Latest Records
Newest first across public DOJ and U.S. Attorney press releases.
31 May 2024
Binghamton Man Sentenced on Federal Gun and Drug ConvictionsRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Dupray Jordan, 34, of Binghamton, was sentenced yesterday to serve 97 months in federal prison for possessing fentanyl and methamphetamine with intent to distribute, possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon, announced United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman, Bryan Miller, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Division of the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), and Sergeant Daniel VanWie of the Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force (BCSIUTF).
In pleading guilty previously, Jordan admitted that he possessed for distribution methamphetamine and fentanyl, as well as a loaded .38 caliber revolver in a Binghamton apartment on November 12, 2021. Jordan threw the gun to the ground as police entered to execute a search warrant at the apartment on that date. The defendant was at that time a convicted felon, having previously been convicted in New York state court of Assault in the Second Degree.
Dupray Jordan was also sentenced yesterday to serve a post-incarceration term of supervised release of 3 years following his release from federal prison.
This case was investigated by the Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force, (consisting of members of the City of Binghamton Police Department, the Broome County Sheriff’s Department, and the Johnson City Police Department), the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the United States Postal Inspection Service. The Broome County Metro SWAT Team assisted in the execution of the search warrant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard Southwick prosecuted this case as 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.
Atchison man charged with sex traffickingRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A Kansas man made his initial appearance after a federal grand jury in Kansas City, Kansas, indicted him on multiple charges related to sex trafficking multiple victims, including children.
According to court documents, Elijah Z. Haley, 21, of Atchison was indicted on two counts of sex trafficking of a child, two counts of sex trafficking accomplished by force, fraud, or coercion, two counts of transportation with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity, and two counts of transportation for illegal sexual activity.
The defendant made his initial court appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Angel D. Mitchell of the U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Kansas Highway Patrol, Atchison, Kansas Police Department, and the Boone County, Missouri Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Audrey McCormick is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
###As MMIP Awareness Month Draws to a Close, U.S. Attorney's Office Reaffirms Its Commitment to Public Safety in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - It has long been a priority of the U.S. Attorney’s Office to address the disproportionately high rates of violence experienced by Native Americans living in reservations in our state, and relatedly, the high rates of indigenous persons reported missing. As Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons (MMIP) Awareness Month draws to a close, the U.S. Attorney’s Office renews its commitment to work with federal, tribal, state, and local law enforcement partners to respond to the crisis of violence and abuse in our tribal communities with the urgency these matters demand.
In the last year, the U.S. Attorney’s Office has demonstrated its commitment by securing additional resources for Indian country prosecutors, including an MMIP AUSA that is now located in Pierre and serving the Great Plains Region. We have resolved previously unsolved cases, including the 1992 murder of a minor victim in Roberts County. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregg Peterman served as a Department of Justice representative on the Not Invisible Act Commission, which held seven in-person hearings and one national virtual hearing. In all, the Commission heard from 260 witnesses who shared their suffering and hope, expertise, experiences, and recommendations. In November of 2023, the Commission published “Not One More: Findings & Recommendations of the Not Invisible Act Commission,” which detailed their findings and included hundreds of recommendations to the Departments of Justice and Interior. As Chair of the AGAC’s Native American Issues Subcommittee, U.S. Attorney Ramsdell participated in and led national conversations about the Department of Justice’s response to this report, including at the White House Tribal Nations Summit in December 2023.
And throughout the year, the U.S. Attorney’s Office engaged in regular outreach to tribal communities to address MMIP issues and other public safety concerns, including at tribal council meetings, school assemblies, tribal law enforcement trainings, tribally organized conferences, and community forums. Lastly, federal prosecutors and victim witness specialists engaged in monthly multi-disciplinary team (MDT) meetings in each reservation, and the District’s Law Enforcement Coordinator joined with federal prosecutors and investigators to conduct in-person opioid training for federal, tribal, state, and local law enforcement in Rosebud, Eagle Butte, Pine Ridge, Yankton, and Mobridge.
Most recently, on May 14, 2024, the U.S. Attorney’s Office hosted a Tribal MMIP Summit in Pierre, SD, to introduce tribal leaders to the concept of Tribal Community Response Plans (TCRP), which are guides for how tribal communities will respond to reports of missing persons. Importantly, the development of these plans is led by Tribes, allowing each Tribe to incorporate culturally appropriate protocols into every aspect of the TCRP. Leadership from all nine South Dakota Tribes were invited to the Summit, where participants heard presentations from federal and state law enforcement partners, including the FBI, U.S. Marshal’s Service, Social Security Administration, and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, as well as prosecutors and personnel from within the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the South Dakota Attorney General’s Office.
Participants also heard from members of the Fort Peck Tribes, including Fort Peck’s chief tribal judge, lead criminal investigator, and Chief of Police, who jointly discussed the challenges and advantages to developing a TCRP and other opportunities for cross-jurisdictional collaboration with state and federal partners. Lastly, representatives from the National Criminal Justice Training Center of Fox Valley Technical College were in attendance to discuss training and technical assistance available to Tribes, including resources to assist with the development of TCRPs. Representatives also discussed the availability of AMBER Alert training to improve the investigative response of local law enforcement to high-risk victims and children in crisis. As part of this outreach, each Tribe received AMBER Alert in Indian Country Toolkits, which will assist officers in quickly gathering necessary information to ensure AMBER Alerts and NCIC entries include as much information as possible. Items included tools such as mobile printers, scanners, and hotspots.
This engagement follows on decades of work by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of South Dakota to develop meaningful relationships with tribal leaders and their communities. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office has been unwavering in its commitment to improving public safety in Indian country,” said U.S. Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell. “We remain committed to listening closely to tribal communities and working collaboratively with our federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement partners to address public safety concerns throughout Indian country.”
Art Dealer Found Guilty of Embezzling More Than $260,000 from the Bankruptcy Estate of Miracle Mile and Beverly Hills Art GalleryRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – An internationally-known art dealer was found guilty by a jury today of embezzling more than $260,000 from the bankruptcy estate of Ace Gallery Los Angeles, an art gallery located in Beverly Hills and Los Angeles, while acting as the estate’s trustee and custodian.
Douglas J. Chrismas, 80, of the Mid-Wilshire area of Los Angeles, was found guilty of three counts of embezzlement against a bankruptcy estate.
Chrismas was the president and CEO of Art and Architecture Books of the 21st Century, which did business as Ace Gallery and had offices located in the Miracle Mile area of Los Angeles as well as in Beverly Hills.
According to evidence presented at a four-day trial, in February 2013, Ace Gallery filed a Chapter 11 bankruptcy petition in Los Angeles and continued to operate while in bankruptcy with Chrismas acting as its fiduciary and trustee. Chrismas remained in control over Ace Gallery until April 2016, when the bankrutpcy court appointed an independent trustee to run Ace Gallery’s bankruptcy estate and Chrismas was removed.
In late March and early April of 2016, Chrismas embezzled approximately $264,595 that belonged to the Ace Gallery bankruptcy estate, including a $50,000 check that Chrismas signed, was drawn against the estate, and was paid to Ace Museum, a separate non-profit corporation that Chrismas owned and controlled.
Chrismas also embezzled $100,000 owed to Ace Gallery by a third party for the purchase of artwork. Instead, the funds were paid – at his direction – to Ace Museum. Finally, Chrismas embezzled approximately $114,595 owed to the gallery by a third party that purchased artwork, but which Chrismas instead had paid to Ace Museum’s landlord to keep current with its $225,000 monthly rent.
United States District Judge Mark C. Scarsi scheduled a September 9 sentencing hearing, at which time Chrismas will face a statutory maximum sentence of five years in federal prison for each count.
The FBI’s Art Crime Team investigated this matter.
Assistant United States Attorneys Valerie L. Makarewicz of the Major Frauds Section and David W. Williams of the Criminal Appeals Section are prosecuting this case.
Arcadia Man and Eight Co-Conspirators Sentenced for Committing Multiple Armed Robberies, Home Invasions, Shootings While Dressed as Police OfficersRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Kathryn Mizelle today sentenced Darius Hudson (44, Arcadia) to 39 years and 2 months in federal prison for conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery, three separate Hobbs Act robberies, and brandishing and discharging a firearm during the commission of those robberies. On January 22, 2024, a federal found Hudson guilty as charged. He is the last of his co-conspirators to be sentenced in the conspiracy.
Name
(Age, City of residence)
Sentence Imposed
Reginald Roberts, Jr.
a/k/a “Rudy”
(24, Lakeland)
41 years
Darius Hudson
a/k/a “Toot”
(44, Arcadia)
39 years, 2 months
Nathaniel Keith Carr
a/k/a “Nate”
(24, Avon Park)
26 years, 6 months
Daniel Jackson
a/k/a “D-Jack”
(31, Winter Haven)
22 years, 11 months
Chrishawn Butler
a/k/a “Baby”
(24, Bartow)
20 years, 6 months
Jeremy Bernard Hazelton
“Presto”
(28, Bartow)
15 years, 8 months
O’Marie Danyell Hudson
a/k/a “Mari”
(26, Orlando)
11 years, 3 months
Jasmine Weber
(30, Deltona)
5 years
Elyana Bazail
a/k/a Cuban
(25, Lakeland)
5 years
According to evidence introduced during the trial, between December 2020 and April 2021, a group of individuals conspired with each other to commit armed robberies throughout Pasco, Polk, Lee, and Hillsborough counties, as well as Georgia and Arizona. Members of this conspiracy, including Hudson, impersonated law enforcement officers by wearing black clothing, gloves, and masks, often with law enforcement insignia, or vests with “Sheriff” affixed. They drove a black SUV equipped with lights, and often handcuffed their victims. During these robberies, victims and their family members were awoken in the middle of the night at home, beaten, pistol whipped, threatened, and, on several occasions, shot. Hudson was identified as the individual who brought a white backpack to his robberies, which he used to store zip ties that he would later use on his victims.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, the Bartow Police Department, the Lakeland Police Department, the Dade City Police Department, the Cape Coral Police Department, the Pasco Sheriff’s Office, the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office, the Arcadia Police Department, and the Florida Highway Patrol. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Diego F. Novaes.
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.
Amherst man convicted of multiple charges by a federal jury going to prison for more than 25 yearsRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Tyrone Pennick, 48, of Amherst, NY, who was convicted by a federal jury of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, 500 grams or more of cocaine, possession with intent to distribute, and to distribute, 500 grams or more of cocaine, maintaining a drug premises for the purpose of manufacturing and distributing cocaine, and for committing drug felonies while on conditions of pre-trial release, was sentenced to serve 310 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel L. Violanti, who handled the prosecution of the case at trial, stated that on November 17, 2016, the Erie County Sheriff’s Office conducted surveillance in the area of Pennick’s residence at 489 Emerson Drive in Amherst. Investigators observed a female leaving the residence carrying an open-top, tote style bag and entering a maroon colored Ford Flex. Investigators continued to monitor the vehicle and noted that Smith began watching the surveillance vehicle closely in the rearview mirror. Smith subsequently began driving in an erratic manor at which point the defendant was observed reaching to the backseat area and moving the tote bag to the front seat. Investigators activated their emergency lights and conducted a traffic stop of the vehicle. Smith was detained and investigators removed what appeared to be two containers containing suspected cocaine from the tote bag.
A search warrant was then executed at Pennick’s residence at 489 Emerson Drive. Investigators recovered a metal press, digital scale, packaging material, a box of rubber gloves, a plastic bag containing disposable dust masks, a vacuum sealer, and a vacuum sealed bag containing $49,990 in U.S. currency concealed in the dishwasher.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Erie County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff John Garcia, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia; and the United States Probation Department, under the direction of Chief Probation Officer Timothy Englert.
# # # #
Akron Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal Prison for Second Meth Conspiracy ConvictionRead the Press Release
A man who conspired to distribute methamphetamine was sentenced in federal court in Sioux City on May 30, 2024, to 30 years’ imprisonment.
Britt Lander, 42, from Akron, Iowa, was convicted by a jury on December 6, 2023, of conspiring to distribute more than 50 grams of pure methamphetamine. In 2012, Lander was previously convicted of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Iowa.
