response to Russia’s unprovoked military invasion of Ukraine. Announced by the Attorney General on March 2, 2022, and under the leadership of the Office of the Deputy Attorney General, the task force will continue to leverage all of the department’s tools and authorities to combat efforts to evade or undermine the collective actions taken by the U.S. government in response to Russian military aggression.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
St. Louis County Felon Caught with Stolen Gun Sentenced to 102 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Matthew T. Schelp on Thursday sentenced a felon caught with a stolen gun to 102 months in prison.
Euron Jennings, 45, of Pagedale, pleaded guilty in May to one count of possession of a stolen firearm. He admitted that on June 19, 2022, St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department officers tried to pull over a Jeep with expired temporary license tags at Kingshighway Boulevard and Cote Brilliante Avenue. The driver failed to pull over and continued to drive slowly as Jennings threw a firearm out of the window and onto the street. The Jeep then stopped and Jennings ran away. He was caught, then broke free and ran again before being arrested with the aid of a Taser.
Jennings, who has an extensive criminal history that includes three separate convictions for crimes of violence, had discarded a stolen Hermann Weihrauch HW 7 .22-caliber revolver.
More than 1 million firearms were stolen from private citizens between 2017 and 2021, according to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Stolen firearms represent the main source of gun recovered at crime scenes.
The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney J. Christian Goeke 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.
Southeastern Connecticut Drug Trafficker Sentenced to More Than 16 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ANTHONY WHYTE, also known as “Jak Mac,” 50, of New London, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in New Haven to 195 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for narcotics trafficking, money laundering, and firearm possession offenses.
This matter stems from an investigation led by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Connecticut Statewide Narcotics Taskforce East, Connecticut Department of Correction and the New London, Waterford, City of Groton and Stonington Police Departments, into the distribution of narcotics and illegal possession of firearms in southeastern Connecticut. The investigation included court-authorized wiretaps and controlled purchases and seizures of heroin, cocaine, and firearms.
According to the evidence introduced during the trial of Whyte and his co-defendant, Amy Sarcia, Whyte obtained heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine from various sources in Connecticut, New York, and elsewhere. He then distributed the narcotics to co-conspirators in southeastern Connecticut who sold the drugs to customers and other street-level drug dealers. Sarcia, who both distributed and used cocaine, accepted narcotics proceeds from Whyte and provided Whyte with weekly paychecks from her business, Two Wives Pizza, and a federal W-2 tax form, in an attempt to disguise the narcotics proceeds as employment wages. Sarcia also accepted cash from Whyte for allowing him to use three apartments in a building she managed to store and dispense narcotics.
On February 21, 2019, Whyte, Sarcia, and several other co-conspirators were arrested. On that date, a search of Whyte’s New London apartment and other apartments he used revealed more than a kilogram of cocaine; approximately 180 grams of heroin; approximately 100 grams of fentanyl and fentanyl pills; 10 firearms, several of which were stolen; and thousands of dollars in cash. Investigators seized additional narcotics, another firearm, and nearly $200,000 in cash from other members of the conspiracy.
Whyte has been detained since his arrest on February 21, 2019. On September 28, 2021, Whyte and Sarcia were found guilty of one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, various narcotics, and one count of conspiracy to launder monetary instruments (“money laundering”). Whyte was also found guilty of three counts of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, various narcotics, and one count possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
On October 24, 2023, Judge Bolden sentenced Sarcia to three years of probation and ordered her to pay a $7,500 fine.
Twenty-four others were charged and convicted as a result of this investigation.
This investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Marshals Service, Connecticut Statewide Narcotics Taskforce East, Connecticut Department of Correction and the New London, Waterford, City of Groton, Stonington, Norwich, Old Saybrook, and UConn Police Departments.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Natasha M. Freismuth and Angel M. Krull through the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) Program. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations through a prosecutor-led and intelligence-driven approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
South Charleston Man Indicted on Federal Fraud, Money Laundering and Obstruction ChargesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A federal grand jury returned a 15-count indictment yesterday charging Theodore Miller, 34, of South Charleston, with wire fraud, money laundering, and obstruction.
The indictment alleges that, beginning as early as October 2021, Miller conceived and perpetrated two fraudulent schemes to bolster his businesses’ monthly cash flow and to pay unrelated personal and professional debts, obligations and expenses. As part of these schemes, Miller portrayed himself on social media as a wealthy and successful real estate mogul with enough disposable income to travel the world at his leisure. In reality, Miller had poor credit, thin month-to-month financial margins, was delinquent on property taxes and bills, and had defaulted on loans.
One scheme sought to defraud investors by inducing them to invest in two specific real estate projects located on Bigley Avenue in Charleston. One project proposed to rehabilitate a small residential property into a dry-storage lot, and the other proposed to develop duplex housing. Misrepresenting himself on social media as a wealthy and successful real estate investor, Miller created and shared false and misleading promotional materials for these direct investments. Between July 5, 2022, and September 8, 2022, Miller fraudulently induced several individuals to wire a total of $90,000 from California, Florida and Texas to him in Charleston for these projects. Upon receiving the investments, Miller did not proceed with either of the projects and in fact never owned any of the properties involved. Miller ceased all contact with the individuals after they began inquiring about the projects and the money they had invested.
Miller’s other scheme sought to defraud investors by inducing them to invest in “Bear Lute,” a pooled real estate investment vehicle. In or around May 2022, Miller launched Bear Lute and began directing his social media followers to invest through bearlute.com. Miller advertised Bear Lute as a way for ordinary people to invest in real estate and become wealthy and successful, like him. Miller made numerous misrepresentations through his social media posts, his website and one-on-one communications. Among other misrepresentations, Miller falsely that claimed Bear Lute generated exceptionally high and guaranteed returns, investors would receive a minimum return of 6 percent, the average investor historically received a return exceeding 20 percent, the investment was secured by income-producing real estate, and investors could request to withdraw their funds and receive them within 60 days.
Between June 30, 2022, and February 28, 2024, Miller fraudulently induced more than 100 individuals to invest in Bear Lute and obtained more than $200,000 in investor funds. The defrauded investors included two individuals who wired a total of $17,500 from Texas to Miller in Charleston. Nearly all of Miller’s representations and promises about Bear Lute were untrue, including that he owned the property pledged as security for investors. Miller posted false figures on an online investor dashboard that purported to allow investors to track and manage their investments, and ceased all communications with investors who requested withdrawals. Miller also failed to disclose to Bear Lute investors that the West Virginia Securities Commission ordered him to cease and desist operating Bear Lute.
Miller directed most of the fraudulently obtained funds from both schemes toward personal expenses, private investments, and other business expenses. These expenditures were for the benefit of Miller and an individual identified in the indictment as D.D. A resident of Charleston, D.D. was as an active participant in Miller’s businesses, held herself out as the vice president of the Miller-owned and operated Bear Industries LLC, and acted as Miller’s agent while he was outside of the United States. Miller remained outside of the United States from on or about February 12, 2022, to on or about August 8, 2024.
On or about July 20, 2022, Miller engaged in and caused others to engage in a electronic transfer of $20,000 between the bank accounts of Bear Industries LLC and another business he owned and operated, T&C Construction LLC, knowing that the property involved in the monetary transaction was criminally derived. On August 11, 2024, Miller sought to have a backpack and a cell phone destroyed, concealed or altered.
Miller is charged with 12 counts of wire fraud, one count of money laundering and two counts of obstruction. If convicted, Miller faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for each wire fraud count, 10 years in prison for money fraud, and 20 years in prison for each obstruction count. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the West Virginia Fusion Center, the West Virginia Securities Commission, and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
Assistant United States Attorney Holly Wilson is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filed a parallel civil action yesterday against Miller, Bear Industries LLC, Bear Investments and Business Consulting LLC, and Deanna Drumm in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of West Virginia. The lawsuit alleges that Miller has engaged in the unregistered and fraudulent offer of securities related to his real estate-related investment programs since at least 2022, and that Miller’s social-media persona and businesses were all a calculated fraud to divert investor funds for his own personal benefit. The lawsuit seeks permanent injunctive relief, disgorgement of ill-gotten gains and prejudgment interest, and civil penalties.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case Nos. 2:24-cr-145 and 2:24-cv-479.
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South African Company Agrees to Pay $617,914 to Resolve False Claims Act AllegationsRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Interactive Research and Development South Africa NPC (IRD SA) has agreed to pay $671,914 to resolve allegations that the company violated the False Claims Act by knowingly submitting to the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) false claims for payment related to employees of IRD SA who were allegedly not working.
In October 2019, USAID awarded a Cooperative Agreement (the Award) to IRD SA to provide healthcare services in South Africa. The Award’s period of performance was between Oct. 15, 2019, and Jan. 30, 2023. Federal funds were used to make payments to IRD SA under the Award. These federal funds were processed through a service center in Charleston, South Carolina. Under the Award, IRD SA agreed to provide a comprehensive package of tuberculosis treatment and prevention services across various provinces or districts in South Africa. Performing such services required a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between IRD SA and certain local South African authorities. Because the execution of the MOU with the local authorities in one of the provinces or districts was delayed for several months, approximately 62 employees of IRD SA were unable to perform Award-related services between January and June 2021. During this time, IRD SA failed to inform USAID that the idled employees weren’t performing such services. Instead, between March and July 2021, IRD SA submitted six vouchers to USAID that falsely certified compliance with the Award, and that improperly sought reimbursement for non-allowable labor costs and other costs associated with the idled workers. As a result, IRD SA received and/or retained approximately $335,957 in federal funds related to the idled workers covering the period of January to June 2021.
“We are committed to protecting federal funds and holding companies accountable that fraudulently obtain federal dollars,” said Adair F. Boroughs, U.S. Attorney for the District of South Carolina. “We are thankful for the great work of the USAID Office of Inspector General agents. Their work helps ensure that foreign companies only receive federal funds for services actually rendered.”
“The USAID Office of Inspector General is committed to pursuing those who defraud USAID programs by submitting false claims for services that were not provided,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Sean Bottary. “This resolution demonstrates our office’s resolve to hold U.S. foreign assistance award recipients accountable.”
The case was investigated by USAID’s Office of Inspector General, along with Assistant U.S. Attorney Stan Ragsdale of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of South Carolina.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
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Six Plead Guilty to Methamphetamine Trafficking Ring in the UpstateRead the Press Release
SPARTANBURG, S.C —Six individuals in the Upstate have pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute methamphetamine.
The following defendants entered guilty pleas in federal court:
Jonathan Sarratt, 38, of Gaffney
Christopher Biggerstaff, 41, of Chester. Biggerstaff also pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Mikenzi Walker, 25, of Gaffney
Sondra Walker, 66, of Gaffney
Aa’lyah Tukes, 29, of Anderson
Brenda Mincey, 34, of Shelby, N.C.
Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that since at least early 2023, Jonathan Sarratt, while incarcerated in the South Carolina Department of Corrections, was facilitating supplying the ring with at least 250 kilograms of methamphetamine for distribution in the Upstate. Mikenzi Walker, Christopher Biggerstaff, and Brenda Mincey distributed the methamphetamine. In July of 2023, Mincey was arrested with approximately 390 grams of methamphetamine and approximately 100 blue pills containing fentanyl she obtained from co-defendants. Biggerstaff was arrested in January 2024, with three loaded handguns and ounce quantities of methamphetamine. Both Sondra Walker and Aa’lyah Tukes moved methamphetamine into their residences for distribution during the conspiracy. Law enforcement seized $150,000 in drug proceeds from Tukes during the takedown operation in this case.
Sarratt and Biggerstaff face a maximum of life in federal prison and a $10,000,000 fine. Sondra Walker, Mikenzi Walker, Tukes, and Mincey face up to 20 years in federal prison and a $1,000,000 fine. Biggerstaff faces an additional five years consecutive to any sentence he receives due to his firearms charge. All defendants face a maximum of lifetime supervision.
United States District Judge Donald C. Coggins, Jr., accepted the guilty pleas and will sentence the defendants after receiving and reviewing a sentencing report prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.
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. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations Border Enforcement Security Task Force (BEST), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office, Greenville County Sheriff’s Office, and Greenville Drug Enforcement Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jamie Lea Schoen is prosecuting the case.
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Sheldon Woman to Federal Prison for Meth and Fentanyl ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Kelli Biller, 39, from Sheldon, Iowa, was sentenced on September 4, 2024, to over 9 years in federal prison. On April 24, 2024, Biller pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl.
At the plea and sentencing hearings, evidence showed that from about January 2022 through November 2023, Biller was involved in a conspiracy that distributed more than 2.5 pounds of methamphetamine and at least 200 grams of fentanyl. Biller admitted to helping transfer 2,000 fentanyl pills from a source in Sioux City to another for re-distribution in the Sheldon/Primghar area. Biller also admitted obtaining several ounces of methamphetamine from her source for redistribution in Northwest Iowa. During a traffic stop in Sioux City on November 10, 2023, agents seized 19 M30 type fentanyl pills from Biller for re-distribution.
Sentencing was held before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Biller was sentenced to 119 months’ imprisonment and must serve a four-year term of supervised release following the imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. Biller remains in custody of the United States Marshal until she can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn S. Wehde and was investigated by the Tri-State Drug Task Force based in Sioux City, Iowa, that consists of law enforcement personnel from the Drug Enforcement Administration; Sioux City, Iowa, Police Department; Homeland Security Investigations; Woodbury County Sheriff’s Office; South Sioux City, Nebraska, Police Department; Nebraska State Patrol; Iowa National Guard; Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; United States Marshals Service; South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation; and Woodbury County Attorney’s Office.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 24-4010.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Sex Offender Sentenced to 116 Months in Federal Prison for Possession of Obscene Visual Representations of the Sexual Abuse of ChildrenRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ronald C. Gathe, Jr. announced that U.S. District Judge John W. deGravelles sentenced Michael Becnel, age 56, of Baton Rouge, to 116 months in federal prison following his conviction for possessing obscene visual representations of the sexual abuse of children. The Court further sentenced Becnel to serve five years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment and ordered him to forfeit his interest in property used to commit the offense.
According to admissions made as part of his guilty plea, on June 6, 2023, Becnel knowingly possessed more than three obscene visual depictions of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. He had previously downloaded the visual depictions to his cellphone from a website, which cellphone was found in his possession when law enforcement agents were executing a search warrant of his residence.
At the time Becnel was found in possession of the unlawful visual depictions in June 2023, he was on federal supervised release following a previous federal conviction for failing to register as a sex offender. In April 2024, U.S. District Judge Brian A. Jackson revoked his term of supervision and sentenced him to serve 14 months consecutively to the term of imprisonment ordered today.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ben Wallace.
September Federal Grand Jury 2024-A Indictments AnnouncedRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Clint Johnson today announced the results of the September Federal Grand Jury 2024-A Indictments.
The following individuals have been charged with violations of United States law in indictments returned by the Grand Jury. The return of an indictment is a method of informing a defendant of alleged violations of federal law, which must be proven in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt to overcome a defendant’s presumption of innocence.
Esteban Abarca-Calbario. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Abarca-Calbario, 45, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been removed in Jan. 2023. U.S. Immigration and Custom’s Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cheryl L. Baber is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-281
Gerardo Becerra-Quiroz. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Becerra-Quiroz, 36, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been removed in May 2020. U.S. Immigration and Custom’s Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christian Harris is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-282
Courtney Jamar Calamease. Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition (Counts 1 & 2) (superseding). Calamease, 34, of Tulsa, is charged with possessing a firearm and ammunition in May 2024 and Aug. 2024, knowing he was previously convicted of felonies. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mallory Richard is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-252
Raul Yepez Garcia. Assault of a Federal Officer; Alien Unlawfully in the United States in Possession of a Firearm. Yepez Garcia, 46, a Mexican national, is charged with resisting, impeding, and assaulting a federal officer with a deadly weapon while the officer was performing his official duty. Additionally, Yepez Garcia knowingly possessed a firearm, knowing he was an unlawful alien in the United States. The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney George Jiang is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-292
Michael Vincent Martin. Assault of an Intimate/Dating Partner by Strangling in Indian Country and Attempting to Strangle in Indian Country (Count 1); Abusive Sexual Contact by Force and Threat in Indian Country (Count 2); Tampering with a Witness by Intimidation, Threats, and Corrupt Persuasion (Counts 3 & 7); Sexual Abuse Without Consent in Indian Country (Count 4); Cyberstalking (Count 5); Tampering with a Witness by Intimidation, Threats, and Corrupt Persuasion (Count 6) (superseding). Martin, 34, of Tulsa, is charged with assault by strangulation of an intimate dating partner, engaging in sexual contact by force or threat, and without consent. Martin is further charged with attempting to influence and prevent the tribal victim from testifying and communicating with law enforcement. Additionally, he is charged with cyberstalking. The FBI and Broken Arrow Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stacey P. Todd is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-180
Victor Muniz-Nieto. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Muniz-Nieto, 41, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been removed in Feb. 2016. U.S. Immigration and Custom’s Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christian Harris is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-283
Steve Earl Perry, Jr. Escape from Federal Custody. Perry, 34, of Tulsa, is charged with escaping from federal custody while confined in the Turley Residential Center. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Greenough is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-284
Jerico Lee Reddell. Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition (Count 1); Kidnapping in Indian Country (Counts 2, 5 & 8); Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country (Counts 3, 6 & 9); Carrying, Using, and Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence (Count 4 & 7); Witness Tampering (Counts 10 & 11); Conspiracy to Obstruct Justice by Witness Tampering (Count 12) (superseding). Reddell, 41, of Bartlesville and a member of the Cherokee Nation, is charged with possessing a firearm and ammunition, knowing he was previously convicted of felonies. He allegedly kidnapped two different victims, intentionally assaulted them with a dangerous weapon, and used a firearm in a crime of violence. Additionally, Reddell is charged with obstructing a federal Grand Jury investigation and conspiring with someone else to tamper with a witness. The FBI, Tulsa Police Department, and Bartlesville Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michele W. Hulgaard and Stacey Todd are prosecuting the case. 24-CR-105
Seattle Woman Pleads Guilty to Feeding Our Future Jury Bribery SchemeRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – A Seattle woman has pleaded guilty to her role in providing a $120,000 bribe to a juror in the Feeding Our Future trial, announced United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, on April 22, 2024, seven defendants went to trial before U.S. District Judge Nancy E. Brasel for their roles in the Feeding Our Future fraud scheme. During the trial, Ladan Mohamed Ali, 31, and four others conspired with each other to provide a cash bribe to one of the jurors in exchange for the juror returning a not guilty verdict in the trial.
As part of the scheme, on May 17, 2025, Ali flew from Seattle to Minneapolis to meet with co-defendant Abdimajid Nur to discuss the plan to bribe Juror 52. Ali agreed to deliver the bribe money to Juror 52 in exchange for a $150,000 cash payment. On May 30, 2024, Ali again flew from Seattle to Minneapolis to carry out the bribery scheme. On May 31, 2024, at the direction of Nur, Ali attempted to follow Juror 52 home as she left a downtown Minneapolis parking ramp at the conclusion of the first day of closing arguments in the trial. Nur had previously provided Ali with a photo of Juror 52’s car and a map of the parking ramp.
According to court documents, although Ali had agreed to contact Juror 52 about the bribe, Ali was concerned that the plan would not work and that she would not get paid for her involvement in the bribery. Instead, Ali came up with an alternative plan to steal some or all of the bribe money. On June 1, 2024, Ali told Nur —falsely—that she had approached Juror 52 at a bar and that Juror 52 was interested in taking the bribe but wanted $500,000 in exchange for returning a not guilty verdict. Ali told Nur that Juror 52 wanted Ali to deliver the money at a specific time when Juror 52 would be home alone. In reality, Ali did not speak with Juror 52, and Juror 52 never agreed to accept a bribe.
Nevertheless, Nur believed Ali and told her that he would obtain the bribe money from co-defendants Abdiaziz Farah and Said Farah. On June 2, 2024, Ali met Nur in a parking lot in Bloomington to pick up the bribe money. Prior to the meeting, Ali purchased two Hallmark gift bags in which to deliver the bribe money. During the meeting, Nur handed Ali a cardboard box containing $200,000 in cash. Ali took the cash out of the box and put it into one of the Hallmark gift bags. Ali then drove to an area near Juror 52’s house to meet Abdulkarim Farah, who would accompany Ali to Juror 52’s house and video record her delivery of the bribe as proof that the bribe money was delivered and Juror 52’s acceptance of the bribe. Abdulkarim Farah insisted that he drive Ali to Juror 52’s house. This prevented Ali from stealing all of the bribe money. After Ali met up with Abdulkarim Farah, they stopped at a nearby store to purchase a screwdriver. Abdulkarim Farah used the screwdriver to remove the license plate from Ali’s rental car prior to delivering the bribe.
According to court documents, at approximately 8:50 p.m. on June 2, 2024, upon arriving at Juror 52’s house, Ali approached the house with the gift bag containing the bribe money, handed it to a relative of Juror 52 and explained that there would be more money if Juror 52 voted to acquit the defendants. Abdulkarim Farah remained in the car and took a video of Ali’s delivery of the bribe money. Ali received $200,000 in cash from Nur, all of which was intended to be used to bribe Juror 52. But Ali only delivered $120,000 to Juror 52’s relative and kept the remaining $80,000 cash for herself.
Ali pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court before Judge David S. Doty to one count of bribery of a juror. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later time.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI with assistance from IRS – Criminal Investigations, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph H. Thompson, Matthew Ebert, Harry Jacobs, and Daniel Bobier are prosecuting the case.
San Antonio Man Sentenced to 17 Years in Federal Prison After Sending Child Pornography to Australian Police OfficerRead the Press Release
SAN ANTONIO – A San Antonio man was sentenced in federal court to 210 months in prison for distribution of child pornography.
