Southern District of Indiana

EVANSVILLE – LaDonna Livers, 67, of Evansville, Ind. was sentenced late yesterday afternoon to a year and a day after pleading guilty to the felony offenses of wire fraud and filing false federal income tax returns.

According to court documents, from approximately March 2009 to November 2017, Livers worked as the office manager for an Evansville business. As the office manager, she oversaw and conducted all financial operations for the business. Livers used her position to illegally enrich herself by embezzling funds from her employer’s bank accounts. Over the course of approximately five years, Livers stole $109,743.73 from her employer by making unauthorized transfers from the employer’s bank accounts to her own bank and credit card accounts.

The unauthorized transfers constituted income for Livers, and therefore should have been reported on her tax returns. Livers did not report any of this income, as required by law. Despite knowing that her tax returns were false, Livers certified that they were accurate and filed them with the Internal Revenue Service.

Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana; Herbert J. Stapleton, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Indianapolis; and Justin Campbell, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Criminal Investigation Chicago Field Office made the announcement.

The FBI and IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Richard L. Young. As part of the sentence, Judge Young ordered that Livers be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for one year following her release from prison. Livers was also ordered to pay $109,743.73 to the victim and $24,315 to the Internal Revenue Service, as restitution.

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

INDIANAPOLIS – A federal grand jury returned an indictment charging twenty-one individuals for their roles in an Indianapolis-based drug trafficking organization with conspiracies to distribute fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine. The indictment was unsealed late yesterday following their arrests and initial appearances.

As alleged in court documents, Keith Jones, aka “Keybo,” 56, Indianapolis, was the alleged leader of a drug trafficking organization that operated in Indianapolis. Jones received parcels containing large amounts of methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl from Kevin Backstrom, 56, of Los Angeles, California and another individual in Desert Hot Springs, California. Jones directed other individuals to receive the drug parcels at their residences and places of business and transport the drugs to a stash location at 2877 North Centennial Street in Indianapolis. Jones then delivered the controlled substances to other individuals for redistribution. The indictment also alleges that Jones enlisted his twelve-year-old daughter to assist him in the distribution of the controlled substances.

In addition, DEA filed a federal criminal complaint against Michael Tyrone Hill of Indianapolis for the offenses of possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute and possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute.

Law enforcement officers from 22 different agencies served search and arrest warrants at 25 locations in Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, Indiana, and Los Angeles, California on Thursday morning, ultimately arresting 20 individuals. During the execution of the search warrants, officers seized approximately 43 firearms, $300,000 in U.S. currency, four ounces of methamphetamine, one kilogram of cocaine, and two kilograms of fentanyl. 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.

The following individuals are in custody or have been ordered to appear in federal court:
 

Defendant

Charge(s)

Keith Jones, aka “Keybo” 56, of Indianapolis

Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, continuing criminal enterprise, conspiracy to launder monetary instruments

Kevin Backstrom, 56, of Los Angeles, CA

Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, conspiracy to launder monetary instruments

Jamie Rayner, 32, of Indianapolis

Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, conspiracy to launder monetary instruments

Imany Jones, 30, of Indianapolis

Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, conspiracy to launder monetary instruments

Tameka Washington, 47, of Indianapolis

Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances

Jerry Bibbs, 54, of Ft. Wayne

Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances

Emmanuel O’Hara, 24, of Ft. Wayne

Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances

Danyale Buchanan, 52, of Indianapolis

Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances

Charles Davis, 37, of Indianapolis

Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances

LaDonna Jones, 38, of Indianapolis

Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances

Anthony Moore, 36, of Indianapolis

Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances

Marcus Miles, aka “Old Hat” 47, of Indianapolis

Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances

Steve Young, aka “Friday” 39, of Indianapolis

Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances

Sean Devonish, 44, of Indianapolis

Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances

Katrina Green, 50, of Indianapolis

Maintaining drug involved premises

Fredrick Garner, 52, of Indianapolis

Unlawful use of communication facility

Nicholas Ray, 31, of Indianapolis

Possession of cocaine hydrochloride with intent to distribute

Theodore Poinsett, Jr., aka “Grover” 41, of Indianapolis

Possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute

William Starks, 58, of Indianapolis

Possession of cocaine hydrochloride with intent to distribute

The defendants face the following possible penalties, if convicted:

Charge

Penalties

Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances

10 years to life in prison

Conspiracy to launder monetary instruments

0 to 20 years in prison

Continuing criminal enterprise

Life in prison

Maintaining drug involved premises

0 to 20 years in prison

Unlawful use of communication facility

0 to 3 years in prison

Possession of cocaine hydrochloride with intent to distribute

0 to 20 years in prison

Possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute

10 years to life in prison

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, Major Charles Harting, Hamilton-Boone County Drug Task Force, Daryl S. McCormick, Special Agent in Charge of ATF’s Columbus Field Division, and Justin Campbell, Special Agent in Charge, Chicago Field Office, IRS Criminal Investigation made the announcement.

This case was the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the IRS Criminal Investigations, the Indianapolis Metropolitan Drug Task Force, the Hamilton/Boone County Drug Task Force, the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Brad Blackington, who is prosecuting 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.

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 – Matthew Beeler, 32, of Terre Haute, Ind., was sentenced to 183 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. 

According to court documents, on Nov. 7, 2020, the Terre Haute Police Department and medics responded to a report of a possible heroin overdose of several persons in a Terre Haute residence. Beeler and another individual were found unresponsive prompting medics to administer Narcan. Medics found a large plastic bag containing methamphetamine underneath Beeler’s body while trying to revive him.

While searching for other overdose victims, officers found several firearms, multiple rounds of ammunition and additional methamphetamine, located in plain view in Beeler’s bedroom. Beeler had approximately 2,658 grams of methamphetamine in the residence. The drugs, guns, ammunition, digital scales, and packaging materials were all seized following the execution of a search warrant. All items were present in the home, left unsecured and accessible to children living in the home, putting them at substantial risk.

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; and Terre Haute Police Chief Sean Keen made the announcement.

DEA and the Terre Haute Police Department investigated the case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge James R. Sweeney II. As part of the sentence, Judge Sweeney ordered that Beeler 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 William McCoskey who prosecuted this case.

INDIANAPOLIS – Jovan Stewart, 33, and Dwyatt Harris, 45, both of Indianapolis, were sentenced to 250 and 120 months, respectively, in federal prison, after both pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.

According to court documents, Stewart and Harris were members of a methamphetamine and heroin trafficking organization that operated in the Indianapolis area from the summer of 2019 through March 19, 2020. The organization was led by Christopher Tate, also a resident of Indianapolis, who coordinated the receipt of methamphetamine and heroin from different sources and organized the distribution of the controlled substances in Indianapolis. Tate was previously sentenced to 400 months in prison, by Chief Judge Tanya Walton Pratt, following his conviction at a jury trial. Stewart served as Tate’s top lieutenant, driving Tate to distribute controlled substances, delivering controlled substances to Tate’s customers at Tate’s direction, and sometimes coordinating with Tate’s sources of supply to obtain the controlled substances. Harris was a lower-level member of the conspiracy. Harris transported controlled substances from Indianapolis to Silver Lake, Ind., for Sandra Kellogg, who served as one of Tate’s methamphetamine distributors. The investigation resulted in the indictment and conviction of thirteen defendants for their roles in the organization’s drug trafficking activity.

Other noteworthy sentences included the following:

Defendant

Charges(s)

Sentence

Robert Hinton, 35, of Indianapolis

Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances

121 months

Sandra Kellogg, 41, of Silver Lake, Ind.

Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute

288 months

Eric Poore, a/k/a Hollywood, 45, of Indianapolis

Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances

215 months

Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana; Michael Gannon, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Indianapolis Field Office; Justin Campbell, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Criminal Investigation Chicago Field Office; and Randal Taylor, Chief of the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) made the announcement.

DEA, IRS Criminal Investigation, Indianapolis Metropolitan Drug Task Force, 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 Stewart and Harris each be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for five years following their release from federal prison.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Bradley Blackington 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 – A federal grand jury in Evansville returned an indictment today charging Casey White, 38, of Florence, Alabama, with being a felon in possession of a firearm and a fugitive in possession of a firearm.

According to court documents, on April 29, 2022, White escaped from jail in Lauderdale County, Alabama. On May 9, 2022, White allegedly possessed five firearms in Evansville, Indiana, including four handguns and an AR15 rifle. White was legally prohibited from possessing firearms because he was a fugitive from justice and due to his 2019 felony convictions for attempted murder and kidnapping in Limestone County, Alabama.

White is currently detained in the custody of Alabama authorities on other charges and will make his initial appearance in the Southern District of Indiana at a later date. If convicted, the defendant faces up to ten years in federal prison on each count. 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, and Herbert J. Stapleton, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Indianapolis Field Division made the announcement.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The U.S. Marshals Service and the Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office provided valuable assistance.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Wheatley 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.

EVANSVILLE – Matthew V. Palmer-Coy, 26, of Washington, Ind., was sentenced late yesterday to 46 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, on May 23, 2021, a Washington Police Officer stopped Palmer-Coy in the vehicle he was driving after observing a traffic violation. A K-9 officer alerted to the presence of illegal narcotics in the car and officers searched the vehicle. During the search, officers found a lockbox containing a firearm with an altered serial number, individually wrapped baggies of methamphetamine, clear glass pipes, unused plastic baggies, a digital scale, ammunition, and a notebook that appeared to be a drug ledger. Palmer-Coy knew he was unauthorized to possess firearms or ammunition as he was previously convicted of felony charges of neglect and possession of methamphetamine in Daviess County, Ind.

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.

ATF investigated the case. The Washington Police Department also provided valuable assistance. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Richard L. Young. As part of the sentence, Judge Young ordered that Palmer-Coy 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 Miller who is prosecuting the case.

EVANSVILLE – James Shultz, 37, of Louisville, Ky., was sentenced today to 15 years in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. On Jan. 5, 2021, codefendant Sheena Garrett, 35, of Henderson, Ky., was sentenced to 12 years in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.