The evidence at trial and sentencing showed that Lander, along with others, conspired to receive at least 88 pounds of methamphetamine by mail and vehicle transport from California and Mexico to distribute in the Sioux City and Akron, Iowa areas. Evidence also showed Lander assisted in unloading 5 to 15 pound loads of methamphetamine, and audio/video recordings showed Lander and another using cutting tools to remove 7 kilograms (roughly 15 pounds) of methamphetamine from inside a spare tire that was used to transport the methamphetamine from Mexico.
Sentencing was held before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand. Lander was sentenced to 30 years’ imprisonment and must serve term of 10 years supervised release following imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. Lander remains in custody of the United States Marshal until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn S. Wehde and was investigated by the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Tri-State Drug Task Force based in Sioux City, Iowa, that consists of law enforcement personnel from the Drug Enforcement Administration; Sioux City Police Department; Homeland Security Investigations; Woodbury County Sheriff’s Office; South Sioux City, Nebraska, Police Department; Nebraska State Patrol; Iowa National Guard; Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; United States Marshals Service; and Woodbury County Attorney’s Office.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 22-4071. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Adair County Resident Sentenced for Involuntary Manslaughter in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Bradley Jordan Eagle-Tate, age 31, of Stilwell, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 36 months imprisonment for one count of Involuntary Manslaughter in Indian Country.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
On September 22, 2023, Eagle-Tate pleaded guilty to the crime.
According to investigators, on June 27, 2022, Eagle-Tate crossed into the oncoming lane of Oklahoma Highway 100 in a no-passing zone, clipping one vehicle before colliding head-on with a second vehicle. The driver of the second vehicle died at the scene, and a passenger in the first vehicle was left seriously injured. Eagle-Tate admitted during the plea hearing that he had multiple drugs in his system at the time of the collision and failed to devote full time and attention while driving his motor vehicle. The crime occurred in Adair County, within the boundaries of the Cherokee Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, Chief Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. Eagle-Tate will remain in custody of the U.S. Marshal pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.
Assistant United States Attorney Kevin Gross represented the United States.
30 May 2024
Yazoo City Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – A Yazoo City man pled guilty today to possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
According to court documents, Desmond Robinson, 28, was found in possession of a firearm during a traffic stop conducted by the Yazoo City Police Department.
Robinson is scheduled to be sentenced on September 4, 2024, and faces a maximum penalty of 15 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 and Special Agent in Charge Robert A. Eikhoff of the Federal Bureau of Investigation made the announcement.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Samuel Goff is prosecuting the case.
This case was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Woodbridge man pleads guilty to fraudulent check schemeRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A Woodbridge man pled guilty today to conspiracy to commit bank fraud.
According to court documents, from August 2021 to July 2022, Jason Banks, 27, participated in a scheme to defraud banks by cashing or depositing fraudulent checks. At least one conspirator had obtained a U.S. Postal Service (USPS) arrow key, used by mail carriers to unlock USPS collection boxes, apartment panels, or parcel lockers. The conspirators used the key to steal mail, much of which included checks.
The conspirators created fraudulent checks, either by altering stolen checks or using information from stolen checks to create new fraudulent checks. Banks recruited accountholders who would share their bank account, PIN, and personally identifying information with him, which he would then provide to another conspirator. That conspirator supplied at least one fraudulent paper check to Banks or the other accountholders, who would deposit the fraudulent checks into their accounts. At other times, a conspirator would electronically deposit the fraudulent checks into the accounts of one of the other accountholders.
After the fraud proceeds were deposited, Banks coordinated the transfer of the funds to himself, from which he generally took a percentage and forwarded the rest of the funds to other conspirators.
The overall bank fraud conspiracy caused an actual loss of at least $501,096.15. Banks recruited at least four people to provide their bank account and personally identifying information to the conspirators and shared the personal identifying information of at least 25 individuals, some of whom were victims of identity theft.
Banks is scheduled to be sentenced on Aug. 28 and faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; David J. Scott, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Washington Field Office's Criminal and Cyber Division; Kevin Davis, Fairfax County Chief of Police; Ajay Lall, Acting Inspector in Charge of the Washington Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service; and Troy W. Springer, Special Agent in Charge of the National Capital Region, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General, made the announcement after Senior U.S. District Judge Anthony J. Trenga accepted the plea.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kimberly Shartar and Kathleen Robeson are prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:24-cr-91.
Weber County Man Behind Bars Following Death Allegedly Caused by FentanylRead the Press Release
Salt Lake City, Utah – A United States Magistrate Judge ordered a Weber County resident to remain in custody following the alleged sell of fentanyl laced pills that led to the death of another person. On May 8, 2024, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging the defendant.
According to court documents, Cullin Anthony Bullen, 37, of Roy, Utah, was contacted on December 19, 2023, by the victim in a death resulting drug case. As alleged, the victim was purchased “roxies,” which is slang for Roxicodone prescription pills. Bullen purchased 25-30 pills from a third individual for $20 each. Bullen then sold the “roxies” to the victim for $25 per pill. On December 20, 2023, the victim was found dead. The medical examiner’s preliminary report determined the cause of the victim’s death was fentanyl intoxication.
Bullen is charged with distribution of fentanyl resulting in death. His initial court appearance on the indictment was May 29, 2024, at the United States District Courthouse in downtown Salt Lake City.
U.S. Attorney, Trina A. Higgins, of the District of Utah made the announcement.
The case is being investigated jointly by the United States Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) and the Tremonton City Police Department.
Special Assistant United States Attorney Ryan N. Holtan of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Vallejo Man Sentenced to over 16 Years in Prison for Selling Methamphetamine and Possession of FirearmsRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Clarence Courtney, 58, of Vallejo, was sentenced today to 16 years and three months in prison for distribution of methamphetamine and possession of a firearm by a felon, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, on three occasions in late 2020, Courtney sourced 100% pure methamphetamine to co-defendant Michael Renay Williams, 62, of Vallejo, who then sold the methamphetamine to an undercover agent. Courtney and Williams possessed more than 3 pounds of methamphetamine upon their arrest. Inside Courtney’s residence, law enforcement seized 200 rounds of ammunition, a Remington 12-gauge shotgun, and an AR-style sniper rifle with no serial number. Courtney, who has four prior felony convictions, was not permitted to possess firearms.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Vallejo Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron Desmond prosecuted the case.
On March 30, 2023, co-defendant Williams pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. He is scheduled to be sentenced on June 20, 2024.
This case was the result of Operation PEACE, an initiative launched in Vallejo in August 2020 in response to the increased number of homicides, nonfatal shootings, and other violent crimes. Operation PEACE leverages the strength of the federal and local law enforcement agencies by focusing enforcement operations on violent criminals, including those responsible for murders and shootings, and targets those involved in drug trafficking and firearms trafficking.
Utica Man Pleads Guilty to Drug and Money Laundering ChargesRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Willie Alvarado, Jr., age 33, of Utica, New York, pled guilty yesterday to attempted possession with intent to distribute over 500 grams of cocaine, and money laundering.
United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and Frank A. Tarentino III, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) New York Division made the announcement.
In pleading guilty, Alvarado admitted that, as early as October 2022, he began using the United States Postal Service to receive drug parcels from Puerto Rico. In May of 2023, law enforcement intercepted a package shipped from Puerto Rico and intended for Alvarado which contained two kilograms of cocaine. Alvarado intended to distribute the cocaine upon receipt of the package. Alvarado further admitted that, in September of 2023, he used another individual to launder at least $9,940 of his drug proceeds in an attempt to hide the true source of that money.
At sentencing, Alvarado will face a mandatory minimum of 5 years and a maximum of 40 years in federal prison, a fine of up to $5,000,000, and a term of supervised release of at least 5 years and up to life. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), and United States Postal Inspection Service are investigating the case with assistance from the New York State Police, Utica Police Department, Oneida County Sheriff’s Office, Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office, Syracuse Police Department, U.S. Immigration and Customs and Enforcement, and Onondaga County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica N. Carbone is prosecuting the case.
U.S. Attorney’s Office and Fulton County District Attorney Office Launch Summer Youth Mentorship ProgramRead the Press Release
ATLANTA – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia in partnership with the Fulton County District Attorney’s Office will launch the fourth annual Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Credible Messenger Youth Summer Violence Intervention Program (“Summer Mentorship Program”). The kick-off for this year’s program will be held on May 31, 2024, at the Atlanta Technical College Preparatory Academy.
“This intensive mentoring program is an investment in our youth that will offer a solid foothold on a path to economic, social, and educational opportunities, while keeping them engaged over the summer,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan. “Our continued partnerships with community leaders, law enforcement, and families are all vital to successfully reducing recidivism and improving community safety.”
“Every summer during my time as District Attorney, our team has joined with U.S. Attorney Ryan Buchanan and his team to bring the Credible Messenger Program to at-risk youth in Fulton County,” said Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis. “Our cooperative efforts have made a real difference in getting kids back on track, and we look forward to another summer of working with kids and making Fulton County a safer, more just place for everyone.”
“Community involvement remains the key to maintaining an environment of structure and accountability for our at-risk youth,” said Shawanda Reynolds-Cobb, Commissioner of the Department of Juvenile Justice. “Over the past several years, Project Safe Neighborhood has become an invaluable tool in promoting positive outcomes through reduced recidivism.”
The Summer Mentorship Program will engage youth between the ages of 15 and 19 who are on felony probation, in a 10-week intensive mentorship initiative. Through 10 hours of mentor engagement per week, youth will participate in support forums, career readiness training, community engagement, and an evidence-based, cognitive-behavioral, life-skills session utilizing the Forward Thinking and Project EGRESS curriculum. This year, participants will also be encouraged to simultaneously enroll in Atlanta Technical College’s Dual Achievement Program to earn a high school diploma while also obtaining a technical certificate in a specific career pathway. Youth who actively participate each day will also receive a weekly stipend for their work.
This initiative is being implemented by the Southeast Credible Messengers and the PSN Prevention and Reentry program of the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Southeast Credible Messengers is a community-based collaboration between organizations and individuals working together to achieve common goals: positive youth and young adult mentorship, recidivism reduction, public safety, and family & community engagement. The Southeast Credible Messenger team for this initiative is led by the Offender Alumni Association (OAA), Inc.
We would also like to thank leadership from the Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice Office of Reentry Services, Fulton County Juvenile Court, the City of Atlanta Cure Violence Initiative, the Credible Messenger Mentoring Movement (CM3), Emerging 100 of Atlanta, the Rocket Foundation, and the local business community for their continued partnership and support of the summer program.
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.
U.S. Attorney Will Thompson to Announce Guilty Plea by Former Williamson Mayor and Hospital CEORead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Will Thompson will join with law enforcement officials on Thursday, May 30, 2024, at 4 p.m. for a press conference to discuss the guilty plea scheduled earlier in the afternoon in U.S. vs. Charles Hatfield.
WHAT: Press Conference for U.S. vs. Charles Hatfield
WHEN: Thursday, May 30, 2024, at 4 p.m.
WHERE: Front Plaza, Robert C. Byrd U.S. Courthouse, Charleston
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia.
###
Two Plead Guilty to Making False Statements to Government InvestigatorsRead the Press Release
CONCORD – An Amherst man and a Bedford woman pleaded guilty in federal court to charges arising out of their making false statements to the Veterans Administration (VA) during its investigation into StoneMakers Academy, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
David Montoya, 64, and Rhonda Simpson, 55, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to make false statements to a government agency. U.S. District Court Judge Paul Barbadoro scheduled sentencing for Simpson on September 11, 2024 and for Montoya on September 24, 2024.
