District of Delaware

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced today that a federal grand jury returned an indictment last week charging a Philadelphia man with robbing an armored security truck at gunpoint.

According to the court documents, on June 10, 2022, Tayion Spencer, 31, robbed an armored truck used to collect and deliver U.S. currency in Wilmington, Delaware. Spencer previously worked for the armored truck company he robbed, and he wore his former employer’s uniform during the robbery.  During the robbery, Spencer brandished and aimed a firearm at the armored truck driver. A scuffle then ensued where Spencer tasered the driver, stole the driver’s firearm, and drove away in the armored truck.

The Delaware State Police (“DSP”) and FBI located video surveillance showing Spencer fleeing the scene and abandoning the armored truck for a car registered to him. DSP and FBI agents located the armored truck nearby. Spencer stole over $100,000 in cash. 

On June 21, 2022, Palm Beach Police arrested Spencer in Florida after he fled a traffic stop and crashed into a marked police vehicle, following a police pursuit. Palm Beach Police recovered a loaded Glock semi-automatic handgun, a taser matching the one used during the robbery, a ski mask, Spencer’s employment paperwork, and approximately $3,200.

If convicted of Hobbs Act Robbery, carjacking, and brandishing and use of a firearm in relation to a crime of violence, Spencer faces a mandatory minimum of 7 years and maximum penalty of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

U.S. Attorney Weiss stated, “Mr. Spencer is charged with Hobbs Act Robbery, carjacking, and using a firearm during that robbery.  While fleeing law enforcement, he recklessly endangered others.  My office and our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners are committed to holding individuals accountable who participate in violent criminal activity.”

This case is being investigated by the Delaware State Police and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin P. Pierce is prosecuting the case.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER.

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced that a Wilmington man was sentenced on September 7, 2022, to 5 years in federal prison for possessing a gun in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. U.S. District Judge Richard G. Andrews pronounced the sentence.

According to court documents and statements made in open court, Akil Johnson, 26, was arrested by Wilmington Police Department’s (“WPD”) Safe Streets Task Force following an investigation that led to the discovery of guns and drugs in his house.  After surveillance officers saw Johnson selling drugs outside his home, WPD obtained and executed a search warrant for the property.

In Mr. Johnson’s bedroom closet, officers found two loaded handguns, a black Glock 27 and a loaded silver and black Bersa; 33 grams of cocaine; 234 baggies containing a fentanyl and tramadol mixture, weighing about 14 grams; and 250 grams of marijuana.  The guns were found together inside of a cloth laundry bag within the closet. Elsewhere in the bedroom, officers found another 500 grams of marijuana, a loaded extended magazine, and drug paraphernalia, including two black digital scales and an Amazon package containing 169 small zip lock bags filled with suspected heroin.

U.S. Attorney Weiss commented on the sentence: “The proliferation of illegal firearms is devasting our neighborhoods. Firearms are particularly dangerous when they are in the hands of illicit drug dealers.  I commend WPD’s Safe Streets Task Force for working to keep our communities safe.”

“This sentencing is another example of our unrelenting efforts to hold offenders accountable for illegal firearm possession,” said Wilmington Police Chief Robert J. Tracy. “We continue to work closely with our federal partners and the United States Attorney’s Office to ensure the strongest possible penalties for gun crimes that threaten public safety in our community.”

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer K. Welsh prosecuted the case, which was investigated by Wilmington Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. 

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 21-cr-71.

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced today that a Wilmington man, Rudolph Hardin, 55, was sentenced to 86 months in federal court for possession of a stolen firearm. Chief U.S. District Judge Colm F. Connolly pronounced the sentence.

According to court documents and statements made in open court, an undercover Wilmington Police Department (“WPD”) detective was working in the area of 3rd and Broom Streets.  The undercover detective was approached by an individual who offered to sell him crack cocaine.  When the undercover officer agreed, the individual went directly to the porch of a nearby home. The undercover detective witnessed the individual exchange a package with Mr. Hardin. Based on that conduct, law enforcement obtained a search warrant to search the home where they recovered a stolen black .45 caliber Rock Island Armory firearm and illegal drugs. Mr. Hardin admitted to possessing the firearm and selling the illegal narcotics.

U.S. Attorney Weiss commented on the sentence: “The deadly combination of illicit drugs and illegal firearms continues to threaten our communities. Disrupting the flow of illegal drugs and stolen firearms is critical to reducing violent crime. I commend the WPD undercover detective and the DEA for their efforts in this case.”

“The proliferation of illegal guns has had a catastrophic impact on the increase in violence in our communities,” said Thomas Hodnett, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Philadelphia Field Division.  “That Hardin possessed a stolen firearm while selling crack cocaine warranted him being charged and sentenced in federal district court.  I would like to thank our partners at the Wilmington Police Department and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their support of this case.” 

“This sentencing is yet another example of our strong working relationships with our federal partners at the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the DEA,” said Wilmington Police Chief Robert J. Tracy. “We appreciate their support of our community through our collective efforts to hold gun offenders accountable.”

The Drug Enforcement Administration and WPD investigated this case. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael McTaggart prosecuted the case.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:21-cr-00010.

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced today that Carlos Juan Camacho Quinones, 36, of Newark, was sentenced to 46 months imprisonment for possession with intent to distribute cocaine. U.S. District Court Judge Richard G. Andrews pronounced the sentence.

According to court documents and statements made in open court, the Defendant was arrested in March 2021 after he was surveilled for several months receiving and transporting U.S. mail packages that contained suspected cocaine. Quinones pled guilty in October 2021.

U.S. Attorney Weiss stated, “Trafficking in large quantities of drugs threatens the safety and security of our communities. The sentence imposed is necessary to keep our communities safe and deter others from participating in illegal drug trafficking. Our office, along with our law enforcement partners, is committed to fully investigating and prosecuting these serious drug crimes.”

“Mr. Quinones trafficked significant amounts of dangerous narcotics via mail packages for distribution, posing a danger to citizens," stated Baltimore FBI Special Agent in Charge, Thomas J. Sobocinski.  "Through our robust law enforcement partnership with the U.S. Postal Inspection Service in Delaware, the FBI remains committed to disrupting the flow of deadly drugs into our communities, and to hold drug traffickers accountable.”   

Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander P. Ibrahim prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the FBI.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 21-cr-68.

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced that Jacquill Stovall, 33, of Wilmington, was sentenced today to 10 years in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Richard G. Andrew for possessing a stolen firearm and possessing fentanyl with the intent to distribute it.

According to court documents and statements made in open court, the Wilmington Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) began investigating Stovall after he sold fake Oxycodone pills to a law-enforcement cooperator in January 2021.  In a subsequent search of Stovall’s apartment in downtown Wilmington, officers found additional fake Oxycodone pills, along with a stolen firearm hidden in a kitchen cabinet.  When law enforcement arrested Stovall, they found a second loaded gun in his waistband.  Stovall admitted that he had been selling the pills and that he knew they were not Oxycodone.  Chemical testing showed that the pills contained fentanyl, an extremely dangerous controlled substance. 

U.S. Attorney Weiss commented on the sentence, “More people die every year by overdosing on fentanyl than by homicide.  In the midst of an escalating opioid epidemic, Stovall sold fake Oxycodone pills to addicts.   Unlike lawfully prescribed medications, these counterfeit pills had been pressed on the streets and actually contained fentanyl.  And although he tried to hide it in a kitchen cabinet, Stovall also possessed a stolen firearm.  Now, he will spend ten years in federal prison for his crimes.” 

“This investigation is a great example of our strong partnership with the DEA and our joint efforts to make our communities safer,” stated Wilmington Department of Police Chief Robert Tracy.

“Stovall was responsible for trafficking fake pills that contained illicit fentanyl and for possessing a stolen firearm,” said Thomas Hodnett, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA’s Philadelphia Field Division.  “Stopping the deadly supply of fake pills such as the ones that Stovall trafficked is the highest enforcement priority for the DEA.  Learn more about the dangers of fake pills from DEA’s One Pill Can Kill campaign, which can be accessed at DEA.gov/OnePill.”

Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher R. Howland prosecuted the case, which was investigated by WPD and the DEA. 

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 22-cr-18-RGA.

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced that a Seaford man was sentenced yesterday to 30 days imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release for defrauding the Social Security Administration (“SSA”) of nearly $150,000 through a scheme that lasted more than a decade. The sentence was pronounced by Chief U.S. District Judge Colm F. Connolly.

According to court documents, Marques Fountain, 42, collected another man’s SSA retirement benefits after the beneficiary died. The man, for whom Fountain served as a caretaker, passed away in 2009. The SSA, however, continued to deposit the deceased man’s SSA retirement benefits into a bank account controlled by Fountain.  For more than a decade, Fountain accessed and used these SSA retirement benefits for his personal expenses.  After admitting that he knew stealing the money was wrong, Fountain pleaded guilty in October 2021.

U.S. Attorney Weiss stated, “Social Security Administration benefits provide much needed assistance to the most vulnerable members of our society. Mr. Fountain spent a decade stealing from the federal government.  Thanks to the work of the SSA Office of the Inspector General, Fountain will now spend time in federal prison and be required to pay full restitution to the government.”

“Mr. Fountain chose to defraud the Social Security Administration rather than report the beneficiary’s death to use for his personal gain for more than ten years. Today’s sentencing shows that concealing death reports from SSA to obtain deceased benefits is a serious criminal offense,” said Gail S. Ennis, Inspector General for the SSA. “We will continue to pursue those who defraud SSA programs, and I appreciate the U.S. Attorney’s Office for prosecuting this case.” 

Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher R. Howland prosecuted the case, which was investigated by SSA’s Office of the Inspector General. 

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 20-cr-82-CFC.

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced today that Ana Soto, 41, of Wilmington and formerly of Newark, was sentenced yesterday to 31 months imprisonment on wire fraud and money laundering convictions. Chief U. S. District Court Judge Colm F. Connolly pronounced the sentence.

Within days of the passage of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, Soto began her scheme to defraud the Small Business Administration (SBA) and its authorized lenders. Between March 30, 2020, and January 24, 2021, Soto submitted approximately seventeen (17) fraudulent loan applications in order to obtain loans through the small business loan programs established by the CARES Act including the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) Program.  These applications were made on behalf of five entities controlled by Soto or her close relations.  Each of the loan applications falsely stated the amount of gross revenues, cost of goods sold, and number of employees.  In some instances, the loan applications falsely claimed the businesses were in operation at the start of the Coronavirus Pandemic.  As a result of these false applications, Soto obtained approximately $246,000, and applied for, but was denied, an additional approximately $500,000 in CARES Act loans.

