Northern District of Indiana

SOUTH BEND – Antonio Curiel, 44 years old, of San Ysedro, California, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to possessing with intent to distribute over 500 grams of cocaine, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Curiel was sentenced to 108 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, in March 2024, Curiel was transporting more than 18 kilograms of cocaine from California to the East Coast in a vehicle when he was stopped by law enforcement in Northern Indiana. Curiel admitted he was being paid for his transportation services, and this was not the first time making such a trip. 

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration including the DEA North Central Laboratory with assistance from the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joel Gabrielse.

FORT WAYNE – Rakita Davis, 45 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to federal felonies for wire fraud, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Davis was sentenced to 24 months of probation and ordered to pay $55,213.61 in restitution to the Small Business Administration.

According to documents in the case, Davis falsely claimed gross income for a business that did not exist when she applied for two Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans in 2021. The PPP program provided loans to small businesses for job retention and other expenses as part the CARES Act and for emergency financial assistance to Americans suffering from the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Davis, who was employed by the IRS when she applied for the loans, falsely claimed that she was the sole proprietor of a catering business when in reality, no such business existed. As a result of her fraudulent representations, Davis received PPP funds which she used for her own benefit on personal items such as jewelry, airfare, luxury car rentals, and vacations.

“This sentencing demonstrates the commitment of the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) to investigate and bring to justice those who victimize the American taxpayer,” said Kelly Moening, TIGTA Special Agent-in-Charge. “Fraudulently applying for loans through a federal program meant to assist Americans in need will be met with aggressive investigation and prosecution. I want to thank our law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorney's Office for their commitment to this goal.”  

This case was investigated by the United States Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration with assistance from IRS Criminal Investigation.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Justin C. Sheridan.

SOUTH BEND – Lawrence Powell, 44 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Powell was sentenced to 210 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, in July 2022, a search warrant executed on Powell’s house resulted in the recovery of more than 800 grams of methamphetamine and 3 loaded guns.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Drug Enforcement Administration including the DEA North Central Laboratory.  The case was 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.

SOUTH BEND – Michael Bellina, 22 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to transportation of child pornography, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Bellina was sentenced to 108 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, between August 2023 and March 2024, Bellina transported more than 600 images of child sexual abuse material that he received through the internet. He uploaded the images and distributed them on multiple internet platforms.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the Indiana State Police, the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Mishawaka Police Department, the Bloomington Police Department, the Indiana University Police Department, the Raleigh (North Carolina) Police Department, the Boone (North Carolina) Police Department, and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Indiana.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Hannah T Jones.

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 – Taurean Young, 40 years old, of Fishers, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Young was sentenced to 202 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, in May 2023, Young sold a pound of high purity methamphetamine on two separate occasions. In June 2023, law enforcement found Young with a firearm and also recovered a pound of methamphetamine, four ounces of fentanyl, a firearm, and body armor from his residence.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration including the DEA North Central Laboratory and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the Mishawaka Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Katelan McKenzie Doyle.

This case was 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 – Late yesterday, Stephen Forte, 63 years old, of Lakeland, Florida, was found guilty of two felony counts after a one-day jury trial presided over by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Specifically, Forte was found guilty of abusive sexual contact and interference with the duties of a flight crew member, both committed within the special aircraft jurisdiction of the United States for conduct occurring on a flight from St. Petersburg, Florida to South Bend, Indiana.

Sentencing is scheduled for September 5, 2025, at 10:00 am. 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 assistance from the St. Joseph County Airport Authority Department of Public Safety.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jerome W. McKeever and Hannah T Jones.

HAMMOND— This year, National Police Week is observed Sunday, May 11 through Saturday, May 17, 2025. In honor of National Police Week, the federal employees of the Northern District of Indiana wish to honor and salute the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement. 

In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation which designated May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which that date falls as Police Week. Every year, tens of thousands of law enforcement officers from around the world converge on Washington, D.C. to participate in planned events which honor those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice.

Based on preliminary data submitted to and analyzed by the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), 147 federal, state, county, municipal, military, tribal, and campus officers have died in the line of duty in 2024, representing a 25% increase, compared to the 118 officers who died in the line of duty in 2023.  Firearms-related fatalities have claimed the lives of 52 officers in 2024, which represents a 13% increase from the 46 officers killed by gunfire in 2023 and was the leading cause of death.

Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay said, “We should not take for granted the many ways law enforcement protect the citizens of their communities.  The reality is that many dangers confront law enforcement officers even when they are performing routine duties.  Their bravery is unmatched and their commitment to upholding the law is commendable.  The federal employees of the Northern District of Indiana join me in honoring those law enforcement officers who have lost their lives protecting others, as well as recognizing the sacrifices of their families.   

The names of the fallen officers have been added to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial and will be read on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, during a Candlelight Vigil in Washington, D.C.  There are currently 24,412 names engraved on the Memorial.

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SOUTH BEND – Yesterday, Timothy Hampton, 50 years old, of Michigan City, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to distributing methamphetamine, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Hampton was sentenced to 210 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, in August and September 2024 Hampton distributed high-purity methamphetamine to buyers. A search warrant executed at Hampton’s home resulted in the recovery of additional methamphetamine along with scales and other drug paraphernalia.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration including the DEA North Central Laboratory with assistance from the LaPorte County Drug Task Force, the Michigan City Police Department, and the LaPorte County Prosecutor’s Office.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lydia T. Lucius.

FORT WAYNE–Yesterday, Ivory Hill, 44 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to a federal felony for wire fraud, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Hill was sentenced to 24 months’ probation, including 10 months of location monitoring, and ordered to pay $23,332.00 in restitution to the victim of the offense.

According to documents in the case, Hill falsely claimed gross income for a business that did not exist when he applied for a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan. The PPP program was designed to approve loans to small businesses for job retention and other expenses as part the CARES Act that provided emergency financial assistance to Americans suffering from the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.  Specifically, Hill falsely claimed he was the sole proprietor of an auto sales business when in reality, no such business existed. Hill also fraudulently claimed his business had approximately $102,000 in gross income in 2020. As a result of his fraudulent representations, Hill received $20,832 in PPP funds which he used for his own benefit on personal items such as electronics, apparel, and car rentals, and to vacation in Miami, Florida.

rather than for any legitimately approved purpose. 

This case was investigated by the United States Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Justin C. Sheridan.

FORT WAYNE–Yesterday, Jakwan D. Braster, 30 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after his guilty plea to maintaining a drug-involved premises, possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Braster was sentenced to a total of 100 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, Braster maintained a drug house in Fort Wayne from February through August 2020 for the purpose of distributing and manufacturing controlled substances.  In August 2020, he illegally possessed firearms despite his prior felony conviction for resisting law enforcement, and he possessed those firearms in order to facilitate and protect his drug trafficking at his drug house.   

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Fort Wayne Safe Streets Gang Task Force, which includes the FBI, the Indiana State Police, the Allen County Sheriff’s Department, and the Fort Wayne Police Department.  Also assisting in this investigation were the Drug Enforcement Administration’s North Central Laboratory, the Indiana State Police Laboratory, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Anthony W. Geller and Teresa L Ashcraft.

This case was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (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.

This case was also 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 – Demetrius Clark, 41 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Clark was sentenced to 135 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, in February 2024, Clark delivered 5 pounds of methamphetamine to another distributor. A search warrant was executed at Clark’s home in South Bend resulting in the recovery of an additional 5 pounds of high-purity methamphetamine along with packaging materials, a firearm, and over $8,000 cash.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration including the DEA North Central Laboratory with assistance from the South Bend Police Department, the Fort Wayne Police Department, the Elkhart County Interdiction and Covert Enforcement Unit, and the St. Joseph County Prosecutor’s Office.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Katelan McKenzie Doyle.

WASHINGTON — Today, the Department of Justice announced the results of Operation Restore Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track and arrest child sex predators. The operation resulted in the rescue of 115 children and the arrests of 205 child sexual abuse offenders in the nationwide crackdown. The coordinated effort was executed over the course of five days by all 55 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) in the Department’s Criminal Division, and United States Attorney’s Offices around the country.  

“The Department of Justice will never stop fighting to protect victims — especially child victims — and we will not rest until we hunt down, arrest, and prosecute every child predator who preys on the most vulnerable among us,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “I am grateful to the FBI and their state and local partners for their incredible work in Operation Restore Justice and have directed my prosecutors not to negotiate.”

“Every child deserves to grow up free from fear and exploitation, and the FBI will continue to be relentless in our pursuit of those who exploit the most vulnerable among us,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Operation Restore Justice proves that no predator is out of reach and no child will be forgotten. By leveraging the strength of all our field offices and our federal, state and local partners, we’re sending a clear message: there is no place to hide for those who prey on children.”

