District of Connecticut

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that THOMAS M. MURTHA, 61, of Newtown, has been charged by a federal criminal complaint with wire fraud related to his alleged theft of more than $900,000 from victims.

MURTHA was arrested on April 5, 2017, in Michigan. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Patricia T. Morris in Bay City, Michigan, and was released on a $10,000 bond.

As alleged in the criminal complaint, MURTHA operated a law practice under the name Maher & Murtha LLC in Bridgeport. Beginning in approximately August 2015, MURTHA defrauded five victims of a total of more than $900,000. As part of the scheme, MURTHA made materially false statements to induce one victim to invest more than $600,000, purportedly for real estate investments. He also was retained to handle real estate transactions on behalf of other victims and, instead of remitting funds to the appropriate parties, converted the funds to his own use.

The complaint further alleges, in December 2015, MURTHA told the victim of his real estate investment scheme that he needed an additional $100,000 to purchase a $1.5 million commercial property in Bethel, and that a buyer would purchase the property in four to six months to convert it to condominiums. After the victim wired the money, MURTHA used the funds in connection with the purchase, in his own name, of a $725,000 house in Birmingham, Michigan.

In September 2016, MURTHA resigned from the bar after three grievance complaints were filed against him.

The charge of wire fraud carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.

U.S. Attorney Daly 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 and the Greenwich Police Department, with the assistance of the Connecticut Office of Chief Disciplinary Counsel. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennifer Laraia and David Huang, with the assistance of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ROBERT V. GENTILE, 80, of Manchester, pleaded guilty today in Hartford federal court to federal firearm offenses, and also admitted that he violated the conditions of his supervised release from a prior federal conviction.

According to court documents and statements made in court, on February 10, 2012, GENTILE was arrested after a federal investigation had revealed that he was involved in the illegal distribution of prescription narcotics. Subsequent court-authorized searches of GENTILE’s Manchester residence resulted in the seizure of 200 Percocet tablets packaged for distribution, two .38 caliber Smith & Wesson revolvers, a .22 caliber North American Arms revolver, a .22 caliber derringer, a 12-gauge pistol-grip shotgun, numerous rounds of ammunition, boxes of 12-gauge shotgun shells, five handgun silencers, other items and approximately $22,000 in cash. GENTILE pleaded guilty to federal drug and firearm offenses and, on May 9, 2013, was sentenced to 30 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release.

On March 2, 2015, while on supervised release, GENTILE sold a .38 Colt Cobra revolver, which was loaded with five rounds of Smith & Wesson .38 Special ammunition, for $1,000 to an individual he knew to be a convicted felon. The sale occurred at GENTILE’s residence, where the revolver had been hidden in a couch cushion.

GENTILE was arrested on a criminal complaint on April 17, 2015, and was ordered detained. On April 28, 2015, a grand jury returned an indictment charging him with possession of ammunition by a convicted felon, and sale of a firearm to a convicted felon.

On May 2, 2016, FBI special agents executed an unrelated federal search warrant at GENTILE’s Manchester residence and seized a .22 caliber Browning semi-automatic pistol, a 9mm Walther semi-automatic pistol, a .380 caliber RPB Industries, M11-Al semi-automatic pistol, and an unregistered silencer. On May 24, 2016, a grand jury returned an indictment charging GENTILE with one count of possession of firearms by a previously convicted felon, and one count of possession of an unregistered silencer.

Today, GENTILE pleaded guilty to one count of possession of ammunition by a previously convicted felon, which is contained in the April 2015 indictment. He also pleaded guilty to one count of possession of firearms by a previously convicted felon and one count of possession of an unregistered silencer, both of which are contained in the May 2016 indictment. GENTILE also admitted that he violated the terms and conditions of his supervised release.

GENTILE is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Robert N. Chatigny on August 25, 2017, at which time he faces a maximum term of imprisonment 10 years on each count, and additional penalties for violating his supervised release.

GENTILE has been detained since his arrest on April 17, 2015.

This matter has been investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the assistance of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John H. Durham.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MARIO PASCUAL AQUINO, 36, formerly of Torrington, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 30 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for his involvement in a stolen identity tax refund fraud scheme.

According to court documents and statements made in court, AQUINO was involved in a conspiracy to fraudulently obtain U.S. Treasury tax refund checks made payable to individuals other than themselves, whose personal identifying information was stolen by co-conspirators. Typically, the individuals whose identities were stolen were citizens of Puerto Rico.

Between October 2011 and March 2013, AQUINO cashed approximately $650,000 worth of fraudulently-obtained tax refund checks at a check cashing store in Torrington. He also opened his own check cashing store in Hartford, Mega Money Transfers, and, in 2011 and 2012, proceeded to cash more than 300 fraudulently-obtained refund checks valued at a total of $750,926 through that store. Finally, Aquino sold six fraudulently-obtained refund checks valued at a total of $60,929 to an undercover agent. He also provided the undercover agent with a fraudulent Connecticut driver license in the name of an identity theft victim.

Judge Bryant ordered AQUINO to pay restitution in the amount of $532,500.

AQUINO, who most recently resided in Pasadena, Texas, has been detained since his arrest on May 31, 2016. On January 5, 2017, he pleaded guilty to one count of theft of public money.

This matter was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Waterbury Police Department, Hartford Police Department and Pasadena (Tex.) Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarala V. Nagala.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that on Oct 22, 2015, a federal grand jury in New Haven returned a 14-count indictment charging MOHSEN YOUSSEF, 26, formerly of Vernon, with fraud offenses relating to an alleged scheme to secure more than $3 million in funding for his purported pita manufacturing business.

YOUSSEF was arrested in Canada on March 1, 2017, and has been detained since his arrest. He appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert A. Richardson, entered a plea of not guilty to the charges and was ordered detained.

As alleged in the indictment, beginning in approximately October 2011, YOUSSEF defrauded various banks, a corporate leasing and vendor finance company, and the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development, in a scheme to secure funding for equipment purchases for his company, Amoun Pita and Distribution LLC (“Amoun Pita”), and other companies he controlled. According to its business plan, Amoun Pita was a bakery that manufactured pocket pita bread from a production facility in South Windsor, Connecticut.

As part of the alleged scheme, YOUSSEF provided false information when applying for loans, lines of credit, lease financing and state grants, purportedly to finance the acquisition of new pita manufacturing equipment, other machinery and inventory related to his businesses. The false information included documentation that inflated the assets and income of YOUSSEF and his companies, as well as fraudulently created invoices purporting to document equipment purchases that, in fact, never occurred. In order to induce victims to rely on the invoices he provided, YOUSSEF created marketing materials and websites for non-existent vendors.

It is alleged that YOUSSEF caused more than $3 million in losses through this scheme.

YOUSSEF, who has dual U.S and Egyptian citizenship, moved to Canada in 2014.

The indictment charges YOUSSEF with two counts of wire fraud, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years on each count; 11 counts of bank fraud, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years on each count, and one count of mail fraud, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.

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

This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the assistance of the Quebec Provincial Police RELEX Unit, Montreal Police Service and Royal Canadian Mounted Police. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys David E. Novick and Avi M. Perry.

United States Attorney Deirdre M. Daly, Chief State’s Attorney Kevin T. Kane, Special Agent in Charge Patricia M. Ferrick of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Hartford Police Chief James C. Rovella, today announced that a federal grand jury in Hartford has returned an indictment charging five men with the kidnapping and murder of Charles Teasley, 35, of West Hartford, in January 2009.

This matter stems from a long-term investigation being conducted by the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force, Hartford Police Department and the Cold Case Homicide Unit of the Office of the Chief State’s Attorney.

Charged in the indictment, which was returned under seal on March 30, 2017, are:

HAROLD COOK, also known as “Oink,” 40, of Bloomfield
GERUND MICKENS, also known as “Breeze,” 41, of Bloomfield
TERRELL HUNTER, also known as “Rell” and “Killer,” 35, of Hartford
DOUGLAS LEE, also known as “Fly,” 42, of Hartford
JESUS ASHANTI, also known as “Black,” 40, formerly of Hartford

The indictment charges the defendants with one count of kidnapping resulting in death, one count of using a firearm during a kidnapping and causing a death, and one count of using a firearm during a robbery and causing a death. If convicted of the charges, each defendant faces a maximum term of imprisonment of life, or death if the government seeks the death penalty in this matter.

Cook, Mickens and Hunter were arrested on April 4, and Lee was arrested today. They appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert A. Richardson in Hartford and were ordered detained. Ashanti is presently incarcerated for unrelated offenses.

The indictment alleges that, on January 12, 2009, Hartford Police responded to Colebrook Street in Hartford in response to a citizen’s report of a dead body in the back seat of a vehicle parked on the side of the road. Upon arrival, patrol units located a grey 1999 Acura TL parked on the street. Charles Teasley was found deceased in the back seat of the vehicle. He had suffered multiple gunshot wounds to his head and face, and his hands were zip-tied behind his back.

The indictment alleges that Cook, Mickens, Hunter and Ashanti were involved in committing armed robberies of persons they believed to be drug dealers operating in the greater Hartford area. On January 9, 2009, Cook, Mickens, Hunter and Ashanti planned to commit an armed robbery of an individual who they knew was scheduled to make a sale of cocaine. However, the individual decided not to go forward with drug deal and the robbery attempt was aborted. Lee then advised Cook that Lee had made arrangements to conduct a cocaine transaction with Charles Teasley, also known as “Man.” Lee provided the particulars of the planned transaction to Cook so that Teasley could be kidnapped and robbed of drugs and money.

The indictment further alleges that Lee met with Teasley at the approximate time and location Lee had provided to Cook. Cook, Mickens, Hunter and Ashanti then went to the location and kidnapped Teasley by using zip-ties to bind his hands and forcing him back into his own vehicle. In the vehicle, they threatened Teasley at gun point, assaulted him and forced him to make a telephone call directing his girlfriend to bring to Cook, Mickens, Hunter and Ashanti a safe he had hidden at the residence he shared with his girlfriend. They then drove Teasley to a residential section of Hartford and murdered him.

“The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to prosecuting dangerous offenders and reducing violent crime in our cities, and our work will not stop until the shootings and murders stop” said U.S. Attorney Daly. “I thank our partners in the FBI Task Force, Hartford Police Department and Chief State’s Attorney’s Office for their excellent investigative work in bringing to justice those we allege to be responsible for this brutal murder, and their ongoing efforts to solve other cold case murders.”

“I want to take this opportunity to thank all of the agencies involved in this matter,” said Chief State’s Attorney Kane. “It is yet another example of how through collaboration government at all levels can accomplish much, which is particularly important in the current budget climate.”

“The seven years of intense investigative work by law enforcement partners resulting in the five alleged perpetrators of this heinous crime being brought to justice highlights our dedication to ending senseless gun violence in Connecticut,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Ferrick.

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

Chief State’s Attorney Kane noted that the unsolved homicide of Charles “Man” Teasley was included in cold case playing cards sold to inmates in Connecticut’s state correctional facilities. Each card in the deck features a photograph and brief details about a homicide or missing person case and lists telephone, mail and e-mail contacts that inmates can use to supply information.

