Northern District of Indiana

Today, the Department of Justice and the  Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a Clean Air Act Settlement with BP Products North America Inc., (BPP), a subsidiary of BP p.l.c., requiring control technology expected to  reduce benzene by an estimated seven tons per year, other hazardous air pollutants (HAP) by 28 tons per year and other volatile organic compound emissions (VOC) by 372 tons per year at its Whiting Refinery in Indiana. The United States’ complaint, filed simultaneously with the settlement, alleges that BPP violated federal regulations limiting benzene in refinery wastewater streams, and HAP and VOC emissions at its Whiting Refinery, as well as the general requirement to use good air pollution control practices. As part of the settlement, BPP will install one or more permanent benzene strippers to reduce benzene in wastewater streams leading to its lakefront wastewater treatment plant.

“This settlement sends an important message to the refining industry that the United States will take decisive action against illegal benzene and VOC emissions,” said Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “Under the settlement, the refinery will implement controls that will greatly improve air quality and reduce health impacts on the overburdened communities that surround the facility.”

“This settlement will result in the reduction of hundreds of tons of harmful air pollution a year, which means cleaner, healthier air for local communities, including communities with environmental justice concerns,” said Acting Assistant Administrator Larry Starfield of the EPA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “This is one of several recent settlements that show that EPA and the Department of Justice are committed to improving air quality in local communities by holding industrial sources accountable for violations of emission standards under the Clean Air Act.”

“This settlement advances my office’s environmental justice initiative by providing cleaner air and reducing the negative health impacts on the low income and minority residents who live near BPP’s refinery,” said U.S. Attorney Clifford D. Johnson for the Northern District of Indiana. “My office is committed to continuing to enforce the nation’s environmental laws so that all residents of Northern Indiana can live, work and play in a cleaner, healthier environment.”

In addition to securing injunctive relief, including capital investments, estimated to exceed $197 million, the settlement obligates BPP to pay a total financial penalty of $40 million, comprised of civil penalties and stipulated penalties for violations of an earlier settlement. This is the largest civil penalty ever secured for a Clean Air Act stationary source settlement. BPP separately agreed to undertake a $5 million supplemental environmental project to reduce diesel emissions in the communities surrounding the Whiting Refinery. BPP will also install 10 air pollutant monitoring stations to monitor air quality outside of the refinery fence line. The settlement terms are included in a proposed consent decree filed with the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Indiana.

Benzene is known to cause cancer in humans. Short-term inhalation exposure to benzene also may cause drowsiness, dizziness, headaches, as well as eye, skin and respiratory tract irritation, and, at high levels, unconsciousness. Long-term inhalation exposure can cause various disorders in the blood, including reduced numbers of red blood cells and anemia in occupational settings. Reproductive effects have been reported for women exposed by inhalation to high levels, and adverse effects on the developing fetus have been observed in animal tests.

VOCs, along with NOX, play a major role in the atmospheric reactions that produce ozone, which is the primary constituent of smog. People with lung disease, children, older adults, and people who are active can be affected when ozone levels are unhealthy. Ground-level ozone exposure is linked to a variety of short-term health problems, including lung irritation and difficulty breathing, as well as long-term problems, such as permanent lung damage from repeated exposure, aggravated asthma, reduced lung capacity and increased susceptibility to respiratory illnesses such as pneumonia and bronchitis.

The Whiting Refinery is surrounded by communities with environmental justice concerns. This settlement is part of the Justice Department’s and EPA’s ongoing focus on assisting communities that have been historically marginalized and disproportionately exposed to pollution.

This settlement also supports EPA’s National Enforcement and Compliance Initiative (NECI): Creating Cleaner Air for Communities by Reducing Excess Emissions of Harmful Pollutants. To learn more about this NECI, visit www.epa.gov/enforcement/national-enforcement-and-compliance-initiative-creating-cleaner-air-communities.

The State of Indiana assisted in the negotiations and is also a party to the settlement.

The settlement is subject to a public comment period and final court approval. The consent decree will be available for viewing at www.justice.gov/enrd/consent-decrees.

SOUTH BEND – Michael Snyder, 35 years old, of Francesville, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Robert L. Miller, Jr. after pleading guilty in two cases, one for  distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and one for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Snyder was sentenced to 72 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.

According to documents in these cases, in November 2021, Snyder, who was driving a stolen vehicle in Mishawaka, was stopped by law enforcement officers.  A loaded, stolen handgun was recovered from under his seat.  Snyder had a prior felony conviction, and as such, was prohibited from possessing the firearm.  In April 2022, an investigation revealed that Snyder was the source of a pound of methamphetamine that was sold in Winamac, Indiana.

These cases were investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Porter County Multi-Enforcement Group, and the Mishawaka Police Department. These cases were prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joel Gabrielse.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

###

HAMMOND— In honor of National Police Week, United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson salutes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement.  This year, the week is observed Sunday, May 14, 2023 through Saturday, May 20, 2023.  

In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices.  Today is Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. Based on data submitted to and analyzed by the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), 224 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2022, with four of those officers having served in the State of Indiana.  One officer, Noah C. Rainey, from the Northern District of Indiana lost his life in 2022.

“It is my solemn duty to honor all law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice,” said United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.  “Law enforcement officers undertake great risks every day to protect others.  These selfless acts deserve the upmost respect and honor.  On behalf of my Office, I want to say to all law enforcement officers;  we are grateful for the work that you perform each day.” 

The names of the 556 fallen officers added this year to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial were read on Saturday, May 13, 2023, during a Candlelight Vigil in Washington, D.C.  Starting last Friday and continuing throughout the current week, US Attorney staff will be attending District events in remembrance of fallen officers.  

###

SOUTH BEND –Late yesterday, Leontis Cornelius, 43 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was found guilty after a 2-day jury trial presided over by United States District Court Chief Judge Jon E. DeGuilio, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

The jury returned a verdict of guilty against Cornelius on two counts of the Superseding Indictment for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the South Bend Police Department.  This trial was handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Jerome W. McKeever and Katelan McKenzie Doyle.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

FORT WAYNE –Adam Meekin, 26 years old, of Huntington, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Holly A. Brady after his plea of guilty to engaging in the business of dealing and manufacturing firearms and the unlawful possession of an unregistered firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Meekin was sentenced to 54 months in prison to be followed by 2 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, in 2018, ATF observed that Meekin was advertising firearms for sale on social media.  In 2017 and 2018, completed rifles were seized in investigations involving homicides, attempted homicides, robberies, and other criminal gang activity in Detroit, Chicago, and Fort Wayne.  Eleven of these crime guns were traced to AR-15 style lower receivers purchased by a Meekin family member.  The investigation revealed that Meekin’s family members completed paperwork and purchased at least 122 lower receivers on his behalf.  In the summer of 2018, ATF agents performed a series of undercover operations from Meekin which involved purchasing completed rifles and ordering an illegal and unregistered firearm, which was a non-serialized, short-barreled fully automatic rifle, referred to as a “ghost gun”.  During recorded conversations, Meekin admitted to being in business for several years and said that he could build any firearm. 

