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Friday 17 May 2024
David DePape Sentenced after Conviction on Assault and Attempted Kidnapping ChargesRead the Press Release
David DePape, 44, of Richmond, California, was sentenced today to 360 months in prison and five years of supervised release, following his conviction on assault and attempted kidnapping charges in connection with his Oct. 28, 2022, intrusion into the home of Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi and her husband, Paul Pelosi.
“This sentence is a warning: violence against those who serve the public and their families will not be tolerated,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “The Justice Department will aggressively prosecute those who target public servants and their families with violence. In a democracy, people vote, argue, and debate to achieve the policy outcome they desire. But the promise of democracy is that people will not employ violence to affect that outcome.”
“David DePape, when he planned his attempted kidnapping, claimed he intended to punish the Speaker Emerita and teach Congress as a whole a lesson,” said U.S. Attorney Ismail J. Ramsey for the Northern District of California. “He then violently assaulted Mr. Pelosi. Today’s sentence is a stern reminder to those who pursue violence against public officials and institutions that significant punishment will follow. I want to thank the FBI, the San Francisco Police Department, the U.S. Capitol Police, and the members of my prosecution team — including Helen Gilbert, Laura Vartain, and Maddie Wachs — for bringing this matter to a swift and decisive conclusion. We hope that the conclusion of the federal case brings a measure of healing to Mr. Pelosi and his family.”
“Today’s sentencing of David DePape to a significant prison term sends a clear message that violence and intimidation have no place in our community or our political discourse,” said Special Agent in Charge Robert Tripp of the FBI San Francisco Field Office. “DePape's attack, fueled by misguided ideology, underscores the dangers posed by extremist beliefs. The FBI is committed to protecting all citizens and ensuring that our democracy remains strong and resilient against those who seek to harm it.”
The evidence at trial established that, weeks before the attack, DePape targeted Nancy Pelosi, who was then Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, and collected personal information about her, including her home address. DePape kept the information in a computer file he labeled “favorite politicians.” DePape intended to kidnap the then-Speaker, hold her hostage, and break her kneecaps.
The evidence at trial demonstrated that on the night of the assault, DePape used public transportation to travel from the East Bay to San Francisco while carrying two backpacks that contained a hammer, sledgehammer, duct tape, rope, zip ties, and electronic items, among other items. After arriving at the Pelosi residence, DePape used the hammer to break the window of a glass door and enter the home. Then-Speaker Pelosi was not home and her husband, Paul Pelosi, was sleeping on the third floor of the home. DePape roamed the home until he found Paul Pelosi in the third-floor bedroom.
The trial evidence demonstrated that DePape woke Paul Pelosi and, while standing three to four feet from him holding the hammer and restraints, made various threats including, “I will take you out.” Paul Pelosi managed to walk to his bathroom and call 9-1-1, during which he carefully used language to alert the emergency operator to the situation without agitating DePape.
Paul Pelosi convinced the defendant to go downstairs to the first floor and continued talking to DePape. When the police arrived, Paul Pelosi opened the door and the police ordered DePape to drop the hammer he was holding. Instead, DePape struck Paul Pelosi three times with full force, fracturing his skull. The responding officers immediately tackled DePape and took him into custody.
On Nov. 9, 2022, a federal grand jury indicted DePape, charging him with one count of assault upon an immediate family member of a U.S. official with the intent to impede, intimidate, or interfere with the official while engaged in the performance of official duties or with intent retaliate against the official on account of the performance of official duties, and one count of attempted kidnapping of a U.S. official on account of the performance of official duties. A jury convicted DePape of both charges.
DePape will receive credit for the little over 18 months that he has been in custody since his crime.
The FBI San Francisco Field Office, U.S. Capitol Police, and San Francisco Police Department are investigating the case.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California’s National Security and Cyber Section is prosecuting the case.
David DePape Sentenced to 30 Years in Prison After Conviction on Assault and Attempted Kidnapping ChargesRead the Press Release
SAN FRANCISCO –David DePape was sentenced today to 360 months in prison following his conviction on assault and attempted kidnapping charges in connection with his Oct. 28, 2022, intrusion into the home of Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi and her husband Paul Pelosi, announced United States Attorney Ismail J. Ramsey and Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Robert K. Tripp. The sentence was handed down by the Hon. Jacqueline Scott Corley, U.S. District Judge. U.S. Attorney Ramsey recorded a video statement commenting on today’s sentence that is available here: https://youtu.be/3o9EH157Ffk
“This sentence is a warning: violence against those who serve the public and their families will not be tolerated,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “The Justice Department will aggressively prosecute those who target public servants and their families with violence. In a democracy, people vote, argue, and debate to achieve the policy outcome they desire. But the promise of democracy is that people will not employ violence to affect that outcome.”
In an additional statement, U.S. Attorney Ramsey said, “David DePape, when he planned his attempted kidnapping, claimed he intended to punish the Speaker Emerita and teach Congress as a whole a lesson. He then violently assaulted Mr. Pelosi. Today’s sentence is a stern reminder to those who pursue violence against public officials and institutions that significant punishment will follow. I want to thank the FBI, the San Francisco Police Department, the U.S. Capitol Police and the members of my prosecution team—including Helen Gilbert, Laura Vartain and Maddie Wachs —for bringing this matter to a swift and decisive conclusion. We hope that the conclusion of the federal case brings a measure of healing to Mr. Pelosi and his family.”
“Today’s sentencing of David DePape to a significant prison term sends a clear message that violence and intimidation have no place in our community nor our political discourse. DePape's attack, fueled by misguided ideology, underscores the dangers posed by extremist beliefs,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Robert Tripp. “The FBI is committed to protecting all citizens and ensuring that our democracy remains strong and resilient against those who seek to harm it.”
The evidence at trial established that weeks before the attack, DePape, 44, of Richmond, California, targeted Nancy Pelosi, who was then Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, and collected personal information about her, including her home address. DePape kept the information in a computer file he labeled “favorite politicians.” DePape intended to kidnap the then-Speaker, hold her hostage, and break her kneecaps.
The evidence at trial demonstrated that on the night of the assault, DePape used public transportation to travel from the East Bay to San Francisco while carrying two backpacks that contained a hammer, sledgehammer, duct tape, rope, zip ties, and electronic items, among other items. After arriving at the Pelosi residence, DePape used the hammer to break the window of a glass door and enter the home. Then-Speaker Pelosi was not home and her husband, Paul Pelosi, was sleeping on the third floor of the home. DePape roamed the home until he found Mr. Pelosi in the third-floor bedroom.
The trial evidence demonstrated that DePape woke Mr. Pelosi and, while standing three to four feet from him holding the hammer and restraints, made various threats including, “I will take you out.” Mr. Pelosi managed to walk to his bathroom and call 9-1-1, during which he carefully used language to alert the emergency operator to the situation without agitating DePape.
Mr. Pelosi convinced defendant to go downstairs to the first floor and continued talking to DePape. When the police arrived, Mr. Pelosi opened the door and the police ordered DePape to drop the hammer he was holding. Instead, DePape struck Mr. Pelosi three times with full force, fracturing his skull. The responding officers immediately tackled Depape and took him into custody.
On November 9, 2022, a federal grand jury indicted DePape, charging him with one count of assault upon an immediate family member of a United States official with the intent to impede, intimidate, or interfere with the official while engaged in the performance of official duties or with intent retaliate against the official on account of the performance of official duties, and one count of attempted kidnapping of a United States official on account of the performance of official duties. A jury convicted DePape of both charges.
The Honorable Jacqueline Corley sentenced DePape to the statutory maximums on each count, which were 30 years in prison for the assault charge and 20 years in prison for the attempted kidnapping charge, the two sentences to run concurrently.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Corley ordered the defendant to serve five years of supervised release, to begin after the prison term and ordered that DePape will receive credit for the little over 18 months that he has been in custody since his crime.
In sentencing DePape, Judge Corley stated that DePape may still be dangerous, that his use of violence was “gratuitous,” and that because he entered the home of a politician, future would-be leaders now must consider whether entering public service through politics is worth the risk. “Because of your actions,” said Judge Corley, “we will never know what we lost.”
The National Security and Cyber Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California is prosecuting the case. FBI San Francisco, the U.S. Capitol Police, and the San Francisco Police Department are investigating the case.
Convicted Ponzi schemer sentenced to over 14 years in prison for $11 million fraud and absconding before sentencingRead the Press Release
Seattle – A federally convicted Ponzi schemer who fled before sentencing, will do 156 months in prison for his fraud convictions, with an additional 16 months in prison for absconding before his original sentencing hearing, announced U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman. Volodimyr Pigida, 49, a Miami area resident who previously resided in Bellevue, Washington, was ultimately arrested October 24, 2023, after a three-hour standoff with agents in South Florida. At his sentencing hearing today, U.S. District Judge Ricardo S. Martinez told Pigida that he had abused the court’s “trust” by fleeing from justice. The judge also described Pigida’s fraud as an “extensive, elaborate, complex scheme” that caused “immense harm” for his victims.
“Accountability has been a long-time coming for Mr. Pigida,” said U.S. Attorney Gorman. “His refusal to accept responsibility for defrauding thousands of victims continues to this day and is reflected in the significant sentence imposed in this case.”
In December 2022, Pigida was found guilty by a jury in the Western District of Washington of 26 felony counts, including conspiracy, wire fraud, mail fraud, and bankruptcy fraud, among other crimes.
In his $11 million Ponzi scheme Pigida defrauded thousands of victims. Pigida and his wife, Marina Bondarenko, operated a ‘work-at-home’ email scheme named Trend Sound Promoter. The couple sold ad-promoting packages whereby those who bought a package were to be paid for email marketing. The couple made claims to those purchasing the packages that they could make big money for sending emails on Trend Sound’s behalf. In reality, the only significant money being generated was from those purchasing the packages, and it was used to pay earlier purchasers as in a typical Ponzi scheme. The scheme ultimately crashed – but not before the two raided the company’s accounts to purchase homes, expensive cars, and a yacht.
On August 4, 2023, Pigida failed to appear at his sentencing hearing before the district court in Seattle. A warrant was issued for his arrest. Pigida is a naturalized U.S. citizen who was born in Ukraine. Initially, there were indications that Pigida might have fled to war torn Ukraine. Ultimately, law enforcement discovered him hiding in a secret room of a relative’s home in Parkland, Florida. He was pulled from hiding after a standoff with police.
Assistant United States Attorney Philip Kopczynski described Pigida’s conduct in his sentencing brief, writing: “Defendant Volodimyr Pigida has shown nothing but contempt for this Court, the government, and the jury that heard the case against him. Last July, with his sentencing hearing looming on 26 felony convictions, Pigida fled. He sent a letter insisting he’s done nothing wrong, and insulting Your Honor, the prosecutors, and everyone else involved in his case. Through the diligent efforts of federal law enforcement, he was eventually found. He was arrested hiding behind a false wall in a relative’s house in Florida. Agents had to literally drag him out.”
Pigida and his wife were indicted for conspiracy and mail, wire, and bankruptcy fraud in November 2018. In September 2019, Bondarenko pleaded guilty to bankruptcy fraud and was sentenced to 38 months in prison.
The case was investigated by the FBI and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Philip Kopczynski.
Convicted Felon Sentenced for Possessing a 9mm Pistol He Attempted to Hide from Police in a Liquor Store RefrigeratorRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Kenneth Hart, 25, a previously convicted felon from Washington D.C., was sentenced today to 46 months in prison for possessing a loaded 9 mm Springfield Armory XDS-9 pistol that he tried to hide from police inside a liquor store refrigerator, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves and Chief Pamela A. Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
Hart pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon on January 30, 2024. In addition to the prison term, U.S. District Judge Trevor N. McFadden ordered Hart to serve three years of supervised release.
According to court papers, on November 1, 2023, members of the MPD’s Violent Crime Suppression Division Robbery Suppression Unit were conducting firearm interdiction activities on the 2900 block of Martin Luther King Junior Ave., SE. About 5:30 p.m., officers observed Hart along with several other individuals leave a nearby restaurant. An investigator who wearing a tactical vest with clearly visible, “POLICE” insignia began to walk behind the Hart, who spotted the investigator, turned away, and started heading towards Malcolm X Avenue, SE. Hart entered a liquor store and stood beside a beverage refrigerator at the back. The investigator, now inside the store, noticed that both of Hart’s hands were inside the refrigerator.
The investigator saw Hart place a black firearm inside the refrigerator. The investigator arrested Hart. Additional MPD investigators arrived and assisted in the arrest. In the refrigerator, police recovered a 9 mm Springfield Armory XDS-9, with one round in the chamber and six in the magazine. The pistol, which had been reported stolen out of Pittsylvania, Virginia, subsequently was swabbed and determined to have a DNA match with the defendant.
Hart has a significant criminal history including two prior convictions that include attempted robbery with an unregistered firearm and unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
This case was investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department’s Violent Crime Suppression Division. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shehzad Akhtar.
Convicted Felon Pleads Guilty on Last Day of TrialRead the Press Release
BIRMIHGHAM, Ala. – A convicted felon pleaded guilty on Tuesday to drug and gun charges, announced U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona and Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent in Charge Katrina W. Berger.
Eric Damone Wilson, 34, of Hoover, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Court Judge Anna Manasco on the last day of trial testimony before the jury began deliberations. Wilson pled guilty to two counts of distribution of methamphetamine, one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
According to evidence presented at trial and included in Wilson’s plea agreement, on two separate occasions in April 2022, Wilson distributed methamphetamine at a gas station in Birmingham and at his apartment in Hoover. Upon his arrest for those trafficking offenses, Wilson was found in possession of methamphetamine and fentanyl, digital scales, and a gun.
Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case, along with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant United States Attorneys Allison Garnett and Brittany Byrd are prosecuting the case.
Cleveland Clinic to Pay over $7 Million to Settle Allegations of Undisclosed Foreign Sources of Funding on NIH Grant Applications and ReportsRead the Press Release
The Cleveland Clinic Foundation (CCF) has agreed to pay $7,600,000 to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act (FCA) by submitting to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) federal grant applications and progress reports in which CCF failed to disclose that a key employee involved in administering the grants had pending and/or active financial research support from other sources.
