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Thursday 25 April 2024
Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 120 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Ryan Steele, 26 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady, after pleading guilty to Attempted Transportation of a Minor, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Steele was sentenced to 120 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, in March 2023, Steele traveled from his home in Indiana to Texas to meet up with a minor female with whom he had been talking online for five years. Steele was located traveling to Texas and once there, law enforcement discovered he was attempting to locate the minor. After his arrest, Steele admitted to traveling to Texas to bring the minor back to Indiana to live with him and engage in sexual activity. Steele also admitted to talking online with the minor since she was approximately 11 years old and to knowing she was a minor.
This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, the Noble County Sheriff’s Office, the Kendallville Police Department, the Lagrange Police Department, and the LaPorte, Texas Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley J. Miller Lowery.
The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Former Executive Pleads Guilty to Stealing More Than $400,000 from San Diego Non-ProfitRead the Press Release
NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY – April 25, 2024
SAN DIEGO – Katherine Lu Acquista, former Director of Operations and Accounting for the San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation, pleaded guilty in federal court today, admitting that she stole more than $400,000 from the non-profit for her personal benefit.
The Economic Development Corporation, known as EDC, works to maximize San Diego’s economic prosperity and global competitiveness. As Director of Operations and Accounting, Acquista had access to the EDC’s bank accounts, credit cards, checkbook and payroll system. According to her plea agreement, Acquista put personal expenditures on EDC’s credit card and directed the accounting department to issue checks from EDC to herself.
To conceal her scheme, Acquista caused false entries to be made in the non-profit’s accounting system to account for the missing funds. For example, Acquista put personal charges on the EDC credit card, and then caused the expenditures in the EDC’s accounting system to be entered as charges for maintenance and repairs or for office supplies. Similarly, Acquista directed that checks be written to herself from the EDC bank account but then caused the checks to be entered into EDC’s accounting system as charges for recurring IT expenses. Acquista admitted in her plea agreement that as a result of her scheme the EDC lost $433,275.89.
“This defendant took funds that were supposed to make San Diego a stronger business community and spent them on herself,” said U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath. “Our office takes embezzlement from local businesses very seriously and will continue to vigorously prosecute these cases.”
“Ms. Acquista worked for an organization whose goal is to help the San Diego community; however, she chose to abuse her position of trust within the organization,” said FBI San Diego Acting Special Agent in Charge John Kim. “The FBI remains committed to ensuring that individuals who deliberately compromise the integrity of their position and organization for personal gain will be brought to justice.”
Acquista is scheduled to appear before U.S. District Judge Battaglia for sentencing on July 15, 2024, at 9 a.m.
DEFENDANTS Case Number 24CR0765-AJB
Katherine Lu Acquista Age: 47 Escondido, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Wire Fraud - Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1343
Maximum penalty: Twenty years in prison; $250,000 fine or the gross gain or loss from the offense, whichever is greater
INVESTIGATING AGENCY
Federal Bureau of Investigation
Florida Man Sentenced for Racially Motivated Attacks on Two Black WomenRead the Press Release
A Florida man was sentenced yesterday to 60 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for committing two federal hate crimes by attacking two Black women with a gun.
Frederick Eugene Pierallini III, 27, previously pleaded guilty to these crimes on July 6, 2023.
“The defendant is being held accountable for targeting two Black women with a gun on two separate days because of their race,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “No one in this country should have to live in fear that when they use public spaces or work at their job, they risk attack by someone who hates them because of the color of their skin. The Justice Department is committed to protecting Black people from racially-motivated violence. We will continue to be relentless in investigating and prosecuting individuals who threaten or commit unlawful acts of hate.”
“The violent assaults committed against these two women because of their race are intolerable,” said U.S. Attorney Roger Handberg for the Middle District of Florida. “There is no place in our society for such heinous acts. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to aggressively investigate and prosecute individuals who target individuals and communities because of their race, ethnicity or beliefs.”
“Hate crimes like these are not only attacks on the victims but are meant to threaten and intimidate an entire community,” said Assistant Director Michael D. Nordwall of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division. “The FBI and our partners will continue to prioritize investigating civil rights violations and work together tirelessly to bring perpetrators to justice.”
According to court documents, Pierallini willfully intimidated the victims and interfered with their enjoyment of federally protected activities using force or a threat of force, because of their race and color. Victim 1 was enjoying her private employment and Victim 2 was enjoying a facility provided by the state of Florida.
Specifically, on Sept. 10, 2022, Pierallini went to a convenience store, located in Jacksonville, Florida. Victim 1 was working there as a clerk at the register. Pierallini attempted to buy snacks at the register, but his card was declined. He then attempted to walk out of the store with unpaid merchandise. Pierallini ultimately returned, scolding Victim 1 for not knowing how to do her job and directing racial slurs at her. Pierallini left the store, retrieved a shotgun from his car, pointed it at Victim 1 and cocked it by pulling the slide back to open the chamber and loaded a bullet into it. Victim 1 ran away in fear. Pierallini continued to use racial slurs throughout the encounter.
Two days later, on Sept. 12, 2022, Pierallini approached Victim 2 as she was sitting in her walker on the public sidewalk. He directed racial slurs at her and told her that she could not sit where she was. Pierallini also threatened to kill Victim 2. He then left, returned with a shotgun and fired a single shot. Victim 2 sustained injuries when she fell to the ground in response, but she was not hit by Pierallini’s shot.
The FBI Jacksonville Field Office and Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Washington for the Middle District of Florida and Trial Attorney Anna Gotfryd of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section prosecuted the case.
Florida Man Sentenced for Racially Motivated Attacks on Two Black WomenRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, FL – A Florida man was sentenced yesterday to 60 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for committing two federal hate crimes by attacking two Black women with a gun.
Frederick Eugene Pierallini III, 27, previously pleaded guilty to these crimes on July 6, 2023.
“The defendant is being held accountable for targeting two Black women with a gun on two separate days because of their race,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “No one in this country should have to live in fear that when they use public spaces or work at their job, they risk attack by someone who hates them because of the color of their skin. The Justice Department is committed to protecting Black people from racially-motivated violence. We will continue to be relentless in investigating and prosecuting individuals who threaten or commit unlawful acts of hate.”
“The violent assaults committed against these two women because of their race are intolerable,” said U.S. Attorney Roger Handberg for the Middle District of Florida. “There is no place in our society for such heinous acts. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to aggressively investigate and prosecute individuals who target individuals and communities because of their race, ethnicity or beliefs.”
“Hate crimes like these are not only attacks on the victims but are meant to threaten and intimidate an entire community,” said Assistant Director Michael D. Nordwall of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division. “The FBI and our partners will continue to prioritize investigating civil rights violations and work together tirelessly to bring perpetrators to justice.”
According to court documents, Pierallini willfully intimidated the victims and interfered with their enjoyment of federally protected activities using force or a threat of force, because of their race and color. Victim 1 was enjoying her private employment and Victim 2 was enjoying a facility provided by the state of Florida.
Specifically, on Sept. 10, 2022, Pierallini went to a convenience store, located in Jacksonville, Florida. Victim 1 was working there as a clerk at the register. Pierallini attempted to buy snacks at the register, but his card was declined. He then attempted to walk out of the store with unpaid merchandise. Pierallini ultimately returned, scolding Victim 1 for not knowing how to do her job and directing racial slurs at her. Pierallini left the store, retrieved a shotgun from his car, pointed it at Victim 1 and cocked it by pulling the slide back to open the chamber and loaded a bullet into it. Victim 1 ran away in fear. Pierallini continued to use racial slurs throughout the encounter.
Two days later, on Sept. 12, 2022, Pierallini approached Victim 2 as she was sitting in her walker on the public sidewalk. He directed racial slurs at her and told her that she could not sit where she was. Pierallini also threatened to kill Victim 2. He then left, returned with a shotgun and fired a single shot. Victim 2 sustained injuries when she fell to the ground in response, but she was not hit by Pierallini’s shot.
The FBI Jacksonville Field Office and Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Washington for the Middle District of Florida and Trial Attorney Anna Gotfryd of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section prosecuted the case.
Felon convicted after pointing weapon at law enforcement responding to assaultRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 33-year-old Houston resident has pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.
Tomas Rodriguez pointed a loaded .22 caliber pistol at a local police department officer who was in the course of their normal duty.
On Sept. 5, 2021, the officer had responded to a report of an assault in a parking lot near Houston bar. Witnesses directed him to Rodriguez who had fled towards an injured female lying face down on the ground. Rodriguez fell as he ran, and the officer commanded him to remain on the ground.
However, Rodriguez got up and pointed the firearm at the officer who responded by discharging his duty weapon in self-defense. Not struck, Rodriguez proceeded to flee and discarded the weapon. Authorities apprehended Rodriguez following a foot pursuit and subsequently recovered his loaded firearm.
Rodriguez has multiple prior felony convictions. As such, he is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition per federal law.
U.S. District Judge Alfred H. Bennett accepted the plea and set sentencing for Aug. 8. At that time, Rodriguez faces up to 10 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
Rodriguez has been and will remain in custody pending sentencing.
The Houston Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Byron H. Black prosecuted the case.
Faces of Gun Violence Exhibit at ATF’s Inaugural Gun Violence Survivors’ SummitRead the Press Release
San Juan, Puerto Rico — National Crime Victims’ Rights Week is April 21-27, 2024. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Puerto Rico joined efforts to raise awareness by participating in the Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Faces of Gun Violence Exhibit at ATF’s Inaugural Gun Violence Survivors’ Summit. United States Attorney W. Stephen Muldrow participated along with ATF Director Steve Dettelbach in the unveiling of 118 photographs of people who have died through gun violence at the ATF headquarters’ atrium. The exhibit is accompanied by a kiosk which includes descriptions of the lives of the victims in the photographs. Three (3) families from Puerto Rico shared the biographies and photographs of their family member who was murdered through gun violence. These victims of gun violence are: Lieutenant Oswaldo Albarati, Mr. David M. Méndez Calderón, and Stefano Steenbackers Betancourt.
In 2022, there were nearly 20 million instances of victimization in the United States. More than 6.6 million of those instances were crimes of violence, including rape or sexual assault, robbery, aggravated assault, and simple assault. Of that 6.6 million violent crimes, only about 42% were reported to police.
This year’s National Crime Victims’ Rights Week theme is “How would you help? Options, services, and hope for crime survivors.” Through this effort, we want to educate ourselves on how to create an environment in which victims and survivors feel safe talking about what happened to them. The theme aims to ensure that everyone in our community knows where and how to procure help for crime victims and survivors. It is essential that friends, family members, colleagues, neighbors, service providers, or other trusted members of the community who have first line contact and access to the victims of crime know how to procure and provide the necessary help. The theme also seeks to shine a light on the exceptional work of the dedicated victim witness personnel and prosecutors in the United States Attorneys’ office who provide vital assistance to crime victims on a daily basis. During NCVRW, we honor their dedication, expertise, and essential contributions to our mission.
U.S. Attorney W. Stephen Muldrow of the District of Puerto Rico said: “Gun violence continues to devastate families and communities across our communities and across our nation. It’s the leading cause of death for American children and teenagers. The Department of Justice has no higher priority than keeping our communities safe and that means targeting the most significant drivers of violent crime in this country — namely gun violence. Together, with federal, state, and local law enforcement and community partners we will continue to work to save lives and take violent criminals off the streets.”
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Five Charged Following DEA Undercover Drug OperationRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, VI - United States Attorney Delia L. Smith announced today that a federal grand jury retuned indictments charging Jamil Bell, 43, Peter Francis, 33, Niah Henry, 44, Anwar Lockhart, 41, and Kenson Plasimo, 43, with drug trafficking.
