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14 August 2024
Floyd County Man Sentenced to 50 Years for Production and Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PIKEVILLE, Ky. – A Harold, Ky., man, Christopher Hall, 26, was sentenced on Wednesday, by Chief U.S. District Judge Danny C. Reeves, to 50 years in prison, for production and distribution of child pornography.
According to his plea agreement, on May 29, 2022, Hall produced a video of him sexually abusing a minor. Hall later distributed the video to others using WhatsApp.
Under federal law, Hall 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 10 years.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Michael E. Stansbury, Special Agent in Charge, FBI, Louisville Field Office; and Col. Phillip J. Burnett, Jr., Commissioner of the Kentucky State Police, jointly announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI and Kentucky State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Blankenship prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted this case 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 U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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Federal Jury Convicts Felon on Supervised Release of Using A Fraudulently Obtained Social Security Number and Theft of Social Security BenefitsRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that a federal jury has found Kellis Dion Jackson (63, Pinellas Park), a/k/a Chandler Dante Alexander, guilty of making a false statement to a federal agency, theft of government property, and fraudulent use of a Social Security number. Jackson faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to evidence presented at trial, Jackson stole Supplemental Security Income (SSI) disability benefits from the Social Security Administration while on federal supervision for prior federal offenses. Prior to submitting an application for SSI, Jackson obtained a Social Security number under the fictional identity of Chandler Dante Alexander by falsely reporting that he had never had a Social Security number and providing false information regarding his birthdate and parents. Jackson used the fraudulently obtained Social Security number to get a commercial driver license, work, file tax returns, get married, and open bank accounts. Jackson thereafter applied for SSI and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance (SNAP) benefits using his birth name and valid Social Security number. Jackson made false statements on the SSI application and related documents, including falsely stating that he was not married, and his application was approved. Jackson’s SSI application would not have been approved had he reported his marriage and work activity under the fraudulently obtained Social Security number. In total, Jackson received $43,755 in SSI benefits to which he was not entitled.
This case was investigated by the Social Security Administration - Office of the Inspector General, the Department of Health and Human Services - Office of Inspector General, and the United States Department of Agriculture, Office of Inspector General. It is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Suzanne Huyler.
Federal Court Permanently Shuts Down Texas Tax Return PreparerRead the Press Release
The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas issued a permanent injunction today barring Texas tax return preparer Ruben Gonzalez and anyone acting with him or at his direction from preparing federal tax returns for others. Gonzalez consented to entry of the permanent injunction.
According to the injunction, Ruben Gonzalez is banned from using his business called “Sin Barreras Income Tax” to prepare returns for others. The government’s complaint alleged that Gonzalez or those working for him significantly overstated customers’ tax refunds in a substantial number of returns prepared at the business from 2021 to 2023, by fabricating or inflating business losses, by fabricating charitable donation deductions and by falsely claiming energy credits and coronavirus family sick leave credits to which the customers were not entitled. By repeatedly overstating customers’ tax refunds, the complaint alleges Gonzalez caused the United States harm of more than $20 million in lost tax revenue from 2021 to 2023.
The permanent injunction requires Gonzalez to send notice of the injunction to each person for whom he, or preparers at Sin Barreras Income Tax, prepared federal tax returns, amended tax returns or claims for refund between Jan. 1, 2021, to the present. The permanent injunction also requires Gonzalez to post a copy of the injunction at all locations where he conducts business and post a statement on all social media accounts and websites that he is barred from preparing tax returns.
Deputy Assistant Attorney General David A. Hubbert of the Justice Department’s Tax Division made the announcement.
Taxpayers seeking a return preparer should remain vigilant against unscrupulous tax preparers. The IRS has information on its website for choosing a tax return preparer and has launched a free directory of federal tax preparers. The IRS also offers 10 tips to avoid tax season fraud and ways to safeguard their personal information.
In the past decade, the Justice Department’s Tax Division has obtained injunctions against hundreds of unscrupulous tax preparers. Information about these cases is available on the Justice Department’s website. An alphabetical listing of persons enjoined from preparing returns and promoting tax schemes can be found on this page. If you believe that one of the enjoined persons or businesses may be violating an injunction, please contact the Tax Division with details.
Signed PI - Gonzalez.pdfFargo, ND, Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Robbery of a Mail CarrierRead the Press Release
Fargo – United States Attorney Mac Schneider announced that on August 14, 2024, DeShaun Holmes, age 22 from Fargo, ND, appeared before Chief Judge Peter D. Welte, U.S. District Court, Fargo, ND, and was sentenced to 114 months in federal prison, followed by five years supervised released and an order of forfeiture of a Glock 9mm pistol for the offenses of Robbery of a Mail Carrier (18 USC 2114(a)) and Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence.
On July 17, 2023, DeShaun Holmes robbed a postal carrier at gun point in Frontier, ND, and stole a key from the carrier to gain access to numerous post office boxes and mail receptacles with the intent to commit further crimes of bank fraud and mail fraud. Thanks to a collaborative investigation between federal and local law enforcement, Holmes was identified, arrested, and charged four days after the offense.
“This defendant targeted a mail carrier in our community because of his job,” Schneider said. “That job is an important and often difficult one, but it should never be dangerous. As this strong sentence shows, the United States Attorney’s Office will forcefully prosecute anyone who threatens the men and women of the United States Postal Service with violence. I want to thank our law enforcement partners for working with our career prosecutors to make sure this defendant faced justice in federal court.”
"The safety and security of Postal Service employees and customers are core to the mission of the United States Postal Inspection Service, and this violent incident is a tremendous example of how local, state, and federal partners can join together to quickly and safely resolve situations like this," said Denver Division Inspector in Charge Bryan Musgrove “I would like to thank all the emergency responders along with our law enforcement partners at Cass & Clay County Sheriffs as well as Fargo PD for their efforts that led to a successful investigation, arrest and prosecution of DeShaun Holmes. “
“As Sheriff, I know the importance of partnering with our local, state, and federal partners to reduce criminal activity in our communities. This is a prime example of those partnerships. The United States Postal Service was quick to respond when asked to assist with this case. Through that partnership, they worked collaboratively with our agency to identify and arrest Deshawn Holmes for his actions in an armed robbery of one of our local mail carriers in the Frontier neighborhood. The partnership, quick investigative action, and follow-through with the US Attorney’s Office assured that Holmes will be held accountable for his actions and will look to bring justice to the victim in this case. I want to thank all of those who were involved in investigating this case and the US Attorney's Office for their roles and assistance in bringing this situation to a safe successful conclusion.
This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service, Cass County Sheriff’s Office, Clay County Sheriff’s Office, and the Fargo Police Department, and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Matthew Greenley.
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Falconer woman pleads guilty to child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Lily A. Brandow, 23, of Falconer, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. to possession of child pornography, which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango, who is handling the case, stated that in June 2021, Brandow sold a video to two different Snapchat users for $20 showing her, co-defendant Yusef Myrick and a 16-year-old minor female engaged in sexual relations. In addition, while Myrick was in custody in connection with this case, he instructed Brandow to “get rid of” a cell phone, which both Myrick and Brandow knew contained child pornography. At Myrick’s instruction, Brandow also logged into and deleted Myrick’s Snapchat and Google accounts, rendering them inaccessible to law enforcement. When Brandow was arrested in January 2022, the cell phone was found in her purse. A subsequent search of phone recovered an image and three videos of child pornography.
Charges are pending against Yusef Myrick.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff James B. Quattrone; the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Timothy Jackson; and Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino.
Sentencing is scheduled for February 6, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. before Judge Sinatra.
East Boston Man Sentenced to Five Years in Prison for Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – An East Boston man was sentenced yesterday for possessing and distributing child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
Cristopher Vladimir Pineda Martinez, 25, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Richard G. Stearns to five years in prison and five years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $3,000 in restitution. In May 2024, Pineda pleaded guilty to one count of possession of child pornography and one count of distribution of child pornography.
Law enforcement identified Pineda as member of several private large-scale group chats involved in the distribution of CSAM on an online chat platform. On Dec. 12, 2022, Pineda distributed eight videos depicting CSAM in three online chat groups on that platform. An additional 54 videos of CSAM, involving children as young as six years old, were found within the chat platform’s application on Pineda’s personal cell phone.
Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy and Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the United States Postal Inspection Service and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elianna J. Nuzum of the Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Convicted Felon Who Was Showing Off His Shotguns to His Friends Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that James Hilligardt (21, Brooksville) has pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Hilligardt faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to court documents, on January 23, 2024, Hilligardt was showing his firearms off to friends, and in the process ended up with an accidental gunshot wound. Deputies with the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene and found him in possession of a sawed-off shotgun. The investigation revealed that Hilligardt repeatedly posted images of himself with firearms and ammunition. Detectives later recovered a second shotgun that Hilligardt owned, which had been buried in a yard. As a convicted felon Hilligardt is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosive. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Diego F. Novaes.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Co-Conspirators Sentenced for Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
BOSTON – Two men were sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston for participating in a North Shore-based drug trafficking organization (DTO) that allegedly distributed tens of thousands of counterfeit prescription pills containing fentanyl and methamphetamine.
Christopher Nagle, 30, of Revere and Isaac Clayton, 77, of Lynn were sentenced by U.S. District Court Chief Judge F. Dennis Saylor IV. Christopher Nagle was sentenced to 139 months in prison and five years of supervised release. Clayton was sentenced to two months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release, with the first six months to be served in home confinement. In February 2024, Clayton pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances. In April 2024, Christopher Nagle pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances and one count of possession with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine.
According to court documents, the DTO distributed counterfeit oxycodone pills containing fentanyl and counterfeit Adderall pills containing methamphetamine, among other things, to various individuals in the Lynn area.
Christopher Nagle, and allegedly his brother Lawrence Michael Nagle, were identified as leaders of a DTO distributing various controlled substances throughout the North Shore region of Massachusetts. It is alleged that the Nagle DTO distributed significant quantities of various controlled substances, including, Adderall (both pharmaceutical-grade pills and counterfeit pills containing methamphetamine), methamphetamine, Xanax, Oxycodone (both pharmaceutical-grade and counterfeit pills containing fentanyl), cocaine and marijuana, among others.
A search of Christopher Nagle’s apartment recovered more than 74,000 counterfeit Adderall pills containing methamphetamine, weighing more than 24 kilograms.
As part of the conspiracy, Clayton stored various controlled substances including marijuana, cocaine, cocaine base (crack cocaine) and counterfeit oxycodone pills containing fentanyl at his apartment on behalf of the DTO. A search of his apartment in October 2022 resulted in the seizure of various quantities of marijuana, cocaine base and fentanyl, as well as three loaded firearms, additional rounds of ammunition, $2,640 in drug proceeds and materials used to package and distribute controlled substances.
Lawrence Michael Nagle has pleaded not guilty and is scheduled for trial on Jan. 6, 2024.
Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy; Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Division; and John E. Mawn Jr., Interim Colonel of the Massachusetts State Police made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Beverly, Everett, Peabody, Revere, Salem, Saugus and Swampscott Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Evan D. Panich of the Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit prosecuted the case.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
The details contained in the indictment are allegations. The remaining defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Chelsea Man Arrested for Armed Robberies of Three Local BanksRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Chelsea man was arrested today in connection with the armed robberies of banks in Weymouth, Jamaica Plain and Hyde Park.
Keywan Kelly, 29, was charged with three counts of armed bank robbery. Kelly was arrested this morning and will appear in federal court in Boston at 2 p.m. today.
According to the charging documents, at approximately 11:52 a.m. on July 1, 2024, a male – later allegedly identified as Kelly – entered a Bank of America branch in Weymouth wearing gloves and a medical mask. Kelly allegedly approached a teller window and pushed a handwritten note towards the teller demanding $20,000 and threatened that he would “kill you all,” while pointing a firearm at the teller. It is alleged that the teller then handed Kelly $15,000, after which Kelly demanded more and the teller gave him additional cash of approximately $4,000 to $5,000 before leaving the bank. During the robbery, Kelly allegedly made verbal threats such as, “Run that s**t before I blow this place up” and “I’ll kill all of you.”
