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15 May 2024
Former FSU Engineering Student Sentenced to 18 Years in Federal Prison for Sexual Exploitation of Children and Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Sean Kurt Paolo Macalacad, 24, of Tallahassee, Florida, was sentenced to eighteen years in federal prison after previously pleading guilty to one count of sexual exploitation of children and one count of receipt of child pornography. The sentence was announced by Jason R. Coody, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
“There is no greater charge than the protection of our children,” said U.S. Attorney Coody. “This sentence is yet another example of the unwavering commitment to the protection of our most vulnerable and should serve as a significant deterrent to those who would attempt to harm them. We will continue to work tirelessly with our law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute those who engage in such heinous conduct.”
Plea documents reflect that law enforcement officers received Cybertips from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) that a user of a social media account had transmitted five files constituting child pornography. The subsequent investigation revealed that the account was Macalacad’s, an engineering student at Florida State University. During the course of the investigation, law enforcement officers obtained search warrants for two of Macalacad’s cell phones. An examination of the first phone’s contents confirmed that Macalacad was in possession of multiple child pornography images and videos with victims as young as 6 months of age. Additionally, the first phone contained evidence that Macalacad was engaged in sexually explicit chats with a 15-year-old boy through another social media application. During those chats, Macalacad misrepresented his age by claiming to be younger and requested the minor to send sexually explicit photographs of himself. The search of the second phone revealed that it contained additional child pornography videos, and that it had been used to contact two 17-year-old boys through a social media application and obtain sexually explicit photographs of them.
“The conviction of Macalacad for possession and distribution of child sexual abuse material is a solemn reminder of the profound harm inflicted upon innocent lives,” said Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Tallahassee Assistant Special Agent in Charge Nicholas Ingegno. “It underscores our collective duty, alongside partners at the Leon County Sheriff’s Office, to safeguard the most vulnerable among us and to ensure that those who exploit and victimize children are held accountable to the fullest extent of the law. Justice has been served, but our commitment to protecting children remains steadfast.”
Macalacad’s prison sentence will be followed by lifetime supervised release, and he will be required to register as a sex offender and will be subject to all sex offender conditions. The Court ordered forfeiture of electronic devices used in the commission of the offenses, including two the cell phones.
This conviction was the result of a joint investigation conducted by Homeland Security Investigations and the Leon County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Justin M. Keen 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 United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Former Employee of Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia Pleads Guilty to Stealing Masters Golf Tournament Merchandise and MemorabiliaRead the Press Release
CHICAGO — A former employee of the Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia admitted in federal court in Chicago today that he stole millions of dollars’ worth of Masters golf tournament merchandise and memorabilia and sold it to online brokers.
RICHARD BRENDAN GLOBENSKY, 39, of Augusta, Ga., pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in Chicago to a federal charge of transporting and transferring stolen goods in interstate commerce. The conviction is punishable by up to ten years in federal prison. U.S. District Judge Sharon Johnson Coleman set sentencing for Oct. 29, 2024, at 1:30 p.m.
The guilty plea was announced by Morris Pasqual, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Robert W. “Wes” Wheeler, Jr., Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI. Valuable assistance was provided by the FBI's Art Crime Team. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sean Franzblau and Brian Hayes.
Globensky admitted in a plea agreement that he repeatedly stole the merchandise and memorabilia from 2009 to 2022 while he was employed by the club as a warehouse assistant. The merchandise included Masters shirts, hats, flags, watches, and other goods, while the memorabilia included historically significant items such as the Green Jackets won by Arnold Palmer, Gene Sarazen, and Ben Hogan, and documents and letters written and signed by Bobby Jones. Globensky sold the merchandise to the online broker in Florida for a total of approximately $5.3 million, the plea agreement states. He sold the historically significant memorabilia to the same broker, as well as to the broker’s associate, for nearly $300,000, the plea agreement states.
The brokers later re-sold the stolen merchandise and memorabilia, often at significant markups from the amounts paid to Globensky. At least one of the stolen items was purchased by a collector in Chicago.
Globensky plea agreementFormer Dover Man Sentenced to 57 Months in Federal Prison for the Unlawful Possession of Guns and Ammunition Obtained by a Straw PurchaserRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A former Dover man was sentenced yesterday in federal court for illegally possessing four firearms and ammunition that he acquired by using a straw purchaser, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
Christopher T. Brown, 39, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Steven J. McAuliffe to 57 months in prison and 3 years of supervised release. On February 7, 2024, Brown pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition. The straw purchaser in this case plead guilty to two counts of making false statements in connection with acquisition of a firearm and was sentenced on October 25, 2023.
“The defendant used a straw purchaser to unlawfully acquire and possess multiple firearms,” said U.S. Attorney Young. “Individuals prohibited from obtaining firearms cannot use straw purchasers to circumvent federal law. The U.S. Attorney’s Office and our federal law enforcement partners will investigate these crimes and bring both the prohibited individuals and the straw purchasers to justice.”
“Firearms possessed by convicted felons, often lead to an increase of violent crime within our communities,” said ATF Boston Field Division Special Agent in Charge James M. Ferguson “The sentence imposed yesterday sends a clear message that convicted felons who possess firearms will be held accountable. ATF alongside our local and state law enforcement partners are committed to keeping our communities safe.”
On January 9, 2023, the defendant’s wife called emergency services and reported that she and the defendant had an argument, and that the defendant had a gun to his head. Dover police officers responded to the emergency call at the defendant’s home. The defendant’s wife consented to a search of the house, and officers found four firearms in the closet of their son’s bedroom. Those guns included two pistols, a .40 caliber rifle, and a 12-gauge sawed-off shotgun with an obliterated serial number. Officers also recovered ammunition.
The defendant later admitted to owning the firearms and knowing that he could not lawfully possess them as a felon. The defendant also admitted that he used a straw purchaser to purchase three of the firearms and asked that straw purchaser to file a false police report that the firearms she bought were stolen.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Dover Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander S. Chen prosecuted the case.
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Former Deputy Sheriff and DEA Task Force Officer Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Distribute Narcotics, Defrauding the United States, and Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that James Darrell Hickox (38, Jacksonville) has pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring to distribute narcotics, one count of conspiring to defraud the United States, and one count of tax evasion. Hickox faces a combined maximum penalty of 50 years in federal prison for these offenses, including a minimum mandatory sentence of 5 years’ imprisonment for the drug distribution conspiracy. He has agreed to forfeit the money, firearms, and ammunition traceable to these offenses.
According to the plea agreement, while employed as a Nassau County Deputy Sheriff and designated Task Force Officer with the Drug Enforcement Administration, Hickox and a co-conspirator engaged in extensive corrupt activity from 2017 to 2023. These acts included the theft of money and illegal drugs that were seized as evidence during criminal investigations; providing illegal drugs (including fentanyl and cocaine) to others to distribute on his behalf; and hiding from the Internal Revenue Service more than $420,000 Hickox had received as a result of his criminal activities. Hickox and his co-conspirator stole more than 1,000 pounds of marijuana from evidence and provided the drugs to others to sell on their behalf. They had covered up the theft by submitting falsified paperwork showing that the marijuana had been destroyed. Similarly, the conspirators stole a kilogram of cocaine from evidence and gave it to a drug dealer to sell for them.
When Hickox’s residence was searched pursuant to a federal search warrant on March 10, 2023, agents found approximately 263 grams of a powder containing fentanyl, as well as cocaine. Hickox intended to distribute these substances. Agents also found a rifle that Hickox had illegally modified to function as a machinegun, as well as four additional firearms that had been seized during law enforcement investigations and should have been entered into evidence or been lawfully destroyed. Hickox had drilled out and obliterated the serial number on one of these firearms. Agents also located more than $195,000 in cash proceeds from Hickox’s illicit activities. A search of Hickox’s workspace at the Nassau County Sheriff’s Office revealed another 260 pills containing methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation, with assistance from U.S. Customs and Border Protection. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney William S. Hamilton. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection wish to thank the Nassau County Sheriff’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration for their cooperation during this investigation.
Former Credit Union Employee Sentenced to Nearly Three Years in Federal Prison for Scheme that Stole over $2 Million from Members’ AccountsRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- Jose Prado-Valero, 35, of Carmel has been sentenced to 33 months in federal prison, followed by two years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to financial institution fraud. He must also pay $2,132,517 in restitution.
According to court documents, from 2016 through August of 2019, Jose Prado-Valero served as the Automated Clearing House coordinator at a credit union beginning in 2019. His duties included posting and coordinating transactions into and out of the accounts of credit union members, which gave him access to members’ personally identifiable information, including Social Security numbers, date of birth, home address and telephone numbers. Prado-Valero also had access to members’ account numbers and account balances.
Sometime prior to February 14, 2019, Prado-Valero was approached by individuals not employed by the credit union who sought his assistance in conducting a scheme to defraud the financial institution and steal money held in member accounts. The co-conspirators promised to pay Prado-Valero a portion of the fraud proceeds if he stole members’ identity and account information.
Prado-Valero agreed to join the scheme and used his position of trust at the credit union to access members’ account information and steal their money. Between February 14, 2019, and August 16, 2019, Prado-Valero and accomplices successfully made 34 fraudulent transfers to themselves out of credit union members’ accounts, in the aggregate amount of $2,078,725. Prado-Valero was paid over $100,000 by his co-conspirators for his role in the scheme.
“Account holders and financial institutions depend on people in positions of trust to keep their information and money safe,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “This corrupt employee facilitated the theft of millions of customer dollars to satisfy his own greed. The serious federal prison sentence imposed demonstrates that the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office are watching, and those who abuse positions of trust to line their pockets at the expense of others will be held accountable.”
“Prado-Valero was entrusted with a great deal of responsibility over the hard-earned money of the credit union’s members. Instead of using his authority and access to protect the accounts of these customers, he sold his access to a criminal conspiracy so he could enrich himself,” said Herbert J. Stapleton, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Indianapolis Field Office. “I commend the investigative team for their expert, detailed work in this case, which resulted in this defendant being held accountable for his crimes.”
The FBI investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by Chief U.S. District Court Judge Tanya Walton Pratt.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney James M. Warden, who prosecuted this case.
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Former Chester Housing Authority Director of Public Housing, His Chief Assistant, and Contractor Sentenced for Bribery and Fraud SchemesRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced that Norman D. Wise, 58, of Mullica Hill, NJ, Douglas E. Daniel, 65, of Philadelphia, PA, and Leonard F. Coleman, 54, of Paulsboro, NJ, were sentenced this week by United States District Court Judge Wendy Beetlestone on bribery and fraud charges related to two schemes: (1) a bribery scheme in which Coleman paid off Wise and Daniel in exchange for contracting work awarded to Coleman at the Chester Housing Authority (“CHA”); and (2) a fraud scheme in which Wise and Daniel created a contracting company that they used to fraudulently bill the CHA and obtain hundreds of thousands of dollars in proceeds.
During the time they engaged in these offenses, Wise was the Director of Public Housing for the Chester Housing Authority and Daniel was the Housing Program Manager and Wise’s chief assistant.
The defendants were charged by information in connection with the schemes on August 29, 2023.
Wise pleaded guilty in September 2023 to theft from an organization receiving federal funds and wire fraud, and was sentenced on Monday to 37 months’ imprisonment, one year of supervised release, and $544,967 in restitution.
Daniel pleaded guilty in September 2023 to bribery concerning federal programs, theft from an organization receiving federal funds and aiding and abetting, and wire fraud, and was sentenced on Tuesday to 13 months and one day of imprisonment, three years of supervised release, and $544,967 in restitution.
Coleman pleaded guilty in October 2023 to bribery concerning federal programs and was sentenced Tuesday to one week in prison, three years of supervised release, and $68,502 in restitution.
“These defendants lined their pockets at the expense of an agency tasked with the critically important mission of providing affordable housing — an agency dealing with already-limited resources,” said U.S. Attorney Romero. “They not only compromised CHA’s efficacy and reputation out of sheer greed, they betrayed the public’s trust. My office and our partners will continue to bring such corruption to light and those responsible to justice.”
“These sentencings send the message that corruption will not be tolerated in our cities,” said Wayne A. Jacobs, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Philadelphia. “The FBI and our partners will continue to vigorously pursue those who seek to exploit the systems meant to aid our community and our citizens, and bring them to justice.”