“Gun violence is a problem plaguing our communities,” said United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.  “The flow of illegally purchased firearms, especially “ghost guns”,  must stop.  As this case shows, often the  source of trafficked firearms is a person, like Mr. Meekin, who illegally manufactures and illegally sells them to violent criminals.  With the assistance of  the ATF and other law enforcement partners, my office will continue to prosecute, to the full extent that federal law allows, any person who illegally engages in the business of dealing and manufacturing firearms.”

“When privately made firearms end up in the hands of prohibited people, it threatens the safety of the community,” remarked ATF Special Agent in Charge Christopher Amon of the Chicago Field Division. “We will continue to investigate these important cases alongside our prosecutorial partners at the United States Attorney’s Office.”

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony W. Geller.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

###

SOUTH BEND – Mylin Murel, 20 years old, of Atlanta, GA, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Robert L. Miller, Jr. after pleading guilty to stealing firearms from a federally licensed firearms dealer, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Murel was sentenced to 97 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release. 

According to documents in the case, in June 2021, Murel broke into a federal firearms licensed dealer’s store and stole 15 handguns, a shotgun, 2 sound suppressors, and ammunition.  In the days following the burglary, Murel spoke with other individuals about buying/selling firearms. As part of these conversations, Murel exchanged a photo of numerous guns he had stolen. Murel sold one of the stolen firearms to an individual for $650.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the South Bend Police Department.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Joel Gabrielse and Jerome W. McKeever.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

HAMMOND-- The Justice Department joins its partners across the federal government, as well as people throughout American Indian and Alaska Native communities, in recognizing May 5, 2023 as National Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons Awareness Day. Responding to the unacceptable levels of violence that have led to the crisis of Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons (MMIP) is a priority of the Department of Justice every day.

The department’s work to respond to the MMIP crisis is a whole-of-department effort that takes many forms.  One year ago today, Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco joined Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland to launch the Not Invisible Act Commission, a joint Commission established by the Not Invisible Act with an essential mission — to reduce violence against American Indians and Alaska Natives.  In February, they welcomed the first in-person plenary meeting of the Not Invisible Act Commission.  Since then, the department’s representatives on the commission—who are department leaders and subject matter experts—have participated in the Commission’s field hearings, which will continue through the summer.  Later this year, the Commission will deliver recommendations for addressing the MMIP crisis to the Attorney General and the Secretary.  In addition to supporting the Not Invisible Act Commission, the department remains steadfast in its commitment to addressing the MMIP crisis.

“The Justice Department is marshalling the full strength of its resources to confront the crisis of Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons, which has devastated the lives of victims, their families, and entire Tribal communities,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland.  “Addressing this crisis requires a whole-of-government approach, and we are grateful for the partnership of Tribal and other law enforcement agencies across the nation that are working alongside the Justice Department to help reduce crime and support victims in American Indian and Alaska Native communities.”

“Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons Awareness Day calls on our nation to pause and honor the loved ones who have gone missing or who have been the victims of violent crime,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco.  “Acknowledging the many American Indian and Alaska Native people who have suffered, and continue to suffer, from the pain of a missing loved one or of violent crime serves as an important reminder of the urgency and importance of the department’s work to respond to the crisis of missing or murdered indigenous persons.  The Justice Department—including our dedicated agents, analysts, and prosecutors—remains steadfast in our pledge to work as partners with Tribal governments in preventing and responding to the violence that has disproportionately harmed Tribal communities.”   

“The Justice Department is committed to using every resource at its disposal to combat the Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons Crisis,” said Associate Attorney General Vanita Gupta. “In addition to our core law-enforcement work, we are providing grant funding and guidance to help Tribes develop response plans for missing-persons cases, partner effectively with local law enforcement, and provide resources for victims of crime.”

United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson said, “Since their federal recognition in 1994, my Office and the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi have built a very deep and strong relationship in which concerns are openly discussed.  One of the topics we have discussed is the unacceptable levels of victimization of American Indian and Alaska Native community members.  Through those discussions, into which we invited our local, state, federal and tribal law enforcement partners, we have developed plans and strategies to address any incident of violence directed at members of the Pokagon Band that occur in the Northern District of Indiana.”

Department Prioritization of MMIP Cases - In July 2022, Deputy Attorney General Monaco issued a memorandum reiterating that it is a priority of the Department of Justice to address the disproportionately high rates of violence experienced by American Indians and Alaska Natives, and relatedly, the high rates of indigenous persons reported missing.  The memorandum directed each United States Attorney with Indian country jurisdiction — along with their law enforcement partners at DOJ — to update and develop new plans for addressing public safety in Indian country. 

Publication of Updated Attorney General Guidelines for Victim and Witness Assistance- In October 2022, Attorney General Merrick B. Garland issued revised Attorney General Guidelines for Victim and Witness Assistance.  The revised guidelines, which was updated for the first time in a decade, address when and how department employees work with victims and witnesses of crime to ensure that their voices are heard and that they are protected during criminal justice proceedings. For the first time the guidelines include cultural and linguistic considerations for victims from American Indian and Alaska Native communities.

National Native American Outreach Services Liaison- Last year, the department announced the creation of a new National Native American Outreach Services Liaison.  Since that announcement, the Liaison has begun to help amplify the voice of crime victims in Indian country and their families across the department as they navigate the federal criminal justice system. In the coming months, the Liaison will meet with survivors and family members of MMIP to learn more about the current challenges in MMIP cases and to make recommendations about the department’s continued response.

Federal Law Enforcement Strategy to Prevent and Respond to the MMIP Crisis - In July 2022, the Department of Justice and the Department of the Interior submitted a report pursuant to Sections 2 and 4(a) of Executive Order 14053, which called for “coordinated and comprehensive Federal law enforcement strategy to prevent and respond to violence against Native Americans, including to address missing or murdered indigenous people where the federal government has jurisdiction.”  The report was published late last year and is available on the department website here.

