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Thursday 6 June 2024
Texas Man Faces Federal Charges After Traveling to Engage in Sexual Conduct with a Minor He Met OnlineRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Ore.—A Presidio, Texas man is facing federal charges today after he traveled to Oregon to engage in sexual conduct with a minor he met online.
Steven Worth Ellis, 60, has been charged by criminal complaint with traveling with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct, attempting to sexually exploit a child, and coercing and enticing a minor.
According to court documents, in late May 2024, the Oregon Department of Human Services received a tip alleging that Ellis was engaged in an online sexual relationship with a 15-year-old child. It was reported that Ellis had met the child on Reddit, a popular online forum, and engaged in frequent, sexually explicit communication with the child for at least a month. It was further alleged that Ellis told the child he wanted to marry her and made plans to travel from his home in Texas to Oregon to “come get her.”
Further investigation revealed that Ellis did intend to travel to Oregon to meet the child and had an active vacation rental reservation for a residence located near the child’s home. Investigators began tracking Ellis’s movements and soon observed him leaving Texas and traveling in a northwest direction toward Oregon.
Investigators intercepted and arrested Ellis today in The Dalles, Oregon, and he made his initial appearance in federal court in Portland before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. He was ordered detained pending further court proceedings.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Portland Police Bureau. It is being prosecuted by Mira Chernick, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.
A criminal complaint is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Anyone who has information about the physical or online exploitation of children are encouraged to contact HSI at (866) 347-2423 or submit a tip online at report.cybertip.org.
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. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Tennessee man admits fentanyl distribution that led to death of Great Falls manRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Tennessee man accused of mailing fentanyl pills to a Great Falls couple that led to the overdose death of the husband admitted to a trafficking crime today, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
The defendant, Malice Clark, Jr., aka Greg Clark, aka “Greed”, 57, of Memphis, Tennessee, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. Clark faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $1 million fine and at least three years of supervised release.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for Oct. 17. Clark was detained pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that from at least February 2021 to April 2022, Clark repeatedly mailed small quantities of fentanyl from his home in Tennessee to the victim, John Doe, and his wife in Great Falls. Clark and Doe were friends and Doe would send Clark money in exchange for user amounts of fentanyl. Doe usually sent the money to Clark through a mobile cash transfer app, and Clark would send Doe a receipt and U.S. Postal Service tracking number for the package that contained fentanyl. On April 5, 2022, Doe and his wife received a package of fentanyl in the mail from Clark. That evening, both Doe and his wife took some of the fentanyl. At about 2:20 a.m. on April 6, 2022, Doe’s wife called 911 and reported that Doe had overdosed. Doe was found unresponsive and pronounced dead. An autopsy confirmed that Doe’s death was caused by acute fentanyl intoxication. Law enforcement collected pills that were determined to be fentanyl from Doe’s home, Doe’s wife admitted they had obtained the pills from Clark through the mail.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey K. Starnes is prosecuting the case. The Great Falls Police Department, Memphis (Tennessee) Police Department, FBI, U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General, Drug Enforcement Administration and Montana Medical Examiner Office conducted the investigation.
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Summers County Man Sentenced to Prison for Federal Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – David Nelson Gill, 32, of Hinton, was sentenced today to one year and six months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on February 6, 2023, Gill was a passenger in a vehicle pulled over by law enforcement in St. Albans. Gill admitted to possessing a loaded Taurus Model PT111 9mm pistol found by officers during a search of the vehicle. The pistol was later found to have been stolen. Officers also found a loaded Remington Model 870 12-gauge shotgun on the vehicle’s rear passenger seat floor and approximately 3 grams of methamphetamine on Gill’s person following his arrest after the traffic stop.
Federal law prohibits a person with a prior felony conviction from possessing a firearm or ammunition. Gill knew he was prohibited from possessing a firearm because of his prior felony conviction for grand larceny in Summers County Circuit Court on August 11, 2017.
United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the St. Albans Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan T. Storage prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:23-cr-75.
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Summers County Man Sentenced to Prison for Federal Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – David Nelson Gill, 32, of Hinton, was sentenced today to one year and six months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on February 6, 2023, Gill was a passenger in a vehicle pulled over by law enforcement in St. Albans. Gill admitted to possessing a loaded Taurus Model PT111 9mm pistol found by officers during a search of the vehicle. The pistol was later found to have been stolen. Officers also found a loaded Remington Model 870 12-gauge shotgun on the vehicle’s rear passenger seat floor and approximately 3 grams of methamphetamine on Gill’s person following his arrest after the traffic stop.
Federal law prohibits a person with a prior felony conviction from possessing a firearm or ammunition. Gill knew he was prohibited from possessing a firearm because of his prior felony conviction for grand larceny in Summers County Circuit Court on August 11, 2017.
United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the St. Albans Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan T. Storage prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:23-cr-75.
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Studio City Man Arrested for Allegedly Causing Fireworks to Be Shot from In-Flight Helicopter in Video He Directed for YouTube ChannelRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – A San Fernando Valley man has been arrested on a federal criminal complaint alleging he directed a YouTube video in which two women in a helicopter – flying near the ground and without filming permits – repeatedly shot fireworks at a Lamborghini sportscar last year in San Bernardino County, the Justice Department announced today.
Suk Min Choi, 24, a.k.a. “Alex Choi,” of Studio City, is charged with one count of causing the placement of an explosive or incendiary device on an aircraft. Choi is scheduled to make his initial appearance this afternoon in United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles. He was arrested on Wednesday and his arraignment is expected in the coming weeks.
According to an affidavit filed with the complaint, on July 4, 2023, Choi posted on his YouTube channel a video entitled, “Destroying a Lamborghini with Fireworks.” In the video, Choi allegedly presses a “fire missiles” button while two women are in a helicopter, shooting fireworks at a speeding Lamborghini sportscar. Law enforcement believes the video was shot on the El Mirage Dry Lakebed in San Bernardino County.
YouTubeScreenshot of YouTube video from the complaint affidavit in USA v. Choi. Credit: DOT-OIG
After shooting what appears to be a live-action version of a fictionalized video game scene, the video transitions to a behind-the-scenes look at how Choi shot the first third of the video. During this portion of the video, Choi allegedly makes various references to himself coordinating the shoot. Specifically, the video states that Choi directed it. In the video, Choi thanks a camera company for “being a part of my crazy stupid ideas.” He also allegedly said in the video that the group who helped make the video “[expletive] up” at one point “because I forgot to tell my friend how to use a torch.”
Finally, as noted in the affidavit, during the video it appears Choi made the decision to end filming when someone asked if they would film again, stating, “No, that’s it. We’re out of fireworks, right?”
In other parts of the video, Choi is seen next to the helicopter, holding what appears to be a firework, according to the affidavit.
Law enforcement believes that Choi committed the offense sometime in June 2023, that he did not have a permit to film a shoot using fireworks on a helicopter, and that he purchased the fireworks in Nevada because they were illegal in California.
A complaint is merely an allegation, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
If convicted, Choi would face a statutory maximum sentence of 10 years in federal prison.
The United States Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are investigating this matter.
Assistant United States Attorney Dominique Caamano of the Environmental Crimes and Consumer Protection Section is prosecuting this case.
Stilwell Resident Pleads Guilty to Federal Firearm CrimeRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Robert Micco Harjo, age 30, of Stilwell, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of illegally possessing a firearm and ammunition.
The Indictment charged Harjo with knowingly possessing a firearm and 117 rounds of ammunition on December 3, 2023, after having been previously convicted a crime punishable by more than one year imprisonment.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Stilwell Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
The Honorable Jason Robertson, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report. Harjo was remanded to the custody of the United States Marshal Service pending sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Edith Singer represented the United States.
St. Tammany Parish Man Sentenced for Selling 1000 Fentanyl Pills to Undercover AgentRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – ALSKIIN MILLICAN (“MILLICAN”), age 21, of Madisonville, La., was sentenced on June 4, 2024 after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount Fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), and 846. MILLICAN was sentenced to thirty-three (33) months imprisonment, three (3) years of supervised release, and a $200.00 mandatory special assessment fee.
According to court documents, MILLICAN conspired with others to sell fentanyl in the Eastern District of Louisiana. As a part of the investigation, on September 15, 2023, MILLICAN sold 1000 fentanyl pills to an undercover agent in Mandeville, Louisiana.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Department. Assistant United States Attorney Rachal Cassagne of the Narcotics Unit oversees the prosecution.
St. Louis County Man Admits Armed Carjacking in St. LouisRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – A man from St. Louis County, Missouri on Thursday admitted committing a violent carjacking in St. Louis last year.
Ahdaejay Britton, 19, of Bel-Ridge, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in St. Louis to one count of carjacking and one count of possession and brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.
At about 1:30 p.m. on May 8, the victim parked his Mazda 3 in a garage in the 3800 block of Lindell Boulevard. Britton admitted that he and a juvenile accomplice saw the man parking, then followed him down a stairwell, grabbed him from behind and pulled him down to the ground. While pointing a gun at the victim, Britton demanded the keys to the car, then stole the victim’s wallet and cell phone before following his accomplice to the Mazda.
Police located the car in the 10000 block of New Halls Ferry Road and spotted the juvenile in the driver’s seat. Britton was in a nearby business. Officers found the victim’s phone and a .45-caliber semiautomatic pistol in the Mazda. Britton later admitted to police that he’d committed the carjacking and robbery at gunpoint.
Britton is scheduled to be sentenced November 14. The carjacking charge carries a penalty of up to 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine or both. The firearm charge carries a mandatory minimum sentence of seven years, consecutive to all other charges, and a maximum of life in prison.
The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department and the St. Louis County Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Martin is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
St. Albans Man Sentenced to Prison for Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Timothy A. Ward, 42, of St. Albans, was sentenced today to eight years and nine months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for aiding and abetting the distribution of methamphetamine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Ward and his wife, Sarah J. Ward, distributed methamphetamine or aided and abetted each other to distribute methamphetamine to confidential informants on seven occasions in Kanawha County from October 2, 2023, through December 6, 2023. The Wards received money for several of these transactions. For two of the transactions, Timothy J. Ward directed a confidential informant to shoplift items in exchange for methamphetamine. The transactions included the sale of a half-ounce of methamphetamine to a confidential informant at a St. Albans bar on October 2, 2023.