“The fraud committed by the defendants as part of these schemes diverted federal funds that were intended to provide safe housing for low-income families,” said Special Agent in Charge Vicky Vazquez with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General. “HUD OIG will continue to work with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners to diligently pursue and hold accountable bad actors who willfully abuse federal assets.”
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Louis D. Lappen.
Former Bryant High School Teacher Sentenced to 13 Years in Federal Prison for Transportation of A Minor to Engage in Illegal Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—Heather Hare, 33, of Conway, was sentenced to serve the next 13 years in federal prison for transporting a minor across state lines for the purpose of unlawful sexual activity. Hare was sentenced earlier today by United States District Judge Lee P. Rudofsky.
The investigation into Hare revealed that Hare taught Family Consumer Science classes at Bryant High School and met the minor victim on their first day of their senior year. Hare began one-on-one counseling sessions with the minor victim, eventually giving them her personal phone number and primarily communicating with them through Instagram and Snapchat.
Hare later told the minor victim that she had a dream of them having sex and gave the victim her home address in Conway. The minor victim and Hare engaged in sexual activity between 20 to 30 times throughout the 2021-2022 school term, including multiple times at her Conway residence, in her vehicle, and in her classroom and parking lots at Bryant High School.
Between April 21 and April 24, 2022, Hare was the sponsor and chaperone for a field trip to Washington, D.C., as part of an extracurricular activity related to the Family Consumer Science courses Hare taught. During the field trip, Hare and the minor victim engaged in the unlawful sexual activity to which she pleaded guilty.
Hare was indicted on August 1, 2023, and charged with one count of interstate/foreign travel for prostitution/sexual activity by coercion and one count of transportation of a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity. In exchange for her guilty plea, the remaining charge was dismissed.
Judge Rudofsky also sentenced Hare to serve a lifetime of supervised release. Hare faced a maximum sentence of not less than 10 years imprisonment and up to life imprisonment, and not less than five years of supervised release for transportation of a minor to engage in unlawful sexual activity.
“Teachers who have sex with their minor students should take note of today’s sentence for Ms. Hare which reflects the consequences of abusing her position of trust and taking advantage of the vulnerability of this minor to repeatedly engage in unlawful sexual activity,” Ross said. “Our office will continue to hold accountable those who are in a position of trust that target children and prosecute them to the fullest extent of the law, as evidenced by Judge Rudofsky sentencing Ms. Hare to 13 years in federal prison.”
“The FBI takes crimes against children very seriously,” said Special Agent in Charge Alicia D. Corder, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Little Rock Field Office. “Today’s sentencing shows that the federal government will continuously work to identify, investigate, and prosecute individuals who abuse their position of trust and authority to exploit children in our community.”
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Saline County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bryant Police Department and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kristin Bryant.
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Additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
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@USAO_EDAR
Five Georgia men sentenced to federal prison for participating in a dog fighting operationRead the Press Release
DUBLIN, GA: Five middle Georgia men have been sentenced to federal prison for their roles in a large-scale dog fighting operation.
The 96 dogs rescued from the operation were discovered during searches conducted as part of an investigation into a drug trafficking conspiracy in Laurens, Treutlen, Johnson, and Emanuel Counties, said Jill E. Steinberg, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia. Two of those implicated in the dog-fighting operation also were sentenced in connection with the drug-trafficking conspiracy.
“As this investigation shows, animal fighting operations often occur in conjunction with other illegal activity,” said U.S. Attorney Steinberg. “In this case, holding these defendants accountable protects the welfare of these rescued animals while also removing dangerous drugs from the community.”
The five defendants each pled guilty to Conspiracy to Violate the Animal Welfare Act, and were sentenced in U.S. District Court. They include:
- Travis Martin, a/k/a “Fat,” 43, of Wrightsville, Ga., sentenced to 24 months in prison and fined $1,000. U.S. District Court Judge Dudley H. Bowen ordered the new sentence to be served consecutively to the 200-month sentence Martin is serving as the leader of the drug trafficking conspiracy;
- Sentell Carey, 41, of Wrightsville, Ga., sentenced to 18 months in prison and fined $2,000. Carey is serving a sentence of probation in the drug trafficking conspiracy;
- Dennis Wilcher, a/k/a “Buck,” 42, of Wrightsville, Ga., sentenced to 30 months in prison and fined $3,000;
- Terry Gilmore, 28, of Sandersville, Ga., sentenced to 23 months in prison and fined $2,500; and,
- Jonathan Linder, 35, of Rentz, Ga., sentenced to 20 months in prison and fined $2,000.
The defendants are all prohibited from owning dogs or engaging in any activity involving dogs, and must serve three years of supervised release upon completion of their prison terms. There is no parole in the federal system.
As described in court documents and testimony, the 2022 investigation by the Laurens County Sheriff’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration led to a 27-county federal indictment charging 11 defendants with participating in an operation distributing methamphetamine and heroin in the greater Laurens County area. That investigation led to multiple searches of residences and vehicles and the seizure of large amounts of drugs, cash, and firearms.
During that investigation, authorities rescued 96 dogs suspected to be part of a dog fighting operation from three locations in Johnson County, and two other locations in Laurens and Washington counties.
The dogs were seized in a civil action brought by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Georgia, and the U.S. Marshals Service contracted with an agency to provide veterinary service, care, and rehabilitation of the rescued dogs.
“The intentional infliction of pain and suffering on animals for sport is unfathomable,” said Special Agent-in-Charge Miles Davis of the U.S. Department of Agriculture-Office of Inspector General (USDA-OIG). “We appreciate the commitment of our law enforcement partners to pursue these individuals who choose to participate in these heinous acts while also committing other severe offenses in our communities.”
The criminal dog fighting prosecution was investigated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General and lead Agent Kelsey Tolomeo, with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service and local law enforcement agencies, and prosecuted for the United States by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica K. Rock, while the civil forfeiture of the dogs was coordinated by Southern District of Georgia Civil Division Chief Shannon Heath Statkus.
The drug trafficking case was investigated by the Laurens County Sheriff’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration, with the assistance of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation Southeastern Regional Drug Enforcement Office, the Emanuel County Sheriff’s Office, the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office, and the Ocmulgee Drug Task Force, and prosecuted for the United States by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer J. Kirkland.
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Fentanyl, meth trafficking send Great Falls woman to prison for more than three yearsRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Great Falls woman who admitted to a drug trafficking crime after law enforcement found fentanyl and methamphetamine in a vehicle she was driving was sentenced today to three years and two months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
The defendant, Courtney Price, 28, pleaded guilty in January to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
The government alleged in court documents that on Feb. 8, 2023, law enforcement officers made a traffic stop of a vehicle Price was driving. A state search warrant was executed later on the vehicle, and law enforcement located fentanyl, meth and a firearm. Price admitted in an interview she knew there was fentanyl in the vehicle at the time of the traffic stop and that she was being paid in fentanyl to drive her passengers from Tacoma, Washington, to Great Falls.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tara J. Elliott prosecuted the case. The Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Homeland Security Investigations and Russell Country Drug Task Force conducted the investigation.
The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF.
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Felon in Possession of Firearm Convicted by Federal JuryRead the Press Release
TULSA, Okla. – Following a two-day trial, a federal jury today convicted Mario Terrell McBee, 39, of Tulsa, for being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition.
During the trial, the United States presented evidence that on April 23, 2021, McBee was taken to the hospital for a possible drug overdose by a family friend. McBee was unconscious by the time he reached Claremore Indian Hospital. Emergency room nurses removed McBee from the vehicle, placed him on a stretcher, and rushed him into the exam room. While nurses began lifesaving measures, a nurse noticed a firearm in McBee’s waistband. The nurses removed the firearms and administered several doses of Narcan to McBee and he regained consciousness.
The FBI and ATF took possession of the loaded 9mm firearm and discovered that McBee had previously been convicted of several felonies. State court records show that McBee’s previous felonies consist of drug-related offenses, assault and battery on a police officer, and eluding a police officer.
McBee is a member of the Chickasaw Nation and he will remain in custody until sentencing.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mandy M. Mackenzie and Thomas E. Buscemi prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about PSN, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
Felon Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Armed Robberies of US Postal Mail CarriersRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas resident who has prior felony convictions was sentenced to 10 years in prison followed by five years of supervised release for armed robbery of multiple United States Postal Service (USPS) mail carriers in 2023.
According to court documents, from January to March 2023, Robert Earl Thompson (31) brandished a firearm and robbed five USPS mail carriers while they were delivering mail. During one robbery, Thompson pointed a firearm at the mail carrier’s head while making his demand.
On March 9, 2023, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department arrested Thompson. At the time of his arrest, he unlawfully possessed a 9mm semiautomatic handgun and a .380 caliber semiautomatic handgun. Thompson has prior felony convictions including attempt leaving the scene of an accident, attempt ownership or possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, possession of stolen property, and attempt burglary, all in Clark County, Nev. He is prohibited by law from possessing a firearm due to his prior felony convictions.
“U.S. Postal Inspectors will relentlessly investigate all acts of violence against USPS employees. Letter carriers are servants of the community and not only deserve respect, but also be able to complete their job safely. This significant sentence sends a message that those who attack public servants will be brought to justice,” said Inspector in Charge Glen Henderson of the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), Phoenix Division.
Thompson pleaded guilty to three counts of robbery of United States property with use of a dangerous weapon and two counts of felon in possession of a firearm. He was sentenced by United States District Judge Cristina D. Silva on April 22, 2024.
United States Attorney Jason M. Frierson for the District of Nevada and Inspector in Charge Glen Henderson of the USPIS, Phoenix Division made the announcement.
The USPIS and Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Edward Veronda prosecuted the case.
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Federal Jury in Bridgeport Finds 2 Members of Violent Waterbury Gang GuiltyRead the Press Release
On May 10, 2024, a federal jury in Bridgeport found GABRIEL PULLIAM, also known as “G, ” 30, and JULIAN SCOTT, also known as “Ju Sav,” 25, guilty of offenses related their participation in the 960 gang, a violent Waterbury street gang.
Today’s announcement was made by Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut; Maureen T. Platt, State’s Attorney for the Waterbury Judicial District; Robert Fuller, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; James Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge, ATF Boston Field Division; and Waterbury Police Chief Fernando C. Spagnolo.
In an effort to address drug trafficking and related violence in Waterbury, the FBI, ATF, and Waterbury Police have been investigating multiple Waterbury-based groups, including the 960 gang. On September 14, 2021, a federal grand jury in Hartford returned a 36-count indictment charging 960 members Pulliam, Scott, and 14 other alleged gang members, with racketeering, narcotics trafficking, firearm possession, murder, attempted murder and assault, and obstruction of justice offenses.
According to the evidence presented during the approximately five-week trial:
- On October 6, 2018, in a drive-by shooting, Scott and other gang members attempted to murder individuals believed to be members of a rival gang, which resulted in gunshot wounds to an individual.
- On October 11, 2018, in an effort to murder rival gang members, Pulliam, Scott, and other gang members participated in a drive-by shooting that resulted in the death of an innocent bystander, 30-year-old Fransua Guzman, and the paralysis of a second victim.
- On November 18, 2018, Scott and other gang members participated in a drive-by shooting of rival gang members, which resulted in gunshot wounds to two individuals.
The jury found Pulliam and Scott guilty of conspiracy to engage in a pattern of racketeering activity, murder in violation of the Violent Crimes in Aid of Racketeering (“VCAR”) statute, causing death through the use of a firearm and in relation to a crime of violence, attempted murder and assault with a dangerous weapon in aid of racketeering, and carrying and using a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. Pulliam was also found guilty of conspiracy to possess, with intent to distribute, and to distribute, controlled substances.
At sentencing, which is not scheduled, Pulliam and Scott face a mandatory sentence of life imprisonment.
To date, 14 members and associates of the 960 gang who were charged federally in September 2021 have been convicted. The convictions include four defendants who, after a six-week trial, were found guilty on February 14, 2024. Three of the four convicted on that date were found to have committed the murders of Clarence Lewis and Antonio Santos on November 22, 2017, as well as other violent acts. They also face mandatory sentences of life imprisonment.