The settlement resolves allegations that CCF made false statements to NIH, a component of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), in connection with three federal grant awards. Despite NIH requirements to do so, CCF repeatedly failed to disclose that the employee who it designated as the Principal Investigator on each grant had pending and/or active grants from foreign institutions that provided financial assistance to support the employee’s research and already obligated that employee’s research time. CCF falsely certified that the grants submissions were true and accurate.
NIH requires full transparency in applications and throughout the life of the grants it awards. This includes a requirement that grant applicants disclose all sources of research support, from any source, on grant applications and on follow-up documents relating to grant awards. NIH uses this information to determine if the applicant has the time necessary to allocate to the proposed research project, and if the research proposal has other sources of funding that are duplicative. It also assists NIH in determining if an applicant’s financial interests may affect its objectivity in conducting research.
The settlement also resolves allegations that CCF violated NIH password policies by permitting CCF employees to share passwords. Some of the false submissions wherein CCF failed to disclose the Principal Investigator’s foreign grant support were made by CCF employees who were inappropriately given access to NIH’s online grant reporting platform.
“Each year, NIH awards federal grants to support research to improve public health, but those funds are limited and the grant process is competitive. Every entity or person who seeks such grant money must strictly play by the rules. As stewards of taxpayer dollars, our Office takes seriously its responsibility of ensuring that grant recipients fully and accurately report all required information to NIH so that it may properly award its limited funds to deserving institutions,” said U.S. Attorney Rebecca C. Lutzko for the Northern District of Ohio. “Today’s settlement illustrates the importance of being truthful at every stage of the grants process.”
In addition to the $7.6 million settlement, NIH has imposed Specific Award Conditions on all CCF’s grants for a one-year period. Federal regulations allow NIH to impose Specific Award Conditions on grant recipients, including on recipients that do not comply with the terms of a federal award. In this case, NIH is requiring a high-level CCF employee to personally attest to the truth, completeness, and accuracy of all “other grant support” information CCF provides to NIH. CCF must also develop a corrective action plan that includes an assessment of internal controls related to other grant support and foreign-component reporting; create a mandatory training program addressing requirements for disclosing other grant support, research security, and cyber security; and develop an improvement plan for its internal controls, ensuring that CCF has oversight at the institutional level to confirm that the information its Principal Investigators disclose is true, complete, and accurate, among other requirements. The Specific Award Conditions will begin Oct. 1, 2024, and remain in effect through Sept. 30, 2025, or until NIH is satisfied that CCF has successfully completed the Corrective Action Plan.
“The accuracy of information reported in applications and other documentation related to federal grants is critical to ensuring that these limited funds are utilized in the most efficient and effective manner and that the integrity of the application process is upheld,” said Special Agent in Charge Mario M. Pinto, of the United States Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “Our agency is committed to ensuring that those who submit false statements in grant applications are identified and investigated, in cooperation with our federal law enforcement partners.”
A cooperative effort between HHS-OIG, the FBI, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio resulted in the resolution obtained in this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys Michelle Heyer and Elizabeth Berry investigated the matter on behalf of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
This settlement illustrates the government’s emphasis on combating fraud. If you have information regarding potential fraud, waste, abuse, or mismanagement in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ programs, please file a report with OIG's Hotline. You can submit your tip or complaint online at https://oig.hhs.gov/fraud/report-fraud/ or contact the OIG Hotline at 1-800-447-8477. The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.
Cleveland Clinic Settlement Agreement Fully Executed.pdfChinese Citizen Sentenced for Interstate Transportation of Stolen PropertyRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Wu Feng Zhang, age 54, a Chinese citizen residing in the Town of Colonie, New York, was sentenced yesterday to 25 months in prison for transporting stolen property across state lines. United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and Matthew Scarpino, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), made the announcement.
As part of his prior guilty plea, Zheng admitted that between June and December 2022, he stole merchandise from home improvement stores in various states, including in Pennsylvania, South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, Florida, and New York, and transported those stolen items to his residence in Colonie. On January 11, 2023, HSI searched his residence and found about $100,000 in merchandise stolen from home improvement stores.
Chief United States District Judge Brenda K. Sannes also imposed a 3-year term of post-imprisonment supervised release, ordered Zhang to pay $296,881.92 in restitution to the two home improvement store chains from which he stole, and ordered forfeiture of $3,257.76 seized from two bank accounts.
HSI, with assistance from Colonie Police Department, the Albany County Sheriff’s Office, and the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office, investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander Wentworth-Ping prosecuted the case.
Cherokee County Felon Pleads Guilty to Possessing Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced Heath Tyler Bryan, age 33, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
The Indictment alleged that on January 1, 2024, Bryan was found to be in possession of a firearm and ammunition in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, after having been previously convicted of a felony offense punishable by more than one year and knowing of the conviction.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
The Honorable D. Edward Snow, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report. Bryan was remanded to the custody of the United States Marshal Service pending sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Edith A. Singer represented the United States.
Charlotte Licensed Clinical Social Worker Convicted of Medicaid Fraud, COVID-19 Relief Fraud, and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – A Charlotte behavioral health services provider was convicted today by a federal jury following a nine-day trial, for defrauding the South Carolina Medicaid Program (SC Medicaid), falsely obtaining COVID-19 relief funds, and money laundering, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.
Robert M. DeWitt, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Charlotte Division, and Stephanie G. Opet, Director of the South Carolina Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, join U.S. Attorney King in making today’s announcement.
Ashley Nicole Cross, 41, of Charlotte, was found guilty of healthcare fraud, making false statements and writings relating to a healthcare matter, promotional money laundering, wire fraud, and conspiracy.
According to trial evidence—including 25 witnesses and over 600 documents—Cross owned and operated Odyssey Health Group (OHG), a Charlotte-based company, which was enrolled with SC Medicaid to provide outpatient behavioral health services to eligible Medicaid beneficiaries. Under SC Medicaid rules, beneficiaries are allowed to use providers within 25-miles of the South Carolina border, including Charlotte. From 2016 to 2021, Cross’s company submitted fraudulent reimbursement claims to SC Medicaid and its contracted managed care organizations for rehabilitative behavioral health services that were never provided. To carry out the scheme, Cross used the personal identifying information (PII) of qualified SC Medicaid beneficiaries to file reimbursement claims totaling $1.3 million dollars. For some claims, Cross bought the PII of Medicaid beneficiaries she used to submit claims. To further the scheme and to give the appearance that OHG’s fraudulent claims were legitimate, Cross instructed OHG employees to create fake clinical service notes after she filed fraudulent claims in the names of Medicaid beneficiaries.
Trial evidence established that in September 2019, Cross was informed of audits of OHG’s Medicaid claims. To cover up the fraud, Cross submitted fictitious patient medical records and made false statements to auditors. Trial evidence further established that Cross engaged in money laundering and used some of the fraudulent proceeds to promote the scheme by paying for Medicaid beneficiary names and PII.
In addition to the Medicaid fraud scheme, evidence showed that from April 3, 2020, to May 14, 2022, Cross executed a scheme to obtain fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans on behalf of OHG and Gucci International Inc. (Gucci), a purported event planning business owned by Cross’s boyfriend and co-conspirator. To obtain the PPP loans, Cross submitted loan applications and supporting documents that contained false statements regarding OHG’s and Gucci’s payroll expenses, number of employees, and other misrepresentations. Cross obtained more than $287,000 in COVID-19 relief funds for her companies and Gucci. At the time of Gucci’s loan application, Cross’s boyfriend was under indictment for a federal offense.
Cross was remanded into custody after the jury returned its verdict. A federal district court judge will determine Cross’s sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing date has not been set.
The FBI investigated the case with substantial assistance from the South Carolina Attorney General’s Office, Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, and the Small Business Administration’s Office of Inspector General.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael E. Savage and Cassye Cole, and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristina Fleisch of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case.
California Man Charged with Selling Illegal Depressant Etizolam over the InternetRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A California man has been charged for allegedly conspiring to sell the illegal depressant Etizolam over the internet.
Paul Z. Lamberty, 52, of Folsom, Calif., was charged in a two-count information with one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States and one count of the introduction of misbranded drugs with the intent to defraud and mislead. He will appear in federal court in Boston at a later date.
According to the charging documents, Lamberty operated websites encern.com and ohmod.com to sell the drug Etizolam to customers throughout the United States, including customers in Massachusetts. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved Etizolam for use as a drug, and thus it cannot be sold or prescribed in the United States. Despite this, Lamberty allegedly purchased drugs from suppliers in China, imported those drugs into the United States and sold the drugs with false labelling stating that the products were sold “For Research Purposes Only,” and “Not for Human Consumption.”
According to the charging documents, Etizolam is a drug known as a thienodiazepine – a class of drugs chemically related to benzodiazepines, which produce central nervous system depression. Physicians may prescribe FDA-approved benzodiazepines to treat insomnia and anxiety, but benzodiazepines and thienodiazepines also carry risks of dependency, toxicity and even fatal overdose, particularly when combined with other central nervous system depressants.
The charge of conspiracy to defraud the United States provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The charge of introduction of misbranded drugs with the intent to defraud and mislead provides for a sentence up to three 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 that govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy; Fernando P. McMillan, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Office of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations; and Ketty Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Boston Division made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jared C. Dolan and Lauren A. Graber of the Criminal Division are prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Brooklyn Man and Cryptocurrency Personality "T.J. Stone" Pleads Guilty to Wire FraudRead the Press Release
Yesterday, in federal court in Brooklyn, Thomas John Sfraga, also known as “T.J. Stone,” pleaded guilty to an information charging him with wire fraud. The proceeding was held before Chief United States Magistrate Judge Lois Bloom. When sentenced, Sfraga faces a maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment, as well as restitution of over $1.33 million.
Breon Peace, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York and James Smith, Assistant Director-in-Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI) announced the guilty plea.
“For years, Sfraga brazenly lied to friends, neighbors and investors to swindle over $1.3 million of their hard-earned life savings,” stated United States Attorney Peace. “This Office will continue to hold fraudsters accountable and achieve justice for victims throughout the Eastern District of New York and across the United States.”
As set forth in the information and court filings, from at least 2019 to 2022, Sfraga held himself out as the owner and principal of multiple businesses, including Vandelay Contracting Corp. and Build Strong Homes LLC. In the television show “Seinfeld,” the character George Constanza falsely claimed to have interviewed for a job with the fictional company Vandelay Industries. The defendant held himself out as ‘T.J. Stone,’ a serial entrepreneur with experience in real estate development, media relations, podcasting and cryptocurrencies, including acting as the host or emcee of cryptocurrency events in New York.
Sfraga defrauded over a dozen victims, including victims in Brooklyn, Staten Island and Long Island. Sfraga convinced victims to loan him monies for, or to invest in, multiple fraudulent investments including purchasing, renovating and “flipping” homes. On one occasion, Sfraga convinced a victim to lend him $100,000 in cash as start-up costs for a non-existent major construction project. On yet another occasion, Sfraga convinced a victim to invest in a fictitious cryptocurrency “virtual wallet.” He promised the victims returns on their investments as high as 60% in three months. In reality, however, Sfraga converted the monies to his own benefit, to pay expenses, and to pay earlier victims and business associates.
The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Business and Securities Fraud Section. Assistant United States Attorney John Vagelatos is in charge of the prosecution, with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Madison Bates.
The Defendant:
THOMAS JOHN SFRAGA (also known as “T.J. Stone”)
Age: 55
Brooklyn, New YorkE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 24-CR-194 (FB) (LB)
Brockton Man Pleads Guilty to Role in Fentanyl and Cocaine Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Brockton man pleaded guilty yesterday to his role in a large-scale drug trafficking conspiracy in and around the Quincy and Weymouth areas.
Neylton Fontes, 36, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, including cocaine, fentanyl and fentanyl analogue; and conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine, fentanyl and fentanyl analogue. U.S. Senior District Court Judge William G. Young scheduled sentencing for Sept. 16, 2024. Fontes was indicted along with three others in October 2023.
Around January 2021, Fontes possessed with intent to distribute cocaine, fentanyl and fentanyl analogue and participated in a conspiracy to distribute cocaine, fentanyl and fentanyl analogue in Quincy and Weymouth.
The charges of possession with intent to distribute cocaine, fentanyl, and fentanyl analogue and conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute each provide for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, at least three years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $1 million. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy and Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Plymouth County Sheriff’s Department; Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department; Massachusetts State Police; and the Brockton, Quincy, Weymouth, Braintree, Boston, Bridgewater, East Bridgewater and Barnstable Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kaitlin R. O’Donnell and Philip A. Mallard of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit are prosecuting the case.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Brentwood Resident Charged with Receipt of Child Pornography and Possession of Unregistered Short-Barreled RifleRead the Press Release
OAKLAND – A federal grand jury has indicted Michael Patterson for receipt of child pornography, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2252(a)(2) and (b), and possession of an unregistered short-barreled rifle, in violation of 26 U.S.C. § 5861(d), announced United States Attorney Ismail J. Ramsey, United States Secret Service (USSS) Special Agent in Charge Shawn M. Bradstreet, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) Special Agent in Charge Jennifer Cicolani. The indictment, filed April 18, 2024, was unsealed on May 6, 2024, at Patterson’s initial federal court appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Donna M. Ryu. On May 16, 2024, Magistrate Judge Ryu ordered Patterson detained pending trial.
According to the government’s detention memorandum, in late May 2023, the Silicon Valley Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (SV-ICAC) conducted an operation to identify and arrest adults engaging in sexual conversations with undercover chatters posing online as minors. During this operation, Patterson engaged in an online conversation with an undercover officer posing as a 13-year-old girl, and eventually planned to meet and engage in sexual conduct. Officers arrested Patterson when he arrived at the agreed upon location. In Patterson’s car, officers located the phone Patterson had used to communicate with the undercover officer, and next to the phone, officers located a loaded .38 caliber revolver. The government further argued that after his arrest, Patterson was found to have been in possession of over 600 videos and over 1,200 individual images depicting child sexual abuse material on various electronic devices, as well as dozens of firearms, firearm components, boxes of ammunition, and firearm manufacturing machines and components, including a computerized gun milling machine. Three of the firearms were unregistered short-barreled rifles and one was an unregistered fully automatic machine gun.
Patterson is scheduled to appear before the Honorable U.S. District Judge Haywood S. Gilliam, Jr. on June 26, 2024, in Oakland.