According to court documents, from Jan. through Sept. 2018, Shultz and Garrett conspired to distribute more than 4.5 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine. Shultz regularly supplied three to six pounds of methamphetamine at a time to Garrett, who distributed the methamphetamine in Evansville, Henderson, and surrounding areas.

On Sept. 1, 2018, Shultz was driving on I-69 in Vanderburgh County when he was stopped by law enforcement officers following a traffic violation. Officers searched the vehicle after a drug detection dog alerted to the presence of narcotics. Officers seized approximately 1,425 grams of methamphetamine and a large amount of U.S. currency from the vehicle. In his guilty plea, Shultz admitted that he intended to distribute the methamphetamine to Garrett for further distribution.

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; and the Evansville Vanderburgh County Drug Task Force (EVCDTF) made the announcement.

DEA and the EVCJDF investigated the case. The sentences were imposed by U.S. District Judge Richard L. Young following the defendants’ guilty pleas. As part of the sentences, Judge Young ordered that Shultz and Garrett each be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for five years, following their release from prison.

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

EVANSVILLE – Kyle D. Hollman, 33, of Boonville, Ind., was sentenced late yesterday to two years in federal prison after pleading guilty to wire fraud.

According to court documents, Hollman was employed as a purchasing agent for ProLift Toyota Material Handling, and his job was to procure equipment for Aleris Rolled Products. Hollman used funds belonging to his employer and Aleris to fraudulently purchase hundreds of items for his own personal use, including, two all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), a tractor, firearms, ammunition, firearm accessories, tools, tactical gear, and camping equipment. Hollman made around 847 unauthorized purchases, totaling $346,608.65, from Feb. 20, 2018, to Nov. 12, 2020.

Hollman perpetrated his fraud scheme by billing Aleris for products that ProLift never purchased, providing inflated invoices, altering receipts, and using company credit cards for unauthorized purchases. Hollman defrauded Aleris of more than $422,693.40.

Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, and Jeffrey Adams, Special Agent in Charge for the U.S. Secret Service made the announcement.

The U.S. Secret Service investigated the case. The Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office also provided valuable assistance. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Richard L. Young. As part of the sentence, Judge Young ordered that Hollman pay restitution of $164,702.65, forfeit all illicitly purchased items, and 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 Matthew Miller who is prosecuting the case.

EVANSVILLE – Michael Crane, 24, of Evansville, Ind., was sentenced today to 14 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to the crime of failure to register as a sex offender.

According to court documents, on December 1, 2017, Crane was convicted of felony aggravated criminal sexual abuse and felony indecent solicitation of a child in Perry County, Ill. Both convictions require Crane to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA).

Following Crane’s release from prison on July 17, 2020, for the above sex offenses, Crane submitted his initial registration for the Illinois Sex Offender Registry by completing an Illinois Sex Offender Registration Act form. Crane provided an address in DuQuoin, Illinois on his registration form. The form contains several paragraphs advising him of the duty to register, including the following: “If you move to another state, you must register within 3 days. You must notify the agency with whom you last registered in person of your new address, at least 3 days before moving.” Crane acknowledged this requirement by initialing next to it and signing the form.

In June 2021, Crane relocated to Evansville, Indiana. Crane failed to register with the state of Indiana or update his Illinois registration. Crane was arrested in Evansville on July 29, 2021.

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

The U.S. Marshals Service investigated the case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Richard L. Young. As part of the sentence, Judge Young ordered that Crane be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for three years following his release from federal prison. Crane 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 Matthew Miller who is prosecuting the case.

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 – Delvarez Long, 38, of Indianapolis, was sentenced to 51 Months in federal prison after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm.

According to documents and evidence presented in court, in March 2021 law enforcement officers learned there was an outstanding warrant to arrest Long for domestic battery. Long was also wanted for questioning in a homicide. Long was located by detectives on April 2, 2021, at a hotel on east 21st Street, in Indianapolis. Investigators saw Long exit the hotel with a firearm in his waistband and get into a vehicle. Long was taken into custody. Detectives recovered the gun from Long and determined that it had been reported as stolen.

Long was subsequently charged with violations of Indiana law in state court and released on bond pending trial. After he was released on bond, Long was arrested and charged with felony intimidation in June of 2021 after he threatened to “body” or kill a woman with what appeared to be a handgun.

At the time he possessed the gun in April 2021, Long was legally prohibited from possessing firearms because he had been previously convicted of multiple felonies, including a 2016 conviction for battery resulting in bodily injury to a pregnant woman, after his violent assault on the mother of his child.

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) 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 Long 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 Massa 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.

Additionally, 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 – Santana Kendall, 30, of Indianapolis, was sentenced today to 15 years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime.

According to court documents, on August 11, 2021, Kendall led police on a high-speed chase after police attempted to stop him for speeding. Kendall ran a red light, drove on the wrong side of traffic, and ran several stop signs during the chase. After evading police, Kendall parked the vehicle at a residence and fled on foot. Kendall discarded a backpack he was carrying, which was later recovered by police. The backpack contained a loaded firearm, sizeable amounts of methamphetamine, heroin, crack cocaine, oxycontin pills, syringes, marijuana, a digital scale, and $5,517 in U.S. currency. Kendall was later found by police and arrested. Kendall admitted in his guilty plea that he possessed the controlled substances with the intent to distribute them and possessed the gun in furtherance of his drug trafficking activities. Under the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, Kendall is a career offender as a result of his multiple prior felony drug-dealing 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 (ATF), Columbus Field Division, made the announcement.

ATF investigated the case. The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department also provided valuable assistance. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge James Patrick Hanlon following Kendall’s guilty plea. As part of the sentence, Judge Hanlon also ordered that Kendall 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 Peter Blackett who is prosecuting 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 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 –United States Attorney Zachary A. Myers has been selected to chair the Cyber and Intellectual Property Subcommittee for the Attorney General’s Advisory Committee (AGAC). The Cyber Subcommittee is dedicated to addressing the complex issues arising at the intersection between law enforcement and high technology.

“Our country faces unprecedented threats from cybercriminals, including ransomware, massive breaches of sensitive data, complex transnational fraud schemes, and technology-facilitated exploitation of our children,” said U.S. Attorney Myers. “Law enforcement professionals do all we can to fight these crimes even as more technologies are used in attempts to deprive investigators of access to critical evidence. I am eager to work with my fellow United States Attorneys to advise the Department of Justice from the prosecutor’s perspective as we seek to hold cybercriminals accountable and keep our communities safe on the streets and online.”

Prior to his appointment as U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, Myers spent over a decade as a federal prosecutor with a focus on technology-facilitated crime, including serving as Cybercrime Counsel, Computer Hacking and Intellectual Property prosecutor, and National Security Cyber Specialist.

U.S. Attorney Myers will collaborate with U.S. Attorneys from across the country to provide guidance to the AGAC on cyber and intellectual property matters impacting U.S. Attorney’s Offices across the country. He will also serve on the AGAC’s Subcommittees on White Collar Crime and Office Management & Budget.

Established in 1973, the AGAC and its subcommittees advise the Attorney General on matters of policy, procedure, and management impacting U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and represents the views of federal prosecutors across the country.

INDIANAPOLIS – Deandra Lee, 28, of Indianapolis, was sentenced to 57 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. 

According to court documents, on July 1, 2021, the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) responded to a domestic disturbance call at an Exxon gas station on East 21st Street involving Lee and a woman. Responding officers learned that there were active warrants for Lee’s arrest. Lee fled when officers attempted to arrest him and was apprehended a short time later. Officers located a loaded rifle in the backseat of the vehicle in which Lee was riding that Lee admitted to handling. As a convicted felon, Lee was legally prohibited from possessing any firearms.

Four months earlier, in March 2021, Lee was convicted in state court of domestic battery and strangulation of the same woman involved in the incident that led to his July 2021 arrest. Lee was also convicted of violating a no-contact order while the domestic violence case was pending.

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 the IMPD investigated the case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge James R. Sweeney II. As part of the sentence, Judge Sweeney ordered that Lee be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for three years following his release from federal prison. Actual sentences are determined by a federal district court judge and are typically less than the maximum penalties.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Jayson W. McGrath 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.

NEW ALBANY – Anthony Todd Leonard, 55, of Clarksville, Ind., was sentenced to 40 months in federal prison today for wire fraud and money laundering offenses related to an investment scheme.

According to court documents, from 2013 through 2019, Leonard sought out and obtained investors in his companies that purportedly focused on the development of educational software products, including nurseVersity LLC, Versity Edu, Versity Inc, VersityU, and Bridge-It Learning (collectively, the “Versity companies”). The products included nurseVersity software designed to assist nursing students in passing their board examinations; ptVersity, software designed to assist physical therapy students; and Bridge-It Learning, software designed to help students in the education system.

Leonard made material misrepresentations to induce investors to not only invest in his companies, but to also continue providing money once they were involved. These misrepresentations included providing inflated sales figures and other metrics; providing false bank statements and business financial documents to investors; and misrepresenting qualifications, medical history, and company personnel issues to secure additional funds.

As a result of these misrepresentations, investors paid, and continued to pay Leonard for purported ownership interests, loans, other rights to his companies, and for other business reasons, leading to losses of over $1.4 million. Leonard admitted to law enforcement that he misrepresented the amount of revenue his companies generated, and that his companies never actually made the money he represented to investors.

Most of the funds received from these investors were used by Leonard and his wife for their personal enrichment, such as the purchase of a large parcel of land in New Albany, Ind. with a lake house, the construction of a new residence on that parcel, expensive dinners, trips, and other expenses unrelated to the Versity companies and products.  Property obtained by Leonard with stolen investor funds was seized by the government and will be forfeited.  

Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, and Rodney Hopkins, Inspector-in-Charge of the United States Postal Inspection Service, Detroit Field Division made the announcement.

The United States Postal Inspection Service investigated the case and was assisted by the Indiana Secretary of State. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Sarah Evans Barker following the defendant’s guilty plea. As part of the sentence, Judge Barker also ordered that the defendant 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 MaryAnn T. Mindrum who prosecuted this case. 