U.S. Attorney Weiss stated, “Today the Court justly held Ana Soto accountable for her crimes.  Defendant’s conduct, which took advantage of government programs designed to provide economic support for the American people at the outset of a global pandemic, is particularly deplorable.  When the government stepped in to quickly provide relief and reassure its citizens with financial help, Defendant chose to exploit the system to her own advantage.  We remain committed to prosecuting those who have done the same.  Defendant’s sentence should be a stark reminder that we will bring to justice those who defrauded the government during the COVID-19 pandemic.”

"This is an example of someone who was attempting to take advantage of a program to help Americans during the Covid-19 pandemic," said Special Agent in Charge Thomas J Sobocinski of the FBI’s Baltimore Field Office.  “We would like to thank our partners at the IRS in helping us to ensure funds provided for Covid-19 programs make it to the people in Delaware who need it the most.”

Ana Soto deliberately and repeatedly carried out a scheme to defraud a program that was implemented to assist people during the pandemic,” said Yury Kruty, Special Agent in Charge of IRS-Criminal Investigation.  “Today’s sentencing punishes her and serves as a warning to others that IRS-CI and our law enforcement partners stand ready to investigate those who attempt to fleece the government.” 

The case was investigated by the FBI and IRS-Criminal Investigation.  It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lesley Wolf.  U.S. Attorney Weiss thanked the investigators for their diligence and dedication in pursuing this investigation.

WILMINGTON, Del. – U.S. Attorney David C. Weiss announced that a Port Deposit, Maryland woman was sentenced today to 24 months of probation, to include 6 months of home confinement; to repay victims $138,000 in restitution; and to complete 250 hours of community service. The sentence followed a jury verdict convicting defendant of a six-year scheme to defraud her employer, All About Women, an obstetrics and gynecology practice serving Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Maryland.  U.S. Federal Circuit Judge Leonard P. Stark pronounced sentence.

Kimberly Sponaugle, 44, was convicted in December 2021, following a jury trial, of one count of wire fraud.  The jury determined that she had developed and executed a scheme to steal from her employer, a prominent Delaware medical practice, from January 2012 through March 2018.  Over those years, Sponaugle used her company credit card to make personal purchases and paid off those purchases with her employer’s bank account.

During the time Ms. Sponaugle stole from them, All About Women was a partnership, owned by doctors who practiced there.  The owners of All About Women dedicated their careers to providing high-quality reproductive healthcare to 40,000 women.  The defendant’s fraud scheme caused substantial disruption for its 65 employees and thousands of women across four states.  It also forced the partners of All About Women to relinquish their dream of small business ownership in favor of a new practice management model.  Despite this hardship, the doctors continue to provide critical obstetrical and gynecological care to their patients.

U.S. Attorney David C. Weiss commented, “Kim Sponaugle was entrusted with the responsibility to protect the financial health of All About Women and its partners. She used her position to steal from practitioners dedicated to providing reproductive healthcare to thousands of women in Delaware and the surrounding states. While we are pleased the victims will receive some restitution for this crime, at this time when access to these services is paramount, the probationary sentence imposed sends precisely the wrong message. No matter the sentence, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to investigating and prosecuting those who steal from healthcare providers who offer vital services to the citizens of Delaware.”

This case was investigated by the FBI and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Carly Hudson and Ruth Mandelbaum.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 19-cr-23-LPS.

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced today that a Wilmington woman pled guilty in federal court on August 12, 2022, to three counts of tax evasion.  U.S. District Judge Richard G. Andrews accepted the plea.

According to court documents, Brenda Mathis, the owner of LJ’s Playpen Academy, a Wilmington daycare center, failed to declare all of the income received by the daycare on its corporate tax returns.  As a result, the daycare underpaid taxes in 2015, 2016, and 2017.

Mathis faces a maximum of 5 years in prison for each count when sentenced on December 16, 2022. Judge Andrews will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

U.S. Attorney Weiss commented, “Brenda Mathis’ scheme to evade taxes for the purpose of lining her own pockets was a theft from the American public.  Together with our law enforcement partners, we will continue to protect the interests of law-abiding taxpayers by pursuing those who evade taxes for their own enrichment.”

“This guilty plea is a win for all those who play by the rules,” said IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge Yury Kruty. “Mathis defrauded our nation’s tax system, a criminal act that will not be tolerated. Let her admission of guilt serve as a stern warning to anyone thinking about engaging in similar criminal behavior.”

IRS-Criminal Investigation investigated the case in coordination with the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (“OIG”), FBI, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture OIG.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ruth Mandelbaum and Alexander Ibrahim are prosecuting the case.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:21-cr-00003.

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware announced today that Robert L. Higgins, age 67, of West Chester, PA, was indicted in a Second Superseding Indictment on eight counts of fraud and five counts of tax evasion.      

The Indictment charges that Higgins owned and operated businesses in Wilmington, including First State Depository Company, Certified Assets Management, Inc., and Argent Asset Group, LLC, which were involved in the purchase, storage, and sale of precious metals.

More specifically, the Indictment charges that:

• In 2012, Higgins accepted money from an investor for the purchase of silver but had no intent to deliver on that promise and instead fraudulently used the money to operate his businesses, which were on the verge of financial collapse, and which did collapse by approximately the end of 2012;
• Higgins refused the investor’s repeated demands for the full return of his approximately $828,000 investment and;
• Higgins ultimately met with the victim investor and lied to him about the true history of his investment;
• Higgins evaded personal income taxes for the years 2015 through 2019 by diverting Argent Asset Group business funds to pay personal expenses, and by filing false returns with the IRS.   

U.S. Attorney Weiss stated, “Financial challenges do not excuse obligations to file and properly report to the IRS.  Nor can financial difficulties ever justify fraud.  Financial transactions demand accurate disclosures to investors and regulators, and no one can simply ignore the requirements of law.”

An Indictment is merely an accusation.  A person is presumed innocent until proven guilty.   

The case is being investigated by the FBI and IRS-Criminal Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Edmund Falgowski is prosecuting the case.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 22-44 MN.

WILMINGTON, Del. –David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced today that Ryan Freeman and Shaquayvis Asberry, both from the Atlanta, Georgia area, pled guilty to conspiring to deal firearms without a license and related gun charges in federal court.  Freeman pled guilty on July 12, 2022.  Asberry pled guilty yesterday, August 3, 2022.  The Honorable Colm F. Connolly, Chief Judge, U.S. District Court for the District of Delaware, accepted both pleas. 

According to court filings and statements made in open court, on January 16, 2021, while patrolling Interstate 495, Delaware State Police officers stopped the defendants for a routine traffic violation.  Officers found 10 guns during a search of defendants’ car.  Further investigation by the ATF revealed various text messages, photographs, and financial records, all of which demonstrated the Defendants’ intent to illegally sell these firearms.  The Indictment also alleges that, with Asberry’s help, Freeman had been selling firearms without a license  in Philadelphia since the summer of 2020. 

U.S. Attorney Weiss stated, “Illegally trafficking firearms threatens our communities by providing individuals prohibited from possessing guns with ready access to these weapons.  Disrupting the unlawful interstate transfer of firearms requires cooperation among federal, state, and local law enforcement.  I want to thank the Delaware State Police and ATF for their thorough investigation.”

“These defendants illegally transported guns through numerous states, numerous communities, all with the intention of selling them illegally,” said ATF Baltimore Special Agent in Charge Toni M. Crosby. “Every step of the way, this threatens the safety of the public. ATF and our law enforcement partners will continue to identify and investigate anyone trafficking firearms and placing more guns into the hands of criminals.”

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from the Delaware State Police.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher L. de Barrena-Sarobe is prosecuting the case.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 21-CR-00055 (CFC).

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced today that Jeremy Johnson, 34, of Wilmington, was sentenced to 5 years in prison for possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.  U.S. District Judge Maryellen Noreika pronounced the sentence.

According to court documents Johnson was arrested by the Wilmington Police Department after he was observed on live-stream surveillance video conducting suspected narcotics transactions in and around a parked Mercedes.  A subsequent search of that Mercedes uncovered two firearms, over 68 grams of cocaine, oxycodone pills, and three digital scales.

Commenting on the case, U.S. Attorney Weiss stated, “Our community continues to face daily the lethal consequences of a gun epidemic and a drug epidemic.  Individuals like the defendant who make the choice to possess guns while engaging in drug dealing activity put their own lives at risk, as well as the lives of innocent bystanders.  Our office is committed to ensuring that individuals who choose to engage in such dangerous and illegal behavior face the consequences that they deserve.”

“The combination of drugs and firearms is often deadly, especially when firearms are used by someone engaged in activities like selling drugs,” said ATF Baltimore Special Agent in Charge Toni M. Crosby. “The more people bring drugs and the threat of gun violence into a community, the harder it is for the law-abiding citizens in that community to have a sense of safety or normalcy. ATF will continue to work alongside our law enforcement partners and prosecutors to ensure that offenders bringing this kind of crime and instability into Delaware neighborhoods are held accountable.”

This case was investigated by the Wilmington Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jesse S. Wenger. 

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:21-cr-23.

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced that on Monday a federal jury convicted a Bear, Delaware couple on charges of conspiracy to commit money laundering and various other money laundering offenses, in connection with an eight-year scheme to launder drug proceeds.  The jury separately found that thirteen real properties were involved in the money laundering offenses and subject to criminal forfeiture.  Circuit Judge Stephanos Bibas, sitting by designation, accepted the verdict. 

According to court records and evidence presented at trial, between 2009 and 2017, Omar Morales Colon, age 45, and his wife Shakira Martinez, age 44, laundered over a million dollars in drug proceeds through the purchase of real estate properties in Delaware and Pennsylvania using their company, Zemi Property Management.  They deposited drug money into several different bank accounts – and asked their friends and family members to do the same – and then used those funds to buy cashier’s checks that funded the property purchases.  The government also presented evidence at trial that Colon made improvements to those properties using drug proceeds, including paying cash to have an underground bunker installed beneath his home in Bear, Delaware. 

Colon was arrested on May 6, 2017, shortly after giving his cocaine supplier $382,045 in cash in a hotel parking lot in Newark, Delaware.  The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) subsequently discovered the secret underground bunker beneath Colon’s residence, accessed by a tunnel behind a false fireplace, in which Colon hid a marijuana grow operation. 

U.S. Attorney Weiss commented on the case, “The defendant was a sophisticated drug trafficker who conspired with others, including members of the Sinaloa cartel, to bring vast amounts of cocaine into Delaware.  He and Ms. Martinez also laundered the proceeds of his drug activity through the U.S. financial system. The DEA’s investigation led to the seizure of 17 kilograms of cocaine, pounds of marijuana, nearly $1 million in cash, and the conviction of a major drug trafficker.  My office will continue working with our law enforcement partners to hold accountable those who profit from illegal drug operations by not only prosecuting them, but also endeavoring to deprive them of the fruits of their illegal activities.

