District of Connecticut

John H. Durham. United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that XIAO BIN XU, 22, of Bayside, New York, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty yesterday before Chief U.S. District Janet C. Hall in New Haven to one count of access device fraud.

According to court documents and statements made in court, between July 2014 and April 2015, XU was a member of a group of individuals from New York that engaged in counterfeit credit card transactions at retail stores along the East Coast.  Mei Bao Lu was the ringleader of the group and Yang-Shi Lin was Lu’s second-in-command.  As part of the scheme, Lu provided several individuals (“buyers”) with counterfeit credit cards, which had been produced from credit card information skimmed from cardholders, and directed the buyers to purchase gift cards and luxury merchandise using the counterfeit cards.  Lu then sold the items to other individuals at a discount in order to be fenced or sold on the black market.  XU was one of the buyers in the group and also recruited other individuals to serve as buyers.  The group engaged in fraudulent credit card transactions at retail stores in Connecticut, Florida, Maine, Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and West Virginia. 

In total, the group members used 120 counterfeit credit cards, issued by 18 victim financial institutions, to make a total of approximately $179,000 in fraudulent purchases.  

The investigation began in February 2015 when the Clinton Police Department and other police departments in nearby Connecticut towns received several complaints from citizens about unauthorized charges on their credit and debit cards.  The investigation revealed that many of the complaining citizens had all dined at the same Clinton restaurant during a two-week period in early February 2015.

Chief Judge Hall scheduled sentencing for July 24, 2018, at which time XU faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.  XU has been released on bond since his arrest on September 10, 2015.

Lu and Lin, both of Flushing, New York, previously pleaded guilty to related charges.  On February 5, 2018, Chief Judge Hall sentenced Lin 12 months and one day of imprisonment.  On February 7, Chief Judge Hall sentenced Lu to 18 months of imprisonment.

Several other members of LU’s group were charged and convicted for credit card related offenses in state and federal courts in Maine, New Jersey, New York, and West Virginia.

This investigation has been conducted by Homeland Security Investigations and the Clinton Police Department.  The U.S. Secret Service, Millburn (N.J.) Police Department, New York Police Department, New York State Police, Acton (Mass.) Police Department, and Barboursville (W. Va.) Police Department assisted with the investigation.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Neeraj N. Patel.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, Albert Angelucci, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England, and Shelly A. Binkowski, Inspector in Charge for the Boston Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, announced that a federal grand jury in Hartford returned an indictment today charging seven individuals with trafficking cocaine from Puerto Rico to Connecticut through the U.S. Mail.

Charged in the indictment are:

ERICK SUAREZ, 29, of New Britain
LUIS COLLAZO-RIVERA, 37, of Caguas, Puerto Rico
JERRY RODRIGUEZ, a.k.a. “Bebo,” 28, of Hartford
LUIS GONZALEZ-OFARRIL, 23, of New Britain
LUIS TORRES, 35, of New Britain
GREGORY TORRES, 39, of Hartford
JOSE ROMERO-MAYSONET, 30, of Loiza, Puerto Rico

As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, since December 2017, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Hartford Task Force and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service has been investigating a drug trafficking organization that was sending Priority Mail parcels containing kilogram-quantities of cocaine through the U.S. Mail from Puerto Rico to Connecticut and elsewhere.  The investigation revealed that Suarez coordinated shipments of cocaine from Collazo-Rivera, Romero-Maysonet and others in Puerto Rico to addresses in New Britain, Hartford, Newington, East Hartford and Bridgeport, as well as Springfield, Massachusetts.  To date, investigators have identified more than 50 suspect parcels mailed by the drug trafficking organization from Puerto Rico.  Investigators intercepted five of the suspect parcels, each of which contained approximately one kilogram of cocaine.

On April 10, 2018, investigators arrested Rodriguez, Gonzalez-Ofarril, Luis Torres and Gregory Torres in Connecticut, and Collazo-Rivera and Romero-Maysonet in Puerto Rico.  On that date, a search of Rodriguez’s Hartford residence revealed approximately 400 grams of cocaine, approximately 160 grams of heroin, items used to process and package narcotics for street sale, and a loaded .45 caliber handgun.  Also on that date, investigators searched Suarez’s residence, as well as two storage units used by Suarez and one storage unit used by Rodriguez in West Hartford.  The search of Suarez’s storage units revealed approximately $40,000 in cash and a search of Rodriguez’s storage unit revealed additional items used to process and package narcotics.

Suarez was arrested on April 12.

The indictment charges each of the defendants with one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute cocaine.  If convicted of this charge, based on their conduct and the quantity of cocaine involved in the conspiracy, Suarez, Collazo-Rivera and Rodriguez face a minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life, and Gonzalez-Ofarril, Luis Torres, Gregory Torres and Romero-Maysonet face a minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years.

The indictment also charges Rodriguez with one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, and one count of possession with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, an offense that carries a 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 each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Suarez, Collazo-Rivera and Rodriguez have been detained since their arrests.  Gonzalez-Ofarril, Luis Torres, Gregory Torres and Romero-Maysonet are released on bonds pending trial.

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.  The DEA Puerto Rico Caribbean Corridor Strike Force and U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Newark Division, San Juan (P.R.) Office, are assisting the investigation.  This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey M. Stone.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, Phillip Coyne, Special Agent in Charge for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, and Chief State’s Attorney Kevin T. Kane announced that RONNETTE BROWN, 45, of Bristol, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to 48 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release for defrauding Connecticut’s Medicaid program.

On May 26, 2017, a jury found Brown guilty of 23 counts of health care fraud and one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud.

According to the evidence at trial, Brown owned and operated WeMPACT, LLC, a social services business with offices in Bristol and Torrington.  Between August 2010 and April 2014, Brown billed Medicaid for psychotherapy services that were not performed.  In addition to that scheme, Brown separately conspired with Beverly Coker and another unnamed individual to bill Medicaid for psychotherapy services that represented Coker had performed the services when, in fact, the services were provided by unlicensed individuals, or were not provided at all.

According to court documents and statements made in earlier court proceedings, Coker, a licensed clinical social worker, owned and operated New Beginnings Family Center, LLC, in Hartford.  On April 8, 2016, Coker, of Windsor, pleaded guilty to one count of health care fraud, admitting that between October 2010 and November 2011, she engaged in a scheme to defraud Medicaid by permitting Brown and another individual to bill Medicaid for psychotherapy services using Coker’s Medicaid provider number.  The services were either performed by unlicensed individuals or not performed at all.  Under the scheme, Coker kept 30 percent of the proceeds, and paid the remaining 70 percent to Brown and the other individual.  As part of her plea, Coker admitted to defrauding Medicaid of approximately $214,555 through the scheme.

Judge Bolden ordered Brown to pay restitution in the amount of $2,033,962.

Brown has been released on a $100,000 bond since her arrest on May 23, 2016.  Judge Bolden order her to report to prison on May 31, 2018.

Coker awaits sentencing.  Three other individuals were charged and convicted of health care fraud offenses stemming from this investigation.

This matter has been jointly investigated by the Office of the Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit of the Chief State’s Attorney’s Office, with assistance from the Connecticut Attorney General’s Office.  U.S. Attorney Durham also thanked the Connecticut Department of Social Services for their role in identifying the fraudulent scheme and supporting the investigation and prosecution of the case.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office, Chief State’s Attorney’s Office and Attorney General’s Office meet regularly as part of The Medicaid Fraud Working Group.  The Working Group also includes representatives from the Connecticut Department of Social Services; the Connecticut Department of Public Health; the Drug Control Division of the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection; the Office of the Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and the FBI.  The Working Group reviews pending issues and cases, identifies trends that might indicate fraudulent activity, and coordinates efforts for maximum results.

This matter is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys David J. Sheldon and Christopher W. Schmeisser.

People who suspect health care fraud are encouraged to report it by calling 1-800-HHS-TIPS.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that MICHAEL USZAKIEWICZ, 52, of Prospect, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty yesterday in New Haven federal court to a conspiracy offense related to a bribery scheme.

According to court documents and statements made in court, USZAKIEWICZ is the owner of K&M Fire Protection in Southington.  Javed Choudhry was employed by Building and Land Technology, Inc. (“BLT”), a construction company in the Stamford area.  Between approximately 2011 and 2014, USZAKIEWICZ and other contractors paid a total of $250,000 to $500,000 in bribes to Choudhry to receive millions of dollars in BLT contracts on construction projects in Stamford.

USZAKIEWICZ pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.  He is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Alvin W. Thompson in Hartford on July 9, 2018.

As part of his guilty plea, USZAKIEWICZ agreed to forfeit $1,121,106, which was seized from his bank accounts on March 28, 2016.

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

On May 16, 2017, Choudhry, of Glastonbury, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of filing a false tax return.  On January 22, 2018, Kevin Dunn, the president of Delmar Electrical Contractors in Watertown, admitted that he also paid bribes to Choudhry and pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud.  Both await sentencing.

This investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that, on April 16, 2018, MUSTAFA ZABANA, 32, a citizen of Iraq last residing in Westfield, Mass., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton in New Haven to a fraud offense related to an arson at his Connecticut restaurant.

According to court documents and statements made in court, ZABANA was the majority owner of Zabana, Inc., doing business as Bruno’s Pizza, a restaurant located at 634 Enfield Street in Enfield, Connecticut.  On June 3, 2016, at approximately 10:42 p.m., ZABANA intentionally set a fire in Bruno’s Pizza, causing damage to the restaurant and its contents, as well as other commercial space in the mall where the restaurant was located.  Emergency fire personnel responded to the scene and extinguished the fire.

After the fire, ZABANA filed an insurance claim with Liberty Mutual Insurance Company.  Liberty Mutual sent ZABANA an advance check of $5,000 for claimed loss.  ZABANA then continued to pursue additional payments from Liberty Mutual through at least December 2016.

