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31 July 2024
Felon Who Robbed St. Louis Pizza Delivery Driver Sentenced to 9 1/2 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Henry E. Autrey on Wednesday sentenced a convicted felon who robbed a pizza delivery driver at gunpoint to nine and one-half years in prison.
Antione L. Shockley ordered wings and two pizzas and had them delivered to a vacant home in the Central West End neighborhood of St. Louis on April 13, 2023. When the driver arrived, Shockley stepped out of a gangway and demanded the food at gunpoint.
On June 24, 2023, Shockley fired a handgun into the air in a school zone. After St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department officers arrived, Shockley gave the gun to a woman, then pulled a stolen Ruger from his waistband and a rifle from inside his pants and dropped them on the ground. After he was arrested and while he was being booked by police, Shockley struck an officer, injuring the officer’s head.
Shockley is a convicted felon and is thus barred from possessing firearms.
As part of his agreement with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the St. Louis Circuit Attorney’s Office to resolve all charges, Shockley has pleaded guilty to firearm and resisting arrest charges in St. Louis Circuit Court, where he was sentenced in January to seven years in prison.
Shockley, 26, pleaded guilty in January in U.S. District Court in St. Louis to one robbery charge and one count of possession of a firearm as a convicted felon.
The case was investigated by the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary Bluestone prosecuted the case.
Fact Sheet: Justice Department Actions to Counter the Scourge of Fentanyl and Other Synthetic DrugsRead the Press Release
Over the past several years, the Justice Department has focused on breaking apart every link in the global fentanyl supply chain – from China to Mexico to the United States.
Since the beginning of 2021, the Justice Department has:
- Extradited over 50 cartel members from Mexico to the United States; and
- Charged a dozen Chinese chemical companies and two dozen of their executives for shipping fentanyl precursor chemicals into Mexico and the United States.
This effort has been spearheaded by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the United States’ lead counter-narcotic law enforcement agency.
In 2024 alone, the DEA has:
- Seized over 30 million fentanyl pills and over 4,100 pounds of fentanyl powder, which represents over 208 million deadly doses; and
- Arrested over 2,100 individuals for fentanyl related charges working with its law enforcement partners.
As Attorney General Merrick B. Garland has said, “Fentanyl is the deadliest drug threat our country has ever faced, and the Justice Department will not rest until every single cartel leader, member, and associate responsible for poisoning our communities is held accountable.”
Arresting and prosecuting cartel leaders, members, and their associates:
- In April 2023, the Justice Department announced charges against several leaders of the Sinaloa Cartel, a transnational drug trafficking organization based in Sinaloa, Mexico, and its facilitators across the globe.
- In October 2023, the Justice Department announced the extradition of Ovidio Guzman Lopez, son of Joaquin Guzman Loera, also known as El Chapo, from Mexico to the United States.
- In April 2024, the Justice Department charged 41 individuals in a 50-count indictment alleging cocaine, fentanyl, heroin, and meth trafficking and related crimes, all operating under the control of the Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generacion (the Jalisco Cartel or CJNG).
- In May 2024, the Justice Department announced the extradition of Néstor Isidro Pérez Salas, also known as El Nini, who the Department alleges was one of the Sinaloa Cartel’s lead sicarios, or assassins.
- In May 2024, the Justice Department announced the extradition of Francisco Pulido after he allegedly supplied the Jalisco Cartel with precursor chemicals used to manufacture controlled substances.
- In July 2024, the Attorney General announced the arrests of alleged leaders of the Sinaloa Cartel, Ismael Zambada Garcia (El Mayo) and Joaquin Guzman Lopez, another son of El Chapo. Both men are facing multiple charges in the United States for leading the Cartel’s criminal operations, including its deadly fentanyl manufacturing and trafficking networks. El Mayo and Guzman Lopez join a growing list of Sinaloa Cartel leaders and associates who the Justice Department is holding accountable in the United States.
- In the course of the investigation into the Chapitos network, the FBI and the DEA have arrested several high-profile targets, and the DEA has conducted operations in 10 countries and seized staggering amounts of illicit materials, including over 2.5 million fentanyl-laced pills, 105 kilograms of fentanyl powder, and 37 kilograms of fentanyl precursor chemicals, amounting to 22,747,441 potentially lethal doses.
Disrupting the chemical precursor supply chain:
- The Justice Department, DEA, and FBI have and will continue to aggressively investigate and prosecute every link in the fentanyl supply chain, including the chemical companies and executives in the People’s Republic of China supplying the ingredients used to make this deadly drug.
- On Oct. 3, 2023, the Justice Department announced the unsealing of eight indictments charging China-based companies and their employees with crimes relating to fentanyl and methamphetamine production, distribution of synthetic opioids, and sales resulting from precursor chemicals.
- In February 2024, the Department obtained a nearly 19-year sentence of a defendant responsible for importing tons of fentanyl precursor chemicals from China into Mexico as part of the Jalisco Cartel’s fentanyl trafficking operations.
- In May 2024, the Department extradited another of CJNG’s alleged key chemical suppliers.
- In June 2024, the Justice Department announced a 10-count superseding indictment following a multi-year investigation, named “Operation Fortune Runner,” charging associates of the Sinaloa Cartel with conspiring with money laundering groups linked to Chinese underground banking to launder drug trafficking proceeds. Following the Department’s announcement, China and Mexico took law enforcement actions to arrest fugitives named in the indictment who fled the United States after they were initially charged last year.
Additional actions to counter fentanyl’s fatal impact:
- Over the past year, the Justice Department has convicted dozens of defendants of distributing fentanyl that resulted in the death of the victim, leading courts to impose lengthy terms of incarceration on these drug dealers, including:
- New York Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for Conspiring to Distribute Fentanyl That Contributed to Two Poisoning Deaths
- California Drug Dealer Sentenced to 78 Months in Fatal Fentanyl Overdose of U.S. Marine
- Texas Men Sentenced to Decades in Prison for Supplying Fentanyl and Other Drugs Sold on Darknet and Causing Fatal ODs
- Tennessee Man Sentenced to Life In Prison For Role In Fentanyl Overdose Death
- Florida Man Sentenced To 40 Years In Prison For Distributing Fentanyl Resulting In Death
- DEA started Operation OD Justice to devote resources to fatal poisoning investigations and provide training to federal, state, and local partners. DEA created Fentanyl Overdose Response Teams in 22 offices across the United States; the teams provide investigative support to fatal poisoning investigations. Every DEA division also has an Overdose Response Coordinator for DEA’s federal, state, and local partners. Since 2023, DEA has worked over 350 poisoning investigations with partners.
- DEA has launched the “One Pill Can Kill” enforcement effort and public awareness campaign. DEA and law enforcement partners have seized millions of fake illicit fentanyl-laced prescription pills and hundreds of pounds of illicit fentanyl powder — millions of potentially lethal doses. In 2024, DEA expanded the One Pill Can Kill public awareness campaign to include a partnership with the NFL Alumni Health Association and launching the One Pill Can Kill Game Over esports tournament.
Targeting criminal enterprises on the Darknet:
- The Joint Criminal Opioid and Darknet Enforcement (JCODE) team is a Justice Department initiative led by the FBI with a mission to target and disrupt criminal enterprises utilizing the Darknet or online platforms to facilitate drug trafficking, specifically opioids. JCODE led Operation SpecTor, a coordinated international law enforcement effort that resulted in 288 arrests and the seizure of 117 firearms, 850 kilograms of drugs, and $53.4 million in cash and cryptocurrency.
- JCODE’s successes include the arrest of an individual operating under the name “Redlightlabs,” who sold approximately 3,800 drug transactions between May-Nov 2022, totaling over 123,000 potentially lethal fentanyl pills, approximately 20 pounds of methamphetamine, and other illicit narcotics. After the FBI arrested the subject, a review of buyer data identified 15 drug overdose victims who purchased fentanyl-laced pills from “Redlightlabs.”
Building partnerships to combat transnational organized crime:
- The DEA is combating the availability of illegal pill presses by working with online retailers to educate them about the sale of pill presses and components used in the production of deadly fake pills. In February 2024, DEA issued a letter to e-commerce companies regarding their responsibility as regulated entities to comply with the recordkeeping, identification, and reporting requirements of the Controlled Substances Act as it relates to the distribution, importation, and exportation of pill press equipment.
- The FBI has dedicated additional resources to combat transnational organized crime on the front lines throughout Mexico and South and Central America, where the threat is emanating. Assistant Legal Attaches work with international partners to further investigations with U.S interests. The FBI also expands its presence in Mexico through Border Liaison Officers, a dedicated team of agents positioned in FBI Offices along the southwest border with unique authority to routinely work matters of U.S interests in Mexico. The FBI also works with nearly 3,000 task force officers across almost 300 task forces engaged in combating gangs and criminal enterprises that drive the fentanyl crisis.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) continues to work to choke off cartels’ access to weapons through Operation Southbound, the Department’s signature initiative to disrupt the trafficking of firearms from the United States to Mexico.
FCI Allenwood Inmate Charged with Possession of A Weapon and A Controlled SubstanceRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Thomas Burton, age 48, a New York City native, was indicted on July 30, 2024, by a federal grand jury for possessing a weapon and controlled substance while being an inmate in prison.
According to United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam, the indictment alleges that Burton was discovered to be in possession of a homemade shank and synthetic marijuana on June 19, 2024.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI). Assistant United States Attorney Sarah R. Lloyd is prosecuting the case.
The maximum penalty under federal law for possessing a weapon in prison is five years imprisonment, three years of supervision, and a fine. The maximum penalty under federal law for possessing a controlled substance in prison is one year of imprisonment, one year of supervision, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
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Eight People Charged in 23-Count Narcotics Trafficking and Felon in Possession IndictmentRead the Press Release
MIAMI – Seven residents of Florida were charged in a 23-count indictment for their respective involvement in a conspiracy to distribute cocaine, fentanyl and oxycodone. An eighth defendant was charged with being a felon in unlawful possession of a firearm.
Michael Donaldson, 37, of Clearview, Leo Gilbert 35, of Miami Gardens, Jamare Andre Gardner, a/k/a “Maury,” 25, of Miami Gardens, Deshun Richard James, 36, Jose Albert Ruiz, 34, of Miami, Kim Whitehurst, a/k/a “A-Boy,” 31, of Miami, and Hasani Nesbitt, a/k/a "Get Right,” 45, of Miami Gardens, were charged with conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance and distribution of a controlled substance within 1,000 feet of a school. The indictment charges that cocaine, oxycodone and methamphetamine were distributed within 1,000 feet of south Florida schools. Donte Ike Gosha, 37, of Miami Gardens, was charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
On July 29, Donaldson, Gosha, Whitehurst, Gardner, and Gilbert were arrested in Miami-Dade County, Fla. On July 30, Donaldson, Gosha, Whitehurst, Gardner, and Gilbert had their initial appearances on the indictment.
U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida, Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey B. Veltri of the FBI, Miami Field Office, Chief Delma Noel-Pratt of the Miami Gardens Police Department, and Special Agent in Charge Christopher A. Robinson of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), Miami Field Division, made the announcement.
The FBI, Miami Gardens Police Department, and ATF investigated the case. The Safe Streets Violent Gang Task Force (SSVGTF), to include participants from the U.S. Secret Service, City of Miami Police Department, and Miami-Dade Police Department, provided invaluable assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorney Marc Chattah is prosecuting the case.
An indictment contains mere allegations, and all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
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.
This investigation was carried out by members of the South Florida High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force. The South Florida HIDTA, established in 1990, is made up of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies who, cooperatively, target the region’s drug-trafficking and money laundering organizations. The South Florida HIDTA is funded by the Office of National Drug Control Policy, which sponsors a variety of initiatives focused on the nation’s illicit drug trafficking threats.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida at www.justice.gov/usao-sdfl.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case number 24-cr-20282.
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Detroit Man Sentenced to Prison for Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Derek Romel Glaze, also known as “Zeke,” 32, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced today to eight years in prison, to be followed by four years of supervised release, for distribution of 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on December 1, 2022, Glaze sold approximately 110 grams of methamphetamine to a confidential informant in a vehicle on the 800 block of Marcum Terrace in Huntington. Glaze admitted to the transaction and to arranging it with the confidential informant beforehand.
Glaze further admitted to selling approximately 11 grams of fentanyl to a confidential informant on November 30, 2022, and approximately 29.5 grams of methamphetamine to a confidential informant on January 17, 2023.