An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of twenty years in prison and a fine of $250,000, plus restitution if appropriate, for a violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2252(a)(2) and (b), and 10 years imprisonment and a fine of $10,000 for a violation of 26 U.S.C. § 5861(d). However, any sentence following conviction would be imposed by the court after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of a sentence, 18 U.S.C. § 3553.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonah Ross is prosecuting the case with the assistance of Kay Konopaske and Claudia Hyslop. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the USSS, ATF, SV-ICAC, the Brentwood and Walnut Creek Police Departments, and the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office.
Altus Man Convicted for Lying about Pending Criminal Charges during Purchase of a RifleRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – ANGEL LUIS GARCIA-NAVEDO, 27, of Altus, has been found guilty after a bench trial of making a false statement during the purchase of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On August 16, 2023, a federal grand jury returned a two-count Indictment against Garcia-Navedo, charging him with making a false statement during the purchase of a firearm and with illegal receipt of a firearm by a person under indictment. On May 14, 2024, the case proceeded to a bench trial on the false statement count, after which the Court found Garcia-Navedo guilty.
According to evidence presented at trial, in April 2023, Garcia-Navedo visited an Altus federal firearm licensee (FFL) to initiate the purchase of a rifle. To do so, Garcia-Navedo was required to complete Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Form 4473. This Form requires buyers to answer several questions, including those about the buyer’s competency, criminal history, drug use, immigration status, and history with domestic violence. Federal law prohibits knowingly making any false statement in connection with purchasing, or attempting to purchase, a firearm.
On the ATF Form 4473, evidence at trial showed that Garcia-Navedo indicated that he was not under indictment or information for a felony or a crime for which he could be imprisoned for more than one year. Public record reflects, however, that at the time that he completed the ATF Form 4473, Garcia-Navedo was charged by information with two felony offenses in Jackson County District Court.
At sentencing, Garcia-Navedo faces up to 10 years in federal prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release.
This case is the result of an investigation by the ATF and the Altus Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Danielle M. Connolly, Mary E. Walters, and Steven W. Creager are prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a Department of Justice program to reduce violent crime. In October 2017, the Department announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop crime-reduction strategies that incorporate lessons federal law enforcement has learned since the program’s launch in 2001. This case is also part of "Operation 922," the Western District of Oklahoma’s implementation of PSN, which prioritizes prosecution of federal crimes connected to domestic violence. For more information about PSN, please visit https://justice.gov/psn and https://justice.gov/usao-wdok.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Allport Man Pleads Guilty to Narcotics, Firearms, and Money Laundering ChargesRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Allport, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal narcotics, firearms, and money laundering laws, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.
Alexis Brolin, Jr., 55, pleaded guilty before United States Senior District Judge Kim R. Gibson to Counts Two through Five of the Superseding Indictment.
In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, from in and around July 2019 to in and around April 2020 in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Brolin conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine. Brolin, who directed the drug trafficking organization’s activity in Clearfield and surrounding areas, was intercepted on a federal wiretap obtaining kilogram quantities of methamphetamine that he distributed to others, and was arrested in possession of more than 650 grams of methamphetamine destined for Clearfield during an April 2020 interdiction stop.
Through the execution of a search warrant at Brolin’s residence on the day of his arrest, law enforcement agents seized additional quantities of methamphetamine as well as 11 firearms and ammunition, including five shotguns, two rifles, an AK-style rifle, and three pistols, with numerous of the firearms not having serial numbers. Under federal law, Brolin was prohibited from possessing any firearm or ammunition based on an earlier felony conviction for robbery, with Brolin also pleading guilty to possessing a firearm in furtherance of his drug trafficking crime.
Additionally, from in and around July 2019 to June 2020, Brolin conspired to commit money laundering by having various distributors pre-pay him for the drugs he was to provide them through money wires to and from various locations within Western Pennsylvania.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for September 20, 2024. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $10 million, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Maureen Sheehan-Balchon is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Brolin. Additional agencies participating in this investigation included the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Internal Revenue Service–Criminal Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service, Homeland Security Investigations, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, Clearfield County District Attorney’s Office, Erie County District Attorney’s Office, Millcreek Police Department, Erie Bureau of Police, and other local law enforcement agencies.
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.
Thursday 16 May 2024
Zapata resident sent to prison for uploading child sexual assault material to FacebookRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – A 28-year-old man has been sentenced for possessing child pornography and exploiting children, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.
Kevin Montemayor pleaded guilty March 28, 2022.
U.S. District Judge Keith Ellison has now sentenced Montemayor to 15 years for the possession of child pornography and sexual exploitation of children convictions, respectively. They will run concurrently for a total 180-month-term of imprisonment. Montemayor was further ordered to pay $42,000 in restitution to the victims and will serve five years on supervised release following completion of his prison term. During that time, he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. Montemayor will also be ordered to register as a sex offender.
Montemayor came to the attention of law enforcement after they learned an IP address associated with him had posted child sexual abuse material over Facebook Messenger.
On Aug. 9, 2020, authorities executed a search warrant at Montemayor’s residence and found several electronic devices containing child pornography. Law enforcement then seized the devices and took Montemayor into custody.
Authorities later identified a victim who claimed she met Montemayor over the instant messaging application Kik when she was only 15. She claimed Montemayor sexually extorted her for child sexual abuse material by threatening to leak her images if she did not continue to supply Montemayor with more explicit material.
Montemayor will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Leslie Ann Cortez prosecuted the case.
Yakama Man Found Guilty of Assault with a Dangerous WeaponRead the Press Release
Yakima, Washington - Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced that a jury returned a verdict on May 15, 2024, following the trial of 43-year-old Joey Anthony Andy. Andy was found guilty of one count of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon.
Evidence introduced at trial established that on April 4, 2023, a victim, an enrolled member of the Yakama Nation, was leaving Noah’s Ark Homeless shelter in Wapato, Washington. As the victim was walking away from the shelter, he was confronted by Andy. Andy was upset with the victim because Andy believed the victim had stolen his Bluetooth speaker. Andy shoved then shoved the victim. After the victim stepped back, Andy pulled out a knife, lifted the sleeve on this hooded sweatshirt (presumably to ensure he did not get blood on his clothing), and lifted the knife, and then swung the knife at the victim’s head. As the victim attempted to dodge the blow, the knife hit the victim, leaving a four-inch laceration to the side of the victim’s head. The laceration cut down to the victim’s skull and required fourteen staples to close.
The victim ran back to Noah’s Ark for help. There, employees rendered first aid and called police. Wapato Police later located Andy in the neighborhood near Noah’s Ark. Although Andy attempted to flee, officers took Andy into custody without incident after a short chase.
United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke presided over the trial, which began on May 13, 2024. Sentencing in this matter is set for September 17, 2024.
“Prosecuting violent crime occurring on Tribal land in the Eastern District of Washington is a major priority for the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Mr. Andy carried out a violent attack in broad daylight that left his victim with a serious injury,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “Violent assaults on Native American land are key drivers of the crisis of Missing or Murdered Indigenous People. My office remains committed to prosecuting these and other serious crimes, such as domestic violence, drug trafficking, child exploitation, and sexual violence, which frequently contribute to this ongoing crisis. I commend our federal, tribal and local partners for their investigative work, and the prosecutors from my office who secured a conviction in this case.”
“The sudden violence of this assault is alarming and demonstrates that prison is where Mr. Andy belongs.” said Richard A. Collodi, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Seattle field office. “Fortunately, the victim of this attack will recover. The FBI and our partners will continue investigating these cases to make our state’s reservations safer for the people who call them home.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Todd Swensen and Bree R. Black Horse.
Wilkes-Barre Man Sentenced to 10 Years’ Imprisonment for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Andrew Pope, age 45, of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on May 15, 2024, to 120 months in prison by U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine, marijuana, fentanyl, and over 50 grams of methamphetamine.
According to United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam, between May 2021 and April 2022, Pope was involved in a conspiracy to distribute large amounts of multiple different types of drugs throughout Luzerne County.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General Bureau of Narcotic Investigations, and the Luzerne County Drug Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenny P. Roberts and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle Hardik prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses.
This case is also part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Uzbekistan National Sentenced to 19 Years in Prison for International Transportation of Child Sex Abuse ImagesRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Wendy W. Berger has sentenced Sulton Nuriev (39, Uzbekistan) to 19 years in federal prison, followed by a lifetime of supervised release, for transportation of child sex abuse materials (CSAM). Nuriev pled guilty on September 26, 2023.
According to court documents, on January 13, 2022, Nuriev left the United States from Orlando, Florida to Tashkent, Uzbekistan. On February 20, 2022, he flew from Tashkent, Uzbekistan to Orlando, Florida. Upon Nuriev's reentry to the United States, an agent with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) conducted a border search of Nuriev's cellphone and located child sex abuse images on the phone. Further forensic investigation revealed that while Nuriev was abroad, he was posing online as a 12-year-old boy and enticing minor females to produce sexually explicit images of themselves.
This case was investigated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Shannon Laurie and Assistant United States Attorney Courtney Richardson-Jones.
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.
United States Attorney’s Office Honors Law Enforcement Personnel for Exceptional ServiceRead the Press Release
CONCORD – United States Attorney Jane E. Young announces the recipients of the 2024 Law Enforcement Awards in honor of National Police Week. More than 30 federal, state, and local law enforcement personnel are being recognized for their contributions to the success of federal matters over the past year.
These awards recognize the exceptional service of federal agents along with state and local officers in eight federal criminal and civil matters. The U.S. Attorney’s Office in the District of New Hampshire will host a formal ceremony to honor these individuals in September 2024.
“I’m honored to announce the USAO 2024 Law Enforcement Award recipients during National Police Week. Commemorating National Police Week and presenting these awards provide opportunities to recognize the contributions of law enforcement officers and to annually celebrate their hard work and dedication to keeping our communities safe,” said U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young. “These officers, agents, and their families have all gone above and beyond the call of duty to ensure others’ safety and maintain our faith in justice.”
The category of the Civil Litigation Achievement Award is a new award in 2024, which recognizes those whose actions significantly support the USAO’s ability to resolve civil matters. This year’s award recognizes a settlement in which the awardees enabled the return of financial loss to the government. The following federal matters are being recognized, and the following agencies are being honored:
U.S. v. Robert Michael Waters, Jr.
Agency of Recipient(s):
- The United States Marshal Service
- Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
- U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security's Office of Export Enforcement
- U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) - Criminal Investigations
The Excellence in Public Safety Award is a new award in 2024, which aims to recognize those whose activities have significantly and substantially reduced the risk of further harm to the public. The following federal matters are being recognized, and the following agencies are being honored:
U.S. v. Michael Chick
Agency of Recipient(s):
- Eliot Police Department (Maine)
- Greenland Police Department
- New England State Police Information Network (NESPIN)
- Homeland Security Investigations (HSI)
The Exceptional Contribution to a Federal Investigation/Prosecution Award is reserved for recipients whose actions impact law enforcement’s ability to achieve certain capabilities. This year’s award recognizes a case in which the awardees enabled law enforcement to identify critical intelligence. The following federal matters are being recognized, and the following agencies are being honored:
Cumulative Contributions to Child Exploitation Investigations
Agency of Recipient(s):
- Homeland Security Investigations (HSI)
The Investigative Achievement Award is limited to those whose activities have substantially and significantly contributed to a particular USAO prosecution. The following federal matters are being recognized, and the following agencies are being honored:
U.S. v. Abraham Hernandez
Agency of Recipient(s):
- United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
U.S. v. NuDay Syria
Agency of Recipient(s):
- Homeland Security Investigations (HSI)
- Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
- U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) - Criminal Investigations
- U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security's Office of Export Enforcement
U.S. v. Sewell, et al/U.S. v. Stottlar
Agency of Recipient(s):
- Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)
- Manchester Police Department
The Investigative Excellence Award is awarded to one individual whose specific acts led directly to the arrest of a dangerous subject or to the exposure of a significant criminal conspiracy. The following federal matters are being recognized, and the following agencies are being honored:
U.S. v. Chad Lawlor
Agency of Recipient(s):
- Homeland Security Investigations (HSI)
The category of the Outstanding Collaboration Award recognizes individuals who demonstrated outstanding efforts or overcame significant challenges in collaborating with multiple agencies. The following federal matters are being recognized, and the following agencies are being honored:
Federal Firearms Licensee Dealer Burglaries
Agency of Recipient(s):
- Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
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United States Attorneys Office for the Middle District of Alabama Commemorates National Police Week 2024Read the Press Release
Montgomery, Alabama— In honor of National Police Week, United States Attorney Jonathan S. Ross recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement. The week is being observed from Saturday, May 11 through Friday, May 17, 2024.
“National Police Week is an opportunity to recognize and thank the brave members of law enforcement who, at great risk to themselves, answer the call of duty every day to protect communities in our district,” stated United States Attorney Ross. “Already this year, too many officers have been killed in the line of duty, including one deputy here in the Middle District. The memory and legacy of Deputy Sheriff Jermyius Young from the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office will never be forgotten. We take time this week to honor and recognize those we have lost and thank those who continue to serve.”
“As our country recognizes National Police Week, the Justice Department joins families and communities in remembering the members of the law enforcement community who made the ultimate sacrifice protecting the public,” said Attorney General Merrick Garland. “Policing is difficult and dangerous, yet time and time again, law enforcement officers answer the call, showing up for their communities when they are needed the most. Their devotion to duty is matched only by that of their loved ones who make daily sacrifices to support them. The Justice Department is committed to doing everything in our power to help provide our law enforcement partners with the resources they need to carry out their noble work on behalf of the public.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe.
According to 2023 statistics reported by the Federal Bureau of Investigation through the Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, from 2021 to 2023, more officers were feloniously killed in the U.S. (194) than in any other consecutive three-year period in the past 20 years — 73 officers in 2021, 61 officers in 2022, and 60 officers in 2023. So far this year, 58 law enforcement officers have been killed in the line of duty from various causes, including auto accidents. One of those 58 deaths occurred here in the Middle District of Alabama.
On Monday, May 13, the names of more than 280 officers killed in the line of duty in 2024 who have been added to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial were read during a Candlelight Vigil. To view a recording of the livestream of this event, visit https://nleomf.org/memorial/programs/national-police-week-2024/candlelight-vigil/.
To learn more about National Police Week and the virtual candlelight vigil, please visit www.policeweek.org.