ZABANA pleaded guilty to one count of mail fraud, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.  Judge Arterton scheduled sentencing for June 29, 2018.

ZABANA has been detained since his arrest on March 23, 2017.

This investigation has been conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (AFT), ATF Fire Research Lab, Connecticut State Police Fire & Explosion Investigation Unit, Enfield Police Department, and Thompsonville Fire Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Natasha Freismuth and Dave Vatti.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ALEA CRUZ, 20, formerly of Waterbury, was sentenced today by U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah A. L. Merriam in New Haven to six months of imprisonment, followed by one year of supervised release, for violating the conditions of her probation.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in July 2016, as part of a DEA New Haven Task Force investigation that followed an overdose death, law enforcement officers made two controlled purchases of heroin from CRUZ’s boyfriend, Teddy Stuart Lopez, Jr., in Waterbury.  On July 5, 2016, at Lopez’s direction, CRUZ delivered 20 bags of heroin to an individual for $100.  CRUZ and Lopez were arrested on July 19, 2016.

On December 1, 2016, CRUZ pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a controlled substance, a misdemeanor offense.  On February 27, 2017, Judge Merriam sentenced CRUZ to three years of probation and ordered her to pay a $1,000 fine at a rate of $40 per month.

Lopez pleaded guilty to a related heroin distribution offense and was sentenced to 15 months of imprisonment.

While on probation and under the supervision of U.S. Probation officers in Virginia and, most recently, Rhode Island, where she was residing, CRUZ tested positive for marijuana nine times and, on one occasion, provided a diluted urine specimen.  She also failed to report to probation officers and failed to submit to drug screenings on multiple occasions, and failed to participate in substance abuse treatment as ordered.  In addition, CRUZ violated her probation by associating with Lopez, a convicted felon, through email and the telephone.  She also failed to make any installment payments on her court-ordered fine even though she had the ability to do so, and had made more than 50 payments totaling more than $1,800 to Lopez’s prison account.

At the conclusion of today’s court proceeding, CRUZ was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service to begin serving her sentence.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter S. Jongbloed.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that DARIS SNOW, also known as “Eagle,” 25, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton in New Haven to 41 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for participating in the armed robbery of a Hamden store in April 2016.

According to court documents and statements made in court, at approximately 4:22 p.m. on April 27, 2016, two men and two women, who had their head and faces partially concealed, entered the Game X Change in Hamden.  One of the men pulled out a gun and ordered the store’s three employees to get down on the ground.  The man with the gun put his foot on an employee’s back and pressed the gun against the employee’s head and neck, threatening to kill the employee if he did not give him money and the keys to the display case.  The employee complied and the four suspects took several items, including cellular telephones, an iPad, an iPod, “Beats” headphones, and a cash box that contained $830.  The four ran out of the store to a waiting car.

Investigators subsequently identified SNOW, Rashon Gray, Tracey Biggs and Keara Northrup as the individuals who committed the armed robbery of the store.  Gray brandished the firearm and threatened the store employee, SNOW pretended that he had a gun and took the cash box, and Biggs and Northrup stole merchandise.  Investigators also learned that SNOW made threatening statements to and about one of the women who participated in the robbery with him.

SNOW has been detained since his arrest on June 2, 2017.  On November 27, 2017, he pleaded guilty to one count of Hobbs Act Robbery

Gray, Biggs and Northrup all pleaded guilty to related charges.  On April 9, 2018, Gray was sentenced to 77 months of imprisonment.  Biggs and Northrup await sentencing.

This matter has been investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Hamden Police Department, with the assistance of the New Haven Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rahul Kale.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that a federal jury in Hartford has found JOSEPH STEELE, also known as “Joey,” 32, of Hartford, guilty of drug and firearm offenses.  The trial before U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea began on April 12 and the jury returned verdicts of guilty on three counts of a four-count indictment yesterday afternoon.

According to the evidence disclosed during the trial, on June 14, 2017, the Hartford Police Department’s Vice and Narcotics Unit received information that STEELE was in possession of a firearm while operating a white Cadillac.  Investigators located the Cadillac and conducted a traffic stop at the intersection of Enfield Street and Capen Street.  After STEELE consented to a search of the vehicle, investigators lifted a rear seat cushion and found a .40 caliber semiautomatic pistol, 50 wax folds of fentanyl, and two knotted plastic bags containing approximately 6.5 grams of crack cocaine.

In April 2016, STEELE was convicted in Connecticut Superior Court of possession of a pistol without a permit.  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.

Yesterday, the jury found STEELE guilty of one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine base (“crack cocaine”), one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, and one count of possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon.  STEELE was acquitted of one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

Judge Shea scheduled sentencing for July 9, 2018, at which time STEELE faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years on each of the drug offenses, and a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years on the firearm offense.

STEELE has been detained since his arrest on June 14, 2017.

This investigation was conducted by the Hartford Police Department’s Vice and Narcotics Unit and the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crime Gang Task Force, which 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. Attorneys Michael J. Gustafson and Jocelyn Courtney Kaoutzanis.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that CARLOS ROMAN, also known as “Frizz,” 38, of Middletown, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 120 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for his role in a central Connecticut cocaine and crack cocaine trafficking ring.

This matter stems from a joint investigation headed by the DEA New Haven Task Force that included the use of court-authorized wiretaps, controlled purchases of crack cocaine, and seizures of cocaine and cash proceeds.  The investigation revealed that an associate of ROMAN was operating a cocaine and crack cocaine trafficking ring while the associate was incarcerated in state custody.  ROMAN was a primary distributor of narcotics for the organization.  During the investigation, an undercover officer made five controlled purchases of redistribution quantities of crack from ROMAN.

ROMAN was arrested on April 11, 2017.  On that date, he possessed approximately 500 grams of cocaine.  A subsequent search of his residence revealed a .380 caliber handgun.

On July 20, 2017, a grand jury in New Haven returned a nine-count indictment charging ROMAN and 10 other individuals with various offenses.  On January 18, 2018, pleaded guilty to one count of with conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine and 280 grams or more of cocaine base (“crack”), and one count of possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon.

ROMAN has been detained since his arrest. 

This matter is being investigated by the DEA New Haven Task Force, U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Middletown and New Britain Police Departments.  The DEA New Haven Task Force includes participants from the New Haven, Hamden, West Haven, North Haven, East Haven, Branford, Ansonia, Meriden and Derby Police Departments, and the U.S. Marshals Service.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney H. Gordon Hall.

“Rob is an extraordinarily intelligent person and, without a doubt, one of the hardest working and most productive attorneys I’ve experienced in my 40 years as a prosecutor.  His focus on prosecuting cases involving illegal drug distribution, firearm and violent crime offenses have had a significant impact in communities across our state.  Most recently, through his tireless work in battling our opioid crisis, he has held numerous dealers who sold drugs that caused overdose deaths accountable, provided justice for overdose victims’ families, and spearheaded an outreach effort that has educated tens of thousands of students and adults about these horrific drugs.  Our office is very sorry to lose him, but our loss is the U.S. District Court’s gain.  He is a tremendous addition to the federal bench in Connecticut.  I am extremely happy for him and wish him all the best.”

Click here to read the U.S. District Court press release.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that GEORGE GAROFANO, 26, of North Branford, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to a computer hacking offense related to a phishing scheme that gave him illegal access to more than 200 Apple iCloud accounts, many of which belonged to members of the entertainment industry.

This matter stems from an investigation conducted by the FBI in Los Angeles into the leaks of photographs of numerous female celebrities in September 2014.  The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California, which is leading the prosecution, filed charges against GAROFANO on January 11, 2018.  The parties agreed to transfer the case to the District of Connecticut for further prosecution.

According to court documents and statements made in court, from April 2013 through October 2014, GAROFANO engaged in a phishing scheme to obtain usernames and passwords for iCloud accounts.  GAROFANO admitted that he sent e-mails to victims that appeared to be from security accounts of Apple and encouraged the victims to send him their usernames and passwords, or to enter them on a third-party website, where he would later retrieve them.  GAROFANO used the usernames and passwords to access his victims’ iCloud accounts, which allowed him to steal personal information, including sensitive and private photographs and videos.  In some instances, GAROFANO traded the usernames and passwords, as well as the materials he stole from the victims, with other individuals.

By illegally accessing the iCloud accounts, GAROFANO gained access to approximately 240 accounts.  Although many of GAROFANO’s victims were members of the entertainment industry in California, many non-celebrities who live in Connecticut were also victimized.

GAROFANO pleaded guilty to one count of unauthorized access to a protected computer to obtain information, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years.  A sentencing date is not scheduled.

GAROFANO is released on a $50,000 bond.           

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Neeraj Patel of the District of Connecticut, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan White of the Central District of California.

Audio file

WASHINGTON — Today, as the Department of Justice recognizes the 50th Anniversary of the Fair Housing Act, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the nationwide rollout of an initiative aimed at increasing awareness and reporting of sexual harassment in housing. The announcement includes an interagency task force between the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Justice Department to combat sexual harassment in housing, an outreach toolkit, and a public awareness campaign. This three-pronged approach will strengthen the Department’s efforts to combat sexual harassment in housing.

“Sexual harassment in housing is illegal, immoral, and unacceptable," said Attorney General Sessions. “It is all too common today, as too many landlords, managers, and their employees attempt to prey on vulnerable women. We will not hesitate to pursue these predators and enforce the law. In October, I ordered a new initiative to bring more of these cases, and we have already won relief for 15 victims. Today we announce three new steps to make the initiative more effective and to win more cases. I want to thank the dedicated and committed professionals in our Civil Rights Division and our partners in the Department of Housing and Urban Development for their hard work in this effort. We will continue to aggressively pursue harassers, because everyone has a right to be safe in their home.”

