District of Connecticut

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that GABRIEL ROMERO ESCALERA-ROMERO, 29, a citizen of Honduras, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill to 60 months of imprisonment for trafficking cocaine. 

Pursuant to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), the court proceeding occurred via videoconference.

This matter stems from a joint investigation headed by the DEA New Haven Task Force, FBI and New Haven Police Department that included the use of court-authorized wiretaps, controlled purchases of heroin and cocaine, and seizures of bulk heroin and cocaine.  The investigation revealed that Duane Filyaw, of New Haven, operated a heroin and cocaine trafficking ring in which he conspired with others to purchase narcotics from suppliers and then distribute the drugs to other suppliers of street-level dealers in and around New Haven.  Escalera-Romero, who was residing in Bridgeport, worked with his associate, Neftali Fernandez, to supply Filyaw and others with bulk quantities of cocaine.

During the investigation, law enforcement officers seized more than 500 grams of heroin, more than 300 grams of fentanyl, more than one kilogram of cocaine, three firearms, over $90,000 in cash, vehicles, jewelry and precious metals.

On April 19, 2018, a grand jury in New Haven returned an indictment charging Escalera-Romero, Filyaw, Fernandez and 16 other individuals with narcotics trafficking offenses.  Escalera-Romero and several other members of the conspiracy were arrested on April 25, 2018.

Escalera-Romero has been detained since his arrest.  On January 16, 2020, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine.

Escalera-Romero faces deportation proceedings when he completes his prison term.

Filyaw and Hernandez have pleaded guilty and await sentencing.

The DEA New Haven Task Force includes participants from the U.S. Marshals Service, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, and the New Haven, Hamden, West Haven, North Haven, Branford, Ansonia, Meriden, Derby, Middletown, Naugatuck and Waterbury Police Departments.  The Connecticut Department of Correction, Milford Police Department and East Haven Police Department have assisted the investigation.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys H. Gordon Hall and Patrick F. Caruso.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that NEVILLE WALTERS, 32, of Bristol, was arrested today on a criminal complaint charging him with gun and drug offenses.

Pursuant to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), Walters was presented in court via videoconference.  U.S. Magistrate Judge Thomas O. Farrish ordered Walters detained pending a detention hearing that is scheduled for May 26.

As alleged in the criminal complaint, in the early morning hours of April 4, 2020, Bristol Police received reports of gunshots being fired in the area of Davis Drive.  Analysis of security video from a nearby residence revealed that the shots were fired from a light-colored Cadillac as it approached the intersection of Davis Drive and Jerome Avenue.  Seven .40 caliber shell casings were recovered from the scene.  Later that morning, officers responded to a report of a disturbance at Walters’ residence on Prospect Street and observed a beige Cadillac with other features matching the description of the car that was involved in the shooting incident.  Walters departed the residence before officers could question him.

It is also alleged that, in the early evening of April 4, Farmington Police were called to local gas station on a report of a burning vehicle.  Responding officers stopped Walters and an associate as they walked away from the gas station.  Walters was arrested on state charges after officers recovered a loaded .40 caliber handgun and a small amount of marijuana on the ground nearby.

It is further alleged that, after Walters’ state arrest and while he was released on bond, Walters posted on his Instagram page multiple images of him in possession of firearms.  On May 12, 2020, Bristol Police executed a state search warrant at Walters’ residence and seized two handguns, a high-capacity magazine, marijuana, items used to process and package drugs for street sale, and other items.  Investigators also seized $2,827 from Walters’ person.  Walters was arrested on state charges and was again released on bond.

The affidavit alleges that law enforcement received a report that, on approximately May 14, 2020, Walters brandished a firearm during an argument outside of his residence.

It is alleged that Walters’ criminal history includes multiple convictions for felony offenses. 

The complaint charges Walters with possession of firearms by a convicted felon, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years, and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.

U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt.  Charges are only allegations and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

This matter is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Bristol Police Department and the Farmington Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Margaret Donovan.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England, today announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven returned an indictment yesterday charging FABIO VARGAS-GONZALEZ, 44, of Wethersfield, with trafficking fentanyl.

As alleged in court documents, the DEA’s Hartford Task Force developed information that Vargas-Gonzalez was involved in narcotics trafficking activities in the Hartford area.  On March 11, 2020, investigators conducted surveillance of Vargas-Gonzalez as he drove a minivan from Connecticut to New Jersey and then back to Connecticut.  In Danbury, investigators stopped Vargas-Gonzalez’s minivan for a motor vehicle violation and, after Vargas-Gonzalez consented to a search, found approximately two kilograms of fentanyl hidden in the minivan’s spare tire compartment.

The indictment charges Vargas-Gonzalez with one count of possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, an offense that carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years a maximum term of imprisonment of life.

U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt.  Charges are only allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Vargas-Gonzalez, who was originally charged by criminal complaint, is currently released on a $175,000 bond.

The DEA’s Hartford Task Force includes personnel from the DEA Hartford Resident Office and the Bristol, Hartford, East Hartford, Manchester, New Britain, Rocky Hill, Wethersfield, Windsor Locks and Willimantic Police Departments.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey M. Stone.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England, announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven returned an indictment today charging ANTHONY FIGUEROA-GONZALEZ, 27, of Bridgeport, with distributing fentanyl.

As alleged in court documents, in August 2019, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force identified Figueroa-Gonzalez as a large-scale distributor of fentanyl.  On September 17 and November 7, 2019, investigators made controlled purchases of approximately 50 grams of fentanyl from Figueroa-Gonzalez in Bridgeport.

Figueroa-Gonzalez was arrested on a federal criminal complaint on May 6, 2020.

The indictment charges Figueroa-Gonzalez with two counts of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, 40 grams or more of fentanyl, an offense that carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years on each count.

U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt.  Charges are only allegations, and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Figueroa-Gonzalez is currently released on a $100,000 bond.

The DEA’s Bridgeport HIDTA Task Force, includes personnel from the DEA Bridgeport Resident Office, the Connecticut State Police, and the Bridgeport, Norwalk, Stamford, Stratford, Milford and Danbury Police Departments.  This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen L. Peck.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MARIO LLANOS-AYALA, 45, of Deltona, Florida, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer to 60 months of imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release, for trafficking cocaine.

Pursuant to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), the court proceeding occurred via videoconference.

According to court documents and statements made in court, an investigation headed by the Drug Enforcement Administration New Haven Task Force and New Haven Police Department revealed that Malbin Rubiera-Herrera, also known as “Chaca,” acquired fentanyl, heroin and cocaine from sources in Connecticut and New Jersey and distributed the drugs through a network of associates in the greater New Haven area.  Between October and December 2018, investigators made controlled purchases of narcotics from Rubiera-Herrera.  Subsequent court-authorized wiretaps revealed a widespread narcotics trafficking conspiracy that involved the trafficking of kilogram-quantities of fentanyl, heroin and cocaine into Connecticut.

In March 2019, Llanos-Ayala, Rubiera-Herrera and William Claudio-Suarez were intercepted on a wiretap discussing the shipment of two kilograms of cocaine two Connecticut.  On March 7, 2019, a series of intercepted calls revealed that Llanos-Ayala and an associate had just sold a kilogram of cocaine and were traveling in a car in New Jersey.  Investigators alerted New Jersey law enforcement authorities who stopped and searched the car and recovered approximately one kilogram of cocaine, a loaded .45 caliber handgun and more than $2,500 in cash.

Llanos-Ayala was arrested on New Jersey state charges in March 22, 2019.  He has been detained since his arrest.

On June 5, 2019, a grand jury returned a superseding indictment charging Llanos-Ayala, Rubiera-Herrera, Claudio-Suarez and 11 other individuals with fentanyl, heroin and cocaine trafficking offenses.

On September 25, 2019, Llano-Ayala pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with the intent to distribute, 500 grams or more of cocaine and a quantity of heroin.

Rubiera-Herrera and Claudio-Suarez pleaded guilty to related charges.  On February 25, 2020, Claudio-Suarez was sentenced to 60 months of imprisonment.  Rubiera-Herrera awaits sentencing.

This matter is being investigated by the DEA New Haven Task Force and the New Haven Police Department, with the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Marshals Service, Connecticut State Police, Connecticut Department of Correction, East Haven Police Department, Easton Police Department, Orange Police Department, and the Cape May County (N.J.) Prosecutor's Office, Gangs, Guns and Narcotics Task Force.

The DEA New Haven Task Force includes participants from the U.S. Marshals Service, Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation Division, and the New Haven, Hamden, West Haven, North Haven, Branford, Ansonia, Meriden, Derby, Middletown, Naugatuck and Waterbury Police Departments.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jocelyn Courtney Kaoutzanis and S. Dave Vatti.

New Haven – John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Kelly D. Brady, Special Agent in Charge, ATF Boston Field Division, announced that CEDRIC GOODWIN, also known as “Ceddyo,” 31, of West Haven, was arrested today and charged by federal criminal complaint with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

As alleged in the complaint, in the early morning hours of September 22, 2019, Goodwin attempted to enter a bar located on Crown Street in downtown New Haven.  During a pat-down search of Goodwin by a security worker, a firearm magazine fell from Goodwin’s right ankle area.  Goodwin retrieved the magazine and left the establishment.  The security worker notified nearby New Haven Police officers who subsequently located Goodwin.  As they approached Goodwin, the officers heard the sound of an object hitting the ground.  Goodwin was detained, and a search of the area revealed a firearm magazine containing eight rounds of .380 caliber ammunition.  Goodwin was arrested on state charges at that time.

It is further alleged that Goodwin’s criminal history includes felony convictions for narcotics, weapon, robbery and assault offenses.

On March 10, 2020, Goodwin was arrested on a federal criminal complaint charging him with possession of ammunition by a convicted felon.  Following his arrest, Goodwin was released on a $100,000 bond and other conditions, including that he reside at the home of a third-party custodian on Sanford Street in West Haven.

It is alleged that law enforcement recently received information that Goodwin was engaged in narcotics trafficking activity and was in possession of a firearm.  Goodwin was arrested this afternoon after investigators conducted a court-authorized search of the residence and, in the garage, found a Smith and Wesson revolver, several rounds of assorted ammunition, multiple baggies of suspected heroin, a quantity of marijuana, and items used to process and package drugs for street sale.

Pursuant to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), Goodwin was presented in court via videoconference.  U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert M. Spector ordered Goodwin detained.

The charge of possession of a firearm carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.  U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt.  Charges are only allegations and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

This investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), and the New Haven Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria del Pilar Gonzalez.

This prosecution 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 make neighborhoods safer for everyone.

New Haven – In honor of National Police Week, which this year is observed from May 10 to May 16, U.S. John H. Durham recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement.

“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr.  “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety.  And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic.  This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers.  Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”

“In normal times, the men and women of law enforcement regularly face situations that place their own safety at risk,” U.S. Attorney Durham said.  “This pandemic has undoubtedly greatly increased that risk.  Even though many members of law enforcement have contracted this insidious virus, thousands of officers, at all hours of the day, continue to work across Connecticut to protect our communities.  During National Police Week, I ask you to join me in honoring their commitment during this difficult time, and also to remember those officers who have given their life to protect ours.”

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.  This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.

Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019.

Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.

The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil.  Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 pm (EDT).  The online event can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF.

New Haven – United States Attorney John H. Durham, Connecticut Attorney General William Tong, Chief State’s Attorney Richard Colangelo and FBI Special Agent in Charge David Sundberg today announced formation of a joint federal-state task force combatting COVID-19 related fraud in Connecticut.  The task force will investigate and prosecute a wide range of misconduct related to the COVID-19 pandemic, including price gouging, healthcare and government program fraud, consumer and small business scams, lending scams, charities fraud, and cyber fraud.  Violators may be subject to civil fines and penalties and/or state or federal criminal prosecution.

“The Justice Department is prioritizing the investigation and prosecution of COVID-19 fraud schemes and individuals who are exploiting this public health crisis for personal gain,” said U.S. Attorney Durham.  “Our office has a dedicated COVID-19 Fraud Coordinator who is working closely with our state counterparts in the offices of the Attorney General and Chief State’s Attorney to review complaints and direct the prosecution of COVID-19-related crimes.  Working together, we will disrupt these schemes and are prepared to prosecute those who seek to prey upon people’s fears or sympathy and illegally profit from this pandemic.” 