“Colon and Martinez underestimated IRS-Criminal Investigation Special Agents’ hallmark expertise,” said IRS-CI Special Agent in Charge Yury Kruty. These defendants thought they could hide the source of their ill-gotten gains, but the overwhelming evidence presented to the jury during trial showed just how wrong they were. This guilty verdict is a reminder that our commitment to unraveling complex financial transactions and money laundering schemes remain unwavering.”

Colon was convicted in September 2021 of related counts – conspiracy to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine and possession of marijuana with intent to distribute.  Colon faces a mandatory minimum of ten years in prison when sentenced, with a maximum of life. Martinez faces a maximum of twenty years in prison.  Judge Bibas will determine the defendants’ sentences, after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennifer K. Welsh and Meredith C. Ruggles are prosecuting the case.  This case was investigated by the DEA Philadelphia Division and the IRS-Criminal Investigation.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:17-cr-00047-LPS.

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced that a Wilmington man pled guilty in federal court today to one count of engaging in interstate murder-for-hire. During the hearing before Chief District Court Judge Colm F. Connolly, Javier A. Rodriguez, 47, admitted that he hired a hitman to kill his ex-wife.  Pursuant to his guilty plea, Rodriguez faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison.  Sentencing was set for October 25, 2022.

According to statements made in open court, Rodriguez offered an FBI confidential source $10,000 to kill his wife.  During a series of meetings with the confidential source in February 2022, Rodriguez discussed different ways to kill his ex-wife and eventually gave the confidential source a $5,000 down payment, with the remaining $5,000 to be paid after his ex-wife was killed.  Shortly after handing the money over, Rodriguez told the confidential source, “I got to eliminate this b****, dog.”

U.S. Attorney Weiss commented on the sentence, “The FBI partnered with the Wilmington Police Department and other law enforcement agencies to prevent the murder of an innocent woman, while also ensuring that sufficient evidence was gathered to successfully prosecute this dangerous defendant.  Soliciting another person to have a former spouse killed is a particularly heinous crime. My office will continue to work with all our law enforcement partners to protect our community members from violence in all forms.”

“The FBI continues to protect the public from offenders who have such bold indifference for human life,” said Thomas J. Sobocinski, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Baltimore field office. “This case serves as a notice to those who commit, or conspire to commit, acts of violence in our communities that they will be held responsible.”     

The case was investigated by the FBI Safe Streets Violent Crime Taskforce, which is a partnership of law enforcement officers from the FBI, Wilmington Police Department, Delaware State Police, Delaware Probation and Parole, and New Castle County Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alexander P. Ibrahim and Christopher L. de Barrena-Sarobe are prosecuting the case.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware.  Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER.  The case number is 01:22-CR-0045 (CFC). 

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced today that Bruce M. Jarvela, III, 25, of Dover, was sentenced on June 21, 2022, to 15 years in federal prison followed by 10 years of supervised release. U.S. District Judge Richard G. Andrews pronounced the sentence.

Jarvela pled guilty to one count of Enticement of a Minor to Produce Child Pornography on October 18, 2021.

According to publicly filed documents and statements made in open court, Jarvela used social media to lie about his identity and offer money in exchange for pornography—though he never paid. Jarvela got pornography from dozens of adult women. He also got pornography from three known minor females—two of whom were younger than 15. He enticed these minors into creating videos of themselves performing humiliating sexual conduct. When one of these minors decided she had had enough, Jarvela contacted her via text message, threatened her, and tried to coerce her into making more pornography.

Commenting on the case, U.S. Attorney Weiss stated, “Use of technology and social media is ubiquitous among today’s young people. While much good can come from such interconnection, dangerous predators exploit this environment. We are committed to prosecuting unscrupulous adults who victimize children to obtain child pornography. I urge parents and children alike to be wary of sharing information with on-line strangers to avoid falling prey to individuals like the defendant.”

“Jarvela used social media to exploit and extort young people, even going so far as to threaten those who refused him. With this sentence, Jarvela is off the streets, no longer able to prey on others. HSI is committed to uncovering online predators and, with our partners, we’re working tirelessly to make the internet a safer place for children,” said William S. Walker, Special Agent in Charge for Homeland Security Investigations, Philadelphia.

Homeland Security Investigations, the Delaware Child Predator Task Force, and the Caroline County, Maryland Sheriff’s Office investigated this case, which was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Graham L. Robinson of the District of Delaware.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the U.S. Department of Justice.  Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices across the country and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section of the Department of Justice, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.  For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced today that U.S. District Court Judge Joshua D. Wolson sentenced Ryan Bacon, 37, to thirty years in prison and Michael Pritchett, 37, to twenty-five years in prison.  Bacon and Pritchett had each pleaded guilty to federal stalking, kidnapping, and firearms charges.

According to court documents, Bacon and Pritchett, along with other co-conspirators, were engaged in a public feud with M.S., a former friend of Bacon.  The feud began when Bacon—who released rap songs under the moniker “Buck 50”—published a song that was construed as publicly labeling M.S. a “rat” or “snitch.”  That feud resulted in violence between Bacon and his associates and M.S. and his associates.

In May and June 2017, Bacon, Pritchett, and others actively searched for M.S. in an attempt to kill him.  On June 6, 2017, in their pursuit of M.S., Bacon, Pritchett, and co-conspirators kidnapped M.S.’s girlfriend, Keyonna Perkins, and held her at gunpoint. Perkins was then forced into the trunk of two separate cars, while the defendants and others used her phone to locate M.S.  Bacon, Pritchett, and others finally located M.S. and fired multiple shots, but failed to hit him.  Following that shooting, Perkins was forced into the trunk of a car and driven by Bacon and another co-conspirator to Elkton, Maryland where she was murdered.

Pritchett and a co-conspirator, meanwhile, continued their pursuit of M.S. after the first failed shooting.  They located M.S. at Probation & Parole Offices in New Castle, and waited for M.S. to leave Probation & Parole and get into a white sedan.  Pritchett and a co-conspirator then followed the white sedan into Wilmington until M.S. got out of the car.  Pritchett then drove alongside M.S., while the co-conspirator reached out the front passenger window of Pritchett’s truck and fired multiple shots at M.S.  While the shots missed M.S., one of the bullets ripped through an SUV and struck a six-year-old boy in the head, causing the child severe and permanent injuries.

“The defendants’ June 6 crime spree unfolded across multiple police jurisdictions and two separate states.  The investigation required careful and ongoing collaboration between numerous law enforcement agencies, and we thank all federal, state, and local law enforcement who came together to help hold the defendants accountable for their crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Weiss.  “My office will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute individuals, like the defendants, who commit crimes that display a shocking disregard for human life.”

“In an act of retribution, these men not only kidnapped and killed a woman, they opened fire in the middle of a busy street, when kids were getting out of school; forever changing the life of one six-year-old boy as he was shot while riding in the backseat of his mom’s car. Rest assured the FBI, and our law enforcement partners, will continue to pursue those who seek to terrorize our communities and hurt innocent people,” said Thomas J. Sobocinski, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Baltimore Field Office.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jesse S. Wenger and Christopher L. de Barrena-Sarobe prosecuted the case.  This case was investigated by FBI's Delaware Violent Crime and Safe Streets Taskforce, with assistance from the Wilmington Police Department, New Castle County Police Department, Delaware State Police, and Elkton Police Department. 

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:18-cr-75.

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced that Harry Brown of New Castle was sentenced today to 84 months in federal prison for the illegal possession and use of firearms. Chief U.S. District Judge Colm F. Connolly pronounced the sentence.

According to court documents, in March 2020, Mr. Brown, 33, was on probation in the state of Delaware when his probation officer received information that Mr. Brown was engaged in drug dealing and concealing a firearm inside his residence.  A probation search of Mr. Brown’s residence yielded a firearm, distribution quantities of crack cocaine, and $7,500 in cash.  At the time of the search, Mr. Brown was a convicted felon and thus prohibited from possessing a firearm.  A few months later, in July 2020, U.S. Marshals executed a fugitive warrant for Mr. Brown in Chester, Pennsylvania.  Marshals located Mr. Brown in a hotel room and found him in possession of another firearm.

Mr. Brown was ultimately charged in the District of Delaware with one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense and one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.  Mr. Brown was also charged in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania with possession of the firearm found in the hotel room.  Mr. Brown pleaded guilty to all three offenses before Chief Judge Connolly in the District of Delaware.

U.S. Attorney Weiss stated, “Those who illegally possess a firearm while dealing drugs contribute to the perpetuation of both violent crime and drug addiction – two significant scourges in our community.  Together with our law enforcement partners, our office will continue to work to keep our community safe.  And as this case demonstrates, the work we do here does not only benefit Delaware, but neighboring communities as well.”

The case was investigated by the Wilmington Department of Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Briana Knox prosecuted the case.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware.  Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER.

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced today that a Newark man pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court to conspiring to sell various illicit drugs. Chief U.S. District Judge Colm F. Connolly accepted the plea.

According to court documents, Malik Moss, known as “Bleek,” 37, worked with known co-conspirators, who have not yet entered guilty pleas, to sell methamphetamine, fentanyl, and heroin to various buyers in New Castle County, Delaware.  The Drug Enforcement Administration learned about Moss’s drug dealing, in part, through court-approved monitoring of his phone calls and text messages for several months in late 2021.

Moss pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years and maximum of life in prison. Chief Judge Connolly will determine his sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

“The widespread impact of drug distribution is incalculable,” stated U.S. Attorney Weiss. “Working with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners, we will continue to apply the rule of law to stop the flow of dangerous substances into our communities.”

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alexander P. Ibrahim and Ruth Mandelbaum.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 22-cr-24.

WILMINGTON, Del. – U.S. Attorney David C. Weiss announced today that landlords Goodfish Enterprises, LLC; Reliant Property Management Company; and Christopher Lukacs have agreed to pay $430,000 to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act during their participation in the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Housing Choice Voucher Program (HCVP), commonly known as “Section 8.”  The HCVP is the federal government’s primary program for helping low-income families, the elderly, and the disabled to afford decent, safe, and sanitary housing in the private market.

Goodfish, Reliant, and Lukacs own more than 90 properties in the Sparrow Run housing development in Newark, Delaware, many of which have been leased to low-income residents receiving rental assistance through the HCVP.  HCVP regulations require landlords to certify that they are not charging a higher rent to HCVP tenants than they charge to unassisted tenants in comparable housing units.  In a lawsuit filed in December 2020, the United States alleged that, going back to at least January 2015, Goodfish, Reliant, and Lukacs had charged HCVP participants higher rents than unassisted tenants.  The United States also alleged that Goodfish and Lukacs provided false information on HCVP forms regarding the rents they received from unassisted tenants to justify the inflated rents they sought to charge for HCVP rentals.  As part of the settlement agreement, Reliant and Goodfish also agreed to reduce the rents being charged to certain current tenants.