Guide for Tribal Community Response Plans for Missing Persons Cases - In December 2022, the department published a Guide to Developing a Tribal Community Response Plan for Missing Persons Cases. This Guide is a resource for Tribes interested in developing a plan to respond to missing person cases that is tailored to the specific needs, resources, and culture of Tribal communities.

Launch of the COPS Office Tribal MOU/MOA Resource Library - On Monday of this week, the department’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) published its Tribal Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)/Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) Sample Resource Library.  This library provides users with the resources to research and successfully draft agreements that will help agencies develop and solidify partnerships to address missing or murdered Indigenous persons cases.

Expanded Scope of the Tribal Victim Services Set-Aside Grant Program - The department’s Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) expanded the scope of allowable activities under its Tribal Victim Services Set-Aside (TVSSA) grant program to permit Tribal communities to pay for costs related to generating awareness of individual missing persons cases involving American Indians and Alaska Native persons, supporting private search efforts for missing American Indians and Alaska Native persons in certain circumstances, and supporting efforts to coordinate the Tribal, state, and federal response to MMIP cases.

Government-to-Government Tribal Consultation on Violence Against Women - In September 2022, the department’s Office of Violence Against Women (OVW) held the 17th Annual OVW Government-to Government Tribal Consultation on Violence Against Women in Anchorage, Alaska.  OVW is responsible for conducting annual government-to-government consultations with the leaders of all Federally recognized Indian Tribal governments on behalf of the Attorney General.  The 2022 Tribal consultation report is available here.

National Institute of Justice Study of MMIP Cases in New Mexico -Last year, the department’s National Institute of Justice (NIJ) funded a study that will provide vital information regarding the prevalence and context of cases of MMIP in New Mexico and, importantly, will inform long-term data collection, analysis, and reporting strategies on MMIP cases. These improvements will support data-driven decision-making regarding MMIP in New Mexico moving forward.

Additional Department of Justice Resources - For additional information about the Department of Justice’s efforts to address the MMIP crisis, please visit the Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons section of the Tribal Safety and Justice website.

Click here for more information about reporting or identifying missing persons. 

SOUTH BEND – Erskine Jones, 31 years old, of Mishawaka, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Jon E. DeGuilio after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Jones was sentenced to 46 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release. 

According to documents in the case, in October 2022 Jones was on federal supervised release and state parole with active arrest warrants on both cases. When investigators found Jones, he had a loaded .380 semi-automatic firearm in his pocket. Jones’ prior convictions include two for robbery and one for felon in possession of a firearm. Any one of Jones’ prior felony convictions prohibit him from possessing the firearm.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the United States Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force and the St. Joseph County Police Department.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Molly E. Donnelly.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

HAMMOND- Every April, the Justice Department’s Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) leads communities across the country in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW) to honor victims, promote their rights and recognize victim advocates.  In 1981, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed the first National Crime Victims’ Rights Week to bring greater sensitivity to the needs and right of victims of crime.  To observe National Crime Victims’ Rights Week , the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Indiana is co-sponsoring an Intimate Partner Violence Training on April 25, 2023 in coordination with the South Bend Police Department and the Office of Victims of Crime. 

The Department of Justice and United States Attorney’s Offices observe National Crime Victims’ Rights Week nationwide by taking time to honor victims of crime and those who advocate on their behalf. According to a report from the Bureau of Justice Statistics, in 2021, there were more than 4.6 million violent victimizations and 11.7 million property crimes.

During National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, victim advocacy organizations, community groups and state, local, and tribal agencies host rallies, candlelight vigils, and other events to raise awareness of victims’ rights and services. On the evening of Wednesday, April 26th, a candlelight vigil will be held on the National Mall near the U.S. Capitol from 7:00pm-8:00pm EST.  In recognition of this year’s theme: Survivor Voices: Elevate. Engage. Effect Change. – the vigil is an opportunity to commit to elevating and engaging survivors to lift their voices, inform policy and practice, thereby effect change.  For more information on the candlelight vigil, please visit: https://ovc.ojp.gov/events.

United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson said, “My office collaborates with federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement partners to highlight the importance of providing services at the earliest possible stage of victimization and litigation.  Early intervention helps prevent further victimization and encourages victim involvement in the criminal justice system, mitigating the cycle of violence and restoring hope for the future.”

For additional information about this year’s National Crime Victims’ Rights Week and how to assist victims in your community, please visit OVC’s website at www.ovc.gov.  For ongoing updates from OVC and ideas throughout the year on how you can support victims, please subscribe to OVC’s email notifications at  https://ovc.ojp.gov/subscribe/news-from-ovc.

FORT WAYNE –Spencer Roberson, 43 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Holly A. Brady, April 20, 2023, after pleading guilty to possessing with intent to distribute controlled substances, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Roberson was sentenced to 78 months in prison to be followed by 4 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, on October 2, 2021, Roberson possessed heroin, cocaine, and more than 40 grams of fentanyl or more than 10 grams of a fentanyl analogue, all of which were intended for distribution.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with the assistance of the Indiana State Police and the Fort Wayne Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley J. Miller Lowery.

HAMMOND- Hailey Gist-Holden, age 28, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philp P. Simon after a jury found him guilty of armed bank robbery, and using, carrying, brandishing, and discharging a firearm during that bank robbery.  The jury specifically found that, as part of the bank robbery and the discharging of the firearm, Gist-Holden killed/murdered the bank security guard. This prosecution arose out of the June 11, 2021, armed robbery of a First Midwest Bank on Ridge Road in Gary, Indiana.    

Gist-Holden received two consecutive life sentences in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, Gist-Holden and other individuals formulated a plan to rob the Bank on Ridge Road in Gary, Indiana.  Before actually entering the Bank, Gist-Holden, at point blank range, shot the Bank’s security guard.  Gist-Hilden then proceeded into the Bank to complete the robbery.  While another member of the robbery crew entered the Bank building and stole approximately $9,000.00, Gist-Holden remained in the doorway of the building firing bullets that shattered windows.   After the robbery, Gist-Holden and a co-defendant fled Indiana.   Gist-Holden, was subsequently apprehended in Georgia by local law enforcement following a high-speed car chase. 

Previously, co-defendants James Anthony King and Kenyon Hawkins pled guilty to armed bank robbery and murder resulting from the discharge of a firearm during the robbery.  Both are awaiting sentencing.  Another alleged participant in this bank robbery is set to be tried separately.

“First, I want to express by sincerest condolences to the victims in this case.  I fully recognize that Gist-Holden’s prosecution does not diminish the anxiety you face or the sorrow that you are – and will continue—to experience because of this senseless act of violence,” said United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.  “Second, as this case proves, my office, with the support and assistance of federal, state and local enforcement agencies, will prosecute vigorously persons who commit volent crimes that destroy the peace of Northern District of Indiana residents and businesses.” 