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

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys John H. Durham, Peter D. Markle and Jocelyn C. Kaoutzanis, and Assistant State’s Attorney Andrew Reed Durham, who has been cross-designated as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney in this matter.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MICHAEL BALDWIN, 19, of New Haven, pleaded guilty today in Hartford federal court to one count of possession of a stolen firearm.

According to court documents and statements made in court, on April 10, 2016, Hamden Police arrested BALDWIN after he and other individuals fled from police in a stolen car. After a pursuit, the vehicle crashed into a pole and BALDWIN fled from officers on foot. He was subsequently taken into police custody. A search of BALDWIN’s person revealed a plastic bag containing crack cocaine and a makeshift firearm holster around his stomach. Officers also located and seized a Springfield Armory XD .40 caliber handgun that had been discarded next to the crashed vehicle.

The firearm had previously been reported stolen from a residence in Hamden.

BALDWIN is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant on June 28, 2017, at which time he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years. He is released on a $50,000 bond.

This matter is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Hamden Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Peter Markle, Michael Runowicz, and Natasha Freismuth.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JANZAYB KHAN, 28, of Waterbury, was arrested today on a criminal complaint charging him with bank fraud, conspiracy to commit bank fraud, and making a false oath and false statement under penalty of perjury in a bankruptcy case. The charges stem from an alleged credit card “bust-out” scheme that defrauded over a dozen financial institutions.

As alleged in the complaint, KHAN obtained 31 credit cards from over a dozen financial institutions. In order to obtain the cards, KHAN made false statements to some of the financial institutions, including falsely stating his income, assets, address and employment history. Then, within a short period in January 2013, nearly all of the available credit on KHAN’s cards were rapidly utilized or “busted out.” More than $59,000 was spent on cash advances, gift cards and precious metals. Some of the proceeds from the cash advances were deposited into KHAN’s bank account and then transferred to bank accounts of other individuals. In addition, almost $70,000 was charged in sham transactions at collusive merchants, who then issued checks from the proceeds to one of KHAN’s acquaintances.

The complaint further alleges that after the bust-out, KHAN filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in U.S. Bankruptcy Court and attempted to discharge all of his credit card debt. In his bankruptcy court filings, KHAN falsely stated that the majority of his debt was due to gambling losses. KHAN also made a number of other false statements under oath during an examination by the U.S. Trustee in his bankruptcy case. The U.S. Bankruptcy Court later denied the discharge of KHAN’s debts.

The complaint alleges that the financial institutions that issued KHAN’s credit cards incurred losses of more than $165,000 as a result of the scheme.

KHAN appeared this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah A. L. Merriam in New Haven and was released on a $100,000 bond.

Bank fraud and conspiracy to commit bank fraud each carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years. Making a false oath and a false statement under penalty of perjury in a bankruptcy case carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years.

U.S. Attorney Daly 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 U.S. Secret Service and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Neeraj N. Patel.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JULIAN CINTRON, also known as “Papi” and Jay,” 37, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Alvin W. Thompson in Hartford to 108 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for his leadership role in a scheme to distribute oxycodone that was obtained through fraudulent prescriptions.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2012, members of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad began an investigation into a drug trafficking organization that manufactured fraudulent prescriptions for oxycodone and distributed the drug in the greater New Haven area. As part of the conspiracy, members of organization obtained the personal identifying information of medical practitioners and used the information to create fraudulent prescriptions. Conspiracy members also purchased legitimate prescriptions for oxycodone from individuals. The organization then used individuals, or “runners,” to fill the fraudulent prescriptions at pharmacies throughout Connecticut. Once a runner provided his or her personal information to a member of the organization, the runner’s information was kept on file and used to create other fraudulent prescriptions.

The investigation revealed that, between February 2013 and September 2015, the organization stole the personal identifying information of more than 50 doctors and medical professionals and fraudulently obtained more than 80,000 oxycodone pills. Investigators identified more than 800 fraudulent prescriptions passed by members of the organization using more than 270 different “patient” names.

Nearly all of the runners employed by the conspiracy held state-sponsored medical insurance, so the costs of the prescriptions were billed to Medicaid. Members of the drug trafficking organization then sold the oxycodone for $20 to $30 per 30 milligram pill.

Eleven individuals were charged as a result of the investigation.

CINTRON, David Thompson and Alejandrino DeJesus, all of New Haven, were key members of the organization who recruited and transported runners to fill fraudulent prescriptions.

CINTRON has been detained since his arrest on September 10, 2015. On that date, agents searched CINTRON’s residence and two of his vehicles and seized numerous items relating to this scheme, including fraudulent prescriptions bearing the names of different doctors and patients, ledgers containing doctors’ DEA numbers, blank prescriptions, full sheets of tamper proof paper, several computers, a printer, and more than 20 cell phones. Agents also seized small amounts of cocaine and suboxone.

On July 22, 2016, CINTRON pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute oxycodone.

Thompson and DeJesus also pleaded guilty. On November 7, 2016, DeJesus was sentenced to 132 months of imprisonment. Thompson awaits sentencing.

The DEA Tactical Diversion Squad includes members from the Bristol, Greenwich, Hamden, Milford, New Haven, Shelton, Vernon and Wilton Police Departments.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Amy C. Brown and Robert M. Spector.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that DAVID ORTIZ JUAREZ, 35, a citizen of Guatemala who recently resided in Hartford, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven to approximately seven and one-half months of imprisonment, time already served, and two years of supervised release, for illegally reentering the United States after being deported.

According to court documents and statements made in court, ORTIZ JUAREZ, who has never held legal status in the U.S., entered the U.S. through New Mexico when he was a juvenile. He was removed to Guatemala in April 1998.

ORTIZ JUAREZ illegally reentered the U.S. in approximately 2003 and lived in Hartford. He was subsequently convicted after trial in Hartford superior court of two counts of risk of injury to a minor. The conviction was related to severe injuries suffered by his then four-month-old daughter who was in his care. Following service of a five-year sentence, he was removed to Guatemala in April 2009.

ORTIZ JUAREZ again illegally reentered the U.S. On August 7, 2016, he was arrested by Hartford Police for driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

ORTIZ JUAREZ has been detained since his arrest by ICE agents on August 19, 2016. On January 5, 2017, he pleaded guilty to reentry of a removed alien.

At the conclusion of today’s court proceeding, ORTIZ JUAREZ was taken into ICE custody and will be removed to Guatemala.

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

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that TALLAT MAHMOOD, 64, of Waterbury, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty yesterday in Hartford federal court to one count of unlawful use of food stamp benefits and one count of conspiracy to commit food stamp fraud.

The federal Supplemental Nutrition and Assistance Program (“SNAP”) is administered by the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service and utilizes federal tax dollars to subsidize low-income households to provide them with the opportunity to achieve a more nutritious diet by increasing their food-purchasing power. SNAP recipients purchase eligible food items at retail food stores through the use of an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, and SNAP benefits may be accepted by authorized retailers only in exchange for eligible items. Items such as alcoholic beverages, cigarettes, paper goods and soaps are not eligible for purchase with Food Stamp benefits, and it is a violation of the rules and regulations governing the food stamp program to allow benefits to be used to purchase ineligible items. SNAP benefits may not lawfully be exchanged for cash under any circumstances. The program is designed so that the total amount of each purchase is electronically transferred to the retailer’s designated bank account.

According to court documents, MAHMOOD worked at WB Trade Fair Grocery, located at 43 Willow Street in Waterbury. From November 2014 until June 2016, MAHMOOD and others illegally allowed customers to redeem their food stamp benefits for cash and other ineligible items.

Given the stock of eligible food items at the store, the number of registers and the customer amenities, it is estimated that WB Trade Fair Grocery could lawfully redeem at most between $120,000 to $240,000 per year in food stamp benefits. However, during this approximately 18-month period, food stamp redemptions at the store totaled approximately $3.2 million.

MAHMOOD was arrested on August 18, 2016, and is released on a $50,000 bond. He is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant on July 12, 2017, at which time he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years, a fine of up to twice the gross loss from the offense, and restitution.

This matter is being investigated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of Inspector General, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anastasia King and Neeraj Patel.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that GLEN PORTER, also known as “Kuran,” 32, of Bridgeport, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton in New Haven to 57 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for distributing heroin.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2015, the FBI’s Bridgeport State Streets Task Force, Bridgeport Police Department and Connecticut State Police Statewide Narcotics Task Force initiated an investigation into several heroin distributors operating in Bridgeport. The investigation, included court-authorized wiretaps, controlled purchases of heroin and physical surveillance, revealed that Kareem Roseboro, also known as “Swiss,” was supplying distribution quantities of heroin to other individuals, including PORTER. PORTER and others sold heroin to their own customers.

Roseboro and his associates used the Stylz Barbershop, located on State Street in Bridgeport, as a hub for their narcotics distribution activity.

During the course of the investigation, investigators seized multiple “bricks” of heroin, items used in the processing and packaging of heroin, and five firearms. A brick of heroin contains 100 individual dose bags.

On June 6, 2016, a grand jury in Bridgeport returned an eight-count indictment charging PORTER, Roseboro and five other Bridgeport residents with heroin trafficking offenses. The seven defendants were arrested on June 7, 2016.

PORTER has been detained since his arrest. On November 16, 2016, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and distribution of, heroin.

PORTER’s criminal history includes multiple felony convictions.

Roseboro has pleaded guilty and awaits sentencing.

This matter was investigated by the FBI’s Bridgeport Safe Streets Task Force and the Bridgeport Police Department, with the assistance of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Connecticut State Police, Stratford Police Department, Stamford Police Department and the Trumbull Police Department K-9 Unit. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alina P. Reynolds and H. Gordon Hall.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that PHILLIP STEWART, 46, a citizen of Jamaica residing in Queens, N.Y., pleaded guilty yesterday in New Haven federal court to one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, MDA and MDMA.

MDA (Methylenedioxyamphetamine) is an analogue of MDMA (Methylenedioxymethamphetamine), and they are both commonly known as “ecstasy”.

According to court documents and statements made in court, STEWART conspired with Collin Fletcher and others to sell ecstasy to customers in Connecticut, New York and elsewhere. On October 27, 2016, and again on November 1, 2016, investigators made two controlled purchases of ecstasy from Fletcher.

STEWART and Fletcher were arrested on November 18, 2016, after they attempted to sell approximately 10,000 capsules of ecstasy to an undercover officer. The capsules had a combined weight of approximately 923 grams of MDA.

STEWART is scheduled to be sentenced by Chief U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall on June 30, 2017, at which time he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. He is released on a $100,000 bond pending sentencing.

Fletcher, a citizen of Jamaica last residing in Bridgeport, pleaded guilty to the same charge on February 14, 2017, and awaits sentencing. He has been detained since his arrest.

This matter is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad, which includes officers from the Bristol, Greenwich, Hamden, Milford, New Haven, Shelton, Vernon and Wilton Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Avi Perry.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ADELE BOUTHILLIER, 43, of Groton, pleaded guilty today in New Haven federal court to conspiracy to commit sex trafficking of a minor and heroin distribution offenses.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in the early morning hours of May 29, 2016, members of the Groton Police Department and emergency services personnel responded to a Groton motel room on the report of a suspected drug overdose. The victim, a 17-year-old female, was administered two doses of Narcan (Naloxone), which were deemed unsuccessful, before she was transported to the hospital and died later that morning.

