Western District of Kentucky

WASHINGTON – The Justice Department announced today that Chester Gordon Whitescarver and his wife, Betsy Whitescarver, who have owned and managed rental properties in and around Russellville, Kentucky, have agreed to pay $230,000 to resolve a lawsuit alleging that they violated the Fair Housing Act (FHA). The department’s lawsuit alleged that Gordon Whitescarver has sexually harassed female tenants since at least 2012 and that Betsy Whitescarver was on notice of sexual harassment allegations but took no action to stop his sexually harassing behavior. 

Under the consent decree entered by the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky, the Whitescarvers must pay $220,000 to 11 women who are current or former tenants harmed by the Whitescarvers’ discriminatory conduct, and must pay a $10,000 civil penalty to the United States. The Whitescarvers must also take steps to dismiss any pending eviction actions against the victims, vacate any adverse judgments they obtained against the victims, and take steps to repair the credit of any affected victim. The consent decree also bars future discrimination, permanently bars the Whitescarvers from property management, mandates Fair Housing Act training, and requires monitoring and reporting regarding property management activities.

“We all deserve to feel safe in our own homes,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke for the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Sexual harassment by housing providers deprives tenants of their right to be safe, secure and free from unlawful conduct. The Justice Department is committed to pursuing predatory landlords and will work resolutely to hold those landlords accountable and obtain relief for their victims.”

“I commend the attorneys and investigators assigned to this case for their outstanding work on behalf of the 11 victims,” said U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett for the Western District of Kentucky. “The Fair Housing Act prohibits sexual harassment of tenants. We will continue to aggressively pursue landlords who subject their tenants to such discriminatory conduct.”

The United States’ lawsuit alleged that Gordon Whitescarver subjected multiple female tenants to sexual harassment and retaliation. According to the complaint, he made repeated and unwelcome sexual comments, entered the homes of female tenants without their consent, touched female tenants without their consent, requested sexual acts, offered reduced or free rent in exchange for sexual acts, and took adverse housing-related actions against female tenants who refused his sexual advances. The United States’ complaint also alleged that Betsy Whitescarver threatened and retaliated against women who complained about her husband’s harassment.

The Justice Department launched its Sexual Harassment in Housing Initiative in October 2017.  The Department’s Initiative is led by the Civil Rights Division, in coordination with U.S. Attorney’s Offices across the country.  The goal of the Initiative is to address and raise awareness about sexual harassment by landlords, property managers, maintenance workers, loan officers, or other people who have control over housing.  Since launching the Initiative, the department of Justice has filed 23 lawsuits alleging sexual harassment in housing and recovered over $5.2 million for victims of such harassment. 

If you think you are a victim of sexual harassment by a landlord, or have suffered other forms of housing discrimination, you may contact the Justice Department by submitting a report online or contacting the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky at (502) 582-5911.

Reports may also may be made by contacting the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development at 1-800-669-9777 or by filing a complaint online.

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LOUISVILLE, KY – A Louisville man was sentenced yesterday to 30 months in prison, payment of a $10,000 fine, and an order of restitution in the amount of $71,407, for his solicitation and receipt of bribes and kickbacks in the course of his service as a public official. 

According to court documents, Jean-Joseph Saulnerond, 54, engaged in a long-running scheme to defraud the Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC) for the Commonwealth of Kentucky and others through his position as their Languages Other than Spanish (LOTS) Program Coordinator.  As the LOTS Program Coordinator, Saulnerond was responsible for scheduling foreign language interpreters for court hearings within the Commonwealth of Kentucky and had the authority to award contracts and assign jobs for interpretation services.  As part of his scheme, Saulnerond solicited and received bribes and kickbacks in exchange for awarding interpretation contacts and assigning jobs to provide interpretation services for the AOC to individual interpreters and a language services company. At times, he refused to award interpretation contracts and assign jobs to individuals and companies if they did not agree to pay him a bribe or kickback.  As part of the scheme, interpreters inflated the hours worked on contracts with the AOC in order to be paid additional money to kickback to Saulnerond out of the contracts’ proceeds. Between 2011 and 2018, Saulnerond solicited and received over $70,000 in bribes and kickbacks from contractors.

“We will continue to prioritize the prosecution of government employees who manufacture schemes intended to defraud public agencies of taxpayer money,” stated Michael A. Bennett, United States Attorney for the Western District of Kentucky. I am grateful for the outstanding work of the prosecutors, investigators, and agents assigned to the case as well as the partnership of Kentucky Attorney General Cameron’s office and the FBI’s Louisville Field Office.”    

“Public workers are entrusted by Kentuckians to be good stewards of state resources, and when that trust is violated through bribe and kickback schemes, those individuals must be held accountable for their crimes,” said Attorney General Cameron.  “Our Department of Criminal Investigations worked closely with our partner agencies to investigate this scheme, and I appreciate the work of the FBI and U.S. Attorney Bennett’s office in this case.”

“While the vast majority of public officials serve their communities honorably, Mr. Saulnerond chose to betray the trust of taxpayers by lining his own pockets,” said Special Agent in Charge Jodi Cohen of the FBI’s Louisville Field Office. “Unfortunately, when one government employee chooses to abuse their position, the public’s trust in government erodes. The FBI will continue to aggressively investigate any corrupt public official who willfully and maliciously chooses to violate that trust.” 

The Office of the Kentucky Attorney General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephanie M. Zimdahl and Christopher Tieke prosecuted the case.

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WASHINGTON – The Department of Justice announced today that it has awarded more than $17.5 million in grants to support the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program. Funding will support efforts across the country to address violent crime, including the gun violence that is often at its core. The Justice and Public Safety Cabinet of Kentucky was awarded $131,086 to administer PSN grant funds in the Western District of Kentucky.

The Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA), part of the department’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP), will administer the 88 grant awards, which are being made to designated fiscal agents to support local PSN projects that work in partnership with U.S. Attorneys’ Offices.

“This latest Project Safe Neighborhoods grant is critical to addressing the violent crime threatening cities and towns all across our country,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco. “Ensuring the safety of all Americans is the highest priority for the Department of Justice, but when it comes to violent crime, there is not a one-size-fits-all solution. We have to work closely with local public safety agencies as well as community organizations to craft individual strategies unique to each community’s needs. Programs like Project Safe Neighborhoods and the funding it provides allow us to do just that.”

“The grant award announced today will support our local law enforcement partners and community organizations throughout the district in their work to reduce violent crime,” stated Michael A. Bennett, United States Attorney for the Western District of Kentucky. “Violent crime reduction includes strategic enforcement, building community trust, and the support of community organizations who work to prevent violence. Focusing on these PSN program principles will assist us in achieving safer and more secure communities for all citizens.”  

Grant funds will support violent crime reduction efforts through strategic enforcement, intervention, prevention, and reentry initiatives within the Western District of Kentucky. With approval from BJA, the Fiscal Agent will begin the process of making subawards for PSN grant projects.

“Investing in our communities, supporting victims and building a justice system that both keeps people safe and earns their trust – these are mutually reinforcing goals that stand at the heart of Project Safe Neighborhoods,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Amy L. Solomon for OJP. “The Office of Justice Programs is pleased to join with our U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, and with jurisdictions across the country, as we work together to meet the challenges of crime and violence and achieve our shared aspirations of public safety and community trust.”

In May 2021, Attorney General Merrick B. Garland announced a new effort to reduce violent crime, including the gun violence that is often at its core. Integral to that effort was the reinvigoration of PSN, a two-decade old evidence-based and community-oriented program focused on reducing violent crime. The updated PSN approach, outlined in the department’s Comprehensive Strategy for Reducing Violent Crime issued by Deputy Attorney General Monaco, is guided by four key principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities and measuring the results of our efforts. The fundamental goal is to reduce violent crime, not simply to increase the number of arrests or prosecutions.

This fall, U.S. Attorney’s Offices across the country have enhanced their violent crime reduction efforts to ensure alignment with the department’s comprehensive violent crime reduction strategy. U.S. Attorneys’ Offices have engaged in outreach to law enforcement and other agencies and organizations serving communities to identify the most significant drivers of violence in their districts. Working together with a broad coalition of stakeholders, the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices are addressing the most pressing violent crime issues in their district to make our neighborhoods safer for all.

PSN programs are led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices in collaboration with local public safety agencies, community stakeholders and other agencies and organizations that work to reduce violent crime.

For a list of all grantees, please visit: LINK HERE.

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The Office of Justice Programs provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, advance racial equity in the administration of justice, assist victims and enhance the rule of law. More information about OJP and its components can be found at  www.ojp.gov.

LOUISVILLE, KY – A Louisville man was sentenced on Monday to 32 years in prison followed by a life term of Supervised Release for production, attempted production, distribution, and possession of child pornography. There is no parole in the federal system.

According to court documents, in 2017 and 2019, Shaun Douglas Dickson, 26, engaged in conversations with children on the Internet while posing as both an 11-year-old girl and 13-year-old boy.  During these conversations, Dickson sent images of child pornography to children he met online, including young girls in Greece and Australia that he attempted to and successfully induced and coerced into creating images of sexually explicit conduct to send to him.  Dickson further threatened a child that he would distribute the images of child pornography he had produced of her to her friends and family if she did not send him additional images, and then subsequently distributed those images to other children. After a search warrant was conducted at his residence in 2019, Dickson was also found to be in possession of over 1,200 images and videos of child pornography.

“The outstanding effort of the investigators and prosecutors assigned to the case ended the activities of a sexual predator who exploited children internationally,” stated United States Attorney Michael A. Bennett.  “I commend the work and partnership of Attorney General Cameron’s office and HSI Nashville.”  

“Thanks to the partnership between our Cyber Crimes Unit, HSI, and U.S. Attorney Bennett’s team, we were able to stop this criminal from continuing to exploit children online,” said Attorney General Cameron.  “Our children deserve childhoods free from exploitation, abuse, and neglect, and collaboration among law enforcement agencies through initiatives like Project Safe Childhood are essential to protecting our youngest.”

“HSI agents make it a top priority to protect vulnerable children who become victims of online sexual predators,” said HSI Nashville Special Agent in Charge Jerry C. Templet, Jr. “The investigative efforts of our agents in this case, working with the Kentucky State Attorney General’s office, ensured that this offender will pay for his inexcusable acts with a lengthy stay in federal prison.”