According to court documents, between December 5, 2023, and December 7, 2023, the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Virgin Islands Police Department utilized an undercover agent to conduct purchases of cocaine and oxycodone pills from the defendants in the area of Red Hook, St. Thomas.
These cases were investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Virgin Islands Police Department and are being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Cherrisse R. Woods and Kimberly M. Riley.
United States Attorney Smith reminds the public that an indictment is not evidence of guilt, and all persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Eight Year Sentence Handed Down for Carjacking and Robbery of a Delivery DriverRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Daquan Skipper, 27, of Alexandria, Virginia was sentenced to eight years in prison for carjacking an Uber Eats delivery driver of his motorized scooter in July 2023, and for robbing him of his cell phone, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves and Chief Pamela Smith, of the Metropolitan Police Department. Skipper pleaded guilty to both charges on January 31, 2024. Superior Court Judge Jason Park, who sentenced Skipper on April 12, 2024, also ordered three years of supervised release.
According to the government’s evidence, with which Skipper agreed, on July 29, 2023 outside of a Pizza Hut located at 1501 Maryland Avenue NE, the defendant and two others approached the delivery driver who had just picked up an order. The victim was putting his cell phone into a holder on the handlebars when the defendant and his accomplices ran up to and surrounded him. The defendant threated the victim by telling him he had a gun while gesturing to his waistband as if he did have a gun. The victim believed that the defendant was armed. The defendant grabbed the victim’s phone and the keys to the scooter. The defendant tried to start the scooter several times, but when he failed, he and one of his accomplices dragged the scooter toward the Bladensburg Road NE intersection.
The victim followed the defendant until he saw and flagged down MPD police officers. The defendant dropped the scooter and ran when an MPD police officer tried to arrest him. Police eventually apprehended him and recovered the victim’s phone.
This case was investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jessica Ans and Rashmika Nedungadi.
Edmond Man Sentenced to Serve 22 Years in Federal Prison for Drug Conspiracy, Capping Investigation into Major Methamphetamine & Cocaine Organization in OklahomaRead the Press Release
Organization distributed narcotics throughout the United States
OKLAHOMA CITY – ANTONIO ORTIZ HERRERA, 46, of Edmond, has been sentenced to serve 264 months in federal prison for his role in a drug trafficking organization (DTO) which was responsible for distributing large amounts of methamphetamine and cocaine throughout the United States, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
The sentencing is the culmination of a nearly two-year, nationwide investigation, led by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office and the Oklahoma City Police Department, with support from IRS Criminal Investigation.
On June 8, 2022, a federal grand jury returned a 14-count Indictment against Ortiz and several other co-defendants for their roles in the DTO. According to public record, co-defendant Victoriano Neri Hernandez, 37, was head of the DTO in Oklahoma, while Ortiz facilitated the distribution of the drugs throughout the country, including to North Carolina and Kentucky. The Indictment alleges the DTO had ties to Mexico, and that the methamphetamine and cocaine would be shipped from Mexico into both Texas and Oklahoma. According to public record, the organization would smuggle the illegal drugs in hidden compartments of camper shells attached to pick-up trucks.
On July 25, 2023, Ortiz pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. As part of his plea, Ortiz admitted to knowingly participating in the conspiracy that distributed both methamphetamine and cocaine throughout the Western District of Oklahoma and elsewhere.
At the sentencing hearing on April 24, 2024, U.S. District Judge Scott L. Palk sentenced Ortiz to serve 264 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release. As part of the sentencing, the court noted the seriousness of the offenses, including the geographic scope of the organization and the quantity of controlled substances, as well as Ortiz’s role in the organization.
In all, nine defendants with involvement in the DTO have been sentenced to serve more than 91 years collectively in federal prison:
- Victoriano Neri Hernandez – sentenced to serve 288 months in federal prison for drug conspiracy and possession of cocaine with intent to distribute;
- Cesar Cecilio Perez Rubio – sentenced to serve 108 months in federal prison for distribution of methamphetamine;
- David Gandara – sentenced to serve 84 months in federal prison for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute;
- Jorge Luis Becerra – sentenced to serve 72 months in federal prison for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute;
- Ruby Jackson – sentenced to serve 72 months in federal prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine;
- Yoelmmi Franco Sandoval – sentenced to serve 71 months in federal prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine;
- Arturo Alberto Gonsen Romo – sentenced to serve 71 months in federal prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine; and
- Ivan Chanax Aguilar – sentenced to serve 64 months in federal prison for possession of cocaine with intent to distribute.
This case is the result of an investigation by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office and the Oklahoma City Police Department, with support from IRS Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew P. Anderson and Nick Coffey prosecuted the case. This investigation was 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.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
Dog Broker Sentenced to Federal Prison for Filing False Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
ATLANTA - Justin Daniels has been sentenced for filing false tax returns in connection with his dog-brokering business. Daniels falsely underreported over $1 million in income between 2015 and 2018.
“Rather than pay his fair share of taxes, Daniels spent years submitting fraudulent returns in the name of personal greed,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan. “This office will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to pursue and prosecute those who exploit our tax system at the expense of law-abiding taxpayers.”
“Justin Daniels’ sentence is an example of what people who willfully fail to report all their income can expect as the outcome of their crime,” said Lisa Fontanette, Assistant Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Atlanta Field Office. “IRS Criminal Investigation will continue investigating and holding accountable individuals who intentionally conceal income and evade taxes.”
According to U.S. Attorney Buchanan, the charges and other information presented in court: Since 2006, Daniels had earned a living as a dog broker selling Yorkie, Morkie, and Shi-Tzu puppies. Although Daniels’s customers believed he was selling the puppies directly, the puppies were being raised by breeders in Kentucky and Tennessee. This dog brokering business was lucrative and the cost of the puppies ranged from $800 to $1,200. Between 2015 and 2018, Daniels received and deposited more than $2.3 million into personal checking accounts. Daniels significantly underreported his income on his taxes. Based on information that Daniels provided to his tax preparer, Daniels underreported $1,186,830 in gross receipts during the years 2015 to 2018, resulting in additional tax due of $258,265. At the same time, Daniels was submitting false information on his tax returns and representing to private lenders that he made substantially more money to obtain loans.
Justin Daniels, 48, of Marietta, Georgia, was sentenced to one year, two months in prison to be followed by one year of supervised release on April 22, 2024. He was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $258,265. Daniels was convicted on these charges on December 5, 2023, after he pleaded guilty.
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David A. O’Neal and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas Krepp prosecuted the case.
For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at [email protected] or (404) 581-6016. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.
District Woman Sentenced for Attempted Assault with a Dangerous Weapon for Attacking Law Enforcement While ShopliftingRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Jamilla Haskins, 33, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced to 14 months in prison for attempting to stab a detective and pepper spraying him after he confronted her about stealing from the store, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves and Chief Pamela Smith, of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD). Haskins pleaded guilty on February 21, 2024 to assault with a dangerous weapon.
According to the government’s evidence, on January 23, 2024, at the CVS located at 128 Kennedy Street NW, Haskins concealed 30 items, including hair clips, shaving cream, and body oil, belonging to CVS, inside of her bag. She then passed all points of sale and attempted to leave the store without paying for the items. An MPD detective who was checking on the retail thefts at local stores, saw Haskins attempting to steal items, stopped her, and confronted her about the property she had taken. Haskins responded by pepper spraying the Detective in the face. The detective then attempted to detain the defendant inside the CVS. Haskins began pushing the detective away and was actively trying to get away from him. Haskins still had merchandise in her possession. The struggle worked its way from the exit doors through the vestibule to the front outside entrance of the store. During the struggle, Haskins pointed a black pocketknife at the detective and threatened to stab him. The detective – with pepper spray in his eyes – disarmed her. Haskins continued to try to make her escape. The detective and MPD officers responding to his call were able stop Haskins at the corner of 2nd St NW on Kennedy St NW and recover her knife.
This case was investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rashmika Nedungadi.
Defendant Pleads Guilty for Environmental Crimes Committed in the Jobos Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve and Las Mareas Community of Salinas, Puerto RicoRead the Press Release
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – Pedro Luis Bones Torres pleaded guilty today to environmental crimes related to the illegal construction and deposit of material into the wetlands and waters of the United States in the Jobos Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (the “Jobos Estuarine Reserve”) and Las Mareas community of Salinas, Puerto Rico.
According to court documents, starting no later than January of 2020, Bones-Torres engaged in construction and land clearing activities on a property to the South of Camino de Galileo in the las Mareas area of Salinas, Puerto Rico (the “Property”). At the time that the Defendant began construction activities, the majority of the property was a wetland consisting of mangrove trees and open area that was occasionally partially submerged by the sea tides. The wetland area of property was within the Jobos Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve.
Between January 2020 and October 2022, Bones-Torres removed mangroves and deposited fill material within the wetland area of the Property using excavation and earth moving equipment that the Defendant operated. Bones-Torres disposed of the mangroves at the edges of the property and on Camino de Galileo. After the Defendant filled the wetlands, he built a concrete pad, a concrete gazebo with an outdoor kitchen, a wooden gazebo, and a dock extending into Mar Negro.
Bones-Torres did not seek or receive approval to fill the wetlands, and at no point was the Defendant permitted to fill wetlands on or near the Property.
Bones-Torres pleaded guilty to one violation of the Clean Water Act, 33 U.S.C. § 1311(a), and one violation of the Rivers and Harbors Act, 33 U.S.C. § 403. He is scheduled to be sentenced on July 24, 2024, and faces a maximum penalty of three years in prison for the Clean Water Act violation as well as one year in prison for the Rivers and Harbors Act violation. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney W. Stephen Muldrow of the District of Puerto Rico; and Special Agent in Charge Tyler Amon for the U.S. EPA Criminal Investigation Division made the announcement.
Various federal agencies are involved in this ongoing investigation into environmental crimes in the Jobos Estuarine Reserve and Las Mareas community, including the Environmental Protection Agency Criminal Investigation Division (EPA-CID), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), U.S. Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division (Army-CID), U.S. Department of Commerce, Office of Inspector General (DOC-OIG), National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration Office of Law Enforcement (NOAA-OLE), and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Office of Law Enforcement (FW OLE).
The case is being prosecuted by Senior Trial Attorney Patrick M. Duggan of the Environmental Crimes Section of the U.S. Department of Justice and Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth A. Erbe, Environmental Litigation Coordinator for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Puerto Rico.
If you have any information related to this investigation or environmental crimes in the area, please contact enforcement officials, which may be done anonymously. The EPA can be contacted at (787) 977-5821 or at https://echo.epa.gov/denuncie-violaciones-ambientales. The FBI can be contacted at (787) 987-6500 or https://tips.fbi.gov/.
For more information on the Jobos Bay National Estuarine Reserve, please visit https://www.drna.pr.gov/jbnerr/ or https://coast.noaa.gov/nerrs/reserves/jobos-bay.html.
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Defendant Charged with Distributing Fentanyl that Resulted in Overdose Deaths of Two PeopleRead the Press Release
NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY – April 25, 2024
SAN DIEGO – Scott Anthony Sargent of San Diego appeared in federal court today to face charges that he distributed the fentanyl that resulted in the deaths of two victims in North Park in 2022. During the same incident, Sargent and another person also overdosed but survived.
Sargent is also charged with conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine. At today’s hearing, Sargent was detained without bond.
San Diego Police officers along with investigators from the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Overdose Response Team responded to a 911 call just before 6 a.m. on November 10, 2022. When they arrived, four individuals were found lying on the floor of a bedroom. Two of the individuals, identified in court records by the initials Z.W. and M.L., were pronounced dead at the scene, while Sargent and another individual were treated with Narcan and transported to nearby hospitals where they recovered.