Similarly, at approximately 1:41 p.m. on July 16, 2024, a male – later allegedly identified as Kelly – entered the Rockland Trust Bank in Jamaica Plain wearing a black balaclava style mask, black clothing and white latex gloves. Kelly allegedly approached the teller window and handed the teller a note that read, “I need 20K no DyPacks I have 4 bombs I’ll Kill everyone make quick,” while brandishing a firearm. Kelly allegedly fled the bank on foot after receiving approximately $2,480 in cash from the teller.
It is further alleged that, at approximately 10:09 a.m. on July 26, 2024, a male – later allegedly identified as Kelly – entered another Rockland Trust Bank branch in Hyde Park, again wearing a black balaclava style mask and gloves. There, Kelly allegedly handed the teller a handwritten note that included words to the effect of, “you’re being robbed give me cash,” before pointing a firearm at the teller. It is alleged that Kelly verbally threatened to “shoot” and demanded $20,000. Upon receiving approximately $3,000 in cash, Kelly took back the demand note and fled the bank.
A subsequent investigation allegedly identified Kelly on the Weymouth bank’s video surveillance and identified Kelly’s fingerprints on the vehicle used as a getaway car following the Weymouth robbery. The investigation also allegedly revealed connections between Kelly and vehicles that were identified as being in the vicinity of the Jamaica Plain and Hyde Park banks at the time of the robberies. Cell phone location data allegedly revealed that Kelly’s cell phone was present in the vicinity of each of the banks near the time of the robberies.
The charge of armed bank robbery provides for a sentence of up to 25 years in prison, up to five years of supervised release and a fine of up to $ 250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy and Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police and the Boston and Weymouth Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Maynard of the Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Charleston Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Matthew L. Farmer, 33, of Charleston, pleaded guilty today to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on November 8, 2023, law enforcement officers had reason to believe Farmer was carrying a firearm and encountered him while patrolling Charleston’s West Side. Officers asked Farmer if he had a firearm, and he told them he had a firearm in his back pocket. Officers retrieved a Firearms Import Export (FIE) model Titan .25-caliber handgun from Farmer’s back pocket. The firearm had a magazine inserted that contained seven rounds of ammunition.
Federal law prohibits a person with a prior felony conviction from possessing a firearm or ammunition. Farmer knew he was prohibited from possessing a firearm because of his prior felony convictions for first-degree robbery in Monongalia County Circuit Court on October 7, 2015, and grand larceny in Wetzel County Circuit Court on January 26, 2011.
Farmer is scheduled to be sentenced on December 10, 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 Charleston Police Department-Special Enforcement Unit (SEU) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber 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 results.
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. 2:23-cr-202.
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Carteret County Man Sentenced to 30 Years for Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A Carteret County man was sentenced today to 360 months in prison followed by a lifetime of supervised release for production of child pornography, including videos in which the defendant is sexually abusing a minor. The investigation ultimately found a collection of more than 1,000 images of child pornography in the possession of the defendant. The Court ordered $56,000 in restitution for the victim. Lester David Gillberg, 33, pled guilty in March of 2023.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, the Carteret County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) and the Department of Homeland Security launched an investigation into Gillberg in June 2022 for child exploitation offenses following a cybertip that the CCSO received from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Dropbox had reported one of its users had uploaded images depicting the sexual abuse of children. The IP address used to upload the images came back to the residence in which Gillberg was living. When investigators visited Gillberg’s residence, Gillberg initially denied knowing anything about child pornography then changed his story and told investigators he received child pornography in a chat group and that he uploaded the files to his Dropbox account so he could report it to the authorities. Gillberg said he forgot to make a police report.
During the 2022 investigation, one of Gillberg’s family members told investigators that Gillberg had been investigated for child pornography in Kansas a few years prior. Gillberg was arrested on state warrants and digital devices were seized for analysis. Investigators confirmed that in 2019 law enforcement in Kansas investigated Gillberg after Dropbox reported one of its users had uploaded child pornography. The email used for the uploads was linked to Gillberg. Gillberg claimed he recently discovered his phone had been stolen months ago.
In October 2022, a family member reported to law enforcement they found a computer and cell phone they believed belonged to Gillberg that contained child pornography. Law enforcement obtained a search warrant to examine the devices. The phone turned out to be the phone Gillberg had reported stolen in the 2019 Kansas investigation. When the media files on the phone were examined law enforcement found evidence Gillberg had been taking images of videos of him sexually assaulting a child with whom he had contact. The investigation showed Gillberg had distributed the images he produced of the child and had conversations with others online about the sexual abuse of children. Investigators found that Gillberg had a collection of over 1,000 images depicting the sexual abuse of children.
Michael Easley, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after the sentencing was concluded. U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III presided over the sentencing. The Carteret County Sheriff’s Office, the Department of Homeland Security and the N.C. State Bureau of Investigation investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Charity Wilson 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. 4:23-CR-43-D
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California drug trafficker sentenced to over eight years in prisonRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A California woman was sentenced today to eight years and eight months in prison for her part in a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine.
According to court documents, in September 2022, Lily Marlene Contreras Lopez, 35, took over the drug-trafficking business of her romantic partner, who was arrested on firearms and narcotics charges in California. One of her customers was Chase Scott Jones, 27, who supplied drugs to Sean Michael Johnson, 26, a long-time supplier of narcotics to customers across the nation.
Law enforcement learned that, dating back to at least May 2020, Johnson had sold tens of thousands of fentanyl pills to an individual in Virginia. An undercover officer contacted Johnson to gauge his fentanyl drug supply. Law enforcement made a total of six controlled purchases from the conspiracy beginning in January 2023. Johnson negotiated the controlled purchases with the undercover officer and sent the details to Jones, who then sourced most of the drugs from Contreras Lopez.
The fifth and six controlled purchases were conducted in person in California. The sixth deal involved 100 pounds of meth and 10 kilograms of fentanyl powder. On Dec. 6, 2023, before the deal took place, Contreras Lopez distributed the meth to Jones. Jones then proceeded to the deal location, with Contreras Lopez waiting nearby to complete the transactions. After Jones distributed the meth to the undercover officer, both Jones and Contreras Lopez were arrested.
During searches of Contreras Lopez’s apartment and storage, law enforcement recovered two kilograms of fentanyl powder, five handguns, a digital scale, a money counter, several empty promethazine bottles, and drug ledgers.
On Feb. 29, Johnson pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and meth. Johnson was sentenced on May 29 to eight years and six months in prison.
On Feb. 4, Jones pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and meth. Jones was sentenced on June 6 to 10 years in prison.
Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; James VanVliet, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Division; Jarod Forget, Special Agent in Charge for the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Washington Division; David J. Scott, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Washington Field Office's Criminal and Cyber Division; Damon E. Wood, Inspector in Charge of the Washington Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service; and Peter Newsham, Chief of Prince William County Police, made the announcement after sentencing by Senior U.S. District Judge Anthony J. Trenga.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher M. Carter prosecuted the case.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
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. 1:24-cr-46.
California Man Indicted for Unlawfully Exporting Aircraft Components to IranRead the Press Release
The Justice Department unsealed an indictment charging U.S.-Iranian national Jeffrey Chance Nader, 68, with crimes related to the illicit export of U.S.-manufactured aircraft components, including components used on military aircraft, to Iran in violation of U.S. economic sanctions and other federal laws. Nader was arrested yesterday in California.
“This action demonstrates the Justice Department’s commitment to keeping military-grade equipment out of the hands of the Iranian regime,” said Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. “We will aggressively investigate, disrupt, and hold accountable criminal networks that supply sensitive technology to hostile and repressive governments in contravention of U.S. sanctions.”
“Attacks by Iran and its proxies on U.S. allies in the Middle East and its ongoing supply of Russia with drones and other technology to be used in its illegal war against Ukraine demonstrate why we must do all that we can to stop Iran from acquiring U.S. parts, services, and technology," said U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves for the District of Columbia. “The charges announced today represent the latest step in our ongoing effort to hold accountable those who illegally funnel goods and services to Iran and to deter others from doing the same.”
“Iran has no business using U.S.-manufactured parts and components to keep their planes and drones in the sky,” said Assistant Secretary for Export Enforcement Matthew S. Axelrod of the Commerce Department’s Bureau of Industry and Security. “Stopping these items before they get to our adversaries – like we did here – reflects the real-world impact we’re having through the Disruptive Technology Strike Force.”
“This indictment highlights the FBI’s commitment to enforcing export laws by holding those accountable who allegedly try to smuggle U.S.-origin military equipment to the benefit of Iran,” said Executive Assistant Director Robert Wells of the FBI’s National Security Branch. “Any circumvention of U.S. export control law is unacceptable, and the FBI works diligently with its partners across the globe to seek out and bring to justice those who violate export laws along with any shell companies that support such activities.”
According to the indictment, beginning at least in 2023, Nader and other associates, conspired to purchase and illegally export – and attempted to export – from the United States to Iran four types of aircraft components, totaling nearly three dozen individual pieces. Some of these components are for use on military aircraft operated by Iran’s armed forces, including the F-4 fighter jet.
Nader, acting on purchase orders he received from customers in Iran, coordinated the purchase of relevant aircraft components with business associates in Iran, by which Nader and his Iran-based associates would reach out to U.S.-based suppliers of such components. In several instances, Nader falsely identified himself and his company, California-based Pro Aero Capital, to the U.S.-based suppliers as the end user of the items.
Once Nader obtained the aircraft components, he attempted to export the items on multiple occasions to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The items were then to be transshipped to the ultimate customer in Iran. The items discussed in the indictment, however, were detained by a Special Agent with the Department of Commerce, and none were successfully exported from the United States.
The FBI Washington Field Office and the Commerce Department’s Bureau of Industry and Security is investigating the case, with assistance provided by the FBI Los Angeles Field Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven B. Wasserman for the District of Columbia and Trial Attorney Sean Heiden of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the case. Significant assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California.
This prosecution is being coordinated through the Disruptive Technology Strike Force, an interagency law enforcement strike force co-led by the Departments of Justice and Commerce designed to target illicit actors, protect supply chains, and prevent critical technology from being acquired by authoritarian regimes and hostile nation states. Under the leadership of the Assistant Attorney General for National Security and the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Export Enforcement, the Strike Force leverages tools and authorities across the U.S. Government to enhance the criminal and administrative enforcement of export control laws.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Cabarrus County Man Sentenced for Felon in Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
WINSTON-SALEM – A Midland, North Carolina man was sentenced today for a felony firearm offense, announced Sandra J. Hairston, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of North Carolina (MDNC).
RONALD CHRISTOPHER BETHEA, JR., 34, was sentenced to a 92-month term of imprisonment by the Honorable Thomas D. Schroeder, United States District Judge in the United States District Court for the MDNC, to be followed by a 3-year term of supervised release. He pleaded guilty on April 2, 2024, to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).
According to court documents, on April 4, 2023, a Cabarrus County Deputy Sheriff conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle after the driver, BETHEA, committed a traffic infraction. The Deputy smelled marijuana upon approaching the vehicle and speaking with the driver. BETHEA admitted he had 3.5 grams of “weed” in the car and advised that he had recently gotten out of prison in South Carolina. BETHEA also admitted he had a gun, and the Deputy recovered a loaded 9mm pistol from BETHEA’s right front pants pocket. During a search of BETHEA’s vehicle, deputies found small quantities of marijuana, cocaine, and psilocybin mushrooms.
BETHEA had been previously convicted of the felony offense of Attempted Murder in the Court of General Session for the State of South Carolina, Marlboro County, and was sentenced to 12 years of imprisonment. His conviction had not been set aside or expunged, and he had not been pardoned or had his civil rights restored, and he was therefore prohibited from possessing a firearm.
Agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Cabarrus County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig M. Principe.
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.
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Bronx Man Charged with Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and Erin Keegan, the Acting Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”), announced that JUAN TOMAS DIAZ was arrested yesterday and charged with one count of possessing child pornography. DIAZ will be presented later today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah L. Cave.
U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “As alleged, Juan Tomas Diaz, who had access to and lived in the same building as a daycare run by a family member, possessed at least one hundred images of child pornography. Among those were graphic videos and images of children, ranging from infants to young teenagers, being raped and engaging in other sexual conduct. Our investigation into Diaz is ongoing, and we urge anyone with information about Diaz’s conduct to call HSI at 1-877-4-HSI-TIP. We will continue to tirelessly work together with our law enforcement partners to detect predators and protect our community’s children.”