U.S. Department of Justice Honors Two Federal Agents from Arizona During Police WeekRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney’s Office honors fallen heroes Internal Revenue Service Special Agent Patrick Bauer and United States Border Patrol Agent Freddy Ortiz
PHOENIX, Ariz.— In honor of National Police Week, the Department of Justice will recognize the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement. The week will be observed Saturday, May 11 through Friday, May 17, 2024.
“As our country recognizes National Police Week, the Justice Department joins families and communities in remembering the members of the law enforcement community who made the ultimate sacrifice protecting the public,” said Attorney General Merrick Garland. “Policing is difficult and dangerous, yet time and time again, law enforcement officers answer the call, showing up for their communities when they are needed the most. Their devotion to duty is matched only by that of their loved ones who make daily sacrifices to support them. The Justice Department is committed to doing everything in our power to help provide our law enforcement partners with the resources they need to carry out their noble work on behalf of the public.”
“We need to carry forward the memories and legacies of our fallen colleagues,” said Gary Restaino, the United States Attorney for the District of Arizona. “Border Patrol Agent Ortiz, a Navy veteran, was vigilant in protecting our border at the Douglas Station. Special Agent Bauer, a veteran of the Arizona Air National Guard, worked to dismantle command and control of criminal organizations throughout his career with Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations. Their names will shine eternally, etched in stone on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, and also here in Phoenix at the State Capitol.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which falls on May 15 every year, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty, and commitment to keeping our communities safe.
On Monday, May 13, the names of more than 280 officers killed in the line of duty in 2024 who have been added to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial were read during a candlelight vigil. To view a recording of the livestream of this event, visit https://nleomf.org/memorial/programs/national-police-week-2024/candlelight-vigil/.
To learn more about National Police Week and the virtual candlelight vigil, please visit www.policeweek.org.
RELEASE NUMBER: 2024-065_Police Week
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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.U.S. Attorney’s Office Recognizes Police WeekRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - In honor of National Police Week, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of South Dakota pauses to recognize the service and sacrifice of federal, state, tribal, and local law enforcement. The week will be observed Saturday, May 11 through Friday, May 17, 2024.
“As our country recognizes National Police Week, the Justice Department joins families and communities in remembering the members of the law enforcement community who made the ultimate sacrifice protecting the public,” said Attorney General Merrick Garland. “Policing is difficult and dangerous, yet time and time again, law enforcement officers answer the call, showing up for their communities when they are needed the most. Their devotion to duty is matched only by that of their loved ones who make daily sacrifices to support them. The Justice Department is committed to doing everything in our power to help provide our law enforcement partners with the resources they need to carry out their noble work on behalf of the public.”
“In South Dakota, federal, state, tribal, and local law enforcement officers collaborate daily to protect communities throughout the state,” said U.S. Attorney Alison Ramsdell. “They do this work despite the tremendous risk to personal safety and a persistent shortage of resources. As we confronted earlier this year with the tragic death of Moody County Chief Deputy Ken Prorok, law enforcement’s selfless commitment to public safety sometimes leads to the ultimate sacrifice. We at the U.S. Attorney’s Office are grateful, every day, for the tireless work and dedication of our partners in blue.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty, and commitment to keeping our communities safe.
On Monday, May 13, the names of more than 280 officers killed in the line of duty in 2024 who have been added to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial were read during a Candlelight Vigil. To view a recording of the livestream of this event, visit https://nleomf.org/memorial/programs/national-police-week-2024/candlelight-vigil/.
To learn more about National Police Week and the virtual candlelight vigil, please visit www.policeweek.org.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Awards Ceremony Honors Law Enforcement PartnersRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- On May 14, 2024, The United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Indiana recognized more than 75 members of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies at its Law Enforcement Awards ceremony at the Indiana War Memorial & Museum in downtown Indianapolis. The ceremony, held during National Police Week, honored law enforcement professionals who have gone above and beyond their duties to safeguard Indiana communities in cases that concluded in 2023.
“This event is a small token of our appreciation for the time, dedication, and teamwork it takes to investigate a federal case and bring the worst of the worst offenders to justice. The pace, complexity, and scope of the prosecutions brought in the Southern District of Indiana are a true testament to the quality of our partners in federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “It is especially meaningful to spend time during National Police Week to recognize the talents and sacrifice of those who have dedicated themselves to serving the public—often at risk to themselves. Every day these outstanding law enforcement officers, analysts, victim specialists, prosecutors, and other professionals work to make our communities safer, uphold the law, and protect civil rights, and I am happy to recognize many of them with these awards.”
The honorees are members of the following agencies:
- Bureau of Prisons
- Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives
- National Security Division, DOJ
- U.S. Postal Inspection Service
- U.S. Secret Service
- IRS-Criminal Investigation
- Drug Enforcement Administration
- Federal Bureau of Investigation- Indianapolis
- Federal Bureau of Investigation- Chicago
- Canadian National Organized Crime Squad
- U.S. Attorney’s Office, Western Dist. of Ky.
- U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern Dist. of Ind.
- Indiana State Police
- Marion County Sheriff’s Office
- Marion County Prosecutor’s Office
- U.S. Trustee’s Office
- Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department
- Evansville Police Department
- Lawrence Police Department
- Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office
- Owensboro, KY Police Department
The teams who led the following cases received awards at the ceremony:
Outstanding Collaborative Criminal Investigation: Cases receiving this recognition are limited to those that have demonstrated outstanding efforts or overcome significant challenges in collaboration with multiple agencies.
Awarded to: U.S. v. Renard, et al and U.S. v. Edwin Agbi.
Project Safe Childhood Shield of Innocence: This award honors those who have provided extraordinary assistance to victims of a federal child exploitation crime.
Awarded to: U.S. v. Arnold Castillo.
L.E.A.T.H Heroism Award: This award is presented to a L.E.A.T.H. case that demonstrates extraordinary commitment and fortitude in the pursuit of justice. The Law Enforcement Action to Halt Domestic Violence (LEATH) Initiative is named in honor of Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) Officer Breann Leath, who was killed in the line of duty while responding to a domestic disturbance call. The LEATH Initiative began in October of 2020 and recognizes the inherent danger posed by firearms in the hands of domestic abusers.
Awarded to: U.S. v. Michael Ryan Mack.
Investigative Excellence Award: Cases receiving this award are limited to those that have substantially and significantly contributed to the mission of the United States Attorney’s Office and the Department of Justice by conducting complex, thorough and proactive analysis of evidence.
Awarded to: U.S. v. Fenner, et al and U.S. v. Betts, et al.
Community Impact: Presented to a case that had widespread, positive impact on constituents, law enforcement relations, and the legacy of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Southern District of Indiana.
Awarded to: U.S. v. Tony Cushingberry.
Excellence in the Pursuit of Justice; Presented to a case in which local, state, and federal officials achieved extraordinary results in their work to prevent crime, enhance community safety, and seek justice.
Awarded to: U.S. v. Holman IV, et al. and U.S. v Dannon, et al.
Outstanding Agency Service: Presented to a case that substantially and significantly contributed to the mission of the United States Attorney’s Office and the Department of Justice.
Awarded to: McDaniels v. Smith and United States, in which Bureau of Prisons personnel worked with staff of the U.S. Attorney’s Office to successfully defend and vindicate the BOP and a BOP nurse who had been falsely accused of negligence in a civil suit brought by a former inmate.
In addition, the ceremony honored the late IMPD Officer, Anthony J. Farrell, who passed away in 2023, with a posthumous award presented to his family.
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U.S. Attorney Waldref Recognizes Police Week in Eastern WashingtonRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington - In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Waldref recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement.
“As our country recognizes National Police Week, the Justice Department joins families and communities in remembering the members of the law enforcement community who made the ultimate sacrifice protecting the public,” said Attorney General Merrick Garland. “Policing is difficult and dangerous, yet time and time again, law enforcement officers answer the call, showing up for their communities when they are needed the most. Their devotion to duty is matched only by that of their loved ones who make daily sacrifices to support them. The Justice Department is committed to doing everything in our power to help provide our law enforcement partners with the resources they need to carry out their noble work on behalf of the public.”
U.S. Attorney Vanessa R. Waldref joined the Attorney General in thanking law enforcement. “This week we take time to pause and express our gratitude and thanks for the dedication, loyalty, and commitment of federal, state, local and Tribal law enforcement officers in protecting and serving our communities. Every day, officers put their lives on the line to keep our communities safe and strong. We honor their courage, valor, service, and sacrifice.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe.
On Monday, May 13, the names of more than 280 officers killed in the line of duty in 2024 who have been added to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial were read during a Candlelight Vigil. To view a recording of the livestream of this event, visit https://nleomf.org/memorial/programs/national-police-week-2024/candlelight-vigil/
U.S. Attorney Sellinger Speaks at New Jersey State Bar Association’s Annual Meeting and ConventionRead the Press Release
ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. – U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger spoke on the False Claims Act Panel at the New Jersey State Bar Association’s Annual Meeting and Convention in Atlantic City, New Jersey.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger described the District of New Jersey’s leading role in rooting out fraud, kickbacks, and false claims in health care and other government enforcement across the country. He highlighted his office’s aggressive approach toward these cases and the substantial resources it devotes to them.
U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger“The False Claims Act was originally enacted in 1863 in response to defense contractor fraud during the American Civil War, and it remains the federal government’s primary civil tool to address fraud that impacts federal spending. For example, in 2016, Olympus, a medical device company, entered into $646 million global resolution that included a $310 million False Claims Act settlement to resolve allegations of pervasive and systemic kickbacks related to the sale of their endoscopic devices and other equipment. The matter was initiated based upon a qui tam filed in our district, and the relator received a share of the FCA recovery amounting to more than $50 million.”
The District of New Jersey employs a unique structure to help it combat healthcare and government fraud. It has two units tasked with enforcement in those areas, and those units have both criminal and civil Assistant U.S. Attorneys and support staff. These units often work in parallel on matters when appropriate, including False Claims Act cases.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger said that the District of New Jersey has increased its prosecutions of fraud matters, particularly in the wake of the government’s COVID relief programs. He noted that the office has created a criminal COVID Fraud Strike Force, which includes three additional Assistant U.S. Attorneys dedicated to COVID fraud enforcement. U.S. Attorney Sellinger said protecting taxpayers and punishing and deterring fraud on the government has been and will remain an important priority for the office.
The False Claims Act allows private citizens to file suit under seal on behalf of the United States to seek restitution and penalties for fraud involving federal funds. Once such a suit is filed, the government will investigate the claims and pursue a recovery in appropriate instances.
The Act provides that these “whistleblowers,” or relators, as they are called, may receive a share of any recovery up to 30 percent in some cases. Settlements and judgments under the False Claims Act nationwide exceeded $2.68 billion in the fiscal year ending Sept. 30, 2023. Recoveries since 1986, when Congress substantially strengthened the civil False Claims Act, now total more than $75 billion.
In Fiscal Year 2023, the District of New Jersey collected $120.7 million in affirmative civil enforcement actions.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger Presents on Cybercrime Trends at New Jersey State Bar Association ConferenceRead the Press Release
ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. – U.S. Attorney Philip Sellinger delivered remarks on domestic and international cybercrime trends at the 2024 New Jersey State Bar Association conference.
He participated on a panel which included members of U.S. Attorney Sellinger’s staff and the FBI. On May 15, 2024, the panel discussed several aspects of the investigation and prosecution of cybercrime, including the recent 11 nation disruption of LockBit, at times the most active and destructive ransomware variant in the world, led by the FBI and the United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency, and the District of New Jersey’s indictment of LockBit’s developer and leader, Russian national Dimitry Khoroshev.
U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger“The indictment alleges that Khoroshev acted as LockBit’s leader from its inception and that Lockbit allegedly attacked more than 2,500 victims in at least 120 countries, including 1,800 victims in the United States. LockBit victims included individuals, small businesses, multinational corporations, hospitals, schools, nonprofit organizations, critical infrastructure, and government and law enforcement agencies. Khoroshev and his conspirators allegedly extracted at least $500 million in ransom payments from their victims and caused billions of dollars in broader losses, such as lost revenue, incident response, and recovery.”
To date, six individuals, including Khoroshev, have been charged by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the District of New Jersey for their participation in the LockBit conspiracy.
Other topics discussed by the panel included the recent spike in cryptocurrency confidence scams, tech support schemes, and how Artificial Intelligence is affecting cybercrime investigations.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office remains devoted to combatting all forms of cybercrime and obtaining justice for its victims.
The charges and allegations against the defendants in the LockBit case are merely accusations, and they are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Two-Day Takedown Results in Arrest of Defendants Who Allegedly Packaged and Shipped Fentanyl and Cocaine Bought on DarknetRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – Four defendants in California and Nevada have been arrested on a four-count federal grand jury indictment alleging they shipped hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of fentanyl-laced pills and cocaine to buyers nationwide who purchased the narcotics on darknet marketplaces, the Justice Department announced today.
Today, law enforcement arrested the following defendants:
- Craig Rushton, 23, of Las Vegas; and
- Christian McKibben, 20, of Las Vegas.
On Wednesday, the following defendants were arrested:
- Alejandro Soto, 21, of Burbank; and
- Austin Blacano, 21, of Burbank.
All the defendants are charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and cocaine, two counts of distribution of fentanyl, and one count of distribution of cocaine. Soto and Blacano are expected to make their initial appearances today in United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles. Rushton and McKibben are expected to make their initial appearances tomorrow in U.S. District Court in Las Vegas.
From at least April 2021 to May 2023, the defendants conspired with Brian McDonald, 23, of Van Nuys, and Ciara Clutario, 23, of Burbank, to traffic fentanyl and cocaine. Specifically, McDonald and Clutario allegedly created vendor profiles on darknet marketplaces to sell fentanyl, cocaine, and other illegal narcotics in exchange for cryptocurrency.
McDonald and Clutario were charged last year in a separate indictment connected to the alleged darknet drug trafficking conspiracy. An August 6 trial date is scheduled in their case.
McDonald and Clutario allegedly monitored and maintained their darknet vendor profiles, including by updating drug listings and shipment options, tracking drug orders received through the profiles, and offloading cryptocurrency received on the darknet marketplaces into cryptocurrency wallets that the co-conspirators controlled.