Timothy A. Ward also sold a firearm with an obliterated serial number at the couple’s St. Albans residence on December 7, 2023 to a confidential informant who had purchased methamphetamine from him on prior occasions. Timothy A. Ward knew he was prohibited from possessing a firearm because of his prior conviction for being a person prohibited from possessing a firearm on September 8, 2020 in Kanawha County Magistrate Court.
Timothy A. Ward has a long criminal history with 24 prior convictions, including for such other offenses as domestic battery, grand larceny, daytime burglary, breaking and entering, fleeing, escape, and possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance.
Sarah J. Ward, 40, pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting the distribution of methamphetamine on February 15, 2024, and awaits sentencing.
United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the St. Albans Police Department and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security-Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
United States District Judge Irene C. Berger imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney JC MacCallum prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:23-cr-201.
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Springdale Man Sentenced to 87 Months in Federal Prison for Transporting Child PornographyRead the Press Release
FAYETTEVILLE – A Springdale man was sentenced yesterday to 87 months imprisonment without the possibility of parole on one (1) Count of Transportation of Child Pornography. The Honorable Timothy L. Brooks presided over the sentencing hearing, which was held in the U.S. District Court in Fayetteville.
According to court documents, in January of 2022, agents and task force officers with Homeland Security Investigations received information that an individual from Northwest Arkansas had uploaded images of child sexual abuse material to a Google account. During the resulting investigation, law enforcement identified the user of the Google account as Jonathan David Attaway, age 32 of Springdale, Arkansas. Federal law enforcement subsequently executed a search warrant at Attaway’s residence and discovered multiple devices containing images of child sexual abuse material. At sentencing, the United States presented the Court with evidence reflecting that Attaway possessed images of minors as young as 6 years old engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
U.S. Attorney Clay Fowlkes of the Western District of Arkansas made the announcement.
Homeland Security Investigations, the Internet Crimes Against Children Taskforce, investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tyler Williams prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
These cases were prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Related court documents may be found on the Public Access to Electronic Records website @ www.pacer.gov.
Smyrna Man Sentenced for Producing Child Sexual Abuse Material and Witness TamperingRead the Press Release
NASHVILLE – Pierre Burns, 31, of Smyrna, Tennessee, was sentenced yesterday to 20 years in prison and 10 years of supervised release. A federal jury previously convicted him of two counts of sexual exploitation of a minor and one count of witness tampering for producing sexually explicit images of two minors and then calling one of the minors from jail to influence her trial testimony.
According to the evidence at trial, in March 2020 the defendant picked up two runaway minors at a Nashville Waffle House. Over the course of the next several days, he used his phone to photograph and record the minors engaging in sexual acts. Following a traffic stop, these sexually explicit images were discovered on the defendant’s phone. One of the minors depicted in the images was in the car with the defendant during that traffic stop.
While the defendant was awaiting trial on child exploitation charges, he called one of the minors from the jail in an attempt to influence her testimony. The defendant was subsequently charged in a superseding indictment with witness tampering.
“Protecting minors from exploitation continues to be one of the Justice Department’s top priorities,” said United States Attorney Henry C. Leventis. “Today’s sentence, and the excellent investigative and trial work that preceded it, will ensure that this defendant will not get anywhere near children for the next two decades.”
“This sentencing is a result of cooperation between HSI and the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department to rescue children being sexually exploited,” said HSI Nashville Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud. “Our investigators work tirelessly with our law enforcement partners to deliver justice to those who engage in the production and distribution of child sexual abuse material.”
The Metropolitan Nashville Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Monica R. Morrison prosecuted the case.
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Sex offender sentenced for conspiring to livestream sexual abuse of children overseasRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A Sterling man was sentenced today to 32 years in prison for conspiring with a child sex trafficker in the Philippines to livestream the sexual abuse of numerous children on the Internet.
According to court documents, between at least April 2017 and November 2020, Michael Anthony Baxter, 50, and the child sex trafficker conspired to use children, some as young as three years old, to produce more than 30 livestreaming webcam shows depicting the sexual abuse of the children. Baxter and his co-conspirator used an Internet application to arrange the time and location of the livestream, preview the children who would appear in the livestream, discuss the sexual acts the children would perform, and direct the sexual acts in real time via text chat. Baxter paid the child sex trafficker through a third-party website to sexually abuse the young children while he watched via livestream.
Baxter’s co-conspirator was arrested in the Philippines in February 2021 for human trafficking offenses. After that arrest, Baxter continued to engage with other suspected child sex traffickers.
In December 2023, law enforcement executed a federal search warrant at Baxter’s residence, where they found him actively engaged in a chat on the same Internet application with another suspected child sex trafficker. Records obtained from the Internet application showed that Baxter had purchased livestreams of the other user’s 7- and 10-year-old daughters engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
In addition to the children victimized through the livestreams, Baxter also possessed hundreds of files on his computers depicting child sexual abuse. Baxter is a registered sex offender, having been convicted in Prince William County Circuit Court in 2009 for possession of child pornography.
Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Derek W. Gordon, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Washington, D.C., made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Michael S. Nachmanoff.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lauren Halper prosecuted the case.
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 U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
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-8.
Sex Offender Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Possessing Child Sex Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that SHELDON THOMSON, 36, last residing in Norwich, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Robert N. Chatigny in Hartford to 120 months of imprisonment, followed by 15 years of supervised release, for possessing child sex abuse images and videos.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2007, Thomson, who now identifies as female, was convicted in state court of sexual assault in the first degree, involving sexual intercourse with a person under the age of 13, and of risk of injury to a child. She was released from prison in November 2015 and began serving a term of probation. In May 2022, Thomson’s state probation officer seized multiple cellphones, a tablet, and a storage card from Thomson, her vehicle, and her residence. Analysis of the seized devices revealed more than 100 images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of children, including prepubescent children.
On October 31, 2023, Thomson pleaded guilty to possession of child pornography. The penalties in this matter were enhanced based on Thomson’s prior convictions for sexual assault in the first degree and risk of injury to a minor.
Thomson is being sentenced tomorrow in state court for violating his probation.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) with the assistance of the State of Connecticut Office of Adult Probation, and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel E. Cummings.
This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.
Seminole County Couple Charged with Firearm and Drug OffensesRead the Press Release
Orlando, FL –United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return by a grand jury of an indictment charging Giovany Joel Crespo Hernandez (27, Orlando) and Monicasabel Romero Soto (28, Orlando) with possession with intent to distribute controlled substances and use of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. If convicted on all counts, Crespo Hernandez faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. If convicted on all counts, Romero Soto faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 5 years, up to 40 years, in federal prison. The indictment also notifies Crespo Hernandez and Romero Soto that the United States intends to forfeit the firearms and ammunition which are alleged to have facilitated the offenses.
According to the indictment, on April 17, 2024, Crespo Hernandez and Romero Soto possessed with intent to distribute fentanyl and possessed a firearm in furtherance of that drug offense. On April 17, 2024, Romero Soto possessed with intent of distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from Apopka Police Department, Drug Enforcement Administration, St. Cloud Police Department, and United States Postal Inspection Service. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Stephanie McNeff and Dana Hill.
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.
Video statement from U.S. Attorney Handberg: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BEz8M45kGqE
Schuylkill County Man Charged with Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that John Kyle Smith, age 40, of Schuylkill Haven, PA, was charged on June 4, 2024, by a federal grand jury for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
According to United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam, the Indictment alleges that on February 29, 2024, in Schuylkill County, Smith possessed with the intent to distribute methamphetamine.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the PA Office of Attorney General Bureau of Narcotics Investigations (BNI). Assistant United States Attorney Jeffery St John is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is 20 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Indictments and Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
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Schenectady Man Indicted for Drug and Gun OffensesRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – James Alvin Boone, age 29, of Schenectady, New York, was indicted today for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, distribution of a controlled substance, possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and Frank A. Tarentino III, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), New York Division, made the announcement.
Boone was previously charged by federal complaint, on March 25, 2024. He has been detained since he made his initial appearance that day before United States Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Stewart.
According to the indictment, on July 28, 2023, Boone possessed cocaine with the intent to distribute it, and also possessed a pistol in furtherance of that crime. The indictment further alleges that Boone conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine from January 14, 2023 through March 25, 2024; possessed with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine on March 25, 2024; and distributed fentanyl on three occasions between December 6, 2023 and February 8, 2024.
The indictment seeks the forfeiture of the pistol, over $27,000 in U.S. currency, and nearly $40,000 worth of jewelry.
The charges in the indictment are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The charges filed against Boone carry a mandatory minimum prison term of 15 years and a maximum term of life, a fine of up to $10 million, and a term of supervised release of at least 5 years and up to life. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors.
The DEA is investigating the case with assistance from the Colonie Police Department, Schenectady Police Department, and New York State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mikayla Espinosa is prosecuting the case.
San Antonio Man Sentenced to More Than 41 Years in Federal Prison for Sexually Exploiting a ChildRead the Press Release
SAN ANTONIO – A San Antonio man was sentenced in federal court to 502 months in prison followed by lifetime supervised release for producing and distributing child sexual abuse material.
According to court documents, Demetrio Ramirez, 34, produced and shared across social media 20 videos depicting himself and a prepubescent minor engaged in sexual conduct. The child sexual abuse material was identified on Feb. 15, 2023, through Operation Rescue Me, a joint operation by the FBI and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). Ramirez pleaded guilty without a plea agreement on Feb. 20 to one count of sexual exploitation of children and one count of distribution of child pornography. He was also ordered to forfeit his phone and any online accounts used to commit the offense. Restitution will be decided at a later date.
“Thanks to the vigilance of our FBI and the NCMEC, we were able to put an end to the repeated sexual abuse of a young child and lock up the offender for the next four decades,” said U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza for the Western District of Texas. “Let us be clear. The sexual abuse and exploitation of children will not be tolerated. We will relentlessly pursue these cases and prosecute them to the full extent of the law.”