Acting Special Agent in Charge Erin Keegan said: “As alleged, Juan Tomas Diaz was found to have been in possession of over 100 images and videos of child pornography at his home mere steps from a daycare. Every parent's worst nightmare, the defendant had access to a childcare facility where toddlers' and young adolescents' loved ones expected they would be safe. This arrest underscores the urgency of our commitment to collaborate with our partners in the relentless fight of safeguarding our communities. I commend HSI New York's Child Exploitation Investigations Team and the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York for confronting this alarming reality directly.”
According to the allegations contained in the Complaint:[1]
DIAZ lives in a basement apartment in the Bronx, located below a daycare. 11 children are currently enrolled at the daycare. DIAZ has access to the daycare, which is run by a family member of DIAZ.
On or about August 13, 2024, federal agents executed a judicially authorized search warrant of DIAZ’s apartment. Pursuant to that warrant, federal agents seized and searched DIAZ’s phone, which was found to contain what appears to be over 100 images of child pornography. DIAZ, after waving his Miranda rights and signing a written Miranda consent form, voluntarily spoke to law enforcement and admitted to having viewed videos and images of minors engaged in sexual activity.
* * *
DIAZ, 46, of the Bronx, New York, is charged with one count of possession of child pornography, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison.
The maximum potential sentence in this case is prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge.
Mr. Williams praised the outstanding investigative work of HSI.
This case is being handled by the Office’s General Crimes Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren E. Phillips is in charge of the prosecution.
The charges contained in the Complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
[1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Complaint and the description of the Complaint set forth below constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.
Bozeman construction company owner sentenced to prison, fined $75,000 for failing to pay taxes to IRSRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — The owner of a Bozeman construction company who admitted not paying to the IRS employee-related taxes of more than $800,000 was sentenced today to federal prison and fined $75,000, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
The defendant, Joseph Glen Dickey, 39, owner of Alpine Customs, Inc., pleaded guilty in April to failure to truthfully account for and pay over withholding and FICA taxes, a felony, and failure to file employer’s quarterly return and pay tax, a misdemeanor.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen sentenced Dickey to one year and one day in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. The court also fined him $75,000 and ordered $270,807 restitution, which is the remaining amount owed after Dickey repaid some of his outstanding balance prior to sentencing.
The government alleged in court documents that Dickey owns Alpine Customs, Inc., a commercial construction company that has employed 60 or more individuals. Dickey acted as Alpine’s general manager and exercised control over every aspect of the business, including approving company payments and overseeing company bank accounts. Alpine withheld payroll taxes from employees’ paychecks, including federal income taxes and Social Security and Medicare taxes. Alpine also was required to make quarterly deposits of those payroll taxes and additional employer payroll contributions to the IRS.
Dickey did not timely deposit several employee or employer payroll taxes from 2018 to 2021. Dickey knew of the requirements and his bookkeepers and IRS officers repeatedly advised Dickey of these legal obligations. In total, Dickey failed to timely pay $803,374 in employer and employee payroll taxes.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The IRS Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation.
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Bellevue Man Sentenced to 27 Years in Federal Prison for Sexually Exploiting ChildrenRead the Press Release
BOISE – Spencer Riding, 26, formerly of Bellevue, Idaho, was sentenced to 27 years in federal prison for sexual exploitation of children, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced today. U.S. District Judge Amanda K. Brailsford also sentenced Riding to a lifetime of supervised release to follow his prison term.
According to court records, in 2019, Riding used social media to contact a 15-year-old minor child. Through social media, Riding persuaded the child to send him topless photos. Using these photos, Riding threatened the minor child. He threatened to send the topless photos to strangers on the internet if she did not send him child pornography. The child sent him child pornography to avoid release of her explicit photos. Eventually, the child and her family came forward to law enforcement.
Law enforcement, through the report from the child and investigative efforts, secured a search warrant for Riding’s residence. The search warrant authorized law enforcement to seize and forensically analyze his digital devices. Law enforcement seized a cell phone and forensically examined it. On the phone, law enforcement discovered images of child pornography from an additional child victim. Law enforcement investigated the production of these images. They discovered that Riding engaged in a similar criminal pattern of coercion, whereby he contacted a minor child over social media, secured compromising photos, and threatened to release sexually explicit images if the child did not send additional child pornography.
Riding was indicted by a federal grand jury for the conduct above. While pending sentencing, law enforcement in Wyoming received a tip that Riding was engaged in further child pornography crimes using social media. Law enforcement secured another search warrant for his residence and executed it in 2022. Law enforcement discovered that Riding had previously contacted a minor child in another state and traveled there to record sexual acts with the child. Riding entered a subsequent plea of guilty to a superseding information that reflected criminal conduct against all known victims.
U.S. Attorney Hurwit commended the cooperative efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Gooding County Sheriff’s Office, the Wyoming Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Department of Homeland Security, and the St. Helen’s Police Department, which led to the charges. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys David G. Robins and Kassandra McGrady.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) of the Department of Justice, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
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Atlantic County Health System Settles Matter Alleging it Received Improper Paycheck Protection Program LoanRead the Press Release
CAMDEN, N.J. – An Atlantic County health system entered into a settlement agreement with the United States resolving allegations that the non-profit company violated the False Claims Act by taking a loan from the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) to which the company was not entitled, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced today.
According to the allegations in the complaint and the contentions of the United States contained in the settlement agreement:
Congress created the PPP in March 2020, as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, to provide emergency financial support to the millions of Americans suffering the economic effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The CARES Act authorized billions of dollars in forgivable loans to small businesses struggling to pay employees and other business expenses.
Shore Memorial Physicians’ Group (SPG), an affiliate of the Shore Memorial Health System Inc., applied for and received a PPP loan for $2.78 million, even though it was ineligible for such a loan because it was affiliated with Shore Memorial Health System and was therefore not a small business within the meaning of the PPP program. Shore Memorial Physicians’ Group thereafter sought and received forgiveness of the total amount of the loan.
Shore Memorial Health System fully cooperated in the investigation and resolution of this matter. In accordance with the terms of the settlement, Shore Memorial Health System agrees to pay the United States $3.15 million. The settlement resolves a lawsuit filed under the whistleblower provision of the False Claims Act, which permits private parties, called relators, to file suit on behalf of the United States for false claims and share in a portion of the government’s recovery. In this matter, the relator is receiving $315,000 as his share in the recovery.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credits special agents of the Small Business Administration, Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Supervisory Criminal Investigator Angelo Palmeri in New York, with the investigation.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul W. Kaufman of the Healthcare Fraud Unit.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
The qui tam case is captioned US ex rel. Zachary Holtzman v. Dr. David P. May; Shore Memorial Hospital d/b/a Shore Medical Center, 23-cv-3680 (JHR).
shore.settlement.pdfAtlanta Woman Sentenced to Prison for Supplying Fentanyl and Meth to Armed Drug Trafficking OrganizationRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – The supplier to an armed methamphetamine and fentanyl trafficking organization who was providing kilogram quantities of narcotics out of her high-rise Atlanta condominium was sentenced today to serve 20 years in prison.
Heather Marie Breland, 40, of Atlanta, was sentenced to serve 240 months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release by U.S. District Judge C. Ashley Royal on Aug. 14. Breland previously pleaded guilty to one count of aiding and abetting others to possess with intent to distribute more than fifty grams of methamphetamine on Oct. 5, 2023. There is no parole in the federal system.
“Heather Breland enjoyed the trappings of luxury by trafficking in deadly drugs, to include the scourge of fentanyl,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “Her 20-year federal prison sentence demonstrates the dedication of our federal, state and local law enforcement partners to halting the supply of deadly drugs into our communities and saving lives."
“Violent and dangerous drug traffickers are enriching their lives by profiting off someone else’s pain and addiction,” stated Robert J. Murphy, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division. “Heather Breland will now face significant federal prison time for her crime.”
“Heather Breland and her co-defendants were involved in an organized network designed to peddle poison onto the streets of our community. Most law enforcement agencies don’t have the resources to handle investigations to combat organizations like this one. We are fortunate to have federal, state and local law enforcement agencies in Middle Georgia that recognize the benefit of working together in order to keep our communities safe,” said Peach County Sheriff Terry W. Deese.
According to court documents and statements made in court, between Oct. 2021 and June 2022, DEA agents and local law enforcement investigated a drug trafficking organization (DTO) led by co-defendant Raiford Reeves aka “RH,” 44, of Warner Robins. Breland—the supplier to this DTO—was distributing kilogram quantities of narcotics, primarily methamphetamine and fentanyl, to Reeves out of her condominium located in Atlanta’s Buckhead neighborhood. Law enforcement obtained court orders to intercept the phone calls and text messages from cell phones belonging to Breland and Reeves and conducted controlled purchases of methamphetamine from Reeves. Reeves would supply other co-defendants with some of the narcotics to sell.
Agents observed Breland travel to Macon to provide narcotics to Reeves; she also had a self-storage unit in Macon on Riverside Drive to store drugs. On May 26, agents executed search warrants in Warner Robins, Macon, and at Breland’s Atlanta condominium. In her residence, agents seized 3.266 kilograms of pure methamphetamine, 14.72 grams of fentanyl, cocaine, marijuana, a 9mm semi-automatic pistol, a .22 magnum caliber revolver, two cellphones and $78,353 cash. Agents seized eight pounds of marijuana in a Louis Vuitton duffle bag from her Macon storage unit.
Following the searches, Breland fled to North Carolina, created a fictitious license plate and changed her hair length and color. She was arrested by U.S. Marshals on Oct. 20, 2022, at a hotel and casino in Biloxi, Mississippi. When she was arrested, she had methamphetamine and ID cards with a similar appearance but false identifying information. Breland has seven prior felony convictions for forgery, possession of methamphetamine, burglary and identity fraud. Co-defendant Reeves was sentenced to serve 210 months in prison on May 15, 2024, after he pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of methamphetamine on March 29, 2023.
For more information about this case and additional codefendants, please visit: https://www.justice.gov/usao-mdga/pr/atlanta-resident-supplying-armed-meth-fentanyl-organization-pleads-guilty.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven and multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the Warner Robins Police Department, the Houston County Sheriff’s Office, the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office and the Peach County Sheriff’s Office with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service.
Deputy Criminal Chief Will Keyes is prosecuting the case for the Government.
Assault on woman sends Crow Agency man to prison for more than five yearsRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Crow Agency man who punched a woman in the face, causing her to lose vision in an eye, was sentenced today to five years and 10 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jessed Laslovich said.
The defendant, Darek Paul Birdinground, 34, pleaded guilty in April to assault resulting in serious bodily injury as charged in an indictment.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.
The government alleged in court documents that while investigating a separate, unrelated assault, the FBI learned in June 2023 of an assault that occurred on Jan. 21, 2023 in Crow Agency, on the Crow Indian Reservation. Agents with the FBI and Bureau of Indian Affairs learned that the victim, identified as Jane Doe, was driving a truck in Crow Agency when she saw Birdinground coming up fast behind her in an SUV, so she pulled over. Birdinground got out of his vehicle carrying a baseball bat. After a few angry words, Birdinground punched Doe on the side of her left eye. Birdinground then used the bat to break the windows of the truck. Doe suffered loss of vision in her eye.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The FBI and BIA conducted the investigation.
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Armed Robbery of Marijuana Stash House in Oklahoma City Leads to Four Guilty PleasRead the Press Release
More Than 600 Pounds of Black-Market Marijuana and Over $40,000 in Cash Recovered
OKLAHOMA CITY – BRANDON MICHAEL NORMAN, 26, of West Melborne, Florida, has pleaded guilty to interference with commerce by robbery and possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On August 5, 2024, Norman was charged by Superseding Information with interference with commerce by robbery and possession of marijuana with intent to distribute. According to public record, on February 8, 2024, officers with the Oklahoma City Police Department (OCPD) responded to a reported armed robbery at a metro home. Victims in the home told authorities that three men, later identified as Norman’s co-defendants, William Lewis Daniels, 25, Jordon Isaih Watson, 25, and Keldon Sherrod Williams, 26, all of Texas, forced their way into the home and ordered the victims onto the floor where their hands were restrained with zip-ties. The victims told police that one of the defendants, later identified as Daniels, had a firearm. The defendants then ransacked the house and stole more than $36,000 in cash, more than 600 pounds of black-market marijuana stuffed into trash bags, and other items. OCPD officers determined the residence was a black-market marijuana stash house. Security footage from an adjacent property showed four vehicles leaving the stash house after the robbery, including a car stolen from the victims. The stolen car was later located by OCPD officers in a nearby business parking lot.