INDIANAPOLIS – Richard Hornsby, 39, of Indianapolis, was sentenced to 20 years 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 December 9, 2020, troopers with the Indiana State Police stopped Hornsby for driving with an expired license plate. Troopers learned that Hornsby was also driving with an expired license and had a handgun in the car. After further investigation, troopers located approximately 175 grams of methamphetamine in the center console and an additional pistol. Hornsby admitted to possessing the methamphetamine, that he intended to sell it, and that he often carries a firearm during times where he will purchase methamphetamine for resale.

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; and Doug Carter, Superintendent of the Indiana State Police made the announcement.

DEA 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 Hornsby 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 Jayson W. McGrath who prosecuted this case.

INDIANAPOLIS – A federal grand jury in Indianapolis returned an indictment late yesterday charging a former New Castle Police Department officer with three counts of deprivation under color of law and one count of witness tampering.

According to the indictment, Aaron Strong, 44, violated the civil rights of three individuals by using unreasonable force when he assaulted arrestee J.W., pretrial detainee T.C., and pretrial detainee E.S., resulting in bodily injury to all three. The indictment further alleges that the assaults against J.W. and E.S. involved the use of dangerous weapons. Each of these civil rights charges carries a maximum penalty of 10 years of imprisonment.

The indictment also charges Strong with one count of witness tampering for engaging in misleading conduct toward another person with the intent to hinder, delay, and prevent the communication to a federal law enforcement officer of information relating to the assault of J.W. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years of imprisonment.

Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division; U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Myers for the Southern District of Indiana; and Special Agent in Charge Herbert Stapleton for the FBI Indianapolis Field Office made the announcement. The case was investigated by the FBI Indianapolis Field Office and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter Blackett for the Southern District of Indiana and Trial Attorney Alec Ward of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division.

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

A federal grand jury in Indianapolis, Indiana, returned an indictment late yesterday charging a former New Castle Police Department Officer with three counts of deprivation under color of law and one count of witness tampering.  

According to the indictment, Aaron Strong, 44, violated the civil rights of three individuals by using unreasonable force when he assaulted arrestee J.W., pretrial detainee T.C., and pretrial detainee E.S., resulting in bodily injury to all three. The indictment further alleges that the assaults against J.W. and E.S. involved the use of dangerous weapons. Each of these civil rights charges carries a maximum penalty of 10 years of imprisonment.  

The indictment also charges Strong with one count of witness tampering for engaging in misleading conduct toward another person with the intent to hinder, delay and prevent the communication to a federal law enforcement officer of information relating to the assault of J.W. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years of imprisonment.  

Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division; U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Myers for the Southern District of Indiana; and Special Agent in Charge Herbert Stapleton for the FBI Indianapolis Field Office made the announcement. The case was investigated by the FBI Indianapolis Field Office, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter Blackett for the Southern District of Indiana and Trial Attorney Alec Ward of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division.  

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 – Anthony Shanklin, 47, of Louisville, Kentucky, was sentenced late yesterday to 7 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to one count of distribution of methamphetamine.   

According to court documents, law enforcement officers began investigating Shanklin’s drug trafficking activities in 2021. Shanklin trafficked in numerous illegal drugs including methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, ecstasy, marijuana, and THC edibles. Starting on May 3, 2021, and on three additional occasions, Shanklin brought methamphetamine from Louisville, Kentucky to sell at the Beechwood Public Housing area in New Albany, Indiana.

In total, law enforcement officers seized approximately 120 grams of methamphetamine during the four drug transactions.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Albany Police Department investigated the case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Chief Judge Tonya Walton Pratt. As part of the sentence, Judge Pratt ordered that Shanklin be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 4 years following his release from federal prison.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney William L. McCoskey who prosecuted this case.

EVANSVILLE – A federal grand jury in Evansville returned an indictment charging two men with conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, illegal distribution of a tableting machine, and illegal possession of a tableting machine. The indictment was unsealed yesterday following the initial appearance of the defendants.

According to court documents, Ethan Parker, 29, of Evansville, allegedly obtained pound quantities of fentanyl powder from an unknown source of supply in the Louisville, Kentucky area and manufactured fentanyl-laced counterfeit pills using a pill press. Parker then allegedly supplied Joshua Harvey, 30, of Evansville, and others, with fentanyl-laced counterfeit pills. Harvey also allegedly transported Parker to the Louisville, Kentucky area to acquire pound quantities of fentanyl powder to facilitate the manufacture and distribution of fentanyl-laced counterfeit pills.

During the investigation, it is alleged that Parker and Harvey displayed a high degree of technological sophistication, utilizing encrypted messaging applications to purchase, advertise, and sell fentanyl-laced counterfeit pills, as well as utilizing the “Dark Web” and cryptocurrency to pay for drug transactions.

To date, in this investigation, authorities have seized approximately 140 grams of fentanyl-laced counterfeit pills and powder, two pill presses, and various dies and punches utilized to press pills. 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.

If convicted of conspiring to distribute fentanyl, Parker and Harvey face 10 years to life in prison, a fine of up to $10,000,000, and at least 5 years’ supervised release. If convicted of distribution or possession of a tableting machine, Parker faces up to 4 years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to 3 years’ supervised release. 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 Billy Bolin, of the Evansville Police Department, and Vanderburgh County Sheriff Dave Wedding made the announcement.

This case was the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Evansville-Vanderburgh County Drug Task Force, the Evansville Police Department, and the Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office. The Vanderburgh County Prosecutor’s Office provided valuable assistance.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Kristian Mukoski, 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 – An Indianapolis man pleaded guilty to murder in the second degree of U.S. Postal Service letter carrier Angela Summers.

According to court documents, Tony Cushingberry, 23, murdered Summers on April 27, 2020, on North Denny Street, during her usual mail delivery route. Cushingberry was upset about the recent lack of mail delivery and aggressively approached Summers to ask about the status of their mail. Cushingberry pursued Summers onto a neighbor’s porch causing Summers to reach for her can of defensive spray and spray Cushingberry. Cushingberry took out a handgun from his waistband and shot Summers in the chest. Summers collapsed on the porch while Cushingberry fled. Summers was pronounced dead at the hospital. Cushingberry later gave a statement to law enforcement admitting to shooting Summers.

“Letter carrier Summers was a dedicated public servant simply doing her job when she was senselessly murdered,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Myers. “Our office will work with our law enforcement partners to hold criminals accountable for violent attacks on government officials. While no prosecution will bring the victims of gun violence home to their families, we will work tirelessly to protect the public and bring violent criminals to justice.”

“The safety and well-being of Postal Service employees is a top priority for the Postal Inspection Service, and every act or threat of violence elicits an immediate and firm response,” said Inspector-in-Charge Rodney Hopkins. “This judicial outcome demonstrates our commitment to ensuring that all USPS employees can come to work and serve the public without having to endure an atmosphere of fear and intimidation, and we hope that this case’s resolution will serve as a deterrent to those criminal actors who threaten the fundamental right of a safe work environment for our nation’s postal employees. In addition to the tireless efforts made by Inspectors in furtherance of this investigation, I would like to thank our law enforcement partners who provided invaluable assistance, namely the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, the FBI, and the ATF, as well as the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Indiana for making this a high priority case in their office and their continued support throughout the investigation.”

Cushingberry pleaded guilty to second-degree murder. He is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Jane Magnus-Stinson at a later date. Cushingberry faces a maximum of life in federal prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

The United States Postal Inspection Service, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated the case. The Federal Bureau of Investigation also provided valuable assistance.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jayson McGrath and Peter Blackett who are prosecuting the case.

INDIANAPOLIS – Demetrius Jackson, 26, of Indianapolis, was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute marijuana, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and unlawful possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon. Jackson was found guilty on March 8, 2022, following a federal jury trial.

According to documents and evidence introduced in court, between October 2020 and January 2021, Jackson trafficked more than ten pounds of methamphetamine in the Indianapolis area. Jackson bought and sold firearms, including multiple firearms utilizing large capacity magazines—including one hundred round drums. Jackson has numerous prior felony convictions, including battery resulting in bodily injury, and is not legally permitted to possess a firearm.

On January 29, 2021, agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and officers with the Indiana Crime Guns Task Force (ICGTF) executed a search warrant at Jackson’s residence and seized a loaded handgun, a rifle, approximately ten pounds of marijuana, and more than $10,000 in U.S. currency.

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.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department investigated the case. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration also provided valuable assistance. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Chief Judge Tonya Walton Pratt. As part of the sentence, Judge Pratt ordered that Jackson 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 Michelle P. Brady who prosecuted this case.

This case was brought as part of the Indiana Crime Guns Task Force (ICGTF). ICGTF is partnership of law enforcement officers and analysts from several central Indiana law enforcement agencies in Boone, Hamilton, Hancock, Hendricks, Marion, Morgan, Johnson, and Shelby counties. In cooperation with state, local, and federal partners, ICGTF collaborates to address violent crime through a comprehensive strategy including innovative approaches to locating suspects and evidence related to violent crimes and illegal possession of firearms.

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.

EVANSVILLE – Michael Lesean Franklin, 51, of Evansville, was sentenced to 300 months in federal prison for sexual exploitation of a child.

According to court documents, Franklin was arrested on state child molestation charges on March 1, 2020. Investigators examined his smartphone and discovered that Franklin used the device to photograph himself engaged in sex acts with a minor female child under the age of 16 on at least three separate occasions in early 2020. Franklin’s smartphone also contained additional sexually explicit images of the child.

Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, Herbert J. Stapleton, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Indianapolis Field Office, and Chief Billy Bolin, Evansville Police Department made the announcement.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Evansville Police Department investigated the case. The Vanderburgh County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office also provided valuable assistance.

The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Richard L. Young following Franklin’s guilty plea. As part of the sentence, Judge Young ordered that the Franklin be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 10 years following his release from prison. Franklin 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 S. Shellenbarger who prosecuted this case.

INDIANAPOLIS – Brenton Preston, 25, was sentenced late yesterday to 57 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.