Law enforcement officers arrested Glaze on February 7, 2023. Glaze admitted that he told investigators that he received methamphetamine and fentanyl on consignment and distributed it in the Huntington area. Glaze further admitted that he distributed at least 20 pounds of methamphetamine during the preceding six months.
United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Cabell County Sheriff's Office.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:23-cr-20.
Deltona Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida –United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Jatarius Nyquan Horne (27, Deltona) today pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon. Horne faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to court documents, on July 3, 2022, officers with the Orlando Police Department stopped a vehicle on West Central Boulevard, in Orlando, after they observed the vehicle bearing two different license plates from two separate states. When they approached the vehicle, officers observed marijuana in plain view. Officers removed the vehicle’s occupants, including Horne, who had a loaded 9mm handgun in his waistband. Horne had been previously convicted of multiple felony offenses, including fleeing to elude and burglary. Therefore, he is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Orlando Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Aakash Singh.
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.
Delaware County Man Sentenced to 90 Months in Prison for Using Explosives to Try to Rob Six Area ATMsRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced that Cushmir McBride, 25, of Yeadon, PA, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Joshua D. Wolson to 90 months’ imprisonment, three years of supervised release, $417,463 in restitution, and a $300 special assessment for setting off explosives near ATMs inside a Target, a Wells Fargo bank branch, and Wawa stores.
McBride and two others were charged in connection with those crimes in an April 2021 indictment and a January 2022 superseding indictment. In January of this year, McBride pleaded guilty to conspiracy to maliciously damage property used in interstate commerce by means of an explosive, and aiding and abetting, as well as five separate counts of maliciously damaging property used in interstate commerce by means of an explosive.
Several of the crimes took place in the aftermath of the October 26, 2020, Philadelphia police officer-involved shooting in the Cobbs Creek section of Philadelphia that resulted in the death of Walter Wallace, Jr. Peaceful protests began that evening and continued into the following days, accompanied by a period of civil unrest, with widespread incidents of looting and violence in various neighborhoods in Philadelphia.
On October 28, 2020, McBride and codefendants Nasser McFall, 25, of Claymont, DE, and Kamar Thompson, 37, of Philadelphia, PA, conspired to break into a Target in the Port Richmond section of Philadelphia and set off an explosive device in order to steal money from an ATM inside. The following day, October 29, the defendants broke into a Wawa on Richmond Street in Philadelphia, where they again set off explosive devices in order to steal money from the ATM. On October 31, 2020, the defendants broke into another Wawa in Northeast Philadelphia and detonated an explosive device. On November 4, 2020, the defendants set off an explosive device in another Wawa in Claymont, DE, in an attempt to rob this store in the same manner, and on December 2, 2020, the three defendants set off an explosive device inside an ATM at a Wells Fargo bank in Philadelphia. McBride was also charged with setting off an explosive device at a Wells Fargo ATM in Philadelphia on March 2, 2021. In total, the defendants were able to steal approximately $417,000 during the course of the conspiracy.
Thompson pleaded guilty in November 2021 to conspiracy to maliciously damage property used in interstate commerce by means of an explosive, and aiding and abetting, six counts of maliciously damaging property used in interstate commerce by means of an explosive, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
McFall pleaded guilty to five counts against him in June 2022, and in January of this year was sentenced by the late U.S. District Judge Gene E.K. Pratter to 78 months’ imprisonment, three years of supervised release, and restitution in the amount of $256,083.
“McBride and crew carried out a string of violent and dangerous crimes, looking to cash in with a bang,” said U.S. Attorney Romero. “Whether you rob a bank with a note, a store with a gun, or an ATM with an explosive, you’re committing a serious federal crime and should expect to be caught and prosecuted. As this defendant and his co-conspirators are learning, crime not only doesn’t pay, it can also cost you dearly.”
“McBride caused significant damage and endangered countless lives by recklessly blowing up ATMs with illegal explosive devices at least six times,” said Eric DeGree, Special Agent in Charge of ATF’s Philadelphia Field Office. “ATF is committed to protecting our communities from harm and working with our law enforcement partners to disrupt violent explosives-related activity. I want to thank the Philadelphia Police Department, Philadelphia Fire Marshals Office, Delaware State Police, Upper Chichester Police Department, and the United States Attorney’s Office for their efforts in this case.”
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Philadelphia Police Department, with assistance from Delaware State Police and Upper Chichester Police Department and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert E. Eckert and Special Assistant United States Attorney David Osborne.
Dale City man found with drugs, firearms, and an extensive shoe collectionRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A Dale City man pled guilty today to possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime.
According to court documents, on Jan. 18, 2024, the U.S. Marshals Service’s Capital Area Regional Task Force located Sirri Webb, 40, for whom they had an arrest warrant, in an apartment in Lorton. The apartment was rented in the name of another person who did not know Webb was using the apartment, had not given Webb permission to use the apartment, and gave law enforcement consent to enter the apartment. After knocking and announcing their presence several times with no response, law enforcement entered the apartment, defeating a brace securing the door from the inside.
As law enforcement apprehended Webb, officers observed in plain view a scale with white residue, loose baggies, loose ammunition on the floor, a shotgun resting against a wall, various drugs, large quantities of cash, and a collection of size 12 shoes. Officers seized 745 grams of cocaine, 526 grams of cocaine base, 20 Oxycodone pills, 42 grams of N,N-Dimethylpentylon, a .357 caliber handgun, three 9mm handguns, a .40 caliber handgun, a .38 caliber handgun, an AK47, a 12-gauge shotgun, assorted ammunition, a high-capacity drum magazine, a bulletproof vest, a frame device for stabilized shooting, and $7,080.
Webb is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 1. He faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison for the possession with intent to distribute cocaine charge and a mandatory minimum of five years and up to life in prison to be served consecutively with any other term of imprisonment for the firearm charge. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Shannon Saylor, U.S. Marshal for the Eastern District of Virginia; Kevin Davis, Fairfax County Chief of Police; and Jarod Forget, Special Agent in Charge for the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Washington Division, made the announcement after Senior U.S. District Judge Claude M. Hilton accepted the plea.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ronald L. Walutes Jr. is prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:24-cr-66.
Crystal Springs Man Pleads Guilty to Brandishing a Firearm During a Carjacking in JacksonRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – A Crystal Springs man pled guilty to brandishing a firearm while carjacking a woman in front of her home in Jackson.
According to court documents, Christopher Lawrence Murray, 31, brandished a pistol during a carjacking in the Jackson area. In May of 2021, Murray and another man approached a woman sitting in her car in front of her home. Working in tandem, both men pointed pistols at the woman and demanded she hand over her cellular phone and the keys to her car. The woman, at gunpoint, complied with the demands and the men left in the woman’s car.
Murray was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 6, 2023. He pled guilty today to brandishing a firearm in relation to a crime of violence. He is scheduled to be sentenced on October 29, 2024, and faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 7 years and a maximum penalty of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
“We are working to reduce carjackings in Jackson by prosecuting offenders in federal court and bringing together federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to identify and arrest individuals and groups involved in carjacking,” said U.S. Attorney Todd Gee.
In an effort to focus resources on carjacking in Jackson, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the FBI, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Jackson Police Department and the Capitol Police Department formed a carjacking task force in April of 2024. In keeping with the Justice Department’s Comprehensive Strategy for Reducing Violent Crime, the task force represents a strategic enforcement priority for the department, focusing federal resources on identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the most significant drivers of violent crime.
U.S. Attorney Todd W. Gee and Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives made the announcement.
The Jackson Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Bert Carraway is prosecuting the case.
Convicted Felon Sentenced to More Than 7 Years in Federal Prison for Possessing A FirearmRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Paul G. Byron has sentenced Tramon Jamal Stewart (23, Orlando) to seven years and three months in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. The court also ordered Stewart to forfeit a Glock 34 9mm pistol, which was involved in his offense. Stewart entered a guilty plea on April 4, 2024.
According to court documents, on September 27, 2023, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office Gang Enforcement Unit located Stewart to serve a felony arrest warrant. As law enforcement officers approached Stewart, a multi-convicted felon, he fled, jumped a nearby fence, and fell to the ground where he was apprehended. Officers searched Stewart and found a handgun loaded with 22 rounds of ammunition in the magazine and 1 round in the chamber. The handgun had been stolen out of Suwannee County, Florida, and casings from the handgun matched casings from an Orlando shooting in 2023.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Orange County Sherriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Adam J. Nate.
This case was part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (“PSN”), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department of Justice launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on the following core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Convicted Felon Pleads Guilty to Firearms TraffickingRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Quincy man pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston to distributing fentanyl to obtain four firearms.
Caesar Ross, 40, pleaded guilty to one count of firearms trafficking and one count of distribution and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. Ross was arrested and charged in September of 2023 and has been in custody since his arrest. Today he pleaded guilty to an Information. U.S. District Court Chief Judge Dennis F. Saylor IV scheduled sentencing for Oct. 29, 2024.
In 2022, an investigation began into Ross and others for engaging in firearms trafficking and other violations of federal firearm laws. In September 2023, Ross met with a cooperating witness in Quincy to whom he provided approximately 60 grams of fentanyl in exchange for four firearms, each of which had no visible serial number: a Beretta 92F, 9mm pistol; a Beretta Elite IA 9mm pistol; a Glock 22, .40 caliber pistol; and a FN Herstal 5.7, 5.7x28mm pistol. Ross was immediately taken into custody.
The charge of firearms trafficking provides for a sentence of up to 15 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of distribution and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, at least three years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $1 million. 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 James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Feld Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Division and the Quincy Police Department.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.
Contract Criminals Indicted; Ending Campaign of Arsons, Poisonings and ViolenceRead the Press Release
MIAMI – A superseding indictment was returned today charging Florida residents Bayron Bennett, 33, of Miami, Fausto Villar, a/k/a “Cuba,” 42, of Miami, Avery Bivins, 36, of Miami Gardens, Clementa Johnson, 47, of Tallahassee, Vernon Green, 53, of Miami, Diori Barnard, 47, of Miami, Jerren Keith Howard, a/k/a “Blood,” a/k/a “Omerta Bloody,” 38, of Miami, Michael Jose Dulfo, a/k/a “Mike Dulfo,” a/k/a “Mike D,” 42, of Miami, and Edner Etienne 27, of Miami, for their respective involvement in a campaign to stalk, torment and attempt to kill a victim. If convicted, the defendants face a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
According to the court record to include the superseding indictment, since roughly 2022, the victim was subjected to a protracted stalking and attempted murder campaign involving criminal acts to include, multiple arsons, poisonings, an automobile crash, and an instance where contract criminals brandished a firearm in furtherance of a plot to kill the victim. As part of this investigation, law enforcement learned that the scheme against the targeted victim was accompanied by efforts to obstruct justice.
U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida; Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey B. Veltri of the FBI, Miami Field Office; Special Agent in Charge Deanne L. Reuter of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Miami Field Division; Chief of Police Manuel A. Morales of the Miami Police Department (MPD); Director Stephanie V. Daniels of the Miami-Dade Police Department (MDPD); Special Agent in Charge Felipe Williams of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE); Bureau Chief Darrell Wilson Sr. of the Florida Department of Financial Services, Bureau of Fire, Arson, and Explosives Investigations; Sheriff Michelle Cook of the Clay County Sheriff’s Office; Special Agent in Charge Kristin Rehler of the FBI, Jacksonville Field Office, and Chief of Police Jason Cohen of the Pinecrest Police Department, made the announcement.
U.S. Attorney Lapointe commended the law enforcement agencies involved with this investigation for their efforts and assistance.
This is an ongoing investigation. Anyone with information is encouraged to call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or file a report at tips.fbi.gov.
Special Prosecutions Section Assistant U.S. Attorneys Abbie D. Waxman, Brian Dobbins, and Ignacio J. Vázquez, Jr. are prosecuting this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Stone is handling asset forfeiture.
An indictment contains mere allegations, and all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
This case involves acts of alleged domestic violence. Domestic violence can be physical, sexual, emotional, economic, psychological, or technological actions or threats of actions or other patterns of coercive behavior that influence another person within an intimate partner relationship. This includes any behaviors that intimidate, manipulate, humiliate, isolate, frighten, terrorize, coerce, threaten, blame, hurt, injure, or wound someone. Domestic violence can happen to anyone regardless of race, age, sexual orientation, religion, sex, or gender identity. Domestic violence affects people of all socioeconomic backgrounds and education levels. Domestic violence occurs in both opposite-sex and same-sex relationships and can happen to intimate partners who are married, living together, dating, or share a child. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger because of domestic violence, call 911. For additional assistance and resources call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit https://www.justice.gov/ovw/domestic-violence.
