Southern District of Indiana

INDIANAPOLIS – Robert Mason Elliott, 28, of Shelbyville, Indiana, was sentenced to 520 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to two counts of murder for hire, witness tampering, illegally possessing a firearm, and producing and distributing child sexual abuse material.

According to court documents, Robert Mason Elliott met Minor Victim 1 in 2017, when she was 16 years old. He was later charged with domestic battery of Minor Victim 1 and barred by several court orders from having contact with Minor Victim 1. In violation of those orders, and while Elliott was on pretrial release, Elliott attempted to deliver heroin to the minor when she was home with her mother, Witness Victim 1. Elliott was subsequently charged with dealing narcotics in Shelby County, Indiana. During the investigation, officers also discovered that Elliott had produced and distributed child sex abuse material of Minor Victim 1 over Facebook.

Elliott was detained pending trial on these state offenses. While incarcerated in the Shelby County Jail on February 20, 2018, Elliott used a jail phone to instruct his mother to hire a member of the Hells Angels motorcycle club to kill or commit serious bodily injury to Witness Victim 1 to prevent her from testifying against him. Elliott’s mother hired the Hells Angel to commit serious bodily injury to Witness Victim 1 in exchange for $500. The jail calls between Elliott and his mother, as well as the calls and texts to the Hells Angel, were recorded and intercepted by law enforcement officials.

After his first attempt was unsuccessful, Elliott then engaged in a second murder for hire plot from inside the Shelby County Jail. Elliott offered three different Shelby County inmates $5,000 per person to kill Minor Victim 1, Witness Victim 1, and another individual. The three inmates provided information to law enforcement officials who again thwarted Elliott’s plan.

On May 7, 2019, Elliott was indicted in federal court for offenses related to child exploitation and illegal firearm possession.

While detained in Marion and Henderson County Jails on those federal charges, Elliott again attempted to have Minor Victim 1 and Witness Victim 1 killed. This time, Elliott asked a cooperating witness to provide him with the phone number for a “cartel hitman.” Through letters, calls, and texts, Elliott hired the individual he believed to be a “cartel hitman” to prevent the witnesses from testifying against him in their state and federal proceedings. Elliott offered, in coded language, to exchange heavy duty equipment, a motorcycle, and military-grade weapons including shoulder-launched multipurpose assault weapons and M203 grenade launchers for the murders. Elliott provided the “cartel hitman” with the victims’ first and last names, Facebook accounts, locations, and places of employment. Elliott conspired with his grandfather to provide the equipment, motorcycle, and military-grade weapons to the purported hitman.

Unbeknownst to Elliott, the “cartel hitman” he contacted during this third attempt to have Minor Victim 1 and Witness Victim 1 murdered was an undercover federal agent. All calls and texts between Elliott, his grandfather, and the “cartel hitman” were recorded. Federal agents executed a search warrant at Elliott’s grandfather’s home and recovered a 2008 Hayabusa motorcycle and at least twenty firearms, including several assault rifles, and thousands of rounds of ammunition. Elliott had agreed to provide the guns, motorcycle, and ammunition the hitman in exchange for killing federal and state witnesses. One of the firearms was illegally purchased for Elliott by another individual, who agreed to falsify federal firearms purchasing forms and provide Elliott with the gun in exchange for a meal at Olive Garden.

Elliott’s repeated efforts to procure the murders of his victim, her mothers, and a witness were unsuccessful.

On June 14, 2022, Elliott pleaded guilty to two counts of Murder for Hire, two counts of Witness Tampering, and one count being a felon in possession of a firearm. Elliott further stipulated in a plea agreement that he had produced and distributed child sex abuse material.

“The defendant’s heinous, violent crimes demonstrate an utter disrespect for the law or the value of human life,” said Zachary A. Myers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “His physical abuse and sexual exploitation of a child were compounded by his relentless attempts to have the victim and her mother murdered. Only a lengthy federal prison term like the one imposed today will ensure that the victims and the public are protected from this dangerous criminal. I commend the outstanding efforts of our prosecutors, the FBI, the Shelby County Sheriff’s Department, and the Shelby County Prosecutor’s Office to stand up for victims and hold violent abusers accountable.”

“This defendant’s abuse of a minor victim was beyond despicable. He physically and sexually assaulted her, sought to provide her with dangerous narcotics, and had no qualms about killing the minor victim and others in a desperate and twisted attempt to get away with it. Today, the court determined that these horrible crimes deserve a lengthy term of imprisonment.” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Herbert J. Stapleton. “The FBI will continue our efforts with our law enforcement partners to ensure the most vulnerable in our society are protected from individuals such as this who would seek to harm them.”

The FBI, Shelby County Sheriff’s Department, and Shelby County Prosecutor’s Office investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Chief Judge Tanya Walton Pratt. Judge Pratt also ordered that Elliott be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 5 years following his release from federal prison. Elliott must also pay restitution of $5,000 each to Minor Victim 1 and Witness Victim 1.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorneys Tiffany J. Preston and Kristina M. Korobov, who prosecuted this case.

In fiscal year 2019, the most recent year for which data is available, the Southern District of Indiana was second out of the 94 federal districts in the country for the number of child sexual exploitation cases prosecuted.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. 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

Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, announced today that the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Indiana collected $12,233,320 in criminal and civil actions in Fiscal Year 2022. Of this amount, $3,519,196 was collected in criminal actions and $8,714,124 was collected in civil actions.

Additionally, the Southern District of Indiana worked with other U.S. Attorney’s Offices and components of the Department of Justice to collect an additional $216,807 in cases pursued jointly by these offices. Of this amount, $60,816 was collected in criminal actions and $155,991 was collected in civil actions.   

“The efforts and leadership of our Civil Division and Asset Recovery Unit have resulted in the recovery of millions of dollars that will assist victims of fraud and other crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Myers. “We are proud to have coordinated with so many local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to protect victims and hold criminals accountable.”

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Civil Division Chief Shelese Woods and Asset Recovery Unit Chief Kelly Rota, as well as the Office’s outstanding support professionals for their diligent efforts.

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

Additionally, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Indiana, working with partner agencies and components, collected $1,964,136 in asset forfeiture actions in Fiscal Year 2021. Forfeited assets deposited into the Department of Justice Assets Forfeiture Fund are used to restore funds to crime victims and for a variety of law enforcement purposes.

For example, in August, the Southern District of Indiana recovered $5,591.044 as part of the government’s settlement with American Senior Communities, L.L.C. (ASC). In 2017, a former employee of a hospice services company doing business with ASC filed a “whistleblower” lawsuit under the civil False Claims Act. The complaint alleged that ASC had engaged in conduct to defraud the Medicare program. Specifically, the complaint alleged that ASC was charging Medicare directly for various therapy services, which were being provided to beneficiaries who had been placed on hospice, when those services should have been covered by the beneficiaries’ Medicare hospice coverage. Based on the investigation, the estimated loss to the Medicare program was $2,795,522.33 and ASC agreed to pay $5,591,044.66 to the United States. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shelese Woods and Justin Olson handled the case for the United States

See full release here: U.S. Attorney's Office Recovers Over $5.5 Million in Civil False Claims Settlement with ASC

INDIANAPOLIS- James Hoskins, 41, of Indianapolis, Indiana, was sentenced to 3 years and ten months in federal prison for illegally possessing a firearm as a previously convicted felon.

According to court documents, on June 20, 2022, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) officers responded to a domestic disturbance call involving a married couple with two children present. When officers arrived, Hoskins identified himself as a felon and stated that there was a firearm in the home that belonged to his wife. Hoskins also told IMPD that the dispute began because his wife would not let him leave the home.

Officers subsequently spoke with Hoskins’ wife. During the conversation, the wife informed officers that Hoskins turned violent after she told him she wanted to end their relationship. She stated that Hoskins smashed her glasses, held her against a mirror, strangled her, struck her multiple times, and took his gun out and cocked it in front of her.

In a follow-up interview, Hoskins admitted to officers that the firearm in the home belonged to him but claimed he did not hurt his wife, she fell and hurt herself. Officers interviewed Hoskins’ wife again and she stated that Hoskins threatened to kill her, confirmed that he possessed the firearm, and told officers where to find Hoskins’ gun. Officers found Hoskins’ 9mm pistol and arrested him. After the he was arrested, Hoskins admitted that he “tussled” with his wife in the bathroom and that he placed his forearm against her collarbone. At Hoskins’ sentencing hearing, the judge found that he illegally possessed the handgun in connection with a domestic violence felony against his wife.

Before his arrest, Hoskins had been convicted of five separate felony offenses, each of which prohibits him from ever owning a firearm under federal law.

“When a domestic abuser has a gun, the cycle of abuse can quickly turn deadly,” said Zachary A. Myers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Our U.S. Attorney’s Office is prioritizing prosecutions of these criminals because of the extreme danger they pose, especially to those closest to them. Working together with IMPD and ATF, the LEATH initiative will continue to use our law enforcement resources to save the lives of those impacted by domestic violence.”

“Our homes should be the place where we feel most safe in the world. Unfortunately, domestic abusers use violence, and all too often firearms, to threaten and harm those closest to them and the first responders coming to render aid,” stated Daryl S. McCormick, Special Agent in Charge of ATF’s Columbus Field Division. “ATF will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute domestic abusers who possess firearms to ensure our communities are safe from these offenders.”

ATF investigated the case. The sentenced was imposed by U.S. District Judge, Magnus Stinson. Judge Stinson also ordered that Hoskins be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 3 years following his release from federal prison.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy Fugate, who prosecuted this case.

This case was brought as part of the LEATH Initiative (Law Enforcement Action to Halt Domestic Violence), named in honor of Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) Officer Breann Leath, who was killed in the line of duty while responding to a domestic disturbance call.  A partnership among the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the IMPD, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Indiana, the LEATH Initiative focuses federal, state, and local law enforcement resources on domestic violence offenders who illegally possess firearms.

This case is 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.

INDIANAPOLIS – Four former City of Muncie public officials, including former Mayor Dennis Tyler, a former police officer, a private citizen, and two contractors have all been convicted and sentenced in the federal court following a years-long investigation and prosecutions of systemic corruption in the government of the City of Muncie. The final sentence in the six related cases was imposed earlier today, and the sentences are as follow

DEFENDANT

OFFENSES

SENTENCE

Dennis Tyler, 78, of Muncie, Former Mayor of Muncie

Theft of Government Funds

1 year and a day imprisonment

3 years’ supervised release

$15,250 in restitution

Craig Nichols, 40, of Muncie,

Former Muncie Building Commissioner.

Owner, Advanced Walls & Ceilings and Capitol Consulting and Property Management

Wire Fraud and Money Laundering

2 years’ imprisonment3 years’ supervised release $217,892 in restitution

Tracy Barton, 52, of Muncie, Former Superintendent of Sewer Maintenance and Engineering

Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud

1 year of probation

Debra Nicole Grigsby, 46, of Muncie,

Former District Administrator of Muncie Sanitary District

Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud

1 year and a day imprisonment

2 years’ supervised release

$370,556.99 in restitution

Jess Neal, 54, of Muncie, Former Muncie police officer

Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud

2 years’ imprisonment

2 years’ supervised release

$55,650 in restitution

Jeff Burke, 55, of Muncie,

Owner, Burke Rentals 1, and

McGalliard Guns & More

Bank Fraud

6 months imprisonment, and 6 months’ home confinement

2 and a half years’ supervised release.

$245,000 in restitution.

Rodney Barber, 53, of Muncie, Owner, Barber Contracting

Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud

2 years of probation

$104,250 in restitution

Tony Franklin, 62, of Muncie, Owner, Franklin Building and Design

Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud

1 year and 1 day

$279,806.99 in restitution

2 years supervised release

Phil Nichols, former chairman of a political party in Delaware County, was also charged with conspiring with Grigsby, Neal, and Franklin to commit wire fraud. Phil Nichols entered into an agreement to plead guilty, but died prior to the resolution of his case. All charges against him were dismissed, as required by law. As part of their guilty pleas, Grigsby, Neal, and Franklin admitted to conspiring with Phil Nichols as charged.

According to court documents, between 2014 and 2019, the City of Muncie engaged in a series of public works projects that were intended to benefit the City’s residents. They included the levee recertification project, which required Muncie Sanitary district to acquire parcels of property situated near the White River, demolish homes and businesses existing on the parcels, and construct levees or storage basins so that the entire levee system could be recertified. They also included the Walnut Commons project which was an $8.3 million housing development that was intended to house Veterans who were experiencing homelessness and removing blighted properties around Muncie to allow room for redevelopment such as brownfield site located on the east side of Muncie called Kitselman Pure Energy Park.

Public officials in Muncie were required by law on these projects to solicit bids from contractors and engage in a competitive bidding process designed to ensure that the City hired the most qualified contractors to complete the work at the lowest cost. Instead, Dennis Tyler, Craig Nichols, Tracy Barton, and Debra Nicole Grigsby, under the corrupt influence of charged, but now deceased, Phil Nichols, engaged in bid-rigging and kickback schemes in which they agreed to steer work to contractors who would “pay-to-play.” They also exploited Indiana’s Guaranteed Energy Savings Contract law to steer no-bid contacts to the same corrupt contractors

According to admissions by the sentenced defendants in their guilty pleas, Phil Nichols decided which contractors were “greenlighted.” meaning they were part of what some of the co-conspirators called the “Program” which was a bid-rigging scheme in which contracts were steered by public officials to kickback paying contractors.

As a result of the schemes, contractors did not engage in competitive bidding and were allowed to bill the taxpayers for work they didn’t do, or overbill for work that they completed. In total, the public officials awarded $3,230,737 in contracts to participating contractors, and as a result, the City and the Muncie Sanitary District lost approximately $1,568,324. Additionally, potential witnesses against these defendants lived in fear of retaliation because some of the defendants engaged in witness tampering and retaliation. Some defendants also destroyed evidence and altered documents in an unsuccessful attempt to prevent the Federal Bureau of Investigation from exposing their crimes.

Summary of Cases

United States v. Dennis Tyler:  Former Mayor Tyler admitted to accepting a $5,000 gratuity in exchange for official acts, namely, steering work to a paying contractor who charged more than an honest competitor. The gratuity arose from a public works project for Walnut Commons, which was an approximately $8.3 million housing development that was intended to house Veterans who were experiencing homelessness. On December 15, 2015, Mr. Tyler accepted $5,000 from Tracy Barton, the head of Muncie Sanitary Maintenance and Engineering, who acted as a middleman between the Mayor and Person A, a local contractor. Person A’s bid for the Walnut Common’s job was not the lowest, most qualified, responsive bid, but Mr. Tyler agreed to steer the contract to him as a favor. He later accepted the $5,000 payment as a thank you. The Walnut Commons contract was for $218,489. Mr. Tyler was convicted of Theft of Government Funds.