 The Office of the Kentucky Attorney General and the United States Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alicia Gomez and Stephanie Zimdahl prosecuted the case.

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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 the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc.  For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources

LOUISVILLE, KY – Louisville pharmacist Gary Green was sentenced to 9 months in prison, payment of a $4,000 fine, an order of restitution in the amount of $188,157.55, and forfeiture of $34,395 for his role in a health care fraud scheme involving fraudulent prescriptions for pain creams and regulatory violations relating to the storage of controlled substances. 

According to court documents in the case, between November 2015 and December 2018, Green, 46, executed a scheme to obtain money from health care benefit programs by fraudulently billing those programs for pain cream prescriptions written for himself, his family, and his employees using the National Provider Identifier numbers of two physicians without their authority and authorization. Ultimately, Green deposited the proceeds from the fraudulently billed prescriptions into his business accounts and then transferred the proceeds to his personal bank accounts. Green collected $188,157.55 in proceeds from the fraudulent prescriptions.     

In addition, from April 2014 and through January 2019, Green committed regulatory violations in that he intentionally omitted material information from a required report and filing when he failed to inform the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) when he transferred Schedule II-IV and III-IV controlled substances from closed pharmacies and stored the controlled substances in an unapproved commercial storage unit.

Michael A. Bennett, United States Attorney for the Western District of Kentucky, made the announcement.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher Tieke, Nicole Elver, and Joseph Ansari prosecuted the case. Bob Masterson, health care fraud investigator, assisted the prosecution team.

The case was investigated by the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services Office of Inspector General, Kentucky State Police, Kentucky Department of Insurance, Department of Labor, Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations, Department of Defense Office of Inspector General Criminal Investigation Service, Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, Postal Inspection Service, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. 

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WASHINGTON – The Department of Justice today announced more than $139 million in grant funding through the department’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) COPS Hiring Program (CHP). The awards provide direct funding to 183 law enforcement agencies across the nation, allowing those agencies to hire 1,066 additional full-time law enforcement professionals. In the Western District of Kentucky two cities and one county were awarded funding totaling $750,000.

“We are committed to providing police departments with the resources needed to help ensure community safety and build community trust,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “The grants we are announcing today will enable law enforcement agencies across the country to hire more than 1,000 additional officers to support vitally important community oriented policing programs.”

“The citizens of the Western District are the ultimate beneficiaries of the Kentucky grants announced today,” stated United States Attorney Michael A. Bennett. “The hiring of additional officers will result in safer communities for our residents.  Congratulations to the grant recipients.”

The following cities and county in the Western District received awards:

• Bowling Green - $500,000
• Scottsville - $125,000
• Butler County - $125,000

CHP is a competitive award program intended to reduce crime and advance public safety through community policing. CHP provides funds directly to law enforcement agencies to hire new or rehire additional career law enforcement officers, thereby increasing their community policing capacity and crime prevention efforts. Of the 183 agencies awarded grants today, approximately half will use the funding to focus on building legitimacy and trust between law enforcement and communities; 41 agencies will seek to address high rates of gun violence; 21 will focus on other areas of violence; and 19 will focus CHP resources on combating hate and domestic extremism or supporting police-based responses to persons in crisis. The complete list of awards can be found here.  

Since its creation in 1994, COPS has invested more than $14 billion to advance community policing, including grants awarded to more than 13,000 state, local and Tribal law enforcement agencies to fund the hiring and redeployment of more than 135,000 officers. CHP, COPS’ flagship program, continues to be in demand today: In FY21, COPS received 590 applications requesting nearly 3,000 law enforcement positions. For FY22, President Biden has requested $537 million for CHP, an increase of $300 million.

To learn more about CHP, please visit https://cops.usdoj.gov/chp-award. For additional information about the COPS Office, please visit https://cops.usdoj.gov/.  

The COPS Office is the federal component of the Department of Justice responsible for advancing community policing nationwide. The only Department of Justice agency with policing in its name, the COPS Office was established in 1994 and has been the cornerstone of the nation’s crime fighting strategy with grants, a variety of knowledge resource products, and training and technical assistance. Through the years, the COPS Office has become the go-to organization for law enforcement agencies across the country and continues to listen to the field and provide the resources that are needed to reduce crime and build trust between law enforcement and the communities served.

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BOWLING GREEN, KY – A federal grand jury in Bowling Green returned two indictments on November 10, 2021, charging a Utica, Kentucky man and a Georgetown, Indiana man with federal child exploitation offenses.  The charges were announced by Michael A. Bennett, Acting United States Attorney, Western District of Kentucky, Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron, and United States Secret Service Special Agent in Charge Robert Holman of the Louisville Field Office.

The charges were the result of a joint federal, state, and local operation called Operation Angel, aimed at making federal arrests of individuals who prey upon children in the Owensboro area.  The operation was headed by the United States Secret Service and included the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky, the Kentucky Office of the Attorney General, the Kentucky State Police, and the Owensboro Police Department.    

According to court documents, 41-year-old Timothy Richard Simone, of Utica, is charged with attempted enticement of a minor and attempted transfer of obscene material to a minor.  He faces not less than 10 years’ imprisonment for the enticement charge, and not more than 10 years’ imprisonment for the obscenity charge.  The maximum penalty Simone faces is life imprisonment.       

Bradley Linderman, 34, of Georgetown, Indiana, is also charged with travelling across state lines with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct with a minor, attempted enticement of a minor, and attempted transfer of obscene material to a minor.  He faces not less than 10 years’ imprisonment for the enticement charge, not more than 30 years’ imprisonment for the charge of interstate travel to engage in illicit sexual conduct with a minor, and not more than 10 years’ imprisonment for the obscenity charge.  The maximum penalty Linderman faces is life imprisonment. 

If convicted, a federal district court judge will determine any sentence imposed upon Simone and Linderman after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Simone and Linderman are scheduled to be arraigned in Owensboro on November 23, 2021, before U.S. Magistrate Judge H. Brent Brennenstuhl of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky.  

The United States Secret Service, Kentucky Office of the Attorney General, Kentucky State Police, and the Owensboro Police Department are investigating the cases.

Assistant U.S. Attorney A. Spencer McKiness is prosecuting the cases.

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

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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 the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims.

Paducah, KY – A former Ft. Campbell soldier was sentenced yesterday to 70 months in prison, followed by 15 years of supervised release, for possession of child pornography.  There is no parole in the federal system.

According to court documents, Chase Bowman-Raines, 24, of Oak Grove, Kentucky, possessed child pornography between February 15, 2019, and April 20, 2020, while in the Western District of Kentucky.  In April of 2020, after receiving multiple online cyber-tips concerning child pornography, several search warrants were executed, including one at Bowman-Raines’s home.  Bowman-Raines was arrested after he was found to be in possession of multiple images and videos depicting child pornography. 

“I commend HSI and Army CID for their combined effort in investigating this case,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett.  “Fighting child exploitation is a priority in the Western District of Kentucky and we will continue to lead the effort to identify, locate, arrest, and prosecute those who sexually exploit the most vulnerable of victims, our children.”  

“The victims of predators who exploit children experience long-term negative effects,” said HSI Nashville Special Agent in Charge Jerry C. Templet, Jr. “Our agents work tirelessly to investigate perpetrators like this defendant to ensure they are punished for their reprehensible actions.”

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Nashville and the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division (CID), Fort Campbell, Kentucky investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Leigh Ann Dycus of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office  prosecuted 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 the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc.  For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."

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BOWLING GREEN, KENTUCKY – Brandon Wayne Parker, age 41, of Horse Cave, Kentucky was sentenced today by Chief United States District Judge Greg N. Stivers to serve 82 months in federal prison and pay restitution in the amount of $99,588.40 for Theft of Firearms from a Federal Firearms Licensee, Possession of Stolen Firearms, Providing False Information on ATF Forms 4473, and Aggravated Identity Theft.  There is no parole in the federal system.

“I commend the outstanding work of the ATF in this case,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett.   “Identifying, arresting, and prosecuting individuals involved in the theft of firearms is an important part of our overall strategy to combat violent crime and keep our communities safe.”

“Federally licensed firearms dealers work with ATF’s Louisville Field Division to ensure the lawful sale of guns in shops throughout Kentucky and West Virginia,” stated Special Agent in Charge, R. Shawn Morrow of the ATF Louisville Field Division.  “In this case, an employee stole firearms from his employer through ongoing fraud and identity theft.  ATF is committed to the safety of our communities by investigating and arresting those who obtain firearms through illegal means.”

According to court documents, Parker was employed by Master Pawn of Horse Cave, a federally licensed firearms dealer, located in Horse Cave, Kentucky.  In his plea agreement, Parker admitted that he stole approximately 335 firearms from Master Pawn between November 2016 and August 22, 2018.  Parker also admitted that he provided false information on ATF Forms 4473 by entering identification information of legitimate purchasers, without their knowledge, to fraudulently obtain and steal the firearms.  An ATF Form 4473 is required to be filled out to purchase a firearm from a federally licensed firearms dealer.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua Judd prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. 

 

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Paducah, KY – A former Lyon County Middle School teacher was sentenced yesterday to 10 years in prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, for attempting to possess child pornography, announced Michael A. Bennett, Acting United States Attorney for the Western District of Kentucky.  There is no parole in the federal system.

According to court documents, Michael Derek McCuiston, 36, of Murray, Kentucky, surreptitiously recorded bathroom video of two children, both of whom had not attained the age of 18.  In April 2019, after receiving information about this crime, officers served a search warrant at McCuiston’s home.  McCuiston was arrested and later admitted that he placed a hidden camera in an attempt to capture child pornography. 

“Parents deserve to know that teachers will act in the best interest of their children and provide them with a safe and secure learning environment,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Bennett.  “The defendant forfeited forever the special trust and confidence placed in him as an educator and will now spend the next ten years in a federal prison.  I commend the FBI’s Louisville Field Office, Kentucky State Police, and the prosecutors assigned to the case for their work in identifying and removing this threat from our community.”         

