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21 August 2024
Former Brattleboro Resident Sentenced to Prison for Social Security FraudRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office announced that Ella Mae Woods, 76, a former Brattleboro resident who recently has been living in Iowa, was sentenced today in United States District Court in Rutland to twelve months and one day of imprisonment following her May 2024 guilty plea to a charge of wire fraud. Visiting U.S. District Judge Mae D’Agostino from the Northern District of New York ordered that Woods serve a one-year term of supervised release upon completion of her prison term and pay restitution in the amount of $328,000. Woods has been incarcerated since she was found to be in violation of the conditions of her pre-trial release in April.
In September 2022, a federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment charging Woods with wire fraud and theft of government money. The indictment charged Woods with misappropriating her mother’s Social Security benefit payments for about 28 years after her mother died. Woods’ mother, Jeannette Styles, died in Brattleboro in early 1994. At the time of her death, Styles was receiving monthly Social Security benefit payments and those payments should have stopped upon Styles’ death. The Social Security Administration, however, did not learn of Styles’ death until about 2022 and between 1994 and 2022 SSA continued to send payments to Styles. Woods fraudulently converted the payments to Styles for her own benefit. As part of the scheme, Woods twice opened bank accounts in her mother’s name, years after her death, in one case forging Styles’ signature on account-opening documents. Altogether, Woods misappropriated $328,000 in SSA payments.
U.S. Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commends the Office of the Inspector General for the Social Security Administration for its investigation of this case.
Woods is represented by Federal Public Defender Michael Desautels. The prosecutors are Assistant U.S. Attorneys Gregory Waples and Thomas Aliberti.
Former Benicia Man Pleads Guilty to Embezzling $3.2 Million from His Former EmployerRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Euan David MacGregor, formerly known as David Joseph Bean, 54, of Iowa City, Iowa, pleaded guilty Tuesday to one count of wire fraud for defrauding his former employer out of more than $3.2 million, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, between November 2014 and January 2020, Euan MacGregor, then known as David Bean, used his position as a Chief Administrative Officer to embezzle money from his employer.
According to court documents, MacGregor defrauded his former employer in two ways. First, he diverted at least 122 checks made payable to his employer to bank accounts that he controlled. MacGregor did this by creating a shell corporation that had a business name similar to the name of his employer and depositing the checks into bank accounts that he opened in the name of the shell corporation. MacGregor then presented false financial information to the company’s president and shareholders causing them to believe they had received the monies he diverted. In addition, MacGregor falsely represented to his employer that he was outsourcing his employer’s bookkeeping work to a third party, a company named Essential Business Services, another company that MacGregor created and controlled. MacGregor’s false representations caused his employer to pay Essential Business Services thousands of dollars each month for bookkeeping services that it did not perform. MacGregor used the money he fraudulently obtained to pay for personal expenses for him and his family, including mortgage payments, the payment of credit cards, educational expenses, travel, and the purchase of vehicles.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Shelley D. Weger is prosecuting the case.
MacGregor is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge John A. Mendez on Jan. 28, 2025. MacGregor faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
Former Alliance, Nebraska Man Convicted by Jury for Transportation & Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that a federal jury in Lincoln, Nebraska, returned a guilty verdict today, August 21, 2024, against Tyler Denby, age 39, formerly of Alliance, Nebraska, for one count of transportation of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography. The verdict subjects Denby to a potential prison term of up to twenty years on each count and a minimum of five years on the transportation count. United States District Judge Susan M. Bazis presided over the trial and set sentencing for November 21, 2024.
On July 30th of 2021, Alliance Police Department received two separate calls for assistance concerning an individual threatening others in the Alliance area. Denby, who was then a Montana resident visiting the town of Alliance, was identified as the suspect and was contacted at a local gas station. During the encounter, the officer’s gained probable cause to search Denby’s vehicle when a marijuana pipe was spotted in his pocket. A stolen firearm was then located on Denby’s person. During the search of his vehicle, a large number of electronic devices, along with some other very concerning items, including a pillowcase filled with stained children’s underwear, were discovered by the searching law enforcement officers with the Alliance Police Department and Box Butte County Sheriff’s Office. The items were seized from the vehicle and Denby was arrested for several state crimes. A search warrant was received for the numerous electronic devices. The devices were later reviewed by the Alliance Police Department. Three microSD cards which had been located in Denby’s wallet contained a substantial amount of child pornography files. While Denby was in custody, he was interviewed by law enforcement and he admitted to having child pornography on those devices. He also admitted to travelling from Montana to Nebraska with the child pornography on his devices.
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.
This case was investigated by the Alliance Police Department.
Final Member of A Hillsborough Drug Trafficking Organization Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin and FentanylRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Jose Miriel Morales Sanchez (32, Tampa) to 10 years in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute heroin and fentanyl. Morales Sanchez entered a guilty plea on March 4, 2024.
According to court documents, beginning on an unknown date not later than September 1, 2017, and continuing through August 27, 2020, Morales Sanchez conspired with William Franqui and others to distribute heroin and fentanyl in the Middle District of Florida. Franqui, who was the leader of the drug trafficking organization (DTO), used “runners” to field calls from customers and fulfill orders. The runners distributed the heroin to users in plastic baggies for $10 a bag. The DTO included co-defendants Kevin Darnell Diaz Tirado, Edgardo Colon Rosado, Orlando Muniz Escalera, Marie Rodriguez, and others. More than a kilogram of heroin was distributed through the runner network. Franqui also distributed larger quantities of heroin and fentanyl to other drug dealers. Investigators connected multiple overdoses to the heroin and fentanyl distributed by the DTO.
William Franqui was sentenced in August 2023 to 14 years in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute heroin and fentanyl. Morales Sanchez and codefendants Diaz Tirado, Colon Rosado, and Muniz Escalera were all part of Franqui’s runner network and also pleaded guilty to the conspiracy and were sentenced in previous hearings. Judge Barber previously sentenced Diaz Tirado to 5 years, Muniz Escalera to 10 years, and Colon Rosado to 6 years and 6 months in federal prison. Franqui’s wife, Marie Rodriguez, who pleaded guilty to two counts of distribution of heroin, was sentenced to 3 years and 4 months in federal prison.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, and the Tampa Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael Sinacore.
This investigation is the result of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) program. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and those primarily responsible for the nation’s drug supply.
Federal Jury Convicts Maryland Man for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Hagerstown, Maryland man was convicted today by a jury on federal drug trafficking charges, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Darryl Donnell Moore, also known as “Boss” and “Boss Hog,” 36, was found guilty of five felony counts involving the distribution of fentanyl and crack cocaine.
The jury considered testimony regarding how Moore conspired with his co-defendant, Stephanie Guessford, to cause the distribution of illicit substances in Berkeley County, West Virginia, and elsewhere. As part of the investigation, agents searched a storage unit and motel room connected to the drug operation and seized crack cocaine, methamphetamine, fentanyl capsules, suboxone, and other controlled substances.
“The sale of illicit fentanyl has caused tremendous pain and suffering in the Eastern Panhandle and it’s critical that we hold those who sell it accountable,” said U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld. “Thanks to the excellent work of law enforcement officers and federal prosecutors, the community won’t have to worry about Mr. Moore for a long time to come.”
Guessford, 29, of Williamsport, Maryland, previously pled guilty to the distribution of fentanyl and was sentenced to 36 months in federal prison in December 2023.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lara Omps-Botteicher and Kyle Kane prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; West Virginia State Police; and the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. District Court Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Federal Charges Filed in St. Johns Drive-By Shooting on I-95Read the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Nathaniel Thomas Hatcher, III (28, Jacksonville) and James Toney (20, Jacksonville) with committing a drive-by shooting and discharging a firearm in connection with a crime of violence. The charges stem from their alleged roles in a shooting that occurred along I-95 in St. Johns, Florida, on October 17, 2023.
Hatcher is also charged with conspiring to distribute 1,000 kilograms or more of marijuana, conspiring to straw-purchase firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, making materially false statements during the purchases of firearms, conspiring to commit money laundering, witness tampering, and obstruction of justice. Toney is also charged with conspiring to distribute 100 kilograms or more of marijuana. In addition, the indictment charges Al’Donta Easterling (26, Jacksonville) with conspiring to distribute 100 kilograms or more of marijuana, possession with the intent to distribute a controlled substance, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
If convicted on all counts, Hatcher faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 20 years’ imprisonment, up to two life sentences, plus 115 years. Toney faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 15 years, up to life imprisonment, plus 45 years. Easterling faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years imprisonment, up to life, plus 60 years. All three individuals have been arrested and ordered detained pending trial, which is set for November 4, 2024.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case is part of an investigation which has led to the arrests of five defendants, including Hatcher, Toney, and Easterling. Desmond Maxwell (28, Jacksonville) previously pleaded guilty to conspiring to straw-purchase firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. He faces up to 25 years in federal prison. Yaquasia DelCarmen (28, Jacksonville) previously pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute 50 kilograms or more of marijuana and conspiring to commit money laundering and faces up to 40 years in federal prison. DayJon Major (21, Jacksonville) has been charged with illegally possessing a machinegun and possessing a stolen firearm. Major is currently in state custody.
This case 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.
This case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, the Clay County Sheriff’s Office, and the Florida Highway Patrol. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Aakash Singh and Kirwinn Mike.
FCI Schuylkill Inmate Indicted for Possession of A WeaponRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Anthony Gilbert-Brown, age 29, a federal inmate incarcerated at FCI Schuylkill, Minersville, Pennsylvania, was indicted yesterday by a federal grand jury on the charge of possession of a weapon.
According to United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam, the indictment charges Gilbert-Brown with possessing a prohibited object designed to be used as a weapon, commonly known as a “shank.”
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations and the Special Investigative Services of the Federal Bureau of Prisons. Assistant U.S. Attorney Luisa Honora Berti is prosecuting the case.
The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is up to five years’ imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
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Ex-Energy Trader for Vitol Pleads Guilty to Second International Bribery SchemeRead the Press Release
Will Forfeit More than $7.1 Million in Funds Involved in Laundering Bribes to Mexican and Ecuadorian Officials; Defendants Ordered to Pay Over $200 Million in Forfeiture and Criminal Penalties
Earlier today, in federal court in Brooklyn, Javier Aguilar pleaded guilty to conspiring to violate the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) and engaging in interstate and foreign commerce to promote and to distribute the proceeds of commercial bribery for paying bribes to officials at PEMEX Procurement International (PPI), a wholly owned affiliate of the Mexican state-owned oil company, PEMEX. The plea follows Aguilar’s conviction at trial earlier this year in a related case for paying bribes to Ecuadorian officials and laundering the bribe money for both the Ecuador and Mexico bribery schemes. The plea proceeding was held before United States District Judge Eric N. Vitaliano. When sentenced in both cases, Aguilar faces a maximum sentence of 40 years’ imprisonment as well as $7,129,938 in criminal forfeiture.
Breon Peace, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York (EDNY), Nicole M. Argentieri, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General and head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, and Jeffrey B. Veltri, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Miami Field Office (FBI), announced the guilty plea.
“With today’s guilty plea the defendant admits his role in the widespread corruption of the international commodities market and to casting aside laws and rules that apply to all to unfairly line the pockets of the few,” stated United States Attorney Peace. “The actions of the defendant and his co-conspirators, and of those who act similarly, destroys people’s faith in their governments, disadvantages those who play by the rules, undermines confidence in American businesses worldwide, and will not be tolerated by this Office or our law enforcement partners.”
Mr. Peace expressed his appreciation to the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas for their assistance on the case.
“The Foreign Corrupt Practices Act has been the law of the land, and enforceable worldwide, for decades. Yet unscrupulous businessmen still try to bribe their way to profit,” said Jeffrey B. Veltri, Special Agent in Charge for the FBI’s Miami Field Office. “My message to them is that the charges and penalties you will face are not worth the gain. I want to commend the U.S Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas, and the Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs for their diligence pursuing this case, but especially the agents and analysts who leave no stone unturned in pursuit of FCPA violators.”