United States v. Craig Nichols: Mr. Nichols was the son of Phil Nichols and served as Muncie’s Building Commissioner. Craig Nichols also owned Advanced Walls and Ceilings, a company that contracted with the City of Muncie. Craig Nichols used false documents to steal $81,500 from the city for demolition work that AWC never performed and used additional false documents in an attempt to cover up his crimes. Mr. Nichols also fraudulently concealed his ownership of Capitol Consulting and Property Management, a company that billed the City for asbestos inspection and abatement work that he either never performed, double billed, or performed at inflated prices. Mr. Nichols pled guilty to Wire Fraud and Money Laundering and admitted that he billed Muncie $454,400 in contracts for work he did not perform or obtained through fraud. His crimes resulted in a loss of $270,392 in taxpayer money.

United States v. Tracy Barton:  Mr. Barton was the Superintendent of Sewer Maintenance and Engineering at the Muncie Sanitary District. He admitted to accepting bribes and kickbacks in exchange for steering work to a contractor, who was a close friend. He further admitted to participating in a scheme to defraud the Muncie Sanitary District, in which public works projects were steered, at Phil Nichols’ direction, toward paying contractors through public officials who collected bribes and kickbacks. In total, Mr. Barton admitted to participating in a conspiracy in which $2,053,873 in contracts were steered, at Phil Nichols’ direction, toward paying contractors through public officials. The scheme resulted in $2,053,873 in fraudulent contracts and a loss of $1,032,682.

United States v. Debra Nicole Grigsby, Jess Neal, and Tony Franklin: Ms. Grigsby was the District Administrator for Muncie Sanitary District. As the District Administrator for MSD, Ms. Grigsby was responsible for approving the selection of contractors to perform work on MSD Infrastructure Projects. She also signed maintenance contracts on MSD’s behalf. Ms. Grigsby admitted to accepting kickbacks from Jess Neal and Tony Franklin in exchange for steering Muncie Sanitary District work to Tony Franklin. She further admitted to knowing that her subordinate, Tracy Barton, was also steering work toward paying contractors and was accepting kickbacks. Ms. Grigsby was convicted of Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud.

Mr. Neal was a Sergeant for the Muncie Police Department and the owner of Red Carpet, Inc. and Express Properties, LLC. Mr. Neal admitted to arranging for Mr. Franklin to pay kickbacks to Phil Nichols and Debra Nicole Grigsby so that Mr. Nichols would greenlight Mr. Franklin. Ms. Grigsby then also agreed to steer work arising out of the Muncie Sanitary District’s infrastructure projects associated with levee recertification to Mr. Franklin. Mr. Neal was convicted of Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud.

Mr. Franklin was the owner of Franklin Building and Design, LLC. Mr. Franklin admitted to paying Phil Nichols and Debra Nicole Grigsby kickbacks in exchange for receiving $1,170,667 in fraudulently steered contracts. Mr. Franklin received $1,170,667 in fraudulently steered contracts, and Muncie Sanitary District overpaid Mr. Franklin more than $600,000. As a result, MSD overpaid Franklin more than $600,000. He was convicted of Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud.

United States v. Jeff Burke: Mr. Burke was the owner of Burke Rentals 1 and McGalliard Guns & More. He admitted to receiving an inside tip from former police officer Jess Neal that the Muncie Sanitary District had to purchase a property known as the Flea Market in order to recertify the levee. Acting on that insider tip, Mr. Burke defrauded a bank to receive a quick loan, quickly purchased the Flea Market property for $150,000 without disclosing it’s true value, and then sold it 41 days later to the City for an inflated cost of $395,000. Mr. Burke did so knowing that the City had no choice but to pay the exorbitant cost. Mr. Burke was convicted of Bank Fraud and making False Statements to FBI agents. His scheme resulted in a loss of $245,000 in taxpayer funds.

United States v. Rodney Barber: Mr. Barber was the owner of Barber Contracting, Inc. He admitted to paying kickbacks to Phil Nichols and Tracy Barton in exchange for receiving nearly $300,000 in public works projects associated with the Muncie Sanitary District recertification of the levee. He was convicted of Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud, Wire Fraud, and making False Statements. In total, Mr. Barber received nearly $300,000 in contracts, resulting in a loss of $104,250 to Muncie Sanitary District.

United States v. Phil Nichols: Prior to his death, Mr. Nichols admitted in his plea agreement to Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud. Mr. Nichols was a former chairman of a political party in Delaware County and was regularly involved in raising money and advising political candidates running for local office in Delaware County. According to his co-conspirators and other paying contractors, though he had no official role in Muncie City Government or Muncie Sanitary District, Mr. Nichols maintained a powerful political control over Muncie officials, including Mrs. Grigsby and Mr. Barton. During the conspiracy period, contractors who wished to do work for Muncie Sanitary District had to be “greenlighted” by Mr. Nichols. Only contractors who had agreed to pay bribes or kickbacks to public officials, or make contributions to certain political campaigns or parties were greenlighted. As set forth in their plea agreements, Tracy Barton and Debra Nicole Grigsby admitted that Mr. Nichols directed them to steer public works projects arising out of the Muncie Sanitary District infrastructure projects associated with levee recertification to contractors who were willing to pay bribes and kickbacks.

The entire scheme involving Ms. Grigsby, Mr. Barber, Mr. Franklin, Mr. Neal, and Phil Nichols resulted in $2,053,873 in fraudulent contracts and a total loss of $1,032,682.

“The citizens of Muncie placed their trust in a small group of government officials—many of whom were on a first-name basis with their constituents. This systemic public corruption not only resulted in more than $1.5 million of taxpayer money lost, but also caused immeasurable distrust in local government,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “These prosecutions and sentences demonstrate that ‘pay to play’ schemes will not be accepted as the way governments do business. The U.S. Attorney’s Office and our partners at the FBI will investigate and prosecute these violations of public trust and public funds—and ensure that the criminals responsible are held accountable.”

“Ultimately, greed caught up with these defendants and they were held accountable for it. The citizens of Muncie deserved better and hopefully the dedicated work of our agents to uncover this systemic corruption will help restore public trust,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Herbert J. Stapleton. “Cases like this are the reason public corruption is a top criminal investigative priority for the FBI, and we encourage the public to report potential abuses of public office.”

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Tiffany J. Preston, who prosecuted these cases.

INDIANAPOLIS- John McDonough, 36, of Indianapolis, Indiana, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and illegally possessing a firearm.

According to court documents, on April 7, 2021, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) officers executed a search warrant at John McDonough’s residence as part of a larger narcotics and firearms investigation. Prior to the search, McDonough advised officers that they would discover a firearm and methamphetamine inside of a shoebox in the garage. Officers did locate these items in the shoebox, as well as a baggie containing fentanyl.

During the execution of the search warrant, police located a total of 879 grams of methamphetamine, 150 grams of fentanyl, a digital scale, four firearms, and approximately $37,000 in U.S. currency, and a money counting machine. According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, as little as two milligrams of fentanyl can be fatal, depending on a person’s body size, tolerance, and past usage.

In a recorded interview with law enforcement officers, McDonough admitted to possessing the illegal drugs with the intent to distribute them to other individuals and possessing the firearm. McDonough also told investigators that he had dealt methamphetamine in quantities ranging from one to twenty pounds over the past year.

At the time of his arrest, McDonough had previously been convicted of Reckless Homicide, prohibiting him from ever again legally owning a firearm under federal law.

“It is utterly unacceptable for a convicted killer to continue to break the law by engaging in armed trafficking of deadly drugs including fentanyl and methamphetamine,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Criminals like this defendant perpetuate the cycle of substance abuse disorders and fatal overdoses by trafficking deadly drugs into our neighborhoods. I commend the outstanding work of the ATF and IMPD to increase public safety and help break the cycle of dependence and death.”

“It is an unfortunate fact that drug dealers use firearms to protect their illegal business and terrorize the communities they inhabit,” stated Daryl S. McCormick, Special Agent in Charge of ATF’s Columbus Field Division. “We will continue to work day in and out with our local and state partners to find those using firearms to put this poison into our communities and remove them so they cannot cause more harm.”

ATF and IMPD investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge James P. Hanlon. Judge Hanlon also ordered that McDonough be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 5 years following his release from federal prison.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Jayson McGrath who prosecuted the case.

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.

INDIANAPOLIS – Kyle Peterson, 25, of Rockford, Illinois, was sentenced to 22 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to sexual exploitation of a twelve-year-old girl.

According to court documents, between March of 2020 and March of 2021, Kyle Peterson persuaded, induced, enticed, and coerced a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct. Beginning on March 20, 2020, Peterson used the social media platforms Omegle and Snapchat to contact minors, including Victim 1. Victim 1 was twelve years old at the time of contact with Peterson. Knowing the victim was a child, Peterson began to groom her by sending her sexually explicit images and videos online. The material Peterson distributed to Victim 1 included an image depicting sadomasochistic behavior and images and videos depicting sexual abuse of animals.

Peterson engaged in sexually explicit video chats with the child and instructed her to send him sexually explicit videos of herself. When Victim 1 stopped complying with Peterson’s continuous demands, he began threatening to disseminate her sexually explicit images and videos to her family and friends and post them on the Internet.

This criminal behavior is commonly referred to as “sextortion.” After the criminals have one or more videos or pictures, they threaten to publish that content, or they threaten violence, to get the victim to produce more images. The shame, fear, and confusion children feel when they are caught in this cycle often prevents them from asking for help or reporting the abuse. Caregivers and young people should understand how the crime occurs and openly discuss online safety. More information about the efforts of the Justice Department and FBI to protect children from sextortion can be found on the FBI’s website.

“The defendant not only exposed a child to some of the most disturbing and heinous sexually explicit online imagery, but also took advantage of a preteen girl’s vulnerability to threaten and coerce her into complying with his demands,” said Zachary A. Myers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “We commend the Avon Police Department and the FBI for rescuing this victim and potentially others from the defendant’s ongoing sexual exploitation. The sentence imposed today should be a warning to anyone who might engage in these crimes that they will be identified, prosecuted, and sentenced to significant terms in federal prison.”

“The Avon Police Department takes great pride in protecting children from online predators who exploit children in the most unimaginable ways. The efforts of our Detectives were key in holding Mr. Peterson responsible for his conduct. We hope the victim is able move forward after this conviction,” said Deputy Chief Brian Nugent, Avon Police Department. “The Avon community is thankful for the efforts of the U.S. Attorney’s Office. We encourage parents to have a discussion with their children about online safety, body safety, and identifying a few adults that they feel comfortable reporting any instances of abuse to.”

Avon Police Department and the FBI investigated the case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. Chief District Judge, Tanya Walton Pratt. Judge Pratt also ordered that Peterson be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 20 years following his release from federal prison and pay $16,000 in restitution to the child victims. Peterson must also register as sex offender wherever he lives, works, or goes to school, as required by law.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Tiffany J. Preston who prosecuted the case.

In fiscal year 2019, the most recent year for which data is available, the Southern District of Indiana was second out of the 94 federal districts in the country for the number of child sexual exploitation cases prosecuted.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. 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 

EVANSVILLE- Ronald Chapman, 46, of Evansville, Indiana was sentenced to 110 months in federal prison for illegally possessing a firearm.

According to court documents, in October 2018, law enforcement officers received information that Ronald Chapman was in possession of multiple firearms and was planning to sell one or more firearms to an individual. On October 4, 2018, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Chapman’s residence and recovered nine total firearms: an AK-style rifle along with three other long guns and five handguns.

During a recorded interview with investigators, Chapman admitted to keeping firearms inside of his residence, stating several times that he owned the home and had been attempting to sell the firearms. Chapman also advised that there would be marijuana and methamphetamine in the home and a rifle behind his bedroom door. Chapman acknowledged that he spent approximately 16 years in prison in Illinois for making methamphetamine, which prohibits him from ever legally owning a firearm.

At the time of his arrest, Chapman had previously been convicted of four felonies in Illinois relating to the manufacture and possession of methamphetamine.

“Far too many firearms are illegally trafficked into our communities, driving the gun violence that devastates far too many families,” said Zachary A. Myers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Armed, repeat offenders like this defendant play a significant role in driving violent crime in our neighborhoods and must be stopped. We will work with our federal, state, and local partners to investigate and prosecute criminals who illegally deal in deadly weapons.”

“This is a scenario we see all too often – not only is the defendant prohibited from possessing firearms due to his own prior conduct, but he is also selling guns to others who in all likelihood aren’t legally able to possess them either,” stated Daryl S. McCormick, Special Agent in Charge of ATF’s Columbus Field Division. “ATF will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to block the flow of illegally possessed firearms that feed the cycle of violence.”

ATF investigated the case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Richard L. Young. Judge Young also ordered that Chapman be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 3 years following his release from federal prison.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Lauren Wheatley who prosecuted this case.

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

INDIANAPOLIS – Ariel Campbell, 28, was sentenced to 10 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to making false statements in connection with the purchase of a firearm.

According to court documents, on February 26, 2021, Campbell purchased an AR-style pistol with a high-capacity magazine from American Arms, a federally licensed firearms dealer in Bloomington, Indiana. When she made the purchase, Campbell represented that she was the actual buyer of the firearm, when in fact, she was purchasing it for convicted serious violent felon, Antione Sutton.

Video surveillance footage from American Arms shows Campbell entering the business with Sutton. Both individuals are seen on camera looking at various firearms and accessories on multiple occasions in February 2021. Sutton attempted to put money towards purchasing a rifle from American Arms and told the store employee that Campbell would pay the remaining balance and fill out the required ATF firearms purchase form. Campbell indicated on the form that she was the actual buyer of the firearm, which was a false statement.

A search of Campbell’s cellphone revealed text messages between her and Sutton, in which she asked what kind of ammunition she should buy and how much. While Campbell was physically in the American Arms store, Sutton sent her a screenshot of the specific gun he wanted from an online listing, to which Campbell replied with a photo of the same gun in-store. Campbell also texted, “I’ll grab guns for you whenever, I really don’t care.”

The pistol was recovered by law enforcement at Sutton’s residence on March 5, 2021. Campbell also attempted to purchase two more handguns on Sutton’s behalf on March 2, 2021, but those transactions were delayed, and she was not transferred the firearms.