Montoya was the owner and president of StoneMakers Corporation, while Simpson served as its registered agent, vice president, and in-house counsel. From its inception, a portion of StoneMakers Corporation’s business involved marketing and selling training in its concrete landscape methods under the name StoneMakers Academy. StoneMakers Academy was enrolled with the VA such that the VA would pay tuition and fee payments for eligible veterans under the Post 9/11 GI Bill. A school is ordinarily eligible to receive tuition payments for veteran students in a particular course only if the students receiving benefits total no more than 85% of the total amount of students who are enrolled in that course. That is, a school is not eligible to receive tuition payments unless at least 15% of the students who are enrolled in the course are non-veterans who are not receiving discounts to their tuition. This is commonly known as the “85-15 Rule.” In addition, a school may not charge more for veterans to attend a course than it charges civilians to attend the same course. Any school that violates “the same tuition rule” is subject to suspension or dismissal from the program.
In or about January 2018, the VA Office of Inspector General (VA-OIG) commenced an investigation into StoneMakers Academy’s receipt of VA tuition assistance funds for the purpose of providing education and training to eligible veterans. The defendants took steps to conceal StoneMakers Academy’s past violations of the 85/15 Rule and same tuition rule from the VA-OIG, including through the creation of false and misleading documents to conceal the fact that past educational programs offered by StoneMakers Academy had been in violation of the 85-15 Rule.
The charging statute provides a sentence of no greater than 5 years in prison, 3 years of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
The VA-OIG led the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Charles L. Rombeau and Raphael Katz are prosecuting the case.
###
Two Estonian defendants indicted in massive cryptocurrency Ponzi scheme extradited to U.S.Read the Press Release
Seattle –Two Estonian citizens will appear in U.S. District Court in Seattle at 2:00 PM today following their extradition from Estonia, announced U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman.
Sergei Potapenko and Ivan Turõgin, both 39, were arrested in Tallinn, Estonia on November 20, 2022, on an 18-count indictment from the Western District of Washington charging conspiracy, wire fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering. The Estonian government authorized extradition. Late last week the Estonian Supreme Court declined to intervene in the extradition proceeding, clearing the way for the defendants’ removal to the United States. The FBI escorted the defendants to the United States.
According to the indictment, Potapenko and Turõgin, are alleged to have induced hundreds of thousands of victims to purchase contracts in a cryptocurrency mining service called HashFlare. Victims paid more than $575 million to the defendants’ companies. The defendants then used shell companies to launder the fraud proceeds and to purchase real estate and luxury cars.
According to the indictment, Potapenko and Turõgin claimed that their business, HashFlare, operated a massive cryptocurrency mining operation. Cryptocurrency mining is the process of using computers to generate cryptocurrency, such as Bitcoin, for profit. The defendants offered contracts under which customers could pay a fee to rent a percentage of HashFlare’s mining operations in exchange for the virtual currency produced by their portion of the operation. Customers from around the world, including from western Washington, bought more than $550 million worth of HashFlare contracts between 2015 and 2019.
HashFlare allegedly did not have the virtual currency mining equipment it claimed to have. In fact, according to the indictment, HashFlare’s equipment performed Bitcoin mining at a rate of less than one percent of the computing power it purported to have. When investors asked to withdraw their mining proceeds, the defendants were not able to pay with the mined currency as promised. Instead, the defendants either resisted making the payments, or paid off the investors using virtual currency the defendants had purchased on the open market—not currency they had mined. HashFlare closed its operations in 2019.
In May 2017, Potapenko and Turõgin offered investments in a company called Polybius, which they said would form a bank specializing in virtual currency. The defendants promised to pay investors dividends from Polybius’ profits. The men raised at least $25 million in this scheme and transferred most of the money to other bank accounts and virtual currency wallets they controlled. Polybius never formed a bank or paid any dividends.
The indictment also charges the defendants with conspiring to launder their criminal proceeds by using shell companies and phony contracts and invoices. The indictment alleges that the money laundering conspiracy involved at least 75 real properties, six luxury vehicles, cryptocurrency wallets, and thousands of cryptocurrency mining machines.
The men are charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, 16 counts of wire fraud, and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering. Each of these crimes is punishable by up to 20 years in prison.
The charges contained in the indictment are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The FBI is investigating the case.
The United States thanks the Cybercrime Bureau of the National Criminal Police of the Estonian Police and Border Guard for its support with this investigation. The U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs (OIA) provided extensive assistance to the investigation and in securing the arrests and extraditions. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) assisted in facilitating the defendants’ entrance to the United States.
This investigation and arrests demonstrate the great cooperation between U.S. and Estonian law enforcement. Estonia has been a crucial ally to disrupt this cyber-enabled crime, and the United States thanks the Estonians for their continued assistance.
Assistant United States Attorneys Seth Wilkinson and Sok Jiang of the Western District of Washington, and Trial Attorneys Adrienne E. Rosen and David Ginensky of DOJ’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section are prosecuting the case. Assistant United States Attorney Jehiel Baer of the Western District of Washington is handling asset forfeiture aspects of the case.
Individuals who believe they may have been a victim in this case should visit www.fbi.gov/hashflare for more information.
Two Estonian Nationals Extradited from Estonia to the United States for $575M Cryptocurrency Fraud and Money Laundering SchemeRead the Press Release
Two Estonian nationals will make their initial appearance in the U.S. District Court in Seattle at 5:00 p.m. EDT today following their extradition from Estonia to the United States to face criminal charges related to their roles in a massive multi-faceted cryptocurrency Ponzi scheme.
Sergei Potapenko and Ivan Turõgin, both 39, were arrested on Nov. 20, 2022, in Tallinn, Estonia, on an 18-count indictment filed in the Western District of Washington.
According to the indictment, Potapenko and Turõgin allegedly induced hundreds of thousands of victims to purchase contracts entitling them to a share of virtual currency mined by the defendants’ purported cryptocurrency mining service, HashFlare. Potapenko and Turõgin allegedly claimed HashFlare operated a massive cryptocurrency mining operation. Cryptocurrency mining is the process of using computers to generate cryptocurrency, such as Bitcoin, for profit. Potapenko and Turõgin allegedly offered contracts which, for a fee, allowed customers to rent a percentage of HashFlare’s purported mining capacity. In exchange, HashFlare agreed to pay out the virtual currency produced by the contract holders’ portion of the operation. Between 2015 and 2019, customers from around the world allegedly entered into more than $550 million worth of HashFlare contracts.
However, HashFlare allegedly did not have the virtual currency mining equipment it professed to have and engaged in less than one percent of the Bitcoin mining activity it claimed. According to the indictment, when investors asked to withdraw their mining proceeds, Potapenko and Turõgin could not pay the investors with the mined currency they had promised. Instead, Potapenko and Turõgin either resisted making the payments or paid off the investors using virtual currency they purchased on the open market—not currency they had mined. According to the indictment, Hashflare continued offering contracts for virtual currency mining through August 2019.
In May 2017, Potapenko and Turõgin offered investments in a company called Polybius, which they said would form a bank specializing in virtual currency. Potapenko and Turõgin allegedly promised to pay investors dividends from Polybius’ profits. Potapenko and Turõgin raised at least $25 million and used approximately $7 million of HashFlare proceeds in this scheme and allegedly transferred most of the money to other bank accounts and virtual currency wallets they and their co-conspirators controlled. Polybius never formed a bank or paid any dividends.
Victims of the defendants’ schemes paid more than $575 million to the Potapenko and Turõgin companies. Potapenko and Turõgin allegedly used shell companies and phony contracts and invoices to launder the fraud proceeds and to purchase real estate and luxury cars. The indictment alleges that the money laundering conspiracy involved at least 75 real properties, six luxury vehicles, cryptocurrency wallets, and thousands of cryptocurrency mining machines.
Potapenko and Turõgin are charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, 16 counts of wire fraud, and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering. If convicted, they each face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison on each count.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman for the Western District of Washington; Assistant Director Michael D. Nordwall of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division; and Special Agent in Charge Richard A. Collodi of the FBI Seattle Field Office made the announcement.
The FBI is investigating the case.
The United States thanks the Cybercrime Bureau of the National Criminal Police of the Estonian Police and Border Guard for its support with the investigation. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided significant investigative assistance and in securing the arrest and extradition of Potapenko and Turõgin. U.S. Customs and Border Protection also assisted in facilitating the defendants’ entrance to the United States.
Trial Attorneys Adrienne E. Rosen and David Ginensky of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Seth Wilkinson and Sok Jiang for the Western District of Washington are prosecuting the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jehiel Baer for the Western District of Washington is handling asset forfeiture aspects of the case.
Individuals who believe they may have been a victim in this case should visit www.fbi.gov/hashflare.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Twenty-Four Members and Associates of Jersey City Street Gang Charged with Gang-Related Offenses, Including Drug Distribution, Armed Robbery, and Financial FraudRead the Press Release
JERSEY CITY, N.J. – Twenty-four people have been charged for their respective roles in gang-related offenses, including conspiracy to commit bank fraud; conspiracy to distribute heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine; Hobbs Act robbery; and use of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.
The defendants are scheduled to appear this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge James B. Clark III in Newark federal court; four defendants remain at large. (See chart below.)
U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger“Street gangs that are allegedly engaged in violence and narcotics distribution drastically diminish quality of life for those who live in affected communities. As alleged, members and associates of the Booker T street gang committed serious crimes, including using a firearm to commit a robbery, conspiring to distribute fentanyl, and conspiring to commit bank fraud. The charges in this case against 24 defendants demonstrate that, along with our law enforcement partners, we will work tirelessly to root out alleged gang-related criminality in order to make our communities safer.”
“ATF remains unwavering in our pursuit of trigger pullers and firearms traffickers,” Ross A. Marchetti, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, said. “Utilizing crime gun intelligence allows law enforcement to disrupt the shooting cycle by focusing on those individuals and criminal organizations responsible for the gun violence that plagues our neighborhoods. The arrests today demonstrate ATF’s commitment to working with our local, state, and federal partners to address the violent gang and drug-related activity that endangers the safety of our communities. Our collaborative efforts are essential in bringing accountability to violent offenders, combatting threats to the public, and reducing violent crime.”
“These arrests underscore the importance of collaborative work in law enforcement,” Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez said. “No one should feel unsafe in their own neighborhood, and the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office remains committed to addressing the public safety concerns of our residents. By working closely with our local, state, and federal partners, we are expanding and sharing resources that will ensure that those who commit a crime are held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”
“As law enforcement officers, our most important job is to protect the citizens of the communities we serve,” Jenifer L. Piovesan, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Newark Field Office, said. “Today’s arrests are a great example of how we, along with our law enforcement partners, can make a positive impact in our communities by going after and arresting bad actors who plague the communities law abiding citizens call home.”
“Today’s large-scale operation serves as a great example of the strong partnerships between federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies in New Jersey,” Christopher Nielsen, Inspector in Charge of the Philadelphia Division for the US. Postal Inspection Service, said. “The ability to share resources and intelligence has resulted in dismantling a criminal network involved in violent crimes, narcotics trafficking, and bank fraud schemes – which impacts all citizens in our state. Postal Inspectors are proud to be part of the task force working to combat and prevent these crimes.”
“The successful takedown of this criminal network and removal of violent actors from our community is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our law enforcement officers as well as the critical partnerships between the Jersey City Police Department and leading state and federal agencies in protecting public safety,” Jersey City Public Safety Director James Shea said.
According to the documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
Several defendants are members and associates of a neighborhood-based street gang that operates in the area of the Booker T. Washington Housing Complex in Jersey City. The Booker T street gang is responsible for multiple acts of gang-motivated violence in Jersey City, including homicides and shootings. The investigation revealed that the gang runs a drug trafficking operation in and around the housing complex and distributes large quantities of controlled substances, including heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine. Eleven members and associates of the organization are charged with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 100 grams of heroin, more than 40 grams of fentanyl, and a quantity of cocaine.
In addition, from December 2022 through May 2024, members, associates, and individuals affiliated with the Booker T street gang engaged in a fraudulent check scheme. The defendants charged in the bank fraud conspiracy obtained fraudulent checks, including checks they had printed; stolen checks they had altered; or checks that had been purchased from, or traded with, other conspirators or third parties in exchange for a fee or percentage of profits. The defendants then deposited the fraudulent checks into bank accounts that they controlled in order to gain access to the funds. The bank fraud scheme resulted in losses exceeding $100,000. Fifteen defendants are charged with conspiracy to commit bank fraud.