“Individuals in Connecticut who are being victimized as a condition of their housing have rights, and all are encouraged to report this type of reprehensible behavior to the Justice Department by calling 1-844-380-6178, or by sending an e-mail to fairhousing@usdoj.gov,” said U.S. Attorney John H. Durham. 

“All discrimination stains the very fabric of our nation, but HUD is especially focused on protecting the right of everyone to feel safe and secure in their homes, free from unwanted sexual harassment,” said Secretary Ben Carson. “No person should have to tolerate unwanted sexual advances in order to keep a roof over his or her head. Part of our mission at HUD is to provide safe housing and we will remain diligent in this mission to protect those we serve. I look forward to working with Attorney General Sessions and the Department of Justice as part of this task force to bring an end to this type of discrimination.”

In October 2017, the Justice Department announced an initiative to combat sexual harassment in housing and launched pilot programs in Washington, D.C. and the Western District of Virginia. The initiative sought to increase the Department’s efforts to protect women from harassment by landlords, property managers, maintenance workers, security guards, and other employees and representatives of rental property owners. During the pilots, the Department developed and tested ways to better connect both with victims of sexual harassment in housing and with those organizations that victims may turn to first for help – including law enforcement, legal services providers, public housing authorities, sexual assault services providers, and shelters.  The Department also tested certain aspects of the initiative in other jurisdictions, including New Jersey, the Central District of California, Massachusetts, Vermont, and Michigan.

The two pilot programs generated an upswing in harassment reporting to the Department from both D.C. and the Western District of Virginia. In D.C., the Department generated six leads since the October 2017 launch. In Virginia, the Department generated three leads. While the Justice Department recognizes that leads and investigations do not always lead to enforcement actions, the pilot program’s results—when extrapolated across all the U.S. Attorney’s Offices across the country—could lead to hundreds of new reports of sexual harassment in housing across the country.

Because of these promising results, the Department is rolling out three major components to the Initiative.

First, the new HUD-DOJ Task Force to Combat Sexual Harassment in Housing will drive a shared strategy between the Department and HUD for combatting sexual harassment in housing across the country. It will focus on five key areas: continued data sharing and analysis, joint development of training, evaluation of public housing complaint mechanisms, coordination of public outreach and press strategy, and review of federal policies.

Second, the outreach toolkit is designed to leverage the Justice Department’s nationwide network of U.S. Attorney’s Offices. The toolkit provides templates, guidance, and checklists based on pilot program feedback. It ultimately will amplify available enforcement resources and help victims of sexual harassment connect with the Department.

Third, the public awareness campaign has three major components: a partnership package with relevant stakeholders, launch of a social media campaign, and Public Service Announcements (PSAs) run by individual U.S. Attorney’s offices. The campaign is specifically designed to raise awareness, and make it easier for victims all over the country to find resources and report harassment.

More information about the Civil Rights Division and the civil rights laws it enforces is available at www.usdoj.gov/crt. Individuals who believe that they may have been victims of sexual harassment in housing should call the Department at 1-844-380-6178, send an e-mail to fairhousing@usdoj.gov, or contact HUD at 1-800-669-9777.  If you have information or questions about any other housing discrimination, you can contact the Department at 1-800-896-7743.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ANDRE MILLER, 27, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to 60 months of imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release, for his role in a heroin trafficking ring.

According to court documents and statements made in court, the DEA’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad targeted a New Haven-based heroin trafficking organization led by Bienvenido and Antonio Gonzalez.  The investigation, which included court-authorized wiretaps, controlled purchases of narcotics and physical and video surveillance, revealed that the Gonzalez brothers regularly purchased bulk quantities of heroin from suppliers located in the Bronx, New York, and sold the heroin through a network of redistributors, including MILLER, in New Haven and elsewhere.

The investigation resulted in federal charges against 24 individuals.

MILLER was arrested on March 16, 2017.  On November 14, 2017, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and distribution of, 100 grams or more of heroin.

Bienvenido Gonzalez and Antonio Gonzalez pleaded guilty to related charges.  On March 28, Bienvenido Gonzalez was sentenced to 144 months of imprisonment.  Antonio Gonzalez awaits sentencing.

The DEA’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad includes officers from the Bristol, Hamden, Milford, Monroe, New Haven, Shelton, Wallingford and Wilton Police Departments.  The New Haven, East Haven and West Haven Police Departments, together with the U.S. Coast Guard, provided valuable assistance to the investigation.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Natasha M. Freismuth and Patrick F. Caruso.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JOHN DiMENNA, 75, of Vero Beach, Florida, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to 85 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for operating an extensive real estate investment and financing scheme.

According to court documents and statements made in court, DiMENNA worked in the commercial real estate industry, arranging for the purchase and development of large commercial real estate projects in Fairfield County, including hotels or multi-tenant properties with hundreds of apartments.  DiMENNA and his business partners operated through various entities including Seaboard Realty LLC, Seaboard Stamford Investment Group (SSIG), and Seaboard Properties Group LLC.  To raise capital for real estate projects, DiMENNA and his partners sold membership interests to outside investors in each LLC that owned or was to purchase a designated commercial property.  DiMENNA also sold interests to investors in other LLCs that did not own specific properties but were to have some involvement in certain projects.  Various financial institutions and other entities provided millions of dollars in financing to purchase, renovate or construct DiMENNA’s commercial real estate projects.  DiMENNA oversaw each project, including each entity’s profitability, its cash flow, operating cash needs and any additional funds needed for repairs or renovations.

Between approximately 2010 and March 2016, DiMENNA engaged in a scheme to defraud investors and financial institutions.  Knowing that certain of his properties were not cash positive, and without disclosing this fact to investors and lenders, DiMENNA used funds from separate cash-positive entities to support capital improvements, construction, and operating expenditures in other LLCs that needed the cash.  In addition, DiMENNA used funds from cash positive entities to continue to make required interest and preferred returns to investors of any entity that he managed, regardless of the true available cash that an entity might have to fund such payments.

As part of the scheme, DiMENNA prepared spreadsheets that inflated the projected cash flows of certain projects, and then shared the spreadsheets with his business partners knowing that they would be marketing the ventures to potential investors.  DiMENNA also provided his business partners with false sales contracts, false lease commitments and other false documents concerning the status and prospect of the various real estate investments. 

DiMENNA provided existing investors inaccurate financial information in order to induce investors not to withdraw an investment, and he provided prospective investors with false information about a project’s financial viability to induce them to invest.  DiMENNA frequently received a template from his accounting manager that set forth actual financial figures relating to a property, and then changed the numbers to make the figures appear stronger.  In certain instances, DiMENNA simply created his own template with his own false figures and then provided the summaries to current and potential investors.

DiMENNA also sold investors equity in certain entities at a time when he knew the entities were fully subscribed and thus not eligible for receiving investment monies. 

During the scheme, DiMENNA provided lenders and appraisers with inaccurate financial data concerning the various real estate properties and other entities used to collateralize various loans, including providing lenders with overstated income figures, understated expense figures, false personal financial statements, false bank statements, and false tax returns relating to the properties.  He also failed to disclose to potential lenders intercompany debt obligations and all unrecorded liens on particular properties, and he created false releases of liens and UCC filing documents. 

DiMENNA often sought financing from various lenders without informing existing lenders of prior loans secured by the property at issue, entered loan agreements with lenders without recording such agreements, and forged the names of his two business partners on various documents without their knowledge to secure financing.  At times, DiMENNA entered into financing agreements with lenders without the knowledge, consent or authorization of his two business partners.

Through this scheme, victim investors lost approximately $28 million and victim lenders lost approximately $37 million, for a total combined loss of $64.7 million.

On September 11, 2017, DiMENNA pleaded guilty to two counts of wire fraud.

DiMENNA, who is released on a $250,000 bond, was ordered to report to prison on July 9, 2018.

This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher A. Schmeisser.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that WORLD HEALTH CLINICIANS, INC. (“WHC”), its Chief Executive Officer, SCOTT GRETZ, and a physician formerly employed by WHC, DR. GARY BLICK, have entered into a civil settlement agreement with the federal and state governments in which they will pay $650,830 to resolve allegations that they violated the federal and state False Claims Acts.

WHC is a medical practice located in Norwalk specializing in the treatment of HIV/AIDS patients and sexually transmitted infections.  GRETZ is the CEO of WHC.  BLICK worked at WHC from the inception of the practice in 2011, until he left the practice in 2016.  Prior to working at WHC, BLICK had his own medical practice specializing in the treatment of HIV/AIDS patients.

The government alleges that WHC, BLICK and GRETZ submitted false claims to the Medicare and Medicaid programs by billing for physical therapy services and certain office visit services that were not provided.  Instead of receiving physical therapy or office visit services, Medicare and Medicaid patients seen at the practice received massages provided by a massage therapist.  Those services were billed to Medicare and Medicaid as if the patients had, in fact, received physical therapy services and office visit services.

Medicare does not recognize massage therapists as providers and expressly prohibits massage therapists from enrolling in the Medicare program.  Under Connecticut law, massage therapists may not provide physical therapy, as physical therapy is expressly excluded from a massage therapist’s scope of practice.  In addition, a massage therapist is not qualified to provide office visit services.

To resolve the allegations under the federal and state False Claims Acts, WHC, BLICK and GRETZ have agreed to pay $650,830, which covers conduct occurring from January 1, 2007, through September 30, 2015.  Pursuant to their agreement with the government, WHC and GRETZ will pay $361,013.77 and BLICK will pay $289,816.23.

“We expect that medical practices and physicians who participate in federal health care programs will bill for their services accurately and honestly,” said U.S. Attorney Durham. “The U.S. Attorney’s office in Connecticut is committed to vigorously pursuing health care providers who submit false claims to federal health care programs.”

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 Attorney General Gregory 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.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Patricia M. Ferrick, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, announced that TODD J. MILLER, 36, of New York, N.Y., has been charged by federal criminal complaint with intentionally conveying to law enforcement false information about an explosive device on a train traveling to Connecticut.