"Demetrio Ramirez preyed on children, one of the most vulnerable groups in our society, and this sentence ensures he can't hurt another child," said Special Agent in Charge Aaron Tapp for the FBI San Antonio Field Office. “We want to thank our partners at the NCMEC and DOJ, through their Project Safe Childhood, for their continued assistance in keeping our communities safe from predators.”
The FBI investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tracy Thompson prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
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Sallisaw Resident Sentenced to Five Years for Burglary in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Christopher Dean Dod, age 39, of Sallisaw, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 60 months imprisonment for Burglary in the Second Degree in Indian Country.
The charge arose from investigations by the Sallisaw Police Department, the Oklahoma State Fire Marshal, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
On February 6, 2023, Dod pleaded guilty to one count of a superseding indictment of Burglary in the Second Degree in Indian Country. According to investigators, on April 6, 2022, Dod forced his way into a Sallisaw apartment, on the Cherokee Nation Reservation, and attempted to burn the apartment by lighting combustible materials on the kitchen stove. Dod fled the scene, but was apprehended and arrested a short time later by law enforcement after neighbors spotted Dod gaining entrance into a nearby residence.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, Chief Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. Dod will remain in custody of the U.S. Marshal pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.
Assistant United States Attorney Kevin Gross represented the United States.
Rock County Man Sentenced to 6 1/2 Years for Illegally Possessing Firearms and Maintaining a Drug HouseRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Byron D. Broomfield, 37, Beloit, Wisconsin, was sentenced on June 4, 2024, by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 6 ½ years in federal prison for possessing firearms after a felony conviction and maintaining a drug-involved premises. Broomfield pleaded guilty to these charges on February 14, 2024.
The Beloit Police Department began investigating Broomfield for drug trafficking in January 2023. During their investigation, police found evidence of substantial marijuana dealing in Broomfield’s trash. On March 6, officers stationed outside of Broomfield’s home observed Broomfield and another man enter Broomfield’s residence with an empty bag. After a short time, the other individual left the home with that same bag full. A few hours later, officers watched another two individuals drive to the home, enter the residence with an empty backpack, and leave a short time later with that backpack full. Officers stopped those individuals and found two pounds of marijuana in that backpack. The individuals told officers that they bought the marijuana from Broomfield, who was also known to associate with firearms.
Police then obtained and executed a search warrant at Broomfield’s residence and found 6,599 grams of marijuana commercially packaged for distribution and a loaded Taurus G3C 9mm handgun that had Broomfield’s DNA on it. Officers also searched Broomfield’s car and found a Glock Model 19 handgun with a Glock “switch” attached, and a Masterpiece Arms Defender 9mm handgun with an obliterated serial number.
A Glock switch is a common name for an illegal after-market device that converts a semi-automatic handgun into a fully functioning machine gun. An obliterated serial number is a serial number that has been altered or destroyed, making it more difficult to identify the firearm or trace it to other crimes.
At sentencing, Judge Conley emphasized that gun violence “plagues the nation” and added that the Beloit community was no exception. Judge Conley additionally considered the incredible danger Broomfield posed to the public by possessing a handgun with a Glock switch.
This is Broomfield’s second federal felony conviction. In 2010, Broomfield was convicted of distributing cocaine in the Western District of Wisconsin.
The charges against Broomfield were the result of an investigation conducted by the Beloit Police Department, the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Wisconsin State Patrol, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The prosecution of the case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn Ginsberg.
This case has been brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the U.S. Justice Department’s program to reduce violent crime. The PSN approach emphasizes coordination between state and federal prosecutors and all levels of law enforcement to address gun crime, especially felons illegally possessing firearms and ammunition and violent and drug crimes that involve the use of firearms.
Raytown Sex Offender Pleads Guilty to Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Raytown, Mo., man who is a convicted sex offender pleaded guilty in federal court today to possessing thousands of videos and images of child pornography.
James Anthony Bee, 56, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Stephen R. Bough to one count of possessing child pornography.
Bee has a prior federal felony conviction for distributing child pornography, for which he was sentenced to seven years in prison, followed by 15 years of supervised release. Bee’s term of supervised release began on Dec. 30, 2021.
On Nov. 2, 2022, probation officers conducted an unannounced home inspection at Bee’s residence. A probation officer noticed several cell phone charging cords on his bedroom floor. The terms of Bee’s supervised release prohibited him from possessing electronic devices with access to any on-line computer service without the prior approval of the probation office. Upon retrieving the cords, the probation officer discovered that one of the cords was connected to an SD card reader, which contained a micro-SD card inside the reader.
When Bee arrived and realized the probation officers had found the SD card and were going to search it, he struck the living room window twice with his hand, breaking it. He retrieved a piece of glass and attempted to cut his neck with it. The probation officers contacted emergency services and Bee was transported to the hospital for treatment.
A forensic examination of the SD card found more than 1,300 videos of child pornography and more than 9,000 images of child pornography.
Under federal statutes, Bee is subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in federal prison without parole, up to a sentence of 20 years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing is scheduled on Oct. 24, 2024.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth W. Borgnino. It was investigated by the U.S. Probation Office and the FBI.
Project Safe Childhood
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc . For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
Queens and Brooklyn-Based Eye Doctor Settles Health Care Fraud Claims for More Than $2.4 MillionRead the Press Release
Breon Peace, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, Letitia James, New York State Attorney General, and Naomi Gruchacz, Special Agent-in-Charge, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), announced today a settlement agreement with a New York-based ophthalmologist, his ophthalmology practice and related entities which allegedly provided ophthalmological health care services to Brooklyn and Queens residents, many of whom were elderly or non-native English speakers. The settlement agreement requires the defendants to pay more than $2.4 million to resolve claims that they billed or caused to be billed false claims for payment to Medicare and Medicaid for certain procedures, tests, and other ophthalmological services that were either unnecessary or could not have been performed because the ophthalmologist was not in his office. Under the terms of the agreement, these providers, including Sheldon Rabin, Sheldon Rabin, M.D., Sheldon Rabin, M.D., P.C. d/b/a New York Eye Care, will pay $2,426,144.93 to the United States to resolve claims under the False Claims Act. The defendants have also separately agreed to pay $73,855.07 to New York State to resolve claims under New York State’s False Claims Act, for a total payment of $2.5 million.
“As alleged, the defendants took advantage of our district's older residents and other vulnerable individuals in defrauding the Medicare and Medicaid programs for their own personal gain,” stated U.S. Attorney Peace. “As this settlement makes clear, our Office will protect the integrity of government health care programs and pursue providers who enrich themselves through fraud.”
Mr. Peace also thanked the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit of the Office of the New York State Attorney General for their assistance with the investigation.
“Doctors who exploit their patients undermine the health care system that all New Yorkers rely on,” stated New York Attorney General James. “Dr. Rabin and his practice unjustly enriched themselves with taxpayer funds by taking advantage of their elderly and vulnerable patients, and today they are being held accountable. I thank U.S. Attorney Peace and our partners in this investigation for bringing this case to ensure New Yorkers get the high-quality care they deserve.”
“The Medicare and Medicaid fraud claims in this case involved services that were not medically necessary, which always raises a concern about potential patient harm,” stated HHS-OIG Special Agent-in-Charge Gruchacz. “Individuals and entities that participate in the federal health care system are required to obey the laws meant to preserve the integrity of program funds and the provision of appropriate, quality services to patients.”
As alleged by the Government, from 2013 through 2016, defendants improperly submitted claims to Medicare and Medicaid for treatments that were unnecessary by manipulating patient test readings to create an appearance of a need for certain eye care services, when in fact, the patients’ test readings indicated no such need. Further, during this same time frame, the government alleged instances of services having been billed, but never actually rendered by Dr. Rabin, because he was out of the office or out of the country when the services were purportedly rendered.
The settlement includes the resolution of two civil actions brought under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act. Under the qui tam provisions of the False Claims Act, a private party can file an action on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of the settlement if the government takes over the case and reaches a monetary agreement with the defendant. As alleged in the qui tam actions, the defendants provided ophthalmological health care services to Brooklyn and Queens residents, many of whom were elderly or non-native English speakers.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.
The government’s case was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Artemis Lekakis of the Office’s Civil Division.
E.D.N.Y. Docket Nos. 13-CV-1930 (HG) and 15-CV-6356 (HG)Previously Convicted Felon Sentenced to Nearly Seven Years in Prison for Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Lowell man was sentenced yesterday for being a felon in possession of loaded firearms.
Jey Luis Guerrero, 20, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Chief Judge F. Dennis Saylor IV to 81 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release. In February 2024, Guerrero pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition.
On April 13, 2023, while on parole following a state court drug distribution conviction, Guerrero’s state parole officer conducted an unannounced home visit. Located in Guerrero’s bedroom were 12 bags of suspected fentanyl and two loaded firearms that had been reported stolen – one of which was equipped with a large capacity magazine. The drugs and firearms were subsequently seized.
Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy; James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Boston Field Division; and Lowell Police Superintendent Greg Hudon made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Philip C. Cheng of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce 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 Justice.gov/PSN.
Perryton ISD Coach Charged for Enticing 15-Year-Old StudentRead the Press Release
A Perrytown ISD coach has been charged following an alleged sexual relationship with his 15-year-old student, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Leigha Simonton.
Cole Underwood, 29, was charged via criminal complaint with enticement of a minor. He made his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Lee Ann Reno on Thursday afternoon.
According to the complaint, Perryton ISD’s superintendent reached out to law enforcement on May 7 to report a possible inappropriate relationship between Mr. Underwood and a female student. According to the superintendent, surveillance video allegedly showed Mr. Underwood meeting with the girl alone after hours, despite being given a specific directive not to be alone with her.
Agents reviewed the footage and observed Mr. Underwood propping an exterior door open and then shutting off lights. Approximately 15 minutes later, the girl entered the darkened building through the propped door and walked into Mr. Underwood’s office.