“The secret recording of children in a bathroom, in an attempt to capture child pornography, is a horrendous crime - made worse because of the defendant’s position of trust as a teacher and a coach,” said Special Agent in Charge Jodi Cohen of the FBI Louisville Field Office.  “Today’s sentence does not erase the defendant’s deplorable actions, but it is a stern punishment that will help to protect some of society’s most vulnerable victims and show our commitment to holding sexual predators accountable.”

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Kentucky State Police investigated the case. 

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Madison Sewell and Raymond McGee prosecuted 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 the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc.  For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”

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Louisville, Kentucky – Multiple members and associates of an alleged local drug trafficking organization and street gang known as “Everybody Shines Together,” or, “EST,” were arrested over the past week in Louisville on federal criminal charges related to alleged drug trafficking and weapons offenses.

According to court documents unsealed in federal court, 10 people were charged in an Indictment returned by a grand jury sitting in Louisville:

Eric D. Mosley, 30, Zaman Taylor, 21, Khasi Jones, 28, Devonzo Summers, 24, Ricos Mosley, 33, Barry Reed, 20, Cedric Palmer, 25, Aerion Cook, 21, Dazaray Rice, 27, and Darrian Toogood, 24, all of Louisville, are charged with Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute and Distribution of Controlled Substances, including methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine, and heroin.  Various members of the conspiracy are also charged with additional firearms and drug charges.  The indictment follows a criminal complaint previously filed in federal court against Eric Mosley.

Eric Mosley is charged with Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute and Distribution of Controlled Substances, Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine, Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking, Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person, and Possession of a Stolen Motor Vehicle. If convicted, Mosley faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years and a maximum of life in prison.

Zaman Taylor, Devonzo Summers, and Barry Reed are each charged with Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute and Distribution of Controlled Substances and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking. If convicted, they each face a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years and a maximum of life in prison.

Khasi Jones, Ricos Mosley, Cedric Palmer, Aerion Cook, Dazaray Rice, and Darrian Toogood are each charged with Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute and Distribution of Controlled Substances and face a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years and a maximum of life in prison.

In addition to the arrests, several search warrants were executed in connection with the investigation, resulting in the seizure of what is believed to be approximately 1 kilogram of cocaine as well as methamphetamine, multiple firearms, a stolen vehicle, and over $160,000 in United States currency.

Khasi Jones, Devonzo Summers, and Barry Reed have not yet been apprehended and are considered wanted fugitives.  Anyone having information regarding the whereabouts of these subjects may contact the Federal Bureau of Investigation at 1-800-CALL-FBI or 502-263-6000.

“I want to acknowledge the outstanding work of the FBI, ATF, IRS, and LMPD in this case,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett. “The allegations in the Indictment are the result of the robust working relationships present between our federal law enforcement partners and LMPD.  The charges once again confirm each agency’s commitment and dedication to the safety of all who live and work in this community.”

“While too many families have experienced unspeakable tragedies from the violent crime plaguing our city, FBI Louisville, LMPD, and other law enforcement partners are strategically focused on pursuing the most violent and persistent offenders,” stated FBI Louisville Special Agent in Charge Jodi Cohen. “The gang members arrested last week have terrorized our communities for far too long, but they will be held accountable for their actions. To those gang members who continue to operate with a blatant disregard for your fellow citizens, know that we are working tirelessly to identify, investigate, and apprehend you and your associates.”

If convicted, a federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.  There is no parole in the federal system.

The FBI Louisville’s Safe Streets Task Force, which includes FBI Special Agents and investigators from Louisville Metro Police Department, Nelson County Sheriff’s Office, Bullitt County Sheriff’s Office, and Homeland Security Investigations, along with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Internal Revenue Service are investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Frank Dahl, Ann Marie Blaylock, and Rob Bonar are 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.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. 

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LOUISVILLE, KY – A federal grand jury in Louisville, Kentucky, returned an indictment today charging a Louisville man with carjacking resulting in death.

According to court documents, on March 1, 2021, Michael J. Dewitt, 28, carjacked a vehicle in Simpsonville, Kentucky, and, during flight, killed 17-year-old M.T. in a vehicle collision on Dixie Highway in Louisville.

Dewitt is charged with carjacking resulting in death. The defendant is currently detained on state charges.  If convicted of federal charges, he faces a maximum penalty of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.  There is no parole in the federal system.

Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky and FBI Special Agent in Charge Jodi Cohen of the FBI’s Louisville Field Office made the announcement.

The FBI, Louisville Metropolitan Police Department, and Shelby County Sheriff’s Office are investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann Marie Blaylock is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.  

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Bowling Green, Kentucky– Two Honduran nationals, Jonny Alexander Reyes-Martinez and Jorge Santos Caballero-Melgar were sentenced on Monday in U.S. District Court in Bowling Green.  Reyes was sentenced to 262 months in prison for his role in a conspiracy to commit a series of armed robberies throughout the southeast, including the robbery of La Placita 710 Morgantown Road, Bowling Green, Kentucky, on March 17, 2017, that resulted in the death of one person, J.C.  Also sentenced on Monday was Jorge Santos Caballero-Melgar for his role as the organizer and leader of the group.  Caballero was the only defendant to take his case to trial.  He was convicted by a jury in Bowling Green earlier this year.  Caballero was sentenced to 460 months in prison.   

These sentencings culminated the prosecution of 12 persons who were charged with conspiring to commit a total of 15 armed robberies in Kentucky, Tennessee, Indiana, and North Carolina between December 2016 and September 2017.  Most of the defendants resided in Nashville, Tennessee.  All were present in the United States illegally.   Sentences imposed by Chief Judge Stivers in the case ranged from 48 months to 460 months.  Reyes, who was directly involved in the robbery of La Placita in Bowling Green, was facing a life sentence prior to entry of a guilty plea.  Evidence presented at Caballero’s trial showed that the victim, J.C., interceded and attempted to restrain Reyes inside the store as the robbery concluded and was shot by Reyes during a struggle in close quarters.  Reyes’s guideline sentence of up to 405 months was reduced by Chief Judge Stivers on Monday based on the defendant’s substantial assistance in the prosecution of Caballero.  Reyes testified at Caballero’s trial last spring, along with four other co-conspirators, and was characterized by Judge Stivers as a “key witness” for the government at trial.

The evidence at trial established that Caballero was the organizer and leader of the robbery conspiracy.  Caballero was present for all but one of the 15 charged robberies directing the other co-conspirators from outside the store.  Evidence at trial showed that Caballero identified the stores to be robbed; provided firearms to the others for use during each robbery; and drove co-conspirators to and from robbery locations.  Cell phone tracking evidence presented at trial showed the movement of the co-conspirators from Nashville to various robbery locations and back.   Surveillance video, together with phone records and testimony at trial, established that Caballero on at least one occasion ordered a victim to turn over the cash in the store to the robbers who were inside with her.  After each robbery, Caballero met at another location with co-conspirators and divided the proceeds of the robbery.  Caballero has illegally entered the United States and been removed five times.

“Those responsible for the senseless and heartbreaking loss of life in this case will now rightfully spend decades in prison for their crimes,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett.  “The FBI, the Bowling Green Police Department, the federal and state agencies who provided assistance, and the prosecutors who litigated the cases all worked tirelessly and performed admirably throughout the process to ensure justice was served.”       

“This investigation, leading to the arrest, conviction, and sentencing of Caballero and 11 other members of his robbery crew highlights the value and effectiveness of combining local, state, and federal resources to combat violent criminals,” said Special Agent in Charge Jodi Cohen of the FBI’s Louisville Field Office.  “It is a tragedy that someone died as a result of the defendants’ brazen conduct; however, we hope that these sentences will provide some solace to the victim’s family and serve as a reminder to those who wish to harm the citizens of the Commonwealth that FBI Louisville and its law enforcement partners will find you and hold you accountable.”  

The investigation was led by Special Agents in the FBI’s Bowling Green Resident Agency and the Bowling Green Police Department. The investigation was also assisted by FBI Charlotte; FBI Memphis; DHS/HSI Raleigh; DHS/HSI Bowling Green; Lexington, KY Police Department; Cary, NC Police Department; Clayton, NC Police Department; Snow Hill, NC Police Department; Greene County, NC Sheriff’s Department; Rocky Mount, NC Police Department; Henderson, NC Police Department; Gallatin, TN Police Department; Morristown, TN Police Department; McMinnville, TN Police Department; Metro Nashville Police Department; Clarksville, IN Police Department; Northampton County, VA Sheriff’s Department; and the Kansas Highway Patrol.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Marisa J. Ford and Alicia P. Gomez prosecuted the case.

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PADUCAH, KY. – Dayton Jones, 27, of Hopkinsville, Kentucky, pleaded guilty to production of child pornography before Senior United States District Judge Thomas B. Russell, earlier today, announced Acting United States Attorney Michael A. Bennett. 

According to the Plea Agreement, on October 11, 2014, a group of high school and college students got together at a friend's apartment.  The individuals, almost all of whom were under the age of 21, consumed significant amounts of alcohol.  A fifteen-year-old boy (John Doe), passed out from alcohol intoxication.  When John Doe passed out, several other males took turns sexually assaulting him with a sex toy. Jones made an audio/video recording of the assault.  He can be heard talking during the video.  Jones distributed the short video to others via the social media application “Snapchat.” 

An individual who viewed Jones’ snap of the sexual assault on a friend’s phone recorded it on his/her phone and shared the video and information with law enforcement.  The person who shared the information and video with law enforcement surrendered his/her phone for examination.  A forensic tool collected and saved the information from the person’s phone – including the video from Jones’ snap. Snapchat is a multimedia messaging application with worldwide use.  It allows users to exchange pictures and videos (called snaps) that are meant to disappear after they are viewed.  Billions of videos are sent each day.  Digital devices, such as cellular telephones, are used to create and send Snaps. 

Under the terms of the Plea Agreement entered into the Court’s record today, Jones faces a 10-year sentence and agreed to pay the victim, John Doe, $50,000.00 in restitution. Judge Russell will decide whether Jones should receive credit for the time spent in state custody as well as how long Jones will be under supervision after released. Sentencing is scheduled for February 9, 2022, at 11:30 a.m., CDT, in Paducah, Kentucky.

Assistant United States Attorneys Jo E. Lawless and Seth Hancock prosecuted the case.  The FBI's Louisville Field Office and the Christian County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. 

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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 the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc.  For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."