“While this senseless act of violence will have a lifelong impact on the victims, I hope that knowing this defendant has been held accountable for his crimes helps their healing process,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Herbert J. Stapleton. “Violent acts such as this in our communities are intolerable and the FBI and our law enforcement partners will continue our efforts to remove dangerous individuals such as the defendant from our streets.”

“I commend the efforts of the numerous law enforcement agencies who participated in this investigation and the United States Attorney’s Office for their partnership in prosecuting those accountable for this tragedy,” commented Special Agent in Charge Christopher Amon. “ The men and women of ATF stand shoulder to shoulder with our law enforcement and prosecutorial partners to ensure our communities are safe.”

This investigation was led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Gang Response Investigative Team with the assistance of the Lake County Sheriff’s Department; the Lake County Prosecutor’s Office; the Indiana State Police; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; and the Gary Police Department.  Additional investigative assistance was provided by the FBI Offices in Chicago, Miami, and Atlanta along with the Georgia State Police, the Atlanta Police Department, and the Lowndes County (GA) Sheriff’s Department.  Additional investigative assistance was provided by the FBI Offices in Chicago, Miami, and Atlanta along with the Georgia State Police, the Atlanta Police Department, and the Lowndes County (GA) Sheriff’s Department.  Additionally, the U.S. Attorney’s Offices in the Northern District of Georgia, Middle District of Georgia, and the Middle District of Florida were involved in this cooperative effort.  This case was tried by Assistant United States Attorneys Caitlin M. Padula and Michal J. Toth, who are joined by the prosecution team which includes Assistant United States Attorneys David Nozick and Kimberly Schultz.

SOUTH BEND – Earl Rauschenberg, 46 years old, of Michigan City, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Robert L. Miller, Jr. after pleading guilty to transportation of child pornography, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Rauschenberg was sentenced to 180 months in prison followed by 7 years of supervised release. 

According to documents in the case, in July 2020, Rauschenberg uploaded to the internet a video depicting child pornography. A year earlier, July 2019, Rauschenberg had been released from prison following his conviction for possession of child pornography.

This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations with the assistance of the Indiana State Police and the Michigan City Police Department.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys John M. Maciejczyk.

###

FORT WAYNE –Chad Billington, 38 years old, of Geneva, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to distribution of methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Billington was sentenced to 120 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, Billington engaged in the sale of methamphetamine to law enforcement on several occasions during November and December of 2020.  The methamphetamine obtained from Billington had a purity level of 97 percent or higher. 

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the Allen County Sheriff’s Department and the Fort Wayne Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Brent A. Ecenbarger.

###

FORT WAYNE –Kelly Krieger, 38 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to aiding and abetting armed bank robbery, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Krieger was sentenced to 69 months in prison, 2 years of supervised release and ordered to pay $202,184 in restitution to the victim bank.

According to documents in the case, a bank in Fort Wayne was robbed on Christmas Eve 2019 by an individual armed with a deadly weapon, later identified later as Horia Malutan.

During their investigation, law Enforcement determined that one of the bank employees, the branch manager, Kelly Krieger, was involved in the robbery.  Krieger admitted to law enforcement that she and Malutan planned the robbery. Krieger said that she told Malutan where to stand before coming into the bank, what words to use once inside the bank and how to exit the bank.

Co-defendant Malutan pled guilty to the armed bank robbery.  He was sentenced in May, 2022, to  57 months imprisonment and ordered to pay restitution to the victim bank.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of the Fort Wayne Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley J. Miller Lowery.

###

HAMMOND- Rajesh Kanuru, 46 years old, of Chicago, Illinois, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Jon E. DeGuilio after pleading guilty to wire fraud and embezzlement against a bankruptcy estate, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Kanuru was sentenced to 33 months in prison, 2 years of supervised release and ordered to pay $348,388.50 in restitution. 

According to documents in this case, Kanuru was an attorney with a practice located in Chicago, Illinois. From March 2012 through August 2018, Kanuru devised a scheme to defraud clients who had filed for bankruptcy, the Bankruptcy Trustee and the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Indiana. In particular, Kanuru represented clients in a personal injury lawsuit. When these clients later filed for bankruptcy, Kanuru was appointed by the bankruptcy court to gather the settlement proceeds from their personal injury lawsuit to turn over to the bankruptcy estate on behalf of the clients. Instead, Kanuru embezzled the personal injury settlement proceeds totaling $348,388.50 for his own personal use and benefit.

“The Bankruptcy system, to work as it is designed, relies upon attorneys to act in the best interest of their clients and to comply with orders issued by the Bankruptcy judges,” said United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.  “When, as happened in this case, an attorney violates both his clients trust and his obligations to the Bankruptcy court to unlawfully enrich himself, my Office will seek justice by prosecuting to the fully extent of the law.”

“Abuse of the bankruptcy system by embezzling estate funds and concealing those acts strikes at the very core of the integrity of the bankruptcy system and undermines public confidence in that system,” stated Nancy J. Gargula, United States Trustee for Indiana, Central and Southern Illinois (Region 10).  “Today’s sentencing sends a strong message that these actions will not be tolerated. I am grateful to U.S. Attorney Johnson and our law enforcement partners for their strong commitment to combating fraud and abuse in bankruptcy cases.”

The United States Trustee Program is the component of the Justice Department that protects the integrity of the bankruptcy system by overseeing case administration and litigating to enforce the bankruptcy laws.  Region 10 is headquartered in Indianapolis with additional office in South Bend, IN and Peoria IL.

The investigation was conducted by the United States Postal Inspection Service in collaboration with the Northern Indiana Bankruptcy Fraud Working Group coordinated by the United States Trustee for Region 10. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U. S. Attorney Luke Reilander.

###

HAMMOND- Modesto Ricard IV, 32 years old, was sentenced by United States District Court  Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Ricard was sentenced to 51 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, on August 9, 2021, law enforcement arrested Ricard on an outstanding arrest warrant and recovered a .380 caliber firearm from his pants pocket.  Ricard’s criminal history revealed he has a prior felony conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm, and as such, is prohibited from possessing the firearm.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Indiana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Task Force, and the East Chicago Police Department.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Caitlin M. Padula.        

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

FORT WAYNE –Bart Ely, 51 years old, of Ohio City, Ohio, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to bank robbery, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Ely was sentenced to 71 months in prison to be followed by 3 years of supervised release and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $401.00 to the victim bank.