In interviews with law enforcement, the child said Mr. Underwood had sex with her in his office more than a dozen times between February and May.
She said that after she added him as a contact on Snapchat, he established a personal friendship with her, and even invited her to his office to confide in him. She said that Mr. Underwood began messaging her in a flirtatious and sexual manner in December, and eventually used Snapchat to arrange sexual encounters.
A search of the girl’s cell phone revealed multiple late-night conversations – some lasting more than six hours – between her and Mr. Underwood, who allegedly occasionally referred to the child as “wifey” and told her he loved her.
A complaint is merely an allegation of criminal conduct, not evidence. Mr. Underwood is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
If convicted, he faces up to life in federal prison.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Dallas Field Office – Amarillo Resident Agency and the Ochiltree County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation with the full cooperation of the Perryton Independent School District. Assistant U.S. Attorney Callie Woolam is prosecuting the case.
Parkersburg Man Pleads Guilty to Child Pornography CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Jon Ryan LaFever, 29, of Parkersburg, pleaded guilty today to production of child pornography.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on or about March 16, 2023, LaFever posted a picture of a minor female on an instant messaging mobile app. LaFever received a direct message after posting the photo from an app user asking about the minor female. LaFever admitted that he messaged the user that the minor female was a 7-year-old girl to whom he had access. LaFever further admitted that he sent the user several additional photos through direct messaging. The photos included one image of the minor female in her underwear and with her legs spread open, and two images of a minor female’s nude genital area.
LaFever also admitted to sending two videos of the minor female to the app user. In both videos, LaFever touches the minor female’s buttocks while she was asleep on a bed, attempts to pull her shorts and underwear aside to expose her genital and pubic area, and stops when she appears to be waking up.
On March 20, 2023, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant of LaFever’s Parkersburg residence. LaFever admitted to officers that he sent the videos on the messaging app. Officers seized LaFever’s cell phone during the search and a forensic analysis found it stored several images and videos depicting the minor female on a bed in his residence. LaFever admitted to creating the images and videos with his cell phone. They included the two videos of the minor female that he created with his cell phone on March 6, 2023.
LaFever further admitted to possessing hundreds of images and videos of child pornography on his phone and an online file-storage account, and that some of this child pornography depicted prepubescent minors.
LaFever is scheduled to be sentenced on September 5, 2024, and faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years and up to 30 years in prison, at least five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. LaFever also owes restitution, in an amount to be determined by the Court, and must register as a sex offender.
United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security-Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the West Virginia State Police.
United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Rada Herrald is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:23-cr-199.
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Palomar Hospital Pays $250,000 for Diverting FentanylRead the Press Release
NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY – June 3, 2024
SAN DIEGO – Palomar Health, a California public health care district located in San Diego County, has paid $250,000 to resolve allegations of diversion of fentanyl from one of its facilities and failure to keep accurate records for fentanyl.
Palomar Health is California’s largest health care district, with campuses in Escondido and Poway. This settlement arises from a self-disclosure Palomar Health made to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) that one of its employees may have diverted controlled substances.
The government investigated Palomar Health and concluded that vials of fentanyl were diverted from Pyxis machines—automated medication dispensing machines often used in hospital settings—located at Palomar Health’s Cardiac Catheterization Lab in Escondido. Specifically, the government concluded that over a five‑month period, numerous vials of fentanyl were diverted from the Pyxis machines and unused fentanyl was not properly disposed of.
In addition to paying $250,000 to resolve the government’s claims, Palomar Health entered into a Memorandum of Agreement with the DEA requiring Palomar Health to undertake additional measures to increase security, implement specialized training, and to handle controlled substances properly and safely.
“We commend self-reporting by those responsible for managing controlled substances and encourage others to notify law enforcement early to prevent needless harm,” said U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath.
“We value our relationships with our registrant population and encourage all of them to be diligent in preventing and catching diversion,” said Diversion Program Manager Rostant Farfan. “Keeping medications, like fentanyl, off of the street is the responsibility of all who work with controlled substances.”
This settlement was the result of a coordinated effort by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of California and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
To report a tip directly to a DEA representative regarding medical personnel writing suspicious opioid prescriptions and pharmacies dispensing large amounts of opioids, call (571) 324-6499 or visit the DEA’s website (https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/tips-online.html) and click on “Rx Abuse Online Reporting.”
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Dylan M. Aste.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
Pair arrested for extensive CARES Act fraud conspiracyRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – Two individuals are now in custody for allegedly conspiring to submit numerous fraudulent applications for small business loans through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) Program provided through the Coronavirus Aid Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.
Authorities have arrested Shawn Nicholas Young, 41, Missouri City, and Trenikia Lashae Banks, 40, Houston. They will make their initial appearances before U.S. Magistrate Judge Richard Bennett at 2 p.m.
According to the 11-count indictment, Young and Banks devised a scheme to submit fraudulent PPP and EIDL applications to the Small Business Administration (SBA) and several banks authorized to approve and fund PPP loans the government backed. They allegedly submitted false tax documents, including fake personal and business tax returns, to support the loan applications.
The indictment alleges Young and Banks used the loan proceeds to make large cash withdrawals and to pay for unauthorized and non-business expenses such as residential mortgages, home improvement loans and the purchase of vehicles. Some of the money also went to Young as kickback payments for submitting fraudulent applications for the businesses Banks and others owned, according to the allegations.
If convicted, each faces up to 20 years imprisonment for conspiracy and wire fraud as well as a $250,000 maximum possible fine. The money laundering count carries a possible 10-year prison term and a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the value of the property involved in the transaction.
Homeland Security Investigations, Federal Housing Finance Agency – Office of Inspector General (OIG), Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, Small Business Administration – OIG and Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation – OIG conducted the investigation with the assistance of Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephanie Bauman and Shirin Hakimzadeh are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
Ohio Man Admits to Sex Offender Registry ViolationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Scott Allen Schafer, 54, of Millersburg, Ohio, pled guilty today to failing to update his sex offender registration.
According to court documents, Schafer is required to register as a sex offender because of a prior conviction involving a minor in Ohio in 2018. Schafer was living in Ritchie County, West Virginia, and failed to update his registration.
Schafer faces up to 10 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The United States Marshals Service and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Wagner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
North Carolina man who groped teen on flight to Seattle sentenced to prisonRead the Press Release
Seattle – A- 70-year-0ld Andrews, North Carolina man was sentenced Wednesday to 6 months in custody and 12 months of supervised release following prison, for an assault on board an aircraft flying from Atlanta to Seattle, announced U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman. Jack Allen Roberson was arrested at Sea-Tac airport in July of 2023. He pleaded guilty to simple assault in March 2024. At the sentencing hearing U.S. District Judge Lauren King noted the offense was egregious as passengers are captive when seated next to someone on a plane, and children are especially vulnerable in these circumstances. Judge King recognized the conduct was traumatizing for the victim and commended the teen's bravery in coming forward and participating in the criminal justice process.
According to records filed in the case, Roberson was seated next to the 15-year-old victim who was traveling with her guardian. While Roberson appeared to be sleeping, he slipped his hand onto the victim’s thigh and ran his hand up under her skirt and towards her genitals. The victim reported the unwanted touching to her guardian, who contacted the flight attendant. Roberson was moved to a different seat. Law enforcement was contacted and met the plane on arrival. Roberson was arrested and taken to the Federal Detention Center at SeaTac.
In asking for the prison sentence, Assistant United States Attorney Sanaa Nagi wrote to the court, “Airline assaults are a plague on our modern, highly mobile society. The Western District of Washington in particular, likely in part due to Seattle’s location and relationship with the greater international air travel network, has experienced a significant increase of the number of airline assault reports as of late… In the immediate aftermath of the assault, Roberson’s groping left the victim shocked and afraid…. Despite the trauma of being assaulted by a complete stranger, she found the courage to report what happened – to stand up for herself and declare that what Roberson did to her was not acceptable and should not go unpunished.”
The case was investigated by the FBI with assistance from the Port of Seattle Police.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sanaa Nagi.
Norfolk Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Prison for Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Estefan Bernardino Chavez, 30, of Norfolk, Nebraska, was sentenced on June 6, 2024, in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska, for production of child pornography. Chief United States District Judge Robert F. Rossiter, Jr. sentenced Chavez to 30 years’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Chavez’s release from prison, he will begin a 15-year term of supervised release. Chavez will also be required to register as a sex offender. Chief Judge Rossiter ordered Chavez to pay $3,000 in restitution and a $3,100 special assessment.
On February 28, 2023, Chavez attempted to join an online website purporting to facilitate the sharing of so-called “original” child pornography content via the Tor network. Chavez used an IP address that resolved to his residence in Norfolk to register for an account on the website. While using the website, Chavez sent the website administrator a link that contained a video file that depicted Chavez and a minor victim engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
On March 1, 2023, the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Forced executed a search warrant at Chavez’s residence. Chavez was arrested that same day.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
This case was investigated by the Omaha FBI's Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force.
Nigerian National Sentenced for Romance SchemeRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Nigerian National was sentenced to 51 months in prison and ordered to pay $524,000 in restitution and a money judgment in the amount of $868,295 for his role in a hybrid romance scam and business email compromise scheme.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, the scheme began in July 2015 when a co-conspirator initiated a romance scam with a 56-year-old widow in New Mexico using the alias "Sean Bartlett." The co-conspirator convinced the victim that he was an engineer working on lucrative oil contracts and promised to marry the victim but instructed her to send him money for supposed business expenses.
On September 13, 2015, Uchenna Nlemchi opened a personal bank account at Amegy Bank in his own name. Sixteen days later, Nlemchi opened a fraudulent business bank account at the same bank in the name of the non-existent "Jay Auto & Machine Parts," listing himself as the sole owner.
Following the co-conspirator’s instructions over the next few months, the victim made several transfers into accounts controlled by Nlemchi totaling over $375,000 from her retirement savings and a home equity loan. This included wiring $45,000 on October 7th to another person's account, before sending $35,000 directly to the "Jay Auto & Machine Parts" account on October 9th, the same day the other person wired $44,000 into that account. On October 22nd, the victim transferred $125,346 from her and her late husband's IRA accounts into Nlemchi’s "Jay Auto & Machine Parts" bank account. Then on December 7th, she took out a $170,000 home equity loan and immediately transferred the full amount to that account.