U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, Zachary A. Myers and Daryl S. McCormick, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), Columbus Field Division made the announcement.

“Those who believe they can circumvent firearm laws by purchasing on behalf of convicted felons are just as culpable in driving gun violence,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “These individuals may be able to legally purchase a firearm at the time, but they are still engaging in serious criminal activity that provides dangerous felons with the ability to arm themselves and traffic more guns. They are in no way less to blame for the murders and violence we see every day and we will work to hold them accountable.”

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), with the assistance of the Bloomington Police Department. The sentence was imposed by Chief Judge Tanya Walton Pratt. As part of the sentence, Chief Judge Pratt ordered that Campbell be supervised by the U.S. Probation office for 3 years following her release from prison.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Kelsey L. Massa, who prosecuted the case.

INDIANAPOLIS- Jeffrey Delucio, 54, of Richmond, Indiana, was sentenced to 16 months in federal prison for violating the Toxic Substance Control Act, specifically the provisions of the Act concerning lead paint renovations, and for obstructing justice by fabricating records to obstruct a federal grand jury.

According to court documents, Delucio operated Aluminum Brothers Home Improvements in Richmond, Indiana, which received federal grant money from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to mitigate lead paint hazards in older low-to-middle income homes. Lead-based paint is the leading cause of lead poisoning in children, which can result in permanent developmental and health problems. Because of lead’s toxicity, federal law requires contractors renovating homes with lead-based paint to take certain precautions while working to protect themselves and those living in and around the homes under construction.

Delucio admitted in federal court that he and other Aluminum Brothers workers he supervised failed to follow these laws while conducting multiple the HUD-funded renovations in Richmond. As a result, lead-based paint chips were scattered throughout the properties and were not cleaned up timely or properly as work was being conducted. One of the residences was inhabited by a child with elevated blood lead levels, which had prompted the renovation work at that property to begin with.

Delucio further admitted that he failed to train his workers on lead-safe work practices and then falsified documents to conceal his conduct. Delucio’s company was subpoenaed by a federal grand jury for business records, including records of employee training on lead-safe work practices. In an effort to impede federal criminal investigators, including those from HUD and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Delucio fabricated training records for each of his employees and supplied the false documents to EPA and HUD agents.

“Mr. Delucio put his community, employees, and the environment at risk, including a medically vulnerable child” said Zachary A. Myers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “These regulations are in place to ensure the health of Hoosiers for generations to come. We will continue working with the EPA, IDEM, and HUD to prosecute those who do not uphold their responsibility to preserve the environment and the safety of citizens.”

“The defendant created risks by not only failing to follow lead-safe work practices, but also falsely representing to the government their employees had received training,” said Special Agent in Charge Jennifer Lynn of EPA’s criminal investigation program. “Today’s sentencing demonstrates that individuals who intentionally violate environmental laws will be held responsible for their crimes.”

“Protecting families and communities from lead-based paint hazards is one of HUD OIG’s top priorities,” said Special Agent in Charge Machelle Jindra. “HUD OIG is committed to seeking criminal penalties for those who willfully disregard lead-based paint safety regulations and other violations of Federal law related to HUD programs.”

“This wasn’t simply a situation of an environmental crime. Mr. Delucio’s behavior had real-life health implications for families in Wayne County,” IDEM Commissioner Brian Rockensuess said. “We’re pleased that this investigation has led to a conviction, preventing him and his company from causing further harm.”

The EPA, Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM), and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) investigated the case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge James Patrick Hanlon and included a $1,000 fine. As part of the sentence, Judge Hanlon ordered that Delucio be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 2 years following his release from federal prison.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Kathryn E. Olivier who prosecuted the case.

This case was prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice’s Comprehensive Environmental Justice Enforcement Strategy. As the Attorney General of the United States announced on May 5, 2022, the Department’s Environmental Justice Strategy seeks to provide timely and effective remedies for systemic environmental violations and contaminations and for injury to natural resources in underserved communities that have been historically marginalized and overburdened, including low-income communities, communities of color, and Tribal and Indigenous communities. The Department’s Office of Environmental Justice Members of the public who have concerns about environmental justice matters in the Southern District of Indiana can report them to the U.S. Attorney’s office via email to USAINS-Environmental@usdoj.gov.

INDIANAPOLIS- Chakra Dasari, 34, of Noblesville, Indiana was sentenced to 121 months in federal prison for distributing and receiving child sexual abuse material.

According to court documents, in January of 2021, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) officers received information that Dasari had been using a cloud storage and file hosting application called Mega to store and exchange images of child sexual abuse. Dasari had sent the witness child sexual abuse material via Mega’s chat feature.

On May 11, 2021, investigators with the Indiana Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force executed a search warrant at Dasari’s Noblesville residence. Investigators located an Apple iPhone on Dasari’s person that held 17 video files and 1 image file of child sexual abuse material. The iPhone also contained Telegram social media messages in which Dasari received material from an unknown Telegram user depicting toddlers and infants being made to engage in sexually explicit conduct with adults. Dasari possessed this child sexual abuse material between June of 2020 and May of 2021.

Dasari made multiple false statements to investigators during a recorded interview, denying that he had ever sent or received sexually explicit images or videos of minors. Dasari stated to police that he only “might have said certain things (I’m) not proud of” during his conversations with another Mega user.

United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, Zachary A. Myers and IMPD Chief Randal Taylor made the announcement.

“The defendant joined others online to share heinous images depicting the sexual abuse of babies and toddlers,” said Zachary A. Myers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Those who are gratified by the sexual exploitation of the most vulnerable of victims are a tremendous danger to our communities. The outstanding investigators of the Indiana ICAC Task Force will continue to work tirelessly with our U.S. Attorney’s Office to identify these criminals and send them to prison, where our children are out of their reach.”

ICAC and IMPD investigated the case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge James P. Hanlon. As part of the sentence, Judge Hanlon ordered that Dasari be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 10 years following his release from federal prison. Dasari must also register as sex offender wherever he lives, works, or goes to school, as required by law.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Kristina M. Korobov who prosecuted this case.

This investigation was conducted by the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, a partnership of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies led by the Indiana State Police. The Task Force is dedicated to investigating and prosecuting crimes involving the technology-facilitated sexual exploitation of children and the trafficking of child sexual abuse material. Each year, Indiana ICAC investigators evaluate thousands of tips, investigate hundreds of cases, and rescue dozens of children from ongoing sexual abuse.

In fiscal year 2019, the most recent year for which data is available, the Southern District of Indiana was second out of the 94 federal districts in the country for the number of child sexual exploitation cases prosecuted.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. 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

INDIANAPOLIS – A federal grand jury returned an indictment charging eleven individuals for their alleged roles in an Indianapolis-based drug trafficking organization with conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine, and related charges. An additional defendant was charged by criminal complaint with offenses related to armed methamphetamine trafficking. The indictment was unsealed on December 14, 2022, following their arrests and initial appearances, and is being announced following hearings on the pretrial detention status of the defendants.

As alleged in court documents, beginning in 2021, the defendants primarily distributed methamphetamine in Indianapolis, Indiana. Erick Apolinar Romero operated out of Indianapolis and arranged for the delivery of the controlled substances to Indianapolis for their redistribution by other members of the conspiracy. Romero and Julian Islas-Lozada maintained residential properties for the purpose of stashing and distributing the illegal drugs, including an apartment in the Nora neighborhood on the north side of Indianapolis. Kevin Patino-Romero facilitated the movement of drug proceeds. The members of the conspiracy used cellular devices and code words to facilitate these drug trafficking activities. Members of the conspiracy allegedly travelled to Nebraska on multiple occasions in October and November 2022 to acquire drugs that were being smuggled by train car and bring them to Indianapolis for distribution.

On December 13, 2022, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), along with several local and federal law enforcement agencies, executed search warrants at seven residences in Indianapolis and arrested ten of the defendants charged in the indictment. Eduardo Abel Torres De Leon was apprehended in West Grove, Pennsylvania. Jose Ponciano-Felix was arrested on December 13, 2022, in Indianapolis, during the execution of one of the search warrants, and charged by criminal complaint with possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

During the life of the investigation, law enforcement officers seized approximately 408 pounds of methamphetamine; eight kilograms of fentanyl and 28 firearms. The seized firearms included several semi-automatic AR platform rifles. Approximately $32,800.00 in US Currency as well as 6 vehicles, 2 trailers, 3 all-terrain vehicles and a dirt bike were also seized.

As of December 20, 2022, eleven of the twelve defendants were ordered detained pending trial or detaining pending hearing. Richard Michael Moore was ordered released on conditions set by the Court.

The charges are as follows:

Defendant

Charge(s)

Erick Romero aka “Erick Bustos,” aka “Christian Ramirez,” 33, Indianapolis

Fentanyl and Methamphetamine Trafficking Conspiracy; Methamphetamine Distribution; Attempted Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl and Methamphetamine; Unlawful Use of a Communication Facility

Julian Islas-Lozada, aka “Chusy,” 35, Indianapolis

Fentanyl and Methamphetamine Trafficking Conspiracy; Methamphetamine Distribution; Unlawful Use of a Communication Facility

Alexander Franco-Lopez, aka “Sicario,” aka “Nino,” 19, Indianapolis

Fentanyl and Methamphetamine Trafficking Conspiracy; Attempted Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl and Methamphetamine;

Kevin Josue Patino-Romero, 20, Indianapolis

Fentanyl and Methamphetamine Trafficking Conspiracy; Methamphetamine Distribution;

Junior Castillo, aka “Catracho,” 35, Indianapolis

Fentanyl and Methamphetamine Trafficking Conspiracy; Attempted Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl and Methamphetamine;

Eduardo Perez-Martinez, aka “Cholilo,” 28, Indianapolis

Fentanyl and Methamphetamine Trafficking Conspiracy; Attempted Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl and Methamphetamine;

Jesus Alberto Casillas-Martinez, aka “Cholo,” 26, Indianapolis

Fentanyl and Methamphetamine Trafficking Conspiracy; Attempted Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl and Methamphetamine;

Zachary Polk, 45, Vincennes, Indiana

Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine;

Matthew Wright, 45, Greencastle, Indiana

Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine;

Richard Michael Moore, aka “Mike Moore,” aka “Suegro,” 54, Indianapolis

Unlawful Use of a Communication Facility

Eduardo Abel Torres De Leon, aka “Primo,” aka “Forty,” 29, West Grove, Pennsylvania

Unlawful Use of a Communication Facility

Jose Ponciano-Felix, 41, Indianapolis

*Charged by complaint

Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute; Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime

The defendants face the following possible penalties, if convicted:

Fentanyl and Methamphetamine Trafficking Conspiracy

10 years to life in prison

Methamphetamine Distribution and Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine

10 years to life in prison

Attempted Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl and Methamphetamine

10 years to life in prison

Unlawful Use of a Communication Facility

Up to 4 years in prison

Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

5 years to life in prison, consecutive to any other sentence

Actual sentences are determined by a federal district court judge and are typically less than the maximum penalties.

Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, Michael Gannon, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the DEA’s Indianapolis Field Office, Chief Randal Taylor, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, Rodney Hopkins, Postal Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Detroit Division, Justin Campbell, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Chicago Field Office, and R. Sean Fitzgerald, Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations Chicago, made the announcement.

This case was a result of an investigation led by the Drug Enforcement Agency, IMPD’s Drug Task Force, HSI, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and IRS-CI. The Beech Grove Police Department, Lawrence Police Department, IMPD, Indiana State Police, and the FBI assisted in the execution of search and arrest warrants.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jayson McGrath and Lindsay Karwoski, who are prosecuting this case.

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.

An indictment or complaint is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

INDIANAPOLIS- Kevin Robertson, 53, of Indianapolis, Indiana, was sentenced to 11 years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

According to court documents, on January 25, 2022, law enforcement officers were attempting to arrest Kevin Robertson on an outstanding warrant when they saw him leave his Indianapolis residence. Robertson placed a black bag in a blue Ford pickup truck and drove away from his home. The Ford pickup truck was reported stolen earlier that month. Officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop, but Robertson sped away. Robertson crashed into another vehicle at the intersection of New York and Denny Streets. The driver of the vehicle was injured and taken to the hospital.

Robertson fled the scene of the crash on foot and was subsequently arrested by officers. Investigators found Robertson’s black bag in the vehicle, which contained 75 grams of pure methamphetamine, a digital scale with drug residue, numerous plastic bags, and a loaded pistol. In his guilty plea, Robertson admitted that he intended to distribute the illegal drugs.

At the time of his arrest, Robertson had a lengthy criminal history, including 6 felony convictions related to dealing methamphetamine, illegally possessing a handgun, and resisting law enforcement officers.

“Armed drug dealers fuel the violence in our communities,” said Zachary A. Myers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “The U.S. Attorneys Office and our law enforcement partners will continue to work diligently to make our streets safer through targeted prosecution of dangerous criminals. The sentence imposed today demonstrates that those who continue to deal deadly drugs and illegally carry deadly weapons will spend significant time in federal prison.”

“Holding the defendant accountable for his violent actions and illegal drug activities should send a clear message to others in the community of the impact of this criminal activity,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Herbert J. Stapleton. “If you choose to pursue a path of criminal activity, the FBI and our law enforcement partners will ensure that you are identified, investigated and removed from society.”

“The Indiana State Police works diligently with its law enforcement partners at all levels to help ensure those who bring illicit and dangerous drugs and guns into our communities are held accountable to fullest extent possible,” said Doug Carter, ISP Superintendent.

The FBI and Indiana State Police investigated the case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge James P. Hanlon. Judge Hanlon also ordered that Robertson be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 5 years following his release from federal prison.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Pamela Domash who prosecuted the case.

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.

EVANSVILLE- Reko D. Levels Jr., 26, of Evansville, was sentenced to 2 years in federal prison for illegally possessing a firearm.

According to court documents, on September 20, 2021, Levels was wanted on an active felony warrant in an unrelated state case. Evansville Police Department Officers arrested Levels while he was sitting outside his Evansville apartment complex. Officers initiated a search and found a loaded 9mm pistol in Levels’ right pant pocket. The pistol had been reported as stolen on September 4, 2021.

In an interview with law enforcement officers on September 23, 2021, Levels admitted that he knew the gun was stolen and that he intended to return it to the lawful owner but was arrested before he had the chance to do so. 

At the time of his arrest, Levels had been previously convicted in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Florida for stealing a firearm from a licensed dealer, aiding and abetting, and possession of a firearm while under indictment in another case. Levels was also convicted of Criminal Recklessness in Vanderburgh County in 2018.