Two individuals associated with the Booker T street gang – Juan Hemingway, aka “Hort,” and Stephon Murphy, aka “Turk,” are charged with Hobbs Act robbery and unlawful use of a firearm arising from an armed robbery that occurred on May 6, 2024, during which Hemingway and Murphy robbed the victim of items including controlled substances.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, under the supervision of Acting Special Agent in Charge Ross A. Marchetti in Newark; investigators of the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Esther Suarez; special agents of IRS - Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jenifer L. Piovesan; postal inspectors of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service in Newark, under the direction of Christopher A. Nielsen, Philadelphia Division; and detectives of the Jersey City Police Department, under the direction of Director James Shea, with the investigation leading to the charges. He also thanked special agents of the DEA’s New Jersey Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Cheryl Ortiz; deputy United States marshals of the United States Marshals Service, under the direction of U.S. Marshal Juan Mattos; Officers with Customs and Border Protection, New York Field Office, under the direction of Director of Field Operations Francis J. Russo; officers of the Belleville Police Department, under the direction of Chief Matthew Eiskant; officers of the Bergen County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Anthony Cureton; officers of the Newark Department of Public Safety, under the direction of Director Fritz Fragé; officers of the Essex County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Armando B. Fontoura; officers of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone; officers of the Port Authority Police Department, under the direction of Superintendent Edward T. Cetnar; and members of the Bayonne Police Department, under the direction of Chief Robert Geisler.
The investigation was conducted as part of the Jersey City Violent Crime Initiative (VCI). The Jersey City VCI was formed in 2018 by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey, the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office, and the Jersey City Police Department for the sole purpose of combatting violent crime in and around Jersey City. As part of this partnership, federal, state, county, and city agencies collaborate and pool resources to prosecute violent offenders who endanger the safety of the community. The VCI is composed of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the FBI, the ATF, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) New Jersey Division, the U.S. Marshals, the Jersey City Police Department, the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office, the Hudson County Sheriff’s Office, New Jersey State Parole, Hudson County Jail, and the New Jersey State Police Regional Operations and Intelligence Center/Real Time Crime Center.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys George Barchini and Christopher Fell of the Office’s OCDETF/Narcotics Unit.
The charges and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
bookert.complaint.pdf*denotes at-large
Defendant
Age
Charges
Potential Penalties
Joseph Dupont,
aka “Tips”
30
Conspiracy to commit bank fraud
Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances
Up to 30 years
5 year mandatory minimum; up to 40 years
Darion Hemingway, aka “A-boog”
33
Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances
5 year mandatory minimum; up to 40 years
Juan Hemingway, aka “Hortz,”
aka “Glizzy”
27
Conspiracy to commit bank fraud
Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances
Hobbs Act robbery
Brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence
Up to 30 years
5 year mandatory minimum; up to 40 years
Up to 20 years
7 year mandatory minimum; up to life
Abdin Reed,
aka “Dean”
50
Conspiracy to commit bank fraud
Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances
Up to 30 years
5 year mandatory minimum; up to 40 years
*Darius Hemingway, aka “Debo”
29
Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances
5 year mandatory minimum; up to 40 years
*Aswad Williams, aka “Ock”
33
Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances
5 year mandatory minimum; up to 40 years
Daquan Franklin,
aka “Big Trigga”
22
Conspiracy to commit bank fraud
Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances
Up to 30 years
5 year mandatory minimum; up to 40 years
Darius McGeachy, aka “Black”
27
Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances
5 year mandatory minimum; up to 40 years
*Khalis Dutton,
aka “Kha”
39
Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances
5 year mandatory minimum; up to 40 years
Aziz Rourk,
aka “Ock”
29
Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances
5 year mandatory minimum; up to 40 years
David Bryant,
aka “Hood”
35
Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances
5 year mandatory minimum; up to 40 years
Kai Robinson,
aka “Kai Glizz”
26
Conspiracy to commit bank fraud
Up to 30 years
Tony Page,
aka “Tony Cz”
28
Conspiracy to commit bank fraud
Up to 30 years
Chajuan Hemingway,
aka “Juan”
36
Conspiracy to commit bank fraud
Up to 30 years
Stephon Murphy, aka “Turk”
23
Hobbs Act robbery
Brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence
Up to 20 years
7 year mandatory minimum; up to life
Muhammado Diokhane,
aka “Mo”
23
Conspiracy to commit bank fraud
Up to 30 years
Logan Jamison, aka “Lo”
24
Conspiracy to commit bank fraud
Up to 30 years
Danique Simpson, aka “Biz”
31
Conspiracy to commit bank fraud
Up to 30 years
Alvin Burroughs
34
Conspiracy to commit bank fraud
Up to 30 years
*Robert Fletcher, aka “Chevy”
27
Conspiracy to commit bank fraud
Up to 30 years
Jermain Young
39
Conspiracy to commit bank fraud
Up to 30 years
Messiah Green, aka “Half”
22
Conspiracy to commit bank fraud
Up to 30 years
Jasuan Posey,
aka “Jah”
23
Conspiracy to commit bank fraud
Up to 30 years
Linda Graham
34
Conspiracy to commit bank fraud
Up to 30 years
Trenton Man Sentenced to 16 Years in Prison for Spree of Armed Carjackings, Armed Robbery, and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
TRENTON, N.J. – A Trenton man was sentenced today to 192 months in prison for committing a series of carjackings, armed robberies, and firearms offenses, U.S. Philip R. Sellinger announced.
Joshua M. Perez, 25, previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Georgette Castner to a five-count Superseding Information, charging him with two counts of carjacking, one count of Hobbs Act robbery, one count of using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, and one count of unlawfully possessing a firearm as a previously convicted felon. Judge Castner imposed sentence today in Trenton federal court.
According to documents filed in this case:
On Oct. 10, 2020, Perez and his unidentified conspirators carjacked two individuals in Trenton. As the victims were exiting their car, Perez and his conspirators got out of a white sedan, pointed handguns at the victims and robbed them of their money, cell phones, and vehicle.
On Dec. 5, 2020, Perez and an unidentified conspirator carjacked another individual in Trenton. As the victim was sitting in his parked car, Perez and his conspirator ran up to the victim’s window, pointed handguns at the victim, and ordered the victim out of the car. They stole the victim’s money and cell phone and fled the scene in the victim’s car.
Approximately one hour later, Perez and multiple unidentified conspirators used the victim’s carjacked vehicle as the getaway car in the armed robbery of a nearby gas station. Perez and his conspirators arrived at the gas station in the victim’s vehicle. As Perez entered the gas station, one of his conspirators ordered two victims outside the station to the ground at gunpoint and pistol-whipped them. Upon entering the gas station, Perez robbed the attendant at gunpoint, emptying the cash register.
On Dec. 7, 2020, law enforcement officers responded to Perez’s residence to execute a search warrant. During the court-authorized search of Perez’s residence, Perez pointed a firearm at the officers and was placed under arrest.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Castner sentenced Perez to three years of supervised release and ordered restitution to the victims of his offense.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents and task force officers with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Newark Field Division, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Ross A. Marchetti, and officers of the Trenton Police Department under Police Director Steve Wilson, with the investigations leading to today’s sentencing.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alexander E. Ramey and Ashley Super Pitts of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Criminal Division in Trenton.
Three Men Sentenced for Trafficking Drugs and FirearmsRead the Press Release
ROME, Ga. - James Lewallen Meeks, a Georgia Department of Corrections inmate, and two conspirators, Jamey Michael Latty and Mark Anthony Powell, have been sentenced to federal prison for their roles in trafficking firearms, methamphetamine, and fentanyl in Northwest Georgia.
“While serving a sentence for a violent crime in a Georgia Correctional Facility, Meeks continued his criminal activity by brokering a number of illegal firearm and drug transactions with his co-defendants in Northwest Georgia,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan. “Meeks will now serve two decades in federal prison after completing his state sentence, and his co-defendants are headed to federal prison as well.”
“This case exemplifies our commitment to prevent drug trafficking and criminal activity from poisoning our communities,” stated ATF Assistant Special Agent in Charge Alicia Jones. “It also sends a clear message that we will relentlessly pursue and prosecute the leaders and members of these violent drug enterprises.”
“Our communities remain under attack by criminal drug trafficking organizations with no regard for the harm and destruction they cause,” said Robert J. Murphy, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division. “This investigation and subsequent arrests of the individuals in this violent drug trafficking organization demonstrate DEA’s commitment to protecting our community by destroying these drug trafficking organizations.”
According to U.S. Attorney Buchanan, the charges and other information presented in court: Starting around February 2022, James Lewallen Meeks, an inmate at Wheeler Correctional Facility in Alamo, Georgia, used a contraband cell phone to coordinate with Jamey Michael Latty and Mark Anthony Powell to sell firearms and drugs. Specifically, in March 2022, Meeks worked with Latty to sell methamphetamine in Rockmart, Georgia, and later sell methamphetamine and a Glock pistol to an individual in Cave Springs, Georgia. Meeks also coordinated repeatedly with Powell to sell methamphetamine and what turned out to be a mixture of fentanyl and xylazine to the same individual in Carrollton, Georgia. Along with the drugs, Powell sold ammunition and five firearms, including an UZI .22 caliber long rifle with a silencer, at the direction of Meeks. In April 2022, Latty separately sold ammunition and four firearms, including an AR-style rifle designed as a machine gun, to the same individual in Rome, Georgia.
On June 2, 2022, Latty was arrested in Hiram, Georgia in possession of approximately one kilogram of methamphetamine. That same day, Powell was arrested in Carrollton after leading law enforcement on a vehicle chase during which approximately one kilogram of methamphetamine was thrown out of Powell’s truck window. A pistol and a substance containing fentanyl was found in Powell’s vehicle at the time of his arrest. Agents also executed a federal search warrant at a residence in Carrollton, where some of the drug and firearms transactions had occurred, and seized six firearms from the residence, including rifles, shotguns, and a pistol. Latty and Powell were prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition because each had previously been convicted of a felony offense.
After Latty was indicted, he fled the state and assumed a false identity. Through the efforts of multiple state and federal agencies, Latty was eventually located and apprehended by U.S. Deputy Marshals in Collinsville, Alabama.
After pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute a controlled substance, possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, U.S. District Judge William M. Ray, II sentenced the three men as follows:
- James Lewallen Meeks, 39, of Dallas, Georgia, was sentenced to 20 years in prison to be followed by eight years of supervised release, consecutive to the time he is already serving in state custody.
- Jamey Michael Latty, 45, of Centre, Alabama, was sentenced to 15 years and one month in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release.
- Mark Anthony Powell, 43, of Jackson, Georgia, was sentenced to 10 years, seven months in prison to be followed by eight years of supervised release.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Drug Enforcement Administration, with invaluable assistance from the Georgia State Patrol, Haralson Paulding County Drug Task Force, Paulding County Sheriff’s Office, Polk County Police Department, Michigan State University Police Department, the U.S. Marshals Service Gulf Coast Regional Fugitive Task Force Office, and the Special Response Team of DeKalb County, Alabama Sherriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Rebeca M. Ojeda prosecuted the case.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
The Office of the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia recommends that parents and children learn about the dangers of drugs at the following websites: www.justthinktwice.gov; www.operationprevention.com/; and www.dea.gov/onepill.
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.
Three Men Plead Guilty to Role in Fraudulent Scheme to Defraud Chain of Home Improvement StoresRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, S.C. — Donovan Young, 60, of Hartsville, Aaron Young, 34, of Florence, and James Hoffman, 47, of McBee, have pled guilty to wire fraud conspiracy for their role in a scheme to defraud a chain of home improvement stores.
Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that the Youngs and Hoffman would purchase Lowe’s merchandise cards, for a discounted value, from known coconspirators who had fraudulently obtained the merchandise cards. Evidence presented shows that the Youngs and Hoffman were aware that the merchandise cards had been fraudulently obtained by the known coconspirators by stealing merchandise from the home improvement stores throughout the District of South Carolina and then, through fake identities, returning the stolen merchandise for merchandise cards.
