Northern District of Indiana

SOUTH BEND – Andre Anderson-Dawson, 41 years old, of Michigan City, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Anderson-Dawson was sentenced to 58 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.

According to case documents, in December 2019, Anderson-Dawson violated a protective order while armed with a stolen firearm. Police recovered the 9-millimeter firearm. Anderson-Dawson, previously convicted of a felony, was prohibited from possessing the firearm in this case. He pled guilty to the federal charge in October 2023, but while on releasee pending sentencing, was allegedly involved in conduct resulting in 3 state court felony domestic battery charges. 

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the Michigan City Police Department and the LaPorte County Prosecutor’s Office.  The 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.

WASHINGTON — In a consent decree entered today by the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Indiana, Indiana exhibitor and dog breeder, Vernon D. Miller, agreed to not apply for or engage in any activity that requires a Department of Agriculture (USDA) license for two years. If Miller is relicensed in the future, he must comply with Animal Welfare Act (AWA) regulations and standards necessary to provide humane and lawful care to the animals he exhibits and sells.

A complaint filed in October alleged that Miller — individually and doing business as the Dutch Creek Farm Animal Park in Shipshewana, Indiana — had violated the AWA by failing to provide adequate veterinary care, safe and hospitable enclosures, appropriate enrichment and sanitary housing, food and water to his animals. The complaint also alleged that Miller had failed to maintain legally required records.

At the time of the filing of the complaint, Miller had been cited for 90 AWA violations in just over a year, the highest number of citations for any USDA-licensed facility during that time period (2023-2024). Miller’s violations impacted over 300 animals that he exhibited to the public — including deer, zebra, exotic birds and primates — and dozens of dogs and puppies that he bred for sale as pets.

The citations for multiple violations included unsanitary conditions (including stalls piled high with feces and food dishes coated in grime or mold), and failing to provide animals with sufficient shelter, failing to properly vaccinate puppies and failing to provide veterinary care for animals with illnesses or open wounds. The complaint alleged that such conditions had likely led to numerous animal deaths, with at least seven animals dying in the few months prior to the filing of the case.

USDA suspended Miller’s license for 21 days starting on Oct. 9. The court entered a temporary restraining order against Miller on Oct. 28, requiring him to comply with multiple AWA regulations and standards, provide records and documentation to help monitor compliance and refrain from buying, selling, euthanizing or exhibiting animals without the consent of the United States or the court. The temporary restraining order expired on Dec. 2.

“The maltreatment of animals entrusted to Mr. Miller’s care is a despicable act that deserves just intervention,” said Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.  “We will continue to work with our federal partners to identify and hold accountable those exhibitors and dog breeders who provide inhumane care to animals in violation of the Animal Welfare Act.” 

“USDA is committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of animals protected under the Animal Welfare Act,” said Deputy Administrator Sarah Helming for USDA’s Animal Care program. “The partnership between USDA and DOJ helps to ensure enforcement of the AWA regulations for those who put regulated animals at risk.”

In addition to not applying for or engaging in activity requiring a USDA license for at least two years, the consent decree, in effect for five years, outlines that Miller will allow USDA inspectors limited access to the facility, if it is open to the public, and will produce certain records for compliance monitoring during any time he is not licensed. If Miller applies for and receives a USDA license in the future, he agrees to comply with AWA regulations and standards that he had previously violated and to maintain veterinary and other accurate and complete records.

USDA investigated the case and filed a parallel administrative enforcement action.

Senior Trial Attorney Devon Flanagan and Trial Attorneys Kamela Caschette, Angela Mo and Chris Carrara of the Justice Department’s Wildlife and Marine Resources Section prosecuted the case, with support from Assistant U.S. Attorney Dirk DeLor for the Northern District of Indiana and USDA’s Office of General Counsel and Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. 

HAMMOND –Eulises Yobani Rafael-Garcia, age 28, a citizen of Mexico and resident of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon following his plea of guilty to  the felony charge of illegal re-entry.

Rafael-Garcia, who has been in custody since his arrest on April 5, 2024, was sentenced to time served and ordered transferred to the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement for removal proceedings.

According to documents in the case, Rafael-Garcia was previously removed from the United States three times and has a prior conviction for misdemeanor illegal entry.  Additionally, during the investigation, Rafael-Garcia admitted to having previous ties to drug-trafficking organizations.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations with support from the National Park Service Law Enforcement Rangers and assistance from the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations, and the United States Marshals Service, Great Lakes Regional Fugitive Task Force.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis Sohn.  

HAMMOND – Oscar Valdivia-Salas, age 35, a citizen of Mexico and resident of Merrillville, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to a felony charge of Illegal Reentry, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Valdivia-Salas was sentenced to 10 months in prison, 1 year of supervised release and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment.

According to documents in the case, Valdivia-Salas has a previous felony conviction for Illegal Reentry out of the Western District of Missouri and was removed from the United States in 2018.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Emily Morgan.

SOUTH BEND – Late yesterday, Orlando Rodriguez-Roman, 42 years old, of Goshen, Indiana, was convicted of three felony counts after a three-day jury trial before United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Rodriguez-Roman was found guilty of attempted possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, and unlawful possession of ammunition by a convicted felon.

Sentencing is scheduled for April 29, 2025.

This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service including the USPS Forensic Laboratory Services, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the Elkhart County Intelligence and Covert Enforcement Unit and the Elkhart County Prosecutor’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Lydia T. Lucius and Katelan McKenzie Doyle.

FORT WAYNE – Neon L. Frazier, 50 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was found guilty of being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm following a two-day jury trial presided over by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay. 

A sentencing hearing will be scheduled by separate order.  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 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 – Juan Aquino, 53 years old, of Elizabeth, New Jersey, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to possessing with intent to distribute 500 or more grams of cocaine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

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

According to documents in the case, in December 2023 Aquino obtained four kilograms of cocaine from Colorado and was transporting it back to New Jersey in hidden vehicle compartments when he was stopped by law enforcement on the Indiana Toll Road. At the time of the offense, Aquino was on court release awaiting the start of a 63-month term of federal imprisonment for distributing fentanyl and conspiring to distribute fentanyl.

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

HAMMOND – Jerome Prince, age 60, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon following his plea of guilty to an Information charging wire fraud announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson. 