This case is also part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and other violent crime, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psn.
This investigation was carried out by members of the FBI’s South Florida Violent Crime and Fugitive Task Force. The Task Force is made up of federal and local law enforcement agencies who cooperatively target the region’s perpetrators of violent criminal offenses and fugitives from justice.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov under case number 24-cr-20110.
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Concealing cocaine carries considerable sentenceRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 51-year-old Alamo resident has been sentenced for possession with intent to distribute $4 million worth of cocaine, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.
Olga Lydia Segundo pleaded guilty April 15.
U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzalez Ramos has now ordered Segundo to serve 120 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by five years of supervised release.
On Jan. 13, Segundo arrived at the Falfurrias Border Patrol (BP) checkpoint driving a white 2010 Chevrolet Silverado. Law enforcement proceeded to ask questions about her trip and Segundo gave answers that did not make sense. Segundo stated she was going to Austin at one point, then to Houston for a job interview but could not remember the name of the company or where the job interview was happening.
During this time, there were freezing temperatures in South Texas, and authorities noticed Segundo did not have any cold-weather clothes or clothes for a job interview.
Segundo gave law enforcement consent to search the vehicle. An x-ray scan showed anomalies in all four tires of the vehicle. Authorities discovered they were lined with welded metal casings that serve as aftermarket compartments.
After drilling through the casings, law enforcement found 24 bundles of cocaine wrapped in cellophane weighing 48 kilograms with an estimated street value of over $4 million.
Segundo will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and BP conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Griffith prosecuted the case.
Columbia Woman Sentenced to 15 Months in Federal Prison for Wire FraudRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Kathy Drawdy Stewart, 62, of Columbia, was sentenced to 15 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to multiple counts of wire fraud.
Evidence presented to the court showed that Stewart embezzled more than $270,000 from at least late 2016 through May 2023 from her longtime employer, LTC Associates, Inc., while she served as the company’s business manager. During this time, Stewart regularly made unauthorized payments from the company’s bank accounts to her personal American Express account. Stewart’s crimes were ultimately uncovered after she attempted to make an unauthorized $20,000 transfer from the company’s bank account to her American Express account in May 2023. A review of her American Express account revealed that Stewart spent over $100,000 on cosmetic procedures, travel, interior decorating, and retail over the course of her criminal conduct.
United States District Judge Joseph F. Anderson sentenced Stewart to 15 months imprisonment, to be followed by a two-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system. Judge Anderson also ordered restitution of over $270,000, which Stewart paid prior to her sentencing, and a fine of $10,000.
This case was investigated by the FBI Columbia Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elle E. Klein and Elliott B. Daniels are prosecuting the case.
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Child Predator Sentenced to 20 Years for Attempting to Entice A Child to Engage in Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Nicanor Daniel Sanchez (32, Lehigh Acres) to 20 years in federal prison, followed by a lifetime of supervised release, for attempted coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity. The court also ordered Sanchez to forfeit a cellphone, which was used to commit the offense. Sanchez entered a guilty plea on January 9, 2024.
According to court documents, Sanchez had online conversations with an undercover law enforcement officer in which Sanchez expressed his desire to sexually abuse a female child. During those conversations, Sanchez described how he wanted to abuse the child and sent several videos of child sexual abuse material to the undercover officer. One of the videos depicted a young girl being sexually abused. Sanchez agreed to meet for purposes of sex and was arrested.
A search of Sanchez’s cellphone revealed additional child sexual abuse material, including photos and videos depicting the sexual abuse of toddlers.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Ross Roberts and Abigail K. King.
This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Chatham County man sentenced to federal prison for lighting dumpster fire that temporarily closed a restaurantRead the Press Release
BRUNSWICK, GA: A Chatham County man was sentenced to five years in prison after pleading guilty to setting a fire in a restaurant’s outdoor trash container.
Joshua Daryl McGregor, 34, of Savannah, was sentenced to 60 months in prison after pleading guilty to Arson, said Jill E. Steinberg, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia. U.S. District Court Judge Lisa Godbey Wood also ordered McGregor to pay restitution for property lost in the fire, and to serve three years of supervised release upon completion of his prison term.
There is no parole in the federal system.
“Intentionally setting a fire in an effort to shut down or damage someone else’s property is inexcusable,” said U.S. Attorney Steinberg. “Joshua McGregor will have substantial time to ponder his post-prison employment options.”
As described in court documents and testimony, McGregor was an employee of the McDonald’s at 2701 Montgomery Ave. in Savannah, and in April 2023 was frustrated because the restaurant was very busy. He lit a piece of cardboard on fire and tossed it into the restaurant’s dumpster, which was full of cardboard and other flammable materials, and ensured the fire ignited before returning to the restaurant.
The fire became so intense that customers in the drive-through lane had to back out of the parking lot, and the restaurant was forced to briefly close while the Savannah Fire Department extinguished the blaze. McGregor, who filmed the fire with his cell phone, was identified on surveillance video as starting the fire. He was arrested by Savannah Police Department investigators, and in May pled guilty to arson in U.S. District Court.
“Arson is an extremely violent crime that not only destroys property but also places firefighters, first responders and the general public at great risk,” said Beau Kolodka, Assistant Special Agent in Charge for the ATF Atlanta Field Division. “The ATF, along with the Savannah Fire’s Arson Unit and our other law enforcement partners, are committed to ensuring that our communities are safe and that those who commit these dangerous acts are held accountable.”
“Savannah Fire’s Arson Unit greatly appreciates our continued ability to work with our local and federal partners to successfully prosecute arson that effects interstate commerce in our jurisdiction,” said Fred Anderson, chief investigator for the Savannah Fire Arson Unit. “These efforts made as a partnership have continued to help make our community safer and greatly reduce the act of arson throughout the city.”
The case was investigated by the Savannah Fire Department, the Savannah Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and prosecuted for the United States by Southern District of Georgia Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Makeia R. Jonese.
California Man Sentenced for Interfering with Flight Crew, Forcing Plane to be Diverted to KCIRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A California man was sentenced in federal court today after he was subdued by several passengers and flight attendants when he tried to open the exit door on an American Airlines flight en route to Washington, D.C., forcing the plane to land at Kansas City International Airport in Kansas City, Missouri.
Juan Remberto Rivas, 52, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Roseann A. Ketchmark to 19 months in federal prison without parole. The court also ordered Rivas to pay $64,434 in restitution to American Airlines.
On Jan. 23, 2024, Rivas pleaded guilty to one count of interfering with flight crew members and flight attendants.
Rivas was a passenger aboard American Airlines flight 1775 traveling nonstop from Los Angeles, Calif., to Washington, D.C., which was diverted to Kansas City International Airport in Kansas City, Mo., on Feb. 13, 2022.
Rivas admitted that he created a disturbance and knowingly intimidated a flight attendant of the aircraft. Rivas went to the front of the plane and was arguing with the flight attendant. Rivas grabbed some plastic silverware and placed the plastic silverware in his shirt sleeve to appear to create a shank. Rivas grabbed a small champagne bottle by the neck and attempted to break the bottle on the counter. Rivas then attempted to open an exit door by lifting the handle.
Another flight attendant grabbed a coffee pot and hit Rivas with it. Rivas was then restrained for the remainder of the flight.
According to court documents, Rivas assaulted the arresting law enforcement officers after the airplane landed and he was being taken into custody. A number of officers were injured in his attempt to flee, resulting in contusions, lacerations, and an injured hand. In addition to this federal case, Rivas faces a pending charge in Platte County, Mo., for assault against a law enforcement officer.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul S. Becker. It was investigated by the FBI.
Cabell County Man Sentenced to Prison for Role in Methamphetamine Trafficking OrganizationRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Thomas Shane Holland, 54, of Salt Rock, was sentenced today to two years and nine months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for possession with intent to distribute a quantity of methamphetamine. Holland admitted to his role in a drug trafficking organization (DTO) responsible for distributing large quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl in the Southern District of West Virginia.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Holland admitted to buying approximately 16 grams of methamphetamine from DTO ringleader Derrell Cashawn Massey outside a Huntington gas station on October 18, 2023. Holland further admitted to arranging the transaction with Massey beforehand by phone. Following the transaction, law enforcement officers conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle in which Holland was a passenger. Officers found the methamphetamine in a container beside Holland in the vehicle during the traffic stop. Holland admitted that he intended to distribute the 16 grams of methamphetamine.
Holland and Massey are among 27 individuals indicted in a 53-count indictment that charges the defendants with distributing methamphetamine and fentanyl transported from Detroit, Michigan, in Huntington and other locations within the Southern District of West Virginia.
Massey, also known as “Rell” and “Fat Rell,” 34, of Detroit, Michigan, pleaded guilty on April 22, 2024, to the distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and awaits sentencing. Holland and Massey are among 21 defendants who have pleaded guilty in the main case. One other of the 27 indicted individuals pleaded guilty to a related offense in a separate case. The indictment against the remaining defendants is pending. An indictment is merely an allegation and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Cabell County Sheriff’s Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT), the West Virginia State Police, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. MDENT is composed of the Charleston Police Department, the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office, the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, the Nitro Police Department, the St. Albans Police Department and the South Charleston Police Department.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorneys Joseph F. Adams and Stephanie Taylor prosecuted the case.
The investigation was part of the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). The program was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and is the keystone of the Department of Justice’s drug reduction strategy. OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:23-cr-180.
Brooklyn Man Sentenced to 40 Years in Federal Prison for Sexually Exploiting Children over the Internet, Traveling to Florida to Have Sex with A Child, and Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Matthew Gabriel Bergida, 34, of Brooklyn, New York, was sentenced to 480 months in federal prison after previously pleading guilty to sexual exploitation of children, enticement of a minor, travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct, transportation of child pornography, and possession of child pornography. The sentence was announced by Jason R. Coody, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
“There is no greater charge than the protection of our children,” said U.S. Attorney Coody. “This sentence is yet another example of the unwavering commitment to the protection of our most vulnerable and should serve as a significant deterrent to those who would attempt to harm them. I commend our local and state law enforcement partners, who amid a devastating hurricane, identified and rescued a child who was being sexually abused. Their keen observations not only saved this child, but countless others from the heinous conduct of this pedophile predator.”
Court documents reflect that when Category 4 Hurricane Idalia made landfall near Perry, Florida, Bergida travelled to the area to meet with a minor female to have sexual relations. While enforcing the storm-related curfew, local law enforcement encountered the minor female and learned of Bergida’s sexual exploitation of the child. Law enforcement quickly located and arrested Bergida at a local motel. A search of Bergida’s iPhone revealed child pornography depicting the minor female and over 20 other children, whom he had been sexually exploiting since 2019.
“No law enforcement agency or community is immune regardless of size or location from the evil exploits of those who endeavor to harm and purse children for exploitation,” said Perry Police Chief Jamie Cruse. “I also commend everyone involved for their meritorious actions in identifying, investigating, and prosecuting Bergida for his choice to victimize others. The awareness, determination and expertise of all assisting agencies and law enforcement partners in this investigation was necessary to bring this predator to justice while protecting others from future victimization. When full cooperation and communication is paramount in protecting our youngest and most vulnerable citizens, law enforcement can and does make a difference by fulfilling the mission of protecting the life and rights of everyone in society.”
“This predator used manipulation and control to sexually exploit children for his own perverse carnal gratification,” said Homeland Security Investigations Tallahassee Assistant Special Agent in Charge Nicholas Ingegno. “The sexual exploitation of children is an especially heinous crime that robs victims of their childhood. HSI, alongside our partners with Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the Perry Police Department, will continue to exhaust every resource at our disposal to identify and support victims, as well as locate and apprehend the monstruous predators who seek to do them harm.”
While incarcerated in the Taylor County Jail, Bergida made phone calls to family in which he directed a friend to dispose of hard drives and other storage devices in his Brooklyn apartment. Based on these phone calls, law enforcement obtained a search warrant for the apartment and found electronic storage devices containing additional child pornography, some which depicted infants and toddlers.
Bergida’s prison sentence will be followed by a lifetime term of supervised release. He will be required to register as a sex offender and will be subject to all sex offender conditions. The Court also ordered forfeiture of various electronic devices that he used to commit the offenses.