Those arrested are alleged to have committed various crimes including the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material, online enticement and transportation of minors, and child sex trafficking. In Minneapolis, for example, a state trooper and Army Reservist was arrested for allegedly producing child sexual abuse material while wearing his uniforms. In Norfolk, VA, an illegal alien from Mexico is accused of transporting a minor across state lines for sex. In Washington, D.C., a former Metropolitan Police Department Police Officer was arrested for allegedly trafficking minor victims.

In many cases, parental vigilance and community outreach efforts played a critical role in bringing these offenders to justice. For example, a California man was arrested about eight hours after a young victim bravely came forward and disclosed their abuse to FBI agents after an online safety presentation at a school near Albany, NY.

This effort follows the Department’s observance of National Child Abuse Prevention Month in April, and underscores the Department’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and raising awareness about the dangers they face. While the Department, including the FBI, investigates and prosecutes these crimes every day, April serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preventing these crimes, seeking justice for victims, and raising awareness through community education.

The Justice Department is committed to combating child sexual exploitation. These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc.

The Department partners with and oversees funding grants for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org.

The Department urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspected exploitation of a child through the FBI’s tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), tips.fbi.gov, or by calling your local FBI field office.

Other online resources:

Electronic Press Kit

Violent Crimes Against Children

How we can help you: Parents and caregivers protecting your kids

An indictment is merely an allegation. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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OAG, CRM

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FORT WAYNE – Willie J. Hatch, 32 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady following his plea of guilty to 5 drug counts and a finding of guilt by a jury on a gun count announced Acting United States Tina L. Nommay. 

Hatch was sentenced to 210 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, on four occasions in September and October 2022, Hatch distributed methamphetamine.  In October 2022, Hatch possessed with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possessed a firearm while being a prohibited person.  He pleaded guilty to the five drug counts, and after a trial in December 2024, a jury found him guilty of the firearm offense.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Fort Wayne Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Stacey Speith and Justin Sheridan.

This case was also 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 – Johnny Daniels, 44 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Daniels was sentenced to 82 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, in April 2024 Daniels illegally possessed a loaded firearm while he assaulted and threatened the life of another person during the course of stealing items from a residence. Daniels’ prior convictions include numerous felony offenses, any one of which make it unlawful for him to possess the firearm in this case, including a robbery in which the victim was shot and killed.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the South Bend Police Department and the St. Joseph County Prosecutor’s Office.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joseph P. Falvey.

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 – Cantrell James, 34 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Cantrell James was sentenced to 96 months in prison followed by 30 months of supervised release

According to documents in the case, on November 6, 2024, law enforcement found James in possession of two firearms. James has an extensive criminal history including felony convictions for carrying a handgun without a license, failure to return to lawful detention, possession of cocaine, escape, felon carrying a handgun, and resisting law enforcement. As a convicted felon, James is prohibited from possessing the firearms in this case.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the Fort Wayne Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Teresa L. Ashcraft.

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 – Yesterday, Ron Deming, 38 years old, of LaPorte, Indiana, was found guilty today of receipt of child pornography and possession of child pornography after a two-day jury trial presided over by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Sentencing is scheduled for August 14, 2025. 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 Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the Indiana State Police and the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Hannah T Jones and Katelan McKenzie Doyle.

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.

FORT WAYNE – Neon L. Frazier, 50 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady following his conviction from a January 2025 jury trial for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.   

Frazier was sentenced to 63 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, during a traffic stop on August 16. 2024, Frazier was found to be in possession of two firearms, one of which was stolen.  At the time, Frazier was prohibited from possessing firearms because of his prior Indiana state court felony robbery conviction. 

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

This case was also 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 – Jaterria M. Davis, 42 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon Leichty after pleading guilty to a federal felony for misappropriation of postal funds, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Davis was sentenced to probation and ordered to pay $37,023 in restitution to the United States Postal Service.

According to documents in the case, Davis was employed as the Lead Sales and Service Associate at the United States Post Office in Mishawaka, Indiana. Her duties included gathering the daily deposits of cash and checks paid to the post office for postal goods and services that were to be forwarded on to the post office for deposit.  However, from on or about July 20, 2024, through August 14, 2024, Davis violated her position of trust by embezzling for her own use, $37,023 in cash deposits paid to the post office.

This case was investigated by the United States Postal Service-Office of Inspector General.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Luke N. Reilander.