The Youngs and Hoffman face a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. They also face a fine of up to $250,000, restitution, and three years of supervision to follow the term of imprisonment. United States District Judge Richard M. Gergel accepted the guilty plea and will sentence Donovan Young, Aaron Young, and James Hoffman after receiving and reviewing a sentencing report prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.
This case was investigated by the United States Secret Service and the Charleston Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Bower is prosecuting the case.
###
Texas Man Faces 10 Years to Life for Online Sexual Exploitation of Maine ChildRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Maine: A Texas man pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court in Portland to coercing and enticing a minor.
According to court records, in December 2021, Juan Jose Torres, 26, coerced and enticed a 13‑year-old to produce and send him sexually explicit images and videos. Torres had first found the child on Snapchat and sent a friend request. They also communicated through Instagram, text, phone, and FaceTime. Torres knew the victim was 13 years old and sent the child explicit images of himself, pressuring the victim to do the same. He became angry or threatened to harm himself if the victim did not comply. The child’s father intercepted disturbing Instagram messages Torres sent to the victim and notified his local police department in Maine. Numerous sexually explicit images and videos were later found on Torres’ phone in Texas.
Torres faces no less than 10 years and up to life in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000, to be followed by five years to life of supervised release. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) investigated the case.
Online enticement is increasing: The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) reported an alarming 300% increase in online enticement reports between 2020 and 2023. “Online enticement” involves an individual communicating with someone believed to be a child via the internet with the intent to commit a sexual offense or abduction. This type of victimization takes place across every platform, including social media, messaging apps, gaming platforms, etc. Learn more about online enticement, including red flags and risk factors, at https://www.missingkids.org/theissues/onlineenticement. If you are in Maine and you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted or abused, you can get help by calling the free, private 24-hour statewide sexual assault helpline at 1-800-871-7741.
Project iGuardian program available to Maine communities: The Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) program Project iGuardian is focused on keeping children and teens safe from online predators through education and awareness. The in-person educational outreach effort was created to share information about the dangers of online environments, how to stay safe online, and how to report abuse and suspicious activity. Schools, parent groups, and other community groups interested in bringing the program to their community can find more information at: https://www.dhs.gov/know2protect/training.
Project Safe Childhood: This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Department’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-me/psc.
###
Suburban Chicago Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Overstating Business Expenses and Charitable Contributions in Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
CHICAGO — A suburban Chicago man has been sentenced to a year in federal prison for falsely overstating in personal tax returns the amount of his business expenses and charitable contributions.
A federal jury earlier this year convicted NIKKO D’AMBROSIO, 32, of Des Plaines, Ill., of making false statements in his personal income tax returns for the tax years 2019 and 2020. D’Ambrosio, who worked as a salesperson for an Illinois-based electronic sweepstakes kiosk operator, falsely claimed to have driven more than 474,000 miles on business-related travel for those two years. He also falsely claimed to have incurred more than $263,000 in business-related meal expenses during those years. D’Ambrosio’s false claims about his charitable contributions involved alleged donations of more than $63,000 to a Catholic church in Chicago. Financial and vehicle records presented at trial revealed that the mileage and meal expenses were vastly overstated, and a church representative testified that D’Ambrosio was not a parishioner and that the church had no record of any donations by D’Ambrosio in those years.
U.S. District Judge Thomas M. Durkin imposed the year-and-a-day sentence during a hearing Wednesday in federal court in Chicago.
The sentence was announced by Morris Pasqual, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, Jason Bushey, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation in Chicago, and Robert W. “Wes” Wheeler, Jr., Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI. The government was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Richard M. Rothblatt and Brandon D. Stone.
St. Albans Man Charged with Possessing Firearm as Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on May 2, 2024, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Quentin Suggs, 37, of St. Albans, Vermont, with possessing a firearm after having been previously convicted of a felony.
Suggs entered a plea of not guilty to the charges during an arraignment on May 29, 2024, before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle. Judge Doyle ordered that Suggs be detained pending further proceedings in this matter.
According to court records, Milton, Vermont police responded to reports of an active home invasion on March 25, 2024. Upon arrival, officers located an injured man later identified as Suggs. Interviews of witnesses and bystander video footage revealed that Suggs had broken into the backdoor of a residence while brandishing a handgun, resulting in an occupant of the residence resisting Suggs and ultimately disarming him. Law enforcement recovered a .380 Bersa handgun at the scene with a defaced serial number, which witnesses reported Suggs had possessed, as well as a backpack attributed to Suggs that contained zip ties and a hammer. Suggs is prohibited from possessing firearms due to a 2012 conviction for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that Suggs is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Suggs faces up to 15 years of imprisonment if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the investigatory efforts of the Milton Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan Ophardt. Suggs is represented by Jessica L. Burke, Esq. and Assistant Federal Public Defender Steven L. Barth.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
Springfield, Illinois Man Convicted of Possession with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – A federal jury returned a guilty verdict on May 29, 2024, against James Russwinkel of the 20th block of Country Lake Road, Springfield, Illinois, for possession with intent to distribute five grams or more of methamphetamine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense, and possession of a firearm or ammunition by a felon. Sentencing for Russwinkel is scheduled for October 2, 2024, at 1:30 P.M., at the U.S. Courthouse in Springfield, Illinois before U.S. District Judge Colleen Lawless.
During two days of testimony, the government presented evidence that, on May 8, 2020, Russwinkel, a convicted felon, was stopped while driving and subsequently arrested by Springfield Police Officers because he had an outstanding warrant. During a search of Russwinkel, officers found a loaded 9mm magazine, a loose 9mm round, and a large amount of U.S. Currency. Police Officers then searched the vehicle and located within arm’s reach of Russwinkel, a black backpack containing over 26 grams of methamphetamine in multiple bags, a 9mm pistol without its magazine, and an even larger amount of U.S. Currency. In total, $14,637 was seized. The jury found that the defendant possessed the methamphetamine with intent to distribute and possessed the firearm in furtherance of his drug distribution. The jury also found Russwinkel possessed the firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon.
Russwinkel remains in the custody of U.S. Marshals Service pending sentencing. At sentencing, Russwinkel faces statutory penalties of not less than five years and up to forty years in prison for possession with intent to deliver five grams or more of methamphetamine; not less than 5 years in prison consecutive to the possession of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute charge for the possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime; and not more than 10 years in prison, for possession of a firearm or ammunition by a felon.
The prosecution was the result of an investigation by Springfield Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant United States Attorneys Tanner K. Jacobs and Sierra Senor-Moore represented the government at trial.
The case against Russwinkel 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.
South Dakota Man Arrested for Assaulting Law Enforcement and Other Charges During Jan. 6 Capitol BreachRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – A South Dakota man has been arrested on felony and misdemeanor charges, including for allegedly assaulting law enforcement during the Jan. 6, 2021, breach of the U.S. Capitol. His actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the 2020 presidential election.
William George Knight, 37, of Rapid City, South Dakota, is charged in a criminal complaint filed in the District of Columbia with obstruction of law enforcement during a civil disorder and assaulting, resisting or impeding certain officers, both felony offenses.
In addition to the felonies, Knight is charged with five misdemeanor offenses, including entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds, engaging in physical violence in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly conduct in a Capitol building, act of physical violence in the Capitol grounds or buildings.
The FBI arrested Knight on May 26, 2024, in Rapid City. He is expected to make his initial appearance today in the District of South Dakota.
According to court documents, on Jan. 6, 2021, Knight attended the “Stop the Steal” rally in Washington, D.C., and witnessed the United States Park Police (USPP) take an individual into custody. A crowd of others, including Knight, allegedly pursued the USPP to a screening facility, a glass structure, and Knight aggressively approached the glass wall four times over approximately seven minutes, each time pushing himself off the wall and gesturing toward police. Knight then put his middle fingers up to the glass and pointed menacingly at the police inside the Screening Center.
Knight later made his way toward the Capitol and entered the Capitol grounds via the Maryland Avenue walkway. Knight and others were allegedly among the first rioters to breach the restricted perimeter and arrive at the West Plaza at approximately 12:57 p.m. A short while later, Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) Officers arrived to reinforce Capitol Police and set up a barrier using bike racks on the West Plaza. It is alleged that Knight grabbed one of the bike rack barriers and fell backward because he had pulled on the barrier so forcefully.
At about 1:14 p.m., Knight allegedly attempted to pull a second bike rack barrier away from a different nearby police line. After initially grabbing the second bike rack, Knight retreated before charging toward the police line and diving to grab the barrier. Court documents say that MPD officers had to deploy chemical spray to stop Knight. Knight then jeered at the police line for several minutes, pointed at them aggressively multiple times, and yelled at the police, “We ain’t leaving! We ain’t going nowhere!” and “Here are the b—. Here are the b—.”
Court documents allege that at about 1:40 p.m., Knight and a large group of other rioters pushed a giant metal-framed sign toward the police line. After ramming the sign at police, Knight allegedly shoved an MPD officer and again grabbed a bike rack barrier and pulled it into the crowd, depriving the police of its use. Knight remained at the vanguard of rioters confronting officers, chanting, “Stop the steal! Stop the steal!” with other rioters.
Later, at approximately 2:08 p.m., Knight is alleged to have been part of a group of rioters that pushed together against the police line on the Lower West Plaza. The police line collapsed at approximately 2:30 p.m., and Knight and other rioters made their way up one level to the Lower West Terrace. Knight remained on the Lower West Terrace for at least two hours.
This case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of South Dakota.
The case is being investigated by the FBI’s Minneapolis Division, Rapid City Resident Agency, and Washington Field Offices. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Capitol Police and the Metropolitan Police Department.
In the 40 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,424 individuals have been charged in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 500 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement, a felony. The investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.
A complaint is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
South Carolina Man Sentenced to 27 Years in Prison for Transporting Arizona Minor with Intent to Engage in Illicit Sexual ConductRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – Timothy Mikell Schultheis, 26, of Hilton Head, South Carolina, was sentenced on Tuesday by United States District Judge Rosemary Márquez to 27 years in prison, followed by lifetime supervised release. Schultheis also will have to register as a sex offender. Schultheis pleaded guilty to Transportation of a Minor with Intent to Engage in Criminal Sexual Activity on January 10, 2024.
Schultheis, aka Jackson Oden, transported a 12-year-old minor, from Arizona to South Carolina, with the intent to engage in sexual activity. After using social media to meet and groom the minor, Schultheis drove from South Carolina to Safford to pick up the minor and drive her back to his South Carolina residence. The investigation revealed Facebook communications between the minor and then-24-year-old Schultheis, which included his travel plans and detailed his intention to participate in sexual conduct with her. When Schultheis was arrested at his apartment in South Carolina on March 30, 2022, the minor was found inside.
“Our efforts to protect the public start with safeguarding our youth from predators on social media” said United States Attorney Gary Restaino. “Defendant will have a long time in custody to reflect on his crimes, and upon release decades from now, his supervised release conditions will restrict his use of smart phones and encryption technology to further protect the community.”
“This sentencing puts a stop to Timothy Schulthies and his repeated offenses. He can no longer hurt children or their families across the country,” said FBI Phoenix Special Agent in Charge Akil Davis. “This case demonstrates the FBI’s commitment to follow the evidence wherever it leads. We will use all tools available to bring to justice those who seek to harm children. We are extremely grateful for the swift actions of our law enforcement partners who worked nonstop to locate and apprehend Schultheis.”
Schultheis had been previously arrested and released by South Carolina authorities for similar conduct involving a different 12-year-old and was wearing an ankle monitor at the time of his offense in this case. The plea agreement in this case required that Schultheis plead guilty to the South Carolina charges of Criminal Sexual Conduct with a Minor and Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation in Sierra Vista and the Graham County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carin Duryee, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-22-00973-TUC-RM
RELEASE NUMBER: 2024-071_Schultheis# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on X @USAO_AZ for the latest news.Slidell Man Guilty for Making False Statements to Small Business AdministrationRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that DEAN MEILLEUR (“MEILLEUR”), age 57, a resident of Slidell, Louisiana, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Brandon S. Long on May 28, 2024, to making or using false writings or documents to the United States Small Business Administration (SBA), in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1001(a)(3).