Soto, Blacano, McKibben, and Rushton allegedly were directed by McDonald and others to package and ship the drugs sold on darknet marketplaces. The defendants allegedly packaged the narcotics at the Burbank residence of McKibben and Rushton.
Through this conspiracy, the defendants sold and shipped hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of narcotics, including fentanyl and cocaine, to drug purchasers across the United States.
An indictment contains allegations that a defendant committed a crime. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
If convicted of all charges, the defendants would face a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in federal prison and a statutory maximum sentence of life in federal prison.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the FBI investigated this matter.
Assistant United States Attorney Declan T. Conroy of the International Narcotics, Money Laundering, and Racketeering Section is prosecuting this case.
Two Stockton Residents Indicted for Heroin and Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a four-count indictment, which was unsealed Wednesday, charging Stockton residents Rosalva Angulo Castillo, 53, and Adan Garcia Castillo, 45, with conspiracy to traffic heroin and methamphetamine and with distributing heroin, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, from January 2018 through May 2023, Angulo Castillo and Garcia Castillo conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin and methamphetamine. On Oct. 25, 2019, Garcia Castillo distributed at least one kilogram of heroin, and on Dec. 8, 2020, and July 13, 2021, Angulo Castillo distributed at least 100 grams of heroin.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, the IRS Criminal Investigation, the California Highway Patrol, and the San Joaquin County Metropolitan Narcotics Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys David W. Spencer and Emily G. Sauvageau are prosecuting the case.
If convicted, each defendant faces a minimum of 10 years of prison and a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about OCDETF, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF.
Two Men Indicted for Scheme to Tamper with Pollution Control Systems in Violation of the Clean Air ActRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington - A federal grand jury for the Eastern District of Washington returned an indictment charging Pavel Ivanovich Turlak; his companies PT Express LLC, Spokane Truck Service LLC, and Paul’s Trans LLC; Ryan Hugh Milliken; and his company, Hardway Solutions; with six counts of violating the Clean Air Act for a scheme to interfere with pollution control software in diesel trucks. Turlak was also charged with six counts of fraud in connection with COVID-19 relief funding.
Turlak’s companies are based in Spokane, Washington. Milliken’s company is based in Mary Esther, Florida.
The indictment alleges that between August of 2017 and November of 2023, Turlak and Milliken tampered with emission control monitoring devices and methods on diesel pickup trucks, including both software and hardware modifications. The illegal software modifications involved “tuning” or “deleting” the trucks by tampering with the “on board diagnostic” (OBD) systems and disabling emission controls, which allowed the trucks to emit substantially more pollutants into the atmosphere.
The indictment alleges Milliken created and sold custom software “delete tunes” to Turlak for specific vehicles based on specifications provided by Turlak. Turlak then charged as much as $3,500 to diesel truck owners to “delete” and “tune” their vehicles by tampering with and rendering inaccurate required monitoring devices.
Despite the harm to the environment, diesel vehicle owners sometimes seek such illegal modifications to avoid the costs of maintaining and repairing emission control components and to increase speed and fuel efficiency.
The indictment also alleges Turlak falsely and fraudulently sought and received more than $300,000 in federal funding that was designated to go to eligible small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. The indictment alleges Turlak and his businesses were not eligible to receive this funding, but falsely certified that they were in order to obtain it.
“Exposure to diesel exhaust can lead to serious health conditions like asthma and respiratory illnesses and can worsen existing heart and lung disease, especially in children and the elderly. Pollution control systems are in place to protect us,” stated Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington. “My office is fully committed to enforcing laws to achieve environmental justice and making Eastern Washington a clean, safe place to live and work.”
This case was investigated by the EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division with assistance from the Small Business Administration, Office of Inspector General, and the Spokane Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Dan Fruchter and Jacob Brooks are prosecuting the case. U.S. Attorney Waldref further wishes to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida for its coordination and support.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Two Foreign Nationals Arrested for Allegedly Laundering at Least $73 Million Through Shell Companies Tied to Cryptocurrency Investment ScamsRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – A grand jury indictment was unsealed today in U.S. District Court charging two Chinese nationals, one of them a San Gabriel Valley resident, alleging they played leading roles in a scheme to launder proceeds from cryptocurrency investment scams.
Daren Li, 41, a dual citizen of China and St. Kitts and Nevis, and a resident of China, Cambodia, and the United Arab Emirates, was arrested on April 12 at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and subsequently transported to the Central District of California. Yicheng Zhang, 38, a Chinese national and resident of Temple City, was arrested and arraigned today in Los Angeles.
Li and Zhang are both charged with conspiracy to commit money laundering and six substantive counts of international money laundering. If convicted, the defendants face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison on each count.
Zhang pleaded not guilty today to the charges and a July 9 trial date was scheduled. Zhang, who remains in federal custody, has a detention hearing scheduled for May 21. Li, whom a federal magistrate judge has ordered jailed without bond, is scheduled for arraignment on May 20.
“Sophisticated financial scams such as these are a dangerous threat to the financial wellbeing of all Americans,” said United States Attorney Martin Estrada. “While my office will continue to root out and punish these deceitful schemes, I encourage everyone to educate themselves on pig butchering and other kinds of financial fraud to protect their families against such predatory activity. Vigilance is key."
“Cryptocurrency investment scams exploit the borderless nature of virtual currency and online communications to defraud victims,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco. “While fraud in the crypto markets takes on many forms and hides in many far-off places, its perpetrators aren’t beyond the law’s reach. Today, we announce the arrests of two foreign nationals charged with laundering funds to the tune of at least $73 million tied to an international crypto investment scam. These arrests—made possible through the assistance of our international and U.S. partners—reflect the Justice Department’s ongoing commitment to disrupting the entire cybercrime ecosystem and stopping fraud across all financial markets.”
According to court documents, Li, Zhang, and other conspirators allegedly managed an international syndicate that laundered proceeds of cryptocurrency investment scams, which are also known as “pig butchering.” Victims of the schemes under investigation were fraudulently induced into transferring millions of dollars to U.S. bank accounts opened in the names of dozens of shell companies whose sole apparent purpose was to facilitate the laundering of fraud proceeds.
A network of money launderers then facilitated the transfer of those funds to other domestic and international bank accounts and cryptocurrency platforms in a manner designed to conceal the source, nature, ownership, and control of the funds. The fraud scheme involved more than $73 million laundered through U.S. financial institutions to bank accounts in The Bahamas, and converted to the virtual asset USDT, or Tether. A cryptocurrency wallet involved in the scheme received more than $341 million in virtual assets.
Li and Zhang allegedly instructed co-conspirators in the laundering network to open bank accounts in the names of various shell companies. Once the victims sent funds to the shell companies, Li and Zhang monitored the lower-level co-conspirators who transferred the proceeds overseas to bank accounts at Deltec Bank in The Bahamas. One of the Deltec Bank accounts was operated with the financial assistance of Li. The funds were then allegedly converted into cryptocurrency and sent to virtual-asset wallets, including at least one controlled by Li. Zhang allegedly also directly received victim funds. Communications revealed extensive coordination to facilitate the international money laundering, including chats discussing the commission structure for the network, the various shell companies used, victim information, and at least one video from a conspirator calling a U.S. financial institution.
“As alleged in the indictment, Li and Zhang helped launder millions of dollars obtained from victims of cryptocurrency investment scams,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Money laundering is critical to the success of these scams, allowing fraudsters to quickly move illicit proceeds and try to make them appear legitimate. The arrests announced today demonstrate the Criminal Division’s commitment to disrupting the sophisticated financial networks on which these scams depend and holding those involved accountable, no matter where they may be found.”
“Complex financial fraud schemes such as pig butchering present a clear and present threat to the financial infrastructure of the United States as countless numbers of Americans continue to be victimized by this predatory activity,” said Assistant Director of Investigations Brian Lambert of the U.S. Secret Service. “In 2023, the Secret Service with our partners recovered more than $1.1 billion in financial fraud and we are on pace to exceed that number this year. A special thank you to the special agents, support teams, and our prosecutorial partners for their exceptional work in bringing this case to justice.”
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The U.S. Secret Service’s Global Investigative Operations Center is investigating the case. The Homeland Security Investigations’ El Camino Real Financial Crimes Task Force, Customs and Border Protection’s National Targeting Center, Dominican Republic National Drug Directorate Sensitive Investigative Unit and Fugitive Task Force, U.S. Marshals Service, Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided assistance.
Assistant United States Attorneys Maxwell Coll of the Asset Forfeiture and Recovery Section and Nisha Chandran of the Cyber and Intellectual Property Crimes Section and Trial Attorney Stefanie Schwartz of the Justice Department’s National Cryptocurrency Enforcement Team (NCET) of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section (CCIPS) are prosecuting the case.
The NCET was established to combat the growing illicit use of cryptocurrencies and digital assets. Within the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section, the NCET conducts and supports investigations into individuals and entities that enable the use of digital assets to commit and facilitate a variety of crimes, with a particular focus on virtual currency exchanges, mixing and tumbling services, and infrastructure providers. The NCET also sets strategic priorities regarding digital asset technologies, identifies areas for increased investigative and prosecutorial focus, and leads the department’s efforts to collaborate with domestic and foreign government agencies as well as the private sector to aggressively investigate and prosecute crimes involving cryptocurrency and digital assets.
If you or someone you know is a victim of a cryptocurrency investment fraud, report it to www.IC3.gov. In your complaint, please reference “Pig Butchering PSA.” Include as much information as possible in your report, including names of investment platforms, cryptocurrency addresses and transaction hashes, bank account information, and names and contact information of suspected scammers. Maintain copies of all communications with scammers and records of financial transactions.
Trio convicted of a series of Suffolk armed robberies and attempting to cover their trailRead the Press Release
NORFOLK, Va. – A federal jury convicted three Virginians yesterday for a series of armed robberies in Suffolk and attempting to dispose of evidence.
According to court records and evidence presented at trial, from November 2020 through February 2022, Harvey Lee Lewis IV, aka Hurricane, 36, of Suffolk, and Dennis Lee Adamson Jr., 29, of Portsmouth, planned and carried out a series of armed robberies of convenience stores. In several of the robberies, Lewis discharged his semiautomatic firearm into the ceiling of the store as he entered, terrifying the employees and customers.
Lewis and Dennis Adamson robbed four convenience stores between Nov. 10, 2020, and Nov. 20, 2020, including two stores on the same date. Over a year later, on Feb. 3, 2022, the two men robbed the EZ Food Mart & Deli in Suffolk, during which Dennis Adamson brandished a pistol at customers and Lewis fired several rounds, narrowly missing a store employee, before Lewis grabbed a cash register and the two men fled the store.
In addition to these robberies, Lewis and Dennis Adamson committed robberies separately. Lewis robbed a 7-Eleven convenience store on Feb. 1, 2022. On Oct. 14, 2022, several months after Lewis had been identified and arrested, Dennis Adamson robbed a Dollar General store in Portsmouth.
On Feb. 15, 2022, while he was in pre-trial detention, Lewis had a video call with Ieisha Marie Adamson, 32, of Portsmouth. During the call, Lewis directed Ieisha Adamson to remove items from his vehicle, including a box of ammunition from a secret compartment in the vehicle, which law enforcement had not discovered during a search of the vehicle the week prior. Lewis then directed Ieisha Adamson to leave the scene. When police encountered Ieisha Adamson approximately two hours later, she no longer had the box of ammunition.
Lewis was convicted of conspiracy to interfere with commerce by means of robbery, six counts of interference with commerce by means of robbery, three counts of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, and felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Lewis faces a mandatory minimum of 24 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison when sentenced on Sept. 19.
Dennis Adamson was convicted of conspiracy to interfere with commerce by means of robbery, six counts of interference with commerce by means of robbery, and two counts of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. Dennis Adamson faces a mandatory minimum of 17 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison when sentenced on Sept. 19.
Ieisha Adamson was convicted of accessory after the fact and misprision of a felony, and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison when sentenced on Sept. 19.
Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Brian Dugan, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Norfolk Field Office; and James Buie, Interim Chief of Suffolk Police, made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Jamar K. Walker accepted the verdict.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office thanks the Portsmouth Police Department and Western Tidewater Regional Jail for their assistance in this investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Megan M. Montoya and Anthony Mozzi are prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:22-cr-62.
Three men sentenced to years in prison in relation to robbery, kidnapping, and interstate transportation of stolen drug proceed schemeRead the Press Release
MIAMI – Dillon Renee Polanco, Anthony William Lamar, a/k/a “Mojo,” and Rahsaan Rolando Robinson, a/k/a “Loso,” were recently sentenced to 130, 346, and 220 months in federal prison, respectively, by U.S. District Judge William P. Dimitrouleas. The sentences imposed follow a long-term investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (“ATF”) into the robbery and kidnapping of a Belle Glade drug dealer in December 2020.
On Dec. 14, 2020, the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBSO) responded to a 911 call regarding two victims who had been kidnapped in West Palm Beach, Florida. The victims’ hands and feet were bound with zip ties and duct tape. Detectives learned that the victims were kidnapped and robbed by three individuals known to Victim #1 – a drug dealer from Belle Glade. The robbers were identified as Darwin Avila Salgado, a/k/a “Debo,” “Lamar and Robinson. Victim #1 also reported that they stole $70,000 from a safe located at Victim#1’s grandmother’s house in Belle Glade.
The investigation revealed that the robbery was planned by Polanco and Salgado following a drug dispute between them and Victim #1. Prior to that, Polanco and Salgado supplied Victim #1 with marijuana from California. Polanco and Salgado, both originally from Oakland, California, directed the shipments of marijuana while residing in Oregon. In the summer of 2020, a dispute over the quality of the marijuana, as well as a kilogram of cocaine, caused dissension with Victim #1. Rather than cut ties, Polanco and Salgado planned to rob Victim #1 in Florida. Polanco financed the robbery and at one point even planned to accompany Salgado and Lamar as an active participant. However, Polanco decided not to travel to Florida and Robinson took his place.
Salgado and Lamar flew from Cleveland, Ohio to Fort Lauderdale, Florida on Dec. 9, 2020. The next day, Robinson travelled from Oakland to Miami, Florida. Once in West Palm Beach, the Salgado, Lamar and Robinson stayed at a rental home where they ultimately lured Victim #1. In the days leading to the robbery, Salgado, Lamar, and Robinson planned the attack. They obscured surveillance cameras which were at the rental home, covered door handles with plastic, and added window tint to a rental car. Salgado, using the money supplied by Polanco, also obtained firearms, including an AR-15 style pistol, ammunition, a large capacity drum magazine, and a taser used during the robbery and kidnapping.