SOUTH BEND – Jennifer Krueger, 42 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Krueger was sentenced to 210 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, in July 2024, law enforcement found Krueger, who had an active state arrest warrant for dealing a narcotic drug, at a hotel in Mishawaka with over 50 grams of crystal methamphetamine, thousands of fentanyl pills weighing over 400 grams, and over $58,000 cash. Krueger’s criminal history includes two prior convictions for dealing narcotic drugs.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration including the DEA North Central Laboratory with assistance from the Mishawaka Police Department, the Indiana State Police, and the St. Joseph County Prosecutor’s Office.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lydia T. Lucius.

SOUTH BEND – James Dockins, 37 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Dockins was sentenced to 128 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, in February 2024, Dockins received a package that contained over 400 grams of fentanyl pills. He stored the fentanyl pills in his home in a cabinet alongside other fentanyl pills that were packaged and ready for distribution. When Dockins left his home, law enforcement attempted to stop him, but he fled in his car through a residential neighborhood and surrendered after he had crashed his car into a fire hydrant.

This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service including the USPIS Forensic Laboratory, with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration, the United States Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force, the Mishawaka Police Department, the St. Joseph County Police Department, and the Indiana State Police. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lydia T. Lucius.

FORT WAYNE – Yesterday, Jorge Luis Jaramillo, 20 years old, of Indianapolis, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly Brady after pleading guilty to one count of distributing methamphetamine, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Jaramillo was sentenced to 60 months in prison and 5 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, in May 2023, Jaramillo knowingly distributed 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.  At the time of the drug delivery, Jaramillo was 18 years old, and he transported almost two kilograms of methamphetamine from Indianapolis for distribution in Fort Wayne, Indiana. 

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Indiana State Police; the Fort Wayne Police Department; the Allen County Sheriff’s Department; and the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony W. Geller.

This case was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (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.

This case was also 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 – Jonathon M. Koskela, 21 years old, of Cedar Lake, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to distribution of child pornography, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Koskela was sentenced to 144 months in prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $83,500 in restitution to the victims of the offense. 

According to documents in the case, from September 10, 2023, through January 21, 2024, Koskela knowingly distributed child sexual abuse material (CSAM).

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (Chicago and Charlotte), with assistance from the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Indiana State Police, the Indiana State Police Digital Forensics Unit, the Cedar Lake Police Department, and the Boone Police Department, Boone, North Carolina. The 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 – Earl Mines, 37 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to distribution of fentanyl, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Mines was sentenced to 60 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, in July 2024, Mines sold nearly 100 grams of a substance containing fentanyl. This occurred while Mines was on federal supervised release following his conviction for possessing with intent to distribute heroin, possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, and for possessing a stolen firearm.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration, including the DEA North Central Laboratory, with assistance from the Indiana State Police.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joseph P. Falvey.

This case was 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.

HAMMOND – Kimberly Robinson, age 57, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Gretchen S. Lund after pleading guilty to a single count of wire fraud, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Robinson was sentenced to one year of probation and ordered to pay $11,200 in restitution. Robinson had previously resigned her position as  Calumet Township Trustee.  

According to documents in the case, Robinson served as the elected Calumet Township Trustee from 2015 to 2024. The Calumet Township Trustee’s Office is a local governmental entity whose primary mission is to provide public assistance to individuals and families in need. In her position as Trustee, Robinson illegally used approximately $11,200 of Township assistance funds, to pay rent for her own personal residence from funds that were meant to be disbursed to aid people in need.

Robinson pled guilty pursuant to a plea agreement to resolve the criminal charges. By resigning and entering into a plea agreement before being indicted, Robinson demonstrated that she accepted responsibility for her criminal conduct

The public is reminded it may contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (usainn.pctips@usdoj.gov) or the FBI in Merrillville, Indiana at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) if they have information to report related to public corruption within the Northern District of Indiana.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the United States Postal Inspection Service. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kevin F. Wolff and Philip C. Benson.

HAMMOND- Kyran Jujuan Hawthorne, 31 years old, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Hawthorne was sentenced to 71 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, on May 26, 2023, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Hawthorne’s residence in Gary. Officers recovered two firearms with high-capacity magazines attached to them. Hawthorn’s criminal history revealed he has prior felony convictions for resisting law enforcement, attempted robbery, forgery, and being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, and as such, is prohibited from possessing the firearms in this case.   

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Gang Response Investigative Team and the Gary Police Department.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Caitlin M. Padula.

This case was 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 United States Attorney’s Office in Northern Indiana will commemorate National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW) from April 6–12, 2025, in part, by participating in the National Crime Victims’ Rights Week online Candlelight Vigil to honor crime victims.