MILLER was arrested last night at LaGuardia Airport in Queens, New York.  He appeared today before U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven and was released on a $100,000 bond.  The charge carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years.

As alleged in the criminal complaint, on the evening of March 18, 2018, MILLER called a 911 dispatcher in New Jersey and reported that he was on Amtrak Train 2256 traveling from Washington, D.C., toward Penn Station in New York City, and that a female passenger “has a bomb in her bag.”  MILLER described the woman as having brown hair and a scarf.  By the time Amtrak investigators received notice of the call and were mobilized to stop and search the train, the train was in Connecticut.  Amtrak officials stopped Train 2256 at Green’s Farms Station in Westport, where passengers were directed to detrain, and bomb squad members boarded and searched the train.  No evidence of any explosive device or materials was detected.

The complaint alleges that an investigator contacted MILLER, who was in New York, by phone.  On the call, MILLER said the woman, who he described this time as having red hair and a red scarf, was carrying a “black bag carry on suitcase with a handle.”  He said she kept checking her bag without taking anything out; kept asking the First Class attendant what the next stop was, and seemed to want to get off the train and leave her bag behind.  The officer detected slurring in MILLER’s voice and asked if he had consumed alcohol that day.  MILLER replied that he had consumed “one glass of red wine.”  Asked if he suffered from mental illness, MILLER replied “no, absolutely not. This is the first time I’ve ever made a call like this before. I am worried for everyone on that train. Someone has to check that lady out.”

The complaint further alleges that investigators determined that MILLER had actually been traveling on Amtrak Train 2258, not 2256.  When Amtrak Train 2258 arrived into Green’s Farms Station shortly thereafter, it was stopped, inspected, and eventually found not to contain any explosive devices or materials.   During the stop, Amtrak officers interviewed an attendant from the First Class car where MILLER had been sitting.  The attendant stated that MILLER appeared intoxicated upon boarding in Washington, that he consumed multiple drinks on the train, and that he had been removed in New York owing to his intoxication.  The attendant also advised that MILLER had been involved in hostile exchanges with a woman who was sitting in a different row from him in the First Class car.

The complaint alleges that investigators identified and interviewed the subject female and determined that that she was not carrying any explosives, was not checking a “carry on suitcase with a handle,” was not “checking her bag without taking anything out,” and would have been largely out of MILLER’s view unless he repeatedly stood up to observe her over or around the intervening seat row, or rows.  The complaint further alleges that MILLER, motivated by a grudge against the subject female, called 911 to relay false information about a suspected bomb on the train, and continued to convey false information to investigators while the public safety response was ongoing.

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 Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, Connecticut State Police, Metropolitan Transportation Authority Police Department, Amtrak Police Department, and Westport Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Henry K. Kopel.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that KAVON ROGERS, 30, of New Haven, was sentenced yesterday by Chief U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven to 144 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for racketeering and firearm offenses.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in January 2014, ATF and the New Haven Police Department began “Operation Red Side” through a series of controlled narcotics purchases and firearms seizures.  The investigation revealed that members and associates of the Red Side Guerilla Brims (“RSGB”), a sect of the Bloods street gang based in New Haven, were engaged in narcotics trafficking and related acts of violence, including murder, attempted murder, assaults and armed robberies.  In addition to distributing crack cocaine and other narcotics in and around New Haven, the investigation indicated that members and associates of the RSGB, under the direction of Jeffrey Benton and others, transported the drugs to Bangor, Maine, and sold them in Bangor and its surrounding communities.  The RSGB also traded narcotics for firearms, brought the firearms back to New Haven and distributed them to gang members.  ROGERS, as RSGB member, sold crack in and around New Haven and traveled between New Haven and Bangor several times.

On June 24, 2011, Donell Allick was shot and killed as he stood in his New Haven home.  The investigation revealed that, on that date, ROGERS drove Benton and his associates, Luis Padilla and Keith Young, as they searched for a rival gang leader that Benton intended to murder.  Instead, Benton encountered Allick, with whom Benton was angry over a drug transaction.  After Benton, Padilla and Young exited the car, Benton fired multiple shots through an open kitchen window, killing Allick.  Benton, Padilla and Young then returned the car, where ROGERS had been waiting.  ROGERS then drove to a location where Benton hid the gun.

ROGERS has been detained since his arrest on September 27, 2014, when, as part of an unrelated investigation, he was found in a possession of a stolen .380 caliber semiautomatic handgun.

On May 5, 2015, ROGERS pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon and, on November 19, 2015, he pleaded guilty to one count of engaging in a pattern of racketeering activity.

As a result of this investigation, 21 members and associates of the RSGB were convicted of federal charges in Connecticut and Maine.  The investigation has resolved seven murder cases, four attempted murders and four armed robberies that occurred in 2011 and 2012.

Benton, Padilla and Young pleaded guilty to various offenses stemming from this investigation, and admitted to participating in the murder of Donell Allick.  Benton also admitted that he participated in three other gang-related murders and one attempted murder, Padilla admitted that he participated in two other gang-related murders and two attempted murders, and Young admitted that he participated in one other gang-related murder.

On October 4, 2017, Benton was sentenced to 480 months of imprisonment.  Padilla and Young await sentencing.

U.S. Attorney Durham noted that federal prisoners are required to serve at least 85 percent of their sentenced term of imprisonment and are not eligible for parole.

This investigation has been conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the New Haven Police Department, the Connecticut Department of Correction, the Connecticut State Police, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency and the Hamden Police Department.  The New Haven State’s Attorney’s Office also provided critical assistance in the investigation.

An instrumental component of the investigation has been the work of the Connecticut State Crime Laboratory in utilizing the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) to analyze ballistics evidence.

This matter is being prosecuted in the District of Connecticut by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Peter Markle and Jocelyn Kaoutzanis.  A related case in the District of Maine is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel Casey.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that RASHON GRAY, also known as “Loke,” 24, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton in New Haven to 77 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for participating in the armed robbery of a Hamden store in April 2016.

According to court documents and statements made in court, at approximately 4:22 p.m. on April 27, 2016, two men and two women, who had their head and faces partially concealed, entered the Game X Change in Hamden.  One of the men pulled out a gun and ordered the store’s three employees to get down on the ground.  The man with the gun put his foot on an employee’s back and pressed the gun against the employee’s head and neck, threatening to kill the employee if he did not give him money and the keys to the display case.  The employee complied and the four suspects took several items, including cell phones, an iPad, an iPod, “Beats” headphones, and a cash box that contained $830.  The four ran out of the store to a waiting car.

Investigators subsequently identified GRAY as the individual who brandished the firearm and threatened the store employee.

GRAY was on state probation at the time of the offense.  On May 6, 2016, police and probation officers found him in possession of a cell phone that had been taken during the robbery and his probation was revoked.

GRAY has been detained in federal custody since his arrest on July 21, 2017.  On December 4, 2017, he pleaded guilty to one count of Hobbs Act Robbery.

Four other individuals have been charged and convicted as a result of this investigation.

This matter has been investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Hamden Police Department, with the assistance of the New Haven Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rahul Kale.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that HARRY DUREN, 74, of Waterbury, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Alvin W. Thompson in Hartford to 36 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for illegally distributing oxycodone. 

According to court documents and statements made in court, between approximately March 2011 and April 2016, DUREN obtained prescriptions for medications containing oxycodone from doctors in Connecticut and then arranged to resell the medications for his own profit.  In total, DUREN and his co-conspirators sold approximately 45,000 30mg oxycodone pills.  DUREN’s profit from the drug sales was approximately $700,000.

On September 6, 2017, DUREN pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, oxycodone.

DUREN, who is released on a $50,000 bond, was ordered to report to prison on June 5, 2018.

DUREN has a prior federal conviction for mail fraud.

This investigation was conducted by the DEA’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad, which includes officers from the Bristol, Hamden, Milford, Monroe, New Haven, Shelton, Wallingford and Wilton Police Departments.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Avi M. Perry.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that THOMAS CAPECELATRO, 64, of Orange, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 60 days of imprisonment, followed by one year of supervised release, for failing to pay over more than $66,000 in employment taxes to the Internal Revenue Service.

According to court documents and statements made in court, CAPECELATRO has owned and operated an unincorporated landscaping business known as Chestnut Ridge Landscaping (“Chestnut Ridge”) since approximately 1984.  From approximately October 2010 through 2013, CAPECELATRO caused Chestnut Ridge to withhold $42,322.64 in payroll taxes from its employees but failed to truthfully account for and pay over that money to the IRS.  During that same period, CAPECELATRO failed to pay $24,089.28 in federal employment taxes and $1,347.54 in federal unemployment taxes that Chestnut Ridge owed.  Chestnut Ridge also failed to file quarterly employment tax returns (Forms 941) with the IRS.

The total tax loss to the U.S. Treasury from October 2010 through 2013 was $67,759.46.

On November 28, 2017, CAPECELATRO pleaded guilty to one count of willful failure to account for and pay over employment taxes.

In May 2017, CAPECELATRO made restitution of $67,759.46 for the delinquent taxes.  He owes additional penalties and interest on that amount, and additional restitution for unpaid taxes, interest and penalties for the third quarter of 2005 through the third quarter of 2010.

CAPECELATRO, who is released on bond, was ordered to report to prison on June 6.

This matter was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Susan L. Wines.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that on March 29, 2018, a grand jury in Hartford returned an indictment charging ROGER TUSCANO, 47, of Bristol, with distributing heroin.

TUSCANO was arrested on a federal criminal complaint on October 25, 2017, and was released on a $100,000 bond into an inpatient drug treatment program.  He absconded from the treatment program on March 12 and was at large until he was located and apprehended on April 4.  He appeared yesterday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert A. Richardson in Hartford and was ordered detained.