The investigation further revealed that Salgado, Lamar, Robinson, and Polanco had several profiles and accounts on Instagram. Additionally, their accounts followed, or were followed by Victim #1. On or about Dec. 10, 2020, Victim # 1 posted an image on Instagram. The image depicted Victim #1 holding stacks of United States currency with red and blue money bands. Salgado, Lamar, Robinson and Polanco, using the account of "Deemigo_ 6," commented on the photograph.
In the early morning hours of Dec. 14, 2020, Victim #1 and his friend Victim #2 arrived at the rental to meet Salgado and Lamar. Unbeknownst to them, Robinson was lying in wait with the pistol loaded with a drum magazine. Salgado contacted Polanco and was told to “do what he was going to do.”
Salgado, Lamar and Robinson attacked the victims with firearms and a taser. The victims were bound and then forced into Victim #1’s vehicle. Victim #2’s personal belongings and jewelry were stolen, including a gold rope chain and gold Jesus pendant. The victims were then transported to Belle Glade where Victim #1’ kept his safe at his grandmother’s house. Salgado and Robinson forced their way inside the residence, with Victim #1 as a hostage. and took $70,000 in drug proceeds from the safe. Victims #1 and #2 were left on the side of the roadway after the robbery.
Salgado and Lamar fled to Georgia but were arrested by the U.S. Marshals Service. In their possession was Victim #2’s identification, tape consistent with what was used to bind the victims, and a taser. The $70,000 in stolen money and firearms used during the robbery were found hidden in the rental car they used to flee. Polanco and Salgado recruited two others to travel from Oregon to Georgia to recover the items. Robinson fled to California and was arrested. Victim #2’s, gold necklace and Jesus pendant were recovered from Robinson’s apartment.
Salgado pled guilty to conspiracy to commit kidnapping, kidnapping robbery, and possession and use of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. He was sentenced, on Feb. 3, 2023, to 228 months in federal prison.
Lamar and Robinson each pled guilty to conspiracy to commit kidnapping, kidnapping, and brandishing and use of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. Lamar was sentenced on April 29 and Robinson on May 2.
Polanco pled guilty to conspiracy to commit robbery, robbery, possession and use of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, and interstate transportation of stolen money. He was sentenced on May 6.
In addition to their respective terms of imprisonment, each defendant was sentenced to a term of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida, Special Agent in Charge Christopher A. Robinson of the ATF, Miami Field Division, U.S. Marshal Gadyaces S. Serralta of the U.S. Marshals Service, and PBSO Sheriff Ric Bradshaw announced the sentences imposed.
The Office of State Attorney Dave Aronberg for the 15th Judicial Circuit – Palm Beach County provided invaluable assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Adam McMichael and Shannon O’Shea Darsch prosecuted the case.
This prosecution is a part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) program. PSN is the centerpiece of the Department’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through the PSN program a broad spectrum of law enforcement and community stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs to reduce violence crime and gun violence, and to make our local neighborhoods safer for everyone.
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 22-cr-80053.
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Three New Bedford, Massachusetts Men Charged for February 9 Shooting in Saco, Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Maine: U.S. Attorney for the District of Maine Darcie N. McElwee announced today at a press briefing held outside the Edward T. Gignoux U.S. Courthouse in Portland that three New Bedford, Massachusetts men have been indicted following a February 9 drive-by shooting in Saco.
The U.S. Attorney was joined at today’s announcement by Saco Police Chief Jack Clements, Assistant United States Attorneys Johnathan Nathans and Noah Falk, and representatives of the FBI’s Southern Maine Gang Task Force including FBI Supervisory Senior Resident Agent Christopher Peavey, ATF Special Agent in Charge James Ferguson and Resident Agent in Charge Nicholas Dilello, and Acting U.S. Marshal Kevin Neal.
In a two-count indictment returned on May 15, a federal grand jury charged Joshua Estrada (aka “Mac”), 19, Yancarlos Abrante (aka “Glizzy”), 20, and Jason Johnson-Rivera (aka “Ouda”), 18, with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine and perpetrating a drive-by shooting.
According to the indictment, on February 9, 2024, the three men fired at least five rounds from a 9mm handgun into another vehicle in a drug trade dispute. The indictment alleges that Estrada, Abrante and Johnson-Rivera had been trafficking cocaine in and around Saco and Biddeford since at least January 2024.
Estrada was arrested in New Bedford, Massachusetts on May 6, 2024 when charged by criminal complaint for these same charges. Just prior to the press briefing today, Estrada appeared in federal court for his initial appearance in Maine and an arraignment on the indictment returned yesterday. Abrante and Johnson-Rivera, charged in the same indictment, are currently being held by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts on unrelated charges. They will be in Maine next week for their initial appearances and arraignments. If convicted, the three men each face up to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $1 million on the drug charge followed by at least three years of supervised release. They each face up to 25 years imprisonment and a maximum fine on $250,000 followed by a up to five years of supervised release on the drive-by shooting charge. An indictment is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
“I commend the Saco Police Department and those from the neighboring communities who responded to this incident,” said U.S. Attorney Darcie McElwee. “This joint federal and local investigation reflects that if you come to Maine and engage in violence, particularly firearm violence, there will be a swift and coordinated response from every level of law enforcement.”
“Immediately following this brazen, drive-by shooting and the ensuing chaos that followed, the FBI’s Southern Maine Gang Task Force hit the streets collecting information, intelligence, and evidence to help our partners identify those responsible and bring them to justice. We believe the three Massachusetts men we have in custody conspired with each other to traffic cocaine and were the instigators of this drive-by shooting,” said Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division which includes all of Maine. “Violent drug traffickers have a corrosive effect on our communities, and we want everyone to know that the FBI is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to help make Maine safer for the folks who live, work, and visit here.”
“Brazen violent crime of this magnitude is not something the City of Saco is accustomed to, but when it happens, Maine law enforcement responds,” said Chief Jack Clements of the Saco Police Department. “I want to thank not only our direct neighboring agencies but also the Maine State Police, federal law enforcement, and the municipal and county law enforcement agencies from across York and Cumberland counties that responded. Finally, I would like to thank my detectives, the FBI’s Southern Maine Gang Task Force, and the United States Attorney’s Office for their tireless efforts in bringing this case to where it is today.”
The Saco Police Department and FBI’s Southern Maine Gang Task Force investigated the case with assistance from the New Bedford (Mass.) Police Department.
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Texas man sentenced prison after traveling to Virginia for sex with a minorRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A Texas man was sentenced today to 17 years and six months in prison after he was caught traveling to Virginia to have sex with a minor.
According to court documents, on Aug. 25, 2023, Elisha Jason Albert, 25, of Garland, Texas, began communicating with a 15-year-old victim through Snapchat. The communications began with Albert soliciting pornographic material from the victim, and Albert paid the victim to send him pornographic images. Albert also sent the victim spending money for incidental expenses.
On Sept. 8, 2023, after Albert falsely claimed to be 22 years old, the victim specifically told Albert that she was only 15. After knowing the victim’s age, Albert continued to solicit pornographic images of the victim and proposed meeting the victim in Virginia for sex.
After the victim’s guardian submitted an online tip to the FBI, on Sept. 22, 2023, the FBI took custody of the victim’s phone and continued to communicate with Albert over Snapchat and by text messages. Albert proposed meeting the victim on Sept. 25, 2023, and arranged to meet at a grocery store in Haymarket. Albert drove five and a half hours from Long Island, New York, to Prince William County, Virginia. He was arrested upon his arrival in the grocery store parking lot.
At the time of his arrest, Albert had with him his phone, which contained a folder titled “good videos” that stored sixty-four videos of children as young as four to six years old engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Albert’s phone had iMessage communications with other minors between fifteen and sixteen years old, which included additional production of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and incidents of coercion and enticement.
For example, beginning in August 2021, Albert engaged with a victim in Texas knowing that she was only 15 years old. Albert drove to the victim’s home and had sex with her on multiple occasions. Albert made a video recording of one of his sexual encounters with the victim, which was still on his phone at the time of his arrest.
On Feb. 1, Albert pled guilty to production of child pornography, attempted coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity, travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct, and transportation of child pornography.
Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and David J. Scott, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Washington Field Office's Criminal and Cyber Division, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Michael S. Nachmanoff.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Laura D. Withers and Zoe Bedell prosecuted the case. The Washington Field Office’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force investigated the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:23-cr-172.
Teen Indicted on Armed Carjacking and Other Violent Crimes Arising from a Crime Spree in August 2023Read the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Montello Washington, 17, of Washington, D.C., was indicted today and charged as an adult with armed carjacking, armed robbery, assault with a dangerous weapon and related charges stemming from a spree of offenses occurring between August 15, 2023 and August 16, 2023, U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves and Chief Pamela Smith, of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) announced.
Washington was indicted by a grand jury in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia on one count of armed carjacking, two counts of armed robbery, two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon, unauthorized use of a vehicle in order to commit crimes of violence, and possession of a firearm during crimes of violence. Washington is scheduled to be arraigned on May 20, 2024, before the Honorable Lynn Leibovitz.
According to the government’s evidence, late in the evening of August 15, 2023, Washington and several accomplices robbed a man at gunpoint while the victim was on his way to work. During the next several hours, into the early morning on August 16, 2023, Washington and his accomplices committed a series of armed robberies, armed assaults, in which they fired gunshots at two victims, and an armed carjacking. Later in the evening on August 16, 2023, after MPD officers saw the stolen car used to commit these offenses in Southeast DC, they attempted to stop it. The driver led MPD on a pursuit through the District, into Maryland, and back into the District before three people eventually bailed out of the car. Police apprehended Washington and another person after they fled from the vehicle.
This case is being investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
This case is being prosecuted by AUSAs Stephanie Dinan and Sabena Auyeung of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed a violation of criminal laws and every defendant is presumed innocent until, and unless, proven guilty.
Tampa Methamphetamine Dealer Sentenced to More Than 10 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – U.S. District Judge William F. Jung has sentenced Cameron Mosley (30, Tampa) to 10 years and 7 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Mosley pleaded guilty on February 2, 2024.
According to court documents, on March 31, 2023, Mosley spoke on the phone with co-conspirator Enock Edouard and, using a codename, asked for methamphetamine. They also discussed what Mosley’s customers would do with the methamphetamine. Edouard and Mosley later agreed to meet at a restaurant in Tampa. Law enforcement conducted surveillance of the drug transaction and then attempted to pull over Mosley, who fled. Helicopter surveillance captured Mosley throwing an object from his car as he was fleeing from law enforcement. Mosley and Edouard spoke on the phone later that evening and discussed Mosley having to throw the methamphetamine from the car while trying to evade police. Law enforcement arrested Mosley the next day and recovered over 40 grams of methamphetamine from the spot where Mosley was seen throwing the narcotics.
For his role in this case, Enock Edouard was convicted following a bench trial and is awaiting sentencing.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Tampa Police Department, and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael R. Kenneth.
Tampa Man Indicted for Making A Bomb Threat to A Congressional OfficeRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida –United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg the return by a grand jury of an indictment charging Rigoberto Albizar Martinez (56, Tampa) with making a telephonic threat to damage and destroy a building with an explosive. If convicted, Martinez faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison.
According to the indictment, on May 1, 2024, Martinez called the District Office of a Member of the United States House of Representatives. During the call, Martinez threatened to place a bomb in the Congressional member’s Tampa office.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the United States Capitol Police – Threat Assessment Section. It will be prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Joe Wheeler III.
St. Louis County Cab Driver’s Shooter Sentenced to 22 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Henry E. Autrey on Thursday sentenced a man who fatally shot a cab driver in Hazelwood, Missouri in 2022 to 22 years in prison.
Trishawn Jones, 20, was one of four teens involved in the robbery of Dewight Price, 54, on April 24, 2022. All four pleaded guilty and two await sentencing. Coron Dees, 20, and Jeremiah Allen, 20, pleaded guilty to a robbery charge. Jones and Tywon Harris, 20, pleaded guilty to one count of aiding and abetting in the commission of a murder. Judge Autrey sentenced Dees to 17 years in prison in April.
After leaving a party in downtown St. Louis, the four teens stopped at a downtown gas station and called for a cab at 5:23 a.m. They planned to take the taxi to a fake address near Allen’s home, then run away without paying. After learning that they would have to prepay, they began discussing plans to rob Price.
They told Price to drive to Hazelwood Central High School, thinking there would be no witnesses there at that time. Dees and Jones then robbed Price at gunpoint. Price begged the teens not to shoot. After Price handed cash to Jones, Price grabbed a firearm he kept in his door. Allen warned the others that Price had a gun.
Price began to get out of the cab, but Harris opened his door, knocking Price to the ground. Jones saw Price’s gun and fired once, striking Price in the torso. The teens then ran away without rendering aid to Price or calling for help.
In a letter to Judge Autrey, one of Price’s daughters wrote that her father “was the happiest joyful person just trying to get his customers to their destinations safely and satisfied.”
The St. Louis County Police Department and the FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Dunkel is prosecuting the case.
Spokane Police Department Receives Nearly $120,000 Forfeiture Award from U.S. Department of Justice as a Result of Forfeiture of Spokane Home Used for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced today and presented the Spokane Police Department with $119,621.45 in asset forfeiture equitable sharing funds. Spokane Police Chief Justin Lundgren accepted the funds, which may be used for further law enforcement purposes, on behalf of the Spokane Police Department.
The asset forfeiture funds are the result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and Spokane Police Department (SPD) investigation which targeted drug traffickers in the Spokane area and Eastern Washington more broadly.
The nearly $120,000 in forfeiture funds shared with the Spokane Police Department were the result of the seizure and forfeiture of Defendant Helmut Uwe Borchert’s residence in Spokane. Helmut Borchert had a long history of drug possession and distribution in Spokane dating back to the late-1980s. In this case, Defendant Borchert used his residence to store methamphetamine to facilitate his drug trafficking of the drug in the Spokane area. At the time of his arrest, law enforcement agents seized approximately 20 pounds of methamphetamine from Borchert’s home.