Owensboro, KY. – A federal grand jury returned an indictment on October 13, 2021, charging Nigel Sanders, 31, of Christian County, Kentucky, for Possession with the Intent to Distribute and Distribution of Methamphetamine, being a Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm, and for Possessing a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime

According to the Indictment, Sanders has multiple prior felony drug trafficking convictions and a prior felony conviction for a weapons offense.

Sanders faces not less than 10 years and not more than life in prison for Possession with the Intent to Distribute and Distribution of Methamphetamine and not more than 10 years in prison for being a Prohibited Person in Possession of Firearm.  Sanders faces an additional 5-year consecutive term of imprisonment for Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime.  If convicted, a federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. There is no parole in the federal system. 

The case is scheduled for arraignment on November 23, 2021, at 10:00 a.m. before Magistrate Judge H. Brent Brennenstuhl.

Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky made the announcement.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Leigh Ann Dycus.  It was investigated by the Madisonville Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). 

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

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This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. 

 

Bowling Green, KY – A federal grand jury in Bowling Green, KY returned an indictment on October 13, 2021, charging a Guthrie man with possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine.

According to court documents, on or about August 25, 2021, Johnny Tucker, 51, of Guthrie, KY, possessed with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine.  If convicted, he faces a minimum penalty of 5 years and a maximum penalty of 40 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. There is no parole in the federal system.   

Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky and HSI Special Agent in Charge Jerry C. Templet, Jr. made the announcement.

The Department of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the South Central Kentucky Drug Task Force are investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark J. Yurchisin II, assigned to the Bowling Green Branch Office of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Western District of Kentucky, is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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PADUCAH, KY – A Marshall County, Kentucky man was sentenced on October 13, 2021, to 8 years in federal prison for Importing and Distributing U-47700, commonly known as “U-4” or “Pink,” a Schedule I controlled substance. 

According to court documents, Jevan Sheppard, 29, of Marshall County, Kentucky, admitted to conspiring with others to distribute and to possess with the intent to distribute U-4, a Schedule I controlled substance over the period from November 14, 2016, to March 22, 2017.  Further, Sheppard admitted to distributing U-4 on or about March 13 and 14, 2017, and to possessing U-4 with the intent to distribute on or about March 22, 2017.  Sheppard also admitted to importing U-4 into the United States from China during the period from November 14, 2016, until March 22, 2017. 

“I commend the federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies and the Assistant United States Attorneys who worked tirelessly to ensure the successful prosecution of Mr. Sheppard,” stated Acting United States Attorney Michael A. Bennett.  “Individuals who traffic drugs in the Western District take notice.  No matter the type or source of the poison you trade in, you will be identified, prosecuted, and sent to prison.”  

“Mr. Sheppard, and others like him who damage our communities by selling illicit drugs, deserve to be put away,” said Special Agent in Charge Todd Scott, who heads the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration’s Louisville Division.  “I’m very proud of the work done by DEA and our law enforcement partners to ensure he feels the full weight of the justice system.”

The United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Calvert City Police Department, Marshall County Sheriff’s Department, McCracken County Sheriff’s Department, Paducah Police Department, and United States Customs and Border Protection all investigated the case, with assistance from the Marshall County Attorney’s Office and the Commonwealth’s Attorney for Marshall County.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Seth A. Hancock and Raymond McGee prosecuted the case with assistance from Assistant U.S Attorneys Nicole Elver and Amy Sullivan.

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BOWLING GREEN, KY – A federal grand jury returned an indictment on October 13, 2021, charging Charles L. Stinson and Logsdon Valley Oil, Inc., a/k/a Hart Petroleum, with a violation of the Safe Drinking Water Act.   

According to the indictment, Stinson, 84, of Horse Cave, Kentucky, and the company, Logsdon Valley Oil, Inc., on or about September 13, 2019, willfully injected fluids into a sinkhole that was not permitted and authorized by rule for underground injection, at Payton #7 East lease, permit number KYI0420.

Court records show that Stinson and Logsdon Valley Oil, Inc., had previously been indicted and convicted for violations of the Safe Drinking Water Act in federal court in Case Number 1:12CR-12-M, in 2013, at the Payton #7 East lease.  Stinson pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit violations of an underground injection control program.  In his plea agreement, entered in open court on October 10, 2013, Stinson agreed that it was a part of the conspiracy that he would configure piping to convey fluids from the tank battery to a sinkhole and convey fluids into sinkholes, in violation of the Safe Drinking Water Act.  In furtherance of the conspiracy, Stinson and coconspirators improperly conveyed fluids into sinkholes on Payton #7 East lease.   Logsdon Valley Oil, Inc. was also convicted of two counts of violation of an underground injection control program. 

In the current indictment, Stinson and Logsdon Valley are charged with one violation of the Safe Drinking Water Act in violation of Title 42, United States Code, Section 300h-2(b)(2). The defendant is scheduled for an initial court appearance on October 27, 2021, before United States Magistrate Judge H. Brent Brennenstuhl. 

If convicted, Stinson faces up to 3 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, and up to 3 years of supervised release. Logsdon Valley Oil is subject to a $500,000 fine and up to 3 years of supervised release.  A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett and Special Agent in Charge Charles Carfagno of EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division in Atlanta, Georgia made the announcement.

The Criminal Investigative Division of the United States Environmental Protection Agency is investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua Judd 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.

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Bowling Green, KY– A federal grand jury in Bowling Green returned an indictment yesterday charging a Russellville man with possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.

According to court documents, on or about July 19, 2021, Albert Tyler, 60, of Russellville, KY, possessed two handguns. At the time he possessed the firearms, Tyler had previously been convicted of multiple felonies in Logan Circuit Court which included a conviction for third-degree burglary and two convictions for first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance.

Tyler is charged with possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett and ATF Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow made the announcement.

The ATF and the South Central Kentucky Drug Task Force are investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark J. Yurchisin II of the United States Attorney’s Bowling Green Branch Office is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. 

 

BOWLING GREEN, KY – Barret Lawrence, 39, of Franklin, Kentucky, was sentenced by United States Chief District Judge Greg N. Stivers today to 15 years in prison followed by a life term of Supervised Release for receipt and attempted receipt of child pornography, accessing with the intent to view child pornography, and possession of child pornography. There is no parole in the federal system.

“I commend HSI, the Franklin Police Department, and the Simpson County Sheriff’s Office for their outstanding work in this case,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett.  “As a result of their efforts, our children are safer, and a dangerous individual will now spend the next 15 years in prison followed by a life term of federal supervision.” 

“Our HSI agents are committed to protecting children from exploitation by predators involved with the production, distribution and possession of child sexual abuse material,” said HSI Nashville Special Agent in Charge Jerry C. Templet, Jr. “The result of this investigation shows that perpetrators of these heinous crimes will be punished with lengthy prison sentences for their actions.”

According to the Plea Agreement and other Court documents in the case, Lawrence was previously convicted in September 2000 in the Warren Circuit Court of Attempted Rape in the First Degree of a three-year old child and was released from incarceration on that offense in November 2010.  Law enforcement became aware of Lawrence’s most recent criminal activity when they discovered that, on May 21, 2019, he had accessed a website that had an explicit focus on the facilitation of sharing child abuse material with an emphasis on BDSM, hurtcore, gore and death-related material.  A federal search warrant subsequently executed at Lawrence’s residence revealed that Lawrence had received and possessed numerous additional images and videos of child pornography, and that he had accessed some of those images at least as early as 2014.

The United States Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) with the assistance of the Franklin Police Department and the Simpson County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jo E. Lawless and Stephanie M. Zimdahl prosecuted the case.

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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 the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc.  For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”

Bowling Green, KY – A federal grand jury in Louisville, KY returned an indictment on October 5, 2021, charging a Columbia, KY man with distributing greater than 500 grams of a mixture or substance containing methamphetamine.

According to court documents, on September 10, 2021, Trey Williams, 25, of Columbia, KY, sold approximately six pounds of crystal methamphetamine to another person. The sale price was $23,300.00. Following the sale, FBI and local law enforcement conducted surveillance at the apartments where the drug deal took place. Law enforcement was able to locate Williams and arrested him.

Williams is charged with Distribution of a Controlled Substance. He is scheduled for arraignment on October 27, 2021 before U.S. Magistrate Judge H. Brent Brennenstuhl of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. Williams is currently in federal custody.  If convicted, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett and FBI Special Agent in Charge Jodi Cohen made the announcement.

The FBI, Kentucky State Police, and the Bowling Green/Warren County Drug Task Force are investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark J. Yurchisin II of the U.S. Attorney’s Bowling Green Branch Office is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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Louisville, Kentucky – A federal grand jury in Louisville returned an indictment on September 22, 2021, charging Antonio D. Williamson, 34, with being a felon in possession of firearm.   

According to the indictment and criminal complaint, on May 22, 2021, the Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) arrested Williamson after it was reported that a man pointed a firearm at another person at the drive through of a restaurant on Eastern Parkway in Louisville.   Williamson was arrested by LMPD for Receiving stolen property over $10,000, obscuring the identity of a machine over $10,000, and no operator’s license.  He provided the name “Naz Bey.” LMPD officers observed a firearm, later identified as a CZ-USA Scorpion Evo 3 Sl, near the center console of the vehicle within reach of the driver. Law enforcement officers later determined that “Naz Bey” was Antonio D. Williamson, a convicted felon. 

The grand jury indicted Williamson for being a felon in possession of a firearm in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g).  On September 21, 2021, the defendant appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Colin H. Lindsay of the U.S. District Court for a detention hearing. Judge Lindsay detained Williamson detained pending trial, which is scheduled for November 29, 2021, before U.S. District Judge Rebecca Grady Jennings.

If convicted, Williamson faces up to 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and up to 3 years of supervised release. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. 

Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett made the announcement.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua Judd is prosecuting the case.  The FBI and LMPD investigated the case with assistance from the ATF.  

An indictment is merely an allegation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. 

LOUISVILLE, KY. – A federal jury convicted Joseph Samir Zakhari on September 24, 2021, of multiple child exploitation offenses following a five-day trial held before United States District Judge Rebecca Grady Jennings.