Between 2015 and 2020, Aguilar was a trader in the Houston office of Vitol, Inc. (Vitol), the U.S. affiliate of the Vitol group of companies, which together form one of the world’s largest energy trading firms. As part of the scheme, Aguilar and his co-conspirators paid approximately $600,000 in bribes to two senior officials at PPI to obtain numerous contracts for Vitol to supply hundreds of millions of dollars of liquid ethane to PEMEX. To conceal the scheme, Aguilar and his co-conspirators used a series of fake contracts, sham invoices and shell entities incorporated in Curaçao and Mexico. The defendant and his co-conspirators also used alias email accounts to communicate about the scheme, and code words, including “shoes,” “medicine,” “invitations” and “coffee,” to describe the bribes.
In December 2020, Vitol admitted to bribing officials in Ecuador, Mexico, and Brazil in violation of the anti-bribery provisions of the FCPA. Vitol entered into a deferred prosecution agreement with the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Eastern District of New York. As a part of the resolution, Vitol agreed to pay a combined $135 million in penalties as part of a coordinated resolution with the Department of Justice, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and authorities in Brazil.
The FCPA conspiracy charge, based in the Southern District of Texas (SDTX), was initially filed in the EDNY in December 2022 as part of a superseding indictment consolidating both the Ecuador- and Mexico-related conduct. In May 2023, the government consented to Aguilar’s pre-trial motion to dismiss that charge in the EDNY on venue grounds. That charge and others related were then refiled in SDTX in August 2023. As part of his guilty plea, Aguilar consented to transfer the SDTX case back to the EDNY, reconsolidating the cases.
Seven of the defendant’s co-conspirators have pleaded guilty in connection with their roles in the scheme and are awaiting sentencing. Together, these individuals have agreed to forfeit more than $63 million.
In July 2022, Mr. Peace was selected as the Chairperson of the White Collar Fraud subcommittee for the Attorney General’s Advisory Committee (AGAC). As the leader of the subcommittee, Mr. Peace plays a key role in making recommendations to the AGAC to facilitate the prevention, investigation and prosecution of various financially motivated, non-violent crimes including bribery and corruption offenses.
The government’s case is being handled by the Business and Securities Fraud Section of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York and the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section (MLARS). Assistant United States Attorneys Jonathan P. Lax and Matthew R. Galeotti of the Eastern District of New York are prosecuting the case with Assistant Chiefs Derek J. Ettinger and Jonathan P. Robell and Trial Attorney Clayton P. Solomon of the Fraud Section, Deputy Chief Adam J. Schwartz and Trial Attorney D. Hunter Smith of MLARS, with assistance from Deputy Chief Suzanne Elmilady and Assistant U.S. Attorney Sherin Daniel of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas. Assistant United States Attorney Brian Morris assisted with forfeiture matters. The MLARS Special Financial Investigations Unit and the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs also provided substantial assistance in this case.
The Defendant:
JAVIER AGUILAR
Age: 50
Houston, TexasE.D.N.Y. Docket Nos. 24-CR-304 (ENV) / 20-CR-390 (ENV)
Environmental Manager Pleads Guilty to Stealing from EmployerRead the Press Release
GAINESVILLE, Ga. - Michael Mayfield, who orchestrated a more than one-million-dollar scheme to defraud his employer by stealing rebate checks and submitting false invoices to his company, has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
“Mayfield stole over one million dollars from his employer related to environmental and recycling programs,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan. “After being entrusted with a fiduciary role, he betrayed that trust and demonstrated that he cared more about his personal gain than the faith his employer placed in him.”
“Michael Mayfield not only betrayed his employer, but his actions ultimately increased the costs of business not only for the company but it’s customers too,” said FBI Atlanta Assistant Special Agent in Charge Sean Burke. “The FBI is committed following every lead to bring white-collar criminals like Mayfield to face justice.”
According to U.S. Attorney Buchanan, the charges and other information presented in court: Around early December 2016, Michael Mayfield was employed as an environmental manager at the Mars Wrigley factory in Flowery Branch, Georgia. In that role, he oversaw the Health, Safety, and Environmental and Recycling Programs.
The recycling waste produced at the factory was valuable and companies often made direct payments or sent Mars Wrigley rebate checks after disposal of the material. But unbeknownst to Mars Wrigley, Mayfield diverted the checks to his own company, WWJ Recycling. The fraudulently obtained checks totaled over $500,000. Mayfield used the funds to pay for hunting trips worth more than $100,000, a donation to his church for more than $80,000, and more than $200,000 in personal checks.
Mayfield also directed his co-conspirator to create false invoices from ASA Safety Supply, a supplier to Mars Wrigley. The co-conspirator sent the invoiced items to Mayfield for his personal use and then submitted false invoices from ASA Safety Supply to Mars Wrigley for payment. The purchased items included football supplies for the Flowery Branch High School football team, such as cleats and clothing, improvements to the stadium, tickets to a University of Georgia football game, and gift cards. These false invoices totaled over $199,000.
Mayfield also sent invoices from WWJ Recycling to ASA Safety Supply. His co-conspirator directed ASA Safety Supply to pay those invoices and then submit the false invoices to Mars Wrigley for payment for work that was not done. The WWJ Recycle invoices totaled over $750,000.
Michael Mayfield, 55, of Flowery Branch, Georgia, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud on August 19, 2024. He is scheduled to be sentenced on December 2, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. before U.S. District Judge Richard W. Story in Gainesville, Georgia.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher J. Huber is prosecuting the case.
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.
Durham Man with Previous Conviction for Domestic Violence Pleads Guilty to Possessing Multiple FirearmsRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Maine: A Durham man pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court in Portland to being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm.
According to court records, on April 9, 2024, a deputy from the Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Office served Richard Leblond, 51, with a temporary protection from abuse order. The deputy explained that as part of the order, Leblond was required to relinquish any firearms in his possession. Leblond informed the deputy that he possessed several firearms and consented to a search of his residence. During the search, investigators located multiple handguns, pistols, rifles and shotguns, all of which were recovered from two gun safes inside the residence. Further investigation revealed that Leblond had a 2009 conviction for a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence, which precluded him from possessing any firearms.
Leblond faces up to 15 years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000. Any sentence would be followed by up to three years of supervised release. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Leblond will also forfeit the firearms seized.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) investigated the case with assistance from the Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Office.
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Danville Man Sentenced to More Than 12 Years for Federal Robbery, Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
ROANOKE, Virginia – A Danville man, who robbed a gas station in December 2022 during which he fired a handgun, was sentenced yesterday to 150 months in prison on federal robbery and firearm charges.
Isaac Graham, 42, pleaded guilty earlier this year to Hobbs Act robbery and discharging a firearm during a crime of violence.
According to court documents, in December 2022, Graham entered a Danville convenience store with a handgun, fired a round into the floor, and demanded money from the store clerk. Graham fled with approximately $1,400 but was arrested a short time later by the Danville Police Department.
United States Attorney Christopher R. Kavanaugh of the Western District of Virginia and James VanVliet, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Washington Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, made the announcement.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Danville Police Department investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lee S. Brett prosecuted the case for the United States.
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.
Convicted Felon Sentenced to 13 Years in Prison for Gun and Drug CrimesRead the Press Release
BIRMIHGHAM, Ala. – A convicted felon pleaded guilty and was sentenced today for possessing drugs and a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Special Agent in Charge Marcus Watson.
U.S. District Judge Madeline Haikala sentenced Nathaniel Kasheen Rembert, 37, of Bessemer, to 156 months in prison. Rembert pleaded guilty to a two-count information charging him with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance.
According to the plea agreement, on July 2, 2021, a Birmingham Police Department officer conducted a traffic stop on Rembert. The officer asked Rembert if he had any weapons in the car. Rembert admitted to having a pistol, and he did not have a pistol permit. After determining that Rembert had multiple outstanding warrants, the officer arrested Rembert on the warrants and for not having a pistol permit. From the car, officers recovered a Glock .45 caliber pistol, a magazine loaded with .45 caliber bullets, a box of .45 caliber ammunition, drugs, and drug paraphernalia.
Rembert is prohibited from having a gun because of multiple prior felony convictions.
ATF investigated the case, along with the Birmingham Police Department and the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency. Assistant United States Attorney Darius Greene prosecuted the case.
Convicted Felon Found with Gun in Vehicle at Caddo Parish Juvenile Courthouse SentencedRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced that William S. Watts, Jr., of Shreveport, has been sentenced by United States District Judge Elizabeth E. Foote to 40 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.
According to information presented in court, on June 8, 2022, officers with the Shreveport Police Department responded to a call from an individual who saw Watts with a gun on his person. Watts was prohibited from possessing a firearm due to his 2007 felony conviction for possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance. Officers proceeded to Watts’ residence where they were told by his girlfriend at the time that her gun was missing, and Watts was on his way to the Caddo Parish Juvenile Court. Other officers were dispatched to assist and intercepted Watts at the juvenile courthouse and secured the Ruger 9mm pistol which was found on the passenger floorboard of his car. He admitted to officers that he knew he was not supposed to have any firearm in his possession.
The case was investigated by Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Shreveport Police Department and prosecuted by First Assistant United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook.
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 make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. PSN is part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime. To learn more about Project Safe Neighborhoods, go to www.justice.gov/psn.
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Connecticut Man Admits Role in $7.8 Million Health Care Fraud and Kickback SchemeRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A Connecticut man admitted his role in a multimillion-dollar durable medical equipment (DME) health care fraud and kickback scheme, Attorney for the United States Vikas Khanna announced.
Jesse Foote, 58, of Fairfield, Connecticut, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Esther Salas in Newark federal court to a two-count information charging him with conspiracy to violate the Federal Anti-Kickback statute and conspiracy to commit health care fraud.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
From December 2017 to March 2021, Foote conspired with overseas telemarking call centers, DME suppliers, telemedicine companies, and doctors to submit fraudulent claims to health care benefit programs, including Medicare and TRICARE, through a circular scheme of kickbacks and bribes. Foote controlled a marketing company though which he purchased patient “leads” from overseas telemarking companies, which consisted of information about Medicare and other beneficiaries and pre-written doctors’ orders for DME. The telemarketing call centers targeted Medicare beneficiaries and others with health insurance to persuade them to accept DME, including orthotic braces, without regard to medical necessity. Foote paid bribes and kickbacks to telemedicine companies, which in turn paid bribes and kickbacks to doctors, to obtain doctors’ orders for DME based on the leads. The doctors often approved the DME orders without having had any contact with the beneficiary and without making a bona fide assessment that the DME was medically necessary. Foote then sold the signed doctors’ orders to others with whom he had kickback arrangements. The doctors’ orders were ultimately submitted to DME suppliers, including DME suppliers controlled by Foote, which submitted fraudulent claims for reimbursement to health care benefit programs including Medicare, TRICARE, and private insurance companies.
In total, Foote and his conspirators caused the submission of false and fraudulent claims to health care benefit programs totaling more than $7.8 million for DME.
The kickback conspiracy charge is punishable by a maximum of five years in prison, and the health care fraud conspiracy charge is punishable by a maximum of 10 years in prison. Both charges are punishable by a fine of $250,000, or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense, whichever is greatest. Sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 21, 2025.
Attorney for the United States Khanna credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge James E. Dennehy in Newark, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Naomi Gruchacz, and U.S. Department of Defense, Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, Northeast Field Office, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Brian J. Solecki, with the investigation.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine M. Romano of the Health Care Fraud Unit and Senior Trial Counsel Barbara Ward of the Asset Recovery and Money Laundering Unit in Newark.
foote.information.pdfCheektowaga man going to prison for using stolen credit card numbers to purchase tens of thousands of dollars worth of gasRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Cross Malik Williams, 25, of Cheektowaga, NY, who was convicted of conspiracy to commit bank fraud, was sentenced to serve 12 months in prison by U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles M. Kruly, who handled the case, stated that between August 2022, and July 2023, Williams, along with co-defendant Kingsley Brown, purchased approximately 570 stolen bank cards from various online marketplaces. Williams and Brown then used a card-making device to load the stolen banking card information onto blank plastic bank cards with magnetic strips, which allowed purchases to be made using the victims’ funds from the victims’ bank accounts. Williams and Brown used, or allowed others to use, the stolen bank card information to purchase gas for other individuals. The gas customers would then pay Williams and/or Brown an amount of money less than the cost of the gas. Williams agreed that he was responsible for between $250,000 and $550,000 of total loss.