“To those who seek to use this crisis as an opportunity to cheat, scam and defraud—stop. The Office of the Attorney General is working hand in hand with our state and federal enforcement partners to aggressively investigate and prosecute COVID-19 related misconduct. Our office has received over a thousand complaints regarding price gouging, scams and other schemes and our attorneys and investigators are following up on each and every one. If you are aware of COVID-19 related fraud and abuse, we want to know about it,” said Attorney General Tong.

“We at the FBI are fully committed to this multi-agency Task Force and pledge our resources to combatting those attempting to take advantage of Connecticut residents during this vulnerable time,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Sundberg

The COVID-19 Fraud Task Force highlighted key areas of concern:

Stimulus Check Scams: The Task Force is warning residents to be cautious of scams involving COVID-19 federal stimulus checks. The federal government will never charge fees or ask you to pay money to receive your check. The federal government will never call to ask for your Social Security number, bank account, or credit card number.

Charities Fraud: Scammers see our desire to help one another during a crisis as an opportunity. Before making any donation, please check the facts and make sure you are getting accurate information from a reputable source. See guidance from the Office of the Attorney General here. Check to make sure any organization you are supporting is officially registered, by going to verified sources like the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection, Better Business Bureau, Guidestar, or other sites listed in our guidance. Do not fall prey to high pressure tactics. If you receive a call or solicitation seeking a donation, take your time to get the facts. There is no need to commit to support on the spot.

Price Gouging: The Office of the Attorney General and the U.S. Attorney’s Office are following up on hundreds of complaints regarding price gouging, including various types of health and medical resources necessary to respond to the spread of COVID-19. During civil preparedness and public health emergencies, price gouging is against Connecticut and federal law. Price gouging or profiteering means increasing the price of an item for sale by more than could be justified in the ordinary course of business market fluctuations – particularly in light of prior margins or profit per item. Price gouging may result in federal criminal prosecution or Connecticut enforcement action.  For more information on Connecticut’s price gouging statutes, click here.

Hoarding and PPE Procurement Scams: The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) issued a Notice pursuant to President Trump’s Executive Order 13910 and the Defense Production Act, which designated health and medical resources necessary to respond to the spread of COVID-19 that are scarce or the supply of which would be threatened by excessive accumulation. These designated materials are subject to the hoarding prevention measures authorized under the Executive Order and the Act.  Individuals or businesses that violate the Act will be subject to prosecution.

Phishing, Spoofing and Cyber Fraud: The Task Force warned Connecticut residents of widespread COVID-19 related cyber fraud. The Office of the Attorney General is aware of numerous reports of phishing attempts via email and text message regarding COVID-19 assistance and related aid. Do not click on links in unsolicited emails. Be wary of electronic communications purporting to be from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or the World Health Organization. Be on alert for messages that request your personal information in exchange for benefits or relief. Make sure you are visiting legitimate, official websites for up-to-date information about COVID-19.

Healthcare and Government Program Fraud:  Connecticut healthcare providers have been given additional regulatory flexibility to enhance their ability to treat patients impacted by the COVID-19 public health crisis.  Included among these recent changes are greater access for telemedicine, audio-only telephonic medicine and modifications to allow certain providers to practice prior to licensure.   The Attorney General’s Antitrust and Government Program Fraud Department is taking affirmative steps to ensure that the Connecticut Medicaid program is protected from fraudsters and scammers who may try and take advantage of the newly implemented policies and orders by submitting false claims for these services.  To that end, the Department’s investigators are actively reviewing Medicaid paid claims data to identify any aberrant providers and/or target suspicious claim activity.

Small Business Loan Fraud Schemes:  Small business owners working hard to stay afloat should be wary of scammers charging up-front or excessive fees to secure U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) loans or offering high-interest bridge loans.  Scammers sometimes target businesses through email phishing schemes using SBA or bank logos. 

Mortgage and Student Loan Relief Scams:  Scammers often prey upon those facing financial hardship.  Borrowers having difficulty making their monthly mortgage or student loan payments should be wary of scams promising bogus relief.  Often requiring illegal up-front and reoccurring fees, scammers make deceptive claims regarding their ability to secure loan forgiveness.  To avoid becoming a victim of such scams, those with mortgage or student loans should instead contact their loan servicers (the entity to whom they make their payments) to seek relief. 

Connecticut residents may report COVID-19 related fraud to the Task Force by contacting the Office of the Attorney General via email at attorney.general@ct.gov or by calling 860-808-5318.  The Attorney General’s Office is coordinating closely with prosecutors and investigators at the U.S. Attorney’s Office and Chief State’s Attorney’s Office on criminal and civil fraud cases arising during this pandemic.

Individuals also may report COVID-19 related fraud to the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 or by visiting www.justice.gov/disastercomplaintform.  More information on the Justice Department’s coronavirus response effort is available here.

New Haven – John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that CONNECTICUT COUNSELING CENTERS (“CCC”) has entered into a civil settlement agreement with the federal and state governments in which it will pay more than $295,000 to resolve allegations that it caused overpayments to be paid by the Connecticut Medicaid Program.

CCC is a healthcare organization that provides outpatient substance abuse and mental health services in Connecticut, with clinics located in Fairfield and New Haven counties.  The government’s allegations against CCC arise out of improper billing for urine drug testing services.

The State of Connecticut Department of Social Services (“DSS”) contracted with CCC to provide behavioral health and substance use disorder services to Medicaid beneficiaries.  Medicaid reimburses methadone clinics, such as CCC, utilizing a weekly rate payment for each Medicaid patient provided methadone treatment.  Regulations issued by the State of Connecticut in 2013 made it clear that the weekly payment was a “bundled” rate that included intake evaluation; initial physical examination; on-site drug abuse testing and monitoring; and individual, group and family counseling services. 

On September 3, 2014, Medicaid issued a Provider Bulletin to all methadone clinics reminding them that the weekly rate payment included reimbursement for on-site drug abuse testing and monitoring.

On February 1, 2015, DSS published on its website an Audit Protocol for methadone clinics.   The Audit Protocol stated that if a DSS audit found Medicaid paid another laboratory provider for drug testing within a week of the date a methadone clinic was paid for methadone treatment, Medicaid would reduce the methadone clinic’s payment for the methadone treatment service by the cost of the laboratory service.

DSS conducted an audit of CCC and found that both CCC and an independent laboratory billed Medicaid for drug testing performed by the laboratory, contrary to DSS’ weekly rate payment regulation.  In January 2016, DSS issued an Audit Report that warned CCC that continued non-compliance with the weekly rate payment rule would result in financial disallowances in future audits.

The government alleges that despite clear guidance from the Medicaid program and the audit finding indicating that on-site drug testing was part of the bundled rate, CCC routinely referred urine drug tests for CCC’s patients to an outside, independent laboratory.  As a result, Medicaid paid for the claims twice, once to CCC pursuant to the bundled rate and a second time to the outside laboratory.

To resolve its liability, CCC will pay $295,211 to the federal and state governments for conduct occurring between January 18, 2016 and December 31, 2016. 

“Providers who bill government health insurance programs, such as Medicaid, must follow the rules, and the failure to do so will have serious consequences,” stated U.S. Attorney Durham.

This matter was investigated by the Office of Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard M. Molot and by Assistant Attorneys General Michael E. Cole and Gregory K. O’Connell of the Connecticut Office of the Attorney General.

People who suspect health care fraud are encouraged to report it by calling 1-800-HHS-TIPS or the Health Care Fraud Task Force at (203) 777-6311.

New Haven – United States Attorney John H. Durham today announced that the Department of Justice is deploying all available enforcement tools against anyone who tries to capitalize on the current Covid-19 crisis by sexually harassing people in need of housing.  Individuals who have experienced or witnessed sexual harassment by a landlord, property manager, maintenance worker, or anyone with control over housing are encouraged to report that conduct to the Justice Department.

The Justice Department, through the Civil Rights Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Offices, enforces the Fair Housing Act, which prohibits discrimination in housing on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, familial status, national origin, and disability.  Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination prohibited by the Act.

The COVID-19 Pandemic has affected the ability of many people to pay rent on time and has increased housing insecurity.  The Justice Department has received reports of housing providers trying to exploit the crisis to sexually harass tenants.  The Department, in coordination with federal, state and local law enforcement authorities, will investigate these allegations and pursue enforcement actions where appropriate. 

“Job losses created by this pandemic have forced many renters to seek abatements or suspensions of rent payments,” said U.S. Attorney Durham.  “Many landlords have responded to this circumstance with understanding and care, and are working with tenants as this crisis persists.  However, there have been reports that some landlords have responded to requests to defer rent payments with demands for sexual favors and other acts of unwelcome sexual conduct.  This behavior is not tolerated in normal times, and certainly will not be tolerated now.  I encourage all victims and witnesses to report any instances of this despicable and criminal conduct immediately.”

The Justice Department encourages anyone who has experienced sexual harassment in housing, or knows someone who has, to contact the Civil Rights Division by calling (844) 380-6178 or emailing fairhousing@usdoj.gov.

Individuals who believe they may have been victims of discrimination may also contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Connecticut by calling 203 821 3700, or emailing: USACT.Citizenscomplaint@usdoj.gov.

Individuals may also file a complaint alleging harassment or discrimination in housing with the Department of Housing and Urban Development through HUD’s website or by calling (800) 669-9777.

The Justice Department’s Sexual Harassment in Housing Initiative is an effort to combat sexual harassment in housing led by the Civil Rights Division, in coordination with U.S. Attorney’s Offices across the country. The goal of the Initiative is to address sexual harassment by landlords, property managers, maintenance workers, loan officers or other people who have control over housing.  Launched in 2017, the Initiative has filed lawsuits across the county alleging a pattern or practice of sexual harassment in housing and recovered millions of dollars in damages for harassment victims. 

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that the U.S. Attorney’s Office has reached a settlement agreement with Blake I. Winokur, D.M.D., P.C., doing business as Rolling Hills Dentistry, and its landlord, 53 North Street, LLC, to resolve allegations that the facilities of the dental office were not in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (“ADA”).

The settlement agreement resolves an ADA complaint filed by an individual with physical disabilities who uses a wheelchair.  The complainant alleged that upon entering the building in which Rolling Hills Dentistry is located, he could not access the entrance to Rolling Hills Dentistry because it could only be accessed using a staircase.  Under the terms of the settlement agreement, 53 North Street, LLC, the landlord of Rolling Hills Dentistry, will install an ADA-compliant platform lift for each of the two staircases in the shared interior space of the building.  As part of the settlement agreement, Rolling Hills Dentistry will remediate minor ADA-compliance issues in its patient toilet room.

Under federal law, private entities that own or operate places of “public accommodation,” including professional offices of healthcare providers, hospitals, and other service establishments, are prohibited from discriminating on the basis of disability.  The ADA authorizes the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate complaints and undertake periodic reviews of compliance of covered entities.  The Justice Department is also authorized to commence a civil lawsuit in federal court in any case that involves a pattern or practice of discrimination or that raises issues of general public importance, and to seek injunctive relief, monetary damages, and civil penalties.

U.S. Attorney Durham thanked the owners and management of Rolling Hills Dentistry and 53 North Street, LLC, for their cooperation with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and their commitment to addressing the issues raised by the ADA investigation without litigation.

This matter was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica H. Soufer of the District of Connecticut in coordination with the Disability Rights Section of the U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division.

Any member of the public who wishes to file a complaint alleging that any place of public accommodation or public entity in Connecticut is not accessible to persons with disabilities may contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at 203-821-3700.

Additional information about the ADA can be found at www.ada.gov, or by calling the Justice Department’s toll-free information line at (800) 514-0301 and (800) 514-0383 (TTY).  More information about the Civil Rights Division and the laws it enforces is available at www.justice.gov/crt.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England, today announced that the following six men were arrested yesterday on federal narcotics distribution and money laundering charges related to the large-scale distribution of fentanyl in Connecticut:

DOMINGO GUZMAN, 43, of Waterbury
ARMANDO GONZALEZ, 38, of New Britain
DAVID CINTRON, 24, of Manchester
DANIEL ESTREMERA, 40, of East Hartford
GILDARDO PEREZ-BENITEZ, also known as “Jesus Ayon,” 51, of North Canaan
XIANG QING ZHANG, also known as “Jay,” 41, of Brooklyn, New York

Pursuant to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), the defendants were presented in court via videoconference.  All are detained.