According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, the charges against Zakhari, age 34, of Louisville, Kentucky, stemmed from the October 2019 joint federal, state, and local online undercover investigation – “Operation Gabbi Doolin.”  During the course of this investigation, and while authorized by the Kentucky Attorney General to conduct undercover investigations on the internet, a detective posed as a 15-year-old girl on a social media app with the username “boredcrbgirl.”  On October 6, 2019, a person with the username “jzakhari,” later identified as Joseph Samir Zakhari, contacted boredcrbgirl.  Zakhari told boredcrbgirl that he was 32 and asked her age. Boredcrbgirl responded that she was 15. A conversation then developed that was made sexual by Zakhari, and, from October 6 until October 8, Zakhari requested details about boredcrbgirl’s sexual history, repeatedly talked about sex acts he wanted to engage in with boredcrbgirl, and asked for sexual images of boredcrbgirl.  Zakhari also sent sexually explicit images of himself to boredcrbgirl and requested to meet in person so that the two could engage in sex acts.

On October 8, 2019, Zakhari sent an Uber to pick up boredcrbgirl to bring her to his condominium, with the stated purpose of the trip being for the two to engage in sex acts.  Undercover law enforcement officers followed a decoy law enforcement officer in the Uber to the destination specified by Zakhari. Upon arrival, the decoy sent a message at 5:16 p.m., “I’m outside,” to which Zakhari responded “coming down.” The decoy got out of the Uber and stood in front of the provided address. Shortly thereafter, Joseph Samir Zakhari, opened the door and invited her in.  Law enforcement officials subsequently arrested Zakhari.

The jury found Zakhari guilty of attempted online enticement of a minor, attempted transfer of obscene material to a minor, and attempted production of child pornography.

Acting United States Attorney Michael A. Bennett made the announcement.

Sentencing is scheduled for January 11, 2022, at 10:00 a.m.   Under federal law, Zakhari is facing a mandatory sentence of not less than fifteen years’ imprisonment.   There is no parole in the federal system.

Assistant United States Attorney Jo E. Lawless is prosecuting the case.  The joint investigation was conducted by the United States Secret Service and Kentucky Attorney General’s Office with assistance from the Louisville Metro Police Department, United States Marshals Service, and Kentucky State Police.

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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 the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc.  For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."

Bowling Green, KY – A Bowling Green man was sentenced on September 14, 2021, by U.S. District Court Chief Judge Greg Stivers, to 15 years in federal prison, followed by a 5 year period of supervised release for trafficking in methamphetamine and the illegal possession of a firearm.  There is no parole in the federal system.

According to court documents, Charleslenzo Sanchez Williams, 38 years of age, was found on January 13, 2020, in the possession of, with the intent to distribute, over 50 grams of methamphetamine, in possession of a firearm having been previously convicted of a felony offense, and in possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.  On September 9, 2020, Mr. Williams was indicted on three counts arising from his drug trafficking activities.  On June 8, 2021, Mr. Williams entered a plea of guilty to all counts of the Indictment.

“The work of the Warren County Drug Task Force and the ATF in this case demonstrates the nature of state and federal law enforcement cooperation in our district,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett.  “Our citizens are safer as a result of the combined efforts of our state and federal partners who work tirelessly every day fighting violent crime.”      

“Drug dealers with guns are criminals who pose an increased threat to the safety of our communities,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the Louisville Field Division.  “Today’s sentencing is the result of an ongoing commitment by ATF to work with our law enforcement partners to make our communities safer for everyone.”

“This case is another example of Federal, State and Local law enforcement working together to unburden the community of armed career criminal drug traffickers.” Stated Warren County Drug Task Force Director Tommy M. Loving.  “More and more we see drug traffickers armed and increased violence connected to drug trafficking activities. We appreciate the great partnership with the United States Attorney’s Office in Bowling Green.”

The Bowling Green ATF and the Warren County Drug Task Force investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Mac Shannon prosecuted the case.

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This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. 

 

LOUISVILLE, KY – A Louisville man was arrested yesterday in Louisville on criminal charges related to his alleged violations of federal narcotics and firearms offenses.  Mosley made his initial appearance in U.S. District Court today.

According to court documents, Eric D. Mosley, 30, of Louisville, Kentucky was arrested by members of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Safe Streets Task force following the execution of a search warrant on a hotel room that Mosely occupied in Louisville.  A subsequent search of the hotel room found that Mosley was in possession of approximately one kilo of cocaine, one AK-47 style pistol, one Zigana PX-9 handgun, and approximately $100,000 in cash.  The Zigana PX-9 was previously reported stolen.   According to a check of Mosley’s criminal history, he is a convicted felon and is prohibited from possessing a firearm. 

Mosley is charged with possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. If convicted, Mosley faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky and Acting Louisville FBI Special Agent in Charge Edward J. Gray made the announcement.

This case was investigated by FBI Louisville’s Safe Streets Task Force, which includes FBI Special Agents and investigators from Louisville Metro Police Department, Nelson County Sheriff’s Office, Bullitt County Sheriff’s Office, and Homeland Security Investigations. 

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Frank Dahl, Ann Marie Blaylock, and Rob Bonar are prosecuting the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. 

A Criminal Complaint is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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Louisville, KY – A federal grand jury in Louisville returned an Indictment today charging Marion County, KY resident Jerry Lee Bright with possession with intent to distribute heroin and methamphetamine.

According to court documents, Jerry Lee Bright, 62, of Marion County, has been charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin and one count of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.

“The allegations contained in the Indictment are serious controlled substance offenses,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett.  “I commend the work and partnership of the Marion County Sheriff’s Department and HSI during the investigation of this case.”

If convicted, Bright faces a mandatory sentence of five years in prison up to a maximum of forty years in prison for each count.  A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.  There is no parole in the federal system.

The Marion County Sheriff’s Department and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) are investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Mac Shannon 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.

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Louisville, KY – A North Carolina man was sentenced today to probation and a $10,000 fine for attempting to extort money from the University of Louisville. 

According to court documents, after Dino Gaudio, 64, of Mooresville, North Carolina, was informed his employment contract as an assistant men’s basketball coach would not be renewed, he attempted to extort money from the University of Louisville.  Specifically, Gaudio threatened to report to the media that the University of Louisville men’s basketball program had allegedly violated National College Athletic Association rules in its production of recruiting videos for prospective student-athletes and in its use of graduate assistants in practices, unless he was paid his salary of $25,000 a month for an additional 17 months or received a lump sum payment of $425,000.  As part of this threat, Gaudio sent a text message to University of Louisville personnel containing one of the recruiting videos he was threatening to send to the media.

Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky made the announcement.

The FBI and the University of Louisville Police Department investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda E. Gregory prosecuted the case.

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LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY – A Louisville man was sentenced yesterday by United States District Judge David J. Hale to 15 years in prison, followed by a five-year term of supervised release, for possession of a handgun by a convicted felon.

According to court documents, Danel Tawan Mathis, Jr., age 31, possessed a firearm on April 13, 2019, in the Western District of Kentucky, Jefferson County, with knowledge that he had previously been convicted of a felony.  Court documents allege that Mathis had been convicted of three counts of Robbery in the second degree in Jefferson Circuit Court, case number 05-CR-731, on March 3, 2005, and two counts of Complicity to Robbery in the first degree in Jefferson Circuit Court, case number 06-CR-2667, on August 22, 2006.  At the time of this federal offense, Mathis was on state parole. 

During his plea, Mathis admitted in open court that he possessed a Hi-Point .380 and ammunition. He further admitted that he knew he was a convicted felon and that he was prohibited from possessing a firearm. 

Mathis has three prior convictions for crimes of violence and was sentenced to a 15-year mandatory-minimum term of imprisonment pursuant to the Armed Career Criminal Act.  There is no parole in the federal system.

“I commend the ATF and LMPD for their work in this case,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett.  “We will continue to strategically utilize federal resources and partner with LMPD to target the most significant drivers of violence in Louisville.”   

“Firearms possessed by convicted felons pose a serious threat,” stated ATF Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the Louisville Division.  “Together with LMPD, ATF is committing to disarming dangerous felons and making our communities safer.  Our partnerships with local law enforcement and the USAO are getting results like this 15-year federal prison sentence.”

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua Judd prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. 

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Owensboro, Kentucky – On August 11, 2021, a federal grand jury in Bowling Green returned two Indictments charging seven individuals with conspiring to traffic in large amounts of methamphetamine in the Daviess County area during a span of several months in 2020 and 2021.

An Indictment unsealed this week in U.S. District Court charges Darrell Murphy, 46, of Madisonville, Kentucky, Terry Cook, 43, of Owensboro, Noah Boswell, 39, of Owensboro, William Darmell Murphy, 58, of Owensboro, and Elizabeth Breanne Harris, 39, of Owensboro, with having conspired with each other, and others, to possess with the intent to distribute over 500 grams of methamphetamine in the Daviess County area between May 27, 2020 and January 27, 2021. 

The second unsealed Indictment charges Jamarquius D. Trice, age 32, of Louisville, Kentucky, and Jermaine Lee, Sr., 48, of Owensboro, with having conspired with each other, and others, to possess with the intent to distribute over 500 grams of methamphetamine in the Daviess County area between August 24, 2020, and February 1, 2021.

If convicted, the defendants each face a sentence of 10 years to Life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett made the announcement.

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Owensboro Police Department, Daviess County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) are investigating the cases.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Frank E. Dahl III is prosecuting the cases.

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

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LOUISVILLE, KY. – A federal grand jury in Louisville, Kentucky returned an Indictment charging Andre Ross, Robert Ross, Cory Ross, and Seiko Ross, all of Louisville, with violations of federal drug and firearms laws.   

According to the Indictment Andre Ross, age 45, Cory Ross, age 29, Robert Ross, age 27, and Seiko Ross, age 37, are charged with Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine, also known as “crack.” Andre Ross, Cory Ross, Robert Ross, and Seiko Ross are also individually charged with possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Andre Ross, Robert Ross, and Seiko Ross are also individually charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

If convicted at trial, the defendants face a minimum of 5 years in prison, a maximum sentence of life, a maximum $1,000,000 fine, and not more than 5 years of supervised release.

The Indictment follows the filing of Criminal Complaints on August 13, 2021, charging Andre Ross, Robert Ross, and Cory Ross with possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute, possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, and possession of a firearm during and in relation to a federal drug trafficking crime. 