Kingsley Brown was previously convicted and is awaiting sentencing.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia.
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Charlotte Man Is Sentenced to Seven Years in Prison for Possession of A Firearm by A FelonRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Today, U.S. District Judge Max O. Cogburn, Jr. sentenced Everette Josiah Phifer, 30, of Charlotte, to 84 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, announced Dena J. King U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.
Bennie Mims, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Charlotte Field Division, and Chief Johnny Jennings of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department, join U.S. Attorney King in making today’s announcement.
According to court documents and court proceedings, in 2016, Phifer was convicted in North Carolina of Assault with a Deadly Weapon Inflicting Serious Injury and served a term of imprisonment. As a result of the conviction, Phifer is prohibited from possessing firearms. Court documents show that between February 7, 2022, and March 5, 2022, Phifer illegally possessed a firearm. Specifically, on March 5, 2022, CMPD officers responded to a 911 call for a shooting at an apartment complex in Charlotte. When officers arrived on the scene, they discovered that at least 79 shots had been fired from multiple guns, and an innocent resident of the complex had been struck and killed by a stray bullet.
Witnesses directed law enforcement to a particular apartment within the complex believed to be connected to the shooting. Law enforcement executed a search warrant at that apartment. Phifer was located inside along with a quantity of fentanyl pills and several firearms, including an SKS rifle and a loaded Glock handgun with an undermount laser hidden inside a toilet tank, and ammunition. Phifer’s cell phone was also seized and analyzed. Law enforcement recovered from the cell phone photos of Phifer with the same SKS rifle that was found in the apartment, and a video that showed the same Glock handgun also seized from the apartment.
On June 23, 2023, Phifer pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. He is in federal custody and will be transferred to the custody of the federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.
In January 2024, Marcus Alexander Allen, another individual connected to the March 5th shooting and the apartment where Phifer was found, was sentenced to seven years in prison for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon committed on March 5, 2022.
In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney King thanked the ATF and CMPD for their investigation of the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy Sielaff of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Charleston Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Thomas McNeil Hedrick II, 36, of Charleston, pleaded guilty today to possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on November 26, 2023, Hedrick visited a Shrewsbury residence while armed with a Ruger model AR-556 semi-automatic rifle loaded with a 60-round drum magazine and equipped with a bipod. Hedrick admitted that he knew he was prohibited from possessing firearms, and that he sought to conceal the loaded semi-automatic rifle under his jacket when he entered and left the residence. Hedrick further admitted that surveillance video at the residence captured his actions. The surveillance video captured another felony offense committed while Hedrick was in possession of the firearm.
Federal law prohibits a person with a prior felony conviction from possessing a firearm or ammunition. Hedrick knew he was prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition because of his prior felony conviction for wanton endangerment in Kanawha County Circuit Court on March 1, 2022.
Hedrick is scheduled to be sentenced on December 12, 2024, and faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine.
United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office
Chief United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Alexander A. Redmon is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the result.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:24-cr-56.
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Centre County Man Indicted for Drug Trafficking and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Taylon Hamilton, age 30, of Centre County, Pennsylvania, was indicted yesterday by a federal grand jury for drug trafficking and firearm offenses.
According to United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam, the indictment charges that Hamilton possessed with intent to distribute methamphetamine and distributed methamphetamine on multiple occasions. It is further alleged that Hamilton possessed a Hi-Point Model C9 9mm pistol with an obliterated serial number after previously been convicted of a felony offense.
The charges stem from a joint investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Centre County Drug Task Force. Assistant United States Attorney Kyle Moreno is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The maximum penalty under federal law for the crimes charged in the Indictment is life imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
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Canadian National Extradited to the United States Pleads Guilty to Production of Child Sex Abuse Material and Enticement of MinorsRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Paul Creighton (67, Ontario, Canada) has pleaded guilty to production of child sex abuse material and enticement of a minor. Creighton faces a minimum mandatory sentence of 15 years, up to life, in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the plea agreement, between 2012 and 2017, Creighton coerced and enticed a 14-year-old girl in Osceola County into an online relationship. Their interactions began over a messaging app and progressed to texting, emails, and phone calls. While the victim was a minor, Creighton repeatedly directed her to send explicit photos and videos of herself, including videos in which the minor was performing sexual acts. In April 2017, the victim confided in a friend about the relationship she had engaged in with Creighton. The friend notified a high school guidance counselor, who notified the victim’s parents, who then immediately called law enforcement and provided the minor victim’s cellphone and laptop to law enforcement.
After being discovered, Creighton advised the victim on what to say to her parents, to reset her phone, reformat her hard drive, and delete data from an online storage account. Creighton later threatened the victim and told her he would share her images and videos if the victim did not continue to speak to him.
In October 2017, FBI agents stopped Creighton as he landed at Dulles Airport in Washington, DC, traveling from Toronto. Agents searched his carry-on luggage and collected various electronic items from Creighton, who refused to provide passwords to those items. Agents obtained search warrants and conducted forensic reviews of those devices, which revealed photographs of the victim, online searches for the victim and her family, as well as numerous searches for other children throughout the United States.
On October 24, 2017—at the same time that Creighton was flying to Washington, DC, from Toronto—detectives with the Niagara Regional Police, in coordination with the FBI, executed a Canadian search warrant at Creighton’s residence in Ontario. From his home, agents recovered hundreds of images of minor children, including the explicit images of the victim, as well as other minor victims.
Based on these images and the items found in his personal electronic devices, FBI agents identified a number of other minor victims throughout the United States that Creighton had victimized or obtained child sexual abuse material from, including in Florida, Virginia, Georgia, and California.
Creighton was taken into custody by Canadian authorities on November 12, 2020. On February 8, 2024, Creighton was extradited to the United States, and has been in custody since.
This investigation was led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Tampa Field Office. Substantial assistance was provided by the Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs, the United States Marshals Service, and the Niagara Regional Police. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Diego F. Novaes.
It is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue child victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.jutice.gov/psc.
Businesswoman Sentenced for Tax and Mail FraudRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Randolph woman was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for her involvement in a payroll tax avoidance scheme.
Lilian Giang, 56, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Richard G. Stearns to 18 months in prison followed by two years of supervised released and ordered to pay $845,382 in restitution. In April 2024, Giang was convicted following a three-day jury trial of four counts of failing to collect and pay over taxes and one count of mail fraud. Giang was indicted in March 2023.
Between 2015 and 2019, Giang owned and operated Able Temp Agency (Able), a temporary employment agency in Quincy that served client companies in Massachusetts. The client companies paid Able for the temporary employees’ work on an hourly basis. Giang deposited those payments into bank accounts in the name of Able that she controlled, and then paid the temporary employees “under the table” through a combination of checks and cash. In doing so, Giang hid more than $3.2 million in payroll and avoided paying more than $800,000 in required payroll taxes. Giang also falsified Able’s payroll numbers to obtain worker’s compensation insurance at lower premium rates.
Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy and Harry Chavis, Jr., Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Boston Field Office made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Insurance Fraud Bureau of Massachusetts. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher J. Markham and Kristen A. Kearney of the Securities, Financial & Cyber Fraud Unit prosecuted the case.
Bradford County Man Indicted for Drug Trafficking and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Jamar McDowell, age 32, of Columbia Cross Roads, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury for drug trafficking and firearm offenses.
According to United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam, the indictment charges that on or about May 30, 2024, in Bradford County, McDowell possessed with intent to distribute cocaine, fentanyl, methamphetamine, psilocin and marijuana. It is further alleged that McDowell possessed a Glock 37 .45 caliber handgun in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
The charges stem from a joint investigation conducted by Homeland Security Investigations Buffalo Border Enforcement Security Taskforce, the Elmira Police Department, and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Tatum Wilson is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The maximum penalty under federal law for the crimes charged in the Indictment is life imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
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Burton Man Sentenced to Decades in Federal Prison for Sexually Exploitating ChildrenRead the Press Release
FLINT – Nicholas Dunn, 42, of Burton was sentenced yesterday to 40 years in federal prison for sexually exploiting children, United States Attorney Dawn N. Ison announced today.
Ison was joined in the announcement by Special Agent in Charge Angie M. Salazar, Homeland Security Investigations Detroit.
United States District Court Judge F. Kay Behm imposed sentence on Dunn following his guilty plea to two counts of sexual exploitation of a minor. Judge Behm also sentenced Dunn to 5 years of federal supervised release following his release from incarceration.
According to court records, in December of 2022, an HSI special agent working online in an undercover capacity observed one of Dunn’s co-defendants, Preston Creed-Boehm, post an image of child pornography. Creed-Boehm also sent child pornography directly to the undercover agent and described how he sexually abused two minor victims. Shortly thereafter, law enforcement arrested Creed-Boehm, searched his cell phones, and discovered that Dunn had manufactured one of the images of child pornography found on Creed-Boehm’s cell phone. Law enforcement then executed a search warrant at Dunn’s residence, which he shared with another co-defendant, Joshua Hippensteel. Further investigation revealed Dunn’s extended sexual abuse of five minor children, including grooming, sexual acts, and the production of additional child pornography. Witnesses also disclosed to law enforcement that Dunn had possessed and viewed substantial quantities of child pornography that he obtained over the internet.
Creed-Boehm and Hippensteel have also been charged with sexual exploitation of a minor. Additionally, Creed-Boehm has further been charged with distribution and possession of child pornography. The charges against Creed-Boehm and Hippensteel are still pending.
“This defendant’s actions were heinous, and the sentence underscores our office’s commitment to bringing to justice those who sexually exploit and victimize children,” U.S. Attorney Ison said. “This conviction would not have been possible without the work of our dedicated law enforcement partners at HSI and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.”
“Protecting children in our communities across Michigan is a team effort from investigation to prosecution,” said HSI Detroit Special Agent in Charge Angie M. Salazar. “HSI Detroit is proud to partner with the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to bring accountability and justice to sexual predators while providing care and support to the victims. It is my hope that this 40-year sentence brings some measure of solace to the victims in this case so they can continue to heal from these terrible crimes.”
“This conviction demonstrates our unyielding determination to combat child abuse and sexual violence. The safety and well-being of our children is our highest priorities. We hope this case serves as a reminder that we must remain vigilant and proactive in protecting our communities,” said Detective Lieutenant Robert Nicklesen, Genesee County Sheriff’s Office. “We urge anyone who suspects child abuse or has experienced it themselves to reach out to local authorities or organizations dedicated to child protection. You are not alone, and help is available.”
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann Nee.
Armed Lumberton Fentanyl Trafficker Sentenced to over 12 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – An armed Lumberton fentanyl trafficker was sentenced today to 150 months in prison. On May 22, 2024, Charlton Townsend, age 29, pled guilty to one count of conspiracy with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and a quantity of cocaine and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, in February 2022, the Fairmont Police Department (FPD) and the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office received multiple complaints about Townsend selling drugs from his residence in Fairmont. As a result, the FPD utilized a confidential informant to make a controlled purchase of fentanyl from Townsend.
On March 7, 2022, law enforcement executed a search warrant on Townsend’s residence. Townsend, who was present at the time, was verbally combative with officers and had to be secured in a patrol vehicle. Prior to being secured, officers found a loaded 9mm semiautomatic gun on the ground next to Townsend. The search of the home resulted in the seizure of cocaine base (crack), cocaine, fentanyl, a sawed-off shotgun, a stolen .223/.556 AR-style pistol, a .40 caliber semi-automatic firearm and more than $6000 in cash. Townsend was arrested on the same day as the search.
Michael Easley, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. The Fairmont Police Department, the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Gainer prosecuted the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 7:23-CR-000690D-RN.
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Alcester Woman Sentenced for Wire FraudRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced an Alcester, South Dakota, woman convicted of Wire Fraud. The sentencing took place on August 19, 2024.
Michelle Warner, age 57, was sentenced to two years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100; and restitution in the amount of $261,066.09 to Heartland Counseling Services.
Warner was indicted by a federal grand jury in May of 2023. She pleaded guilty on March 20, 2024.