“This defendant has continued to unlawfully arm himself, undeterred by even a prior federal gun crime conviction,” said Zachary A. Myers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Repeat armed criminals drive the violence on our streets and holding them accountable will make our communities safer. The U.S. Attorneys Office will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to protect our communities from armed criminals.”

“ATF and the Evansville Police Department work side by side, day in and out, to investigate and arrest those responsible for violence in our community,” stated Daryl S. McCormick, Special Agent in Charge for ATF’s Columbus Field Division. “Levels has demonstrated, through his history of stealing firearms and then possessing firearms as a convicted felon, that he poses a threat to public safety that we are all working to end.”

ATF investigated the case with the valuable assistance of the Evansville Police Department. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Richard L. Young. Judge Young also ordered that Levels be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 1 year following his release from federal prison.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanks Assistant United States Attorney, Matthew B. Miller who prosecuted this case.

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.

EVANSVILLE- Scott A. Stagg, 54, of Evansville, Indiana, was sentenced to 21 months in federal prison for illegally possessing a firearm.

According to court documents, on November 16, 2021, Scott Stagg was in possession of a loaded 9mm pistol as he was driving his vehicle in Evansville, Indiana. Upon seeing a police vehicle, Stagg immediately pulled to the side of the road, parked, then ran down a nearby alley. Stagg placed the gun and other items behind gas station trash containers and continued to flee the area.

Law enforcement officers pursued Stagg and located the loaded pistol, a loaded magazine, a glasses case containing a glass pipe with burnt residue, and a small amount of methamphetamine behind the gas station trash cans. Stagg was located by officers and taken into custody. 

At the time of his arrest, Stagg had previously been convicted in Vanderburgh County of possession of methamphetamine, dealing in a sawed-off shotgun, and illegally possessing a firearm. 

Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana and Daryl S. McCormick, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), Columbus Field Division made the announcement.

“Armed criminals pose a serious risk to our communities,” said Zachary A. Myers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “We will continue to work closely with our local and federal law enforcement partners, including ATF and the Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office, to protect the public and reduce gun violence. The sentence imposed today shows that those who continue to illegally arm themselves and ignore the law will be held accountable.”

ATF investigated this case with valuable assistance from the Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office. The sentenced was imposed by U.S. District Judge Richard L. Young. As part of the sentence, Judge Young ordered that Stagg be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 1 year following his release from federal prison.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Matthew B. Miller who prosecuted this case.

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.

INDIANAPOLIS -Alonzo Smith, 26, of Indianapolis, was sentenced to 5 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm. 

According to court documents, on April 13, 2021, Alonzo Smith was identified by Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) officers as a suspect in a shots fired incident that occurred on March 27, 2021. That incident involved multiple individuals, including Smith, firing approximately 100 gunshots outside of an Indianapolis business. One of the fired rounds struck a fully marked IMPD vehicle as it was passing by. 

Also on April 13, 2021, IMPD detectives located Smith near his Indianapolis residence. Detectives observed Smith leave the residence and drive northbound in a blue Chevy Malibu. Smith parked, then entered a silver Chevy Monte Carlo located on the street near 2249 North Arsenal Avenue. He drove northbound, approaching East 25th Street, where officers initiated a traffic stop at the intersection of East 25th Street and Brouse Avenue. After initially pulling over, Smith made a U-turn and fled westbound. Officers pursued Smith, who reached speeds of nearly 80 miles per hour on city streets. During the pursuit, Smith threw an AR-style pistol out the window of the car. 

Officers lost sight of Smith, but later observed him driving north on Meridian Street. An officer reinitiated the pursuit but was involved in a serious accident at that intersection of Meridian and 20th Street. The officer sustained a broken nose, jaw, and orbital bone, lost four teeth, and needed multiple surgeries. 

Smith was taken into custody approximately one week later. At the time of his arrest, Smith was on federal supervised release after serving a 40 month prison sentence following a prior federal conviction for possessing a firearm as a previously convicted felon. 

“This defendant chose to continue illegally arming himself and endangered the lives of civilians and law enforcement officers in his reckless flight from the police,” said Zachary A. Myers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Repeat armed criminals drive the violence on our streets and putting them in prison makes our communities safer. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to work closely with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to hold these offenders accountable.” 

“Working together with our law enforcement partners is the most effective way to make our communities safer and this sentence demonstrates that collaboration as a violent offender is now off the streets and behind bars where he can no longer imperil the lives of innocent people,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Herbert J. Stapleton. 

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) with the assistance of IMPD. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge James P. Hanlon. In addition to 4 years imprisonment on these charges, Judge Hanlon sentenced Smith to 1 year imprisonment for violating the terms of his federal probation, that will run consecutively with his new sentence.  Judge Hanlon also ordered that Smith be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 3 years following his release from federal prison.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Kelsey L. Massa, who prosecuted this case.

Evansville Sexual Predator Sentenced to 4 Years in Federal Prison for Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material

EVANSVILLE- Anthony J. Richardson, 30, of Newburgh, Indiana was sentenced to 4 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession of child sexual abuse material.

According to court documents, on July 28, 2020, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Richardson’s residence, where multiple electronic devices were found containing images of child sexual abuse.  Richardson’s computer was later examined and found to contain more than 1,400 videos of child sexual abuse, as well as evidence he used his computer to search for this material. The material Richardson collected included multiple videos depicting the rapes of preschool aged children and an extremely brutal depiction of the torture and sexual abuse of a prepubescent girl. 

Also on July 28, 2020, during a recorded interview with law enforcement officers, Richardson admitted that he was sexually aroused by depictions of children being subjected to sexual abuse and had collected child sexual abuse materials for a long time.

“These abhorrent crimes will not go unpunished. Every day, pedophiles trade and view horrific depictions of child rape and sexual exploitation online,” said Zachary A. Myers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “The outstanding investigators of the Indiana ICAC Task Force work tirelessly to protect our children by identifying and arresting dangerous criminals who seek to prey on them. Serious federal sentences like the one imposed today should put potential offenders on notice: those who sexually abuse our children or trade in images of that abuse will be held accountable and sent to prison.”

“These types of cases are some of the most important to the FBI and our law enforcement partners as these images cause untold harm to the children depicted who are revictimized each time they are shared,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Herbert J. Stapleton. “This sentence shows the dedicated efforts of all who were involved in identifying and investigating the defendant to ensure he will no longer be able to exploit innocent children.”

The FBI investigated the case, with valuable assistance provided by the Warrick County Sheriff’s Department. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Richard L. Young. As part of the sentence, Judge Young ordered that Richardson be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 10 years following his release from federal prison. Richardson must also register as sex offender wherever he lives, works, or goes to school, as required by law.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Todd Shellenbarger, who prosecuted this case.

In fiscal year 2019, the most recent year for which data is available, the Southern District of Indiana was second out of the 94 federal districts in the country for the number of child sexual exploitation cases prosecuted.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. 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.

INDIANAPOLIS- Donte Hill, 31, of Indianapolis, was sentenced to 55 months in federal prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin and Cocaine.

According to court documents, on March 1, 2022, at approximately 7:30pm, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) officers responded to reports of shots fired near the area of 21st Street and Post Road. Upon their arrival, officers observed a Black Audi SUV stopped at a nearby intersection with a missing rear-end license plate. At 21st and Sussex Avenue, officers activated their emergency overhead lights and attempted to stop the Audi for the violation. The driver, later identified as Donte Hill, fled at a high rate of speed, and led officers on a chase covering approximately two miles before he fishtailed and crashed into an unmarked police vehicle near 38th Street and Tutor Park Drive.

Donte Hill exited the driver side of the inoperable Audi and fled the scene on foot. As officers gave chase, they observed Hill put his right hand directly inside his hooded sweatshirt. The handle of a firearm was protruding from the front pocket. Hill continued to ignore verbal commands from law enforcement officers and fled toward Mitthoeffer road, running through thick vegetation and brush. Officers were able to make contact with Hill and placed him under arrest.

Officers located a black handgun, $1,278 in cash, a .45 caliber magazine and approximately 14 grams of cocaine on Hill’s person. At the time of his arrest, Hill was also wearing a body armor vest. A search of the Audi led to the discovery of another firearm, a digital scale, 21.8 grams of heroin, approximately 69 grams of marijuana, and approximately 48 grams of marijuana edibles. In his guilty plea, Hill admitted he intended to distribute the illegal drugs.

Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, Daryl S. McCormick, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), Columbus Field Division, and IMPD Chief Randal Taylor made the announcement.

ATF and IMPD investigated the case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Chief Judge Tanya Walton Pratt. As part of the sentence, Judge Pratt ordered that Hill be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 3 years following his release from federal prison. Hill was also issued a $500.00 fine.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Peter A. Blackett, who prosecuted this case.

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.

INDIANAPOLIS – Carl Young Jr., 41, of Indianapolis was sentenced to 14 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to cocaine and marijuana trafficking charges, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and being a felon in possession of a firearm.

According to court documents, on February 16, 2022, just after midnight, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) officers were dispatched to Thaddeus Street in Indianapolis, Indiana in response to a domestic disturbance. Upon their arrival, a woman reported that Young had stolen her Jeep and pointed officers to the vehicle in a nearby alley. Young fled from the approaching officers at a high speed. Young ran a stop sign at the intersection of Minnesota St. and State St., striking a Buick at nearly 80 miles per hour. Both the driver and passenger of the Buick were ejected from the vehicle. The driver was trapped under the vehicle, but officers were able to lift the vehicle to free the driver. The passenger was ejected from the vehicle onto the sidewalk several feet away. Both victims were transported to Eskenazi Hospital in critical condition.

Young attempted to flee the scene again after the crash, and purposefully backed into a police vehicle. Officers surrounded Young’s vehicle with police vehicles, removed him from the driver’s seat, and placed him under arrest. Young was under the influence of Phencyclidine (PCP) and had two shotgun shells on her person at the time of his arrest. IMPD officers recovered a loaded shotgun from the front passenger seat of the stolen vehicle, and a backpack containing approximately 26 grams of crack cocaine and approximately 6 pounds of marijuana. In his guilty plea, Young admitted he intended to distribute the illegal drugs.

At the time of his arrest, Young was prohibited from legally possessing a firearm because he had five prior felony convictions, including convictions for dealing illegal drugs and multiple convictions for operating a vehicle while intoxicated endangering a person.

Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, Daryl S. McCormick, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), Columbus Field Division, and IMPD Chief Randal Taylor made the announcement.

“This armed drug trafficker severely injured two innocent people as he sped away from police with utter disregard for human life,” said U.S. Attorney Myers “I commend the outstanding first responders who undoubtably saved lives at the scene of the crash and protected the public by arresting a dangerous criminal. The serious sentence imposed today will protect the public from further crimes by Mr. Young, and demonstrates that our office will work closely with our local and federal partners to make our communities safer.”

The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department and ATF investigated the case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Chief Judge Tanya Walton Pratt. As part of the sentence, Judge Pratt ordered that the defendant be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 3 years following his release from federal prison.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Pamela S. Domash who prosecuted this case.

This case was part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, and the local community to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime.

INDIANAPOLIS – John Lee Adams, III., 32, of Bloomington, was sentenced to 81 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and admitting to violating the terms of his federal supervised release.

According to court documents, on August 12, 2021, Bloomington Police Department officers initiated a traffic stop on a Chevy Malibu for multiple traffic violations. John Lee Adams III was identified as the driver. When asked to step out of the vehicle, Adams fled the scene at a high rate of speed and lead BPD officers on a brief pursuit that concluded when Adams exited the vehicle and fled into a patch of woods on foot.

Adams was taken into custody without incident. Upon further investigation, officers located approximately 3.2 grams of cocaine on Adams’ person and a loaded semiautomatic handgun in his bag. At the time of the arrest, Adams was on federal supervised release after serving a sentence of 104 months in prison for armed bank robbery and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence. 

“Armed, violent criminals pose a serious danger to our communities,” said Zachary A. Myers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “We will work closely with our local and federal law enforcement partners, including ATF and the Bloomington Police Department, to protect the public and reduce gun violence. The sentence imposed here shows that violent criminals who continue to illegally arm themselves will be held accountable.”

“ATF is committed to combating gun violence in our communities,” said Daryl S. McCormick, ATF Special Agent in Charge for the Columbus Field Division. “We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners in Bloomington and throughout Indiana and Ohio to make our communities safer.”

ATF and the Bloomington Police Department investigated the case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge James Patrick Hanlon. As part of the sentence, Judge Hanlon ordered that Adams be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 3 years following his release from federal prison.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick G. Gibson who prosecuted this case.

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.

INDIANAPOLIS- David McCutcheon, Jr., 25, of Indianapolis, was sentenced to 180 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to Distribution and Receipt of Child Pornography.

According to court documents, on March 23, 2021, the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) began investigating McCutcheon after receiving a CyberTip from Twitter. The tip reported that McCutcheon had uploaded 17 hyperlinks containing sexually explicit videos to other Twitter users via direct message. The videos distributed by McCutcheon included depictions of the sexual abuse and rape of prepubescent and preschool-aged children. Investigators were able to tie the account to McCutcheon’s Indianapolis residence and obtained a warrant to search for evidence of the crimes.

Members of the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) task force executed the warrant and recovered two cellular devices containing 1,316 images and 469 videos of children being sexually abused. One of McCutcheon’s devices included screen-recorded videos of McCutcheon using OmeTV (Omegle TV), a free application which allows users to randomly engage in webcam live video chat with others, including minor girls. In one of the recorded chats, McCutcheon can be seen talking to two prepubescent girls, who appear to be between 8-10 years of age who partially disrobe, apparently at McCutcheon’s direction.

The materials McCutcheon collected also included recordings of children being subjected to sexual bondage and the sexual abuse of toddlers and infants. In his plea agreement, McCutcheon admitted that he shared child sexual abuse materials online in hopes of receiving more of the same material and because he was sexually attracted to children.

“Pedophiles like the defendant use online platforms like Twitter and OmeTV to trade horrific depictions of child rape and to hunt for children to sexually exploit,” said Zachary A. Myers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “The outstanding investigators of the Indiana ICAC Task Force work tirelessly to protect our children by identifying and arresting dangerous criminals who seek to prey on our children. Serious federal sentences like the one imposed today should put potential offenders on notice: those who sexually abuse our children or trade in images of that abuse will be held accountable and sent to prison.”

Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, Jeffrey R. Adams, Special Agent in Charge of the USSS Indianapolis Field Office, and IMPD Chief Randal Taylor made the announcement.

The U.S Secret Service and IMPD investigated the case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Chief Judge Tanya Walton Pratt. As part of the sentence, Judge Pratt ordered that McCutcheon be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 10 years following his release from federal prison $45,000 in restitution to the child victims. McCutcheon must also register as sex offender wherever he lives, works, or goes to school, as required by law.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Kristina M. Korobov, who prosecuted this case.

This investigation was conducted by the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, a partnership of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies led by the Indiana State Police. The Task Force is dedicated to investigating and prosecuting crimes involving the technology-facilitated sexual exploitation of children and the trafficking of child sexual abuse material. Each year, Indiana ICAC investigators evaluate thousands of tips, investigate hundreds of cases, and rescue dozens of children from ongoing sexual abuse. In fiscal year 2019, the most recent year for which data is available, the Southern District of Indiana was second out of the 94 federal districts in the country for the number of child sexual exploitation cases prosecuted.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. 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

INDIANAPOLIS – John Ellis-Strayhorn, Jr., 32, of Indianapolis, was sentenced to five years in federal prison after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm.

According to court documents, on June 3, 2020, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) officers observed Ellis-Strayhorn driving a car that had previously been reported as stolen. When officers approached the stolen car, Ellis-Strayhorn sped away in the vehicle. A pursuit ensued, reaching speeds of up to 60 miles per hour on city streets. As he fled, Ellis-Strayhorn, Jr. threw a gun out the window of the car. Police recovered the firearm from the road where Ellis-Strayhorn, Jr. had thrown it.

As the pursuit continued, police attempted to perform a pursuit-intervention technique (PIT) maneuver on Ellis-Strayhorn’s vehicle. The PIT maneuver caused Ellis-Strayhorn’s vehicle to spin, but he continued driving. The chase only ended after Ellis-Strayhorn’s vehicle collided with another car that was stopped at a red light. Ellis-Strayhorn was then arrested.

 At the time of his arrest, Ellis-Strayhorn had three prior felony convictions which prohibited him from possessing firearms, including Battery on a Person Less than 14 Years Old, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Serious Violent Felon, and Dealing in Cocaine or Narcotic Drug.

Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, and Daryl S. McCormick, Special Agent in Charge of ATF’s Columbus Field Division, made the announcement.

ATF investigated the case. The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department provided valuable assistance. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge James R. Sweeney II. As part of the sentence, Judge Sweeney ordered that Ellis-Strayhorn be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for three years following his release from federal prison.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelsey L. Massa who prosecuted this case.

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.

EVANSVILLE – Luke Smith III, 48, of Evansville, Indiana, was sentenced to 151 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession of a firearm and ammunition by a prohibited person and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

According to court documents and evidence introduced in court, on November 22, 2019, law enforcement officers learned that Smith was selling drugs, was just released from prison, and was known to carry a gun. Officers located Smith and initiated a traffic stop of his vehicle. Officers searched Smith’s vehicle and found a pill bottle in the middle console, which contained 2.5 grams of methamphetamine.

Officers continued to search Smith’s vehicle and found plastic wrap, baggies, several rounds of .380 and 9mm ammunition, and a 9mm pistol. Smith was searched and officers found a digital scale and a single round of 9mm ammunition on his person. During transport to the jail, Smith admitted to officers that they’d find his DNA on the firearm and that he handled the gun daily.

Smith has previous felony convictions in state court for battery resulting in bodily injury to a pregnant woman and robbery. Smith is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition by federal law due to his felony convictions.

Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, and Herbert J. Stapleton, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Indianapolis Field Office, made the announcement.

FBI investigated the case and the Evansville Police Department provided valuable assistance. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Richard L. Young. As part of the sentence, Judge Young ordered that Smith be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for three years following his release from federal prison.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew B. Miller who prosecuted this case.

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.

EVANSVILLE – Brett Clark, 40, of Evansville, was sentenced to 12 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to escaping from federal custody.

According to court documents, on September 7, 2011, Clark was sentenced by the United States District Court for the Southern District of Indiana to 10 years in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release for methamphetamine trafficking.

On December 8, 2020, after his initial release from federal prison, Clark’s was ordered to serve an additional 21 months in prison for violating the terms of his supervised release. On April 14, 2022, Clark was transferred to the Volunteers of America (“VOA”) Hope Hall Residential Reentry Center in Evansville, Indiana. The Bureau of Prisons contracts with residential reentry centers, also known as halfway houses, to provide assistance to inmates who are nearing release. Inmates serving a portion of their sentence at a residential reentry center are only authorized to leave the RRC through sign-out procedures for approved activities.

Clark was to remain in and abide by the rules of the facility, until his projected release date of July 10, 2022. On May 19, 2022, Clark left the VOA with authorization to go to work, but he never showed up to work and VOA was notified of his absence. Clark only had authorization to leave the VOA to go to work and did not have authorization to leave for any other purpose or remain away from the VOA. 

On July 5, 2022, law enforcement officers apprehended Clark in Evansville.

Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, and Dan McClain, U.S. Marshal for the Southern District of Indiana, made the announcement.

The U.S. Marshal Service investigated the case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Richard L. Young.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew B. Miller who prosecuted this case.

INDIANAPOLIS –Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) M. Kendra Klump has been selected by the District Judges of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Indiana to serve as a U.S. Magistrate Judge in Indianapolis.

“AUSA Klump is a phenomenal leader and dedicated public servant. Her judgment, intelligence, and compassion will serve her well on the bench,” said Zachary A. Myers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “AUSA Klump joins a distinguished group of alumni of our office who have gone on to serve the public as federal and state judges. Although her talents will be sorely missed, the entire district will benefit greatly from her passion for public service and the rule of law.”

Klump joined the Department of Justice (DOJ) as a Criminal AUSA in the Northern District of Ohio in 2012. In 2017, Klump transferred to the Southern District of Indiana, where she continued serving as a Criminal AUSA. In February of 2022, U.S. Attorney Myers appointed Klump Chief of the Office’s Drug Trafficking Unit. During Klump’s tenure as an AUSA, she has handled a wide variety of prosecutions and trials, including complex drug trafficking and money laundering conspiracies.

Prior to joining the DOJ, Klump clerked for the Honorable Judith W. Rogers on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit Court. She graduated magna cum laude from the University of Michigan Law School. She earned undergraduate degrees in physics and mathematics from Georgetown University, where she graduated summa cum laude. Prior to law school, Klump worked as a nuclear scientist for the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission and the International Atomic Energy Agency.

INDIANAPOLIS – Patrick Doornbos, 38, of Monticello, Indiana, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine.

According to court documents, on November 22, 2021, Doornbos was driving on Interstate 65 in Jackson County, Indiana, when he was stopped by the Indiana State Police (ISP) for multiple traffic violations. During the stop, the Trooper deployed his K9 partner, who indicated the presence of illegal drugs in the vehicle. Doornbos admitted that he was returning from Kentucky, where he had just purchased a pound and a half of methamphetamine as well as three firearms for $5,000. Law enforcement officers searched the vehicle and recovered approximately 650 grams of pure methamphetamine, two loaded semiautomatic handguns, and a revolver. In his guilty plea, Doornbos admitted he intended to distribute the methamphetamine.

At the time of his arrest, Doornbos had four prior felony convictions, including for dealing methamphetamine and illegally possessing a gun.

“Drug dealers who push these poisons into our communities act with blatant disregard for the pain caused by substance abuse disorders,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “We are under no illusion that arrests and prosecutions alone will put an end to this crisis, but we will focus our federal resources on armed and unrepentant drug traffickers as we seek to increase public safety.”

“Drug traffickers with prior felony convictions who illegally possess firearms in furtherance of their drug trafficking activities must be held accountable for their actions,” said Michael Gannon, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of Indianapolis Field Office of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). “The DEA remains committed to working hand in hand with our state, local, and federal partners to keep our communities safe. We commend the outstanding work by the Indiana State Police and the United States Attorney’s Office.”

“We are grateful for our partnership with the DEA and the U.S. Attorney’s office for this investigation and the many others like it,” said Douglas G. Carter, Superintendent of the ISP. “We will work diligently to hold the people responsible for bringing drugs and guns into our communities fully accountable.”

The DEA and ISP jointly investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by Chief U.S. District Judge Tanya Walton Pratt. As part of the sentence, Judge Pratt ordered that Doornbos be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 5 years following his release from federal prison.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Pamela S. Domash, who prosecuted this case.

INDIANAPOLIS – Joshua Jude, 34, of Indianapolis, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm.

According to court documents, on December 22, 2020, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) officers arrested Jude on an outstanding escape warrant. Jude was wanted for absconding from a residential reentry center, where he was completing his sentence for a prior federal conviction of unlawfully possessing a firearm. During a search of the apartment where Jude was located, officers recovered a .45 caliber handgun. On October 24, 2020, Jude’s ex-girlfriend reported the handgun stolen.

Also on October 24, 2020, a victim was shot in the shoulder at a gas station near 38th and Butler streets in Indianapolis. IMPD Detectives located two .45 caliber casings at the scene, which were recovered and subsequently determined to have been fired from the stolen handgun.

Detectives obtained surveillance video and observed Jude entering the gas station, removing a gun from his jacket, and handing it to another man, later identified as the shooter. Detectives later interviewed Jude, who admitted to providing the stolen firearm to the shooter.

At the time of his arrest, Jude had seven prior felony convictions in Indiana including intimidation, battery, criminal recklessness, a possession of a controlled substance. Each of these prior felony convictions prohibit Jude from lawfully possessing a firearm.

Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, Daryl S. McCormick, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), Columbus Field Division, and Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) Police Chief Randal Taylor made the announcement.

ATF and IMPD jointly investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge James R. Sweeney II.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Pamela S. Domash who prosecuted this case.

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.

INDIANAPOLIS – Chase Winkle, 35, a former officer with the Muncie Police Department, in Muncie, Indiana, pleaded guilty today to eleven civil rights and obstruction charges. Specifically, Winkle pleaded guilty to five federal civil rights offenses for assaulting arrestees, and to six obstruction offenses for writing false reports to cover up the results.

According to court documents and statements made during the change of plea hearing, on or about August 9, 2018, Winkle and another officer arrested a civilian identified as L.G.  As L.G. was lying on the ground, with the other officer holding both of L.G.’s hands behind his back, L.G. directed a verbal insult towards the officers.  In response to the insult, Officer Winkle, using his knee, dropped his full bodyweight down onto L.G.’s neck and head area. L.G. screamed out in pain and yelled that Winkle had crushed his face. A few moments later, Winkle deployed taser prongs into L.G.’s back and activated the taser. Officer Winkle’s use of force caused severe bodily injury to L.G., multiple facial fractures that required surgery. Following the incident, Winkle wrote a false report about what happened.

“Today’s guilty pleas are an important step forward as we seek justice for the victims in this case,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Myers for the Southern District of Indiana. “Our office, the Department of Justice and our federal partners are firmly committed to holding law enforcement officers accountable when they violate their oaths and the civil rights of the people they were sworn to protect.”

“Officer Winkle, the son of the former Chief of Police, confessed to repeated uses of excessive force and obstruction of justice,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “This defendant’s misconduct injured his victims and undermined the police department’s credibility with the community. We hope that this guilty plea sends a message that neither a badge nor familial connections will shield an officer from facing justice for his wrongdoing.”

On or about June 5, 2018, Winkle participated in the arrest of two then-juveniles, N.B. and R.F.  The incident began when MPD officers attempted to initiate a traffic stop of a car, but the driver did not initially stop and instead drove away from the officers.  The occupants – including N.B. and R.F. – eventually jumped out of the car and ran from officers on foot. Officer Winkle and another then-MPD officer, Dalton Kurtz, engaged in a short foot chase of N.B., who eventually lay down in a yard.  Kurtz found N.B, alerted Officer Winkle, and aimed his firearm and a flashlight at N.B., who was lying on his stomach with his arms extended in front of him and his hands visible and open. As N.B. lay on the ground, with his hands extended in front of him, Officer Winkle ran towards N.B. and kicked him in the head.  Winkle then positioned himself near N.B.’s shoulder and delivered approximately two closed fist strikes to the back or side of N.B.’s head, and two open hand strikes to N.B.’s face. Shortly after N.B.’s arrest, Officer Winkle found R.F. in a nearby garage. Winkle ordered R.F. to show his hands and R.F. complied, holding both hands above his head. As another officer began to handcuff R.F., Officer Winkle walked up and slapped R.F. in the face. Following the incident, Officer Winkle authored a false report regarding the arrests of both N.B. and R.F.

On or about March 27, 2018, Winkle and another MPD officer responded to a call involving a complaint against a civilian, I.P.  When the officers found I.P. in an alleyway, I.P. stood up and immediately put his hands up in the air with his palms open, in a position indicating surrender.  Winkle ordered I.P. to get down to the ground, and I.P., with his hands in the air, began to get down to the ground.  As I.P. began to lower himself to the ground, Officer Winkle kicked him in the abdomen/hip area, causing him to fall backwards into a chain link fence behind him.  As I.P. tried to steady himself against the fence, Winkle delivered a second kick directly to I.P.’s head, knocking I.P. unconscious. Shortly after the arrest, Winkle wrote a false report about the incident.

On or about May 22, 2018, Officer Winkle authored a false report about the arrest of an individual identified as D.E. During the arrest, Winkle placed D.E. in handcuffs, and then struck and used a pain compliance technique on him. 

On or about February 17, 2019, Officer Winkle responded to the scene of a traffic stop, and he and another officer ordered the passenger, B.B. out of the car. B.B. complied and stepped out of the car but was caught in the seatbelt.  As B.B. started to pull the seatbelt off of his body, Winkle punched B.B. in the face, and officers took B.B. to the ground. After a short scuffle, B.B. was handcuffed, after which Winkle used four knee strikes to B.B.’s torso area.  Officer Winkle later wrote a false report regarding the arrest.

Finally, on or about May 13, 2019, another former MPD officer, Jeremy Gibson initiated a traffic stop of a car because one of the car’s headlights was out. When the driver stepped out of the car, Gibson attempted to physically take him to the ground, and punched him several times with a closed fist in the process. As other officers attempted to secure E.M., Officer Winkle used a knee strike to the left side of E.M.’s head or upper body.  Gibson delivered a knee strike to the right of E.M.’s head, causing his head to swing to the left, back toward Winkle, and Winkle delivered another knee strike to the left side of E.M.’s head.  Following the arrest, Officer Winkle wrote a false report about the incident.