According to documents in the case, on June 4, 2021, Ely entered a bank in Bluffton, Indiana.  He wrote and presented a note directing the teller to not make a sound and give him money or he would shoot. After obtaining an amount of bank funds, Ely fled.  He was arrested later in the day after being identified from photographs posted by law enforcement. Ely’s criminal history includes several prior robbery convictions in Ohio.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of the Indiana State Police, the Bluffton Police Department, the Wells County Sheriff’s Office, and the Fort Wayne Police Department.  Federal, state, and local authorities in Ohio also assisted in this investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley J. Miller Lowery.

###

FORT WAYNE –Marcel Toussaint, 37 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to distributing more than 50 grams of methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Toussaint was sentenced to 120 months in prison to be followed by 5 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, between June 25, 2020, and August 24, 2020, Toussaint distributed various quantities of methamphetamine.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with the assistance of the Fort Wayne Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley J. Miller Lowery.

FORT WAYNE-Hector Castaneda, age 60, of Michoacan, Mexico, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Holly A. Brady on his plea of guilty to conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 5 or more kilograms of cocaine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Castaneda was sentenced to 292 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release. 

According to documents in this case and in related cases, from March of 2010 through April of 2011, Castaneda, also known as “El Pariente” conspired to distribute many kilograms of cocaine from Mexico into Allen County, Indiana, and elsewhere.  Castaneda was indicted in 2012, and he remained a fugitive in Mexico until he was arrested in 2017.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Fort Wayne Safe Streets Gang Task Force, with the members being the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Indiana State Police, the Allen County Sheriff’s Department, and the Fort Wayne Police Department.  Other law enforcement agencies providing assistance were the Allen County Drug Task Force, the New Haven Police Department, and the San Bernardino County, California, Police Department.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony W. Geller. 

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

This case is also part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

###

SOUTH BEND – Xavier Zebulon Marzette, 39 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after being found guilty during a 2-day jury trial of being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Marzette was sentenced to 36 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release. 

According to documents in the case, in September of 2019, South Bend Police responded to a disturbance at an apartment complex and received information that some of the participants were armed.  Officers stopped a car leaving the scene and found a loaded 9mm handgun inside which they were able to tie to Marzette whose DNA was found on the trigger.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the South Bend Police Department.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Joel Gabrielse and Katelan Doyle.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

###

FORT WAYNE – Adam Henry, 33 years old, of Naperville, Illinois, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Henry was sentenced to 188 months in prison to be followed by 6 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, on September 28, 2019, an Allen County Airport Authority police officer observed Henry driving erratically through the parking lot of the Fort Wayne International Airport. He was stopped as he left the airport and officers discovered that Henry was driving an airport rental car but had no driver’s license.  A subsequent search of car Henry had rented revealed a handgun under the driver’s seat and several baggies of different pills/drugs to include Xanax and 53.9 grams of cocaine.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives with the assistance of the Fort Wayne Police Department, the Fort Wayne Allen County Airport Authority – Public Safety Department, and the Indiana State Police.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley J. Miller Lowery.

###

HAMMOND- Antonio Joel Ortiz, 25 years old, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Jon E. DeGuilio after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Ortiz was sentenced to 18 months in prison followed by 1 year of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, on August 1, 2022, Ortiz possessed a loaded firearm while committing a theft.  Law enforcement successfully recovered the firearm Ortiz had thrown over a gate when he saw police as well as the loaded magazine. Ortiz’s criminal history revealed he has prior felony convictions for criminal recklessness and burglary, and as such, is prohibited from possessing the firearm.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Indiana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Task Force and the Hammond Police Department.  This case was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Patrick D. Grindlay.      

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

HAMMOND – Oneida Herrera, 24 years old, of Crown Point, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Jon E. DeGiulio after pleading guilty to one count of Conspiracy to Commit Bank Fraud, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Herrera was sentenced to 12 months and one day in prison, 2 years of supervised release and ordered to pay $190,178 to the victim bank that incurred the loss.

According to documents in the case, between October 2020 and June 2021, Herrera participated in a scheme with her codefendant, Wendell Burts, to steal funds from customer accounts at the bank where she was employed. Herrera provided Burts with customers’ personal identification information, including names, social security numbers, addresses, dates of birth, driver’s license numbers and recent account transaction details. Burts used this confidential information to make changes to the accounts online and to electronically transfer funds. Herrera and Burts attempted to steal over $480,000, and were successful in stealing  the sum of $190,178.

Codefendant Wendell Burts was previously sentenced to 27 months for his role in the scheme.

This case was investigated by Federal Bureau of Investigation.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Abizer Zanzi.

FORT WAYNE –Jack Morrow, 54 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to attempting to entice a minor to engage in sexual activity, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Morrow was sentenced to 135 months in prison to be followed by 8 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, between April 20, 2022, and May 11, 2022, Morrow was communicating on social media with an undercover officer posing as a 13-year-old female.  During the course of the online communications, Morrow sent very graphic messages about the sexual acts  he wanted to engage in with her. After arrangements were made to meet for sex at a park in Allen County, Morrow was arrested when he arrived at the park.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of the Allen County Sheriff's Department and the Auburn Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley J. Miller Lowery.

###

SOUTH BEND – Anthony Sanders, 35 years old, of LaPorte, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Sanders was sentenced to 180 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release. 

According to documents in the case, in February 2021, Sanders was in Michigan City with a loaded 9mm semi-automatic pistol with an extended magazine. When police officers attempted to stop him, he ran and discarded the handgun.  Police recovered not only the pistol, but two extended magazines, one with 28 rounds and the other with 17 rounds of ammunition.  Sanders’ had prior convictions for robbery involving a firearm, two for burglary, and two for dealing cocaine and, as a convicted felon, he was prohibited from possessing the firearm.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the Michigan City Police Department.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Molly E. Donnelly.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

###

SOUTH BEND – Latell Washington, 24 years old, of Elkhart, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to making a false statement during the purchase of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Washington was sentenced to 9 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release with the first 9 months being home detention. 

According to documents in the case, in June 2021, a handgun was recovered at the scene of a shooting. Law enforcement learned that Washington bought this handgun from a firearms dealer 15 days previously, and that he bought at least 5 other firearms between October 2020 and June 2021.  Washington admitted to lying on the ATF form in order to make the firearm purchase and said that he sold at least 4 firearms to people who could not make the firearm purchase themselves.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the South Bend Police Department.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Luke N. Reilander and Frank Schaffer.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

###

SOUTH BEND – George L. Howell, 55 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to aiding and abetting the making of false statements in the straw purchase of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Howell was sentenced to 48 months in prison followed by 1 year of supervised release. 