As alleged in court documents, on April 26, 2017, the Southington Police Department and emergency medical personnel responded to a residence for an unresponsive 54-year-old female who had suffered an apparent drug overdose.  Responders attempted lifesaving measures on the victim, including administering naloxone, with minimal effect.  The victim was then transported to the hospital.

At the scene, officers seized drug and non-drug evidence, including four wax folds that contained heroin.

The victim died on April 28.  The Connecticut Office of the Chief Medical Examiner has determined that the victim’s death was caused by a combination of heroin and clonazepam.

It is alleged that on the morning of April 26, the victim purchased heroin from TUSCANO at a gas station in New Britain.

The indictment charges TUSCANO with possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, heroin, an offense that carries 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 defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

This matter is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Task Force, Southington Police Department and Bristol Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John T. Pierpont, Jr.

This matter stems from an ongoing statewide initiative targeting narcotics dealers who distribute heroin, fentanyl or opioids that cause death or serious injury to users.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that THOMAS JOHNSON, 27, of New Haven, pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to federal robbery and firearm charges.

According to court documents and statements made in court, on June 30, 2016, at approximately 1:41 a.m., New Haven Police officers were dispatched to Ferry Street after a report of person who had been shot.  At the scene, officers found two victims.  One victim had been shot in the left elbow and was bleeding heavily, and the other victim was bleeding from the nose. 

The investigation, which has included witness interviews, DNA evidence, ballistics evidence and footage from a surveillance video, revealed that JOHNSON and Shaquille Richardson attacked the two victims after they exited a convenience store in an attempt to steal marijuana and money from the victims.  JOHNSON shot one of the victims in his elbow, and Richardson struck the other victim in the face with a gun.

Officers apprehended Richardson near the scene of the robbery.  When Richardson was found, he was bleeding from a gash to his hand where one of the victims had slashed him with a knife in self-defense.  JOHNSON was arrested on July 28, 2016, during a motor vehicle stop.  At the time of his arrest, JOHNSON possessed the firearm he used during the robbery.

JOHNSON pleaded guilty to one count of Hobbs Act Robbery, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years; one count of possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years, and one count of discharging a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, an offense that carries a mandatory consecutive term of imprisonment of 10 years.  Judge Shea scheduled sentencing for July 9, 2018.

Richardson, who pleaded guilty to related charges on January 31, 2018, also awaits sentencing.

JOHNSON and Richardson have been detained since their arrests.

This matter is being investigated by the New Haven Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco and Explosives.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Peter D. Markle and Jocelyn Courtney Kaoutzanis.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that WILLIE DEAS, also known as “Debo” and “Flee,” 22, of Hartford, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven to 54 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for planning to rob a drug dealer.

According to court documents and statements made in court, this matter stems from a joint law enforcement investigation headed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force and the Hartford Police Department’s Vice and Narcotics Division targeting gang violence and narcotics trafficking in Hartford’s Parkville neighborhood, and related overdoses.  The investigation specifically targeted criminal activity being committed by members and associates of the Orange Street Killas (OSK), which operated principally in the area of Orange, Cherry and Arbor Streets.  The investigation followed a series of reports of shots fired in the area, and a homicide that was committed on Cherry Street in October 2015.  The prosecution was built on court-authorized wiretaps, controlled purchases of narcotics and physical and video surveillance, all of which revealed that OSK members acquired heroin and crack cocaine and then sold the narcotics on the streets of Hartford.

On October 8, 2016, investigators intercepted calls on which Ruben Torres and other OSK members discussed firearms and the planning of a potentially violent act.  Investigators immediately notified Hartford Police that violence might be imminent in the Orange and Cherry Street area, but before police could respond, at approximately 10:12 p.m., a man was chased and shot multiple times in front of 7-9 Cherry Street.  The victim was located in the backyard of 51 Orange Street.  He was suffering from three gunshot wounds to his legs, was transported to the hospital and survived the shooting.  Minutes after the shooting, DEAS called Torres and referenced both the shooting and hiding a firearm.

On October 10 and 11, 2016, an individual working with law enforcement purchased crack from DEAS.  The individual also told DEAS that he planned to rob his drug supplier and asked DEAS if he had a gun to sell.  DEAS indicated that he had a gun but declined to sell it.  Instead, he offered to bring the gun and help in the robbery.  DEAS was arrested on October 26, 2016, on his way to the “robbery.”  At the time of his arrest, he possessed a .40 caliber handgun, which had been reported stolen, loaded with 10 rounds of ammunition.

DEAS has been detained since his arrest.  On November 6, 2017, he pleaded guilty to one count of interference with commerce by attempted robbery.

Sixteen individuals were charged as a result of the investigation.

Torres pleaded guilty and, on March 30, 2018, was sentenced to 78 months of imprisonment.

This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force and the Hartford Police Department.  The Task Force includes members of the Hartford Police Department, East Hartford Police Department, Connecticut State Police and Connecticut Department of Correction.  The Hartford Police Department’s Vice and Narcotics Division and Shooting Task Force have provided valuable assistance to the investigation.

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

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that FELIX LOPEZ, also known as “Pablo,” 23, of Hartford, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today before Chief U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven to one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, heroin, cocaine base (“crack cocaine”) and fentanyl.

This matter stems from an ongoing statewide initiative targeting narcotics dealers who distribute heroin, fentanyl or opioids that cause death or serious injury to users.

According to court documents and statements made in court, on September 13, 2017, Norwich Police and emergency medical personnel responded to a report of an untimely death at a residence in Norwich.  Responding officers were informed that the decedent, a 20-year-old woman, had an addiction to heroin.  At the scene, officers seized drug and non-drug evidence, including the victim’s cell phone.

The State of Connecticut Office of the Chief Medical Examiner subsequently determined that the victim died from acute fentanyl and heroin intoxication. 

The investigation revealed that LOPEZ supplied the heroin and fentanyl consumed by the victim shortly before she died.

LOPEZ was arrested on a federal criminal complaint on November 13, 2017.  At the time of his arrest, he possessed a quantity of crack cocaine.

Chief Judge Hall scheduled sentencing for June 28, 2018, at which time LOPEZ faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.  LOPEZ has been detained since his arrest.

This matter has been investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Norwich, Hartford and Manchester Police Departments.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John T. Pierpont, Jr.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JOHN N. MILNE, 58, of Westport, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven to 24 months of imprisonment for violating the conditions of his supervised release.

According to court documents and statements made in court, on March 11, 2010, MILNE was sentenced to 27 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for conspiring to falsify the books and records of United Rentals, Inc. while he served as its President and Chief Financial Officer.  In a resolution of a separate civil action brought by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, (SEC v. John N. Milne, 3:08CV505), MILNE agreed to disgorge $6.25 million.  MILNE paid $1 million to the SEC prior to his sentencing in 2010.  As part of his original sentence, in lieu of a restitution order, MILNE was ordered to pay the remaining $5.25 million to the SEC as a condition of his supervised release.

Since his release from prison in May 2012, MILNE has paid approximately $500,000 of the $5.25 million of disgorgement that was due.  Chief Judge Hall found that, based on MILNE’s income and expenditures on luxury services, personal items and travel, he had the ability to pay much more.  The Court had previously continued the hearing on multiple occasions to provide MILNE the opportunity to make additional disgorgement payments, but he repeatedly failed to do so.  MILNE also violated his supervised release by traveling out of Connecticut without the permission of the U.S. Probation Office.

MILNE is citizen of Canada and a lawful permanent resident of the U.S.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael S. McGarry with the assistance of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MOHAMED H. ABDI, also known as “Vic,” 25, of Worcester, Massachusetts, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton in New Haven to one count of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion.

According to court documents and statements made in court, between late December 2016 and January 5, 2017, ABDI and his girlfriend used threats of force and coercion to cause a female victim to engage in prostitution.  ABDI and his girlfriend advertised the victim’s prostitution services on Backpage.com and other websites, rented Connecticut hotel rooms where the victim engaged in prostitution, and transported the victim to engage in sexual acts with customers at the hotels and private residences in Connecticut and elsewhere.  In addition, ABDI provided the victim with heroin, but withheld the drug from the victim until after she provided sexual services to additional customers.  ABDI and his girlfriend also made threats against the victim and her child if the victim reported them to law enforcement.

Judge Arterton scheduled sentencing for June 27, 2018, at which time ABDI faces a maximum term of imprisonment of life.

ABDI has been detained since his arrest on related state charges on January 5, 2017.

This matter is being investigated by the Connecticut Human Trafficking Task Force, Federal Bureau of Investigation and Connecticut State Police, with the assistance of the Wethersfield Police Department and the Worcester Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anastasia E. King.

U.S. Attorney Durham thanked the State’s Attorney for the Judicial District of Tolland and the Worcester County District Attorney’s Office for their cooperation and assistance in the prosecution of this matter.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that COURTNEY WORTHINGTON, 31, of West Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to 60 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for robbing three Connecticut banks.  

According to court documents and statements made in court, WORTHINGTON robbed the TD Bank at 636 Campbell Avenue in West Haven on December 19, 2016; the Peoples Bank at 198 Amity Street in Woodbridge on January 2, 2017, and the TD Bank at 184 Route 81 in Killingworth on January 5, 2017.  During each robbery, WORTHINGTON handed the teller a note containing threats and demanding money.

WORTHINGTON was arrested on January 5, 2017, at a hotel in East Haven. On July 12, 2017, she pleaded guilty to one count of bank robbery.  She has been detained since her arrest.

This investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Connecticut State Police, West Haven Police Department and Woodbridge Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ANDRE REED, 25, of Waterbury, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to one count of distribution of heroin.

This matter stems from an ongoing statewide initiative targeting narcotics dealers who distribute heroin, fentanyl or opioids that cause death or serious injury to users.