This conviction was the result of an investigation conducted by the Perry Police Department, Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Justin M. Keen 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 and led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Divisions Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), it 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 United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Bridgeport Drug Trafficker SentencedRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that FRANK JAMONT BEST, also known as “JB,” and “Cash,” 50, of Bridgeport, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in New Haven to approximately 37 months of imprisonment, time already served, and three years of supervised release, for trafficking fentanyl and heroin. The government sought a sentence within the advisory guidelines range of 168 to 210 months of imprisonment.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2019, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force began investigating an organization that was distributing heroin, fentanyl, and crack cocaine in and around Bridgeport. During the investigation, Task Force members made four controlled purchases of heroin and fentanyl from Best. The investigation, which included court-authorized wiretaps and hundreds of consensual recordings, revealed that Frank Best’s uncles, Wallace Best and Jeffrey Thomas, were supplying Frank Best and others with narcotics.
The investigation further revealed that Jeffrey Thomas worked with Jason Cox to establish a connection to Mexican-sourced drug suppliers in California who could provide kilogram quantities of narcotics for distribution on the East Coast. In December 2019, a cooperating source working in conjunction with Wallace Best, Thomas, and Cox, traveled to a Home Depot parking lot in San Diego and purchased from their suppliers 1.1 kilograms of fentanyl, cut with Xylazine, which is a veterinary sedative, and Tramadol, in exchange for $27,000. After this successful transaction, the conspirators arranged to purchase five kilograms of heroin from their Mexican suppliers. On February 10, 2020, four individuals were arrested after they arrived at the same parking lot to conduct the transaction and investigators seized a box containing approximately 4.9 kilograms of heroin. A related search of a storage locker in San Diego revealed an additional five kilograms of heroin.
Frank Best was arrested on September 30, 2020. He has been detained since August 27, 2021, after he violated conditions of his pretrial release and his bond was revoked.
On October 14, 2022, a jury found Frank Best, Wallace Best, Thomas and Cox guilty of one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute kilogram quantities of heroin and fentanyl, and Wallace Best, Thomas, and Frank Best guilty of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute heroin, fentanyl and cocaine base (“crack”). In addition, Frank Best was found guilty of five counts of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine base.
Frank Best’s criminal history includes multiple felony convictions, including a federal conviction in 1999 for trafficking narcotics, for which he was sentenced to 41 months of imprisonment, and a federal conviction in 2006 for possession of a firearm by a felon, for which he was sentenced to 70 months of imprisonment, and an additional 10 months of imprisonment for violating the conditions of his supervised release.
On April 24, 2024, Cox was sentenced to 125 months of imprisonment; on May 14, 2024, Wallace Best was sentenced to 180 months of imprisonment; and on May 17, 2024, Thomas was sentenced to 125 months of imprisonment.
This matter was investigated by the DEA’s Bridgeport HIDTA Task Force with the assistance of the DEA San Diego Field Division. The DEA’s Bridgeport HIDTA Task Force includes personnel from the DEA Bridgeport Resident Office, the Connecticut State Police, and the Bridgeport, Norwalk, Stamford, Stratford, Milford, and Danbury Police Departments.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Karen L. Peck, Lauren C. Clark, and Katherine E. Boyles through the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Program. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations through a prosecutor-led and intelligence-driven approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Bradenton Man Charged with Extorting and Threatening Former EmployerRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the arrest and filing of a criminal complaint charging Jeffrey John Borho (38, Bradenton) with extortion by interstate communication and interstate communication of a threat to injure. Borho was arrested on July 19, 2024, and has been ordered detained pending trial.
According to court documents, Borho was fired from his employer on July 1, 2024. Over the next several days, he sent threatening phone calls and messages to his former employer in which he threatened to kill his former employer and former employer’s wife if he did not give Borho $10,000; $20,000; and then $100,000. Borho also sent videos of himself threatening to harm his former employer, stating things like, “I’ll kill you easily” and “I don’t sue people, I kill people. And I get away with it every f***ing time. Praise God, you’re on my time now.”
A complaint is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ross Roberts.
Bloods Gang Member Sentenced to Prison for Illegal Possession of Four FirearmsRead the Press Release
ST. PAUL, Minn. – Obuatawan Leon Holt, aka “Bone,” was sentenced to 46 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for possessing firearms as a felon, announced United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, on November 16, 2021, approximately three months after Holt’s prior term of federal supervised release expired, officers with the Minneapolis Police Department searched the Holt’s residence in connection with a firearms investigation. Holt, 48, who is a known member and associate of the Minneapolis Bloods street gang, was found in possession of four firearms: two Smith & Wesson semi-automatic pistols, one CZ Arms semi-automatic pistol, and one Rock Armory semi-automatic pistol. Because Holt has multiple prior felony convictions, including a federal drug trafficking conviction, he is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms or ammunition at any time.
On February 29, 2024, Holt pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm as a felon. He was sentenced yesterday in U.S. District Court by Judge Susan Richard Nelson.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Minnesota Department of Corrections, and the Minneapolis Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Esther Soria Mignanelli and Kristian C. Weir prosecuted the case.
Billings felon sentenced to more than six years in prison for illegal possession of firearmRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Billings man who admitted to illegally possessing a gun was sentenced today to six and one-half years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
The defendant, Steven Edward Schlosser, 54, pleaded guilty in January to prohibited person in possession of a firearm.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.
In court documents, the government alleged that in February 2023, Yellowstone County Sheriff’s deputies responded to Billings Clinic for a report of an assault between Schlosser and his girlfriend. Schlosser’s girlfriend reported that during a physical altercation with Schlosser, Schlosser pulled a firearm from his waistband and threatened to kill himself with it. Schlosser had the firearm in his waistband as he drove his girlfriend to the hospital. Law enforcement ultimately recovered a .40-caliber pistol from Schlosser’s vehicle in the hospital parking lot. The pistol had been stolen. In August 2023, law enforcement received information that Schlosser was in possession of another firearm. Schlosser was located in a Billings motel along with a loaded .45-caliber firearm. Schlosser claimed the firearm belonged to someone else but admitted to handling it. The firearm also had been reported stolen. Schlosser had previous felony drug convictions and was prohibited from possessing firearms.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Yellowstone County Sheriff’s Office and Montana Division of Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
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Avantor, Inc. Agrees to Pay $5.325 Million to Resolve Allegations of False Claims for Overcharging Federal Agencies and Allegations of DEA Violations and Lack of Compliance as to Listed ChemicalsRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced today that Avantor, Inc., based in Radnor, PA, has agreed to pay a total of $5.325 million to resolve multiple alleged violations of federal law.
False Claims Act Resolution
First, Avantor has agreed to pay $5 million to resolve allegations that one of its subsidiaries, VWR International, LLC (VWR), violated the False Claims Act by fraudulently overcharging federal agencies for goods purchased between 2008 and 2017 (the “False Claims Act Settlement”). Avantor acquired VWR in 2017.
VWR is a global distributor of scientific and technical laboratory supplies, including chemicals, glassware, instruments, protective clothing, and production supplies. VWR has entered into procurement contracts with agencies of the United States to sell their products under agreed terms, including provisions under which VWR agrees to offer or provide federal government purchasers buying goods from VWR with the same or better prices that VWR offered or provided to an agreed-upon, private-sector basis of award customer (“Most Favored Customer Pricing”).
The United States’ allegations under the False Claims Act arise from four government contracts VWR entered into with government agencies. These contracts include two Multiple Award Schedule Contracts (“GSA MAS Contracts”) VWR entered into with the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) in 1995 and in 2015, which provided a streamlined process for federal government buyers to purchase goods from VWR at discounted prices and required VWR to meet specified conditions. Several different United States agencies, including the Department of Defense, purchased VWR products under the GSA MAS Contracts, which provided for Most Favored Customer Pricing. The contracts at issue also include a 2001 Blanket Purchase Agreement that VWR entered into with the National Institutes of Health (NIH), an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and a 2005 contract VWR entered into with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) under Federal Supply Schedule 65 VI. Both the NIH and VA made purchases from VWR under their respective contracts, which both contained best price provisions.
The United States alleged that VWR violated the False Claims Act when performing its obligations under these government contracts (the “Schedule Contracts”) by:
- Failing to offer or provide federal government purchasers buying goods from VWR under the Schedule Contracts with Most Favored Customer Pricing;
- Increasing pricing for federal government purchasers, while not increasing prices for the Most Favored Customer;
- Failing to provide federal government purchasers with the same rebates, discounts, incentives, and other favorable terms offered to the Most Favored Customer;
- Failing to report and adjust the prices that VWR offered to federal government purchasers to be consistent with those offered to the Most Favored Customer;
- Failing to report and reduce prices or make refunds to federal government purchasers, as required by the Price Reductions Clauses in the Schedule Contracts; and
- Failing to report changes in VWR’s commercial pricing practices or policies from those disclosed to the federal government during the parties’ pricing negotiations, and to reduce federal government pricing accordingly.
The United States alleged that, as a result of this conduct, VWR knowingly submitted false or fraudulent claims for payment to the United States in violation of the False Claims Act.
“Contractors are expected to understand and carefully comply with the requirements of federal contracts,” said U.S. Attorney Romero. “This settlement under the False Claims Act demonstrates that the federal government will hold accountable contractors that overcharge agencies by failing to follow the pricing terms of federal contracts, and should be seen as a warning to contractors that false claims have no place in government purchasing.”
“GSA’s Office of the Inspector General will continue to investigate any allegations of GSA contractors overcharging federal agencies at the expense of American taxpayers,” said GSA Acting Inspector General Robert Erickson. “I appreciate the hard work of those who worked on this case.”
“Companies that contract with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services are required to abide by the set agreements including charging the same or better prices as other customers,” said Maureen R. Dixon, Special Agent in Charge of the Philadelphia Regional Office of the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG takes allegations of false claims in contracts seriously and will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to ensure the integrity of the federal contracting process.”
“The integrity of the DoD procurement process is of vital importance to the DoD Office of Inspector General’s Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS),” stated Brian J. Solecki, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DCIS Northeast Field Office. “The DoD expects its contractors to adhere to contract requirements and the DCIS will continue to work with its law enforcement partners and the Department of Justice to ensure DoD contractors who engage in fraudulent activity at the expense of the U.S. Military are held accountable for their actions.”
The False Claims Act Settlement also resolves a lawsuit originally brought by Adrian G. Scioli, a former VWR employee, under the whistleblower, or qui tam, provisions of the False Claims Act. The Act permits private citizens with knowledge of fraud against the government to bring a lawsuit on behalf of the United States and to share in any recovery. Scioli will receive approximately $1,100,000 of the settlement. The lawsuit is captioned United States et al., ex rel. Scioli v. VWR International, LLC, et al., No. 17-cv-2574 (E.D. Pa.).
The False Claims Act Settlement was the result of a coordinated effort between the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, the GSA Office of Inspector General, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General, and the Defense Criminal Investigative Service.
The False Claims Act matter is being handled in the U.S. Attorney’s Office by Assistant United States Attorneys Lauren DeBruicker and Mark J. Sherer, and Auditor Dawn Wiggins.
DEA Resolution
In addition, Avantor has agreed to pay $325,000 to resolve allegations that it and its subsidiaries, including VWR, failed to comply with a number of compliance obligations between 2013 and 2023 pertaining to its dealings in listed chemicals, which are regulated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). The company also entered into an administrative agreement with the DEA that imposed a variety of heightened accountability obligations.
Certain chemicals are categorized as listed precursor chemicals, i.e., chemicals, which in addition to their legitimate uses, can be used in manufacturing a controlled substance in violation of federal law and are important to the manufacture of the controlled substances. Those listed chemicals are divided into two groups: List I chemicals and List II chemicals. Avantor is a chemical importer, manufacturer, distributor, and exporter registered with the DEA at various locations across the United States.
Companies that conduct international imports and exports of List I chemicals are generally required to submit at least two separate reports to the DEA for each transaction: (1) a notification of the transaction to the DEA prior to any import or export; and (2) a return declaration to the DEA containing particulars of the transaction that was completed, including the date, quantity, chemical, container, and name of transferees.
In addition, when a regulated person engages in a regulated transaction involving a listed chemical, the company is required to maintain records of that transaction. The records must include the name, address, contact information, and, if required, DEA registration number of each party to the regulated transaction; the date of the regulated transaction; the quantity, chemical name, and the form of packaging; the method of transfer; and the type of identification used by the purchaser and any unique number on that identification.
The DEA conducted a number of inspections of Avantor’s facilities over the past several years, during which it alleges it identified violations of its listed chemical obligations by Avantor, including inspections at its Paris, Kentucky, facility; its Manati, Puerto Rico, facility; and its Bridgeport, New Jersey, facility.