This year’s NCVRW theme—Connecting Healing—recognizes that shared humanity drives vital connections to services, rights, and healing. KINSHIP is where victim advocacy begins.

This annual observance challenges us to build a world where every connection built through KINSHIP — between survivors, advocates, and communities — holds the potential to heal. It asks us to ensure that resources are available to all survivors and that we show up for one another with empathy and intention.

Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay said, “Ensuring victims’ connection to services and awareness of their rights is paramount in the healing process. Last year, our victim advocates made over 2,400 victim contacts by several methods, including in person, email, text, and phone calls. In addition, they issued over 50,000 victim notifications in federal cases, diligently keeping the victims’ informed of their rights throughout the Court process.”

The United States Attorney’s Office in Northern Indiana will commemorate NCVRW 2025 with the following events:

On April 9, 2025, the Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) will host the 2025 NCVRW Candlelight Vigil to pay tribute to victims of crime and the many dedicated professionals and volunteers who advocate on their behalf.

• Date: Wednesday, April 9, 2025
  Time: 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. eastern time
  Location: ovc.ojp.gov/live or justice.gov/live

NCVRW began in 1981 to honor victims and survivors of crime, raise awareness of victims’ rights and services and recognize the dedication of those who work with crime victims.

For more ideas on supporting crime victims, visit OVC’s website at www.ovc.gov.

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SOUTH BEND – Kortney Moore, 27 years old, of West Akron, Ohio, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to possessing with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Moore was sentenced to 198 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.

According to documents in this case, in February 2024, Moore, who was on federal supervised release, used the Indiana Toll Road to traffic methamphetamine and fentanyl.  Moore had been traveling from Ohio to North Dakota when law enforcement stopped him in Indiana and recovered over 700 grams of pure methamphetamine and over 40 grams of fentanyl from his vehicle. Moore has prior felony convictions for attempted possession with intent to deliver crack cocaine, possession with intent to deliver marijuana, and possession of a loaded illegal machinegun as a convicted felon.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration including the DEA North Central Laboratory with assistance from the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office, the LaPorte County Prosecutor’s Office, and the St. Joseph County Cyber Crimes Unit.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joseph P. Falvey and Katelan McKenzie Doyle.

SOUTH BEND – Ezequiel Rosa-Hernandez, 47 years old, of Erie, Pennsylvania, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to possessing with intent to distribute cocaine, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Rosa-Hernandez was sentenced to 125 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, in April 2022, Rosa-Hernandez drove from his home in Pennsylvania to Chicago to obtain a kilogram of cocaine intended for distribution in Pennsylvania. On his way back home, he was stopped in Indiana by law enforcement and the kilogram of cocaine was discovered.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, including the DEA North Central Laboratory, with assistance from the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Katelan McKenzie Doyle.

HAMMOND – Kathelia Hopkins, 48 years old, of Portage, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to wire fraud announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Hopkins was sentenced to 21 months in prison and was ordered to pay $424,250 in restitution for her role in submitting dozens of fraudulent applications for Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) to the Small Business Administration (SBA) on behalf of herself and others. 

According to documents in the case, between June and August 2020, Hopkins submitted applications to the SBA claiming that the Covid-19 epidemic was creating an economic hardship on her business and other businesses owned by her family, friends, and others. The investigation revealed that these applications were falsified and the businesses that Hopkins claimed were entitled to funds either did not exist or did not qualify for EIDL loan funds.  In total, Hopkins sought to extract over $1,250,000 from the disaster loan program and the SBA disbursed over $420,000 relying on her false claims.  Hopkins’ personal profit from the fraud scheme was estimated to be $185,040.  

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas M. McGrath.

HAMMOND – Adam Lee Taylor, 45 years old, of Crown Point, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Gretchen S. Lund after pleading guilty to distributing child pornography, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Taylor was sentenced to 135 months in prison, 5 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $6,000 in  monetary assessments that support services for victims of human trafficking and child sexual abuse.  

According to documents in the case, in November 2022, Taylor distributed a series of videos containing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) to members of a group chat on an encrypted messaging platform.  Federal agents subsequently executed a search warrant at Taylor’s residence and discovered additional CSAM in Taylor’s possession.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Indiana State Police Digital Forensics Unit.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Zachary D. Heater.

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

HAMMOND – David Allen Swisher, 29 years old, of Portage, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to possessing child pornography with a prior conviction, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Swisher was sentenced to 120 months in prison and 20 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, on or about June 23, 2023, Swisher knowingly possessed multiple videos and several images of child sexual abuse material after having being convicted of possession of child pornography in the State of Indiana.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the Porter County Sheriff’s Office, the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Indiana State Police, and the Indiana State Police Digital Forensics Unit. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Nadia D. Wardrip and Steven J. Lupa.