The conviction stemmed from incidents beginning on or about June 1, 2018, and continuing through May 17, 2022, when Warner, who was employed as a bookkeeper/accountant, and later as business administrator for Heartland Counseling Services, fraudulently paid herself unauthorized payroll payments and then used the funds for her own purposes. Additionally, Warner used her employer’s credit card without authority for her own personal use.
This case was investigated by the FBI, U.S. Attorney’s Office, Union County Sheriff’s Office, and the South Sioux City (NE) Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman prosecuted the case.
Warner has been allowed to self-report to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service on September 16, 2024.
20 August 2024
White Swan Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Intent to Commit Murder in Violent Stabbing AttackRead the Press Release
Yakima, Washington - Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced today that Taylor Thomas Rayne Sinclair, 23, of White Swan, Washington, was sentenced on one count of Assault with Intent to Commit Murder. Chief United States District Judge Stanley A. Bastian imposed a sentence of 168 months in federal prison to be followed by 3 years of supervised release, as well as restitution of $13,625.10.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, on the morning of November 19, 2022, Sinclair, who is an enrolled member of the Yakama Nation, entered the victim’s property through an open gate. The victim heard dogs barking and came outside. The victim didn’t recognize Sinclair and asked if he needed help. Sinclair pulled out a folding knife, ran up to the victim, and stabbed her several times, including in the face, abdomen, and hands. The victim and Sinclair wrestled for control of the knife. The victim was able to get ahold of the knife but at the same time, Sinclair put the victim in a chokehold. Sinclair eventually released the victim from the chokehold and the victim ran back inside the home. Sinclair attempted to follow, but the victim pushed Sinclair back outside and locked the door. The victim managed to call 911 with the help of her young child. The victim and her child ran into the bathroom and closed and locked the door. As the victim waited for help to arrive, she could hear windows being broken, loud banging noises, and Sinclair yelling inside the home.
Law enforcement arrived a short time later and arrested Sinclair. Investigators noticed two windows had been broken as well as the front door broken in and partially off the hinges. Investigators also located blood on the porch and around the home. The victim was taken to the hospital and treated for multiple stab wounds, including an orbital fracture and a collapsed lung.
“I commend the bravery of the victim in this case. What began as an offer of help to a stranger, unexpectedly escalated to an unprovoked, violent attack. The victim courageously fought off her attacker, then, despite having serious injuries, managed to call for help and get herself, and her young child, to safety inside a locked bathroom,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “By working closely with our federal, tribal, and local law enforcement partners we will continue to hold those accountable who commit violent acts in tribal communities and work together to make Eastern Washington safer and stronger.”
“Horrifying is the only word that describes what the victim experienced at the hands of Mr. Sinclair,” said Richard A. Collodi, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Seattle field office. “Thankfully she survived this vicious and unprovoked assault. Hopefully, she finds some comfort with the sentence delivered today.”
This case was investigated by Federal Bureau of Investigation, The Yakama Nation Tribal Police Department, and the Yakima County Sheriff’s Office. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Michael Murphy and Courtney R. Pratten.
White Earth Man Sentenced to Nearly 25 Years in Prison for Producing Child Pornography on the Red Lake ReservationRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – A White Earth man has been sentenced to 292 months in prison followed by 15 years of supervised release for producing and attempting to produce child pornography, announced United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, in December 2020, Ryan Edward Thompson, 34, a.k.a. “Ryan Edward Wayne Townsend,” knowingly used a minor in sexually explicit activity to produce pornography images.
Using her school-issued laptop to message the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, the 13-year-old victim disclosed that the defendant began sleeping in her room at night and sexually abusing her. Law enforcement responded and later discovered photographs of a sexual nature had been taken with the victim’s own cell phone.
On February 1, 2024, a federal jury found Thompson guilty of two counts of production and attempted production of child pornography. He was sentenced yesterday in U.S. District Court by Judge John R. Tunheim.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, and the Red Lake Department of Public Safety. The U.S. Attorney’s Office would also like to acknowledge the assistance of the White Earth Nation Indian Child Welfare Services, the Red Lake Nation Victim Services, Fosston Public Schools, Minneapolis Public Schools, and the Family Advocacy Center of Northern Minnesota.
The 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. Attorney’s Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
If you need suicide or mental health crisis support, or are worried about someone else, please call or text 988 or visit the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline chat to connect with a trained crisis specialist.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mary S. Riverso and Laura M. Provinzino prosecuted the case.
West Palm Beach Sex Offender Sentenced to 5 Years’ Imprisonment after Jury Convicts for Failure to Properly RegisterRead the Press Release
MIAMI – On Aug. 19, Ramon Fuertes, a/k/a “Raymond Cortez,” of West Palm Beach, Fla. was sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment after a federal jury convicted him of four counts of failure of a sex offender to properly register, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2250(a).
According to evidence introduced during the trial, Fuertes had been convicted in 2009 in federal court for sex trafficking of a minor and enticement of a minor. In 2018, upon completion of his federal prison sentence, Fuentes registered as a sex offender. In January and May 2023, Fuertes created and used two email addresses and a social networking account. Fuertes did not properly register these internet identifiers with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBSO) as required by the Federal Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA). Moreover, on June 2, 2023, Fuertes vacated his West Palm Beach residence and flew to Georgia to live without notifying the proper authorities in the Southern District of Florida that he was terminating his residence in that jurisdiction and commencing his residence in another jurisdiction.
As the evidence at trial showed, while in Georgia, Fuertes did not properly register as a sex offender and by late July 2023, stopped communicating with law enforcement in Georgia and Florida about his whereabouts. An arrest warrant was issued for Fuertes shortly thereafter. He was arrested by the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) Fugitive Task Force on Oct. 24, 2023.
In April 2024, a West Palm Beach jury convicted Fuertes after a six-day trial. On July 18, 2024, U.S. District Judge Melissa Damian sentenced Fuertes to 60 months’ imprisonment, to be followed by 60 months’ supervised release. In imposing the sentence, Judge Damian noted that Fuertes “has a history of noncompliance with rules.”
U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida and U.S. Marshal Gadyaces S. Serralta of the USMS made the announcement.
USMS Miami investigated this matter, with assistance from PBSO, FBI, and Georgia Bureau of Investigations, as well as the Dekalb County Sheriff’s Office, Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office, and Gwinnett County Police Department, all in Georgia. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregory Schiller prosecuted the case.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida at www.justice.gov/usao-sdfl.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case number 23-CR-80208.
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Venezuelan National Pleads Guilty to Sanctions Evasion SchemeRead the Press Release
Defendant Conspired to Unlawfully Export Millions of Dollars’ Worth of Aircraft Parts from the United States to Venezuela’s State-Owned Oil Company Through Costa Rica and Spain
MIAMI - George Semerene Quintero (Semerene), 60, of Venezuela, pleaded guilty today to conspiring to violate the International Economic Emergency Powers Act (IEEPA) for his role in a scheme to evade U.S. sanctions imposed on Petróleos de Venezuela S.A. (PDVSA), a Venezuelan state-owned oil company.
“Today, George Semerene Quintero admitted that he conspired to circumvent economic sanctions and export controls to aid Nicolás Maduro’s regime in Venezuela in obtaining critical aircraft parts from the United States,” said U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida. “Together with the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) and our law enforcement partners, we will continue to ensure that the integrity and intent of U.S. sanctions are preserved. Semerene’s guilty plea reflects our steadfast commitment to holding those who violate sanctions accountable and to vigorously enforcing export controls to protect our nation’s security.”
“This defendant admitted to participating in an illicit scheme to procure millions in aviation equipment for the Maduro regime,” said Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. “Today’s conviction demonstrates the Justice Department’s commitment to hold accountable those who seek to evade export controls and sanctions to prop up rogue authoritarians.”
“By lying to U.S. suppliers, falsifying customs forms and creating fake invoices, Semerene helped PDVSA evade U.S. sanctions,” said Assistant Secretary for Export Enforcement Matthew S. Axelrod of the Department of Commerce. “But, as today’s guilty plea makes clear, what he couldn’t evade are the consequences of breaking U.S. law.”
According to court documents, between January 2019 and December 2021, after learning of the sanctions imposed on PDVSA, Semerene and his co-conspirators devised a scheme to illegally procure aircraft parts, including bearings, rudder parts, joint slide flexes and actuators, from the United States to service PDVSA’s aircraft fleet in Venezuela, in violation of U.S. sanctions and export controls. Semerene, who was an employee in PDVSA’s procurement department, and his co-conspirators concealed from U.S. companies that the requested parts were destined for Venezuela and PDVSA and utilized freight forwarders and shipping companies located in the Southern District of Florida to move the parts. Semerene and his co-conspirators carried out this scheme by (1) lying to U.S. parts suppliers; (2) making false declarations on customs forms and shipping documents; (3) fabricating supplier invoices; and (4) providing false end-user certificates. Semerene and his co-conspirators further utilized third parties in other countries, including Novax Group SA (Novax), a Costa Rican Aerofalcon SL (Aerofalcon), a Spanish company, to serve as the purported purchasers and end users for the aircraft parts ultimately destined for PDVSA.
The indictment charging Semerene and nine co-defendants, including three other individuals associated with PDVSA, was unsealed in April, following Semerene’s arrest upon his arrival in the United States.
Semerene is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 5 and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
BIS is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Stratton for the Southern District of Florida and Trial Attorney Ahmed Almudallal of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section (CES) are prosecuting the case. CES Deputy Chief Matthew McKenzie provided valuable assistance during the investigation.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida at www.justice.gov/usao-sdfl.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case number 21-CR-20589.
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Venezuelan National Pleads Guilty to Sanctions Evasion SchemeRead the Press Release
George Semerene Quintero (Semerene), 60, of Venezuela, pleaded guilty today to conspiring to violate the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) for his role in a scheme to evade U.S. sanctions imposed on Petróleos de Venezuela S.A. (PDVSA), a Venezuelan state-owned oil company.
“This defendant admitted to participating in an illicit scheme to procure millions in aviation equipment for the Maduro regime,” said Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. “Today’s conviction demonstrates the Justice Department’s commitment to hold accountable those who seek to evade export controls and sanctions to prop up rogue authoritarians.”
“By lying to U.S. suppliers, falsifying customs forms and creating fake invoices, Semerene helped PDVSA evade U.S. sanctions,” said Assistant Secretary for Export Enforcement Matthew S. Axelrod of the Commerce Department’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS). “But, as today’s guilty plea makes clear, what he couldn’t evade are the consequences of breaking U.S. law.”
“Today, George Semerene Quintero admitted that he conspired to circumvent economic sanctions and export controls to aid Nicolás Maduro’s regime in Venezuela in obtaining critical aircraft parts from the United States,” said U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida. “Together with the BIS and our law enforcement partners, we will continue to ensure that the integrity and intent of U.S. sanctions are preserved. Semerene’s guilty plea reflects our steadfast commitment to holding those who violate sanctions accountable and to vigorously enforcing export controls to protect our nation’s security.”
According to court documents, between January 2019 and December 2021, after learning of the sanctions imposed on PDVSA, Semerene and his co-conspirators devised a scheme to illegally procure aircraft parts, including bearings, rudder parts, joint slide flexes and actuators, from the United States to service PDVSA’s aircraft fleet in Venezuela, in violation of U.S. sanctions and export controls. Semerene, who was an employee in PDVSA’s procurement department, and his co-conspirators concealed from U.S. companies that the requested parts were destined for Venezuela and PDVSA, and they utilized freight forwarders and shipping companies located in the Southern District of Florida to move the parts. Semerene and his co-conspirators carried out this scheme by (1) lying to U.S. parts suppliers; (2) making false declarations on customs forms and shipping documents; (3) fabricating supplier invoices; and (4) providing false end-user certificates. Semerene and his co-conspirators further utilized third parties in other countries, including Novax Group SA, a Costa Rican company, Aerofalcon SL, a Spanish company, to serve as the purported purchasers and end users for the aircraft parts ultimately destined for PDVSA.
The indictment charging Semerene and nine co-defendants, including three other individuals associated with PDVSA, was unsealed in April, following Semerene’s arrest upon his arrival in the United States.
Semerene is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 5 and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
BIS is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Stratton for the Southern District of Florida and Trial Attorney Ahmed Almudallal of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section (CES) are prosecuting the case. CES Deputy Chief Matthew McKenzie provided valuable assistance during the investigation.
United States Announces Settlement Resolving Clean Air Act Violations at Medford, Long Island Metal Shredding FacilityRead the Press Release
Breon Peace, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, and Lisa F. Garcia, Regional Administrator, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), today announced a settlement with Gershow Recycling Corporation (Gershow) for its alleged violation of the Clean Air Act (CAA) at the company’s metal shredding facility in Medford, New York. Under the Consent Judgment, Gershow will install and operate technology to reduce the facility’s emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The settlement also requires Gershow to pay a civil penalty of $555,000.
“This Office will vigorously enforce the Clean Air Act to protect local communities from harmful air pollution,” stated United States Attorney Breon Peace. “This settlement requires Gershow to implement critical emission control technology that will help improve air quality for local communities, including those with the most vulnerable residents.”
“Thanks to EPA’s action, people in and around Medford will breathe cleaner air and avoid harmful pollution,” said Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia. “Breathing air with higher levels of VOCs can cause breathing problems and make people more susceptible to respiratory infection, especially for people who suffer from asthma. This proposed settlement ensures that the company installs proper pollution controls at the facility and meets environmental requirements.”
Background
The CAA was enacted by Congress to promote the public health and welfare through prevention and regulation of air pollution from mobile and stationary sources. The CAA requires states to adopt federally enforceable plans to ensure the implementation and enforcement of National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) at the local level. VOC emissions contribute to the formation of ground level ozone and to violations of the NAAQS for ozone. Exposure to VOCs may cause cancer, eye irritation, respiratory problems, and damage to the nervous system. Ground-level ozone, which is a constituent of smog, can also cause determinantal health effects. Under the NAAQS, EPA has designated the New York Metropolitan Area, including Long Island, as a non-attainment area for ozone. This designates the area as having poor ground level ozone.
Consent Judgment
In November 2021, EPA issued Gershow a Notice of Violation citing it for violating the CAA. The notice, and the Complaint filed today with the Consent Judgment, allege that Gershow failed to install pollution controls at its metal shredder, causing illicit emissions of VOCs. Further, Gershow failed to obtain a CAA air permit for the facility’s VOC emissions and failed to properly report the facility’s air emissions.
Gershow’s facility operates metal shredding equipment, which is used to process scrap automobiles and other scrap material. The shredding process generates enough heat to vaporize the plastics, paints, and oils in certain scrap materials, resulting in the emission of VOCs and other air pollutants. Without an emission control system, pollutants disperse into the air and impact the surrounding communities.
Under the Consent Judgment, Gershow is required to bring its facility into compliance with the CAA. Gershow must obtain the required operating permit, and then install and operate emission control equipment to reduce VOCs emitted by the shredder. EPA estimates that the new equipment that Gershow will install will prevent over 49 tons per year of VOC air emissions. The required pollution control equipment will also reduce the formation of harmful ground-level ozone.
The Complaint and Consent Judgment were filed in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York. Following a 30-day public comment period, the United States will review any comments and, if appropriate, ask the Court to enter the Consent Judgment.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York vigorously enforces the nation’s environmental laws to address environmental, health, and climate impacts on individuals and communities within the district. Any member of the public who wishes to notify the United States of environmental justice concerns may contact the Office’s Environmental Justice Team here.
The negotiations and settlement were handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas R. Price and Matthew Silverman of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York’s Civil Division, working with Robert DeLay, Assistant Regional Counsel, U.S. EPA Region 2, with assistance from Shaun Burke, Senior Environmental Engineer, U.S. EPA Air Enforcement Division, Office of Civil Enforcement.
E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 24-CV-5794
U.S. Attorney's Office and ATF Announce Criminal Charges Against California Man for Unlicensed Firearms Dealing and Financial CrimesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A California man was charged by superseding indictment for allegedly engaging in the business of dealing firearms without a license, interstate travel in furtherance of that offense, and conducting unlawful financial transactions to promote the scheme.
Brian Joseph, 52, appeared before a federal judge and will remain on conditions of release pending trial, which has not been scheduled.
According to the indictment, between October 15, 2021, and November 29, 2022, Joseph allegedly engaged in the business of dealing firearms in Bernalillo County and elsewhere without being a licensed firearms dealer. To achieve this, Joseph traveled from California to New Mexico on multiple occasions to acquire firearms and resell them at a profit in California.
In addition to the firearms charges, Joseph is accused of conducting financial transactions involving proceeds from the unlawful firearms dealings. Specifically, Joseph allegedly executed electronic fund transfers from Wescom Credit Union to PNC Bank on various dates in 2022 totaling $6,684.80.
If convicted, Joseph faces up to 20 years in prison.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Brendan Iber, Special Agent in Charge of the Phoenix Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, made the announcement today.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico is prosecuting the case.
View the Superseding IndictmentAn indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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U.S. Attorney Easley Provides Update to Ongoing Albemarle Region Violent Crime StrategyRead the Press Release
EDENTON, N.C. – Today, U.S. Attorney Michael Easley, along with federal and local law enforcement, provided an update regarding ongoing and coordinated efforts to address violent crime in the Albemarle Region of Northeastern North Carolina. The Violent Crime Action Plan (VCAP) is a collaboration of the U.S. Attorney’s Office with the Edenton and Elizabeth City Police Departments, the Sheriff’s Offices in Bertie, Chowan, Perquimans, Pasquotank, Camden, Currituck, Washington, Gates and Dare Counties, North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement, North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, the United States Marshals Service (USMS), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the District Attorney for the region. A primary objective of the VCAP is to investigate and prosecute individuals contributing significantly to crime in the Albemarle Region (Elizabeth City, Edenton, and surrounding areas).
Since the VCAP was launched in January, 21 individuals have been indicted. Just in the past week, law enforcement led a coordinated operation to indict and arrest eleven individuals. According to court documents, the following eight individuals were arrested on federal charges as part of the recent enforcement effort:
- Robert Hall, age 42, kidnapping and possession of a firearm by a felon (Perquimans County)
- Miguel Williams, age 34, possession of a firearm by a felon; possession with intent to distribute cocaine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime (Elizabeth City)
- Stanford Dantzler*, age 23, possession of a firearm by a felon (Elizabeth City)
- Anthony McCoy*, age 25, possession of a firearm by a felon and possession of machine gun (Elizabeth City)
- Rashawn Baum*, age 28, possession of a firearm by a felon and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl (Elizabeth City)
- Tysheem Commander*, age 31, possession of a firearm by a felon (Elizabeth City)
- Jamari Ishman*, age 24, possession of a firearm by a felon (Edenton)
- Al Ortiz, age 48, possession with intent to distribute fentanyl (Elizabeth City)
*indicates that defendant is a member of the Blood Gang
Since the beginning of the year, a team of prosecutors, analysts, and investigators have collaborated to identify, charge, and arrest, individuals contributing to violent crime in Northeastern North Carolina leading to 21 individuals, including five who have pled guilty, facing 34 charges and 26 guns seized, including five fully automatic machine guns. In addition, over 240 grams of fentanyl have been seized – enough for 120,000 potentially deadly doses.
“In January of this year, I joined local law enforcement leaders in the Albemarle Region to discuss ways to work together to curb violent crime,” said U.S. Attorney Michael Easley. “Since that initial launch of VCAP, we have brought charges against 21 individuals that we believe are contributing significantly to violence in the region. Those involved in violent crime should take note – our work will continue, and you will be next.”
“The gang and drug violence plaguing our communities is a problem too large for any law enforcement agency to tackle alone. These arrests are an outstanding example of what local, state, and federal partners can accomplish when we operate as a force-multiplier in the fight against violent crime,” said Robert M. DeWitt, the FBI Special Agent in Charge in North Carolina.
“We are proud partners on the team that is working hard to curtail violent crime in eastern North Carolina, and we are bringing all of our available resources to bear,” said Cardell T. Morant, Special Agent in Charge of HSI Charlotte that covers North and South Carolina. “These results of our efforts are encouraging, and we look forward to even greater success in our efforts to protect our communities.”
“Locating, apprehending, and prosecuting the worst of the worst is a focus ATF shares with our law enforcement partners,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Bennie Mims. “As part of the Violent Crime Action Plan, ATF and our local, state and federal counterparts are combining our efforts and resources to disrupt drug trafficking networks, recover firearms from prohibited individuals, and make our communities safer.”
“These indictments are the result of tireless investigative work and are a prime example of the benefits of our partnership with the U.S. Attorney's Office and local law enforcement,” said Interim Chief George Robinson. “The Edenton Police Department looks forward to continuing to work with our partners across the Albemarle region as we strive to improve overall quality of life and make Edenton one of the safest towns in North Carolina.”
“I want to personally thank our U.S. Attorney Michael Easley of the North Carolina Eastern District and all the local, state, and federal agencies for partnering to rid our communities of some of our most violent offenders. These efforts will provide our citizens the reassurance that we will not tolerate the senseless acts of violence that plague so many of our communities. We want everyone to have a safe place to live, work, and play,” said Elizabeth City Interim Chief of Police James E. Avens, Jr. “Working Together Works!”
“Thank you to the U S Attorney's Office for their hard work along with the many investigators and officers from these jurisdictions,” said Dare County Sheriff Doug Doughtie. “This is truly a team effort, and it takes that commitment from the judicial side as well as their law enforcement counterparts to make it work. Hopefully, this will send a strong message to those individuals who continue to commit violent crimes and to those others who think they can, that their days may be numbered until their time is up!”
An indictment is merely an accusation. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
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U.S. Attorney Dena J. King Delivers Remarks at Law Enforcement Officer Safety TrainingRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina, delivered opening remarks today at the VALOR Officer Safety and Resilience Training in Charlotte. The program focuses on enhancing all aspects of safety, wellness, resilience, and performance for those who serve in law enforcement.
More than 120 law enforcement officers and personnel from federal, state, and local agencies from across North Carolina are participating in the training, which is sponsored by the International Association of Chiefs of Police, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, and the Bureau of Justice Assistance as part of the VALOR initiative. This initiative aims to enhance officer resilience; provide the necessary tools to navigate the challenges of a career in law enforcement; promote officer safety; and help prevent the injuries and deaths of law enforcement officers and the people they serve. The program offers resources and practical strategies informed by real-world scenarios and the latest research to assist law enforcement with managing the stressors and risks that come with the job, develop skills to defuse dangerous situations, and strengthen officer safety and performance.
In her address, U.S. Attorney King expressed her gratitude to those who serve in law enforcement, highlighting their critical role as the frontline defenders of our communities.
“Our law enforcement officers’ dedication and courage serve as the foundation of our justice system,” said U.S. Attorney King. “I want to thank our brave men and women in law enforcement for working hard every day to make our neighborhoods safer, protect our children from harm, and uphold the principles of justice with honor and dignity.”
U.S. Attorney King also talked about the significant risks that come with a career in law enforcement, and paid tribute to fallen officers who lost their lives in the line of duty. “The officers who made the ultimate sacrifice exemplify the highest ideals of the profession,” said U.S. Attorney King. “We honor their memory by continuing to fight for the principles they stood for – justice, integrity, and the protection of the innocent.”
U.S. Attorney King closed her remarks by reinforcing the commitment of the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Justice Department to helping law enforcement officers and the communities they serve stay safe and well.
Two Found Guilty in Brutal Revenge Kidnappings and Murders That Occurred Three Days After Christmas 2017Read the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Malique Lewis, 26, and Marcel Vines, 28, were found guilty by a federal jury in the armed kidnappings of Armani Nico Coles and Kerrice Lewis in Washington, D.C., on December 28, 2017, which resulted in the brutal revenge killings of both victims later that evening.
The verdict, handed up yesterday, followed a four-week trial in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, and was announced by U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves, FBI Special Agent in Charge David J. Scott of the Washington Field Office’s Criminal and Cyber Division, Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), and Chief Malik Aziz of the Prince George’s County (MD) Police Department.
U.S. District Court Judge Dabney L. Friedrich will schedule sentencing for Lewis, aka “Freak,” and Vines, aka “Baby Boy,” in the coming days. Both men face two consecutive mandatory-minimum sentences of life imprisonment.
According to the government’s evidence at trial, Lewis and Vines conspired with a third co-defendant to kidnap and kill Nico Coles and Kerrice Lewis, who has no relation to defendant Lewis, out of a desire for revenge. Earlier that day, the victims’ friend shot and killed the defendants’ friend, Ronzay Green. The defendants knew who killed Green and decided to retaliate against that man, travelling across the city to his neighborhood to look for him. When they arrived, they saw Ms. Lewis, who they recognized as friends with the man who killed Green, and began to follow her. Between approximately 2:45 and 3:00 pm, at an AutoZone parking lot in the 900 block of Longfellow Street Northwest, the defendants kidnapped Kerrice Lewis. Armed with an assault rifle and a .45 caliber firearm, Lewis and Vines held Ms. Lewis in the backseat of her own vehicle while they drove her car across the city with the intent that she would lure the man who killed Green to them.
Unsuccessful, the defendants then used Ms. Lewis’ phone to lure Nico Coles to a location near First and Kennedy Streets Northwest, believing Mr. Coles could lead them to the man responsible for Green’s murder. At approximately 6:00 p.m. that same evening, the defendants kidnapped Nico Coles. They forced Mr. Coles into the backseat of Ms. Lewis’ car and forced Ms. Lewis into the trunk of her own car. As the defendants drove Ms. Lewis’ vehicle towards their Clay Terrace neighborhood, they encountered traffic on Interstate 295 in Maryland. While in traffic, the defendants shot Mr. Coles twice, and then pushed the mortally injured man from the car onto the highway, leaving him on the shoulder of the Interstate as they fled into D.C.
Approximately an hour later, the defendants drove Ms. Lewis’ vehicle, with Ms. Lewis still confined in her trunk, to an alley behind the 800 block of Adrian Street Southeast. The defendants then opened the trunk, shot Ms. Lewis at least 13 times, and set her remains and her vehicle on fire, before fleeing the scene.
Analysis of the ballistic evidence from both scenes indicated that the same two firearms, a .45 caliber and a 7.62mm caliber, were used to kill both victims. Additionally, law enforcement recovered fingerprints from an item that was pushed out of Ms. Lewis’ car along with Mr. Coles’ body. Analysis of those fingerprints identified two prints as belonging to defendant Vines. The night after the murders, Lewis was captured on video at a McDonald’s drive-through, driving Mr. Coles’ missing vehicle. Shortly after the murders, Lewis also made statements, via text, bragging about them by sending news articles and saying, “we ain’t done”. Lewis and Vines were both arrested on January 5, 2018, on unrelated charges. Shortly thereafter, Lewis was charged by Prince George’s County States Attorney’s Office with the murder of Mr. Coles. In August 2018, Lewis and Vines were charged in D.C. Superior Court with both murders. The case was removed to federal court on May 23, 2019. Both defendants have been in custody since their arrest in January 2018.
This case was investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office, the Metropolitan Police Department, the Prince George’s County Police Department, with additional assistance provided by the United States Marshals Service. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kimberley Nielsen, George Eliopoulos, and Colleen Kukowski of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.
Two Columbia Men Plead Guilty to Bank Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Two Columbia, Mo., men pleaded guilty in federal court today to their roles in a bank fraud conspiracy that used identity documents stolen from the mail to open fraudulent bank accounts.
Chandelle Eugene Marteen, 39, and Jason Lee Patillo, 50, pleaded guilty in separate appearances before U.S. Chief Magistrate Judge Willie J. Epps, Jr. to participating in a conspiracy to commit bank fraud. Marteen also pleaded guilty to one count of aggravated identity theft.
Marteen and Patillo admitted they participated in the bank fraud conspiracy from July 2021 to March 2023.
Marteen admitted that he stole mail from collection boxes and residences, from which he obtained personal and business checks. He forged signatures and altered the checks. Marteen obtained personal identification documents belonging to others and used them to cash or deposit stolen and fraudulent checks. He opened bank accounts using stolen identity documents, deposited stolen and fraudulent checks into the accounts, and withdrew money from the accounts.
Patillo admitted that he opened a bank account at Marteen’s instruction and gave him the debit card and account information, which enabled him to deposit stolen, fraudulent checks and withdraw money from the account using cash withdrawals at ATMs and electronic transfers.
Under federal statutes, Marteen and Patillo are each subject to a sentence of up to 30 years in federal prison without parole for the bank fraud conspiracy. Marteen is also subject to a mandatory consecutive sentence of two years in federal prison without parole for aggravated identity theft. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jim Lynn. It was investigated by the Columbia, Mo., Police Department, the Boone County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.
Three more plead guilty in connection with conspiracy to use stolen credit card information to buy firearms online and pick them up in ‘straw purchases’Read the Press Release
CINCINNATI – Three more people have pleaded guilty in connection with a conspiracy to buy firearms online using stolen credit card information, and having the weapons shipped to Cincinnati-area federal firearms licensees (FFLs) for pickup.
Members of the conspiracy falsely claimed on federal forms that they were buying the firearms for themselves, when in fact they were picking up at least some of the firearms for the co-conspirators who had placed the fraudulent online orders. This illegal practice is known as straw purchasing.
Roderico “Rico” Allen, 27, pleaded guilty today to charges of making a false statement during the purchase of a firearm and aggravated identity theft. According to court documents, in the spring of 2022, Allen attempted to place dozens of online orders for handguns using stolen credit card information. He placed all the orders in the names of other individuals whom he had recruited to pick up the weapons for him. Fraud prevention systems stopped some of the orders, but Allen and his co-conspirators completed the sale of at least six of the firearms. Three others charged along with Allen have pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing.
Nehamiah Jones, 24, pleaded guilty on Aug. 19 to using stolen credit card information during the spring of 2022 to purchase nine handguns from online retailers for shipment to, and pickup from, Cincinnati-area FFLs. He successfully completed the purchase of three of the pistols ordered in his own name, but the FFLs denied the transfer of six other firearms he had ordered in the name of a co-conspirator. Jones also pleaded guilty to submitting a fraudulent application for a pandemic-related Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan in 2021, falsely claiming that he owned a business called “massage on air,” when in fact no such business existed.
Aneesah Williams, 28, pleaded guilty today to one count of making false statement during the purchase of a firearm. According to court documents, Williams successfully obtained eight firearms in illegal straw purchases and attempted to obtain three others.
Williams and Jones were charged along with four others in April 2023. One co-defendant, Zephaniah Jones, has been sentenced to 79 months in prison.
Making false statements during the purchase of a firearm is punishable by up to 10 years’ imprisonment. A conviction for aggravated identity theft requires a mandatory two-year prison term in addition to any other sentences imposed. Making false statements to an agency of the United States is punishable by up to five years in prison.
Kenneth L. Parker, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; Daryl S. McCormick, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF); Jared Murphy, Acting Special Agent in Charge for Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Detroit Field Office; Cincinnati Police Chief Teresa A. Theetge; and Hamilton County Sheriff Charmaine McGuffey announced the pleas entered before U.S. District Judge Michael Barrett. Assistant United States Attorney Julie D. Garcia and Danielle Margeaux are representing the United States in these cases.
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Three New Orleans Men Indicted for Federal Drug and Weapons OffensesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that RYAN JOHNSON (“JOHNSON”), age 21, BRYAN SPEARS (“SPEARS”), age 19, and BRYAN TURNER (“TURNER”), age 19, of New Orleans, were indicted on July 26, 2024 for violations of the Federal Controlled Substances and Gun Control Acts. The indictment was unsealed on August 7, 2024.
JOHNSON and TURNER are each charged in Count 1 with conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, controlled substances, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), (b)(1)(D), (b)(2), and 846, and in Count 2 with conspiracy to possess firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(o). JOHNSON and SPEARS are charged in Count 3, and JOHNSON and TURNER are charged in Count 6, with possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), (b)(1)(D), and (b)(2). JOHNSON and SPEARS are charged in Count 4, and JOHNSON and TURNER are charged in Count 7, with possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i). SPEARS is additionally charged in Count 5 with being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).
Each of the drug trafficking charges in Counts 1, 3, and 6 carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least three years of supervised release. Count 2, conspiracy to possess firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking, carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release. Counts 4 and 7, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, both carry a mandatory minimum sentence of five years up to life in prison, which must run consecutively to all other sentences, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to five years of supervised release. Count 5, felon in possession of a firearm, carries a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release. Each count also carries a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.
According to the indictment, JOHNSON and TURNER conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute tapentadol, marijuana, and tramadol, and to possess firearms to further their drug trafficking conspiracy. On or about September 1, 2023, JOHNSON and SPEARS possessed tapentadol and marijuana with the intent to distribute those drugs, and possessed both a Glock Model 23, .40 caliber and a Glock Model 17, nine-millimeter caliber semi-automatic pistol in furtherance of that crime. SPEARS is prohibited from possessing a firearm because of prior felony convictions for simple robbery, possession with intent to distribute amphetamine, and illegal carrying of a weapon.
On March 28, 2024, JOHNSON and TURNER possessed tapentadol, marijuana, and tramadol with the intent to distribute those drugs, and possessed both a Smith & Wesson Model M&P 15, 5.56 x 45-millimeter caliber semi-automatic pistol, a Glock Model 27, .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol, and a Glock Model 48, 9-millimeter caliber semi-automatic pistol in furtherance of that crime.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crime Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Three Charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Narcotics in Prison Following the Death of USP Atwater StaffRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — An investigation into the death of a correctional officer led to the arrests of three defendants today who are charged by criminal complaint with conspiring to distribute controlled substances and introducing narcotic drugs to an inmate at the U.S. Penitentiary in Atwater, California, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, between July 15, 2024, and Aug. 9, 2024, Jamar Jones, 35, an inmate at USP Atwater; Stephanie Ferreira, 35, of Evansville, Indiana; and Jermen Rudd III, 37, of Wentzville, Missouri, conspired to introduce narcotics into USP Atwater for Jones to sell. As part of that scheme, Jones and Ferreira had Rudd mail a letter laced with narcotics to Jones that was fraudulently labeled as legal mail.
On Aug. 9, 2024, a correctional officer at USP Atwater opened that letter and minutes later began to feel ill. After evaluation by medical staff, he was subsequently taken to the hospital where he passed away. Another correctional officer also felt ill after coming into contact with the narcotics-laced letter but recovered.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the Federal Bureau of Prisons, with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California also received assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Offices in the Eastern District of Missouri and the Southern District of Indiana. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Veneman-Hughes is prosecuting the case.
Following the arrests this morning, Ferreira is set to be arraigned on the complaint in the Southern District of Indiana, while Rudd will be arraigned on the complaint in the Eastern District of Missouri. Jones will appear next week in court in Fresno for his initial appearance.
If convicted of conspiracy to distribute and distribution of a controlled substance, Jones and Rudd face a maximum of 30 years in prison and a fine up to $250,000. If Jones is convicted of being an inmate obtaining or attempting to obtain narcotic drug, he faces a maximum of 20 years in prison and a fine up to $250,000. Ferreira, if convicted of conspiracy to distribute and distribution of a controlled substance, faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a fine up to $250,000. If convicted of providing or attempting to provide an inmate with a narcotic drug, Ferreira and Rudd face a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a fine up to $250,000. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
jones_et_al._criminal_complaint.pdfShreveport Wholesale Drug Distribution Company Settles with Department of Justice for Failure to Report Suspicious Opioid Orders to DEARead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – MORRIS & DICKSON (“M&D”), a Shreveport-based pharmaceutical distribution company has agreed to a $13.75 million settlement with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana.
According to the Non-Prosecution Agreement, beginning in January of 2012 and continuing until May of 2018, MORRIS & DICKSON, through its employees and agents, failed to conduct adequate order-level monitoring, and failed to file suspicious order reports with the Drug Enforcement Agency (“DEA”), as required by DEA Regulations. In fact, M&D filed just three suspicious order reports with DEA during the relevant time period. This was the case despite M&D’s employees’ and agents’ awareness not only of the high likelihood that some of M&D’s customers were diverting controlled substances, but also of other circumstances that should have resulted in filing suspicious order reports with DEA.