According to documents in the case, Prince, who served from 2020 to 2023 as Mayor of Gary, Indiana, illegally used approximately $26,750 of his campaign committee funds for a non-campaign purpose of financing the purchase of his personal residence.

“By entering into a plea agreement to the criminal Information, former Mayor Prince demonstrated that he accepted responsibility for his criminal conduct,” said United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson. “It is in the best interests of our society, the citizens of the Northern District of Indiana, and criminal defendants themselves, when individuals swiftly and completely accept responsibility for their crimes, as Mr. Prince did here.  I want to thank the FBI for the thorough investigation which supported this prosecution.”

“Serving the public as mayor is a privilege, not an opportunity to exploit the position for personal gain. This sentence should send a clear message that public officials who betray the trust of their communities will be held accountable for their actions,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Herbert J. Stapleton. “The FBI is committed to investigating and uncovering corruption at all levels of government and will continue to work diligently to ensure those who engage in illegal conduct face responsibility for their decisions.”

The United States Attorney continues to urge the public to come forward and contact the United States Attorney’s Office (usainn.pctips@usdoj.gov) or the FBI in Merrillville, Indiana 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) if they have information related to public corruption within the Northern District of Indiana.

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

HAMMOND- Clinton Williams, 48 years old, of Chicago, Illinois was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Gretchen S. Lund after pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute heroin and fentanyl, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

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

According to documents in the case, between August 2021 and June 2022, Williams was involved in a conspiracy to distribute heroin laced with fentanyl.  As part of that conspiracy, Williams was personally involved in five controlled buys of the substance.  

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Gang Response Investigative Team.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael J. Toth and Special Assistant United States Attorney Patrick D. Grindlay.

FORT WAYNE –Alexander J. Short, 26 years old, of Phoenix, Arizona, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

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

According to documents in the case, from 2020 through 2023, Short engaged in a conspiracy to supply fentanyl pills to a distribution group in the Northern District of Indiana. 

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Fort Wayne Safe Streets Gang Task Force, which includes the Indiana State Police, the Allen County Sheriff’s Department, and the Fort Wayne Police Department, with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration’s North Central Laboratory, the Phoenix (Arizona) Police Department, the Glendale (Arizona) Police Department, and the Allen County (Indiana) Prosecuting Attorney’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Anthony W. Geller and Lesley J. Miller Lowery.

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 –United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson publicly announces today, effective at 11:59 p.m. on January 17, 2025, he will be stepping down as the United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana.  U.S. Attorney Johnson, on December 16, 2024, tendered resignation letters to President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. and United States Attorney General Merrick Garland.

United States Attorney Johnson said, “It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana.  I wish to thank President Biden, Attorney General Garland and Senator Young and former Senator Braun for the opportunity to serve the citizens of the United States as this District’s U.S. Attorney.  Serving as the Northern District’s U.S. Attorney is the capstone of my career in public service.”

U.S. Attorney Johnson was nominated by President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. on July 26, 2021 and unanimously confirmed by the Senate on September 30, 2021 for the Northern District of Indiana United States Attorney position. He previously was an Assistant United States Attorney in the Northern District of Indiana from 1986 to August 2020.  During his tenure with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Northern District of Indiana, Mr. Johnson held numerous supervisory/management positions, including Chief of the Civil Division from 1997 to 2010 and twice serving as the First Assistant U.S. Attorney from (June 2010 to March 2017 and October 2017 to August 2020).  Mr. Johnson, pursuant to the Vacancy Reform Act, served as the District’s Acting U.S. Attorney from March 2017 to October 2017.  Before joining the United States Attorney’s Office in January 1986, Mr. Johnson was a Trial Attorney in the Employment Litigation Section of the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division in Washington, D.C. from August 1980 to December 1985.

Mr. Johnson, a Gary, Indiana native, received his J.D. from Valparaiso University Law School in 1980 and his B.A. from Valparaiso University in 1976.

Under the Vacancy Reform Act, First Assistant U.S. Attorney Tina L. Nommay, who has been with the Department of Justice for over 30 years, will assume the role of Acting U.S. Attorney following U.S. Attorney Johnson’s departure.  

FORT WAYNE – Zavian I. Kizer, 23 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after he pled guilty to distributing and possessing with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

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

According to documents in the case, from 2020 through 2022, Kizer obtained fentanyl pills in Arizona for transportation and distribution in the Northern District of Indiana.  He had recruited various individuals to transport the pills to Indiana and thereafter ship the money back to Arizona.    

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Fort Wayne Safe Streets Gang Task Force, which includes the Indiana State Police, the Allen County Sheriff’s Department, and the Fort Wayne Police Department, with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration’s North Central Laboratory, the Phoenix (Arizona) Police Department, the Glendale (Arizona) Police Department, and the Allen County (Indiana) Prosecuting Attorney’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Anthony W. Geller and Lesley J. Miller Lowery.

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.

FORT WAYNE – Kendrick D. Bates, 40 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after a jury found him guilty of distributing methamphetamine, possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, and maintaining a drug-involved premises, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Bates was sentenced to 360 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, Bates distributed methamphetamine in late 2021 and also maintained a drug distribution house from September 2021 through March 2022.  When his residence was searched in March 2022, several firearms were recovered. Since Bates had a previous felony conviction for dealing in cocaine, narcotic drug, or methamphetamine, he was prohibited from possessing the firearms in this case. 

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Fort Wayne Safe Streets Gang Task Force and the Fort Wayne Police Department, with assistance from the Indiana State Police, the Allen County Sheriff’s Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s North Central Laboratory, the Fort Wayne Police Laboratory, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the United States Marshals Service. 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.

FORT WAYNE –Gregory L. Thorpe, Jr., 28 years old, of Carmel, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to making a materially false and fictitious statement during the acquisition of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Thorpe was sentenced to 84 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, in the summer of 2021, Thorpe purchased a handgun from a licensed firearms dealer and also attempted to make other firearm purchases while providing false information regarding his address of residency during the purchases.  Thereafter during a traffic stop in Hendricks County in May 2022, one of the firearms Thorpe purchased was recovered from the trunk of his vehicle along with 2.9 kilograms of fentanyl pills.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the Hendricks County Sheriff Department and the Plainfield 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.