The investigation revealed that Ramon Gomez, also known as “B.I.,” brought the victim to the motel to engage in prostitution, and the victim stayed in a room there with BOUTHILLIER. Both Gomez and BOUTHILLIER, who was engaged in prostitution and worked with Gomez, knew that the victim was under the age of 18. On the morning of May 28, 2016, BOUTHILLIER purchased a quantity of heroin from Gomez and gave it to the victim, who snorted it. At approximately 10:00 p.m. that day, BOUTHILLIER awoke to find the victim to be unresponsive with vomit coming out of her mouth. BOUTHILLIER waited approximately four hours before calling 911.

BOUTHILLIER pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking of a minor, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of life, and one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.

BOUTHILLIER is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Alvin W. Thompson in Hartford on June 22, 2017. BOUTHILLIER, who was released on bond, was ordered detained at the conclusion of today’s court proceeding.

Gomez pleaded guilty on November 17, 2016, and awaits sentencing. He has been detained since his arrest on June 1, 2016.

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

The investigation is being conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, the Town of Groton Police Department and the Regional Community Enhancement Task Force. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that RAYMOND J. MARTIN, 49, of Easton, pleaded guilty today in Bridgeport federal court to one count of unlawful possession of a controlled substance.

According to court documents and statements made in court, a long-term investigation led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration and Homeland Security Investigations revealed that Steven Santucci, a former Newtown Police sergeant, and others were receiving shipments of steroid ingredients from China and manufacturing and distributing wholesale quantities of steroids. Certain members of the conspiracy also distributed prescription pills, including oxycodone, as well as cocaine.

During the investigation, MARTIN was intercepted on a court-authorized wiretap ordering anabolic steroids.

MARTIN is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. Magistrate Judge Holly B. Fitzsimmons on July 5, 2017, at which time he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of one year and a fine of up to $100,000

MARTIN has been released on a $100,000 bond since his arrest on July 14, 2015.

Santucci pleaded guilty and, on August 25, 2016, was sentenced to 16 months of imprisonment, six months of home confinement, 120 hours of community service and a $5,000 fine.

This matter has been investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, with the assistance of the U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rahul Kale and Robert M. Spector.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that DAQUONE JOHNSON, 24, of Bridgeport, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today in New Haven federal court 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 May 9, 2016, a 30-year-old female was found unresponsive at a residence in Monroe. Police and medical personnel responded to the scene and administered multiple doses of Narcan to the victim. The victim, who did not respond to the Narcan, was transported to the hospital where she was pronounced deceased. While administering aide to the victim, hospital staff located unopened heroin folds on the victim’s person. The substance within the folds later tested positive for heroin and fentanyl, and the Connecticut Office of the Medical Examiner has determined the victim’s cause of death to be acute heroin and fentanyl toxicity.

The investigation, which included witness interviews and analysis of calls and text messages to and from the victim’s phone, revealed that the victim ordered heroin from JOHNSON on the day of her death.

JOHNSON was arrested on June 13, 2016, after law enforcement conducted a controlled purchase of heroin from him.

JOHNSON is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Alvin W. Thompson in Hartford on June 22, 2017, at which time he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. He is released on a $125,000 bond pending sentencing.

This matter has been investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad, and the Monroe, Milford and Bridgeport Police Departments. The Tactical Diversion Squad includes participants from the New Haven, Hamden, Greenwich, Shelton, Bristol, Vernon, Wilton, Milford, Monroe, Fairfield and Manchester Police Departments, and the Connecticut State Police. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Michael J. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England, today announced that a grand jury in Bridgeport returned a 13-count indictment yesterday charging 23 individuals with federal narcotics offenses related to the distribution of heroin in and around New Haven. The indictment also charges one of the defendants with a firearms offense.

According to allegations made in court, the investigation specifically targeted a drug trafficking organization led by Bienvenido Gonzalez and his brother, Antonio Gonzalez, both of New Haven. 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, which included three of their younger brothers, on the streets of New Haven.

“We allege that this drug trafficking organization was responsible for distributing a tremendous amount of heroin on the streets of New Haven, heroin that undoubtedly also made its way to addicts in neighboring communities,” said U.S. Attorney Daly. “As the opioid epidemic is ruining lives in our state and across the nation, we and our partners in the DEA, and with the assistance of state and local police, will continue to dedicate resources to target those responsible for trafficking this deadly drug and put them out of business.”

“Those suffering from the disease of heroin addiction need access to treatment and recovery,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Ferguson. “But, those responsible for distributing these lethal drugs to the citizens of Connecticut need to be held accountable for their actions. In response to the ongoing opioid epidemic DEA and its local, state and federal partners are committed to bringing to justice those that distribute this poison.”

Charged in the indictment are:

BIENVENIDO GONZALEZ, a.k.a. “Antonio” and “Julian, 44, of New Haven
ANTONIO GONZALEZ, a.k.a. “Bienve,” 46, of New Haven
LUIS GONZALEZ, 40, of New Haven
HERSON GONZALEZ, a.k.a. “Titi,” 37, of New Haven
ROBERTO GONZALEZ, 38, of New Haven
RAFAEL NEFTALI CASTILLO BAEZ, 23, of the Bronx, N.Y.
PABLO JOSE CRUZ, 44, of the Bronx, N.Y.
JULIO FLORES, 37, of Webster, Mass.
CHARLES MAY, 48, of New Haven
JOSE MEDINA, a.k.a., “Tito,” 46, of New Haven
ANDRE MILLER, 26, of New Haven
JOSE MINAYA-MELENDEZ, of the Bronx, N.Y.
MARCO PADILLA, 50, of New Haven
WANDA PISCIL, 50, of New Haven
ELVIN PLAZA, a.k.a. “Jordan,” 39, of New Haven
JOSE MANUEL RIOS, 42, of New Haven
LUIS ROBLES 40, of New Haven
EFRAIN ROLON-DONES, 29, of New Haven
MARIMAR ROMAN, 23, of New Haven
ISMAEL RUIZ, a.k.a. “Papo,” 50, of New Haven
JORGE LUIS RUIZ, a.k.a. “Pito,” 41, of New Haven
CARLOS SANTIAGO, a.k.a. “Carlito,” 52, of New Haven
ROBERTO TORRES, 32, of East Haven

On March 15, 2017, investigators arrested Bienvenido Gonzalez, Roberto Gonzalez, Herson Gonzalez, Jorge Luis Ruiz, Jose Manuel Rios, Pablo Jose Cruz, Jose Minaya-Melendez in New Haven. Investigators also arrested Antonio Gonzalez in Puerto Rico. A search of the vehicle that Minaya-Melendez had used to drive Cruz to a stash house used by Bienvenido Gonzalez led to the seizure of a kilogram of heroin. A search of the stash house resulted in the seizure of another 400 grams of heroin and $10,000 in cash. A search of Rios’ residence led to the seizure of 60 grams of heroin and $9,558 in cash.

On March 16, 2017, investigators arrested the remaining defendants named in the indictment, with the exception of Luis Gonzalez, who already was in custody on state charges. On that date, a search of Roberto Torres’ residence resulted in the seizure of approximately 50 grams of crack cocaine and $7,722 in cash, a search of Julio Flores’ residence resulted in the seizure of approximately $18,180 in cash, and search of Andre Miller’s residence resulted in the seizure of two loaded handguns and $4,737 in cash.

DEA agents arrested Rafael Baez on March 23, 2017, in the Bronx, and seized a large volume of heroin packaging materials, including stamps used to brand the heroin, from his residence.

Bienvenido Gonzalez, Antonio Gonzalez, Baez, Cruz, Padilla, Rios, Robles, Rolon-Dones, Ismael Ruiz, Jorge Ruiz, Santiago, Torres, and Minaya-Melendez have been in custody since the time of their arrest. The remaining defendants have been released on bond.

The indictment charges each of the defendants with conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, heroin. If convicted of this charge, based on the type and quantity of narcotics charged, Bienvenido Gonzalez, Antonio Gonzalez, Baez, Cruz, Minaya-Melendez, Jorge Ruiz and Santiago face a minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life; Flores, Medina, Miller, Piscil, Plaza, Rios, Roman, Ismael Ruiz and Torres face a minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years; and Luis Gonzalez, Roberto Gonzalez, Herson Gonzalez, May, Padilla, Robles and Rolon-Dones face a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.

Bienvenido Gonzalez, Luis Gonzalez, Cruz, Medina, Minaya-Melendez, Rolon-Dones, Rios Roman, Jorge Ruiz and Santiago also are charged with one or more counts of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, various quantities of heroin. Torres also is charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of crack cocaine.

Finally, the indictment charges Miller with one count of being felon in possession of a firearm, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.

U.S. Attorney Daly 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.

This matter is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad, which includes officers from the Bristol, Greenwich, Hamden, Milford, New Haven, Shelton, Vernon 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.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy C. Brown.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JEROME HUNTER, also known as “Rome,” 32, of New London, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to 84 months of imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release, for distributing heroin.

This matter stems from a long-term investigation headed by the Connecticut State Police Statewide Narcotics Task Force East and U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration into the large-scale distribution of narcotics in southeastern Connecticut. The investigation revealed that Sydney Jackson, also known as “Fatz,” and others regularly acquired kilogram quantities of cocaine and heroin from sources in New York and transported the drugs to southeastern Connecticut. Much of the cocaine was converted to crack cocaine by Jackson in Connecticut, and the drugs were distributed through a network of dealers, including HUNTER, in Groton, Norwich, New London, Stonington, Westerly, R.I. and the surrounding area.

On November 24, 2015, a federal grand jury in Hartford returned a 35-count superseding indictment charging HUNTER, Jackson and 11 other defendants with various narcotics trafficking and firearm offenses. In addition, approximately 20 individuals were prosecuted on related state charges.

During the course of the investigation, which included numerous controlled purchases of narcotics, extensive surveillance and the execution of 11 state search warrants, investigators seized approximately 1.3 kilograms of cocaine, one kilogram of crack cocaine, 416 grams of heroin, five firearms and $53,500 in cash.

HUNTER has been detained since his arrest on September 2, 2015. On that date, he was in possession of more than 100 grams of heroin, a handgun, approximately $2,200 and heroin processing and packaging equipment.

On October 5, 2016, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin.

On October 27, 2016, Jackson pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute 280 grams or more of cocaine base (“crack cocaine”). On February 16, 2017, he was sentenced to 10 years of imprisonment.