As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, in July 2019, the DEA’s Hartford Task Force began investigating a drug trafficking organization that was distributing fentanyl and heroin in Connecticut.  The investigation revealed that Domingo Guzman, Jesus Ayon and others received kilogram-quantities of narcotics, primarily fentanyl, from a source of supply, and then distributed the drug to various narcotics traffickers, including Armando Gonzalez, David Cintron and Daniel Estremera.  Gonzalez, Cintron, Estremera and others then sold the drug to street-level distributors.  Members of the organization delivered cash generated from the sale of narcotics to Zhang, a money broker in Brooklyn, New York, who assisted in laundering the narcotics proceeds before they were transferred to leaders of the drug trafficking organization.

During the investigation, it is alleged that Gonzalez and Cintron used several locations to store, process and package fentanyl for street stale, including office space on Pratt Street in Hartford, an apartment in the Asylum Hill neighborhood in Hartford, and an apartment in New Britain.  On December 19, 2019, Cintron was arrested on state charges shortly after he drove from the Pratt Street location and was found in possession of approximately 4,860 wax paper sleeves of fentanyl, 90 grams of unpackaged fentanyl, and other items used to process and package narcotics.

It is further alleged that Estremera used an apartment on South Street in West Hartford to process, package and store narcotics.  On March 13, 2020, investigators searched the apartment and seized approximately 1.5 kilograms of fentanyl and approximately 500 wax folds of the drug.

It is also alleged that, between August and October 2019, investigators seized more than $200,000 in cash from members of the drug trafficking organization.

In association with yesterday’s arrests, investigators seized approximately $100,000 in cash, a firearm, several thousand wax folds of suspected fentanyl, and numerous items used in the processing and packaging of narcotics.

“We are living in a time of heightened awareness of public health and safety,” said U.S. Attorney Durham.  “This operation targeted a group of individuals who are alleged to be responsible for the widespread distribution of a drug that ruins lives, continues to kill people every day, and puts unneeded stress on law enforcement and healthcare resources.  I thank the DEA agents and task force officers who, at great risk to their own safety, are working during this time to protect our communities, disrupt the flow of this awful drug, and remove wrongdoers from the streets.”

“Fentanyl is causing great damage to our communities,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Boyle.  “The men and women of DEA along with our law enforcement partners are hard at work protecting the public by taking this poison off the streets of Connecticut, especially during this very uncertain time of COVID-19.”

The defendants were arrested on criminal complaints charging each with possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, controlled substances; conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and distribution of, controlled substances; money laundering and conspiracy to commit money laundering.

U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt.  Charges are only allegations, and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

It is alleged that Guzman, Gonzalez and Estremera all have criminal histories that include federal convictions.  Guzman and Estremera are currently on federal supervised release.

The DEA’s Hartford Task Force includes personnel from the DEA Hartford Resident Office and the Bristol, Hartford, East Hartford, Manchester, New Britain, Rocky Hill, Wethersfield, Windsor Locks and Willimantic Police Departments.  Agencies assisting the investigation include the DEA New York Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (“OCDETF”) Strike Force and the New York Police Department.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey M. Stone.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Peter Quinn, Resident Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service, announced that ANTHONY C. INNARELLA, SR., 63, formerly of Kunkletown, Pennsylvania, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden to bank fraud and identity theft offenses.

Pursuant to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), the court proceeding occurred via videoconference.

According to court documents and statements made in court, Innarella and another individual possessed multiple fake driver’s licenses and credit cards in the names of other people and used these fraudulent forms of identification to register phony businesses with municipal offices and county clerks to obtain trade name certificates.  They also obtained Employer Identification Numbers (“EINs”) from the Internal Revenue Service in the names of the phony businesses.  Between approximately October 2016 and May 2017, Innarella and the other individual, posing as business owners, traveled to banks in Connecticut, Delaware, Virginia, New Jersey, Massachusetts and elsewhere and used the fraudulent identifications, trade name certificates and EINs to open new business bank accounts.  Numerous fraudulent accounts were linked to legitimate accounts of the people whose identities Innarella and the other individual had used.

Through this scheme, more than $1 million was transferred into the fraudulent business bank accounts, and Innarella and the other individual withdrew cash and cashier’s checks totaling approximately $363,000 from the accounts.

On April 5, 2017, Innarella was arrested by the Fairfield Police Department in connection with a fraudulent bank account he had opened at a Wells Fargo Bank branch in Fairfield.  At the time of his arrest, he and his co-conspirator possessed numerous counterfeit driver’s licenses and credit cards in other individuals’ names, several cellphones bearing sticker labels with the names of different individuals, more than $34,000 in cash, and other items connecting him to a bank fraud and identity theft scheme.  State charges against Innarella are pending.

Innarella has been detained in federal custody since June 13, 2019.  Prior to that date, he was in state custody in Connecticut and New Jersey.

Innarella pleaded guilty to one count conspiracy to commit bank fraud, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years, and one count of aggravated identity theft, which carries a mandatory consecutive term of imprisonment of two years.  A sentencing date is not scheduled.

This matter is being investigated by the Connecticut Financial Crimes Task Force, U.S. Secret Service, Greenwich Police Department, Fairfield Police Department, Delaware State Police and Virginia State Police.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anastasia E. King in coordination with State’s Attorney for the Fairfield (Conn.) Judicial District, Delaware Attorney General’s Office, Prince William County (Va.) Commonwealth Attorney’s Office, and the Cape May County (N.J.) Prosecutor’s Office.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that KENDALL FAIR, 20, of Hartford, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Jeffrey A. Meyer to distributing crack cocaine.

Pursuant to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), the court proceeding occurred via videoconference.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in July 2019, after a spate of gun violence in Hartford, the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force, DEA, Hartford Police Department and other law enforcement agencies initiated an investigation targeting gang-related drug distribution and associated violence in north Hartford.  Between August and September 2019, investigators made three controlled purchases of crack and two controlled purchases of crack and fentanyl from Fair.

On September 13, 2019, investigators arrested Fair at his residence.  During a search of Fair’s bedroom, investigators seized approximately 15 grams of crack, a quantity of cocaine, and six bags of fentanyl.

Fair pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of cocaine base (“crack”), an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.  Judge Meyer scheduled sentencing for July 21, 2020.

Fair has been detained since his arrest.

The FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force includes members of the Hartford Police Department, East Hartford Police Department, Connecticut State Police and Connecticut Department of Correction.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey M. Stone.

New Haven – John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that TIMOTHY ESTRIDGE, 39, of Wallingford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall to 12 months and one day of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for escaping from a Hartford halfway house.

Pursuant to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), the sentencing occurred via videoconference.

According to court documents and statements made in court, on April 5, 2019, Estridge was sentenced in Hartford federal court to 24 months of imprisonment for illegally distributing amphetamines.  An investigation revealed that, on December 1, 2017, Estridge filled a prescription for Adderall, which contains amphetamine, and subsequently distributed the pills to an individual in Wallingford who died of a drug overdose approximately two weeks later.  The State of Connecticut Chief Medical Examiner determined the victim’s cause of death to be intoxication of a combination of heroin, fentanyl, oxycodone, alprazolam, amphetamine, and ethanol.

On October 30, 2019, the Federal Bureau of Prisons transferred Estridge to Watkinson House, a halfway house in Hartford, to complete his prison term.  On November 26, 2019, after Estridge admitting using fentanyl and facility staff found evidence of intravenous drug use in his room, Estridge left the facility without permission and did not return.  On December 5, 2019, Estridge turned himself into the U.S. Marshals Service.

Before his escape, Estridge was estimated to be released from custody on December 8, 2019.

Estridge has been detained since December 5, 2019.  On February 24, 2020, he pleaded guilty to escape from custody.

This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Natasha M. Freismuth.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JORDAN MADDOX, 22, of Hartford, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Jeffrey A. Meyer to a fentanyl distribution offense.

Pursuant to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), the guilty plea proceeding occurred via videoconference.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in July 2019, after a spate of gun violence in Hartford, the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force, DEA, Hartford Police Department and other law enforcement agencies initiated an investigation targeting gang-related drug distribution and associated violence in north Hartford.  During the investigation, law enforcement made controlled purchases of crack cocaine and fentanyl from Maddox.

Maddox pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of fentanyl, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.  Judge Meyer scheduled sentencing for July 24, 2020.  Maddox has been detained since his arrest on September 13, 2019.

Maddox has agreed to forfeit $1,610 in cash that was seized from him at the time of his arrest.

The FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force includes members of the Hartford Police Department, East Hartford Police Department, Connecticut State Police and Connecticut Department of Correction.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Gustafson.

New Haven – U.S. Attorney John H. Durham joins the Department of Justice and communities nationwide in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, celebrating victims’ rights, protections and services throughout the week.  This year’s observance takes place April 19-25 and features the theme, “Seek Justice| Ensure Victims' Rights | Inspire Hope.”

“Every year, millions of Americans suffer the shock and trauma of criminal victimization, affecting their well-being and sense of security and dignity,” said Attorney General William P. Barr.  “To these victims, we affirm our unwavering commitment to supporting them in their hour of need.  We also commend the thousands of victim advocates and public safety professionals who labor tirelessly to secure victims’ rights and support survivors.”

“We in the U.S. Attorney’s Office are constantly mindful that the crux of our work is to uphold the rule of law in order to protect the public from harm and to achieve justice for those who have been victimized,” said U.S. Attorney Durham.  “During this public health crisis, the plight of incarcerated individuals has occupied much public discussion.  This week affords us a special opportunity to give appropriate consideration to the millions of victims of violent and financial crimes, to remember their suffering and honor them for their courage and resilience.”

“While we have made tremendous progress driving down crime and violence across the country, far too many Americans continue to suffer the pain and loss of criminal victimization,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General of the Office of Justice Programs.  “This week, we stand by these survivors and their families, and we pledge our ongoing support to the countless men and women who serve them with such extraordinary skill and compassion.”

Ronald Reagan proclaimed the first Victims’ Rights Week in 1981, putting crime victims' rights, needs, and concerns in a prominent spot on the American agenda.  He also established the President's Task Force on Victims of Crime, which laid the groundwork for a national network of services and legal safeguards for crime victims.  President Trump and his administration have implemented historic levels of support for victim assistance and victim compensation.

Some 3.3 million Americans age 12 and older were victims of violent crime in 2018, according to the National Crime Victimization Survey.  The Office for Victims of Crime (OVC), part of the Justice Department’s Office of Justice Programs, supports more than 7,000 local victim assistance programs and victim compensation programs in every state and U.S. territory.  Funds for these programs come from the Crime Victims Fund, which is made up of federal criminal fines, penalties and bond forfeitures.

During National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, victim advocacy organizations, community groups and state, local and tribal agencies traditionally host rallies, candlelight vigils, and other events to raise awareness of victims’ rights and services.  This year, many communities are organizing virtual gatherings and online public awareness campaigns.

This year’s commemoration began on April 19, 25 years to the day when a truck bomb exploded in front of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, taking the lives of 168 people, including 19 children, as well as injuring hundreds of others.  The mass murder remains the worst act of domestic terrorism in our nation’s history and led to the establishment of the Antiterrorism Emergency Reserve, which is administered by OVC, and has been used to provide direct services to hundreds of victims of mass violence and terrorism.

“Crime victims deserve to know that they have the encouragement and support of the American people,” said OVC Director Jessica E. Hart.  “I hope that citizens throughout the nation will take the opportunity this week to remember all victims of crime and their heroic stories of survival.  I encourage everyone to also find meaningful ways to express their appreciation to the many committed and compassionate service providers across the country who work tirelessly supporting these survivors.”

This year, the annual National Crime Victims’ Service Awards Ceremony will be postponed until a time when we can honor this year’s award recipients in person.  During the ceremony, OVC will present awards recognizing individuals and organizations from across the nation for their outstanding service on behalf of crime victims.  The awardees will be selected from public nominations in 11 categories, including federal service, special courage, public policy, and victim services.  Visit www.ovc.gov/gallery to learn more about past recipients.

For more information on how to create your own public campaigns to raise awareness about crime victims’ rights online and at events throughout the year, please visit: https://ovc.ncjrs.gov/ncvrw2020/overview.html.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that EDGAR MANDUJANO-AGUILAR, 31, a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley to eight months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for illegally reentering the U.S.

Pursuant to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), the sentencing occurred via videoconference.

According to court documents and statements made in court, Mandujano-Aguilar had encounters with the U.S. Border Patrol on two occasions in 2006, both of which resulted in his voluntary return to Mexico.