Separately in late 2015, a German citizen attempting to purchase a Miami condo received fraudulent wire instructions after a hacker compromised her attorney's email. The German victim then wired money intended for the condo purchase to the New Mexico victim’s account. A co-conspirator then instructed the New Mexico victim to forward over $200,000 of those funds to Nlemchi’s accounts.
Nlemchi rapidly withdrew and transferred globally over $868,000 that was deposited into the "Jay Auto & Machine Parts" account from the New Mexico victim and other fraud proceeds. Nlemchi abandoned the fraudulent accounts on February 29, 2016, as bank investigators closed in.
At the time, Nlemchi was in the United States on a student visa and attended Texas Southern University. He was arrested in Houston, Texas in 2017 and released on electronic monitoring in the third-party custody of his wife and ordered to surrender his passport. Nlemchi escaped from his monitoring system and fled to Mexico, then to Brazil, then back to his home in Nigeria. Nlemchi was an international fugitive for more than five years until his arrest in Hungary in 2023.
Nlemchi pleaded guilty in federal court to one count each of wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering in February 2024.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Nlemchi will be required to serve 3 years of supervised release and will be subject to deportation proceedings.
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 Albuquerque Division of the FBI investigated this case with assistance from the Albuquerque Police Department during the extradition process. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy Peña is prosecuting the case.
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McAlester Resident Sentenced to 20 Years for Possessing Material Involving the Sexual Exploitation of A MinorRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Nathan Rex Upton, age 35, of McAlester, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 20 years of imprisonment, followed by a 10-year term of supervised release, for one count of Possession of Certain Material Involving the Sexual Exploitation of a Minor.
The charges arose from investigations by the Pittsburg County Sheriff’s Office, the Department of Homeland Security Investigations, and the United States Secret Service.
On November 1, 2023, Upton pleaded guilty to the charge. According to investigators, on October 20, 2022, law enforcement executed a search warrant for Upton’s McAlester home. Agents seized multiple computer hard drives. A subsequent search of the drives revealed over 16,000 images depicting child sexual abuse.
The Honorable Judge Ronald A. White, Chief Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. Upton will remain in custody of the U.S. Marshal pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.
Assistant United States Attorney Caila M. Cleary represented the United States.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood and Internet safety education, please visit www.justice.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources”.
We encourage anyone who suspects or has information regarding child sexual exploitation, trafficking of minors, sextortion, child pornography, or any other means of child exploitation to immediately contact law enforcement. You can file a report on the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) website at www.cybertipline.com. If you prefer to speak to someone directly, you can contact NCMEC’s Call Center at 1-800-843-5678, the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324), or HSI at 1-877-4-HSI TIP (1-877-447-4847).
Man who traveled from Florida to Western New York to have sex with a minor arrested on multiple child pornography chargesRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Jose Francisco Cardoso Tehovnik, 21, of Orlando, Florida, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with enticement of a minor, and production, receipt, and possession of child pornography. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison and a maximum of life.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Caitlin M. Higgins, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, in February 2024, Tehovnik began communicating with a minor female (victim) in the Western District of New York on the social media application Instagram, before moving the conversation to Snapchat. During these conversations, Tehovnik and the victim exchanged naked images, which included child pornography of the victim, and Tehovnik made plans to travel to the Western District of New York. In April 2024, Tehovnik flew from Florida to New York to engage in sexual activity with the victim, before returning to Florida. On June 4, 2024, Tehovnik came back to the Western District of New York, picked up the victim, and traveled to New Jersey, where law enforcement located him with the victim. Tehovnik was arrested and taken into custody.
Tehovnik made an initial appearance this morning in the District of New Jersey and will be returned to the Western District of New York at a later date.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, and the Niagara Falls Police Department, under the direction of Superintendent Nicholas Ligammari.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Sex Trafficking a 16-Year-Old GirlRead the Press Release
NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY – June 6, 2024
SAN DIEGO – Deondre Demetris Porter of Victorville, California was sentenced in federal court to 10 years in prison for sex trafficking a 16-year-old girl who was physically assaulted and ejected from a moving car during an escape attempt.
Porter was indicted by a federal grand jury in May 2023 along with codefendant Aaliyah White. Porter pleaded guilty in February 2024 to one count of sex trafficking of a minor. The victim had been recruited by Porter just three days prior to the assault, which occurred on Easter Sunday in April 2023.
In that short time span, Porter trafficked the minor victim, transporting her from Victorville to San Bernardino and then to San Diego. In San Diego, Porter required the minor to engage in commercial sex in hotel rooms and also walk Roosevelt Avenue in National City to elicit commercial sex buyers. White assisted Porter in monitoring the minor victim’s commercial sex activity.
On April 9, 2023, the San Diego Police Department received a 911 call and reports from witnesses that a girl had been thrown from a vehicle, half-dressed, and beaten up. As a result of her injuries, the minor victim was immediately transported to a hospital where she was treated and interviewed by officers from the San Diego Human Trafficking Task Force. The victim immediately identified Porter and White as her attackers and sex-traffickers.
The investigation determined that the vehicle in which the victim was beaten, stripped of some of her clothing and ultimately, ejected from, belonged to Porter. Further investigation discovered commercial sex ads posted by Porter advertising the minor victim, as an adult, for commercial sex on the websites Private Delights and MegaPersonals. After communicating with commercial sex buyers responding to the advertisements regarding the minor victim, Porter directed the victim to have sex with the buyers in San Diego. Hotel surveillance video also confirmed Porter’s trafficking of the minor victim.
“This child was exploited, assaulted and ejected from a moving car, and yet she still found the courage to speak out against her assailants,” said U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath. “Her bravery, combined with the work of an exceptional team of agents and prosecutors, brought this defendant to justice.”
“This lengthy sentence is a testament of HSI’s commitment to identifying a callus predator and rescuing a child victim from continued abuse,” said Christopher Davis, acting special agent in charge. “Along with our partner agencies, HSI will continue to devote resources to combat human trafficking.”
“The law enforcement community in San Diego remains dedicated to the rescue of sex trafficking survivors, as well as the aggressive prosecution for those responsible for these crimes,” said San Diego Police Chief David Nisleit. “This case is the culmination of tireless work by the San Diego Human Trafficking Task Force and the United States Attorney’s Office. This survivor suffered life-long damages at the hands of the accused. We must never forget the impact upon the vulnerable in these kinds of cases. The San Diego Police Department will continue to dedicate the necessary resources in our pursuit of justice and public safety.”
Co-defendant Aaliyah White is scheduled to be sentenced on June 10, 2024.
If you are living or working under threat of violence or extortion, or you suspect someone else may be, call the National Human Trafficking Resource Center toll free, 24/7 Hotline: CALL: (888) 373-7888 or TEXT BeFree or 233733.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Derek Ko and Lyndzie M. Carter.
DEFENDANTS Case Number 23-cr-0955-AGS
Deondre Demetris Porter Age: 26 Victorville, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Sex Trafficking of a Minor – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1591(a) and (b)(1)
Maximum penalty: Up to life in prison and $250,000 fine; Ten-year mandatory minimum sentence
AGENCY
San Diego Police Department
San Diego County Probation Department
Homeland Security Investigations
San Diego Human Trafficking Task Force
California Department of Justice
Macon Man Sentenced to 18 Years in Federal Prison for Trafficking FentanylRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – A multiple-time convicted felon has been sentenced to serve 18 years in federal prison for possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl.
Antonio Jenord Whitehead, 37, of Macon, was sentenced to serve a total of 216 months in prison (168 months imprisonment to be served consecutively to the revocation sentences of 24 months imprisonment in Case No. 5:23-CR-16 and 24 months imprisonment in Case No. 5:23-CR-17) to be followed by five years of supervised release by Chief U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell on June 5. Whitehead previously pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl on April 3. There is no parole in the federal system.
“Those who push fentanyl into Middle Georgia risk lives and make our communities more dangerous places to live and work,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “This case reflects that the penalties for such conduct will be steep, especially when the perpetrators are repeat felons.”
“Despite previous convictions, Whitehead continued to plague our communities with fentanyl, fueling the deadliest drug epidemic our country has ever seen,” said Robert Gibbs, Senior Supervisor Resident Agent of FBI Atlanta’s Macon office. “This conviction demonstrates the FBI’s commitment to work diligently along with our local and federal partners to investigate and remove the leaders of these drug trafficking operations from our streets.”
According to court documents, on Feb. 20, 2023, the car Whitehead was traveling in was stopped for multiple violations on Georgia Highway 401 by a Monroe County Sheriff’s Office deputy. The officer smelled drugs, and the driver had a suspended license. As backup arrived, and a probable cause search was being conducted on the vehicle, Whitehead ran to the driver’s seat and attempted to drive away. An officer shot out the rear tires of the vehicle to prevent a high-speed chase, and Whitehead was arrested. Inside the vehicle, deputies located a suitcase which contained plastic bags filled with fentanyl, methamphetamine and cocaine. Whitehead also had several bags of marijuana and a bag of fentanyl on him. In total, Whitehead possessed 207 grams of fentanyl, 554 grams of methamphetamine and 101 grams of cocaine. At the time of this traffic stop and arrest, Whitehead was under supervised release for two prior federal drug distribution convictions in the Southern District of West Virginia.
The case was investigated by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office and the FBI. Deputy Criminal Chief Will Keyes prosecuted the case for the Government.
Luzerne County Man Sentenced to Prison for Conspiracy and Attempted Possession with Intent to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Jose L. Vargas, age 39, of Hazleton, Pennsylvania was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison by U.S. District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani, for conspiracy and attempted possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. After his release, Vargas will serve an additional five years on supervised release.