The United States alleged that Avantor failed to comply with its listed chemical compliance obligations in a number of ways at these facilities, between 2013 and 2023. For example, the settlement agreement alleges that Avantor committed the following violations, at certain periods of time and at certain of its facilities:
- received and distributed listed chemicals while failing to properly document the correct registration number or the customer’s registration number;
- repackaged chemicals under an improper registration number;
- exported listed chemicals under the wrong registration number;
- failed to properly annotate information on DEA import/export forms;
- shipped chemicals that met or exceeded its threshold without making the required submission to DEA.
Avantor self-disclosed some of the alleged violations with respect to its exporter registration in Paris, Kentucky.
The United States alleged that, as a result of this conduct, it had certain civil claims against Avantor under the Controlled Substances Act. There are no allegations that the listed chemicals at issue here were used to manufacture illicit controlled substances.
In addition to the monetary component, the company also entered into an administrative agreement with the DEA. The agreement imposes a number of reporting and compliance obligations on the company for a period of time.
“Companies that deal in listed chemicals are held to high standards since the chemicals can be used to manufacture illicit controlled substances,” said U.S. Attorney Romero. “It is critical that companies live up to the compliance obligations imposed by federal law and regulation to ensure accountability and proper monitoring.”
“Listed chemicals can be used as precursors to illicitly manufacture dangerous synthetic drugs, such as fentanyl and methamphetamine,” said Thomas Hodnett, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Philadelphia Field Division. “It is essential to public safety and the lives of Americans that all companies handling listed chemicals—including large-scale chemical enterprises operating domestically and abroad—adhere closely to DEA regulations.”
The DEA Settlement was the result of a coordinated effort between the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, the DEA Philadelphia Field Division, and DEA Headquarters, including the DEA Office of Chief Counsel and the DEA Diversion Control Division Chemical Investigations Section. Additional assistance was provided by the DEA Caribbean Field Division, DEA Louisville Field Division, DEA Atlanta Field Division, DEA Chicago Field Division, and DEA New Jersey Field Division.
The DEA matter is being handled in the U.S. Attorney’s Office by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony D. Scicchitano, with assistance from Frank O’Connor, Jeffrey Braun, and Andrew Schobert.
The claims resolved by these settlements are allegations only; there has been no determination of liability.
Armed Robbery Spree Leads to Decade in Federal Prison for Oklahoma City ManRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – JOHN CORBIN BROWN, 41, of Oklahoma City, has been sentenced to serve 120 months in federal prison for six separate armed robberies in the Oklahoma City metro, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On September 5, 2023, a federal grand jury returned a 12-count Indictment against Brown, charging him with six counts of interference with commerce by robbery, and six counts of using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. According to the Indictment, beginning in May 2023, Brown robbed six different businesses in the span of less than a month in Oklahoma City. The targeted businesses included a liquor store and a food market, each of which was targeted once, and a convenience store and a medical marijuana dispensary, each of which was targeted twice, with two of those robberies taking place on the same day, July 6, 2023.
On February 14, 2024, Brown pleaded guilty to the six counts of interference with commerce by robbery, and one count of using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. As part of his plea, Brown admitted to robbing the businesses by force, and that he brandished a firearm during at least one of the robberies.
At the sentencing hearing on July 30, 2024, U.S. District Judge Joe Heaton sentenced Brown to serve 120 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release. In announcing the sentence, the Court noted the very serious nature of the offenses, including that Brown repeatedly pointed a gun at victims, and that the conduct involved a spree of robbery offenses.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Oklahoma City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stan J. West prosecuted the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Arlington man convicted for illegally obtaining healthcare records and trying to cover up his crimesRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A federal jury in Alexandria convicted an Arlington man today on charges of obtaining another person’s healthcare information and destroying evidence in a federal investigation.
According to court records and evidence presented at trial, from 2017 to 2019, Trent James Russell, 34, was employed by an organ donation coordination entity, which allowed him access to certain electronic medical records. In Jan. 2019, Russell remotely accessed the medical records of a federal official and took a screenshot of the official’s protected health information.
After Russell learned his access was disabled on Feb. 10, 2019, he reformatted his computer two days later in an attempt to destroy evidence and obstruct the investigation. When FBI agents interviewed Russell on Feb. 21, 2019, Russell falsely stated that his cellphone had been stolen.
Russell faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison when sentenced on Nov. 7. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; David J. Scott, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Washington Field Office's Criminal and Cyber Division; and Maureen R. Dixon, Special Agent in Charge of the Office of Inspector General for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Michael S. Nachmanoff accepted the verdict.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zoe Bedell and Laura D. Withers are prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:23-cr-195.
Arkansas Man Indicted on Child Exploitation ChargesRead the Press Release
NASHVILLE – Daniel Kelly, 32, of Jonesboro, Arkansas, has been indicted on federal child exploitation charges, announced Henry C. Leventis, United States Attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee.
Kelly was indicted by a federal grand jury in the Middle District of Tennessee on July 17, 2024, and arrested in Jonesboro, Arkansas, on July 23, 2024. According to publicly available information, in the spring of 2024, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) began investigating an adult male who was exchanging messages with a minor girl on the social media application, Snapchat. Through its investigation, the FBI identified the Snapchat handle being used by the adult was owned and operated by Kelly. In addition to chatting over Snapchat, Kelly and the minor child exchanged images, including a copy of the minor child’s middle school calendar. As alleged in the indictment, Kelly traveled from Jonesboro, Arkansas to the Middle District of Tennessee twice in October 2023, on dates coinciding with the minor child’s Fall Break. During these trips Kelly had sexual intercourse with the minor child, recorded at least one encounter on his phone, and later sent a copy of this sexually explicit video to the minor child via the internet.
If convicted, Kelly faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in federal prison.
The case is being investigated by the FBI, Memphis Field Office, Nashville Resident Agency, with valuable assistance from the FBI Little Rock Field Office, Jonesboro Resident Agency.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Robert E. McGuire and Monica R. Morrison.
An indictment is merely an allegation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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American Airlines Passenger Charged After Allegedly Attempting to Open Aircraft Exterior Doors Mid-FlightRead the Press Release
UPDATE
Upon motion of the United States, the indictment described in the press release against Eric Nicholas Gapco in this case was dismissed on May 5, 2026.
Salt Lake City, Utah – A federal grand jury returned an indictment today charging an alleged unruly passenger onboard an American Airlines flight after engaging in disruptive and life-threatening behavior, including attempting to open the aircraft exterior doors mid-flight.
According to court documents, Eric Nicholas Gapco, 26, of Delanco, New Jersey, a passenger onboard American Airlines flight #2101, assaulted and intimidated a flight attendant and aircraft crew members on July 18, 2024. As a result of Gapco’s alleged unruly behavior, the flight, which originated from Seattle, Washington, and was en route to Dallas, Texas, was diverted to Salt Lake City International Airport. As alleged in the complaint and detention memo, Gapco failed to follow instructions to remain in his seat, propositioned a flight attendant for sex, was repeatedly loud, vaped, bothered other passengers, locked himself in the lavatory, and attempted to open the aircraft exterior doors multiple times while the aircraft was in flight. As a result, Gapco was restrained by flight crew members and other passengers with flexible restraints to his feet and hands during the flight. Upon landing he was arrested by law enforcement at Salt Lake City International Airport.
Gapco is charged with interference with a flight crew, and attempted damage to an aircraft in the special aircraft jurisdiction of the United States. His initial appearance on the indictment is August 1, 2024, at 1:15 p.m. in courtroom 8.4 at the United States District Courthouse in downtown Salt Lake City.
United States Attorney, Trina A. Higgins, of the District of Utah made the announcement.
The case is being investigated jointly by the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office and Salt Lake City Police Department.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Attachments:
gapco.order_granting_leave_to_dismiss_the_indictment.pdf gapco.motion_for_leave_to_dismiss_indictment.pdf gapco.dismissal_of_the_indictment.pdfAlleged Drug Dealer Accused of Selling Fentanyl to an Undercover Agent Faces Federal ChargesRead the Press Release
UPDATE
Upon motion of the United States, the indictment described in the press release below against Bryan Guadalupe Diaz-Lopez, in this case was dismissed on December 18, 2024.
Salt Lake City, Utah – A federal grand jury returned an indictment today charging a foreign national living in Utah with drug crimes after law enforcement seized 20,000 fentanyl pills during an undercover operation, which also led to the seizure of methamphetamine, heroin and additional fentanyl pills.
According to court documents, Bryan Guadalupe Diaz-Lopez, 21, of West Valley City, Utah, was arrested on July 19, 2024, after he attempted to sell 20,000 fentanyl pills to a confidential informant during a controlled purchase in the parking lot of a Taylorsville liquor store. During the investigation, agents from Homeland Security Investigations and task force officers from the Utah State Bureau of Investigations conducted surveillance at the liquor store when a silver KIA Optima drove through the parking lot and parked near an undercover vehicle. The driver of the KIA Optima was later identified as Diaz-Lopez. Law enforcement seized a black duffle bag with four-gallon plastic baggies that contained approximately 3.83 kilograms of suspected fentanyl pills from Diaz-Lopez’s vehicle. As alleged, agents also seized several thousand additional suspected fentanyl pills from a hotel room associated with Diaz-Lopez. In total, between the KIA Optima and the hotel room, law enforcement seized 23 kilograms of field tested and confirmed fentanyl pills. Agents also seized over 500 grams of suspected methamphetamine, 34 grams of suspected heroin, and 76 grams of suspected cocaine.
Diaz-Lopez is charged possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute, and possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. His initial appearance on the indictment is August 2, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. in courtroom 8.4 at the United States District Courthouse in downtown Salt Lake City.
United States Attorney, Trina A. Higgins, of the District of Utah made the announcement.
The case is being investigated jointly by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and the Utah State Bureau of Investigation (SBI).
Assistant United States Attorney Cameron P. Warner of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
motion_for_leave_to_dismiss_indictment_with_prejudice.pdf order_granting_leave_to_dismiss_the_indictment.pdf
Alabama Chiropractor Indicted for Tax CrimesRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury in Birmingham, Alabama, returned an indictment today charging a Shelby County chiropractor with tax evasion, filing false tax returns and obstructing the IRS.
According to the indictment, Gary Forrest Edwards, of Shelby County, was a chiropractor and owned Hoover Health & Wellness Center. In 2015, Edwards allegedly agreed to file missing income tax returns for 2009 through 2013 with the IRS. The indictment further alleges that Edwards — despite filing the returns as agreed and accurately reporting millions of dollars in income — did not pay any of the $2.4 million in taxes he reported he owed.
When the IRS began trying to collect the unpaid taxes in 2015, and continuing until 2023, Edwards allegedly tried to impede the IRS’ collection efforts by transferring assets to his wife, submitting false information to the IRS about his assets, filing false tax returns and making false statements to IRS investigators. He also allegedly filed documents with a local court falsely claiming that Notices of Federal Tax Lien filed against him by the IRS him had been terminated.
If convicted, Edwards faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison for the tax evasion charge and three years in prison for the obstruction charge and each charge of filing a false tax return. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona for the Northern District of Alabama made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case.
Trial Attorney Isaiah Boyd of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Ted Canter for the Northern District of Alabama are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Aberdeen Convicted Sex Offender Sentenced to Forty Years in Federal Prison for Multiple Counts of Sexual Exploitation of A MinorRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – U.S. District Judge Brendan A. Hurson sentenced Nicholas Paul Bryson, age 41, of Aberdeen, Maryland, to forty years in federal prison, followed by a lifetime of supervised release for two counts of sexual exploitation of a minor. Bryson was also ordered to pay $16,000 in restitution to his victims. After his release from prison, Bryson will be required register as a sex offender in the place where he resides, where he is an employee, and where he is a student, under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA).
The sentence was announced by Erek L. Barron, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, Special Agent in Charge Michael McCarthy of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Baltimore; Colonel Roland L. Butler, Jr., Superintendent of Maryland State Police (MSP); Jeffrey R. Gahler, Harford County Sheriff; and Henry Trabert, Chief of Aberdeen Police Department.
According to his plea agreement, beginning in 2011 to 2013, Bryson and his wife and codefendant, Heather Clark, repeatedly sexually abused a prepubescent minor in their care and produced numerous sexually explicit videos and images of the abuse. In addition, a federal search warrant identified approximately 1,000 depictions of child pornography from various seized devices.
Codefendant Clark, age 37, previously pled guilty to two counts of sexual exploitation of a minor and is currently awaiting sentencing on September 4, 2024. She faces 60 years in federal prison.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc. For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.justice.gov/psc and click on the “Resources” tab on the left of the page.