In December 2010, U.S. Border Patrol encountered Mandujano-Aguilar in Yuma, Arizona.  He was charged and convicted in the District of Arizona with illegal entry, sentenced to time served and, on December 29, 2010, was removed to Mexico.

In February 2011, March 2011 and October 2011, U.S. Border Patrol encountered Mandujano-Aguilar at locations close to the southern border of the U.S.  He was returned to Mexico after each encounter.

On March 16, 2016, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested Mandujano-Aguilar in Massachusetts.  He was charged and convicted in the District of Massachusetts with illegal reentry of a removed alien, sentenced to time served and, on June 9, 2016, was removed to Mexico.

On November 15, 2019, Mandujano-Aguilar was arrested in Waterbury for interfering with an officer.  He has been detained in federal custody since December 18, 2019.

On January 27, 2020, Mandujano-Aguilar pleaded guilty to one count of reentry of a removed alien.

The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Deborah R. Slater.

New Haven – John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that LESTER BURROUGHS, 61, of Torrington, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden to 33 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for misappropriating approximately $575,000 from investment clients, most of whom were elderly.

Pursuant to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), the sentencing occurred via videoconference.

According to court documents and statements made in court, Burroughs owned Burroughs Investment Group, a full-service financial consulting firm based in Torrington, and was a registered securities broker with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority.  Beginning in at least 2012 and continuing through 2019, Burroughs misrepresented to certain clients that their money would be invested in legitimate guaranteed investment contracts.  Instead, he used his clients’ money to pay business expenses and other clients’ “guaranteed” investment returns.

Burroughs began the scheme after an investment he recommended to a client failed to materialize an expected return and Burroughs feared the possible financial repercussions to his business should that client file a complaint with regulatory agencies.  Burroughs then stole approximately $370,000 from an elderly client in order to pay the nonexistent returns of the failed investment to the first client.  In 2018, after the elderly client’s daughter demanded a full accounting of her mother’s investments, Burroughs tried to cover up his conduct by providing his client’s daughter with fraudulent accounting statements and documents.  When his client’s daughter demanded money, Burroughs provided the client with funds he had stolen from three other unsuspecting clients, all of whom were told by Burroughs that he was investing their money in guaranteed investment contracts.

Through this scheme, Burroughs defrauded clients of a total of approximately $575,000.  Burroughs is required to pay full restitution.

On December 4, 2019, Burroughs pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud.

Burroughs, who is released on a $100,000 bond, is scheduled to report to prison on June 1, 2020.

This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather L. Cherry.

The Securities and Exchange Commission filed related civil charges against Burroughs.  (Securities and Exchange Commission v. Lester Burroughs, 3:19-cv-1913).

The Justice Department has established a National Elder Fraud Hotline to provide services to seniors who may be victims of financial fraud.  The Hotline is staffed by experienced case managers who can provide personalized support to callers.  Case managers assist callers with reporting the suspected fraud to relevant agencies and by providing resources and referrals to other appropriate services as needed.  When applicable, case managers will complete a complaint form with the Federal Bureau of Investigation Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) for Internet-facilitated crimes and submit a consumer complaint to the Federal Trade Commission on behalf of the caller.  The Hotline’s toll free number is 833-FRAUD-11 (833-372-8311).

New Haven – John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that NYEJIRE REDMOND, also known as “Polo,” 20, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea to approximately 15 months of imprisonment, time already served, and three years of supervised release, for possessing a stolen firearm.

Pursuant to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), the sentencing occurred via videoconference.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in January 2019, Redmond’s associate, Joel Cruz-Berrios, arranged to trade firearms with an individual in Stamford.  On January 22, 2019, Stamford Police officers arrested Redmond, Cruz-Berrios and Victor Berrios-Sanchez after they traveled from New Haven to a parking garage in Stamford.  Redmond was sitting in the backseat of the vehicle next to a sleeping, unrestrained child who was approximately two years old.  Berrios-Sanchez possessed a loaded .22 caliber revolver, a .25 caliber semi-automatic handgun and three .25 caliber rounds of ammunition, and Redmond possessed a loaded .45 caliber automatic handgun that had been reported stolen in New Britain in December 2018.

Redmond has been detained since his arrest.  On December 5, 2019, he pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a stolen firearm.

Cruz-Berrios, of New Haven, previously pleaded guilty in federal court to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and is detained while awaiting sentencing.  Berrios-Sanchez, of New Haven, pleaded guilty in state court to firearm offenses and was sentenced to 31 months of incarceration.

This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Stamford Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria del Pilar Gonzalez.

This prosecution has been brought through Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, David Sundberg, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Hartford Police Chief Jason Thody announced that YACOV OCASIO, also known as “C-Low,” 23, of Hartford, was arrested today on a federal criminal complaint charging him with possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, fentanyl.

As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, in December 2019, the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force and Hartford Police Department learned that Ocasio was selling fentanyl in Hartford.  Since May 2019, Ocasio has been on federal supervised release following a conviction for possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, heroin/fentanyl.  In that case, Ocasio distributed heroin/fentanyl that caused the overdose death of a 28-year-old Middletown man in August 2016.  In August 28, 2017, Ocasio was sentenced in Hartford federal court to 30 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for that offense.

It is further alleged that, between December 2019 and March 2020, investigators conducted seven controlled purchases of fentanyl from Ocasio.

Ocasio was arrested this morning at a hotel in Hartford where he was staying.  It is alleged that he possessed approximately 150 bags of fentanyl at the time of his arrest.

Pursuant to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), Ocasio was presented in court via videoconference.  U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert A. Richardson ordered Ocasio detained.

The charge of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, fentanyl carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.  Ocasio faces additional penalties if he is found to have violated the conditions of his supervised release.

U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt.  Charges are only allegations, and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

The FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force includes members of the Hartford Police Department, East Hartford Police Department, Connecticut State Police and Connecticut Department of Correction. 

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian P. Leaming.

New Haven – John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that DENZIL STEWART, 25, of West Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Robert N. Chatigny to approximately 37 months of imprisonment, time already served, and three years of supervised release, for firearm and drug possession offenses.

Pursuant to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), the sentencing occurred via videoconference.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in February 2017, ATF special agents and task force officers made three controlled purchases of narcotics from Stewart.  Two of the purchases involved heroin and the third involved both heroin and crack cocaine.

On March 2, 2017, investigators conducted a court-authorized search of a West Haven apartment where Stewart was staying and found a loaded .22 caliber semi-automatic pistol, approximately 90 grams of cocaine, more than 160 grams of marijuana, approximately166 grams of Psilocybin mushrooms, a quantity of oxycodone, items used to package narcotics for street sale, and $6,386 in cash.  Stewart was arrested on state charges at that time.

Stewart, who was released on bond in his state case, was arrested on a federal criminal complaint on March 23, 2017.  A search of Stewart’s residence on that date revealed a quantity of marijuana.

In December 2010, Stewart was convicted in Florida of burglary and attempted burglary offenses.  It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.

Stewart has been detained since his federal arrest.  On October 9, 2019, he pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine.

This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the West Haven Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph Vizcarrondo and Brian Leaming.

This prosecution has been brought through Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and David Sundberg, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, today announced that WILLIAM ROSARIO LOPEZ, 34, of New Haven, and SOLIMAR RODRIGUEZ GONZALEZ, 19, of New Britain, have been charged with federal offenses related to their participation in the armed robberies of five Connecticut gas stations last month.

Rosario Lopez and Gonzalez were arrested yesterday.  Pursuant to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), the defendants were presented in court via videoconference.  Rosario Lopez is detained and Gonzalez was released on bond.

As alleged in court documents and statements made in court:

On March 18, 2020, Rosario Lopez entered the Shell Gas Station located at 1302 Hartford Turnpike in Vernon.  Rosario Lopez, wearing a black mask, pointed a small silver pistol at the store employee, grabbed him by the collar, directed him to walk to the cash register, and struck him in the back of the head as they were walking to the cash register.  The employee opened the cash register and handed Rosario Lopez approximately $1,188.  Rosario Lopez ordered the employee to lay on the floor and then fled the store.

On March 22, 2020, at approximately 10 p.m., Rosario Lopez entered the Fleet Gas Station located at 1611 Meriden Waterbury Turnpike in Southington.  Rosario Lopez, wearing a surgical-type mask, pointed a silver pistol at the store employee and demanded money.  After the employee provided Rosario Lopez with approximately $200, Rosario Lopez said, “Give me everything else.”  The employee explained that all of the money was already in the safe and he did not know the combination.  Rosario Lopez kicked the employee, ordered him to lay on the floor and then fled the store.

On March 22, 2020, approximately one hour after the Southington robbery, Rosario Lopez entered the Shell Gas Station located at 883 Hamilton Avenue in Waterbury.  Rosario Lopez, wearing a surgical-type mask, pointed a small silver pistol at the store employee and demanded money.  The employee opened the cash register and provided approximately $500 to Rosario Lopez.  Rosario Lopez ordered the employee to lay on the floor and then fled the store.

On March 23, 2020, less than two hours after the Waterbury robbery, Rosario Lopez entered the Shell Gas Station located at 696 Main Street in Ansonia.  Rosario Lopez, wearing a surgical-type mask, pointed a small silver pistol at the store employee, demanded money and threatened to shoot the employee.  After the employee was unable to open the cash register quickly, Rosario Lopez fired one round in the direction of employee and then fled.  The employee was not struck by the projectile.

On March 26, 2020, Rosario Lopez entered the Citgo Gas Station located at 788 West Main Street in New Britain.  Rosario Lopez, wearing a surgical-type mask, waited for another customer to leave the store, approached the counter, pointed a small silver pistol at the store employee and demanded money.  The employee opened the cash register and Rosario Lopez took approximately $250 from the register drawer.  Rosario then fled the store.

It is alleged that Gonzalez acted as a “lookout” in at least two of the robberies, and she is depicted on store video surveillance just prior to the robberies that occurred in Vernon and Waterbury.

In association with the arrests of Rosario Lopez and Gonzalez, investigators searched a vehicle used by the defendants during the alleged robberies and recovered a silver .25 caliber semiautomatic pistol and 14 rounds of ammunition.

It is also alleged that Rosario Lopez’s criminal history includes convictions in New York for attempted murder and criminal possession of a weapon, and convictions in Puerto Rico for importation and unlawful possession of a firearm, aggravated kidnapping, aggravated assault with a firearm, unlawful possession of a firearm, threatening a witness, and aggravated robbery.

The federal criminal complaints charge Rosario Lopez and Gonzalez with Hobbs Act Robbery and conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery, offenses that carry a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years on each count.  If Rosario Lopez is convicted of brandishing a firearm during a robbery, he faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of seven years, and if he is convicted of discharging a firearm during the Ansonia robbery, he faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years.

Rosario Lopez is also charged with possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.

U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt.  Charges are only allegations, and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

This investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Connecticut State Police, and the Vernon, Southington, Waterbury, Ansonia, New Britain, New Haven and Guilford Police Departments.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Doherty.

United States Attorney John H. Durham, Chief State’s Attorney Richard J. Colangelo, Jr., FBI Special Agent in Charge David Sundberg, Stamford Acting Police Chief Thomas Wuennemann and Greenwich Police Chief James J. Heavey today announced that ROBERT RALLO, 56, of Brooklyn, New York, THOMAS LIBERATORE, 62, of White Plains, New York, and PAUL PROSANO, also known as “Tony Pro,” 59, of Brooklyn, have been charged with federal robbery offenses in connection with the March 28 robbery of Marco Jewelers in Stamford, Connecticut.  During the robbery, the owner of Marco Jewelers was shot and killed.

As alleged in court documents, on March 28, 2020, at approximately 2:48 p.m., Stamford Police Officers responded to Marco Jewelers, located at 16 Sixth Street in Stamford.  When officers arrived, they found evidence of a robbery and encountered the storeowner, Mark Vuono, lying on the ground in front of an open safe.  Emergency medical personnel arrived and pronounced Vuono deceased.

It is further alleged that investigators collected and analyzed surveillance video from Marco Jewelers, surrounding businesses and Stamford city cameras.  Video obtained from Marco Jewelers revealed that, on March 28, Prosano drove Rallo and Liberatore in a black Jaguar to Marco Jewelers.  Rallo and Liberatore then entered the store.  Rallo, armed with a handgun, engaged in a physical altercation with Vuono, while Liberatore stole items from the display cases.  Vuono, who also possessed a firearm, and Rallo struggled next to a large open safe.  During the struggle, Rallo reached into the safe and pulled out a third firearm, a .357 Magnum revolver.  Rallo subsequently shot and killed Vuono with the .357 revolver.