“This type of gang-related activity, coordinated crimes, and the destruction they cause will not be tolerated by law enforcement, and we will continue to bring all of our resources to bear and combat them,” said U.S. Attorney Avery. “No person or group of people is entitled to wreak havoc by engaging in repeated acts of violence, instilling fear and trauma on the children and families who reside in our communities. We are pleased that this investigation and prosecution have had a significant impact on the violence being perpetrated in Waterbury. I thank State’s Attorney Platt, Chief Spagnolo, the FBI, ATF, U.S. Marshals Service, the Connecticut Forensic Science Laboratory, the DEA Laboratory, and those police departments that have assigned personnel to multiple federal tasks forces, for the invaluable partnership that has made possible these convictions, removed numerous violent individuals from the community, and made Waterbury safer.”
“The 14 pleas and convictions obtained in this case are the result of years of painstaking work, and illustrate what can be accomplished when both federal and state agencies cooperate by sharing information and working together to make our communities safer,” said Waterbury State’s Attorney Platt. “We are very grateful for the tremendous effort and resources that the U.S. Attorney’s Office put forward to stop these violent gang offenders. I am extremely proud of the hard work, dedication, and professionalism exhibited by members of the Waterbury State’s Attorney’s Office who were led by Supervisory Assistant State’s Attorney Don Therkildsen, and included Deputy Assistant State’s Attorney Alex Arroyo and Inspector Mike Slavin. Lastly, the Waterbury Police Department, under the leadership of Chief Fernando Spagnolo, must be commended for its thorough and complete investigation of this complex and difficult prosecution.”
“Waterbury community members and surrounding towns are experiencing a sense of relief as a result of this specific operation,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Fuller. “Thanks to the joint efforts of local, state, and federal law enforcement, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, we have halted a violent group from operating in Waterbury. We will continue to utilize all of our resources to dismantle violent groups and improve the quality of life in Connecticut communities.”
“The Waterbury Police Department and City of Waterbury are pleased with the results of the recent 960 RICO trial,” said Waterbury Police Chief Spagnolo. “We are grateful for the relationships with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, FBI, ATF, U.S. Marshals Service, Waterbury States Attorney’s Office, and all members of the Violent Crime Task Force. The individuals that have been convicted posed a significant threat to our community, engaging in acts of violence and causing fear throughout a number of different neighborhoods. Waterbury is a much safer place today as a result of this joint investigation and dedicated prosecution of these individuals.”
This investigation has been conducted by the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force, Waterbury Police Department, ATF, and U.S. Marshals Service, with the assistance of the Southington Police Department, Watertown Police Department, New Milford Police Department, Connecticut State Police, Connecticut Department of Correction, Connecticut Forensic Science Laboratory, and the DEA Laboratory. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys John T. Pierpont, Jr., Natasha M. Freismuth, and Geoffrey M. Stone, and Supervisory Assistant State’s Attorney Don E. Therkildesen, Jr. and Deputy Assistant State’s Attorney Alexandra Arroyo of the Waterbury State’s Attorney’s Office, who have been cross-designated as Special Assistant U.S. Attorneys in this matter.
This prosecution is a part of the Justice’s Department’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) and Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) programs.
PSN is 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.
OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations through a prosecutor-led and intelligence-driven approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Federal Jury Convicts Springer Resident of Federal Firearm ViolationRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that David Colbert Johnston, age 64, of Springer, Oklahoma, was found guilty by a federal jury of one count of Felon in Possession of a Firearm, including aiding and abetting another felon in illegally possessing a firearm.
The jury trial began with testimony on Monday, May 6, 2024, and concluded on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, with the guilty verdict.
During the trial, the United States presented evidence that on May 11, 2023, while serving arrest warrants on Cord Sikes Hutchins at Johnston’s Springer residence, law enforcement officers discovered two semi-automatic firearms, one bolt action rifle, one handgun, and assorted ammunition in the home. After obtaining a federal search warrant, law enforcement seized the weapons and ammunition as evidence. At the time of the discovery, Johnston and Hutchins were both prohibited from possessing the firearms due to prior felony convictions. On April 24, 2024, Hutchins pleaded guilty to one count of Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition.
The guilty verdict was the result of investigations by the United States Marshal Service, the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, the Muskogee County Sheriff’s Office, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, the Madill Police Department, the Love County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
The Honorable Kenneth J. Gonzales, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court of New Mexico, sitting by assignment, presided over the trial in Muskogee and ordered the completion of a presentence report. The sentencing will be scheduled following completion of the report. The defendant will remain in the custody of the United States Marshal until sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorneys Edith Singer and T. Cameron McEwen represented the United States.
Father, Son, Sentenced for Trafficking Cocaine to St. LouisRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Ronnie. L. White on Wednesday sentenced a father and son who brought kilograms of cocaine to St. Louis for years to more than 10 years in prison.
Judge White sentenced Gregory Dixson Jr., 53, to 15 years in prison and ordered him to pay a $10,000 fine. He will also be on supervised release for 10 years after he gets out of prison. His son, Gregory Cornell Dixson III, 33, was sentenced to 10 years and one month in prison.
Beginning in at least 2015, the Dixsons conspired with others to bring cocaine to St. Louis. Dixson Jr. admitted that at least 450 kilograms of cocaine could be attributed to his conduct and the conduct of others. For Dixson III, that figure was 50 to 150 kilograms of cocaine.
In late 2016 or early 2017, Dixson Jr. and/or Dixson III sent couriers to Texas to buy kilograms of cocaine from Miguel Angel Gonzalez, who bought it from Carlos Gonzalez. Dixson Jr. was at one point buying as much as eight to 16 kilograms per week.
During the investigation, law enforcement officers intercepted or seized cocaine and cash. In September of 2015, 31 kilograms of cocaine was found hidden inside a vehicle. The cocaine was supplied by Omar Pena Vargas.
In August of 2018, Gonzalez was found in a hotel with two bags containing a total of $634,770 in cash, representing a partial payment for 75 kilograms of cocaine being sold to Dixson Jr.
Drug Enforcement AdministrationOn Oct. 28, 2018, eight kilograms of cocaine bound for St. Louis were seized.
In March of 2020, 23.6 pounds of a mix of heroin and fentanyl was seized from Ruben Sanchez Blanco. Some of those drugs were intended for St. Louis, Dixon III’s plea says.
Drug Enforcement AdministrationIn July of 2021, $161,845 was found hidden inside a vehicle that Quintin Deforest Adkins drove to Texas to buy six kilograms of cocaine.
Dixson Jr. pleaded guilty in January to conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute more than 5 kilograms of cocaine and conspiracy to launder money. Dixson III pleaded guilty to the same cocaine conspiracy charge as his father.
Drug Enforcement AdministrationDixson Jr. agreed to forfeit $135,265, the proceeds from the sale of a home in Texas, a 2015 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali, a customized 2015 Harley Davidson Road Glide and cash in lieu of a 2018 Dodge Challenger Demon.
Vargas is in federal prison. Miguel Gonzalez, 59, pleaded guilty in November to a charge of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute more than 5 kilograms of cocaine and 400 grams of fentanyl. He is scheduled to be sentenced in June. Adkins, 63, pleaded guilty in November to the cocaine and fentanyl conspiracy and money laundering conspiracy charges and was sentenced in February to 87 months in prison. Blanco, 46, of El Paso, Texas, was sentenced in June to five years in prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute cocaine and fentanyl. Carlos Gonzalez is deceased.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, the FBI and IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (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.
Farmington Man Sentenced for ArsonRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A federal judge handed down an 8-month prison sentence to a Farmington man who pleaded guilty to burning down a residence in Two Grey Hills, New Mexico, which is within the exterior boundaries of the Navajo Nation.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to publicly available court records, on Aug. 28, 2023, Ulrick Bruce Canyon, 41, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, started a fire at the residence by pouring lighter fluid in the bedrooms, lit the fire with a match and threw two propane tanks into the fire. Canyon then left the residence with a wheelbarrow full of his clothing, at which time he was intercepted by Navajo Nation Police officers.
When questioned by a Navajo Nation Criminal Investigator, Canyon admitted to using marijuana and meth. On the day of the incident, Canyon said that he had been hearing voices and they had told him to “put the house on fire.”
Upon his release from prison, Canyon will be subject to 3 years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and the Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew J. McGinley is prosecuting the case.
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Fairfax man pleads guilty to multiple scams totaling over a million dollarsRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A Fairfax man pled guilty today to his role in two scams that defrauded victims and retailers out of over a million dollars.
According to court documents, from Nov. 19, 2020, to Aug. 13, 2023, Sunyu Qian, 31, participated in a scheme to con people into purchasing gift cards that he used to acquire high-value items. Members of a criminal organization contacted individuals, mostly elderly victims, across the United States via telephone or email and, through a variety of false pretenses, convinced them to purchase gift cards from large retailers and convey the gift card information to the fraudsters, including Qian. The value of the cards could be aggregated by Qian to purchase electronics, which Qian then shipped to his co-conspirators. During this scheme, Qian used approximately $1.1 million through unauthorized access.
From April 19, 2023, to March 23, 2024, Qian engaged in another scheme using counterfeit price tags to purchase large containers of baby formula at the lower price of a much smaller cans of baby formula. For instance, on April 19, 2023, Qian scanned counterfeit price tags for 13oz cans of formula priced at $4.99 each that he had placed on larger containers of the same formula priced at $62.99 each. Qian would then deliver the baby formula to co-conspirators who paid him in cash. During this scheme, Qian defrauded two retailers of a total of at least $124,000.
Qian’s total culpability over the two schemes is approximately $1.25 million.
Qian pled guilty to one count each of conspiracy to commit access device fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 18 and faces a maximum penalty of 25 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, and Derek W. Gordon, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Washington, D.C., made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Rossie D. Alston Jr. accepted the plea.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Hood is 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-60.
Essex County Woman Sentenced to 12 Years in Prison for Role in Three Robberies and Two Shootings in Jersey CityRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – An Essex County, New Jersey, woman was sentenced to 144 months in prison for her role in a one-night crime spree involving robberies and shootings in Jersey City, New Jersey, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced today.
Siobhan Chandler, 21, of Newark, previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Brian R. Martinotti to an indictment charging her with conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery, conspiracy to use and carry a firearm in relation to crime of violence, attempted Hobbs Act Robbery, Hobbs Act robbery, and using and carrying a firearm in relation to crime of violence. Judge Martinotti imposed the sentence on May 14, 2024, in Newark federal court. The charges against her conspirator, Rodney Williams, are merely accusations, and he is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
On the evening of Nov. 14, 2023, Chandler and Williams robbed a gas station, where Williams pointed his gun at an attendant and demanded money. Chandler and Williams threatened force, violence, or fear of injury to two employees by demanding money while pointing a firearm at the employees. Chandler and Williams then fled.
Chandler and Williams later entered another store, and Williams again pointed his firearm at a clerk and demanded money. The clerk handed money to Williams and he and Chandler then fled.
Chandler and Williams entered a nearby restaurant and threatened force, violence or the fear of injury to a cashier. Williams pointed his gun at the cashier and demanded money. Williams discharged the firearm, shooting the cashier in the chest. The cashier handed money to Williams, after which Williams and Chandler fled.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Martinotti sentenced Chandler to five years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited officers of the Jersey City Police Department, under the direction of Public Safety Director James Shea; and the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Esther Suarez, with the investigation leading to the sentencing. He also thanks the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shontae D. Gray of the Economic Crimes Unit in Newark.
El propietario del club de striptease de Tolland, el gerente y el portero acusados de 12 cargosRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, Fiscal Federal para el Distrito de Connecticut, Michael J. Krol, Agente Especial a Cargo de Investigaciones de Seguridad Nacional (HSI), Nueva Inglaterra, Harry T. Chavis, Jr., Agente Especial a Cargo de la Investigación Criminal del IRS y el coronel de la policía estatal de Nueva Inglaterra y Connecticut, Daniel Loughman, anunció hoy que un gran jurado federal en Hartford emitió una acusación formal de 12 cargos acusando a KENNETH DENNING, de 67 años, de Holland, Massachusetts, a JOSHUA BAKER, de 41 años, de Willimantic, Connecticut, y a WILLIAM MAYO, de 41 años, de Manchester, Connecticut, de delitos relacionados con la operación del club de striptease Electric Blue en Tolland, Connecticut.
La acusación fue emitida ayer y Denning, Baker y Mayo fueron arrestados hoy. Como se alega en la acusación, Denning era el propietario y supervisaba el funcionamiento del club de striptease Electric Blue, que incluía el empleo de bailarinas que realizaban bailes desnudos y bailes eróticos para los clientes. Baker era el gerente y contable del club, y Mayo trabajaba en el club como portero y era el principal responsable de contratar las bailarinas, muchos de las cuales no estaban legalmente autorizadas para vivir ni trabajar en los Estados Unidos.