According to United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam, Vargas was the target of a reverse sting operation by the DEA in which he attempted to retrieve five pounds of crystal methamphetamine. Vargas had left the methamphetamine in the possession of an acquittance, who began to cooperate with law enforcement. The DEA took possession of the nearly two and one-half kilograms of crystal methamphetamine and arranged through the confidential informant to have Vargas retrieve the drugs from a car parked in Hazleton. Unfortunately, the undercover police vehicle locking mechanism locked the vehicle prior to Vargas’s attempt to retrieve the drugs. Vargas then telephoned another individual and directed him to retrieve the drugs and bring them to Vargas. That individual was arrested when he retrieved the drug from the then, unlocked vehicle and cooperated with police against Vargas.
Vargas was convicted of conspiracy and attempted possession of the methamphetamine after a three-day trial in Scranton, Pennsylvania. Vargas is a citizen of the Dominican Republic and subject to deportation upon his release from federal prison.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The case was investigated by the DEA and the Hazleton, Pennsylvania Police Department and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Todd K. Hinkley and James Buchanan prosecuted the case.
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Luzerne County Man Sentenced to 144 Months’ Imprisonment for Fentanyl TraffickingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Lee Crawford, age 62, of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on June 5, 2024, by U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion, to 144 months’ imprisonment on the charge of conspiracy to distribute more than 40 grams of fentanyl and the charge of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
According to United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam, Crawford previously pleaded guilty and admitted to conspiring with other individuals to distribute more than 40 grams of fentanyl in the Luzerne County area between July 2020 and February 2021. Investigators made several purchases of fentanyl from Crawford and then obtained a search warrant for Crawford’s residence in Wilkes-Barre, where an additional amount of fentanyl was seized. Crawford also admitted to a separate charge of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl resulting from the search of his residence. Crawford was indicted by a grand jury sitting in Scranton in March 2021.
The charges against the defendant resulted from an investigation conducted by the Kingston Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms, and the Luzerne County Drug Task Force. Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. O’Hara prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Luxury Jewelry Company Supervisor Pleads Guilty to Stealing, Selling Millions of Dollars Worth of Precious MetalsRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A manufacturing supervisor for a luxury jewelry company pleaded guilty today to stealing gold, silver and platinum from his employer over a period of more than three years.
Benjamin Preacher, 54, of North Attleboro, pleaded guilty to one count of interstate transportation of stolen goods and one count of engaging in unlawful monetary transactions. U.S. District Court Judge Angel Kelley scheduled sentencing for Sept. 18, 2024. In March 2024, Preacher was charged by criminal complaint.
Since 2018, Preacher worked fulltime as a manufacturing supervisor at a Rhode Island facility operated by a company that sells luxury items, including jewelry made from gold, silver and platinum. Preacher used his position to steal precious metals from the company’s facility in Rhode Island and then sell the metals to various businesses in Massachusetts.
Specifically, from in or about March 2020 to March 2023, Preacher sold precious metals to a Canton-based metals dealer roughly one to two times per month – with sales to that dealer alone totaling more than $1 million. Preacher’s sales of stolen metals included $50,521 in 18-carat gold in March 2020; $21,821 in 18-carat gold, “platinum scrap” and “sterling” in April 2021; and $30,939 in platinum in January 2022.
Preacher also sold more than $177,000 in stolen precious metals to a separate metals dealer in West Bridgewater between on or about May 16, 2023 and Nov. 16, 2023. This included gold sheets used by Preacher’s employer, which Preacher stole and sold, along with other gold scrap, for nearly $21,000.
On March 1, 2024, approximately 30 minutes into his shift, Preacher was captured on company security cameras stealing a piece of white gold “flat stock,” measuring approximately an inch in diameter and approximately as thick as a quarter, valued at roughly $2,200.
Precious metal in scrap form were located and seized during a search of Preacher’s home on March 14, 2024.
The charge of interstate transportation of stolen goods provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the amount of the monetary gain or loss, whichever is more, and the charge of unlawful monetary transactions provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the amount of the laundered funds. 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 Harry Chavis, Jr., Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Boston Field Office made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kriss Basil of the Securities, Financial & Cyber Fraud Unit is prosecuting the case.
Little Rock Man Who Illegally Possessed Firearm Sentenced to over 16 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—Christopher Charles Mathis, a multi-convicted felon, will spend more than sixteen years in federal prison for illegally possessing a firearm. Jonathan D. Ross, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, announced the sentence, which was handed down today by United States District Judge James M. Moody, Jr.
On February 13, 2024, Mathis, 43, of Little Rock, pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Today, Judge Moody sentenced Mathis to 195 months in the Bureau of Prisons to be followed by three years of supervised released. Mathis, a felon with multiple violent felony convictions, was indicted on May 3, 2023, on one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Classified as an armed career criminal, Mathis’ sentence was based on the offense as well as his documented violent criminal history. The maximum penalty Mathis faced was not less than 15 years to life in prison, no more than five years on supervised release, and a fine of $250,000. There is no parole in the federal system.
On July 22, 2022, officers from the Little Rock Police Department responded to an apartment complex in the 5000 block of West 65th Street in Little Rock, after receiving a 911 call about a man openly carrying a firearm. Upon arrival, officers spoke with witnesses who identified Mathis as the person carrying the firearm. A witness stated that Mathis did not live at the apartment complex, had previously made threats toward him, and was banned from the complex. Mathis was located on the property and taken into custody. A maintenance man located the firearm behind nearby dumpsters on the property, and witnesses confirmed that it was the same firearm they observed Mathis carrying.
Mathis has prior convictions for being a felon in possession of a firearm as well as prior convictions for residential burglary, domestic battery of a pregnant woman, terroristic threatening, possession of cocaine with intent to deliver, and possession of marijuana with intent to deliver.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Little Rock Police Department.
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Additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
X (formerly known as Twitter):
@USAO_EDAR
Lincoln Man Sentenced to 11 Years for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Stacey Vanarsdale, 37, of Lincoln, Nebraska, was sentenced on June 6, 2024, in federal court in Lincoln, for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Senior United States District Judge John M. Gerrard sentenced Vanarsdale to 132 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Vanarsdale’s release from prison, he will begin an 8-year term of supervised release.
On August 10, 2022, Lincoln/Lancaster County Narcotics Task Force (LLCNTF) served a search warrant, at the home of Stacey Vanarsdale. Vanarsdale was contacted outside and taken into custody. A co-defendant, Alphonso Johnson, Jr. was found in a bedroom within the residence. In the bedroom closet, investigators located a total of 365.9 grams of suspected meth, which was separated in 12-ounce quantity baggies. In the closet was $217.00 in U.S. currency and other illegal narcotics.
Law enforcement additionally downloaded and reviewed both Vanarsdale’s and Johnson’s personal cell phones. Text messages located on both devices indicated that Johnson directed people to meet with him or Vanarsdale at the apartment, for the purpose of selling drugs, and that they worked in concert to distribute these drugs.
The suspected meth was sent to the lab, and the lab determined that there was about 346.35 grams of meth, of which at least 180 grams was actual meth. The co-defendant, Alphonso Johnson, Jr., was previously sentenced to 132 months’ (11 years) imprisonment on March 1, 2024.
This case was investigated by the Lincoln/Lancaster County Narcotics Task Force (LLCNTF).
Level-2 Sex Offender Sentenced to Decade in Prison for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Chelsea man was sentenced yesterday for possessing child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
Lasall Johnson, 55, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Leo T. Sorokin to 10 years in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release. In March 2024, Johnson pleaded guilty to one count of possession of child pornography.
“Mr. Johnson’s incredibly dangerous predatory actions perpetuated the exploitation and abuse of the most vulnerable members of our society. The sentence imposed not only removes a threat from our communities but also sends a clear and unequivocal message to other potential offenders that possessing child sexual abuse material comes with grave and severe consequences,” said Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy. “Possessing child pornography is far from a victimless crime. Each image and video represents a real child who has been horrifically victimized, and consuming and distributing this material contributes to a cycle of abuse that leaves lasting scars on victims. Our office remains steadfastly committed to protecting children from such predators. This sentence is a reflection of our unwavering dedication to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of our communities, particularly the children who depend on us for protection.”
“Johnson secretly hoarded hundreds of images depicting the sexual abuse of innocent children until HSI investigators discovered that he shared those horrific images on a file sharing network available to users who sought them out. This sentence ensures that our communities are safer with him in federal prison,” said Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge for Homeland Security Investigations in New England. “HSI works tirelessly to bring to justice those who possess and distribute child sexual abuse imagery. Each image immortalizes the trauma of a child and we will do everything possible to stop the consumers who create the demand for this abuse.”
In or about June 2021, an investigation into a peer-to-peer file sharing program identified Johnson as the owner of an IP address distributing large quantities of CSAM files. On more than 85 occasions ranging from approximately June 2021 to April 2022, that IP address was offering to share suspected CSAM torrent files. During a search of Johnson’s rented bedroom, six electronic devices were seized including three cellphones, two thumb drives and an electronic tablet. A subsequent forensic analysis located approximately 341 image and video files depicting the sexual abuse of children across three of the seized devices, including files depicting victims as young as four years old.
In 1989, Johnson was convicted in Norfolk County Superior Court of two counts of assault to rape, for which he received a 20-year state prison sentence with two years committed and the balance suspended for 18 years. As a result of those convictions, Johnson is a Level-2 registered sex offender.
Acting U.S. Attorney Levy, HSI SAC Krol and Chelsea Police Chief Keith Houghton made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Suzanne Sullivan Jacobus of the Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Leader of Brooklyn-Based Ninedee Gang Convicted of Racketeering and the Murder of a Former Government WitnessRead the Press Release
A federal jury in Brooklyn today returned a guilty verdict against Maliek Miller, a leader of the Ninedee Gang, a violent criminal enterprise operating out of the Louis H. Pink Houses in East New York, on all counts of a second superseding indictment charging him with racketeering, conspiracy to commit murder in-aid-of racketeering, murder in-aid-of racketeering, unlawful use and possession of firearms, causing death through the use of firearms, being a felon in possession of ammunition and conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute marijuana. The verdict followed a four-week trial before United States District Judge LaShann DeArcy Hall. When sentenced, Miller faces a mandatory term of life in prison.