According to court documents, MEILLEUR, submitted false writings and documents to the SBA to obtain Economic Impact Disaster Loans (“EIDL”). In his EIDL applications, among other things, MEILLEUR falsely represented that he was the owner of a trucking business that was formed in 2017 and that he was eligible for EIDL funds. As a result of these false submissions, MEILLEUR obtained $147,400 from SBA to which he was not entitled.
MEILLEUR is to be sentenced on September 17, 2024, and faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison. After imprisonment, he faces up to three years of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. MEILLEUR has also agreed to pay restitution to the SBA, which amount shall be determined and ordered by the court.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
U.S. Attorney Evans commended the Special Agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Andre J. Lagarde of the Public Integrity Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced for Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Receipt of Child Pornography. The sentencing took place on May 29, 2024.
Shane Allan Nelson, age 38, was sentenced to five years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Nelson was indicted by a federal grand jury in May of 2022. He pleaded guilty on February 13, 2024.
The conviction stemmed from incidents between March 13, 2020, and March 18, 2020, when Nelson received materials containing child pornography. Nelson used his Apple iPhone to access the internet and direct a 16-year-old female in Delaware to send him nude photos of herself.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, South Dakota Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Nelson was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Since February 2024, one defendant pled guilty and five others have been charged with distributing fentanyl resulting in deathRead the Press Release
MIAMI – U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida, Special Agent in Charge Deanne L. Reuter of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Miami Field Division, Sheriff Ric Bradshaw of the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBSO), Sheriff Eric Flowers of the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office (IRCSO), Chief Joe DeGiulio of the Boynton Beach Police Department (BBPD), Chief Dominick Pape of the Palm Beach Gardens Police Department, and Chief Sean Scheller of the Lantana Police Department announced the results of their continuing efforts to combat the distribution of fentanyl crisis in South Florida.
Since March 2024, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida, with assistance from law enforcement partners, has indicted five defendants with distributing fentanyl resulting in death. Their charges follow another defendant’s guilty plea to the same charge in February 2024. Pursuant to Title 21, United States Code, Section 841, the distribution of a controlled substance resulting in death is an offense that upon conviction is punishable by a minimum sentence of 20 years in prison, and a maximum sentence of life.
According to the DEA’s National Drug Threat Assessment, synthetic drugs, such as fentanyl, are poisoning our nation. Fentanyl is the deadliest drug threat the United States has ever faced, killing 38,000 Americans in the first six months of 2023 alone. Just one fentanyl pill can kill, as noted in DEA’s One Pill Can Kill campaign. Two milligrams of fentanyl is considered a potentially fatal dose and laboratory testing indicates seven out of 10 pills seized by the DEA contain a lethal dose of fentanyl. The public is encouraged to be cautious.
“Drug traffickers who distribute fentanyl are handing out a death sentence to drug users and those who unknowingly come in contact with this dangerous and deadly synthetic drug,” stated U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida. “We will continue to target those who fuel the opioid epidemic, to include the Chinese companies and employees that manufacture and introduce the raw chemicals at the start of the fentanyl supply chain, the associates and members of the drug cartels that manufacture fentanyl, and, as we have seen with today’s announcement, the South Florida suppliers who handout the fatal fentanyl overdoses. We commend our partner agencies for their skill and resourcefulness, as we work collectively to prosecute the distributors of the fentanyl poison and protect the public.”
“Fentanyl is the deadliest drug threat facing our country. Whether in a fake pill, in powdered form, or laced in other illicit drugs, the effects of illicit fentanyl are devastating on our Florida communities as drug distributors put profits over the lives of people,” said DEA Miami Field Division Special Agent in Charge Deanne Reuter. “DEA will continue our collaborative efforts, working with our local, state, and federal partners, to target the entire illicit fentanyl supply chain and hold those who threaten the safety and health of our communities responsible for their actions.”
“I commend all of our law enforcement partners in this investigation for their dedication and perseverance. The Boynton Beach Police Department remains steadfast in its commitment to combatting the distribution of dangerous narcotics. We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that those responsible for the distribution of these drugs are brought to justice," said BBPD Chief Joseph DeGiulio.
“The Palm Beach Gardens Police Department appreciates the working partnership with our federal law enforcement partners to combat these dangerous drugs that are harming residents of our community. These efforts will hopefully result in reducing the impact of fentanyl and keep our community safe,” said Chief Dominick Pape of the Palm Beach Gardens Police Department.
The following cases exemplify the continued commitment between federal, state, and local law enforcement to investigate and prosecute drug dealers who distribute deadly fentanyl.
U.S. v. Keyon Lewis, Case No. 23-CR-14030
On Feb. 20, 2024, Keyon Lewis, 27, of Indian River County, Florida pled guilty to distribution of fentanyl, the use of which resulted in the death of another person. According to the plea documents filed with the Court, on Nov. 5, 2021, Lewis sold fentanyl to a man in a parking lot in Vero Beach. The next day, the man’s wife found him dead on the kitchen floor of their residence.
A sentencing hearing is scheduled for July 11, 2024, before U.S. District Judge Aileen M. Cannon in Fort Pierce. IRCSO and DEA investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael D. Porter is prosecuting it. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jorge Roberto Delgado is handling asset forfeiture.
U.S. v. Samantha Hana Yi and Darnell Julio Mendez,
Case No. 24-cr-80041
On March 28, 2024, Samantha Yi, a/k/a “China,” 32 and Darnell Julio Mendez, 31, of Lake Worth, Florida, were indicted for distributing fentanyl causing death, following the fatal ingestion of fentanyl by a 10-month old baby in Boynton Beach, Florida. According to allegations in the court record, Yi and Mendez sold the fentanyl to the baby’s mother, who was a drug addict, the day before the baby’s death. Undercover officers also subsequently purchased fentanyl from Yi and Mendez. When the couple was arrested at their home, they were found in possession of fourteen firearms. Both Yi and Mendez were also charged in the indictment with possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, distribution of a controlled substance, possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Yi and Mendez are detained pending trial, scheduled for Sept. 9, 2024, before U.S. District Judge Robin Rosenberg. A plea hearing is scheduled for Yi on June 11, 2024, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Bruce E. Reinhart. BBPD, PBSO, and DEA investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Adam McMichael and Shannon O’Shea Darsch are prosecuting it. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sara Klco is handling asset forfeiture.
U.S. v. Alfonso Guerrero, Case No. 24-cr-14013
On April 11, 2024, Alfonso Guerrero, 37, of Vero Beach, Florida, was charged by indictment with conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute a controlled substance, resulting in death, distribution of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl, resulting in death, and possession of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl with intent to distribute, following the death of a 37-year-old male in Vero Beach on May 16, 2023. According to allegations in the court record, Guerrero delivered a white powdery substance to the victim hours before he died. Toxicology results determined that the victim died from a combination of dimethylpentylone, pentylone, and fentanyl. Two days after the victims’ death, Guerrero sold more fentanyl to an undercover officer.
Guerrero is detained pending trial. A status conference is scheduled for June 26, 2024, before U.S. District Judge Robin L. Rosenberg. A trial date has not been scheduled in this matter. IRCSO and DEA investigated the case. Managing Assistant U.S. Attorney Carmen Lineberger is prosecuting it. Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily R. Stone is handling asset forfeiture.
U.S. v. Gito St Fort, Case No 24-cr-80063
On May 16, 2024, Gito St Fort, 30, of West Palm Beach, Florida, was charged by indictment with distributing fentanyl on Dec. 24, 2023, to a young man who was visiting his parents in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. According to allegations in the court record, the victim took an Uber from his parent’s house to St Fort’s apartment in the early morning hours of December 24, 2023, to buy heroin capsules and cocaine. Tragically, the victim was found dead by his parents the next morning, on Christmas Day along with leftover capsules that tested positive for fentanyl. A toxicology report confirmed fatal levels of fentanyl in the victim’s blood.
St Fort is detained pending trial, scheduled for July 1, 2024, before U.S. District Judge Aileen M. Cannon. The Palm Beach Gardens Police Department, PBSO and DEA investigated the case. FBI Miami provided invaluable assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian Ralston is prosecuting it.
U.S. v. Anthony Raul Del Valle, Case No. 24-cr-80062
Today, Anthony Raul Del Valle, 29, of Lantana, Florida, was charged in a superseding indictment with distributing acetyl fentanyl and fentanyl causing the death of two sisters in Lantana, Florida. According to the criminal complaint, Del Valle sold counterfeit pills to the victims on April 8, 2024. According to the superseding indictment, the counterfeit pills contained acetyl fentanyl and fentanyl, quantities of which were found in the victims’ toxicology findings by the Palm Beach County Medical Examiner’s Office. Del Valle has also been charged with possessing additional fentanyl which he intended to distribute on April 10, 2024, along with a firearm he possessed in furtherance of his drug trafficking.
Del Valle is detained pending trial, which is scheduled for June 24, 2024, before U.S. District Judge Donald M. Middlebrooks. The Lantana Police Department and DEA investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Shannon O’Shea Darsch is prosecuting it.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office and law enforcement partners thank the Office of State Attorney Dave Aronberg for the 15th Judicial Circuit and the Office of State Attorney Thomas Bakkedahl for the 19th Judicial Circuit for their invaluable assistance with fentanyl cases.
Anyone with information regarding the distribution of fentanyl is encouraged to contact 911 or call the DEA at 1-877-792-2873.
A number of these prosecutions are part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) program. PSN is the centerpiece of the Department’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through the PSN program a broad spectrum of law enforcement and community stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs to reduce violence crime and gun violence, and to make our local neighborhoods safer for everyone.
An indictment and complaint contain mere allegations, and all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida at www.justice.gov/usao-sdfl.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov under the corresponding case numbers.
###
Shelburne, Vermont Man Sentenced to 60 Months for Drug and Gun OffensesRead the Press Release
Rutland, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on May 29, 2024, Michael Burton, 48, of Shelburne, Vermont, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Geoffrey W. Crawford to a term of 60 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a 3-year term of supervised release. Burton previously pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute cocaine and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court records, on April 3, 2023, Burton was arrested by law enforcement in South Burlington, Vermont following a lengthy investigation for drug trafficking. At the time of his arrest, Burton possessed a black backpack which contained, among other things, more than 100 grams of cocaine base, approximately 200 fentanyl pills, a digital scale, and additional drug paraphernalia used for the distribution of controlled substances. Later on April 3, 2023, law enforcement executed a federal search and seizure warrant at Burton's residence in Shelburne, Vermont. Inside of Burton's room, investigators found more than 30 grams of cocaine base, ammunition, magazines, and three firearms, specifically: a Ruger EC9S 9x19mm semi-automatic pistol; a HS Produkt XD9 9x19mm semi-automatic pistol; and a Smith & Wesson M&P9 9x19mm semi-automatic pistol.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of Homeland Security Investigations and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary Stendig. Burton was represented by Federal Public Defender Michael Desautels.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
San Antonio Man Sentenced to 16 Years in Prison for Robbing Pawn Shop and Selling Stolen Firearms OnlineRead the Press Release
SAN ANTONIO – A San Antonio man was sentenced in federal court to 192 months in prison for the armed robbery of a Federal Firearms Licensed pawn shop, as well as conspiring to traffic firearms stolen during the robbery.
According to court documents, Antonio Hinojosa Jr., 21, conspired with others over a social media chat to rob a San Antonio pawn shop. On May 18, 2023, the group, wearing gloves, masks, and dark clothing, robbed the pawn shop and threatened store employees by brandishing firearms. They succeeded in stealing 14 firearms and more than $8,600 worth of jewelry before fleeing in a getaway truck. After the robbery, Hinojosa posted photos of the stolen firearms on social media to advertise and sell them to his contacts.
Hinojosa was arrested June 26, 2023. He pleaded guilty March 7 to one count of conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery, one count of brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, and one count of conspiracy to traffic firearms.