“By illegally charging higher rents to residents receiving housing assistance than to residents who require no assistance, landlords overcharge the federal government and take money that should be used to help additional needy families,” said U.S. Attorney Weiss.  “This settlement demonstrates that, together with our agency partners, my office will aggressively pursue those who attempt to profit by ignoring the laws that ensure that public money is not wasted.”  

“The Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General is committed to working with the Department of Justice and our law enforcement and housing partners to ensure that federal funds intended to help low-income families are not wasted or misapplied,” said Special Agent-in-Charge Shawn Rice. “HUD OIG also commends the New Castle County Police and the New Castle County Housing Authority who provided assistance in this investigation.  Today’s settlement demonstrates the Government’s commitment to protecting the integrity of HUD programs against fraud, waste, or abuse.”

This matter was investigated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Office of Inspector General.  The litigation was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Dylan J. Steinberg.

The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware.  Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 20-cv-01722-RGA.

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced that Naushad Khan, age 24 of Wilmington, was sentenced today to 60 months in federal prison for stealing numerous guns from a federal firearms licensee and for possession of a stolen firearm. Chief U.S. District Judge Colm F. Connolly pronounced the sentence.

Court records show that, during the early morning hours of May 31, 2020, Khan and four co-conspirators broke into American Sportsman, a federally licensed firearms dealer in Newark, on three separate occasions, stealing a total of 35 firearms. During the first burglary, Khan remained outside as his co-conspirators broke into the store and removed as many handguns and shot guns as they could in two minutes. Khan then returned with two additional co-conspirators and broke into the store two more times. Khan was the only individual present during all three burglaries.  Eleven stolen firearms have since been recovered by law enforcement, but the location of the remaining two dozen guns is unknown.  Co-defendants Nahsiem McInstosh and Derris Lloyd have pled guilty and are pending sentencing.  Investigators continue to search for the remaining firearms and investigate the involvement of the two additional, currently unidentified, co-conspirators.

The government argued for an enhanced sentence based on two aggravating factors: first, that the firearms were stolen during the civil unrest related to George Floyd’s murder; and second, that the stolen firearms were likely sold to persons who could not legally possess guns. 

“Ready access to illegal guns endangers lives. Stolen guns give dangerous felons the ability to destroy our communities, shot by shot.  Of the eleven firearms that have been recovered, four have been linked through preliminary ballistic testing to other shootings and homicides in Delaware and Pennsylvania. My office will continue to work with all of our partners in law enforcement to hold accountable those who steal guns and sell them to criminals,” stated U.S. Attorney Weiss. 

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher L. de Barrena-Sarobe and Daniel Logan prosecuted the case.  The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the Delaware State Police.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 20-03-CFC.

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced that a Delaware woman pleaded guilty today in federal court to failure to account for and pay over federal employment taxes. Chief Judge Colm F. Connolly accepted the plea.

According to court documents, Nyashia Coryaba, 59, of Middletown, the owner of a home healthcare agency, failed to pay over to the Internal Revenue Service the federal income taxes withheld from her employees during the third quarter of 2019.  Coryaba further admitted to failing to pay over these same taxes between June 2015 and December 2019.  Defendant also agreed to pay restitution to the Internal Revenue Service in the amount of $579,640.22.

Coryaba faces a maximum penalty of 5 years in prison when sentenced on August 31, 2022. Judge Connolly will determine her sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

U.S. Attorney Weiss commented on the plea, “The failure to pay over employment taxes is not only a theft from the government, it is also a theft from the workers whose taxes have been withheld.  My office will continue to pursue cases where hard working individuals are victimized by their employer’s failure to comply with tax obligations.”

Coryaba chose to pay personal expenditures using funds from her company, all while being fully aware that she had not paid over to the IRS payroll taxes withheld from her employees’ paychecks,” said IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge Yury Kruty. “Her actions adversely affect her employees’ ability to collect future social security and Medicare benefits.  We will continue to track down and hold accountable those who fail to remit to the IRS payroll taxes."

IRS-Criminal Investigation investigated the case.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Lesley F. Wolf is prosecuting the case.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 21-cr-48.

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced today the unsealing of an indictment charging Rafaelito Rivera, 51, of Wilmington, Delaware, with failing to register as a sex offender.  The grand jury returned the indictment on March 22, 2022.  Members of the U.S. Marshals Service located and arrested Mr. Rivera today.

The Indictment alleges that for the past 10 years, Rivera, also known as “Omar Velez Perez,” knowingly failed to update his registration as required by the federal Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (“SORNA”).

SORNA establishes a comprehensive national system for the registration of sex offenders.  It requires a sex offender to register in each jurisdiction where the offender resides, or where the offender is an employee.  SORNA also requires sex offenders to keep this registration information current by updating it after each change of name, residence, or employment.  Sex offenders have three days to provide notice of any changes.

If convicted of violating SORNA, Rivera faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.  Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties.  A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

The case is being investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Briana Knox is prosecuting the case.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER.

An indictment contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.

WILMINGTON, Del. –David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced that Joan Donald, 55, of Ocean View, pled guilty today in federal court to wire fraud and tax evasion arising from her theft of more than $1 million dollars from Dovetail, Inc., her former employer. Chief U.S. District Judge Colm F. Connolly accepted the plea.

According to court documents and statements made in open court, Donald worked as a bookkeeper for Dovetail, a high-end interior design company based in Bethany Beach. For more than 7 years, Donald perpetrated a long con against Dovetail and its owner, an elderly woman with ailing health, by using Dovetail’s funds to pay Donald’s personal credit card bills. When confronted with the fraud, Donald confessed that she had been embezzling money from Dovetail for years. A full forensic accounting conducted by the FBI revealed that Donald had stolen over $1 million.

As a result of her guilty plea, Donald faces up to 20 years in prison when sentenced on August 4, 2022. Sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. Chief U.S. District Judge Connolly will impose sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

U.S. Attorney Weiss commented, “Dovetail’s story is a remarkable example of the American dream, a small business built from the ground up by a single mother of four. Month after month, year after year, however, Joan Donald breached the trust placed in her and used Dovetail as her own private ATM, effectively bankrupting the business and owner in the process. Thanks to the efforts of our law enforcement partners, Donald is now a convicted felon.”

“Today’s sentence has put an end to Joan Donald’s flagrant actions and complete disrespect of the law.  For years Donald was a trusted insider who preyed on her employer by stealing funds to financially enrich herself” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Thomas J. Sobocinski. “Those who abuse their position of trust for their own financial greed will not be tolerated. The FBI and our partners will continue to uncover those committing fraud and causing harm to businesses and individuals for personal gain.” 

“No matter what the source of income, all income is taxable,” said Yury Kruty, Special Agent in Charge of IRS-Criminal Investigation.  “Joan Donald embezzled from her employer and then failed to report the misappropriated funds as income on her personal income tax returns.  Dovetail directly suffered from Donald’s scheme, and all of the honest taxpayers were also indirectly victimized by Donald’s crimes.”

The FBI Baltimore Division’s Dover Resident Agency and IRS-Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher R. Howland is prosecuting the case.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 21-cr-041-CFC.

WILMINGTON, Del. – A Middletown man was sentenced on April 6, 2022 to 97 months in prison for possessing methamphetamine and fentanyl with intent to distribute, as well as possession of ammunition by a person prohibited. 

Leon Ransom, 31, was arrested by the Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”) after multiple sales of methamphetamine and a separate sale of fentanyl to a DEA confidential source.    Following a search of the home in which Ransom was living, the DEA found almost four additional ounces of crystal methamphetamine, over two ounces of fentanyl, three ounces of cocaine, two scales, cutting agents, and a box of ammunition.  The methamphetamine sold and possessed by Ransom was chemically tested by the DEA and found to be 100% pure. 

David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Maryellen Noreika.  U.S. Attorney Weiss commented, “Methamphetamine and fentanyl are two of the deadliest drugs plaguing our streets today.  Peddling these poisons endangers the safety of our community.  My office will continue to seek significant prison sentences for those who profit from illegal drug sales.”

“As U.S. Attorney Weiss said, illicit fentanyl and methamphetamine are two street drugs that have had a disproportionately destructive effect on our communities,” said Thomas Hodnett, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Philadelphia Field Division.  “That Ransom was selling distribution quantities of both and had gun ammunition shows how dangerous his criminal conduct was.”

Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander Ibrahim prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the DEA. 

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:21-cr-69-MN.

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced that Donta Thomas, of Wilmington, was sentenced today to 66 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Richard G. Andrews for illegally possessing ammunition.

Mr. Thomas, 23, was arrested after he fled from officers during a traffic stop.  A foot chase ensued, in which Mr. Thomas was observed tossing a privately made firearm onto the ground.  Officers recovered the firearm and discovered it was loaded with one round of ammunition in the chamber and 15 in the magazine.  Mr. Thomas was not legally permitted to possess a firearm or ammunition because of his prior felony convictions, which include armed robbery and armed carjacking.  Mr. Thomas was taken into custody and admitted to possessing the loaded gun.  He has been in custody since his arrest on January 23, 2020.

U.S. Attorney Weiss stated, “Our community is fighting the scourge of gun crime, and illegally possessed weapons are a key part of the problem.  That problem is exacerbated when those weapons are privately made firearms, also known as “ghost guns.”  Unfortunately, the illegal use of these ghost guns is becoming more prevalent in Delaware. Such firearms lack a serial number, making them nearly impossible for law enforcement to trace.  I want to thank the Wilmington Police Department and ATF for their work in ensuring that another illegally possessed weapon has been removed from the streets.”

“Any firearm in the hands of someone who is prohibited from having them is a safety concern, but that concern and risk to the public increases exponentially when it is someone with multiple previous violent, armed offenses,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Toni M. Crosby. “ATF is committed to working alongside our state and local partners, as well as prosecutors, to ensure that cases like this are investigated and those with violent intentions are removed from our communities.”

The case was investigated by the Wilmington Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.  Former Assistant U.S. Attorney Maureen McCartney and Assistant U.S. Attorney Briana Knox prosecuted the case.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware.  Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER.

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced that a Wilmington man was sentenced yesterday to 11 years in prison for possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. U.S. District Judge Leonard P. Stark pronounced the sentence.  This was Jackson’s third firearms conviction.