It is further alleged that, following the robbery, law enforcement located the black Jaguar in Staten Island and maintained surveillance on the vehicle.  On March 30, at approximately 5:30 p.m., a black BMW X3, driven by Prosano, pulled up beside the black Jaguar.  Rallo exited the rear door of the BMW and entered the driver’s door of a black Jaguar.  The two vehicles then left the area and rapidly accelerated.  The Jaguar crashed on Tompkins Street.  Rallo attempted to flee on foot, but was quickly apprehended.  The BMW crashed into a tree and parked car at the intersection of Daniel Low Terrace and Corson Avenue.  Prosano also attempted to flee and was apprehended.

A search of the BMW revealed 63 rings, eight bracelets, two tie pins, an earring and a cufflink, and a search of Prosano’s residence revealed 23 pairs of earrings and three rings.  It is alleged that these items were stolen from Marco Jewelers on March 28.

Liberatore also was arrested on March 30.  It is alleged that prior to the Marco Jewelers robbery, on March 18, 2020, Liberatore drove a Honda Civic he had stolen from a car dealer in Yonkers, New York, to Byram Jewelers in Greenwich, Connecticut.  He entered the store at approximately 4:45 p.m. and asked a store employee to show him engagement rings.  He then pointed a pistol at the employee, stole several rings, smashed a display case with his pistol and stole other items before exiting the store.

The federal criminal complaints charge Rallo, Liberatore and Prosano with Hobbs Act Robbery, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.  The defendants have been detained in New York on state parole violation charges, and the arrest warrants issued in this case have been lodged as detainers.

The complaints allege that each defendant has an extensive criminal history and the three men met while serving their respective sentences within the New York State Department of Corrections.

 “These three defendants are alleged to have committed a brazen, violent robbery that left an innocent victim dead,” said U.S. Attorney Durham.  “The FBI, Stamford Police, Greenwich Police and our other law enforcement partners have conducted an extraordinary investigation that resulted in the quick apprehension of these three men before they could wreak any additional havoc.  I thank them for their efforts during what has been, due to this pandemic, an especially challenging time for law enforcement.  This investigation is ongoing and, in coordination with our state counterparts, additional charges are expected.”

“This investigation and resulting prosecution is a great example of cooperation between the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Stamford/Norwalk State’s Attorney’s Office, FBI and the Stamford and Greenwich Police Departments,” said Chief State’s Attorney Colangelo.  “We could not have moved as quickly as we did to apprehend the individuals alleged to be responsible for these offenses without the cooperation of all parties working together.”

“Our hearts go out to the victim’s family and our praise to the men and women of the Greenwich and Stamford Police Departments, as well as the NYPD and New York Office of the FBI, for their skill and professionalism throughout this investigation,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Sundberg.  “It is our expectation that justice will be served through the arrest of these three individuals.”

“We want to acknowledge the cooperation and teamwork of all of the law enforcement agencies involved in this investigation that made these arrests possible,” said Stamford Police Captain Richard Conklin.  “During this crisis within a crisis, which created many logistical obstacles, federal and local agencies worked hand in hand and got this job done.”

“The Greenwich Police Department is pleased that its investigation of a jewelry store robbery in Greenwich, involving one of the three suspects in the Marco Jewelers robbery/homicide, was able to assist Stamford Police and the FBI in bringing to justice the suspects in these heinous crimes,” said Greenwich Police Chief Heavey.  “We continue to emphasize collaboration in our law enforcement efforts and are proud of all of the detectives and investigators involved in this case.  Our sincerest condolences go out to the family of Mark Vuono, owner of Marco Jewelers.”

U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt.  Charges are only allegations, and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

This investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Stamford Police Department and Greenwich Police Department, with the assistance of the New York Police Department, Yonkers (N.Y.) Police Department and New Rochelle (N.Y.) Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jocelyn Courtney Kaoutzanis and Rahul Kale.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, David Sundberg, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Hartford Police Chief Jason Thody announced that four Hartford residents were arrested today on federal criminal complaints charging them with narcotics distribution offenses.  During today’s joint operation, investigators also found and seized 12 firearms.

The following individuals were arrested today:

ANTHONY DONES, also known as “Ant,” 38
JUAN LAUREANO, also known as “Pito,” 40
EDIL RAMOS, also known as “E,” 38
ELIAS GUZMAN, also known as “Bebo” and “Fat Boy,” 28

As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force and Hartford Police Department have been investigating drug trafficking and related criminal acts being committed by members and associates of the Los Solidos and Latin Kings street gangs in Hartford’s South End.  In recent months, investigators have conducted multiple controlled purchases of fentanyl from Dones and his associate, Laureano, in the vicinity of Dones’ Montrose Street residence; fentanyl and crack cocaine from Ramos at his Wethersfield Avenue residence, and fentanyl and crack cocaine from Guzman on Benton Street.

Dones and Laureano were arrested at Dones’ residence.  A search of the residence revealed a loaded .45 caliber pistol and drug packaging material.

A search of Ramos’ residence revealed a loaded 9mm firearm, approximately 1,200 bags of fentanyl, a distribution quantity of crack cocaine and approximately $33,000 in cash.

Guzman was arrested at his residence on Flatbush Avenue.

As part of today’s operation, investigators conducted a court-authorized search of a residence on Franklin Avenue and seized an additional 10 handguns, including several that had been reported stolen.

Dones and Laureano are charged with possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, fentanyl, and conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and distribution, of fentanyl.  Ramos and Guzman are charged with possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, fentanyl and cocaine base (“crack cocaine”).

Pursuant to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), the defendants were presented in court via videoconference and were ordered detained pending detention hearings that are scheduled for next week.

“These are difficult times for all of us, and I want to commend the FBI Task Force, Hartford Police Department and all members of law enforcement who, at increased personal risk, are working to keep us safe,” said U.S. Attorney Durham.  “In recent months, shootings and fentanyl-related overdose deaths have been on the rise in our capitol city.  Disrupting fentanyl trafficking networks and removing illegal guns from the street saves lives and, despite the significant obstacles posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, we continue to actively investigate and intend to aggressively prosecute those whose criminal activities endanger life in our communities.”

“During these challenging times, we continue to work around the clock seven days a week,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Sundberg.”  Today’s arrest and confiscation of guns and narcotics is a direct result of the hard work of local and federal law enforcement working together to reduce gun violence in our communities.”

“I would like to commend the extraordinary work of everyone involved in today’s arrests and seizures,” said Chief Thody.  “These law enforcement officers were clearly at an elevated risk today, but still put themselves in harm’s way to make our city a safer place.  Along with our federal, state and local partners, we will continue to focus our efforts on those that perpetuate violent behavior.”

U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt.  Charges are only allegations, and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

The FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force includes members of the Hartford Police Department, East Hartford Police Department, Connecticut State Police and Connecticut Department of Correction. 

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian P. Leaming.

U.S. Attorney John H. Durham and Connecticut Attorney General William Tong today announced that YOUR EYES OF NEW BRITAIN, INC., and its owner, CAROL SANDERSON, have entered into a civil settlement with the federal and state governments in which they will pay more than $263,000 to resolve allegations that they violated the federal and state False Claims Acts.

Your Eyes of New Britain, Inc. (“Your Eyes”) is an optician group located on East Main Street in New Britain.  The allegations against Your Eyes and Sanderson arise out of improper billing for optical services.  The government alleges that Your Eyes and Sanderson improperly submitted claims to Medicaid when dispensing new pairs of glasses by billing for both an initial fitting and for a repair.  Instead of providing repair services, Your Eyes and Sanderson were providing final adjustments to the glasses, which was a service included in the initial fitting.  The U.S. and the State of Connecticut contend that these claims for repairs, or final adjustments, constituted false claims submitted to the Medicaid program.

To resolve the allegations under the federal and state False Claims Acts, Your Eyes and Sanderson have agreed to pay $263,488.50 to the federal and state governments for conduct occurring between January 1, 2014, and April 30, 2019.

This matter was investigated by the Office of the Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services, and the Connecticut Office of the Attorney General.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sara Kaczmarek, and by Assistant Attorney General Gregory O’Connell of the Attorney General’s Office.

People who suspect health care fraud are encouraged to report it by calling 1-800-HHS-TIPS or the Health Care Task Force at (203) 777-6311.

John H. Durham, U.S. Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today urged the public to report suspected fraud schemes related to COVID-19 (the Coronavirus) by calling the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) hotline (1-866-720-5721) or to the NCDF e-mail address disaster@leo.gov.

In coordination with the Department of Justice, Attorney General William Barr has directed U.S. Attorneys to prioritize the investigation and prosecution of Coronavirus fraud schemes.

“The Department of Justice and our law enforcement partners stand ready to bring the full weight of federal law upon anyone who would seek to prey upon people’s fears or sympathy and profit from this unprecedented international emergency,” said U.S. Attorney Durham.

Some examples of these schemes include:

• Individuals and businesses selling fake cures for COVID-19 online and engaging in other forms of fraud.
• Phishing emails from entities posing as the World Health Organization or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
• Malicious websites and apps that appear to share Coronavirus-related information to gain and lock access to your devices until payment is received.
• Seeking donations fraudulently for illegitimate or non-existent charitable organizations.
• Medical providers obtaining patient information for COVID-19 testing and then using that information to fraudulently bill for other tests and procedures.
   

In a memorandum to U.S. Attorneys issued March 19, Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen also directed each U.S. Attorney to appoint a Coronavirus Fraud Coordinator to serve as the legal counsel for the federal judicial district on matters relating to the Coronavirus, direct the prosecution of Coronavirus-related crimes, and to conduct outreach and awareness activities.   The District of Connecticut Coronavirus Fraud Coordinator is Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher W. Schmeisser.

The NCDF can receive and enter complaints into a centralized system that can be accessed by all U.S. Attorneys, as well as Justice Department litigating and law enforcement components to identify, investigate and prosecute fraud schemes.  The NCDF coordinates complaints with 16 additional federal law enforcement agencies, as well as state Attorneys General and local authorities.

To find more about Department of Justice resources and information, please visit www.justice.gov/coronavirus.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Kelly D. Brady, Special Agent in Charge, ATF Boston Field Division, today announced that, on February 20, 2020, a federal grand jury in Bridgeport returned an indictment charging NIKOS CHELIOUDAKIS, 34, of New Milford, with multiple firearm offenses.

Chelioudakis has been detained since his arrest on March 5, 2020.

As alleged in the indictment, in August 2019, Chelioudakis sold a Walther Model P22, .22-caliber handgun with an obliterated serial number to an individual, who is identified in the indictment as “D.R.”  At the time of the sale, Chelioudakis, who was an unlawful user of a controlled substance, had reasonable cause to believe that D.R. was also an unlawful user of a controlled substance.

According to statements made in court, shortly after Chelioudakis sold the handgun to D.R., it is alleged that D.R. used the handgun in homicide. 

It is a violation of federal law to possess a firearm as an unlawful user of controlled substances, or to sell a firearm knowing that the purchaser is an unlawful user of controlled substances.

The indictment charges Chelioudakis with one count of possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years; one count of unlawful possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years, and one count of unlawful sale or transfer of a firearm to a prohibited person, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.

U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

This matter is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the Danbury Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Elena L. Coronado.

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 make neighborhoods safer for everyone.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced a federal grand jury in New Haven returned an indictment yesterday charging BRIAN VELEZ, also known as “Whites,” 31, of West Hartford, formerly of Hartford, with distributing fentanyl while released on bond in a federal case.

According to court documents and statements made in court, at approximately 10:20 a.m. on November 27, 2018, a car Velez was operating sped away from Hartford Police officers who were attempting to stop the vehicle in Hartford’s South End.  Velez parked in a driveway of a residence on Newbury Street and then ran from the car while carrying a duffel bag.  After Velez was apprehended, a detective located the duffel bag in Velez’s path of travel.  The bag contained a disassembled Ruger AR 556 semi-automatic rifle.

Velez was detained from the date of his arrest until April 2, 2019, when he was released on a $100,000 bond.

As alleged in court documents, in January 2020, law enforcement received information that Velez was involved in ongoing criminal activity, including the distribution of narcotics.  On January 28, 2020, investigators conducted a controlled purchase of 20 bags of fentanyl from Velez in Hartford.