This matter has been investigated by the Connecticut State Police Statewide Narcotics Task Force East, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Marshals Service, Connecticut Department of Correction and Groton City, Groton Town, New London, Norwich and Waterford Police Departments.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Dave Vatti and Joseph Vizcarrondo, with the assistance of Senior Assistant State’s Attorneys Paul Narducci and David Smith of the State’s Attorney’s Office for the Judicial District of New London.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MICHAEL BENNETT, 29, of Bridgeport, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton in New Haven to 51 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for trafficking heroin.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2015, the FBI’s Bridgeport State Streets Task Force, Bridgeport Police Department and Connecticut State Police Statewide Narcotics Task Force initiated an investigation into several heroin distributors operating in Bridgeport. The investigation, included court-authorized wiretaps, controlled purchases of heroin and physical surveillance, revealed that Kareem Roseboro, also known as “Swiss,” was supplying heroin to other distributors. Roseboro and others used the Stylz Barbershop, located on State Street in Bridgeport, as a hub for their narcotics distribution activity.

The investigation further revealed that BENNETT supplied certain individuals in Roseboro’s network with heroin when Roseboro was unable to do so. In addition, in September and November 2015, investigators conducted two controlled purchases of heroin from BENNETT.

During the course of the investigation, investigators seized multiple “bricks” of heroin, items used in the processing and packaging of heroin, and five firearms. A brick of heroin contains 100 individual dose bags.

On June 6, 2016, a grand jury in Bridgeport returned an eight-count indictment charging BENNETT, Roseboro and five other Bridgeport residents with heroin trafficking offenses. The seven defendants were arrested on June 7, 2016.

BENNETT has been detained since his arrest. On December 21, 2016, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and distribution of, heroin.

BENNETT’s criminal history includes a 2007 state conviction for first degree assault, which stemmed from an incident in which BENNETT shot an individual in the shoulder during a personal dispute. BENNETT was sentenced to 15 years of incarceration, suspended after 117 months, and five years of probation. He was on state probation when he was trafficking heroin that resulted in this federal charge.

Roseboro has pleaded guilty and awaits sentencing.

This matter was investigated by the FBI’s Bridgeport Safe Streets Task Force and the Bridgeport Police Department, with the assistance of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Connecticut State Police, Stratford Police Department, Stamford Police Department and the Trumbull Police Department K-9 Unit. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alina P. Reynolds and H. Gordon Hall.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JONATHAN RHOADES, 32, formerly of Windsor, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey Alker Meyer in New Haven to 108 months of imprisonment, followed by a lifetime of supervised release, for distributing child pornography.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in December 2014, a member of the Connecticut State Police’s Computer Crimes squad, operating in an undercover capacity, accessed a peer-to-peer file sharing network and downloaded six videos of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct from an Internet Protocol (IP) address that was subsequently linked to RHOADES’s residence in Windsor.

On March 10, 2015, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant RHOADES’s residence and seized a desktop computer, laptop computer and other items. Forensic analysis of the seized computers revealed at least 1,533 images and 49 videos of child pornography, most of which featured children younger than the age of five.

RHOADES has been detained since his arrest on related state charges on March 18, 2015. On January 3, 2017, he pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of child pornography.

In 2005, RHOADES, who had been serving in the U.S. Navy in Jacksonville, Florida, was convicted through a Special Court Martial in connection with his receipt of 98 images of child pornography. He was sentenced to 12 months of imprisonment and received a “bad conduct” discharge from the military.

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

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

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

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that PAUL MIGNANI, 51, of Bethel, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Jeffrey Alker Meyer in New Haven to one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, heroin and cocaine.

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 July 31, 2016, Bethel Police responded to a residence in Bethel on report of a possible heroin overdose and found an unresponsive 54-year-old female. The victim was pronounced deceased shortly thereafter. The investigation revealed that MIGNANI distributed heroin, fentanyl and cocaine that was consumed by the victim shortly before her death.

On December 11, 2016, members of the Bethel Police and medical personnel responded to a report of an unresponsive 25-year old female at MIGNANI’s residence. The victim was pronounced deceased. Investigators seized three empty heroin folds from the victim’s purse, and six empty heroin folds from the victim’s jacket pocket.

On December 12, 2016, investigators conducted a court-authorized search of MIGNANI’s residence and seized three plastic bags of cocaine, each of which contained approximately one gram of the drug. Investigators also seized $1,531 in cash and multiple cellphones from the residence. MIGNANI was arrested on state charges on that date.

The investigation revealed that MIGNANI distributed heroin and cocaine to the victim shortly before her death.

MIGNANI has been detained since his arrest on a federal criminal complaint on December 28, 2016.

Judge Meyer scheduled sentencing for June 20, 2017, at which time MIGNANI faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.

This matter has been investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad, and the Bethel Police Department, with assistance from the States Attorney’s Office for the Judicial District of Danbury. The DEA Tactical Diversion Squad includes participants from the New Haven, Hamden, Greenwich, Shelton, Bristol, Vernon, Wilton, Milford, Monroe, Fairfield and Manchester Police Departments, and the Connecticut State Police. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert M. Spector.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ROBERTO VASQUEZ, 53, of Bridgeport, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven to 72 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for possessing a stolen gun and silencer.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in November 2013, VASQUEZ offered an 18-year-old woman who had just left an abusive relationship to move in with him. After a few weeks, VASQUEZ became physically and sexually abusive toward the woman. The victim subsequently left VASQUEZ without taking her belongings. VASQUEZ then lured her back into his apartment. Once inside, VASQUEZ barricaded the door and closed the windows. He then choked and punched the victim, placed a sock in her mouth and raped her while holding a gun and silencer to her head.

On March 5, 2014, the victim reported the abuse to a Connecticut probation officer and stated that VASQUEZ kept a gun in a hutch in the dining room of the apartment, and a silencer in a closet. Later that day, a Bridgeport Police officer retrieved a loaded .22 caliber semiautomatic pistol from the hutch in VASQUEZ’s apartment. On March 17, 2014, a search of the apartment revealed a .22 caliber silencer. VASQUEZ was arrested at that time.

Both the pistol and silencer had been reported stolen.

Forensic analysis of VASQUEZ’s cellphone revealed a recording of the rape and other recordings that confirmed VASQUEZ’s abuse of the victim.

VASQUEZ has been detained since his arrest. On May 3, 2016, he pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a stolen firearm and one count of possession of a stolen silencer.

VASQUEZ pleaded guilty in state court to unlawful restraint.

This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Bridgeport Police Department and Connecticut Office of Adult Probation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rahul Kale.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that BARRETT RICKETTS, 35, of Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton in New Haven to 78 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for gun and drug offenses.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in March 2016, RICKETTS was wanted for a violation of his state probation. On March 11, 2016, Hartford Police officers encountered RICKETTS in the area of Franklin Avenue and Benton Street and ordered him to stop. RICKETTS ran from the scene. During a foot chase, officers observed RICKETTS removed a handgun from his waist and throw it over a fence. RICKETTS subsequently tripped, fell to the ground and was apprehended. An officer then recovered a Glock 9mm, model 17, handgun on the ground where RICKETTS had thrown it. It was fully loaded with 17 rounds of ammunition.

A search of RICKETTS person revealed 55 wax sleeves containing heroin, 18 small bags of crack cocaine, one bag of marijuana, and five oxycodone pills.

RICKETTS has been detained since his arrest. On December 20, 2016, he pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine base (“crack”) and heroin, and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

RICKETTS’ criminal history includes 10 prior convictions, including three weapons convictions, one conviction for first degree assault, and two drug convictions. He also has two pending state cases, one for possession of narcotics with intent to sell, and one for violating his probation.

This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Hartford Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patricia Stolfi Collins.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that PAUL GOTTA, 58, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Robert N. Chatigny in Hartford to nine months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for explosives and firearms offenses.

According to court documents and statements made in court, GOTTA was a Catholic priest who resided at the rectory of St. Philip Church in East Windsor. In July 2012, GOTTA provided $350 in cash to a 17-year-old male and asked the teenager to purchase a handgun for him in Arizona. GOTTA knew that it was illegal for the teen to purchase firearms, but that he had obtained fake identification to do so. In November 2012, GOTTA aided the teen in the purchase of thousands of rounds of handgun ammunition.

GOTTA also helped the teen to build a pipe bomb. On two occasions in December 2012, GOTTA purchased two pounds of explosives powder at Riverview Gun Sales in East Windsor and distributed it to the teen. He also purchased other component parts for a pipe bomb in the following months.

In addition, in May and June 2013, GOTTA provided false information to law enforcement regarding alleged criminal offenses being committed by the teen, and failed to acknowledge his own role in the acquisition of the handgun, ammunition and pipe bomb parts.

GOTTA was arrested on July 19, 2013. On March 8, 2016, he pleaded guilty to one count of knowingly and willfully distributing an explosive material to an individual who was under 21 years of age.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the East Windsor Police Department, and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert M. Spector.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ROBERT WILLIAMS, also known as “Bo,” “Positive” and “Shawn,” 37, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Alvin W. Thompson in Hartford to 42 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for his role in a scheme to distribute oxycodone that was obtained through fraudulent prescriptions.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2012, members of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad began an investigation into a drug trafficking organization that manufactured fraudulent prescriptions for oxycodone and distributed the drug in the greater New Haven area. As part of the conspiracy, members of organization obtained the personal identifying information of medical practitioners and used the information to create fraudulent prescriptions. Conspiracy members also purchased legitimate prescriptions for oxycodone from individuals. The organization then used individuals, or “runners,” to fill the fraudulent prescriptions at pharmacies throughout Connecticut. Once a runner provided his or her personal information to a member of the organization, the runner’s information was kept on file and used to create other fraudulent prescriptions.

WILLIAMS filled fake prescriptions himself, and also recruited and transported others to fill fake prescriptions for him. He then sold most of the pills he acquired in bulk quantities to others.

The investigation revealed that, between February 2013 and September 2015, the organization stole the personal identifying information of more than 50 doctors and medical professionals and fraudulently obtained more than 80,000 oxycodone pills. Investigators identified more than 800 fraudulent prescriptions passed by members of the organization using more than 270 different “patient” names.

Nearly all of the runners employed by the conspiracy held state-sponsored medical insurance, so the costs of the prescriptions were billed to Medicaid. Members of the drug trafficking organization then sold the oxycodone for $20 to $30 per 30 milligram pill.

Eleven individuals were charged as a result of the investigation.

WILLIAMS was arrested on September 10, 2015, and was in custody until February 9, 2016, when he was released on bond into a drug treatment program. He has been detained since May 18, 2016, after his bond was revoked. On September 19, 2016, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute oxycodone.

The DEA Tactical Diversion Squad includes members from the Bristol, Greenwich, Hamden, Milford, New Haven, Shelton, Vernon and Wilton Police Departments.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Amy C. Brown and Robert M. Spector.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Michael J. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England, announced that AARON GYAMBIBI, also known as “E,” 26, of Hartford, pleaded guilty today in New Haven federal court to one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, heroin.

This prosecution is part of 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 May 7, 2016, a 31-year-old male died of suspected drug overdose at an Enfield residence.  Enfield Police seized a quantity of heroin and narcotics paraphernalia from the scene.

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

The investigation, which included analysis of the victim’s cellphone, revealed that the heroin ingested by the victim shortly before his death was purchased from GYAMBIBI.

GYAMBIBI has been detained since his arrest on November 16, 2016. He is scheduled to be sentenced by Chief U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall on July 6, 2017, at which time he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.