According to court documents, on September 17, 2020, Javon Jackson, 26, was arrested by the Wilmington Police Department (“WPD”). At the time, Jackson was wanted for cutting off his ankle bracelet and absconding from Delaware Probation and Parole’s supervision for a prior assault conviction.  Jackson was sitting in the driver’s seat of a parked car when WPD officers found him.  Jackson got out of the car and ran from the police. Inside the car, WPD officers found a fully loaded semi-automatic pistol and 455 baggies of heroin.

U.S. Attorney Weiss stated, “Illegally possessing a firearm while dealing dangerous drugs perpetuates both violent crime and drug addiction, each of which threatens the health, safety, and vitality of our neighborhoods. Together with our law enforcement partners, we will continue to work diligently to keep our communities safe.”

“It is a threat to the community any time someone prohibited from possession a firearm finds a way to obtain one, but this defendant’s actions put the community at even greater risk. Not only was he wanted for violating parole for a previous violent conviction, he was caught by police selling drugs while possessing a loaded firearm,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Toni M. Crosby.  “Law-abiding citizens deserve to the chance to thrive in stable communities. ATF and our law enforcement partners will continue work relentlessly to identify those individuals who threaten the safety of those communities.”

Assistant U.S. Attorney Edmond Falgowski prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Wilmington Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. 

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 21-cr-38.

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced that a Wilmington man was sentenced yesterday to 11 years in prison for possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. U.S. District Judge Leonard P. Stark pronounced the sentence.  This was Jackson’s third firearms conviction.

According to court documents, on September 17, 2020, Javon Jackson, 26, was arrested by the Wilmington Police Department (“WPD”). At the time, Jackson was wanted for cutting off his ankle bracelet and absconding from Delaware Probation and Parole’s supervision for a prior assault conviction.  Jackson was sitting in the driver’s seat of a parked car when WPD officers found him.  Jackson got out of the car and ran from the police. Inside the car, WPD officers found a fully loaded semi-automatic pistol and 455 baggies of heroin.

U.S. Attorney Weiss stated, “Illegally possessing a firearm while dealing dangerous drugs perpetuates both violent crime and drug addiction, each of which threatens the health, safety, and vitality of our neighborhoods. Together with our law enforcement partners, we will continue to work diligently to keep our communities safe.”

“It is a threat to the community any time someone prohibited from possession a firearm finds a way to obtain one, but this defendant’s actions put the community at even greater risk. Not only was he wanted for violating parole for a previous violent conviction, he was caught by police selling drugs while possessing a loaded firearm,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Toni M. Crosby.  “Law-abiding citizens deserve to the chance to thrive in stable communities. ATF and our law enforcement partners will continue work relentlessly to identify those individuals who threaten the safety of those communities.”

Assistant U.S. Attorney Edmond Falgowski prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Wilmington Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. 

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 21-cr-38.

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced today that a Wilmington, Delaware man, currently facing gang participation charges in the Superior Court of State of Delaware, pleaded guilty yesterday to possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. U.S. District Judge Richard G. Andrews accepted the plea.

According to statements made in open court, Khalil Rodriguez-Fitzgerald, 27, possessed a Glock model 19x handgun. In conducting the investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, (ATF) determined that the firearm was straw purchased in North Carolina on February 7, 2021, transported north, and delivered to the defendant in New Jersey on February 8, 2021.  Rodriguez-Fitzgerald is prohibited from possessing a firearm because of his criminal history.

Rodriguez-Fitzgerald faces a maximum penalty of ten years in prison when sentenced on August 10, 2022. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

U.S. Attorney Weiss stated, ‘My office is committed to the fight against gun violence and the devastation it is causing in our communities. This case is an example of the level of coordination and resources federal, state, and local law enforcement has to help keep our communities safe. Thanks to ATF for their diligence in investigating this case.”

“Guns obtained through trafficking and straw purchasing, especially by someone who is prohibited from possessing firearms, pose a significant risk to the community,” said ATF Baltimore Special Agent in Charge Toni M. Crosby. “ATF will continue to work alongside our law enforcement partners to identify and arrest not only the trigger-pullers, but also those responsible for selling guns illegally.”

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer K. Welsh is prosecuting the case and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosive is investigating the case.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 21-cr-11 (RGA).

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced that a Kennett Square, Pennsylvania man pleaded guilty today to federal tax evasion. U.S. District Court Judge Maryellen Noreika accepted the plea.

According to court documents, Joseph Timlin, 63, formerly of Claymont, Delaware, pled guilty to evading his federal tax obligations by failing to file a 2016 income tax return and by directing his compensation be paid to a bank account held in the name of a corporate entity he created and controlled.  Pursuant to his plea agreement, Timlin further admitted to evading these same obligations for 2014, 2015, 2017, and 2018.  In total, Adams agreed to make restitution to the Internal Revenue Service totaling $246,629.00.

Timlin faces a maximum penalty of 5 years in prison when sentenced on August 4, 2022. Judge Noreika will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

U.S. Attorney Weiss commented on the plea, “The requirement to file and pay income taxes is not optional, and it is a burden shared by the people living and working in this country.  When sophisticated actors like this defendant evade that requirement, it undermines confidence in the fairness of the system.  My office will continue to prosecute those who choose to obscure their income and evade taxes.”

"As someone who prepared tax returns for a living, Mr. Timlin knew that the actions he took were illegal and fraudulent," said Yury Kruty, Special Agent in Charge of IRS-Criminal Investigation.  "The Special Agents of IRS-CI will continue to investigate and prosecute individuals like this who intentionally violate the tax laws so that honest taxpayers know that everyone is being held accountable to pay their fair share."      

IRS-Criminal Investigation investigated the case.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Lesley F. Wolf is prosecuting the case.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 21-cr-48.

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced today that a federal grand jury returned a Superseding Indictment yesterday charging an additional Wilmington man with conspiracy to commit kidnapping.

According to the Superseding Indictment, Jamil Salahuddin, 19, Kimon Burton-Roberson, 28, and others conspired to kidnap a victim from a Wilmington residence and transport the victim into Pennsylvania.  The victim was found dead hours later.  Court documents explain that the cause of death was a gunshot wound to the head.  The victim also had significant blunt force trauma to his skull.  According to court documents, surveillance camera footage and cell phone location records helped to identify the suspects.  Court documents also explain that law enforcement located Burton-Roberson’s car days after the kidnapping.  Inside, they found blood stains and a pry bar, both of which had DNA that analysts concluded likely belonged to the victim.

Burton-Roberson was charged with kidnapping and conspiracy to commit kidnapping in February. The Superseding Indictment adds Salahuddin as a co-defendant to the conspiracy charge.  The Superseding Indictment references additional co-conspirators, both known and unknown to the Grand Jury.  This investigation is ongoing and involves close collaboration between FBI, the Yeadon Borough Police Department, and the Wilmington Department of Police.

Salahuddin and Burton-Roberson are charged with conspiracy to commit kidnapping. If convicted on the conspiracy charge, they each face life imprisonment.  Burton-Roberson is also charged with a substantive kidnapping offense.  If convicted, he faces mandatory life.  A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 22-CR-17-CFC.

An indictment contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.

WILMINGTON, Del. – A Wilmington man was arrested today on charges of devising a plot to engage in interstate murder-for-hire.  According to court documents, Javier A. Rodriguez, age 47, hired a hitman to murder his ex-wife.  Over the course of the investigation, Rodriguez made a down payment of $5,000 to another individual to pay for the hitman. Rodriguez also agreed to pay an additional $5,000 once the murder was completed.

Rodriguez is charged by criminal complaint with a violation of the federal murder-for-hire statute and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison if convicted.  A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.  Rodriguez appeared in federal court this afternoon before the Honorable Mary Pat Thynge, Chief Magistrate Judge for the District of Delaware.  Based on the Government’s motion, Rodriguez will be detained pending an additional hearing on the matter currently scheduled for March 31, 2022. 

David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware made the announcement. The case was investigated by the FBI Safe Streets Violent Crime Taskforce, which is a partnership of law enforcement officers from the FBI, Wilmington Police Department, Delaware State Police, Delaware Probation and Parole, and New Castle County Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alexander P. Ibrahim and Christopher L. de Barrena-Sarobe are prosecuting the case.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware.  Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER.

A criminal complaint contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced that a federal grand jury sitting in Wilmington returned an indictment on Tuesday charging Harvey Walker, 54, a Dover tax preparer, with preparing false and fraudulent returns. 

According to the indictment, during the 2015 through 2019 tax years, Walker prepared 23 fraudulent returns for eight different individual clients.  Those returns are alleged, among other things, to have falsely claimed deductions for charitable contributions and unreimbursed employee expenses and to have falsely claimed business losses.  The maximum penalty for each count is three years of incarceration and a $100,000 fine.

“Tax return preparers play an important role in helping citizens understand the complexities of the tax code and their obligations under it.  When tax preparers abuse their knowledge and the trust that the system places in them by causing their clients to file false returns, it hurts everyone.  My office will not hesitate to prosecute those who counsel fraud and prepare false returns.”

This case was investigated by Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, which serves the American public by investigating potential criminal violations of the Internal Revenue Code and related financial crimes in a manner that fosters confidence in the tax system and compliance with the law.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Dylan J. Steinberg

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER.

An indictment contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced today that Avelino Johnson, 41, was sentenced yesterday to 84 months in prison for possession of a stolen firearm. Chief U.S. District Judge Colm F. Connolly pronounced the sentence.

According to court documents, on January 31, 2020, Johnson was arrested in Wilmington after unsuccessfully attempting to enter a victim’s home, banging on the door, and turning the doorknob.  He was in possession of a stolen firearm and later tested positive for phencyclidine, also known as PCP.

“Mr. Johnson chose to violate federal law by possessing a stolen firearm while under the influence of drugs,” stated U.S. Attorney Weiss. “His behavior not only placed the victim in grave danger, but also the public at large. I wish to thank our law enforcement partners for their outstanding work in this case.”

“Anyone in possession of a stolen firearm and anyone possessing firearms while under the influence of drugs is a danger to public,” said ATF Baltimore Acting Special Agent in Charge L.C. Cheeks, Jr. “The combination of the two is especially concerning. We are grateful that no one was hurt because of this defendant’s actions. ATF and our law enforcement partners will continue to work relentlessly to identify and arrest anyone who threatens the safety of our communities.”

Assistant U.S. Attorney Ruth Mandelbaum prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Wilmington Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. 

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER.

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced that 20-year-old Samuel Gulick, of Middletown, was sentenced in federal court yesterday for crimes associated with fire-bombing a Planned Parenthood facility in Newark, Delaware in January 2020.  U.S. District Judge Leonard P. Stark imposed a sentence of 26 months in prison, to be followed by three (3) years of supervised release.  While under court supervision, the defendant will participate in a structured mental-health treatment plan in a controlled environment.  This sentence was a joint request from the parties, and is based on a threat assessment performed by the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU).