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 – Leontis Cornelius, 44 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Senior Judge Jon E. DeGuilio after being found guilty of two counts of being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm following a two-day jury trial in 2023, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Cornelius was sentenced to 97 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, Cornelius possessed firearm on two occasions.  In May 2020, he was engaged in a shootout outside his house when he fired seven .45 caliber rounds at a moving vehicle.  Later, in June 2021, he carried a loaded rifle with a large capacity magazine while in another person’s yard in the middle of the night. Cornelius has multiple prior felony convictions, including discharging a firearm toward a building, assault with a dangerous weapon, delivery/manufacturing of cocaine, and possessing with intent to distribute cocaine, any of which prohibit him from possessing the firearms in this case. 

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the South Bend Police Department, the St. Joseph County Police Department, and the St. Joseph County Prosecutor’s Office.  The case was prosecuted 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 – Elijah Shores, 30 years old, of Irving, Texas, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady, after pleading guilty to distributing fentanyl, possessing fentanyl with intent to distribute, and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Shores was sentenced to 200 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release.

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

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 – Nurldon Green, III, 32 years old, of Chicago, Illinois, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to Failure to Surrender for Service of Sentence, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Green was sentenced to 14 months in prison, consecutive to his sentence of 27 months in the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) and two years of supervised release in federal case number 2:22-CR-116.

According to documents in the case, on February 22, 2024, Green was sentenced in his previous federal case for Theft of Mail to a term of 27 months in the BOP, followed by two years of supervised release, and was ordered to appear to serve his sentence on April 4, 2024, either at the BOP institution to which he was assigned or to the United States Marshals Service in Hammond, Indiana.  On April 4, 2024, Green willfully failed to report or surrender at either location.  Green was subsequently located and arrested on August 31, 2024, and has remained in custody since that date.

This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service, with assistance from the United States Marshals Service.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Emily Morgan.

HAMMOND- Trashawn Heard, 29 years old, of Chicago, Illinois, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Gretchen S. Lund on his plea of guilty to robbery and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Heard was sentenced to 121 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, on July 25, 2022, Heard entered a gas station in Hammond, Indiana, and pointed a handgun with an extended magazine at the employees. After demanding and receiving money, Heard attempted to leave but was shot in the shoulder. He dropped the money and the firearm, fled the scene, crashed his car and was taken to a hospital where he was arrested. At the time he committed the robbery, Heard was on parole for three robbery convictions from 2017.

This case was investigated by the FBI/GRIT Task Force with the assistance of the Hammond Police Department. The 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.             

SOUTH BEND – Makai Boyce, 19 years old, of Mishawaka, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to possessing a machinegun, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Boyce was sentenced to 75 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, in December 2023, Boyce possessed a stolen handgun with an extended magazine and a machinegun conversion device, or “switch,” capable of firing multiple bullets automatically. Boyce fired the machinegun and struck an occupied residence. Two days later, he led police on a lengthy foot chase during which he discarded the machinegun in a backyard doghouse surrounded by children’s toys.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the Indiana State Police, the South Bend Police Department, and the St. Joseph County Prosecutor’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Joseph P. Falvey 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.

SOUTH BEND – Jalen Pearson, 31 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to distributing 5 or more grams of methamphetamine, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Pearson was sentenced to 97 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, in June 2023, Pearson distributed approximately 3 pounds of a high purity of methamphetamine for nearly $7,000.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration including the DEA North Central Laboratory with assistance from the Indiana State Police and the Mishawaka Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Katelan McKenzie Doyle.

This case was 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.

FORT WAYNE – Michelle L. Bernskoetter, 37 years old, of Wheeling, Missouri, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly Brady after pleading guilty to five counts of wire fraud, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Bernskoetter was sentenced to 27 months in prison, 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $402,513.96 in restitution to the victim of the offense.

According to documents in the case, between June 12, 2020, and July 5, 2022, while employed as a financial manager, Bernskoetter devised a scheme to defraud and obtain money from her employer. She abused her position of trust by embezzling funds from her employer to pay her own personal credit card debt, resulting in a loss of over $400,000.       

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the Fort Wayne Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey R. Speith.

HAMMOND – Matthew A. Bugielski, 26 years old, of Lake Station, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Gretchen S. Lund after pleading guilty to Sexual Exploitation of Children, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Bugielski was sentenced to 360 months in prison, followed by 15 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay restitution to the victim of the offense.