Winkle admitted that he knew at the time of the incidents that his uses of force against the arrestees were unjustified and unreasonable under the circumstances. He further admitted that he wrote false reports about what happened, including making false statements and material omissions, in order to influence any potential investigations into the incidents.

Winkle is one of four Muncie Police Department officers who were indicted in April 2021 in a 17-count superseding indictment for their roles in using excessive force against arrestees and/or attempting to cover up the misconduct. A fifth Muncie police officer, Dalton Kurtz, previously entered a pre-indictment guilty plea on August 4, 2021, to one count of misprision of felony for concealing and failing to report inappropriate use of force by Officer Winkle during the arrest of N.B.  On May 13, 2022, Officer Jeremy Gibson also pleaded guilty to civil rights and obstruction charges for assaulting E.M. and writing a false report about the incident. The remaining two officers are scheduled to stand trial in January 2023 and are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Myers for the Southern District of Indiana, Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, and FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Herbert J. Stapleton made the announcement.

The FBI conducted the investigation.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter Blackett for the Southern District of Indiana and Trial Attorneys Katherine G. DeVar and Mary J. Hahn of the Civil Rights Division who are prosecuting the case.

EVANSVILLE – Jose Martiez Crosby, 22, of Evansville, Indiana, was sentenced to 56 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to illegal possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon.

According to court documents, on June 25, 2021, while at a firing range in Evansville, Crosby was   captured on security camera video firing a Springfield, Model XD, .45 caliber pistol, which he owned.

Crosby had previously been convicted of felony theft of a firearm and felony maintaining a common nuisance in the Vanderburgh County Circuit Court under cause number 82C01-2002-F6-01181 on July 23, 2020.

Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, and Daryl S. McCormick, Special Agent in Charge of ATF’s Columbus Field Division., made the announcement.

ATF investigated the case and the Evansville Police Department provided valuable assistance. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Richard L. Young. As part of the sentence, Judge Young ordered that Crosby be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for three years following his release from federal prison.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Todd S. Shellenbarger who prosecuted this case.

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.

INDIANAPOLIS – D’Ericka Lee, 29, of Indianapolis, was sentenced to a year of probation after pleading guilty to wire fraud and making and using a false document in an attempt to fraudulently obtain COVID‑19 related disaster loans.

According to court documents, Lee filed three separate loan applications for Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) following the onset of the COVID‑19 pandemic. In Lee’s three loan applications, she fraudulently represented to the Small Business Administration that she ran a retail clothing and apparel business, a daycare, and a medical services business, which each employed various individuals and generated revenue income.  

Lee’s applications were fraudulent because the purported businesses had no employees or revenue, and, in fact, the businesses did not even exist. The business addresses Lee listed in her loan applications were personal residences incapable of housing a business.  

“This defendant repeatedly lied to take advantage of disaster loan programs that were a vital lifeline to those actually entitled to them,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Our U.S. Attorney’s Office and our federal law enforcement partners are dedicated to protecting these important federal programs from waste, fraud, and abuse. The conviction and sentence imposed today demonstrate that those who break the law to defraud the public will be held accountable.”

“This sentence illustrates the FBI’s commitment to combatting COVID-19 related fraud and ensuring those who fraudulently profited from the pandemic are held accountable,” said Herbert J. Stapleton, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Indianapolis Field Office. “Stealing money meant to help those who were vulnerable and in need during those unprecedented times was reprehensible and will not be tolerated.”

The FBI investigated the case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Jane Magnus-Stinson. As part of the sentence, Judge Barker ordered that Lee pay $10,000 in restitution to the Small Business Administration.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Bradley A. Blackington who prosecuted this case.

On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID‑19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.

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

INDIANAPOLIS – Justin R. Potts, 38, of Shelbyville, Indiana, was sentenced to 40 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to four counts related to his sexual exploitation of a six-year-old child committed while he was required to register as a sex offender.

According to court documents, on or about March 20, 2014, Mr. Potts was convicted of sexual misconduct of a minor in Hancock County, Indiana, and sentenced to 7 years in prison. As a result of this conviction, Mr. Potts was required to register as a sex offender for 10 years or until January 21, 2026. He failed to register in 2019 and was released from probation in April 2021.

Between December 28, 2021, and January 22, 2022, Mr. Potts resided in Muncie, Indiana with Individual A and Minor Victim 1, who was six years’ old. While Mr. Potts resided with Individual A and Minor Victim 1, Minor Victim 1 was in Mr. Potts’ care, custody, and control. Mr. Potts sexually abused Minor Victim 1 and produced visual depictions of that abuse including videos showing Potts using his hands to force a penis-shaped device into the child’s anus, rubbing his penis against the child’s anus, and forcing his penis into the child’s mouth. The videos were uploaded to Mr. Potts’ Google account prompting immediate notification to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. The Indiana State Police and the United States Secret Service quickly investigated the account, traced it to Mr. Potts, contacted the Delaware County Prosecutor’s Office, and executed a search warrant leading to his arrest and detention. Mr. Potts pleaded guilty to three counts of sexually exploiting Minor Victim 1, and to one count of committing those offenses while required to register as a sex offender.

“This serial predator inflicted horrific abuse on an innocent child to satisfy his criminal sexual desires,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “I commend the outstanding and tireless efforts of the U.S. Secret Service, Indiana State Police, the Delaware County Prosecutor’s Office, and federal prosecutors to quickly identify this offender, remove him from the community, and rescue a child from ongoing abuse. Mr. Potts will now spend decades in federal prison, where he cannot sexually abuse another child. The serious sentence imposed today demonstrates our dedication to protecting the public from these dangerous offenders.”

“This investigation is a testament to the Secret Service’s commitment to pursue those who chose to victimize our most vulnerable citizens,” said Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey Adams, U. S. Secret Service – Indianapolis Field Office.  “The Secret Service is a proud member of the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and would like to thank our partners at the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and the Indiana State Police for their tireless work in this case.”

The U.S. Secret Service investigated the case and the Indiana State Police and Delaware County Prosecutor’s Office provided valuable assistance. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge James R. Sweeney II. As part of the sentence, Judge Sweeney ordered that Potts be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for the rest of his life following his release from federal prison and ordered him to pay $10,000 in restitution to the child victim. Potts must also register as sex offender wherever he lives, works, or goes to school, as required by law.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Tiffany J. Preston, who prosecuted this case.

In fiscal year 2019, the most recent year for which data is available, the Southern District of Indiana was second out of the 94 federal districts in the country for the number of child sexual exploitation cases prosecuted.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. 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

TERRE HAUTE – Elvis Medrano, 43, of Pharr, TX, was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison after being convicted of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, cocaine, and MDMA, and being a felon in possession of ammunition following a 4-day jury trial in May of 2022.

According to court documents and evidence offered in court, from spring of 2020 through his arrest on August 3, 2020, Medrano conspired with his co-conspirators to sell methamphetamine, cocaine, and MDMA throughout Southern Indiana, more specifically in Sullivan and Knox Counties. Medrano obtained the illegal drugs from various sources in California, Missouri, and Illinois. The drugs were shipped to several different addresses through the U.S. Mail, by parcel delivery, or to two vacant P.O. Boxes, which Medrano had fraudulently obtained with the help of a corrupt U.S. Postal Service employee.

Postal Inspectors intercepted four of the drug parcels destined for Medrano’s group, however, these interventions did not stop Medrano. Medrano instead drove to pick up his drugs from sources in Illinois and Missouri. Medrano operated his drug trafficking organization from various local motels, often leaving behind evidence of his drug sales. Nearly everywhere law enforcement officers encountered Medrano, they found a specific brand of cutting agent used by Medrano to dilute his drugs and tools he used to dilute and re-package his methamphetamine.

Medrano possessed several firearms and was seen armed on numerous occasions as he operated his drug trafficking conspiracy according to several witnesses who testified at Medrano’s May trial. Medrano had a firearm when he led police on a high-speed chase through downtown Washington, Indiana, after fleeing from a Budget Inn on July 7, 2020. During the chase, Medrano sped past residences and businesses, and disregarded stop signs and traffic barriers. The pursuit had to be called off because of the extreme risk posed to the citizens of Washington.

Medrano’s motel room was later searched, and police found 23 rounds of 9mm ammunition, a holster, and a gun cleaning kit. Medrano had tossed a magazine from his vehicle during the high-speed chase, which was later found by a concerned citizen and examined by police. The magazine was loaded with two 9mm rounds of ammunition that matched the ammunition found in Medrano’s motel room.

Prior to the July 7 high-speed police chase, on June 1, 2020, police were attempting to locate Medrano who was wanted on an out-of-state warrant. Medrano fled from the Indiana State Police, leading them in another high-speed chase involving numerous officers and civilians through nearly the entirety of Sullivan County. Medrano cut through a field, disregarded traffic laws, and ran a local farmer off the road.   

Medrano was finally arrested on August 3, 2020. During his arrest, police officers surrounded a residence occupied by Medrano and others and asked them to exit the residence. Everyone except Medrano complied. Medrano continued to resist, and police had to deploy tear gas into the residence. 

Medrano has prior state court felony convictions in Texas and Iowa for charges including robbery and possession of methamphetamine and cocaine with intent to deliver. Medrano is prohibited from possessing ammunition and firearms by federal law due to these prior convictions.  

Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana; Michael Gannon, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the DEA’s Indianapolis Field Office; Rodney Hopkins, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service; and Andre Martin, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Postal Service-Office of Inspector General; made the announcement.

DEA, U.S. Postal Inspection Service and U.S. Postal Service-Office of Inspector General investigated the case. The Indiana State Police, Washington (Indiana) Police Department and Daviess County Sheriff’s Office provided valuable assistance. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge James Patrick Hanlon. As part of the sentence, Judge Hanlon ordered that Medrano be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 10 years following his release from federal prison.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys M. Kendra Klump, Patrick Gibson and Samantha Spiro who prosecuted this case.

This prosecution is 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.

INDIANAPOLIS – Kevin Noel, 40, of Indianapolis, was sentenced to 210 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

According to court documents, on January 29, 2021, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers went to Noel’s residence on North King Avenue, in Indianapolis, to assist Marion County Community Corrections with a check to ensure Noel was complying with the conditions of his home detention. The officers encountered common tools used by drug traffickers and evidence of recent illegal drug use during the compliance check and obtained a warrant to search Noel’s residence and truck.

The officers executed the search warrant and seized evidence of drug trafficking and illegal guns including approximately 226 counterfeit pills containing Fentanyl (totaling 24 grams), approximately 460 grams of heroin or cocaine mixed with Fentanyl powder, approximately 75 grams of crack cocaine, approximately 27 grams of powder cocaine, approximately 24 grams of methamphetamine, three semi-automatic handguns, and over $24,000 in cash drug proceeds. Noel admitted that he possessed the illegal drugs with the intent to distribute them and illegally possessed the firearms in furtherance of his drug dealing.

Officers seized approximately 692 grams of Fentanyl or substances mixed with Fentanyl during the search. According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, as little as 2 milligrams of fentanyl can be fatal, depending on a person’s body size, tolerance, and past usage. One kilogram of fentanyl has the potential to kill 500,000 people.

Noel has four prior felony convictions in state court related to possession of and dealing drugs. Noel is prohibited from possessing firearms under federal law due to these felonies.

Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana; Michael Gannon, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the DEA’s Indianapolis Field Office; Daryl S. McCormick, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), Columbus Field Division; and Randal Taylor, Police Chief of the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department; made the announcement.

DEA investigated the case in conjunction with ATF and IMPD. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Jane Magnus-Stinson. As part of the sentence, Judge Stinson ordered that Noel be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for four years following his release from federal prison.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Jayson W. McGrath who prosecuted this case.

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.

INDIANAPOLIS– Daniel Fruits, 47, of Greenwood, Indiana, was sentenced to six years in federal prison after pleading guilty to wire fraud and money laundering.

According to court documents, Fruits, who was hired to manage and run a Greenwood, Indiana-based trucking company, defrauded his employer out of more than $14 million over a 4.5-year period. From January 2015 through June 2019, a Kentucky-based entity invested over $14 million into the trucking company. Fruits used that money to fund his own lavish lifestyle including purchasing: real estate; several vehicles including two Ferraris and a Corvette; farm equipment including a horse trailer; a show horse; expensive jewelry including multiple Rolex watches; firearms; private jet flights; and high-end escort services. Fruits hid his theft by creating false and misleading financial statements. He then sent those statements to his employer to induce additional investments into the trucking company.

In mid-2019, Fruits’ employer asked Fruits to have an accountant review the trucking company’s financial statements and provide a report. Rather than comply, Fruits fabricated a letter, purportedly written by a Greenwood-based accountant. When the employer contacted the accountant to follow up, they learned that the accountant’s letter was false and fictitious. Fruits was fired the next day and the victims contacted law enforcement officers.

The investigation also revealed that Fruits attempted to defraud Fifth Third bank out of $432,000 by providing false documents to secure a mortgage. Finally, the investigation revealed that Fruits perpetrated a title wash scheme that fraudulently removed Ally Financial’s lien from a $69,607 truck.

Fruits was arrested on December 16, 2020. On August 18, 2021, a federal magistrate judge revoked Fruits’ conditions of pretrial release and ordered him detained in the custody of the U.S. Marshal, after finding that Fruits had committed several violations including being charged with new fraud offenses in state court.

“Mr. Fruits stole an outrageous sum of money to fuel an extravagant lifestyle, concealing his crimes with years of lies and false documents,” said Zachary A. Myers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Complex economic crimes such as these devastate the finances and security of businesses and individuals. The serious prison sentence imposed today demonstrates that this U.S. Attorney’s Office, the FBI, IRS-CI, and all our law enforcement partners will work tirelessly to hold these criminals accountable.”

“Mr. Fruits put his personal greed ahead of loyalty to a company that had entrusted him with its money and used funds that were not his to finance a lavish lifestyle. Even after his arrest, the defendant still was intent on defrauding others for his personal gain,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Herbert J. Stapleton. “The FBI and our partners will continue to investigate those who engage in these types of financial fraud and ensure they are held accountable.”

“The role of IRS Criminal Investigation becomes even more important in embezzlement and fraud cases due to the complex financial transactions that can take time to unravel,” said Justin Campbell, Special Agent in Charge, Chicago Field Office. “We, along with our law enforcement partners, will vigorously pursue those who victimize their employers and violate the public trust, as demonstrated in today’s sentencing of Mr. Fruits.”