According to court documents, Thomas Jeffrey McKissick V, 42, sent 18 images and four video files containing child pornography to an undercover police officer in Queensland, Australia on Feb. 6, 2022 and Feb. 7, 2022. Homeland Security Investigations executed a federal search warrant at McKissick’s San Antonio residence on March 10, 2022, seizing a cell phone that contained more than 10,000 images and nearly 800 video files of child sexual abuse material.
McKissick was arrested March 11, 2022 and has remained in federal custody. He pleaded guilty to one count March 5, 2024. In addition to the 210 month imprisonment, McKissick was ordered to serve lifetime supervised release and pay $15,000 restitution.
“This case demonstrates that our partnerships to combat criminal activity and prosecute child predators reach far beyond our state lines and our nation’s borders,” said U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza for the Western District of Texas. “Thanks to this bilateral investigation and the collaboration between HSI San Antonio and the Queensland Police Service in Australia, this predator can no longer inflict harm on children.”
“While this significant sentence cannot repair the permanent damage done to the children depicted in these images, it should serve as a warning to those who engage in this behavior. HSI and our partners will be relentless in our pursuit of online predators," said Special Agent in Charge Craig Larrabee for HSI San Antonio. "The collaboration between HSI and our international partners is critical in our mission to protect vulnerable children and bring perpetrators to justice.”
“This arrest is an excellent outcome, made possible through the exceptional collaboration between the Queensland Police Service and Homeland Security Investigations,” said Detective Inspector Glen Donaldson for the Queensland Police Service child exploitation unit Argos. “This joint effort underscores the importance of interagency cooperation in our shared mission to target high-harm offenders, enhance community safety and remove children from harm.”
HSI takes a victim-centered approach to child exploitation investigations by working to identify, rescue and stabilize victims. HSI works in partnership with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, Internet Crimes Against Children partners, and other federal, state and local agencies to help solve cases and rescue sexually exploited children. You can report suspected child sexual exploitation or missing children to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children’s toll-free, 24-hour hotline at 800-THE-LOST.
HSI is a founding member of the Virtual Global Taskforce, an international alliance of law enforcement agencies and private industry sector partners working together to prevent and deter online child sexual abuse.
HSI and the Queensland Police Service investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Bettina Richardson prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
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Robert Hunter Biden Convicted on Three Felony Tax Offenses and Six Misdemeanor Tax OffensesRead the Press Release
Robert Hunter Biden (Hunter Biden) pleaded guilty in federal court in Los Angeles this afternoon to all counts in a nine-count indictment, including three felony tax offenses and six misdemeanor tax offenses. There was no plea agreement.
Judge Scarsi accepted the defendant’s guilty plea and scheduled sentencing for December 16, 2024.
According to the indictment, Hunter Biden engaged in a four-year scheme in which he chose not to pay at least $1.4 million in self-assessed federal taxes he owed for tax years 2016 through 2019 and to evade the assessment of taxes for tax year 2018 when he filed false returns. As alleged in the indictment, to further this scheme, Hunter Biden:
- subverted the payroll and tax withholding process of his own company by withdrawing millions outside of the payroll and tax withholding process;
- spent millions of dollars on an extravagant lifestyle rather than paying his tax bills;
- in 2018, stopped paying his outstanding and overdue taxes for tax year 2015;
- willfully failed to pay his 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019 taxes on time, despite having access to funds to pay some or all of these taxes;
- willfully failed to file his 2017 and 2018 tax returns, on time; and
- when he did finally file his 2018 returns, included false business deductions in order to reduce the very substantial tax liability he faced as of February 2020.
At sentencing, Hunter Biden faces a maximum penalty of 17 years in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Court documents and information for this case is located on the website of the District Court for the Central District of California or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:23-cr-00599.
Ridgefield Man Sentenced to 3 Years in Prison for Child Exploitation OffenseRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that NICHOLAS SKIRKANICH, 45, of Ridgefield, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vernon D. Oliver in Hartford to 36 months of imprisonment, followed by 10 years of supervised release, for a child exploitation offense. Judge Oliver also ordered Skirkanich to pay a fine and assessments totaling $25,000, and restitution of $4,000.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in October 2022, an online service provider submitted a CyberTip to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (“NCMEC”) indicating that a TikTok video containing child sex abuse imagery was sent from Skirkanich’s email account to another email account. Subsequent investigation revealed that Skirkanich had emailed the TikTok video to another email account he controlled, that he had also uploaded to TikTok another video of child sex imagery, and that he possessed numerous other child sex abuse images on his phone.
Skirkanich was arrested on December 15, 2022. On February 21, 2023, he pleaded guilty to accessing with intent to view and possessing child pornography.
Skirkanich, who is released on a $150,000 bond, is required to report to prison on October 19.
This matter was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) with the assistance of the Ridgefield Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shan Patel, with the assistance of the Danbury State’s Attorney’s Office.
This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.
Registered Sex Offender Sentenced to 45 Years' Imprisonment for Attempting to Sexually Exploit Minors and Distributing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Earlier today, in federal court in Brooklyn, Davis Burgos-Collazo was sentenced by United States District Judge Pamela K. Chen to 45 years in prison for five counts of attempted sexual exploitation of a minor, two counts of distributing child pornography, one count of accessing child pornography with intent to view it and one count of committing a felony sexual offense involving minors while being a registered sex offender. As part of the sentence, the Court ordered Burgos-Collazo to pay restitution of $33,000. Burgos-Collazo was convicted by a federal jury in July 2022 following a one-week trial.
Breon Peace, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York and Christie M. Curtis, Acting Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI), announced the sentence.
“It has been proven that the defendant is an extremely dangerous predator, who, while being a registered sex offender, coerced a 10 year old child to perform sex acts for him on Instagram and threatened the child when she pleaded that he leave her alone. And sadly, she was not the only vulnerable victim,” stated United States Attorney Peace. “With today’s sentence, the goal of incapacitating this master manipulator and sextortionist has been achieved. We are dedicated to protecting our children from those who weaponize social media in order to sexually exploit and harm them.”
As set forth in the government’s sentencing memorandum and related court proceedings, in 2020, Burgos-Collazo used at least 26 Instagram accounts to attempt to sexually exploit children as young as nine years old. The defendant enticed the victims by pretending to be a modeling scout and by using accounts with names like “future models” and “preteen beauty pics.” After the defendant coerced a 10 year old victim into performing live sex acts for him on Instagram and she pleaded with him to leave her alone, he threatened to post a naked picture of her online for her friends to see if she refused to provide him with additional sexually explicit materials. The FBI recovered over 100 photos and videos of child pornography on the defendant’s phone. Burgos-Collazo committed these crimes while he was a registered sex offender. In March 2006, he was convicted of sexually abusing and attempting to sexually abuse multiple minors, all of whom were under the age of eleven, and one as young as seven.
This prosecution is 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 United States Attorneys’ Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Civil Rights Section. Assistant United States Attorneys Rachel A. Bennek and John O. Enright are in charge of the prosecution, with the assistance of Paralegal Specialist Anna November.
The Defendant:
DAVIS BURGOS-COLLAZO
Age: 45
Queens, New YorkE.D.N.Y. Docket No.: 20-CR-492 (PKC)
Peruvian Citizen Extradited to United States on Narcotics Importation Conspiracy and Attempt ChargesRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A citizen of Peru who was extradited to the United States on narcotics importation conspiracy and attempt charges had his initial appearance today in Newark federal court, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced today.
Roque Rafael Martinez Cubas, aka “Ever Arteaga,” 51, is charged by indictment with one count of conspiracy to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine for unlawful importation and with one count of attempt to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine for unlawful importation into the United States.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
Cubas was part of an international drug trafficking organization that manufactures and transports large quantities of cocaine from Peru to various countries, including the United States. From May 2022 through April 2023, Cubas and others conspired and attempted to import 662 kilograms of cocaine into the United States. Cubas was arrested in Peru in December 2023, and extradited at the request of the United States. He had his initial appearance today, before U.S. Magistrate Judge André M. Espinsoa in Newark federal court, pleaded not guilty, and was detained.
The narcotics charges each carry a maximum potential penalty of life imprisonment and a maximum fine of $250,000.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents and task force officers of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge James E. Dennehy; the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Jersey Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Cheryl Ortiz; and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration in Lima, Peru, with the investigation leading to the charges. He also thanked the Peruvian National Police Special Investigations Unit; the Peruvian National Prosecutor General’s Office; the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service; Homeland Security Investigations Newark; U.S. Customs and Border Protection; Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Enforcement and Removal Operations Newark Field Office; the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office; the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office; the Town of Dover Police Department; and the New Jersey National Guard Counterdrug Unit. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided substantial assistance in securing the arrest of Cubas and his extradition to the United States. U.S. Attorney Sellinger thanked officials in Peru for their assistance.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/ocdetf.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenny Chung of the Opioid Abuse Prevention and Enforcement Unit in Newark.
The charges and allegations contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
cubas.indictment.pdfPennsylvania Business Owner Sentenced to Prison for Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – A Pennsylvania man was sentenced today to 24 months in prison for evading his personal and employment taxes.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Brandon Aumiller, of Milroy, owned an insurance sales business. For tax years 2007, and 2009 through 2011, Aumiller filed personal income tax returns reporting that he owed taxes, but did not pay them. He also filed employment tax returns for his business reporting that it owed taxes for the third quarter of 2013 and the first two quarters of 2014, but did not pay those taxes either.
When the IRS sought to collect the taxes Aumiller admitted he owed, Aumiller engaged in a multi-year scheme to thwart the IRS’ efforts by concealing his assets in nominee bank accounts, structuring multiple real estate deals to conceal the transactions from the IRS, and submitting false financial disclosure forms to the IRS that did not fully disclose his bank accounts and his real estate assets.
In total, Aumiller caused a tax loss to the IRS of $478,270.
“Taxpayers thinking about committing tax evasion should stop and consider the consequences,” stated Amy MacNeely, IRS Criminal Investigation Acting Special Agent in Charge, Philadelphia Field Office. “Those consequences include possible incarceration, being branded a convicted felon for the rest of their lives, and paying back all the taxes owed plus steep penalties and interest. Mr. Aumiller’s conviction and sentencing ensures that he will face those consequences, while reinforcing our commitment to identify and prosecute those who evade their taxes.”
In addition to the term of imprisonment, U.S. District Judge Christopher C. Conner ordered Aumiller to serve 3 years of supervised release and to pay approximately $180,000 in restitution to the United States.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Gerard M. Karam for the Middle District of Pennsylvania made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case.
Trial Attorney Matthew L. Cofer of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey W. MacArthur of the Middle District of Pennsylvania prosecuted the case.
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Pennsylvania Business Owner Sentenced to Prison for Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – A Pennsylvania man was sentenced today to 24 months in prison for evading his personal and employment taxes.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Brandon Aumiller, of Milroy, owned an insurance sales business. For tax years 2007, and 2009 through 2011, Aumiller filed personal income tax returns reporting that he owed taxes, but did not pay them. He also filed employment tax returns for his business reporting that it owed taxes for the third quarter of 2013 and the first two quarters of 2014, but did not pay those taxes either.