U.S. Attorney Barron commended HSI Baltimore, MSP, the Harford County Sheriff’s Office, and the Aberdeen Police Department for their work in the investigation and prosecution. Mr. Barron thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael F. Aubin and Paul A. Riley, who are prosecuting the federal case.
For more information on the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.
30 July 2024
Woonsocket Man Convicted Three Times for Drug Trafficking is Sentenced to Eight Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE, RI – A Woonsocket man convicted and sentenced twice previously in Rhode Island state court for trafficking narcotics was sentenced today to eight years in federal prison for trafficking significant quantities of fentanyl and for being a prohibited person in possession of ammunition, announced United States Attorney Zachary A. Cunha.
Gregory Ortega, 34, of Woonsocket, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Chief Judge John J. McConnell, Jr., to 96 months of incarceration to be followed by four years of federal supervised release. Ortega pleaded guilty on May 1, 2024, to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, and being a prohibited person in possession of ammunition.
As reflected in court documents, shortly after completing a term of incarceration at the Adult Correctional Institution in 2019, Ortega continued to operate a well-orchestrated narcotics business in the Woonsocket area. He stored drugs in various family members’ residences and used runners to deliver drugs he sold to his customers. Ortega’s trafficking activities included several thousand dollars’ worth of fentanyl to a person assisting the FBI Safe Streets Task Force in the investigation.
According to information presented to the court, on March 16, 2022, members of the Safe Streets Task Force executed court-authorized searches and seized approximately 575 grams of fentanyl from Ortega’s vehicle and 745 grams of fentanyl from his grandmother’s house, which he used as a “stash house.” Additionally, law enforcement seized a privately made firearm and 14 rounds of ammunition from Ortega’s residence.
This Project Safe Neighborhoods case was investigated by the Rhode Island FBI Safe Street Task Force, which consists of agents and law enforcement officers from the FBI, Rhode Island State Police, the Cranston, Woonsocket, Pawtucket, West Warwick, and Central Falls Police Departments, and the U.S. Marshals Service
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Christine D. Lowell and Stacey A. Erickson.
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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USDA loan specialist and contractors sent to prison for roles in loan bribery schemeRead the Press Release
McALLEN, Texas – Three Starr County residents have been sentenced for their roles in a bribery scheme involving the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.
Rio Grande City residents Roberto Rodriguez, 52, Daniel Diaz, 68, and Jose Sandoval, 71, each pleaded guilty May 17.
Chief U.S. District Judge Randy Crane has now imposed a 16-month term of imprisonment for Rodriguez, while Diaz and Sandoval received 8 and 6 months in federal prison, respectively. Each must also serve three years of supervised release following their sentences. At the hearing, the court heard additional evidence of the dollar amount of the contracts awarded to each contractor including $1,107,228 to Diaz and $709,854 to Sandoval. In handing down the prison terms, Judge Crane noted that he hoped it served as an example to the community not to get involved in corrupt practices.
“The people of the United States have the right to expect the utmost integrity from those electing to do business with the United States,” said Hamdani. “Diaz and Sandoval failed in that duty when they chose to bribe a federal official in order to obtain federal contracts. Rodriguez betrayed his oath of office when he chose to accept payments from those contractors in order to influence who would be awarded these contracts.”
At the time of his plea, Rodriguez admitted to accepting U.S. currency for referring applicants for the USDA Rural Development 504 Single Family Housing Repair Grant and Loan program to contractors Diaz and Sandoval in order for each of them to receive money under the program.
Rodriguez also admitted he was a loan specialist responsible for approving the loans. Diaz and Sandoval both admitted they gave money to Rodriguez to receive work under the program.
Each were permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The Department of Justice Office of Inspector General, USDA, FBI, Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations and IRS Criminal Investigation conducted the Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigations with the assistance of local task force officers. OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found on the Department of Justice’s OCDETF webpage. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patricia Cook Profit and Alexa Parcell prosecuted the cases.
U.S. Attorney: Convicted Felon Gets 15 Years for Shooting Woman at Grocery StoreRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A convicted felon who violated a domestic violence restraining order by possessing a firearm and shooting a woman at an Albuquerque Walmart was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on October 21, 2022, Maurice Lacey, 66, was prohibited from possessing firearms due to a prior felony conviction and an active domestic violence restraining order when he entered a Walmart Neighborhood Market in Albuquerque. He followed the victim, Jane Doe, to the employee breakroom and shot her in the back of the head.
The victim suffered severe injuries, including a compressed skull fracture requiring emergency surgery and extensive rehabilitation. She continues to experience physical impairments and trauma from the shooting.
Upon his release from prison, Lacey will be subject to 3 years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Brendan Iber, Special Agent in Charge of the Phoenix Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, made the announcement today.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated this case with assistance from the Albuquerque Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Timothy Trembley and Patrick E. Cordova are prosecuting the case.
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U.S. Attorney and FBI Charge Suspect in Deadly Shiprock StabbingRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Navajo Nation man was charged by criminal complaint with second-degree murder following a fatal stabbing that occurred on July 25, 2024, in Shiprock, New Mexico.
Edison Brady, 55, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, appeared before a federal judge today and will remain in custody pending a detention hearing, which is set for Wednesday.
According to the criminal complaint, on July 25, 2024, Navajo Nation Police Department officers responded to reports of a fight in progress near a business in Shiprock, New Mexico. Upon arrival, officers found John Doe unresponsive on the ground with apparent wounds to his face and chest. Despite life-saving measures, John Doe was later pronounced dead at Northern Navajo Medical Center.
The complaint alleges Brady punched and kicked Doe before retrieving a knife from his backpack and stabbing him. Witnesses reported observing Brady assault Doe, who did not defend himself. A knife with apparent blood stains was recovered from Brady’s possession.
If convicted of the current charge, Brady faces 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 Farmington Resident Agency of 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 Zachary C. Jones is prosecuting the case.
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 Rio Rancho Woman with Federal Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Rio Rancho woman was charged by criminal complaint for illegally possessing a firearm and ammunition while using controlled substances.
Courtney Leigh Sparks, 39, appeared before a federal judge on July 23, 2024, and will be placed on conditions of release in the third-party custody of a halfway house pending trial, which has not been scheduled.
According to court documents, on March 15, 2024, the Albuquerque Police Department (APD) arrested Sparks after she collided into an Albuquerque Fire and Rescue fire truck. Sparks appeared intoxicated and was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol. APD searched her vehicle and located the following:
- A loaded Colt .38 caliber special revolver in the cup holder of the center console
- Three open bottles of alcohol
- A narcotics pipe on Sparks’ person
Then, on May 22, 2024, the Rio Rancho Police Department’s (RRPD) Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) informed the FBI about recent interactions with Sparks. These interactions concerned Sparks’ desire to create a “Molotov cocktail,” her possession of weapons, ongoing drug use, and intent to harm others with explosives.
On May 14, 2024, the RRPD CIT received information that Sparks was attempting to collect gunpower from fireworks to build a bomb. RRPD and the Federal Bureau of Investigation developed information that Sparks was a long-time user of controlled substances to include methamphetamine and fentanyl, including ongoing use at the time of her March arrest.
On May 27, 2024, Sparks was arrested in Rio Arriba County for driving while intoxicated. New Mexico State Police (NMSP) were on patrol when they were flagged down by a citizen who reported a possible intoxicated driver. NMSP observed the vehicle driving below the speed limit and crossed marked road lines. NMSP arrested Sparks for driving while intoxicated. During a subsequent search of her vehicle, officers located:
- One box of .38 special ammunition
- One box of 12-gauge shotgun shells
- Two hatchets
- One throwing knife
- One machete
- Three pocketknives
- Two glass pipes
- Various items related to marijuana use
If convicted of the current charges, Sparks faces up to 15 years in prison for each offense.
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 Albuquerque, Police Department, Rio Rancho Police Department and New Mexico State Police. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Gardner is prosecuting this case as part of an agreement with the First Judicial District Attorney’s Office.
Through the agreement, Assistant District Attorneys are designated Special Assistant United States Attorneys (SAUSAs) in the United States Attorney’s Office. The SAUSA from the First Judicial District Attorney’s Office screens felony criminal complaints filed in Santa Fe, Rio Arriba, and Los Alamos Counties for federal criminal offenses, prioritizing federal charges against those who drive violence in the Santa Fe area.
The United States Attorney’s Office has similar agreements with the New Mexico Department of Justice and the Second Judicial District Attorney’s Office and plans to expand the program throughout the state.
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 Files Lawsuit Against Liberty Central School District for Violating the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights ActRead the Press Release
Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced today that the United States has filed a lawsuit on behalf of teacher and U.S. Army National Guard member John Chewens against LIBERTY CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT (“LIBERTY”) under the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act of 1994 (“USERRA”). The Complaint alleges that LIBERTY, which is in Sullivan County, New York, willfully violated USERRA by refusing to compensate Chewens at the proper rate because of his absence from the school during a military deployment.
U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “Federal law ensures that our brave soldiers, who sacrifice so much to keep us safe, are not punished by employers when they return to the workforce after completing their military service. This Office is dedicated to giving full force to USERRA’s protections to ensure that service members like Captain John Chewens receive all the benefits to which they are legally entitled.”
According to the pleadings filed in Manhattan federal court:
LIBERTY pays teachers according to a salary schedule by which a teacher’s base annual salary is determined by the teacher’s step. Teachers typically progress one step per school year, which results in an increase in the teacher’s compensation.
Chewens began teaching at LIBERTY in the 2016–17 school year, and he was paid at step 1. At the start of the 2017–18 year, he progressed to step 2. Subsequently, he was ordered to report for active duty starting in March 2018, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. As a result of his deployment, he did not return to teaching until April 2019.
Because of his absence during his deployment, when Chewens returned to teaching, LIBERTY denied him the step increase that he would have otherwise received. As a result, his annual base salary was repeatedly less than it would have been but for his military service.
USERRA guarantees that service members whose employment is interrupted by more than 90 days of military service are, upon their return to the employer, paid at the same rate that they would have earned absent their military service.
The Complaint seeks, among other things, compensation for Chewens’s lost wages and liquidated damages.
* * *
This case is being handled by the Office’s Civil Rights Unit in the Civil Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Osmond is in charge of the case.
U.S. Attorney Announces Sentencing for Man Convicted of Illegal Weapons Possession in Domestic Violence CaseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Las Cruces man was sentenced to six years in federal prison for illegally possessing firearms and destructive devices while under a court order of protection following a harrowing domestic violence incident.
According to court documents, on September 14, 2022, Edward Walters, 55, knowingly possessed a firearm, ammunition, and destructive devices while under a court order of protection. The protection order, issued on July 21, 2022, found that Walters represented a credible threat and prohibited him from harassing, stalking, or threatening an intimate partner. Despite this, Walters returned to his family’s residence, where he began accumulating an arsenal of weapons, including firearms, silencers, and pipe bombs.
Walters held his wife against her will in their garage, but their son overheard the situation and called 911. The incident escalated as Walters barricaded himself inside the home, causing significant disruption to a nearby elementary school and surrounding neighborhoods. After hours of negotiations, law enforcement took Walters into custody.
Upon his release from prison, Walters will be subject to three years of supervised release.
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 Doña Ana County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorneys Maria Y. Armijo and Ry Ellison prosecuted the case.
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Twenty-Five Charged with Drug Trafficking in Eastern PanhandleRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two drug trafficking organizations, including one with ties to the Sinaloa Drug Cartel, have been dismantled after a federal grand jury indicted twenty-five people.
United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced charges against individuals who were operating a large-scale fentanyl and cocaine trafficking operation out of an autobody shop in Martinsburg, West Virginia. The group is alleged to have imported significant amounts of drugs from Puerto Rico through the U.S. Postal Service as well as from a source connected to the Sinaloa Cartel. Saul Alexi Padilla-Garcia, age 34, of Shepherdstown, West Virginia, and seventeen others have been charged after an investigation that included close coordination with federal law enforcement agents in Chicago and Northern California.
“This case underscores the scope of the threat posed by Mexican drug cartels to the people of West Virginia,” said U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld. “These transnational organizations will operate anywhere that there is profit to be made, including here in our region. Fortunately, we have one of the best drug task forces in the country to push back against dangerous groups like this one.”