The FBI and IRS-Criminal Investigation investigated the case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Sara Evans Barker. As part of the sentence, Judge Barker ordered that Fruits be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for three years following his release from federal prison and ordered Fruits to pay $14,339,252.04 in restitution to his victims and a $14,270,000 money judgment.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn E. Olivier who prosecuted this case.

TERRE HAUTE – Steven Francis, 56, of Indianapolis, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, illegal possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon and laundering of monetary instruments.

According to court documents, in or around July 2020, the Vigo County (Indiana) Drug Task Force began investigating Francis for methamphetamine distribution. On January 19, 2021, Francis attempted to mail a parcel containing approximately $20,000 in U.S. currency to California. The cash came from Francis’ methamphetamine sales.

On February 17, 2021, investigators executed a search warrant at two addresses associated with Francis. Prior to doing so, officers stopped Francis as they saw him approaching one of the two properties. Francis had approximately $26,900 cash in his pocket. The money was drug proceeds. During the subsequent search of the building, investigators found approximately 295 grams of methamphetamine, a digital scale, a loaded semi-automatic firearm, and a safe containing approximately $27,960.

Investigators also searched Francis’ residence. Under the bed in Francis’s room, officers found five handguns, two AR-style rifles, and a loaded 100-round drum magazine. Elsewhere in the residence, investigators recovered approximately $86,060 in U.S. currency.

Francis admitted to selling pound-quantities of methamphetamine and storing the drug at the two properties.

Francis was convicted in state court in 2003 for possession of cocaine and possession of methamphetamine in two separate cases. Francis is prohibited from possessing firearms by federal law due to these felony convictions.

Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, and Michael Gannon, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the DEA’s Indianapolis Field Office, made the announcement.

DEA investigated the case in conjunction with the Vigo County Drug Task Force. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Jane Magnus-Stinson. As part of the sentence, Judge Stinson ordered that Francis be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for four years following his release from federal prison. Judge Magnus-Stinson also ordered that the 8 seized firearms, ammunition, and $160,920 in seized cash all be forfeited as proceeds and instruments of the defendant’s crimes.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Lindsay E. Karwoski who prosecuted this case.

This prosecution is 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.

EVANSVILLE –Roy L. Durham Jr., 37, of Evansville, Indiana, was sentenced to 92 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to illegal possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon.

According to court documents, on June 6, 2020, an Indiana State Police Trooper initiated a traffic stop of Durham’s vehicle at an Evansville gas station and convenience store. As the trooper approached the vehicle, Durham reached for a handgun tucked inside the driver’s side door handle. The trooper drew his service weapon and commanded Durham to show his hands. Durham did not comply. Instead, he exited the vehicle and fled on foot, leaving the handgun behind.

The trooper inventoried Durham’s vehicle before having it towed and recovered five fully loaded firearms, three 9mm magazines, assorted ammunition, a gun holster, a laser sight for a firearm, 49 grams of synthetic marijuana, a digital scale, small plastic baggies, thirteen cellular telephones, three laptop computers, and $1,530 in U.S. currency from Durham’s vehicle.

Durham has prior felony convictions in state court for unlawful possession of a firearm by a serious violent felon in 2019 and for dealing methamphetamine in 2016. Durham is prohibited from possessing firearms by federal law due to these felony convictions.   

Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, and Daryl S. McCormick, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Columbus Field Division, made the announcement.

ATF investigated the case in conjunction with the Indiana State Police. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Richard L. Young. As part of the sentence, Judge Young ordered that Durham be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for three years following his release from federal prison.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew B. Miller who prosecuted this case.

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.

INDIANAPOLIS– Christopher Gene Beke, 44, of Crawfordsville, Indiana, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession of child sexual abuse material with a prior conviction.

According to court documents, in December 2021, law enforcement officers received a report that child sexual abuse material, consisting of hundreds of photos depicting children engaged in sexually explicit conduct, were being stored in a Google account. Through investigation, officers learned that Beke was the Google account holder and a registered sex offender.

On January 25, 2022, a search warrant was executed at Beke’s residence in Crawfordsville. Officers seized several electronic devices including two USB thumb drives and a cellular telephone. The devices were examined and found to contain numerous images of children, including at least one pre-pubescent child engaged in sexually explicit conduct. The images were representative of the child sexual abuse material found in Beke’s Google account.

In 2011, Beke was convicted of child molesting in Indiana after sexually abusing a 10‑year‑old girl on multiple occasions. Beke was sentenced to 10 years in prison with 4 years suspended. In 2017, Beke was convicted of possession of child sexual abuse material in Indiana and sentenced to 16 months in prison. At his federal sentencing today, the sentencing judge found that Beke had engaged in a pattern of activity involving the sexual abuse or exploitation of a minor.

Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, and Herbert J. Stapleton, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Indianapolis Field Office, made the announcement.

The FBI investigated the case with the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Jane Magnus-Stinson. As part of the sentence, Judge Magnus-Stinson ordered that Beke be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 12 years following his release from federal prison and ordered Beke to pay $13,000 in restitution to the child victims. Beke must also register as sex offender wherever he lives, works, or goes to school, as required by law.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristina M. Korobov and Trial Attorney Adam W. Braskich, of the Department of Justice’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, who prosecuted this case.

This investigation was conducted by the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, a partnership of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies led by the Indiana State Police. The Task Force is dedicated to investigating and prosecuting crimes involving the technology-facilitated sexual exploitation of children and the trafficking of child sexual abuse material. Each year, Indiana ICAC investigators evaluate thousands of tips, investigate hundreds of cases, and rescue dozens of children from ongoing sexual abuse. In fiscal year 2019, the most recent year for which data is available, the Southern District of Indiana was second out of the 94 federal districts in the country for the number of child sexual exploitation cases prosecuted.

EVANSVILLE – Jason E. Jolley, 43, of Evansville, Indiana was sentenced to 70 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute and receive sexually explicit materials involving children and distribution of sexually explicit materials involving children. Scott J. Spear, 50, of Newburgh, Indiana pled guilty to conspiring with Spear to distribute the child sexual abuse materials and was sentenced on October 18, 2022, to 5 years in federal prison.

According to court documents, between January 15, 2016, and February 1, 2016, Jolley and Spear communicated with each other using email. During their communications, both Jolley and Spear discussed their mutual interest in finding and viewing sexually explicit material involving children. Jolley and Spear also sent images to each other depicting the sexual abuse of children.

On November 15, 2016, Jolley used the Kik Messenger application to distribute an image depicting a child engaging in sexually explicit conduct to an undercover law enforcement officer in Washington D.C. The images distributed and received by Jolley and Spear included depictions of the sexual abuse of pre-pubescent children.

Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, and Herbert J. Stapleton, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Indianapolis Field Office, made the announcement.

The FBI investigated the case. The Warrick County Sheriff’s Office provided valuable assistance. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Richard L. Young. As part of the sentence, Judge Young ordered that Jolley be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 10 years following his release from federal prison. Spear was ordered to be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 7 years following his release from prison. Both Jolley and Spear must also register as a sex offender wherever they live, work, or go to school, as required by law.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Todd Shellenbarger who prosecuted this case.

In fiscal year 2019, the most recent year for which data is available, the Southern District of Indiana was second out of the 94 federal districts in the country for the number of child sexual exploitation cases prosecuted.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. 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

INDIANAPOLIS – Patrick Kearney, 40, of Saddlebrook, Arizona, was indicted by a federal grand jury for interstate stalking, transmitting threats via interstate communications, and making harassing telephone calls to an Indianapolis couple.

As alleged in the indictment, Kearney has engaged in a stalking and harassment campaign targeting a woman who had rejected his pursuit of a romantic relationship while they attended college together in the early 2000s. The victim graduated from college and never saw Kearney again. Beginning in September 2019, nearly twenty years later, Kearney began sending the woman letters and packages through the U.S. mail telling the victim she should have died in the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, that she should eat poison, and that she should go to hell. Kearney also repeatedly called the victim at all hours and left profane and insulting voicemails on the victim’s cell phone.

When Kearney learned that his victim was engaged to be married—after finding the victim’s wedding website online—he began harassing and threatening the victim’s husband as well. Between October 2019 and September 2022, Kearney placed approximately 404 phone calls to the victims’ cell phones and left at least 155 voicemails. Kearney sent the victims multiple packages containing insect poison and pornographic material.

On October 12, 2022, Kearney appeared in federal court in Arizona and was then transported to the Southern District of Indiana. Kearney made his initial appearance in federal court in the Southern District of Indiana on November 17, 2022. On November 23, 2022, Kearney was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

If convicted on all nine counts alleged in the indictment, Kearney faces a maximum penalty of five years imprisonment on each of the first three counts, and a maximum penalty of up to two years imprisonment on each of counts four through nine, a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release following any prison term.

Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, and Rodney Hopkins, Inspector of Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Detroit Division, made the announcement.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Kelsey L. Massa, who is prosecuting this case.

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

INDIANAPOLIS – Dorian Hayden, 26, of Indianapolis, was sentenced to 150 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

According to court documents, on February 13, 2020, officers with the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) obtained a search warrant for Hayden’s Indianapolis apartment on Baneberry Lane. Hayden was a suspected drug trafficker. The officers went to Hayden’s apartment. When they arrived, they saw Hayden exit his apartment, enter a vehicle, and drive away. The officers stopped Hayden’s vehicle because they knew Hayden had a suspended driver’s license. Hayden was ordered out the vehicle. While placing Hayden in custody, the officers seized two loaded Glock handguns from Hayden’s pants pocket along with a key to his apartment.

On that same day, a search warrant was executed at Hayden’s apartment. The officers found 1.6 kilograms of methamphetamine, 49.64 grams of heroin, cutting products, multiple digital scales, $38,468 in U.S. currency, two metal industrial presses, a digital money counter, and a loaded semiautomatic pistol. Hayden admitted in his guilty plea that he had intended to sell the methamphetamine and heroin.    

Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana; Daryl S. McCormick, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Columbus Field Division; Michael Gannon, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the DEA’s Indianapolis Field Office; and Randal Taylor, Police Chief of IMPD made the announcement.

ATF, DEA, and IMPD investigated the case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Sarah Evans Barker. As part of the sentence, Barker ordered that Hayden be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for five years following his release from federal prison.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle P. Brady who prosecuted this case.

This prosecution is 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.

INDIANAPOLIS – Coenraad Cromhoudt, 48, of Cayuga, Indiana, was sentenced to 151 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to distribution and receipt of child sexual abuse material.

According to court documents, on July 24, 2021, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agents were conducting undercover chat operations on the social media application Kik, in a chatroom known to be used by adult men looking for underage girls to exchange child sexual abuse material. An adult male later identified as Cromhoudt initiated a short conversation with a special agent posing as a 13-year-old girl living in Arizona.

On August 1, 2021, Cromhoudt sent another message inquiring about age and other information. Knowing that the “girl” was thirteen, the chat quickly turned sexual in nature. During this chat, Cromhoudt sent the “girl” naked pictures of himself, videos of pre-pubescent girls being sexually abused by adult men, and adult pornography. Cromhoudt said some of the videos depicted him abusing the children. In court, Cromhoudt admitted he sent the sexually explicit videos to the “girl,” in part, to convince “her” that he had had previously had sex with children and they enjoyed it.

Over the next two months, Cromhoudt routinely sent sexually explicit messages, videos, and photos during chats with the “girl.” Cromhoudt even tried planning to meet in Arizona to have sex with the “13-year-old girl.”

On October 28, 2021, agents executed a search warrant at Cromhoudt’s residence in Cayuga, Indiana. Cromhoudt was interviewed by investigators and admitted to receiving sexually explicit files using Kik and said he shared the files with others. He also acknowledged that he was the person chatting with the undercover special agent. In addition to the numerous videos Cromhoudt sent to the undercover agent in the Kik chat, Cromhoudt also possessed child sexual abuse material in a Google account, including a video of an adult male raping an infant girl.

Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, R. Sean Fitzgerald, Special Agent in Charge of the HSI Chicago Field Office, and Superintendent Douglas G. Carter, Indiana State Police made the announcement.

HSI and the Indiana State Police investigated the case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge James Patrick Hanlon. As part of the sentence, Judge Hanlon ordered that Cromhoudt be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 15 years following his release from federal prison and must also register as a sex offender wherever he lives, works, or goes to school, as required by law.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristina M. Korobov who prosecuted this case.

In fiscal year 2019, the most recent year for which data is available, the Southern District of Indiana was second out of the 94 federal districts in the country for the number of child sexual exploitation cases prosecuted.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. 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

INDIANAPOLIS – Bradley Gulledge, 42, of Indianapolis, was sentenced to a total of 262 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine in two federal cases

According to court documents, on August 29, 2018, Gulledge was arrested in Indianapolis when officers executed a search warrant at his residence and located over 280 grams of pure methamphetamine, digital scales, and multiple firearms. On September 10, 2018, after Gulledge posted bond in Marion County, Gulledge was located by law enforcement officers during the execution of another search warrant and found to be in possession of over 150 grams of pure methamphetamine and a firearm.

Gulledge has multiple prior felony convictions in Indiana, including convictions for dealing in cocaine or narcotic drugs and for unlawful firearm possession by a serious violent felon.

Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, Superintendent Douglas Carter, Indiana State Police, R. Sean Fitzgerald, Special Agent in Charge of HSI Chicago, and Herbert J. Stapleton, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Indianapolis Field Office, made the announcement.

The Indiana State Police, Homeland Security Investigations, and the FBI investigated the cases. The sentence was imposed by Chief U.S. District Judge Tanya Walton Pratt. As part of the sentence, Judge Pratt ordered that the defendant be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for five years following his release from federal prison.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Pamela S. Domash who prosecuted this case.

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 make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, and the local community to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime.

INDIANAPOLIS – Jacob Wall, 29, of Indianapolis, was sentenced to 130 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime.

According to court documents, on January 14, 2020, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) officers saw a vehicle driven by an individual, later identified as the Wall, engage in a narcotics transaction at a gas station near Lynhurst Avenue, in Indianapolis. Officers stopped the vehicle after witnessing Wall commit several traffic infractions.  

When officers approached the vehicle, they saw plastic baggies sticking out of a backpack in the back seat. A K9 officer arrived and indicated there were drugs in the vehicle. Officers searched and found two baggies containing 893 grams of methamphetamine, marijuana, pills, a .45 caliber Glock M30 semiautomatic handgun, ammunition, and a digital scale. Officers also found several baggies of marijuana in a box inside the vehicle, which they later learned were the drugs Wall was selling at the gas station. Wall was arrested at the scene of the traffic stop.