When the IRS sought to collect the taxes Aumiller admitted he owed, Aumiller engaged in a multi-year scheme to thwart the IRS’ efforts by concealing his assets in nominee bank accounts, structuring multiple real estate deals to conceal the transactions from the IRS, and submitting false financial disclosure forms to the IRS that did not fully disclose his bank accounts and his real estate assets.
In total, Aumiller caused a tax loss to the IRS of $478,270.
“Taxpayers thinking about committing tax evasion should stop and consider the consequences,” stated Amy MacNeely, IRS Criminal Investigation Acting Special Agent in Charge, Philadelphia Field Office. “Those consequences include possible incarceration, being branded a convicted felon for the rest of their lives, and paying back all the taxes owed plus steep penalties and interest. Mr. Aumiller’s conviction and sentencing ensures that he will face those consequences, while reinforcing our commitment to identify and prosecute those who evade their taxes.”
In addition to the term of imprisonment, U.S. District Judge Christopher C. Conner ordered Aumiller to serve 3 years of supervised release and to pay approximately $180,000 in restitution to the United States.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Gerard M. Karam for the Middle District of Pennsylvania made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case.
Trial Attorney Matthew L. Cofer of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey W. MacArthur of the Middle District of Pennsylvania prosecuted the case.
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Pennsylvania Business Owner Sentenced for Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
A Pennsylvania man was sentenced today to 24 months in prison for evading his personal and employment taxes.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Brandon Aumiller, of Milroy, owned an insurance sales business. For tax years 2007 and 2009 through 2011, Aumiller filed personal income tax returns reporting that he owed taxes, but did not pay them. He also filed employment tax returns for his business reporting that it owed taxes for the third quarter of 2013 and the first two quarters of 2014, but did not pay those taxes either.
When the IRS sought to collect the taxes Aumiller admitted he owed, Aumiller engaged in a multi-year scheme to thwart the IRS’ efforts by concealing his assets in nominee bank accounts, structuring multiple real estate deals to conceal the transactions from the IRS and submitting false financial disclosure forms to the IRS that did not fully disclose his bank accounts and his real estate assets.
In total, Aumiller caused a tax loss to the IRS of $478,270.
In addition to the term of imprisonment, U.S. District Judge Christopher C. Conner ordered Aumiller to serve three years of supervised release and to pay approximately $180,000 in restitution to the United States.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Gerard M. Karam for the Middle District of Pennsylvania made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case.
Trial Attorney Matthew L. Cofer of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey W. MacArthur for the Middle District of Pennsylvania prosecuted the case.
Palm Springs Man Pleads Guilty to $2.1 Million Tax Refund Scheme and to Fraudulently Obtaining Nearly $1 Million in COVID-19 LoansRead the Press Release
RIVERSIDE, California – A Riverside County man pleaded guilty today to scheming to defraud the IRS out of more than $2.1 million via the issuing of fake W-2 forms and to fraudulently obtaining nearly $1 million of COVID-19 economic-relief loans.
William Mandel Musgrow, 48, of Palm Springs, pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud and one count of aiding and assisting in the preparation of a false tax return.
According to his plea agreement, Musgrow used one of his business entities to issue fraudulent IRS Forms W-2. These forms false represented to the IRS that the recipients were employed by defendant’s various businesses, received wages, and had federal tax withheld from their paychecks when, in fact, the Forms W-2 either overstated the recipient’s income, or were wholly fraudulent as the recipient either did not work for the business at all or had no federal income tax withheld from their paychecks.
Musgrow then would help the recipient file fraudulent federal income tax returns that utilized the bogus Forms W-2 to generate a tax refund to which the recipient was not entitled.
In total, Musgrow issued at least 87 fraudulent IRS Forms W-2 and assisted in the filing of at least 87 false income tax returns. These returns requested a total of $2,769,600 in tax refunds, and the IRS paid out $2,136,630 of the requested refunds.
Separately, during the spring of 2020, Congress created federal programs to provide financial assistance to Americans suffering economic harm because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
From March 2020 to August 2020, Musgrow submitted 14 false and fraudulent applications to the United States Small Business Administration (SBA) and banks for Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL).
In these applications, Musgrow made false statements including the number of employees to whom were paid wages, falsely certifying that the loan proceeds would be used for permissible business purposes, and in some cases, that the businesses were legitimate business when, in fact, they were not operating in any fashion and had no employees whatsoever.
In total, Musgrow submitted 14 fraudulent loan applications which requested more than $1.9 million. Relying on Musgrow’s false information, the SBA and lenders approved and funded many of the loans. Musgrow obtained approximately $970,000 in fraudulent proceeds.
United States District Judge Kenly Kiya Kato scheduled a January 16, 2025, sentencing hearing, at which time Musgrow will face a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison for the wire fraud count and three years in federal prison for the tax fraud count.
IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating this matter.
Assistant United States Attorney Benjamin J. Weir of the Riverside Branch Office is prosecuting this 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.
On September 15, 2022, the Attorney General selected the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Central and Eastern Districts of California to jointly head one of three national COVID-19 Fraud Strike Force Teams. The Department of Justice established the Strike Force to enhance existing efforts to combat and prevent COVID-19 related financial fraud. The Strike Force combines law enforcement and prosecutorial resources and focuses on large-scale, multistate pandemic relief fraud perpetrated by criminal organizations and transnational actors, as well as those who committed multiple instances of pandemic relief fraud. The Strike Force uses prosecutor-led and data analyst-driven teams to identify and bring to justice those who stole pandemic relief funds. Additional information regarding the Strike Force may be found at https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-announces-covid-19-fraud-strike-force-teams.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at (866) 720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
Owner of Orange County Staffing Companies Pleads Guilty to Tax Crimes, Admits to Cheating IRS Out of Nearly $60 MillionRead the Press Release
RIVERSIDE, California – The owner of Orange County-based temporary staffing companies pleaded guilty today to two federal criminal charges for willfully evading the payment of nearly $30 million in taxes, penalties and interest, assessed against him to the IRS as well as causing a false tax return to be filed with the IRS as part of defendant’s efforts to conceal nearly $30 million in additional tax liabilities incurred by his staffing companies.
Luis E. Perez, 55, who has maintained residences in Anaheim Hills, Yorba Linda, and Dove Canyon, pleaded guilty to one count of tax evasion and one count of aiding and assisting in the preparation of a false tax return.
“This defendant’s greed and lies lasted over a decade and caused tens of millions of dollars in unpaid taxes to the IRS so he could live a lavish lifestyle,” said United States Attorney Martin Estrada. “Today’s guilty plea shows my office will continue to aggressively prosecute tax offenders who fail to pay their fair share to the federal fisc and hold corporate executives accountable for violating their obligations.”
“For nearly a decade, Mr. Perez committed tax evasion by withholding millions of dollars in payroll taxes from employee paychecks and using that money to purchase luxury items for himself,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Jose Gonzalez, IRS Criminal Investigation, Los Angeles Field Office. “As a business owner, he had a duty to his employees and to the IRS, yet despite attempts by the IRS to work with Mr. Perez, he lied and continued to report false information. IRS Criminal Investigation will exhaust all avenues to pursue tax criminals, all of whom place additional burden on honest taxpaying Americans.”
According to his plea agreement, Perez’s companies – which include Checkmates Staffing Inc.; Staffaide Inc.; BaronHR, LLC; BaronHR West Inc.; and Fortress Holding Group LLC – were required to withhold taxes from employee wages and to pay the withheld amounts to the IRS on a periodic basis. These withheld taxes, sometimes known as “trust fund taxes,” include income taxes and Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA) taxes that fund Social Security and Medicare.
From May 2009 to January 2017, Perez’s companies failed to pay the IRS the payroll taxes for the tax years 2001, 2002, 2003, 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2010, including trust fund taxes that Perez’s companies withheld from employees’ paychecks. Beginning in June 2007, the IRS attempted to collect Perez’s outstanding tax liability, including penalties and interest. By February 2017, the outstanding balance had grown to $29,593,378, which included the unpaid taxes, interest and the “Trust Fund Recovery Penalty.”
Perez attempted to thwart the IRS’s collection efforts by purchasing luxury items from his business bank accounts – including numerous cars and a boat – and concealing his ownership by placing the titles of these items in the names of his businesses and other individuals. Those luxury items included a Ferrari 360 Spider F, a Rolls Royce Phantom, a Duffy D 22 Bay Island boat, a Mercedes-Benz SLS, a Mercedes-Benz G-Class, and a Lamborghini Aventador. Perez also evaded the IRS’s collection efforts by obtaining a Visa Black credit card in the name of another person (now his wife) to make personal purchases and paid off the credit card using funds from his business bank accounts.
As part of his efforts to impede the IRS, Perez lied to IRS revenue officers during interviews and failed to include material information in documents submitted to the IRS. For example, Perez falsely claimed that he received a salary of only $1,000 per week from BaronHR and he did not receive any other funds from the company, when in fact Perez distributed money to himself from his businesses by making payments to his now wife for Perez’s benefit.
While on pretrial release for the abovementioned criminal conduct, Perez engaged in additional criminal tax violations. From October 2018 to August 2019, Perez willfully aided and assisted in the preparation of false tax returns that substantially understated the wages paid to the employees of Anaheim-based temporary staffing company BaronHR West from January 2018 through June 2019. Specifically, Perez admitted in his plea agreement that he caused BaronHR West to underreport employee wages and other compensation paid by the company by approximately $130,879,521, which resulted in the company’s failure to pay approximately $29,633,516 in federal employment taxes.
United States District Judge Kenly Kiya Kato scheduled a January 16, 2025, sentencing hearing, at which time he will face a statutory maximum sentence of eight years in federal prison.
Perez has been in federal custody since August 15, when a federal magistrate judge revoked his bond after a two-day evidentiary hearing finding probable cause to believe that Perez had violated the terms of his pretrial release by committing still more criminal tax violations between 2021 and 2023. In a motion to revoke Perez’s bond filed with the court on August 2, the government alleged that Perez had willfully caused his staffing companies to fail to pay over $25 million in federal payroll taxes (including over $13 million in federal trust fund taxes withheld from employee wages) since March 2021.
IRS Criminal Investigation investigated this matter.
Assistant United States Attorneys Brett A. Sagel of the Corporate and Securities Fraud Strike Force, James C. Hughes of the Major Frauds Section, and Robert A. Kemins of the Department of Justice Tax Division are prosecuting this case.
Omaha Man Sentenced for Accessing with Intent to View Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Logan M. Schwenk, age 23, of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced on September 5, 2024, in federal court in Omaha for access with intent to view visual depictions of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. Chief United States District Judge Robert F. Rossiter, Jr. sentenced Schwenk to 24 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After his release from prison, he will begin a 5-year term of supervised release. Schwenk was ordered to pay a $2,500 special assessment to the Child Pornography Victims Reserve Fund.