Co-defendant, Joshua Michael Govea, whose role in the robbery was to detain the store workers at gunpoint, pleaded guilty to the robbery conspiracy and brandishing charges. Govea was sentenced to 117 months last week. Two additional co-defendants, Cesar Alan Garcia and Sebastian Louis Xavier Suarez, are pending trial and remain in custody. As is customary in the judicial process, Garcia and Suarez are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza of the Western District of Texas made the announcement.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the San Antonio Police Department investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney William Calve prosecuted the case.
###
Richmond County man sentenced to prison for trafficking heroin, illegally possessing a firearmRead the Press Release
AUGUSTA, GA: A Richmond County man has been sentenced to nearly 15 years in federal prison after his conviction on drug trafficking and gun possession charges.
Kelvin Laron Howard, 68, of Augusta, was sentenced to 175 months in prison after a U.S. District Court jury convicted him on charges of Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin; Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime; and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, said Jill E. Steinberg, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia. U.S. District Court Judge J. Randal Hall also fined Howard $2,500 and ordered him to serve three years of supervised release upon completion of his prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
“Kelvin Howard was identified as a significant distributor of illegal drugs in the Augusta area, and held to account through a jury trial,” said U.S. Attorney Steinberg. “His sentence demonstrates there is no tolerance for armed drug dealers in our community.”
A U.S. District Court jury convicted Howard on all charges in December 2023. As presented at trial, an investigation by the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office identified Howard as a heroin distributor in the Augusta area. During a search of his apartment investigators found enough heroin for more than 700 individual doses, along with drug scales and packaging materials, nearly $1,000 in cash, and a loaded semiautomatic pistol.
“There is nothing more critical to ATF than increasing the safety of our communities. Cases which result in the arrests and prosecution of violent criminals are fundamental to continuing to show criminals that ATF and its law enforcement partners will not falter in this mission,” said Beau Kolodka, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the Atlanta Field Office of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. “We will pursue criminals wherever they may operate, and they will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
“The arrest and subsequent conviction of Kelvin Howard by way of a jury trial is an example of the community’s support we have in Richmond County,” said Richmond County Sheriff Richard Roundtree. “Mr. Howard was not only identified as participating in illegal drug activity, but he was also found to have a firearm in his possession as a convicted felon. His conviction has the potential to save lives by having one less illegal firearm on the streets and illegal drugs in our community.”
The case was investigated by the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office with the assistance of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and prosecuted for the United States by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patricia G. Rhodes and L. Alexander Hamner.
Pontotoc County Resident Sentenced for Arson in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Shyla Faye Pittman, age 38, of Ada, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 14 months imprisonment and three years of supervised release for one count of Arson in Indian Country.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Pontotoc County Sheriff’s Office, the Chickasaw Nation Lighthorse Police, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
On October 16, 2023, Pittman pleaded guilty to one count of Arson in Indian Country. According to investigators, on March 11, 2023, law enforcement officers responded to a call about a housefire and arrived to discover Pittman on the porch of the burning building, with a butane torch nearby. After firefighters extinguished the blaze, ATF Fire Investigators discovered multiple points of origin for the fire, indicating that Pittman had purposefully set fires throughout the home. The crime occurred in Pontotoc County, within the boundaries of the Chickasaw Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, Chief Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. Pittman will remain in custody of the U.S. Marshal pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.
Assistant United States Attorney Kevin Gross represented the United States.
Pittsburgh Resident Sentenced for Conspiring to Violate Export LawsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court on his conviction of conspiring to violate export laws, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.
United States District Judge William S. Stickman imposed the sentence of one year of probation and a $2,500 fine on Derby Clerfe, 44.
According to information presented to the Court, Clerfe purchased nine handguns and provided them to another individual who would arrange for their export to Haiti without filing the export information required by federal law.
Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey Bengel prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Olshan commended the U.S. Department of Commerce Office of Export Enforcement’s New York Field Office and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Clerfe.
Philadelphia Man Who Robbed Armored Truck Sentenced to More Than Eight Years ImprisonmentRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced that a Philadelphia man was sentenced yesterday to 97 months in federal prison for robbing an armored truck and stealing more than $100,000. The Honorable Richard G. Andrews, U.S. District Court for the District of Delaware, imposed the sentence.
According to court documents, Tayion Spencer, 32, was arrested by the Federal Bureau of Investigation after he robbed an armored truck used to collect and deliver U.S. currency in Wilmington, Delaware. Spencer previously worked for the armored truck company and wore his former employer’s uniform while committing the robbery. When Spencer brandished and aimed a firearm at the armored truck driver, a scuffle ensued. Spencer tasered the driver, stole the driver’s firearm, and drove away in the armored truck.
After absconding to Florida, Spencer fled the scene of a traffic stop and, while being pursued by law enforcement, crashed into a marked police vehicle. Palm Beach Gardens Police recovered a loaded Glock semi-automatic handgun, a taser matching the one used during the Wilmington robbery, a ski mask, Spencer’s employment paperwork, and approximately $3,200.
U.S. Attorney Weiss stated, “The defendant’s brazen robbery and reckless flight from law enforcement endangered the lives of innocent civilians. Thankfully, law enforcement stopped him before anyone was hurt. I want to commend the Delaware State Police and the FBI for their tireless effort to bring the defendant to justice.”
“Tayion Spencer’s aggressive crime spree and attempt to avoid justice put anyone who happened to be around him at risk. This sentence holds him accountable for his dangerous and violent actions,” said Special Agent in Charge William J. DelBagno of the FBI’s Baltimore Field Office. “We want everyone to know the FBI is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to help make Delaware safer.”
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin P. Pierce. The case was investigated by the Delaware State Police and FBI's Delaware Violent Crime and Safe Streets Task Force with assistance from the Palm Beach Gardens Police Department.
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.
Pekin Man Charged with Possessing Homemade Explosive Devices and a Firearm as a FelonRead the Press Release
Peoria, Ill. – A Pekin, Illinois man, Dalton Lee Mattus, of the 30th block of S. 2nd Street, has been charged by criminal complaint with unlawful possession of homemade explosive devices and possessing a firearm as a felon, announced the U.S. Attorney for the Central District of Illinois Gregory K. Harris.
The complaint alleges that, following a traffic stop on May 17, 2024, police located several syringes, a small scale, and a padlocked bag in the passenger area of Mattus’s car. Inside the bag, police located a stolen handgun and two homemade destructive devices. The devices were cylinder-shaped and were each equipped with yellow pyrotechnic fuses. Each device was glued shut on both ends with metallic BBs mixed throughout the glue. Police later searched Mattus’s apartment where they located three additional explosive devices, live firearm ammunition, and additional materials used in the construction of destructive devices.
Mattus, whose record includes multiple felony convictions, was arrested on May 17, 2024, and charged in Tazewell County state court with felon in possession of a firearm. Mattus was detained following a detention hearing in state court. A preliminary/detention hearing is scheduled for June 4, 2024, at 2:30 P.M. at the U.S. Courthouse in Peoria, Illinois.
Members of the public are reminded that a criminal complaint is merely an accusation; the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
If convicted, Mattus faces up to 15 years in federal prison.
Agencies participating in the investigation include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Federal Bureau of Investigations, Springfield Field Office, Pekin Police Department, and Peoria Police Department. Ronald L. Hanna is representing the government in the prosecution.
Ohio Man Sentenced to Imprisonment for Animal Crushing Videos and Possession and Transportation of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialsRead the Press Release
TOLEDO - Lucas Russell Vanwoert, 27, of Celina, Ohio, was sentenced to 97 months (more than eight years) in prison by U.S. District Judge James R. Knepp, II for possession and transportation of child pornography, transportation of obscene materials and creating an animal crush video. Vanwoert was additionally ordered to serve 15 years of supervised release, required to register as a sex offender, and is prohibited from owning or possessing a pet in the future.
Vanwoert created an animal crush video in 2022 with intent to distribute according to court documents. An animal crush video is defined as any photograph, motion picture, film, video or digital recording, or electronic image that depicts actual conduct in which one or more living non-human mammals, birds, reptiles, or amphibians is intentionally crushed, burned, drowned, suffocated, impaled, or otherwise subjected to serious bodily injury, or bestiality and is obscene.
Authorities seized three severely emaciated dogs that Vanwoert was abusing, and one recently deceased dog in the backyard of the residence. Authorities also seized several electronic devices that were found to contain videos of child pornography, which involved prepubescent children, as well as animal crush videos, as part of an executed search warrant at Vanwoert’s residence in Celina. At least one of Vanwoert’s dogs was used to create the animal crush videos.
Homeland Security Investigations Agent Jason Guyton was the lead investigator. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Sara Al-Sorghali and Michelle M. Baeppler.
North Dakota Man Sentenced to 40 Years Imprisonment for Receiving Videos of Toddlers Being Sexually AbusedRead the Press Release
FARGO – United States Attorney Mac Schneider, District of North Dakota, announced that on May 30, 2024, Nicholas Morgan-Derosier, age 36 of Grand Forks, ND, appeared before Chief Judge Peter D. Welte, U.S. District Court, Fargo, ND, and was sentenced to 40 years in federal prison; lifetime supervised release; $700.00 in special assessments; and ordered to pay $39,000 in restitution to the 13 victims for Receiving and Possessing Child Pornography.
Morgan-Derosier pled guilty to one count of Receipt and Distribution of Child Pornography, and six counts of Possession of Child Pornography on September 29, 2023. The charges stemmed from videos and images that Grand Forks Police and HSI found during a search warrant at Morgan-Derosier’s residence. The search warrant was based on Morgan-Derosier’s fraudulent lawn service business activity. Officers located more than 6,000 images and videos of graphic sexual abuse of prepubescent minors on at least six devices. Morgan-Derosier also possessed nude images of prepubescent family members, along with explicit chats about raping them. The evidence at sentencing showed that Morgan-Derosier raped or sexually assaulted several other individuals when those individuals were minors. Morgan-Derosier’s total offense level was 42 and he fell into a criminal history category II, yielding a recommended guideline range of 360 months – 120 years in prison. The Receipt of Child Pornography Count carried a minimum-minimum sentence of five years.
“The monstrous conduct of this defendant towards children makes this strong sentence an appropriate one,” said Mac Schneider, United States Attorney for the District of North Dakota. “This defendant preyed on kids online and in real life, and the public is safer now that he is in the long-term custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons. I commend our office’s First Assistant United States Attorney, Jenifer Puhl, our colleagues at Main Justice, and our partners in federal, state, and local law enforcement for ensuring this defendant faced justice.”
“Morgan-Derosier was a significant threat to the community, and his conviction and sentencing highlights the fact that predators like him will face significant penalties for their crimes that leave victims and families traumatized,” said Jamie Holt, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) St. Paul Special Agent in Charge. “HSI special agents work tirelessly to combat child predators like Morgan-Derosier. We will continue to fight against the exploitation of children and support victims by providing critical resources and services. Well done to the special agents and law enforcement community partners for bringing him to justice for his reprehensible crimes.”
Homeland Security Investigations, the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation, and the Grand Forks Police Department investigated the case. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Puhl and Trial Attorney Charles Schmitz of the Justice Department’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section 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 www.justice.gov/psc.
# # #
New York City Man Sentenced to 33 Months in Prison for Role in Burglary Conspiracy Targeting Asian Small Business OwnersRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A New York man was sentenced today to 33 months in prison for his role in a conspiracy that targeted Asian and Asian-American small business owners for burglaries, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced today.