Sargent allegedly brought and then distributed the fatal mix of fentanyl and para-fluorofentanyl (a common fentanyl analogue) to a residence in North Park. Investigators linked Sargent to the overdoses through the fentanyl/para-fluorofentanyl mixture found at the overdose location. The mixture was also found inside Sargent’s backpack and duffel bag recovered from the scene. A subsequent search by investigators of Sargent's storage unit also turned up additional baggies containing the same combination of fentanyl/para-fluorofentanyl.
“Fentanyl kills indiscriminately,” said U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath. “Yet as was accomplished in this case investigators will leave no stone unturned in the effort to identify and charge distributors of this poison.”
“Mr. Sargent’s alleged actions cost two people their lives,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Anthony Chrysanthis. “The San Diego DEA and its partners are dedicated to bringing to justice those that sell, traffic, or provide fentanyl in our community.”
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Adam Gordon and Sarah Goldwasser.
Special Agents and Task Force Officers with the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Overdose Response Team (formerly known as Team 10) led the investigation. This case is the result of ongoing efforts by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the San Diego Police Department, and the California Department of Health Care Services to investigate and prosecute the distribution of dangerous illegal drugs—fentanyl in particular—that result in overdose deaths. The Drug Enforcement Administration created the Overdose Response Team as a response to the increase in overdose deaths in San Diego County.
DEFENDANT Case Number 24-CR-807-RSH
Scott Anthony Sargent Age: 63 San Diego, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Distribution of Fentanyl Resulting in Death – Title 18, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(C)
Maximum penalty: Life in prison
Mandatory minimum: Twenty years in prison
Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl and Methamphetamine - Title 18, United States Code, Section 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1), and 846
Maximum penalty: Life in prison
Mandatory Minimum: Ten years in prison
INVESTIGATING AGENCIES
Drug Enforcement Administration
Federal Bureau of Investigation
Homeland Security Investigations
San Diego County District Attorney’s Office
San Diego Police Department
State of California Department of Health Care Services
*The charges and allegations contained in an indictment or complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Coos County Man Suspected of Abusing Children Indicted in Federal CourtRead the Press Release
EUGENE, Ore.—A North Bend, Oregon man suspected of abusing multiple children has been indicted in federal court.
Christopher Jay Young, 39, has been charged in a two-count indictment with attempting to use a minor to produce a visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct and attempting to coerce and entice a minor.
According to the indictment, on or about January 20, 2024, Young is alleged to have knowingly and intentionally persuaded a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct and record the conduct. Young’s crimes involving one minor victim, as alleged in the indictment, are part of a broader series of similar abusive crimes he is suspected to have committed involving multiple other children during a similar timeframe.
Between April 4 and 8, 2024, the FBI applied for and obtained multiple federal search warrants for Young’s person, home and vehicles. On April 11, 2024, special agents and deputies from the FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Homeland Security Investigations, the Oregon State Police, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, and the Lane County Sheriff’s Office executed the warrants and arrested Young.
Five days later, on April 16, 2024, a federal grand jury in Portland returned an indictment charging Young. He was arraigned on the indictment Wednesday in federal court in Eugene by a U.S. Magistrate Judge. Young pleaded not guilty and was ordered detained pending further court proceedings.
Attempting to use a minor to produce a visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct is punishable by up to 30 years in federal prison with a 15-year mandatory minimum sentence. Attempted coercion and enticement of a minor is punishable by up to life in prison with a 10-year mandatory minimum sentence.
This case is being investigated by the FBI in conjunction with the Lane County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by William M. McLaren, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.
An indictment is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Anyone who has information about the physical or online exploitation of children are encouraged to call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov.
Federal law defines child pornography as any visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct involving a minor. It is important to remember child sexual abuse material depicts actual crimes being committed against children. Not only do these images and videos document the victims’ exploitation and abuse, but when shared across the internet, they re-victimize and re-traumatize the child victims each time their abuse is viewed. To learn more, please visit the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at www.missingkids.org.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Justice Department to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Convicted Felon Arrested on Federal Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the arrest of Timothy Lee King (33, Groveland) on an indictment charging him with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. If convicted, King faces up to 15 years in federal prison.
According to the indictment, King was previously convicted of 11 felonies, including fleeing and eluding law enforcement, burglary, and two prior convictions for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. On January 16, 2024, King was in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Because of his prior felony convictions, King is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition under federal law.
An indictment is merely an allegation that a defendant has committed a federal criminal offense. Every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Leesburg Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Hannah Nowalk.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Connecticut Man Pleads Guilty to Selling Fraudulently Obtained Gold CoinsRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Connecticut man pleaded guilty yesterday to fraudulently obtaining more than 100 gold coins and then transporting them outside of Massachusetts.
William Dawson, 52, pleaded guilty to on one count of interstate transportation of property taken by fraud. U.S. District Court Judge Margaret R. Guzman scheduled sentencing for June 18, 2024. Dawson was arrested and charged in October 2023.
Dawson held himself out as a property buyer and reseller. Person-1 operated a home cleanout business in Massachusetts that sold property contained in decedent estates. In or around December 2022, Person-1 was retained by a decedent estate to clean out a residence in Shrewsbury. In that home, Person-1 found 170 Queen Elizabeth II Canadian Gold Maple Leaf Coins, collectively worth approximately $290,000. With approval from the estate, Person-1 agreed to sell 120 of the gold coins to Dawson.
In January 2023, Dawson met with Person-1 in Millbury and purchased the 120 gold coins with two checks totaling $198,800. However, Dawson had significantly less than $198,800 in the relevant bank account when he wrote the checks to Person-1. Later that same day, Dawson called Person-1, falsely claiming that his car had been broken into and that the gold coins had been stolen. The next day, Dawson traveled to a pawn shop in Pawtucket, R.I. where he sold 43 of the gold coins in exchange for $80,442. On several occasions in February 2023, Dawson traveled to a pawn shop in Cranston, R.I., where he sold 19 more of the gold coins in exchange for a total of approximately $35,094.
The charge of interstate transportation of property taken by fraud, provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy and Andrew Murphy, Special Agent in Charge of the United States Secret Service, Boston Field Office made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Milford Police Department and the Worcester County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brendan O’Shea of the Worcester Branch Office is prosecuting the case.
Christian County Man Sentenced for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
COVINGTON, Ky. – A Hopkinsville, Ky., man, Veontae Leemond Lewis, 32, was sentenced on Thursday, by U.S. District Judge David Bunning, to 138 months in prison, for possession with intent to distribute over 50 grams of methamphetamine.
According to his plea agreement, on September 4, 2023, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop on a car operated by Lewis. Upon approaching the vehicle, the officer smelled marijuana and asked Lewis to step out of the car. The officer located approximately five pounds of methamphetamine in a bag, two marijuana cigarettes, and $907 in cash.
Under federal law, Lewis must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence. Upon his release from prison, he will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for five years.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, Erek Davodowich, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Detroit Field Division; Orville O. Greene, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Detroit Field Division; and Chief Kyle Rader, Erlanger Police Department, jointly announced the sentencing.
The investigation was conducted by the DEA and Erlanger Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle Winslow is prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States.
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Chinese National Arrested in United States for Alleged Scheme to Illegally Export Semiconductor Manufacturing MachineRead the Press Release
An indictment was unsealed today charging two Chinese nationals, Han Li, also known as Anson Li, 44, and Lin Chen, 64, with crimes related to a conspiracy to illegally export U.S. technology, including a machine manufactured by a California-based company that is used to process silicon wafer microchips, to prohibited end users in China, in violation of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Chen was arrested in Chicago yesterday.
“As alleged, the defendants sought to evade export controls to obtain U.S. semiconductor manufacturing technology for a prohibited Chinese company,” said Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. “The Justice Department is committed to enforcing export controls and holding accountable those who seek to illicitly procure U.S.-developed technologies that put our national security at risk.”
“The export restrictions at issue in this case were put in place to prevent the illicit procurement of commodities and technologies for unauthorized military end use in the People’s Republic of China,” said U.S. Attorney Ismail Ramsey for the Northern District of California. “This office will continue to vigorously enforce the nation’s export laws, including those pertaining to advanced technologies, to protect our national security.”
“This indictment puts an end to Ms. Chen’s alleged involvement in a scheme to illegally export U.S. technology to China,” said Executive Assistant Director Larissa L. Knapp of the FBI’s National Security Branch. “The U.S. does not tolerate illegally exporting our advanced technology, and any attempt to circumvent U.S. laws and regulations will have consequences. The FBI and its partners will continue to seek justice in this matter.”
Federal regulations restrict the export of certain items to companies, research institutions, and other entities identified on the Department of Commerce’s Entity List. In August 2014, the Commerce Department added Changdu GaStone Technology Company (CGTC), a company based in China, to the Entity List.
As alleged in the indictment, between at least May 2015 and August 2018, Li and Chen conspired to evade the export restrictions imposed by the Department of Commerce on CGTC through the use of intermediaries to conceal CGTC’s involvement with the transactions. Specifically, the defendants sought to illegally obtain a DTX-150 Automatic Diamond Scriber Breaker machine from Dynatex International, a Santa Rosa, California, company. The machine is used to cut thin semiconductors used in electronics, also known as silicon wafers, and under Department of Commerce regulations, requires a license and authorization to export to CGTC. The defendants sought to acquire the machine for CGTC through an intermediary company called Jiangsu Hantang International (JHI), a proxy they fraudulently represented as the purchaser and end user. To avoid detection, Li and Chen instructed Dynatex International to ensure that the export information associated with the sale did not list CGTC as the ultimate consignee of the shipment.
Li is believed to be in the People’s Republic of China.
Li and Chen each are charged with the following offenses, and if convicted, face maximum penalties as indicated: Conspiracy to violate IEEPA, up to 20 years in prison and a $1 million fine; false electronic export information activities, up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine; smuggling, up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine; and IEEPA violations, up to 20 years in prison and a $1 million fine. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, and Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security are investigating the case.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California and National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Chinese National Arrested in U.S. for Alleged Role in Scheme to Illegally Export Semiconductor-Related MachineryRead the Press Release
SAN FRANCISCO – An indictment was unsealed charging Chinese nationals, Han Li, 44, also known as “Anson” Li, and Lin Chen, 64, with crimes related to a conspiracy to illegally export U.S technology to prohibited end users in China, in violation of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (“IEEPA”) and Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). The technology at issue includes a machine manufactured by a California-based company that is used to process silicon wafer microchips. Chen was arrested in Chicago yesterday.
“The export restrictions at issue in this case were put in place to prevent the illicit procurement of commodities and technologies for unauthorized military end use in the People’s Republic of China,” said the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of California Ismail Ramsey. “This office will continue to vigorously enforce the nation’s export laws, including those pertaining to advanced technologies, to protect our national security.”
“As alleged, the defendants sought to evade export controls to obtain U.S. semiconductor manufacturing technology for a prohibited Chinese company,” said Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. “The Justice Department is committed to enforcing export controls and holding accountable those who seek to illicitly procure U.S.-developed technologies that puts our national security at risk.”
“Stopping the illegal export of U.S. technology to China is one of the FBI’s highest priorities. We will aggressively pursue anyone who violates export control laws designed to protect our national and economic security. I am proud of the tenacious work that resulted in today’s announcement,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Robert Tripp. “U.S. business leaders should be encouraged to establish a relationship with their local FBI field office to help protect against the pervasive threat of criminals looking to steal American technology.”