According to documents in the case, in January 2020, Howell had another person buy a firearm for him at a pawn shop in South Bend, Indiana.  The buyer lied on a form saying that they were the actual buyer, but both Howell and the buyer knew that the gun was really for Howell.  Howell could not legally buy the gun because he was a convicted felon and thus prohibited from making the purchase. Howell’s prior felony convictions include battery resulting in serious bodily injury, burglary, and residential entry. The firearm was ultimately recovered from a truck Howell was driving. 

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the South Bend Police Department.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jerome W. McKeever.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

###

FORT WAYNE – Calvin Brantley, age 25, of Fort Wayne, was sentenced before United States District Court Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and heroin along with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson. 

Brantley was sentenced to 120 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release.

According to documents in this case, from September to October 2020, Brantley sold fentanyl and heroin to law enforcement on multiple occasions.  A search warrant executed on his residence resulted in the recovery of approximately 200 grams of heroin,180 grams of fentanyl, over 1000 grams of marijuana and $1,600 in U.S. currency.  Two firearms were also located in the residence; a loaded Glock, extended magazine and drum magazine were found in Brantley’s bedroom by his drug stash.  The estimated street value of the drugs located in the residence was approximately $48,000.

The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with the assistance of the Fort Wayne Police Department.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Brent A. Ecenbarger.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

###

FORT WAYNE – Lakeshia Dominguez, age 45, of Fort Wayne, was sentenced before United States District Court Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to distribution of fentanyl, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson. 

Dominguez was sentenced to 78 months in prison followed by 8 years of supervised release.

According to documents in this case, local and federal law enforcement were involved in an investigation relating to the distribution of fentanyl.  The investigation revealed that on multiple occasions between September and October 2021, Dominguez distributed several ounces of fentanyl powder and fentanyl pills.  

The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with the assistance of the Fort Wayne Police Department.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony W. Geller and Sarah E. Nokes.

###

FORT WAYNE – Lucian Boboia, age 49, of Phoenix, Arizona, was sentenced before United States District Court Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to obtaining a controlled substance, including fentanyl, by fraud or deception, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson. 

Boboia was sentenced to 60 months of probation.

According to documents in this case, Boboia, a pediatric dentist, acquired a Fort Wayne dental practice in March of 2021 and began seeing patients in April of 2021.  He was the sole dentist there and was a registered practitioner with the Drug Enforcement Administration, authorized to order and administer controlled substances in accordance with his dental practice. 

In August 2021, the DEA’s Diversion Control Division began to investigate allegations that Boboia was illegally obtaining controlled substances and engaging in measures to conceal this activity.  The investigators learned that Boboia was ordering shipments of controlled substances to be delivered to his office on a weekly basis, including midazolam and fentanyl, and he was instructing staff members not to open the packages. The investigators were advised that fentanyl was not a substance used on patients.

In August 2021, investigators sought and received an administrative inspection warrant for the dental practice.  During service of the warrant, investigators obtained records involving controlled substances to include receiving, dispensing, and inventory, as well as all controlled substances physically located at the practice.  During the investigation, DEA found that between March through July, 2021, Boboia had ordered and received approximately 1,700 vials of fentanyl, about 600 bottles and vials of midazolam, and about 200 diazepam tablets.  It was determined that only a small portion of the midazolam was actually administered to patients, leaving the remainder of the controlled substances unaccounted for. 

The DEA’s data showed Boboia as being the second highest purchaser of fentanyl by a dentist in the entire nation from January through August of 2021.  During the same time, he was the top fentanyl purchaser among dentists in Indiana, purchasing almost three times as much fentanyl as the next-highest dentist.  As part of the administrative process, Boboia voluntarily surrendered his DEA registrations, which formerly allowed him to order and dispense controlled substances. His dental license has been placed on indefinite probation for a minimum of five years, and he was required to close his practice.

United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson said, “It is imperative that medical professionals who have the authority to order and to prescribe narcotics not use that authority as a means to fuel their own addiction.  As shown by this case, this Office will take appropriate steps to stop such “self- dealing” of controlled substances.”

“The Drug Enforcement Administration remains committed to enforcing the controlled substances laws and regulations of the United States.  Registrants who divert controlled substances, such as pharmaceutical fentanyl, from the legitimate supply chain will be held accountable.  In partnership with our law enforcement and prosecutor colleagues, we will continue to focus on keeping Hoosiers safe and healthy,” said Alfred A. Cooke, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration – Merrillville District Office.

The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Diversion Control Division.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Anthony W. Geller and Sarah E. Nokes.

###

SOUTH BEND – Cory Thomas, 49 years old, of Michigan City, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Jon E. DeGuilio after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute cocaine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Thomas was sentenced to 151 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release. 

According to documents in the case, in May 2022, Thomas was pulled over on his motorcycle while transporting over 125 grams of cocaine. This is Thomas’s fifth felony conviction related to the distribution of controlled substances.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with the assistance of the LaPorte County Drug Task Force and the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Molly E. Donnelly and former Assistant United States Attorney Frank E. Schaffer.

###

FORT WAYNE – Airon L. Mitchell, age 24, of Fort Wayne, was sentenced before United States District Court Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson. 

Mitchell was sentenced to 90 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.

According to documents in this case, in August 2021, Fort Wayne Police Officers were looking for Mitchell who had an outstanding warrant for his arrest.  Officers observed Mitchell get into a vehicle while holding a bag which he dropped in the center console.  The bag contained 195 blue fentanyl pills.  A search warrant for his residence resulted in the recovery of 193.8 grams of marijuana, a digital scale, a loaded 9mm handgun as well as a loaded 50 round drum magazine.  Mitchell is a convicted felon and prohibited from possessing the firearm or ammunition.     

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the Fort Wayne Police Department and the Indiana State Police Laboratory Division.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey R. Speith.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

###

HAMMOND- Kathy Lynch, age 64, of Kouts, Indiana, was found guilty following a 3-day jury trial presided over by United States District Court Judge Philip P Simon, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.  

The jury found Lynch guilty of nine (9) counts of willful failure to pay over to the IRS, federal payroll taxes withheld from Kouts Health Care, Inc employees, between June 2013 and September 2015, in violation of Title 26, United States Code, Section 7202.

Lynch will be scheduled for sentencing by separate order of the Court.  Any specific sentence to be imposed will be determined by the District Court Judge after consideration of federal statutes and the United States Sentencing Guidelines.

The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation Division.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Abizer Zanzi and Kevin Wolff.