SOUTH BEND – Denzel Givens, 31 years old, and Christopher Rucker, 34 years old, both of South Bend, Indiana, were sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty this week after each previously pled guilty to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Givens was sentenced to 92 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release. Rucker was sentenced to 84 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, in January 2024, Givens drove to an apartment complex parking lot in South Bend and backed the car into a parking spot facing a lane. Rucker was in the car with Givens. When a specific car drove down the lane, Givens started shooting two firearms at the car, and that car’s occupant returned fire. Givens fired nearly 20 rounds, with some entering the occupied car and some entering the occupied apartment buildings behind the car. After the shooting was over, Rucker took both guns fired by Givens and hid them in a nearby apartment. Both Givens and Rucker had previously been convicted of felony offenses, and as such, both were 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 South Bend Police Department, the St. Joseph County Prosecutor’s Office, and Indiana State Police Laboratory Division.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Katelan McKenzie Doyle and 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 – Joshua J. Hardy, 35 years old, of Auburn, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to two counts of being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm and two counts of possessing a machinegun, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

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

According to documents in the case, on multiple occasions between April 2023 and May 2024, law enforcement found Hardy in possession of machineguns and illegally possessed firearms. Due to a prior felony conviction, Hardy was prohibited from possessing the firearms in this case.

This investigation culminated in Hardy’s arrest on April 25, 2024. Law enforcement attempted to pull Hardy over for having an active warrant, and Hardy fled in a motor vehicle. Hardy ultimately crashed the vehicle into a building and was apprehended after a brief foot pursuit. Inside the vehicle Hardy was driving, officers located eight machinegun conversion devices. A machinegun conversion device converts a semi-automatic firearm into a fully automatic firearm and qualifies as a machinegun under federal law.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the help of the Auburn Police Department, the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Department, the Fort Wayne Police Department, the Garrett Police Department, the Hamilton Police Department, the Indiana State Police, and the Steuben County Sheriff’s 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.

FORT WAYNE – David L. Reynolds, 42 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to distributing controlled substances, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Reynolds was sentenced to 144 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, Reynolds distributed 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and less than 40 grams of fentanyl in August 2023.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Fort Wayne Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey 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.

SOUTH BEND – Joseph Traver, 35 years old, of Mishawaka, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to bank fraud and possession of stolen mail, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Traver was sentenced to 12 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, between September 2023 and January 2024, Traver stole mail out of official collection boxes that were located outside the United States Post Office in Osceola, Indiana. He intercepted checks that had been mailed at that location from at least three identified victims and interrupted postal delivery of the mail.  He also altered one check from the stolen mail matter and fraudulently deposited the check at a financial institution.

This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service with assistance from the St. Joseph County Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Hannah T. Jones.

SOUTH BEND – Matthew Frazier, 51 years old, of LaPorte, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after being found guilty of possession of child pornography following a one-day trial, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Frazier was sentenced to 120 months in prison followed by 7 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, in September 2022, Frazier was on probation for prior state court convictions of child exploitation and possession of child pornography. A search of his residence resulted in the recovery of an electronic device which contained 18 photos and 18 videos of child sexual abuse material.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the Indiana State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and the Michigan City Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Hannah T Jones and Jerome W. McKeever.

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

HAMMOND –Michael Swiger, age 41, of Hammond, Indiana was convicted of distribution and attempted distribution of child pornography after a three-day jury trial before United States District Court Judge Gretchen S. Lund, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson. 

Swiger was charged with distributing videos of child sexual abuse material over a social media application on April 4, 2022, and was also charged with possessing images and videos of child sexual abuse material on April 5, 2022. 

This case was the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations (Chicago and St. Paul) with assistance from the Hammond Police Department, and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Emily A. Morgan, Caitlin M. Padula, and Thomas M. McGrath.

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 – Timothy Wyllie, 60 years old, of Granger, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to possessing child pornography, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Wyllie was sentenced to 121 months in prison followed by 15 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, in April 2023, Wyllie was released from prison after serving two terms totaling nearly 20 years for state child molestation and federal distribution of child pornography convictions. Within two months of his release from incarceration, while under federal supervised release and state parole, he began uploading numerous files of child sexual abuse material to various social media platforms and also downloaded hundreds of images of child sexual abuse material from the internet.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Hannah T Jones and Joseph P. Falvey.

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–Dora T. Boyd, 33 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to wire fraud, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Boyd was sentenced to 50 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release and was also ordered to pay $166,292.00 in restitution to the victim of the offense. 

The United States Congress had passed legislation establishing the Emergency Rental Assistance Program, or ERAP, which made funding available to assist households and individuals unable to pay their rent or utilities during the COVID-19 pandemic.  These federal funds were provided to state and local governments for administration of the program.  From March through November 2021, Boyd engaged in a scheme to defraud the City of Fort Wayne by submitting false applications for ERAP payments to which she was not entitled. 

Boyd used a purported charitable organization to file at least 30 fraudulent ERAP applications.  She falsely claimed to be the landlord for numerous tenants residing in the Fort Wayne area when there was no actual landlord/tenant relationship.  In these applications, she included fake leases and fake tax documents.  Although she attempted to steal over $400,000 in assistance money, she received $166,292.00, and she has been ordered to pay back this money as restitution.      

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Office of Inspector General for the United States Department of Treasury, and the City of Fort Wayne Office of Housing and Neighborhood Services. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony W. Geller.

SOUTH BEND – Jarin Devon Noojin, 26 years old, of Mishawaka, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to distributing fentanyl resulting in death, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Noojin was sentenced to 286 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.

"The CDC estimates that 76,226 persons died in 2022 from drug overdoses involving Synthetic Opioids (fentanyl),” said United States Attorney’s Clifford D. Johnson. “The evidence in this case established that this defendant was a dealer who was responsible for one of those deaths.  Noojin’s criminal actions were particularly coldhearted because he knew that he was making and selling “pressed” fentanyl pills, pressing those pills to look like prescription medication, and that “his” pills were causing overdoses.  As this prosecution shows, my Office will prosecute, to the fullest extent that federal law allows, purveyors of deadly synthetic opioids.” 

According to documents in the case, in October 2022, Noojin sold fentanyl pills to an individual who thereafter died from acute fentanyl toxicity after consuming some of the pills. The investigation revealed that despite knowing that the pills he trafficked were involved in this death, Noojin continued selling fentanyl pills.  Law enforcement learned that Noojin had been selling fentanyl for months prior to the victim’s death and that he personally witnessed at least one other person overdose multiple times from using the fentanyl he sold. Noojin was well aware of the risk of overdose that came with consuming the pills he sold, warning one of his customers not to mix other prescriptions with his pills.