James Hurt, 48, of New York, previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Evelyn Padin to an information charging him with one count of conspiracy to commit interstate transportation of stolen property. Judge Padin imposed the sentence today in Newark federal court.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
From Dec. 2, 2016, to March 20, 2019, Hurt and others participated in a conspiracy to burglarize the residences of certain Asian small business owners living in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Delaware of large sums of money, valuable jewelry, and other items, and then transport the stolen goods in interstate commerce, including to residences in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Padin sentenced Hurt to three years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited FBI Newark’s Transnational Organized Crime Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge James E. Dennehy, in Newark, with the investigation leading to the sentencing. He also thanked the South Plainfield Police Department, the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office, the New Jersey State Police, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, the U.S. Department of Labor, the U.S. Department of State, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the U.S. Department of Transportation, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Union County Prosecutor’s Office, and the Bernards Township, Bethlehem Township, Cherry Hill, Cinnaminson, Clark, Colonial Regional, Cranford, Delaware State Police-Troop 2, Delran, Edison, East Brunswick, East Hanover, Eatontown, Elizabeth, Essex County Sheriff’s Office-Bureau of Narcotics, Evesham Township, Exeter Township, Fair Lawn, Forks Township, Fort Lee, Franklin Township, Glassboro, Gloucester Township, Hackensack, Haverstraw, Hazlet, Highland Park, Hillside, Hillsborough Township, Howell Township, Jackson, Kenilworth, Lawrence Township, Linden, Lyndhurst, Mahwah, Marlboro Township, Maywood, Middletown, Montgomery County, Montville, Morris Township, Mount Laurel, Mountainside, New Castle County, New Providence, New York Police Department’s 105th Detective Squad, North Brunswick, North Plainfield, Old Bridge, Paramus, Parsippany, Phillipsburg, Piscataway, Pocono Mountain Regional, Pocono Township, Raritan, Roselle Park, Sayreville, Somerville, South Brunswick, South River, South Whitehall Township, Spotswood, Town of Tuxedo, Tinton Falls, Toms River, Township of Ocean, Union, Upper Macungie Township, Wall Township, Warren, Washington Township, Watchung, Westfield, Whitehall Township, and Woodbridge Township police departments.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Dong Joo Lee of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Cybercrime Unit in Newark.
Naval Commander Sentenced for Distributing Child Sexual Abuse Material and Retaining Classified National Defense InformationRead the Press Release
Gregory Edward McLean, 40, of Jacksonville, Florida, was sentenced today to 160 months for distributing child sexual abuse material and 120 months for unlawfully retaining classified national defense information. The sentences will be served concurrently.
According to court documents, state law enforcement in Rhode Island received a cyber tipline report that a user of a particular messaging application had shared videos depicting the sexual abuse of young children. The investigation identified the user as McLean, who was at that time an active-duty officer in the U.S. Navy, with the rank of Lieutenant Commander and serving as the executive officer of a ship stationed aboard a Naval Station Mayport in Florida. The Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) continued the investigation and identified additional instances where McLean had distributed child sexual abuse material. On Nov. 4, 2021, agents executed a federal search warrant at McLean’s residence, during which they seized numerous electronic devices and storage media. A forensic review revealed that several of these items contained files depicting the sexual abuse of minors.
The forensic review also identified a flash drive which had been recovered from McLean’s kitchen counter that contained approximately 150 documents containing national defense information classified at the secret level and 50 documents containing national defense information classified at the confidential level. An investigation by NCIS and the FBI revealed that throughout his service as a naval officer, McLean had access to classified information and held a top-secret security clearance. McLean had entered into various agreements with the United States regarding the protection and proper handling of classified information and was aware that his home was not an authorized location to store classified national defense information. In particular, court documents identify two documents McLean unlawfully retained which contained national defense information related to foreign governments and their combat aircraft and naval capabilities. Disclosure of this information could reasonably be expected to cause damage and, in some instances, serious damage to the national security of the United States.
Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division, Executive Assistant Director Larissa L. Knapp of the FBI’s National Security Branch and Special Agent in Charge Barbara Jackson of the NCIS Southeast Field Office made the announcement made the announcement.
The FBI and Naval Criminal Investigative Service investigated the case.
Senior Trial Attorney Heather Schmidt of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys David B. Mesrobian and Kirwinn Mike for the Middle District of Florida prosecuted the case.
Naval Commander Sentenced to Federal Prison for Distributing Child Sexual Abuse Material and Retaining Classified National Defense InformationRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – Chief United States District Judge Timothy J. Corrigan sentenced Gregory Edward McLean (40, Jacksonville) today to 13 years and 4 months in federal prison for distributing child sexual abuse material and 10 years’ imprisonment for unlawfully retaining classified national defense information. The sentences are to be served concurrently. McLean entered a guilty plea on December 6, 2023.
According to court documents, state law enforcement in Rhode Island received a cyber tipline report that a user of a particular messaging application had shared videos depicting the sexual abuse of young children. The investigation identified the user as McLean, who was at that time an active-duty officer in the U.S. Navy, with the rank of Lieutenant Commander and serving as the Executive Officer of a ship stationed aboard a Naval Station Mayport in Florida. The Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) continued the investigation and identified additional instances where McLean had distributed child sexual abuse material. On Nov. 4, 2021, agents executed a federal search warrant at McLean’s residence, during which they seized numerous electronic devices and storage media. A forensic review revealed that several of these items contained files depicting the sexual abuse of minors.
The forensic review also identified a flash drive – which had been recovered from McLean’s kitchen counter – that contained approximately 150 documents containing national defense information classified at the Secret level and 50 documents containing national defense information classified at the Confidential level. An investigation by NCIS and the FBI revealed that throughout his service as a naval officer, McLean had access to classified information and held a Top-Secret security clearance. McLean had entered into various agreements with the United States regarding the protection and proper handling of classified information and was aware that his home was not an authorized location to store classified national defense information. In particular, court documents identify two documents McLean unlawfully retained which contained national defense information related to foreign governments and their combat aircraft and naval capabilities. Disclosure of this information could reasonably be expected to cause damage and, in some instances, serious damage to the national security of the United States.
“Protecting our children from abuse and safeguarding our national security interests are of paramount importance to my office,” said U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg. “The cooperation and diligent investigation by our law enforcement partners in this case ensured that both of those priorities were upheld through the successful federal prosecution of this case.”
“The Naval Criminal Investigative Service is dedicated to combatting the exploitation of the vulnerable members of our community and protecting the integrity of classified national security information,” said Special Agent in Charge Barbara Jackson, NCIS Southeast Field Office. "This sentencing serves as an example that such behavior will not be tolerated within the Navy ranks.”
“Gregory McLean’s retention of classified national defense information documents in an unauthorized location posed a significant risk to our country and military,” said Coult Markovsky, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Jacksonville Division. “Let this sentence serve as a pledge to all Americans that the FBI and our partners will doggedly pursue those who exploit their position of trust and risk our national security. In addition, the FBI and our law enforcement partners will continue to identify and hold those accountable who also pose a danger to the most vulnerable members of our society.”
This case was investigated by the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Rhode Island State Police, with assistance from the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys David B. Mesrobian and Kirwinn Mike and Trial Attorney Heather Schmidt of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section.
This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Muskogee Resident Sentenced to 35 Years for Kidnapping, Carjacking and RobberyRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Patrick Wayne McHenry, age 30, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 360 months for one count of Conspiracy to Commit Kidnapping, 360 months for one count of Kidnapping, 180 months for one count of Carjacking, and 180 months for one count of Robbery in Indian Country. Those terms will be served concurrently. In addition, McHenry was sentenced to 60 months for Use and Carry of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence. That term will be served consecutively.
The charges arose from investigations by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Muskogee County Sheriff’s Office, and the Muskogee Police Department.
On December 21, 2022, McHenry was found guilty of the charges by a federal jury at trial. According to investigators, on September 11, 2021, McHenry kidnapped an individual from a motel in Muskogee, on the Muscogee (Creek) Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, and held the victim captive during an ordeal that lasted over two days. On September 12, 2021, McHenry, armed with a sawed-off shotgun, targeted, robbed, and carjacked a second victim from the same motel in Muskogee.
“I applaud the work of law enforcement and prosecutors for their roles in holding McHenry accountable for his spate of violence,” said United States Attorney Christopher J. Wilson.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, Chief Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. McHenry will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshal pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.
Assistant United States Attorney Erin Cornell represented the United States at sentencing.
Morgan County Man Admits to Firearms Trafficking SchemeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Russell Allen Perry, 44, of Berkeley Springs, West Virginia, pled guilty today to his role in a firearms trafficking conspiracy.
According to court documents and statements made in court, the scheme involved another defendant purchasing firearms at licensed dealers in Morgan and Berkeley Counties and distributing those firearms for resale. Perry and others assisted in illegally selling nearly 50 firearms.
Perry faces up to 5 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Mobile Man Sentenced to 30 Months for Illegally Possessing A FirearmRead the Press Release
MOBILE, AL – Kelvontae Brown, a Mobile, Alabama man, has been sentenced to 30 months in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a previously convicted felon. The sentence was imposed by Senior United States District Judge Callie V. S. Granade.
According to court documents, in January 2024, Kelvontate Brown plead guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. In March 2023, concerned neighbors called 911 because Brown was acting erratically and was in the street with a firearm. When members of the Mobile Police Department arrived, they located Brown, took him into custody, and collected the Glock pistol he had attempted to hide nearby. Brown admitted he had possessed the firearm and that he had hidden it. Brown has prior convictions for domestic violence and theft offenses and was on state probation at the time of this firearms offense.
At sentencing, Judge Granade imposed a 30-month sentence of incarceration and a three-year term of supervised release upon Brown’s discharge from prison. Brown will also be required to undergo mental health evaluation upon release.
The Mobile Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Beth Stepan prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.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.
Mexican man admits to possessing images and videos of child sexual abuse materialRead the Press Release
BROWNSVILLE, Texas – A 21-year-old Mexican citizen has pleaded guilty to possession of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.
On June 30, 2023, Kevin Alejandro Santos-Moya attempted to enter the United States through the Los Indios Port of Entry. Law enforcement referred him to secondary inspection where they conducted a search of his iPhone and located child pornography.
Forensic analysis of the phone resulted in the discovery of a total of 31 images and 37 videos of child pornography.
U.S. District Judge Fernando Rodriguez Jr. accepted the plea and has set sentencing for Sept. 5. At that time, he faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
Santos-Moya has been and will remain in custody pending sentencing.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ana C. Cano is prosecuting the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources link on that page.
Mexican National Sentenced for Illegal Reentry into the United StatesRead the Press Release
LONDON, Ky. – A Mexican National, illegally residing in London, Rafael Martinez, 41, was sentenced on Wednesday, by U.S. District Judge Robert Wier, to 77 months in prison, for illegal reentry to the United States following a conviction for an aggravated felony.
According to his plea agreement, Martinez was ordered removed to Mexico from the United States, on August 30, 2004, following his conviction and service of a sentence for child molestation from Grant County, Indiana. At the time of his conviction, Martinez was unlawfully present in the United States. On September 14, 2018, Martinez was arrested in Laurel County, Kentucky, on new state charges, and he was identified as a previously removed alien who had made no attempt to apply for re-admission to the United States. Martinez was ultimately convicted on these Kentucky charges and his federal sentence was ordered to run consecutively to this prior Kentucky sentence.
Under federal law, Martinez must serve 85 percent of his federal prison sentence.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, and LaDeon Francis, Director, Department of Homeland Security, Immigrations and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations, (ICE-ERO) Chicago Field Office, jointly announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by ICE-ERO. Assistant U.S. Attorney Parman prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
— END —
Mexican Man Charged with Illegal Re-entry of a Removed Alien Previously Convicted of a FelonyRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that IGNACIO SORIANO-RUIZ, age 29, was charged on May 24, 2024, in a bill of information, with reentry of a previously removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a).
According to the bill of information, IGNACIO SORIANO-RUIZ reentered the United States after being previously deported on January 14, 2018.
He faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten (10) years, followed by up to three (3) years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that a bill of information is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Customs and Border Protection in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jon M. Maestri of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Mexican Man Charged with Illegal Re-entry of a Removed AlienRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that BALTAZAR GARCIA-MENDOZA, age 33, was charged on May 24, 2024, in a bill of information, with reentry of a previously removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a).
According to the bill of information, BALTAZAR GARCIA-MENDOZA reentered the United States after being previously deported on February 3, 2014.
He faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two (2) years followed by up to one (1) year of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that a bill of information is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Customs and Border Protection in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jon M. Maestri of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.