According to court documents and statements made in open court, at approximately 2:16 a.m., on January 3, 2020, Samuel Gulick drove to the Planned Parenthood facility in Newark, Delaware.  Video surveillance captured Gulick standing on the front porch of the building and spray-painting the phrase “Deus Vult” – Latin for “God Wills” – in red letters. Gulick then stepped off the front porch, lit an object and threw it at the front window. The object, a Molotov Cocktail, exploded and Gulick ran away. The fire burned for approximately one minute before self-extinguishing; the front window and porch of the building were damaged. 

Law enforcement arrested Gulick the following day.   At the time, Gulick was still in high school.  Shortly after his arrest, the FBI’s BAU performed a comprehensive threat assessment of the defendant.  This included a review of his prior psychological and medical records, an independent diagnosis by a clinical forensic psychologist, and an extended in-person interview.  Based on this data, BAU opined that an extended period of incarceration could entrench the defendant’s mindset, without providing him with the skills needed to change his life. 

Thereafter, the U.S. Attorney’s Office worked with the BAU, defense counsel, U.S. Probation, and a nationally-renowned behavioral analyst to craft a long-term treatment plan to address the defendant’s medical, developmental, and behavioral needs.  The defendant will adhere to this plan for three years and be under court supervision.   For the first year, the defendant will be housed at a Residential Reentry Center – a facility that will enable him to participate in therapy sessions in a secure environment.  Thereafter, if he makes appropriate progress, Gulick will be released to a less restrictive setting.

In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Weiss stated, “This was an egregious crime. I applaud the investigative efforts of local, state, and federal law enforcement who worked quickly to identify and bring Mr. Gulick to justice.   But this was a team effort in more ways than one.  I also want to thank the mental health and behavioral science professionals – including those in FBI’s BAU – for the hard work and many hours they devoted to this case.”     

“My appreciation goes out to the multiple law enforcement agencies who quickly worked together to identify and arrest Mr. Gulick. In only a few hours following his attack, investigative operations were successful, ensuring Mr. Gulick would not pose a further threat to the citizens of Delaware.” said SAC Thomas J. Sobocinski. “Today’s sentencing should serve as a deterrence to others who use violence to discourage women from receiving lawful services those facilities provide.”

“Attacking and terrorizing law-abiding citizens to achieve personal political goals is a heinous act, one which ATF and our law enforcement partners will not tolerate,” said ATF Acting Special Agent in Charge L.C Cheeks, Jr. “We are grateful that no one was injured as a result of this defendant’s criminal actions and that the hard work of investigators’ efforts has resulted in him being held accountable for them.”

The FBI Baltimore Division's Wilmington Resident Agency investigated the matter with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Delaware State Police, Newark Police Department, Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office, New Castle County Police Department and University of Delaware Police.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shawn A. Weede and Ruth Mandelbaum prosecuted the case. 

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 21-cr-01.

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced today that Kimon Burton-Roberson made his initial appearance in federal court yesterday for charges related to the kidnapping, resulting in death, of a Wilmington resident.

According to an indictment filed on February 22, 2022, in the early hours of July 21, 2021, Burton-Roberson, 28, and co-conspirators, entered a residence in Wilmington, Delaware where they knew their victim to be staying.  Burton-Roberson and others beat the victim with a blunt object until the victim was bleeding, tying the victim’s hands together with zip ties.  Burton-Roberson and others then removed the victim from the residence, placed the victim into Burton-Roberson’s car, and drove the victim across state lines into Pennsylvania.  Members of the conspiracy shot the victim in the head, leaving the victim’s body in an industrial park in Delaware County, Pennsylvania.

Burton-Roberson is charged with Conspiracy to Commit Kidnapping and Kidnapping.  If convicted, he faces life in prison or capital punishment.  Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

This investigation is ongoing and involves close collaboration between FBI, the Yeadon Borough Police Department, and the Wilmington Department of Police.

“This case is an excellent example of federal and state law enforcement cooperation and coordination across geographical boundaries.  This unified effort resulted in the Indictment of this case,” said U.S. Attorney Weiss.  “Those who commit violent crime in Delaware, and elsewhere, will be brought to justice.”

Rohan K. Hepkins stated, "As Mayor of Yeadon Borough in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, we salute the combined efforts of the FBI, the Wilmington, DE Police Department, along with the Yeadon and Delaware County law enforcement agencies.  This combined effort underscores our collective commitment to bring fugitives to justice.  It reassures the public that those who commit crimes and seek to take refuge across state lines, will be sought out, and brought to justice as we were successfully able to do in this case."

“The strong multi-jurisdictional collaborations that our agency has with our local, state and federal partners are critical, especially when criminal acts are committed across jurisdictional boundaries,” said Wilmington Police Chief Robert J. Tracy. “I am proud of the work of our investigators, and our partner law enforcement agencies, in bringing justice for the victim of this chilling crime.”

The brutality and indifference to human life displayed in this case is unacceptable,” said Thomas J. Sobocinski, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Baltimore Field Office. “Know that the FBI and our partners will be relentless in our efforts to identify, locate and apprehend dangerous offenders who threaten the safety our communities.”

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER.

An indictment contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced today that a Newark, Delaware resident was sentenced on February 25, 2022, to six years in prison for receiving child pornography over the internet.  Chief U.S. District Judge Leonard P. Stark pronounced the sentence.

According to court documents, James Crossan, 24, sought out minors on social media platforms such as Instagram and fostered abusive relationships with them both online and via text message.  For multiple years, Crossan engaged in grooming tactics including complimenting victims, offering to send them gifts, expressing a desire to meet in person, discussing sexual acts, and requesting photographs of victims.  Crossan used aggressive and manipulative tactics to coerce minors to create and send child pornography to him.  Crossan’s exploitation harmed multiple minor victims across the country.

U.S. Attorney Weiss stated, “My office’s message for individuals who chose to prey upon and sexually exploit innocent children has been consistent – our federal law enforcement partners will use every available resource to find you.  Protecting innocent children is a priority for my office, and you will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

“The FBI and our local, state, and federal partners work tirelessly to investigate and bring to justice individuals engaged in the exploitation and sexual abuse of children,” said Thomas J. Sobocinski, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Baltimore Field Office. “We encourage parents and caretakers to help us shut the door on predators before they strike by reporting anything suspicious to 1-800-CALL-FBI and visiting FBI.gov for more information about the threat of child predators.”

Assistant U.S. Attorney Carly Hudson prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI Baltimore’s Wilmington Resident Agency.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case Nos. 1:21-cr-53 and 1:21-cr-40.

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced today that a Newark woman pleaded guilty February 24, 2022, to fraudulently obtaining a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan and illegally spending those loan proceeds.  Chief Judge Colm F. Connolly accepted the plea.

According to court documents, between March 30, 2020, and January 24, 2021, Ana Soto, 41, submitted seventeen (17) fraudulent loan applications to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and its authorized lenders in order to obtain loans through the small business loan programs established by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.  These seventeen loan applications were made on behalf of five entities controlled by Soto or her close relations.  Each of the loan applications falsely stated the amount of gross revenues, cost of goods sold, and number of employees. In some instances, the loan applications falsely claimed the businesses were in operation at the start of the Coronavirus Pandemic.  As a result of these false applications, Soto obtained approximately $246,000, and applied for, but was denied, an additional approximately $500,000 in CARES Act loans.

Soto pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud and one count of money laundering and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison when sentenced.  Chief Judge Connolly will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

U.S. Attorney Weiss stated, “Ms. Soto perpetrated her fraud by taking money from programs established to help the country’s small business owners during the early days of a global pandemic.  At a time of great uncertainty and vulnerability, the defendant sought to enrich herself through criminal acts.  My office remains committed to protecting the integrity of the CARES Act and all government programs.  Prosecuting those who defraud the government and steal from their fellow citizens is a priority, and we will aggressively pursue these actors.”

“CARES Act funds were intended to help people and businesses harmed by the pandemic, not to line the pockets of greedy individuals,” said Thomas J. Sobocinski, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Baltimore Field Office. “The FBI will continue to work with our partners to root out those who lie and cheat the government out of money to enrich themselves.”

“Ana Soto used deceit and fraud to obtain loans that she was not entitled to receive,” said IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge Yury Kruty. “Her guilty plea is a reminder that IRS-CI, along with our partners, remain committed to investigating these types of crimes and holding the offenders accountable.”

This case was investigated by IRS-Criminal Investigation and FBI-Baltimore Division’s Wilmington Resident Office.  This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lesley F. Wolf.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware.  Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 21-cr-49-CFC.

Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced that a Wilmington, Delaware man was sentenced yesterday to 188 months in federal prison for possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl while also illegally possessing 5 firearms.  Chief U.S. District Judge Colm F. Connolly pronounced the sentence.

According to court documents, Joseph Thomas, age 29, was arrested on April 30, 2020, by state and federal law enforcement.  Searches of Thomas’ home, car detailing business, T.L.K. Auto Spa, and a storage unit Thomas controlled yielded a fentanyl pill operation, instructions for making fake prescription pills with fentanyl, a commercial pill press, 5 firearms, and over 1,000 rounds of ammunition.  One of the guns Thomas possessed had been reported stolen.  The serial number on another of those guns was obliterated, making it difficult to trace.  Law enforcement also found over $86,000 in cash inside a safe belonging to Thomas. 

U.S. Attorney Weiss commented, “Selling deadly fentanyl in pill form designed to mimic the appearance of the legitimate prescription drug oxycodone endangers lives. The illegal possession of firearms and ammunition endangers lives.  My office will seek significant prison sentences for those who engage in this activity and thereby threaten the safety of our community.” 

“The defendant in this case showed little regard for the safety of his consumers as he willingly manufactured and sold fake prescription drugs laced with fentanyl,” said William S. Walker, Acting Special Agent in Charge of HSI Philadelphia. “Each time highly addictive narcotics, like fentanyl, are pressed into pills, narcotics traffickers ensure repeat customers and higher profits.  Beyond that, Thomas illegally possessed five guns and a thousand rounds of ammunition, again, showing little regard for the safety of his community.  This sentencing should serve as a reminder to those seeking to line their pockets through others’ addictions. You will be arrested, you will be prosecuted, and you will be incarcerated for your criminal acts.”

Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander P. Ibrahim prosecuted the case, which was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Newport Police Department.  The U.S. Attorney’s Office also wishes to thank the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, & Explosives and the FBI for their assistance.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to helping those who suffer from substance abuse. While COVID-19 has made access to drug addiction treatment more difficult for many, it need not remain a barrier. If you need help, drug treatment information is available any time through the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s Treatment Referral Routing Service, found online at dpt2.samhsa.gov/treatment/ or by dialing 1.888.545.2600.   Don’t let the pandemic stop you from beginning treatment.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER.