This matter is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Tactical Diversion Squad and the Enfield Police Department. The Tactical Diversion Squad includes participants from the New Haven, Hamden, Greenwich, Shelton, Bristol, Vernon, Wilton, Milford, Monroe, Fairfield and Manchester Police Departments, and the Connecticut State Police.

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

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ANTONIO FREELAND, also known as “Frezzie,” 27, of Burlington, North Carolina, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to 52 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for drug trafficking.

According to court documents and statements made in court, this matter stems from an investigation headed by the DEA’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force, Stamford Police Department, Norwalk Police Department and Connecticut State Police into a drug trafficking organization led by Wilfredo Gutierrez, also known as “Bean” and “Big Pun,” and his brother, Bobby Gutierrez, also known as “B.O.” The investigation included court-authorized wiretaps, controlled purchases of narcotics and physical surveillance.

On three occasions in 2016, FREELAND and Michael Lundy, of Raleigh, N.C., traveled from to Connecticut to acquire distribution quantities of drugs, including heroin, cocaine and marijuana, from Bobby Gutierrez. On May 3, 2016, FREELAND and Lundy drove to Connecticut with approximately $13,000 in cash to purchase drugs.

On May 4, 2016, FREELAND and Lundy met Gutierrez at B&B Deli at 988 State Street in Bridgeport, which was owned by the Gutierrez family and served as a hub for their drug dealing. After FREELAND and Lundy left B&B Deli, at approximately 12:30 p.m., Connecticut State Police attempted to stop FREELAND and Lundy’s vehicle on I-95 South in the vicinity of Exit 10. FREELAND failed to obey the order to stop and engaged police in a high-speed chase that reached speeds in excess of 110 miles per hour, weaving in and out of traffic and utilizing the center median and right shoulder. At one point, FREELAND’s car sideswiped a car in the left lane. FREELAND exited on Exit 2 and rammed the back of a minivan that was waiting at a stop sign at the bottom of the exit, injuring the occupant who was taken to the hospital. FREELAND and Lundy were then taken into custody. A search of the chase route revealed a bag containing approximately 370 grams of cocaine that had been thrown from the vehicle.

As part of this investigation, law enforcement officers executed several federal search warrants on May 26 and May 27, 2016. A search of Bobby Gutierrez’s Stamford residence revealed a quantity of cocaine, $25,916 in cash and other items used in the trafficking of narcotics; a search of Gutierrez’s girlfriend’s residence revealed $47,316 in cash, more than three kilograms of cocaine, and two firearms, and a search B & B Deli revealed two digital scales, two large ziplock bags containing what appeared to be cutting agents, and five cellphones.

FREELAND has been detained since his arrest. On October 13, 2016, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine.

Nine individuals were charged as a result of the investigation. All pleaded guilty. On March 16, 2017, Wilfredo Gutierrez was sentenced to 180 months of imprisonment. Lundy and Bobby Gutierrez are detained while awaiting sentencing.

The DEA’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force includes members from the Bridgeport, Stamford, Stratford, Norwalk, Milford and Trumbull Police Departments, and the Connecticut State Police.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anthony Kaplan and Heather Cherry.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that LJUDMIL KLJUSEV, M.D., 52, of Fairfield, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Alvin W. Thompson in Hartford to 26 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for distributing controlled substances outside of the scope of professional practice, and health care fraud. Judge Thompson also ordered KLUSEV to pay a $17,500 fine.

According to court documents and statements made in court, KLJUSEV, who operated a psychiatry practice in Milford, was a high-volume prescriber of Adderall and Xanax to patients, many of whom paid for office visits and prescriptions in cash.

Adderall, which is classified as a Schedule II drug by the DEA, is the brand name for a drug containing a combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, both of which are central nervous system stimulants. This combination of drugs is used to treat narcolepsy and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (“ADHD”). Xanax, which is classified as a Schedule IV drug by the DEA, is a brand name for a drug containing Alprazolam, a benzodiazepine drug. Alprazolam is commonly used to treat anxiety disorders or panic disorders.

The investigation, which included the use of confidential witnesses and an undercover officer posing as patients, revealed that KLJUSEV prescribed the drugs without a full medical examination of the patient, provided prescriptions without confirming conditions that would medically require treatment using these drugs and dispensed prescriptions in exchange for cash to patients who display substance abuse and addiction behaviors. KLJUSEV also directed non-physician employees to write prescriptions signed by KLJUSEV when he was out of the country.

In 2014 and 2015, KLJUSEV improperly billed private health insurers approximately $76,983 for medical services rendered when he was out of the country.

KLJUSEV has been detained since his arrest on November 12, 2015. On November 30, 2016, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute narcotics, and one count of health care fraud.

As part of the resolution of this case, KLJUSEV has agreed to forfeit a property located at 227 Naugatuck Avenue in Milford, where his practice was based, $173,095.20 in cash that was seized from his office on the day of his arrest, and $117,431.13 that was contained in his business checking account.

Judge Thompson also ordered KLJUSEV to pay restitution in the total amount of $31,081.05 to two victim health insurers.

This investigation was conducted by the DEA’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad, Federal Bureau of Investigation and Milford Police Department. The DEA Tactical Diversion Squad includes officers from the Bristol, Greenwich, Hamden, Milford, New Haven, Shelton, Vernon and Wilton Police Departments. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sarah Karwan and Avi Perry.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ROBERT SHORT, also known as “Santana,” 30, of New Haven, pleaded guilty today in Bridgeport federal court to causing the death of Darrick Cooper through the use of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.

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.

In September 2011, leaders of the RSGB ordered SHORT to murder Darrick Cooper, who was a leader of a rival gang and seen as a threat.  On September 19, 2011, SHORT lured Cooper to a location in Hamden. SHORT then shot Cooper in the back of the head as Cooper walked up a staircase.

With today’s guilty plea, 21 members and associates of the RSGB have now been convicted of federal charges in Connecticut and Maine.  (SEE ATTACHED LIST)  The investigation has resolved seven murder cases, four attempted murders and four armed robberies that occurred in 2011 and 2012.

“The Red Side Guerilla Brims were a violent and ruthless gang that created a climate of terror throughout neighborhoods in New Haven in 2011 and 2012,” said U.S. Attorney Daly.  Twenty-one gang members and associates will now be held responsible for seven cold case homicides, four attempted homicides, four armed robberies as well as drug and gun running from Connecticut to Bangor, Maine.  We hope and pray that the resolution of these homicides and shootings brings some sense of solace to the families of the victims and the communities where this violence occurred.  I thank our law enforcement partners, particularly the ATF, New Haven Police Department and Hamden Police Department, for their tireless dedication during this long-term and ongoing investigation.  They are providing justice for the many victims of this brutal gang, and making New Haven a safer and better place to live.”

“ATF’s mission is to combat violent crime and criminal organizations, and this investigation resulted in meeting that standard,” said Lawrence J. Panetta, Acting Special Agent in Charge, ATF Boston Field Division.  “The arrests and subsequent convictions of the Red Side Guerrilla Brim gang members and their associates, sends a clear message that ATF and its federal, state and local law enforcement partners will not allow these criminal street gangs to continue their violent criminal enterprise.”

SHORT is scheduled to be sentenced on July 5, 2017, by Chief U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven.  If the binding plea agreement filed today is accepted by Chief Judge Hall, SHORT faces a sentence of 360 months – or 30 years – of imprisonment.

On March 17, 2017, Jeffrey Benton pleaded guilty to federal racketeering, drug trafficking and money laundering offenses, and admitted that he participated in four gang-related murders and one attempted murder.  If his binding plea agreement is accepted by Chief Judge Hall, he faces a sentence of between 30 and 40 years of imprisonment.

U.S. Attorney Daly 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 is being 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 Robert Spector, Peter Markle and Jocelyn Kaoutzanis. A related case in the District of Maine is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel Casey.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ELBERT LLORENS, 24, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 60 months of imprisonment, followed by five of supervised release, for committing multiple carjackings and armed robberies in January 2016.

According to court documents and statements made in court, on January 1, 2016, two men from out of state who were driving a rented 2015 Volkswagen Passat were victims of an armed carjacking in the vicinity of Hobart Street and Myrtle Street in Meriden. The victims reported that they had stopped to ask an individual, later identified as Kyle Valentine, for directions to a gas station. Valentine told the victims to follow his car, which they did. After traveling a few minutes, Valentine’s car stopped and LLORRENS pointed a handgun at one of the victims who was sitting in the passenger seat of the car, opened the door and stated “I want everything.” The victims exited the car and LLORRENS and Valentine stole their wallets and cell phones and then drove away in the Passat.

LLORENS also committed armed robberies of a gas station in East Haven and a gas station in New Haven on January 3, 2016; attempted to rob a convenience store in Milford on January 4, 2016, and used a firearm and threats of violence to steal a 2006 Chevy Cobalt and a wallet from a victim in New Haven on January 5, 2016.

LLORRENS was arrested by New Haven Police shortly after the January 5 carjacking.

LLORRENS has been detained since his arrest. On December 15, 2016, he pleaded guilty to one count of taking a motor vehicle from a person by force and violence.

Valentine pleaded guilty to the same charge on August 11, 2016. He awaits sentencing, and also is detained.

This matter has been investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the East Haven, Meriden, Milford and New Haven Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ISAAC LONG, 37, formerly of Hamden, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Alvin W. Thompson in Hartford to 60 months of imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release, for illegally possessing a firearm. Judge Thompson also ordered LONG to perform 50 hours of community service while on supervised release.

According to court documents and statements made in court, on October 19, 2015, LONG was arrested by New Haven police officers after he was found in possession of a loaded Smith and Wesson nine millimeter semi-automatic pistol, and a quantity of crack cocaine that he intended to distribute.

LONG has been detained since his arrest. On December 19, 2016, he pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime.

LONG will begin serving his federal sentence after he completes a two-year state sentence that he is currently serving.

This matter was investigated by the New Haven Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anthony Kaplan and Jennifer Laraia.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JOSEMANUEL RIOS, also known as “Jay,” 41, of Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey Alker Meyer in New Haven to 48 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for distributing heroin 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 February 25, 2016, a male and female overdosed at a motel in Enfield. The overdoses were not fatal. In the motel room, investigators found five wax folds that contained fentanyl. RIOS was identified as the source of the drugs ingested by the victims.

On February 26, 2016, a search of an East Hartford motel room that RIOS was renting revealed approximately 200 bags of fentanyl stamped with the same image found on the bags in the Enfield motel room, and 13 bags of heroin stamped with a different image.

RIOS has been detained since his arrest on February 26, 2016. On November 21, 2016, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl.

This matter was investigated by the DEA’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad and the Enfield Police Department. The Tactical Diversion Squad includes participants from the New Haven, Hamden, Greenwich, Shelton, Bristol, Vernon, Wilton, Milford, Monroe, Fairfield and Manchester Police Departments, and the Connecticut State Police. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey M. Stone.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JEFFREY BENTON, also known as “Tall Man” and “Fresh,” 32, of New Haven, pleaded guilty today in New Haven federal court to federal racketeering, drug trafficking and money laundering offenses, and admitted that he participated in four gang-related murders and one attempted murder.