According to court documents, on May 8, 2021, Hamilton County Sheriff’s deputies attempted to stop Preston after they observed him driving 80 miles-per-hour in a 55 miles-per-hour zone in Westfield, Indiana. Preston fled from the deputies and led them on a high-speed chase reaching speeds of approximately 100 miles-per-hour, until Preston lost control of his car and crashed into a field. Preston continued to flee on foot but was eventually apprehended. Deputies arrested Preston, who appeared to be intoxicated, and recovered a loaded handgun and a liquor bottle from the front passenger floorboard of the car. Preston’s DNA was later found on the firearm.

Evidence presented at sentencing showed that Preston was on probation for a prior armed robbery conviction at the time of this incident and that he had recently been arrested in Marion County, Indiana, for illegally possessing another firearm and firing shots inside a girlfriend’s home. Preston was on pretrial supervision with GPS monitoring in the Marion County case at the time of the high-speed chase and his arrest.

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

The Indiana Crime Guns Task Force investigated the case. The Fishers Police Department, the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives provided valuable assistance. U.S. District Judge James R. Sweeney imposed the sentence following Preston’s guilty plea. As part of the sentence, Judge Sweeney ordered that Preston be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 3 years following his release from prison.

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

This case was brought as part of the Indiana Crime Guns Task Force (ICGTF). ICGTF is a partnership of law enforcement officers and analysts from several central Indiana law enforcement agencies in Boone, Hamilton, Hancock, Hendricks, Marion, Morgan, Johnson, and Shelby counties. In cooperation with state, local, and federal partners, ICGTF collaborates to address violent crime through a comprehensive strategy including innovative approaches to locating suspects and evidence related to violent crimes and illegal possession of firearms.

Additionally, 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 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 – Jaylon Dorsey, 25, of Indianapolis was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to possessing a firearm while subject to a protective order.

According to court documents, on May 14, 2021, officers from the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) stopped a vehicle that Dorsey was driving. Officers recognized Dorsey from previous contacts and knew he had an outstanding arrest warrant from Marion County for violating a protective order and intimidation. During Dorsey’s arrest, officers located a loaded handgun under the driver’s seat of Dorsey’s vehicle. At that time, Dorsey was subject to a domestic violence protective order, which had been issued on behalf of Dorsey’s girlfriend. This court order prohibited Dorsey from possessing firearms under federal law.

Evidence presented at sentencing showed that Dorsey has a history of domestic violence and threatening behavior towards his girlfriend, women, law enforcement, and other members of the public.

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

The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated the case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge James Patrick Hanlon following Dorsey’s guilty plea. As part of the sentence, Judge Hanlon ordered that Dorsey be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 3 years following his release from prison.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelsey Massa 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 IMPD Officer Breann Leath, who was killed in the line of duty while responding to a domestic disturbance call. A partnership among the ATF, 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 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.

EVANSVILLE – Matthew Allen Green, 39, of Evansville, 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 November 10, 2020, law enforcement officers stopped a truck driven by Green after observing multiple traffic violations. Green was the sole occupant of the truck. During the investigation, officers discovered a loaded revolver inside the truck and a loaded semi-automatic pistol on Green’s person. Green is prohibited from lawfully possessing firearms due to multiple prior felony convictions, including trafficking in a controlled substance (fentanyl) in Henderson County, Kentucky and robbery in Vanderburgh County, Indiana.

Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana and Vanderburgh County Sheriff Dave Wedding made the announcement.

The Evansville-Vanderburgh County Drug Task Force and Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. The Federal Bureau of Investigation also provided valuable assistance. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Richard L. Young following the defendant’s guilty plea.  As part of the sentence, Judge Young ordered that the defendant be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 2 years following his release from 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 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.

EVANSVILLE – A federal grand jury returned an indictment charging twelve individuals with conspiracies to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine. Three of the defendants are also charged with illegally possessing firearms as convicted felons. The indictment was unsealed today following their arrests and initial appearances.

As alleged in court documents, John Byers, of Bowling Green, Kentucky, was the leader of a drug trafficking organization based out of Evansville that distributed large quantities of methamphetamine and cocaine around southern Indiana. Byers supplied codefendant Stacey Cabell, of Evansville, and others with methamphetamine. Byers also coordinated with others, including Lance Foster, of Plano, Texas, and Octavia Finott, of Evansville to ship multiple pound quantities of methamphetamine into the Evansville area.  Byers further supplied Robert Brown, Jr., of Evansville, and others with cocaine.  

The indictment alleges that multiple members of this drug trafficking ring were already convicted felons who illegally possessed firearms.

To date in this investigation, authorities have seized approximately 35 pounds of methamphetamine, approximately 45 grams of cocaine, and 4 firearms.

The following individuals are in custody or have been ordered to appear in federal court:

Defendant

Charge(s)

John Byers, 48, of Bowling Green, Kentucky

Conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine

Lance Foster, 42, of Plano, Texas

Conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine

Octavia Finott, 38, of Evansville

Conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine

Stacey Cabell, 49, of Evansville

Conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine

Taran Johnson, 24, of Evansville

Conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine

William Bacon, 56, of Evansville

Conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine; felon in possession of a firearm

Thomas Vest, 27, of Evansville

Conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine; felon in possession of a firearm

James Musgrave, 39, of Evansville

Conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine

Robert Brown, Jr., 51, of Evansville

Conspiracy to distribute cocaine

*Tony Johnson, 31, of Evansville

Conspiracy to distribute cocaine; felon in possession of a firearm

Tyron Northington, 33, of Evansville

Conspiracy to distribute cocaine

Antwan Hendry, 48, of Evansville

Conspiracy to distribute cocaine

The defendants face the following possible penalties, if convicted:

Charge

Penalties

Conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine

10 years to life in prison

Conspiracy to distribute cocaine

5 to 40 years in prison

Felon in possession of a firearm

Up to 10 years in prison

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, and Michael Gannon, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the DEA’s Indianapolis Field Office made the announcement.

This case was the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the U.S. Secret Service, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Evansville-Vanderburgh County Drug Task Force, the Evansville Police Department, the Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office, the Indiana State Police, and the Bowling Green Kentucky Police Department. The Vanderburgh County Prosecutor’s Office provided invaluable assistance.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Kristian Mukoski, who is prosecuting 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.

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

EVANSVILLE – Rodney Allen Cannon, Jr., 36, of Indianapolis, was sentenced to 4 years in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm and for violating the conditions of his federal supervised release. 

According to court documents, on February 13, 2021, officers with the Evansville Police Department stopped Cannon for committing multiple traffic violations. Further investigation led to a search of the vehicle where officers located a loaded pistol belonging to Cannon underneath the driver’s seat. Cannon is prohibited from lawfully possessing firearms or ammunition due to multiple prior felony convictions, including dealing in cocaine in Marion County, Indiana, and unlawful possession of a firearm by a serious violent felon, also in Marion County. Cannon was also previously convicted of a felony in federal court for possession of a firearm and ammunition by a felon. Cannon was still on federal supervised release for that conviction at the time of his arrest.

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

The Evansville Police Department investigated the case. The Vanderburgh County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives also provided valuable assistance. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Richard L. Young following the defendant’s guilty plea. As part of the sentence, Judge Young ordered that the defendant be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 3 years following his release from 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 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 – Eleven defendants have been sentenced to federal prison after pleading guilty to federal crimes for their involvement in drug trafficking activities in the Indianapolis area.

Beginning in the fall of 2019, federal agents began investigating several individuals for their suspected drug trafficking activities in the Indianapolis area. As the investigation progressed, investigators discovered that methamphetamine was being transported from Muncie, Indiana to Vans Auto Repair in Indianapolis to be distributed. At the conclusion of the investigation, eleven defendants were charged in three different indictments for various drug trafficking charges.

On August 3, 2020, sixteen search warrants and federal arrest warrants were executed by federal agents and officers with the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department in the Indianapolis area. As a result of those search warrants, 31 illegally possessed firearms, 4½ pounds of methamphetamine; ½ kilogram of cocaine; 1 kilogram of fentanyl, and approximately $272,000 in cash drug trafficking proceeds were seized and taken off city streets. Each of the defendants pleaded guilty, and were sentenced, as follows:

Defendant

Sentence

Charge(s)

Travis Beechler, 27,

Indianapolis, IN

30 years in federal prison

5 years supervised release

Distribution of Methamphetamine & Heroin; Possession of a Firearm by Felon & During a Drug Trafficking Crime

Antonio Turner, 34,

Indianapolis, IN

15 years in federal prison

5 years supervised release

Distribution of Methamphetamine & Fentanyl

Stephen Cole, 45,

Indianapolis IN

Over 24 years in federal prison

5 years supervised release

Distribution of Methamphetamine & Fentanyl; Money Laundering

Christopher Shelton, 43,

Indianapolis, IN

Over 21 years in federal prison

5 years supervised release

Distribution of Methamphetamine

Scott Nelson, 39,

Indianapolis, IN

10 years in federal prison

5 years supervised release

Distribution of Methamphetamine

Joshua Douglas, 40,

Indianapolis, IN

16 years in federal prison

10 years supervised release

Distribution of Methamphetamine

Marguerite Collins, 47,

Indianapolis, IN

Over 4 years in federal prison

3 years supervised release

Distribution of Methamphetamine

Jarrad Cooney, 34,

Indianapolis, IN

Over 4 years in federal prison

3 years supervised release

Distribution of Methamphetamine

Jason Corey, 49,

Indianapolis, IN

6 years in federal prison

4 years supervised release

Distribution of Methamphetamine

Halton Butler, 70,

Indianapolis, IN

Over 2 years in federal prison

2 years supervised release

Distribution of Methamphetamine

Gary Hatcher Jr., 33,

Indianapolis, IN

Over 20 years in federal prison

5 years supervised release

Distribution of Methamphetamine

“Traffickers of methamphetamine and fentanyl further the devastating cycle of substance abuse disorder to satisfy their own greed,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Myers. “These prosecutions and sentences demonstrate that we will work tirelessly with our federal and local law enforcement partners to hold the traffickers of these dangerous and deadly drugs accountable for the pain they inflict on our communities.”