According to court documents and statements made in court, on March 1, 2016, at approximately 11:39 p.m., Danbury Police responded to a service station on the report of a woman in medical distress in a restroom.  At the location, officers observed the victim on her knees, with her face on the floor, taking a deep gasping breath every 20 seconds.  The victim also was holding a syringe. The victim was transported to the hospital, where she was placed on life support.  She has since recovered from the overdose.

The investigation revealed that REED supplied heroin to another individual who then sold it to the victim.

Judge Meyer scheduled sentencing for July 18, 2018, at which time REED faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.  REED is detained pending sentencing.

This matter is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Task Force and the Torrington, Danbury and Wilton Police Departments.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that GEORGES AVRIDOR, 42, of Greenwich and Stamford, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to a fraud offense related to his theft of more than $800,000 from two individuals in Greenwich.

According to court documents and statements made in court, between July 2013 and October 2016, AVRIDOR stole personal bank checks from two Greenwich residents who employed him as a driver.  He then made the checks payable either to “Cash” or to himself for various amounts of money and forged the signature of one of his employers on the checks.  He then cashed the checks at a bank or had the proceeds deposited into a bank account that he controlled.  AVRIDOR stole a total of $889,425 through this scheme.

AVRIDOR pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years.  A sentencing date has not been scheduled.

AVRIDOR was arrested on June 30, 2017.  He is released on a $50,000 bond pending sentencing.

This matter has been investigated by the Greenwich Police Department, U.S. Secret Service and Connecticut Financial Crimes Task Force.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ray Miller.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that CHARLES TURNER, also known as “Rell” and “CJ,” 27, of Hartford, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven to 66 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for distributing crack cocaine.

According to court documents and statements made in court, this matter stems from a joint law enforcement investigation headed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force and the Hartford Police Department’s Vice and Narcotics Division targeting gang violence and narcotics trafficking in Hartford’s Parkville neighborhood, and related overdoses.  The investigation specifically targeted criminal activity being committed by members and associates of the Orange Street Killas (OSK), which operated principally in the area of Orange, Cherry and Arbor Streets.  The investigation followed a series of reports of shots fired in the area, and a homicide that was committed on Cherry Street in October 2015.  The prosecution was built on court-authorized wiretaps, controlled purchases of narcotics and physical and video surveillance, all of which revealed that OSK members acquired heroin and crack cocaine and then sold the narcotics on the streets of Hartford.

The investigation revealed TURNER, an OSK member, supplied crack cocaine to other OSK members for street sale.

TURNER has been detained since his arrest on February 21, 2017.  On November 15, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of cocaine base (“crack”).

TURNER’s criminal history includes convictions for firearm and drug offenses.

Sixteen individuals were charged and convicted as a result of this investigation.

This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force and the Hartford Police Department.  The Task Force includes members of the Hartford Police Department, East Hartford Police Department, Connecticut State Police and Connecticut Department of Correction.  The Hartford Police Department’s Vice and Narcotics Division and Shooting Task Force have provided valuable assistance to the investigation.

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

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ROBERTO GONZALEZ, 39, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to 12 months and one day of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for his role in a New Haven narcotics trafficking ring.

According to court documents and statements made in court, the DEA’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad targeted a New Haven-based heroin trafficking organization led by ROBERTO GONZALEZ’s brothers, Bienvenido and Antonio Gonzalez.  The investigation, which included court-authorized wiretaps, controlled purchases of narcotics and physical and video surveillance, revealed that Bienvenido and Antonio Gonzalez regularly purchased bulk quantities of heroin from suppliers located in the Bronx, New York, and sold the heroin through a network of redistributors in New Haven and elsewhere.  The investigation also revealed that Bienvenido Gonzalez acquired and distributed bulk quantities of cocaine.

On March 10, 2017, ROBERTO GONZALEZ was intercepted on a wiretap ordering 250 grams of cocaine from Bienvenido Gonzalez.

ROBERTO GONZALEZ was arrested on March 16, 2017.  On January 18, 2018, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, cocaine.

Bienvenido Gonzalez and Antonio Gonzalez pleaded guilty to related charges.  On March 28, Bienvenido Gonzalez was sentenced to 144 months of imprisonment.  Antonio Gonzalez awaits sentencing.

The DEA’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad includes officers from the Bristol, Hamden, Milford, Monroe, New Haven, Shelton, Wallingford and Wilton Police Departments.  The New Haven, East Haven and West Haven Police Departments, together with the U.S. Coast Guard, provided valuable assistance to the investigation.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Natasha M. Freismuth and Patrick F. Caruso.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that RUBEN TORRES, also known as “Rube,” “Ru,” and “T,” 26, of Hartford, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven to 78 months of imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release, for distributing heroin and crack cocaine in Hartford.

According to court documents and statements made in court, this matter stems from a joint law enforcement investigation headed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force and the Hartford Police Department’s Vice and Narcotics Division targeting gang violence and narcotics trafficking in Hartford’s Parkville neighborhood, and related overdoses.  The investigation specifically targeted criminal activity being committed by members and associates of the Orange Street Killas (OSK), which operated principally in the area of Orange, Cherry and Arbor Streets.  The investigation followed a series of reports of shots fired in the area, and a homicide that was committed on Cherry Street in October 2015.  The prosecution was built on court-authorized wiretaps, controlled purchases of narcotics and physical and video surveillance, all of which revealed that OSK members acquired heroin and crack cocaine and then sold the narcotics on the streets of Hartford.

The investigation revealed that TORRES, an OSK member, sold heroin and crack to drug users and other distributors.

On October 8, 2016, investigators intercepted TORRES on others on calls discussing firearms and planning a violent act.  Investigators immediately notified Hartford Police that violence might be imminent in the Orange and Cherry Street area, but before police could respond, at approximately 10:12 p.m., a man was chased and shot multiple times in front of 7-9 Cherry Street.  The victim was located in the backyard of 51 Orange Street.  He was suffering from three gunshot wounds to his legs, was transported to the hospital and survived the shooting.  Minutes after the shooting, TORRES and others referenced the shooting on the wiretap.

On October 31, 2016, TORRES and another individual were intercepted discussing a .40 caliber firearm.  On January 26, 2017, TORRES sold 600 bags of heroin, approximately one-half ounce of crack cocaine, and 34 rounds of .40 caliber ammunition to an undercover officer.

On February 10, 2017, investigators arrested TORRES and several of his codefendants.  On that date, a search of TORRES’s residence revealed approximately 260 bags of heroin, drug paraphernalia, assorted ammunition, a gun holster, a gun cleaner kit and $1,379 in cash.

TORRES has been detained since his arrest.  On November 8, 2017, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin.

Sixteen individuals were charged as a result of the investigation.

This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force and the Hartford Police Department.  The Task Force includes members of the Hartford Police Department, East Hartford Police Department, Connecticut State Police and Connecticut Department of Correction.  The Hartford Police Department’s Vice and Narcotics Division and Shooting Task Force have provided valuable assistance to the investigation.

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

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that WILLIAM REYES, also known as “Big Head,” 36, of Stamford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton in New Haven to 41 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for trafficking marijuana. 

According to court documents and statements made in court, in the summer of 2017, REYES and John Koukouras utilized a residence located at 40 Guernsey Hill Road in Lagrangeville, New York, to grow, process and distribute marijuana.  The investigation revealed that REYES was also being supplied with large quantities of marijuana by Gustavo Garcia, of Queens, New York.  In July 2017, Garcia delivered approximately 40 pounds of marijuana to REYES in exchange for approximately $80,000.

REYES was arrested on July 26, 2017.  On that date, investigators conducted court-authorized searches of REYES’ Stamford residence and the Lagrangeville residence.  A search of the Stamford residence revealed approximately 18 kilograms of marijuana, paraphernalia associated with narcotics distribution, and $71,004 in cash, and a search of the Lagrangeville residence revealed 140 marijuana plants and related equipment.

Judge Arterton ordered REYES to forfeit his interest in both the $71,004 in cash seized from his residence, and a 2012 Toyota Camry.

REYES has been detained since his arrest.  On January 5, 2018, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute marijuana.

Koukouras and Garcia pleaded guilty to related charges.  On February 7, 2018, Koukouras was sentenced to 24 months of imprisonment.  Garcia awaits sentencing.

This matter is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Stamford Police Department and New York State Police.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anthony E. Kaplan and Sarala V. Nagala.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that DRESHAWN NEWTON, also known as “Dre,” 28, of Hartford, was sentenced today by Senior U.S. District Judge Alfred V. Covello in Hartford to 57 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for distributing heroin.

According to court documents and statements made in court, NEWTON’s associate, Joel Gonzalez, also known as “Tuti,” was the focus of an investigation into the distribution of heroin and other controlled substances in and around Hartford by members and associates of Los Solidos and the Latin Kings.  In November and December 2015, the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crime Gang Task Force and Hartford Police made a total of six controlled purchases of heroin from Gonzalez at 71 Warrenton Avenue and 30-32 Putnam Street in Hartford.  NEWTON participated in one of the controlled purchases on December 4, 2015.  On that date, NEWTON gave 1,000 bags of heroin to an undercover officer in exchange for $2,250.

NEWTON has been detained since his arrest on December 17, 2015.  On September 6, 2017, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, heroin.

Gonzalez pleaded guilty to a related charge and, on January 31, 2018, was sentenced to 77 months of imprisonment.

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

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

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that TAYRENCE WILLIS, a.k.a. “T” and “T-Franklin,” 26, of Hartford, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven to 37 months of imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release, for his role in a narcotics trafficking ring.