La acusación formal alega que Electric Blue tenía una “sala de bailes eróticos” semiprivada y “salas VIP” donde las bailarinas regularmente realizaban actos sexuales comerciales para los clientes. Como pago por los actos sexuales comerciales, los clientes normalmente pagaban al club una tarifa de entrada por el uso de la sala de baile erótico o una de las salas VIP y luego pagaban una tarifa adicional directamente a la bailarina. Además, el club cobraba efectivo a través de los gastos de cobertura pagados en la puerta y los honorarios pagados por las bailarinas para realizar sus actos en el club. Baker u otro empleado del club cobraban el efectivo recibido por el club, lo colocaban en sobres indicando el origen del efectivo y luego colocaban los sobres en una caja fuerte en la oficina de Denning. Los acusados se referían a ese efectivo como “dinero de Kenny” y utilizaban ese dinero para pagar gastos comerciales y financiar los gastos personales de Denning, incluidos viajes a casinos donde Denning gastaba grandes sumas de dinero.
La acusación también alega que Denning y Baker proporcionaron información falsa al preparador de declaraciones de impuestos del club en 2020, 2021 y 2022 al no declarar los ingresos brutos del club y excluir los ingresos derivados de actos sexuales comerciales. Aproximadamente 5.7 millones de dólares en ingresos comerciales no fueron declarados al IRS, lo que produjo un pago de impuestos insuficiente de más de 2 millones de dólares.
La acusación formal alega además que Denning cometió fraude al solicitar y recibir un Préstamo por Desastre por Daños Económicos ("EIDL") durante la pandemia del COVID-19 al certificar que la empresa no "presentaba actuaciones de naturaleza sexual lasciva en vivo". Denning recibió un préstamo de aproximadamente $150,000 en julio de 2020. La acusación formal acusa a Denning, a Baker y a Mayo de conspiración para utilizar una instalación interestatal para promover o facilitar la prostitución, un delito que conlleva una pena máxima de prisión de cinco años, y de empleo ilegal de extranjeros, un delito que conlleva una pena máxima de prisión de seis meses.
A Denning y a Baker se les acusa de conspiración para presentar declaraciones de impuestos falsas, lo cual conlleva una pena máxima de prisión de cinco años, y de conspiración para cometer lavado de dinero con fines de promoción y encubrimiento, que conlleva una pena máxima de prisión de 20 años.
A Denning se le acusa de participar en una transacción monetaria con ganancias derivadas de la prostitución, un delito que conlleva una pena máxima de prisión de 10 años, relacionado con un depósito en efectivo de aproximadamente $21,700 en el casino Mohegan Sun. También se le acusa de complicidad en la presentación de una declaración de impuestos falsa relacionada con su declaración de impuestos personal para el año fiscal 2020, un delito que conlleva una pena máxima de prisión de tres años, y de no presentar intencionalmente su declaración de impuestos personal para el año fiscal 2021, delito que conlleva una pena máxima de prisión de un año. También se le acusa de fraude electrónico en relación con la recepción del préstamo EIDL, que conlleva una pena máxima de prisión de 20 años.
El fiscal federal Avery destacó que una acusación no es prueba de culpabilidad. Los cargos son sólo acusaciones, y se presume que cada acusado es inocente a menos y hasta que se demuestre su culpabilidad más allá de toda duda razonable.
Este caso está siendo investigado por Investigaciones de Seguridad Nacional (HSI), el Servicio de Impuestos Internos – División de Investigación Criminal, la Policía Estatal de Connecticut, el Departamento de Protección al Consumidor de Connecticut - División de Control de Bebidas Alcohólicas y la Policía Estatal de Massachusetts, con la ayuda del Departamento de Policía de Willimantic y el Departamento de Policía de Manchester. El caso está siendo procesado por los fiscales federales auxiliares Ross Weingarten y Robert S. Dearington.
Si algún empleado/bailarina de Electric Blue ha sido víctima de los actos ilegales descritos en la acusación, comuníquese con el Defensor de Víctimas de la Oficina del Fiscal de los Estados Unidos en [email protected] o al 203-696-3039.
El Departamento de Justicia llega a un acuerdo con una compañía nacional de atención médica domiciliaria que resuelve acusaciones de discriminación relacionada con la inmigraciónRead the Press Release
El Departamento de Justicia ha anunciado hoy que ha llegado a un acuerdo conciliatorio con Maxim Healthcare Services (Maxim), una empresa de atención médica domiciliaria con sede en Columbia, Maryland, con operaciones en 35 estados. El acuerdo resuelve la determinación del Departamento que Maxim infringió la ley de Inmigración y Nacionalidad (INA, por sus siglas en inglés) en su oficina de Gardena, California al discriminar a una trabajadora no ciudadana de los EE. UU. cuando rechazó su documento válido que mostraba su permiso para trabajar y exigir que los residentes legales permanentes que trabajan para la empresa demostraran su permiso continuo para trabajar, aunque fuera innecesario.
«Los empleadores no pueden tratar a los empleados de una forma diferente en función de su estatus de ciudadanía a la hora de verificar su permiso para trabajar», declaró Kristen Clarke, la Fiscal General Auxiliar de la División de Derechos Civiles del Departamento de Justicia. «El Departamento se compromete a garantizar que los empleadores no nieguen a los trabajadores el trato igualitario en el lugar de trabajo, ya sea en la contratación, la comprobación del permiso de trabajo de los empleados o de otro modo».
Después de iniciar una investigación basada en la queja de una trabajadora, la Sección de Derechos de Inmigrantes y Empleados (IER, por sus siglas en inglés,) de la División de Derechos Civiles, concluyó que Maxim rechazó indebidamente el documento válido de la trabajadora en función de su estatus de ciudadanía. En concreto, el Departamento determinó que la compañía rechazó el Documento de Autorización para Trabajar (EAD, por sus siglas en inglés) de la trabajadora porque el apellido que figuraba en él era diferente del apellido que figura en su licencia de conducir y tarjeta de Seguro Social, a pesar de que la compañía aceptó documentos de ciudadanos de los EE. UU. en circunstancias similares y creían que el EAD parecía razonablemente ser genuino y estar relacionado con el trabajador, que es todo lo que las Normas del Departamento de Seguridad Nacional requieren.
La investigación también determinó que Maxim exigía, de forma rutinaria, que los residentes permanentes legales presentaran documentación innecesaria cuando sus tarjetas de residencia permanente vencieran, lo cual no es requerido por ley. La disposición antidiscriminatoria de la INA prohíbe que los empleadores rechacen documentos válidos o que pidan documentos innecesarios por motivos del estatus migratorio o ciudadanía de un trabajador. Si un residente permanente legal proporciona una tarjeta de residencia permanente en vigor para demostrar su permiso para trabajar, a los empleadores no se les permite solicitar documentación nueva si posteriormente, la tarjeta de residencia permanente se vence.
Conforme los términos del acuerdo, Maxim pagará una sanción civil a los Estados Unidos y el salario perdido al trabajador afectado, capacitará a sus empleados en cuanto a los requisitos antidiscriminatorios de la INA, revisará sus políticas de empleo y se someterá a la supervisión por parte del Departamento.
La IER es responsable de hacer cumplir la disposición antidiscriminatoria de la INA. Entre otras cosas, la ley prohíbe la discriminación por motivos de estatus de ciudadanía y nacionalidad de origen en los procesos de contratación, despido o reclutamiento o recomendación por comisión, prácticas documentales injustas y represalias e intimidación.
Puede obtener más información sobre cómo los empleadores pueden evitar la discriminar al verificar el permiso para trabajar de alguien en el sitio web de la IER. Más información sobre cómo los empleadores pueden manejar las discrepancias en los nombres que aparecen en los documentos del Formulario I-9 de los empleados está disponible también. Aprenda más sobre el trabajo de la IER y cómo conseguir ayuda mediante este vídeo corto. Aquellos aspirantes o empleados que creen haber sido discriminados por motivos de su ciudadanía, estatus migratorio o nacionalidad de origen en los procesos de contratación, despido, reclutamiento o verificación de la elegibilidad para trabajar (Formulario I-9 e E-Verify) o sujetos a represalias pueden presentar una denuncia. El público también puede llamar a la línea directa de la IER para trabajadores al 1‑800-255-7688 (1-800-237-2515, TTY para personas con discapacidades auditivas); llamar a la línea directa de la IER para empleadores al 1-800-255-8155 (1-800-237-2515, TTY para personas con discapacidades auditivas); enviar un correo electrónico a [email protected]; inscribirse a un seminario en línea gratuito; visualizar una presentación a la carta o visitar los sitios web de la IER en inglés y español. Inscríbase para recibir actualizaciones por correo electrónico de la IER.
Edinburg resident sentenced for using Snapchat to entice minorRead the Press Release
McALLEN, Texas – A 31-year-old Mexican citizen who resided in Edinburg has been sent to prison for coercion and enticement of a minor, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.
Santos Emilio Marcial-Castro pleaded guilty Aug. 29, 2023.
U.S. District Judge Drew B. Tipton has now ordered Marcial-Castro to serve 120 months in prison. The sentence will be immediately followed by five years on supervised release during which time he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. He will also be ordered to register as a sex offender. Not a U.S. citizen, he is expected to face removal proceedings following his sentence. At the hearing, the court noted that despite the likelihood of his removal from the country, he still needed to follow all the conditions imposed on him and not re-enter the country illegally.
In April 2023, law enforcement had discovered numerous conversations between Marcial-Castro and a then 15-year-old minor. The investigation revealed he had been communicating with the victim from May 2021 to April 2023 via Snapchat.
Marcial-Castro was aware the victim was a minor. During their initial conversations, the child told him about her upcoming 14th birthday. Over the course of the next two years, Marcial-Castro sent sexually explicit messages to the victim and enticed the minor to send nude images on multiple occasions. He also told her about his desire to have sex with minors and specifically requested nude photos of the victim’s genitals.
Marcial-Castro will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Homeland Security Investigations – Rio Grande Valley Child Exploitation Investigations Task Force conducted the investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney M. Alexis Garcia prosecuted 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 tab on that page.
District Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for 2023 Armed Robbery and Shooting in Northwest D.C.Read the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Michael Lomax, 58, of Washington D.C., was sentenced to 10 years in prison today for offenses committed against two victims, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves and Chief Pamela Smith, of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
Lomax pleaded guilty on January 30, 2024, to one count of armed robbery and one count of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for the crimes committed against two separate victims. Today, Superior Court Judge Heidi Pasichow sentenced Lomax to serve five years’ imprisonment for each offense, for a total of 10 years, followed by five years of supervised release.
According to the government’s evidence, with which Lomax agreed, on November 9, 2023, at around 5:15 a.m., Lomax went to the first victim’s apartment unit in the Adams Morgan area with a woman who knew the victim. After the victim let his acquaintance and Lomax inside, Lomax pointed a firearm at the victim, robbed him, and fled the area. Approximately nine and a half hours later that same day, at around 2:50 p.m., Lomax was in the 300 block of Delafield Place NW when he got into an argument with the second victim. During that argument, Lomax fired one shot at that second victim, hitting him in the leg, before fleeing that scene.
Police subsequently arrested Lomax on December 2, 2023, after eyewitnesses from the robbery recognized him and notified police.
This case was investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard Carlton.
Curwensville Man Charged for Possession with Intent to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – On May 14, 2024, a resident of Curwensville, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of violating a federal narcotics law, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Jason Lentz, 30, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, in and around January 2024, Lentz possessed with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $10 million, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Maureen Sheehan-Balchon is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Convicted Felon from D.C. Sentenced to 51 Months in Prison for Possession of a MachinegunRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Tarell Shoemaker, 21, a previously convicted felon, was sentenced today to 51 months in prison for unlawfully possessing a machine gun, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves, FBI Special Agent in Charge David J. Scott of the Washington Field Office, and Chief Pamela A. Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department.
Shoemaker, of Washington D.C., pleaded guilty on January 10, 2024, in U.S. District Court to unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition by a felon and possession of a machine gun. In addition to the prison term, the Honorable Richard J. Leon ordered Shoemaker to serve three years of supervised release on completion of his prison sentence.
According to court documents, on September 8, 2023, agents from the FBI and investigators from the MPD executed a federal search warrant at an apartment on the 3000 block of 30th Street, SE. The residence consisted of four bedrooms, and nine individuals were found inside, including Shoemaker.