SOUTH BEND – Mustafaa Slim, 29 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Robert L. Miller, Jr. after pleading guilty to possessing with intent to distribute controlled substances and being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Slim was sentenced to 78 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release. 

According to documents in the case, on two occasions in May 2022, Slim sold a heroin/fentanyl substance to an individual. A search warrant executed at Slim’s residence resulted in the recovery of 3 firearm, fentanyl/methamphetamine, cocaine, and over $8,000.00 in cash. This is Slim’s third conviction involving guns and his second involving drugs.  Slim’s prior felony convictions preclude him from possessing the firearms.   

This case was investigated by Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the South Bend Police Department.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jerome W. McKeever.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

###

HAMMOND- Khalil Swader, 26 years old, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Swader was sentenced to 37 months in prison followed by 1 year of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, on July 11, 2022, law enforcement attempted to pull over a vehicle for speeding in Gary, Indiana.  Before the vehicle stopped, Swader threw a loaded semi-automatic pistol with an extended magazine out the window. Swader’s criminal history revealed that he had a 2020 federal felony conviction for possessing a firearm as a felon, and as such, he was prohibited from possessing the firearm. Swader was also on supervised release for his 2020 conviction at the time of the instant crime.   

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives/Indiana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Task Force with the assistance of the Gary Police Department.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael J. Toth.      

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

HAMMOND- Joshua Jensen, 27 years old, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon on his plea of guilty to production of child pornography, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Jensen was sentenced to 240 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, Jensen produced child pornography with a victim who was less than five years of age.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Gary Police Department, and the Porter County Sheriff’s Department.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Emily Morgan.

The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov .

###

SOUTH BEND – Benjamin J. Hicks III, 42 years old, of Indianapolis, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Jon E. DeGuilio on his plea of guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Hicks was sentenced to 292 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release. 

According to documents in the case, in May 2019, Hicks agreed with others to buy methamphetamine in California to bring back to the Midwest for distribution. Hicks provided the cash while his co-conspirators flew to California, obtained more than 15 kilograms of methamphetamine, and loaded it into a car. Hicks stayed in contact with the drivers of the car as they transported the methamphetamine across the country, but the car was stopped by law enforcement in Missouri and the methamphetamine was discovered. 

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with the assistance of the Mishawaka Police Department, the St. Joseph County Drug Investigations Unit, the Indiana State Police, and the Missouri State Police. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joel Gabrielse.

###

SOUTH BEND – Toby Ray Taylor, 36 years old, of Elkhart, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Taylor was sentenced to 120 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release. 

According to documents in the case, Taylor, had an outstanding parole warrant and when he was identified, police attempted to pull over his car. He tried to flee but was apprehended and law enforcement recovered a handgun under the driver’s seat which was loaded, had an extended magazine, and an obliterated serial number. Methamphetamine and marijuana was also discovered in the car. Taylor has a prior felony conviction and is prohibited from possessing the firearm.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the St. Joseph County Police Department.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Luke N. Reilander and former Assistant United States Attorney Frank E. Schaffer.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

###

FORT WAYNE – Lisa A. Downey, age 50, of Covington, Virginia, was sentenced before United States District Court Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to wire fraud, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson. 

Downey was sentenced to 30 months in prison, 2 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $189,638.99 in restitution to the victims of the offense.

According to documents in this case, Downey owned and operated a homeowners association management business.  From 2019 through 2020, she perpetrated a scheme which involved the theft of funds from multiple Fort Wayne neighborhoods.  Downey used her position as manager for several homeowners’ association accounts to make unauthorized purchases and cash withdrawals for her own benefit.  Downey also paid herself more money than she was entitled to for her services and in some cases submitted false statements to conceal her mishandling of funds.  The total fraudulent activity resulted in over $189,000 in losses to the victims.   

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of the Allen County Sheriff’s Department.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Brent Ecenbarger.

###

HAMMOND – Tyler Michael Thompson, 34 years old, of Lowell, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Jon E. DeGuilio after pleading guilty to distribution of child pornography, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Thompson was sentenced to 235 months in prison and 10 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, in December 2021, Thompson sent multiple videos of child pornography to an undercover law enforcement officer. A search warrant was executed at Thompson’s residence and he was found to be in possession of over 200 images and over 100 videos depicting child pornography. 

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Porter County Sheriff’s Department and Winnebago County, WI, Sheriff’s Department.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Philip Benson and Emily Morgan.

FORT WAYNE – Henry Underwood, 29 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Holly A. Brady after being found guilty of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Underwood was sentenced to 102 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release. 

According to documents in this case, in September 2022, Underwood was found guilty of the gun crime following a three-day jury trial.  This conviction stems from a vandalism-by-gunfire complaint to which the Fort Wayne Police responded in December 2019.  Shortly after the shooting, police stopped a vehicle and located Underwood inside.  In this vehicle, police found a 9mm pistol loaded with live ammunition and an extended magazine.  In a social media video posted earlier in the day, Underwood was seen handling a loaded, extended firearm magazine similar to the one recovered from the vehicle, and Underwood was wearing the same clothes from the traffic stop.  Underwood has multiple prior felony convictions which prohibit him from possessing the firearm or ammunition.  

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the Fort Wayne Police Department and the Indiana State Police laboratory.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Stacey R. Speith and Anthony W. Geller.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

###

HAMMOND – Wendell Burts, 25 years old, of Crete, Illinois, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Jon E. DeGiulio after pleading guilty to one count of Conspiracy to Commit Bank Fraud, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Burts was sentenced to 27 months in prison, 2 years of supervised release and ordered to pay $190,178 to the victim bank that incurred the loss

According to documents in the case, between October 2020 and June 2021, Burts participated in a scheme with another individual to steal funds from customer accounts at the bank where the other individual was employed. The bank employee provided Burts with customers’ personal identification information, including names, social security numbers, addresses, dates of birth, driver’s license numbers and recent account transaction details. Burts used this confidential information to make changes to the accounts online and electronically transfer funds. Records show that 11 bank accounts were impacted by the scheme.  Burts and his co-conspirator attempted to steal over $480,000 and were successful in stealing $190,178. The bank employee was also charged in this case, has pleaded guilty and is awaiting sentencing.

This case was investigated by Federal Bureau of Investigation.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Abizer Zanzi.

FORT WAYNE- Cornelius Jackson, age 34, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Holly A. Brady on his plea of guilty to aiding in the making of false statements while purchasing a firearm and being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Jackson was sentenced to 84 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release. 