Wall was previously convicted in Marion County, Indiana, of multiple felony offenses, including burglary, criminal gang activity, and battery. Wall is prohibited under federal law from prohibiting firearms due to these felony offenses.

Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, and Michael Gannon, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the DEA’s Indianapolis Field Office, made the announcement.

DEA investigated the case. The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department provided valuable assistance. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Jane Magnus-Stinson. As part of the sentence, Judge Magnus-Stinson ordered that Wall be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for two years following his release from federal prison.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Abhishek S. Kambli who prosecuted this case.

 

 

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.

NEW ALBANY –Christopher M. Caudill, 38, of Austin, Indiana, was sentenced to seven years in federal prison after pleading guilty to distribution of methamphetamine and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.

According to court documents, between July 12, 2021, and February 17, 2022, Caudill sold drugs and firearms to a confidential informant on five separate occasions, illegally distributing a total of 41.9 grams of methamphetamine. In addition to his distribution of methamphetamine, Caudill sold the confidential informant a silencer, two privately made Glock-style 9mm pistols bearing no serial numbers, and an AR-stye 5.56m rife bearing no serial number. Caudill personally assembled the three firearms using parts and kits he purchased online.

These types of privately made firearms are untraceable and are referred to as “ghost guns.” Ghost guns are unserialized, privately made firearms increasingly recovered by law enforcement officers at crime scenes across the country. Because ghost guns lack the serial numbers marked on other firearms, they are impossible for law enforcement agencies to trace through the ATF’s National Tracing Center.

Caudill has a 2016 felony conviction in Scott County, Indiana, for possession of methamphetamine. Caudill is prohibited from possessing a firearm by federal law due to this prior felony.

“Deadly weapons in the hands of violent criminals and drug traffickers pose a profound danger to our communities,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Using parts and kits purchased online, this drug dealer and convicted felon manufactured and sold untraceable ‘ghost guns’—including an AR-style semiautomatic rifle and a silencer. The sentence imposed today demonstrates that our U.S. Attorney’s Office will work tirelessly with the ATF and all our law enforcement partners, including the Scott County Sheriff’s Office, to identify the most dangerous armed criminals, hold them accountable, and get them off our streets.”

 

 

“The illegal sale or transfer of privately made firearms presents a unique challenge for law enforcement,” stated Daryl S. McCormick, Special Agent in Charge of ATF’s Columbus Field Division. “In this case, Caudill not only sold illegal drugs, he sold un-serialized, untraceable firearms and an unregistered silencer. When used by criminals, those firearms pose a safety threat to our community, and ATF will continue to work with our state and local partners to bring those trafficking these items to justice.”

The ATF Louisville Group IV investigated the case in conjunction with the Scott County Sheriff’s Office. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Tanya Walton Pratt. As part of the sentence, Judge Pratt ordered that Caudill be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for three years following his release from federal prison.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew B. Miller who prosecuted this case.

This case is being brought as a part of the Department of Justice’s National Ghost Gun Initiative. The initiative was launched in February 2022 in response to the proliferation of ghost guns in our communities, and the growing number of criminals who unlawfully use or possess these untraceable weapons. The Attorney General directed U.S. Attorney’s Offices to train a national cadre of prosecutors as experts to lead investigations and prosecutions of crimes involving ghost guns. These ghost gun coordinators will also share investigation and prosecution tools with other prosecutors and law enforcement officers. As part of the initiative, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Indiana will focus its investigation and prosecution resources on combatting the illegal possession, use, and sale of ghost guns.

INDIANAPOLIS – Lance Parsons, 47, of Randolph County, Indiana, was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to distribution and receipt of child sexual abuse material.

According to court documents, in March 2020, the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office began investigating Parsons alleged sexual assault of a child. During the investigation, law enforcement officers learned there was an outstanding warrant for Parsons arrest stemming from a child support case. On March 16, 2020, Parsons was arrested, and his smartphone seized. Law enforcement officers obtained a warrant to search for evidence of child exploitation offenses.

A forensic examination of Parsons’ smartphone revealed that Parsons engaged in messaging with other persons about child sexual abuse. Parsons’ smartphone also contained hundreds of photos and multiple videos of prepubescent children engaged in sexual activity with adults and other children. Parsons used the Kik Messenger and Mega applications to receive and distribute the visual depictions of children engaged in sexually explicit conduct. The child sexual abuse material distributed, received, and possessed by Parsons included visual depictions of children being subjected to sadistic or masochistic conduct, or other depictions of violence, and of infants or toddlers being made to engage in sexually explicit conduct.

At his sentencing hearing, the judge found that Parsons had engaged in a pattern of activity involving the sexual abuse or exploitation of children, and in 2017, Parsons was convicted of attempted sexual misconduct with a minor in Randolph County.

Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, Jeffrey R. Adams, Special Agent in Charge of the USSS Indianapolis Field Office, and Art L. Moystner, Sheriff Randolph County made the announcement.

United States Secret Service and the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. The Randolph County Prosecutor’s Office and Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department provided valuable assistance. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge James Patrick Hanlon. As part of the sentence, Judge Hanlon ordered that Parsons be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for life following his release from federal prison. Parsons was also ordered to pay $10,000 in restitution to his minor victim and must register as sex offender wherever he lives, works, or goes to school, as required by law.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristina M. Korobov who prosecuted this case.

In fiscal year 2019, the most recent year for which data is available, the Southern District of Indiana was second out of the 94 federal districts in the country for the number of child sexual exploitation cases prosecuted.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. 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

INDIANAPOLIS – Detreck Wilson, 50, of Anderson, Indiana, was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm.

According to court documents, on September 13, 2021, law enforcement officers learned that the Anderson City Court had issued a warrant for Wilson’s arrest for failure to appear. On September 14, 2021, law enforcement officers located Wilson at the Anderson Inn. Officers were aware that Wilson was a previously convicted felon. Officers were advised that Wilson was in the room and that he had a firearm. Officers accessed Wilson’s room with a key provided by the hotel and found him lying in bed with a semi-automatic handgun within his reach on an adjacent nightstand.

Wilson admitted to officers that he had two prior felony convictions and possessed the handgun found on the nightstand. Wilson was previously convicted of strangulation and non-support of a dependent, in Madison County, Indiana. Wilson is prohibited by federal law from possessing firearms due to these felony convictions.

Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, and Herbert J. Stapleton, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Indianapolis Field Office, made the announcement.

FBI investigated the case and the Anderson Police Department provided valuable assistance. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Jane Magnus-Stinson. As part of the sentence, Judge Magnus-Stinson ordered that Wilson be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for two years following his release from federal prison.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Jayson W. McGrath who prosecuted this case.

EVANSVILLE – Omaree Shay Roby, 25, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to carjacking and using a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.

According to court documents, on September 27, 2020, officers with the Evansville Police Department responded to a residence on East Indiana Street regarding a robbery complaint. The adult female victim, told officers that she had been approached by a man, later identified as Roby, as she sat inside her car while parked on her driveway. When Roby demanded that the victim relinquish her vehicle, the victim refused, and Roby pointed a pistol in the air and fired a shot. At that point, the victim exited her vehicle, and Roby entered the driver’s seat and drove away. While at the scene, officers located one spent .40 caliber shell casing on the victim’s driveway.

Vigo County Sheriff deputies subsequently located Roby traveling northbound through Vigo County in the stolen vehicle, and pursued Roby into Vermillion County. When law enforcement officers deployed stop sticks in Clinton, Indiana, Roby drove through the stop sticks and fired shots at the officers from the stolen vehicle. Roby ultimately came to a stop near State Road 63 and U.S. Highway 36. As he exited the vehicle, Roby raised a firearm at the officers, who returned fire and struck Roby. Roby was transported to the hospital and survived. Upon searching the stolen vehicle, officers recovered a .40 caliber pistol.

Roby had been previously convicted of two counts of armed robbery and one count of conspiracy to commit armed robbery in Milwaukee County, Wisconsin, in July 2015.

Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, and Chief Billy Bolin, Evansville Police Department, made the announcement.

The Evansville Police Department, Vigo County Sheriff’s Office, Vermillion County Sheriff’s Office, and the Indiana State Police investigated the case. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Vermillion County Prosecutor’s Office provided valuable assistance. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Richard L. Young. As part of the sentence, Judge Young ordered that Roby be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for three years following his release from federal prison.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristian R. Mukoski who prosecuted this case.

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.

EVANSVILLE – Justin Owens, 63, of Evansville, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and distribution of child sexual abuse material.

According to court documents, in October 2020, law enforcement officers received information that Owens was distributing child sexual abuse material using Instagram Direct. On May 11, 2021, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Owens’ Evansville residence to locate additional evidence of Owens’ distribution of child sexual abuse material. During the search of the residence, a 12-gauge shotgun and assorted ammunition was recovered. Owens said the shotgun was his and further stated that he possessed a loaded .22 caliber handgun and ammunition inside a camper that was located on the property. Officers additionally seized more ammunition and 18 loaded .223 magazines for an AR15 style rifle inside a safe in a detached garage. 

Owens is prohibited by federal law from possessing firearms due to a 1999 Vanderburgh County, Indiana, felony conviction for child molestation. Based on this prior conviction for an offense involving the sexual abuse of a minor, Owens was subject to an enhanced penalty under U.S. law for the distribution of sexually explicit material involving minors. 

Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, and Herbert J. Stapleton, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Indianapolis Field Office, made the announcement.

FBI investigated the case and the Evansville Police Department provided valuable assistance. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Richard L. Young. As part of the sentence, Judge Young ordered that Owens be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 20 years following his release from federal prison. Owens must also register as sex offender wherever he lives, works, or goes to school, as required by law.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Todd Shellenbarger who prosecuted this case.

In fiscal year 2019, the most recent year for which data is available, the Southern District of Indiana was second out of the 94 federal districts in the country for the number of child sexual exploitation cases prosecuted.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. 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

EVANSVILLE – Gene Goodwin, 32, of Evansville, was sentenced to 14 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

According to court documents, on October 29, 2020, law enforcement officers received information that Goodwin had two active felony arrest warrants from Vanderburgh County and was possibly staying at a residence on Delmar Avenue in Evansville. After arriving at the residence, officers heard someone running inside toward the back of the residence. Officers responded to the back yard and did not see anyone but noticed the back door and gate to the fence was open. Although it had been raining all day and evening, a police K9 alerted to the presence of controlled substances at a dry blanket in the yard. Under the blanket, officers discovered two plastic bags containing approximately 261 grams of methamphetamine.

Officers confirmed that Goodwin was staying at the residence with his sister where he also stored all his belongings. A search warrant was obtained, and officers seized an additional .2 grams of methamphetamine, two digital scales, and $19,920 in U.S. currency.

Goodwin was charged with dealing methamphetamine in Vanderburgh County and was arrested on March 9, 2021. DNA samples collected from the plastic bags matched Goodwin’s DNA. In his federal plea agreement, Goodwin admitted that he possessed the methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it in the community and agreed to forfeiture of the $19,920 in seized currency as proceeds of drug trafficking.

Goodwin is currently serving a 27-year sentence imposed in Vanderburgh County for an unrelated armed robbery.  

Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, and Michael Gannon, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the DEA’s Indianapolis Field Office, made the announcement.

DEA and the Evansville Vanderburgh County Drug Task Force investigated the case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Richard L. Young. As part of the sentence, Judge Young ordered that Goodwin be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for four years following his release from federal prison.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Wheatley who prosecuted this case.

INDIANAPOLIS –Nathan Robinson, 31, of Indianapolis was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to distribution of methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute cocaine and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime.

According to court documents, on January 12, 2022, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) officers were attempting to locate and arrest Robinson on an outstanding warrant. Law enforcement officers knew that Robinson was selling methamphetamine in Indianapolis.

Law enforcement officers located Robinson and stopped him as he was attempting to leave in his vehicle from an address on Redfern Drive in Indianapolis. Robinson consented to a search of his vehicle and officers found 71 grams of cocaine, marijuana, two digital scales, plastic baggies, a loaded 9mm Double Tap Defense pistol that had been reported stolen, and over $124,000 inside the vehicle. Robinson admitted the drugs, the firearm used during Robinson’s drug dealing activities, and the currency from the drug proceeds belonged to him.

Robinson is prohibited from possessing firearms by federal law due to his prior felony convictions, in Marion County, Indiana, including theft, unlaw possession of a syringe and resisting law enforcement.

Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, and Michael Gannon, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the DEA’s Indianapolis Field Office made the announcement.

DEA investigated the case. IMPD provided valuable assistance. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Tanya Walton Pratt. As part of the sentence, Judge Pratt ordered that Robinson be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for four years following his release from federal prison.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Abhishek S. Kambli who prosecuted this case.

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.

EVANSVILLE – Wesley Owen Bowles, Jr., 59, of Evansville, Indiana, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to receipt of child sexual abuse material.

According to court documents, on March 20, 2020, law enforcement investigators learned about the transmission of suspected child pornography using Google applications. An investigation eventually led law enforcement officers to Bowles. Between March 1, 2019, and October 13, 2020, Bowles received and downloaded more than 600 images to his Google accounts depicting minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct including images depicting a prepubescent minor or a minor under the age of twelve years and images involving sadistic or masochistic conduct or other depictions of violence. The Court also imposed a sentencing enhancement because of the defendant’s pattern of sexually abusing or exploiting children. In 1999, Bowles was convicted of sexual abuse of a child in Dubois County, Indiana.

Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, and Herbert J. Stapleton, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Indianapolis, made the announcement.

The FBI investigated the case. The Evansville Police Department provided invaluable assistance. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Richard L. Young following Bowles’ guilty plea. As part of the sentence, Judge Young ordered that Bowles be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for five years following his release from prison. Bowles must also register as a sex offender wherever he lives, works, or goes to school, as required by law.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Todd Shellenbarger who prosecuted this case.

This investigation was conducted by the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, a partnership of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies led by the Indiana State Police. The Task Force is dedicated to investigating and prosecuting crimes involving the technology-facilitated sexual exploitation of children and the trafficking of child sexual abuse material. Each year, Indiana ICAC investigators evaluate thousands of tips, investigate hundreds of cases, and rescue dozens of children from ongoing sexual abuse. In fiscal year 2019, the most recent year for which data is available, the Southern District of Indiana was second out of the 94 federal districts in the country for the number of child sexual exploitation cases prosecuted.