In addition to Padilla-Garcia, those charged include:
- Juan Carlos Suarez-Lugo, age 55, from Martinsburg, West Virginia;
- Victor Jose Canales, 45, hometown unknown;
- Alexis Alvarado, 37, Ranson, West Virginia;
- Mauricio Antonio Alvarado-Flores, age 37, hometown unknown;
- Olvin Luis-Melendez Robles, age unknown, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania;
- Mario Pellot-Acevedo, 58, Martinsburg, West Virginia;
- Eddi Heredia Cruz, 27, Shepherdstown, West Virginia;
- Jose Alberto Camarena Rocha, 30, California;
- Manuel Sanchez Gomez, 37, California;
- Angel Lopez, 43, of Fresno, California;
- Sergio Rubio Pacheco, 33, Fresno, California;
- Moises Marrero, 39, of Ranson, West Virginia;
- James Reyes, 54, of Martinsburg, West Virginia;
- David Reyes, 60, Hagerstown, Maryland;
- Charles Edward Branson, 53, Martinsburg, West Virginia;
- Danny William Mendez Delacruz, 41, Martinsburg, West Virginia; and
- Yan Lionel Diaz-Cruz, 27, Ranson, West Virginia.
The arrests are the culmination of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation that began in 2023. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach.
Law enforcement arrested 16 today and are still searching for Gomez and Melendez-Robles.
In a separate case, seven people are facing charges after investigators seized nearly 40,000 fentanyl pills and 12 firearms earlier this year in Berkeley County. According to the indictment, the individuals involved had a stash house on Shepherdstown Road in Martinsburg where they stored their drugs and guns. Those indicted include:
- Delano Alan Butler, 43, of Martinsburg, West Virginia;
- Faith Elizabeth Small, 22, Hagerstown, Maryland;
- Jwan Martine Smith, 38, Martinsburg, West Virginia;
- Geraldine Lagata Hill, 43, Stephens, Virginia;
- Cody Aaron Ashby, 32, Martinsburg, West Virginia;
- Crystal Lyn Lewis, 34, Martinsburg, West Virginia; and
- Matthew James Elsea, 42, Martinsburg, West Virginia.
Six of the defendants were taken into custody. Officers are still searching for Smith.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government.
The Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force was the lead investigative unit in each of these cases.
Other investigative agencies that assisted include the Federal Bureau of Investigation, including the Pittsburgh, San Francisco, San Juan, and Philadelphia Field Offices; United States Marshals Service; Homeland Security Investigations; United States Postal Service; Drug Enforcement Administration, the Louisville and Chicago Divisions; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; West Virginia State Police; Martinsburg Police Department; Ranson Police Department; Charles Town Police Department; Berkeley County Sheriff's Office; Jefferson County Sheriff's Office; West Virginia Air National Guard; Mineral County Sheriff's Office; Grant County Sheriff's Office; Hampshire County Sheriff's Department; Keyser Police Department; Northwest Regional Drug Task Force, Virginia; Pennsylvania State Police; Franklin County Sheriff's Office, Pennsylvania; Winchester Police Department, Virginia; Frederick County Sheriff's Office, Virginia; Virginia State Police; Sunnyvale Police Department, California.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and each defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Three Men Indicted for Involvement in $3.5 Million Dollar Elder Fraud Scheme Impacting More Than 1,000 Alleged VictimsRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – A federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging Amit Ahuja, age 40, of Westminster, Maryland, Kapil Gulati, age 50, of Glen Burnie, Maryland, and Priyanshu Walia, age 39, of Cleveland, Ohio, with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and wire fraud in connection with a technical support scheme where victims were made to believe that their computers had been compromised by a virus, or were susceptible to hacking, and payments were needed for computer repair services or software.
The indictment was announced by Erek L. Barron, U.S. for the District of Maryland; Postal Inspector in Charge Eric Shen of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Criminal Investigations Group; and Special Agent in Charge Michael McCarthy of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Baltimore.
As detailed in the indictment, victims received a pop-up window urging them to call a phone number, or an unsolicited phone call, or victims contacted what they believed was a legitimate technical support company found through an online search. As further alleged, the victims were made to believe that their computers had major issues that they needed to pay money immediately to fix, and that they were working with legitimate computer companies or computer security companies.
According to the indictment, as a result of the scheme, more than 1,000 victims, many of whom were older adults, sent at least $3.5 million to the defendants and other conspirators based on false pretenses, representations, and promises involving the condition of the victims’ computers and the services and software allegedly required to fix the issues.
If convicted, the defendants face a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison for the wire fraud conspiracy and each count of wire fraud. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
An indictment is not a finding of guilt. An individual charged by indictment is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty at some later criminal proceedings.
Reporting from consumers about fraud and fraud attempts is critical to law enforcements efforts to investigate and prosecute schemes targeting older adults. If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has been a victim of financial fraud, help is available the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). This Department of Justice Hotline, managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, is staffed by experienced professionals who provide personalized support to callers by assessing the needs of the victim and identifying next steps, including identifying appropriate reporting agencies, providing information to callers to assist them in reporting or connecting them with agencies, and providing resources and referrals on a case-by-case basis. The hotline is staffed from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. English, Spanish, and other languages are available. More information about the Department’s elder justice efforts can be found on the Department’s Elder Justice website, www.elderjustice.gov. Victims are encouraged to file a complaint online with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at this website or by calling 1-800-225-5324.
U.S. Attorney Barron commended the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and HSI-Baltimore, for their work in the investigation. And also thanked HSI-Cleveland for their assistance. Mr. Barron thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Evelyn Lombardo Cusson and Matthew Phelps, who are prosecuting the federal case.
For more information on the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit www.justice.gov/usao-md and https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.
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Texas Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of a Firearm as a FelonRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — William Lesley, 34, of Dallas, Texas, pleaded guilty today to being a felon in possession of a firearm, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, law enforcement officers conducted a parole search in Galt, at the residence of Lesley’s co-defendant, Dexter Weeks, a known felon on parole. While clearing the residence, officers encountered Lesley as he was coming out of a bedroom. In the bedroom where Lesley had exited, officers found a loaded Ruger pistol located in a backpack on the floor near the bed. Weeks and Lesley are prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition because they each have multiple state felony convictions.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Sacramento Sheriff’s Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Haddy Abouzeid is prosecuting the case.
Lesley is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 5, 2024, by U.S. District Judge Dale A. Drozd. Weeks pleaded guilty on Jan. 30, 2024, and is scheduled for sentencing on Aug. 6, 2024. Both defendants face a maximum statutory penalty of 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The actual sentences, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
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 U.S. Department of Justice launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
Teacher arrested, charged with distribution and possession of child pornographyRead the Press Release
CINCINNATI - A 44-year-old Cincinnati man, Mark A. Altherr, was arrested by FBI agents on Friday, July 26, and charged with possession and distribution of child pornography.
The affidavit in support of the criminal complaint and arrest warrant alleges that investigators found more than 262 posts Altherr made on a child pornography website over the past three years. Some of the posts included images that appeared to be minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. The victims were alleged to be between the ages of five and 12. Altherr is a fitness education teacher in the Oak Hills Local School District.
“Investigators are now working to identify all of the victims in this case,” said Kenneth L. Parker, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio. “Our office and the FBI encourage anyone who might have information about victims to report it to the FBI’s victim resource page listed below.”
“The FBI is always working to protect children in our community,” stated FBI Cincinnati Special Agent in Charge Elena Iatarola. “As we continue to investigate this matter, we appreciate the support of the public in coming forward with any information they may have about potentially inappropriate actions of Mr. Altherr.”
Anyone who may have information about this case or who believes they may be a victim is encouraged to visit www.fbi.gov/MarkAltherrVictims and complete the short online form.
Altherr appeared in federal court in Cincinnati on July 29, 2024. He was temporarily detained. A detention hearing is set for August 1, 2024.
Distribution of child pornography is punishable by at least five years and up to 20 years in prison. Possession of child pornography is punishable by up to 20 years in prison.
Assistant United States Attorneys Danielle Margeaux and Kyle Healey are representing the United States in this case.
A criminal complaint merely contains allegations, and defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
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South Texas smugglers: ring leaders sentenced for transporting nearly 2,500 people in $2.9M conspiracyRead the Press Release
McALLEN, Texas – Two non-U.S. citizens have been ordered to federal prison for their roles in a conspiracy to launder monetary instruments and a related scheme to transport aliens within the United States, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani along with Special Agent in Charge Aaron Tapp of the FBI's San Antonio Field Office.
Luis Enrique Moctezuma-Acosta, 37, and Scarlett Fuentes-Gavarrette, 34, pleaded guilty in March to laundering over $2 million in monetary instruments and conspiracy to transport illegal aliens. Both are Mexican nationals who illegally resided in Mission.
Chief U.S. District Judge Randy Crane has now ordered the couple to serve 240 months in federal prison. Not U.S. citizens, they are expected to face removal proceedings following their sentences.
At the hearing, the court heard recordings of undocumented aliens held against their will and begging their families to pay smugglers for their release. Evidence further revealed the organization proudly boasted about using their trucking business as a front, which not only facilitated the alien smuggling but also enabled the laundering of $2.9 million.
The court also considered the lavish lifestyle the co-conspirators led, all while exploiting individuals who were seeking a better life. The organization had referred to them as “products” and abandoned some in the harsh conditions of the brush without food or water, resulting in the death of one.
In handing down the sentence, the court noted his concurrence that this is one of the largest alien smuggling take downs this district has seen in recent history.
“With today's sentencing, we send a clear and powerful message to all criminal organizations involved in human smuggling and money laundering,” said Hamdani. “From the rural areas of Central America to the bustling streets of Boston, Massachusetts, no criminal organization is beyond the relentless reach of the Department of Justice. The lengthy sentences handed down today are a testament to our unwavering determination to dismantle these ruthless networks and bring their leaders to justice. Let this serve as a stark warning: those who exploit vulnerable individuals for profit will face the full force of the law. We will not rest until every corner of these criminal enterprises is exposed and dismantled, ensuring the safety and dignity of our communities.”
“This case started as a money laundering investigation at a business. FBI agents did a phenomenal job following the evidence to uncover a much larger conspiracy involving human smuggling,” said Tapp of the FBI's San Antonio Field Office. "I want to thank our partners at the Border Patrol, Homeland Security Investigations, the Texas Department of Insurance and the McAllen Police Department for their assistance with this case and their continued partnership in keeping our south Texas communities safe.”
The conspiracy involved a sophisticated network of alien smugglers across the United States utilizing commercial airplanes, tractor-trailers and various other smuggling methods.
An investigation began in November 2019 and revealed the LEMA smuggling organization brought 2,459 undocumented migrants from the Southwest border regions further into the northern parts of the United States. The network spanned from Honduras to as far north as Boston, Massachusetts, with a heavy emphasis on smuggling Brazilian nationals.
On March 9, 2023, authorities executed multiple search warrants at Fuentes-Gavarrette and Moctezuma-Acosta’s properties, at which time they seized over $1.5 million in cash. The locations included their residence and a purported car dealership they operated as a front business. Throughout the investigation, law enforcement also seized approximately $2.69 million in assets and several luxury vehicles, such as a 2023 Escalade, 2021 Ford Shelby Truck, jewelry and several pieces of real property.
Both will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The FBI conducted the investigation with the assistance of task force officers from Border Patrol, Homeland Security Investigations, Texas Department of Insurance and McAllen Police Department. The Texas Attorney General's Office also provided assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric D. Flores prosecuted the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tyler Foster assisted with forfeiture proceedings.
Slidell Man Pleads Guilty to Manufacturing and Dealing in Explosive Materials Without a LicenseRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on July 23, 2024, DEVIN JUNEAU, age 38, a resident of Slidell, Louisiana, pled guilty to manufacturing and dealing in explosive materials without a license, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 842(a)(1) and 844(a)(1).
According to court documents, on or about February 6, 2024, JUNEAU manufactured, and sold to undercover agents, M-Type explosive devices containing explosive materials, without possessing a license to engage in the business of manufacturing and dealing in explosive materials.
At sentencing, JUNEAU, faces up to 10 years of imprisonment, up to a $250,000.00 fine, and up to 3 years of supervised release. JUNEAU also faces payment of a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
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.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Troy Bell of the Violent Crimes Unit.
Six Plead Guilty to Pandemic Unemployment Assistance FraudRead the Press Release
CLEVELAND – Six people have pleaded guilty in a 33-count indictment with illegally obtaining nearly $3,000,000 in Federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) benefits using other people’s personal identifying information. The PUA program is overseen by the U.S. Department of Labor and was created under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act of 2020 to provide temporary benefits to workers who lost work for COVID-19-related reasons.