“This arrest highlights the importance of interagency collaboration in preventing illegal exports that could compromise sensitive technologies and our national security as well as undermine our American economy. Thank you to our partners at U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Dept. of Commerce’ Bureau of Industry and Security, the FBI, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Northern District of California, and the Dept. of Justice National Security Division.” said HSI San Francisco Special Agent in Charge Tatum King.
“Stopping the flow of U.S. semiconductor technology that supports the PRC’s military modernization efforts is a top priority for the Office of Export Enforcement,” said Brent Burmester, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, Office of Export Enforcement, San Jose Field Office. “BIS will continue to prioritize investigations involving exports of advanced technologies to prohibited parties to protect U.S. national security.”
Federal regulations restrict the export of certain items to companies, research institutions, and other entities identified on the Department of Commerce’s Entity List. In August 2014, the Department of Commerce added Changdu GaStone Technology Company (“CGTC”), a company based in China, to the Entity List, making the company ineligible to receive exports of certain U.S. technologies and services.
As alleged in the indictment, between at least May 2015 and August 2018, Li and Chen conspired to evade the export restrictions imposed by the Department of Commerce on CGTC by using intermediary companies. Specifically, the defendants sought to illegally obtain for CGTC a DTX-150 Automatic Diamond Scriber Breaker machine from Dynatex International, a Santa Rosa, California company. The machine is used to cut thin semiconductors used in electronics, also known as silicon wafers, and under Department of Commerce regulations, requires a license and authorization to export to CGTC. The defendants sought to obtain the machine through an intermediary company called Jiangsu Hantang International (JHI), which they fraudulently represented as the purchaser and end user. ), a proxy they fraudulently represented as the purchaser and end user. To avoid detection, Li and Chen instructed Dynatex International to ensure that the export information associated with the sale did not list CGTC as the ultimate consignee of the shipment.
Li is believed to be in the People’s Republic of China.
In sum, Li and Chen each are charged as follows:
Count
Violation
Description and Maximum
Sentence, if Convicted
1
18 U.S.C. § 1705 and 15 C.F.R. § 764.2(d)
Conspiracy to Violate IEEPA;
20 years prison, $1,000,000 fine
2
13 U.S.C. § 305 and 18 U.S.C. § 2
False Electronic Export Information Activities;
5 years prison, $250,000 fine
3
18 U.S.C. §§ 554 and 2
Smuggling;
10 years prison, $250,000 fine
4
18 U.S.C. § 1705 and 15 C.F.R. § 764.2(d)
IEEPA Violations;
20 years prison, $1,000,000 fine
An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. 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.The case is being prosecuted by the Special Prosecutions Unit of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California and the Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section. The prosecution is the result of a joint investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, and Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security.
Chicago Man Sentenced to 62 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – Damiane Harris, 49 years old, of Chicago, Illinois, was sentenced by United States District Court Senior Judge James T. Moody upon his plea of guilty to interstate transportation of stolen property and to a supervised release violation in a prior case, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Harris was sentenced to 41 months in prison in the new case followed by 2 years of supervised release and was ordered to pay $35,503.58 in restitution to the victims of the offense.
According to documents in the case, Harris broke into a truck sales business in South Bend, Indiana, and stole a semi-tractor. He drove the semi-tractor to a crane rental business in Griffith, Indiana, and used it to steal three semi-trailers loaded with more than 68 tons of crane counterweights and other equipment. He then hauled the counterweights to a scrapyard in Chicago Heights, Illinois, where he sold them for profit. The total intended loss was $310,059.
Harris committed this new offense while on federal supervised release for a similar offense. He received a 21-month sentence for his supervised release violation, which will run consecutive to his sentence for the new offense, for a total sentence of 62 months in prison.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the South Bend Police Department, the Griffith Police Department, and the Chicago Heights Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Steven J. Lupa.
Career Criminal Convicted of Federal Firearms ChargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Washington, D.C. man with three prior felony convictions has been convicted of illegally possessing a firearm.
United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced that Mario Adonte Crawley, age 51, was convicted by a jury of the unlawful possession of a firearm. The evidence at trial established that Crawley’s vehicle was stopped in Kearneysville, West Virginia, by the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office in September of 2023. During the traffic stop, officers located a loaded 9mm handgun hidden in a laundry basket in the back of Crawley’s automobile. Crawley is prohibited from possessing firearms because of prior felony convictions for Armed Robbery in the District of Columbia, Attempted Robbery in Petersburg, Virginia, and Receiving Stolen Property in Chesterfield County, Virginia.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel Salem and Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Drug Enforcement Administration; and the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
Crawley faces up to fifteen years in prison when he is sentenced.
U.S. District Court Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
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Caldwell Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Attempting to Sexually Entice a MinorRead the Press Release
BOISE – Tyler Douglas Asker, 33, of Caldwell, was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison on the charge of attempted use of interstate facilities to transmit information about a minor, which involved the defendant using the internet to entice a minor into sexual activity, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced today.
According to court records, between August 3, 2023, and August 18, 2023, Asker communicated online with an undercover detective posing as a 14-year-old girl. During the communications, Asker sent the purported child an explicit video and discussed engaging the child in sexual acts. Asker requested the child’s address and was arrested after he traveled to meet the child.
Senior U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also sentenced Asker to ten years of supervised release. Asker will be required to register as a sex offender as a result of the conviction.
The investigation was part of “Operation Summertime Blues,” a joint local, state, and federal undercover operation conducted in Boise in August 2023 to identify individuals predisposed to meet minors for sexual contact. Participating agencies included the Boise Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, the Idaho Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, the Meridian Police Department, the Garden City Police Department, and the Ada County Sheriff’s Office.
Asker is the last of three defendants charged in federal court as a result of Operation Summertime Blues. Earlier this year, Shawn Edwin Long, 42, of Kuna, and Daniel DeLong, 44, of Ontario, were both sentenced by Judge Winmill to 60 months in federal prison followed by five years of supervised release for attempted use of interstate facilities to transmit information about a minor.
“I am grateful to all the agencies who supported ‘Operation Summertime Blues,’” said U.S. Attorney Hurwit. “The proactive and collaborative approach used to catch these would-be predators is essential to protecting Idaho’s children. We will continue to pursue anyone seeking to sexually exploit minors through online communications.”
“This attempt to prey on a child was fortunately thwarted though the unquestionable expertise found through our law enforcement partnerships,” said Special Agent in Charge Robert Hammer, who oversees HSI operations in the Pacific Northwest. “Dark ideations that would put our children at risk cannot be allowed to thrive in the shadows of cyberspace, and it is our collective efforts that will protect Idaho communities from online predators.”
“I am very proud of the work our ICAC Unit has done to protect children across Idaho,” said Attorney General Raúl Labrador. “They have forged solid relationships with federal and local prosecutors and law enforcement agencies across Idaho. These demonstrated partnerships are critical for keeping our communities safe from predators and abusers.”
“One of the highest responsibilities we have as law enforcement, is to protect those who are vulnerable and unable to protect themselves—our children,” said Boise Police Chief Ron Winegar. “Those like Mr. Asker, who would prey on our children, deserve our utmost attention, our strongest investigative and prosecutorial efforts, and our dedication to keep them from being successful in their efforts to victimize our society’s most vulnerable.”
“We are extremely proud of the work by our men and women involved in this case,” said Meridian Police Chief Tracy Basterrechea. “These cases are very difficult especially with the ever-changing world of technology coupled with the toll these types of investigations take on our investigators. It is their dedication and excellence that helped bring another predator to justice.”
“These are difficult investigations for the victims, their families, and our investigators,” said Garden City Police Chief Cory Stambaugh. “I am thankful that the work by the members of the task force have put another person who preys on kids in prison.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kassandra McGrady prosecuted this case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. As part of Project Safe Childhood, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Idaho and the Idaho Attorney General’s Office partner to marshal federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
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Brockton woman admits stealing gun, vehicle in burglary on Fort Peck Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Brockton woman on April 24 admitted to stealing a firearm and a vehicle in a residential burglary on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said today.
The defendant, Avis Big Track, 32, pleaded guilty to burglary. Big Track faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for Aug. 28. Big Track was detained pending further proceedings.
The government alleged that on Sept. 26, 2022, two homeowners reported a burglary of their home in Brockton, which is on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation. During the burglary, Big Track took a .45-caliber pistol and keys to a 2014 Chrysler, which she used to steal the Chrysler. Big Track was seen driving the stolen Chrysler, and she eventually admitted that she took the vehicle and had given the firearm to another individual, who put it in a safe with drugs. Law enforcement searched the safe and found the pistol and methamphetamine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda L. Myers is prosecuting the case. Fort Peck Tribal Law Enforcement conducted the investigation.
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British National to Reimburse United Airlines $20,638 for Interfering with Flight Crew on Flight Diverted to BangorRead the Press Release
BANGOR, Maine: A Chelmsford, England man was sentenced this week in U.S. District Court in Bangor for interfering with a flight crew. The charge stemmed from an incident on a United Airlines flight that diverted to Bangor International Airport (BGR) on March 1, 2024.
Chief U.S. District Judge Lance E. Walker sentenced Alexander Michael Dominic MacDonald, 30, to time served; he had been in custody since his arrest on March 1. MacDonald was also ordered to pay $20,638.00 in restitution. He pleaded guilty on March 22.
According to court records, MacDonald was a passenger aboard a United Airlines flight traveling from London, England to Newark, New Jersey on March 1, 2024. While the flight was in U.S. airspace, MacDonald began arguing with his travelling companion and causing a disturbance. When flight attendants asked MacDonald to be quiet and attempted to calm him, he became belligerent, threatening, and intimidating towards them. When the international purser aboard the flight intervened, MacDonald became belligerent and intimidating toward him as well and stated that he would “mess up the plane.” When MacDonald’s conduct continued, he was restrained in flex cuffs, and the flight was diverted to Bangor.
The FBI, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and the Bangor Police Department investigated the case.
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Brandon Man Sentenced After Conviction for Trafficking Migratory BirdsRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Charlene Honeywell has sentenced Ernesto Gonzalez Campos (36, Brandon) to 18 months’ probation, to include a $1,000 fine and 50 hours of community service. Campos was found guilty by a federal jury on November 30, 2023.
Campos is the most recent individual to be sentenced in “Operation Ornery Birds II.” Five others were previously sentenced in the Middle District of Florida. Operation Ornery Birds II was a Florida-wide investigation conducted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Campos engaged in the ongoing capture, sale, and trade of protected migratory songbirds. On at least three occasions in 2020 and 2021, Campos sold and traded indigo buntings, painted buntings, rose-breasted grosbeaks, and blue grosbeaks, all of which are protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA). Campos trapped the birds from the wild and, once they were tamed, sold them within the songbird community.
This case was investigated by United States Fish and Wildlife Service and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conversation Commission. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ilyssa Spergel and Senior Trial Attorney Patrick Duggan of ENRD’s Environmental Crimes Section.
Bvi Man Pleads Guilty to Alien SmugglingRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, VI - United States Attorney Delia L. Smith announced today that Lorenzo Ortis Charles, 36, of Tortola, British Virgin Islands, pleaded guilty to smuggling aliens into the United States.
According to court documents, on February 23, 2024, Customs and Border Patrol intercepted a vessel that departed Tortola, BVI and entered United States waters. The vessel, operated by Charles, had no navigational lights as it entered Leinster Bay, St, John. On board the vessel was five individuals who had no legal rights to enter the United States.
This case was investigated by Customs and Border Protection and Homeland Security Investigations and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kimberly M. Riley.
Anesthesiologist Pleads Guilty to Taking Fentanyl from HospitalRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – An anesthesiologist at a Lee’s Summit, Mo., hospital pleaded guilty in federal court today to illegally taking fentanyl from the hospital.