According to documents in the case, on or about June 19, 2023, Bugielski produced a sexually explicit image of a minor by employing, using, and inducing the minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of such conduct. Further, Bugielski distributed that sexually explicit image to others over the internet. On occasions separate from June 19, 2023, Bugielski distributed other images and videos of child sexual abuse materials over the internet to others.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Indiana State Police, the Indiana State Police Digital Forensics Unit, the Roanoke Police Department, the Huntington County Sheriff’s Office, the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, the Lake Station Police Department, and the New Chicago Police Department. The 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.

FORT WAYNE – Kirsten M. Blackwell, 63 years old, of Minneapolis, Minnesota, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to conspiring to commit wire fraud and money laundering, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Blackwell was sentenced to 84 months in prison, 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $3,628,192.67 in restitution.

According to documents in the case, Blackwell conspired with others to defraud victims of millions of dollars and then laundered the fraud proceeds through various bank accounts she had created between 2019 and 2022.  Through a variety of schemes, victim businesses and individuals were deceived into sending money to accounts under Blackwell’s control.  After laundering the money through her accounts, Blackwell sent fraud proceeds to an overseas conspirator.  In total, the conspirators attempted to steal over $5 million dollars, and Blackwell laundered well over $3 million dollars in fraud proceeds that had been obtained through business email compromise schemes, romance and military scams, as well as fraud against a government program.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony W. Geller.

HAMMOND- Luis Alberto Sanchez-Espinoza, 39 years old, a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Gretchen S. Lund after pleading guilty to distributing cocaine and illegal re-entry, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Sanchez-Espinoza was sentenced to 78 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, on June 5, 2023, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop on I-94 and recovered cocaine from Sanchez-Espinoza’s vehicle.  Sanchez-Espinoza had previously been removed from the United States on multiple occasions.  His most recent removal occurred on March 23, 2022, after the completion of his prison sentence for a distribution of methamphetamine conviction out of the Western District of Virginia.   

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Indiana State Police. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael J. Toth.          

FORT WAYNE – John Gierek, 35 years old, of Streamwood, Illinois, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady, after pleading guilty to two counts of Using an Interstate Commerce Facility in the Commission of a Murder-for-Hire, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Gierek was sentenced to 220 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, between October 2023 and March 2024, Gierek, through a series of telephone calls, solicited an acquaintance to murder multiple individuals in exchange for a quantity of drugs and the partial forgiveness of a drug debt. Gierek also gave the acquaintance tape, pepper spray, and a taser to help carry out the murders.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Allen County Police Department, the Fort Wayne Police Department, the Indiana State Police, and the Streamwood, Illinois Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley J. Miller Lowery.

FORT WAYNE – Lorraina M. Rakes, 24 years old, of Fort Wayne Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly Brady after pleading guilty to providing firearms to a person she knew was a convicted felon, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

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

According to documents in the case, between April 9 and 26, 2024, Rakes sold or disposed of three firearms to an individual she knew was a convicted felon; a person who could not legally purchase or possess a firearm.   

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, with assistance from the Fort Wayne Police Department.  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.

FORT WAYNE – Yesterday, Hamed A. Martin, 42 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly Brady after pleading guilty to distributing methamphetamine, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Martin was sentenced to 84 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, in July 2022, Martin distributed methamphetamine on several  occasions.  A search warrant executed at his residence in August 2022, resulted in the recovery of a firearm along with evidence of drug distribution.   

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Fort Wayne Safe Streets Gang Task Force, which includes the FBI, the Indiana State Police, the Allen County Sheriff’s Department, and the Fort Wayne Police Department.  Also assisting in the investigation were the Drug Enforcement Administration and the DEA’s North Central Laboratory.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey R. Speith.

This case was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (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.

This case was also 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 – Yesterday, Jonathon Buck Eason, 37 years old, of Fort Wayne Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly Brady after pleading guilty to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Eason was sentenced to 180 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, on October 22, 2022, Fort Wayne police officers responded to a 911 call for assistance. Upon arrival, they spoke to an individual who reported being battered and threatened with a firearm by Easton.  When Officers located Easton at his residence, they recovered a firearm from his pocket. Based on a prior felony conviction, Easton was prohibited from possessing the firearm.