According to the Criminal Complaints, on Thursday, August 12th, Detectives with the Louisville Metro Police Department’s Major Case Team and Special Agents from the Louisville FBI Safe Streets Task Force executed federal search warrants which included the  following locations in the  Newburg neighborhood:

• 4211 Norene Lane, Apt. 4, Louisville, Kentucky
• 5108 Crafty Drive, Apt 5, Louisville, Kentucky
• 5318 Russett Boulevard, Apt 2, Louisville, Kentucky

During the execution of the search warrants, law enforcement officers recovered 17 firearms, including assault rifles, handguns, and shotguns, a large quantity of ammunition, as well as  approximately 1200 grams of various suspected illegal controlled substances.

Andre Ross, Robert Ross, and Cory Ross are in federal custody.  Seiko Ross is currently in the custody of the Louisville Metropolitan Department of Corrections.  

“The charges set forth in the Indictment are the result of the ongoing work of LMPD and the strong working relationships it maintains with our federal law enforcement agencies,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett.  "This type of collaboration is crucial as we continue to focus our efforts on the most significant drivers of violence in Louisville."  

“FBI Louisville is committed to helping reduce the unacceptable level of violence that is plaguing our city. These arrests should send a loud and clear message to violent criminals that    the FBI Safe Streets Task Force will deploy its collective strength to ensure the safety and security of our neighborhoods,” said Acting Special Agent in Edward J. Gray of the FBI’s Louisville Field Office. “This is just the beginning.”

LMPD’s Chief Erika Shields commented, “The culmination of this joint, targeted investigation has resulted in some of the most violent offenders being taken off the city’s streets. LMPD is grateful to have such strong federal partnerships and looks forward to further dismantling organized criminal activity.”

Assistant U.S. Attorney Tom Dyke is prosecuting the case. The case is being investigated by the FBI and LMPD.  

The FBI Safe Streets Task Force consists of investigators from Louisville Metro Police Department, Nelson County Sheriff’s Office, Bullitt County Sheriff’s Office, and FBI Louisville. Special Agents from FBI Knoxville and FBI Indianapolis also assisted in yesterday’s operation.

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

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. 

 

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Paducah, Kentucky – A federal jury returned a guilty verdict in the trial of a Paducah man on August 10, 2021, for being a convicted felon in possession of a handgun.

According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Jermaine Tyrone Jones, 41, of Paducah, possessed a handgun on August 30, 2017, after being previously convicted of a felony offense.  Paducah Police Department Officer Andrew Parrish located the handgun in Jones’s clothing after Jones’s arrest for Fourth-Degree Assault, Domestic Violence. 

“Identifying and prosecuting individuals who illegally possess firearms is an important component of our overall effort to reduce violent crime in the Western District of Kentucky,” stated Acting United States Attorney Michael A. Bennett.  “I commend the trial team, the Paducah Police Department, and the ATF for their work in this case and for their ongoing commitment to make our communities safe for all citizens.”   

“Cases like this show our continued efforts to reduce the amount of gun violence in Paducah,” said Paducah Police Chief Brian G. Laird. “This is another good example of inter-agency cooperation to arrest, prosecute and convict violent offenders to help keep our community safe.”

“Repeat violent offenders are a threat to the safety and security of our communities,” stated ATF Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the Louisville Division. “ATF partnerships with our local law enforcement agencies in Western Kentucky are getting results. Together, we’re making arrests and successfully prosecuting felons who illegally possess firearms.”

Sentencing is scheduled for December 9, 2021. Under federal law, Jones is facing a maximum of 10 years in prison.

The Paducah Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives are investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth A. Hancock is prosecuting the case with the assistance of Cristy Crockett, paralegal.

####

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. 

 

WASHINGTON – A former officer of the Louisville Metro Police Department pleaded guilty today to using unreasonable force against an arrestee.

According to court documents, former officer Cory P. Evans, 33, of Sellersburg, Indiana, was arraigned and pleaded guilty to striking an individual in the back of the head with a riot stick while the individual was kneeling with hands in the air, surrendering for arrest.

During the plea hearing in federal court, Evans admitted that on May 31, while he was working as a part of the Louisville Metro Police Department Special Response Team, he followed a group of individuals around downtown Louisville to execute arrests for unlawful assembly and violations of curfew. Around the intersection of Brook and Broadway, the victim surrendered for arrest by getting on his knees and placing his hands in the air. While the victim was kneeling in this position, the defendant struck the victim in the back of the head with a riot stick, which created a wound on the back of the victim’s head. The victim fell forward and was taken into custody by other officers. 

“One of our most cherished fundamental rights in the United States is the right to peacefully protest against the government,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke for the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “An officer’s use of excessive force to interfere with the right to protest is particularly damaging to our democracy, and the Department of Justice will continue to investigate and prosecute these cases to the fullest extent of the law.”

“I commend the FBI and LMPD’s Public Integrity Unit for their outstanding work in this case,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett for the Western District of Kentucky.  “The effort put forth by the assigned agents, detectives, and prosecutors was crucial to the successful prosecution of the case.  In addition, the work of those assigned to a case such as this fosters confidence in the system and promotes trust between our citizens and the officers who are sworn to protect them.” 

“While the vast majority of law enforcement officers are hardworking professionals who work conscientiously to protect the public, Cory Evans was simply not one of those officers,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Edward J. Gray of the FBI’s Louisville Field Office. “Every citizen has the right to expect law enforcement officers to act in accordance with the laws they have sworn to uphold. We entrust law enforcement officers with great power and authority, which we, as a community, expect them to wield with the utmost integrity. This case provides another example that abusing that power and authority will not be tolerated in Louisville.”

The crime Evans pleaded guilty to carries a maximum sentence of ten years imprisonment and a $250,000 fine.  Evans is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 23. 

The FBI and the Louisville Metro Police Department’s Public Integrity Unit jointly investigated the case through the Louisville Public Corruption Civil Rights Task Force.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda E. Gregory and Civil Rights Trial Attorney Timothy Visser are prosecuting the case.

 

LOUISVILLE, KY – A federal grand jury in Louisville, Kentucky, returned an indictment today charging a Louisville man with being a felon in possession of a firearm.

According to court documents, Laron Weston 28, shot two individuals on July 26, 2021, in the area of 4900 block of Manslick Road, Louisville, Kentucky.  The red Hummer that Weston was driving at the time of the shooting was located that day by Louisville Metro Police Department (“LMPD”) officers.  An LMPD officer attempted to conduct a traffic stop, and Weston fled from the officer in the vehicle.  After a brief pursuit, Weston wrecked into another vehicle.  Weston then exited the vehicle and attempted to flee on foot.  LMPD officers followed.  After Weston pointed a handgun at one of the officers, a Glock 35 GEN4, .40 caliber pistol with a drum magazine, another LMPD officer tackled WESTON, taking him into custody.

Weston is charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm.  The defendant is currently in state custody on a federal arrest warrant awaiting transfer to federal custody. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of no more than 10 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky and Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearm (ATF), made the announcement.

The ATF and LMPD are investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann Marie Blaylock 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.

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PADUCAH, Ky. – A federal jury convicted a registered sex offender today of attempting to entice a minor to engage in sexual activity.

According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Dustin R. Stone, age 29, of Greenville, Kentucky, was arrested on November 21, 2018, when he traveled to Paducah with the intent of having sex with a 13-year-old female he believed he was communicating with; in fact, Stone was communicating with undercover detectives with the Paducah Police Department.  Stone sent sexually explicit text messages to the investigators and further solicited the encounter through a series of phone calls with an undercover female detective.

In 2014, Stone was previously convicted of Attempted Use of Electronic Means to Induce a Minor in a sex offense in Muhlenberg Circuit Court.  He was ordered in that case to be placed on the sex offender registry for twenty years.

The jury found Stone guilty of Attempted Enticement and Commission of a Felony Involving a Minor by a Person Required to Register as a Sex Offender.

“Assistant U.S. Attorneys Leigh Ann Dycus and Raymond McGee did an outstanding job during the trial of this case,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett.  The investigation and prosecution of those who wish to sexually exploit and abuse our children is a high priority of this office.  I commend the Paducah Police Department for their outstanding investigatory work which resulted in the successful prosecution of the Mr. Stone, a previously convicted sex offender.”   

“I’m thankful for and appreciative of the hard work of the Paducah Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Unit for ensuring this predator is off the streets of Paducah and other communities,” said Paducah Police Chief Brian G. Laird.  “Through our work and cooperation with the U.S. Attorney’s office, Stone was successfully prosecuted and convicted, and will not present a danger to our children for at least the next 20 years.”

Sentencing is scheduled for December 9, 2021.   Under federal law, Stone is facing a mandatory sentence of not less than twenty years imprisonment.   There is no parole in the federal system.

The General Investigations Unit of the Paducah Police Department is investigating the case.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Leigh Ann Dycus and Raymond McGee.

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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 the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc.  For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."

LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY – Addam Turner, age 35, of Jeffersonville, Indiana was sentenced today by United States District Judge Claria Horn Boom to 6 months incarceration to be followed by 3 years of supervised release for threatening a police officer, via Twitter, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 875(c).  As part of the conditions of supervised release, Turner will be subject to electronic location monitoring for 6 months.  He has been in federal custody since February 11, 2021.

According to the plea agreement, Turner admitted that on or about December 28, 2020, he knowingly sent a message in interstate commerce, via the internet and Twitter, containing a true threat to injure the person of A.C., a police officer, by posting to a message containing, among other things, a red bullseye on A.C.' s forehead. Turner transmitted the threatening communication using his Twitter account "Profane812" for the purpose of issuing the threat, or with knowledge that the communication would be viewed as a threat. Turner acknowledged that a reasonable person would have understood the communication as a serious expression of an intention to do harm.