Breon Peace, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, James Smith, Assistant Director-in-Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI), and Edward A. Caban, Commissioner, New York City Police Department (NYPD), announced the verdict.
“Today’s verdict is momentous because it holds Miller accountable for orchestrating a cowardly plot to kill a woman who bravely stood up to his Ninedee Gang, and it upholds the rule of law for the residents of the Pink Houses who just want to go about their lives and raise their children without the plague of violence and danger inflicted on them by ruthless criminals like the defendant,” stated United States Attorney Peace. “The verdict ensures that Miller will spend the rest of his life in prison, which I hope provides some measure of solace to the family of Shatavia Walls.”
“The perceived need for revenge never justifies murder. In 2020, Maliek Miller ordered the heinous killing of Shatavia Walls - who testified against Miller's gang - to send a message to residents in the Louis H. Pink Houses not to cooperate with law enforcement. There is no place for such egregious violence in our city, especially when used in retaliation to incite fear. May today's conviction offer some closure to Shatavia Walls's family and serve as a deterrent to gangs who use violent tactics in furtherance of their criminal activity,” stated FBI Assistant Director-in-Charge Smith.
“Today’s guilty verdict is another step toward eradicating gang violence in New York City,” stated NYPD Commissioner Caban. “The NYPD will continue to partner with the FBI and everyone at the office of the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District to present solid cases for prosecution, to secure meaningful federal prison sentences, and to deliver justice for victims, their families, and our communities.”
As proven at trial, Ninedee Gang members are affiliated with the “5” and “6” Pink Houses apartment buildings and have engaged in ongoing gang-related violence within and outside of the New York City Housing Authority complex. The Ninedee Gang’s main rivalry, dating back over a decade, is against the “7” and “8” buildings in the Pink Houses. Ninedee Gang protects its turf through violence, makes money by selling drugs and committing fraud and seeks to silence anyone who they perceive to be working with law enforcement.
The murder of former government witness, Shatavia Walls, was coordinated by Miller and other Ninedee Gang members as part of that ongoing gang rivalry. Specifically, the victim was targeted by the Ninedee Gang because of her affiliation with the “7” and “8” buildings associated with the Makk Baller Brims gang and because she had previously testified at a federal criminal trial against a Ninedee associate in the Eastern District of New York. Prior to her testimony, fliers had been posted around the Pink Houses stating, “Shatavia Been a Rat And She Still Ratting.”
On July 4, 2020, Ms. Walls and others were involved in a physical altercation with members of Ninedee, including Miller’s cousin, for lighting fireworks around young children. Miller went to the scene of the altercation, called Ms. Walls a “snitch,” fought with Ms. Walls and fired a shot in the air. Following the altercation, Miller agreed with other Ninedee Gang members to kill Ms. Walls, and set a plan to do so in motion.
On July 7, 2020, Walls was spotted by a Ninedee Gang hit team, who chased her down a path at the Pink Houses. She was shot numerous times by Ninedee Gang members Quintin Green and Joe Santana. Ninedee Gang member Shakur Bey destroyed the clothing that Green and Santana wore during the shooting by throwing the items down an incinerator chute. Ninedee Gang member Kevin Wint, who was not present at the murder, rented a hotel room at a Best Western Hotel near John F. Kennedy International Airport to provide a place where the shooters could hide out overnight. Ms. Walls died of her injuries ten days later.
Green, Santana, and Bey have pleaded guilty to their roles in the murder and are currently awaiting sentencing. Wint pleaded guilty in March 2023 and was later sentenced to 110 months’ imprisonment.
The government’s case is being handled by Office’s Organized Crime and Gangs Section. Assistant United States Attorneys Emily J. Dean, Margaret Schierberl and Irisa Chen are in charge of the prosecution with the assistance of Paralegal Specialist Elizabeth Reed and with the assistance of Intelligence Analyst Eungee Hwang and Intelligence Specialist Ashley Hinkson.
The Defendant:
MALIEK MILLER
Age: 30
Brooklyn, New YorkDefendants Who Previously Pleaded Guilty:
SHAKUR BEY (also known as “Speedy)
Age: 27
Brooklyn, New YorkQUINTIN GREEN (also known as “Wild Child”)
Age: 23
Brooklyn, New YorkJOE SANTANA (also known as “Baby Joe”)
Age: 20
Brooklyn, New YorkKEVIN WINT (also known as “Kev G”)
Age: 30
Brooklyn, New YorkE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 20-CR-331 (LDH)
Laurel Man Sentenced to 37 Months in Federal Prison for Conspiring to Illegally Ship Stolen Cars to West AfricaRead the Press Release
Greenbelt, Maryland – U.S. District Judge Peter J. Messitte sentenced Rodley Balthazar, age 30, a Haitian citizen residing in Laurel, Maryland, to 37 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to commit transportation of stolen motor vehicles and receipt and possession of stolen motor vehicles.
The sentence was announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Erek L. Barron; Special Agent in Charge Michael McCarthy of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Baltimore; Port of Baltimore Director Adam Rottman of U.S. Customs and Border Protection; and Chief of the Maryland Transportation Authority Police Colonel Joseph F. Scott.
According to his plea agreement, between approximately September 2019 and June 2022, Balthazar worked with others to fraudulently rent vehicles from Hertz, Avis, and other car rental companies at locations in Maryland, Virginia, Washington, D.C., Tennessee, and elsewhere. Balthazar was able to rent these cars using false identifications and credit cards.
The vehicles would then be transported to Maryland where they would be loaded onto large cargo shipping containers and taken to the Port of Baltimore. Then, using false declaration forms and other paperwork to conceal the containers’ contents, the containers with rental vehicles inside would be exported to West Africa via cargo ship where the vehicles could be sold.
Law enforcement is aware of more than 40 vehicles that Balthazar and his co-conspirators either exported or attempted to export to West Africa.
Co-conspirator Jonathan Davis, age 39, of Laurel, Maryland, previously pleaded guilty to receipt and possession of stolen vehicles and was sentenced to 13 months in federal prison. A third co-conspirator, Abdul Karim Turay Jr. has pled guilty and is scheduled to be sentenced on July 11, 2024.
United States Attorney Erek L. Barron praised the HSI Border Enforcement Security Task Force and the Maryland Transportation Authority Police for their work in the investigation. Mr. Barron thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Darren S. Gardner and Timothy F. Hagan who prosecuted the 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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Lansing Man Sentenced in Federal Gun CaseRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that 48-year-old Lansing resident, Tom Allen Manuel, was sentenced to 57 months for being a felon in possession of a firearm. On December 19, 2023, Manuel was charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm and possessing a firearm knowing it had an obliterated serial number. Manuel pled guilty to the first charge on February 6, 2024.
“Mr. Manuel has a 30-year record of violent criminal behavior,” said U.S. Attorney Totten. “He has blatantly disregarded the law and repeatedly committed crimes while serving his sentence for past offenses. The people of Lansing deserve protection from such conduct, and my office is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to help keep our communities safe from violent offenders.”
The grand jury charged Manuel with carrying a loaded pistol on October 27, 2023. At the time, he was a convicted felon. Manuel had an outstanding warrant for his arrest for violating bond on a pending armed robbery charge in Lansing Circuit Court. The District Court imposed a longer sentence than usual because Manuel has a 30-year criminal record for violent crime and the Court was concerned that he remained a danger to the community.
“Accountability matters. Tom Manuel is a convicted serial violent offender who knowingly possessed an illegal firearm.” said ATF Detroit Special Agent in Charge James Deir. “Mr. Manuel is going to have a lot of free time to reflect on his consistent track record of illegal activity. Our community is a safer place today with Mr. Manuel off the streets.”
This case was prosecuted by Assistant United Sates Attorney Timothy VerHey, and investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and Lansing Police Department.
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June Federal Grand Jury 2024-A Indictments AnnouncedRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Clint Johnson today announced the results of the June Federal Grand Jury 2024-A Indictments.
The following individuals have been charged with violations of United States law in indictments returned by the Grand Jury. The return of an indictment is a method of informing a defendant of alleged violations of federal law, which must be proven in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt to overcome a defendant’s presumption of innocence.