On October 25, 2022, a Federal Bureau of Investigation agent working covertly online visited an open internet page that hosted and advertised the sale of child pornography. On the internet page, packages of child pornographic files were advertised for sale in U.S. currency. The agent made a covert purchase of the files, and the money was directed to a money mule located in the United States. After the purchase, the agent was sent a Mega link which contained terabytes of child pornographic material. Mega is a file hosting service.
During investigation of the money mule, the agent identified others who made similar purchases for child pornography, which included Schwenk. Schwenk’s purchase history and communications with the money mule showed multiple financial transactions for similar links from October 2022 through February 2023. In the transaction line for the payments, Schwenk indicated “mega” or “cp.”
On June 7, 2023, a search warrant was issued for Schwenk’s residence in Omaha. The warrant was executed, and numerous devices were seized, including his phone and laptop. During a forensic review of Schwenk’s phone, the FBI found a Mega link to child pornography and at least one image of child pornography.
This case was investigated by the Omaha FBI's Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force.
Ohio Man Sentenced to More than 11 Years in Prison for Fentanyl CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Timothy Edwin Payne Jr., 43, of Belpre, Ohio, was sentenced today to 11 years and eight months in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of a fentanyl analogue.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on April 4, 2022, Payne arranged for a package containing approximately 1 kilogram of a fentanyl analogue to be shipped through the United States Mail from California to an apartment in Parkersburg, West Virginia. Payne paid the apartment’s resident $1,000 to receive and hold the package for Payne.
Law enforcement officers intercepted the package before it arrived at the apartment, and replaced the fentanyl with a sham substance and a tracking device before the package was delivered to the apartment. Payne tracked the package’s delivery using his mobile phone, and went to the apartment when the package arrived there on April 8, 2022. When Payne opened the package, law enforcement officers knocked on the apartment door. Payne attempted to flee but was arrested. The intercepted package was part of a series of packages that had been shipped from California to the same apartment in Parkersburg, and those packages were also suspected to contain controlled substances.
Payne has a long criminal history that includes three prior felony convictions, including for a drug offense, and 11 misdemeanor convictions.
United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Parkersburg Narcotics Task Force, and the Parkersburg Police Department.
United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorneys Jeremy B. Wolfe and Andrew D. Isabell prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:22-cr-108.
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Ohio Man Admits to Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Stephan G. Ward, 32, of Akron, Ohio, has admitted to the distribution of methamphetamine.
According to court documents, Ward, also known as “YG,” was delivering methamphetamine to others for distribution in Marshall County.
Ward faces up to 20 years in federal prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Clayton Reid is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
The Marshall County Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
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Ohio County Man Admits to Role in Drug Trafficking OperationRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Daryl Smith, 50, of Wheeling, West Virginia, has admitted to the distribution of cocaine base.
According to court documents, Smith was selling cocaine base in Ohio County. Smith is one of 12 defendants involved in a drug trafficking operation that spanned from Las Vegas, Nevada to the Ohio Valley.
Smith faces up to 20 years in federal prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Carly Nogay and United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
The Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, Marshall County Drug Task Force, and the Hancock-Brooke-Weirton Drug Task Force, all HIDTA-funded initiatives; Drug Enforcement Administration; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms; West Virginia State Police; Wheeling Police Department; Ohio County Sheriff’s Office; and the Belmont County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Press release on the associated case: www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/federal-grand-jury-indicts-twenty-six-drug-trafficking
Ogoshi Brothers Sentenced to Lengthy Prison Terms in Sextortion Scheme That Resulted in Death of TeenRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Mark Totten Says Vigilance Needed as Multiple Other Deaths Tied to Sextortion Under Investigation in District
MARQUETTE, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that Samuel Ogoshi, age 24, and Samson Ogoshi, age 21, both of Lagos, Nigeria, were sentenced to 210 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release for the crime of Conspiracy to Sexually Exploit Minors. On March 25, 2022, 17-year-old high school student, Jordan DeMay, from Marquette, Michigan, died as a result of this sextortion scheme, which targeted over 100 other victims, as well.
“Today’s sentencing of Samuel and Samson Ogoshi sends a thundering message,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “To criminals who commit these schemes: you are not immune from justice. We will track you down and hold you accountable, even if we have to go half-way around the world to do so. The day when you could commit these crimes, rake in easy cash, destroy lives, and escape justice is gone.” Totten continued: “And to parents, teenagers, and everyone who uses a cell phone: please, please be careful. These devices can connect you to criminal networks around the world. Don’t assume people are who they say they are. Don’t share compromising images. And if you’re a victim, please reach out. There’s help, and law enforcement stands ready.”
“These defendants sexually exploited and extorted more than 100 victims, including at least eleven minors, resulting in the tragic death of a 17- year-old high school student,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “These sentences should serve as a warning that the perpetrators of online sexual exploitation and extortion cannot escape accountability for their heinous crimes by hiding behind their phones and computers. The Justice Department will find them, no matter where they are, and we will bring them to justice in the United States.”
At a press conference today, U.S. Attorney Totten emphasized the scope of this threat and the need for vigilance by sharing that multiple other deaths tied to sextortion schemes are under investigation in the Western District of Michigan.
As detailed in their plea agreements (here and here), Samuel and Samson Ogoshi engaged in a scheme while living in Nigeria to sexually exploit more than 100 victims, including at least 11 identified minor victims. They purchased hacked social media accounts and used them to pose as young women, making fake profiles and using the messaging feature on the social media accounts to contact victims. They conducted online research about their victims to learn where they lived, attended school, worked, and the identities of their family and friends. They then solicited their minor victims to produce sexually explicit images of themselves. Once they received the images, they created a collage of pictures that included the sexually explicit image with other images of the victim and their school, family, and friends. The Ogoshi brothers threatened to disclose the collages to the family, friends, and classmates of the victim unless the victim agreed to pay money using online cash applications.
In November 2022, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan charged Samuel Ogoshi, Samson Ogoshi, and Ezekiel Robert, all Nigerian nationals, in the sextortion scheme that resulted in the death of Jordan DeMay. The Ogoshi Brothers were extradited to the United States in August 2023 and pled guilty in April 2024. On March 21, 2024, a Nigerian court ordered the third defendant, Ezekiel Robert, to be extradited to the United States. He has appealed that decision and the matter is before the Nigerian High Court. In addition, on August 2, 2024, U.S. Attorney Totten announced the unsealing of a federal indictment in a separate case charging five U.S.-based defendants with conspiring to commit money laundering that facilitated the sextortion scheme. The charges against defendant Ezekiel Robert and the five U.S.-based defendants are merely accusations and these defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law.
“The sentencing of sextortionists Samuel and Samson Ogoshi ensures both international criminals will no longer victimize minors in the United States or throughout the world,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of FBI in Michigan. “Spreading awareness on sextortion is a top priority of the FBI here in Michigan. Our hearts and prayers are with the loved ones of Jordan DeMay and those affected by the criminal acts of these individuals.”
Safety Tips and Resources for Victims, Teens, and Parents
The FBI provides the following tips on how people can protect themselves from sextortion schemes:
- Be selective about what you share online. If your social media accounts are open to everyone, a predator may be able to figure out a lot of information about you.
- Be wary of anyone you encounter for the first time online. Block or ignore messages from strangers.
- Be aware that people can pretend to be anything or anyone online. Videos and photos are not proof that people are who they claim to be. Images can be altered or stolen. In some cases, predators have even taken over the social media accounts of their victims.
- Be suspicious if you meet someone on one game or app and that person asks you to start talking on a different platform.
- Be in the know. Any content you create online—whether it is a text message, photo, or video—can be made public. And nothing actually “disappears” online. Once you send something, you don’t have any control over where it goes next.
- Be willing to ask for help. If you are getting messages or requests online that don’t seem right, block the sender, report the behavior to the site administrator, or go to an adult. If you have been victimized online, tell someone. Being a victim of sextortion is not your fault. You can get through this challenge, even if it seems scary and overwhelming. There are people who want to help.
If you have information about or believe you are a victim of sextortion, contact your local FBI field office, call 1-800-CALL-FBI, or report it online at http://tips.fbi.gov. This FBI PSA and National Center for Missing and Exploited Children PSA share survivor stories and resources for individuals to get help. More FBI sextortion resources are available here.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel Mekaru and Davin Reust, and investigated by the FBI, the Marquette Sheriff’s Department, and the Michigan State Police Cybercrimes Unit in Marquette with the cooperation and assistance of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission of Nigeria. The U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs, the U.S. Department of State, and the Nigerian Attorney General’s Office – Ministry of Justice provided critical assistance securing the arrest and extradition of the defendants.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan issued the previous press releases in this case and a related case:
- May 3, 2023 – Three Nigerian Men Awaiting Extradition for Committing Sexual Extortion. The indictment is available here.
- August 13, 2023 – Two Nigerian Men Extradited to the United States after Being Indicted for International Sexual Extortion Ring.
- August 17, 2023 – Ogoshi Brothers Plead Not Guilty during Arraignment. The plea agreements are available here and here.
- April 10, 2024 – Two Nigerian Defendants Plead Guilty to Sextortion.
- August 2, 2024 – Five U.S.-Based Defendants Charged with Money-Laundering Conspiracy that Facilitated Foreign Sextortion Scheme. The indictment is available here.
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- Be selective about what you share online. If your social media accounts are open to everyone, a predator may be able to figure out a lot of information about you.
Ocean Springs Man Pleads Guilty to Illegally Taking Smalltooth Sawfish, an Endangered SpeciesRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – An Ocean Springs man pled guilty to violating the Endangered Species Act by severing the rostrum of a smalltooth sawfish, an endangered species, while on board a shrimp boat off the Florida Keys.
Hong Thanh Nguyen, 62, pled guilty in U.S. District Court in Gulfport and was sentenced to one year of probation. Nguyen’s guilty plea followed the transfer of the charge filed in the Southern District of Florida to the Southern District of Mississippi.
According to court documents, in February 2022, Nguyen was aboard a commercial vessel, the Miss Theresa, near Key West in Monroe County, Florida, when the smalltooth sawfish became entangled in the boat’s fishing net. Nguyen severed the rostrum of the sawfish from its body with a knife, which he knew to be unlawful.
U.S. Attorney Todd W. Gee of the Southern District of Mississippi made the announcement.
The case was investigated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Office of Law Enforcement, which is part of NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Service.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Gaines Cleveland prosecuted the case in the Southern District of Mississippi.
North Platte Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Luke H. Schwartz, age 44, of North Platte, was sentenced on September 5, 2024, in federal court in Lincoln, Nebraska for one count of conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine. United States District Judge Susan M. Bazis sentenced Schwartz to a total of 120 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Schwartz’s release from prison, he will begin a 5-year term of supervised release.
Between July 2022 and February 2023, Schwartz and others conspired to sell meth around North Platte. The group was responsible for the distribution of pounds of meth. During January 2023, Schwartz and other co-defendants were responsible for the sales of a minimum of 106 grams of meth actual to a confidential informant (CI) working with law enforcement.