“The actions of Mr. Noojin played a devastating and horrific effect on society, which included the death of an individual. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and its partners will continue to work tirelessly to hold fentanyl dealers, such as Mr. Noojin, and drug trafficking organizations accountable for their brutality and cruelty,” said Drug Enforcement Administration Assistant Special Agent in Charge Alfred A. Cooke III.   “Law enforcement remains engaged and motivated to remove the plague of drug trafficking; evil will never win. There is no room in Michiana, or anywhere across the region, for those who think dealing illicit fentanyl is a way of life. DEA expresses its sincerest condolences to the family of the deceased in this incident, and to all families of those lost to fentanyl.”

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the DEA’s North Central Laboratory with assistance from the St. Joseph County Police Department, the Cass County Michigan Sheriff’s Office, the Cass County Michigan Medical Examiner’s Office, NMS Labs, Western Michigan University Homer Stryker School of Medicine Medical Examiner and Forensic Services.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Katelan McKenzie Doyle and Joel Gabrielse.

A federal court in Hammond, Indiana, unsealed an indictment today charging Guan Tianfeng, a citizen of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) for his involvement in a conspiracy to hack indiscriminately into firewall devices worldwide in 2020. Guan and his co-conspirators worked at the offices of Sichuan Silence Information Technology Co. Ltd. to discover and exploit a previously-unknown vulnerability (an “0-day” vulnerability) in certain firewalls sold by U.K.-based Sophos Ltd. (Sophos) – an information technology company that develops and markets cybersecurity products. The malware that exploited the vulnerability discovered by Guan was designed to steal information from infected computers and to encrypt files on them if a victim attempted to remediate the infection. In total, Guan and his co-conspirators infected approximately 81,000 firewall devices worldwide, including a firewall device used by an agency of the United States.

“The defendant and his co-conspirators exploited a vulnerability in tens of thousands of network security devices, infecting them with malware designed to steal information from victims around the world,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco. “Today’s indictment reflects the Justice Department’s commitment to working with partners across government and across the globe to detect and hold accountable malicious cyber actors based in China or elsewhere who pose a threat to global cybersecurity.”

“The defendant and his conspirators compromised tens of thousands of firewalls and then continued to hold at risk these devices, which protect computers in the United States and around the world,” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security Matthew G. Olsen. “The Department of Justice will hold accountable those who contribute to the dangerous ecosystem of China-based enabling companies that carry out indiscriminate hacks on behalf of their sponsors and undermine global cybersecurity.”

“Our law enforcement actions, technical expertise, and enduring partnerships with private companies, like Sophos, demonstrate the reputation of the FBI as being a reliable and effective partner for stopping this malicious activity,” said Assistant Director Bryan Vorndran of the FBI’s Cyber Division. “Complementary actions prevented further victimization of U.S. businesses and individuals while contributing to the safety of U.S. citizens as they use the internet.”

“Today’s indictment underscores our commitment to protecting the public from malicious actors who use security research as a cover to identify vulnerabilities in widely used systems and exploit them,” said U.S. Attorney Clifford D. Johnson for the Northern District of Indiana. “Guan Tianfeng and his co-conspirators placed thousands of computer networks, including a network in the Northern District of Indiana, at risk by conducting this attack.”

“The zero-day vulnerability Guan Tianfeng and his co-conspirators found and exploited affected firewalls owned by businesses across the United States, including in Indiana,” said Special Agent in Charge Herbert J. Stapleton of the FBI Indianapolis Field Office. “If Sophos had not rapidly identified the vulnerability and deployed a comprehensive response, the damage could have been far more severe. Sophos’s efforts combined with the dedication and expertise of our cyber squad formed a powerful partnership resulting in the mitigation of this threat.”

The Conspiracy to Exploit Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) 2020-12271

As alleged in the indictment, in 2020, Guan and his co-conspirators developed, tested, and deployed malware that targeted approximately 81,000 Sophos firewalls using a 0-day vulnerability that existed on those devices. The 81,000 Sophos firewalls were located throughout the world, including within victim organizations located in the Northern District of Indiana. The vulnerability was later designated CVE 2020-12271.

Guan and his co-conspirators designed the malware to steal information from firewalls. To better hide their activity, Guan and his co-conspirators registered and used domains designed to look like they were controlled by Sophos, such as sophosfirewallupdate.com. Sophos discovered the intrusion and remediated its customers’ firewalls in approximately two days, which caused the co-conspirators to modify their malware. As modified, the malware was designed to deploy encryption software from a ransomware variant in the event the victims attempted to remove the malware. Their encryption efforts did not succeed, but demonstrated the conspirators’ disregard for the harm that they would cause to victims.

Guan Tianfeng’s Employment and Sichuan Silence’s Relationship with the PRC Government

According to court documents, Guan worked for Sichuan Silence, a PRC-based private company that has provided services to the PRC Ministry of Public Security, among other PRC organizations. According to Sichuan Silence’s website, it developed a product line which could be used to scan and detect overseas network targets in order to obtain valuable intelligence information.

In October, Sophos released a number of articles chronicling its separate long-running investigation, "Pacific Rim.” Sophos detailed PRC-based advanced persistent threat groups targeting its networking appliances for over five years, which it described as “unusually knowledgeable about the internal architecture of the device firmware.” One of the attacks described in the Pacific Rim report involved CVE-2020-12271.

Soon after the Sophos announcements in October, the FBI issued a call for information regarding computer intrusions into Sophos edge devices. The FBI continues to solicit information on PRC-sponsored malicious actors targeting edge devices and network security appliances.

The U.S. Department of State also announced rewards today of up to $10 million for information leading to the identification or location of Guan or any person who, while acting at the direction or under the control of a foreign government, engages in certain malicious cyber activities against U.S. critical infrastructure in violation of the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act. The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control also announced sanctions on Sichuan Silence and Guan today.

Trial Attorneys Jacques Singer-Emery and George Brown of the National Security Division’s National Security Cyber Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven J. Lupa for the Northern District of Indiana are prosecuting the case.

The FBI continues to investigate Sichuan Silence’s hacking activities and intrusions into various edge devices.