Roman Peplinski, 37, of Kansas City, Mo., waived his right to a grand jury and pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Greg Kays to a federal information that charges him with one count of obtaining a controlled substance by misrepresentation, fraud, forgery, deception, or subterfuge.
Peplinski was employed as an anesthesiologist at Union Hill Group in Kansas City, Mo. Peplinski worked at Lakewood Medical Center in Lee’s Summit and Truman Medical Center in Kansas City, Mo., which are both part of University Health.
Peplinski admitted that he illegally obtained fentanyl from Lakewood Medical Center on Nov. 5, 2022. Peplinski misrepresented the fentanyl was for a patient, when in reality, that patient had been discharged from Lakewood Medical Center earlier that day. Fentanyl was not listed under the “medication orders” on the patient’s chart for the hospital visit.
Peplinski also admitted to withdrawing fentanyl from three vials from Sept. 1, 2022, through Nov. 30, 2022.
On Feb. 16, 2023, personnel from Lakewood Medical Center reported to the Drug Enforcement Administration that three vials of fentanyl in an automated dispensing cabinet showed signs of tampering. In March 2023 seven vials of fentanyl that were suspected of being tampered with were sent to the FDA’s Forensic Chemistry Center where tests were performed on the vials and their contents. Of the seven vials, three showed evidence of being tampered with. One of those vials contained no fentanyl and the other two vials contained a small amount of fentanyl.
The government has no evidence that any patients were harmed as a result of Peplinski tampering with vials of fentanyl.
Under federal statutes, Peplinski is subject to a sentence of up to four years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Bradley Cooper. It was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Food and Drug Administration-Office of Criminal Investigations.
Anchorage man pleads guilty to a child exploitation offenseRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – An Anchorage man pleaded guilty today to attempting to coerce and entice a minor in 2023.
According to court documents, in July 2023, Benjamin Roundy, aka “Aleks” or “Alekzander Marko,” 42, began communicating with an individual he believed was a 13-year-old girl on an online platform, but who was in fact an FBI agent acting in an undercover capacity. Between July 7 and Aug. 4, the defendant discussed multiple topics with the individual, including directions to send sexually explicit content, requests to meet in person and what sexual actions would happen if they met in person.
The defendant arranged to meet in person on Aug. 4 and was subsequently arrested by law enforcement when he attempted to do so.
Following his arrest, law enforcement discovered over 5,500 images and videos depicting child sexual abuse on Roundy’s devices. The investigation also revealed that in July 2017, Roundy uploaded videos depicting child sexual abuse to an online platform.
He is scheduled to be sentenced on a later date and faces a sentencing range of 10 years to life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker of the District of Alaska made the announcement.
The FBI’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force is investigating the case. If anyone has any information concerning Roundy’s actions or may have encountered someone using the name “Aleks” or “Alekzander Marko” in person, via text message on an online messaging app, please contact the FBI Anchorage Field Office at (907) 276-4441 or anonymously at tips.fbi.gov.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Alexander of the District of Alaska and Trial Attorney Rachel L. Rothberg of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) are prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and 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 https://www.justice.gov/psc.
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Wednesday 24 April 2024
Wilmington Man Sentenced to 133 Months in Federal Prison for Selling MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced that a Wilmington man was sentenced today to 133 months in federal prison for trafficking methamphetamine and heroin. The Honorable Colm F. Connolly, Chief Judge, United States District Court for the District of Delaware, imposed the sentence.
According to court documents, Martin Green, age 33, sold crystal methamphetamine to a confidential informant working with the FBI on several occasions between March and May 2023. After searches of Green’s car, home, and storage unit, law enforcement found over 3.5 pounds of crystal methamphetamine and over 4,400 baggies of heroin. Green confessed to selling both drugs in the New Castle County area. Green had three prior state convictions for drug dealing.
U.S. Attorney Weiss stated, “This sentence reflects Mr. Green’s repeated disregard for the rule of law and the severity of his crimes. Drug trafficking is corrosive to our communities. My office will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to prosecute those who choose to profit from illegal drug sales.”
“Martin Green is a repeat offender, who sold methamphetamine and heroin in Delaware again and again, even with children present,” said Special Agent in Charge William J. DelBagno of the FBI’s Baltimore Field Office. “Putting Mr. Green out of business and behind bars for the next 11 years is a win for the people of Delaware. The FBI and our law enforcement partners will not stand by while dangerous and destructive drugs are sold in our communities.”
The case was investigated by FBI's Delaware Violent Crime and Safe Streets Task Force, which is a partnership of law enforcement officers from the FBI, Wilmington Police Department, Delaware State Police, Delaware Probation and Parole, and New Castle County Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander Ibrahim.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 22-CR-45-CFC.
Waukesha Man Sentenced to 30 Years’s Imprisonment for Sex TraffickingRead the Press Release
Gregory J. Haanstad, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on April 23, 2024, Cornelius M. Jackson (age: 35) of Waukesha, Wisconsin, was sentenced to a term of 30 years’ imprisonment, followed by 10 years of supervised release, after being convicted of four counts of sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion, and one count of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking.
In announcing the sentence, United States District Judge Brett Ludwig emphasized that it is “hard to overstate the seriousness” of Jackson’s conduct, describing how Jackson had “manipulated, used violence, and coerced many young women to sell their bodies for the sexual gratification of others” over a period of six years. Judge Ludwig recounted the “mental and physical torture” that Jackson to which subjected his victims, including strangling several of his victims on multiple occasions. He also noted that Jackson’s “real failure to come to grips” with the gravity of his crimes or to take any meaningful responsibility, even at the sentencing hearing, impacted the Court’s sentencing decision.
“The sentence imposed in this case reflects the pervasive and relentless harm Mr. Jackson inflicted on his victims,” said U.S. Attorney Haanstad. “Along with our federal, state, and local partners, we are committed to pursuing justice for Mr. Jackson’s victims, who displayed strength and determination in making sure their stories were heard.”
“Sex trafficking is a horrendous crime, and the FBI is fighting it every day in communities across Wisconsin,” said Milwaukee FBI Special Agent in Charge Michael E. Hensle. “The FBI will continue working side by side with our local and state law enforcement partners to prevent these crimes and bring those responsible like Jackson to justice.”
“Defendants who commit the despicable crime of human trafficking must face severe consequences,” said Attorney General Josh Kaul. “Thank you to the many criminal justice professionals who worked together to secure this sentence and ensure that the public will be protected from the defendant for a long time.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Wisconsin Department of Justice, Division of Criminal Investigation, with the assistance of the Waukesha Police Department, the Milwaukee Police Department, the Oneida Police Department, and the Ashwaubenon Public Safety Department.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Erica J. Lounsberry and Abbey M. Marzick.
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Virginia Woman Pleads Guilty to Distributing Child Pornography in Plot to Molest a Young GirlRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Eleanor Hunton Hoppe, 46, of Charlottesville, Va., today pleaded guilty to distributing child pornography in a plot to molest a young girl. The plea agreement was announced by U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves of the District of Columbia and FBI Special Agent in Charge David J. Scott of the Washington Field Office, and Chief Pamela A. Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department.
Hoppe pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of child pornography before U.S. District Judge Rudolph Contreras, who scheduled sentencing for September 23, 2024. The terms of Hoppe’s plea agreement call for her to serve 135 months in prison and 10 years of supervised release. In addition, she will have to register as a sex offender for a minimum period of 25 years.
According to court documents, in late February 2023, an undercover law enforcement officer encountered Hoppe on a social media site where individuals discuss their sexual interest in children and child sexual abuse material. Hoppe distributed three images of child pornography to the undercover officer and repeatedly expressed an interest in sexually abusing his purported 8-year-old daughter. On March 16, 2023, P Hoppe arranged to have the undercover officer bring his daughter from D.C. to a hotel in Warrenton, Va., where she would meet them to sexually abuse the child. Police arrested Hoppe when she arrived at the hotel.
This case was investigated by detectives from the Metropolitan Police Department’s Youth and Family Services Division, Internet Crimes Against Children Unit, and the FBI’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force.
It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Caroline Burrell and Rachel Forman.
U.S. Attorney’s Office staff strive to make path to re-entry easier for returning citizensRead the Press Release
MIAMI – Hundreds of job seekers recently attended Miami-Dade County’s 305 Second Chance Job & Resource Expo at the Main Library in downtown Miami and United States Attorney’s Office staff were present to provide helpful community resources.
Many job seekers previously had been in prison. That is a major impediment to landing a job with a good company, but couple that with a lack of education and these job seekers are starting out with two strikes against them. That’s why it’s so critical to reduce employment barriers so returning citizens have a chance to become productive. Otherwise, they are much more likely to reoffend and end up right back in prison.
“Many people we saw at the expo were so grateful for the opportunity to apply for jobs and get resource information in one location,” said Law Enforcement Coordination Specialist Mark McKinney, U.S. Attorney’s Office. “You can’t help but feel inspired and want to help them as best you can.”
Approximately 25 employers were onsite to take applications and in some instances conduct on-the-spot interviews. Also available were social services, health and wellness, educational and vocational training, and resume development resources.
“We can bring someone on in as little as a week, depending on the position,” said a recruiting specialist with a local community organization. “Certain positions such as a preschool teacher may need an associate or bachelor’s degree. It just depends on the job they are trying to get.”
In some instances, a criminal record could impact certain job opportunities for returning citizens. However, the Job & Resource Expo showed that there are positions that could be a match for a number of returning citizens. Also, a couple of government programs give prospective employers financial incentives to hire returning citizens—either through bonds or tax credits.
“There appears to be momentum toward helping returning citizens find a living wage and that’s a good thing,” said Law Enforcement Coordination/Community Outreach Section Chief J.D. Smith. “Our office provides resource information to returning citizens and hosts re-entry simulations to educate community members on how difficult re-entry can be. Educating the public is key because many either don’t know or don’t think about the challenges facing returning citizens. We should want them to succeed because when they do better, our communities do better.”
Opportunities to get involved with returning citizens abound.
“We encourage our non-profit and faith-based partners to mentor returning citizens and assist them to overcome re-entry barriers and hurdles,” said Smith.
Hundreds of job seekers attended the recent Miami-Dade County’s 305 Second Chance Job & Resource Expo at the Main Library in downtown Miami. Pictured above, a returning citizen receives resource information from U.S. Attorney’s Office staff.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office and the DEA Host Fentanyl Awareness and Prevention SummitRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – The United States Attorney’s Office along with the Drug Enforcement Administration hosted a community conversation focused on fentanyl awareness and prevention.
Stakeholders from across the Twin Cities, including healthcare advocates, elected officials, outreach workers, community-based organizations, as well as families who have lost loved ones to fentanyl poisoning, convened today to raise awareness about the fentanyl epidemic. The summit included information on current regional drug trends, myths surrounding the fentanyl crisis, and action steps to intervene and help save lives during an overdose situation.
“The goal of this summit is to raise awareness, dispel myths, identify trends and, most importantly, discuss how we as a community can collectively turn the tide on fentanyl deaths in Minnesota,” said United States Attorney Andrew Luger. “I am grateful to the addiction and recovery specialists, the outreach workers, and to the family members who have shared their expertise and their heartbreak. The work must continue. We owe it to our families, our friends, and our communities.”
“The Drug Enforcement Administration is proud to partner with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in an effort to amplify messaging about the dangers of fentanyl in our Minnesota communities,” DEA Omaha Division Special Agent in Charge Steven T. Bell said. “Last year, DEA investigators seized approximately 2.5 million lethal doses of fentanyl in Minnesota. It’s more important than ever that we talk with our loved ones about the consequences that can come from taking just one pill or experimentation with drugs.”