According to court documents, from March 2020 to August 2021, the defendants, Clarissa Cheney, 30, of Cleveland Heights; Kevin Gilmore, 38, of Beachwood; Tiara Henderson, 37, of Lakewood; Ladessa Battle, 29, of South Euclid; Lynard Mitchell, 39, of South Euclid; and Marcelys Jones, 29, of Cleveland Heights, submitted fraudulent applications for PUA benefits to the California Employment Development Department (EDD) and other state workforce agencies around the country.
“The pandemic created unprecedented financial challenges for millions of Americans who were unable to work because their employers were forced to cut back business operations or close entirely. PUA was intended to assist those individuals—workers in dire need of financial support while unemployed—yet these defendants stole millions of dollars from that program,” said U.S. Attorney Rebecca C. Lutzko for the Northern District of Ohio. “These guilty pleas demonstrate our office’s commitment to prosecute and hold criminally responsible those who try to scam federal relief programs, waste our tax dollars, and steal the identities of others. We thank our law enforcement partners for helping us hold these defendants responsible for their crimes.”
The defendants falsified application details, such as employment history and residency, to appear eligible for PUA benefits. As a result, California EDD and other agencies approved nearly $3,000,000 in unemployment insurance benefits in the defendants’ names, and those of other individuals. The benefits were pre-loaded onto bank-issued debit cards and sent through the U.S. mail. After receiving the debit cards, some of the defendants used the cards to make cash withdrawals at various ATMs in the Northern District of Ohio.
“The deliberate and conniving actions to cheat a program designed to assist people who were affected by the Covid-19 pandemic is inexcusable,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge, Greg Nelsen. “Their actions, including exploiting the identities of a multitude of individuals, will have a profound and long-lasting impact. The FBI and our partners will continue to identify and investigate those who commit pandemic-related fraud and seek justice for the victims."
The defendants are scheduled to be sentenced in September and October 2024 and face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.“The defendants engaged in an unemployment insurance (UI) fraud scheme that targeted multiple state workforce agencies. These individuals conspired to file fraudulent UI claims in the names of other individuals, diverting vital taxpayer resources away from unemployed American workers in dire need of UI benefits. These guilty pleas affirm the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General’s commitment to protecting the integrity of the UI program. We are grateful for our many law enforcement partners, including the U.S. Attorney’s Office,” said Dana Johnson, Acting Special Agent in Charge, Great Lakes Region, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General.
The Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General, and the FBI investigated this case. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alejandro Abreu and Scott Zarzycki.
Sharon Resident Sentenced to Nine Years in Prison for Cocaine, Fentanyl, and Heroin TraffickingRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Sharon, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced to 108 months in federal prison on his conviction of cocaine, fentanyl, and heroin trafficking crimes, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.
United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Nicholas Ostheimer, 26. Judge Bissoon also ordered Ostheimer to serve four years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
Ostheimer previously pleaded guilty in this case to (1) conspiring to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, 40 grams or more of fentanyl, and 100 grams or more of heroin between June 2020 and June 2021; (2) distributing cocaine on November 18, 2020; and (3) possessing 500 grams or more of cocaine and a quantity of cocaine base on June 17, 2021. According to information presented to the Court, Ostheimer conspired to and did distribute cocaine, fentanyl, and heroin throughout much of 2020 and 2021, with $58,375 in drug trafficking proceeds, 859 grams of cocaine, and wrappers for kilograms of cocaine among the items found in his residence on June 17, 2021.
Assistant United States Attorneys Craig W. Haller and Benjamin C. Dobkin prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.
United States Attorney Olshan commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation; Drug Enforcement Administration; Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Pennsylvania State Police; Lawrence County Drug Task Force; Mercer County Drug Task Force; New Castle Police Department; Sharon Police Department; Hermitage Police Department, and Farrell Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Ostheimer.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Richmond man caught with machinegun sentenced to federal prisonRead the Press Release
RICHMOND, Va. – A Richmond man was sentenced today to a year and nine months in prison for illegally possessing a machine gun.
According to court documents, on March 25, 2023, Sterling Alexander Davis, 21, failed to stop at the intersection of Orcutt Lane and Kimrod Road and Richmond police performed a traffic stop. Davis told officers there were no firearms in the vehicle, but officers recognized the two passengers in the back seat and knew that they had possessed firearms in previous encounters. The officers checked both backseat passengers and found firearms in their pants.
The officers then performed a protective sweep of the vehicle for additional weapons and located a 9mm handgun under the driver seat. The handgun was equipped with a laser guide and an extended magazine. The firearm also included a machinegun conversion device (MCD) that rendered it capable of fully automatic fire, meeting the legal definition of a machinegun.
After Davis was arrested, law enforcement executed a search warrant on his cellphone. The search revealed text messages dating back two years in which Davis discussed buying and selling MCDs, claiming he had both the “built-in” and the “regular” type that replace the backplate of the firearm.
Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, Craig Kailimai, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Division; Rick Edwards, Chief of Richmond Police; and Colette Wallace McEachin, Commonwealth’s Attorney for the City of Richmond, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge M. Hannah Lauck.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine Groover, an Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney with the Richmond Commonwealth’s Attorney Office, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Olivia L. Norman prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:24-cr-32.
Representative John Rogers Sentenced in Fraud Case Involving the Jefferson County Community Service FundRead the Press Release
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Alabama State Representative John Rogers was sentenced today to 13 months in prison for his role in the scheme to defraud the Jefferson County Community Service Fund, announced U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona, Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Carlton L. Peeples, and Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Acting Special Agent in Charge Demetrius Hardeman.
U.S. District Court Judge L. Scott Coogler sentenced John Westley Rogers, Jr., 83, of Birmingham, to the custodial term. In March, Rogers pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire and mail fraud and one count of conspiracy to obstruct justice. These charges arise from an investigation of wrongdoing in connection with the Jefferson County Community Service Fund.
On Friday, U.S. District Court Judge L. Scott Coogler sentenced Varrie Johnson Kindall, Rogers’s former assistant and companion, 59, of Chelsea, Alabama, and former Representative Fred L. Plump, Jr., 77, of Birmingham, Alabama Kindall was sentenced to 36 months in prison and Plump was sentenced to 12 months and one day in prison. In February 2024, Kindall pleaded guilty to conspiring with Rogers and to defraud the Fund. Plump also pleaded guilty to conspiracy and obstruction of justice charges in June 2023 and resigned from the Alabama House of Representatives.
According to the plea agreement, in 2015 the Alabama Legislature passed Alabama Act No. 2015-226 (the “Act”) and authorized the Jefferson County Commission to levy and distribute a one percent sales tax and a one percent use tax to benefit the public welfare and enhance the education of the children of Jefferson County. Jefferson County began levying the new taxes in or about August 2017. The Act required the County to distribute the tax revenue according to certain specified priorities, including paying debt incurred during school construction, increasing the County’s general fund, giving funds to each board of education serving students in the County, and for certain other purposes set forth in the Act.
The Act created the Jefferson County Community Service Fund (the “Fund”), which was subsidized by approximately $3.6 million annually from the new taxes. The Act also created the Jefferson County Community Service Committee (the “Committee”), the four members of which were elected by members of the Jefferson County House and Senate delegations. The Committee was responsible for ensuring that the Fund was used only for the purposes set forth in the Act, which included to support public entities and projects such as schools, libraries, museums, parks, zoos, neighborhood associations, athletic facilities, youth sports associations, road construction, the performing arts, police departments, the sheriff’s office, fire departments, and certain nonprofit entities. Each Representative and Senator representing Jefferson County could make recommendations to the Committee of expenditures from their allotted amount of the Fund. These recommendations were made on a form created by the Committee that required certain certifications by the legislator. The organization receiving the funds was required to submit information about the organization and confirm that it intended to use the money for a public purpose. During each fiscal year from 2018 to 2022, each Representative was allocated approximately $100,000 and each Senator was allocated approximately $240,000 from the Fund.
The plea agreement identifies certain relevant parties. Defendant John Rogers was a long-serving member of the Alabama House of Representatives. Fred L. Plump, Jr. served as the Executive Director of the Piper Davis Youth Baseball League (“Piper Davis”), a nonprofit organization that claimed to provide a positive sporting experience for inner city youth in Jefferson County. Varrie Johnson Kindall was Rogers’ personal and professional assistant. Individual #1 was the Founder of Organization #1.
Between fiscal year 2018 and fiscal year 2022, Defendant Rogers was allocated approximately $500,000 by the Fund. Rogers directed approximately $400,000 of those discretionary funds to Piper Davis. In turn, Plump gave approximately $200,000 to Rogers and Kindall as a kickback.
From March 2019, and continuing through April 2023, Rogers and Kindall conspired with Plump to defraud and obtain money from the Fund. It was part of the conspiracy that Rogers, with Kindall’s assistance, recommended during each fiscal year that most of his allotment of Fund money be paid to Piper Davis. In turn, Plump agreed to pay kickbacks to Rogers and Kindall. Rogers, Kindall, and Plump submitted false and fraudulent information to the Committee about Piper Davis’s intended use of Fund money, and Rogers’s certifications on the request forms were false. Upon receipt and deposit of Fund checks, Plump gave checks to Rogers and Kindall for approximately one-half of the amount of Fund money received by Piper Davis. The second superseding indictment also alleges that, in 2019, Rogers directed Fund money to Organization #1 and Kindall then required Individual #1 to pay kickbacks.
Additionally, after learning about the federal investigation into the fraud scheme, Rogers and Kindall attempted to obstruct justice by offering a witness grant money as a bribe and otherwise trying to corruptly persuade the witness to give false information to federal agents. Rogers also persuaded Kindall to agree that she would accept full responsibility for the crimes and falsely tell federal investigators that Rogers did not participate in the scheme in exchange for Rogers’s promise to take care of personal issues for Kindall if she went to prison. As part of that agreement, Rogers had Kindall give false statements to investigators and prosecutors during a meeting at the United States Attorney’s Office on May 25, 2023.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation investigated the case, with assistance from the Alabama Attorney General’s Office. Assistant United States Attorneys George Martin, Catherine Crosby, and Ryan Rummage prosecuted the case.
Recorded Sale of Fentanyl Leads to 7-Year Sentence for Portland Drug DealerRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Maine: A Portland man was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Portland for distributing methamphetamine and fentanyl, and possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute.
U.S. District Judge Nancy Torresen sentenced Tyler Campbell, 39, to 84 months in prison followed by four years of supervised release. He was also ordered to forfeit $2,189 in drug proceeds found in his possession at the time of his arrest. Campbell pleaded guilty on February 15, 2024.
According to court records, in February 2023, a cooperating source made arrangements with Campbell to purchase methamphetamine. U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) testing later revealed that the 84 grams of methamphetamine purchased was 100% pure. DEA investigators directed the source to arrange another buy. During this second transaction, Campbell sold the source 99.2 grams of fentanyl. Both transactions were recorded and filmed. Campbell was carrying additional drugs at the time of his arrest, including 142.6 grams of pure methamphetamine, as well as drug paraphernalia and a large amount of cash.
The DEA investigated the case.
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President of North Carolina-Based Entertainment Company Agrees to Plead Guilty to Embezzling from Television ProductionRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – A New York man who is the president of an entertainment production company based in North Carolina has agreed to plead guilty to a federal criminal charge for embezzling more than $200,000 from a television production.
David Ozer, 58, of Roslyn Heights, New York, was charged via information with one count of wire fraud. In a plea agreement also filed today, Ozer agreed to plead guilty to the felony offense, which carries a statutory maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison.
Ozer is expected to make his initial appearance in United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles in the coming weeks.
As alleged in the information, Ozer is a producer and the president of Strong Studios Inc., a production company based in Charlotte, North Carolina. He also is the producer of “Safehaven,” a supernatural thriller television series. According to his plea agreement, Ozer defrauded Ravenwood-Productions LLC, the principal financial backer of “Safehaven” by misappropriating approximately $214,486 in production funds from bank accounts for the production.
To create the false appearance that the funds he embezzled were spent on legitimate production costs, Ozer created fraudulent accounting records, including falsified invoices, and forged a letter purportedly from his accountant. In reality, Ozer’s accountant did not write the letter, the contents of the letter were false, and Ozer used his accountant’s name without his accountant’s authorization.
Ozer provided these falsified documents to a lawyer for Strong Studios and caused him to transmit them in an email on January 3, 2024, to an attorney for Ravenwood-Productions.
The FBI is investigating this case.
Assistant United States Attorneys Alexander B. Schwab of the Corporate and Securities Fraud Strike Force and Matt Coe-Odess of the General Crimes Section are prosecuting this case.