Borchert pleaded guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute 500 grams or More of a Mixture or Substance Containing a Detectable Amount of Methamphetamine, and was sentenced October 14, 2021, to a 12-year term of imprisonment, to be followed by a 5-year term of court supervision. He was also ordered to forfeit his residence located at 1903 E. Main Avenue, Spokane, Washington. Following the sentence, the United States Marshals Service sold the forfeited residence, proceeds of which are now shared with the Spokane Police Department.
As a result of the same OCDETF investigation, the United States has convicted the following defendants and seized and forfeited assets from them:
- Michael Paul Swanson, pleaded guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute 50 grams or More of Methamphetamine, and was sentenced on April 25, 2023, to a 7.5-year term of imprisonment, to be followed by a 5-year term of court supervision. He was also ordered to forfeit $17,780 in U.S. currency seized by the United States.
- Jorge Octavio Valenzuela-Medrano, pleaded guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute 500 grams or More of a Mixture or Substance Containing a Detectable Amount of Methamphetamine, and was sentenced on February 26, 2024, to a 3-year term of imprisonment, to be followed by a 5-year term of court supervision. The United States seized and forfeited $30,290 and a firearm from Valenzuela-Medrano.
- Leonardo Martinez is a fugitive. Notwithstanding Martinez’s fugitive status, the United States seized $72,354 and two firearms from him. On July 6, 2022, he was indicted by a grand jury in the Eastern District of Washington for one count of Possession with Intent to Distribute 400 grams or More of a Mixture or Substance Containing a Detectable Amount of Fentanyl. The public is reminded that charges contained in an indictment are only accusations and are not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Pursuant to applicable regulations, an 80% share of the funds from the sale of Borchert’s forfeited residence are being shared with the Spokane Police Department in recognition of its significant contribution to this investigation. The shared asset forfeiture funds will assist in further crime-fighting efforts.
The Department of Justice Asset Forfeiture Program is, first and foremost, a law enforcement program. It removes the tools of crime from criminal organizations, deprives wrongdoers of the proceeds of their crimes, recovers property that may be used to compensate victims, and deters crime. The Department of Justice underscores these law enforcement purposes with all federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies.
One of the ancillary benefits of asset forfeiture is sharing federal forfeiture proceeds with cooperating state and local law enforcement agencies through equitable sharing as is occurring here. The Department of Justice Equitable Sharing Program enhances cooperation between federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement by providing valuable additional resources to those law enforcement agencies.
United States Attorney Vanessa R. Waldref said, “Removing pounds of illicit narcotics from our community is a great victory and saves lives. Our asset forfeiture program seeks to deprive wrongdoers of the proceeds of their crimes and to compensate victims. I am pleased that these funds will assist in further crime-fighting efforts. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington commends the law enforcement officers with the DEA and Spokane Police Department who investigated this case. This investigation exemplifies the positive crime fighting results that can be achieved when federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement agencies collaborate and work together.”
“The reason why methamphetamine traffickers, like Mr. Borchert, deal drugs dangerous to our community is to enrich themselves,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “Asset forfeiture is an important tool to strip traffickers of their ill-gotten gains while, at the same time, giving something back to the communities they preyed upon. It is gratifying to see the Drug Enforcement Administration’s partnership with the Spokane Police Department result in this notable forfeiture that accomplishes these goals.”
“This case was the result of a joint DEA/SPD investigation, marked by seamless collaboration between members of SPD pro-active units, the SPD Special Investigations Unit (SIU), and DEA agents. Every member who participated in the investigation of this drug trafficking organization played an invaluable role that culminated in multiple arrests, sentencings, and the removal of dangerous drugs from the streets of Spokane,” said Chief Lundgren. “We are grateful to our partners at the U.S. Attorney’s Office for awarding SPD significant dollars which will be used to continue the effort to shut down other drug operations that threaten our community and put the vulnerable and increasingly, our children, at risk.”
Spokane Police DepartmentThe enforcement action resulting in this forfeiture was part of an OCDETF investigation. The OCDETF program provides supplemental federal funding to the federal and state agencies involved in the investigation of drug-related crimes. This OCDETF investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration.
This case was investigated by the Spokane Resident Office of the Drug Enforcement Administration in partnership with the Spokane Police Department.
This case was prosecuted by Caitlin Baunsgard and Brian M. Donovan, Assistant United States Attorneys for the Eastern District of Washington.
More information regarding the DOJ Equitable Sharing Program can be found here: DOJ Guide to Equitable Sharing.
Southampton Investment Advisor Convicted of Fraud and Money Laundering ChargesRead the Press Release
Jeffrey Slothower, a former registered investment adviser and founder of the New York investment advisory firm Battery Private, Inc. (Battery Private), was convicted today by a federal jury in Central Islip of all three counts of an indictment charging him with wire fraud, investment adviser fraud and money laundering in connection with a scheme to misappropriate more than $1 million from clients. The verdict followed a three-day trial before United States District Judge Gary R. Brown. When sentenced, Slothower faces up to 30 years in prison.
Breon Peace, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, and James Smith, Assistant Director-in-Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI), announced the verdict.
“This case was about greed and betrayal of clients who trusted the defendant and thought their money was safely invested with him,” stated United States Attorney Peace. “Slothower tricked those clients so he could steal their money and lavish himself with a new car, high-end clothing and jewelry, and a membership at an East End country club. Protecting investors from fraudsters like the defendant has always been a priority of this Office and today’s verdict underscores our resolve to vigorously prosecute those who enrich themselves at the expense of victims.”
Mr. Peace thanked the Special Agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office, for their outstanding investigative work on the case.
As proven at trial, Slothower orchestrated a scheme to misappropriate more than $1 million from current and prospective clients. Specifically, while operating Battery Private, Slothower solicited business from Victim-1 and Victim-2, a couple from California whose money Slothower had managed at another financial services firm where he was previously employed. Slothower promised the victims he could beat any rate of return they were receiving and do so without market risk. In 2017, he offered to invest Victim-1’s money into what Slothower described as bonds backed by homeowner’s association fees (the “HOA Bonds”), which would pay an eight percent return.
Slothower sent Victim-1 wiring instructions for his investment and attached a document that made additional representations about Victim-1’s purported investment, claiming that Victim-1’s money would be held in the “capital reserves” of Battery Private. Between January 25, 2017 and January 27, 2017, Victim-1 sent more than $500,000 to Slothower at Battery Private to be invested in the purported HOA Bonds. Instead of investing in HOA Bonds or holding the funds in “capital reserves,” Slothower funneled the money into his personal bank accounts, and then used those funds to purchase a $125,000 Mercedes Benz SUV, and membership dues at Long Island National Golf Club, a private East End country club. To further the fraudulent scheme, Slothower made payments to Victim-1 that were falsely represented as quarterly distributions from Victim-1’s “investment.”
Later, Slothower solicited Victim-1 to invest additional moneys, including funds controlled by Victim-1’s spouse, who was then a Battery Private client. Enticed by the supposedly steady rate of return, Victim-2 agreed to invest in the same purported HOA Bonds, and in December 2017, Victim-2 sent more than $500,000 to Slothower at Battery Private. However, like Victim-1, Victim-2’s money was not invested in HOA Bonds or held in “capital reserves” as represented by Slothower. Instead, he used that money to pay tens of thousands of dollars in personal credit card debt traced to an approximately $6,500 Chanel purse, an approximately $13,000 Rolex watch, and more than $11,000 in Ralph Lauren clothing, among other things. To further the fraudulent scheme, Slothower made payments to Victim-2 that were falsely represented as quarterly distributions from Victim-2’s investment.
In June 2018, still unaware of the fraudulent scheme, Victim-1 made an additional investment of approximately $84,000 into the purported HOA Bonds. Slothower used Victim-1’s money to make purported quarterly payments to Victim-1 and Victim-2 that were falsely represented as their investment returns and to pay membership dues at the private golf club.
The government’s case is being handled by the Criminal Section of the Office’s Long Island Division and the Office’s Business and Securities Fraud Section. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Drew G. Rolle, Anthony Bagnuola, Adam Toporovsky and Benjamin Weintraub are in charge of the prosecution, with the assistance of Paralegal Specialists Adam Bernard and Michael Compitello.
The Defendant:
JEFFREY SLOTHOWER
Age: 46
Southampton, New YorkE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 21-CR-602 (GRB)
Smuggler sent to prison in conspiracy resulting in two deathsRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas - A 35-year-old citizen of the Dominican Republic has been sentenced to federal prison for conspiracy to transport individuals within the United States resulting in death, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.
Wilkin Perez-Perez pleaded guilty Jan. 12, 2023.
U.S. District Judge Keith P. Ellison found him to be a leader in the conspiracy and ordered Perez-Perez to serve 135 months in federal prison. Not a U.S. citizen, he is expected to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment. At the hearing, the court heard additional evidence that Perez-Perez was involved in numerous alien smuggling events, engaged in violent conduct both in and outside the scope of this conspiracy, to include the possession of a weapon, and that Perez-Perez fled the United States when he learned of his arrest.
“ ‘Two bodies found along the banks of the Rio Grande,’ a tragic and all too often headline made possible by ruthless and reckless human smugglers like Perez-Perez and the transnational criminal organizations that employ the likes of him,” said Hamdani. “We will go to any lengths necessary to prosecute the leaders and members of these organizations who care only about cash and not about they humans they transport. Let this case be an example to anyone thinking about becoming a part of the deadly smuggling industry in the United States, you will be held accountable…no matter how long it takes.”
Perez-Perez had been in charge and managing the transportation of people into the United States as well as their harboring in the country.
On Sept. 21, 2017, Melvin L. Barahona-Godoy and Yoryi Alexis Perez led several people to the Rio Grande River. Two drowned while trying to cross into the United States. Authorities discovered their bodies along the river bank.
The investigation led to Perez-Perez who had returned to the Dominican Republic following the discovery of the deceased individuals. He was determined to being in charge of and managing the U.S. branch of the organization. He had coordinated the transportation of these and other individuals, including the two that died, into the interior of the United States and harboring them in Laredo.
Perez-Perez will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Barahona-Godoy, 27, Guatemala, and Perez, 34, Dominican Republic, were also charged in relation to the transportation and harboring of the men and others and were later sentenced to 57 and 78 months in prison, respectively.
Homeland Security Investigations, Border Patrol and U.S. Marshals Service conducted the investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon Scott Bowling prosecuted the case.
Seven Sinaloa Cartel members and associates sentenced to prison for trafficking fentanyl, methamphetamine and cocaineRead the Press Release
MIAMI – Seven members and associates of the Sinaloa Cartel have been sentenced to federal prison for their role in a drug trafficking conspiracy involving fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine. The sentences come after the defendants had previously pleaded guilty in this matter.
According to the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) National Drug Threat Assessment, the Sinaloa Cartel is at the heart of the fentanyl crisis. The cartel has developed global supply chain networks and operate clandestine labs in Mexico where they manufacture these drugs and then utilize their vast distribution networks to transport the drugs into the United States. Fentanyl is the deadliest drug threat the United States has ever faced, killing 38,000 Americans in the first six months of 2023 alone. Just one fentanyl pill can kill. Two milligrams of fentanyl is considered a potentially fatal dose and laboratory testing indicates seven out of 10 pills seized by the DEA contain a lethal dose of fentanyl.
“When you consider the quantity of drugs being trafficked and the deleterious impact illicit narcotics have on our community, it is readily apparent that these defendants sold drugs for the sole purpose of profiting off a public health crisis – addiction,” stated U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida. “The fentanyl epidemic, to include here in south Florida, has caused a deafening silence as thousands of people have overdosed and died. We commend our partner agencies, as we work collectively to prosecute the members and associates of cartels that fuel the drug poisoning crisis and traffic in firearms.”
“The significant sentences imposed by the court reflect the deadly nature of the crimes committed by Mexican cartel members in flooding our communities with fentanyl and other lethal drugs,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco. “Our law enforcement officers work across the U.S. and around the globe to combat the cartels’ firearms and drug trafficking, which wreak so much violence and devastation in our communities.”
“Guns and drugs are often linked, particularly when it comes to the cartels,” said Director Steven Dettelbach of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). “ATF is committed to working with all our partners to hold accountable those who spread poison in our streets and arm those who supply that poison. This case exemplifies the incredible work going on every day by ATF agents and analysts around the country to protect the American public from dangerous criminals.”
“This investigation is a testament to the combined efforts of multiple Field Divisions of ATF in collaboration, conjunction, and synthesis with our federal, state, and local partners,” said Special Agent in Charge Christopher A. Robinson of the ATF, Miami Field Division. “Combating violent crime is one of ATF’s core missions, and this case demonstrates how this relationship works to collectively keep American communities and the communities of our neighbors to the south safe from one of the most violent drug trafficking organizations in the world.”
Hector Alejandro Apodaca-Alvarez, 53, of Somerton, Arizona; Mark Anthony Roque Bustamante, 33, of Yuma, Arizona; Jorge Moreno, 28, of San Luis Rio Colorado, Mexico; Jonathan Nicholas Chavez, 25, of Brawley, California; Luis Tejada Velasquez, 37, of San Luis Rio Colorado, Mexico; Austin Toma Grupee, 43, of Providence, Rhode Island; and Jose Chavez Zaragoza, 38, of Yuma, Arizona, participated in the drug trafficking conspiracy to distribute the controlled substances. The defendants were arrested in the United States.
From June 2022 through May 2023, Apodaca-Alvarez, who was previously convicted of narcotics trafficking-related offenses in three federal districts prior to his arrest in this case, used the U.S. mail and his own trucking business to send tens of thousands of pressed fentanyl pills and kilogram-quantities of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine to an undercover agent based in South Florida. The undercover agent also conducted narcotic and monetary transactions with Apodaca-Alvarez and codefendants in California, Arizona, and Massachusetts. Apodaca-Alvarez told the undercover agent he was coordinating directly with members of the Sinaloa Cartel to facilitate the large-scale distribution of narcotics and stated that the potency of the pressed fentanyl pills that he sold “was dropping people everywhere.” Apodaca-Alvarez worked directly with Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada Garcia, a co-founder of the Sinaloa Cartel.
During the conspiracy, Apodaca-Alvarez coordinated with the remaining codefendants to assist in distributing the controlled substances throughout the United States, to include Arizona, California, Florida, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Texas, and Virginia.