Each year in April, the U.S. Attorney’s Office recognizes National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, which honors crime victims and those who serve them. This year’s theme is “How would you help? Options, services, and hope for crime survivors.” This theme underscores the importance of our individual and collective responsibilities to empower victims through relevant and impactful support services. It highlights the power of collaborative efforts to promote community safety and well-being. For more information please visit: https://ovc.ojp.gov/ncvrw2024/overview
U.S. Attorney’s Office Reaches ADA Settlement with Bennigan’s Restaurant of Mandan, North DakotaRead the Press Release
BISMARCK: United States Attorney Mac Schneider announced today that the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of North Dakota completed its investigation and entered into a settlement agreement with Bennigan’s restaurant of Mandan, North Dakota to resolve allegations that Bennigan’s violated the Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”). Specifically, a complaint alleged that Bennigan’s refused to allow a veteran with a disability who uses a service animal to enter Bennigan’s with their service animal.
During its investigation, the U.S. Attorney’s Office found that the complainant attempted to enter Bennigan’s with their service animal. A Bennigan’s employee told the complainant they were not allowed to have the service animal in the restaurant and incorrectly told the complainant they needed documentation for the service animal.
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act, individuals with disabilities who use service animals may enter places of public accommodations, such as restaurants, with their service animals. The service animal must be allowed in any part of the restaurant customers are normally allowed to be. There is no requirement that individuals with disabilities show any documentation, licensure, or certification, nor is there a requirement that the service animal be wearing any vest, harness, or collar that indicates it is a service animal. A service animal is simply any dog trained to work or perform tasks for individuals with disabilities. If a place of public accommodation is unsure whether an animal is a service animal, under the ADA they may only ask two questions:
- Is the dog a service animal required because of a disability?
- What work or task has the dog been trained to perform?
Under the settlement agreement, Bennigan’s agreed to adopt a service animal non-discrimination policy for its restaurant, provide relevant training to its employees regarding the ADA, post signage indicating service animals are welcome, and pay $1,000 in damages to the complainant.
“People with disabilities who are accompanied by a service animal are entitled to come and go freely in the community,” said United States Attorney Schneider. “Bennigan’s cooperated throughout this investigation, and I commend its commitment to take swift remedial action. The corrective measures agreed to by Bennigan’s will give individuals with disabilities an equal opportunity to enjoy a great restaurant with legendary Irish hospitality in North Dakota, as is required by the ADA. We hope other proprietors will proactively comply with this important civil rights law. Service animals play an important role to ensure the independence of people with disabilities, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to ensuring that individuals with disabilities will have full and equal access to places of public accommodation.”
This matter was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Melissa H. Burkland of the District of North Dakota.
Any member of the public who wishes to file a complaint alleging that any place of public accommodation or public entity in North Dakota is not accessible to persons with disabilities may file a complaint online at www.ada.gov or contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at 701-297-7400.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office Partners with Local Law Enforcement to Commemorate National Crime Victims’ Rights WeekRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Kentucky, along with the Fayette Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, the Fayette County Attorney’s Office, the Lexington Police Department, the Office of the Fayette County Sheriff, and the Federal Bureau of Prison’s Federal Medical Center commemorated 2024’s National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW) (April 22-26, 2024) at the Lexington Crime Victims’ Rights Luncheon.
The luncheon is a collaboration of local law enforcement partners, to raise awareness about crime victims’ issues and rights, and to remind the community of the important resources and services available. In 2022, there were nearly 20 million crime victimizations in the United States. More than 6.6 million were the result of violent crimes, including rape or sexual assault, robbery, and aggravated and simple assault. Of those, only about 42% were reported to police.
This local partnership commemorates and celebrates the advancement of victims’ rights and honors those who have provided outstanding victim service. Awards were given by each agency to recognize the remarkable efforts provided by prosecutors, law enforcement officers, and victim assistance professionals across the Eastern District of Kentucky. The U.S. Attorney’s Office honored Justin Blankenship, an Assistant United States Attorney, with the Office’s Danny Ray Smith Crime Victims’ Rights Award, named after the Office’s first Victim Witness Coordinator. AUSA Blankenship was recognized for his extraordinary efforts in a demanding child exploitation prosecution. Through his dedicated support of the victim and tireless prosecution, the perpetrator was convicted and sentenced to a substantial prison term.
Other award recipients from the Lexington 2024 NCVRW Luncheon include:
- Crystal Happy-Clay, honored by the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office
- Marisol Contreras, honored by the Lexington Police Department
- Debbie Price, honored by the Fayette Commonwealth’s Attorney Office
- Amy Smith-Brantley, honored by the Fayette County Attorney’s Office
- Dr. Megan Schuster, Ph.D., honored by the BOP Federal Medical Center
The Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) of the U.S. Department of Justice leads communities throughout the country in their annual observances of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, by promoting victims’ rights and honoring crime victims and those who advocate on their behalf. This year’s theme -- How Would You Help? -- invites all of us to consider how we can help crime victims, both in our professional and personal capacities. This includes ensuring our criminal justice agencies are victim-centered, trauma-informed, and prepared to help crime victims in every way we can. Personally, we should consider how we might help crime victims by being prepared if someone confides in us about victimization and becoming familiar with the many victim services our communities offer. For more information about help for victims, visit ovc.ojp.gov/help-for-victims/overview.
“Ensuring the rights of victims is critically important to the criminal justice system, and we simply must celebrate and recognize this fundamental support that allows victims’ voices to be heard,” said Carlton S. Shier, IV, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky. “Our Office is proud to partner with members of the law enforcement community to honor this dedicated support, and to renew our full commitment to victims of crime.”
OVC and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, along with our local partners, encourage widespread participation in the week’s events and in other victim-related observances throughout the year. On April 25, 2024, the U.S. Department of Justice will host OVC’s annual National Crime Victims’ Service Awards Ceremony, in Washington, D.C., to honor outstanding individuals and programs that serve victims of crime.
For additional information about this year’s National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, and how to assist victims in your community, please visit the U.S. Attorney’s Office website, at www.justice.gov/usao-edky. For additional ideas on how to support victims of crime, visit OVC’s website at www.ovc.gov.
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U.S. Attorney Recognizes National Crime Victims' Rights WeekRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, Timothy M. O’Shea, is joining with the U.S. Department of Justice, Office for Victims of Crime, in recognizing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, April 21- 27, 2024.
National Crime Victims’ Rights week was established in 1981 to bring greater sensitivity to the needs and rights of victims of crime. The week is an opportunity “to reflect on the importance of making the justice system work for survivors of crime,” said U.S. Attorney O’Shea. “Many people think justice is only a conviction or an arrest, but for survivors, justice means being heard, treated with dignity and respect, and restored to the degree that goal can be achieved through restitution, treatment, and other remedies. My office will continue to strive to honor the voices of crime victims throughout all stages of federal criminal prosecutions.”
U.S. Attorney O’Shea also praised the work of those in law enforcement and in the larger community who support crime victims, “being a crime victim can have lifelong impacts on an individual’s mental and physical health. Providing emotional support and other assistance to crime victims is an invaluable part of providing justice and I applaud those who do this important work.”
More information about Crime Victims’ Rights Week can be found at: https://ovc.ojp.gov/program/national-crime-victims-rights-week/overview.
Two Former Employees of New Jersey Mortgage Lending Business Charged for Roles in Mortgage Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – Two men have been charged in connection with their roles in a large-scale mortgage fraud scheme, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced today.
Christopher J. Gallo, 44, of Old Tappan, New Jersey, and Mehmet A. Elmas, 32, a U.S. citizen who resides in Turkey, are charged by complaint with one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud. They appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge André M. Espinosa in Newark federal court and were each released $200,000 unsecured bond.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
Gallo and Elmas were previously employed by a New Jersey-based, privately owned licensed residential mortgage lending business. Gallo was employed as a senior loan officer and Elmas was a mortgage loan officer and Gallo’s assistant. From 2018 through October 2023, Gallo and Elmas used their positions to conspire and engage in a fraudulent scheme to falsify loan origination documents sent to mortgage lenders in New Jersey and elsewhere, including their former employer, to fraudulently obtain mortgage loans. Gallo and Elmas routinely mislead mortgage lenders about the intended use of properties to fraudulently secure lower mortgage interest rates. Gallo and Elmas often submitted loan applications falsely stating that the listed borrowers were the primary residents of certain proprieties when, in fact, those properties were intended to be used as rental or investment properties.
By fraudulently misleading lenders about the true intended use of the properties, Gallo and Elmas secured and profited from mortgage loans that were approved at lower interest rates. The conspiracy also included falsifying property records, including building safety and financial information of prospective borrowers to facilitate mortgage loan approval. Between 2018 through October 2023, Gallo originated more than $1.4 billion in loans.
The conspiracy to commit bank fraud charge carries a maximum potential penalty of 30 years in prison and a $1 million fine, or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense, whichever is greatest.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge James E. Dennehy in Newark, and special agents of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Robert Manchak, with the investigation leading to today’s arrests.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shontae D. Gray of the Economic Crimes Unit in Newark.
The charges and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
galloelmas.complaint.pdfTwin Falls Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Providing Illegal Firearms, Including “Glock Switches,” to Californian with Cartel TiesRead the Press Release
BOISE – Arthur Michael Rhyne, a/k/a Arthur Michael O’Neil, 41, of Twin Falls, was sentenced to 7 years in federal prison for unlawful possession of firearms, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced today.
According to court records, in August 2023, special agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) began investigating Rhyne for illegally obtaining and shipping firearms. Agents learned that Rhyne attempted to ship a loaded Glock 9mm pistol with a machinegun conversion device, called a “switch,” installed on the Glock. A machinegun conversion device is a device that, when integrated with a semiautomatic firearm, will convert it to fire in fully automatic capacity. This conversion of a Glock pistol with a “switch” machinegun conversion device, for example, will result in a rate-of-fire of approximately 1,100 – 1,200 rounds per minute, making these devices particularly lethal.
In October 2023, ATF agents obtained a federal search warrant for Rhyne’s residence in Twin Falls. Upon searching a safe in the residence, agents located 16 firearms, 14 machinegun conversion devices, 3 high-capacity drum magazines, 3 suppressors, more than 2,100 rounds of ammunition, including armor piercing ammunition, and 78 grams of methamphetamine. In addition to the Glock “switches,” agents also seized “Drop In Auto Sears,” which are machinegun conversion devices designed for a rifle platform firearm.
At the time of his arrest, Rhyne was prohibited from possessing firearms due to a 2008 California conviction for second degree commercial burglary.
According to court filings, Rhyne told agents that he was transferring firearms and ammunition to individuals in California. Rhyne admitted that he was purchasing the items, including Glock switches and silencers from a person overseas and then sending firearms and Glock switches to California. He also discussed armor piercing ammunition located in the safe and said it was purchased for his contact in California. When describing his contact in California who was receiving the firearms, Rhyne described him being a cartel drug dealer and said he believed the guns were going to Mexico.
“Glock switches and similar conversion devices are simple to manufacture and are easy to install. They turn regular firearms into machineguns capable of inflicting a tremendous toll in a few split seconds,” said U.S. Attorney Hurwit. “We will not tolerate the proliferation of the devices on our streets and will use all of our resources to hold accountable anyone who would distribute these deadly and illegal devices.”
“Mr. Rhyne clearly knew he was prohibited from possessing, let alone transferring, machine guns and other firearms and ammunition,” said ATF Seattle Field Division Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Blais. “So, this sentence is well warranted. ATF will continue to investigate those prohibited from possessing firearms and still continue to do so, as well as those who possess these deadly machinegun conversion devices.”