Former M&D customer Wilkinson Family Pharmacy (“Wilkinson”), an independent retail pharmacy in Chalmette, Louisiana, illegally dispensed quantities of controlled substances outside the scope of professional practice and not for a legitimate purpose. Wilkinson filled many opioid related prescriptions, often written by “pill mill” doctors or forged by medical staff and their associates at “pill mill” clinics. Specifically, Wilkinson filled approximately twenty times more opioid prescriptions than either the national or Louisiana average for pharmacy filled opioid prescriptions. M&D was notified that Wilkinson was filling prescriptions for controlled substances far exceeding the national and state average. Although, M&D counseled Wilkinson about its questionable ordering practices, M&D never reported Wilkinson or its arguably suspicious orders to DEA.
Additional conditions of the settlement require M&D to enhance its compliance program and internal controls. Finally, DOJ acknowledges the substantial enhancements M&D has made to its compliance program.
This prosecution was part of an investigation by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). OCDETF is a joint federal, state, and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking and is the nation’s primary tool for disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets.
The investigation was handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Kathryn McHugh of the Financial Crimes Unit, Nicholas Moses, Health Care Fraud Coordinator, and Narcotics Unit Supervisor, Nolan Paige.
Seven Defendants Convicted of Federal Civil Rights Conspiracy and Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act Offenses for Obstructing Access to Reproductive Health Services in MichiganRead the Press Release
DETROIT – A federal jury convicted seven defendants today of federal civil rights offenses arising out of their blockade of a reproductive health care clinic in Sterling Heights, Michigan, on Aug. 27, 2020. The defendants were each convicted of a felony conspiracy against rights and a Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act offense. Two defendants were convicted of a second FACE Act offense arising out of a blockade of a reproductive health care clinic in Saginaw, Michigan.
“These defendants orchestrated an unlawful clinic blockade and physically obstructed patients seeking access to their doctors, without regard to the serious medical needs of the women they blocked from accessing reproductive health care,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “These defendants intentionally broke the law. One woman’s fetus experienced fatal abnormalities and the defendant’s coordinated campaign of physical obstruction posed a grave and real threat to her health and fertility. Make no mistake: every American enjoys the right to obtain and provide reproductive health services free from physical obstruction, and the Justice Department will continue to hold accountable those that oppress the free exercise of that right. We thank the jury for the time, attention, and careful consideration of the facts of this case.”
“My office is committed to protecting all of the legal rights of our district’s citizens, including the right to access reproductive health care,” said Dawn N. Ison, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan. “The defendants convicted today sought to interfere with that right by physically blocking the doors of clinics providing such services. These defendants are entitled to their views, but they are not entitled to prevent others from exercising the rights secured to them by the laws of the United States. This case is about the rule of law, and today’s verdict is a victory for that principle.”
According to evidence presented at trial, Calvin Zastrow, Chester Gallagher, Heather Idoni, Caroline Davis, Joel Curry, Justin Phillips, Eva Edl and Eva Zastrow engaged in a conspiracy to prevent clinic employees from providing, and patients from receiving, reproductive health services, a civil right secured by the FACE Act. As part of the conspiracy, the defendants participated in the “Michigan Holiness Revival Tour,” a camping tour organized by Calvin Zastrow with the express purpose of blockading a reproductive health clinic during the second week of the tour.
During the blockade, the defendants sat or stood in front of the entrances to the clinic so that patients and employees could not enter. Evidence at trial further proved that the defendants blocked a patient, S.S., from entering. The evidence showed that S.S. and her husband had made an appointment at the clinic after learning that their fetus suffered fatal abnormalities, and that attempting to continue carrying the pregnancy carried serious risks to S.S.’s health and fertility. The defendants blocked S.S. from obtaining reproductive health care.
The evidence further proved that Calvin and Eva Zastrow followed a clinic employee around the building in order to prevent her from entering an emergency exit, and that Gallagher and Edl attempted to stall the Sterling Heights Police Department in order to prolong the blockade. Evidence at trial further proved that the defendants violated the FACE Act by using physical obstruction to interfere with the clinic’s employees and patients because the clinic was providing, and patients were seeking, reproductive health services.
According to evidence presented at trial, Edl and Idoni physically obstructed access to a second clinic, in Saginaw, Michigan, on April 16, 2021. The evidence proved that Edl obstructed access by sitting in front of one entrance with a doorstop wedged under the door such that the door could not be opened from the inside, while Idoni used a bicycle lock to chain herself in front of a second door. The evidence proved that Edl and Idoni violated the FACE Act by using physical obstruction to interfere with the clinic’s employees and patients because the clinic was providing, and patients were seeking, reproductive health services.
A sentencing hearing will be set at a later date.
The FBI’s Detroit Field Office and Bay City Resident Agency investigated the case.
Trial Attorney Laura-Kate Bernstein of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Frances Carlson and Sunita Doddamani for the Eastern District of Michigan are prosecuting the case.
Anyone who has information about incidents of violence, threats and obstruction that target a patient or provider of reproductive health services, or damage and destruction of reproductive health care facilities, should report that information to the FBI at www.tips.fbi.gov. For more information about clinic violence, and the Justice Department’s efforts to enforce FACE Act violations, visit www.justice.gov/crt/national-task-force-violence-against-reproductive-health-care-providers.
Seven Defendants Convicted of Federal Civil Rights Conspiracy and Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act Offenses for Obstructing Access to Reproductive Health Services in MichiganRead the Press Release
A federal jury convicted seven defendants today of federal civil rights offenses arising out of their blockade of a reproductive health care clinic in Sterling Heights, Michigan, on Aug. 27, 2020. The defendants were each convicted of a felony conspiracy against rights and a Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act offense. Two defendants were convicted of a second FACE Act offense arising out of a blockade of a reproductive health care clinic in Saginaw, Michigan.
“These defendants orchestrated an unlawful clinic blockade and physically obstructed patients seeking access to their doctors, without regard to the serious medical needs of the women they blocked from accessing reproductive health care,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “These defendants intentionally broke the law. One woman’s fetus experienced fatal abnormalities and the defendants' coordinated campaign of physical obstruction posed a grave and real threat to her health and fertility. Make no mistake: every American enjoys the right to obtain and provide reproductive health services free from physical obstruction, and the Justice Department will continue to hold accountable those that oppress the free exercise of that right. We thank the jury for the time, attention, and careful consideration of the facts of this case.”
“My office is committed to protecting all of the legal rights of our district’s citizens, including the right to access reproductive health care,” said U.S. Attorney Dawn N. Ison for the Eastern District of Michigan. “The defendants convicted today sought to interfere with that right by physically blocking the doors of clinics providing such services. These defendants are entitled to their views, but they are not entitled to prevent others from exercising the rights secured to them by the laws of the United States. This case is about the rule of law, and today’s verdict is a victory for that principle.”
According to evidence presented at trial, Calvin Zastrow, Chester Gallagher, Heather Idoni, Caroline Davis, Joel Curry, Justin Phillips, Eva Edl and Eva Zastrow engaged in a conspiracy to prevent clinic employees from providing, and patients from receiving, reproductive health services, a civil right secured by the FACE Act. As part of the conspiracy, the defendants participated in the “Michigan Holiness Revival Tour,” a camping tour organized by Calvin Zastrow with the express purpose of blockading a reproductive health clinic during the second week of the tour.
During the blockade, the defendants sat or stood in front of the entrances to the clinic so that patients and employees could not enter. Evidence at trial further proved that the defendants blocked a patient, S.S., from entering. The evidence showed that S.S. and her husband had made an appointment at the clinic after learning that their fetus suffered fatal abnormalities, and that attempting to continue carrying the pregnancy carried serious risks to S.S.’s health and fertility. The defendants blocked S.S. from obtaining reproductive health care.
The evidence further proved that Calvin and Eva Zastrow followed a clinic employee around the building in order to prevent her from entering an emergency exit, and that Gallagher and Edl attempted to stall the Sterling Heights Police Department in order to prolong the blockade. Evidence at trial further proved that the defendants violated the FACE Act by using physical obstruction to interfere with the clinic’s employees and patients because the clinic was providing, and patients were seeking, reproductive health services.
According to evidence presented at trial, Edl and Idoni physically obstructed access to a second clinic, in Saginaw, Michigan, on April 16, 2021. The evidence proved that Edl obstructed access by sitting in front of one entrance with a doorstop wedged under the door such that the door could not be opened from the inside, while Idoni used a bicycle lock to chain herself in front of a second door. The evidence proved that Edl and Idoni violated the FACE Act by using physical obstruction to interfere with the clinic’s employees and patients because the clinic was providing, and patients were seeking, reproductive health services.
A sentencing hearing will be set at a later date.
The FBI’s Detroit Field Office and Bay City Resident Agency investigated the case.
Trial Attorney Laura-Kate Bernstein of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Frances Carlson and Sunita Doddamani for the Eastern District of Michigan are prosecuting the case.
Anyone who has information about incidents of violence, threats and obstruction that target a patient or provider of reproductive health services, or damage and destruction of reproductive health care facilities, should report that information to the FBI at www.tips.fbi.gov. For more information about clinic violence, and the Justice Department’s efforts to enforce FACE Act violations, visit www.justice.gov/crt/national-task-force-violence-against-reproductive-health-care-providers.
Sequoyah County Resident Pleads Guilty to Assault of an Intimate Partner by StrangulationRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Lucas James Blackbird, age 40, of Vian, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea of one count of Assault of a Spouse, Intimate Partner, or Dating Partner by Strangling or Attempting to Strangle, in Indian Country.
The Indictment alleged that on or about February 19, 2024, Blackbird assaulted the victim by strangulation. The crime occurred in Sequoyah County, within the boundaries of the Cherokee Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Vian Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
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. Blackbird will remain in the custody of the United States Marshal Service pending sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan E. Soverly represented the United States.
Scrap metal dealer pleads guilty in multi-state catalytic converter theft conspiracyRead the Press Release
RICHMOND, Va. – A North Carolina scrap metal dealer pled guilty today to theft and tax charges related to his participation in a multi-state catalytic converter theft conspiracy.
According to court documents, Theodore Nicholas Papouloglou, 45, used his business, DG Auto South in Emporia, Virginia to purchase stolen catalytic converters from thieves. Papouloglou then transported the stolen catalytic converters to his co-conspirators in New Jersey for shipment of the catalytic metals to Japan. In 2020 and 2021, Papouloglou received over $12.2 million in wired payments from his co-conspirators in New Jersey, including for proceeds from his illicit sale of catalytic converters. Papouloglou spent the money he received from DG Auto South on personal expenses, such as purchasing real estate and a luxury motorcycle for his girlfriend and to gamble at casinos in Las Vegas. Despite realizing income from DG Auto South, Papouloglou paid no taxes in 2020 and 2021.
Papouloglou separately helped his co-conspirators in New Jersey to purchase stolen catalytic converters from other sellers, including sellers in Texas and Oklahoma, by facilitating bulk cash payments. The total value of the funds that Papouloglou illicitly transferred was at least $6.6 million.
Law enforcement seized and Papouloglou agreed to forfeit various vehicles associated with the offense:
(1) 2021 Ford F250 (Roush)
(2) 2021 Jeep Gladiator Sport (Apocalypse)
(3) 2017 Lamborghini Huracan (Convertible)
(4) 2020 McLaren 720s (Convertible)
(5) 2021 Mercedes-AMG G63
(6) 2019 Ferrari 488 Pista
(7) 2021 McLaren 765LT
(8) 2021 Ford F450 (Super Duty)
Catalytic converters, which reduce toxic gas and pollutants from a vehicle’s exhaust system, use precious metals in their centers, or “cores,” and are regularly targeted for theft due to the high value of these metals, especially palladium, platinum, and rhodium. Some of these are more valuable per ounce than gold, and the black-market price for catalytic converters can be above $1,000. A catalytic converter can be stolen from an automobile undercarriage in less than a minute.
Papouloglou is scheduled to be sentenced on Feb. 20, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Kareem A. Carter, IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge of the Washington D.C. Field Office; and Stanley M. Meador, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Richmond Field Office, made the announcement after U.S. District Judge David J. Novak accepted the plea.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Avi Panth and Kashan K. Pathan are prosecuting the case. The Justice Department’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section assisted with the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:24-cr-42.