Authorities pulled over two of the suspect vehicles shortly thereafter without incident, and arrested Norman, Watson, and Williams. Daniels, however, led authorities on a high-speed chase down Interstate 235 during rush hour traffic, wrecked his vehicle, and fled briefly on foot before he was arrested. Between the three vehicles, OCPD recovered 690 pounds of marijuana, $40,710.00 in cash, and one firearm.
On August 12, 2024, Norman pleaded guilty to the Superseding Information, and admitted he took cash and marijuana from the victims, and that he possessed marijuana which he intended to distribute to others.
Daniels, Watson, and Williams have each pleaded guilty to interference with commerce by robbery and possession of marijuana with intent to distribute. Daniels has also pleaded guilty to being a drug user in possession of a firearm.
At sentencing, Norman, Watson, and Williams face up to 40 years in federal prison and fines totaling up to $1,250,000.00 each. Daniels faces up to 55 years in federal prison and fines totaling up to $1,500,000.00.
This case is the result of an investigation by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office and the Oklahoma City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Drew E. Davis is prosecuting the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Armed Madison Drug Dealer Sentenced to 5 YearsRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Joseph P. Rehbein, 32, Madison, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to 5 years in federal prison for possessing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine intended for distribution. The prison term will be followed by 4 years of supervised release. Rehbein pleaded guilty to this charge on May 15, 2024.
On August 3, 2023, officers stopped a vehicle driven by Rehbein because it was reported stolen. After stopping, Rehbein got out of the car and ran, dropping a loaded 9mm handgun. During the short foot chase, Rehbein also tossed a bag containing methamphetamine before being arrested. Inside the car, officers found a large amount of methamphetamine inside a bag. In total, approximately 177 grams of methamphetamine was recovered. Rehbein is prohibited from legally possessing firearms or ammunition because he has multiple prior felony convictions. He was also on state probation at the time of this offense.
At the sentencing, Judge Peterson expressed concern that Rehbein engaged in drug trafficking while on state probation for similar conduct.
This case has been brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the U.S. Justice Department’s program to reduce violent crime. The PSN approach emphasizes coordination between state and federal prosecutors and all levels of law enforcement to address gun crime, especially felons illegally possessing firearms and ammunition and violent and drug crimes that involve the use of firearms.
The charge against Rehbein was the result of an investigation conducted by the Madison Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney William M. Levins prosecuted this case.
Armed Fentanyl Dealer Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A man caught exchanging gun fire with another vehicle and in possession of fentanyl was sentenced July 31, 2024, to 10 years in federal prison.
Macarr Hill, age 28, from Minneapolis, received the prison term after a March 27, 2024, guilty plea to possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl.
Evidence in the case revealed on June 16, 2023, at approximately 11pm, while Sioux City Police Officers were on an unrelated call for service, they heard gunshots, then observed two vehicles chasing each other. Officers relayed information related to the vehicles but couldn’t immediately locate them. Just before 5:00 a.m. on June 17, officers observed a vehicle matching the description previously relayed, and were able to conduct a stop for traffic violations. Hill was the driver and owner of the vehicle and gave officers consent to a search of his vehicle. During the search, officers located 2 fentanyl pills disguised as oxycodone, a baggie containing 3.5 grams of methamphetamine, 4 grams of cocaine, and a loaded magazine. A fuller search of the car occurred on June 19, 2023, and that search revealed an additional 801 fentanyl pills disguised as oxycodone and a firearm consistent with the magazine.
Hill was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand to 120 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a 5-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Hill is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was investigated by the Sioux City, Iowa Police department and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Forde Fairchild.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 23-4057.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Arizona Man Pleads Guilty for Making Online Threats Against Public Servants Including Federal OfficialsRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. - Michael Lee Tomasi, 37, of Rio Verde, Arizona, pleaded guilty yesterday to making threats against federal officials.
From May 2021 through November 2023, while living in Colorado and Arizona, Tomasi used a social media platform to express a desire to incite violence and threaten a variety of individuals and groups, including a city district attorney, a state court judge, a member of Congress and other federal officials and law enforcement officers. Tomasi pleaded guilty to posting a threat on Aug. 26, 2023, to kill FBI agents in order to impede, intimidate, or interfere with FBI agents’ performance of their official duties. Specifically, Tomasi admitted that, on that day, he posted: “Shoot the FBI first and ask questions later. . . . Any FBI [] have a problem with that[,] come to my house and see what happens. Shoot before they even pull their guns out of their trunk and you shoot to kill.”
“Threats of violence against elected officials, judges, and FBI agents pose immense danger to the physical safety of individual victims and undermine our very system of government,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “The Justice Department will hold to account anyone who targets public servants with illegal threats of violence.”
“Threatening law enforcement officers and elected officials strikes at the heart of our communities and our democracy,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “The men and women of the FBI work tirelessly every day to defend our homeland and protect the American people. I am proud of their selfless spirit — putting themselves in harm’s way to keep others safe — and we will hold accountable anyone who threatens them.”
"This disgruntled defendant threatened officials from all three branches of government,” said U.S. Attorney Gary Restaino for the District of Arizona. “Moreover, he was prepared to carry out his threats: when arrested he had a loaded handgun in his vehicle, as well as other firearms and body armor in his home. The prosecution of threats offenses makes Americans safer.”
Tomasi pleaded guilty to making threats against federal officials. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 23, and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The FBI is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Raymond K. Woo and Abbie Broughton Marsh for the District of Arizona are prosecuting the case, with valuable assistance provided by Trial Attorney Dmitriy Slavin of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.
CASE NUMBER: CR-23-01751-PHX-DWL
RELEASE NUMBER: 2024-112_Tomasi# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on X @USAO_AZ for the latest news.Arizona Man Pleads Guilty for Making Online Threats Against Public Servants Including Federal OfficialsRead the Press Release
Michael Lee Tomasi, 37, of Rio Verde, Arizona, pleaded guilty yesterday to making threats against federal officials.
From May 2021 through November 2023, while living in Colorado and Arizona, Tomasi used a social media platform to express a desire to incite violence and threaten a variety of individuals and groups, including a city district attorney, a state court judge, a member of Congress and other federal officials and law enforcement officers. Tomasi pleaded guilty to posting a threat on Aug. 26, 2023, to kill FBI agents in order to impede, intimidate, or interfere with FBI agents’ performance of their official duties. Specifically, Tomasi admitted that, on that day, he posted: “Shoot the FBI first and ask questions later. . . . Any FBI [] have a problem with that[,] come to my house and see what happens. Shoot before they even pull their guns out of their trunk and you shoot to kill.”
“Threats of violence against elected officials, judges, and FBI agents pose immense danger to the physical safety of individual victims and undermine our very system of government,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “The Justice Department will hold to account anyone who targets public servants with illegal threats of violence.”
“Threatening law enforcement officers and elected officials strikes at the heart of our communities and our democracy,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “The men and women of the FBI work tirelessly every day to defend our homeland and protect the American people. I am proud of their selfless spirit — putting themselves in harm’s way to keep others safe — and we will hold accountable anyone who threatens them.”
"This disgruntled defendant threatened officials from all three branches of government,” said U.S. Attorney Gary Restaino for the District of Arizona. “Moreover, he was prepared to carry out his threats: when arrested he had a loaded handgun in his vehicle, as well as other firearms and body armor in his home. The prosecution of threats offenses makes Americans safer.”
Tomasi pleaded guilty to making threats against federal officials. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 23, and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The FBI is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Raymond K. Woo and Abbie Broughton Marsh for the District of Arizona are prosecuting the case, with valuable assistance provided by Trial Attorney Dmitriy Slavin of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.
13 August 2024
Watauga Man Convicted by Federal Jury for Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm and Simple Assault on a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
ABERDEEN - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that Justin James Schneider, age 39, of Watauga, South Dakota, was found guilty on August 8, 2024, of Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm and Simple Assault on a Federal Officer following a two-day federal jury trial in Aberdeen, South Dakota. The jury also found Schneider committed these offenses on pretrial release and that his revolver was subject to forfeiture.
The charge of Prohibited Person carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, three years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered. The charge of Simple Assault on a Federal Officer carries a maximum penalty of one year in federal prison and/or a $100,000 fine, one year of supervised release, and a $25 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered. Because Schneider committed these offenses on pretrial release, the Court may impose up to an additional 10 years in federal prison.
Schneider was indicted by a federal grand jury in July of 2023.
On June 20, 2023, the Corson County Sheriff’s Office received credible information that Schneider had discharged a revolver earlier that day and was armed and dangerous. The Corson County Sheriff requested and received assistance from the Bureau of Indian Affairs – Office of Justice Services to detain and arrest Schneider. A BIA officer found Schneider in Bullhead, South Dakota, which lies within the Standing Rock Sioux Indian Reservation. When the officer attempted to arrest him, Schneider fled in his pickup to a nearby pasture and engaged in an armed stand-off with Corson County deputies and BIA police officers. Schneider eventually hopped back into his pickup and fled to the Bullhead Community Center, striking a squad car enroute. Schneider then dismounted from his pickup, brandishing a revolver, gesturing wildly towards nearby civilians and disregarding repeated police commands to drop his gun. As Schneider moved quickly towards unarmed children, a police officer shot him to protect the public. Schneider was taken into custody without further incident.
Schneider has nine prior felony convictions, including convictions for Aggravated Assault, Assault Against a Law Enforcement Officer, Felony Driving Under the Influence, Possession of Methamphetamine, and Ingestion of Methamphetamine.
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.
This case was prosecuted by the federal government because Schneider is a dangerous felon prohibited from possessing firearms under federal law, federal law enforcement involvement in his arrest, and because the offense occurred within the Standing Rock Sioux Indian Reservation.
This case was investigated by the FBI, the Corson County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs – Office of Justice Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carl Thunem prosecuted the case.
A presentence investigation report was ordered and a sentencing date of November 4, 2024, was set. Schneider remains in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Violent Career Criminal Sentenced to a Decade in Federal Prison for Possession of Sawed-Off ShotgunRead the Press Release
EVANSVILLE- Glenn Taylor Tenbarge, 35, of Evansville, has been sentenced to ten years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
According to court documents, on December 30, 2023, an Evansville Police Department officer stopped Tenbarge for committing traffic violations while driving a truck. When the officer approached the driver’s side, Tenbarge began acting nervously and leaning forward in his seat, attempting to block the officer’s view of the right side of his body. The officer asked Tenbarge if he had a weapon, to which Tenbarge responded, “it’s not mine but yes.”
When the officer asked Tenbarge to step out of the truck, a short barrel shotgun with a wooden grip could be seen in the seat of the vehicle. The barrel appeared to be modified and possibly cut.
Tenbarge has sustained multiple prior felony convictions in Vanderburgh County, including two counts of attempted robbery, dealing in methamphetamine, and possession of a firearm by a serious violent felon. Under federal law, these felony convictions prohibit him from ever legally possessing a firearm. Under federal law, it is also unlawful to possess a short-barreled “sawed off” shotgun like the one possessed by Tenbarge.
“Illegally armed, repeat felons drive the gun violence plaguing our state,” said Zachary A. Myers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “I commend the response by EPD and the work of ATF to protect the public from this dangerous criminal. The sentence imposed by the court demonstrates that those who illegally possess firearms risk serious federal time. Returning to prison isn’t worth it—put down the guns, or we will hold you accountable.”
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Evansville Police Department investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Richard L. Young.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Todd S. Shellenbarger, who prosecuted this case.
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U.S. Trustee Program Obtains $105,000 Judgment and Permanent Injunction Against Bankruptcy Petition Preparers After Debtor Loses Home to ForeclosureRead the Press Release
The Justice Department’s U.S. Trustee Program (USTP) recently obtained a judgment of nearly $105,000 and a permanent injunction against bankruptcy petition preparers whose unfair and deceptive conduct caused a consumer to lose his home of over 20 years to foreclosure.