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 BENTON and others, transported crack cocaine and heroin to Bangor, Maine, and sold the drugs 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.

BENTON was a leader of RSGB. In pleading guilty, he admitted his involvement in several acts of gang-related violence in New Haven, including the non-fatal shooting of an individual on February 23, 2011; the murder of Kevin Lee on April 20, 2011; the murder of Donell Allick on June 24, 2011; the murder of Darrick Cooper on September 19, 2011, and the murder of Donald Bolden on March 19, 2012.

BENTON also admitted his participation in the gang-related trafficking of crack cocaine in Connecticut and Maine, and the transferring drug proceeds from Maine to Connecticut by using Western Union.

“Jeffrey Benton was the leader of the Red Side Guerilla Brims, a savage and ruthless narcotics gang that terrorized New Haven in 2011 and 2012,” said U.S. Attorney Daly.  “Benton and his RSGB gang members not only trafficked in crack cocaine and firearms from Connecticut to Maine, but far worse they were responsible for multiple homicides.  Benton ordered three homicides and killed Donell Allick himself.  We hope that his guilty plea today brings some small degree of solace to the victims’ families.  This has been a difficult and demanding prosecution.  I thank our law enforcement partners, particularly the ATF, New Haven Police Department and Hamden Police Department, for their excellent work in bringing justice to the many victims of this brutal gang, and for making New Haven a safer place to live.”

BENTON pleaded guilty to one count of engaging in a pattern of racketeering activity, which, because it involves the commission of murder, carries a maximum penalty of life in prison. He also pleaded guilty to one count of money laundering, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, and one count of conspiracy to distribute 280 grams or more of cocaine base (“crack cocaine”), which carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.

BENTON is scheduled to sentenced by Chief U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall on June 27, 2017.

If the binding plea agreement filed today is accepted by Chief Judge Hall, BENTON faces a sentence of between 360 months and 480 months of imprisonment.  The government will argue in support of sentence of 480 months – or 40 years – of imprisonment.

BENTON has been in federal custody since May 17, 2012.

This investigation is being 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 Robert Spector, Peter Markle and Jocelyn Kaoutzanis. A related case in the District of Maine is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel Casey.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that LEE HENRICI, 32, of Salem, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah A. L. Merriam in New Haven to one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, heroin.

This prosecution is part of 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 June 22, 2016, Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Police and emergency medical personnel responded to a hotel room at the Foxwoods Resort on the report of a drug overdose involving a female victim. The victim was transported to the hospital and survived. The victim’s boyfriend, who was present in the room, informed officers that the victim used heroin just prior to collapsing on the floor and losing consciousness. Officers seized opened and unopened wax packets of suspected heroin, and a hypodermic needle, from the scene.

The investigation, which included witness statements and analysis of surveillance video and text messages from the victim’s cell phone, revealed that HENRICI drove to the hotel in the morning of June 22, picked up money from the victim, drove to Hartford to purchase heroin from his source, returned to the hotel and delivered heroin to the victim.

HENRICI was arrested on a federal criminal complaint on August 17, 2016.

HENRICI is scheduled to be sentenced by Chief U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall on June 28, 2017, at which time he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. He is released on a $50,000 bond.

This matter is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Tactical Diversion Squad and the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Police Department. The Tactical Diversion Squad includes participants from the New Haven, Hamden, Greenwich, Shelton, Bristol, Vernon, Wilton, Milford, Monroe, Fairfield and Manchester Police Departments, and the Connecticut State Police.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that WILFREDO GUTIERREZ, also known as “Bean” and “Big Pun,” 40, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to 180 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for trafficking heroin.

This matter stems from an investigation headed by the DEA’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force, Stamford Police Department, Norwalk Police Department and Connecticut State Police. The investigation included court-authorized wiretaps, controlled purchases of narcotics and physical surveillance.

According to court documents and statements made in court, between approximately September 2015 and May 2016, GUTIERREZ and others, including his brother Bobby Gutierrez, also known as “B.O.,” conspired to distribute at least 10 kilograms of heroin in Fairfield County.

GUTIERREZ’s criminal history dates to 1994 and includes multiple state drug convictions for which he has served a total of more than 16 years in prison In July 2011, GUTIERREZ was sentenced to nine years of incarceration and 11 years of special parole for violating Connecticut’s Corrupt Organizations and Racketeering Activity Act (“CORA”) and sale of a controlled substance. He was released to a halfway house on August 27, 2015. While in the halfway house, GUTIERREZ continued to coordinate the acquisition of heroin from individuals in the Bronx, and the distribution of the drug in Fairfield County. On December 21, 2015, he was returned to custody for a technical violation of his parole, and he continued his involvement in the acquisition and sale of heroin.

On May 26, 2016, a search of B&B Deli in Bridgeport, which was owned by the Gutierrez family and served as a hub for their drug dealing, revealed two digital scales, two large ziplock bags containing what appeared to be cutting agents, and five cellular telephones.

WILFREDO GUTIERREZ, Bobby Gutierrez and seven others were charged as a result of the investigation. All pleaded guilty. Bobby Gutierrez is detained while awaiting sentencing.

On November 22, 2016, WILFREDO GUTIERREZ pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin.

Judge Bolden ordered GUTIERREZ’s federal sentence to run concurrently with his state sentence.

The DEA’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force includes members from the Bridgeport, Stamford, Stratford, Norwalk, Milford and Trumbull Police Departments, and the Connecticut State Police.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anthony Kaplan and Heather Cherry.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that ELENA ILIZAROV, 44, of Stamford, waived her right to be indicted and pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to one count of wire fraud stemming from her use of an identity theft victim’s personal identifying information to submit fraudulent bills to private insurance companies offering dental insurance.

According to court documents and statements made in court, ILIZAROV served as the office manager for Advanced Dentistry, a dental practice located in Stamford. Between 2005 and 2016, ILIZAROV billed private dental insurance companies for services allegedly performed by an identity theft victim for patients of Advanced Dentistry, when the victim did not in fact perform those services. The identity theft victim was a dentist who had been affiliated with Advanced Dentistry for a short period of time and retired fully from dentistry in 2011.

Between 2011 and 2015, approximately $581,729 was paid by private insurance companies to Advanced Dentistry for services allegedly provided by the retired dentist. As a result, the insurance companies issued 1099 forms to the Internal Revenue Service pertaining to the retired dentist. In 2015 and 2016, ILIZAROV renewed the retired dentist’s Connecticut dental license and controlled substance registrations, paying for the renewals with her personal credit card. She also applied for, and received, liability insurance in the name of the retired dentist for several years.

The charge of wire fraud carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. A sentencing date has not been scheduled.

ILIZAROV was arrested on a federal criminal complaint on June 21, 2016. She is released on a $500,000 bond.

This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sarala V. Nagala and David J. Sheldon.

U.S. Attorney Daly encourages individuals who suspect health care fraud to report it by calling the Health Care Fraud Task Force at (203) 777-6311 or 1-800-HHS-TIPS.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that DARRIK FORSYTHE, 37, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Robert N. Chatigny in Hartford to 46 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for his role in prison-based phone fraud and extortion scheme.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in December 2011, federal law enforcement agents began investigating a series of criminal schemes being conducted by inmates of Lawton Correctional Facility (“LCF”), a medium security, privately owned, correctional facility located in Lawton, Oklahoma. The investigation revealed that LCF inmates, including FORSYTHE, had access to smuggled cellular phones. Using the smuggled phones, FORSYTHE and others befriended gay men on phone-based chat lines. Then, using false promises and, in certain cases, threats, FORSYTHE and others induced victims to send them cash or prepaid debit cards. Several men across the country were victimized through this scheme.

Between approximately February 2011 and October 2011, FORSYTHE and at least three other LCF inmates obtained a total of $674,100 from one Connecticut resident through this scheme. The victim had befriended an individual named “Joe” on Megamates, a phone-based dating service. Shortly thereafter, individuals began to call the victim demanding money. The callers threatened to reveal the victim’s sexual orientation and cause physical harm to the victim or his family if the victim did not comply. The callers initially demanded cash, and then instructed the victim to send prepaid debit card numbers. As the scheme progressed, the callers demanded increases in the money from several hundreds of dollars to $5,000 or more, multiple times per week.

The victim contacted law enforcement after depleting his family’s $670,000 inheritance for which he served as the custodian. He committed suicide in 2014.

On April 30, 2014, FORSYTHE pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud.

As part of his sentence, FORSYTHE was ordered to pay full restitution.

FORSYTHE has been serving a 20-year sentence for robbery since 2002. His federal sentence will begin at the conclusion of his state sentence.

A second LCF inmate, Sean Siwek, was prosecuted in the Western District of Oklahoma for his role in a similar scheme. (U.S. v. Sean Siwek 5:14cr355).

This matter has been investigated by the U.S. Secret Service, Connecticut Resident Office, with assistance from the Secret Service’s Oklahoma field offices, the Lawton, Oklahoma resident agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Oklahoma Department of Corrections. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David E. Novick of the District of Connecticut, with the assistance of members of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Oklahoma.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that she will continue to serve as U.S. Attorney.

“I thank the Attorney General and the Administration for affording me the opportunity to remain as the U.S. Attorney for the District of Connecticut so that I might complete 20 years of service to the Department of Justice in October,” said U.S. Attorney Daly.  “I look forward to continuing to work on behalf of the residents of Connecticut in my remaining time, and I will focus on an orderly transition as I complete what has been a rewarding tenure in the Office.”

Daly has served as the U.S. Attorney, including in an acting or interim capacity, since May 14, 2013.  From July 2010 to May 2013, she was the First Assistant U.S. Attorney during which time she assisted in the oversight of both the Criminal and Civil Divisions.  From 1985 to 1997, Daly was an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Southern District of New York, where she prosecuted a wide range of cases from racketeering and murder to corruption and fraud, and later served as the Assistant-In-Charge of White Plains Office for three years.  She also served as a law clerk to Honorable Lloyd F. MacMahon, U.S. District Judge for the Southern District of New York, from 1984 to 1985.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office is charged with enforcing federal criminal laws in Connecticut and representing the federal government in civil litigation. The Office is composed of approximately 65 Assistant U.S. Attorneys and approximately 52 staff members at offices in New Haven, Hartford and Bridgeport.

For more information about the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Connecticut, please visit www.justice.gov/ct.

A former executive of an Israel-based defense contractor pleaded guilty for his role in multiple schemes to defraud a multi-billion dollar United States foreign aid program, the Department of Justice announced today.  

Yuval Marshak pleaded guilty to one count of mail fraud, two counts of wire fraud and one count of major fraud against the United States in U.S. District Court for the District of Connecticut today.  He was previously charged in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury in the District of Connecticut on Jan. 21, 2016, and then extradited from Bulgaria in October.  