“The laundering of illegal drug profits is as important and essential to drug traffickers as the very distribution of their illegal drugs. Without these ill-gotten gains, the traffickers could not finance their organizations,” said Justin Campbell, Special Agent in Charge, Chicago Field Office, IRS Criminal Investigation. “Today’s sentencing shows that we are committed, now more than ever, to take the profit away from drug traffickers, to stop the flow of drugs into communities, and to put traffickers and money launderers in prison.”

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the IRS Criminal Investigations, and the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department investigated the case. The DEA, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service provided invaluable assistance.

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

These prosecutions are the result 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.

INDIANAPOLIS – Brett Cearing, 30, of Attica, Indiana, was sentenced late yesterday to fifteen years in federal prison for sexually exploiting a 16-year-old minor and possessing child sexual abuse material.

According to court documents, Cearing was living with his girlfriend and her 14-year-old daughter in Attica. Beginning on May 4, 2020, and continuing until August 11, 2020, Cearing sexually exploited a 16-year-old child who was visiting his girlfriend’s daughter at Cearing’s residence. Cearing surreptitiously recorded the victim using a hidden camera disguised as a cell phone charger in a bathroom. The camera captured the child as she showered, used the restroom, and undressed. Cearing edited the videos and images to focus on the child’s genitalia and admitted in court that he recorded the child because he had a sexual interest in her. He hid the images and videos he produced of the minor child in a “Hyper Tornado Secret Calculator” application that featured a way to hide images and videos from view unless the user entered a certain key sequence on the calculator. Cearing also attempted to record his girlfriend’s 14-year-old daughter as she showered.

After Cearing was initially charged in August 2020 with child exploitation and voyeurism by the Fountain County Prosecutor’s Office, he posted bond and was released on pretrial supervision. On January 17, 2021, during his pretrial release, Cearing was arrested and charged with public indecency after he allegedly exposed himself and masturbated to a young woman in the Love’s parking lot in Knightstown, Indiana. Cearing was then charged with sexual exploitation of a child and possession of child pornography by federal complaint in the Southern District of Indiana and ordered detained by a federal magistrate judge.

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

The FBI Violent Crime Task Force investigated the case. The Fountain County Sheriff’s Department also provided valuable assistance. As part of Cearing’s sentence, Judge Barker ordered that he be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 7 years following his release from prison and pay $10,000 in restitution to the victim. Cearing 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 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

INDIANAPOLIS – Leonard Williamson Jr., 34, of Indianapolis, was sentenced to 57 months in federal prison after a jury found him guilty of possession with the intent to distribute cocaine.

According to court documents, on February 7, 2021, Williamson fled from Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers after they attempted to arrest him for several outstanding warrants. While fleeing from police, Williamson threw a bag containing crack cocaine on the ground. Officers recovered the cocaine, and Williamson was in possession of $4,942 in cash at the time of his arrest. Williamson has several prior felony convictions, including dealing and possession of cocaine and possession of a firearm by a serious violent felon. The jury in this case also returned verdicts of not guilty to firearms charges.

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

The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated the case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge James Patrick Hanlon. As part of the sentence, Judge Hanlon ordered that the defendant 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. Attorneys Pamela S. Domash and Peter A. Blackett 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 – Corey Thomas, 33, of Indianapolis, was sentenced to fifteen years in federal prison after pleading guilty to possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. 

According to court documents, on November 21, 2020, officers from the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) responded to a domestic disturbance call involving a gun. Officers spoke with a woman who said Thomas was armed with a shotgun, had threatened to kill her, and that Thomas had left the residence in a black Jeep. Officers also discovered that Thomas had an outstanding warrant for armed robbery in Marion County. IMPD officers later located Thomas in possession of a loaded 20-gauge shotgun, sitting in a parking lot of a liquor store. Thomas is prohibited from lawfully possessing firearms or ammunition due to multiple prior felony convictions, including four separate armed robbery convictions. Because of his prior convictions, Thomas is an Armed Career Criminal under federal law and subject to enhanced penalties for illegally possessing a firearm.

“Time and again, we have seen that domestic violence by people with illegal access to firearms is a precursor to murder in the home and mass violence in public,” said Zachary A. Myers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “The serious sentence imposed here shows that violent, illegally armed criminals will face serious consequences in federal court. Our prosecutors will work closely with the ATF, IMPD, and other law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute these offenders and make our communities and homes safer.”

“The defendant in this case has a history of violent acts, including armed robbery and domestic violence,” stated Daryl S. McCormick, Special Agent in Charge of ATF’s Columbus Field Division. “We know that it is a few individuals who cause a large share of the violence we see. ATF and our partners at IMPD will continue to focus on those who are using guns to cause harm and remove them from our community.”

“This is yet another example of the value our federal partners bring to fighting violent crime in Indianapolis,” said IMPD Chief Randal Taylor. “I am grateful for the work our detectives, federal investigators, and federal prosecutors put into this case as well as their continued collaboration.”

The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated the case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Sarah Evans Barker following Thomas’s guilty plea. As part of the sentence, Judge Barker ordered that Thomas be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for five years following his release from prison

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Eakman 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 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 – Daniel Wilkinson, 30, of Floyds Knobs, Indiana, was sentenced yesterday to twelve years in federal prison after pleading guilty to five different Indianapolis area bank robberies, and two counts of use of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. 

According to court documents, between September 5 and November 17, 2020, Wilkinson robbed five different Chase Bank branches in the Indianapolis area. During each robbery Wilkinson entered the bank alone and gave a teller a note announcing that he was robbing the bank and demanding money. During his bank robbery spree, Wilkinson stole a total of at least $30,805.

On November 13, 2020, Wilkinson entered a Chase Bank branch on Castle Creek Parkway Drive and handed a teller a hand-written note stating, “Stay calm stay quiet this is a robbery open your teller drawer and take all the money out I will shoot my way out if I have too.” Wilkinson then lifted his shirt to show a black handgun in his front pocket to the first teller, who handed Wilkinson cash from a bank register. Wilkinson later showed his handgun to another teller, who also handed Wilkinson approximately $2,263 in cash from another bank register.

On November 17, 2020, Wilkinson entered a Chase Bank branch on Kentucky Avenue and handed a teller a hand-written note stating, “Stay calm this is a robbery take all the money out of the drawer and any underneath…Place it in envelopes No tracers or Dye Packs If I have too I’ll Shoot.” The teller then handed Wilkinson cash from another bank register. Immediately following the bank robbery, IMPD SWAT officers located Wilkinson in the getaway car and stopped and arrested him. At the time of the arrest, Wilkson was armed with a black, 9mm handgun in his front pocket. IMPD officers searched the getaway car and recovered $6,377 inside Chase Bank envelopes, clothing worn in the robberies, and a notebook with writing impressions of a robbery demand note.

Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, Herbert J. Stapleton, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Indianapolis Field Office, and Chief Randal Taylor, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department made the announcement.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department investigated the case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Jane Magnus-Stinson. As part of the sentence, Judge Magnus-Stinson ordered that Wilkinson be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for five years following his release from federal prison and pay $30,805 in restitution to JP Morgan Chase Bank.

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 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 – Demario Barker, 33, of Kokomo, Indiana, was sentenced late last week to twenty-five years in federal prison after pleading guilty to two counts of distribution of methamphetamine.   

According to court documents, law enforcement officers began investigating Barker’s drug trafficking activities in 2019. On June 22, 2020, and July 31, 2020, Barker distributed methamphetamine from his residence in Kokomo. On November 30, 2020, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agents and Kokomo Police Department officers executed a search warrant at Barker’s Kokomo residence, and a second Kokomo residence that Barker used in furtherance of his drug trafficking activities. During the execution of those search warrants, law enforcement officers seized approximately one pound of methamphetamine, as well as seven firearms.

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, and Kokomo Police Chief Douglas Stout made the announcement.

The Drug Enforcement Administration and Kokomo Police Department investigated the case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Sarah Evans Barker. As part of the sentence, Judge Barker ordered that Barker 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 Brady who prosecuted 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.

INDIANAPOLIS – Thomas James Israel, 46, of Ft. Wayne, and Max Schafer, 31, of Brownsburg, were each sentenced to federal prison for their role in exploiting four children between October 2019 and August 2020. One of the victims was exploited by both Israel and Schafer during separate incidents. Israel previously pleaded guilty to sexual exploitation of a child and distribution of child sexual abuse material. On November 15, 2021, Chief Judge Tanya Walton Pratt sentenced Israel to twenty-five years in federal prison. Late yesterday, Schafer pleaded guilty to receipt of visual depictions of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct and possession of child sexual abuse material. District Judge James R. Sweeney II sentenced Schafer to over fourteen years (175 months) in federal prison.

According to court documents, between April 2020 and June 2020, Israel met his first minor victim, who was 14, using online applications such as Omegle and Meetme. Using Snapchat and Kik, Israel persuaded this victim to meet with him in person, then forced the victim into sadomasochistic sexual abuse, including forceful oral sex and assault. Israel recorded the sexual abuse on his mobile phone and later sent the video to the victim.

Israel met a second minor victim using Snapchat and persuaded the victim to send him explicit videos and photos of herself. When this victim was between 14 and 16 years old, she sent her minor boyfriend sexually explicit images and videos of herself. Without her consent, the boyfriend disseminated the images and videos over the internet. Israel downloaded those images and videos onto his online storage account and viewed them for a sexual purpose. 

Israel met his third minor victim, who was between 14 and 16 years’ old, over Omegle. Knowing that the victim suffered from mental health issues, Israel induced her to produce child sex abuse material, and to sell the images and videos to others online. Israel took a percentage of the fees and paid the victim by sending her gift cards from Victoria’s Secret.

According to court documents, Schafer also met Israel’s first minor victim using Omegle. Knowing that the minor victim was only fourteen years old, Schafer met and engaged in sexually explicit conduct with the victim. Schafer also persuaded the victim to send him the video that Israel produced, depicting Israel’s violent sexual abuse of the child.