According to court documents and statements made in court, this matter stems from a joint law enforcement investigation headed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force and the Hartford Police Department’s Vice and Narcotics Division targeting gang violence and narcotics trafficking in Hartford’s Parkville neighborhood, and related overdoses.  The investigation specifically targeted criminal activity being committed by members and associates of the Orange Street Killas (OSK), which operated principally in the area of Orange, Cherry and Arbor Streets.  The investigation followed a series of reports of shots fired in the area, and a homicide that was committed on Cherry Street in October 2015.  The prosecution was built on court-authorized wiretaps, controlled purchases of narcotics and physical and video surveillance, all of which revealed that OSK members, including WILLIS, acquired heroin and crack cocaine and then sold the narcotics on the streets of Hartford.

On October 8, 2016, investigators intercepted OSK members calls discussing firearms and planning a potentially violent act.  Investigators immediately notified Hartford Police that violence might be imminent in the Orange and Cherry Street area, but before police could respond, at approximately 10:12 p.m., a man was chased and shot multiple times in front of 7-9 Cherry Street.  The victim was located in the backyard of 51 Orange Street.  He was suffering from three gunshot wounds to his legs, was transported to the hospital and survived the shooting.  Minutes after the shooting, WILLIS referenced the shooting during a wiretapped call.  Subsequent analysis of surveillance video revealed WILLIS was on Cherry Street at the time and was a witness to the shooting.

WILLIS has been detained since his arrest on February 10, 2017.  On November 21, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine base (“crack”). 

WILLIS’s criminal history includes convictions related to selling drug, unlawful firearm possession, and leading police on an extended and dangerous vehicle pursuit during which a firearm was thrown from the vehicle he was driving.  WILLIS also has been a victim of two separate shootings.

Sixteen individuals were charged as a result of the investigation.

This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force and the Hartford Police Department.  The Task Force includes members of the Hartford Police Department, East Hartford Police Department, Connecticut State Police and Connecticut Department of Correction.  The Hartford Police Department’s Vice and Narcotics Division and Shooting Task Force have provided valuable assistance to the investigation.

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

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MARQUICE RUMLEY, 27, of Ansonia, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, cocaine base (“crack cocaine”).

According to court documents and statements made in court, RUMLEY was a member of a drug trafficking organization that trafficked large quantities of crack cocaine throughout the Naugatuck Valley.  The investigation revealed that members of the organization shared the same cellphone to service drug customers in shifts over a 24-hour period.   Members of the drug trafficking organization also shared vehicles and serviced customers together.  Between May and September 2017, investigators made multiple controlled purchases of crack from RUMLEY and other members of the drug trafficking organization.

RUMLEY was arrested on November 17, 2017.

Judge Meyer scheduled sentencing for July 3, 2018, at which time RUMLEY faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.  RUMLEY is released on a $25,000 bond pending sentencing.

This matter is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Task Force and the Ansonia and Derby Police Departments.  This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jocelyn Courtney Kaoutzanis.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that BIENVENIDO GONZALEZ, 45, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to 144 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for trafficking heroin.

According to court documents and statements made in court, the DEA’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad targeted a New Haven-based heroin trafficking organization led by Gonzalez and his brother, Antonio Gonzalez.  The investigation, which included court-authorized wiretaps, controlled purchases of narcotics and physical and video surveillance, revealed that the Gonzalez brothers regularly purchased bulk quantities of heroin from suppliers located in the Bronx, New York, and sold the heroin through a network of redistributors in New Haven and elsewhere.  The investigation resulted in federal charges against 24 individuals, including four other brothers of Bienvenido and Antonio Gonzalez.

Bienvenido Gonzalez, Antonio Gonzalez and several co-defendants were arrested on March 15, 2017.  On that date, investigators seized a kilogram of heroin from a vehicle that a co-defendant had driven to a stash house used by Bienvenido Gonzalez, and more than 400 grams of heroin and $10,000 in cash from the stash house itself.

The investigation revealed that Bienvenido Gonzalez used the proceeds from the heroin trafficking enterprise to purchase a New Haven barbershop, fund a drag racing team, purchase roosters for cockfighting, gamble, and travel.

Bienvenido Gonzalez has been detained since his arrest on March 16, 2017.  On November 30, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and distribution of, one kilogram or more of heroin

Antonio Gonzalez has pleaded guilty to the same charge and awaits sentencing.

The DEA’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad includes officers from the Bristol, Hamden, Milford, Monroe, New Haven, Shelton, Wallingford and Wilton Police Departments.  The New Haven, East Haven and West Haven Police Departments, together with the U.S. Coast Guard, provided valuable assistance to the investigation.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Natasha M. Freismuth and Patrick F. Caruso.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that DIGBY KERR, 50, of Meriden, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to one count of wire fraud.

According to court documents and statements made in court, KERR owned and operated Transportation Cost Management, LLC (“TCM”), which was in the business of brokering shipping contracts between manufacturers and trucking companies.  As part of its business, TCM would receive shipping invoices from trucking companies, process the invoices, and forward the billing information to the manufacturers.  The manufacturers would transmit the payment funds to TCM for remittal to the trucking companies.  TCM would then remit payment to the trucking companies and send confirmation reports to the manufacturers indicating that payment had been made to the trucking companies.  The manufactures compensated TCM for providing this service.

In pleading guilty, KERR admitted that, between approximately December 2016 and April 2017, he and TCM failed to remit $603,489.30 in payment funds that TCM received from four manufacturers to the trucking companies that transported goods for those victim manufacturers.  TCM, at KERR’s direction, e-mailed confirmation reports to the victim manufacturers that falsely represented that the manufacturers’ payments had been properly forwarded to the trucking companies. 

Wire fraud carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.  Judge Meyer scheduled sentencing for June 18, 2018.

KERR was released on a $100,000 bond pending sentencing.

This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Avi M. Perry.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that RYAN STONE, 30, of Plainfield, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 292 months of imprisonment, followed by 10 years of supervised release, for taking sexually explicit photos and videos of a young girl.

According to court documents and statements made in court, between March 30 and April 1, 2017, STONE took 36 sexually explicit photos and three sexually explicit videos of a six-year-old girl.  The investigation revealed that STONE took the photos and videos with his phone.  There is no evidence that STONE distributed the photos and videos to any other individuals.

STONE has been detained since April 19, 2017, when he was arrested by the Plainfield Police Department for criminal trespass in the first degree and criminal violation of a restraining order.  On December 20, 2017, he pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of production of child pornography.

This matter was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Plainfield Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nancy V. Gifford.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that RIGOBERTO HERNANDEZ, also known as “Tito,” 36, of Meriden, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 60 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for his role in a central Connecticut cocaine and crack cocaine trafficking ring.

This matter stems from a joint investigation headed by the DEA New Haven Task Force that has included the use of court-authorized wiretaps, controlled purchases of crack cocaine, and seizures of cocaine and cash proceeds.  The investigation revealed that an associate of HERNANDEZ was operating a cocaine and crack cocaine trafficking ring while he was incarcerated in state custody.  Consensually recorded prison calls established that HERNANDEZ began servicing his associate’s drug customers after his associate was arrested.

On July 20, 2017, a grand jury in New Haven returned a nine-count indictment charging HERNANDEZ and 10 other individuals with various offenses.  HERNANDEZ was arrested on July 26, 2017.  On December 19, he pleaded guilty to one count of with conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and 28 grams or more of cocaine base (“crack”).

HERNANDEZ has been detained since his arrest.

This matter is being investigated by the DEA New Haven Task Force, U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Middletown and New Britain Police Departments.  The DEA New Haven Task Force includes participants from the New Haven, Hamden, West Haven, North Haven, East Haven, Branford, Ansonia, Meriden and Derby Police Departments, and the U.S. Marshals Service.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney H. Gordon Hall.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Mickey D. Leadingham, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF Boston Field Division, today announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven has returned an indictment charging TYMON PETERSON, 28, of Stratford, with conspiracy and making false statements in connection with the purchase of firearms, and narcotics trafficking offenses.

The indictment was returned on March 14, 2018.  PETERSON appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah A. L. Merriam in New Haven and pleaded not guilty to the charges.

As alleged in the indictment and court documents, in August and September 2017, PETERSON and another individual, who is a convicted felon and prohibited from possessing a firearm, texted one another about purchasing firearms.  On September 22, PETERSON and the other individual travelled together to Hoffman’s Gun Center in Newington to purchase firearms.  At the store, the other individual provided PETERSON with cash to purchase two firearms on his behalf.  On that date, PETERSON filled out an ATF Form 4473 in which he falsely represented that he was the actual purchaser of the two firearms and that he was not acquiring the firearms for another person.

It is further alleged that PETERSON and the other individual returned to Hoffman’s Gun Center on September 23 and attempted to purchase a firearm.  Because the clerk was concerned that the sale of the firearm to PETERSON might be illegal, he declined to sell it to PETERSON.  Hoffman’s contacted ATF the next day.

The indictment also alleges that, in March and May 2017, PETERSON used his cellphone to communicate about the distribution of cocaine, fentanyl and ketamine.

PETERSON was arrested on a federal criminal complaint on January 1, 2018.  He is released on a $100,000 bond.

The indictment charges PETERSON with one count of conspiracy, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years; one count of making a false statement during the purchase of a firearm, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years, and four counts of using a telephone to facilitate a drug trafficking felony, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of four years on each count.

U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that an indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt.  A defendant is entitled to a fair trial at which it is the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

This ongoing investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with the assistance of the Connecticut State Police and the Newington Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony E. Kaplan.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that the U.S. Attorney’s Office has reached settlement agreements with the Inn at Longshore in Westport, the Pearl at Longshore Restaurant in Westport, and the Town of Westport, to resolve allegations that the Inn at Longshore and the Pearl at Longshore Restaurant were not operating in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (“ADA”).

The Inn at Longshore leases its premises from the Town of Westport, which provides parking facilities for the Inn at Longshore and Pearl at Longshore Restaurant.  The Pearl at Longshore Restaurant leases its premises from the Inn at Longshore.