According to court documents, Marshak carried out three separate schemes between 2009 and 2013 to defraud the Foreign Military Financing program (FMF).  Marshak and others falsified bid documents to make it appear that certain FMF contracts had been competitively bid when they had not.  Marshak further caused false certifications to be made to the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) stating that no commissions were being paid and no non-U.S. content was used in these contracts, when, in fact, Marshak had arranged to receive commissions and to have services performed outside the United States, all in violation of the DoD’s rules and regulations.  Marshak arranged for these undisclosed commission payments to be made to a Connecticut-based company that was owned by a close relative to disguise the true nature and destination of these payments. 

“Today’s guilty plea marks the successful culmination of a complex investigation that required us to work closely with the Israeli government, the DoD and the Office of International Affairs to gather foreign-located evidence and to secure Marshak’s extradition,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Brent Snyder of the Department of Justice’s Antitrust Division.  “This result reflects the division’s deep commitment to identifying and prosecuting schemes to defraud American taxpayers.”    

“This conviction is the result of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service's (DCIS) ongoing effort to identify and investigate fraudulent activity targeting the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) and its programs that support America's national security and foreign policy objectives,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Leigh-Alistair Barzey of the DCIS Northeast Field Office.  “DCIS will continue to aggressively investigate allegations of fraud and abuse threatening the DoD and the Foreign Military Sales Program.”

The United States spends billions of dollars each year through the FMF program to provide foreign governments, including Israel, with money which must be used to purchase American-made military goods and services.  The rules and regulations of the FMF program require the disclosure of and approval for any FMF-funded commissions and require that all goods and services be of United States origin to qualify for FMF funding.  These same rules also strongly encourage the use of competitive bidding in the award of all FMF contracts.  American vendors who receive FMF funded contracts are required to certify their compliance with these regulations to the DoD.  

The Antitrust Division’s New York Office and DCIS prosecuted the case, with assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Connecticut, Israel’s Ministry of Defense and the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs.  Anyone with information on price fixing, bid rigging or other anticompetitive conduct related to government contracts should contact the Antitrust Division’s Citizen Complaint Center at 1-888-647-3258 or visit www.justice.gov/atr/contact/newcase.html.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced her resignation, effective immediately.

“It has been a great honor and privilege to serve as Connecticut’s United States Attorney. In fact, it has been a gift of a lifetime. I am extremely proud of the tremendous accomplishments of the men and women of this office during my tenure. I applaud their tireless work holding our most violent offenders accountable, protecting our children and our environment, standing up for our most vulnerable victims, and not hesitating to stand up to the powerful. Together, we also built bridges and trust with communities. I hope all of this work continues to thrive. The people of Connecticut will be in excellent hands with Acting U.S. Attorney Mike Gustafson, and the more than 100 career employees of the office who dedicate themselves to always doing what is right and just.”

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Gustafson will be the Acting U.S. Attorney.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office is charged with enforcing federal criminal laws in Connecticut and representing the federal government in civil litigation. The Office is composed of approximately 63 Assistant U.S. Attorneys and approximately 52 staff members at offices in New Haven, Hartford and Bridgeport.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven has returned a 39-count indictment charging THOMAS J. CONNERTON, 64, and JEAN S. ERICKSON, 62, both of Stamford, with various offenses stemming from an investment scheme that defrauded individuals of more than $2 million.

The indictment was returned on March 7. CONNERTON and ERICKSON were arrested yesterday and appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William I. Garfinkel in Bridgeport. CONNERTON was detained pending a detention hearing that is scheduled for Monday at 1:00 p.m. ERICKSON was released on a $250,000 bond.

As alleged in the indictment, CONNERTON was the founder, president, and CEO of Safety Technologies, LLC (“Safety Tech”), a Connecticut company that had its principal place of business at various times in Simsbury, Madison, Westport and Stamford. Safety Tech was founded in 2006, purportedly for the purpose of developing and commercializing what was represented to be a highly durable puncture and cut resistant material that was to be used in the surgical glove market and other related markets. Safety Tech has not yet obtained any patents from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, and CONNERTON did not register Safety Tech’s securities with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”).

The indictment alleges that, beginning in approximately June 2009, CONNERTON induced victim-investors to provide him funds and to purchase Safety Tech securities by falsely representing that the valuation of Safety Tech was realistically in the tens or hundreds of millions of dollars, that a lucrative deal to sell or license his glove technology was imminent, and that he would use their funds for research and development, product testing, and to bring the product to market. CONNERTON offered his investors small amounts of equity in Safety Tech through “Subscription Agreements” or investments contracts through which he sold what he described as “Units.”

It is alleged that CONNERTON made numerous other false representations to victim-investors, including stating in September 2015, “I will go on the record to state that there is not a single investor that will lose one dollar invested in Safety Technologies.”

The indictment alleges that even though CONNERTON represented to victim-investors and potential victim-investors that the funds they invested would be used to fund research and development, for product testing, for business expenses and for legal fees, he used invested funds to pay personal expenses including, on two separate occasions, to purchase diamond engagement rings from Tiffany & Co. CONNERTON also used funds to repay loans to an earlier investor.

Through this scheme, it is alleged that CONNERTON defrauded more than 50 victim-investors of more than $2 million.

The indictment further alleges that CONNERTON, with ERICKSON’s assistance, engaged in monetary transactions in an attempt to conceal from the FBI and the SEC the nature and source of funds received by Safety Tech from the sale of Safety Tech securities. CONNERTON and ERICKSON negotiated checks and purchased bank checks in order to move the fraudulent proceeds from one account to another.

The indictment also alleges that, in April 2016, ERICKSON contacted the FBI and falsely stated that she was just an investor when, in truth, she was engaged to CONNERTON and sharing a residence with him at the time. During the call, ERICKSON provided a false address to an FBI Special Agent.

The indictment charges CONNERTON with 12 counts of wire fraud, one count of mail fraud and 18 counts of securities fraud, offenses that carry a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years on each count. The indictment also charges CONNERTON with six counts, and ERICKSON with one count, of money laundering, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years on each count. CONNERTON and ERICKSON are also charged with money laundering conspiracy, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, and ERICKSON is charged with one count of making a false statement to a federal agent, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years.

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

This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael S. McGarry.

Citizens with information that may be helpful to this ongoing investigation, or who believe they have been victimized by this scheme, are encouraged to contact the FBI at (203) 777-6311.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that DON MEEKER, 30, of West Haven, was arrested today on an indictment charging him with a carjacking offense.

A federal grand jury in New Haven returned an indictment yesterday alleging that, on January 1, 2016, MEEKER used threats of violence to steal a 2015 Volkswagon Passat from two victims in Meriden.

After his arrest, MEEKER appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Joan G. Margolis in New Haven and was ordered detained.

The indictment charges MEEKER with one count, of taking a motor vehicle from a person by force and violence or by intimidation, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years.

Elbert Llorens and Kyle Valentine, both of New Haven, previously pleaded guilty to charges related to their roles in this carjacking. Both are detained and await sentencing.

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

This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the East Haven, Meriden, Milford, New Haven and West Haven Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that AURELLE HUCKABEE, 22, of Waterbury, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Alvin W. Thompson in Hartford 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, in the early morning of July 7, 2016, Naugatuck Police and emergency medical personnel responded to a Naugatuck residence on a report of a suspected overdose. The victim, a 31-year-old male, was transported to the hospital where he was pronounced deceased. Investigators seized two bags of suspected heroin and/or fentanyl, as well as the victim’s cellphone, from the scene.

The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner subsequently determined that the victim died as a result of “acute fentanyl intoxication.”

The victim’s cellphone contained hundreds of text messages between the victim and HUCKABEE. The text messages revealed that HUCKABEE regularly supplied heroin to the victim in the weeks preceding the victim’s death.

HUCKABEE has been detained since his arrest on January 4, 2017.

Judge Thompson scheduled sentencing for June 1, 2017, at which time HUCKABEE faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.

This matter is being investigated by the DEA’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad and the Naugatuck Police Department, with support and assistance of the Middlesex State’s Attorney’s Office. The Tactical Diversion Squad includes participants from the New Haven, Hamden, Greenwich, Shelton, Bristol, Vernon, Wilton, Milford, Monroe, Fairfield and Manchester Police Departments, and the Connecticut State Police.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick F. Caruso.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that JOSEPH A. CASTELLANO, 59, of Wallingford, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Robert N. Chatigny in Hartford to 68 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for operating an investment scheme that defrauded individuals of more than $1.4 million.

According to court documents and statements made in court, CASTELLANO operated various entities out of offices in Wallingford, including Casbo Investments, Wallingford Investors Limited Partnership, AIM Realty Investors, and Castellano & Co., LLC. As a Certified Public Accountant and owner of Castellano & Co., LLC, CASTELLANO prepared federal and state tax returns for individuals and local businesses. In connection with his tax preparation business, CASTELLANO established a base of clients to which he offered financial services and investment opportunities in addition to preparing their taxes.

Beginning in approximately July 2007, CASTELLANO falsely represented to victim-investors that he had clients who were in need of capital to fund businesses or real estate development projects, but were unable to secure funding from traditional sources such as financial institutions. CASTELLANO told victim-investors that he would obtain for them a consistent rate of return of between approximately six percent and eight percent annually on their money by taking their money and placing it with, or loaning it to, one or more of his other clients. CASTELLANO, through Casbo Investments, prepared and executed official-looking documents and investment contracts termed “Demand Notes,” which contained a promise to return the principal amount, with interest, at any time.

In fact, there were no actual investments or investment opportunities, and the money was not invested with or loaned to other clients of CASTELLANO. CASTELLANO diverted the funds for his own use and benefit, including for international travel. He also used some of the invested funds to make phony “interest” payments to other victim-investors.

During the scheme, CASTELLANO made false statements to certain victim-investors to explain various delays in the purported interest payments.

Through this scheme, CASTELLANO defrauded 18 victim-investors of a total of $1,447,151. Multiple victims lost most of their retirement savings.

CASTELLANO was arrested on April 6, 2016. On September 16, 2016, he pleaded guilty to one count of mail fraud and one count of money laundering.

CASTELLANO, who had been released on a $250,000 bond, was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service at the conclusion of the sentencing proceeding.

This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, and U.S. Postal Inspection Service. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael McGarry and John Pierpont.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that KENNETH BRICKHOUSE, also known as “K.E.,” 36, last residing in West Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to 120 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for drug and firearm offenses.

This matter stems from an investigation headed by the DEA’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force, Stamford Police Department, Norwalk Police Department and Connecticut State Police. The investigation included court-authorized wiretaps, controlled purchases of narcotics and physical surveillance.

According to court documents and statements made in court, BRICKHOUSE obtained cocaine and heroin from Bobby Gutierrez and other individuals and then sold the drugs to customers and other distributors. Between February and May 2016, BRICKHOUSE made multiple sales of heroin and cocaine to an individual working with law enforcement. During this time, investigators also intercepted hundreds of calls and text messages involving BRICKHOUSE that pertained to the distribution of narcotics.

BRICKHOUSE was arrested on May 26, 2016. On that date, a search of a Norwalk apartment that BRICKHOUSE used to store drugs, convert cocaine into crack cocaine and conduct drug sales, revealed approximately 500 bags of heroin, two baggies of cocaine, a loaded 9mm pistol, and ammunition. Investigators also seized a .357 revolver and ammunition from a vehicle that BRICKHOUSE used to in connection with his drug trafficking activities.