On January 29, 2020, Velez pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, stemming from his arrest in November 2018.

Velez has been detained since March 12, 2020, after he was arrested on a criminal complaint charging him with distributing fentanyl.

The indictment charges Velez with possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of fentanyl, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, and committing the offense while on release in a federal case, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.

U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt.  Charges are only allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

This investigation has been conducted by the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Gang Task Force, the FBI’s Connecticut Violent Crime Task Force, and the Hartford Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian P. Leaming.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Jason J. Molina, Acting Special Agent in Charge of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), today announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven returned an indictment yesterday charging ROBERT C. HARRINGTON, 53, of Milford, with receipt of child pornography.

As alleged in court documents, in January 2019, HSI received information from Australian and Canadian law enforcement authorities that two usernames associated with an Internet Protocol (IP) address at Harrington’s Milford residence were sending and receiving images depicting the sexual abuse of girls through a web-based application.  On May 15, 2019, investigators searched Harrington’s residence and seized his tablet computer.  The tablet contained images and videos depicting child sex abuse.

Harrington has been detained since his arrest on May 15, 2019.

The indictment charges Harrington with one count of receipt of child pornography, an offense that carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.

U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt.  Charges are only allegations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

This investigation is being conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), with the assistance of the Joint Anti-Child Exploitation Team (JACET), South Australia Police, Australian Federal Police and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria del Pilar Gonzalez.

This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation.  For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JOSE RESTREPO, also known as “Crack Baby,” 38, of East Hartford, was arrested today on a criminal complaint charging him with distributing fentanyl and crack cocaine.

As alleged in court documents, the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes and Gang Task Force has been investigating drug trafficking and related criminal acts being committed by members and associates of the Los Solidos and Latin Kings street gangs.  Restrepo is a member of Los Solidos.  The investigation has revealed that Restrepo and other gang members are distributing fentanyl and crack cocaine in Hartford and surrounding communities.  Earlier this month, law enforcement learned that Restrepo was feuding with other members of Los Solidos and was selling narcotics in East Hartford.  In the past week, investigators made three controlled purchases of crack and one controlled purchase of fentanyl from Restrepo in East Hartford.

At the time of his arrest, it is alleged that Restrepo possessed approximately 200 bags of suspected fentanyl.

Restrepo is charged with possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, fentanyl and cocaine base (“crack cocaine”), an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.

Restrepo appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Thomas O. Farrish in Hartford and was ordered detained.

U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt.  Charges are only allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

The FBI’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes and Gang Task Force includes members of the Hartford Police Department, East Hartford Police Department, Connecticut State Police and Connecticut Department of Correction. 

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian P. Leaming.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and David Sundberg, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, today announced that ROBERT M. PHELPS, 62, of Torrington, has been charged by federal criminal complaint with threatening to murder U.S. Representative Adam Schiff of California.

Phelps was arrested on March 13.  Following his arrest, he appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William I. Garfinkel in Bridgeport and was released on a $25,000 bond.

As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, on November 12, 2019, the office of U.S. Representative Adam Schiff received a threatening communication through a Meeting Request entry form on Congressman Schiff’s official website.  The meeting request included the statement “…I want to kill you with my bare hands and smash your…face in.”  In addition, in response to the preferred days of the week for the meeting request, Phelps wrote “Measure your Coffin day.”

It is further alleged that, on December 4, 2019, investigators interviewed Phelps at his Torrington residence and confirmed that Phelps sent the threatening communication.

The complaint charges Phelps with threatening to assault and murder a U.S. official, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years, and with making interstate threats, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years.

U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt.  Charges are only allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito.

John Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JOSHUA BESAW, 36, of Thompson, Connecticut, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to kidnapping and sexually assaulting a 12-year-old girl last year.

According to court documents and statements made in court, on May 31, 2019, Besaw encountered a 12-year-old girl (“minor victim”) at a park in Webster, Massachusetts, and tricked the minor victim into entering his vehicle.  Besaw, who identified himself as “Chuck,” then drove the minor victim to a wooded area in Thompson, Connecticut, where he sexually assaulted her.  After the assault, Besaw drove the minor victim back to Massachusetts, where he released her in a neighborhood that was unfamiliar to her and refused to return her cellphone.  The minor victim then borrowed a phone from a stranger to contact her parents who picked her up and brought her to the police station to report the incident.  Later that day, a sexual assault examination of the victim was conducted at a medical facility.

Besaw was identified as a suspect after an extensive investigation led by Webster Police with support from the Connecticut State Police, which included analysis of surveillance video collected from numerous residences and businesses in Connecticut and Massachusetts.

On July 10, 2019, investigators conducting surveillance of Besaw collected cigarette butts that Besaw had discarded.  The DNA evidence collected from the discarded cigarette butts matched DNA evidence collected from the minor victim on May 31, 2019.

Besaw was arrested on July 17, 2019.

Judge Shea scheduled sentencing for June 15, 2020, at which time Besaw faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 20 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life.  Besaw has been detained since his arrest.

This matter has been investigated by the Webster Police Department, Connecticut State Police and Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the assistance of the Massachusetts State Police Crime Laboratory.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nancy V. Gifford.

The Department of Justice has charged a New York resident with knowingly providing lists of potential victims to fraudulent mass-mailing schemes that tricked consumers into paying fees for falsely promised cash prizes and purportedly personalized “psychic” services, announced today.

An indictment filed on March 10, 2020, charged Norman Newman, 73, of Croton-on-Hudson, New York, with conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud and multiple counts of wire fraud.  Newman reported to U.S. District Court in Bridgeport, Connecticut before Magistrate Judge William Garkfinkel for arraignment on the indictment yesterday morning.

The indictment alleges that Newman provided list-brokerage services for more than 11 years to individuals running mass-mailing fraud schemes.  Newman allegedly furnished consumers’ names and addresses to fraudster clients, knowing that the clients were mailing hundreds of thousands of deceptive prize notifications that misled victims into believing that they would receive a cash prize or personalized services upon payment of a fee.  Many of the victims were elderly and vulnerable. 

“Fraud schemes are intolerable, especially those that harm our nation’s seniors,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Ethan Davis of the Department of Justice’s Civil Division.  “As Attorney General Barr made clear earlier this month when he announced record results in the 2020 Elder Fraud Sweep, the Department of Justice is committed to protecting seniors, including by pursuing and prosecuting those who perpetrate mass mailing fraud.” 

According to the indictment, Newman worked in the offices of a list-brokerage company from 2005 until September 2016, when agents of the United States Postal Inspection Service searched the company’s offices and the Civil Division’s Consumer Protection Branch obtained a federal court order enjoining the company from list brokerage related to sweepstakes- and astrology-themed notifications.

Each charge of the indictment carries a statutory maximum sentence of twenty years in prison along with a statutory maximum fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or gross loss from the offense.

An indictment is an accusation by a federal grand jury and is not evidence of guilt.  The defendant should be presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

The United States Postal Inspection Service investigated the case.  Trial Attorneys Alistair Reader and Ehren Reynolds of the Civil Division’s Consumer Protection Branch and Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Cherry of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Connecticut are prosecuting the case.  

Since President Trump signed the bipartisan Elder Abuse Prevention and Prosecution Act (EAPPA) into law, the Department of Justice has participated in hundreds of enforcement actions in criminal and civil cases that targeted or disproportionately affected seniors.  In particular, in March 2020, the department announced the largest elder fraud enforcement action in American history, charging more than 400 defendants in a nationwide elder fraud sweep.  The department has likewise conducted hundreds of trainings and outreach sessions across the country since the passage of the Act. 

If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has been a victim of financial fraud, help is standing by at the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311).  This U.S. Department of Justice hotline, managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, is staffed by experienced professionals who provide personalized support to callers by assessing the needs of the victim, and identifying relevant next steps.  Case managers will identify appropriate reporting agencies, provide information to callers to assist them in reporting, connect callers directly with appropriate agencies, and provide resources and referrals, on a case-by-case basis.  Reporting is the first step.  Reporting can help authorities identify those who commit fraud and reporting certain financial losses due to fraud as soon as possible can increase the likelihood of recovering losses.  The hotline is staffed 7 days a week from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. eastern time. English, Spanish and other languages are available.

The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice.  Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.

United States Attorney John H. Durham, Inspector in Charge Joseph W. Cronin of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Boston Division and J. Russell George, the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, today announced that, on March 11, 2020, a federal grand jury in New Haven returned an 11-count indictment charging the following individuals with offenses stemming from their alleged participation in lottery and romance scams that defrauded primarily elderly victims across the country of millions of dollars:

FAROUQ FASASI, 25, a citizen of Nigeria and a lawful permanent resident of the U.S. residing in New Haven
RODNEY THOMAS, JR., 29, of New Haven
MONTRELL DOBBS, JR., 27, recently of Ansonia, Hamden and New Haven
STANLEY PIERRE, 32, of Bridgeport
RALPH PIERRE, 30, of New Haven

Fasasi, Thomas, Dobbs and Ralph Pierre were arrested yesterday.  They appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert M. Spector in New Haven and entered pleas of not guilty to the charges.  Fasasi, Thomas and Ralph Pierre are currently detained, and Dobbs is released on bond.  Stanley Pierre is being sought by law enforcement.

As alleged the indictment, in a lottery scam, scammers notify victims by telephone, through online communications, or by mail, that they have won the lottery.  The victims are then told that in order to collect the prize they must pay fees for things like taxes, shipping and processing.  Often, once a victim sends a small amount of money, a scammer will ask for larger sums of money with a promise of more winnings.  The victims never receive winnings.

In a romance scam, scammers take advantage of people looking for companionship by pretending to be prospective companions.  Scammers typically create fake online profiles on dating websites that include false personal details such as the death of a spouse, or military service, to lure victims to trust them.  Once they have gained the trust of victims, scammers will ask victims for money, falsely claiming to need money for medical or business emergencies, for travel to see the victim, or other purposes.

The indictment alleges that, since August 2015, Fasasi, Thomas and their co-conspirators have used lottery scams, romance scams and other fraudulent means to induce elderly victims to provide them with money, gifts and personal details.  Victims sent cash, money orders or checks through the mail to various addresses in Connecticut, and also wired or deposited money into bank accounts in Connecticut controlled by conspiracy members and their associates. Fasasi, Thomas and their associates, including Dobbs, Stanley Pierre and Ralph Pierre, retained a portion of the fraudulently obtained money and passed the rest to others.  In addition, Fasasi, Thomas, Dobbs, Stanley Pierre and Ralph Pierre participated in a conspiracy to commit money laundering with the proceeds from the victims.

It is alleged that members of the conspiracy defrauded numerous victims across the U.S. of more than $4 million.  One Connecticut victim lost more than $1 million.

“The financial victimization of seniors is as reprehensible as it is cruel, and the Justice Department has made it a priority to root out those who commit these crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Durham.  “Numerous victims in this scheme gave thousands of dollars to these alleged predators.  I urge all to think twice, and then to think again, before providing any money to individuals who they have never met in person.  As soon as you are asked for money, call your local police department, or 833-FRAUD-11, for assistance.”

 “Scammers use promises of large financial gains or sometimes even romantic relationships to lure victims in, only to manipulate them into giving their life savings away,” said Inspector in Charge Joseph W. Cronin of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Boston Division. “They prey on those individuals who are more susceptible to falling for a phony promotion or offer, most times, our elder population.  The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is committed to protecting our citizens and working hard to prevent more people from becoming further victimized by these types of schemes.”

“These charges demonstrate the commitment of the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration to investigate and bring to justice those that victimize the American taxpayer,” said J. Russell George, the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration.  “These defendants are alleged to have engaged in schemes resulting in millions of dollars in fraud, often targeting the most vulnerable members of society.  The success of this investigation is the result of a collaborative effort between multiple federal law enforcement agencies and the dedicated staff at the U.S. Attorney’s Office.”

The indictment charges Fasasi and Thomas with one count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, and one count of mail fraud.  Each of these charges carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.  All five of the defendants are charged with one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering, a charge that also carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.  Fasasi, Dobbs, Stanley Pierre and Ralph Pierre are also charged with one or more counts of money laundering, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years on each count.