On July 2, the Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas entered a stipulated judgment against CA Enterprises, doing business as Premier Services and Premier Legal Services, and the company’s chief executive, Jescar Denno. Under the stipulated judgment, Premier and Denno paid the debtor almost $95,000 – including $84,032 in actual damages, $6,800 in statutory damages and $3,400 in returned fees – and paid the U.S. Trustee statutory fines of $10,500. Premier and Denno also consented to a permanent injunction in the district prohibiting them from, among other things, acting as bankruptcy petition preparers, soliciting and advertising bankruptcy assistance and providing legal advice.
The debtor paid $3,400 for assistance with a loan modification to save his home from foreclosure. After preparing a skeletal chapter 13 petition for the debtor to file, Premier and Denno provided no meaningful services to the debtor. The bankruptcy case was dismissed with a bar against refiling without court permission, and the debtor lost his home – along with substantial equity – in a foreclosure sale.
“This case is an example of the devastation that dishonest bankruptcy petition preparers can wreak on the lives of consumers afraid of losing their homes to foreclosure,” said Director Tara Twomey of the Executive Office for U.S. Trustees. “The debtor can’t get his home back, but the stipulated judgment is a significant step toward making him whole again.”
The USTP’s San Antonio office filed a complaint alleging multiple violations of the Bankruptcy Code. Premier and Denno initially denied liability, but after discovery conducted by the San Antonio office, they agreed to the entry of a stipulated judgment on all 11 counts alleged in the complaint. Premier has also been barred from providing bankruptcy petition preparer services in at least three other jurisdictions: the District of Kansas, Eastern District of Pennsylvania and District of Maryland. (The USTP issued a press release about the Maryland matter in April 2024.)
The USTP’s mission is to promote the integrity and efficiency of the bankruptcy system for the benefit of all stakeholders – debtors, creditors and the public. The USTP consists of 21 regions with 89 field offices nationwide and an Executive Office in Washington, D.C. Learn more about the USTP at www.justice.gov/ust.
U.S. Attorney's Office and FBI Announce Second-Degree Murder Charges in Taos County Stabbing CaseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Penasco man has been charged by federal prosecutors with second-degree murder in connection with a fatal stabbing in Taos County in 2022, with the case being prosecuted under a Department of Justice initiative focused on Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons (MMIP).
Byron Sanchez, 47, an enrolled member of the Picuris Pueblo, appeared before a federal judge today and will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled.
The indictment alleges that on or about December 25, 2022, Sanchez killed John Doe with malice aforethought by stabbing Doe with a sharp object.
Sanchez will remain in custody pending a detention hearing and trial, which has not yet been scheduled.
If convicted, Sanchez faces any term of years up to life in prison for the murder charge.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Santa Fe Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant United States Attorney R. Eliot Neal is prosecuting the case.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice’s Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons (MMIP) Regional Outreach Program, which aims to aid in the prevention and response to missing or murdered Indigenous people through the resolution of MMIP cases and communication, coordination, and collaboration with federal, Tribal, state, and local partners. The Department views this work as a priority for its law enforcement components. Through the MMIP Regional Outreach Program, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify MMIP cases and issues in Tribal communities and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. This prosecution upholds the Department’s mission to the unwavering pursuit of justice on behalf of Indigenous victims and their families.
View the 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's Office and ATF Charge Convicted Felon for Illegal Firearms and Explosives PossessionRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Chaparral man was charged by criminal complaint for illegally stockpiling firearms and explosives in Las Cruces, New Mexico.
Frederick Urban, 76, appeared before a federal judge on August 12, 2024, and will remain in custody pending a detention hearing, which has not been scheduled.
According to the criminal complaint, on August 8, 2024, the ATF received a tip from a concerned citizen who provided evidence indicating that Urban, a previously convicted felon, was in possession of firearms. Following an investigation, which included reviewing photographs and videos provided by the concerned citizen, ATF agents confirmed the presence of numerous firearms at Urban's residence.
On August 10, 2024, ATF agents, supported by the New Mexico State Police and El Paso Police Department, executed a federal search warrant at Urban's residence. The search resulted in the recovery of numerous firearms, approximately 100,000 rounds of ammunition, large capacity magazines, and gunpowder. Additionally, triacetone triperoxide, an extremely volatile explosive, homemade detonators, blasting caps and gun powder, and other components of homemade bombs were found.
If convicted of the current charges, Urban faces 15 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 Las Cruces Field Office of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated this case with assistance from the New Mexico State Police, El Paso Police Department and FBI’s El Paso Field Office. Assistant United States Attorneys Ry Ellison and Mark Saltman are prosecuting the case.
Anyone with information regarding illegal firearms or explosives can submit an anonymous tip to the ATF by texting the code ATFPHO to 63975 and then following the link to create a report or by calling (602) 776-5400.
View the Criminal ComplaintA criminal complaint 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 and FBI Charge Bloomfield Man with Sexual AbuseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Bloomfield man was charged by indictment with multiple counts of alleged sexual misconduct involving a minor that occurred in the Navajo Nation.
Donovan Pete, 43, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, appeared before a federal judge today and will remain on conditions of release pending trial, which has not been scheduled.
According to the indictment, between February 26, 2016, and February 27, 2016, and again between April 7, 2012, and April 6, 2014, Pete engaged in unlawful sexual acts and contact with Jane Doe, a minor, minor who was unable to consent and causing inappropriate contact with intent to gratify sexual desire.
If convicted, Pete faces any term of years and up to life in prison.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Brittany DuChaussee is prosecuting the case.
View the 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 Announces Sentencing of Man for Armed Robberies Targeting Local BusinessesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A French national was sentenced to 111 months in federal prison for a series of armed robberies in Albuquerque on Halloween 2019.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on the morning of October 31, 2019, Mathis Laau, 26, entered the lobby of Motel 6 located at 13141 Central Ave. NE in Albuquerque. He pointed a firearm at a clerk and demanded money. The clerk gave Laau $300, and he left.
Later that same day, Laau entered the Circle K store at 5301 Wyoming Boulevard NE in Albuquerque carrying a purple and silver pistol. He pointed the gun at an employee and demanded cash from the register. After taking approximately $175 and several packs of cigarettes, Laau fled the scene in a waiting vehicle driven by his girlfriend.
Albuquerque Police Department detectives who had been surveilling Laau as a suspect in multiple prior robberies observed the robbery at Circle K and followed the vehicle. Laau and his girlfriend were arrested shortly after at the intersection of Louisiana Boulevard and Constitution Avenue. The stolen cash, cigarettes, and pistol were recovered from the vehicle.
Upon his release from prison, Laau will be subject to three years of supervised release, which will convert to unsupervised release if he is deported to France.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Albuquerque Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph M. Spindle prosecuted the case.
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U.S. Army Intelligence Analyst Pleads Guilty to Charges of Conspiracy to Obtain and Disclose National Defense Information, Export Control Violations and BriberyRead the Press Release
NASHVILLE – Korbein Schultz, a U.S. Army soldier and intelligence analyst, pleaded guilty today to all charges against him in the indictment returned by a federal grand jury in March 2024 charging him with conspiracy to obtain and disclose national defense information, exporting technical data related to defense articles without a license, conspiracy to export defense articles without a license, and bribery of a public official, announced Henry C. Leventis, United States Attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee, and Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the National Security Division.
“This defendant sold national defense information to a foreign actor and conspired to corrupt other members of our military,” said United States Attorney Henry C. Leventis. “In doing so, he violated his training and his oath as a member of the armed services and he compromised our national security. Today’s guilty plea to all of the charges in the indictment ensures that he will be held fully accountable for his crimes.”
“The defendant abused his access to restricted government systems to sell sensitive military information to a person he knew to be a foreign national,” said Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. “By conspiring to transmit national defense information to a person living outside the United States, this defendant callously put our national security at risk to cash in on the trust our military placed in him. Today’s guilty plea is a stark reminder that those who would betray their sworn oath for personal gain will be identified and brought to justice.”
“The defendant has admitted guilt in a case that should send a strong message to any U.S. service members thinking about betraying their country,” said Executive Assistant Director Robert Wells of the FBI’s National Security Branch. “The U.S. is governed by the rule of law and when persons, placed in a position of trust violate that trust, the FBI and our partners will hold them accountable. Governments like China are aggressively targeting our military personnel and national security information and we will do everything in our power to ensure that information is safeguarded from hostile foreign governments.”
“This Soldier swore an oath to faithfully discharge his duties, to include protecting national defense information. Not only did he fail in his sworn duty, but he placed personal gain above his duty to our country and disclosed information that could give advantage to a foreign nation, putting his fellow Soldiers in jeopardy,” said Brigadier General Rhett R. Cox, Commanding General of the Army Counterintelligence Command. “Army Counterintelligence Command, with our partners at the FBI, Department of Justice, and the greater intelligence community, will ruthlessly pursue those who commit acts such as these. Let this case serve as a warning: if any member of the Army, past or present, is asked for classified or sensitive information, they should report it to the appropriate authorities within 24 hours or be held fully accountable for their inaction.”
According to charging and plea documents, Schultz – an enlisted intelligence analyst in the United States Army who held a Top Secret//Sensitive Compartmented Information (“TS//SCI”) security clearance – conspired with an individual who lived in Hong Kong and who Schultz suspected of being associated with the Chinese Government (“Conspirator A”) to collect national defense information, including classified information and export-controlled technical data related to U.S. military weapons systems, and to transmit that information to Conspirator A in exchange for money. Schultz entered into this conspiracy even though, as part of his official duties in the Army, he was required (1) to protect national defense information, classified information, and controlled unclassified information (“CUI”); (2) to train other members of his unit on the proper handling, storage, and dissemination of classified information and information marked CUI; and (3) to report suspicious incidents, including attempts by anyone without authorization to receive classified or sensitive information about U.S. military operations, organizations, equipment, or personnel.
During the conspiracy, Conspirator A told Schultz the specific information that Conspirator A wanted Schultz to gather and send to him, including sensitive information related to missile defense and mobile artillery systems. Before he was arrested, Schultz sent Conspirator A dozens of sensitive and restricted (but unclassified) U.S. military documents regarding a variety of U.S. military weapons systems and U.S. military tactics and strategy, including documents containing export-controlled technical data. Among the items that Schultz collected and transmitted to Conspirator A were: (1) a document discussing the lessons learned by the United States Army from the Ukraine/Russia war that it would apply in a defense of Taiwan; (2) an operations order outlining the deployment of the defendant’s unit to Eastern Europe in support of NATO operations; (3) an Air Force Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (“AFTTP”) document relating to the HH-60 helicopter, which included a banner warning that the document contained technical data subject to export controls; (4) an AFTTP manual relating to the F-22A fighter aircraft, which included a banner warning that the document contained technical data subject to export controls; (5) an AFTTP manual relating to the operation of Intercontinental Ballistic Missile systems, which included a banner warning that the document contained technical data subject to export controls; (6) a publication related to the U-2 reconnaissance aircraft; (7) a document describing modifications of the B-52 aircraft; (8) documents describing tactics to counter unmanned aircraft systems and the use of unmanned aircraft systems in large-scale combat operations; (9) documents relating to Chinese military tactics, the Chinese military’s preparedness, and the People’s Liberation Army Rocket Force; (10) documents relating to rocket, missile, and artillery weapons systems, including the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (“HIMARS”) and the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (“THAAD”) missile defense system; (11) documents relating to military exercises and U.S. military forces in the Republic of Korea and the Philippines; and (12) a document relating to U.S. military satellites. In exchange for all of this information, Schultz was paid approximately $42,000 by Conspirator A.
Sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 23, 2025. Schultz faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for conspiracy to obtain and transmit national defense information; 20 years in prison for exporting technical data related to defense articles to the People’s Republic of China without a license; 20 years in prison for conspiracy to violate the Arms Export Control Act and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations ("ITAR"); and 15 years in prison for bribery of a public official. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The FBI and the U.S. Army Counterintelligence Command investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Josh Kurtzman for the Middle District of Tennessee and Trial Attorneys Adam Barry and Christopher Cook of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section prosecuted the case.
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U.S. Army Intelligence Analyst Pleads Guilty to Charges of Conspiracy to Obtain and Disclose National Defense Information, Export Control Violations and BriberyRead the Press Release
Korbein Schultz, a U.S. Army soldier and intelligence analyst, pleaded guilty today to all charges against him in the indictment returned by a federal grand jury in March 2024 charging him with conspiracy to obtain and disclose national defense information, exporting technical data related to defense articles without a license, conspiracy to export defense articles without a license, and bribery of a public official.
“The defendant abused his access to restricted government systems to sell sensitive military information to a person he knew to be a foreign national,” said Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. “By conspiring to transmit national defense information to a person living outside the United States, this defendant callously put our national security at risk to cash in on the trust our military placed in him. Today’s guilty plea is a stark reminder that those who would betray their sworn oath for personal gain will be identified and brought to justice.”
“This defendant sold national defense information to a foreign actor and conspired to corrupt other members of our military,” said U.S. Attorney Henry C. Leventis for the Middle District of Tennessee. “In doing so, he violated his training and his oath as a member of the armed services and he compromised our national security. Today’s guilty plea to all of the charges in the indictment ensures that he will be held fully accountable for his crimes.”
“The defendant has admitted guilt in a case that should send a strong message to any U.S. service members thinking about betraying their country,” said Executive Assistant Director Robert Wells of the FBI’s National Security Branch. “The U.S. is governed by the rule of law and when persons placed in a position of trust violate that trust, the FBI and our partners will hold them accountable. Governments like China are aggressively targeting our military personnel and national security information and we will do everything in our power to ensure that information is safeguarded from hostile foreign governments.”
“This Soldier swore an oath to faithfully discharge his duties, to include protecting national defense information. Not only did he fail in his sworn duty, but he placed personal gain above his duty to our country and disclosed information that could give advantage to a foreign nation, putting his fellow Soldiers in jeopardy,” said Brigadier General Rhett R. Cox, Commanding General of the Army Counterintelligence Command. “Army Counterintelligence Command, with our partners at the FBI, Department of Justice, and the greater intelligence community will ruthlessly pursue those who commit acts such as these. Let this case serve as a warning: if any member of the Army, past or present, is asked for classified or sensitive information, they should report it to the appropriate authorities within 24 hours or be held fully accountable for their inaction.”
According to charging and plea documents, Schultz – an enlisted intelligence analyst in the U.S. Army who held a Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS/SCI) security clearance – conspired with an individual who lived in Hong Kong and whom Schultz suspected of being associated with the Chinese Government (Conspirator A) to collect national defense information, including classified information and export-controlled technical data related to U.S. military weapons systems, and to transmit that information to Conspirator A in exchange for money. Schultz entered into this conspiracy even though, as part of his official duties in the Army, he was required (1) to protect national defense information, classified information, and controlled unclassified information (CUI); (2) to train other members of his unit on the proper handling, storage and dissemination of classified information and information marked CUI; and (3) to report suspicious incidents, including attempts by anyone without authorization to receive classified or sensitive information about U.S. military operations, organizations, equipment, or personnel.
During the conspiracy, Conspirator A told Schultz the specific information that Conspirator A wanted Schultz to gather and send to him, including sensitive information related to missile defense and mobile artillery systems. Before he was arrested, Schultz sent Conspirator A dozens of sensitive and restricted (but unclassified) U.S. military documents regarding a variety of U.S. military weapons systems and U.S. military tactics and strategy, including documents containing export-controlled technical data. Among the items that Schultz collected and transmitted to Conspirator A were: (1) a document discussing the lessons learned by the U.S. Army from the Ukraine/Russia war that it would apply in a defense of Taiwan; (2) an operations order outlining the deployment of the defendant’s unit to Eastern Europe in support of NATO operations; (3) an Air Force Tactics, Techniques and Procedures (AFTTP) document relating to the HH-60 helicopter, which included a banner warning that the document contained technical data subject to export controls; (4) an AFTTP manual relating to the F-22A fighter aircraft, which included a banner warning that the document contained technical data subject to export controls; (5) an AFTTP manual relating to the operation of Intercontinental Ballistic Missile systems, which included a banner warning that the document contained technical data subject to export controls; (6) a publication related to the U-2 reconnaissance aircraft; (7) a document describing modifications of the B-52 aircraft; (8) documents describing tactics to counter unmanned aircraft systems and the use of unmanned aircraft systems in large-scale combat operations; (9) documents relating to Chinese military tactics, the Chinese military’s preparedness, and the People’s Liberation Army Rocket Force; (10) documents relating to rocket, missile, and artillery weapons systems, including the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System and the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense missile defense system; (11) documents relating to military exercises and U.S. military forces in the Republic of Korea and the Philippines; and (12) a document relating to U.S. military satellites. In exchange for all of this information, Schultz was paid approximately $42,000 by Conspirator A.
A sentencing hearing is scheduled for Jan. 23, 2025. Schultz faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for conspiracy to obtain and transmit national defense information; 20 years in prison for exporting technical data related to defense articles to the People’s Republic of China without a license; 20 years in prison for conspiracy to violate the Arms Export Control Act and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR); and 15 years in prison for bribery of a public official. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The FBI and U.S. Army Counterintelligence Command are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Josh Kurtzman for the Middle District of Tennessee and Trial Attorneys Adam Barry and Christopher Cook of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the case.
Two Rapid City Women Sentenced to 20 Years Each in Federal Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance Resulting in DeathRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced two Rapid City, South Dakota, women convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance Resulting in Death.
Christina Sanchez, age 25, was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Katey McGruder, age 35, was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Christina Sanchez and Katey McGruder were indicted by a federal grand jury in June of 2023. Sanchez pleaded guilty on May 13, 2024. McGruder pleaded guilty on May 3, 2024. Both women were sentenced on August 9, 2024.
These convictions arose from a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl operating in Rapid City. McGruder and her husband, Curtis Cummings, obtained large amounts of fentanyl from a source in Colorado. They would bring the fentanyl back to Rapid City, where it was further distributed by Sanchez and others. On April 26, 2022, McGruder and Cummings provided the fentanyl to Sanchez, who provided the fentanyl to Wyatt Nygaard. Nygaard then provided the fentanyl to the victim who overdosed and died in the parking lot of a convenience store within minutes of obtaining the fentanyl.
Nygaard was previously sentenced to 23 years and three months in federal prison. Cummings is set for trial on November 5, 2024.
This case was investigated by the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team (UNET). UNET is comprised of law enforcement from the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, Rapid City Police Department, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, South Dakota Highway Patrol, and the South Dakota National Guard. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Meghan Dilges and Edward Tarbay prosecuted the case.
Sanchez and McGruder were immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service following their respective sentencing.
Two Mexican Nationals Each Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Scheming to Distribute More than 1 Million Fentanyl PillsRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – Two Mexican men arrested last year in El Monte with more than 1 million fentanyl pills were each sentenced today to 10 years in federal prison.
Florencio Camacho Allan, 29, was sentenced by United States District Judge Stanley Blumenfeld Jr. to 120 months in federal prison. Judge Blumenfeld also sentenced co-defendant Gerardo Gaxiola Patiño, 30, to 120 months in federal prison.
Allan and Patiño pleaded guilty on April 2 to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl.
Another co-defendant, Alex Valdez Oroz, 26, also pleaded guilty on April 2 to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl and is scheduled for sentencing on September 10.
From September 2022 to March 2023, the defendants conspired with each other and others to knowingly distribute fentanyl. Prior to March 7, 2023, a Mexico-based drug broker arranged a deal with a buyer to sell approximately 2 million fentanyl pills. The deal was to occur in the Los Angeles area and the buyer agreed to pay approximately 75 cents per pill. As part of the deal, the buyer also agreed to first purchase a sample “box” of approximately 10,000 fentanyl pills at the same price.
On March 7, 2023, the drug broker coordinated a meeting between Allan and the buyer to occur that day at a Denny’s restaurant in El Segundo to buy the sample fentanyl pills. Later that day, Allan, Patiño, and Oroz arrived in a white car at the Denny’s. While Oroz waited in the driver’s seat of the car, Allan and Patiño met the buyer and the buyer’s associate inside the restaurant, where they discussed the plan to sell approximately 1 million more fentanyl pills later that day, and the sale of another 1 million fentanyl pills the next day.
After the meeting, Allan, Patiño, the buyer and the associate went to the white car, where Patiño retrieved a black bag, containing approximately 10,082 fentanyl pills, weighing approximately 1.1 kilograms (2.5 pounds), out of the white car and handed it to the buyer in exchange for $7,500. The three defendants then drove away.
Later that day, Allan confirmed with one of the buyers that they had possession of the larger set of pills and – via a WhatsApp video call – showed one buyer the pills, which appeared to be in the car’s trunk. They agreed to do the 1-million fentanyl pill deal in a Holiday Inn parking lot.
At the Holiday Inn, law enforcement detained Allan and Oroz in the parking lot. Officers also found and detained Patiño, who was inside the Holiday Inn lobby bathroom.
Inside the white car, law enforcement found at least three duffle bags in the trunk and back seat, each containing bundles of fentanyl pills. In total, the defendants knowingly possessed with intent to distribute approximately 1,016,270 fentanyl pills, weighing approximately 109.3 kilograms (241 pounds).
The Drug Enforcement Administration investigated this matter as part of the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program with Homeland Security Investigations, the Hawthorne Police Department, the Fullerton Police Department, the El Monte Police Department, and the California National Guard providing assistance.
Assistant United States Attorney K. Afia Bondero of the Major Frauds Section is prosecuting this case.
Two Foreign Nationals Charged in Alleged Armed Robbery of $1 Million Watch on Beverly Hills’ Rodeo DriveRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – Two South American nationals, allegedly part of a "crime tourism" group, were charged today in a federal complaint for the armed robbery of a $1 million watch. During a search of the crew's Airbnb, officers also discovered a handgun registered to notorious former Los Angeles Police Officer Christopher Dorner.
Jamer Mauricio Sepulveda Salazar, 21, of Colombia, is charged with one count of interference with commerce by robbery (Hobbs Act) and one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.
Jesus Eduardo Padron Rojas, 19, of Venezuela, is charged with one count of conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery.
Sepulveda and Padron are currently in custody and made their initial court appearances today. Sepulveda's arraignment is scheduled for September 3, and Padron's for September 19, both in the United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles.
According to the complaint affidavit, on August 7, the victim was sitting with his wife and two daughters on the patio of a restaurant at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel, when Suspect 1 allegedly approached and pointed a black semi-automatic handgun at the victim. Suspect 1 reportedly pulled back the slide of the handgun, chambering a round. While Suspect 1 held the victim at gunpoint, Suspect 2 allegedly approached and removed a silver Patek Philippe watch, which is estimated to be worth $1 million, from the victim's wrist. Both suspects then fled the scene and eventually entered a blue Toyota Corolla, where Sepulveda allegedly served as the getaway driver.
On August 10, law enforcement executed a search warrant at an Airbnb where the South American theft group had allegedly been staying. Security camera footage showed the group leaving the night before. During the search, officers found a handgun in a bedroom, which was registered to former LAPD officer Christopher Dorner, known for committing a series of murders before dying in a standoff in 2013. Later that day, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop on a Chevrolet Equinox and reportedly identified Sepulveda and Padron inside the vehicle. The Equinox was allegedly linked to another armed robbery in Beverly Hills on August 5, during which a $30,000 Rolex was stolen.
“We will not accept violent crime perpetrated by organized crime groups that exploit the freedoms of our country,” said United States Attorney Martin Estrada. “Our number one mission is to protect our community and those who undermine public safety will be held accountable. We should all be grateful for the swift actions of law enforcement in apprehending these suspects before they could cause more harm.”
Operation Safe Cities establishes strategic enforcement priorities with an emphasis on prosecuting the most significant drivers of violent crime. Across this region, the most damaging and horrific crimes are committed by a relatively small number of particularly violent individuals. This strategic enforcement approach is expected to increase the number of arrests, prosecutions and convictions of recidivists engaged in the most dangerous conduct. It is designed to improve public safety across the region by targeting crimes involving illicit guns, prohibited persons possessing firearms, or robbery crews that cause havoc and extensive losses to retail establishments.
A complaint contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.
If convicted on all counts, Sepulveda faces a statutory maximum sentence of life in federal prison, while Padron faces up to 20 years in federal prison.
Homeland Security Investigations, the Beverly Hills Police Department, and the Blythe (California) Police Department are investigating this matter.
Assistant United States Attorneys Jena A. MacCabe and Kevin J. Butler of the Violent and Organized Crime Section are prosecuting this matter.
Tulsa Man Convicted by Jury after Robbing Dominican Nationals at GunpointRead the Press Release
TULSA, Okla. – Yesterday afternoon, a federal jury returned a verdict convicting Bobbe Gene Taylor, 25, of Obstructing, Delaying, and Affecting Commerce by Robbery (Hobbs Act Robbery) and Carrying a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence.
The jury found Taylor’s co-defendant, Walter Jay Johnson, 26, of Tulsa, not guilty. Three other co-defendants, Kemareay Ki’sean Green, 25, Lerontez Sherod Hill, 39, and Jeremiah Hamlin, 40, all from Tulsa, pled guilty to Conspiracy before the trial. One other co-defendant is still awaiting trial.
“During this trial, both victims, with the aid of a translator, courageously testified and described the horrible events that took place,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “This verdict is a direct result of their cooperation and excellent police work.”
“The victims in this case were just trying to earn a living working for a contracted cleaning service when they were physically assaulted and robbed at gun point,” said FBI Oklahoma City Special Agent in Charge Doug Goodwater. “Our community deserves to see that callous acts of violence will be met with serious consequences, and the verdict handed down today is the result of our commitment to that goal. Thanks to the collaborative efforts of the FBI, the Jenks Police Department, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, these defendants will now face justice for their crimes.”
In August 2021, the FBI was investigating an unrelated case and executed a warrant on a home in Bixby. The renter returned home, believing she had been burglarized, and contacted the defendants. The renter contacted the landlord and discovered that the FBI had executed a search warrant at the home and that a third-party vendor had removed items from the home, believing it was abandoned. The victims worked for the third-party vendor and were asked to return to the home.
Both employees are Dominican Nationals and testified at trial with the aid of a translator. They described that after they arrived, they were greeted by a defendant and told to back their truck into the driveway. After they put the items back, they were confronted by the armed defendants. The first employee testified that he was struck in the face twice, which broke his nose and orbital socket. The second employee testified that he attempted to take the gun of one of the defendants, but the defendant was stronger than him. They testified about being held at gunpoint while their pockets and truck were searched. The defendants took a debit card, identifications, cellphones, an Apple Watch, a business-related iPad, and several other items from the victim's vehicle.
Both victims were released and immediately drove to a local store, where law enforcement and medical personnel were contacted. Further investigation revealed that Taylor was seen with Hill, who used the stolen credit card. Video surveillance from the store led law enforcement to Hill and Taylor’s home. After a search warrant was conducted on their home, items belonging to the victims and firearms were recovered in the home.
The recorded interview between Taylor and law enforcement was shown to the jury. Taylor contacted and requested to meet with law enforcement to discuss the search warrant on his home. During the interview, Taylor admitted that the individuals were robbed and that he should have done more to stop the entire incident.
Further investigation by law enforcement led to Green, Hamlin, and Johnson’s involvement. After Johnson was arrested, he met with law enforcement. The recorded interview was played for the jury. After being read mirandized, Johnson explained that the renter contacted him. He told law enforcement that the victims did not speak English and were trying to say that the house was vacant. He further admitted that he pushed one of the victims and witnessed the assault of the other victim.
Court documents show that Green admitted to conspiring with the defendants to confront the victims. He further admitted to carrying a firearm and witnessed the co-defendants carrying firearms. Additionally, Green knew that carrying a firearm was a substantial step and that it was foreseeable that someone would get hurt.
In Hill’s plea agreement, he admitted to conspiring with the defendants to confront the victims. Hill further admitted to striking the victim in the face and using the victim’s credit card without permission. Hill also agreed to forfeit three pistols, one rifle, several magazines, and more than 50 rounds of ammunition.
Additionally, Hamlin admitted to conspiring with the defendants to confront the victims. Before the victims arrived, Hamlin saw the defendants carry firearms into the house. When he met one of the victims in the driveway, Hamlin admittedly had his firearm on him. Inside the home, Hamlin held one of the victims against the wall while the other defendants searched the victims. By carrying a firearm, Hamlin also knew this was taking the confrontation to another level and that someone could get hurt.
Taylor, Green, Hill, and Hamlin will be sentenced separately at a later date.
The FBI and the Jenks Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth Elmore and John Brasher prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about PSN, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
Three Cruise Line Employees Indicted for Possession of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on August 8, 2024, ABDHUL ROUVOOF SHAIK (“SHAIK”), age 29, and PANKAJ SINGH BOHRA (“BOHRA”), age 34, both foreign nationals of the Republic of India, and REZA HETA PRATAMA (“PRATAMA”), age 28, a foreign national of the Republic of Indonesia, were each charged in separate indictments with Possession of Materials Involving the Sexual Exploitation of Minors, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2252(a)(4)(B) and (b)(2). If convicted, SHAIK, BOHRA, and PRATAMA each face a maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00, a period of supervised release of up to life, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.
According to court documents, SHAIK, BOHRA, and PRATAMA were all previously employed by Carnival Cruise Lines and were arrested in July 2024 after special agents with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, found all three in possession of child pornography at the Erato Street Cruise Terminal in New Orleans.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendants must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office would also like to acknowledge the assistance of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection. The prosecution of these cases is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brittany Reed of the Public Integrity Unit and Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Chief of the Financial Crimes Unit.
Thackerville Pharmacy Agrees to Pay $115,000 to Resolve Allegations of Illegally Dispensing Controlled DrugsRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Thackerville Pharmacy and its owner, Nurse Practitioner Dana Sprott, have agreed to pay $115,000.00 to settle allegations they violated the federal Controlled Substances Act.
The Complaint filed in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma on August 29, 2022, alleged that Defendants Sprott and Thackerville Pharmacy used a rubber stamp of a doctor’s signature to prescribe drugs without that doctor’s knowledge or approval.
The Complaint was the result of a Drug Enforcement Administration Diversion Unit investigation that determined at least 21 patients had prescriptions issued and filled without the knowledge of their doctor. The DEA also determined that some of the controlled substances were issued to Ms. Sprott’s family members, and controlled substances were impermissibly ordered for office inventory.
“I commend the DEA Diversion Unit for their investigative efforts to ensure that pharmacies and medical providers are legally and safely dispensing controlled drugs,” said United States Attorney Christopher J. Wilson. “This settlement illustrates the continued dedication of the U.S. Attorney’s Office to combat illegal drug distribution within the Eastern District. Thackerville Pharmacy allegedly breached its duties under the Controlled Substance Act and this monetary settlement is a mechanism to hold the pharmacy and its owner accountable.”
“The DEA will not tolerate the willful disregard of the Controlled Substances Act, especially by those who have been entrusted with a DEA registration,” said Eduardo A. Chávez, Special Agent in Charge of DEA Dallas. “Thackerville Pharmacy’s use of a rubber stamp to forge a doctor’s signature on controlled substance prescriptions is not only a violation of the Controlled Substances Act, it places the public’s health in danger. The rise of opioid use disorders is a reminder that DEA will remain committed to tirelessly and effectively fight the diversion of pharmaceutical controlled substances across the country.”
Tips and complaints concerning potential violations of the federal narcotics laws can be reported to the United States Drug Enforcement Administration’s website at dea.gov/submit-tip.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael O’Malley and Joshua M. Mitts represented the United States.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only. There has been no determination of liability.
Texas Man Sentenced to 12 Years in Prison for Stalking, Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge John A. Ross on Tuesday sentenced a man who stalked his St. Louis-area ex-girlfriends and sent them child sexual abuse material to 12 years in prison.
Cody Dean Brownlow, 41, sent threatening text and voice messages that included rape threats and files containing child sexual abuse material to an ex-girlfriend and her adult daughter in 2022, his plea agreement says. The victims reported the threats to the FBI. In April of 2023, a court-approved search of Brownlow’s home in Austin, Texas, resulted in the seizure of cell phones and other electronic devices that contained 1,601 images and 19 videos containing child pornography.
Brownlow pleaded guilty in May in U.S. District Court in St. Louis to one count of distribution of child pornography and two counts of stalking.
During the investigation, two more ex-girlfriends reported that Brownlow had harassed and threatened them and sent them child sexual abuse material, a sentencing memo filed by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nathan Chapman says. A boyfriend of one of the victims was also sent child pornography.
The FBI and the St. Louis County Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nathan Chapman prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Department of Justice Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Testing Laboratory Co-owner Sentenced for $3.8 Million in Fraudulent BillingRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Sarah E. Pitlyk on Tuesday sentenced a former St. Louis County health care company owner to 20 months in prison and fined him $100,000 for submitting more than $3.8 million in fraudulent claims to Medicare, Medicaid and private health care benefit programs.
Carlos Himpler, now 44, owned or operated a series of health care-related businesses. Himpler’s co-defendant, Dr. Franco Sicuro, owned Advanced Geriatric Management LLC (AGM) in Creve Coeur, Missouri. In the fall of 2014, Himpler and Dr. Sicuro decided to open an in-house testing lab at AGM. They also opened Genotec DX, which they held out as a clinical testing laboratory, and which was in the same building and used the same testing machine as AGM’s lab.
Himpler and Dr. Sicuro sought accreditation for both labs under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA), which set forth quality standards for laboratories. They did not disclose that both labs would employ the same part-time employee who would perform tests using the same machine. To convince CLIA to grant Genotec a final certificate of compliance in November 2015, Himpler participated in causing Genotec to make misrepresentations to CLIA, including that Genotec’s testing hours “changed” so that they no longer overlapped with AGM. The misrepresentations also included claims that AGM stopped lab running samples and transferred its employees to Genotec in July of 2015, and that Genotec did not begin running samples until July of 2015. In reality, the AGM lab continued operating after July 2015 and Genotec started testing months before then.
The pair concealed Sicuro’s co-ownership of Genotec from Medicare, Medicaid and private health care insurers, while referring urine specimens from Sicuro’s own practice, AGM, to Genotec.Himpler and Sicuro and other health care providers at AGM ordered urine toxicology tests for patients and referred those tests to AGM’s lab and Genotec, which in turn sent the samples to outside “reference” laboratories. Both men knew AGM and Genotec did not have the necessary testing equipment to confirm the amount of given toxin in the urine testing to a high degree of certainty, Himpler’s plea says. They then billed health insurers for the testing, despite knowing that Medicare, Medicaid and many private insurers bar “pass-through billing,” or billing for tests performed by others.
When health insurers became resistant to paying Genotec claims, Himpler and Sicuro in March of 2015 created another laboratory company, Midwest Toxicology Group LLC, for the purpose of billing health insurers. Midwest was a lab in name only and was not authorized to perform tests on human specimens. Himpler and Sicuro never obtained a CLIA certification or any lab equipment for Midwest. In many instances, Himpler caused Genotec and Midwest to each submit claims for the testing of the same specimen obtained from the same person on the same day of service. The pair also falsely used Genotec’s CLIA number on claims submitted under Midwest’s name.
Himpler admitted in his plea agreement that Medicare, Medicaid and private health care insurers paid $1.4 million in pass-through billing and $2.4 million in split billing.
“Today’s sentencing of Dr. Carlos Himpler demonstrates that HHS-OIG will continue to hold individuals who exploit federal health care programs accountable,” said Linda T. Hanley, Special Agent in Charge with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). "Health care providers have a responsibility to submit accurate and honest claims to federal health care programs, to ensure that these resources are available for eligible patients.”
Himpler, now of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, pleaded guilty in February in U.S. District Court in St. Louis to a felony conspiracy charge.
Dr. Sicuro pleaded guilty in November 2022 and has satisfied the restitution owed. He also agreed to forfeit $3.1 million in assets.
The FBI and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Dorothy McMurtry, Amy Sestric and Kyle Bateman prosecuted the case.
Tennessee Man Sentenced for Passing Fake $100 Bills in St. Louis AreaRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Rodney W. Sippel on Tuesday sentenced a man who passed $3,300 in counterfeit money in Missouri stores in 2023 to 20 months in prison.
Barry Young, 45, of Memphis, Tenn., traveled to the St. Louis area in February and March of 2023, using between one and four fake $100 bills at a time at various stores to purchase merchandise. Young targeted stores in Arnold, Fenton, Brentwood, St. Louis County and Crestwood. He also victimized a store in Perryville, in southeastern Missouri.Young pleaded guilty in April to one felony count of passing counterfeit obligations.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Secret Service, the Arnold Police Department, the Fenton Police Department, the Brentwood Police Department, the St. Louis County Police Department, the Crestwood Police Department and the Perryville Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Roy prosecuted the case.