WILMINGTON, Del. – U.S. Attorney David C. Weiss for the District of Delaware announced today that Scott C. Foster, 42 of Dover, was sentenced yesterday to 240 months in prison followed by 120 months of supervised release. Foster pled guilty to one count of Enticement of a Minor to Produce Child Pornography on May 20, 2021.

According to publicly filed documents and statements made in open court, in the summer of 2016, Foster posed as teenage boys on Facebook and used aggressive and manipulative tactics to coerce and entice three minor females into producing child pornography. Foster attempted to do the same with eight other minor females and made overtures to even more.

U.S. Attorney Weiss stated, “Technology and social media are ubiquitous and pervasive aspects of the lives of many U.S. children. And while much good comes from such interconnectedness, there are dangers and pitfalls as well. We are committed to protecting all children from predators like Scott C. Foster, so that children may use and enjoy such modern miracles without fear of becoming prey to the pernicious harm of child pornography.”

“Foster exploited the trust of his minor victims by masquerading as a peer. He manipulated and coerced these young people into creating exploitative material — a malicious tactic that is becoming all too common,” said Special Agent in Charge William S. Walker of the HSI Philadelphia Field Office. “This sentence illustrates the seriousness of this crime. HSI stands with our law enforcement partners in our continuing efforts to keep our children safe online and hold those who would prey on them to account.”

Homeland Security Investigations, the Delaware Child Predator Task Force, and the Caroline County, Maryland Sheriff’s Office investigated, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Graham L. Robinson of the District of Delaware prosecuted the case.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the U.S. Department of Justice.  Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices across the country and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section of the Department of Justice, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.  For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced today that a New Castle County man pleaded guilty today to distribution of fentanyl.  U.S. District Judge Richard G. Andrews accepted the plea.

According to court documents and statements made in court, Michael Younger, 45, came to the attention of the Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”) due to evidence suggesting that Younger was the supplier of fentanyl that caused the overdose death of a person in early January 2021.  While under investigation, Younger sold additional fentanyl to a government cooperator on February 4, 2021.  During that transaction, Younger told the cooperator that another customer had died of an overdose after ingesting the defendant’s drugs, and, as a result, Younger had to change the stamp he used to brand his fentanyl.  The government’s investigation revealed that the other customer did indeed die of an overdose in late January 2021.  According to the plea agreement, the defendant is a career offender, meaning that Younger has two prior convictions for serious drug or violent felony offenses. 

Younger faces a maximum penalty of twenty years in prison when sentenced on June 23, 2022.  A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

U.S. Attorney Weiss stated, “The proliferation of fentanyl continues to wreak havoc in Delaware communities. Fortunately, our law enforcement partners are dedicated to removing fentanyl and other illegal drugs from our streets. Through aggressive prosecution, education, and outreach, we can work together to hold drug dealers accountable and keep our communities safe.”

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer K. Welsh is prosecuting the case.  The case is being investigated by the DEA together with the New Castle County Police Department.

The United States Attorney’s Office is committed to helping those who suffer from substance abuse. While COVID-19 has made access to drug addiction treatment more difficult for many, it need not remain a barrier. If you need help, drug treatment information is available any time through the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s Treatment Referral Routing Service, found online at dpt2.samhsa.gov/treatment/ or by dialing 1.888.545.2600. Don’t let the pandemic stop you from beginning treatment.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:22-cr-00004 (RGA).

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced that Robert Rodriguez, age 58, was sentenced today to 105 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and possession of a firearm. U.S. District Judge Maryellen Noreika pronounced the sentence.

According to court documents, on August 10, 2020, FBI conducted a search of the defendant’s apartment in the 1300 block of W. 4th Street, Wilmington, Delaware, and a nearby garage where law enforcement recovered over 100 bundles of fentanyl, a loaded black Glock handgun 9mm, and $18,268 in cash. 

“Illegal drug dealing fuels an epidemic of addiction and violence, which challenges our communities and law enforcement officers on a daily basis. Fentanyl is a particularly lethal drug, causing most of Delaware’s overdose deaths in 2021. My office is committed to aggressively prosecuting individuals who choose to distribute drugs while illegally possessing firearms, and I wish to thank our law enforcement partners for investigating this case,” stated U.S. Attorney Weiss. 

“Today’s sentencing exemplifies the commitment FBI Baltimore has to work with our local, state and federal partners to target and dismantle drug dealers that threaten the safety of our communities,” said FBI Baltimore Special Agent in Charge Thomas J. Sobocinski.  “The citizens of Delaware have the FBI’s commitment that we will continue to use every resource available to investigate and prosecute dealers like Robert Rodriquez and remove dangerous criminals from the neighborhoods of Wilmington.”

Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher de Barrena-Sarobe and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael McTaggart prosecuted the case.  The case was investigated by the FBI’s Delaware Violent Crime and Safe Streets Taskforce in the Wilmington Resident Agency.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 20-062-MN. 

The United States Attorney’s Office is committed to helping those who suffer from substance abuse. While COVID-19 has made access to drug addiction treatment more difficult for many, it need not remain a barrier. If you need help, drug treatment information is available any time through the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s Treatment Referral Routing Service, found online at dpt2.samhsa.gov/treatment/ or by dialing 1.888.545.2600.   Don’t let the pandemic stop you from beginning treatment.

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced that Michael Protack, 64, was sentenced yesterday to 12 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Richard G. Andrews on the charge of mailing threatening communications.

According to court documents, Mr. Protack used the U.S. mail to send a series of threatening communication to his ex-wife’s attorney.  One threat, received on January 7, 2021, stated, in part, that the victim should “count on being dead by June 2021.  You won’t know when, where or how but your end has been written.  Take the time and put your affairs in order because they will not find your body for weeks.”   Another threat, received a couple months later, contained nothing more than a graphic image of a dead, mutilated body.  One of the last threats received by the victim stated, “I drive past your office every day.”  Mr. Protack was arrested on June 11, 2021.

In handing down his sentence, Judge Andrews described Mr. Protack’s conduct as a “campaign of terror” and noted the lengths to which Mr. Protack went to conceal his identity as the perpetrator. Judge Andrews further noted that this was a “very serious offense” and there was a need for just punishment that would promote respect for the law.

U.S. Attorney Weiss stated, “Mr. Protack’s repeated threats to murder another human being is, indeed, a very serious offense, and the court’s sentence reflects that fact.  My office is dedicated to obtaining justice for victims of violent crime and holding the perpetrators of these crimes accountable.  I want to thank the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the FBI for their diligence in investigating this case and helping bring Mr. Protack to justice.”

“People using of the mail to terrorize others is fortunately not that common,” said Damon Wood, the Inspector in Charge of the Philadelphia Division.  “The Postal Inspection Service, however, takes such threats seriously and will aggressively investigate anyone who uses the mail to terrorize or threaten another person.  Michael Protack thought that by using the mail, he would never be identified.  Thanks to the work of local Postal Inspectors and agents of the FBI, he was identified and now has a year in prison to think about his crime.  If there are people being threatened through the mail, they should not hesitate to file a complaint with the Postal Inspection Service.  We have over two hundred years of experience investigating and identifying criminals who use the mail to commit or facilitate crimes.”

“The FBI is committed to working with our local, state and federal partners to reduce violence in the community and keep the citizens of Delaware safe,” said Thomas J. Sobocinski, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Baltimore Field Office. “We want the public to know the FBI does not tolerate any threat to life and will continue to hold those like Mr. Protack who violate federal law accountable.”

The case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the FBI's Delaware Violent Crime and Safe Streets Taskforce in the Wilmington Resident Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Briana Knox prosecuted the case.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware.  Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER.

The Domestic Violence Hotline is an important resource for victims of domestic abuse. All hotline numbers are confidential, available 24/7, and staffed by trained professionals who assist with safety planning and resource referrals. Services are available to victims who do not speak English or who are hearing impaired (for Delaware Relay Services, dial 711). New Castle County 302-762-6110 (English and bilingual); Kent and Sussex Counties 302-422-8058; 302-745-9874 (bilingual). TTY 1-800-232-5460.

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced that Victor Adams, 45, was sentenced today to 46 months in prison by Chief U.S. District Judge Colm F. Connolly on the charge of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

According to court documents, Mr. Adams was not legally permitted to possess a firearm because of his prior felony convictions.  On November 28, 2020, a Wilmington Police Department (“WPD”) officer arrested Mr. Adams on an outstanding warrant charging Mr. Adams with aggravated menacing.  While placing Mr. Adams under arrest, the WPD officer discovered a loaded handgun concealed in a shopping bag Mr. Adams was carrying.  Mr. Adams admitted to possessing the handgun at various points during the months prior to his arrest, and further admitted to using a firearm in the aggravated menacing incident. 

U.S. Attorney Weiss stated, “Our community is fighting the scourge of gun crime, and illegally possessed weapons are a key part of the problem.  My Office is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to get guns off our streets and out of the hands of individuals who are not legally permitted to possess them.  My thanks to the ATF and WPD for their diligence in investigating this case.”

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from WPD, and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Briana Knox. 

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware.  Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER.

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced that Nylere Stanford, 28, was sentenced yesterday to 46 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Leonard P. Stark on the charge of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.   

According to court documents, on October 24, 2019, the U.S. Marshals First State Fugitive Task Force and Wilmington Police Department (WPD) conducted a search of Stanford’s residence while executing an arrest warrant for him.  Law enforcement recovered a loaded silver and black Taurus PT 24/7 9 mm handgun from the couch where the defendant had been resting.

U.S. Attorney Weiss stated, “The prevalence of gun crimes continues to plague our community. Consequently, investigating, and prosecuting individuals who illegally possess firearms is a priority for my office. I would like to thank our law enforcement partners for their diligence in investigating this case.”

Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael McTaggart prosecuted the case.  The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from WPD and the U.S. Marshals First State Fugitive Task Force, conducted the investigation. 

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 20-062-MN. 

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced today that a Middletown man pleaded guilty yesterday to shipping firearms in interstate or foreign commerce without notifying the courier that it was transporting firearms. U.S. District Judge Maryellen Noreika accepted the plea.

According to court documents, Charlton Ameyaw, 53, packed five Taurus G2c 9mm pistols and one Taurus PT92 9mm pistol into a barrel among various household goods.  He then delivered the barrel to a common carrier for the purpose of shipping the firearms internationally, without notifying that shipper that the barrel contained firearms.

Ameyaw faces a maximum of 5 years in prison when sentenced on June 3, 2022. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

“Concealing guns compromises the safety of those unknowingly transporting dangerous weapons,” said U.S. Attorney Weiss.  “Working with our law enforcement partners, my office is committed to ensuring that firearms in Delaware are not illegally transported abroad.”