Schafer also met his second minor victim, who was 16, using Omegle and Snapchat. Schafer persuaded this girl to send him sexually explicit images and videos of herself for his sexual purpose.

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

The FBI Violent Crime Task Force investigated the case. The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department also provided valuable assistance. As part of Israel’s sentence, Judge Pratt ordered that he be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for life following his release from prison and pay $16,000 in restitution to the victims. As part of Schafer’s sentence, Judge Sweeney ordered that he be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 40 years following his release from prison and pay $6,000 in restitution to the victims. Both Israel and Schafer must also register as sex offenders wherever they live, work, or go to school, as required by law.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. 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

INDIANAPOLIS – Willie Irving, 30, of Indianapolis, Indiana, was sentenced to 180 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, possession with intent to distribute spice, possession with intent to distribute marijuana, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.  

According to court documents, on May 23, 2019, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers executed a search warrant at Irving’s residence after seeing social media posts where he advertised drugs for sale. The search yielded narcotics, a firearm, and drug dealing paraphernalia. Irving is prohibited from legally possessing a firearm due to multiple prior felony convictions. Irving committed the current offense three months after completing his sentence for aggravated battery in Marion County. In that case, Irving shot a minor girl in the head over a snowball fight.

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

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department investigated the case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Tanya Walton Pratt. As part of the sentence, Judge Pratt ordered that Irving 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 Abhishek S. Kambli who prosecuted this case.

This case was brought as part of the Indiana Crime Guns Task Force (ICGTF). ICGTF is a partnership of law enforcement officers and analysts from several central Indiana law enforcement agencies in Boone, Hamilton, Hancock, Hendricks, Marion, Morgan, Johnson, and Shelby counties. In cooperation with state, local, and federal partners, ICGTF collaborates to address violent crime through a comprehensive strategy including innovative approaches to locating suspects and evidence related to violent crimes and illegal possession of firearms.

EVANSVILLE – Christopher J. McGee, 45, of Evansville, was sentenced today to twenty-four years in federal prison for production and attempted production of sexually explicit material involving minors.   

According to court documents, on July 12, 2021, McGee persuaded a 15-year-old minor female to produce sexually explicit images of herself and send the images to McGee. 

On July 15, 2021, McGee communicated with the minor female through Skype text messaging and image transmissions. These communications included discussions about ongoing sexual activity and sending nude images to McGee. A witness picked up McGee’s cell phone and observed a chat session between the minor and McGee in which it was apparent that they were discussing sexual acts they had participated in with each other. The witness confronted the McGee and contacted the Evansville Police Department. McGee left his residence before police arrived and McGee destroyed and discarded his cell phone.

Investigators discovered that McGee had been engaging in sex acts with the minor and that the minor was providing McGee with nude images of herself. The minor’s cell phone was secured and examined by law enforcement officials, which resulted in the recovery of the text messages between the minor and McGee. Throughout the text messages, McGee persuades the minor to take nude photos of herself and send them to him.

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Evansville Police Department investigated the case. The Vanderburgh County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office also provided valuable assistance. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Richard L. Young following McGee’s guilty plea. As part of the sentence, Judge Young ordered that McGee be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for life following his release from prison. McGee 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 S. 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

Terre Haute – A federal grand jury returned an indictment today, charging a federal inmate with first degree murder.  

According to court documents, on January 12, 2019, Lawrence Taylor, 41, was an inmate at the Federal Correctional Complex in Terre Haute, Indiana, when he killed another individual by stabbing him multiple times in the neck, face, chest and elsewhere with a metal weapon.

If convicted, Taylor faces a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. Taylor will make his initial court appearance in the Southern District of Indiana before a U.S. Magistrate Judge at a later date.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation is investigating the case.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney James M. Warden, who is prosecuting the 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 – Troy Fulmer, 32, of Indianapolis, was sentenced to 144 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to charges of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and carrying a firearm during and in relation to his drug trafficking of methamphetamine.

According to court documents, on June 18, 2021, Fulmer was stopped on his motorcycle by officers from the Speedway Police Department. Fulmer fled the traffic stop and crashed his motorcycle. After a short foot pursuit, officers took Fulmer into custody and located two handguns and approximately 110 grams of methamphetamine on Fulmer.

Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, and Speedway Police Chief Charles Upchurch made the announcement. 

The Speedway Police Department investigated the case. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives provided valuable assistance. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Chief Judge Tanya Walton Pratt. As part of the sentence, Judge Pratt ordered that Fulmer 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 Patrick G. Gibson 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 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 – Tyrone Ross, 30, Indianapolis, was sentenced to five years in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Ross is prohibited from possessing firearms due to multiple prior felony convictions. The possession of the firearm took place on May 30, 2020, during the protests in response to the murder of George Floyd.

According to court documents and statements made during the change of plea hearing, on May 30, 2020, Ross was on federal property in front of the Birch Bayh Federal Courthouse, in downtown Indianapolis, when he pulled out a pistol from under his clothing. Ross then fired multiple shots across Ohio Street, which at the time was filled with numerous pedestrians and vehicles. Ross then ran west on Ohio Street and fired one additional shot in the air in front of the Federal Courthouse.

“Following the murder of George Floyd by police, many peaceful and law-abiding protesters took to the streets in downtown Indianapolis and all over the country to express their outrage and heartbreak. With utter disregard for the lives of everyone present, an illegally armed felon fired multiple shots in this crowded area,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Today’s prison sentence demonstrates that armed criminals who risk the lives of the public will face serious consequences.”

“This sentence should serve as a warning to others who illegally possess a firearm and choose to violate federal law and endanger others in the process,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Herbert J. Stapleton. “The FBI will continue our efforts, along with our law enforcement partners, to remove violent criminals from the streets of our community and ensure the safety of our residents.”

The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Jane Magnus-Stinson. As part of the sentence, Judge Magnus-Stinson ordered that Ross 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 Peter Blackett who prosecuted the case.

INDIANAPOLIS – Adam L. Mahaffey, 39, of Martinsville, Indiana, was sentenced late yesterday to fifteen years in federal prison after pleading guilty to distributing visual depictions of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct and possession of child sexual abuse material.

According to court documents, Mahaffey is a repeat sex offender against children, convicted in 2012 of child seduction in Johnson County Indiana. Beginning no later than January 2021, Mahaffey began using an end-to-end encrypted online application to communicate with other individuals. One of the people Mahaffey contacted reported to the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office that Mahaffey sent them videos containing child sexual abuse material.

Between January 24, 2021, and April 20, 2021, Mahaffey was communicating online with an undercover FBI agent. During those exchanges, Mahaffey talked at length about his interest in engaging in sex acts with children as young as five years old. Mahaffey sent the agent multiple images and videos of child sexual abuse material. Mahaffey also told the agent that he wanted to meet at a hotel in the Southern District of Indiana so that Mahaffey could engage in sex with two prepubescent girls.

On April 26, 2021, the FBI executed federal search warrants at Mahaffey’s residence in Martinsville. Agents recovered Mahaffey’s cellular phone which contained hundreds of images and videos depicting child sexual abuse material. The images and videos distributed and possessed by Mahaffey included depictions of the sexual abuse of a prepubescent child.

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

The FBI’s Violent Crimes Against Children Task Force investigated the case. The FBI Oklahoma City Field Office also provided valuable assistance. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Tanya Walton Pratt. As part of the sentence, Judge Pratt ordered that Mahaffey be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 10 years following his release from federal prison and ordered Mahaffey to pay a $1,000 fine and restitution to each of the minor victims depicted in the images and videos he distributed and possessed. Mahaffey 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 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

INDIANAPOLIS – Dorian LaCourse, 66, of Milford, Ohio, was sentenced today to 3 years’ probation, including 6 months home detention for conspiracy and making false statements. LaCourse is the former Chief of Police in the Village of Addyston, Ohio. Two federally licensed firearms dealers in Indiana were his coconspirators, Johnathan Marcum, 34, of Laurel, Indiana, and Christopher Petty, 58, of Lawrenceburg, Indiana, previously pleaded guilty in separate cases to participating in the same conspiracy and will be sentenced later this year.

According to court documents, LaCourse, Marcum, and Petty, illegally exploited a law enforcement exception to the federal ban on the possession or transfer of fully automatic machine guns. As Chief of Police, LaCourse signed multiple “demonstration letters” falsely stating that the Village of Addyston Police Department was interested in purchasing various types of machine guns, including military-grade weapons, and asking that Marcum and or Petty give the demonstration. Marcum and Petty then sent the letters to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) to obtain the weapons. Addyston is a village in southwestern Ohio of approximately 1,000 residents. LaCourse was the village’s only full-time police officer.

LaCourse also placed direct orders for German-made machine guns that were purported to be paid for by the Police Department. In fact, the purchases were fully funded by Marcum and Petty and intended to bypass restrictions on the importation of such weapons by anyone other than the police or the military.

The Addyston Police Department was never authorized to purchase any of the machine guns, and the Indiana gun dealers never provided any demonstrations of machine guns to the police department. Instead, the gun dealers resold the machine guns at a significant profit. In some instances, a gun dealer resold illegally acquired machine guns for five or six times the purchase price. The conspirators purchased or caused the importation of approximately 200 fully automatic machine guns. LaCourse received over $11,500 from the gun dealers for his role in the scheme.

“Law enforcement officers are sworn to protect our communities and uphold the law, and the public has a right to expect police powers are used for the public good,” stated Zachary A. Myers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Instead, the defendant sold his badge to facilitate a criminal machine gun trafficking conspiracy. With heartbreaking regularity, we see the carnage that criminals can inflict on our communities with weapons of war. Today’s sentence demonstrates that officers who violate the public’s trust with utter disregard for the public’s safety will be held accountable.”

“LaCourse committed an egregious betrayal of the public’s trust by engaging in this machine gun trafficking scheme,” stated Travis S. Riddle, Acting Special Agent in Charge of ATF’s Columbus Field Division. “I hope that this sentence serves as an example to anyone else out there who might be tempted to betray their oath of office and their responsibility to their community.”