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

Note: View the indictment here and FBI Wanted Poster here.

A federal court in Hammond, Indiana, unsealed an indictment today charging Guan Tianfeng, a citizen of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) for his involvement in a conspiracy to hack indiscriminately into firewall devices worldwide in 2020. Guan and his co-conspirators worked at the offices of Sichuan Silence Information Technology Co. Ltd. to discover and exploit a previously-unknown vulnerability (an “0-day” vulnerability) in certain firewalls sold by U.K.-based Sophos Ltd. (Sophos) – an information technology company that develops and markets cybersecurity products. The malware that exploited the vulnerability discovered by Guan was designed to steal information from infected computers and to encrypt files on them if a victim attempted to remediate the infection. In total, Guan and his co-conspirators infected approximately 81,000 firewall devices worldwide, including a firewall device used by an agency of the United States.

“The defendant and his co-conspirators exploited a vulnerability in tens of thousands of network security devices, infecting them with malware designed to steal information from victims around the world,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco. “Today’s indictment reflects the Justice Department’s commitment to working with partners across government and across the globe to detect and hold accountable malicious cyber actors based in China or elsewhere who pose a threat to global cybersecurity.”

“The defendant and his conspirators compromised tens of thousands of firewalls and then continued to hold at risk these devices, which protect computers in the United States and around the world,” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security Matthew G. Olsen. “The Department of Justice will hold accountable those who contribute to the dangerous ecosystem of China-based enabling companies that carry out indiscriminate hacks on behalf of their sponsors and undermine global cybersecurity.”

“Our law enforcement actions, technical expertise, and enduring partnerships with private companies, like Sophos, demonstrate the reputation of the FBI as being a reliable and effective partner for stopping this malicious activity,” said Assistant Director Bryan Vorndran of the FBI’s Cyber Division. “Complementary actions prevented further victimization of U.S. businesses and individuals while contributing to the safety of U.S. citizens as they use the internet.”

“Today’s indictment underscores our commitment to protecting the public from malicious actors who use security research as a cover to identify vulnerabilities in widely used systems and exploit them,” said U.S. Attorney Clifford D. Johnson for the Northern District of Indiana. “Guan Tianfeng and his co-conspirators placed thousands of computer networks, including a network in the Northern District of Indiana, at risk by conducting this attack.”

“The zero-day vulnerability Guan Tianfeng and his co-conspirators found and exploited affected firewalls owned by businesses across the United States, including in Indiana,” said Special Agent in Charge Herbert J. Stapleton of the FBI Indianapolis Field Office. “If Sophos had not rapidly identified the vulnerability and deployed a comprehensive response, the damage could have been far more severe. Sophos’s efforts combined with the dedication and expertise of our cyber squad formed a powerful partnership resulting in the mitigation of this threat.”

The Conspiracy to Exploit Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) 2020-12271

As alleged in the indictment, in 2020, Guan and his co-conspirators developed, tested, and deployed malware that targeted approximately 81,000 Sophos firewalls using a 0-day vulnerability that existed on those devices. The 81,000 Sophos firewalls were located throughout the world, including within victim organizations located in the Northern District of Indiana. The vulnerability was later designated CVE 2020-12271.

Guan and his co-conspirators designed the malware to steal information from firewalls. To better hide their activity, Guan and his co-conspirators registered and used domains designed to look like they were controlled by Sophos, such as sophosfirewallupdate.com. Sophos discovered the intrusion and remediated its customers’ firewalls in approximately two days, which caused the co-conspirators to modify their malware. As modified, the malware was designed to deploy encryption software from a ransomware variant in the event the victims attempted to remove the malware. Their encryption efforts did not succeed, but demonstrated the conspirators’ disregard for the harm that they would cause to victims.

Guan Tianfeng’s Employment and Sichuan Silence’s Relationship with the PRC Government

According to court documents, Guan worked for Sichuan Silence, a PRC-based private company that has provided services to the PRC Ministry of Public Security, among other PRC organizations. According to Sichuan Silence’s website, it developed a product line which could be used to scan and detect overseas network targets in order to obtain valuable intelligence information.

In October, Sophos released a number of articles chronicling its separate long-running investigation, “Pacific Rim.” Sophos detailed PRC-based advanced persistent threat groups targeting its networking appliances for over five years, which it described as “unusually knowledgeable about the internal architecture of the device firmware.” One of the attacks described in the Pacific Rim report involved CVE-2020-12271.

Soon after the Sophos announcements in October, the FBI issued a call for information regarding computer intrusions into Sophos edge devices. The FBI continues to solicit information on PRC-sponsored malicious actors targeting edge devices and network security appliances.

The U.S. Department of State also announced rewards today of up to $10 million for information leading to the identification or location of Guan or any person who, while acting at the direction or under the control of a foreign government, engages in certain malicious cyber activities against U.S. critical infrastructure in violation of the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act. The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control also announced sanctions on Sichuan Silence and Guan today.

Trial Attorneys Jacques Singer-Emery and George Brown of the National Security Division’s National Security Cyber Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven J. Lupa for the Northern District of Indiana are prosecuting the case.

The FBI continues to investigate Sichuan Silence’s hacking activities and intrusions into various edge devices.

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

SOUTH BEND – Gregory Morrison, 54 years old, of Michigan City, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute cocaine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Morrison was sentenced to 151 months in prison followed by 6 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, in the summer of 2023, on 8 separate occasions, Morrison distributed, a total of 122 grams of cocaine.  A search of Morrison’s house in September 2023 resulted in the recovery of an additional 148 grams of cocaine and $1,700. This is Morrison’s fourth conviction for a drug distribution offense.

This case was investigated by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and 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 Katelan McKenzie Doyle.

HAMMOND- Erik P. Grant, 32 years old, of Schererville, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Gretchen S. Lund after pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Grant was sentenced to 168 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, Grant and his mother, co-defendant Debra Moore, conspired to distribute methamphetamine between November 2022 and July 2023.  While detained at the Porter County Jail, Moore assumed control of his methamphetamine dealing operation, selling the drug on multiple occasions.  Grant has an extensive criminal history which includes six prior felony convictions.  