Adam Alshekhly. Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition. Alshekhly, 27, transient, is charged with possessing a firearm and ammunition knowing he was previously convicted of several felonies. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michele W. Hulgaard is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-177
Ronald Buckley Jr.; Terrance Vohn Morrow. Robbery in Indian Country (Count 1); Using, Brandishing, and Discharging a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence (Counts 2 & 5); Attempted Hobbs Act Robbery (Count 3); Hobbs Act Robbery (Count 4). Buckley, 38, of Tulsa and a member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, is charged with taking property of value by force and using, brandishing, and discharging a firearm during a crime of violence. Buckley and Morrow, 40, of Kinta, are further charged with affecting interstate commerce by robbery and using a firearm during a crime of violence. The FBI, the Tulsa Police Department, and the Tulsa County Sheriff's Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephen J. Flynn and Kenneth Elmore are prosecuting the case. 24-CR-174
Dakota Austin Clark. Possession of Child Pornography in Indian Country. Clark, 23, of Grove and a member of the Cherokee Nation, is charged with possessing visual images depicting the sexual abuse of a child under 12 years old. The FBI and Grove Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christian Harris is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-179
Fabian Cobos Carpena. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Carpena, 30, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been removed in Jul. 2013, at or near Del Rio, Texas. U.S. Immigration and Custom’s Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michele W. Hulgaard is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-173
Jacob Andres Gutierrez. First Degree Burglary in Indian Country. Gutierrez, 25, of transient and a member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, is charged with breaking into an occupied dwelling with the intent to commit a crime. The FBI and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michele W. Hulgaard is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-176
Lerontez Sherod Hill; Bobbe Gene Taylor; Tashonna Leigh Anderson; Walter Jay Johnson; Kemareay Keishion Green; Jeremiah Hamlin. Kidnapping; Hobbs Act Robbery; Carrying, Using, and Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence (second superseding). Hill, 38, of Tulsa; Taylor, 25, of Tulsa; Anderson, 36, of Bixby; Johnson, 26, of Tulsa; Green, 25, of Atoka; and Hamlin, 40 of Tulsa, are charged with kidnapping and robbery in Aug. 2021. They are further charged with using a firearm during a crime of violence and in relation to robbery. The FBI is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kenneth Elmore and John Brahser are prosecuting the case. 23-CR-318
Michael Vincent Martin. Assault of an Intimate/Dating Partner by Strangling in Indian Country (Count 1); Abusive Sexual Contact by Force and Threat in Indian Country (Count 2); Tampering with a Witness by Intimidation, Threats, and Corrupt Persuasion (Counts 3 & 7); Sexual Abuse Without Consent in Indian Country (Count 4); Cyberstalking (Count 5); Tampering with a Witness by Intimidation, Threats, and Corrupt Persuasion (Count 6). Martin, 34, of Tulsa, is charged with assault by strangulation of an intimate dating partner, engaging in sexual contact by force or threat, and without consent. Martin is further charged with attempting to influence and prevent the tribal victim from testifying and communicating with law enforcement. Additionally, he is charged with cyberstalking. The FBI and Broken Arrow Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stacey P. Todd is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-180
Eliseo Morales-Lopez. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Morales-Lopez, 28, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been removed in Mar. 2015, at or near Laredo, Texas. U.S. Immigration and Custom’s Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mallory Richard is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-172
Lazaro Nonthe-Calvio. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Nonthe-Calvio, 30, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been removed in Apr. 2020, at or near Laredo, Texas. U.S. Immigration and Custom’s Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney David A. Nasar is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-181
Brandon Parada-Reyes. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Parada-Reyes, 27, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been removed in Feb. 2023, at or near Laredo, Texas. U.S. Immigration and Custom’s Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ammon Brisolara is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-182
Mateo Pinto-Gomez. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Pinto-Gomez, 35, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been removed in Feb. 2019, at or near Nogales, Arizona. U.S. Immigration and Custom’s Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Melissa Weems is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-183
Walther Fabian De La Cruz Rodriguez. Coercion and Enticement of a Minor (Counts 1 & 2); Sexual Abuse of a Minor in Indian Country (Counts 3 & 4); Production of Child Pornography (Count 5). Rodriguez, 29, a Mexican national, is charged with coercing and enticing two child victims to engage in sexual activity. He is further charged with engaging in sexual acts with two child victims under the age of 16. Additionally, Rodriguez coerced and enticed a child victim to record a video depicting sexually explicit conduct. Homeland Security Investigations and the Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nathan E. Michel and Kate Brandon are prosecuting the case. 24-CR-175
Clifton Clay Warren. Assault of an Intimate/Dating Partner by Strangling and Suffocating in Indian Country; Attempted Kidnapping in Indian Country; Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury in Indian Country. Warren, 35, of Lawton and a member of the Cherokee Nation, is charged with strangling and suffocating an intimate dating partner. He is further charged with attempting to kidnap his victim. Additionally, Warren is charged with assault that resulted in serious bodily injury. The FBI and Delaware County Sheriff’s Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mallory Richard is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-171
Jacksonville Man Sentenced to 35 Years in Federal Prison for Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—Jessie Michael Collins will spend 35 years in federal prison for distribution of child pornography. Jonathan D. Ross, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, announced the sentence, which was handed down today by United States District Judge Lee P. Rudofsky.
On January 23, 2024, Collins, 32, of Jacksonville, Arkansas, pleaded guilty to two counts of distribution of child pornography. Judge Rudofsky also sentenced Collins to a lifetime of supervised released. Collins, who had a pending state charge for possession of child pornography, was indicted on April 5, 2023, on two counts of distribution of child pornography. The maximum penalty Collins faced was not less than five years and not more than 20 years in prison on each count and a fine of $250,000. There is no parole in the federal system.
An investigation revealed that Collins used an online chat application to talk to others about sexually exploiting children. Through this online chat application, Collins would engage in conversations about sexually abusing children. He also would receive, view, and share sexually explicit photographs of children with other members in the group. At one point, Collins stated to an undercover agent that he had sexually abused a 12-year-old and, “Lol a 12yo ever since her I’ve wanted younger I know I can’t just go pick one up as hot as that would be[.]”
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kristin Bryant.
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Hot Springs Woman Sentenced to more than 19 Years in Federal Prison for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
HOT SPRINGS - A Hot Springs woman was sentenced yesterday to 235 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release on one count of Distribution of More Than 50 Grams of Actual Methamphetamine. The Honorable Judge Susan O. Hickey presided over the sentencing hearing in the United States District Court in Hot Springs.
According to court documents, beginning in April of 2021 and into May of 2021, Special Agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) conducted two (2) separate controlled purchases of methamphetamine from Melissa Kay Lane, age 46, in the Western District of Arkansas, Hot Springs Division. The suspected methamphetamine from both controlled purchases was submitted to the DEA Southeast Laboratory and determined to be a total of 219.13 grams, or approximately 8 ounces, of pure methamphetamine.
In September of 2021, Lane was arrested on outstanding drug warrants issued by the State of Texas. Subsequent to her arrest, it was determined that Lane was in possession of over seven (7) kilograms, or approximately 15.5 pounds, of methamphetamine at her residence.
U.S. Attorney David Clay Fowlkes of the Western District of Arkansas made the announcement.
The Drug Enforcement Administration investigated the case with assistance from the Hot Springs Police Department and the 18th East Judicial District Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Bryan Achorn prosecuted the case.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Related court documents may be found on the Public Access to Electronic Records website @ www.pacer.gov.
Harrison Man Sentenced to 55 Years in Federal Prison for Sexually Exploiting and Abusing a 5-Year-Old FemaleRead the Press Release
FAYETTEVILLE – A Harrison man was sentenced yesterday to 660 months imprisonment without the possibility of parole on two (2) Counts of Sexually Exploiting a Minor via the Production of Child Pornography. The Honorable Timothy L. Brooks presided over the sentencing hearing, which was held in the U.S. District Court in Fayetteville.
According to Court documents, in July of 2023, a five-year old female disclosed to her mother that Aaron Micheal Ricketts, age 32, had been sexually abusing her. The minor subsequently disclosed in a forensic interview that Ricketts had also taken nude pictures of her. Law enforcement with the Boone County Sheriff’s Office later arrested Ricketts and seized his cellular phone. A subsequent forensic examination of the cellular phone revealed multiple sexually explicit images and videos documenting Rickett’s sexual abuse of the minor starting when she was four years old. At sentencing, the United States presented the Court with evidence that Ricketts also distributed images of the minor on the internet and solicited images from other purported minors in exchange.
U.S. Attorney Clay Fowlkes of the Western District of Arkansas made the announcement.
Homeland Security Investigations, the Internet Crimes Against Children Taskforce, the Boone County Sheriff’s Office, and the Harrison Police Department investigated this case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Devon Still prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Harrison County Man Admits to Firearms OffenseRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Brock Corel Pearson, 42, of Meadowbrook, West Virginia, pled guilty today to the possession of a short-barreled shotgun.
According to court documents, Pearson was found with an unregistered short-barreled shotgun in Harrison County.
Pearson faces up to 10 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Conklin is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Guilty Verdict for District Man on Aggravated Assault ChargesRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Tyrone Johnson, 43, of Washington, D.C., was found guilty yesterday by a Superior Court jury of aggravated assault while armed and related charges, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves and Chief Pamela A. Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
The verdict followed a two-week trial before Superior Court Judge Marisa Demeo. The jury also found Johnson guilty of assault with a dangerous weapon, assault with significant bodily injury while armed, three counts of possession of a firearm during each of those crimes of violence, unlawful possession of a firearm, carrying a pistol without a license, unlawful possession of ammunition and possession of an unregistered firearm. Judge Demeo scheduled sentencing for September 6, 2024.
According to the government’s evidence, at around 5:40 a.m. on August 30, 2022, Johnson entered Starburst Plaza, located at the intersection of Benning Road NE and Bladensburg Road NE, and asked the victim if he could buy a cigarette from him. The victim did not have any cigarettes and told Johnson “no.” Johnson then told the victim to, “Give it up,” before taking out a handgun. Johnson then fired multiple times at the victim at close range, hitting him in his midsection. Johnson then ran into a nearby apartment complex. Police later identified Johnson through review of video surveillance, GPS records, and ballistics evidence that linked Johnson to this shooting and one committed one week before this offense.
This case was investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.
This case was prosecuted at trial by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Travis Wolf and Matthew Goldstein.
Guam Drug Dealer Sentenced to 97 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Hagatña, Guam – SHAWN N. ANDERSON, United States Attorney for the Districts of Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands, announced that defendant Ian David Waki, age 48, from Guam was sentenced to 97 months imprisonment for Possession of Methamphetamine Hydrochloride with Intent to Distribute, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1). The Court also ordered three years of supervised release and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. In addition, defendants convicted of a federal drug offense may no longer qualify for certain federal benefits.
On July 7, 2023, officers with the Guam Police Department attempted to stop a stolen Ford Fl50 truck. A police pursuit ended on a dead-end road in a jungle area. Waki was found sitting in the driver's seat of the truck. After being told to shut off the engine, Waki revved the vehicle and then fled on foot. Officers apprehended him a short distance away following a brief struggle.
Officers recovered a partially open wallet containing bags of methamphetamine, MDMA, and a cellphone just outside the vehicle. A wallet with more bags of methamphetamine, amphetamine pills, $1,069 in currency, and Waki’s driver's license were located within the vehicle. The DEA Southwest Laboratory determined the substances contained 105.6 grams of methamphetamine with a purity of 97 percent.
“I applaud the efforts by GPD officers throughout this investigation,” stated United States Attorney Anderson. “This case once again highlights the dangers officers face during traffic stops. Fortunately, this matter had a good outcome for our communities.”
This investigation was conducted by the Guam Police Department with the assistance of the Drug Enforcement Administration. The case was prosecuted by Devarup Rastogi, Assistant United States Attorney in the District of Guam.