Schwartz was directly involved in two sales in January 2023, which involved at least 70 grams of actual meth. During the first sale, the CI set up the controlled buy with Schwartz. Law enforcement provided the CI with $600 to purchase an ounce of meth. The CI went to the pre-arranged buy location and provided Schwartz the money in exchange for a baggie containing a white crystalline substance. The State Crime Lab confirmed the substance to be at least 22 grams of actual meth.
The same CI set up a second buy from Schwartz. Law enforcement provided the CI with $1,200 to purchase two ounces of meth. The CI met up with Schwartz at a pre-determined location for buy to occur. The CI gave Schwartz the money and Schwartz gave the CI a baggie containing a white crystalline substance. The State Crime Lab confirmed the substance to be at least 48 grams of meth actual.
This case was investigated by the Tri-City Drug Enforcement Team (TRIDENT). TRIDENT is a task force with law enforcement personnel from the Adams County Sheriff’s Office, Buffalo County Sheriff’s Office, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Grand Island Police Department, Hall County Sheriff’s Office, Hastings Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, Kearney Police Department, and the Nebraska State Patrol.
North Mississippi Woman Sentenced in Unemployment Benefits Fraud CaseRead the Press Release
Oxford, MS – A Plantersville woman was sentenced today to more than two years in prison for submitting a fraudulent unemployment benefits application to the Mississippi Department of Employment Security (MDES) in the name of a relative who was incarcerated in the Mississippi Department of Corrections.
According to court documents, Misty Burgess, 49, received more than $15,000 of unemployment benefits that she was not entitled to as a result of her fraudulent unemployment claims. Burgess, who was originally charged with theft of government property and wire fraud, pled guilty to theft of government property on May 16, 2024.
On Thursday, U.S. District Judge Michael P. Mills sentenced Burgess to 27 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release and ordered her to pay restitution in the amount of $15,604.00 to the State of Mississippi. The unemployment benefits fraudulently received by Burgess were a part of those benefits issued under the CARES Act from the State of Mississippi and the federal government as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Today’s sentence is an important step in ensuring that individuals who make fraudulent claims to government funds that they are not entitled to will be held accountable for their actions,” remarked U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner.
Following the sentencing, Mississippi State Auditor Shad White commented “We will continue working with our federal partners, as we’ve done since the beginning of my time in office, to get results for the people of Mississippi.”
Investigator Chris Watkins from the Mississippi State Auditor’s Office investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Feleica Wilson prosecuted the case.
Nigerian Brothers Sentenced in Sextortion Scheme that Resulted in Death of TeenRead the Press Release
The Justice Department today announced that Samuel Ogoshi, 24, and Samson Ogoshi, 21, both of Lagos, Nigeria, were each sentenced to 210 months in prison and five years of supervised release for conspiracy to sexually exploit minors. On March 25, 2022, 17-year-old high school student, Jordan DeMay, of Marquette, Michigan, died as a result of this sextortion scheme, which targeted over 100 other victims.
“These defendants sexually exploited and extorted more than 100 victims, including at least eleven minors, resulting in the tragic death of a 17- year-old high school student,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “These sentences should serve as a warning that the perpetrators of online sexual exploitation and extortion cannot escape accountability for their heinous crimes by hiding behind their phones and computers. The Justice Department will find them, no matter where they are, and we will bring them to justice in the United States.”
“Today’s sentencing of Samuel and Samson Ogoshi sends a thundering message,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten for the Western District of Michigan. “To criminals who commit these schemes: you are not immune from justice. We will track you down and hold you accountable, even if we have to go half-way around the world to do so. The day when you could commit these crimes, rake in easy cash, destroy lives, and escape justice is gone. And to parents, teenagers, and everyone who uses a cell phone: please, please be careful. These devices can connect you to criminal networks around the world. Don’t assume people are who they say they are. Don’t share compromising images. And if you’re a victim, please reach out. There’s help, and law enforcement stands ready.”
“The sentencing of sextortionists Samuel and Samson Ogoshi ensures both international criminals will no longer victimize minors in the United States or throughout the world,” said Special Agent in Charge Cheyvoryea Gibson of the FBI Detroit Field Office. “Spreading awareness on sextortion is a top priority of the FBI here in Michigan. Our hearts and prayers are with the loved ones of Jordan DeMay and those affected by the criminal acts of these individuals.”
At a press conference today, U.S. Attorney Totten emphasized the scope of this threat and the need for vigilance by sharing that multiple other deaths tied to sextortion schemes are under investigation in the Western District of Michigan.
As detailed in their plea agreements (here and here), Samuel and Samson Ogoshi engaged in a scheme while living in Nigeria to sexually exploit more than 100 victims, including at least 11 identified minor victims. They purchased hacked social media accounts and used them to pose as young women, making fake profiles and using the messaging feature on the social media accounts to contact victims. They conducted online research about their victims to learn where they lived, attended school, worked, and the identities of their family and friends. They then solicited their minor victims to produce sexually explicit images of themselves. Once they received the images, they created a collage of pictures that included the sexually explicit image with other images of the victim and their school, family, and friends. The Ogoshi brothers threatened to disclose the collages to the family, friends, and classmates of the victim unless the victim agreed to pay money using online cash applications.
In November 2022, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan charged Samuel Ogoshi, Samson Ogoshi, and Ezekiel Robert, all Nigerian nationals, in the sextortion scheme that resulted in the death of Jordan DeMay. The Ogoshi Brothers were extradited to the United States in August 2023 and pleaded guilty in April. On March 21, a Nigerian court ordered Robert to be extradited to the United States. He has appealed that decision, and the matter is before the Nigerian High Court.
In addition, on Aug. 2, U.S. Attorney Totten announced the unsealing of a federal indictment in a separate case charging five U.S.-based defendants with conspiring to commit money laundering that facilitated the sextortion scheme.
The FBI, Marquette Sheriff’s Department, and Michigan State Police Cybercrimes Unit in Marquette are investigating the case, with the cooperation and assistance of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission of Nigeria. The Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs, Department of State, and Nigerian Attorney General’s Office – Ministry of Justice provided critical assistance securing the arrest and extradition of the defendants.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel Mekaru and Davin Reust for the Western District of Michigan are prosecuting the case.
Safety Tips and Resources for Victims, Teens, and Parents
The FBI provides the following tips on how people can protect themselves from sextortion schemes:
- Be selective about what you share online. If your social media accounts are open to everyone, a predator may be able to figure out a lot of information about you.
- Be wary of anyone you encounter for the first time online. Block or ignore messages from strangers.
- Be aware that people can pretend to be anything or anyone online. Videos and photos are not proof that people are who they claim to be. Images can be altered or stolen. In some cases, predators have even taken over the social media accounts of their victims.
- Be suspicious if you meet someone on one game or app and that person asks you to start talking on a different platform.
- Be in the know. Any content you create online — whether it is a text message, photo, or video — can be made public. And nothing actually “disappears” online. Once you send something, you don’t have any control over where it goes next.
- Be willing to ask for help. If you are getting messages or requests online that don’t seem right, block the sender, report the behavior to the site administrator, or go to an adult. If you have been victimized online, tell someone. Being a victim of sextortion is not your fault. You can get through this challenge, even if it seems scary and overwhelming. There are people who want to help.
If you have information about or believe you are a victim of sextortion, contact your local FBI field office, call 1-800-CALL-FBI, or report it online at tips.fbi.gov. This FBI PSA and National Center for Missing and Exploited Children PSA share survivor stories and resources for individuals to get help. More FBI sextortion resources are available here.
New York Man Pleads Guilty to Hacking, Credit Card Trafficking and Money Laundering ConspiraciesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A New York City man pleaded guilty today to conspiracies to engage in computer hacking, trafficking in stolen payment card numbers and money laundering.
Vitalii Antonenko, 32, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge William G. Young to one count of conspiracy to gain unauthorized access to computer networks and to traffic in unauthorized access devices, and one count of money laundering conspiracy. Antonenko was arrested and detained in March 2019 on money laundering charges at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport after he arrived there from Ukraine carrying computers and other digital media that held hundreds of thousands of stolen payment card numbers. He was indicted by a federal grand jury in May 2020. Judge Young scheduled sentencing for Dec. 10, 2024.
Antonenko and co-conspirators scoured the internet for computer networks with security vulnerabilities that were likely to contain credit and debit card account numbers, expiration dates, and card verification values (Payment Card Data) and other personally identifiable information (PII). They used a hacking technique known as a “SQL injection attack” to access those networks without authorization, extracted Payment Card Data and other PII, and transferred it for sale on online criminal marketplaces. Once a co-conspirator sold the data, Antonenko and others used Bitcoin as well as traditional bank and cash transactions to launder the proceeds in order to disguise their nature, location, source, ownership and control. The conspiracy’s victims included a hospitality business and non-profit scientific research institution, both located in eastern Massachusetts.
The charge of conspiracy to gain unauthorized access and to traffic in access devices provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release, a $250,000 fine, restitution and forfeiture. The charge of money laundering conspiracy provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release, a $500,000 fine, restitution and forfeiture. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy and Andrew Murphy, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service, Boston Field Office and made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth B. Kosto Deputy Chief of the Securities, Financial & Cyber Fraud Unit is prosecuting the case.
Nearly $8 million in U.S. Department of Justice grants coming to Western Washington to improve public safetyRead the Press Release
Seattle – The U.S. Department of Justice Office of Justice programs has awarded nearly $8 million to cities, counties, and non-profits in Western Washington to enhance public safety, announced U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman. The grants fall into two broad categories: support of programs that reduce crime and technological improvements to better serve the public.
“It is a competitive process to get these federal dollars, and I congratulate the departments and organizations on the success of their applications,” said U.S. Attorney Gorman. “Whether it is personnel on the street to assist people in crisis or DNA processing machines to better identify those responsible for criminal conduct, these dollars will make a difference in our community.”
The largest grant, in the amount of $1,926,000 was awarded to the City of Seattle to support the Community Assisted Response and Engagement (CARE) Department. The funds will allow the CARE team to expand citywide with 18 additional staffers and three more supervisors to respond to community members facing behavioral health or related needs.
Similarly, the City of Tacoma was awarded $963,000 to create a program of Community Service Officers. These would be civilians who can respond to calls concerning mental health crisis and homelessness related issues. The program is designed to take some of the burden from Tacoma Police officers who have historic staffing shortages.
The King County Sheriff’s Office was also awarded $963,000 for hiring mental health professionals to join the Crisis Intervention Team. The mental health professionals will assist with public safety calls involving the need for mental health services.
Tacoma Municipal Court and the non-profit Choose 180 both received program support as well. The Municipal Court will use $500,000 to enhance two court programs: mental health court for those with serious and persistent mental health issues; and Community Court which assists a broader range of defendants dealing with homelessness, substance use disorder and minor mental health issues. The funding will go for staff training, case management services and a research project with a university to evaluate the program and make risk assessments.