In Shoemaker’s bedroom, FBI agents discovered a Glock .40 caliber pistol inside of a Louis Vuitton bag stashed behind the bed; one box of 20-count “Fort Scott Munitions,” 40 S&W TUI ammunition on a shelf inside the bedroom closet; and a 9mm ammunition drum in the bedroom closet. The Glock pistol had an obliterated serial number and was equipped with an extended magazine containing 24 rounds of ammunition with one round in the chamber. The Glock also was equipped with a machinegun conversion device, also known as a “giggle switch” or a “Glock switch,” designed to convert the pistol into a weapon which shoots automatically more than one shot, without manual reloading, by a single function of the trigger.
Shoemaker subsequently acknowledged that the recovered firearm was his, and that he owned the Louis Vuitton bag in which it was found. In addition, at the time Shoemaker possessed the firearm, he was aware that he previously was convicted of an offense carrying a term of imprisonment in excess of one year. That conviction was also firearm related. At the time of the arrest for the current offenses, Shoemaker was still on probation for the Maryland conviction.
This case was investigated by the FBI’s Cross Border Safe Streets Task Force and the MPD. It was prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Tim Coley, with valuable assistance from former Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Marin, of the Violence Reduction & Trafficking Offenses Section.
Chelsea Woman Pleads Guilty to Using Counterfeit Identifications as Part of Account Takeover SchemeRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Chelsea woman pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court in Boston to conspiring to possess and use false identifications as part of an identity theft scheme to target a wireless company.
Perla Soto, 24, pleaded guilty to an Information charging conspiracy to possess and use more than five false identifications. U.S. District Court Judge Julie E. Kobick scheduled sentencing for Aug. 9, 2024. Soto was originally charged by criminal complaint in March 2024.
From January 2022 through November 2023, Soto was captured on surveillance video conducting 20 transactions where she posed as customers of a wireless company. These transactions took place in retail stores throughout the United States.
Soto used counterfeit driver’s licenses and identification bearing her photograph and the personal identifying information of customers of the wireless company in order to conduct transactions at these retail stores. While posing as the customer, Soto would purchase new phones and accessories on the customer’s account. Working as part of a larger group, Soto provided these fraudulently obtained phones and accessories to other coconspirators who would sell them on the black market.
In total, over 120 customers of the wireless company had their personal information utilized in transactions totaling over $290,000 in fraudulently obtained phones and accessories.
The charge of conspiring to possess of five or more identification documents with intent to use them unlawfully provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release a fine of up to $250,000 and restitution. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy; Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; and John E. Mawn Jr., Interim Colonel of the Massachusetts State Police made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Philip A. Mallard of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit is prosecuting the case.
Chairman of Multinational Investment Company and Company Consultant Convicted of Bribery Scheme at RetrialRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – A federal jury in Charlotte convicted the founder and chairman of a multinational investment company and a company consultant today after a retrial for orchestrating a bribery scheme involving independent expenditure accounts and improper campaign contributions, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, and Robert M. DeWitt, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in North Carolina, join U.S. Attorney King in making today’s announcement.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, from April 2017 to August 2018, Greg E. Lindberg, 53, of Durham, North Carolina, the founder and chairman of Eli Global LLC and the owner of Global Bankers Insurance Group (GBIG), and Lindberg’s consultant, John D. Gray, 73, of Chapel Hill, North Carolina, engaged in a bribery scheme involving independent expenditure committees and improper campaign contributions for the purpose of causing the Commissioner of Insurance (Commissioner) of the North Carolina Department of Insurance (NCDOI) to take official action favorable to Lindberg’s company, GBIG. Lindberg and Gray gave, offered, and promised the Commissioner millions of dollars in campaign contributions and other things of value in exchange for the removal of NCDOI’s Senior Deputy Commissioner, who was responsible for overseeing the regulation and the periodic examination of GBIG.
Lindberg, Gray, and the Commissioner held numerous in-person meetings at different locations and had telephonic and other communications with each other, their codefendant, Robert Cannon Hayes, 78, of Concord, North Carolina, and others to discuss Lindberg’s request for the personnel change in exchange for millions of dollars, and to devise a plan on how to funnel campaign contributions to the Commissioner anonymously. To conceal the bribery scheme, at the direction of Lindberg, two corporate entities were set up to form independent expenditure committees with the purpose of supporting the Commissioner’s re-election campaign, and Lindberg funded the entities with $1.5 million as promised to the Commissioner. In addition, at Lindberg’s and Gray’s direction, Hayes caused the transfer of $250,000 from monies Lindberg had previously contributed to a North Carolina state party, of which Hayes was chairman, to the Commissioner’s re-election campaign.
“The defendants planned and executed an intricate scheme involving substantial campaign contributions to an elected official in exchange for favorable treatment. This was not a lapse in judgment. It was a calculated bribery attempt and a blatant violation of federal law,” said U.S. Attorney King. “Public corruption erodes our trust in the people we elect to protect the greater good and lessens our faith in the fundamental principles upon which our society is built. My office will continue to root out public corruption schemes and hold accountable individuals who engage in this unethical and illegal conduct.”
“Greg Lindberg and John Gray knowingly ignored the difference between legal political donations and felonious bribery,” said Special Agent in Charge DeWitt. “They thought they could buy changes to North Carolina Department of Insurance personnel to benefit Lindberg’s businesses. The FBI will work tirelessly to root out any and all forms of public corruption.”
The jury convicted Lindberg and Gray of conspiracy to commit honest services wire fraud and bribery concerning programs receiving federal funds. A sentencing date has not been set. The defendants face a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Hayes pleaded guilty in October 2019 to making false statements to the FBI.
The FBI Charlotte Field Office investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lawrence Cameron and Dana Washington for the Western District of North Carolina, and Trial Attorney William Gullotta of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section are prosecuting the case.
California Businessman Sentenced for Securities Fraud Involving Penny Stock CompanyRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A California businessman was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston for engaging in a fraudulent scheme to obtain and profit from the sale of penny-stock shares that were later sold for millions of dollars during a sophisticated market manipulation scheme.
Kevin C. Dills, 67, of Carlsbad, Calif., was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Richard G. Stearns to time served (approximately five days in prison) and 30 months of home detention. He was also ordered to forfeit $6.12 million. In January 2024, Dills pleaded guilty to one count of securities fraud. Dills was charged in March 2023 along with co-defendant Joseph A. Padilla, who was sentenced in November 2023 to 66 months in prison and one year of supervised release after previously pleading guilty to securities fraud and other charges.
Between October 2020 and July 2021, Dills engaged in a fraudulent scheme to obtain and profit from the sale of unrestricted free-trading shares in the company Oncology Pharma, Inc., a thinly traded company that traded on the over-the-counter securities market under the ticker symbol ONPH.
Dills fraudulently induced Oncology Pharma’s transfer agent to issue three million unrestricted free-trading ONPH shares to two entities under Dills’ control by, among other means, secretly controlling one of the entities through his girlfriend and not disclosing that control to Oncology Pharma’s transfer agent. Dills then sold the three million shares to two individuals who deposited the shares with the Cayman Islands broker Valor Capital, with which Padilla had a close, unofficial association. Padilla then engaged in manipulative trading in ONPH designed, at least in part, to artificially drive up the company’s stock price, after which Padilla began dumping the ONPH shares—which were under common control—to unsuspecting investors in Massachusetts and throughout the United States during a promotional campaign, generating tens of millions of dollars in illicit profits. Over $6 million from those illicit profits was then transferred to Dills via his two entities between March and June 2021.
Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy and Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement today. Assistant United States Attorneys James R. Drabick and Ian J. Stearns of the Securities, Financial & Cyber Fraud Unit prosecuted the case.
Brownsville resident heads to prison after attempt to transport over $200,000 of cocaineRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 35-year-old man has been sentenced for possession with intent to distribute more than four kilograms of cocaine, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.
Elias Garcia pleaded guilty Nov. 30, 2023.
U.S. District Judge David S. Morales has now ordered Garcia to serve 82 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by four years of supervised release.
On Oct. 4, 2023, Garcia attempted to drive a Jeep Cherokee SUV through the primary inspection lane of the Falfurrias Border Patrol (BP) checkpoint. Soon thereafter, an X-ray of the vehicle showed the presence of an anomaly inside the vehicle’s battery compartment located beneath the driver’s seat. Authorities searched the vehicle and discovered four bundles of cocaine concealed within the battery.
The weight of the cocaine was over four kilograms and had an estimated street value of more than $200,000.
Garcia will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
BP and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Marck prosecuted the case.
Browning woman sentenced to four years in prison for assaulting another woman on Blackfeet Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Browning woman who admitted assaulting another woman during an argument, causing the victim serious injuries, was sentenced today to four years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
The defendant, Thomasine Tachelle Wahl Salway, 31, pleaded guilty in January to assault resulting in serious bodily injury.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
In court documents, the government alleged that on Jan. 31, 2023 at a Browning residence, on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation, Salway struck the victim, identified as Jane Doe, while arguing with Doe for Doe to give her a ride to another house in Browning. Doe told Salway she would take her later but not right then. Salway became upset and began punching Doe in the face. Alcohol was a factor in the assault. Doe initially was treated for a deep facial laceration at the Browning Indian Health Service, then was transferred to Benefis in Great Falls for further treatment. The laceration was the result of a sharp edge object, but a witness did not know what Salway used to strike Doe.
The U.S. Attorney’s Officer prosecuted the case. The FBI and Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services conducted the investigation.
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Belleville Man Gets 20-Year Federal Prison Sentence for Committing Armed Robberies at Metro East Gas StationsRead the Press Release
FAIRVIEW HEIGHTS, Ill. – A district judge sentenced a Belleville man to 20 years in federal prison for his involvement in a string of armed robberies at gas stations in Belleville and Shiloh.
Treveon J. Ramsey, 21, pleaded guilty in January to two counts of interference with commerce by robbery and two counts of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.
“In order to protect business patrons and employees simply trying to do their jobs, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to prosecuting individuals who instill fear in gas station clerks by using firearms to demand money from cash registers,” said U.S. Attorney Rachelle Aud Crowe. “I applaud this multijurisdictional investigation by local police and federal law enforcement officers to arrest the trio of dangerous criminals and help to improve public safety throughout the region.”
According to court documents, Ramsey and two co-conspirators planned and committed three armed robberies at businesses around the Metro East from October through December 2021.
“This 20-year sentence sends a clear message to anyone that brandishes a firearm in order to instill fear of violence with the threat of causing harm, you will be removed from our communities,” said ATF Kansas City Field Division Special Agent in Charge, Bernard G. Hansen. “ATF will always aggressively investigate violent offenders to remove them from our streets. This is a big win for public safety, our community is safer with this individual behind bars.”
Accompanied by Javeon Dowell, Ramsey brandished a firearm and demanded money from the clerk at a Circle K gas station in Belleville on Oct. 29, 2021.
On Nov. 30, 2021, Ramsey was with Dylan Harrington when he brandished a firearm and demanded money and a box of cigars from the clerk at a Circle K gas station in Shiloh.
In addition, the trio targeted a Circle K gas station in Belleville on Dec. 1, 2021, in which Ramsey and Dowell brandished firearms and took money from the clerk.
“The Fairview Heights Police Department is committed to working with our local and federal law enforcement partners to combat crime in our community, this sentence is a direct result of the cooperation. We will relentlessly pursue those that would commit violent acts in our community to ensure that Fairview Heights remains a safe and vibrant community,” said Chief Steve Johnson.
Dylan Harrington, 21, of Fairview Heights, was sentenced to 127 months in federal prison in July 2023 after accepting charges of conspiracy to interfere with commerce by robbery and carry and use of a firearm during a crime of violence.
Javeon Dowell, 21, of Fairview Heights, pleaded guilty to his charges and is scheduled to be sentenced at the federal courthouse in East St. Louis on June 5.
ATF, Fairview Heights Police Department, Shiloh Police Department and Belleville Police Department officials contributed to the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura V. Reppert prosecuted the case.