Law enforcement officers identified Roque Bustamante, nicknamed the “Skittles Man” due to his distribution of rainbow-colored fentanyl pills, as Apodaca-Alvarez’s primary source of supply. In recorded conversations, Apodaca-Alvarez and Roque Bustamante inquired if the undercover agent would supply them with firearms, including .50 caliber high powered rifles to be smuggled into Mexico.
Apodaca-Alvarez was ultimately arrested in South Florida while delivering 16 kilograms of fentanyl and 2 kilograms of cocaine to the undercover agent during an undercover operation. Moreno was present with Apodaca-Alvarez during the arrest operation.
In total, law enforcement seized approximately twenty-one kilograms of pure fentanyl; seventy thousand rainbow-colored, pressed fentanyl pills; three thousand M30 pressed fentanyl pills, blue in color; two hundred and forty-three pounds of crystal methamphetamine; two kilograms of cocaine; and twenty-four firearms (to include eighteen rifles and six pistols) related to this conspiracy.
Photo is of seized rainbow-colored, pressed fentanyl pills.
Photo was introduced into the court record during Tejada Velasquez’s sentencing hearing on May 15.
Tejada Velasquez was sentenced yesterday to 242 months in prison.
On May 2, Roque Bustamante was sentenced to life in prison, Grupee was sentenced to 262 months in prison and Chavez was sentenced to 57 months in prison.
On March 21, Apodaca-Alvarez was sentenced to life in prison, Moreno was sentenced to 121 months in prison and Zaragoza was sentenced to 47 months in prison. In addition, Apodaca-Alvarez agreed to the forfeiture of his entire trucking business and Arizona-based residence.
ATF Fort Lauderdale investigated the case with assistance from DEA, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Miami, Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO), ATF Yuma, U. S. Marshals Service, U.S. Postal Inspection Service.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ajay J. Alexander, M. Catherine Koontz, and Brooke Latta of the Southern District of Florida, along with Assistant U.S. Attorney Addison Owen of the District of Arizona, prosecuted the case.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case number 23-cr-60111.
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Seven Sinaloa Cartel Members and Associates Sentenced to Prison for Trafficking Fentanyl, Methamphetamine, and CocaineRead the Press Release
Seven members and associates of the Sinaloa Cartel have been sentenced to prison for their role in a drug trafficking conspiracy involving fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine. The defendants previously pleaded guilty in this matter.
Hector Alejandro Apodaca-Alvarez, 53, of Somerton, Arizona; Mark Anthony Roque Bustamante, 33, of Yuma, Arizona; Jorge Moreno, 28, of San Luis Rio Colorado, Mexico; Jonathan Nicholas Chavez, 25, of Brawley, California; Luis Tejada Velasquez, 37, of San Luis Rio Colorado, Mexico; Austin Toma Grupee, 43, of Providence, Rhode Island; and Jose Chavez Zaragoza, 38, of Yuma, Arizona, participated in the drug trafficking conspiracy to distribute the controlled substances. The defendants were arrested in the United States.
According to the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) National Drug Threat Assessment, the Sinaloa Cartel is at the heart of the fentanyl crisis. The cartel has developed global supply chain networks and operate clandestine labs in Mexico where they manufacture these drugs and then utilize their vast distribution networks to transport the drugs into the United States. Fentanyl is the deadliest drug threat the United States has ever faced, killing 38,000 Americans in the first six months of 2023 alone. Just one fentanyl pill can kill. Two milligrams of fentanyl is considered a potentially fatal dose and laboratory testing indicates seven out of 10 pills seized by the DEA contain a lethal dose of fentanyl.
“The significant sentences imposed by the court reflect the deadly nature of the crimes committed by Mexican cartel members in flooding our communities with fentanyl and other lethal drugs,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco. “Our law enforcement officers work across the U.S. and around the globe to combat the cartels’ firearms and drug trafficking, which wreak so much violence and devastation in our communities.”
“Guns and drugs are often linked, particularly when it comes to the cartels,” said Director Steven Dettelbach of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). “ATF is committed to working with all our partners to hold accountable those who spread poison in our streets and arm those who supply that poison. This case exemplifies the incredible work going on every day by ATF agents and analysts around the country to protect the American public from dangerous criminals.”
“When you consider the quantity of drugs being trafficked and the deleterious impact illicit narcotics have on our community, it is readily apparent that these defendants sold drugs for the sole purpose of profiting off a public health crisis — addiction,” said U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida. “The fentanyl epidemic, to include here in south Florida, has caused a deafening silence as thousands of people have overdosed and died. We commend our partner agencies, as we work collectively to prosecute the members and associates of cartels that fuel the drug poisoning crisis and traffic in firearms.”
From June 2022 through May 2023, Apodaca-Alvarez, who was previously convicted of narcotics trafficking-related offenses in three federal districts prior to his arrest in this case, used the U.S. mail and his own trucking business to send tens of thousands of pressed fentanyl pills and kilogram-quantities of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine to an undercover agent based in South Florida. The undercover agent also conducted narcotic and monetary transactions with Apodaca-Alvarez and codefendants in California, Arizona, and Massachusetts. Apodaca-Alvarez told the undercover agent he was coordinating directly with members of the Sinaloa Cartel to facilitate the large-scale distribution of narcotics and stated that the potency of the pressed fentanyl pills that he sold “was dropping people everywhere.” Apodaca-Alvarez worked directly with Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada Garcia, a co-founder of the Sinaloa Cartel.
During the conspiracy, Apodaca-Alvarez coordinated with the remaining codefendants to assist in distributing the controlled substances throughout the United States, including in Arizona, California, Florida, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Texas, and Virginia.
Law enforcement officers identified Roque Bustamante, nicknamed the “Skittles Man,” due to his distribution of rainbow-colored fentanyl pills, as Apodaca-Alvarez’s primary source of supply. In recorded conversations, Apodaca-Alvarez and Roque Bustamante inquired if the undercover agent would supply them with firearms, including .50 caliber high powered rifles to be smuggled into Mexico.
Apodaca-Alvarez was ultimately arrested in South Florida while delivering 16 kilograms of fentanyl and 2 kilograms of cocaine to the undercover agent during an undercover operation. Moreno was present with Apodaca-Alvarez during the arrest operation.
In total, law enforcement seized approximately 21 kilograms of pure fentanyl; 70 thousand rainbow-colored, pressed fentanyl pills; 3,000 M30 pressed fentanyl pills, blue in color; 243 pounds of crystal methamphetamine; two kilograms of cocaine; and 24 firearms (including 18 rifles and six pistols) related to this conspiracy.
Seized rainbow-colored, pressed fentanyl pills. Photo was introduced into the court record during Tejada Velasquez’s sentencing hearing on May 15.Tejada Velasquez was sentenced yesterday to 242 months in prison.
On May 2, Roque Bustamante was sentenced to life in prison, Grupee was sentenced to 262 months in prison, and Chavez was sentenced to 57 months in prison.
On March 21, Apodaca-Alvarez was sentenced to life in prison, Moreno was sentenced to 121 months in prison, and Zaragoza was sentenced to 47 months in prison. In addition, Apodaca-Alvarez agreed to the forfeiture of his entire trucking business and Arizona-based residence.
The ATF Miami Field Division* investigated the case, with assistance from DEA, Homeland Security Investigations Miami, Broward Sheriff’s Office, ATF Los Angeles* Field Division, U.S. Marshals Service, and U.S. Postal Inspection Service.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ajay J. Alexander, M. Catherine Koontz, and Brooke Latta for the Southern District of Florida and Assistant U.S. Attorney Addison Owen for the District of Arizona prosecuted the case.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
*This has been updated to reflect the correct ATF Field Divisions.
Secret Service Seizes a Web Domain Used in Furtherance of a Cryptocurrency “Pig Butchering” SchemeRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – The U.S. Secret Service has seized a web domain used in a recent cryptocurrency confidence crime known as “pig butchering.”
United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman; William Mancino, Special Agent in Charge, Criminal Investigative Division of the U.S. Secret Service; and James Bensley, Resident Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service’s Albany Resident Office, made the announcement.
In pig butchering schemes, scammers encounter victims through a variety of ways, including on dating applications and social media websites, and even random text messages masquerading as a wrong number. Scammers initiate relationships with victims and slowly gain their trust, eventually introducing the idea of making a business investment using cryptocurrency. Victims are then directed to other members of the scheme running fraudulent cryptocurrency investment platforms, where victims are persuaded to invest money. Once the money is sent to the fake investment application, the scammer vanishes, taking all the money with them, often resulting in significant losses for the victim.
According to court records, between about August 2022 and July 2023, scammers induced a Warren County victim to wire monies to the now-seized domain OKEX-NFT.net. The scammers — using the confidence-building techniques described above — convinced the victim that he/she was investing in a legitimate cryptocurrency opportunity. After the victim transferred investments into the deposit addresses that the scammers provided in connection with the seized domain name, the victim’s funds were immediately transferred through numerous bank accounts in an effort to conceal the source of the funds. In total, the victim lost over $341,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elizabeth Conger and Rick Belliss represented the U.S. Attorney’s Office in this matter.
Related court documents and information are located on the online docket for the United States District Court for the Northern District of New York (available via www.pacer.gov), by searching for Case No. 24-MJ-00038 (DJS).
If you believe you are a victim of this type of scheme, please contact [email protected] or IC3.gov to file a report. Please provide detailed information in your report, including any purported investment websites visited, telephone numbers, email accounts, and social media profiles used by scammers, and any cryptocurrency addresses, transaction hashes, and dates of transactions. Your responses are voluntary. Based on the information provided, you may be contacted by the Secret Service or another law enforcement agency and asked to provide additional information.
This case is part of the Department of Justice’s Elder Justice Initiative. The mission of the Elder Justice Initiative is to support and coordinate the Department’s enforcement and programmatic efforts to combat elder abuse, neglect and financial fraud and scams that target our nation’s older adults. Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving elders can call the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-372-8311.
Sacramento Man Indicted for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment today against Anthony Coates, 28, of Sacramento, charging him with distribution of methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, Coates distributed 1 pound of methamphetamine in March 2024 and 3 pounds of methamphetamine in April 2024.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, with assistance from the High-Intensity Drug-Trafficking Area Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Haddy Abouzeid is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Coates faces a maximum statutory penalty for each count of life in prison and a $10 million fine. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Pensacola Man Pleads Guilty to Threatening to Kill A Federal JudgeRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida –United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Stephen Jay Thorn (66, Pensacola) has pleaded guilty to interstate transmission of a threat to injure a Federal District Court Judge. Thorn faces a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to court documents, on October 24, 2022, Thorn, unhappy with a judicial opinion that he had read about online, made an interstate telephone call to the District Court Judge’s chambers. Thorn left a vulgar, obscenity-laden voicemail threatening to harm the judge as well as members of the judge’s immediate family.
This case was investigated by the United States Marshals Service. It is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Joe Wheeler III.
Oro Valley Man Indicted for Assaulting a Border Patrol Agent with a FirearmRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – Erik Alberto Beal, 26, of Oro Valley, was indicted by a federal grand jury in Tucson on May 1, 2024, on two counts of Assault of a Federal Officer with a Dangerous Weapon, that is, a Firearm, and Brandishing a Firearm During a Crime of Violence.
The indictment alleges that, on April 11, 2024, in Nogales, Arizona, Beal assaulted a United States Border Patrol Agent with a firearm while the agent was on duty. Border Patrol agents were working near the United States-Mexico Border when a subject jumped the International Boundary Fence and ran onto a nearby property. The victim agent ran in search of the suspected undocumented non-citizen. During the search, Beal came out of a residence adjacent to the border fence and confronted the agent. Beal pointed his firearm, a Sig Sauer, Model P250, .45 caliber pistol, at the victim agent before eventually being subdued and arrested.
A conviction for Assault of a Federal Officer with a Dangerous Weapon carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both. A conviction for Brandishing a Firearm During a Crime of Violence carries a mandatory minimum sentence of seven years up to life imprisonment, a fine of $250,000 or both.
An indictment 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.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the assistance of United States Customs and Border Protection’s Office of Professional Responsibility, is conducting the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Serra M. Tsethlikai, District of Arizona, Tucson, is handling the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-24-02352-TUC-SHR
RELEASE NUMBER: 2024-064_Beal# # #
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.Orleans Parish Woman Pleads Guilty to Wire FraudRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that SHAVONDA CHAMBERS, age 43, of New Orleans, Louisiana pleaded guilty on May 14, 2024, before the Honorable Susie Morgan, U.S. District Judge, Eastern District of Louisiana, to defrauding her prior employer. Sentencing is set for September 10, 2024.
According to documents filed in federal court, SHAVONDA CHAMBERS was employed as a bookkeeper for a local business and was apprehended submitting false electronic payroll authorizations to an out-of-state payroll processing company. As a result of her false submissions, CHAMBERS was able to steal and fraudulently divert more than $2.5 million dollars from her employer to financial accounts she controlled.
The maximum penalty for the offense is twenty years imprisonment and/or a fine of $250,000 or the greater of twice the gross gain to the defendant or twice the gross loss to the victim followed by up to three years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of one hundred dollars.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Secret Service in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Richard R. Pickens, II of the Financial Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Nashville Man Indicted for Bank Robbery While on Supervised Release from Federal Prison for Two Other Bank Robbery ConvictionsRead the Press Release
NASHVILLE – A federal grand jury returned an indictment yesterday charging Jeremy Stacey Godwin, 44, of Nashville, Tennessee, with one count of bank robbery, announced Henry C. Leventis, United States Attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee.
According to the indictment and publicly available information, on April 9, 2024, Godwin entered a Truist Bank on Nolensville Pike in Nashville, and demanded money while threatening the use of a firearm. The bank teller gave Godwin approximately $2,400, then Godwin fled on foot. Godwin was arrested when a concerned citizen contacted law enforcement after seeing local media reports of the bank robbery which showed bank video images of the suspect.
At the time of the robbery, Godwin was on supervised release after serving his prison sentences for prior convictions in the Middle District of Tennessee of robbing a Sun Trust Bank in Nashville on September 3, 2016, and robbing a Chase Bank in Indianapolis, Indiana on September 8, 2017.
If convicted, Godwin faces up to 20 years in federal prison.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Metro Nashville Police Department. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas J. Jaworski is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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