Choose 180 is receiving $552,000 to support two of its programs aimed at reducing youth gun violence. The school-based diversion program works with students at risk of suspension and expulsion to keep them in an educational program and disrupt the school-to-prison pipeline. The second program, CHOOSE Freedom offers services to youth and young adults at risk of gun violence engagement.
Three government entities and one non-profit received funding for technological improvements. The city of Bellevue received $963,000 for its body-worn camera program. Both King County ($811,000) and Whatcom County ($440,000) received funding for rapid DNA machines and technology for better and quicker processing of crime scenes. Finally, the King County Sexual Assault Center (KSARC) received $790,000 to modernize the non-profit’s database which will allow staff to spend more time with sexual assault survivors and less time working with out-of-date software and data systems.
The grants are all part of the 2024 Office of Justice Programs Byrne Discretionary Community Project Grants. The Byrne Grants are named in honor of New York City Police Officer Edward R. Byrne, who was killed in the line of duty on February 26, 1988. Officer Byrne was just 22 years old.
Muskogee Resident Pleads Guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Jack Dewayne Neugin, age 55, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.
The Indictment alleged that on January 27, 2024, Neugin possessed methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, with the intent to distribute it.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office.
The Honorable D. Edward Snow, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea, and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report. Neugin will remain in the custody of the United States Marshal Service pending sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan E. Soverly represented the United States.
Motocross Coach Sentenced for Child Exploitation CrimesRead the Press Release
ATLANTA - Ryan Meyung, a motocross instructor who traveled the country building motocross tracks and mentoring children, has been sentenced for multiple child exploitation offenses.
“Meyung is a predator who sexually abused numerous children while working as a motocross coach,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan. “This office remains steadfast in our determination to closely coordinate with our law enforcement partners across state lines to ensure justice is served to those who commit these heinous crimes against children.”
“This coach violated his position of trust and profound responsibility to protect and mentor those in his care,” said Homeland Security Investigations Nashville Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud. “HSI, alongside our partners at the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office and the Chattanooga Police Department, is fully committed to investigating and removing people who seek to harm our children. Our primary concern is ensuring justice for the victims and supporting their needs.”
According to U.S. Attorney Buchanan, the charges and other information presented in court: Between July 2019 and December 2021, Ryan Meyung caused six minor victims to engage in sexually explicit conduct to produce images and videos of child sexual abuse. At the time, the victims were between six and 13 years old. Meyung also possessed and transported images and videos of child sexual abuse produced by other sex offenders. Additionally, he sexually abused and recorded other children engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
Ryan Meyung, 33, of no fixed address, was sentenced to 40 years in prison to be followed by supervised release for life. He was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $193,500. Meyung was convicted of six counts of producing child pornography on April 26, 2024, after he pleaded guilty.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigation - Chattanooga (Tennessee) with joint assistance from Homeland Security Investigation – Dalton (Georgia), the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office (Tennessee), the Chattanooga (Tennessee) Police Department, and Homeland Security Investigation field offices throughout the country.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Erin N. Spritzer and Trial Attorneys Jessica L. Urban and James E. Burke IV of the Justice Department’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
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.
Montgomery Man Sentenced to 13 Years in Prison for Committing Armed Robbery and Discharging a Firearm During the CrimeRead the Press Release
Montgomery, Alabama – Today, Acting United States Attorney Kevin P. Davidson announced that a federal judge sentenced 33-year-old Roddrecius Lavelle Goldsmith, a resident of Montgomery, Alabama, to 157 months in prison for his role in a 2023-armed robbery. During the September 4, 2024, sentencing hearing, the judge also ordered that Goldsmith remain on supervised release for five years following his prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court records and statements made in open court, on January 20, 2023, Goldsmith entered a gas station on U.S. Highway 231 in Wetumpka, Alabama and walked to the counter. Goldsmith asked the clerk about the location of the store’s bathroom, then pulled out a handgun. Goldsmith forced the clerk to go with him into the restroom where he struck her in the head with the firearm multiple times. Goldsmith then forced the clerk back to the counter and demanded money from the cash register. After retrieving approximately $79 from the register’s drawer, Goldsmith exited the store. The clerk hit a panic button that magnetically locked the doors. When Goldsmith got to his vehicle, he realized he had left his car keys inside the store. Goldsmith returned to the locked gas station doors and fired a round through the glass. Goldsmith reentered the store through the shattered glass door and retrieved his keys. He then fled the scene.
On May 23, 2024, Goldsmith pleaded guilty to interference with interstate commerce by robbery and discharging a firearm during a crime of violence.
The FBI and the Wetumpka Police Department investigated this case, with assistance from the Montgomery Police Department, the United States Marshals Service, and the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences. Assistant United States Attorney Brandon W. Bates prosecuted the case.
Monongalia County Man Sentenced for Child Pornography ChargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – James Mansfield Davis, 67, of Morgantown, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 82 months in federal prison for the possession of child pornography.
According to court documents and statements made in court, a cyber tip about child pornography shared online was traced to Davis. Officers seized several devices and flash drives from Davis’s home. Investigators found 67 videos and 460 images of child pornography involving young boys. During the investigation, Davis fled to Florida, where he was apprehended.
Davis will be on 20 years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Conklin prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The Morgantown Police Department and the Bridgeport Police Department investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Minneapolis Felon Pleads Guilty to Fentanyl Trafficking in Saint Paul and Southern MinnesotaRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – A Minneapolis felon has pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute thousands of fentanyl pills, announced United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, on January 8, 2023, Giorgio Javon d’Larente Baymon, 37, sold 860 M-30 fentanyl pills to an individual in Mankato for distribution in the area. On January, 21, 2023, he sold an additional 600 M-30 fentanyl pills to a second individual.
On May 2, 2023, Baymon rented a room at the Intercontinental Hotel in Saint Paul, where he hid a bag containing 8,500 M-30 fentanyl pills. Hotel staff found the bag of fentanyl pills while Baymon was away and alerted law enforcement. Officers waited at the hotel and attempted to arrest Baymon when he returned, however, he fled from law enforcement, pulled a fire alarm, and was eventually apprehended in the hotel basement.
Baymon pleaded guilty yesterday in U.S. District Court before Judge Ann D. Montgomery to one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later date.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Minnesota River Valley Drug Task Force, the St. Paul Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys William C. Mattessich and Matthew D. Forbes are prosecuting the case.
Minneapolis Felon Charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl, Possession of a Machine Gun and Other Firearms ViolationsRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – A Minneapolis man has been charged in a four-count indictment with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, possession of a firearm as a felon, possession of a machine gun, and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, on July 29, 2024, law enforcement obtained a search warrant for a white Nissan Rogue known to be driven by Tyrone Antwan Carter, Jr., 28. Law enforcement observed Carter’s vehicle in the parking lot of a business in north Minneapolis. Officers activated their emergency lights and moved their police vehicle to block Carter’s vehicle. Officers ordered Carter out of his vehicle, but Carter did not comply and accelerated past the police vehicle. Officers pursued and used a pursuit intervention technique (PIT) maneuver to stop the vehicle and prevent Carter from endangering pedestrians, law enforcement officers, and himself. After a brief struggle, officers removed Carter from the vehicle and placed him under arrest.
According to court documents, on the floorboard of the driver’s seat, officers recovered a fully loaded Glock 26 9mm pistol with an attached “switch” or “auto sear” and an extended magazine. In the trunk of the vehicle inside a black baby bag, officers found purple powder that had been pressed into a brick, along with hundreds of small plastic baggies and rubber gloves. Subsequent testing indicated that the powdered substance was fentanyl.
The indictment charges Carter with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, possession of a firearm as a felon, possession of a machine gun, and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime. Carter has been ordered to remain in custody pending further proceedings.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Hennepin County Violent Offender Task Force, and the Minneapolis Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David Classen is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Middleton Fentanyl Dealer Sentenced to Seven Years in Federal Prison After Causing A DeathRead the Press Release
BOISE – Nathaniel Erik Walsh, 29, of Middleton, was sentenced to seven years in federal prison for distributing fentanyl that resulted in the death of an individual, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced today.
According to court records, Walsh distributed six fentanyl pills to an individual on April 29, 2023. Walsh drove from Caldwell to Boise to provide the fentanyl pills to the victim, placing them in her mailbox. The victim smoked the pills and died of a fentanyl overdose.
U.S. District Judge Amanda K. Brailsford, also ordered Walsh to serve three years of supervised release following his prison term and required Walsh to pay for the victim’s funeral expenses. Walsh pleaded guilty to the offense on July 12, 2024.
“We mourn the loss of life in this case. Everyone should know that a single use of fentanyl can be fatal,” said U.S. Attorney Hurwit. “And anyone dealing or using fentanyl should know that if you sell or share even a small amount of fentanyl to another person, you are risking that person’s life and setting yourself up for a lengthy prison sentence.”
“Fentanyl distributors like Mr. Walsh peddle a deadly substance to vulnerable people for their own gain,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “The sentence in this case provides a small measure of justice for the pain Mr. Walsh caused and shows the resolve of the DEA and the Boise Police to hold drug traffickers accountable for their crimes.”
U.S. Attorney Hurwit commended the Boise Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration for their investigation in the case, which led to the charge. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christian S. Nafzger prosecuted the case.
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Man Who Tried to Smuggle More Than Four Kilograms of Cocaine from Puerto Rico to Philadelphia Sentenced to Two Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced that Jose Alberto Cruz-Garcia, 31, of Las Pedras, Puerto Rico, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Timothy J. Savage to two years in prison and three years of supervised release for attempting to smuggle a significant amount of cocaine into Philadelphia.
On July 21, 2023, Cruz-Garcia departed San Juan, Puerto Rico, on a commercial flight to Philadelphia, carrying over four kilograms of cocaine in his luggage. Upon arrival, Cruz-Garcia met with codefendant Josue Benito Ascencio-Vega outside a motel near the airport to deliver the drugs, at which time both men were arrested by federal authorities.
The defendant pleaded guilty in May. In July, codefendant Ascencio-Vega was sentenced to five years in prison.
“Whether you’re coming by plane, train, or automobile, if you bring a large quantity of illegal narcotics into the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, be prepared to lose more than your luggage,” said U.S. Attorney Romero. “My office will continue to work with our law enforcement partners on the community’s behalf, to get dangerous drugs and criminals off the street.”
“The sentencing of Alberto Cruz-Garcia and Josue Benito Ascencio-Vega is the culmination of excellent investigations and prosecutions by HSI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge of HSI Philadelphia Sara Bay. “Our partnership continues to provide incredible results for the citizens of Pennsylvania.”
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Everett Witherell.