Bakersfield Man Sentenced for Stealing over $160,000 in COVID-19 Relief MoneyRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Jaswinder Bhangoo, 51, of Bakersfield, was sentenced today to 18 months in prison for stealing $163,750 in COVID-19 relief money, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, between May 2020 and November 2021, Bhangoo applied for over $250,000 in COVID-19 relief loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration. In the applications, Bhangoo falsely represented that he owned multiple businesses with several employees and substantial revenues. He also represented that he had not been convicted of a felony in the previous five years when, in fact, he had been convicted of insurance fraud. Based on Bhangoo’s false representations, some of his loan applications were approved, and he received approximately $163,750 in federal funds to which he was not entitled. Bhangoo was ordered to pay $163,750 in restitution as part of his sentence.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brittany M. Gunter and Joseph Barton prosecuted the case.
This effort is part of a California COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Strike Force operation, one of five interagency COVID-19 fraud strike force teams established by the U.S. Department of Justice. The California Strike Force combines law enforcement and prosecutorial resources in the Eastern and Central Districts of California and focuses on large-scale, multistate pandemic relief fraud perpetrated by criminal organizations and transnational actors. The strike forces use prosecutor-led and data analyst-driven teams to identify and bring to justice those who stole pandemic relief funds.
Atlantic County Man Charged with Possessing Unregistered Machineguns and Other ItemsRead the Press Release
CAMDEN, N.J. – An Atlantic County, New Jersey, man was charged today with possessing unregistered machineguns and other items, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.
Michael John James, 30, of Somers Point, New Jersey, is charged by complaint with one count of possessing unregistered machineguns and other firearms, as defined under the National Firearms Act. He appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Ann Marie Donio in Camden federal court and was detained.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
In February 2024, U.S. Customs and Border Protection personnel intercepted two packages that contained suspected controlled substances and were addressed to James’ residence. On Feb. 27, 2024, investigators conducted a controlled delivery of the packages, observed James bring the packages into his residence, and executed a search warrant at the residence, where they recovered dozens of firearms and ballistics items. Among the recovered items were three operable machine guns, an operable weapon modified to be shorter than a standard rifle, an operable weapon modified to be shorter than a standard shotgun, and three silencers.
The possession of an unregistered machinegun or other firearm, as defined under the National Firearms Act, charge carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Newark Field Division, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Ross A. Marchetti; special agents of Homeland Security Investigations Newark, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge William S. Walker; personnel from the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor William Reynolds; and officers of the Somers Point Police Department, under the direction of Chief Robert C. Somers, with the investigation leading to today’s arrest.
The government is represented by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Katelyn Waegener and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Bender of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Camden.
The charges and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
james.complaint.pdfArmored Truck Robber Sentenced to Ten Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – U.S. District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced James Battle, Jr. (29, Palm Harbor) to 10 years in federal prison for Hobbs Act robbery and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to the robbery. Battle entered a guilty plea on January 22, 2024.
According to court documents, on the morning of June 9, 2023, Battle and Carlos Keanu Smith met for the purposes of robbing an armored truck. They followed the armored truck along its route from Pinellas County to eastern Hillsborough County before eventually reaching a gas station in Ellenton. Toll records from the Florida Department of Transportation show Battle’s vehicle following seconds behind the targeted armored truck that morning. Surveillance video showed the vehicle also following the armored truck to other locations before conducting the robbery at the gas station in Ellenton when the driver returned to his vehicle. Battle and Smith approached the victim with pistols pointed at him, forcing him to the ground. They stole more than $150,000 from the armored truck.
Smith pleaded guilty on December 14, 2023. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for July 25, 2024.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael R. Kenneth. The forfeiture is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney James A. Muench.
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.
Armed Drug Trafficker from Springfield, Massachusetts Sentenced to 87 MonthsRead the Press Release
Rutland, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on May 15, 2024, Jose Luis Maldonado, Jr., aka “Peeto,” 33, of Springfield, Massachusetts, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Geoffrey Crawford to a term of 87 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a 3-year term of supervised release. Maldonado previously pleaded guilty to possessing with the intent to distribute fentanyl, cocaine, and cocaine base.
According to court records, Maldonado was arrested on October 12, 2022 during a traffic stop conducted after law enforcement surveillance observed Maldonado and his codefendant, Edgar Correa, aka “Joker,” placing a shotgun and several bags into the trunk of their vehicle. During the traffic stop and ensuing search, law enforcement seized a loaded pistol tucked between the driver’s seat and center console next to where Maldonado had been seated, a pistol tucked between the passenger seat and the center console where Correa had been seated, a pistol under the passenger seat, and a shotgun in the trunk of the vehicle. Inside the trunk of the vehicle, law enforcement located approximately 24 grams of crack cocaine, 7 grams of powder cocaine, and 560 bags of fentanyl. In a post-arrest Mirandized statement, Maldonado admitted selling drugs in Vermont for almost a year, carrying firearms during drug transactions, and trading drugs for a firearm. During the investigation, several witnesses reported that Maldonado and his drug associates engaged in violence while distributing drugs, including pointing a firearm at a woman’s head while demanding payment of a drug debt, and pistol-whipping a man over missing cash. Witnesses also reported that Maldonado and his associates used drugs and drug debts to coerce women to perform sexual acts and bestiality.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest stated, “This case represents yet another example of the connection between illegal drug trafficking, firearms, and violence. In addition, the defendant’s coercion of women based on their drug addiction or drug debts is especially pernicious. This office and our partners will not rest in our efforts to disrupt and prosecute those who sell illegal drugs, use firearms to conduct their business, and exploit the addictions of others.” U.S. Attorney Kerest also commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of the Southern Vermont Drug Task Force, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Vermont State Police, the Rutland City Police Department, and Homeland Security Investigations.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Colin Owyang and Jonathan Ophardt. Maldonado was represented by Michael Straub, Esq.
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.
Albuquerque Man Charged with Sexual Exploitation of ChildrenRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – An Albuquerque man was charged by criminal complaint with sexual exploitation of minors, including the production of child pornography. Authorities allege that Kevin Vallo, 39, lured three minor girls to his apartment through the messaging app "Telegram."
Vallo appeared before a federal judge on May 14, 2024, and was detained pending trial.
According to the criminal complaint, on March 20, 2024, detectives from the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office learned of a 15-year-old girl, Jane Doe 1, who had disclosed that she and her friends, Jane Doe 2 and Jane Doe 3, both 13-years-old, had sexual intercourse with an approximately 30-year-old man who they had met through the app “Telegram” at his apartment in Northeast Albuquerque.
Jane Doe 2 told detectives that the man initially claimed to be 16 years old and blocked her when she revealed her age as 13. However, a week later, he messaged her again with a different profile picture, persistently asking her to come to his house until she agreed, under the impression that it was just to "hang out," and brought Jane Doe 1 and Jane Doe 3 with her.
The man paid Jane Doe 1 and Jane Doe 2 for the acts they performed. After the victims left the apartment, the man sent Jane Doe 2 two videos through Telegram which contained child sexual abuse material.
Detectives identified Vallo's apartment based on the victims' descriptions, and the apartment complex management confirmed him as the resident. All three victims identified Vallo from a photo array using his driver's license photo. Vallo was detained at his workplace and claimed during an interview that he believed Jane Doe 2 was 18 years old. Vallo stated he did not have sex with Jane Doe 3 because he thought she looked underage. Detectives located four videos on Vallo’s phone which contained child sexual abuse material of Jane Doe 2.
If convicted of the current charges, Vallo faces between 15 and 30 years in prison.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez, and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office investigated this case with assistance from the FBI Albuquerque Field Office. Assistant United States Attorney Jesse Pecoraro is prosecuting the case.
If you have reason to believe you or your child may be a victim of Vallo, or if you have information about this ongoing investigation, please call the FBI at (505) 889-1300 or submit their tips online at tips.fbi.gov.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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30 Members of a Violent Gang Charged with Drug Trafficking and Firearms Violations in San Juan, Trujillo Alto, Aibonito, and Loíza, Puerto RicoRead the Press Release
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – On May 8, 2024, a federal grand jury in the District of Puerto Rico returned an indictment charging 30 violent gang members from the municipalities of San Juan, Trujillo Alto, Aibonito, and Loíza with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, possession and distribution of controlled substances, and firearms violations, announced W. Stephen Muldrow, United States Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico. This investigation was led by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Puerto Rico Police Bureau (PRPB), San Juan Strike Force, with the collaboration of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), the U.S. Marshals Service, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
“By arresting and prosecuting these defendants, the U.S. Attorney’s Office and its law enforcement partners are working to uphold the rule of law and bring to justice violent offenders who terrorize our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Muldrow. “The Department of Justice is committed to dismantling violent criminal organizations, holding gang members accountable, and pursuing justice for victims.”
“In the face of adversity, our resolve strengthens”, stated DEA Caribbean Division Special Agent in Charge Denise Foster. “Together, with unwavering determination and steadfast collaboration, we will dismantle these drug trafficking organizations that threaten our communities and tarnish the fabric of our society. Our commitment to justice knows no bounds, and we will relentlessly pursue those responsible for perpetuating violence and addiction. We stand united, resolute in our mission to safeguard the safety and well-being of all.”
The indictment alleges that from in or about 2012 through the date of the indictment, the drug trafficking organization identified as “Los Elite” distributed heroin, cocaine base (commonly known as “crack”), cocaine, marijuana, fentanyl, Tramadol, and Clonazepam within 1,000 feet of the Jardines de Sellés Public Housing Project (PHP), Nuestra Señora Covadonga PHP, Quintana PHP, Trébol Condominiums, Liborio Ortiz PHP, and areas near those locations, all for significant financial gain and profit.
The goal of Los Elite was to control of all the drug trafficking activities within the municipalities of San Juan, Trujillo Alto, Aibonito, and Loíza, and areas nearby using force, threats, violence, and intimidation. In preserving power and protecting territory, the members of Los Elite profited from the illegal distribution of narcotics, including transportation to and distribution of kilogram quantities of cocaine in the continental United States. Additionally, members of Los Elite would ship fentanyl and marijuana from the continental United States to Puerto Rico for distribution at their drug points in the Island.
The investigation revealed that during the conspiracy the defendants and their co‑conspirators participated in acts of violence and shootings to secure their drug trafficking operations. The defendants and their co-conspirators would sometimes use bullet proof vests to protect themselves when they participated in acts of violence, and modified firearms to convert them to automatic weapons (machineguns). Also, defendants and their co‑conspirators would mail pieces of firearms or entire firearms from the continental United States to other members of the drug trafficking organization in Puerto Rico.
The defendants acted in different roles to further the goals of the drug trafficking conspiracy, including as leaders, suppliers, drug point owners, enforcers, runners, sellers, lookouts, and facilitators. The defendants would communicate using cell phones, often via messaging apps and social media (including, but not limited to, WhatsApp and Instagram). The defendants promoted themselves, their narcotics, their firearms, their money, and their drug trafficking organization using social media. These social media communications included discussions about the sale of narcotics and about firearms.
The 30 defendants charged in the indictment are:
[1] Pedro A. Rosado-Garay, a.k.a. “Finito/Fino/Fi”
[2] Josué Benito Sánchez-González, a.k.a. “Bore”
[3] Juan Daniel Sierra-Jiménez, a.k.a. “Wiwi/Doble U”
[4] Sergio Luis Rivera-Álvarez, a.k.a. “Zurdo”
[5] Victor Alfonso Rosario-Clemente, a.k.a. “Calvo/Tato”
[6] Jose Domingo Irizarry-Serrano
[7] Héctor Manuel Miranda-Rivera, a.k.a. “Do/Tito”
[8] David Antonio Tejada-Rosado, a.k.a. “Mudito/Mudo”
[9] Edwin Gabriel Vázquez-Colón, a.k.a. “Cuco”
[10] Rey Ivan Freytes, a.k.a. “Pana Mío”
[11] Francisco Miguel Duluc-Méndez, a.k.a. “Franco/Frankini”
[12] Rufino Hernández-Pizarro, a.k.a. “Gallero”
[13] Eduardo Berríos-Sepúlveda, a.k.a. “Kiko/Chavo del 8”
[14] Orville Báez-Maldonado, a.k.a. “Perry”
[15] Joffren Odete Santos-Rivera
[16] Yan Omar López-Machuca, a.k.a. “Bebo/John Zeta”
[17] Luis Ángel Rivera-Díaz, a.k.a. “Bebillo”
[18] Xavier Omar Maldonado-Negroni, a.k.a. “Maña”
[19] Michael Rivera-Cariño, a.k.a. “Movie”
[20] Héctor Alberto Sarriera-Marín, a.k.a. “Albert/Culón/Kardashian”
[21] Melvin Martínez-Vélez, a.k.a. “Tío”
[22] Raúl O. Matos-De Jesús, a.k.a. “Pechu”
[23] Yomar Gabriel Rivera-Hernández, a.k.a. “Yomar Gabriel Hernández/El Ninja”
[24] Ernesto Caraballo-Brooks, a.k.a. “Mullo”
[25] José Omar Aguayo-Delgado
[26] Sem Monge-Parrilla, a.k.a. “Jordan/23”
[27] Luis Alexis Guerrero-López, a.k.a. “Trunky”
[28] Jesus Antonio Carrión-Narváez, a.k.a. “Tomate/Motora”
[29] Marcelino Delgado-Rodríguez, a.k.a. “Marcelo”
[30] Emilio Rodríguez-Guzmán, a.k.a. “Barba/A”Twenty defendants are facing one charge of possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and five of those defendants are facing one count of possession of a machinegun in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Assistant U.S. Attorney (AUSA) and Chief of the Gang Section Alberto López-Rocafort; Deputy Chief of the Gang Section, AUSA Teresa Zapata-Valladares; and AUSA Joseph Russell are prosecuting the case. If convicted on the drug charges, the defendants face a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years, and up to life in prison. If convicted of both the drug trafficking and the firearms charges in Count Seven, the defendants face a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years, and up to life in prison. The defendants charged with possession of machineguns in furtherance of drug trafficking in Count Eight face a mandatory sentence of thirty years in prison to be served consecutive to any sentence imposed on the drug trafficking charges. All defendants are facing a narcotics forfeiture allegation of $67,191,390 that represent the proceeds generated from their illegal drug trafficking activities.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
3 Plead Guilty to Robbing Mail Carrier at GunpointRead the Press Release
Three men pleaded guilty to stealing a U.S. Postal Service arrow key, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Leigha Simonton.
Jlynn Laneil Dunn, age 21, Daylin Darden, age 24, and D Colby Vashion Lewis, age 23, were charged via criminal complaint in February and indicted the following month. Each pleaded guilty to robbery of mail matter, money, or other property of the United States, entering their pleas on May 8.
According to plea papers, the defendants admitted they robbed a letter carrier at gunpoint on Oct. 2, 2023.
The carrier, identified in court documents as T.W., reported to police that the robbers demanded a U.S. Postal Service master key used by letter carriers to gather mail deposited in blue collection boxes. (Unauthorized possession of these keys allows individuals to illicitly access mail boxes to steal victim mail, checks, credit cards, bank account information, and other sensitive information.)
Surveillance video captured the robbery and the defendants’ subsequent flight.
During a search of an address associated with one of the defendants, law enforcement recovered guns, drugs, mail, checks, and a DVR system. DVR footage showed all three robbers gathered at the residence prior to the robbery on Oct. 2. On the video, Mr. Darden can be seen exiting the residence with a gun matching the one used during the robbery. The DVR also showed them return to the residence after the robbery. On the video, Mr. Dunn can be seen holding a small item attached to a long gold chain — the same type of chain used to carry USPS arrow keys.
A subsequent search of Mr. Dunn’s Instagram account revealed a direct message Mr. Dunn sent 10 to 12 minutes before the robbery that read, “I’m tryna go get us a key rn so I can get these real scam Money.”
The defendants now face up to 10 years in federal prison; sentencing is set for Sept. 3.
The U.S. Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Fort Worth and Arlington Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Beck is prosecuting the case.
14 May 2024
York County Man Sentenced to Prison for Drug Trafficking OffensesRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Marcos Fernandez Rivera, age 27, of York, Pennsylvania, was sentenced yesterday to 30 months’ imprisonment by U.S. District Judge Christopher C. Conner following his conviction for conspiring and attempting to traffic cocaine.
According to United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam, Rivera previously pleaded guilty to those crimes, which stemmed from, among other things, the seizure of a parcel that contained one kilogram of cocaine concealed inside of a boardgame box, the seizure of cash, and evidence obtained from cell phones revealing that Rivera was communicating with codefendant Gregory Ruiz Mercado about other packages.
Judge Conner also ordered Rivera to pay a fine and special assessment, and to serve three years of supervised release after completing his prison sentence. Ruiz Mercado was sentenced on February 26, 2024, to 30 months’ imprisonment.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Pennsylvania State Police and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Johnny Baer and K. Wesley Mishoe.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Wyatt Detention Center Correctional Officer Admits to Attempting to Smuggle Contraband into the FacilityRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE, RI – A Donald W. Wyatt Detention Facility correctional officer has pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of attempting to provide contraband in prison, announced United States Attorney Zachary A. Cunha.
Kristopher White, 26, admitted to a federal judge that in December 2021, while on duty at the Wyatt facility, he attempted to deliver papers soaked with MDMB-4en-PINACA, a Schedule 1 controlled substance.
According to information presented to the court, an inmate’s text messages and telephone calls were monitored by a Wyatt Detention Center staff member that revealed that the inmate was working with individuals outside the Wyatt to bring controlled substances into the facility. White was approached by the detainee and ultimately agreed to participate and smuggle contraband into the facility. He met with an associate of White’s to obtain the drug soaked papers.
On December 2, 2021, while on duty at Wyatt, White left the facility and went to his vehicle in the facility parking lot, removed the MDMB-4en-PINACA-soaked papers from his vehicle, and returned to the facility to deliver them to the detainee. White was intercepted and escorted to the Wyatt Professional Standards Unit.
White is scheduled to be sentenced on August 15, 2024. The defendant’s sentence will be determined by a federal district judge after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Julie M. White.
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Utah Man Found Guilty of Defrauding Organic Produce Distributor Out of $5.8 Million via Sham Invoices Sent by Shell CompanyRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – A Utah man has been found guilty by a jury for participating in a long-running scheme in which he sent fake invoices on behalf of a shell company to defraud a family-owned organic produce distributor out of $5.8 million, the Justice Department announced today.
Kevin Scott Horton, 56, of Saratoga Springs, Utah, was found guilty of seven counts of mail fraud late Monday.
According to evidence presented at a nine-day trial, from February 2000 to April 2018, Horton schemed with Tony Anhtuan Rawlings, 57, of Garden Grove, the information technology (IT) director at Melissa’s World Variety Produce Inc., a Vernon-based company, to defraud Melissa’s out of its money through the approval of payment of invoices for IT services that were never provided.
In February 2000, Horton created a shell company called Creative Network Solutions (CNS), whose purpose was to send fraudulent bills to its sole client, Melissa’s. In consultation with Rawlings, Horton created two fictitious invoices per month, in which CNS billed Melissa’s for IT services that CNS did not provide, for approximately 18 years, through February 2018.
Horton provided the fictitious invoices to Rawlings, who approved them, vouched for their operational necessity, and then forwarded them to a Melissa’s executive who was asked to have Melissa’s pay CNS the amounts listed on the sham invoices.
Horton and Rawlings falsely represented to Melissa’s executives that CNS provided IT services to Melissa’s. In fact, CNS never provided services to Melissa’s or any other company, and by using CNS, deceived and concealed from Melissa’s that CNS was affiliated with one of their own employees.
Horton, along with Rawlings, caused Melissa’s to send CNS payment in the form of checks mailed through the U.S. Mail to a post office box to which Horton had sole access. Horton deposited the checks he received through the scheme into a bank account that he exclusively controlled. Horton then funneled Rawlings a portion of the money that Melissa’s paid to CNS, in the form of checks sent via U.S. Mail to addresses where Rawlings lived.
In total, Horton, along with Rawlings, caused Melissa’s to pay CNS approximately $5,852,604 because of the fictitious invoices.
United States District Judge Mark C. Scarsi scheduled an August 5 sentencing hearing, at which time Horton will face a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison for each mail fraud count.
Rawlings pleaded guilty in August 2022 to one count of mail fraud. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for June 20.
The FBI investigated this matter.
Assistant United States Attorneys Eli A. Alcaraz of the Public Corruption and Civil Rights Section, Kelsey A. Stimson of the General Crimes Section, and Haoxiaohan H. Cai of the Major Frauds Section are prosecuting this case.
United States Attorney Recognizes National Police WeekRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. — In honor of National Police Week, Carlton S. Shier, IV, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, recognized the service and sacrifice of federal, state, and local law enforcement. National Police Week is observed Saturday, May 11 through Friday, May 17, 2024.
“Committing to serve the community is just the first of many sacrifices that members of law enforcement make when they enter into public service,” said U.S. Attorney Shier. “The work that follows is demanding, persistent, and hazardous. But this work is essential to making our communities safer. It is patrolling our streets, responding to calls for help, and assisting others despite those dangers. National Police Week reminds us to collectively reflect on the sacrifices of members of law enforcement and their families, and provides an opportunity to show our sincere appreciation for their essential service to us all.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which falls every year on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty, and commitment to keeping our communities safe.
This year, in Washington, D.C., the names of more than 280 officers killed in the line of duty were added to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial and were read during a Candlelight Vigil. To view a recording of the livestream of this event, visit https://nleomf.org/memorial/programs/national-police-week-2024/candlelight-vigil/.
To learn more about National Police Week, please visit www.policeweek.org.
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United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown Recognizes the Law Enforcement Community During National Police WeekRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – In honor of National Police Week, United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. The week is being observed May 11 through May 17, 2024.
“During National Police Week, it’s important that we as a community take the time to recognize the law enforcement officers in the Western District of Louisiana who work tirelessly to keep our neighborhoods safe,” said United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown. “Many times, the job of policing is taken for granted by those of us in the community and the sacrifices the men and women who wear the law enforcement badge and uniform oftentimes go unnoticed. To those who have taken an oath to serve and protect, we honor and thank you for your service to these communities throughout our district. We stand with you and pledge to continue to join with you in fighting this battle for justice in our country and on our streets.”
“As our country recognizes National Police Week, the Justice Department joins families and communities in remembering the members of the law enforcement community who made the ultimate sacrifice protecting the public,” said Attorney General Merrick Garland. “Policing is difficult and dangerous, yet time and time again, law enforcement officers answer the call, showing up for their communities when they are needed the most. Their devotion to duty is matched only by that of their loved ones who make daily sacrifices to support them. The Justice Department is committed to doing everything in our power to help provide our law enforcement partners with the resources they need to carry out their noble work on behalf of the public.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. Here in the Western District of Louisiana, we also solemnly commemorate Ville Platte Deputy City Marshal Barry Giglio who tragically died in the line of duty on July 31, 2023. Deputy Marshal Giglio was tragically killed while assisting in the execution of a search warrant at a residence in Ville Platte, Louisiana.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe.
In 2023, there were 136 federal, state, tribal and local law enforcement officers that died in the line of duty. Of those officers who died, 47 were shot and killed in the line of duty; 37 officers died due to traffic-related crashes; and 52 officers died of other causes, including fire-related incidents and medical-related illnesses or events suffered while in the performance of their official duties. Eight of those officers who died in the line of duty were from Louisiana.
On Monday, May 13, 2024, the names of more than 280 officers killed in the line of duty in 2024 who have been added to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial were read during a Candlelight Vigil at 8:00 p.m. EDT. To view a recording of the livestream of this event, visit https://nleomf.org/memorial/programs/national-police-week-2024/candlelight-vigil/.
To learn more about National Police Week and the virtual candlelight vigil, please visit www.policeweek.org.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office Observes National Police WeekRead the Press Release
FAIRVIEW HEIGHTS, Ill. – In observance of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Rachelle Aud Crowe and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Illinois recognize the service and sacrifice of local, state and federal law enforcement partners and pay tribute to the officers who have fallen in the line of duty. National Police Week is observed Saturday, May 11 through Friday, May, 17.
“As our country recognizes National Police Week, the Justice Department joins families and communities in remembering the members of the law enforcement community who made the ultimate sacrifice protecting the public,” said Attorney General Merrick Garland. “Policing is difficult and dangerous, yet time and time again, law enforcement officers answer the call, showing up for their communities when they are needed the most. Their devotion to duty is matched only by that of their loved ones who make daily sacrifices to support them. The Justice Department is committed to doing everything in our power to help provide our law enforcement partners with the resources they need to carry out their noble work on behalf of the public.”
“In honor of National Police Week, we pay homage to the brave law enforcement officers who courageously lost their lives in sacrifice of their service to support the common good of our communities. Our fallen officers will forever be remembered for their valor, dedication and selflessness when placing themselves directly in harm’s way,” said U.S. Attorney Rachelle Aud Crowe. “This week and every week, we also recognize our partnership with our local, state and federal law enforcement partners who continue to respond to the call of duty and improve public safety throughout our region.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe.
On Monday, May 13, the names of more than 280 officers killed in the line of duty in 2024 who have been added to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial were read during a Candlelight Vigil.
U.S. Attorney's Office Recognizes National Police Week, May 11-17, 2024Read the Press Release
PORTLAND, Ore.—In honor of National Police Week, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement. This year’s commemoration is observed Saturday, May 11 through Friday, May 17, 2024.
“As our country recognizes National Police Week, the Justice Department joins families and communities in remembering the members of the law enforcement community who made the ultimate sacrifice protecting the public,” said Attorney General Merrick Garland. “Policing is difficult and dangerous, yet time and time again, law enforcement officers answer the call, showing up for their communities when they are needed the most. Their devotion to duty is matched only by that of their loved ones who make daily sacrifices to support them. The Justice Department is committed to doing everything in our power to help provide our law enforcement partners with the resources they need to carry out their noble work on behalf of the public.”
“At the U.S. Attorney’s Office, we are inspired daily by the service and sacrifice of all our law enforcement partners. We offer our deepest gratitude to each and every one of our partners as well as their families and loved ones who make it possible for them to do the work they do,” said Natalie Wight, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe.
On Monday, May 13, the names of more than 280 officers killed in the line of duty in 2024 who have been added to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial were read during a Candlelight Vigil. To view a recording of the livestream of this event, visit https://nleomf.org/memorial/programs/national-police-week-2024/candlelight-vigil/.
To learn more about National Police Week and the virtual candlelight vigil, please visit www.policeweek.org.
U.S. Attorney's Office Observes National Police WeekRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OK - In honor of National Police Week, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement. The week will be observed Saturday, May 11, through Friday, May 17, 2024.
“As our country recognizes National Police Week, the Justice Department joins families and communities in remembering the members of the law enforcement community who made the ultimate sacrifice protecting the public,” said Attorney General Merrick Garland. “Policing is difficult and dangerous, yet time and time again, law enforcement officers answer the call, showing up for their communities when they are needed the most. Their devotion to duty is matched only by that of their loved ones who make daily sacrifices to support them. The Justice Department is committed to doing everything in our power to help provide our law enforcement partners with the resources they need to carry out their noble work on behalf of the public.”
“During National Police Week, we honor those who, through their courageous and selfless deeds, have been killed or disabled in the line of duty,” said United States Attorney Christopher J. Wilson. “In doing so, we also recognize the dedication and sacrifice of law enforcement officers, past and present, for their loyal devotion and dedicated service securing the rights and safety of the public.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty, and commitment to keeping our communities safe.
On Monday, May 13, the names of more than 280 officers killed in the line of duty in 2024 who have been added to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial were read during a Candlelight Vigil. To view a recording of the livestream of this event, visit https://nleomf.org/memorial/programs/national-police-week-2024/candlelight-vigil/.
To learn more about National Police Week and the virtual candlelight vigil, please visit www.policeweek.org.
U.S. Attorney Vanessa Roberts Avery Recognizes National Police Week and Peace Officers Memorial DayRead the Press Release
In honor of National Police Week, which is observed this year from May 11 through May 17, U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland and U.S. Attorney Vanessa Roberts Avery recognize the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement.
“As our country recognizes National Police Week, the Justice Department joins families and communities in remembering the members of the law enforcement community who made the ultimate sacrifice protecting the public,” said Attorney General Garland. “Policing is difficult and dangerous, yet time and time again, law enforcement officers answer the call, showing up for their communities when they are needed the most. Their devotion to duty is matched only by that of their loved ones who make daily sacrifices to support them. The Justice Department is committed to doing everything in our power to help provide our law enforcement partners with the resources they need to carry out their noble work on behalf of the public.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe.
On Monday, May 13, the names of more than 280 officers killed in the line of duty in 2024 who have been added to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial were read during a Candlelight Vigil. The names included Detective Robert “Bobby” Carl Garten, an eight-year member of the Hartford Police Department, who was killed on September 6, 2023, when his patrol car was struck by a vehicle driven by an individual fleeing an attempted traffic enforcement stop. To view a recording of the livestream of this event, visit https://nleomf.org/memorial/programs/national-police-week-2024/candlelight-vigil/.
“National Police Week and Peace Officers Memorial Day serve as a sober reminder of the brave, dangerous, and critically important work members of law enforcement perform every day,” said U.S. Attorney Avery. “At any hour of the day, officers respond to shootings, assaults, homicides, robberies, drug related violence, domestic violence, and other calls for help, and we are grateful for their service. We should also take time to focus on the importance of officer wellness. Law enforcement is an enormously stressful profession with pressures that can take a toll and have a cumulating effect over time. As a result, far too many officers die by suicide each year. We encourage officers to seek the help they need and have earned. Please join me in honoring all officers who have died in service to their communities, and remember their families and loved ones who continue to endure their loss.”
To learn more about National Police Week and the virtual candlelight vigil, please visit www.policeweek.org.
U.S. Attorney Sandra J. Hairston Recognizes National Police WeekRead the Press Release
GREENSBORO - In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Sandra J. Hairston will recognize the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement. The week will be observed Saturday, May 11 through Friday, May 17, 2024.
“As our country recognizes National Police Week, the Justice Department joins families and communities in remembering the members of the law enforcement community who made the ultimate sacrifice protecting the public,” said Attorney General Merrick Garland. “Policing is difficult and dangerous, yet time and time again, law enforcement officers answer the call, showing up for their communities when they are needed the most. Their devotion to duty is matched only by that of their loved ones who make daily sacrifices to support them. The Justice Department is committed to doing everything in our power to help provide our law enforcement partners with the resources they need to carry out their noble work on behalf of the public.”
“During National Police Week, we pay tribute to and honor our courageous law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty,” said U.S. Attorney Hairston. “To our federal, state, and local officers who, each day, bravely serve our communities and keep us safe, we sincerely thank you for your service. To the families of our fallen officers, and to the families of the officers who leave home each day to carry out the mission, you have our heartfelt gratitude and support.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty, and commitment to keeping our communities safe.
On Monday, May 13, the names of more than 280 officers killed in the line of duty in 2024 who have been added to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial were read during a Candlelight Vigil. To view a recording of the livestream of this event, visit https://nleomf.org/memorial/programs/national-police-week-2024/candlelight-vigil/.
To learn more about National Police Week and the virtual candlelight vigil, please visit www.policeweek.org.
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U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe celebrates the contributions of law enforcement during National Police WeekRead the Press Release
MIAMI — In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement. National Police Week is observed Saturday, May 11 through Friday, May 17, 2024.
“Every day, our invaluable law enforcement partners are called upon to protect and serve our south Florida communities. They do so without hesitation, often under the most challenging of circumstances. The agents and officers who patrol our streets, respond to our pleas for help, and safeguard our loved ones, work on the front lines to combat our nation’s most pressing public safety challenges. On behalf of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the men and women in law enforcement for your tireless dedication and service,” stated U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe. “May you stay safe and may the memory of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice never be forgotten.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty, and commitment to keeping our communities safe.
Today, the names of more than 280 officers killed in the line of duty in 2024 who have been added to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial will be read during a Candlelight Vigil at 8:00 p.m. EDT. To view a livestream of this event, visit https://nleomf.org/memorial/programs/national-police-week-2024/candlelight-vigil/.
To learn more about National Police Week and the virtual candlelight vigil, please visit www.policeweek.org.
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U.S. Attorney Easley Recognizes National Police Week: Honoring the Dedication and Sacrifice of Law Enforcement OfficersRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Michael Easley will recognize the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement. This year, the week is observed from Saturday, May 11 through Friday, May 17, 2024.
“As our country recognizes National Police Week, the Justice Department joins families and communities in remembering the members of the law enforcement community who made the ultimate sacrifice protecting the public,” said Attorney General Merrick Garland. “Policing is difficult and dangerous, yet time and time again, law enforcement officers answer the call, showing up for their communities when they are needed the most. Their devotion to duty is matched only by that of their loved ones who make daily sacrifices to support them. The Justice Department is committed to doing everything in our power to help provide our law enforcement partners with the resources they need to carry out their noble work on behalf of the public.”
“Every day across North Carolina, law enforcement officers put their lives on the line to protect our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Michael Easley. “During National Police Week, we honor their courage and sacrifice. Because of you, Americans can live their lives driven by our highest hopes, dreams, and aspirations – and not our greatest fears. It is also critical to recognize our officers’ families, who support their loved one’s calling to build a safer community. We owe you all a debt of gratitude.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty, and commitment to keeping our communities safe.
On Monday, May 13, the names of more than 280 officers killed in the line of duty in 2024 who have been added to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial were read during a Candlelight Vigil. To view a recording of the livestream of this event, visit https://nleomf.org/memorial/programs/national-police-week-2024/candlelight-vigil/.
To learn more about National Police Week and the virtual candlelight vigil, please visit www.policeweek.org.
U.S. Attorney Cunha Recognizes National Police WeekRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE - In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Cunha joins Attorney General Merrick Garland and his fellow U.S. Attorneys across the nation this week recognizing the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement.
“As our country recognizes National Police Week, the Justice Department joins families and communities in remembering the members of the law enforcement community who made the ultimate sacrifice protecting the public,” said Attorney General Merrick Garland. “Policing is difficult and dangerous, yet time and time again, law enforcement officers answer the call, showing up for their communities when they are needed the most. Their devotion to duty is matched only by that of their loved ones who make daily sacrifices to support them. The Justice Department is committed to doing everything in our power to help provide our law enforcement partners with the resources they need to carry out their noble work on behalf of the public.”
“It’s hard to overstate the contribution that police departments and police officers across Rhode Island make to keeping communities across the Ocean State safe and secure,” remarked U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Cunha. “Our partnerships with our state and local police colleagues are vital to our shared mission to do justice, and I salute all of the men and women in uniform who put their lives on the line in the course of this vital work, day in and day out.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. United States Attorney Cunha is attending events hosted by local and state law enforcement in multiple communities in honor of the brave women and men who have given their lives in the service of their community.
On Monday, May 13, the names of more than 280 officers killed in the line of duty in 2024 who have been added to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial were read during a Candlelight Vigil. To view a recording of the livestream of this event, visit https://nleomf.org/memorial/programs/national-police-week-2024/candlelight-vigil/.
To learn more about National Police Week and the virtual candlelight vigil, please visit www.policeweek.org.
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U.s. Attorney’s Office Recognizes Police WeekRead the Press Release
FARGO— In recognition of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Mac Schneider and the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of North Dakota joined with Department of Justice colleagues from across the country in honoring the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement. The week will be observed Saturday, May 11 through Friday, May 17, 2024.
“As our country recognizes National Police Week, the Justice Department joins families and communities in remembering the members of the law enforcement community who made the ultimate sacrifice protecting the public,” said Attorney General Merrick Garland. “Policing is difficult and dangerous, yet time and time again, law enforcement officers answer the call, showing up for their communities when they are needed the most. Their devotion to duty is matched only by that of their loved ones who make daily sacrifices to support them. The Justice Department is committed to doing everything in our power to help provide our law enforcement partners with the resources they need to carry out their noble work on behalf of the public.”
Schneider, who attended the North Dakota Peace Officer Memorial Service at the North Dakota Capitol last Thursday in the leadup to National Police Week, echoed the Attorney General’s comments.
“Every day, our law enforcement partners put their lives on the line to keep people safe, uphold the rule of law, and ensure justice for victims,” Schneider said. “Last year was an especially difficult one for the law enforcement community in the District of North Dakota. As we recognize National Police Week, we hold the families and colleagues of Fargo Police Officer Jake Wallin and Mercer County Deputy Sheriff Paul Martin in our hearts. We will never forget them or what they did to protect our communities, and we will honor their legacy of service by supporting our partners as they work on the front lines of public safety.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe.
On Monday, May 13, the names of more than 280 officers killed in the line of duty in 2024 who have been added to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial were read during a Candlelight Vigil. To view a recording of the livestream of this event, visit https://nleomf.org/memorial/programs/national-police-week-2024/candlelight-vigil/.
To learn more about National Police Week and the virtual candlelight vigil, please visit www.policeweek.org.
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