“Today's sentencing marks a significant victory in our ongoing efforts to combat illegal trafficking of these “trigger switches”. By partnering with the ATF, we have demonstrated our unwavering commitment to the goal of safe and secure communities for all,” said Inspector in Charge, Anthony Galetti, of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. “The use and distribution through the mail of these illegal conversion devices poses a serious threat to public safety, and we will continue to work tirelessly to dismantle such operations.”
When sentencing Rhyne, Senior U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill noted the case was “spine chilling.” Judge Winmill stated that by arming people with automatic firearms, silencers, and high-capacity magazines, Rhyne had created a law enforcement officer’s worst nightmare. Judge Winmill also ordered Rhyne to serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence and to forfeit all recovered firearms and ammunition. Rhyne pleaded guilty to the federal charge in December 2023.
U.S. Attorney Hurwit commended the work of the ATF, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the Twin Falls Police Department, for their collaborative work on this case.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Erin Blackadar and Christopher Atwood.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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RhyneA_Government's Sentencing MemoThree Members of a Violent National Gang Convicted of RICO in DetroitRead the Press Release
DETROIT – After a seven-week trial in federal court, a jury convicted three members of the Almighty Vice Lords Nation of a RICO conspiracy that involved a 2020 murder, and other crimes, United States Attorney Dawn N. Ison announced today. Ison was joined in the announcement by James Deir, Special Agent in Charge of the Detroit Field Office of the Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and Detroit Chief of Police James White.
Evidence at trial proved the Almighty Vice Lords Nation (AVLN) was a sprawling criminal enterprise which committed acts of violence, drug dealing, and other crimes, across the country. The trial involved members of the Traveling Vice Lords branch of the AVLN. The jury specifically found that the three men were responsible for a 2020 murder and attempted murder that took place at the Shirley-Plymouth playground on Detroit’s west side. The evidence at trial showed that Davun Baskerville killed J.G., a 29 year old man, in broad daylight in front of his two young children. Baskerville also shot and injured the children’s pregnant mother, who had witnessed the murder. The evidence proved that Terry Douglas and Schuyler Belew, Jr., aided and abetted the murder.
The jury convicted:
- Terry Douglas, 44, of Detroit, who was the Chief of the TVL branch. Douglas was convicted of RICO conspiracy, with a special finding that he was responsible for aiding and abetting the 2020 murder and participating in a conspiracy to distribute more than 280 grams of crack; of aiding and abetting the discharge of a firearm during and in relation to the 2020 murder and attempted murder; of conspiring to distribute more than 280 grams of crack cocaine; and of multiple other gun and drug charges. Douglas is subject to a mandatory 35-year sentence and up to life in prison.
- Schuyler Belew, Jr, 31, of Detroit, who was a leader—what is called a Universal Elite—of the TVLs in Michigan. Belew was convicted of RICO conspiracy, with a special finding that he was responsible for aiding and abetting the 2020 murder and participating in a conspiracy to distribute more than 280 grams of crack; and of aiding and abetting the discharge of a firearm during and in relation to the 2020 murder and attempted murder. Belew faces a mandatory sentence of 20 years and up to life in prison.
- Davun Baskerville, 34, of Detroit, who was the Chief of Security for the TVLs. Baskerville was convicted of RICO conspiracy, with a special finding that he was responsible for the 2020 murder and attempted murder; of discharging a firearm during and in relation to the 2020 murder; and, of discharging a firearm during and in relation to the attempted murder of a witness. Baskerville faces a mandatory sentence of 20 years and up to life in prison.
“Today, a jury delivered justice to the men responsible for a brutal murder that took place in broad daylight in a park where children play,” United States Attorney Dawn N. Ison said. “It gave closure to a mother who was viciously shot in front of her kids. And, hopefully, it sent a clear message to those who are involved in gangs that perpetuate so much violence: stop or we will stop you.”
“Today’s jury verdict finding four more members of the Almighty Vice Lord Nation (AVLN) guilty is proof that ATF Detroit is steadfast in its commitment to disrupt gun violence at its core to ensure every community member has an opportunity to live without the presence of gun violence. These four defendants represent the worst of the worst in our community. They let their individual and collective greed guide their violent pathway straight into federal prison. It should be common knowledge throughout the state of Michigan: violent gang activity will not be tolerated and will be disrupted; change your ways or we’ll help you change them with a drastic change of scenery (federal prison).” said, Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Deir.
“Through collaborating with our federal partners and others across law enforcement, we will continue to bring perpetrators of heinous acts like these to justice, showing our community that violence will not be tolerated in Detroit,” said Chief James E. White. “Together, all of us are making an impact to keep our community safe from violence and hold the bad actors that have been convicted of these crimes accountable.”
The jury convicted a fourth man, Lawon Carter, 36, of Detroit, of possession with the intent to distribute more than 28 grams of crack cocaine, cocaine, and heroin, and two counts of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, but acquitted Carter of RICO conspiracy. Carter faces a mandatory minimum 15 years in prison and up to life.
This is the second trial in less than a year involving the Almighty Vice Lord Nation. In November 2023, three national leaders of the gang were convicted of RICO conspiracy and other crimes in federal court in Detroit.
Suspended DEA Special Agent Sentenced to Four Years in Prison for Taking BribesRead the Press Release
Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that JOHN COSTANZO JR. was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge J. Paul Oetken to four years in prison for participating in a scheme in which his co-defendant, MANUEL RECIO, and others funneled tens of thousands of dollars to COSTANZO in exchange for COSTANZO providing sensitive law enforcement information to assist defense lawyers.
U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “With today’s sentence, John Costanzo Jr. finally faces the consequences of selling his office as part of a bribery scheme. By disclosing sensitive information in exchange for money, Costanzo endangered his fellow officers, interfered in significant criminal investigations, and violated the laws he had sworn to uphold. Such conduct demands serious punishment, and today’s sentence does just that. Let this be a message to all public officials who are tempted to profit illegally from their service — there will be serious consequences.”
According to the evidence presented in court during the trial:
JOHN COSTANZO JR. was a Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”) special agent most recently assigned to DEA Headquarters. He was a Group Supervisor in the DEA’s Miami Field Office until June 2019. MANUEL RECIO is a former DEA special agent who retired as the Assistant Special Agent in Charge for the Miami Field Office in November 2018. Upon his retirement, RECIO began operating his own business, which provided private investigative services to criminal defense attorneys and also helped defense attorneys to recruit clients. From around the time of RECIO’s retirement through around November 2019, RECIO agreed with COSTANZO to provide benefits to COSTANZO in exchange for COSTANZO providing RECIO with nonpublic information about DEA investigations. COSTANZO provided RECIO with information about nonpublic investigations, such as the identities of individuals charged and the anticipated timing of indictments and arrests, and intelligence which COSTANZO obtained from the Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs Information System (“NADDIS”), a DEA database that contains information about individuals who are or have been under investigation by the DEA. RECIO paid COSTANZO for this information, which RECIO used to help recruit new clients for criminal defense attorneys.
Among the benefits paid to COSTANZO were a $2,500 payment made in November 2018, shortly after RECIO’s retirement from the DEA, which was funneled to COSTANZO through a company owned by a close family member of COSTANZO. At the same time that this payment was made, RECIO began asking COSTANZO to run searches in NADDIS to provide RECIO with nonpublic DEA information about DEA targets and investigations. Following that initial payment, RECIO and others continued to provide benefits to COSTANZO, including tens of thousands of dollars that were funneled from RECIO through a company created by a DEA task force officer and $50,000 that was paid to COSTANZO through a close family member for COSTANZO’s purchase of a condominium in January and February 2019.
In return, COSTANZO continued to provide nonpublic DEA information to RECIO, including information about the timing of forthcoming indictments and information about DEA arrest plans of particular targets. COSTANZO also searched NADDIS for names of particular individuals requested by RECIO on dozens of occasions during the scheme and provided RECIO with information and assistance with particular charged defendants represented by attorneys for whom REICO was working. During the scheme, COSTANZO and RECIO took steps to conceal the existence of the scheme, including by structuring the payments from RECIO to COSTANZO through third parties and through COSTANZO’s use of a cellphone provided by RECIO for communications related to the scheme.
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In addition to the prison term, COSTANZO, 49, of Coral Gables, Florida, was sentenced to three years of supervised release and ordered to forfeit $98,250.
Mr. Williams praised the outstanding investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Justice’s Office of the Inspector General and thanked the DEA’s Office of Professional Responsibility for its support in this matter.
The prosecution is being handled by the Office’s Illicit Finance and Money Laundering Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mathew Andrews, Emily Deininger, and Sheb Swett are in charge of the prosecution.
Summerdale Woman Sentenced to More Than Three Years in Prison for Bank Fraud Conspiracy and Aggravated Identity TheftRead the Press Release
MOBILE, AL – A Summerdale woman was sentenced to 37 months in prison for bank fraud conspiracy and aggravated identity theft.
According to court documents, Jamie Danell Putman, 40, pleaded guilty to engaging in a bank fraud conspiracy between March 2022 and July 2023, and stealing other peoples’ identities in furtherance of the scheme. In April 2022, an identity-theft victim from Robertsdale filed a report with Foley police that somebody had unlawfully obtained her driver’s license, social security number, and other identifiers and had used them to open an unauthorized checking account and deposit fraudulent checks in it. Days later, Foley police arrested Putman at a hotel in possession of the victim’s stolen mail and identification documents, as well as several other items of stolen mail, including blank business checks. Putman admitted in a recorded interview that she had stolen the mail and identification documents. Putman admitted that she and several other people would drive around Baldwin County stealing mail, use acetone to “wash” checks, change the payee information on the checks, and then attempt fraudulent in-person and mobile deposits.
In March 2023, after her release from custody, Putman opened a T-Mobile Money bank account and conducted additional fraudulent deposits of counterfeited and forged checks bearing the identifiers of mail-theft victims. In July 2023, Foley police again arrested Putman, who was a passenger in a vehicle being driven by one of her coconspirators. In Putman’s purse, police found several stolen credits, checks, identity documents, and other stolen mail.
In addition to the 37-month prison sentence, Chief United States District Judge Jeffrey U. Beaverstock ordered Putman to serve a five-year term of supervised release, during which time she will undergo drug testing and treatment, will receive mental health evaluation and treatment, and will be subject to credit restrictions. The court did not impose a fine, but Chief Judge Beaverstock ordered Putman to pay $300 in victim restitution and $200 in special assessments.
U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello of the Southern District of Alabama made the announcement.
The United States Postal Inspection Service, the Foley Police Department, the Summerdale Police Department, and the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Roller prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
Serial Bank Robber Admits to Four Bank Robbery ChargesRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE, RI – A Rhode Island man previously convicted of robbing seven banks dating back to 1997, today admitted to a federal judge in Providence that he robbed three banks and attempted to rob a fourth all within a three-day span in January 2021, announced United States Attorney Zachary A. Cunha.
Vaughn Watrous, 47, pleaded guilty today to four counts of bank robbery. The defendant’s sentences will be determined at a future date by a federal district judge after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Watrous admitted to robbing three banks in Providence and Cranston on January 19, 20, and 21, 2021; and attempting to rob a fourth bank in North Providence on January 21, 2021.
According to court records, Watrous was previously convicted of multiple bank robberies in 1997, 2003, and 2013. In 1997 he was convicted in U.S. District Court in Salt Lake City, Utah, on a charge of bank robbery and sentenced to 51 months in federal prison; in 2003 in U.S. District Court in Providence on two counts of bank robbery and sentenced to 76 months of incarceration; and in October 2015 in U.S. District Court in Providence on four counts of bank robbery and sentenced in February 2016 to a term of incarceration of 92 months.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Julianne L. Klein.