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

This case was also 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 – Dontae L. Salter, 30 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to distributing methamphetamine, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

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

According to documents in the case, Salter distributed several pounds of methamphetamine from June through October of 2023.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Fort Wayne Safe Streets Gang Task Force, which includes the FBI, the Indiana State Police, the Fort Wayne Police Department, and the Allen County Sheriff’s Department, with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives also assisting with the investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony W. Geller.

This case was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (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.

This case was also 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, Indiana - Acting U.S. Attorney Tina L. Nommay announced today that the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Indiana collected $5,219,650 in criminal and civil actions in Fiscal Year 2024. Of this amount, $2,667,519 was collected in criminal actions and $2,552,131 was collected in civil actions.

The Northern District of Indiana also worked with other U.S. Attorney’s Offices and components of the Department of Justice to collect an additional $1,925,938 from cases pursued jointly. Of this amount, $2,200 was collected in criminal actions and $1,923,738 was collected in civil actions.  For example, one of the civil cases handled in conjunction with the Environmental Enforcement Section of the Department of Justice, resulted in the recovery of $1,018,433 as part of a settlement agreement reached in the matter of United States v. Cleveland-Cliffs Burns Harbor, LLC.

The U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, along with the department’s litigating divisions, are responsible for enforcing and collecting civil and criminal debts owed to the United States and criminal debts owed to federal crime victims. The law requires defendants pay restitution to victims of certain federal crimes who have suffered a physical injury or financial loss. While restitution is paid to the victims, criminal fines and felony assessments are paid to the department’s Crime Victims Fund, which distributes the funds collected to federal and state victim compensation and victim assistance programs.

Additionally, the Northern District of Indiana, working with partner agencies and divisions, collected $855,895 in asset forfeiture actions in FY 2024. Forfeited assets deposited into the Department of Justice Assets Forfeiture Fund are used to restore funds to crime victims and for a variety of law enforcement purposes. 

FORT WAYNE – Late Yesterday, Detric L. Cummings, 42 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was found guilty of firearm and drug trafficking offenses following a four-day jury trial, presided over by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay. 

Cummings was charged in an indictment with a total of eight counts, and prior to the start of the trial, he entered a plea of guilty to five counts of distributing controlled substances, including methamphetamine and fentanyl.  Cummings went to trial on the remaining counts, and a jury found him guilty of those remaining counts, which included possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and maintaining a drug-involved premises.  The jury also found Cummings to have previously committed three violent felonies on occasions different from one another, making him an armed career criminal under federal law. 

A sentencing hearing will be scheduled on a later date on all counts.  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 Fort Wayne Police Department, the Indiana State Police, the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Auburn Police Department The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Lesley J. Miller Lowery and Justin C. Sheridan.

This case was also 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 – Raymond Calvin Smith, 27 years old, and Bruce Milik Smith, 25 years old, brothers from LaPorte, Indiana, were sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to federal felony charges, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay. 

Raymond Smith was sentenced to 70 months in prison and 2 years of supervised release. Bruce Smith was sentenced to 39 months in prison and 2 years of supervised release. The two brothers were ordered to pay $723,832.64 in restitution to the victims of their offense. Raymond Smith was also ordered to pay $162,928.62 in restitution to the IRS.

According to documents in the case, from about January 2021 to December 2021, the Smith brothers operated an elaborate fraud scheme using Indiana mobile sports wagering applications. Using personal information of victims, such as bank account numbers and passwords, they set up dozens of accounts in victims’ names on at least 8 different sports wagering applications. Using sports wagering applications, they funneled money from victims’ bank accounts to themselves. With the personal information of approximately 60 victims, the Smith brothers stole a total of $723,832.64, and unsuccessfully attempted to steal an additional $930,782.00. Both Smith brothers pled guilty to the mail fraud scheme while Raymond Smith also pled guilty to evading taxes on the proceeds he received in 2021.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation Division, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Indiana Gaming Commission.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Luke N. Reilander.

SOUTH BEND – Adam Motheral, 50 years old, of Elkhart, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to distributing methamphetamine and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Motheral was sentenced to 228 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, between October 2023 and February 2024, Motheral sold four firearms and over 400 grams of high purity methamphetamine to buyers in Elkhart.  A search of his residence resulted in the recovery of approximately 150 grams of methamphetamine and nine additional firearms.  Motheral has an extensive criminal history which includes 4 prior felony and 12 prior misdemeanor convictions.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration including the DEA North Central Laboratory, and Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the Elkhart County Intelligence and Covert Enforcement Unit, the Elkhart Police Department, the South Bend Police Department, and the LaGrange, Illinois Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney 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.