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

FORT WAYNE –Alejandro Lagunas Penaloza, also known as Jose Alfredo Castro Reyes, 47 years old, of Michoacan, Mexico, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to distributing 500 grams or more of cocaine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

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

According to documents in the case, Lagunas Penaloza sold a kilogram of cocaine to an undercover law enforcement agent on March 7, 2023.  Lagunas Penaloza was illegally present in the United States. 

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Allen County Drug Task Force, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Fort Wayne Safe Streets Gang Task Force, consisting of the FBI, the Indiana State Police, the Allen County Police Department, and the Fort Wayne Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Anthony W. Geller.

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- Hamidullah Tribble, age 29, of Chicago, Illinois, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after a jury found him guilty of being a felon in possession of a firearm following a two-day jury trial, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Tribble was sentenced to 100 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.

 According to documents in the case, on July 19, 2022, law enforcement attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Tribble in LaPorte County, Indiana. Tribble fled the scene at a high rate of speed, weaving in and out of traffic and exceeding speeds of over 100 miles per hour. His pursuit continued through Porter County and into Lake County, where he collided with a semi-trailer and another vehicle. During his arrest, law enforcement officers recovered a loaded semi-automatic pistol from Tribble’s waistband.  His criminal history revealed that he had prior Illinois felony convictions for possessing a firearm with a defaced serial number, possession of a stolen vehicle, and criminal sexual abuse, and as such, is prohibited from possessing the firearm or ammunition in this case. 

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Indiana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Task Force and the Lake County Sheriff’s Department.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney  Kristian R. Mukoski.

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 – Samuel Hicks, 35 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady, after pleading guilty to Conspiracy to Advertise and Distribute Child Pornography, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Hicks was sentenced to 192 months in prison followed by 10 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, between January and March of 2022, Hicks posted images of videos of child sexual abuse material on a dark website which facilitated the advertisement and distribution of child sexual abuse material.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of the Allen County Sheriff’s Department Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the New Haven Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley Miller Lowery of the Northern District of Indiana and Trial Attorney Nadia Prinz from the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section of the Department of Justice.

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- Tido Kirby, 44 years old, of Chicago, Illinois was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to distributing fentanyl, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Kirby was sentenced to 120 months in prison followed by 6 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, on three occasions between March and April of 2021, law enforcement purchased fentanyl from Kirby in Hammond, Indiana.  Kirby’s criminal history includes 8 prior felony convictions involving firearms, drugs, and an aggravated fleeing offense. He was also on federal supervision during this time period.   

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Indiana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Task Force.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Toth.         

HAMMOND- Darrius L. Smith, 34 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 United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Smith was sentenced to 60 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, on January 11, 2023, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Smith. During a search of the vehicle, a loaded semi-automatic .40 caliber firearm was recovered. The firearm was previously reported stolen.  Smith’s criminal history revealed that he had prior felony convictions for burglary and auto theft, and as such, is prohibited from possessing the firearm in this case.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Gang Response Investigative Team with the assistance of the Lake County Sheriff’s Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas J. Padilla.        

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 – Jose De Jesus Rosales-Gamez, 44 years old, a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to illegal re-entry of a deported alien, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Rosales-Gamez was sentenced to 16 months in prison.

According to documents in the case, Rosales-Gamez illegally entered or attempted to enter the United States and was removed four times from the mid-1990s through 2016.  Rosales-Gamez yet again illegally returned to the United States in 2016 or 2017 following two prior felony convictions.

This case was investigated by United States Department of Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joseph P. Falvey.

HAMMOND- Jerron Donte Williams, 34 years old, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Senior Judge Jon E. DeGuilio after pleading guilty to assaulting and inflicting bodily injury on a United States Postal Service Letter Carrier with a deadly weapon, and discharging a firearm during the assault, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.  

Williams was sentenced to 153 months in prison, 3 years of supervised release and ordered to pay $121,045.62 in restitution.

According to documents in the case, on April 2, 2021, a letter carrier, employed by the United States Postal Service, was delivering U.S. Mail in their official capacity in Gary, Indiana. After the letter carrier stopped to organize mail, Williams ran his vehicle into the letter carrier’s postal delivery vehicle.  Williams yelled at the letter carrier, exited his vehicle, entered a residence, and emerged from the residence with a handgun.  William then commenced firing at the mail carrier while the postal vehicle was in motion.  The bullets struck the postal vehicle four times and shattered the right-side window, causing injuries to the letter carrier.

This case was investigated by the United States Postal Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Gary Police Department, and the Hobart Police Department.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas J. Padilla.     

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- Cachun Combs, Jr., 46 years old, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Gretchen S. Lund after pleading guilty to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Combs was sentenced to 105 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, on June 2, 2023, an officer with the Gary Police Department approached a running vehicle parked in an alley and observed Combs sleeping inside the vehicle with a loaded rifle on his lap.  Comb’s criminal history revealed that he had prior felony convictions for aggravated discharge of a firearm, attempted battery and carrying a handgun without a license, battery resulting serious bodily injury, and a possession with intent to distribute cocaine base.  Any one of these convictions prohibited him from possessing the firearm in this case.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Indiana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Task Force and the Gary Police Department.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kristian R.  Mukoski.    

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- Tommy Lee Tyner, Jr., 41 years old, of East Chicago, 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.

Tyner was sentenced to 70 months in prison followed by 1 year of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, officers responded to a call on June 11, 2022, regarding a male pointing a gun at an individual in Hammond, Indiana. Upon their arrival at the scene, officers observed Tyner exiting a vehicle that contained a firearm. Law enforcement obtained a search warrant for the vehicle and recovered a loaded 9 millimeter pistol. Tyner’s criminal history revealed that he had prior 2012 federal felony convictions for conspiracy to commit robbery affecting interstate commerce, attempted robbery affecting interstate commerce, and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, and as such he is prohibited from possessing the firearm and ammunition in this case.

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 Assistant United States Attorney David J. Nozick.        

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 –Jasper L. Williams, 36 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 United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Williams was sentenced to 96 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, during a February 2023 traffic stop, officers recovered a semi-automatic pistol along with an AK-style pistol from Williams’ vehicle.  Both firearms were loaded.  Williams had previously been convicted of felony offenses for Aiding Robbery, Possessing with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance, and Possessing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Trafficking Crime, any one of which prohibited him from possessing the firearms in this case.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of 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.

SOUTH BEND – An Indiana man who owns Glycerin Traders marketed and sold an “Ethanol Extraction” product as a pure food-grade product, when in fact, the product contained high levels of methanol leading to multiple deaths and severe physical injuries for those who consumed the product.