“Firearms packed and transported illegally create an unsafe situation for innocent bystanders at every step of the shipping process,” said ATF Acting Special Agent in Charge L.C. Cheeks, Jr. “Without knowledge of what a shipment is, the necessary precautions and procedures for firearm shipments that keep both their personnel and the community safe are not followed, especially those that prevent the guns from being lost or stolen.”

“The havoc created by gun violence destroys communities both domestically and internationally.  In this case, Mr. Ameyaw illegally exported numerous firearms to Africa, thereby creating dangers both to the carrier and those in the intended destination,” said William S. Walker, Acting Special Agent in Charge of HSI Philadelphia. “HSI is pleased to have partnered with the ATF on this investigation, ensuring Mr. Ameyaw will be held accountable for his crimes so that firearms exported on his behalf do not fall into the wrong hands overseas.”

Assistant U.S. Attorney Ruth Mandelbaum is prosecuting the case.  This case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Homeland Security Investigations.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 21-CR-13.

WILMINGTON, Del. – U.S. Attorney David C. Weiss announced today that Hunt Companies, Inc. (“Hunt”), one of the largest providers of privatized military housing to the U.S. Armed Forces, has agreed to a $500,000.00 settlement with the government to resolve allegations of fraud at the Dover Air Force Base arising under the False Claims Act. 

Hunt provides privatized military housing at Dover Air Force base.  For its services, Hunt is eligible to receive quarterly performance incentive fees if it meets certain performance objectives such as maintaining the residences while they are occupied and preparing the residences for new tenants once they are vacated.  Between January 2013 and June 2019, Hunt submitted materially false information to the Air Force in order to receive higher performance incentive payouts from the Government.  The settlement agreement resolves these allegations; there has been no admission of fault.

“The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware is committed to fighting for the wellbeing of our servicemembers and their families, especially those stationed at Dover Air Force Base,” said U.S. Attorney Weiss.  “When companies put servicemembers’ welfare at risk to maximize profit, they cheat the government as well as everyone who serves our country.  We will not tolerate such disappointing conduct.” 

“In addition to the extensive and dedicated collaborative efforts among DCIS, AFOSI, and the Department of Justice, the Air Force Audit Agency played a crucial role in the case,” said Special Agent in Charge William W. Richards, Air Force Office of Special Investigations.  “AFOSI, in concert with our federal law enforcement and prosecutorial partners, stand united in our commitment to ensuring the safety and welfare of the Air Force’s most valuable assets, our Airmen and their families.  We will continue to combat fraud and hold those accountable that would threaten the Air Force’s ability to defend the United States and our citizens,” added SA Richards.

The settlement announced today resolves a lawsuit filed under the whistleblower provision of the False Claims Act.  The government’s claims are based in part on a whistleblower suit filed by a former employee of Hunt.  A whistleblower suit, or qui tam action under the False Claims Act, is commenced by an individual, known as a “relator,” filing a complaint under seal in the U.S. District Court, and providing a copy of the complaint and other evidence to the local U.S. Attorney.  The United States then has an opportunity to investigate the claims. The False Claims Act provides the whistleblowers with a share of the government’s recovery.         

The resolutions obtained in this matter were the result of a coordinated effort between the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware and the United States Air Force Office of Special Investigations.

This matter was investigated by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jesse Wenger and Shamoor Anis.

Related court documents and information from the civil lawsuit are on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:20-cv-107-MN.

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced that a federal grand jury sitting in Wilmington returned an indictment yesterday charging James Pickett, 24, of Bear, Delaware, with distributing and possessing child pornography between August and December 2021.

Pickett has been in custody since his December 16, 2021 arrest. If convicted, Pickett faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison, with a maximum penalty of 40 years’ incarceration. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

U.S. Attorney Weiss commented, “The production, distribution, and collection of child pornography is a heinous shadow industry that targets the most vulnerable among us – our children.  My office is dedicated to protecting children and prosecuting those that engage in the sexual exploitation of minors. I would like to thank Homeland Security Investigations for their tireless efforts in this case.”

The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Briana Knox is prosecuting the case.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER.

An indictment contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.

WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced today that a resident of Bear, Delaware was sentenced on Tuesday to 36 months in prison for committing wire fraud, bank fraud, and money laundering against several banks, the Social Security Administration (“SSA”), and Sutter Health, a California healthcare company. Proven losses from the defendant’s schemes totaled approximately $225,000.  United States District Judge Leonard P. Stark pronounced sentence.

According to court documents and testimony at the August 2021 trial, Aaron Davis, 44, engaged in a series of schemes with unknown accomplices to defraud the SSA, Sutter Health, Citizens Bank, and SunTrust Bank between July 2017 and October 2017.  One scheme involved serially opening bank accounts; depositing money fraudulently taken from Sutter Health and the SSA into those accounts; and withdrawing the money before those funds could be verified.  Another scheme involved depositing fraudulent checks into bank accounts and withdrawing funds before the fraudulent nature of the checks could be detected.  A third money laundering scheme involved moving the illegally acquired money from one bank account into another to make the funds appear legitimate. 

U.S. Attorney Weiss stated, “In a matter of only four months, Mr. Davis successfully stole approximately $225,000 while attempting to steal almost $1.3 million.  His schemes victimized the SSA, a nonprofit healthcare company, and banks, all of which provide vital services to millions of individuals across the country.  I commend the FBI and the SSA Office of the Inspector General for their steadfast commitment to ensuring justice in this case.” 

“Those facilitating and committing money laundering will continue to be investigated, prosecuted, and as in Mr. Davis’ case, sentenced to a significant term of imprisonment”, said Thomas J. Sobocinski, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Baltimore Field Office. “The FBI applauds the efforts of our partners in the SSA Office of the Inspector General and the United States Attorney’s Office in bringing Mr. Davis to justice. These complex financial crimes often require a web of individuals concealing monetary transactions in order to abscond with their illicit funds, the FBI is committed to unraveling these networks”.

The FBI’s Wilmington Resident Agency and SSA’s Office of the Inspector General investigated this case.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher R. Howland and Shamoor Anis prosecuted the case.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 19-CR-101-LPS.

WILMINGTON, Del. – A New Castle County man was sentenced on Tuesday to 10 years in federal prison for his role in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. 

According to court documents and evidence presented at the December 21, 2021 sentencing hearing, Imanuel Villalba, 23, received shipments of up to forty pounds per week of methamphetamine from California until the COVID-19 pandemic shut down his supply chain in March 2020.  Together with his girlfriend Hayley Carello, Villalba travelled to California in June 2020 to pay his supplier cash to re-start his methamphetamine trafficking business.  When a four-pound methamphetamine shipment arrived in Delaware on June 29, 2020, the DEA intercepted that package and Villalba and Carello were arrested.  Carello was sentenced to five years’ imprisonment on November 17, 2021.

The conspiracy in which Villalba participated was the subject of a months-long DEA investigation, which included the use of federal wiretaps on Villalba’s and Carello’s phones.  On the day the couple was arrested, law enforcement officers seized four pounds of methamphetamine, a handgun from Villalba’s motel room and an AR-15 rifle from Carello’s residence. 

Two other defendants were separately charged, and their cases remain pending.  David Zarco pled guilty to distributing methamphetamine on Villalba’s behalf.  He is scheduled to be sentenced January 4, 2022.  Hanna Carello, Hayley Carello’s twin sister, was indicted February 23, 2021 for participating in the conspiracy with Villalba and Carello.  An indictment merely contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime.  Hanna Carello, like all defendants, is presumed to be innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.

David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, commented on the sentence, “Methamphetamine is a highly dangerous and addictive drug. Its increased presence in our communities is concerning.  Imanuel Villalba was responsible for bringing a large amount of methamphetamine into Delaware, and he will now serve a significant prison sentence for that crime. Discovering and dismantling illegal drug supply chains like Villalba’s remains a priority for my office, DEA and our law enforcement partners.” 

“Villalba was responsible for trafficking approximately 40 pounds of methamphetamine weekly into Delaware.  This is a substantial amount of a dangerous street drug that is often used by people struggling with illicit opioid use disorder to abate withdrawal symptoms,” said Thomas Hodnett, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Philadelphia Field Division. Villalba’s drug distribution activities destroyed the lives of countless people across Delaware; for that he is deserving of this federal prison sentence.”

U.S. Attorney Weiss made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Leonard P. Stark.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennifer K. Welsh and Ruth Mandelbaum are prosecuting the case.  The case has been investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”) Group 35, which is part of the Liberty Mid-Atlantic High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (“HIDTA”).  The DEA received significant assistance from the Wilmington Police Department, Delaware State Police, and the Newport Police Department.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:20-cr-00054 (LPS).

WILMINGTON, Del. – A federal jury sitting in Wilmington convicted a Port Deposit, Maryland woman on Wednesday of wire fraud for fraudulently obtaining money from her employer, a Delaware medical practice, by charging unauthorized personal expenses to her business credit card. U.S. District Judge Leonard P. Stark presided over the trial and accepted the verdict.

According to court records and evidence presented, Kimberly Sponaugle, 44, made over 3,000 personal purchases with her business credit card totaling well over $250,000 during a six-year period.  While working as a business manager for the medical practice, Ms. Sponaugle misappropriated her employer’s funds to pay for a wide range of goods, including her home power bills and multiple domestic and international vacations for herself and her personal associates.  Ms. Sponaugle hid this fraudulent spending by mischaracterizing her personal purchases in the business’s bookkeeping software, denying others access to her credit card statements, and utilizing other means of deception.

David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, commented on the verdict, “As a business manager, Ms. Sponaugle served in a position of trust. She betrayed that trust, putting personal greed ahead of her job responsibilities and enriching herself by taking her employer’s money.  My office and our law enforcement partners will continue to pursue those who commit financial fraud at the expense of their employers.”

“Ms. Sponaugle treated her company’s funds as her own personal bank account, even using them to pay for elaborate vacations and household bills,” said Thomas J. Sobocinski, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Baltimore Field Office. “The FBI is committed to rooting out and bringing to justice company insiders who use their positions to commit this kind of unconscionable financial fraud. Companies should be reminded that the threat of fraudulent activities increasingly comes from employees on the inside.”

Ms. Sponaugle faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison.  The sentencing date has yet to be announced.  Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine Ms. Sponaugle’s sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

U.S. Attorney Weiss and SAC Sobocinski of the FBI Baltimore Field Office, which investigated the case through its Wilmington Resident Agency, made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Carly Hudson and Ruth Mandelbaum are prosecuting the case.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:19-CR-103.