Madison County Man Sentenced for Firearms Thefts and Illegal Possesion of a FirearmRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. – A Richmond, Ky., man, Christopher David Taylor, 39, was sentenced to 94 months on Wednesday, by U.S. District Judge Gregory Van Tatenhove, following his convictions for two counts of theft from a federally licensed firearms dealer and one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
According to his plea agreement, on January 4, 2023, law enforcement responded to a burglary at Dan’s Discount Jewelry and Pawn, a federally licensed firearms dealer. Taylor and an accompanying juvenile unlawfully entered the store and stole 60 firearms from the business. As law enforcement arrived, Taylor and the juvenile escaped through the back of the business, dropping a duffel bag containing 57 of the 60 firearms. An additional firearm that was stolen was recovered from the field behind the business.
Later, on February 8, 2023, law enforcement responded to another burglary, this time in Clark County, at Bypass Gold and Pawn LLC, another federally licensed firearms dealer. Taylor was observed on surveillance unlawfully entering the building and stealing a total of nine firearms from the business.
Then, on February 10, 2023, after identifying Taylor on surveillance, law enforcement searched Taylor’s residence, finding him hiding in the attic. Law enforcement also found five firearms, three of which had been stolen by Taylor, from Bypass Gold and Pawn. Taylor later admitted to committing both burglaries.
As part of his plea, Taylor admitted that he knew he was prohibited from possessing firearms due to several prior state felony convictions, which include multiple burglaries in Anderson Circuit Court, a bail jumping in Madison Circuit Court, and a possession of a controlled substance in Madison Circuit Court, all in 2022.
Under federal law, Taylor must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence. Upon his release from prison, he will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for three years.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Shawn Morrow, Special Agent in Charge, ATF, Louisville Field Division; and Chief Rodney Richardson, Richmond Police Department, jointly announced the sentence.
The case was investigated by ATF and Richmond Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Paco Villalobos prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
This case was prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice’s “Project Safe Neighborhoods” Program (PSN), which is a nationwide, crime reduction strategy aimed at decreasing violent crime in communities. It involves a comprehensive approach to public safety — one that includes investigating and prosecuting crimes, along with prevention and reentry efforts. In the Eastern District of Kentucky, U.S. Attorney Shier coordinates PSN efforts in cooperation with various federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.
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Macon Resident Sentenced for Obstructing Justice in Civil InvestigationRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – The owner of Middle Georgia Family Rehab who directed two employees to illegally alter documents during a federal civil investigation into alleged improper healthcare billing by the business has been sentenced to prison and ordered to pay restitution.
Brenda Hicks, 59, of Lizella, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 12 months and one day in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release by U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell on Sept. 5. Hicks previously pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to obstruct justice. In addition, Hicks was ordered to pay $191,645.20 in restitution to TRICARE, Medicare, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Medicaid and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). There is no parole in the federal system.
“Tampering with documents in a federal investigation is a serious offense that will not be ignored by our office,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “Protecting the integrity of an investigation is paramount and all those who attempt to obstruct justice will be held accountable.”
According to court documents and statements referenced in court, an outpatient rehabilitation facility owned by Hicks—Middle Georgia Family Rehab, LLC (MGFR)—was served with a Civil Investigative Demand (CID) requesting various patient records on Oct. 7, 2019. After its receipt, Hicks set up a meeting about the CID with two MGFR employees. Hicks told the employees it was an “audit” and explained that MGFR did not have the records that were requested. She then instructed them to go into the system and pull any portions of the requested files, looking for hard copies of the records in MGFR’s storage unit if needed.
Many of the requested records were either blank or missing. Hicks explained that if the records were not there or had not been signed, the employees were supposed to create or sign the records. For example, if the records were missing progress notes, Hicks instructed the employees to make them up by copying and pasting the narrative language from other progress notes to fill in the missing information. These narrative sections were supposed to contain unique information from each session, such as the patient’s pain level and what exercises were performed at the visit.
One employee expressed concern to the other employee that what they were doing was illegal and quit. The other employee complied with Hicks’ instructions and added notes and signatures to patient records as needed. These doctored patient records were then produced to the Civil Division of the U.S. Attorney’s Office on Dec. 2, 2019, in response to the CID. Hicks now admits that she conspired to corruptly alter patient records with the intent to impair the integrity of those records and their availability for use in a civil action. For more information about the civil action, please visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-mdga/pr/judge-orders-middle-georgia-family-rehab-pay-96-million-damages-submitting-hundreds.
The case was investigated by the Department of Defense, Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DOD-DCIS); the Department of Health & Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG); the Georgia Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU); and the Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General (VA-OIG); with substantial assistance from the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General (DOL-OIG).
Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Howard prosecuted the case for the Government.
Long Island Contractor Pleads Guilty to Fraud in Connection with Hurricane Sandy Recovery FundsRead the Press Release
Alexander Almaraz, the owner of Design Concepts Group LLC (DCG) in Freeport, New York, pleaded guilty today in federal court in Central Islip to conspiracy to commit wire fraud in connection with a scheme to induce individuals to hire him and pay DCG to repair their Hurricane Sandy-damaged homes. The proceeding was held before United States District Judge Joan M. Azrack. When sentenced, Almaraz faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and mandatory restitution to his victims.
Breon Peace, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, Christie M. Curtis, Acting Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI), and Anne T. Donnelly, Nassau County District Attorney, announced the guilty plea.
“After Hurricane Sandy turned their lives upside down, the individuals who hired Almaraz to repair their homes were further harmed by the defendant’s unconscionable fraudulent scheme, which extended the time they were deprived of a livable home,” stated United States Attorney Peace. “With his guilty plea today, Almaraz is no longer outrunning the damage that his personal greed inflicted on a shattered Long Island community and it is my hope that the victims will find some solace in the defendant being held accountable and making full restitution.”
“This defendant took advantage of vulnerable Long Island homeowners at a time of unimaginable loss, purchasing luxury cars and paying off credit cards with funds meant to repair their storm-damaged homes after Hurricane Sandy battered our shores,” stated Nassau District Attorney Donnelly. “Today’s plea holds Almaraz accountable for his greedy scheme, and the restitution he will be ordered to pay is a necessary step towards making his victims whole. I thank our federal partners at the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York and the FBI for their continued dedication to investigating and prosecuting fraudsters who exploited Long Island residents in the aftermath of this devastating storm.”
On October 29, 2012, Hurricane Sandy struck New York and New Jersey, causing catastrophic damage to low-lying and coastal areas, including many neighborhoods in the Eastern District of New York. New York residents whose homes were damaged were eligible to receive funding from the Governor’s Office of Storm Recovery through the New York Rising (NYR) program.
According to court documents and Almaraz’s own admissions today, Almaraz entered contracts with homeowners who qualified to receive funds from NYR. As part of these contracts, Almaraz agreed to lift the victims’ homes and set them down on temporary support structures which would permit the foundations of the damaged homes to be removed and new foundations to be installed. After the new foundations were installed, Almaraz was supposed to lower the homes and reconnect the homes’ appliances. Between October 2015 and June 2019, Almaraz agreed to lift the homes of at least 20 customers who had received NYR funding and who collectively paid him approximately $2.5 million. Almaraz convinced many of these victims to move out of their homes and pay him rent to live elsewhere, all the while neglecting their projects and causing greater loss. Additionally, instead of performing the agreed-upon work, Almaraz used the victims’ monies to pay for personal expenses, including credit card bills, land purchased in Kansas City, Missouri, and luxury automobiles, including a Lamborghini, a Porsche and a Jaguar. The defendant’s fraudulent scheme caused more than $1.5 million in losses to NYR and the defendant’s individual victims.
The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Long Island Criminal Section. Assistant United States Attorney Megan E. Farrell is in charge of the prosecution.
The Defendant:
ALEXANDER ALMARAZ
Age: 56
San Antonio, Texas; formerly of Freeport, Long IslandE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 23-CR-17 (JMA)
Kansas Woman Sentenced for Witness Retaliation PlotRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Kate Ruth, age 36, of Wichita, Kansas, was sentenced on September 5, 2024, in federal Court in Omaha, Nebraska, for conspiracy to assault a witness and attempted assault of a witness. Chief United States District Judge Robert F. Rossiter, Jr sentenced Ruth to 24 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Ruth’s release from prison, she will begin a 3-year term of supervised release.
In the fall of 2021, Johnny Dolph (hereinafter “Dolph”) was being investigated by the United States Secret Service for financial crimes to include crimes involving counterfeit currency and checks. Dolph claims to be a “shot caller” in the Irish Mob Gang, a street gang that originated in Oklahoma. In September 2021, Victim 1’s husband was arrested in Nebraska for forgery counts. Victim 1’s husband was coming to Nebraska to assist Dolph in his forgery activities. Following Victim 1’s husband’s arrest, Dolph and Jennifer Norwood A/K/A Jennifer Dolph (hereinafter “Norwood”) began contacting Victim 1 in attempts to prevent her from cooperating with law enforcement. Dolph believed Victim 1 and Victim 1’s husband were cooperating with law enforcement. As a result, Dolph put a “green light” on Victim 1 and her husband.
In October 2021, a search warrant was obtained through the United States District Court for the District of Nebraska for Dolph’s apartment in Omaha. This search warrant was signed by Magistrate Judge Susan Bazis and the affiant for the warrant was a Special Agent with the United States Secret Service.
Following the execution of the search warrant, Dolph and Norwood began researching the affiant agent and magistrate judge listed on the search warrant. Dolph and Norwood also reached out to individuals outside of Nebraska providing information about Victim 1, where Victim 1 resides, and where family members of Victim 1 lived.
On November 19, 2021, Dolph contacted Ruth and requested that she travel from Kansas to Omaha, Nebraska to attempt to carry out his “green light” on Victim 1. Dolph instructed Ruth to go to Greyhound and attempt to pick up a ticket that had been purchased in a third party’s name. Ruth was instead driven to Nebraska from Kansas by Juanita Gibson (hereinafter “Gibson”). Gibson obtained a red pickup truck to drive she and Ruth to Omaha. During the drive to Nebraska, Dolph sent Gibson and Ruth money for gas over CashApp, inquired to the status of their travel, and provided directions on where to park once they arrived at his apartment.
Dolph and Norwood let Gibson and Ruth stay at their apartment in Omaha. While there, Dolph, Norwood, Gibson, and Ruth researched Victim 1.
Victim 1’s husband was sentenced in 2022 to time-served after serving a nine-month sentence for possession of counterfeit currency and possession of a document making implement or authentication feature and is currently serving a five-year term of supervised release. On August 17, 2023, Dolph was sentenced to a total of 150 months’ imprisonment for felon in possession of a firearm; possession of a firearm following a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence; 2 counts of false statement during the purchase of a firearm; conspiracy to tamper with documents or proceedings; tampering with documents or proceedings; 2 counts of conspiracy to assault a witness; and 2 counts for attempted assault of a witness. On November 21, 2023, Gibson was sentenced to 24 months’ imprisonment for conspiracy to assault a witness and attempted assault of a witness. On February 9, 2024, Norwood was sentenced to 37 months’ imprisonment for conspiracy to tamper with a document or proceedings, conspiracy to assault a witness, and making a false statement during the purchase of a firearm.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Secret Service, the Omaha Police Department, and the Richardson County Sheriff’s Office with assistance from the Kansas Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.