BRICKHOUSE has been detained since his arrest. On September 23, 2016, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense.

BRICKHOUSE’s criminal history includes state convictions for possessing crack with intent to sell, and federal convictions in 2001 for possession with intent to distribute cocaine base (“crack”), using and carrying a firearm in relation to a drug trafficking offense, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. BRICKHOUSE served approximately 127 months in federal prison before his release in November 2011.

The DEA’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force includes members from the Bridgeport, Stamford, Stratford, Norwalk, Milford and Trumbull Police Departments, and the Connecticut State Police.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anthony Kaplan and Heather Cherry.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JAMES DOUGLAS, also known as “Sucky,” 25, of New Haven, was sentenced today by Senior U.S. District Judge Alfred V. Covello in Hartford to 24 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for being a felon in possession of a firearm.

According to court documents and statements made in court, on May 26, 2015, New Haven Police officers received a report that a group of young men were in the vicinity of Orchard and Dickerman Streets and that some of them might be armed with firearms. As the officers approached the group, DOUGLAS began to run away, but fell before he could escape. Officers located and seized a .32 caliber revolver loaded with one bullet from the waistband of DOUGLAS’s pants.

Prior to May 2015, DOUGLAS had sustained felony convictions, including convictions for second degree burglary, carrying a pistol without a permit, and assault on public safety personnel.

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.

DOUGLAS has been detained since his arrest on May 26, 2015.

This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the New Haven Police Department.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennifer P. Laraia and Michael E. Runowicz.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, Patricia M. Ferrick, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Hartford Police Chief James C. Rovella, today announced the unsealing of a 31-count indictment charging 16 individuals with federal narcotics offenses related to the distribution of heroin and crack cocaine in Hartford.  The indictment also charges four of the defendants with firearm and robbery offenses.

The indictment, which was returned by a grand jury in Hartford on February 23, 2017, and unsealed yesterday, stems from “Operation Stamp Out,” 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.

According to allegations made in court, the investigation specifically targeted criminal activity being committed by members and associates of the Orange Street Killas (OSK).  OSK is a geographically-based street gang operating 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 Ruben Torres and certain OSK members acquired heroin and crack cocaine from other OSK members and then sold the narcotics on the streets of Hartford.

During the investigation, on October 8, 2016, at approximately 10:12 p.m., Hartford’s ShotSpotter system detected multiple shots fired in the area of 7-9 Cherry Street.  Hartford Police responded and located a male victim in the backyard of 51 Orange Street.  The victim, who was suffering from three gunshot wounds to his legs, was transported to the hospital and survived the shooting.  The indictment charges four defendants with firearm and robbery offenses related to this shooting.

“Gang-related drug trafficking continues to plague our inner cities,” said U.S. Attorney Daly.  “A relatively small number of offenders are responsible for the vast amount of the gun violence that traumatizes our neighborhoods.  These same offenders peddle the heroin that has caused the tragic spike in heroin overdose deaths in cities and towns throughout Connecticut.  The U.S. Attorney’s Office and our federal law enforcement partners have a long-standing commitment to assist the Hartford Police in reducing violent crime and drug trafficking in our capital city.  We thank the FBI and the HPD for their tremendous work supporting this prosecution.”

“It’s the continued dedication and commitment of agents and officers in this case that has led to the disruption of street gang activity in this Hartford neighborhood,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Ferrick.  “This joint effort in this case, and many others, will lead to a safer community.”

Charged in the indictment are:

RUBEN TORRES, a.k.a. “Rube,” “Ru,” and “T,” 25, of Hartford
ANTWANE WILLIAMS-BEY, a.k.a. “Buck,” 26, of East Windsor
MICHAEL CHAPMAN, a.k.a. “Nice” and “Mizzo,” 25, of New Britain
CHARLES TURNER, a.k.a. “Rell” and “CJ,” 26, of Hartford
TAYRENCE WILLIS, a.k.a. “T” and “T-Franklin,” 24, of Hartford
TYRRYQ RODRIGUEZ, a.k.a. “Ty,” “Little Ty” and “Tye Bangs,” 19, of Hartford
ERIC SMITH, a.k.a. “Hood,” 29, of Hartford
ADRIAN CRUZ, a.k.a. “Ray,” 28, of Hartford
BRENDAN SALMON, a.k.a. “One Eye,” 23, of Hartford
NOEL MONTANEZ, 18, of Hartford
JHOVANY VALDES, 40, of East Windsor
WILLIE DEAS, a.k.a. “Debo” and “Flee,” 21, of Hartford
MARCUS GARY, 33, of South Windsor
YOLANDA LOZADA, a.k.a. “Sexy,” 38, of East Hartford
JAMAL JOHNSON, 29, of Hartford
BUELL FRENCH, 36, of Hartford

On February 10, 2017, investigators arrested TORRES, WILLIAMS-BEY, CHAPMAN, WILLIS, RODRIGUEZ, SMITH, SALMON, MONTANEZ and VALDES.  On that date, a search of TORRES’ Hartford apartment lead to the seizure of approximately 260 bags of heroin, ammunition, a gun cleaning kit and a holster.  Searches of WILLIAMS-BEY’s East Windsor residence and a relative’s Hartford residence revealed approximately 900 bags of heroin and crack cocaine.  Agents seized more than 300 grams of heroin and three firearms, one of which was stolen, at VALDES' East Windsor residence, and a firearm and crack cocaine at CHAPMAN’s residence.

TURNER was arrested on February 21, and SALMON and LOZADA were arrested on March 1.

CRUZ has been in custody since July 31, 2016, and DEAS has been in custody since October 28, 2016.  Both were originally arrested on state charges.

GARY and JOHNSON have not been arrested are being sought.

The indictment charges each of the defendants with conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, heroin and cocaine base (“crack”).  If convicted of this charge, based on the type and quantity of narcotics charged, TORRES, WILLIAMS-BEY, CHAPMAN, and TURNER face a minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life; VALDES, SMITH, CRUZ, MONTANEZ, LOZADA and GARY face a minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years, and WILLIS, RODRIGUEZ, SALMON, DEAS, JOHNSON and FRENCH face a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.

TORRES, WILLIAMS-BEY, CHAPMAN, TURNER, SMITH, CRUZ, SALMON, VALDES, DEAS and JOHNSON also are charged with one or more counts of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, various quantities of heroin and/or crack cocaine.

TORRES, DEAS, WILLIS and RODRIGUEZ are charged with interference with commerce by robbery, and conspiracy to interfere with commerce by robbery; TORRES is charged with use of a firearm in relation to a drug trafficking crime; and TORRES, DEAS and RODRIGUEZ are charged with conspiracy to possess a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence and a drug trafficking crime.  These charges relate to the October 8, 2016 shooting in the vicinity of 7-9 Cherry Street.  DEAS also is charged with an additional count of interference with commerce by robbery, which relates to an attempted robbery that occurred on October 26, 2016.

Finally, the indictment charges CHAPMAN and VALDES each with one count of being felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, and VALDES with one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

U.S. Attorney Daly 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.

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.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that DONALD LUCIANO, 45, last residing in Bridgeport, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton in New Haven to 11 months of imprisonment for violating the terms and conditions of his federal supervised release.

On July 18, 2013, LUCIANO was sentenced in federal court in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., to 24 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for possessing child pornography. He began supervision in the District of Connecticut on October 31, 2014.

According to court documents and statements made in court, LUCIANO engaged in numerous violations of the terms of his supervised release, including having unsupervised contact with minors, using or accessing unauthorized computers, traveling out of state on multiple occasions without prior permission (including trips to Block Island, R.I., and the Hamptons, N.Y.), associating with felons, and failing to give truthful answers and reports to the U.S. Probation Office.

LUCIANO has been detained since his arrest on August 1, 2016, for supervised release violations. When he is released from prison, he faces five years of supervised release, the first six months of which he will serve in a halfway house. LUCIANO also faces pending state larceny charges on allegations of fraud.

This matter was brought by the U.S. Probation Office with additional investigation provided by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David T. Huang.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MARYANNE STEPHENS, 69, of Ireland, formerly of Rocky Hill, Conn., was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven to three months of imprisonment, followed by one year of supervised release, for stealing Social Security retirement benefits that had been deposited into her deceased mother-in-law’s bank account. Chief Judge Hall also ordered STEPHENS to perform 75 hours of community service while on supervised release, and to pay restitution to the Social Security Administration.

According to court documents and statements made in court, STEPHENS’ mother-in-law began receiving Social Security retirement benefits in 1971. Her mother-in-law died in October 1998. However, approximately $204,000 in Social Security retirement benefits were directly deposited into her mother-in-law’s bank account after her death.

On November 28, 2016, STEPHENS pleaded guilty to one count of theft of public money. In pleading guilty, she admitted that from approximately March 2004 to December 2010, she forged her mother-in-law’s signature on bank checks in order to fraudulently obtain approximately $126,000 in Social Security retirement benefits that were deposited into her mother-in-law’s bank account after her mother-in-law had died. In total, STEPHENS forged her mother-in-law’s signature on 98 bank checks to withdraw the money from the account.

STEPHENS has been released on a $200,000 bond since her arrest on April 20, 2016. She was ordered to report to prison on April 3, 2017.

This matter was investigated by the Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Neeraj N. Patel.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that BRANDON WILLIAMS, also known as “14K,” 35, of Bridgeport, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to one count of sex trafficking of a minor.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in July and August 2015, WILLIAMS caused a minor female, who he knew was under the age of 18, to engage in commercial sex acts. The minor victim’s sexual services were advertised on the internet websites Backpage and Cityvibe, and WILLIAMS rented hotel rooms in which he and the minor victim stayed.

The charge of sex trafficking of a minor carries a maximum term of imprisonment of life. A sentencing date is not yet scheduled.

WILLIAMS has been detained since his arrest on related state charges on August 26, 2015.

This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Homeland Security Investigations, with the assistance of the Bridgeport Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sarala V. Nagala and David E. Novick.

Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JOHN EASTMAN, 49, of Waterbury, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to one count of enticing minors to engage in sexually explicit conduct during online video chats.

According to court documents and statements made in court, between June and November 2012, EASTMAN engaged in video chats with minors over the internet using his computer and online video chatting services such as Skype. During these video chats, EASTMAN enticed the minors to engage in sexually explicit conduct, which EASTMAN recorded and/or photographed and then saved on his computer. In order to deceive and entice the minors, EASTMAN posed as famous singers and musicians that are popular to teenagers.

In pleading guilty, EASTMAN admitted that on approximately November 6, 2012, he used the screen name justin.bieber727 to communicate via Skype with a female who was under the age of 18. During the video chat, EASTMAN asked the minor to expose herself and pose in a sexually explicit manner. EASTMAN then saved on his computer a still image of the female exposing herself.

Judge Shea scheduled sentencing for May 25, 2017, at which time EASTMAN faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life.

EASTMAN has been detained since his arrest on related state charges in May 2013.

This matter is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Waterbury Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Neeraj N. Patel and Anastasia E. King.

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

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