Two Men Convicted of Federal KidnappingRead the Press Release
DETROIT – Cortez Blake, 23, and Nasir Lewis, 24, both from Detroit, were convicted of kidnapping by a federal jury yesterday, United States Attorney Dawn N. Ison announced. Ison was joined in the announced by Special Agent in Charge James M. Deir of the ATF in Michigan. The convictions followed an eight-day jury trial before United States District Judge Laurie J. Michelson.
During the trial, the jury heard evidence that the defendants worked with others to kidnap and beat their victim. The kidnappers wrongly believed the victim took part in a carjacking and the kidnapping was to retaliate and extract information from the victim. According to the testimony, a group of armed men took the victim from Sinai-Grace Hospital. The kidnappers first drove the victim to an empty lot in Detroit where the victim was beaten. The kidnappers then took the victim to a residence controlled by Blake, where the victim was held at gunpoint and beaten intermittently for hours. Finally, the victim was abandoned miles away on the roadside.
Seven people were charged with conspiracy to kidnap and kidnapping from this incident. With today’s verdicts, five people have been convicted. In addition to Blake and Lewis, Maijah Greene, 24, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to kidnap; Shatonnia Kimbrough, 21, pleaded guilty to kidnapping; and Armond Williams, 22, pleaded guilty to kidnapping.
The trial of a sixth individual, Semaj Ayers, remains pending.
The final defendant, Karamoh Turner, was acquitted at trial. Turner still faces charges of aggravated identity theft and wire fraud in federal court.
Two additional people were convicted of the carjacking that precipitated the kidnapping. Jamar Lee-Stinson pleaded guilty to carjacking and discharging a firearm during a crime of violence and was sentenced to 141 months in prison in May 2024. Amiaya Bryant also pleaded guilty to carjacking and discharging a firearm during a crime of violence and was sentenced to 120 months in prison in June 2024
All of the defendants remain in custody. Each of the defendants convicted of kidnapping or conspiracy to kidnap face up to life in prison, a $250,000 fine, and not more than 5 years of supervised release.
“So often, one terrible crime spins into a cycle of violence and retribution. And too often, those cycles end tragically—with death, injury, and incarceration. We will continue to try to prevent violent crime in the first place, and my office is also committed to trying to interrupt cycles of violence before they spin out of control. So let me say clearly, if you are victimized, let us do our job and settle it in the courtroom. Because if you retaliate, these verdicts should make clear that we will use every tool we have to seek justice,” said U.S. Attorney Ison.
“Cortez Blake and Nasir Lewis represent the “worst of the worst” offenders calling Detroit home. There is no excuse for what they did. They kidnapped and beat a citizen of Detroit with an illegal firearm. They are common-day thugs who put their gang membership and loyalty above everything else, including their humanity. In my experience, these folks represent the most deserving candidates for federal prosecution. ATF and our law enforcement partners remain resolute in holding violent gang members who terrorize our community members accountable for gun violence,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge James Deir.
The United States Attorney’s Office and the ATF are focused on prosecuting those individuals who are using firearms to commit violent acts against people in the Eastern District of Michigan. The strategy is a part of the United States Attorney’s Office’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) initiative. PSN continues to be the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders works together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. PSN is an evidence-based program that focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs to pursue lasting reductions in crime.
These charges are just some of the tangible results of this joint effort. The United States Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners will continue to work together to reduce violence in our communities. Along with ATF, this case has been investigated with the assistance of the Office of Inspector General – U.S. Department of Labor, the United States Marshals Service, the Detroit Police Department’s Gang Intelligence Unit, and the Michigan Department of Corrections.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the InternetRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Lawrence L. Piersol has sentenced a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet. The sentencing took place on August 12, 2024.
Southy Thepmontry, age 69, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100. Thepmontry also forfeited the cell phone used to commit the crime and must register as a sex offender once he is released from federal prison.
Thepmontry was indicted by a federal grand jury in March of 2024. He pleaded guilty on May 22, 2024.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on March 21, 2024, when Thepmontry used his cell phone to attempt to coerce an undercover agent posing as a 15-year-old female to engage in sexual activity. His conversation occurred on Facebook over the course of ten days. Thepmontry offered to pay the 15-year-old girl money in exchange for sex and was arrested at the meeting location where he possessed his cell phone and cash he withdrew from an ATM on his way.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by HSI and the South Dakota Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
Thepmontry was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Shreveport Woman Charged with Aiming Laser Pointer at Aircraft Pleads Guilty in Federal CourtRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced the entry of a guilty plea today by April Nicole Poitras, 45, of Shreveport, Louisiana. Poitras appeared before United States District Judge S. Maurice Hicks, Jr. and entered her guilty plea to two counts of aiming a laser pointer at an aircraft.
According to information presented in court, on August 15, 2023, a Cessna 172L flying at approximately 3,500 feet over Caddo Parish, Louisiana was illuminated by a green laser from the ground. Law enforcement officers responded to the area by vehicle and by helicopter. While responding to the scene, the police helicopter, an Airbus H125, was also illuminated by a green laser from the ground. With the assistance of the police helicopter, a deputy with the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office went to the location where the laser originated and found Poitras standing in a yard, holding a laser pointer.
Poitras admitted to knowingly aiming the laser pointer at both aircraft and their flight paths. She purchased the laser pointer and admitted to aiming at several aircraft that night.
Poitras faces a sentence of up to 5 years in prison, 3 years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General, Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office, Blanchard Police Department and Baltimore Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Seth D. Reeg.
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Sex Offender Pleads Guilty to Child Exploitation Offense, Admits Violating Supervised ReleaseRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MICHAEL SZWARC, 36, of Derby, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Omar A. Williams in Hartford to a child exploitation offense, and admitted that he violated the conditions of his supervised release from a prior federal conviction.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Szwarc was convicted in 2013 in state court of possession of child pornography in the second degree, and in 2022 in federal court of receipt of child pornography.
In January 2024, while Szwarc was on federal supervised release, his federal probation officer conducted an unannounced visit to his home and discovered Szwarc in possession of an unauthorized laptop. The probation officer seized the laptop. A subsequent forensic examination of the device revealed multiple images of child pornography. The investigation revealed that Szwarc used the dark web to access websites used to traffic and distribute child pornography.
Szwarc pleaded guilty to and accessing with intent to view child pornography, an offense that carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. The penalties in this matter are enhanced because of Szwarc’s prior federal and state convictions for possessing child pornography.
Szwarc has been detained since his arrest on February 9, 2024. A sentencing date is not scheduled.
This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel E. Cummings.
This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.
San Diego Man Indicted for Sending Threatening Communication to LGBTQ VictimRead the Press Release
NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY – August 13, 2024
SAN DIEGO – George Joseph Wellinger II of San Diego made his first appearance in federal court today to face charges that he sent a threatening email to a member of the LGBTQ community.
The victim was targeted after being interviewed for a KTLA news report about a hate-inspired murder in Lake Arrowhead in 2023.
According to the indictment, the email called the victim “another alphabet clown that wants to take a dirt nap, too,” and included a link to the KTLA news report which featured the victim and others discussing the murder of a Lake Arrowhead business owner who had been gunned down for hanging a Pride flag in her business.
The email continued: “We know what you look like and know where are you are....only a matter of time....Love it....get ur ghey on sister....scissor it up....we coming for ur rainbow azz. Click Click!!!!;
Wellinger was arraigned on an indictment charging him with Transmitting a Threatening Communication. The indictment alleges Wellinger targeted his victim because of her sexual orientation.
“Hate crimes are designed to terrify both the victim and the community,” said U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath. “The U. S. Attorney’s Office works tirelessly on prosecuting these cases to send our own message: San Diego is no place for hate.”
“Today’s indictment serves as a reminder there is no room for hate in our community,” said Stacey Moy, Special Agent in Charge for the FBI San Diego Field Office. “Hate crimes remain one of the top FBI priorities and we will continue to protect and safeguard our communities.”
Wellinger was taken into custody early today and at today’s hearing, U.S. Magistrate Judge Barbara L. Major set a $50,000 bond and ordered home detention and electronic monitoring.
If you or anyone you know believes you have been the victim of a hate crime, please contact the FBI at https://tips.fbi.gov/home. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jacqueline M. Jimenez and Alicia Williams are prosecuting this case.
DEFENDANT Case Number: 24-CR-1591
George Joseph Wellinger II Age: 48 San Diego, CA
CHARGE
Transmitting a Threatening Communication - Title 18 U.S.C., § 875(c)
Maximum penalty: Five years in prison
INVESTIGATING AGENCY
Federal Bureau of Investigation
For more information and resources about the department’s work to combat hate crimes, visit https://www.justice.gov/hatecrimes.
*The charges and allegations contained in an indictment or complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.
SCDC Inmate Sentenced to Federal Prison for Trafficking 350 Kilograms of Meth with Contraband PhonesRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Benjamin Johnathan Newman, 38, an inmate in the South Carolina Department of Corrections (SCDC), was sentenced to more than 26 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and heroin.
Newman has been incarcerated in the state prison system since 2012, serving a 25-year sentence for drug trafficking. SCDC has seized 16 illegal contraband cellphones from Newman during his time in SCDC, according to evidence presented in court.
Newman used those contraband phones to lead a large-scale drug distribution operation since at least January 2018. Newman used the phones to order the importation of large quantities of methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine, and marijuana, including directly from sources in Mexico. Newman recruited drivers to pick up the drugs in Georgia, Texas, and Florida and to deliver the drugs to stash houses in the Lexington County area, where the conspiracy would then supply drug dealers in South Carolina. The conspiracy also used threats of violence to protect against cooperation with law enforcement and to protect its drug supply.
More than 350 kilograms of methamphetamine, four kilograms of heroin, nearly one kilogram of cocaine, 18 kilograms of marijuana, and 250 grams of crack cocaine were distributed in South Carolina by Newman and the conspiracy.
Newman and each of his seven co-defendants have been convicted in federal court. Four have been sentenced by United States District Judge Sherri A. Lydon:
- Benjamin Johnathan Newman, 38, of Lexington, was sentenced to 320 months in federal prison to be followed by five years of court-ordered supervision.
- Chelsea Grace Wynn, 32, of Lexington, was sentenced to 220 months in federal prison to be followed by five years of supervision.
- Nehemiah Jimmy Mayes, III, 29, of Lexington, was sentenced to 170 months to be followed by five years of supervision.
- Josiah Daniel Dailey, 38, of Aynor, was sentenced to 63 months to be followed by five years of supervision.
“Some of our highest volume drug traffickers are working from a prison cell,” said Adair Ford Boroughs, U.S. Attorney for the District of South Carolina. “We thank Director Stirling and the investigators at the South Carolina Department of Corrections for their work to put an end to their continued criminal conduct.”
“This man is a very large-scale drug dealer in South Carolina, and he was able to continue his crimes from behind bars using illegal cellphones,” SCDC Director Bryan Stirling said. “His conviction highlights the urgent need for state prisons to be able to jam illegal contraband cell phones. I am grateful to the U.S. Attorney and everyone involved for helping us bring this criminal to justice.”
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, and the South Carolina Department of Corrections Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elliott B. Daniels and E. Elizabeth Major are prosecuting the case.
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Rosebud Man Sentenced for Several Counts of Sexual Abuse of a Minor and Abusive Sexual ContactRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court, has sentenced a Rosebud, South Dakota, man convicted of three counts of Sexual Abuse of a Minor and two counts of Abusive Sexual Contact. The sentencing took place on August 9, 2024.
Shane Mousseaux, age 37, was sentenced to 11 years and three months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $500.
Mousseaux was indicted by a federal grand jury in November of 2022. Mousseaux was convicted at trial on April 18, 2024.
The conviction stemmed from incidents between August 6, 2020, and June 21, 2022, when Mousseaux, who lived on the Yankton Sioux Reservation with his then-girlfriend and her children, engaged in multiple sexual acts with one of his then-girlfriend’s daughters, who was 14-15 years old at the time. Between May 1, 2022, and June 21, 2022, Mousseaux engaged in sexual contact with another one of his then-girlfriend’s daughters, who was 14 years old at the time.
This matter is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian Country be prosecuted in federal court as opposed to State court.
This case was investigated by the FBI and Yankton Sioux Law Enforcement. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ann M. Hoffman and Paige Petersen prosecuted the case.
Mousseaux was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.