Dennis R. Zeedyk, 53 years old, of La Porte, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to mail fraud and tax fraud by a distiller, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson. 

Zeedyk was sentenced to 48 months in prison, 1 year of supervised release, and was ordered to pay restitution to the victims of the offense in a total amount of $43,727.93.  Zeedyk was also ordered to pay a fine of $76,500.

“Defendant Zeedyk is a modern-day snake oil salesman, who hawked his product to unwitting consumers as being a “pure”, food-safe and “safe for human consumption” ethanol product when, in fact, his product contained high levels of deadly methanol,” said United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.  “As this prosecution shows, the United States government, through its various law enforcement agencies, will use its power to protect the consuming public from criminal businessmen, like Zeedyk,  who use lies to entice consumers to purchase and to use products that are dangerous.”

Anthony Gledhill, Assistant Administrator for Field Operations, Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) said, “This was an egregious, and thankfully, rare crime involving an illegal still and fraudulent product misrepresentations that resulted in the loss of life because of a product that should have never entered the domestic marketplace. TTB takes our responsibility for maintaining a reliable and safe alcohol marketplace seriously, and we greatly appreciate the efforts of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Indiana and our local, state, and federal partners.”

According to documents in the case, Zeedyk owns a business called Glycerin Traders that processes and trades glycerin, methanol, and other biofuel products. From October 2016 through May 2018, Zeedyk manufactured and sold a product called “Ethanol Extraction.” Zeedyk marketed the Ethanol Extraction product as pure, non-denatured, food-grade grain ethanol distilled from 100% corn. Zeedyk advertised the product as a solvent to extract essential oils from cannabis, herbs, and other plants; for creating medicinal tinctures and perfumes; for baking in the kitchen; and as an all-natural cleaning product, among many other uses. The product was labeled as 95% ethanol and 5% purified water. Zeedyk sold Ethanol Extraction through Amazon, eBay, and an online website to customers in states throughout the country.

Zeedyk’s representations about the product were false. In actuality, the source material for the Ethanol Extraction product came from the remnants of denatured industrial alcohol shipments from Lake Michigan barges. Zeedyk then illegally distilled the alcohol through a distilling apparatus not registered with the federal government. The final product that Zeedyk sold to customers contained toxic high levels of methanol—approximately 30% to 45% methanol. When ingested, methanol can cause a wide variety of symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, blurred vision, dizziness, headaches, seizures, abdominal pain, vomiting, blindness, and even death.

From October 2016 to May 2018, more than 1,200 customers bought Ethanol Extraction. Zeedyk stopped selling the product in May 2018 after learning that a customer had died from drinking it. Attempts were made to distribute recall notices, but not all customers responded to the recall, and there are unaccounted containers of Ethanol Extraction. At least three customers have died from ingesting the product, and several others suffered severe physical injuries.

“Far from a harmless misrepresentation, this defendant's lies led to the deaths of three innocent people and caused health problems for many others. This sentence strongly demonstrates that all actions have consequences and should serve as a deterrent to others to reconsider their choices,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Herbert J. Stapleton. “The FBI will continue to collaborate with our partners to ensure those who engage in such deceptive actions are held accountable, reinforcing our shared commitment to protect the public.”

“This case highlights the power of collaboration between IRS Criminal Investigation and our law enforcement partners to protect the public from individuals who jeopardize safety and trust for financial gain,” said Kareem Carter, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation, Washington, D.C. Field Office.  “IRS Criminal Investigation is committed to holding accountable those who put profit over the public’s safety ensuring they face the consequences of their actions.”

This case was investigated by the Alcohol & Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency – Criminal Investigation Division, the Indiana State Department of Health, and the Hadley Police Department (Massachusetts).  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Luke N. Reilander, Joel Gabrielse, and Philip C. Benson.

HAMMOND- Markith Williams, age 39, of West Lafayette, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after a jury found him guilty of being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm following a two-day jury trial, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Williams was sentenced to 27 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.

 According to documents in the case, on January 13, 2022, a traffic stop of Williams’ vehicle in Jasper County, Indiana, led to the recovery of a loaded semi-automatic pistol. Williams’ criminal history revealed that he had 3 prior Illinois felony convictions which included being a felon in possession of a firearm, aggravated unlawful use of a weapon, and delivery of cocaine, any one of which prohibited him from possessing the firearm in this case. 

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Hammond Police Department, and the Jasper County Sheriff’s Department.  The case was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Patrick D. Grindlay and Assistant United States Attorney Kristian R. Mukoski.

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–James Darquan McCreary, 45 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to possessing with intent to distribute cocaine and possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

McCreary was sentenced to 262 months in prison followed by 8 years of supervised release. 

According to documents in the case, in March 2020, McCreary possessed more than 500 grams of cocaine that was intended for distribution and illegally possessed firearms as a convicted felon.  McCreary was determined to be a career offender based on his prior felony battery and robbery convictions from Grant County, Indiana.  

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the J.E.A.N. (Joint Effort Against Narcotics) Team Drug Task Force, the Indiana State Police, the Marion Police Department, the Grant County Sheriff’s Department, the Grant County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, the Cass County Sheriff’s Department, and the Wabash County Sheriff’s Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony W. Geller.

FORT WAYNE–Javion D. Woods, 23 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to distributing fentanyl and fentanyl analogue, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Woods was sentenced to 70 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release. 

According to documents in the case, Woods sold fentanyl pills on two occasions and operated his drug business for months out of a Fort Wayne apartment.  Specifically, on February 11, 2022, Woods coordinated a drug transaction and sent another individual to complete the deal.  On February 18, 2022, Woods was the one who completed the drug deal.  When his residence was later searched in March 2022, multiple firearms and ammunition were recovered. 

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.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony W. Geller.

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 – Tyson Scott, 52 years old, of Elkhart, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to delay of mail by a postal service employee, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Scott was sentenced to 12 months’ probation. 

According to documents in the case, Scott was working as a United States Postal Service carrier when, in October of 2023, he was entrusted to deliver mail on an Elkhart city route. Several customers reported to the Postal Service that they had not received their mail.  While Scott initially claimed he had delivered the mail in question, he later admitted that he hid over 900 pieces of mail in a storage unit instead of delivering it.  After a search of the storage unit, the mail was found and the U.S. Postal Service was able to successfully deliver the mail to its customers. 