The settlement agreements resolve an ADA complaint filed by an individual with disabilities alleging that the Inn at Longshore and Pearl at Longshore Restaurant were not accessible for individuals with physical disabilities.  The inn, restaurant and town are in the process of making the changes required by the settlement agreements, which include increasing the accessibility of the entrance to the inn, doubling the number of accessible parking spaces, adding an accessible bathroom for use by restaurant patrons and visitors to the inn, providing guest rooms with communication features, ensuring the restaurant’s porch is accessible, and increasing the number of accessible dining seats within the restaurant.  The Town of Westport and the Pearl at Longshore Restaurant will make improvements over the next six months and the Inn at Longshore will continue to make improvements over the next two years.

Under federal law, private entities that own or operate places of “public accommodation,” including restaurants and inns, are prohibited from discriminating on the basis of disability.  Similarly, public entities, such as municipalities, are obligated under federal law to ensure that individuals with disabilities are not excluded from participation in the public entities’ services, programs or activities because of facilities that are inaccessible or unusable for individuals with disabilities.  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 noted that the ownership of the Inn at Longshore and the Pearl at Longshore Restaurant have worked quickly and cooperatively with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to address the ADA issues without litigation and that the Town of Westport offered critical and expeditious support in facilitating settlement of these matters.

“The Americans with Disabilities Act ensures that individuals are able to access and enjoy the state’s restaurants, inns and other places of public accommodation,” stated U.S. Attorney Durham.  “Our Office is committed to enforcing the ADA, which requires businesses to appropriately serve the diverse populations of patrons who live, work, and visit Connecticut.  We appreciate the cooperation of the ownership of the Inn at Longshore and the Pearl at Longshore Restaurant, as well as the leadership of the Town of Westport, all of which contributed to the quick resolution of this matter.”

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.

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.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JOVANNI REYES, 24, of Bridgeport, 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 distributing heroin and fentanyl.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in late 2016, Bridgeport Police made three controlled purchases of heroin from REYES.  On December 8, 2016, investigators conducted a court-authorized search of REYES’s Voight Avenue residence and seized more than 120 folds of heroin and a loaded 9mm handgun.  The firearm had been reported stolen.

Analysis of the seized drugs revealed that some of the folds also contained fentanyl.

REYES has been detained since his federal arrest on January 25, 2017.  On October 18, 2017, he pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin.

This matter was investigated by the Bridgeport Police Department, Connecticut State Police, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rahul Kale and Vanessa Richards.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that on March 16, 2018, LUIS RIVERA, JR., also known as “Pop” and “Gordo,” 43, of New Haven, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Alvin W. Thompson in Hartford 60 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for distributing heroin.

According to court documents and statements made in court, on March 3, 2016, an individual working with law enforcement purchased heroin from RIVERA in New Haven.  The next day, investigators conducted a court-authorized search of RIVERA’s residence and car and seized heroin packaged for street sale, a digital scale and other items used to process and package narcotics for distribution.

RIVERA has been detained since his arrest on March 4, 2016.  On October 13, 2017, he pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, heroin.

RIVERA’s criminal history includes several prior convictions, including felony convictions for sale of narcotics, robbery in the first degree, possession of narcotics, larceny in the third degree, assault on law enforcement personnel, and possession of a firearm.

This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Haven Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah P. Karwan.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that on March 16, 2018, CAVAN DEVINE, 26, of Easton, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton in New Haven to 36 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for possessing methamphetamine and Xanax. 

According to court documents and statements made in court, on December 4, 2016, Easton Police seized a bag belonging to DEVINE that contained approximately 744 grams of methamphetamine, 577 and one-half pills labeled “Xanax,” and drug paraphernalia.  DEVINE was arrested the next day.  A subsequent search of a hotel room rented by DEVINE revealed an additional quantity of methamphetamine, as well as items used to process, package and mail drugs.  Investigators also seized a laptop computer.

The investigation established that DEVINE had obtained the methamphetamine and Xanax over the dark net, which he also used to distribute the drugs.

The search of DEVINE’s laptop also revealed more than 1,000 images of child pornography, which DEVINE also acquired over the dark net.

On October 2, 2017, DEVINE pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and a quantity of Xanax.

This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Connecticut State Police and Easton Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony E. Kaplan.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ROBERT KEHAYIAS, 58, of Old Saybrook, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton in New Haven to three months of imprisonment, followed by one year of supervised release, for filing false tax returns.

According to court documents and statements made in court, KEHAYIAS owns and operates Pizza Works (also known as Pizza Junction, LLC), a restaurant located in Old Saybrook.  For the 2010 through 2014 tax years, KEHAYIAS deposited most of the cash receipts generated by the restaurant into his personal money market account, a portion of the cash receipts into other personal bank accounts, and only a minimal amount of cash into the business bank account.  During this time, KEHAYIAS provided his tax return preparer with Quickbooks reports that significantly understated the gross receipts of the business each year.  As a result, KEHAYIAS failed to report more $765,733 in taxable income on his federal income tax returns for the 2010 through 2014 tax years, and failed to pay approximately $343,000 in taxes.

On September 29, 2017, KEHAYIAS pleaded guilty to one count of filing a false tax return.

KEHAYIAS has paid all of his back taxes.  He still owes approximately $361,000 interest and penalties.  Judge Arterton ordered KEHAYIAS to make a $200,000 payment to the IRS within two weeks.

This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that PAUL WILLIAM MUZYKA, 48, of North Haven, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to charges related to his role in a large-scale fencing operation.

According to court documents and statements made in court, MUZYKA helped operate a licensed secondhand store, Ace Amusements, located at 42 Kimberly Avenue in New Haven.   At Ace Amusements, MUZYKA and others knowingly purchased stolen property from “boosters,” who typically were shoplifters with opioid addictions.  The boosters stole the goods from retail stores such as Home Depot, Walmart, Target and Kohl’s, and sold the goods at Ace Amusements for approximately one-third of their retail prices.  MUZYKA and others then resold the stolen goods at Ace Amusements, and also online at websites such as eBay.

The loss attributed this scheme exceeds $5.9 million.

MUZYKA pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit the interstate transport of stolen property, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years, and one count of interstate transport of stolen property, an an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.  A sentencing date is not scheduled.

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

This matter is being investigated by Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the Connecticut State Police, U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, Connecticut Department of Correction, Connecticut Chief State’s Attorney’s Office, and the New Haven, North Haven, Milford, West Haven, Wallingford, Hamden and Orange Police Departments.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys John T. Pierpont, Jr. and David T. Huang.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that BLAIN S. KOLLBECK, 34, of Killingly, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton in New Haven to 18 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for illegally possessing a firearm.

According to court documents and statements made in court, on January 4, 2017, law enforcement officers removed a loaded Beretta 9mm Nano handgun and an improvised explosive device from KOLLBECK’s residence.  The handgun had an obliterated serial number, and was repainted orange.  The investigation revealed that Albert Bonner, also of Killingly, was the registered owner of the gun, and that Bonner provided the gun to KOLLBECK.  Bonner knew that KOLLBECK was a convicted felon.

KOLLBECK has prior felony convictions in Connecticut and Florida.

KOLLBECK was arrested on a federal criminal complaint on January 10, 2017.  On December 18, he pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon.

KOLLBECK, who is released on bond, was ordered to report to prison on July 10.

On July 31, 2017, Bonner pleaded guilty to one count of providing a firearm to a convicted felon.  On December 22, he was sentenced to eight months of imprisonment.

This matter was investigated by the Connecticut State Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anastasia E. King.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that DARRIN LAMORE, 47, of Enfield, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today in New Haven federal court to a conspiracy offense related to his theft of government funds.

According to court documents and statements made in court, LAMORE was the executive director of the Enfield Community Development Corporation (“ECDC”), a non-profit corporation that oversees economic development projects in Enfield, primarily in the Thompsonville section of the town.  The ECDC is supported with federal funds administered by the State of Connecticut.  From June 2012 to October 2015, LAMORE conspired with an employee of the Town of Enfield to take funds intended for economic development in Enfield and apply them to LAMORE’s salary.  To hide their fraudulent activity and to maintain funding for the ECDC, the conspirators repeatedly falsified the books and records of the ECDC.

Through this scheme, LAMORE stole more than $95,000 from the ECDC.

LAMORE pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and theft from a program receiving federal funds, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years.

As part of his guilty plea, LAMORE has agreed to cooperate with this ongoing investigation.

LAMORE was arrested on a criminal complaint on February 16, 2018.  He is released on a $25,000 bond pending sentencing, which is not scheduled.  The case is assigned to U.S. District Judge Alvin W. Thompson in Hartford.

This investigation is being conducted by the Connecticut Public Corruption Task Force, notably the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Enfield Police Department.  The Task Force also includes members from the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – Office of Inspector General, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General, and U.S. Postal Inspection Service.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Liam Brennan.

Citizens are encouraged to report corruption to the Connecticut Public Corruption Task Force by calling 203-238-0505.

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that CARLOS ANARIBA, also known as Marvin Guillen, 27, a citizen of Honduras last residing in Stamford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey Alker Meyer in New Haven to six months of imprisonment for illegally reentering the U.S. after being deported.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in November 2008, ANARIBA, using the name Marvin Guillen, was charged in Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford with assault, weapons, breach of peace and forgery offenses.  After ANARIBA posted bond, he was released to the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and, in March 2009, was deported from the U.S. to Honduras.

ANARIBA subsequently returned to the U.S.

In October 2014, ANARIBA, using his true name, was arrested by Stamford Police for a burglary offense.  In February 2016, he was arrested by Stamford Police on larceny charges.

A biometric match connected the three criminal cases and confirmed that ANARIBA and Guillen are the same individual.  ANARIBA resolved all three cases and, in October 2016, was sentenced in state court to 25 months of incarceration, concurrently, on each count.

On November 17, 2017, ANARIBA pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of reentry of a removed alien.  He will deported to Honduras when he completes his prison term.

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