The ATF investigated the case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Sarah Evans Barker. As part of the sentence, Judge Barker ordered that the defendant pay a $11,800 fine. Over 100 illegally obtained machine guns, 52,500 rounds of ammunition, and over $6,000 in proceeds of the crime seized from LaCourse’s office desk will be forfeited to the United States.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys James M. Warden, William L. McCoskey, and Nicholas J. Linder who prosecuted this case.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Indiana is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Chicago Gun Trafficking Strike Force and has prioritized investigation and prosecution of gun trafficking crimes. On July 22, 2021, the Department of Justice launched five cross-jurisdictional strike forces to help reduce gun violence by disrupting illegal firearms trafficking in key regions across the country. These gun trafficking strike forces are designed to ensure coordination across jurisdictions and help stem the supply of illegally trafficked firearms from source cities, through other communities, and into five key market regions: New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, the San Francisco Bay Area/Sacramento Region and Washington, D.C.

INDIANAPOLIS – Marvin Love, 38, of Indianapolis, was sentenced to 240 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to charges of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine, being a felon in possession of a firearm and carrying a firearm during and in relation to his trafficking of methamphetamine and cocaine.  

According to court documents, on January 7, 2020, Love was stopped in his vehicle by Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) officers, who discovered Love in possession of distribution quantities of cocaine and methamphetamine. Officers also found a handgun belonging to Love on the floorboard of his vehicle. Love is prohibited from possessing firearms due to multiple prior felony convictions, including two armed robberies in Marion County. During one of those robberies, Love shot a victim twice when stealing $10. Love also has a prior federal felony conviction for illegally possessing a firearm. He was released from prison for that crime in late October 2019, less than 2 ½ months before he was arrested in January 2020 in this case.

Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, and Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department Chief Randal Taylor made the announcement.

The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department investigated the case. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives provided valuable assistance. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Tanya Walton Pratt. As part of the sentence, Judge Pratt ordered that Love 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 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 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 – Seven individuals have now been sentenced for conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, including methamphetamine and marijuana. The defendants had previously been indicted on their charges in 2019 and 2020. The seventh defendant, Mikhail Mgebrov, was sentenced today by Chief United States District Judge Tanya Walton Pratt.

According to court documents, beginning approximately June 2019 and continuing through December 2019, the group conspired to traffic methamphetamine and marijuana in and around Muncie and Anderson, Indiana. During the months long investigation, law enforcement discovered that large quantities of methamphetamine and marijuana were being shipped from California to various addresses in Muncie and Anderson. The group maintained residences in Muncie and Anderson to store, process, and distribute the drugs and drug proceeds. Multiple members of the conspiracy possessed firearms to protect the organization’s drugs and money. After arriving in Indiana, the drugs were resold to others in Muncie, Anderson, Gosport, and Brazil, Indiana.

To date in this investigation, authorities have seized approximately 1.3 kilograms of methamphetamine as well as marijuana. In addition to drug seizures, authorities have seized over $15,000 in drug proceeds and seven firearms, including one AK-style, short barrel rifle.

To date, Chief Judge Tanya Walton Pratt has sentenced the following individuals in this case:

Defendant

Sentence

James Briscoe, 39, Muncie, Indiana

23 years in prison, 10 years supervised release

Damarus Page, 40, Anderson, Indiana    

10 years in prison, 5 years supervised release     

Bradley Clephane, 37, Gosport, Indiana

262 months (over 21 years) in prison, 5 years supervised release

Christopher Bays, 36, Brazil, Indiana

16.5 years in prison, 5 years supervised release

Jeremi Zarco, 31, Woodland Hills, California

200 months (over 16 years) in prison, 5 years supervised release

James Bell, 43, Muncie, Indiana

8 years in prison, 3 years supervised release

Mikhail Mgebrov, 39, Tarzana, California

10 years in prison, 5 years supervised release

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, and Rodney Hopkins, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service Detroit Division made the announcement.

The Drug Enforcement Administration and the United States Postal Inspection Service investigated this case. The Muncie Police Department, the Anderson Police Department, the Terre Haute Police Department, the Clay County Sheriff’s Office, and the Indiana State Police provided valuable assistance.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Kendra Klump who prosecuted the 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 – A federal grand jury has indicted fifteen people on drug trafficking and money laundering charges. Specifically, the indictment charges the defendants with a conspiracy to distribute semi-truckload quantities of marijuana and THC-containing products and to launder the bulk cash proceeds from selling the drugs. Adewale Adediran, the alleged leader of the conspiracy, was also charged with engaging in a continuing criminal enterprise. Nathan Canary was charged with firearms-related offenses.

The charges are being announced today following a week-long effort by federal agents, in conjunction with state and local law enforcement partners in Indiana, California, Kentucky, and Florida, to arrest the charged defendants and seize drugs and drug proceeds. Over the past seven days, authorities have arrested ten of the defendants, executed search warrants at twenty-three different locations in three states, and executed seizure warrants on over a dozen bank accounts and a trove of high-end jewelry. Five defendants remain at large.

According to the indictment, from 2016 until this year, Adediran and the drug trafficking organization he led used commercial-level logistics and warehousing to distribute large quantities of marijuana throughout the United States and collect millions of dollars in cash proceeds. The indictment alleges that the organization utilized commercial trucking and airplanes to facilitate the shipment of tractor-trailer loads of marijuana to warehouses and other commercial locations in various states, including Indiana. The indictment further alleges that the organization used semi-trucks and an airplane to transport large quantities of cash back to Adediran and his co-conspirators in California, and later, used cashier’s checks and bank accounts to launder the proceeds. Adediran was arrested in California and was ordered detained in the custody of the U.S. Marshal’s Service pending trial.

To date in this investigation, authorities have seized or restrained nearly $40 million in drugs, alleged drug proceeds, and assets purchased with drug proceeds. Authorities have seized over three tons of marijuana and THC-containing products, valued at over $10 million, along with over a dozen firearms. In addition to the drug and gun seizures, authorities have seized or restrained cash and bank accounts totaling over $8 million; a private jet valued at $900,000; numerous luxury automobiles, including two Rolls-Royces, two Bentleys, a Ford GT, and a Lamborghini, valued at $2 million; high-end jewelry valued at over $8 million; numerous pieces of artwork and collectible items valued at $850,000; and nine pieces of real estate with a total value of $10 million.

The following defendants were charged in the indictment:

Defendant

Charge(s)

Adewale Adediran, 36, Orange, CA

Conspiracy to Distribute Marijuana; Continuing Criminal Enterprise; and Money Laundering Conspiracy

Jazmine Adediran, 31, Orange, CA

Conspiracy to Distribute Marijuana; Money Laundering Conspiracy

Crystal Thomas, 33, Irvine, CA

Conspiracy to Distribute Marijuana

Hugo Molina, 45, Irvine, CA

Conspiracy to Distribute Marijuana

Tayo Muyiwa Olukoya, 53, Irvine, CA

**FUGITIVE**

Conspiracy to Distribute Marijuana

Stephen Lamar Richardson, 51, Noblesville, IN

Conspiracy to Distribute Marijuana

Teoddy Carillo Domingo, 46, Tustin, CA

Conspiracy to Distribute Marijuana; Money Laundering Conspiracy

Jeremy Quire, 44, Tampa, FL

**FUGITIVE**

Conspiracy to Distribute Marijuana

Marquis Bruce, 34, Tampa, FL

**FUGITIVE**

Conspiracy to Distribute Marijuana

Nathan Canary, 37, Indianapolis, IN

Conspiracy to Distribute Marijuana; Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime; and Possession of a Firearm as a Previously Convicted Felon

Richard Davis, 32, Fishers, IN

Conspiracy to Distribute Marijuana;

Rafael Smith, 30, Fortville, IN

Conspiracy to Distribute Marijuana;

John Carson, 36, Louisville, KY

Conspiracy to Distribute Marijuana;

Mercedes Blackwell, 27, Woodland Hills, CA

**FUGITIVE**

Conspiracy to Distribute Marijuana; Money Laundering Conspiracy

If convicted on the conspiracy with intent to distribute marijuana charges, each face between ten years to life imprisonment, no less than five years supervised release, and a $10,000,000 fine. If convicted on the continuing criminal enterprise charge, Adediran faces a mandatory twenty years up to lifetime imprisonment, no more than five years supervised release, and a $2,000,000 fine. If convicted on the money laundering charge, each faces up to twenty years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a $500,000 fine. 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, and Justin Campbell, Special Agent in Charge of IRS-Criminal Investigation Chicago Field Office made the announcement. 

The Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, the Brownsburg Police Department, the Clarksville Police Department, the Southern Indiana Drug Task Force (Jeffersonville Police Dept, New Albany Police Dept, Clark County Sheriff’s Office, Harrison County Sheriff’s Office, and Floyd County Sheriff’s Office), and the Hamilton/Boone County Drug Task Force investigated the case in conjunction with Homeland Security Investigations.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle P. Brady, who is prosecuting the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelly Rota, who is handling asset forfeiture in 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.

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 – Ryan Niendorf, 39, of Indianapolis, was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison following his guilty plea to sexual exploitation of a child and attempted sexual exploitation of a child.

According to court documents, in May 2021, agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) received information from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) that an adult’s Facebook account had been used to engage in sexually explicit communication with a child’s Facebook account. Law enforcement officers determined the adult was Niendorf, a semi-truck driver living in Indianapolis, and police were able to locate the child. Based on forensic evidence found in Niendorf’s account, police arrested Niendorf. Further investigation showed Niendorf persuaded two minors, both less than 16 years of age, to produce sexually explicit videos. 

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

The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated this case. The Indiana Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC) also provided valuable assistance. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Sarah Evans Barker. As part of the sentence, Judge Barker ordered that the defendant be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for life following his release from prison and ordered to pay each victim $10,000 in restitution. Niendorf 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.

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.

INDIANAPOLIS – In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Myers recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers who made the ultimate sacrifice, as well as the family members, friends, and fellow officers they left behind.

In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, May 15, honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. According to National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial Fund, in 2021, 472 U.S. law enforcement officers died in the line of duty, including 319 who succumbed to COVID-19.