This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jerome W. McKeever.

SOUTH BEND – Roy Skeens, 40 years old, of Wabash, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after being found guilty of being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm following a 2-day jury trial in July of 2024, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Skeens was sentenced to 100 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, in November 2020, Skeens possessed a handgun while at a home in Wabash County. Specifically, police were called after multiple rounds were heard having been shot outside the basement of the home. When police arrived, Skeens refused to leave the home and a standoff ensued. He was later taken into custody and the firearm was recovered. Skeens has 13 prior felony convictions, any one of which prohibit him from possessing the firearm in this case.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the Wabash Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Katelan McKenzie Doyle and 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.

SOUTH BEND – Jonathan Medina-Flores, 41 years old, of Mexico, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty for his illegal reentry to the United States, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Medina-Flores was sentenced to 40 months in prison.

According to documents in the case, Medina-Flores, a citizen of Mexico, was previously convicted in St. Joseph County of felony possession of cocaine in 2006. Thereafter he was removed to Mexico in 2007, 2014 and 2015 but illegally reentered the United States after each removal. Medina-Flores was most recently discovered in the United States in May 2023 in St. Joseph County. His criminal history includes conviction for multiple felonies in St. Joseph and Elkhart Counties.

This case was investigated by United States Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jerome W. McKeever.

HAMMOND – Brian O’Neill, 46 years old, of Whiting, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Gretchen S. Lund after pleading guilty to two counts of Interference with Housing based on Race and one count of Making False Statements to Law Enforcement announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

O’Neill was sentenced to 10 months in prison and 2 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, between June 2022 and August 2023, O’Neill acted willfully to drive out a family from living next door to Whiting home because of his animosity against that family’s race.  O’Neill’s efforts to drive out the next door multi-racial family included: threatening to assault a member of that family; shouting racial slurs at members of that family; and telling them to move out of Whiting.  O’Neill also threatened harm on the landlord who had rented the house to that family.  When questioned by law enforcement about his actions, O’Neill denied directing racial slurs to the neighboring family and denied making any threats.  However, there was a recording that refuted his false denials.  As part of his guilty plea in this case, O’Neill acknowledged both his hostile acts against his neighbors and that his actions were motivated by his opposition to persons of color living in his neighborhood. 

“Freedom to acquire housing and the freedom to live peaceably in that housing are keys to building a more stable, safe, and prosperous society.  When, as in this case, a person interferes with another person’s ability to attain and retain housing because of racial prejudices, they have committed a hate crime,” said United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.  “My office and our law enforcement partners will aggressively investigate and prosecute these crimes whenever and wherever they occur in the Northern District of Indiana.”

“Every hate crime is a calculated attack on a person’s right to peace and sense of belonging and can leave scars that can linger long after the act itself,” said FBI Indianapolis Acting Special Agent in Charge Thomas Winterhalter. “The FBI’s commitment to investigating hate crimes underscores the seriousness of these offenses. It is not just about enforcing the law but protecting communities and ensuring the rights of individuals to live free of fear.”

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Hammond Police Department with assistance from the Lake County Prosecutors Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas M. McGrath and Thomas A. Johnson, Trial Attorney with the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice. 

If you believe you are a victim of, or witness to, a hate crime or discriminatory act, you are encouraged to report the incident to local and federal law enforcement.  In addition, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Indiana maintains the below Civil Rights webpage where you may obtain information about your rights and make a complaint directly to the United States Attorney’s Office.   https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndin/civil-rights-enforcement

SOUTH BEND – Randolph Ramey, 33 years old, of Osceola, 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 United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

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

According to documents in the case, in August 2023, Ramey broke into a business in Mishawaka and was detained while inside. When police arrived and arrested Ramey, they recovered a loaded 9mm firearm from his pocket along with several knives, a rope, bolt cutters, a lock pick kit, and a second loaded magazine for the firearm. Ramey had previously been convicted of a felony offense, and as such, was prohibited from possessing the firearm or ammunition in this case.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the Mishawaka Police Department, the South Bend Police Department, and the St. Joseph County Prosecutor’s Office.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lydia T. Lucius.

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- United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson announced today that Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) David E. Hollar will lead the efforts of his Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 5, 2024, general election.  AUSA Hollar has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the Northern District of Indiana, and in that capacity is responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.

United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson said, “Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election.  Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence.  The Department of Justice will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process.”

The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud.  The Department will address these violations wherever they occur.  The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.

Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input.  It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice.  The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English).  

United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson stated that: “The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy.  We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise can exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice.  In order to respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, AUSA/DEO Hollar will be on duty in this District while the polls are open.  He can be reached by the public through the following telephone number: 219-937-5500.”

In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day.  The local FBI field office can be reached by the public at 317-595-4000.

Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ or by phone at 800-253-3931.

United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson said, “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the assistance of the American electorate.  It is important that those who have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud make that information available to the Department of Justice.”

Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities.  State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency. 

SOUTH BEND – Tony Young, 54 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Young was sentenced to 110 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, in March and April 2024, law enforcement was investigating drug activity at a Mishawaka residence, which included the sale of methamphetamine by Young. A search warrant of the residence resulted in the recovery of a loaded stolen revolver. Young, who has a number of prior felony convictions, was prohibited from possessing the firearm in this case.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the Mishawaka Police Department and the Indiana State Police.  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.

HAMMOND – Seth Alonzo, 20 years old, of Morocco, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Gretchen S. Lund after pleading guilty to Distribution of Child Pornography, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Alonzo was sentenced to 144 months in prison, 5 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $13,000 in restitution to the victims of his crimes. 

According to documents in the case, on April 16, 2023, and other dates, Alonzo distributed child sexual abuse material (CSAM) through social media. A subsequent search warrant of Alonzo’s home and electronic devices revealed there were approximately 114 images and 90 videos of CSAM in his possession as well. 

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Indiana State Police. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Thomas M. McGrath and Nadia Wardrip.

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- Felicia Bywater, 33 years old, of Cedar Lake, Indiana was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to distributing methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Bywater was sentenced to 42 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.

According to documents in the case, between October 2022 and February 2023, Bywater sold methamphetamine on three separate occasions, totaling approximately two ounces.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Padilla.