Sacramento Man Pleads Guilty to Sexual Exploitation of a ChildRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Dakota Jeremiah Pevino, aka Dakota Jeremiah Viggiano, 36, of Sacramento, pleaded guilty today to sexual exploitation of a child, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, in July 2022, Pevino took a color photograph of a prepubescent minor victim posed in a sexually suggestive manner without any pants or underwear, with Pevino’s private parts visible in the in the foreground of the photograph. Pevino later knowingly sent this photograph to another person using the internet and an encrypted messaging application. In November of 2022, Pevino took another color photograph of the prepubescent minor victim posed in a sexually suggestive manner with the minor victim’s pants and underwear pulled down.
Additionally, Pevino sent video recordings of adult males sexually abusing prepubescent minors to another user on the Telegram application. Those video recordings accompanied chats of a sexual nature regarding minors.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Sacramento Valley Hi-Tech Crimes Task Force/Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the Sacramento Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christina McCall is prosecuting the case.
Pevino is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge John A. Mendez on Jan. 7, 2025. Pevino faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison up to a maximum of 30 years in prison, a lifetime of supervised release, restitution, and a $250,000 fine. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
The FBI is seeking to identify potential victims of Pevino. If you believe that you and/or your minor dependent(s) were victimized by Pevino at any time or have information relevant to this investigation, please send an email with your name, contact information, and best time to reach you to [email protected].
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. Click on the “resources” tab for information about internet-safety education.
Sacramento County Man Pleads Guilty to CyberstalkingRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Michael Jameson Chand, 32, of Sacramento County, pleaded guilty today to cyberstalking, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, Chand intentionally engaged in a course of conduct to harass or intimidate the victim, Jane Doe, and used a cellphone and the internet to do so. This course of conduct caused Jane Doe substantial emotional distress, in part, because Chand had previously committed crimes against her. In 2017, Chand was convicted in California for offenses that included eliciting child sexual exploitation material from Jane Doe, who was 15 years old at the time. Chand was sentenced to two years in jail for that conviction.
On Dec. 23, 2019, while on parole, Chand posted a public Facebook post under an alias, including Jane Doe’s full name, falsely claimed that she was dating a murderer, and asking, “please everybody help me get her into a mental hospital if you want her contact info let me know please.” Then, between June and October of 2020, he called her approximately 176 times and left 63 voicemail messages. Many of the voicemail messages contained insults and threats against Jane Doe and her family.
Additionally, Chand created multiple social media accounts, some under aliases, to contact and harass Jane Doe. Using such accounts, he made posts publicly naming Jane Doe, and saying things that were designed to harass and intimidate Jane Doe. For example, in a public Facebook post made on August 5, Chand listed Jane Doe’s full name, her city and state of birth, and included a photo from her social media account, and falsely stated that “she killed her ex [boyfriend].” He also falsely claimed that Jane Doe had planned to move in with and would expose her “baby” to a “rapist,” and wrote, “Please help me find a way to get the poor kid away from her.”
This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Sacramento Sheriff’s Office, and the Sacramento Valley Hi-Tech Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Adrian T. Kinsella and Christina McCall are prosecuting the case.
Chand is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge John A. Mendez on Jan. 7, 2025. Chand faces a maximum statutory sentence of five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
Restaurant Owners Charged with Harboring Undocumented WorkersRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Hua Yao Ke (38) and Ping Ping Zheng (37), both of Jacksonville, have been charged by criminal complaint with harboring undocumented workers for commercial advantage and private financial gain. Each faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.
According to the complaints, Ke owned and operated the Kamiya 86 Sushi and Thai restaurant located in Ponte Vedra Beach. Zheng owned and operated the Kamiya 86 Asian Bistro and Sushi Bar located in Jacksonville Beach. At the restaurants, Zheng and Ke employed workers who were unlawfully present in the United States and who were not legally authorized to work in the United States. Contrary to federal law, they did not require the workers to provide documents to establish that they could legally work in the United States.
Ke and Zheng also each owned a residence at which they provided rent-free housing to the undocumented workers. They provided the workers with free transportation between the houses and the restaurants. They also provided the workers with free food. They paid the workers in cash and did not withhold taxes and other payments from the workers’ wages.
A complaint is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Border Patrol, with assistance from the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office and the Jacksonville Beach Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Arnold B. Corsmeier.
Pulaski County Man Sentenced for Cyber Intrusion and Aggravated Identity TheftRead the Press Release
LONDON, Ky. – A Somerset, Ky., man, Jesse Kipf, 39, was sentenced to 81 months on Monday by U.S. District Judge Robert Wier, for computer fraud and aggravated identity theft.
According to his plea agreement, Kipf intentionally accessed a computer without authorization and then obtained information from a protected computer for his own private gain and in furtherance of identity theft. Specifically, in January 2023, Kipf accessed the Hawaii Death Registry System, using the username and password of a physician living in another state, and created a “case” for his own death. Kipf then completed a State of Hawaii Death Certificate Worksheet, assigned himself as the medical certifier for the case and certified his death, using the digital signature of the doctor. This resulted in Kipf being registered as a deceased person in many government databases. Kipf admitted that he faked his own death, in part, to avoid his outstanding child support obligations.
Kipf also infiltrated other states’ death registry systems, private business networks, and governmental and corporate networks using credentials he stole from real people. He then tried to sell access to these networks to potential buyers on the dark net, an overlay network within the internet that can only be accessed with specific software, configurations, or authorization and is commonly associated with the sale of illicit goods and services.
“This scheme was a cynical and destructive effort, based in part on the inexcusable goal of avoiding his child support obligations,” said Carlton S. Shier, IV, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky. “This case is a stark reminder of how damaging criminals with computers can be, and how critically important computer and online security is to us all. Fortunately, through the excellent work of our law enforcement partners, this case will serve as a warning to other cyber criminals, and he will face the consequences of his disgraceful conduct.”
“Working in collaboration with our law enforcement partners, this defendant who hacked a variety of computer systems and maliciously stole the identity of others for his own personal gain, will now pay the price,” said Michael E. Stansbury, Special Agent in Charge, FBI, Louisville Field Office. “Victims of identity theft face lifelong impact and for that reason, the FBI will pursue anyone foolish enough to engage in this cowardly behavior.”
Under federal law, Kipf 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. The damage to governmental and corporate computer systems and his failure to pay his child support obligations amounted to a total of $195,758.65.
United States Attorney Shier and Special Agent in Charge Stansbury; Russell Coleman, Attorney General of Kentucky; Anna E. Lopez, Attorney General for Hawaii; and Sheriff Bobby Jones, Pulaski County Sherriff’s Office, jointly announced the sentence.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by FBI Louisville, Kentucky Attorney General’s Office, Department of the Attorney General for Hawaii, and the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kate Dieruf prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
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Previously Convicted Bank Robber Sentenced to 14 Years for Committing Three New Bank RobberiesRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – U.S. District Judge Brendan A. Hurson sentenced Kevin Maurice Lawson, age 55, of Baltimore Maryland, to 14 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for committing three-armed bank robberies. Lawson committed all three robberies while he was in a residential reentry program serving the remainder of his federal sentence for a 2004 conviction for armed bank robbery.
The sentence was announced by Erek L. Barron, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland; Special Agent in Charge William J. DelBagno of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), Baltimore Field Office; and Commissioner Richard Worley of the Baltimore Police Department (“BPD”).
According to his plea agreement, Lawson committed three-armed bank robberies in Baltimore between June 6 and July 18, 2022, utilizing a black air gun in each robbery. In the first robbery on June 6, 2022, Lawson robbed a bank in the 100 block of East Baltimore Street in Baltimore. As he did in each of the robberies, Lawson entered the bank wearing a surgical mask and gloves. He approached a bank employee seated at a desk on the banking floor, displayed what appeared to be a dark semiautomatic handgun in his waistband, and ordered the employee to the teller line. Lawson held the employee against the teller glass and demanded money from the victim teller, who passed cash to Lawson. Lawson took the money and fled the bank on foot.
As further detailed in his plea agreement, on June 27, 2022, Lawson robbed a bank in the 5400 block of Harford Road in Baltimore. Lawson approached two bank employees seated at desks on the banking floor, displayed the handgun in his waistband, and ordered the employees to the teller line. Lawson ordered the first bank employee to demand cash from the victim teller who then passed cash to the first employee. Lawson again took the money and fled on foot.
In the third instance, on July 18, 2022, Lawson robbed a bank in the 3200 block of West North Avenue in Baltimore. Lawson ambushed a security guard, and repeatedly struck her on her head with his weapon as he ordered bank employees to provide him with cash. Throughout the course of the assault of the security guard, Lawson attempted to disarm her. Bank employees behind the teller line, fearing for the safety of the security guard and their own safety, passed cash through the teller line barrier glass to Lawson. When Lawson went to the counter to get the money, the security guard fired rounds from her duty weapon at Lawson before the weapon jammed. Lawson was not hit and fled the scene in a gray Kia. BPD patrol units eventually located the vehicle after it crashed into the exterior wall of a vacant rowhome.
A search of the Kia yielded clothing and gloves identical to that worn in the bank robberies, as well as documents linked to Lawson, including a Federal Bureau of Prisons inmate identification card. Lawson was arrested on July 22, 2022. Further investigation revealed that in 2003, Lawson had robbed banks on West North Avenue and Harford Road.
U.S. Attorney Barron commended the FBI and BPD for their work in the investigation. Mr. Barron also thanked Assistant United States Attorney Michael Aubin, who is prosecuting the case.
For more information on the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-md and https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.
Powhatan man convicted of federal healthcare fraudRead the Press Release
RICHMOND, Va. – A federal judge convicted a Powhatan man today on two counts of healthcare fraud.
According to court records and evidence presented at trial, Richard Davis, 51, was the sole owner and CEO of Innovative Family Services LLC (IFS), which he enrolled as a Medicaid provider in Virginia in 2012. IFS provided Therapeutic Day Treatment (TDT), a mental health program for children and adolescents often offered as an after-school program, and Intensive In-Home services (IIH), interventions for children at risk of being removed from their homes. To be eligible for Medicaid reimbursement, TDT and IIH services must be provided in person.
From December 2015 through July 2019, Davis directed IFS employees to bill the maximum allowable service units per day by billing two or more hours per day for group planning, case documentation, excessive coordination of care with adults in the children’s lives, and transportation, even though Medicaid disallows these services from payment. By doing so, Davis and his company routinely billed Medicaid for five hours of TDT when only two or three hours of actual care were provided. Davis’ company billed excessive hours for nearly every Medicaid recipient almost every day TDT was provided for the entire time IFS operated as a company.
Davis’ fraudulent billing scheme caused a loss to Medicaid of at least $218,392.
Davis faces up to 10 years in prison when sentenced on Feb. 7, 2025. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Stanley M. Meador, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Richmond Field Office; and Jason Miyares, Attorney General of Virginia, made the announcement after Senior U.S. District Judge John A. Gibney Jr. entered the verdict.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shea Gibbons and Brian Hood are prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:23-cr-135.
Ponchatoula Woman Pleads Guilty to Embezzling from EmployerRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that today, ANGELA C. MITCHELL (“MITCHELL”), age 49, of Ponchatoula, Louisiana pled guilty to access device fraud, for embezzling from a Covington company (“Company A”) where she worked, from October 2016 to June 2018. U.S. District Judge Greg G. Guidry scheduled MITCHELL’s sentencing for November 26, 2024.
According to court documents, MITCHELL diverted approximately $116,998.70 to herself from Company A by, among other things, fraudulently transferring funds from Company A’s bank accounts via electronic transfers and by drafting unauthorized checks to herself. MITCHELL committed the fraud during her employment, and continued illegally accessing Company A’s accounts after she was terminated in June 2018.
If convicted, MITCHELL faces up to 10 years in prison, up to a $250,000.00 fine or the greater of twice the gross gain or twice the gross loss, up to three years of supervised release after imprisonment, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Homeland Security Investigations - New Orleans Field Office in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew R. Payne, of the Financial Crimes Unit, is in charge of the prosecution.