U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt.  Charges are only allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Earlier this month, the Justice Department established a National Elder Fraud Hotline to provide services to seniors who may be victims of financial fraud.  The Hotline is staffed by experienced case managers who can provide personalized support to callers.  Case managers assist callers with reporting the suspected fraud to relevant agencies and by providing resources and referrals to other appropriate services as needed.  When applicable, case managers will complete a complaint form with the Federal Bureau of Investigation Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) for Internet-facilitated crimes and submit a consumer complaint to the Federal Trade Commission on behalf of the caller.  The Hotline’s toll free number is 833-FRAUD-11 (833-372-8311).

This matter is being investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA), U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), U.S. Secret Service, U.S. Army-CID, and New Haven Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather L. Cherry.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that PAUL FITZGERALD WILLIAMS, 54, a citizen of Jamaica last residing in Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven to 46 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for illegally reentering the U.S. after being deported.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in June 1996, Williams, who has never held legal status in the U.S., was removed to Jamaica after sustaining multiple state convictions, including convictions for drug and firearm offenses.  Williams illegally returned to the U.S. and, using an alias, was arrested in June 1999 in New Britain for narcotics trafficking offenses.  He was subsequently convicted in state court of multiple narcotics sale offenses and sentenced to 10 years of incarceration.  He was also convicted in federal court of one count of distribution of crack cocaine and one count of reentry of removed alien and, in December 2000, was sentenced to 100 months of imprisonment, to be served concurrently with his state sentence.  Following his release from prison, Williams was removed to Jamaica in April 2008.

Williams has been detained since February 8, 2019, when he was arrested by Hartford Police after a traffic stop on a charge of interfering/resisting arrest.  On December 19, 2019, he pleaded guilty to illegal reentry of a removed alien.

Williams has 12 serious prior convictions and has used approximately 16 aliases and 12 dates of birth in his prior offenses.

This matter was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Deborah R. Slater.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that a federal grand jury in Hartford returned an indictment yesterday charging MIKE CRUZ, also known as Mike Flores and “Mega,” 30, of Manchester, with fentanyl distribution offenses.

As alleged in court documents, in January 2020, law enforcement received information that Cruz was distributing large quantities of narcotics from his Manchester apartment.  On February 18, 2020, investigators conducted a controlled purchase of approximately 50 grams of fentanyl from Cruz.

Cruz was arrested on a federal criminal complaint in Manchester on February 27, 2020.  At the time of his arrest he possessed approximately 100 grams of compressed fentanyl.  On that date, a search of his vehicle also revealed approximately 2,000 dose bags of fentanyl and a search of his residence revealed $29,408 in cash.

Cruz has been detained since his arrest.

The indictment charges Cruz with one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, 40 grams or more of fentanyl, and one count of possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl.  Each of the charges carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years.

U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt.  Charges are only allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

This matter is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Hartford Task Force and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Margaret Maigret Donovan.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that LAWRENCE CHRISTIE, also known as “L,” 28, of East Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to 100 months of imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release, for his role in a gun trafficking ring and for distributing crack cocaine.

This matter stems from an investigation headed by the ATF and East Hartford Police Department into drug trafficking and related acts of violence by a group of individuals operating out of the Mayberry Village housing complex in East Hartford.

According to court documents and statements made in court, sometime in or before 2014, Daniel Vazquez, of East Hartford, and others were robbed at gunpoint while they were attempting to purchase marijuana that they intended to redistribute.  On July 6, 2016, Vazquez saw the person who had robbed him driving a car at the intersection of Tolland Street and Moore Avenue in East Hartford and shot at him.  Vazquez was arrested on that date, and a search of his residence revealed a Ruger LC93 9mm handgun, which he had used in the shooting, and a Taurus 9mm handgun.  The two firearms were traced to Minot, North Dakota.

The investigation revealed that Christie was trafficking cocaine, crack and marijuana in and around Hartford.  Shortly after his associate, Courtney Johnson, moved from East Hartford to North Dakota at the end of 2015, Christie began trafficking cocaine to North Dakota.  On June 26, 2016, Christie and several associates forcibly stole a firearm from an individual in Minot.  After the theft, Christie contacted Vazquez and asked him to drive from Connecticut to North Dakota to assist him in purchasing firearms.  Vazquez and Justin Gay, also from East Hartford, then drove to North Dakota and stayed with Johnson.  In Minot, Christie, Vazquez, Johnson, Gay and others, sometimes using counterfeit currency, purchased firearms from sellers who had advertised the guns for sale on a website.  Christie, Vazquez and Gay then transported five firearms from North Dakota to Connecticut.  Two of these five guns were found in Vazquez’s residence on July 6, 2016.

To date, the investigation has revealed that at least nine firearms that were obtained in North Dakota were transported to Connecticut.  Some of the guns have been used in shootings in the Hartford area.

Between September and November 2017, investigators conducted controlled purchases of distribution quantities of crack from Christie.

Christie has been detained since his arrest on November 7, 2017.  On October 31, 2018, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of cocaine base (“crack”) and one count of conspiracy to unlawfully transport firearms in interstate commerce.

On March 5, 2019, Vazquez was sentenced to 84 months of imprisonment.  Courtney Johnson, Justin Gay, Andre Johnson and Eyisiel Ortega have pleaded guilty to firearm and drug offenses related to this scheme and await sentencing.

This investigation is being conducted by the ATF and East Hartford Police Department, with the assistance of the Connecticut Department of Correction and the Minot (N.D.) Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patricia Stolfi Collins.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Brian C. Turner, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, announced that BARBARA J. BUCHANAN, 60, of Shelton, waived her right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton in New Haven to one count of wire fraud stemming from an embezzlement scheme.

According to court documents and statements made in court, Buchanan was the payroll manager for a Connecticut company.  Between approximately 2014 and September 2019, Buchanan made false entries and adjustments in the payroll system in order to wire company funds into her personal bank account.  She also made false journal entries in the company’s tax records in an effort to hide her fraudulent activities.  Through the scheme, Buchanan embezzled approximately $220,000 from the company.

Buchanan also used a company American Express card to make approximately $40,000 in personal purchases.

Judge Arterton Scheduled sentencing for June 5, 2020, at which time Buchanan faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.  Buchanan has agreed to pay restitution of $260,202.52

Buchanan is released on a $100,000 bond pending sentencing.

This investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael S. McGarry. 

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that BRIAN K. BACKMAN, also known as “B,” “NYB” and “New York B,” 55, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Robert N. Chatigny in Hartford to 121 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for trafficking heroin.

This matter stems from an investigation headed by the FBI’s New Haven Safe Streets/Gang Task Force and New Haven Police Department that targeted drug trafficking and related acts of violence by members, former members and associates of the “Island Brothers” street gang in New Haven.  The investigation, which included court-authorized wiretaps and controlled purchases of narcotics, also revealed that the drug trafficking organization had established a base of operation in Fitchburg, Massachusetts.  The investigation subsequently identified a second drug trafficking network that involved the large-scale distribution of heroin.

During the investigation, Backman was identified as a supplier of heroin to members of the New Haven drug trafficking organization.  Backman was intercepted over multiple wiretaps discussing the acquisition of heroin from a supplier in New York for redistribution in and around New Haven.

On June 16, 2019, Backman sent a courier, Dena Draughn, to pick up a large shipment of heroin from a New York supplier.  He then directed an associate, Anderson Atkinson, to meet Draughn at a Hamden parking lot to retrieve the heroin.  Investigators arrested Draughn and Atkinson after they met at the parking lot, and seized approximately 10,000 bags of heroin with a net weight of approximately 300 grams.

On July 9, 2019, a grand jury in New Haven returned a 15-count indictment charging Backman, Draughn, Atkinson and 22 other individuals with various offenses.

Backman has been detained since his arrest on July 10, 2019.  On October 28, 2019, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin.

Backman’s criminal history spans more than 30 years and includes convictions in three states and a federal conviction in the Southern District of New York.

Draughn and Atkinson have pleaded guilty to related charges and await sentencing.

This matter is being investigated by the FBI’s New Haven Safe Streets/Gang Task Force, New Haven Police Department, Milford Police Department, Hamden Police Department, East Haven Police Department, Connecticut State Police, Connecticut Department of Correction and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anthony E. Kaplan, Peter D. Markle and Elena L. Coronado.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ANTHONY PENA, 26, of Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton in New Haven to 71 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for illegally possessing a loaded firearm.

According to court documents and statements made in court, on June 24, 2018, Hartford Police responded to the area of 862 Albany Avenue where they found Pena in the driver’s seat of a parked vehicle.  A search of the vehicle revealed a loaded Glock 21 .45 caliber firearm with an extended magazine containing 20 rounds, and a backpack that contained a magazine with 10 rounds, a quantity of marijuana, and $1,420 in cash.  The firearm had been reported stolen in North Carolina in 2012.

In May 2012, Pena was convicted in state court of robbery in the first degree and conspiracy to commit robbery in the first degree.  In May 2014, he was convicted of failure to appear in the first degree.

It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.

Pena has been detained since June 24, 2018.  On July 17, 2019, he pleaded guilty to one count of unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.

This matter was investigated by the FBI’s Connecticut Violent Crime Task Force and the Hartford Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer R. Laraia.

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 make neighborhoods safer for everyone.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ALEXANDER PENA, 28, of East Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to 87 months of imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release, for trafficking heroin.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in October 2016, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Hartford Task Force began an investigation of an organization that was trafficking large quantities of heroin, fentanyl and other narcotics in Connecticut and western Massachusetts.  The investigation, which included court-authorized wiretaps, controlled purchases of narcotics and physical surveillance, revealed that members of the organization were receiving bulk quantities of heroin and fentanyl from out-of-state suppliers.  They then stored, processed and packaged the heroin/fentanyl in multiple locations, including apartments located at 280 Collins Street in Hartford where some members of the organization also resided, and then distributed the drug in the Hartford area, and also the Springfield and Holyoke, Massachusetts area.  A significant amount of drug trafficking activity occurred at the Neighborhood Supermarket, located at 316 Farmington Avenue in Hartford.

Investigators made multiple controlled purchases of heroin and fentanyl from Pena and other members of the drug trafficking organization in and around the Neighborhood Supermarket.  The heroin/fentanyl was cut with xylazine, which is a horse tranquilizer.

During the investigation, law enforcement executed 12 search warrants in Connecticut and Massachusetts and seized approximately 10 kilograms of heroin and fentanyl, much of which was packaged for resale in hundreds of thousands of bags.  Investigators also seized numerous vials of xylazine.  Seven firearms also were seized.

Pena has been detained since his arrest on June 29, 2017.  On that date, a search of Pena’s East Hartford residence revealed quantities of heroin and cocaine and approximately $10,000 in cash.

On December 9, 2019, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute heroin.

Fourteen individuals have been charged with various narcotics, firearms and immigration offenses as a result of this investigation.

The DEA’s Hartford Task Force includes personnel from the DEA Hartford Resident Office and the Bristol, Hartford, East Hartford, Manchester, New Britain, Rocky Hill, Wethersfield, Windsor Locks and Willimantic Police Departments.  Agencies assisting the investigation include the Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, U.S. Marshals Service and Connecticut State Police.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey M. Stone.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Jason J. Molina, Acting Special Agent in Charge of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), today announced that KYLE FASOLD, 49, of Plainville, was arrested on Friday and charged with child pornography offenses.

After his arrest, Fasold appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Thomas O. Farrish in Hartford and was ordered detained.  Judge Farrish scheduled a detention hearing for tomorrow at 10:00 a.m.

As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, on March 6, 2020, HSI special agents, with the assistance of the Plainville Police Department and Connecticut State Police, executed a court-authorized search of Fasold’s residence and seized numerous electronic items, including an Apple iPhone X.  Preliminary forensic analysis of the iPhone revealed multiple video files and an image file of girls changing in a locker room.

It is alleged that Fasold produced the videos and image himself.

The complaint charges Fasold with production and attempted production of child pornography, and possession of child pornography.  Production of child pornography carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 15 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years, and possession of child pornography carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.

U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt.  Charges are only allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

U.S. Attorney Durham noted that this investigation is in its early stages and investigators are working to identify and notify victims.

This matter is being investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Plainville Police Department and Connecticut State Police.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nancy V. Gifford and Sarala V. Nagala.

This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation.  For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ARMANDO MACHORRO-ROJAS, 43, a citizen of Mexico last residing in Norwalk, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to seven months of imprisonment, time already served, for illegally reentering the U.S. after being deported.