The complaint and indictment filed in the case allege that on Friday, December 25, 2020, Saint Matthews Police Department (SMPD) conducted traffic stops on North Hubbards Lane, in Saint Matthews, Kentucky. SMPD stopped vehicles in a protest caravan. During the traffic stop, Turner approached SMPD officers with an AR-pistol and a holstered handgun on his person.  Turner switched the safety of the AR-pistol into the fire position and placed his right index finger inside the trigger guard and onto the trigger.  SMPD officers issued verbal commands to Turner to remove his hand from this position, putting officers on the scene in fear of imminent physical danger and injury. During his arrest, Turner used physical force against arresting officers acting under official authority. Turner was arrested by SMPD for menacing (misdemeanor) and resisting arrest (misdemeanor). SMPD officer A.C. assisted with Turner’s arrest.  On December 28, 2020, Turner, used the Twitter profile, "Profane812" and a username of @ProfaneRedacted, to post a photograph of A.C. with a red bullseye on the forehead of A.C. and skulls and a burning anarchy symbol in the background of the photograph.  The criminal complaint filed in the case identified Turner as a member of the United Pharoah Guard, also known as the Loujahadeen, which is a Boogaloo Bois based ideology. 

“We take threatening statements made to citizens of the Western District of Kentucky very seriously, stated Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett.  “Threats directed to law enforcement officers who risk their lives daily to keep our communities safe are particularly troubling and will be pursued aggressively.  I appreciate the outstanding work of the FBI and the prosecutors assigned to this case.  Our residents are well-served by their work.”   

“There is perhaps a misperception by some that people can say anything they want over the Internet with impunity.  When somebody makes threatening statements, whether directed to a law enforcement officer or any other person, those words have consequences, ” said Acting Special Agent in Edward J. Gray of the FBI’s Louisville Field Office.  “Mr. Turner became a felon today because he thought he could threaten a law enforcement officer online.  Mr. Turner found out how wrong he was.  Others should learn from his mistake and remember that the FBI takes these matters seriously and will work with our law enforcement and prosecutive partners to actively investigate and prosecute those individuals who pose a threat to the safety of our community.” 

The FBI investigated the case.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua Judd and DOJ Trial Attorney Dmitriy Slavin prosecuted the case.

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A Louisville, Kentucky man was sentenced today by United States District Judge Benjamin Beaton to time served (five months) and a three-year term of supervised release for violating the Riot Act on January 6, 2021, in downtown Louisville.  John Subleski, age 33, of Louisville was arrested by the FBI on February 11, 2021, and has been in federal custody since that date.  Subleski posted multiple statements to social media to incite riots and violence and later committed an act of violence by firing his weapon at a motorist around the second street bridge during a riot in downtown Louisville on January 6, 2021.  At the time protesters were stopping and threatening motorists with firearms.  It is a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2101 to incite, participate, and commit an act of violence such as discharging a firearm.

According to court documents, including the Indictment and criminal complaint, Subleski used a facility of interstate commerce, namely, the internet, Signal, and Facebook, with intent to incite, organize, promote, and carry on a riot and to commit an act of violence in furtherance of a riot on or about December 29, 2020, to January 7, 2021. According to the Indictment, Subleski is a member and leader of the United Pharaoh Guard “UPG”, a/k/a “Loujahadeen,” a Boogaloo Bois based anti-government anti-police ideology in Louisville, Kentucky. 

On December 29, 2020, Subleski posted, “Just thinking of how they've treated us, protectors of the people, as evil...Makes me wanna show them how evil we can be. I no longer care for nor do I want a peaceful resolution or revolution...I want [drop of blood emoji.].”  On December 30, 2020, Subleski wrote, “How much more f-----d up s---t gotta happen before the rest of you arm yourselves and armor up and join the resistance?”  On January 5, 2021, Subleski posted to his Facebook account: “The only thing that has ever beaten tyranny was a sword or a rifles….DASSSSS IT.  NOTHING ELSE!  GETCHO RIFLE AND LET IT BANG AGAINST THE GOVERNMENT.”  On or about January 6, 2021, riots were occurring in the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C.  Subleski, posted in response to events occurring in the Nation’s capital, to a Facebook Account posts inciting, promoting, and encouraging a riot in Louisville, Kentucky. At 12:02 p.m. on January 6, 2021, Subleski posted to his Facebook account, “Those of you afraid to [B]OOG because “What if we die?” Well what if we f------g live? get out there, do something!” At 2:06 p.m. on January 6, 2021, Subleski posted to his Facebook account, “They storming the capital in DC and ya’ll can’t unit enough to storm the gov buildings here….smh I HATE IT. 

At 3:24 p.m. on January 6, 2021,  Subleski posted to his Facebook “OTTA YOUR HOMES AND INTO THE STREETS F---K THE GOVERNMENT AND THE POLICE!!!!!!!! LETS GET THIS LUAU STARTED”.At 3:38 p.m. on January 6, 2021, Subleski posted to his Facebook, “Time to Storm LMPD.” On January 6, 2021, in a Signal chat with other members of the UPG, Subleski posted, “Holy s--t woman shot in capital.  Ya’ll lets storm LMPD”.  On January 6, 2021, in a Signal chat with other members of UPG, Subleski posted, “Everyone be armed and armored because s--t can go south quick and if it kicks off in one state then like dominos WE ALL BALL”.

At around 7:00 p.m. on January 6, 2021, rioters including UPG members surrounded a motorist at 2nd and W. Broadway attempting to drive around vehicles and individuals blocking the intersection.  As a car drove on the sidewalk individuals approached the car to prevent it from turning on Broadway.  A member of UPG pointed weapons at a driver in a car and damaged his vehicle with a metal trash can when the driver attempted to leave.

Thereafter, more than 20 persons, including Subleski, assembled at 2nd and Main Street closing traffic on main street and to and from Indiana on the 2nd  Street Bridge and began rioting by engaging in acts of violence that constituted a clear and present danger and resulted in damage to the property. The assemblage pointed weapons and threatened motorists and damaged vehicles. Subleski participated in the rioting by inciting protestors, providing armed security, and ultimately firing his weapon, committing an act of violence in furtherance of a riot, endangering protestors in the line of fire after a motorist drove past the blocked intersection at 2nd and Main Street.   

On January 7, 2021, Subleski posted to this Facebook, “ALL I WANN DO IS GO OUT [BOOGN]  WITH THE SHOOTERS [WINK EMOJI] UPG/LOUIJIHADEEN”.     

“I commend the FBI agents who investigated this matter and the prosecutors who worked alongside them to successfully prosecute the case,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett.  “Individuals who incite riots and commit violent acts in violation of federal law, subjecting citizens to violence and fear, should know they will face swift investigation and prosecution in the Western District of Kentucky.”    

“Mr. Subleski’s conviction and sentence underscore the FBI’s determination that when domestic violent extremists turn to mayhem and destruction, they will be brought to justice,”  said Acting Special Agent in Charge Edward J. Gray of the FBI’s Louisville Field Office.  “Mr. Subleski is now a felon and will not be permitted to possess firearms. As a result, our community is safer. FBI Louisville will continue to work with our community, law enforcement, and prosecutorial partners to ensure our citizens’ rights and safety are protected.” 

The FBI investigated the case.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua Judd, Bryan Calhoun, and DOJ Trial Attorney Dmitry Slavin prosecuted the case.

Louisville, KY – A federal jury convicted a pair of Louisville-based brothers, Eric and Marcus Bennett, this week of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin.   Eric Bennett, age 43, and Marcus Bennett, age 44, were convicted of conspiring to distribute more than 100 grams of heroin.  Eric Bennett was also convicted on charges of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and being a felon in possession of a firearm.

According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, the defendants each sold heroin to a confidential source between November 2016 and March 2017.  Eric Bennett was arrested in February 2017 after taking evasive maneuvers to evade law enforcement surveillance, and tossing two parcels of heroin out the car window in a residential neighborhood.  Federal agents backtracked on foot over the route Bennett had taken and recovered the heroin in a driveway and the curtilage near a recycling bin.  Eric Bennett was arrested at that time and found with a loaded Sig Sauer p250 pistol in the glove compartment of his car.  Eric Bennett has a prior state court conviction for trafficking in a controlled substance (cocaine) and fleeing or evading police.

The defendants were both acquitted of charges related to the 2016 shooting of a United States Postal Service mail carrier who survived a gunshot wound to the face.  The charges related to the shooting included conspiracy to murder a federal employee, attempted murder of a federal employee, forcible assault of a federal employee, and discharge of a firearm during a crime of violence. 

Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky made the announcement.

The United States Postal Inspection Service investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Marisa Ford presented the case at trial for the United States.   Sentencing is scheduled before Senior Judge Thomas B. Russell on October 19, 2021, in the U.S. Gene Snyder Courthouse in Louisville, Kentucky, at 10:00 a.m.

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LOUISVILLE, Ky. – A federal grand jury in Louisville, Kentucky, returned an indictment on June 16, 2021, charging two Louisville men with carjacking and brandishing firearms.

According to court documents, Cameron Burnett, 30, carjacked a Toyota Camry while brandishing a firearm on January 18, 2021, in Louisville Kentucky.  Additionally, Burnett and Timothy McCurley, 33, carjacked a Hyundai Tucson on January 22, 2021, in Mt. Washington, Kentucky.  During the course of that crime, McCurley brandished a firearm. 

Burnett is charged with carjacking and brandishing a firearm during the commission of a crime of violence. The defendant made his initial court appearance on June 22, 2021, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Regina S. Edwards of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. If convicted, he faces a mandatory maximum penalty of 15 years in prison for each carjacking and a mandatory minimum penalty of 7 years in prison for brandishing a firearm. 

McCurley is charged with carjacking and brandishing a firearm during the commission of a crime of violence. The defendant will make his initial court appearance on July 29th at 1:30 pm, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Colin H. Lindsay of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison for carjacking and a mandatory minimum penalty of 7 years in prison for brandishing a firearm.  For each defendant, a federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky; and Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge of the Louisville Field Office Robert Brown made the announcement.

The FBI, Louisville Metro Police Department, Mt. Pleasant Police Department, and Elizabethtown Police Department are investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann Marie Blaylock 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.

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Bowling Green – A federal jury convicted a Simpson County, Kentucky, man yesterday of Distribution and Possession with the Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking.

According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Donavan Bell, 40, sold greater than five grams of methamphetamine to a confidential source on July 23, 2019. On that date a confidential source was given a recording device by agents with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the South-Central Kentucky Drug Task Force. The confidential source then drove to Bell’s residence in Simpson County, Kentucky where they picked up Bell and drove him to meet with a methamphetamine dealer. Bell purchased additional methamphetamine and then sold more than five grams of methamphetamine to the confidential source for $250. The entire transaction was video recorded. During the transaction, Bell appeared to have a handgun sitting on the table in front him.