In 2021, the following six officers died in the line of duty in the Southern District of Indiana, and their names were read and added to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial on Friday, May 13, 2022, during a Candlelight Vigil in Washington, D.C.

• Gregory J. Ferency, FBI Task Force Officer and Terre Haute Police Detective
• James A. Driver, Monroe County Sheriff’s Office
• Anthony W. Hinshaw, Losantville Town Marshal
• James R. Hirtzel, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office
• Robert W. Nicholson, Clark County Sheriff’s Office
• John D. Starks, Clark County Sheriff’s Office

“We honor those law enforcement officers who gave their lives in service of their communities and our thoughts are with their families,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Myers. “We must never lose sight of the danger and difficulties that law enforcement officers face on our behalf. Without them, we cannot protect the public and maintain the rule of law. We are forever grateful for their service and sacrifice.”

Additionally, according to 2021 statistics reported by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) through the Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 73 law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty in 2021 were killed as a result of felonious acts, whereas 56 died in accidents.  Deaths resulting from felonious acts increased in 2021, rising more than 58 percent from the previous year.  In 2021, unprovoked attacks were the cause of 24 deaths, significantly outpacing all other line of duty deaths resulting from felony acts and reaching the highest annual total in over 30 years of reporting.  Additional LEOKA statistics can be found on FBI’s Crime Data Explorer website for the LEOKA program. 

INDIANAPOLIS – Jason Lee Munden, 32, of Maxwell, Indiana, was sentenced to two years in federal prison after pleading guilty to unlawful possession of a firearm by a person previously convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.

According to court documents, on March 1, 2021, deputies from the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office served a warrant to arrest Munden for burglary. During the arrest, deputies found a short barrel rifle they suspected belonged to Munden. Munden was detained and placed a monitored phone call in which he admitted that the rifle belonged to him, in one instance referring to it as his “hand cannon.”

Munden was previously convicted of domestic battery after he punched the victim in the face and threatened to kill them. As a result of that domestic violence conviction, Munden was prohibited from possessing firearms.

Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, and Hancock County Sheriff Brad Burkhart made the announcement.

The Hancock County Sherriff’s Department investigated the case. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives provided valuable assistance. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Richard L. Young. As part of the sentence, Judge Young 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 Abhishek S. Kambli, 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.

INDIANAPOLIS – Jeremy Gibson, 31, a former officer with the Muncie Police Department, pleaded guilty today to assaulting an arrestee in violation of his civil rights, and to an obstruction of justice offense for writing a false report to cover up the incident.

According to court documents and statements made during the change of plea hearing, on May 13, 2019, Officer 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 the driver, Gibson used his knee to strike the driver in right side of the driver’s head, causing the driver’s head to swing to the side, at which point another officer delivered another knee strike to the opposite side of the driver’s head. Shortly afterwards, Officer Gibson authored a false report about the incident.

Gibson is one of four Muncie police officers who – along with Officer Chase Winkle, Officer Corey Posey and Sergeant Joseph Krejsa – were charged in April 2021 in a 17-count superseding indictment for their roles in using excessive force against arrestees and attempting to cover up the misconduct. The other three officers are scheduled to stand trial in August 2022. A fifth Muncie police officer, former Officer Dalton Kurtz, pleaded guilty on August 4, 2021, to misprision of felony for concealing and failing to report inappropriate use of force by Officer Winkle during a separate incident.

Gibson faces up to 30 years in prison and will be sentenced by Chief Judge Tanya Walton Pratt at a later date. His actual sentence will be determined by a federal district court judge and sentences are typically less than the maximum penalties.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation.

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

U.S. Attorney Myers and A.A.G. Clark thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter Blackett, and Trial Attorneys Katherine DeVar and Mary Hahn of the Civil Rights Division for their work prosecuting the case.

INDIANAPOLIS – Jorge Alberto Mateos, 26, of Noblesville, Indiana, a former detention deputy with the Marion County Sheriff’s Office in Indianapolis, was sentenced today to 18 months in federal prison for assaulting an inmate. Mateos had previously pleaded guilty to a felony civil rights offense for his unreasonable use of force against an inmate in his care.

According to court documents, on the evening of September 9, 2021, Mateos was on duty as a Detention Deputy at the Marion County Jail. During the shift, deputies ordered an inmate at the facility to remove his jail-issued shoes. The inmate kicked off his shoes and sat in the corner of his cell. In response, Mateos entered the cell and told the inmate something to the effect of, “When a deputy tells you to do something, you need to do it.” Mateos then struck the inmate in the face multiple times, during which time the inmate did not try to resist or fight back. Mateos continued to strike the inmate after he fell to the ground. According to court documents, other detention deputies attempted to deescalate the situation, separated the inmate and Mateos, and placed the inmate in handcuffs. After the inmate was handcuffed, Mateos struck the inmate several additional times. As a result, the inmate sustained bodily injuries.

“Law enforcement officers who violate their oaths and choose to assault persons in their custody will be held accountable,” said Zachary A. Myers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Former Deputy Mateos chose to repeatedly attack an inmate who offered no resistance, an assault that continued even after the inmate was handcuffed. These crimes dishonor our profession and erode trust in the honorable law enforcement officers who risk their lives to keep the community safe. Abuses of the public trust are a special category of wrongs to be righted. The sentence imposed today demonstrates that this office, the Department of Justice, and our law enforcement partners will prioritize holding these offenders accountable.”

“Former Deputy Mateos abused his authority as a law enforcement officer and betrayed the public’s trust when he violently assaulted an inmate in his custody,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke. “Law enforcement officials who commit violent assaults inside our jails and prisons are not above the law, and we will continue to vigorously prosecute those who commit civil rights violations.”

“There is no acceptable level of abuse of power. The vast majority of law enforcement officers are professional, well-trained and honor the oath they took to protect and serve the community,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Herbert J. Stapleton. “The FBI and our law enforcement partners will continue to hold accountable those who violate that oath and the civil rights of those they are sworn to protect.”

Marion County Sheriff Kerry Forestal stated “deputy sheriffs and detention deputies take an oath. So have I. If you use unnecessary force against someone in your custody, you must be held accountable.”

The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated this case. The Marion County Sheriff’s Office provide valuable assistance. 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 1 year following his release from prison. Judge Pratt also ordered that the defendant remanded to begin serving his sentence immediately. At the conclusion of the hearing, Mateos was taken into the custody of the United States Marshal.

U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bradley P. Shepard and Kelsey L. Massa, and Trial Attorney Katherine G. DeVar of the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division, who prosecuted the case.

Individuals who believe they may have been a victim of a civil rights violation can learn how to report violations to the Department by visiting the Civil Rights Reporting Portal located at civilrights.justice.gov.

Individuals who believe they are the victim of a criminal violation of their civil rights, such as misconduct by law enforcement officers, a hate crime, or human trafficking, should contact their local FBI office.

EVANSVILLE – Cody Pfettscher, 25, of Evansville, was sentenced to 78 months in federal prison for illegal possession of four unregistered, 3D printed smooth-bore pistols, possession of a firearm by an unlawful user of a controlled substance, carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.  An additional charge of possession of a firearm by a felon was dismissed pursuant to a plea agreement. 

According to court documents, on March 30, 2019, officers with the Evansville Police Department responded to a reported shooting at Pfettscher’s residence. Upon arriving, the officers discovered Pfettscher’s girlfriend with a gunshot wound to her abdomen and Pfettscher holding their infant son. Law enforcement officers searched the residence and located a pistol, four 3D printed firearms, one 3D printer, two laptops, marijuana, and marijuana paraphernalia. The victim was interviewed at the hospital and stated that Pfettscher was intoxicated and “playing” with the recently purchased pistol. Pfettscher shot and wounded her—nearly striking their infant son.

Analysis of the defendant’s electronic devices located schematics for the 3D printed firearms. The 3D printed firearms were examined and found to be “smooth-bore pistols,” a category of firearms that must be registered in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. The defendant had not registered those firearms, and the firearms did not bear any serial numbers, making them untraceable. Untraceable 3D printed plastic firearms of this type are referred to as “ghost guns.” Ghost guns are unserialized, privately made firearms increasingly recovered by law enforcement at crime scenes across the country. Because ghost guns lack the serial numbers marked on other firearms, they are impossible for law enforcement to trace through the ATF’s National Tracing Center.

On April 18, 2019, Pfettscher was convicted of a felony offense in Warrick County, Indiana. As a result of this conviction, he was prohibited from lawfully possessing firearms or ammunition. On March 4, 2021, a Vanderburgh County Deputy Sheriff stopped a vehicle in which Pfettscher was a passenger. At the time of the stop, Pfettscher had a bag of methamphetamine and a 9mm bullet in his pocket. The Deputy searched the vehicle and found a 9mm pistol, more methamphetamine, bags used to package drugs, and a sales ledger, all belonging to Pfettscher. In total, the deputy seized 15.9 grams of methamphetamine, packaged for sale to other users, and $445 in U.S. currency.

“Illegal ghost guns pose a growing threat to our communities—especially in the hands of drug dealers and other criminals,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Our office will prioritize prosecutions of armed drug traffickers. These individuals poison our communities for their own greed with no regard for the people they hurt and kill. The significant sentence imposed in this case demonstrates that emerging technologies will not deter federal, state, and local law enforcement from pursuing dangerous criminals and holding them accountable.”

 “Illegal, untraceable firearms have no place in our community, much less in the hands of a prohibited person,” stated Travis S. Riddle, Acting ATF Special Agent in Charge for the Columbus Field Division. “We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to keep firearms out of the hands of those who are not legally able to possess them.”

The Evansville Police Department and Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office investigated the cases. The Vanderburgh County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives also provided valuable assistance. The combined sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Richard L. Young following the defendant’s guilty pleas in two cases. As part of the sentence, Judge Young ordered that the defendant be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 3 years following his release from prison.

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

U.S. Attorney Myers named AUSA Mukoski as the Office’s “Ghost Gun” Coordinator, 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 and use of ghost guns

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 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.