According to court documents and statements made in court, on two occasions in March 2007, Machorro-Rojas had encounters with U.S. Border Patrol that resulted in his voluntary to Mexico.  On March 23, 2012, Machorro Rojas was arrested by Norwalk Police and charged with operating a vehicle without a license and other offenses.  On April 26, 2012, he was deported from the U.S. to Mexico.

On March 29, 2015, Machorro-Rojas was encountered by U.S. Border Patrol near Bisbee, Arizona.  On April 15, 2015, he was again removed to Mexico.

On June 6, 2015, Machorro-Rojas was encountered by U.S. Border Patrol near Santa Teresa, New Mexico.  He was subsequently charged in the District of New Mexico with one count of reentry of a removed alien.  He pleaded guilty to the offense, was sentenced to time served and, on July 10, 2015, was removed to Mexico.

On May 31, 2019, Machorro-Rojas was arrested by Norwalk Police and charged with burglary in the third degree, risk of injury, larceny in the third degree, breach of peace in the second degree, and interfering/resisting arrest.  An immigration detainer that was lodged with the state authorities was not honored, and Machorro-Rojas was released on bond on July 5.

Machorro-Rojas has been detained since August 9, 2019, after he was arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers.  On December 6, 2019, he pleaded guilty to illegal reentry of a removed alien.

Machorro-Rojas will again be removed to Mexico.

This matter was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Deborah Slater and Brendan Keefe.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that JAMES TYRONE HAYES, also known as “Ty,” 50, of Newburgh, New York, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven to 20 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for trafficking heroin and cocaine.

According to court documents and statements made in court, this matter stems from a joint investigation headed by the DEA New Haven Task Force and the Waterbury and Naugatuck Police Departments into a heroin and cocaine trafficking operation headed by Keith Jordan of Waterbury.  The investigation, which included the use of court-authorized wiretaps, physical surveillance and controlled purchases of narcotics, revealed that Jordan was receiving large quantities of heroin from various suppliers, including Brian Hanna, of Brooklyn, New York; Pedro Santos, of Waterbury, and Domingo Alves, of Waterbury, and selling to drug to other distributors and street-level customers.  Jordan also purchased and distributed cocaine.

Hayes regularly traveled to Connecticut to purchase distribution quantities of heroin/fentanyl from Jordan.  He then sold the drug to his own customers in New York.

The investigation also revealed that Hayes and Jordan jointly acquired approximately 500 grams of cocaine from Carlos Morais of Waterbury.

On March 13, 2019, a grand jury in Hartford returned an indictment charging Hayes, Jordan, Hanna, Santos, Morais and 24 other individuals with various offenses related to the distribution of heroin, fentanyl, cocaine and crack cocaine.

Hayes was arrested on March 20, 2019.  The next day, in association with the arrest of several codefendants, investigators seized approximately 3,000 bags of heroin, 400 grams of cocaine, 350 grams of fentanyl/heroin mixed, 400 grams of heroin, 10 grams of crack, 20 pounds of marijuana, fentanyl patches, a one-kilogram press, four handguns, approximately $120,000 in cash and four vehicles.

On October 15, 2019, Hayes pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, heroin.         

Hayes, who is released on a $200,000 bond, is required to report to prison on April 7, 2020.

Jordan, Hanna, Santos and Morais pleaded guilty to related charges.  On February 20, 2020, Morais was sentenced to 60 months in prison.  Jordan, Hanna and Santos await sentencing.

This investigation has been conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration New Haven Task Force, Waterbury Police Department and Naugatuck Police Department, with the critical assistance of the U.S. Secret Service, New York Field Office.  The DEA New Haven Task Force includes participants from the U.S. Marshals Service, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, and the New Haven, Hamden, West Haven, North Haven, Branford, Ansonia, Meriden, Derby, Middletown, Naugatuck and Waterbury Police Departments.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys S. Dave Vatti and Nathaniel J. Gentile.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that, on March 5, 2020, a federal jury in New Haven found VASHUN LEWIS, also known as “V-Love,” 44, of New Haven, guilty of firearm possession offenses.

According to the evidence presented during a trial before U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall, in 2017, the New Haven Police Department received information that Lewis was engaged in an illegal cigarette trafficking operation, was selling marijuana and heroin, and was known to possess a handgun.  Prior to 2017, Lewis had been convicted of state robbery, assault, drug, weapon and racketeering offenses.  Lewis was arrested on June 1, 2017, after a court-authorized search of his residence revealed a 9mm semiautomatic handgun, more than 100 grams of marijuana, items used to process and package drugs for street sale, and more than 50 cartons of cigarettes.

The jury found Lewis guilty of one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

Judge Hall scheduled sentencing May 28, 2020, at which time Lewis faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life.

This investigation was conducted by the New Haven Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Margaret M. Donovan and Jocelyn Courtney Kaoutzanis.

This prosecution has been brought through Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone.

A former senior executive with Alstom S.A. (Alstom), a French power and transportation company, was sentenced in federal court in New Haven, Connecticut, to 15 months in prison today for his role in a multi-year, multimillion-dollar  money laundering scheme designed to promote violations of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA). 

Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney John H. Durham of the District of Connecticut and Assistant Director in Charge Paul D. Delacout of the FBI’s Los Angeles Office made the announcement.

Lawrence Hoskins, 69, was sentenced on charges of conspiracy and money laundering, following his conviction in November 2019, after a one-week jury trial before U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton, who imposed today’s sentence.  In addition to his prison term, Hoskins was fined $30,000.

According to the evidence presented at trial, Hoskins was a senior vice president for Alstom’s International Network, who engaged in a conspiracy to promote the payment of bribes to officials in Indonesia in exchange for assistance in securing a $118 million contract, known as the Tarahan project, for Alstom Power Inc. of Connecticut and its consortium partner, Marubeni Corporation, to provide power-related services for the citizens of Indonesia.  The officials in Indonesia included a high-ranking member of the Indonesian Parliament and the President of Perusahaan Listrik Negara (PLN), the state-owned and state-controlled electricity company in Indonesia.  To conceal the bribes, Hoskins and his co-conspirators retained two consultants purportedly to provide legitimate consulting services on behalf of Alstom Power Inc., in connection with the Tarahan project.  The primary purpose of hiring the consultants was to conceal the bribes to Indonesian officials, the evidence showed.

The first consultant retained by Hoskins and other members of the conspiracy received hundreds of thousands of dollars in his Maryland bank account to be used to bribe the member of Parliament, the evidence showed.  The consultant then transferred the bribe money to a bank account in Indonesia for the benefit of the official.  According to emails admitted at trial, Hoskins and other co-conspirators discussed in detail the use of the first consultant to funnel bribes to the member of Parliament and the influence that the member of Parliament could exert over the Tarahan project, including referring to him as a “cashier.”

The trial evidence further showed that, in the fall of 2003, Hoskins and his co-conspirators determined that the first consultant was not effectively bribing key officials at PLN, who expressed concerns that the first consultant was just going to give them “pocket money” and “disappear” after Alstom Power Inc. won the project.  As a result, the co-conspirators retained a second consultant to more effectively bribe PLN officials.  Evidence revealed that Hoskins and his co-conspirators pressed Alstom Power Inc. to front-load the second consultant’s terms of payment in order to “get the right influence” due to upcoming elections.  Hoskins and his co-conspirators were successful in securing the Tarahan project and subsequently made payments to the consultants for the purpose of bribing the Indonesian officials.

The FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office is investigating the case with assistance from the FBI’s Meriden, Connecticut, Resident Agency.  The department appreciates the significant cooperation provided by its law enforcement colleagues in Indonesia, Switzerland's Office of the Attorney General and the United Kingdom, as well as authorities in France, Germany, Italy, Singapore and Taiwan.

Senior Deputy Chief Daniel S. Kahn and Assistant Chief Lorinda Laryea of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney David E. Novick of the District of Connecticut are prosecuting the case.

The Fraud Section is responsible for investigating and prosecuting all FCPA matters. Additional information about the Justice Department’s FCPA enforcement efforts can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/foreign-corrupt-practices-act.

The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice.  Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that PEDRO ORTA-RIVAS, also known as “Cuba” and “El Brujo,” 51, of East Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to 24 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for his role in a New Haven-based drug trafficking organization.

According to court documents and statements made in court, an investigation headed by the Drug Enforcement Administration New Haven Task Force and New Haven Police Department revealed that Malbin Rubiera-Herrera, also known as “Chaca,” acquired fentanyl, heroin and cocaine from sources in Connecticut and New Jersey and distributed the drugs through a network of associates in the greater New Haven area.  Between October and December 2018, investigators made controlled purchases of narcotics from Rubiera-Herrera.  Subsequent court-authorized wiretaps revealed a widespread narcotics trafficking conspiracy that involved the trafficking of kilogram-quantities of fentanyl, heroin and cocaine into Connecticut.  Orta-Rivas helped to broker narcotics transactions, distributed drugs for the organization, and collected monies owed.

On June 5, 2019, a grand jury returned a superseding indictment charging Orta-Rivas, Rubiera-Herrera and 12 other individuals with fentanyl, heroin and cocaine trafficking offenses.  On November 5, 2019, Orta-Rivas pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, heroin and cocaine.

Orta-Rivas, who is released on a $100,000 bond, is required to report to prison on April 7, 2020.

Rubiera-Herrera pleaded guilty on June 20, 2019, and awaits sentencing.

This matter is being investigated by the DEA New Haven Task Force and the New Haven Police Department, with the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Marshals Service, Connecticut State Police, Connecticut Department of Correction, East Haven Police Department, Easton Police Department, Orange Police Department, and the Cape May County (N.J.) Prosecutor's Office, Gangs, Guns and Narcotics Task Force.

The DEA New Haven Task Force includes participants from the U.S. Marshals Service, Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation Division, and the New Haven, Hamden, West Haven, North Haven, Branford, Ansonia, Meriden, Derby, Middletown, Naugatuck and Waterbury Police Departments.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jocelyn Courtney Kaoutzanis and S. Dave Vatti.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that PRINCETAFARI VIDAL, also known as “Prince,” 38, of Norwich, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 33 months of imprisonment, followed by one year of supervised release, for his role in a southeastern Connecticut drug trafficking ring.

This matter stems from an investigation led by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Connecticut Statewide Narcotics Taskforce East, Connecticut Department of Correction and the New London, Waterford, City of Groton and Stonington Police Departments, into the distribution of narcotics and illegal possession of firearms in southeastern Connecticut.  The investigation included court-authorized wiretaps and controlled purchases and seizures of heroin, cocaine and crack cocaine, and firearms.  Vidal was intercepted on a wiretap discussing cocaine transactions with Royshawn Allgood, also known as “Boy Roy.”  Vidal received cocaine from Allgood, and sometimes supplied cocaine to Allgood.

On March 5, 2019, a grand jury in Hartford returned an indictment charging Rodriguez, Allgood and 22 other individuals with various offenses.  On August 6, 2019, a superseding indictment included charges against an additional two defendants.

Vidal has been detained since his arrest on June 4, 2019.  On November 8, 2019, he pleaded guilty to using a telephone to commit a narcotics offense.

Allgood pleaded guilty to related charges and, on January 3, 2020, was sentenced to 71 months of imprisonment.

This investigation is being conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, U.S. Marshals Service, Homeland Security Investigations, Connecticut Statewide Narcotics Taskforce East, Connecticut Department of Correction and the New London, Waterford, City of Groton, Stonington, Norwich, Old Saybrook and UConn Police Departments.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Natasha M. Freismuth.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that MUSA HILL, 47, of New Haven, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Alvin W. Thompson in Hartford to 72 months of imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release, for distributing cocaine, crack, heroin and counterfeit oxycodone pills containing fentanyl.

According to court documents and statements made in court, an investigation conducted by the DEA’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad revealed that Hill was obtaining cocaine from a source in the Bronx, New York, and heroin from a source in New Haven.  He converted some of the cocaine he received into crack cocaine, and then sold the narcotics to customers and also provided narcotics to a co-defendant for distribution to a network of customers.  During the investigation, law enforcement made controlled purchases of crack, heroin and hundreds of counterfeit oxycodone pills from Hill.  The vast majority of the counterfeit pills contained fentanyl.

Hill has been detained since his arrest on June 25, 2019.  On November 20, 2019, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, controlled substances.

The DEA Tactical Diversion Squad includes officers from the Bristol, Hamden, Meriden, Monroe, New Britain, New Haven, Wallingford, Watertown and West Haven Police Departments.  This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer R. Laraia.