The matter was investigated by the FBI, with the assistance of the Providence, Cranston, and North Providence Police Departments.
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Seattle Businessman Charged with Tax Evasion SchemeRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury in Seattle returned an indictment today charging a Washington man with tax evasion and the filing of false tax returns related to a scheme to conceal income received from his commercial property business.
According to the indictment, from at least 2015 to 2020, Steven Loo allegedly controlled and operated eight companies that owned commercial real estate. Each was managed by independent property management companies, which were responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the real estate. Loo allegedly diverted the income he earned from his real estate by instructing the property management companies to issue checks, categorized as asset management fees, to two other entities that Loo controlled. Loo allegedly knew that the funds deposited into these bank accounts, totaling more than $4.8 million, were income to him and that he was required to report and pay tax on the funds. Nevertheless, Loo allegedly filed tax returns for 2015 through 2020 that did not report or pay tax on these funds.
By his conduct, Loo allegedly caused a tax loss to the IRS of over $1.6 million.
If convicted, Loo faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison for each tax evasion counts and a maximum penalty of three years in prison for each of the false tax return counts. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman for the Western District of Washington made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case.
Trial Attorney Regina Jeon of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael Dion and Sean Waite for the Western District of Washington are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Riverview Woman Sentenced for Embezzling $400,000 from Senior CitizensRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – U.S. District Judge Thomas Barber has sentenced Victoria Zerillo (49, Riverview) to 18 months’ imprisonment for wire fraud in connection with her embezzlement of funds from a senior citizen residential community. As part of the sentence, the court also entered an order of forfeiture in the amount of $410,963.78, the proceeds of the wire fraud. Zerillo entered a guilty plea on August 18, 2023.
According to court documents, Zerillo was employed as a general manager of a non-profit that provided HVAC, appliance, and plumbing repair services to members of a senior citizen residential community. From December 2015 through November 2022, Zerillo and others conspired to commit wire fraud and embezzled more than $400,000 from the non-profit by creating false and fraudulent bank statements and destroying records. Zerillo spent the money on personal expenses, including luxury vacations. At sentencing, members of the senior citizen community testified that Zerillo’s embezzlement significantly harmed them financially.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer L. Peresie.
If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has experienced financial fraud, experienced professionals are standing by at the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). This Justice Department hotline, managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, can provide personalized support to callers by assessing the needs of the victim and identifying relevant next steps. Case managers will identify appropriate reporting agencies, provide information to callers to assist them in reporting, connect callers directly with inappropriate agencies and provide resources and referrals, on a case-by-case basis. Reporting is the first step. Reporting can help authorities identify those who commit fraud and reporting certain financial losses due to fraud as soon as possible can increase the likelihood of recovering losses. The hotline is open Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET. English, Spanish and other languages are available.
Repeat Offender Sentenced for Firearms Offense and Possessing Crack Cocaine Near a SchoolRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – DeAngelo Wayne McNeil, 37, of Washington D.C, was sentenced today to 36 months for unlawfully possessing a firearm and, while near a school, possessing cocaine base with the intent to sell it. The sentence, in U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, was announced by U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves.
McNeil pleaded guilty January 24, 2024, to a count of unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession with the intent to distribute cocaine base near schools. In addition to the three-year prison term, Chief U.S. District Judge James E. Boasberg ordered McNeil to serve six years of supervised release.
According to court documents, when he was arrested on September 21, 2023, McNeil was on release in the Superior Court for the District of Columbia for similar conduct: unlawfully possessing a gun and possessing cocaine. He also had a 2018 conviction for possessing a gun and possessing cocaine with the intent to sell it.
Police took McNeil into custody near 1919 I Street, Northeast, which is about 850 feet from Phelps High School, located at 704 26th Street Northeast. Officers recovered a set of vehicle keys in McNeil’s hand. In addition, police found McNeil was carrying nearly 20 grams of a rock-like substance that field tested positive as crack cocaine. In his front left pocket, McNeil was carrying $545.25 in cash and a small digital scale.
McNeil’s car was located nearby. Police searched the vehicle and recovered $4960 in cash and a Glock model 30 .45 caliber semi-automatic pistol from the locked glovebox. The gunwas loaded with one round in the chamber and 12 rounds of ammunition in the magazine.
This case was investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ryan Lipes and Jared English.
Registered Sex Offender Admits New Child Sex CrimeRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – A registered sex offender from northeast Missouri on Wednesday admitted crossing state lines to engage in sex with a minor.
Joshua T. Wilson, 23, of Monroe County, Missouri, pleaded guilty to a charge of transporting a minor across state lines to engage in sexual activity. As part of his guilty plea, Wilson admitted that he met a 16-year-old girl in the spring of 2022. Wilson and the victim began interacting on an almost-daily basis via online apps. They engaged in sexual conversations and exchanged sexual images. Wilson also met the teen for sex, and took her to Kansas, where he engaged in unlawful sexual activity with her.
Wilson is a registered sex offender.
The charge against Wilson carries a mandatory prison term of 10 years, and is punishable by up to 30 years in prison.
The FBI and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Dianna Edwards prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Department of Justice Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Pittsfield Man Charged with Transporting a Minor with Intent to Engage in Criminal Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Pittsfield man was indicted last week by a federal grand jury in Springfield for transporting a minor with intent to engage in sexual activity.
Paul Newton-Irelan, 50, was indicted on one count of transportation of a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity. Newton-Irelan will make an initial appearance in Springfield federal court at a later date.
The indictment alleges that on Nov. 26, 2023, Newton-Irelan transported the minor victim to New York and Massachusetts with the intent that the victim engage in sexual activity.
The charge of possession of transportation of a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity provides for a sentence of no less than 10 years in prison, no less than five years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine.
Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy and Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Catherine G. Curley of the Springfield Branch Office is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Picayune Man Pleads Guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute 13 Grams of FentanylRead the Press Release
Gulfport, MS – A Picayune man pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute 13 grams of fentanyl.
Brandon Lamont Myers, 41, pled guilty in U.S. District Court in Gulfport.
According to court records, on August 14, 2023, law enforcement officers obtained a search warrant for the residence of Brandon Lamont Myers in Pearl River County, Mississippi. Agents seized $61,276 and 13 grams of fentanyl. They also seized a box of clear plastic bags and several digital scales.
According to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, fentanyl is approximately 100 times more potent than morphine and 50 times more potent than heroin. The DEA reports that two milligrams of fentanyl can be lethal, and one kilogram of fentanyl has the potential to kill 500,000 people. More facts on fentanyl can be found at https://www.dea.gov/resources/facts-about-fentanyl and https://www.dea.gov/resources/facts-about-fentanyl.
Myers pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance. He is scheduled to be sentenced on July 30, 2024, and faces up to twenty years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Todd W. Gee of the Southern District of Mississippi, Assistant Special Agent in Charge Anessa Daniels-McCaw of the Drug Enforcement Administration, and Acting Special Agent in Charge Eric DeLaune of Homeland Security Investigations made the announcement.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations and the Picayune Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Erica Rose is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. 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.
Oregon Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Conspiracy to Engage in Animal Crushing Resulting in the Torture, Mutilation and Murder of MonkeysRead the Press Release
EUGENE, Ore.—An Oregon man was sentenced to federal prison today for his role in a conspiracy to torture, mutilate, and murder monkeys, and then produce and distribute videos of those acts in exchange for money raised by an online animal abuse group.
David Christopher Noble, 48, of Prineville, Oregon, was sentenced to 48 months in federal prison and three years’ supervised release.
“The victims in this case cannot speak for themselves, but the impact of the grotesque violence brought upon them is unmistakable. At the direction of David Noble and his co-conspirators, the producers of these animal abuse videos not only killed monkeys but did so in a way that extended their pain and suffering as long as possible,” said Nathan J. Lichvarcik, Chief of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Eugene and Medford Branch Offices. “Today’s sentence should make it clear to others engaged in this heinous conduct that they will be held responsible for their crimes.”
“David Noble's depraved actions not only inflicted unspeakable agony upon innocent creatures but also tainted the very essence of humanity’s moral fiber,” stated Special Agent in Charge Robert Hammer, who oversees HSI operations in the Pacific Northwest. “Under Noble's direction, the production and distribution of grotesque animal abuse videos represented a dark descent into the abyss of cruelty and exploitation. Today’s sentencing underscores our unwavering commitment to holding individuals like Noble accountable for their reprehensible crimes against compassion and decency.”
According to court documents, from January 2022 through February 2023, Noble conspired with others in the District of Oregon and elsewhere to send multiple online payments to co-conspirators overseas to fund the production of videos depicting the torture, mutilation and murder of monkeys. In furtherance of the conspiracy, Noble administered an online group wherein members would raise funds to produce, discuss ideas for, and share animal abuse videos.
In Noble’s messages to the group, he expressed his enjoyment of videos depicting the torture and murder of long-tailed macaques, which members of the group, including Noble, referred to as “rats.” In one message to the group sent in June 2022, Noble expressed that the only thing he did not like in abuse videos was when the torturers “kill the rats too quickly,” and he further expressed a desire that they “keep it alive make it suffer make sure it knows to fear you and that you end its existence at any time.” In another message, Noble claimed “the noises they make from pain and abuse are some of my favorite sounds.”
In 2006, Noble, a former United States Air Force officer, was dismissed from the Air Force and ordered to serve six months in military custody following a court martial for fraud and an unprofessional relationship. In early February 2023, following the investigation in this case, investigators executed a search warrant on Noble’s residence and found approximately 50 videos depicting animal abuse, along with several firearms and ammunition.
On May 18, 2023, a federal grand jury in Eugene returned an indictment charging Noble with conspiring to engage in animal crushing and creating and distributing animal crush videos, creating animal crush videos, and illegally possessing a firearm as a dishonorably discharged person.
After his home was searched, Noble relocated from Prineville to Henderson, Nevada, and, on June 13, 2023, was arrested in Henderson. The next day, he made his first appearance in federal court in Las Vegas and was ordered detained pending his transfer to Oregon. On July 21, 2023, after arriving in Oregon, Noble was again ordered detained based on the nature of his offenses, including the extreme violence associated, and his possession of firearms.
On January 10, 2024, Noble pleaded guilty to conspiring to engage in animal crushing and creating and distributing animal crush videos.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and prosecuted by William M. McLaren and Adam E. Delph, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon.
Ohio Man Sentenced for Meth TraffickingRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Cincinnati, Ohio, man was sentenced in federal court today for carrying thousands of methamphetamine pills aboard a bus traveling through Kansas City, Mo.
Antuan McClendon, 43, was sentenced by U.S. Chief District Judge Beth Phillips to 11 years and three months in federal prison without parole.
On Dec. 21, 2023, McClendon pleaded guilty to possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute.
McClendon was a passenger aboard a bus traveling from Las Vegas, Nevada, to Indianapolis, Indiana, which stopped at a terminal in Kansas City, Mo. McClendon was arrested after a law enforcement drug-sniffing dog alerted to his backpack in an overhead compartment above his seat.
Officers searched McClendon’s backpack and found a large bundle hidden within a pair of jeans. The larger bundle contained three smaller bundles, each of which contained multi-colored tablets inside clear heat-sealed bags. In total, the bundles contained 8,288 methamphetamine tablets, which weighed a total of 2,899 grams.
McClendon admitted to officers that he had purchased the pills in Las Vegas and planned to sell them for $1 apiece.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stefan C. Hughes. It was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration.