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8 July 2024
Lexington Couple Sentenced for Fraudulently Obtaining COVID Relief LoansRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. – A Lexington man, Neal Harris, 57, was sentenced on Monday, by U.S. District Judge Robert Wier, to 37 months in prison, for eight counts of wire fraud, for obtaining Economic Injury Disaster Loans under false pretenses. His co-defendant, Kelly Harris, 64, was sentenced on July 2, 2024, to 46 months in prison, also for eight counts of wire fraud.
In March 2024, following a four-day jury trial, the Harrises were convicted of all the wire fraud charges against them. According to the evidence at trial, from May 5, 2020 through July 25, 2020, the Harrises submitted materially false applications to the Small Business Administration (SBA), to obtain Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL), for five businesses they claimed were impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
In total, they claimed to run five businesses that had done a total of $1.4 million in business in 2019. In reality, none of the businesses were operational in 2019. The only business that existed prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Ruby Bailey Family Service Center, had been dissolved in 2019. Despite this, the Harrises sought more than $450,000 in loans to which they were not entitled. They obtained $357,600 in disaster relief funds from the SBA for three of the businesses. A local bank detected the fraud in August 2020 and secured the funds remaining in the business accounts. After the bank returned the fraudulently obtained funds, Neal and Kelly Harris then submitted additional fraudulent documentation to the SBA, attempting to get these funds back. At sentencing, both defendants were found to have obstructed justice by testifying falsely at the trial.
Under federal law, the Harrises must serve 85 percent of their prison sentence. Upon his release from prison, he will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for two years.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Lesley Allison, Special Agent in Charge, United States Postal Inspection Service, Pittsburgh Field Division; and Kelly K. Moening, Special Agent in Charge, Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, Great Lakes Field Division, jointly announced the sentencing.
The investigation was conducted by the USPIS and Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kate Smith is prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
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Justice Department Reaches Settlement to Recover Los Angeles Mansion Purchased by Family of Former Armenian Government MinisterRead the Press Release
The Justice Department reached a settlement for a civil forfeiture case against a mansion in the Holmby Hills section of Los Angeles belonging to the family of Gagik Khachatryan, a former government official in the Republic of Armenia.
In 2011, a trust benefiting Khachatryan’s sons purchased the property with funds provided by an Armenian businessman. At the time, Khachatryan was the most senior official in charge of taxes and customs in the Republic of Armenia. The sons claimed that the funds were provided as loans by the businessman, while the United States alleged the loans, which were repeatedly extended without repayment, were covers for bribe payments. The payments are also the subject of pending criminal prosecutions in the Republic of Armenia.
Under the terms of the settlement, the mansion will be forfeited to the United States. The United States will then sell the property at the highest obtainable market price and retain 85% of the net proceeds of the sale. The remaining net proceeds of the sale will be delivered to the Khachatryan’s sons and a corporation they own. The Attorney General has the discretionary authority to transfer forfeited property to any foreign country that participated directly or indirectly in the seizure or forfeiture of the property. The offices that brought the case intend to recommend transfer of some or all of the forfeited proceeds to the Republic of Armenia.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada for the Central District of California; Acting Assistant Director in Charge Krysti Hawkins of the FBI Los Angeles Field Office; and U.S. Marshal David M. Singer made the announcement.
The FBI’s Eurasian Organized Crime Task Force (EOCTF) and U.S. Marshals Service investigated the case. The EOCTF is composed of multiple law enforcement agencies including the FBI, IRS Criminal Investigation, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Glendale Police Department, Los Angeles Police Department, and Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. The Justice Department’s Official of International Affairs, the Republic of Armenia’s Prosecutor General’s Office, and Armenian investigative authorities also provided critical assistance.
Trial Attorney Hunter Smith of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section (MLARS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Maxwell Coll for the Central District of California prosecuted the case.
The Kleptocracy Asset Recovery Initiative is led by a team of dedicated prosecutors in MLARS, in partnership with federal law enforcement agencies and often with U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, to forfeit the proceeds of foreign official corruption. Individuals with information about possible proceeds of foreign corruption located in or laundered through the United States should contact federal law enforcement or send an email to [email protected] (link sends e-mail) or https://tips.fbi.gov/.
Justice Department Reaches Settlement to Recover L.A. Mansion Purchased by Family of Former Armenian Government MinisterRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – The Justice Department today announced it has reached a settlement for a civil forfeiture case against a mansion in the Holmby Hills section of Los Angeles belonging to the family of Gagik Khachatryan, a former government official in the Republic of Armenia.
In 2011, a trust benefiting Khachatryan’s sons purchased the property with funds provided by an Armenian businessman. At the time, Khachatryan was the most senior official in charge of taxes and customs in the Republic of Armenia. The sons claimed that the funds were provided as loans by the businessman, while the United States alleged the loans, which were repeatedly extended without repayment, were covers for bribe payments. The payments are also the subject of pending criminal prosecutions in the Republic of Armenia.
Under the terms of the settlement, the mansion will be forfeited to the United States. The United States will then sell the property at the highest obtainable market price and retain 85% of the net proceeds of the sale. The remaining net proceeds of the sale will be delivered to the Khachatryan’s sons and a corporation they own. The Attorney General has the discretionary authority to transfer forfeited property to any foreign country that participated directly or indirectly in the seizure or forfeiture of the property. The offices that brought the case intend to recommend transfer of some or all the forfeited proceeds to the Republic of Armenia.
“We do not tolerate corruption in the United States and we will not allow foreign officials to use our country to facilitate their own corruption,” said United States Attorney Martin Estrada. “Our recovery of these ill-gotten gains should send a message to corrupt officials throughout the world that they will find no safe harbor here.”
The FBI’s Eurasian Organized Crime Task Force (EOCTF) and U.S. Marshals Service investigated the case. The EOCTF is composed of multiple law enforcement agencies including the FBI, IRS-Criminal Investigation, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Glendale Police Department, the Los Angeles Police Department, and the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. The Justice Department’s Official of International Affairs, Republic of Armenia’s Prosecutor General’s Office, and Armenian investigative authorities also provided critical assistance.
Assistant United States Attorney Maxwell Coll of the Cyber and Intellectual Property Crimes Section and Trial Attorney Hunter Smith of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section (MLARS) prosecuted this case.
The Kleptocracy Asset Recovery Initiative is led by a team of dedicated prosecutors in MLARS, in partnership with federal law enforcement agencies and often with U.S. Attorney’s Offices, to forfeit the proceeds of foreign official corruption. Individuals with information about possible proceeds of foreign corruption located in or laundered through the United States should contact federal law enforcement or send an email to [email protected] or https://tips.fbi.gov.
Justice Department Files Statement of Interest Reiterating Prison Officials’ Duty to Protect Incarcerated People from HarmRead the Press Release
The Justice Department filed a statement of interest last week in a lawsuit brought in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Alabama alleging that conditions in an Alabama state prison violate the Constitution. The statement explains that, under the Eighth Amendment, prison officials must respond reasonably when they know people in their custody face a substantial risk of serious harm, including harm from other incarcerated people.
“The Constitution requires prison officials to take reasonable steps to protect the people in their custody,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “We must not allow violence and sexual abuse to run rampant in our prisons and jails. We are committed to securing the constitutional rights of all people, including those who are incarcerated.”
The plaintiffs in Duke v. Hamm allege that prisoner-on-prisoner violence and sexual assault are commonplace at St. Clair Correctional Facility (St. Clair) in Springville, Alabama. They also allege that correctional officers regularly use excessive force on incarcerated people at St. Clair. The plaintiffs contend prison officials know that prisoners at St. Clair face a substantial risk of harm but have failed to take reasonable measures to address this risk, in violation of the Eighth Amendment.
“People do not lose their constitutional rights behind prison walls,” said U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona for the Northern District of Alabama. “Our office remains committed to ensuring constitutional conditions, including reasonable safety, within Alabama’s prisons.”
The department’s statement of interest clarifies the appropriate standards under the Eighth Amendment. A high level of violence in a prison puts inmates at a substantial risk of serious harm. The Eighth Amendment requires prison officials to respond reasonably to this risk when they become aware of it. The department’s statement notes that when prison officials continue ineffective measures and disregard available alternatives to mitigate the risk of harm, they are not complying with their constitutional requirement to respond reasonably.
For more information on the Civil Rights Division please visit www.justice.gov/crt. Additional information about the Civil Rights Division’s work regarding correctional facilities is available at www.justice.gov/crt/rights-persons-confined-jails-and-prisons.
July Federal Grand Jury 2024-A Indictments AnnouncedRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Clint Johnson today announced the results of the July 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.
Joseph Scott Campbell. Sexual Abuse of a Minor in Indian Country. Campbell, 54, of Jay, is charged with engaging in a sexual act with a minor victim under 16 years old. The FBI, Cherokee Nation Marshall Service, and the Tahlequah Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alicia Hockenbury is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-210
Rodney Eldon Hunter. Second Degree Murder in Indian Country; Carrying, Using, Brandishing, and Discharging a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence. Hunter, 55, of Tulsa and a member of the Cherokee Nation, is charged with unlawfully shooting Darrick Orcutt in the back and killing him. He is further charged with discharging a firearm during a crime of violence. The FBI and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric O. Johnston is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-213
Aroldo Baudilio Miranda-Dionisio. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Miranda-Dionisio, 53, a Guatemalan national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been removed in Sep. 2017 at or near Dallas, Texas. U.S. Immigration and Custom’s Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christian Harris is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-211
Feliciano Ortega-Banderas; Luis Enrique Rios-Soriano; Morgan Ashley Kirby. Drug Conspiracy; Attempted Distribution of Methamphetamine; Attempted Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute. Ortega-Banderas, 21, of East Palo Alto, California; Rios-Soriano, 24, a Mexican National; and Kirby, 20, of Tulsa, are charged with conspiring to distribute methamphetamine. Ortega-Banderas is further charged with intentionally attempting to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine. Additionally, Rios-Soriano and Kirby are charged with attempting to possess more than 500 grams of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. Drug Enforcement Administration – Tulsa and Amarillo offices, the Texas Department of Safety, and the Oklahoma Highway Patrol are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam C. Bailey is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-214
Arturo Procayo Rellanos. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Rellanos, 43, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been removed in Mar. 2024 at or near Laredo, Texas. U.S. Immigration and Custom’s Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cheryl L. Baber is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-209
Joseph Shane Simmons. Receipt and Distribution of Child Pornography; Possession of Child Pornography in Indian Country. Simmons, 48, of Owasso, is charged with knowingly receiving, possessing, and distributing visual images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of children. He is further charged with possessing visual images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of children under 12 years old. The Owasso Police Department is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Robert is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-212
Marcus Alexander Vasquez. Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition; Possession of Fentanyl with Intent to Distribute; Carrying and Possessing a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime. Vasquez, 27, of Broken Arrow, is charged with possessing a firearm and ammunition, knowing he was previously convicted of felonies. Additionally, he is charged with possessing fentanyl with intent to distribute and possessing and carrying a firearm while drug trafficking. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Tulsa Police Department, and the Broken Arrow Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen N. Scaife is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-224
Jefferson County Doctor, Staffers Accused of Conspiracy, Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – A doctor with an office in St. Louis and two employees have been indicted in U.S. District Court and accused of illegally prescribing controlled substances and health care fraud.
Dr. David A. Parks, 66, James M. Bilderback, 58, both of Jefferson County, Missouri, and Michelle J. Scheer, 43, of St. Louis, were each indicted on a charge of conspiracy to illegally prescribe controlled substances and five counts of illegal prescribing of a controlled substance. Parks and Bilderback were also indicted on one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud, eight additional counts of illegal prescribing of a controlled substance and 15 counts of making false statements related to health care matters.
The indictment alleges that from at least July 6, 2016, through Dec. 31, 2021, the three conspired to knowingly and intentionally prescribe controlled substances outside of the usual course of professional practice and for no legitimate medical purpose. The conspiracy’s goal was to maximize their patient population and, in turn, their profit, the indictment says. Parks and Bilderback, the indictment alleges, also conspired to defraud Medicare, Missouri Medicaid and private health insurers by billing them for claims for services that falsely and fraudulently identified Parks as the provider, including at times when Parks was out of the country.
Parks ran David A. Parks, M.D., P.C., at 3960 Lindell Boulevard in St. Louis, and Bilderback was the clinical manager and clinical research coordinator and later married Parks, the indictment says. Scheer worked at the front desk.
Many patients regularly received Schedule II controlled substance prescriptions, including hydrocodone, oxycodone, and dextroamphetamine-amphetamine salts, the indictment says.
Parks was rarely present at the clinic, typically coming in one or two days per week for a few hours at a time, the indictment says. The staff used pre-signed prescriptions so patients could obtain controlled substances without being evaluated or having their medical records reviewed and while Parks was out of the office or on domestic or international trips, the indictment says. Bilderback or another staffer would sometimes forge Parks’ signature, it says.
After prescriptions began being processed electronically in the spring of 2019, Parks and Bilderback gave the cell phone used to approve prescriptions for Schedule II controlled substances to staffers with no prescribing authority, the indictment says. Scheer used the cell phone and made unilateral prescribing decisions about prescriptions, including by changing the dosages, quantities, and types of controlled substances, it says.
All three authorized prescriptions for controlled substances that, in combination, increased the addictive, euphoric effects of the drugs, as well as the potential for overdoses and other adverse events, the indictment says. Parks and Bilderback instructed staff to not drug-test patients, thereby intentionally avoiding the detection of signs of drug abuse and diversion and all three gave “special treatment” to friends and family of Parks and Bilderback by issuing prescriptions for controlled substances whenever desired and without any requirement to see a provider, the indictment says.
Parks and Bilderback billed for services at a higher rate - as if Parks had performed them - even though a nurse practitioner or sometimes Bilderback performed them, the indictment alleges. Parks also failed to properly supervise nurse practitioners; he failed to review a minimum of 10% of the charts documenting the nurse practitioner’s activities and failed to stay within 75 miles by road of them while they were seeing patients, the indictment alleges.
“As we continue to combat the opioid crisis, our agency remains committed to investigating those involved in fraudulent schemes exploiting controlled substances for profit,” said Special Agent in Charge Linda T. Hanley of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “This indictment demonstrates HHS-OIG’s commitment to working with our law enforcement partners to protect vulnerable individuals from harm and uphold the integrity of healthcare providers.”
“Medical professionals have a duty to ensure that their patients’ health and safety are their primary concern,” said Diversion Program Manager Kim Daniels, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s lead for the Diversion Program in Missouri, Kansas and southern Illinois. “When they abdicate this responsibility, they put lives at stake. Diverting medications for illegitimate purposes will get DEA’s attention and we’ll be relentless in pursuing medical staff to ensure the practice ends.”
Charges set forth in an indictment are merely accusations and do not constitute proof of guilt. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The FBI, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Missouri Attorney General’s Office Medicaid Fraud Control Unit investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Sestric is prosecuting the case.
Illegally Armed Fentanyl Dealer Sentenced to Five Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- LaDarien McGee, 27, of Indianapolis, has been sentenced to five years in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release after pleading guilty to possession of fentanyl and cocaine with intent to distribute.
According to court documents, on January 9, 2024, IMPD executed a state search warrant and a fugitive arrest warrant on LaDarien McGee at a gas station, located at West Washington Street in Indianapolis. As law enforcement officers approached McGee, he fled on foot. Officers arrested McGee after a short chase and found a small bag of fentanyl pills, weighing approximately 3.2 grams, on his person. The officers also seized a 9-millimeter Glock handgun from McGee’s vehicle at the gas station.
Immediately after McGee’s arrest, officers executed a state search warrant at McGee’s residence. The officers found a red shoebox in McGee’s bedroom, which contained a 39.04 grams of fentanyl pills, a digital scale with cocaine residue, and 13.4 grams of cocaine. The officers also found a 5.7 caliber Smith & Wesson handgun and a .357 caliber Smith & Wesson revolver under the pillows on the bed, a 5.56 caliber Kel-Tec AR variant pistol along the wall beside the bed, and a .380 caliber Smith & Wesson handgun in a clothing rack.
McGee has sustained a previous felony conviction for trafficking with an inmate in Hendricks County, Indiana, which prohibits him from ever legally possessing a firearm.
“Fentanyl is devastating our communities at an unprecedented rate. Illegally armed fentanyl dealers pose an even greater danger to the public,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “We continue to work diligently with the ATF, IMPD, and other agencies to counter these deadly drugs and remove armed fentanyl dealers from our neighborhoods.”
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and IMPD investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Jane Magnus-Stinson.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Bradley A. Blackington, who prosecuted this case.
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Former Vice President of Miami Aerospace Company and Accomplice Sentenced to Prison for Involvement in Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
MIAMI – The former vice president of a Miami Aerospace company and his co-conspirator were sentenced to federal prison and ordered to pay over $2 million in restitution for their respective involvement in a mail, wire and honest services fraud conspiracy.
According to court filings, from August 2008, and continuing through October 2018, Mario Rene De La Torre, 54, of Fort Collins, Colo., used his position as Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Miami-based Summit Aerospace, Inc. (Summit), to fraudulently embezzle over $2.1 million of Summit’s funds, which he split with his co-defendant, Joe Lewis McHomes 71, of Perry, Ga. Moreover, De La Torre evaded the payment of income tax on his ill-gotten gains, by laundering the fraud proceeds and filing false and fraudulent income tax returns.
To perpetrate the fraud scheme, De La Torre enlisted McHomes to pose as a sales consultant, who supposedly obtained aircraft part repair work for Summit, from Al-Raha Group for Technical Services (RGTS) in Saudi Arabia. De La Torre created fake invoices purportedly issued by McHomes’ fictitious consulting firm, J-CONN Solutions (J-CONN), for commissions McHomes purportedly earned for selling Summit’s services to RGTS. In fact, McHomes did not obtain the repair work that Summit performed for RGTS and was not entitled to any compensation from Summit. De La Torre submitted the fake J-CONN invoices to Summit’s accounts payable department, which would then issue the checks payable to J-CONN. Significantly, De La Torre would create J-CONN invoices in amounts below $10,000 and cause Summit to issue a separate check for each invoice. Summit would then send a set of checks to Joe McHomes through the mail system. When McHomes received a set of Summit checks, he would cash them at a check cashing store rather than a bank; and he would structure his cashing so that he didn’t cash more than $10,000 worth of checks on the same day in order to avoid the store’s filing of a cash transaction report (CTR) with the Treasury Department. McHomes would then kick-back fifty percent of the cash proceeds to De La Torre, again structured to avoid generating a CTR.
Mario De La Torre used the fraud proceeds to pay family expenses, including, among other things, his wife’s credit card bills and his daughter’s university education.
On June 27, U.S. District Judge Kathleen M. Williams sentenced De La Torre to one year and one day’s imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release. De la Torre previously pled guilty to conspiracy to commit mail, wire, and honest services fraud, and making and subscribing a false tax return. On June 27, Judge Williams sentenced McHomes to five months in a Residential Reentry Center, to be followed by three years of supervised release, the first five months of which will be home detention. McHomes previously pled guilty to conspiracy to commit fraud. In addition, the Court ordered both defendants to pay restitution in the amount of $2,129,392.35.
U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida; Special Agent in Charge Derrell Freeman, U.S. Airforce, Office of Special Investigations, Procurement Fraud; Special Agent in Charge Darrin K. Jones of the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), Southeast Field Office; and Special Agent in Charge Matthew D. Line, of the IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), Miami Field Office announced the sentences.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Dwayne E. Williams prosecuted the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Daren Grove is handling asset forfeiture.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida at www.justice.gov/usao-sdfl.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case number 20-cr-20185.
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Former Teacher and Volunteer Youth Ministry Leader Pleads Guilty to Possessing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – A former teacher and volunteer leader of a youth ministry admitted to possessing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) in federal court today and faces a maximum of 20 years in prison for his crime.
Christian Baumgarth, 27, of Atlanta and formerly of Macon, pleaded guilty to one count of possession of child pornography before U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell on July 8. Baumgarth faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison to be followed by up to a lifetime of supervised release and a maximum $250,000 fine. In addition, he will have to register as a sex offender upon release from prison. Baumgarth was taken into custody pending sentencing after entering his guilty plea. The sentencing hearing is scheduled for Oct. 9. There is no parole in the federal system.
“Sadly, those who perpetuate the online abuse of children can sometimes be found hiding in plain sight and interacting with children,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “Our office and law enforcement at every level are working tirelessly to protect children from predators, and I commend the investigative work done in this case.”
“Those who view and distribute child sexual abuse material perpetuate the victimization of the most vulnerable members of our society,” said Anthony J. Patrone, the Acting Special Agent in Charge of HSI Atlanta that oversees Georgia and Alabama. “Those in positions of public trust are held to a higher standard as guardians of the innocent and HSI Atlanta, with our law enforcement partners, will continue to seek justice for these victims by pursuing and holding accountable the predators dealing in this material.”
According to court documents and statements referenced in court, federal agents with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) were investigating people using encrypted applications to distribute CSAM during the summer of 2023. Baumgarth was identified; at the time, he was a teacher and a coach at First Presbyterian Day (FPD) School in Macon, a position he held from 2018-2023. Additionally, he was a volunteer small group leader in the student ministry at Northway Church in Macon from 2019-2023.
On Aug. 1, 2023, agents executed a federal search warrant at Baumgarth’s residence in Macon, seizing numerous electronic devices. Agents notified FPD about the execution of the search warrant, and Baumgarth’s employment was terminated. Two of Baumgarth’s iPhones were forensically examined and found to contain 20 images and 13 videos of CSAM, including some that depicted the sexual abuse or exploitation of an infant or toddler. Baumgarth was interviewed by law enforcement and admitted to the conduct.
The case is being investigated by HSI with assistance from the FBI.
Deputy Criminal Chief Will Keyes is prosecuting the case for the Government.
Former Rowan County Teacher Sentenced for Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
COVINGTON, Ky. – A Morehead, Ky., man, Andrew Zaheri, 40, was sentenced on Monday, by U.S. District Judge David Bunning, to 22 years in prison, for production of child pornography.
According to his plea agreement, in the summer of 2022, Zaheri began a sexual relationship, with a minor student at the high school where he was employed as a teacher. The relationship continued through the school year and included Zaheri engaging in sexual acts with the victim during school hours. Zaheri admitted that, during the course of the relationship, he produced sexually explicit images and videos of the minor victim using his cell phone.
Under federal law, Zaheri must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence. Upon his release from prison, he will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for 22 years.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Michael E. Stansbury, Special Agent in Charge, FBI, Louisville Field Office; and Col. Phillip J. Burnett, Jr., Commissioner of the Kentucky State Police, jointly announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI and Kentucky State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Erin Roth is prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted this case as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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Federal Government Employee Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Defraud Local Agencies to Benefit His Private CompanyRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Ifediora Oli, an employee of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), pled guilty today to conspiring with other public officials to defraud the District of Columbia and the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) of money, property, and their employees’ honest services. As a result of the conspiracy, a private company owned and operated by Oli improperly received over $1 million.
The guilty plea was announced by U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves, FBI Special Agent in Charge David J. Scott of the Washington Field Office Criminal and Cyber Division, Inspector General Michelle A. Zamarin of the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority Office of Inspector General, and Inspector General Daniel W. Lucas of the D.C. Office of the Inspector General.
Oli, 41 of Silver Spring, Maryland, pleaded guilty to a criminal information charging him with one count of conspiracy to commit money, property, and honest services wire fraud, and one count of falsifying records. U.S. District Court Judge Tanya S. Chutkan scheduled sentencing for October 16.
In related cases, co-defendants Bridgette Crowell and Obinna Ogbu also pleaded guilty to conspiring with Oli to defraud the District and WMATA.
According to court documents, during the conspiracy—which was carried out between 2018 and 2023—Oli was employed at USDA while separately acting as the Principal of Highbury Global Group, Inc. (Highbury). Ogbu was employed at WMATA as an information technology (IT) customer support manager who sometimes also served as a WMATA contracting officer’s technical representative (COTR) on certain WMATA contracts. Crowell was a public employee who managed contracts at the District’s Office of Contracting and Procurement (OCP) and, before that, WMATA.
Beginning in 2018, Oli and Ogbu agreed to use Ogbu’s official position and connection to Crowell to steer funds from WMATA IT-related contracts to Highbury. As part of the conspiracy, Oli and Ogbu agreed to commit bribery. Specifically, Oli and Ogbu agreed that Oli would give Ogbu things of value in exchange for Ogbu misusing his position at WMATA to benefit Oli. By 2023, Oli and Highbury had received nearly $500,000 through this corrupt scheme.
Crowell also misused her official position at OCP and agreed with Oli to commit bribery as part of the conspiracy. In January 2021, OCP began the process of helping the District’s Department of Forensic Sciences (DFS) hire a vendor to provide DFS with COVID-19 testing supplies. In her official capacity at OCP, Crowell managed the contract solicitation, offer, and award. Crowell alerted Oli and Ogbu to the contracting opportunity; provided them with non-public information about the solicitation, including information regarding contract pricing; and steered the contract to Highbury. The District ultimately paid Highbury over $630,000 under the contract. In return, Oli paid Ogbu over $100,000 and instructed Ogbu to give $15,000 of the money in cash to Crowell in exchange for her corrupt acts.
Oli also pleaded guilty to unlawfully falsifying an annual financial disclosure record related to his USDA employment. As a USDA employee, Oli was required to complete an annual “Confidential Financial Disclosure Report” on a U.S. Office of Government Ethics (OGE) form referred to as the “OGE Form 450.” Oli admitted that he repeatedly falsified his annual OGE Form 450 filings to hinder the USDA’s ability to identify, investigate, and assess his activities with Highbury and any conflict of interests they may have caused.
The investigation into this matter was conducted by the FBI’s Washington Field Office, with the WMATA Office of the Inspector General, and the District of Columbia Office of the Inspector General. The cases are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tim Visser of the Fraud, Public Corruption, and Civil Rights Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.
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FACT SHEET: Year-to-Year Carjacking Trends for the Month of JuneRead the Press Release
In June of 2023, the District of Columbia experienced 140 carjackings in that month alone. In June of this year (2024), the number of carjackings in the District is 31. That is over 100 fewer carjackings—or a 78% decrease—in June alone compared to last year.
Notable facts from the representative prosecutions below:
- Four D.C. men charged with allegedly carjacking 33 vehicles in the District of Columbia and Maryland during a six-month period, including one case which resulted in a death. Read more.
- 11 juveniles charged as adults under Title 16 for various armed robberies and carjackings.
- Combined local and federal law enforcement approach.
- More than 60 years of total prison time for carjackers.
- Multiple armed carjacking sprees crossing state lines into Virginia, Maryland, and the District of Columbia interrupted and thwarted.
NOTABLE CARJACKING HEADLINES FROM THE USAO
Superior Court Indictments
- Four District Men Indicted on 76 Federal Counts for Armed Carjacking Conspiracy. Read more. Read more.
- Two District Men Indicted for the February Kidnapping and Robbery of a Virginia Man. Read more.
- Carjacking and Robbery Charges Filed Against Three Men in D.C. Read more.
- Federal Grand Jury Indicts Two D.C. Residents with Kidnapping and Carjacking Charges. Read more.
- District Man Indicted on Armed Carjacking and Other Charges in String of Armed Robberies at Convenience Stores and Gas Stations. Read more.
- D.C. Man Indicted in a Six Count Federal Indictment After Deadly Carjacking Spree. Read more.
Title 16 Charges (Youth Charges as an Adult)
- District Teen Indicted on Multiple Armed Carjacking, Armed Robbery and Related Charges from August 2023 Crime Spree. Read more.
- Three Juveniles Charged as Adults with Armed Carjacking, Armed Robbery, and Related Charges. Read more.
- Teen Indicted on Armed Carjacking and Other Violent Crimes Arising from a Crime Spree in August 2023. Read more.
- Grand Jury Indicts District Teen for Armed Carjacking and Other Offenses. Read more.
- Separate Indictments Charge Multiple Defendants in Armed Carjacking Conspiracies. Read more.
- Seven Teens Indicted for Conspiracy and Three Armed Carjackings. Read more.
Significant Sentences
- Carjacker Sent to Prison for 10 Years. Read more.
- District Man Sentenced to Sixteen Years in Prison for Armed Carjacking at Gas Station. Read more.
- District Man Sentenced to 96 Months in Prison for Carjacking and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm. Read more.
- District Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Two Carjackings. Read more.
Significant Plea & Trail Convictions
- District Man Pleads Guilty to Carjacking in Northeast. Read more.
- District Man Pleads Guilty in Armed Carjacking Spree. Read more.
- District Man Convicted of Offenses Arising from Violent Armed Carjacking and Shooting. Read more. Read more.
- Jury Finds Maryland Man Guilty of Armed Carjacking of Delivery Driver. Read more.
- District Man Found Guilty of Armed Carjacking of Handyman’s Car, Which He Crashed During a Police Chase. Read more.
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Exeter Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialsRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A Exeter man pleaded guilty today in federal court to possession of child sexual abuse materials, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
Nathan Kohler, 41, pleaded guilty to one count of Possession of Child Pornography. U.S. District Court Judge Joseph N. Laplante scheduled sentencing for October 17, 2024.
On January 2, 2023, and again on February 14, 2023, the NH Internet Crimes Against Children (“ICAC”) Task Force’s BitTorrent software identified a target IP address making child sexual abuse material (“CSAM”) available for download through the Peer-to-Peer (“P2P”) network BitTorrent. Further investigation identified the defendant’s residence in Exeter, New Hampshire as the subscriber of the target IP address.
On April 5, 2023, law enforcement executed a federal search warrant at the defendant’s residence. During that search, law enforcement seized a Dell laptop computer from the defendant’s bedroom, containing approximately 2,000 images of CSAM and two video files. Numerous images depicted prepubescent minors, or minors who had not attained 12 years of age.
During an interview with law enforcement, the defendant admitted that he was the individual who has been using the internet in the residence to download CSAM and has been engaged in such activity for a number of years. The defendant stated that he used his laptop computer which was located in his bedroom to access CSAM.
The charge of Possession of Child Pornography provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a minimum of 5 years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
Homeland Security Investigations led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and the Exeter Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey Ward 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 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.
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Evansville Meth Trafficking Operation Disrupted; Trio Sent to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
EVANSVILLE- Colin January, 47, of Evansville, has been sentenced to ten years in federal prison followed by 5 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and attempted possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
Patricia Minor, 41, and Blenda Lundburg, 57, of Evansville, have been sentenced to 29 months’ (Minor) and one year time served (Lundburg) respectively, followed by one year of supervised release after pleading guilty to unlawful use of a communication facility.
According to documents and evidence presented in court, between March 1 and May 3, 2022, January conspired with others to distribute large quantities of methamphetamine in the Evansville area.
On April 29, 2022, at the request of January, Minor contacted Lundburg via text and asked if a package could be sent to Lundburg’s address. At that time, Lundburg lived in an apartment on Oak Street in Evansville. When Lundburg indicated that she was uncomfortable with the idea, Minor stated that she had previously allowed similar packages to be delivered to her own house and “had no problem with it.” Lundburg stated, “As long as I know nothing and nothing else. No trouble at all.”
On May 1, 2022, January provided Lundburg’s address to a co-conspirator. January had previously provided two Evansville addresses to the co-conspirator in April. A parcel containing approximately 1,374 grams of methamphetamine was subsequently sent from California to Lundburg’s apartment via U.S. Postal Service. January provided Minor with the name of the recipient that appeared on the package and instructed her to be present for the delivery. Law enforcement officers intercepted the package, removed the methamphetamine inside, and conducted a controlled delivery. January, Minor, and Lundburg were at the apartment when the package was delivered.
“Methamphetamine and other controlled substances and have devastating impacts on users, their loved ones, and our communities,” said Zachary A. Myers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Trafficking organizations are the most significant sources of these poisons and must be held accountable for the suffering they cause in search of quick profits. I commend the efforts of the DEA, Evansville Police Department, and Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office to make our communities safer by getting meth and meth dealers off our streets.”
The Drug Enforcement Administration, Evansville Police Department, and Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office investigated this case. The sentences were imposed by U.S. District Court Judge, Richard L. Young.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorneys Matthew B. Miller and Kristian Mukoski, who prosecuted this case.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
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El Paso Contractor Sentenced to Prison for Defrauding Bureau of PrisonsRead the Press Release
EL PASO, Texas – An El Paso man was sentenced in a federal court to 24 months in prison with a $5,000 fine for defrauding two federally funded correctional institutions.
According to court documents, Jack McCager Kidd, 72, was the owner of a company contracted by the Bureau of Prisons to construct two gas pipelines to separate correctional institutions—a high-security prison in Pennsylvania and a medium-security prison in Alabama. Kidd falsely invoiced the institutions for more natural gas than his company delivered and refused to provide information requested by the institutions concerning the amount of natural gas delivered and the calculations he used to determine the monthly invoice amounts.
He was arrested Oct. 28, 2021 and charged with 72 counts of wire fraud. He pleaded guilty Aug. 30, 2023 to one count of wire fraud. Per the plea agreement, Kidd also agreed to pay $11,397,374 in restitution.
U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza for the Western District of Texas made the announcement.
The Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General Fraud Detection Office and FBI investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Chris Skillern and Sarah Valenzuela prosecuted the case.
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Drug Distribution in Menominee and Ho-Chunk Tribal Communities Leads to Prison Sentence for Former Keshena ManRead the Press Release
Gregory J. Haanstad, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that Charles A. Parham (age: 42), a former resident of Keshena and Wausau, received a prison sentence of 144 months following a conviction for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
The sentence, imposed on July 8, 2024, by Senior United States District Judge William C. Griesbach, was the result of a guilty plea entered by Parham on April 10, 2024. After he completes his prison sentence, Parham also will spend eight years on supervised release.
According to court records, on September 29, 2023, an undercover agent purchased just under 5 grams of heroin from Parham at a location in Keshena on the Menominee Indian Reservation. At the time, Parham was under investigation for selling controlled substances in the Wausau area. The undercover agent and Parham communicated over the next week and a half and discussed Parham obtaining 20 grams of fentanyl, which Parham stated would be from his source in Chicago.
Law enforcement obtained a search warrant and tracked Parham’s movements on October 11, 2023, as he left the Wausau area and traveled to Chicago and back. The undercover officer and Parham agreed to meet at a casino on Ho-Chunk tribal land outside Wittenberg in Shawano County, and law enforcement stopped and arrested Parham when the vehicle he was in arrived at the casino. Investigators recovered a plastic baggy containing over 40 grams of fentanyl.
In sentencing the defendant, Judge Griesbach noted the seriousness of the crime and remarked upon the need to deter those who might consider similar actions and to protect the community from the destructive effects of abuse of controlled substances.
Judge Griesbach also noted the need to incarcerate Parham for a lengthy period, given Parham’s three previous felony convictions for drug dealing.
The case was investigated by multiple agencies, including the Central Wisconsin Narcotics Task Force, Menominee Tribal Police Department, and FBI. The Wisconsin State Crime Laboratory also provided valuable assistance. Assistant United States Attorney Andrew J. Maier prosecuted the case in U.S. District Court in Green Bay.
Agencies investigated the case under the auspices of the Safe Trails Task Force (STTF) and Native American Drug and Gang Initiative (NADGI). NADGI and STTF partner federal, tribal, state, and local law enforcement to combat drug trafficking and violent crime on the Menominee Indian Reservation. STTF members are deputized federal officers who identify and target for prosecution individuals who are involved in distribution of dangerous drugs on the Menominee Indian Reservation. Coordination of state resources through NADGI permits efficient communication and evidence processing, which are essential to swift but fair prosecution of offenders.
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Dallas Man Sentenced for Role in Large-Scale Cocaine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Dallas man was sentenced today in federal court in Worcester for his role in a nationwide large-scale cocaine trafficking conspiracy.
Javier Robledo Perez, 39, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Margaret R. Guzman to 49 1/2 months in prison (time-served), followed by two years of supervised release. In April 2024, Perez pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine and possession with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine.
Perez was a commercial truck driver based out of Dallas who transported approximately 30 kilograms of cocaine across state lines on behalf of a drug trafficking organization based in Mexico and Texas. In May 2020, Perez and his co-conspirators arranged for the delivery of 30 kilograms of cocaine to a cooperating witness in Massachusetts. In May 2020, Perez was stopped by law enforcement as he traveled into Massachusetts in his commercial semi-truck, from which 30 vacuum sealed bricks, containing approximately 30 kilograms of cocaine, were seized.
Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy; Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; and John E. Mawn, Jr., Interim Colonel of the Massachusetts State Police made the announcement today. The Drug Enforcement Administration, Laredo and Dallas Divisions provided valuable assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alathea E. Porter of the Criminal Division prosecuted the case.
This case 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.
Convicted Felon Who Flaunted Firearms on Snapchat While on House Arrest Sentenced to 10 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A previously convicted felon and member of the Boston street gang “D Street” was sentenced today for illegally possessing multiple firearms and ammunition. The defendant did so while under house arrest for a state firearm charge.
Freily Cabral, 26, of Boston and Quincy, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Chief Judge F. Dennis Saylor IV to 10 years in prison, followed by three years of supervised release. In August 2023, Cabral pleaded guilty to two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition and one count of possession with intent to distribute marijuana.
In August 2021, Cabral was identified as the owner of a Snapchat account posting images and of himself in possession of five firearms: a Glock semiautomatic handgun with a flashlight attachment; a Walther semi-automatic firearm; a Taurus revolver; a semi-automatic firearm; and a silver revolver. In one of the videos, Cabral held three separate firearms to his face as if he were using the firearms to make a phone call.
A search of Cabral’s Quincy residence in September 2021 resulted in the seizure of a Taurus .38 caliber revolver, a Hopkins and Allen .32 caliber revolver, .38 caliber and .32 caliber ammunition, hundreds of grams of marijuana packaged for sale and $23,000 in cash. A search of Cabral’s iPhone showed that Cabral distributed firearms and narcotics while under house arrest and a June 2021 Snapchat post where Cabral offered to sell a pistol with an extended magazine for $1,700:
At the time of the offense, Cabral was on house arrest with electronic monitoring following a November 2020 arrest for his second unlawful possession of a firearm charge. Cabral was previously convicted in 2016 for unlawful possession of a firearm in Boston Municipal Court. In 2017, Cabral was convicted of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon in Boston Municipal Court and was sentenced to one year in prison.
The operation was conducted is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations to disrupt and dismantle the most significant drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations. More information on the OCDETF program is available here: https://www.justice.gov/ocdetf/about-ocdetf.
Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy; James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Division; and Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Division made the announcement. Special assistance in the investigation was provided by the Boston, Quincy and Lynn Police Departments and the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Pohl of the Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit prosecuted the case.
Atlantic County Man Admits Possessing Destructive DevicesRead the Press Release
CAMDEN, N.J. – An Atlantic County, New Jersey, man today admitted possessing four destructive devices, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.
Robert J. Moser, 32, of Mays Landing, New Jersey, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Edward S. Kiel to an information charging him with possessing destructive devices.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
On March 17, 2023, law enforcement officers responded to Moser’s residence to assist him after he overdosed on drugs. Officers recovered at least four destructive devices in Moser’s bedroom. All four destructive devices contained explosive powder with a fuse sticking out of each device. One of the destructive devices contained metal pieces, the second destructive device contained a metal nail and a protruding metal screw hook, the third destructive device contained a protruding metal screw hook, and the fourth destructive device contained five metal dart tips. Moser admitted that the four destructive devices were operable weapons.
The charge to which Moser pleaded guilty is punishable by a maximum of 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentencing is scheduled for November 13, 2024.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Newark Field Division, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Ross A. Marchetti; officers of the Township of Hamilton Police Department, under the direction of Chief Gregory K. Ciambrone; members of the Atlantic City Police Department Bomb Squad, under the direction of Chief James A. Sarkos; and personnel from the Atlantic City Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor William Reynolds, with the investigation leading to today’s plea.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Bender of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Camden.
moser.information.pdfAppleton Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Fentanyl TraffickingRead the Press Release
Gregory J. Haanstad, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on July 8, 2024, Senior United States District Judge William C. Griesbach sentenced Randy D. Mack (age: 36) to 15 years in federal prison after Mack was convicted of attempted possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
According to court records, in December 2022, agents intercepted a United Parcel Service (UPS) package intended for Mack that contained approximately 56,000 fake Percocet® pills containing fentanyl. The seized pills had a street value of approximately $537,660.
The investigation revealed that Mack distributed nearly 1 million fentanyl pills in Arizona, Michigan, and Wisconsin. In addition to sending them via UPS, he paid couriers to conceal fentanyl pills in carry-on luggage and transport them on commercial flights. During an interview, Mack took credit for most of the fentanyl pills in the Fox Valley, stating, “There’s not a single pill in the Valley that doesn’t have my name on it.”
According to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), counterfeit Percocet® pills are commonly made by Mexican drug cartels and smuggled into the United States. Laboratory testing indicates that 7 out of every 10 pills seized by the DEA contain a lethal dose of fentanyl. In 2023, the DEA seized more than 80 million fentanyl-laced fake pills and nearly 12,000 pounds of fentanyl powder, which is equivalent to more than 381 million lethal doses of fentanyl.
This case was investigated by the Lake Winnebago Area Metropolitan Enforcement Group – Drug Unit (LWAM) and the DEA. Assistant United States Attorney Alex Duros prosecuted the case.
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Activity in the U.S. Attorney's OfficeRead the Press Release
Public Land Offenses
Braden Kyle Winters, 34, of Grand Junction, Colorado, was sentenced to seven days in jail and fined $1,500 plus court costs for driving under the influence. In addition, he received two years of unsupervised probation and a ban from Yellowstone National Park, for the same period, for failure to comply with a traffic control device. According to the citation, Winters was observed by a U.S. Park Ranger getting into his vehicle with an open can of beer in his hand. He then drove the vehicle away from a parking lot, driving with the passenger side tires approximately 1.5 feet over the fog line. He had four passengers in the vehicle with him, three of which were minors. Standard Field Sobriety Tests performed by the Rangers yielded results suggestive of alcohol impairment. Winters provided a breath sample on the Intoxilizer 9000 with a result of .123. This crime was investigated by the National Park Service and the case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ariel Calmes.
Drug Trafficking
Deangela Jordawn Stewart, 31, and Chad Nathan Stewart, 51, of Casper, Wyoming, were each sentenced to 92 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Chief U.S. District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl imposed the sentence on Jul. 3 and Jul. 5, respectively. According to court documents, in August 2023, the Central Enforcement Team of the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) identified several distributors of controlled substances in Natrona County, including the Stewarts. When agents attempted to make a controlled buy at the Stewart’s residence, they witnessed a minor present during the transaction and immediately obtained a search warrant. They seized 1.7 pounds of methamphetamine and 11 fentanyl pills. Deangela pleaded guilty on Apr. 11 and Chad pleaded guilty on Apr. 17. This crime was investigated by the DCI, and the case was prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Ava Covert.
Escape from Custody
Wolfe Jon Taylor Willow, 39, of Crowheart, Wyoming, was sentenced to 19 months’ imprisonment for escape from custody. According to court documents, on Jan. 16, the defendant was scheduled to report to the Casper Re-Entry Center after serving a sentence in Victorville, California for failure to register as a sex offender. Willow did not show up in Casper and did not alert anyone to his whereabouts. He turned himself in to the Wind River Police Department 12 days later. Willow pleaded guilty on Apr. 10. Chief U.S. District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl imposed the sentence on Jul. 3. This crime was investigated by the U.S. Marshal Service, and the case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kerry J. Jacobson.
About the United States Attorney’s Office
The United States Attorney’s Office is responsible for representing the federal government in virtually all litigation involving the United States in the District of Wyoming, including all criminal prosecutions for violations of federal law, civil lawsuits brought by or against the government, and actions to collect judgments and restitution on behalf of victims and taxpayers. The Office is involved in several programs designed to make our communities safer. They include:
Environmental Justice
The fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of race, color, national origin, or income with respect to the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies.
Project Safe Childhood
Project Safe Childhood (PSC) is a DOJ initiative that combats the proliferation of technology-facilitated sexual exploitation crimes against children. The threat of sexual predators soliciting children for sexual contact is well-known and serious.
Project Safe Neighborhoods
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is a nationwide commitment to reducing gun and gang crime in America by networking existing local programs that target gun crime and providing these programs with additional tools necessary to be successful.
Victim Witness Assistance
The Victim Witness Coordinator for the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Wyoming is dedicated to making sure that victims of federal crimes and their family members are treated with compassion, fairness, and respect.To report a federal crime, go to: https://www.justice.gov/actioncenter/report-crime#trafficking
5 July 2024
United States Attorney Celebrates 60 Years of Civil Rights Progress, Reminds Community of Their VoiceRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – In honor of the 60th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, joined national leaders this week in celebrating this monumental step forward in our country’s journey towards equality.
“Our office stands firmly committed to upholding the principles enshrined in the Civil Rights Act,” stated U.S. Attorney Bennett. “We will continue our diligent efforts to protect and uphold civil rights throughout the Western District of Kentucky.”
The United States Attorney’s Office’s Civil Rights Program seeks to protect the rights of the most vulnerable and underserved members of our community through enforcement of both federal civil and criminal civil rights laws. In addition to other Assistant U.S. Attorneys who handle civil rights cases, the office has two designated civil attorneys, Assistant United States Attorneys Jessica R. C. Malloy and Calesia Henson, who specialize in enforcing laws prohibiting discrimination. This includes protecting against discrimination based on race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, citizenship, immigration status, sexual orientation, gender identity, familial status, or disability, as well as protecting the civil rights of servicemembers, incarcerated persons and individuals housed in public institutions, and individuals with limited English proficiency. The Office has also designated two Assistant United States Attorneys in its Criminal Division to coordinate efforts to prosecute violations of criminal civil rights statutes. Assistant United States Attorney Chris Tieke coordinates the prosecution of criminal civil rights violations, and Assistant United States Attorney Erin McKenzie coordinates the criminal prosecution of human trafficking, which involves the exploitation of a person for labor, services, or commercial sex.
If you believe your civil rights have been violated, please call the United States Attorney’s Office’s Civil Rights Program at (502) 582-6023, send an email to [email protected], or mail your complaint to:
Attn: Civil Rights Program
United States Attorney’s Office
Western District of Kentucky
Louisville, KY 40202
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Tangipahoa Parish Residents Indicted for Drug Distribution Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – MARK FRIDGE, III (“FRIDGE”), age 22, SHYHEIM PINES (“PINES”), age 29, and KAWAIISHH BROWN (“BROWN”), age 50, all of Tangipahoa Parish, were indicted on June 28, 2024 for violations of the Federal Controlled Substances Act, including distribution of fentanyl resulting in serious bodily injury, and violations of the Federal Gun Control Act, announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court documents, FRIDGE, PINES and BROWN were indicted for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a substance containing forty grams or more of a detectable amount of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), and 846, and conspiracy to distribute a substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl resulting in serious bodily injury to the victim, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 846. FRIDGE was indicted on two counts of distribution of a substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl resulting in serious bodily injury to the victim, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C). PINES and BROWN were indicted for possession with intent to distribute fifty (50) grams of more of methamphetamine and quantities of cocaine and fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), and 841(b)(1)(B), and possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i). BROWN was also indicted for being a felon in possession of firearms, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).
If convicted of the drug conspiracy count, FRIDGE, PINES, and BROWN face a mandatoryminimum term of imprisonment of five years and up to a maximum term of imprisonment of forty years, a fine of up to $5,000,000.00, and at least four years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. For the conspiracy and distribution resulting in serious bodily injury counts, FRIDGE, PINES, and BROWN face a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of twenty years and up to a maximum term of imprisonment of life, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00, and at least three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. For the possession with intent to distribute counts, PINES and BROWN face a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of ten years and up to a maximum term of imprisonment of life, a fine of up to $10,000,000.00, and at least five years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. For the possession of firearms in furtherance of the drug trafficking crime counts, PINES and BROWN face a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and up to a maximum term of imprisonment of life to run consecutively to any other sentence imposed, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and up to five years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. For the felon in possession count, BROWN faces a maximum term of imprisonment of fifteen years, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and up to three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. FRIDGE, PINES and BROWN, individually, also face payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee for each count of conviction.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charging document and that the guilt of the defendants must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration Fentanyl Overdose Response Team (FORT), which is comprised of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Hammond Police Department, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the St. Tammany Parish District Attorney’s Office, 21st Judicial District Court, as well as the Southeastern Louisiana University Police Department.
The Fentanyl Overdose Response Team (FORT) is a Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) led initiative aimed at reducing the number of fentanyl-related poisonings. FORT investigates both fatal and non-fatal fentanyl poisonings to identify the drug trafficker(s) responsible and help bring them to justice. FORT is a multi-agency, multi-jurisdictional initiative led by DEA's New Orleans Division.
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 prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Lauren Sarver and André Jones of the Narcotics Unit.
Six People Indicted for Conspiracy to Commit Sex Trafficking in MassachusettsRead the Press Release
An indictment was unsealed last week in Boston charging Christy Parker, 26; Alexander Smalls, 25; Cory Primo, 42; Avvani Jeffers, 22; Tre’sean Reid, 21; and Tyreik Reid, 20, with conspiracy to commit sex trafficking and other sex trafficking charges.
According to the indictment, between January and August 2023, Parker, Smalls, Tre’sean Reid and Tyreik Reid used force, threats of force, fraud and coercion to compel an adult woman to engage in commercial sex. The indictment further alleges that, between July and August 2023, Parker, Smalls, Primo and Jeffers used force, threats of force, fraud and coercion to compel a minor to engage in commercial sex. The indictment further alleges that, in August 2023, Parker, Primo and Jeffers knowingly recruited, enticed, harbored, transported, provided, obtained and maintained another minor for commercial sex. Finally, the indictment alleges that all defendants conspired to commit sex trafficking between January and August 2023.
Jeffers was arrested on June 27 and made an initial appearance later that day. Jeffers is currently detained pending a detention hearing on July 8. Parker and Primo will appear in U.S. District Court in Boston on July 8. Smalls is awaiting trial in South Carolina and will be arraigned in Boston at a later date. Tyreik Reid will appear in US District Court in South Carolina for a detention hearing on July 10. Tre’sean Reid is currently a fugitive.
If convicted of sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion, the defendants each face a mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison. If convicted of sex trafficking of a minor, the defendants face a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison. If convicted of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking, the defendants face a maximum penalty of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, Acting U.S. Attorney Joshua S. Levy for the District of Massachusetts and Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Krol of the Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New England Field Office made the announcement.
The Somerset Police Department and HSI New England Field Office are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Riley-Cunniffe for the District of Massachusetts and Trial Attorney Francisco Zornosa of the Civil Rights Division’s Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit are prosecuting the case.
HSI asks anyone with information about the defendants to contact the HSI New England Field Office at (617) 565-7400. If you or someone you know is a victim of human trafficking, please call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1 (888) 373-7888.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Six Indicted in Sex Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
BOSTON – An indictment was unsealed last week in federal court in Boston charging six individuals for their alleged involvement in a sex trafficking conspiracy that victimized two minors and one adult. It is further alleged that the adult victim was trafficked throughout Massachusetts, Rhode Island and South Carolina. The defendants allegedly kept all the profits for their own financial gain and used threats and violence to maintain control over the victims.
Christy Parker, 26, of Fall River; Alexander Smalls, 25, of Beaufort County, S.C.; Cory Primo, 42, of Fall River; Avvani Jeffers, 22, of Fall River; Tre’sean Reid, 21, of Beaufort County, S.C.; and Tyreik Reid, 20, of Allendale, S.C., were indicted on charges of sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion; sex trafficking of a minor; and conspiracy to commit sex trafficking. Jeffers was arrested on June 27, 2024 and made an initial appearance later that day. Jeffers is currently detained pending a detention hearing on July 8, 2024. Parker and Primo will appear in U.S. District Court in Boston on July 8, 2024. Smalls is awaiting trial in South Carolina and will be arraigned in Boston at a later date. Tyreik Reid will appear in US District Court in South Carolina for a detention hearing on July 10, 2024. Tre’sean Reid is currently a fugitive.
According to court filings, between January and August 2023, Parker and Smalls worked together – with assistance from Primo, Jeffers and Smalls’ brothers, Tre’sean Reid and Tyreik Reid – in a scheme to coerce one adult victim and two minor victims to engage in commercial sex in Massachusetts and surrounding states for their exclusive financial gain.
It is alleged that, in early 2023, Parker reached out to the adult victim, indicating she was homeless and needed a place to live. After moving in with the victim, Parker and her boyfriend, Smalls, allegedly coerced the victim to quit her job and begin engaging in commercial sex. Parker and Smalls allegedly forced the victim to sign a “profit sharing contact,” which required the victim to “remain loyal and humble and stay focused.” Thereafter, Parker and Smalls allegedly forced the victim to engage in commercial sex – scheduling and coordinating commercial sex acts and setting prices – and took all of the profits. It is alleged that Parker used physical violence, threats of violence and other threats to maintain control. It is further alleged that, in the spring of 2023, Parker travelled with the victim to South Carolina where she continued sex trafficking the victim and collected all of the profits. Upon returning from South Carolina, Parker enlisted help from Primo and Jeffers to traffic the victim throughout Massachusetts and Rhode Island.
In July 2023, Parker was introduced to a 16-year-old minor victim and, shortly thereafter, allegedly compelled the minor victim to begin engaging in commercial sex. Specifically, it is alleged that Parker used various methods to maintain control over the minor victim – including physical violence, threats of violence, alcohol, marijuana, starvation and sleep deprivation. Further, Parker would allegedly beat the minor victim if she fell asleep because a customer could request her at any time. On one occasion, Parker allegedly withheld food from the minor victim for 4-5 days after failing to collect the entire fee from a buyer. It is alleged that Parker regularly beat and choked the minor victim and did not let her receive necessary medical treatment.
In August 2023, Parker allegedly began trafficking a 17-year-old minor victim who had run away from a group home. It is alleged that Parker scheduled sex buyers for the minor victim, from which Parker would collect all of the profits. It is further alleged that Parker threatened to physically assault the minor victim if she did not work.
“The allegations in this case are truly chilling. One minor victim in this case was forced to engage in sex for money with many men. That young girl is someone’s daughter, she is someone’s granddaughter. It is hard to conceive of more vile conduct than what is set forth in these charges. Sex trafficking is not a distant problem – it is happening right here, in our neighborhoods, and often goes unnoticed or unreported,” said Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy. “Our office is relentlessly pursuing individuals who inflict such exploitation and suffering simply to line their own pockets. We are using every resource at our disposal to hold perpetrators accountable and seek justice for every victim.”
“For months, these victims endured brutality and depravity allegedly at the hands of these individuals,” said Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Krol of Homeland Security Investigations in New England. “While these arrests are a significant step toward securing justice, we recognize that this marks only the beginning of three survivors’ paths toward recovery. HSI New England, together with law enforcement partners, is committed to ensuring all trafficking victims are given access to the programs, services and resources necessary to their future healing and success.”
If you or someone you know may be impacted or experiencing commercial sex trafficking, please contact [email protected].
The charge of sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion, provides for a sentence of at least 15 years and up to life in prison, no less than five years of supervised release and up to a lifetime of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000. The charge of sex trafficking of a minor provides for a sentence of at least 10 years and up to life in prison, no less than five years of supervised release and up to a lifetime of supervised release, and a fine of $ 250,000. The charge of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking provides for a sentence of up to life in prison, no less than five years of supervised release and up to a lifetime of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
Acting U.S. Attorney Levy; Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division; and HSI SAC Krol made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Somerset Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Riley-Cunniffe, Chief of the Civil Rights & Human Trafficking Unit and Trial Attorney Francisco Zornosa of the Civil Rights Division’s Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit are prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the indictment are allegations. The defendants are presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in the court of law.
Rossi Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison and Ordered to Pay More than $3 Million for Scheme to Defraud Former EmployerRead the Press Release
PEORIA, Ill. – A Morton, Illinois, man, Aaron J. Rossi, 41, was sentenced on July 2, 2024, to five years in prison and ordered to pay more than $3 million in restitution and fines for his scheme to defraud his former employer and filing of false income taxes.
A federal grand jury returned an indictment in March 2022, charging Rossi with three counts of filing false tax returns. A superseding indictment adding six counts of mail fraud for a fraud committed against his former employer, was returned in July 2022. Rossi entered into a plea agreement in February 2024, in which he pleaded guilty to one count of filing a false tax return and one count of mail fraud. The remaining seven counts were dismissed.
At the sentencing hearing before Chief U.S. District Judge Sara Darrow, the government presented evidence that Rossi had engaged in a practice of lying and deceiving others for his own benefit from the outset of his former employment at Central Illinois Orthopedic Surgery (“CIOS”) through the entirety of the court proceedings on these charges. The government demonstrated how Rossi had spent years lying to his employer while stealing money and then, simultaneously, providing false information on his tax returns. Rossi admitted that he had taken funds from CIOS without its knowledge or permission and had purchased personal items and services with the funds. Among other expenditures, he used the funds to purchase a home theater system, lease a luxury vehicle, and rent a private jet for his bachelor party. Further, the government demonstrated that Rossi’s scheme included falsely representing himself to others, including patients, as a doctor even though he was not a licensed physician and not authorized to practice medicine. He also wrote 29 counterfeit prescriptions, one of which was falsely written in the name of a third party who, as a result, was denied entry into a cancer trial.
In imposing sentence, Judge Darrow noted that Rossi’s theft served no purpose other than his own greed and desire. She stated that he was already legally receiving a handsome salary from his former employer but stole from them to further his lifestyle. She explained that he did not use the money for necessities, or even things that were “nice to have” but rather for items that were luxuries. She further discussed Rossi’s betrayal of his former employer and his theft from innocent people who had done nothing wrong at all but instead trusted Rossi, befriended him, and offered to mentor him. Judge Darrow described that betrayal and Rossi’s squandering of opportunity and his talents as a shame.
Judge Darrow ultimately found that the Federal Sentencing Guidelines did not fully capture the scope of Rossi’s fraud. As a result, she sentenced him to 60 months in the Bureau of Prisons, to be followed by a two-year term of supervised release; imposed a fine of $1,000,000, and ordered him to pay full restitution in an amount of more than $2.2 million dollars to his former employer as well as taxes to the Internal Revenue Service and the State of Illinois’ Department of Revenue.
Rossi was originally released on bond following indictment, but his bond was revoked, and he was placed in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service in September 2023 after multiple bond violations. He had remained in custody pending sentencing.
Rossi faced statutory penalties of up to 20 years’ imprisonment and up to a three-year term of supervised release for the mail fraud, and up to 3 years’ imprisonment and up to a one-year term of supervised release for the false tax return count. Each of the counts also carried a potential fine.
“This sentence highlights the tireless effort and commitment of the investigative agencies and prosecutors who seek justice against those who commit this type of fraud.” said U.S. Attorney Gregory K. Harris. “Crimes such as these continue to cost employers and taxpayers billions of dollars each year. My office will maintain its fight to protect the citizens in Central Illinois from this fraudulent conduct.”
“The sentencing of Aaron Rossi sends a clear message that the U.S. Postal Inspection Service will aggressively investigate and bring to justice those who use the U.S. Mail to line their pockets. We are dedicated to defending the nation’s mail system from criminal activity and preserving the integrity of the U.S. Mail. We value our law enforcement partners and their support of our mission,” said Ruth Mendonça, Inspector in Charge of the Chicago Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, which includes Peoria, Illinois.
“This sentencing sends a clear message that deceit, and theft—especially in times of crisis—will not go unpunished,” said Ramsey E. Covington, Acting Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Chicago Field Office. “Aaron Rossi shamelessly stole from his employer, the State of Illinois, and the American public for his own personal gain during a time when many people were struggling. IRS Criminal Investigation and our law enforcement partners remain steadfast in our commitment to holding individuals like Rossi accountable while ensuring that justice is served.”
The case investigation was conducted by the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Internal Revenue Service. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Springfield Field Office also provided assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Douglas F. McMeyer and Tanner K. Jacobs represented the government in the prosecution.
PRC Citizens Sentenced for Conspiring to Transport Illegal Aliens to GuamRead the Press Release
Saipan, MP – Shawn N. Anderson, United States Attorney for the Districts of Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands, announces that on July 2, 2024, ChangCai Dong, age 61, and YongBing Tang, age 54, both citizens of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) were sentenced in the District of the Northern Mariana Islands for Conspiring to Transport Illegal Aliens, in violation of 8 U.S.C. § 1324 (a)(1)(A). The Court ordered each defendant to serve 30 days in prison, one year of supervised release, 50 hours community service, and pay a $100 mandatory assessment fee. Both defendants were also ordered to promptly return to the PRC after serving their sentence.
The defendants were among 12 PRC nationals and two U.S. citizen crew members rescued by U.S. Navy helicopters during an attempted illegal transit from Saipan to Guam in July of 2023. Their boat, overloaded and poorly equipped for rough seas, ran out of fuel near the island of Rota and drifted for more than 14 hours before the crew radioed a distress call. During the sentencing hearing, both defendants expressed deep regret for getting on the boat, and one recalled fearing that the boat would capsize “under dark skies and big waves.” He thought they would all die and thanked the U.S. government for rescuing them even though they broke the law.
“Our federal and local partners will continue to target unlawful travel between the CNMI and Guam,” stated United States Attorney Anderson. “This activity is an abuse of the CNMI parole program. It also creates substantial risk to those involved in these voyages, in addition to the rescuers.”
“Those who seek to undermine the rule of law, and in the process endanger the lives of their victims for the sake of profit, will be held accountable,” said Lucia Cabral-DeArmas, Acting Special Agent in Charge for HSI Honolulu. “It’s fortunate no lives were lost, and HSI will continue to exercise our investigative expertise to protect human rights.”
The rescue was a coordinated effort by the U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Navy, with assistance from allied military personnel and resources.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Department of Public Safety-Rota.
Assistant United States Attorney Eric S. O’Malley from the District of the Northern Mariana Islands prosecuted the case.
Las Vegas Man Sentenced to over Eight Years in Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine and HeroinRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas man was sentenced Tuesday to 97 months in prison for selling large amounts of methamphetamine and heroin in Las Vegas.
According to court documents, from January 2022 to September 14, 2022, Jacobo Aguilar Humberto (43) conspired with co-defendant Eduardo Flores-Martinez to sell methamphetamine and heroin for cash. At times, as part of the conspiracy, Humberto would call Flores-Martinez, his courier, to sell narcotics on his behalf. During the conspiracy, Humberto directly sold or dispatched Flores-Martinez to sell methamphetamine and heroin on multiple dates.
On September 14, 2022, law enforcement agents recovered one pound of heroin and one ounce of methamphetamine, as well as $2,060 in cash and two loaded firearms from Humberto’s vehicle. Agents also conducted a traffic stop on Flores-Martinez’s vehicle where they recovered one pound of methamphetamine, one ounce of heroin, and a loaded firearm. During a search of Humberto’s residence, agents recovered $16,156 and three firearms.
Humberto pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance. In addition to 97 months in prison, United States District Judge Gloria M. Navarro sentenced Humberto to five years of supervised release.
Flores-Martinez pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance. On July 25, 2023, United States District Judge Gloria M. Navarro sentenced Flores-Martinez to 84 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release.
United States Attorney Jason M. Frierson for the District of Nevada and Assistant Special Agent in Charge Kevin Adams for the DEA Las Vegas District Office made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the DEA and the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua Brister prosecuted the case.
If you are aware of controlled substance violations in your community — which may include the growing, manufacture, distribution or trafficking of controlled substances — please submit your anonymous tip through the DEA Tip Line at https://www.dea.gov/submit-tip.
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Glendale Man Arrested for Trafficking over 450 Kilograms of FentanylRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – David Quintero-Mascareno, 20, of Glendale, was arrested on Monday, and charged by complaint with Knowingly and Intentionally Possessing with Intent to Distribute 400 Grams or More of a Mixture or Substance Containing a Detectable Amount of Fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance.
The complaint alleges that, on July 1, 2024, Quintero-Mascareno presented himself for inspection at the Port of Entry in Lukeville, driving a gray Dodge Ram towing a trailer loaded with a utility terrain vehicle. Quintero-Mascareno claimed he was returning to the United States from Puerto Penasco, Sonora, Mexico, and gave a negative customs declaration for contraband. A Customs and Border Protection (CBP) canine, trained to detect narcotics, alerted to the utility trailer.
CBP officers found approximately 234 packages, containing blue pills imprinted with “M30,” concealed in the trailer’s floorboards and rails. A representative sample of the pills field-tested positive for the properties of fentanyl. The packages weighed a total of almost 460 kilograms.
A conviction for Possession with Intent to Distribute 400 Grams or More of Fentanyl carries a maximum penalty of life in prison, a fine of $10,000,000, or both, and a maximum term of five years supervised release.
A complaint is simply a method by which a person is charged with criminal activity and raises no inference of guilt. An individual is presumed innocent until evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection and Homeland Security Investigations are conducting the investigation. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Tucson, is handling the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: 24-07915MJ
RELEASE NUMBER: 2024-089_Quintero-Mascareno# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on X @USAO_AZ for the latest news.Glendale Man Arrested for Trafficking over 450 Kilograms of FentanylRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – David Quintero-Mascareno, 20, of Glendale, was arrested on Monday, and charged by complaint with Knowingly and Intentionally Possessing with Intent to Distribute 400 Grams or More of a Mixture or Substance Containing a Detectable Amount of Fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance.
The complaint alleges that, on July 1, 2024, Quintero-Mascareno presented himself for inspection at the Port of Entry in Lukeville, driving a gray Dodge Ram towing a trailer loaded with a utility terrain vehicle. Quintero-Mascareno claimed he was returning to the United States from Puerto Penasco, Sonora, Mexico, and gave a negative customs declaration for contraband. A Customs and Border Protection (CBP) canine, trained to detect narcotics, alerted to the utility trailer.
CBP officers found approximately 234 packages, containing blue pills imprinted with “M30,” concealed in the trailer’s floorboards and rails. A representative sample of the pills field-tested positive for the properties of fentanyl. The packages weighed a total of almost 460 kilograms.
A conviction for Possession with Intent to Distribute 400 Grams or More of Fentanyl carries a maximum penalty of life in prison, a fine of $10,000,000, or both, and a maximum term of five years supervised release.
A complaint is simply a method by which a person is charged with criminal activity and raises no inference of guilt. An individual is presumed innocent until evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection and Homeland Security Investigations are conducting the investigation. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Tucson, is handling the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: 24-07915MJ
2024-089_quintero-mascareno_.pdf
RELEASE NUMBER: 2024-089_Quintero-Mascareno# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on X @USAO_AZ for the latest news.Douglas Man Sentenced to 130 Months for Alien Smuggling Resulting in DeathRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – Manuel Victor Gastelum, 27, of Douglas, was sentenced last week by United States District Court Judge Rosemary Márquez to 130 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release. Gastelum pleaded guilty to Transportation of Illegal Aliens for Profit Resulting in Death on January 31, 2024. Gastelum also was sentenced to 12 months in prison for violating conditions of his federal probation from a prior alien smuggling conviction.
On December 4, 2020, Gastelum picked up eight undocumented noncitizens near the border to transport them further into the United States. While driving westbound on Interstate 10 near Vail, Gastelum began driving recklessly and lost control of the vehicle, rolling it multiple times. A 42-year-old male passenger was ejected from the vehicle and subsequently pronounced dead at the scene. Several other passengers were transported to the hospital with serious injuries. Gastelum fled from the crash on foot but was apprehended later that morning several miles away.
Gastelum had previously been convicted of Transportation of Aliens for Profit Placing Life in Jeopardy in 2019 after he fled from law enforcement and crashed at a gas station while transporting undocumented noncitizens. For that conviction, Gastelum was sentenced to 18 months in prison and three years of supervised release. He violated his conditions of supervised release by committing this new offense three months after his release from federal prison.
When imposing the 130-month sentence, Judge Márquez emphasized that a long sentence was necessary to protect the public.
Homeland Security Investigations, Tucson, conducted the investigation in this case, with the assistance of the Arizona Department of Public Safety. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-21-00516-TUC-RM-MAA
CR-19-01602-TUC-RM-MAA
RELEASE NUMBER: 2024-088_Gastelum# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on X @USAO_AZ for the latest news.Convicted Felon Guilty of Shooting at Police Sentenced to 25 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – A man with a violent criminal past was sentenced to serve 25 years in prison for shooting at federal and local law enforcement officers attempting to take him into custody on felony warrants during an hours-long stand-off at a residence located in a Warner Robins, Georgia, neighborhood.
Renaldo Smith, 33, of Warner Robins, was sentenced to serve a total of 300 months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release by U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell on July 3. Smith previously pleaded guilty to one count of aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer and one count of use of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. There is no parole in the federal system.
“Renaldo Smith put the lives of many people at risk when he opened fire on law enforcement officers attempting to take him safely into custody,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “These highly trained officers are to be commended for their display of bravery in the line of duty and for safely bringing the defendant into custody.”
“The U.S. Marshals Service Southeast Regional Fugitive Task Force is composed of Deputy U.S. Marshals and specially deputized and highly trained state and local officers whose primary mission is to arrest violent state and local fugitives. This is dangerous work that keeps our communities safe,” said U.S. Marshal Stephen Lynn. “This incident highlights the risks that these dedicated professionals face every day. It was a job well done.”
According to documents and statements referenced in court, Smith was wanted on state felony warrants when the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) learned that Smith was located at a residence on Somerset Drive in Warner Robins on Jan. 31, 2023. The USMS Southeast Regional Fugitive Task Force (SERFTF) attempted to execute a search warrant at the location. Smith opened the door and quickly shut it; multiple gun shots were rapidly fired from inside the residence as SERFTF team members attempted to enter lawfully. The Warner Robins Police Department (WRPD) SWAT team arrived on scene, and the WRPD Hostage Negotiator Team communicated with Smith for hours in an attempt to get him to peacefully stand down and exit the home. After hours of negotiations, the SWAT team deployed pepper spray into the home, and gunfire was exchanged between Smith and the SWAT team. Smith was taken into custody. Inside of the residence, law enforcement recovered a Glock 9mm pistol with a 30-round drum magazine and a rifle. Smith has been convicted of several prior felonies including robbery by force and possession of methamphetamine.
This case is a part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department of Justice launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on 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 U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) and the Warner Robins Police Department (WRPD) with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), FBI and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI).
Assistant U.S. Attorney Monica L. Daniels prosecuted the case for the Government.
Alaska Businesswoman Pleads Guilty to Tax Evasion SchemeRead the Press Release
An Alaska woman pleaded guilty on Wednesday to evading taxes on income she earned from the business she operated.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Tina H. Yi, of Anchorage, was the sole owner and operator of SJ Investment LLC, a hotel, bar and liquor store in Nome, Alaska, that did business as Polaris HBL. Yi created the business in approximately April 2007 and operated it until approximately October 2017, when the physical property was destroyed in a fire.
From approximately 2014 to 2018, Yi maintained two sets of financial records relating to the business’ income and expenses, one of which accurately captured SJ Investment’s income and expenses, and one that understated the business’s income. Yi provided the false records to her accountant to prepare her tax returns. As a result, her 2014 through 2018 tax returns were all false.
Yi caused a total tax loss to the IRS of over $550,000.
Yi is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 11, and faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison. She also faces a period of supervised release, restitution and monetary penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker for the District of Alaska made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case.
Trial Attorney John C. Gerardi of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Tom Bradley for the District of Alaska are prosecuting the case.
3 July 2024
Zuni Man Pleads Guilty to AssaultRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Zuni man pleaded guilty in federal court to charges arising from 2023 assault which resulted in serious bodily injury.
According to publicly available court documents, on February 25, 2023, Christopher Hannaweeke, Sr., 49, an enrolled member of the Pueblo of Zuni, assaulted John Doe. During the assault, Hannaweeke kicked John Doe in the head and body. As a result, John Doe suffered fractures to his face, extreme physical pain, and had to hospitalized for a period of time.
The Court ordered that Hannaweeke remain on conditions of release pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled.
At sentencing, Hannaweeke faces 21 months in prison. Upon his release from prison, Hannaweeke will be subject to up to three years of supervised release.
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 Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Zuni Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Caitlin L. Dillon is prosecuting the case.
View the Plea Agreement# # #
Winnebago Man Sentenced for Assault Resulting in Substantial Bodily Injury to Domestic PartnerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Amarro T. Loera, 27, of Winnebago, Nebraska, was sentenced on July 3, 2024, in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska for assault resulting in substantial bodily injury to a domestic or dating partner. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Loera to 21 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Loera’s release from prison, he will begin a 3-year term of supervised release.
On July 9, 2023, Loera assaulted his domestic and dating partner by hitting and strangling her. The victim suffered bruising to her neck, was bleeding from her face, and had an eye that was swollen shut from the assault. The offense occurred on the Winnebago Indian Reservation and involved a felony assault, giving rise to federal jurisdiction for the offense.
This case was investigated by the FBI.
Windsor Man Sentenced to 3 ½ Years for Drug Trafficking and Possession of MachinegunRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Byron Ellison, 28, Windsor, Wisconsin, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 3 ½ years in federal prison for possessing heroin and fentanyl intended for distribution and possessing a machine gun. Ellison pleaded guilty to these charges on March 14, 2024. The prison term will be followed by 3 years of supervised release.
Between September 9, 2023, and October 9, 2023, Ellison sold a heroin and fentanyl mixture to an undercover officer on four separate occasions. On October 17, 2023, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Ellison’s residence. In a safe in Ellison’s bedroom, they found a loaded Polymer 80 9mm handgun with a “Glock switch” attached to it. In the same safe was a Mini Draco AK47-variant pistol and 13 grams of a heroin and fentanyl mixture. In a backpack in Ellison’s room, investigators found a loaded .40 caliber Polymer 80 handgun.
A “Glock switch” is an illegal after-market device that converts a Glock semi-automatic handgun into a fully functioning machinegun. A Polymer 80 is a privately made firearm (aka “ghost gun”) that does not have a serial number. Ghost guns are put together using components purchased either as a kit or as separate pieces.
At sentencing, Judge Conley recognized that notwithstanding Ellison’s criminal history, this would be his first time being sent to prison. Judge Conley also noted that this was a serious case because Ellison was a drug dealer who had a ghost gun with a switch, a firearm capable of spraying bullets in an indiscriminate manner.
The charges against Ellison were the result of an investigation conducted by the Dane County Narcotics Task Force and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Corey Stephan prosecuted this case.
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.
Wethersfield Man Charged with Distributing Narcotics to Overdose VictimRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England, and Meriden Police Chief Roberto Rosado today announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven has returned an indictment charging JIMMY LASSUS, 39, of Wethersfield, with distribution of fentanyl and oxycodone. The charge stems from an investigation of an overdose death in October 2023.
The indictment was returned on June 25, 2024. Lassus appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert A. Richardson in Hartford and entered a plea of not guilty. He has been detained since his arrest on a federal criminal complaint on April 11, 2024.
As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, in the early morning of October 6, 2023, Meriden Police responded to a residence on a report of a suspected overdose and found a 27-year-old woman unresponsive in a bedroom. She was transported to the hospital where she was pronounced deceased. The investigation revealed that for several months before the victim’s death, the victim engaged in numerous drug-related text message conversations with Lassus. The text messages revealed that Lassus supplied the victim with oxycodone, and that he supplied her with fentanyl that she ingested in the hours before she died. The victim stated in text messages and in a journal entry that it was her first time using fentanyl.
The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner determined the victim’s death to be caused by acute intoxication due to the combined effects of fentanyl, benzodiazepines, xylazine, and oxycodone.
If convicted of the charge in the indictment, Lassus faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
U.S. Attorney Avery stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This investigation is being conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration New Haven Task Force and the Meriden Police Department, with the assistance of the Wethersfield Police Department. The Task Force includes members from the DEA, U.S. Marshals Service, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, Connecticut State Police and the New Haven, Waterbury, East Haven, Branford, West Haven, Ansonia, Meriden, Naugatuck, and Shelton Police Departments.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brendan Keefe and Reed Durham.
Tellico Village Property Owners' Association Agrees to Pay $1.3M Following Receipt of PPP LoanRead the Press Release
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – Tellico Village Property Owners Association, Inc. (TVPOA) has agreed to pay $1,361,992.22 to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by applying for, receiving, and obtaining forgiveness of a loan under the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) for which it was not eligible.
Congress created the PPP in March 2020, as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, to provide relief to small businesses experiencing economic hardship during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although certain nonprofit organizations were eligible to receive PPP Loans at various times throughout the program, 501(c)(4) nonprofit organizations have never been eligible.
In April 2020, TVPOA, a 501(c)(4) nonprofit organization, applied for and received a PPP loan. The PPP application required applicants to identify their business type from a list of eligible options or, alternatively, to select “Other.” The application also required applicants to certify that they were eligible to receive a PPP loan. On the application it submitted, “C-Corp” was selected as TVPOA’s entity type. In submitting its application, TVPOA represented that it was eligible to receive the applied-for loan. TVPOA later applied for and received forgiveness of its PPP loan. TVPOA cooperated fully with the United States’ investigation and contends that any misstatements in its application were inadvertent. The settlement amount reflects TVPOA’s cooperation.
This Settlement resolves a lawsuit filed under the qui tam, or whistleblower, provisions of the False Claims Act, which permits private parties to sue on behalf of the government for false claims and receive a share of any recovery. The qui tam case is captioned United States ex rel. GNGH2, Inc. v. Tellico Village Property Owners Association, Inc., No. 3:23-cv-199 (E.D. Tenn.).
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alexa Ortiz Hadley and Ben Cunningham represented the United States, with assistance from the Small Business Administration.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across the government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
The claims resolved by this settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
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Tampa Man Who Was A Fugitive for Nearly 15 Years Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Possess with Intent to Distribute over 100 Kilograms of MarijuanaRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Zecki Halum, (40, Tampa) has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute over 100 kilograms of marijuana. Halum faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 5 years, up to 40 years, in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the plea agreement, in August 2009, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) received information that a recreational vehicle (RV) would be used to transport approximately 200 pounds of marijuana from Arizona to the Middle District of Florida. Agents tracked the RV as Halum’s co-conspirator, Dale Wetherholt, drove the RV to Florida. Upon Wetherholt’s arrival in Tampa, he was met by a vehicle driven by another co-conspirator with Halum in the passenger seat. Wetherholt, Halum, and the co-conspirator followed each other first to a convenience store parking lot, and then to a church parking lot in Crystal Springs, where they planned to unload the marijuana from the RV. At that time, agents arrested Halum and his coconspirators. Agents searched the RV and found over 100 kilograms of marijuana packaged in bales and wrapped in a manner consistent with drug trafficking.
Halum was indicted on September 23, 2009. In February 2010, Halum violated the conditions of his pretrial release, failed to appear for court, and a warrant was issued for his arrest. Halum was arrested on the warrant on March 29, 2024.
Wetherholt pleaded guilty on November 12, 2009, to the same offense and was sentenced on April 30, 2010, to 30 months in federal prison.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jeff Chang and Kelley Howard Allen.
Sweepstakes Operators Plead Guilty to Bank Secrecy Act ViolationsRead the Press Release
Two Missouri men pleaded guilty yesterday to conspiring with bankers to willfully fail to implement appropriate anti-money laundering (AML) controls at a Missouri bank, as required by the Bank Secrecy Act (BSA).
Kevin Brandes, 60, and William Graham, 56, both residents of Kansas City, Missouri, owned and operated multiple sweepstakes businesses and held accounts for those businesses at the Missouri bank. According to court documents, from 2013 to 2019, Brandes and Graham abetted bank officials in failing to implement key components of the bank’s AML program.
Under the BSA and its implementing regulations, the bank was required to file currency transaction reports (CTR) with the Department of the Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) for any transaction in currency of more than $10,000. In 2017, at the request of bank officials, Brandes and Graham signed FinCEN CTR Exemption Review Forms that classified their companies as “direct mail advertising” businesses. After receiving the signed exemption forms, the bank failed to file CTRs with FinCEN on transactions involving Brandes’ and Graham’s businesses. Additionally, Brandes’ and Graham’s companies were deemed “high risk” and subject to heightened monitoring under the bank’s policies and procedures. Brandes and Graham understood that by signing the CTR exemption forms the bank would apply less scrutiny to their companies’ transactions.
Additionally, on or about Oct. 11, 2016, at the direction of two bank officials, Brandes and Graham had an outside attorney sign a legal opinion letter, then sent it to the bank, knowing that it contained false information. Specifically, the letter indicated that one of Brandes’ companies “in over 3 years has not received negative or unwanted legal action by way of regulatory bodies or private suits.” Brandes and Graham knew at the time, however, that this information was false because a state regulatory agency had filed a legal action against the company in question. Brandes and Graham both believed this letter would help the bank circumvent its requirements under the BSA.
Brandes and Graham each pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to cause the willful failure to implement and maintain an appropriate anti-money laundering program. Brandes and Graham will be sentenced at a later date and face maximum penalties of five years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Teresa A. Moore for the Western District of Missouri, Special Agent in Charge Justin R. Bundy of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Office of Inspector General (FDIC-OIG) Kansas City Region, Special Agent in Charge Thomas F. Murdock of the IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) St. Louis Field Office, and Assistant Director Michael Nordwall of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division made the announcement.
FDIC-OIG, IRS-CI, and the FBI are investigating the case.
Trial Attorneys Chad M. Davis and Christopher Ting of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section (MLARS) and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patrick D. Daly and Matthew N. Sparks for the Western District of Missouri are prosecuting the case.
MLARS’ Bank Integrity Unit investigates and prosecutes banks and other financial institutions, including their officers, managers, and employees, whose actions threaten the integrity of the individual institution or the wider financial system.
St. Cloud Man Pleads Guilty to Attempting to Entice A 14-Year-Old Child to Engage in Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, FL – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Daniel Michael Mohat (27, St. Cloud) has pleaded guilty to attempted enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity. Mohat faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 10 years, and up to life, in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the plea agreement, in August 2022, law enforcement engaged in an online undercover multi-agency operation based out of Nassau County, for the purpose of identifying and apprehending individuals using the internet to exploit juveniles for sexual activity. During the operation, Mohat contacted one of the undercover agents, who was posing as a 14-year-old girl, via social media. Over the course of several days, Mohat engaged in a sexually oriented conversation with the undercover agent. On multiple occasions, Mohat requested that the “girl” create explicit videos and pictures of herself and send them to him.
This case was investigated by the Naval Criminal Investigative Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David B. Mesrobian.
This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Springfield Man was Sentenced to over Nine Years in Prison for Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Springfield man was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Springfield for firearms offenses.
Benjamin Hunter-Blake, 25, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Mark G. Mastroianni to 114 months in prison followed by 36 months of supervised release. In April 2024, Hunter-Blake pleaded guilty to one count each of felon in possession of firearm and ammunition, unlawful possession of machinegun, and unlawful possession of unregistered firearm (a silencer).
On Jan. 27, 2023, during a search of Hunter-Blake’s Springfield residence five pistols, including a .40 caliber pistol with an attached “Glock switch” machinegun conversion device and an assault rifle style pistol with silencer and a high capacity drum magazine containing 22 rounds of ammunition; four other Glock switches; and a large collection of ammunition, large capacity magazines, and other firearms-related items were seized. Hunter-Blake’s mobile phone, which contained evidence that Hunter-Blake had been obtaining and distributing other firearms, including Glock switches, to other individuals, including at least one person with a felony conviction, after two state firearms convictions and while on pretrial home conferment for a third state firearms case was also found.
Hunter-Blake was convicted twice in state court on firearms felonies and is currently under indictment and house arrest for a third state firearms case.Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy and James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Boston Field Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance provided by the Springfield Police Department and the Massachusetts State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven H. Breslow of the Springfield Branch Office is prosecuting the case.
South Carolina Man Sentenced to 180 Months for CarjackingRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that, on June 28, 2024, ONIS WASHINGTON (“WASHINGTON”), age 25, a resident of South Carolina, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Jay C. Zainey to 180 months of imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee for carjacking, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2119.
On January 2, 2022, in the 1000 block of Carondelet Street, WASHINGTON and his co-defendant forcefully stole a car from the victim and fled in the stolen vehicle. Louisiana State Police and the New Orleans Police Department located the vehicle, but it refused to stop. Following a chase, WASHINGTON and his co-defendant hit several vehicles and crashed the stolen vehicle, before fleeing on foot. WASHINGTON was later arrested in South Carolina.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Louisiana State Police, and the New Orleans Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Inga Petrovich of the Violent Crime Unit.
Shelton Man Charged with Producing Child Sex Abuse ImagesRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), New England, and Connecticut State Police Colonel Daniel Loughman today announced that ROSS DeLIBRO, 53, of Shelton, has been charged by federal criminal complaint with production of child pornography.
DeLibro has been detained since his arrest on related state charges on June 11, 2024.
As alleged in court documents, in March 2024, a detective assigned to the Connecticut State Police Computer Crimes Unit began an investigation into the sharing of child sex abuse images and videos over a peer-to-peer file sharing network. The investigation revealed that an internet protocol (IP) address assigned to DeLibro’s residence in Shelton had been used to download child sex abuse videos. On May 1, 2024, investigators conducted a court-authorized search of DeLibro’s residence and seized his Apple MacBook Air, his iPhone, an external hard drive, and other items. Analysis of the seized items revealed image and video files depicting male children being sexually abused, including two images in which DeLibro appears engaging in sexually explicit conduct with a toddler.
The charge of production of child pornography carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 15 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years.
U.S. Attorney Avery stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Connecticut State Police, with the assistance of the Shelton Police Department and the Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection’s Division of Scientific Services. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel George and Nancy Gifford.
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.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office Victim Advocate can be reached at [email protected] or 203-696-3039.
SDTX hosts historic reentry simulationRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas (SDTX) hosted, for the first time in its history, a reentry simulation for law enforcement, lawyers and probation, non-profit agencies, city personnel and relevant community members to mimic the challenges people who leave prison often face when reintegrating into society, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.
The event was held at the United Way of Greater Houston July 2 and was designed to provide a deeper appreciation for the complexity of reentry and a stronger commitment to support policies and programs that address these challenges.
The simulation placed participants in the shoes of someone recently released from prison. In the exercise, attendees were given a detailed profile and had to navigate daily tasks under constraints similar to those formerly incarcerated people face. They had to try to find employment, secure housing, attend probation meetings or access necessary services - all with limited time, financial resources and facing significant bureaucratic hurdles.
A debrief and discussion about the criminal justice system and the complexities of reentry followed the simulation.
“This empathy, I hope, will lead to tomorrow’s second chances,” said Hamdani.
When individuals leave prison, they face significant challenges that act as barriers to reintegration - securing employment, finding stable housing, accessing healthcare and mental health support, and reconnecting with family and community. Without proper support, the risk of recidivism increases dramatically.
However, effective reentry programs that provide holistic support aimed at addressing this myriad of challenges can make a difference. By offering job training, educational opportunities, substance abuse treatment, mental health services and housing assistance, these programs create a supportive framework for individuals to rebuild their lives. Research consistently demonstrates that communities with robust reentry initiatives see significant reductions in recidivism rates. This not only promotes community safety but also reduces the financial burden on the justice system and taxpayers.
The simulation provided an eye-opening opportunity to participants. Some expressed the understanding of the immense difficulties those reentering society often face. The experience of frustration, anxiety and the constant pressure to comply with numerous requirements while trying to rebuild a life provided insights that mere statistics and reports cannot convey.
The SDTX is committed to raising awareness about the importance of reentry and to supporting initiatives that promote successful reintegration into society.
“I hope by combining the strengths of effective reentry programs and the enlightening experience of reentry simulations, we can forge a justice system that not only reduces recidivism but also honors the humanity and potential of every individual,” said Hamdani. “Stakeholders who truly understand and empathize with the struggles of reentry can become powerful advocates for the necessary changes in policy and practice.”
Hamdani praised the work of Executive Assistant U.S. Attorney Krystal Walker Noble, who organized and led the effort on behalf of the SDTX.
“The hurdles returning citizens face demonstrate how they continue to pay a debt to society long after completing a term of imprisonment,” said Noble. “By hosting this reentry simulation, the SDTX has encouraged community partners to join us in reducing recidivism throughout the district.”
For more information, please contact Noble at [email protected].
Rexburg Man Convicted of Wire Fraud and Aggravated Identity Theft Sentenced to More Than 5 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – Kelly Ryan McCandless, 53, of Rexburg, was sentenced to 65 months in federal prison following his convictions for defrauding his partners out of more than $580,000, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced today.
According to court records, in 2017, McCandless and two others formed a partnership to build a 96-bed student housing property in Rexburg, Idaho. McCandless’s contribution was to build the property, using a loan secured by the partnership, at cost. In exchange for his efforts, and upon completion of the project, he would be entitled to 24.5% of the building equity and future proceeds.
Over the course of the next year, however, and beginning with the very first bank withdrawal, McCandless falsified subcontractor invoices and bank withdrawal requests. He unlawfully used subcontractors’ signatures to withdraw loan proceeds from the bank at a higher amount than what was invoiced to build the project. The bank relied on those documents and wired McCandless the proceeds from the loan. McCandless continued this scheme for months and improperly took approximately $580,000, which he used to purchase personal items like a brand-new pickup truck, several snow mobiles, several dirt bikes, toy haulers, a Jeep, a Jeep Grand Cherokee, $5,000 in dental work, vacations, among other expenditures. His actions caused the project to come to a standstill, and but for one of the partners injecting more capital into the project, the student housing property would never have been completed.
After a six-day jury trial, McCandless was found guilty of four counts of wire fraud and four counts of aggravated identity theft on November 29, 2023.
Chief U.S. District Judge David C. Nye also ordered McCandless to pay a $10,000 fine and to serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
“The defendant defrauded partners who put their trust in him and spent the funds he stole on a lifestyle he could not legitimately afford,” said U.S. Attorney Hurwit. “We will not tolerate this illegal conduct, which truly harms victims and threatens our local economies. I’m grateful for the FBI’s hard work in this case, and we thank the jury for its service.”
“Like many fraudsters, McCandless was motivated by greed, lining his pockets with the embezzled money and spending it on expensive toys for himself,” said Shohini Sinha of the Salt Lake City FBI. “While he may have benefited in the short term, he will now be held accountable for betraying and defrauding his victims.”
U.S. Attorney Hurwit commended the work of the FBI, which led to the charges. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Morse and former Assistant U.S. Attorney John Shirts prosecuted this case.
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Recidivist Pittsburgh Drug Trafficker Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Large-Scale Distribution of CocaineRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court on July 2, 2024, to 15 years in prison on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute cocaine, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.
United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV imposed the sentence on Kevin Rucker, 53.
According to information presented to the Court, over the course of nearly a year, Rucker supplied multiple kilograms of cocaine to other drug traffickers in the Pittsburgh area. During the conspiracy, Rucker was responsible for the possession or distribution of at least 35 kilograms of cocaine. Rucker was previously convicted in 2015 in federal court in Pittsburgh of conspiring to distribute heroin.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Stickman noted that Rucker was a recidivist drug trafficker responsible for large-scale trafficking in the Pittsburgh area, and that Rucker served as a ringleader in the conspiracy. In addition to the term of incarceration, Judge Stickman also ordered Rucker to serve 10 years of supervised release following his release from prison.
“The successful investigation and prosecution of Kevin Rucker was the result of a coordinated effort between the United States Attorney’s Office and multiple federal and local law enforcement agencies,” said U.S. Attorney Olshan. “Our office remains committed to working with our law enforcement partners to protect the Western District of Pennsylvania from drug traffickers—particularly large-scale, repeat offenders like Rucker—and the harm their criminal activities inflicts on our communities.”
Assistant United States Attorney Douglas C. Maloney prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Olshan commended the Drug Enforcement Administration, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Rucker.
This prosecution is part of two Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigations. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Quad Cities Man Sentenced to 126 Months in Federal Prison for Drug and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Quad Cities man was sentenced on Wednesday, June 26, 2024, to 126 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute less than 50 kilograms of marijuana and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
According to public court documents, Trevon Demon Horne, 23, was arrested by the Davenport Police Department following a search warrant executed at his Davenport residence. During the search of Horne’s residence, officers located approximately a pound of marijuana, digital scales, currency, and a Glock .45 caliber firearm with an auto-sear switch which made the firearm a machinegun. Horne admitted to selling marijuana and possessing the Glock in furtherance of his drug trafficking.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Horne will be required to serve 5 years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Davenport Police Department.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
President of Freight Forwarding Company Indicted for Allegedly Smuggling Goods from the United States to RussiaRead the Press Release
BOSTON – The President of a freight forwarding company has been indicted for allegedly smuggling goods from the United States into Russia without a license.
Kirill Gordei, 34, was indicted on one count of conspiracy to commit offenses against the United States; one count of smuggling goods from the United States; and one count of export of a spectrometer which is a commerce control item. Gordei was arrested on June 30, 2024 in Florida and was released on conditions following an initial appearance in the Middle District of Florida yesterday. He will appear in federal court in Boston at a later date.
Gordei is a citizen of Belarus and the United States who resides in Hallandale, Fla. He is the President of Apelsin Logistics, a freight forwarding company, located in Hallandale Beach, Fla. Apelsin also has an address in Russia and two websites both of which are registered and hosted in Russia.
According to the indictment, on or about Aug. 11, 2023, Gordei allegedly falsely claimed that he was shipping an Orbitrap Exploris GC 240 Mass Spectrometer – an item that delivers high data quality and versatility to accelerate scientific discovery for academic, industry research, government and omics laboratories – to Uzbekistan when it was, in fact, destined for Russia. Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022, a series of stringent export controls were implemented that restrict Russia’s access to the technologies and other items that it needs to sustain its attack on Ukraine. As of April 8, 2022, license requirements for exports, reexports and transfers to or within Russia were expanded to cover the most sensitive items subject to controls on a Controlled Commerce List. The Spectrometer, which was valued at over $600,000, was on the Controlled Commerce List and required a license from the Bureau of Industry and Security to export to Russia.
“By allegedly smuggling sensitive technology to Russia, Mr. Gordei undermined the critical framework established to protect national security. This case highlights the importance of enforcing export controls, especially regarding sensitive items on the Controlled Commerce List, which include technologies vital to scientific and industrial advancement. Our office will prosecute those who attempt to circumvent U.S. laws for personal or commercial gain, particularly when such actions have potential implications for global security,” said Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy.
“As alleged, Gordei defrauded U.S. government export regulators and smuggled advanced scientific technology to Russian customers, placing personal profit over national security,” said Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. “The Justice Department will use every available tool to disrupt illicit supply chains used to funnel illegally sophisticated technologies to Russia and other hostile powers.”
“Freight forwarders play an outsized role in the export of items overseas and, accordingly, are expected to help uphold the law rather than subvert it,” said Assistant Secretary for Export Enforcement Matthew S. Axelrod. “Here, Kirill Gordei — the president of a freight forwarding company — is alleged to have willfully evaded restrictions designed to degrade the Russian war machine by obfuscating the value and ultimate destination of a mass spectrometer.”
The charge of Export of Commerce Control Items provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, five years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of smuggling goods from the United States provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of conspiracy to commit offenses against the United States provides for a sentence of five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
Acting U.S. Attorney Levy and Assistant Secretary Axelrod made the announcement today. Valuable assistance in the investigation was provided by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection; U.S. Marshals Service; and the Transportation Security Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura J. Kaplan of the National Security Unit is prosecuting the case with assistance from Trial Attorney Christopher Magnani of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence & Export Control Section.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Portland Man Faces 10+ Years to Life for Enticement of a Minor, Possession of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Maine: A Portland man pleaded guilty on Tuesday in U.S. District Court in Portland to enticing a minor and possessing child sexual abuse material.
According to court records, in December 2022, Joshua Decker, 36, met the 16-year-old victim in an online chat forum and began regularly communicating with them despite knowing the victim was a minor. In April 2023, the conversations became graphic and sexual, and Decker discussed traveling to meet the victim. The U.S. Attorney’s Office does not identify victims of crime and is limiting identifying information, including gender and location, to protect the minor victim’s privacy. In July 2023, the Portland Police Department executed a search warrant on Decker’s vehicle and person, recovering a tablet. Examination of the tablet revealed child sexual abuse material. Decker was convicted in Androscoggin County Criminal Court in 2018 for possession of sexually explicit material of a minor under 12.
Decker faces no less than 10 years and up to life in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000 on the enticement charge and 10–20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 on the possession of child pornography charge. Any sentence would be followed by five years to life of supervised release. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) investigated the case with assistance from the Portland Police Department.
Online enticement is increasing: The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) reported an alarming 300% increase in online enticement reports between 2020 and 2023. “Online enticement” involves an individual communicating with someone believed to be a child via the internet with the intent to commit a sexual offense or abduction. This type of victimization takes place across every platform, including social media, messaging apps, gaming platforms, etc. Learn more about online enticement, including red flags and risk factors, at https://www.missingkids.org/theissues/onlineenticement. If you are in Maine and you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted or abused, you can get help by calling the free, private 24-hour statewide sexual assault helpline at 1-800-871-7741.
Project iGuardian program available to Maine communities: The Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) program Project iGuardian is focused on keeping children and teens safe from online predators through education and awareness. The in-person educational outreach effort was created to share information about the dangers of online environments, how to stay safe online, and how to report abuse and suspicious activity. Schools, parent groups, and other community groups interested in bringing the program to their community can find more information at: https://www.dhs.gov/know2protect/training.
Project Safe Childhood: This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Department’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-me/psc.
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