According to documents in this case, in August 2021, law enforcement discovered that Jackson, a convicted felon, solicited another person to purchase a firearm for him from a federally licensed firearms dealer. In doing so, he enlisted a third individual to finance the purchase. Jackson later sold a firearm to a prohibited person.  Jackson has three prior felony convictions and, as such, is prohibited from purchasing or possessing the firearm.

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the Fort Wayne Police Department.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey R. Speith. 

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

###

FORT WAYNE- Oh Min, age 22, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Holly A. Brady on his plea of guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Min was sentenced to 156 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release. 

According to documents in this case, in April 2021, while investigating the complaint of drug dealing occurring in a church parking lot, law enforcement discovered Min in a vehicle along with 170 fentanyl pills, marijuana, THC vaping cartridges, and a loaded firearm.  Min was arrested on outstanding warrants. In September 2021, a search warrant was served at Min’s residence where an additional 120 fentanyl pills and marijuana were discovered along with a loaded handgun. 

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, with the assistance of the Fort Wayne Police Department.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey R. Speith. 

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

###

HAMMOND- Keenan Seymour, 23, of Chicago, Illinois, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit racketeering activity for his role and participation in the Latin Dragons street gang, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Seymour was sentenced to 180 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.  As part of his sentencing, he was held responsible for a November 2017 murder.          

According to the Sixth Superseding Indictment returned on June 18, 2020, the Latin Dragons Nation is a criminal street gang that originated in Chicago and spread to other areas, including the Northern District of Indiana.  It was alleged that members and associates of the Latin Dragons Nation engaged in acts of violence, including murder, attempted murder, witness tampering, and assault, to protect the gang’s territory. 

In addition to Seymour, 18 other co-defendants pled guilty to participating in the racketeering conspiracy. Many of the defendants were held responsible for murders and other violent crimes  they committed in Chicago and Northwest Indiana. Several of the co-defendants were sentenced as follows:

Ralph Mendez, Jr. was sentenced to 42.5 years in prison, and was held responsible for a May 2017 gang-related drive-by shooting/murder and another drive-by shooting/murder committed in July 2017.

Justin Anaya was sentenced to 35 years in prison and was held responsible for the July 2017 murder of a minor child and a November 2017 murder where he shot and killed a man while riding in a car.

Gustavo Mata was sentenced to 35 years in prison and was held responsible for a July 2012 murder where he shot the victim from the back porch of a residence.

Manuel Diaz was sentenced to 35 years in prison and was held responsible for a September 2017 murder where he shot and killed a man while driving in a car.

Jonathan Arevalo was sentenced to 20 years in prison and was held responsible for providing a firearm for a July 2012 murder and a March 2015 gang-related felony murder.

Luis Colunga was sentenced to 17 years in prison and was held responsible for a December 2012 felony murder.

Javier Aguilera was sentenced to 18 years in prison and was held responsible for a December 2013 shooting from a car.

Ralph Daniel Mendez was sentenced to 17 years in prison and was held responsible for an April 2017 drive-by shooting.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Chicago Police Department Criminal Enterprise Unit; the Cook County Sheriff’s Office; the Bartlett Police Department; the Hammond Police Department; the East Chicago Police Department; the Merrillville Police Department; the Hobart Police Department; the Lake County Sheriff’s Department; and the Calumet City Police Department, with assistance from the Lake County, Indiana Prosecutor’s Office, the Cook County, Illinois State’s Attorney’s Office, the Indiana Department of Corrections, and the Illinois Department of Corrections.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kevin F. Wolff and Michael J. Toth, and former Northern District of Indiana Assistant United States Attorney Joseph A. Cooley, with assistance from the Criminal Division’s Organized Crime and Gang Section, Trial Attorney Hans Miller.      

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

HAMMOND – Tarrell Sims, 37 years old, of Country Club Hills, Illinois, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to two counts of Conspiracy to Commit Bank Fraud, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Sims was sentenced to 60 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release and was  ordered to pay $389,135.20 in restitution to the victim bank.

According to documents in the case, between November 2019 and February 2020, Sims directed a scheme to fraudulently obtain over $500,000 from the proceeds of two stolen business checks. Sims registered fictitious corporations in Indiana and opened fraudulent bank accounts with the assistance of two individuals whom he recruited. Sims and his co-conspirators successfully obtained over $380,000 from the bank fraud scheme.

Sim’s co-defendants have pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing.

This case was investigated by United States Postal Inspection Service and Lake County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Office of Inspector General.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Abizer Zanzi.

SOUTH BEND – Curtis Birner, 37 years old, of Peru, Indiana, was found guilty following a two-day jury trial presided over by United States District Court Judge Robert L. Miller, Jr., announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Birner was found guilty of the single-count Indictment charging him with being a felon in possession of a firearm in October 2021.   

Birner will be scheduled for sentencing by separate order of the Court.  Any specific sentence to be imposed will be determined by the District Court Judge after consideration of federal statutes and the United States Sentencing Guidelines.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the Peru Police Department and the Miami County Sheriff’s Department.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jerome W. McKeever and Katelan Doyle.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

###

FORT WAYNE –Christopher Hale, 42 years old, of Ellenwood, Georgia, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to distribution of methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Hale was sentenced to 240 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, on three occasions in May 2022, law enforcement purchased methamphetamine from Hale at various Fort Wayne locations. A June 2022 search of Hale’s residence yielded additional quantities of methamphetamine as well as scales, baggies, and gloves.   

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with the assistance of the Fort Wayne Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley J. Miller Lowery.

###

HAMMOND- Anthony Day, age 55, of Gary, Indiana, was found guilty following a 3-day jury trial presided over by United States District Court Chief Judge Jon E. DeGuilio, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.  

The jury found Day guilty of armed robbery, brandishing a firearm during that bank robbery, and  being a felon in possession of a firearm.    

Day will be scheduled for sentencing by separate order of the Court.  Any specific sentence to be imposed will be determined by the District Court Judge after consideration of federal statutes and the United States Sentencing Guidelines. 

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of the Hammond Police Department.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Caitlin M. Padula and Special Assistant United States Attorney Patrick D. Grindlay.     

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

FORT WAYNE –Almarez Henderson, 55 years old, of Fort Wayne was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Henderson was sentenced to 180 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, in April 2022, officers observed Henderson going in and out of rooms at a local hotel.  After leaving the hotel, he was pulled over for a traffic violation.  During the stop, officers determined that Henderson’s driver’s license was suspended and that he had an active warrant.  During a search of the vehicle, officers located a knife, a 9mm firearm, methamphetamine, and other items consistent with drug distribution.  

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives with the assistance of the Fort Wayne Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration laboratory.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey R. Speith.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

###