On August 7, 2019, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Bell’s residence in Simpson County, Kentucky. As law enforcement surrounded the house, a Simpson County Sheriff’s Deputy saw an arm throw a bag out of a back window. The bag was recovered and contained greater than five grams of methamphetamine. Law enforcement also located digital scales, money, and two handguns hidden in an air vent. The air vent appeared to have been made to act as a hiding spot for items. The handguns were loaded, and one resembled the firearm seen on video during the controlled purchase conducted on July 23, 2019.

After the jury convicted Bell, they were presented with evidence that Bell had a prior federal conviction for Possession with the Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base in Western District of Kentucky case number 1:08-CR-00007. Due to this prior conviction, and Bell having served more than twelve months for that conviction, and his release from custody on that sentence within fifteen years of the new conviction, Bell will face enhanced penalties.

Sentencing is scheduled for September 16, 2021. Bell faces a mandatory minimum of fifteen years imprisonment due to the enhanced punishments, with a maximum potential penalty of life imprisonment.

Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky and HSI Special Agent in Charge Jerry C. Templet, Jr. made the announcement.

HSI, the South-Central Kentucky Drug Task Force, and the Simpson County Sheriff’s Department investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mark J. Yurchisin II and Madison Sewell of the Bowling Green U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case with the assistance of Cristy Crockett, paralegal.

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WASHINGTON – A Kentucky man was sentenced in federal court to life in prison without parole in connection with his racially motivated murder of two Black patrons at a Kroger grocery store, and his attempted murder of a third in Jeffersontown, Kentucky. 

Gregory A. Bush, 53, of Louisville, Kentucky previously pleaded guilty-but-mentally-ill to state charges for murder, attempted murder and wanton endangerment arising out of the shooting and was sentenced to a life term in state prison.

During his federal plea hearing, Bush admitted that on Oct. 24, 2018, he drove to a Kroger grocery store in Jeffersontown armed with a Smith & Wesson, model 411, .40-caliber pistol. In the store, Bush followed a Black man, who was shopping with his grandson, for the length of an aisle before pulling the gun from his waistband and shooting the victim in the back of the head. Bush then shot the victim several more times in the torso, killing him. Bush had no prior relationship with the victim and chose to shoot him because of the victim’s race.  Bush then re-holstered his gun and calmly walked out of the store.

In the parking lot, Bush walked up to a Black woman, and shot her several times in the head and body, killing her. Bush had no prior relationship with this victim and chose to shoot her because of her race.

Seconds later, Bush encountered a Black man who was in lawful possession of a handgun. The third victim asked Bush what was going on, and Bush, without responding, began walking toward him with the gun drawn. The third victim fired at Bush, and Bush returned fire. After about a minute, Bush stopped shooting and walked away. Bush had no prior relationship with the third victim and chose to shoot at him because of his race. Bush next encountered a white man, who was legally armed with a firearm. Bush told him, “Don’t shoot me [and] I won’t shoot you. Whites don’t shoot whites.”  

“The defendant is being held accountable for his vicious, racially-motivated attack on three Black individuals who were targeted because of the color of their skin, resulting in the untimely death of two of his victims and irreparable harm to the third,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke for the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Racially motivated acts of violence must not be tolerated in our country today. The Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice will continue to work with our federal, state and local partners to ensure that individuals who commit bias-motivated crimes are brought to justice for their actions.”

“Life in prison is appropriate in light of the brutal acts committed by the defendant against our fellow citizens,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky. “The initial law enforcement response and investigation, collaboration by federal and state prosecutors, and the sentence imposed serve notice to all that race-based violence will be met with swift and exacting justice.”

“Today, Mr. Bush was held responsible for his vile conduct," said Special Agent in Charge Robert Brown of the FBI Louisville Field Office. “We are a diverse city and country, bound together by shared values and beliefs. We are also a nation of laws. When those like Mr. Bush betray our shared values and violate our laws, the FBI and its Department of Justice partners will be ready to hold them accountable. This is just one example of how hate and violence will not be tolerated and have no place in our community.” 

“This was a heinous crime where innocent victims were gunned down for no other reason than the color of their skin,” said Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the ATF Louisville Division. “The ATF Louisville Division worked tirelessly alongside our law enforcement partners to seek justice for the victims, their families, and the community at large impacted by this hate crime. Today’s life sentence in prison demonstrates law enforcement’s stance against race-based violence and our commitment to justice.”

This case was investigated by the FBI Louisville Office, the ATF Louisville Field Division, and the Jeffersontown Police Department, and was prosecuted by Special Litigation Counsel Christopher J. Perras of the DOJ’s Civil Rights Division, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda Gregory of the Western District of Kentucky.

The following is a corrected media release updating the release previously issued on June 15, 2021.  This media release clarifies that the defendants, Dr. Jeffrey Campbell and Mark Dyer, were found guilty of, among other charges, conspiracy to unlawfully distribute controlled substances and were acquitted of all substantive distribution of controlled substances counts.      

LOUISVILLE – On Friday, June 11, 2021, a federal jury convicted a Louisville physician, nurse practitioner, and the medical practice in United States District Court, before District Judge Rebecca G. Jennings, of conspiracy to unlawfully distribute and dispense controlled substances, conspiracy to commit health care fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering.  

Following a six-week trial, the jury deliberated approximately three days before finding Dr. Jeffrey Campbell, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Mark Dyer, and Physicians Primary Care, PLLC (“PPC”), guilty on 13 of 22 charges. Sentencing is scheduled before Judge Jennings on September 8, 2021, at 9 a.m., in Louisville.

The jury found Campbell, Dyer, and PPC guilty of conspiracy to unlawfully distribute and dispense controlled substances, not for a legitimate medical purpose and outside the usual course of professional practice between January 1, 2009, and December 1, 2016. The controlled substances prescribed were Oxycodone and Methadone, schedule II controlled substances.  The jury also found Campbell, Dyer, and PPC guilty of conspiring to commit health care fraud for falsely and fraudulently billing Kentucky Medicaid (Passport), Indiana Medicaid and Medicare by submitting claims for physical therapy, counseling and exercise services using evaluation and management codes in order to obtain higher reimbursement. Campbell and Dyer were also convicted of conspiracy to commit money laundering for paying and/or receiving bonuses to incentivize the ordering of physical therapy, counseling, and exercise.  Finally, Campbell and Dyer were convicted of billing for physical therapy services using evaluation and management codes as if a physician performed a service on the patients, but in reality, a non-physician and non-physical therapist performed the service on the patients. 

“I commend the outstanding work of the prosecution team and that of the agents and investigators who worked on this case,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett.  “Conspiring to unlawfully distribute controlled substances by medical professionals entrusted with the health and well-being of our citizens is extremely troubling.  This office, working with our federal and state partners, will continue to vigorously pursue this kind of criminal conduct, as well as all forms of health care fraud, throughout the entire Western District of Kentucky.”

“Conspiring to unlawfully distribute and dispense controlled substances with no legitimate medical purpose and the fraudulent billing of federally funded health care programs will not be tolerated,” said Lamont Pugh III, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Office of Inspector General – Chicago Region. “These convictions send a strong message that the OIG and our law enforcement and prosecutorial partners are committed to protecting the health and safety of patients and taxpayer dollars.”

“Physicians and medical professionals take an oath that obligates them to do no harm.  Dr. Campbell, Mark Dyer, and the other defendants willingly broke that oath – by conspiring to provide unnecessary drugs and defrauding various benefits programs – solely to line their pockets,” said Special Agent in Charge Robert Brown of the FBI’s Louisville Field Office.  “Today’s guilty verdict sends a message to those who prioritize profit over care:  The FBI and its partners will root out physicians and healthcare professionals who let dollar signs rather than medical needs drive their treatment of patients.”

“Today’s announcement illustrates IRS CI’s commitment to combatting healthcare fraud and those who launder proceeds of healthcare fraud,” said Bryant Jackson, Special Agent in Charge, IRS, Criminal Investigation. “I applaud the terrific efforts of the trial team and our law enforcement partners in investigating and prosecuting this important case.”

Assistant United States Attorneys Joseph Ansari, Lettricea Jefferson-Webb and Christopher Tieke prosecuted the case. Elizabeth Fauxpoint, paralegal, and Bob Masterson, health care fraud investigator, assisted the prosecution team.  The case was investigated by the United States Department for Health and Human Services (HHS), Defense Criminal Investigative Services (DCIS), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Indiana Attorney General’s Office and the Kentucky Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU).

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OWENSBORO, KY – A federal grand jury in Bowling Green returned an indictment yesterday charging a Daviess County man with illegally possessing a firearm.

According to court documents, Carlos M. Hagan-El, 43, of Owensboro, KY, was found on or about January 15, 2021, in Daviess County, KY in possession of two handguns. Hagan-El has previously been convicted of felony offenses for First-Degree Trafficking in a Controlled Substance (while in Possession of a Firearm), Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, First-Degree Trafficking in a Controlled Substance (less than two grams of methamphetamine), and Trafficking in a Controlled Substance within 1000 Feet of a School.

Hagan-El is charged with one count of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person. If convicted, he faces a maximum of 10 years in prison. If convicted, and the defendant qualifies as an Armed Career Criminal, he faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky and Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearm (ATF), made the announcement.

The ATF and the Owensboro Police Department are investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark J. Yurchisin II of the Bowling Green U.S. Attorney’s Office 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.

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BOWLING GREEN, KY – A federal grand jury in Bowling Green returned an indictment yesterday charging a Barren County man with drug trafficking and illegal possession of firearms.

According to court documents, Eric R. Sturgeon, 40, of Cave City, KY, was found on or about November 12, 2020, in Barren County, KY to possess with the intent to distribute fifty (50) grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectible amount of methamphetamine. Sturgeon is also charged with possessing two handguns on the same date after he had been convicted of a felony, and in furtherance of his drug trafficking.

Sturgeon is also charged with possessing with the intent to distribute fifty (50) grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectible amount of methamphetamine, on or about May 6, 2021, in Warren County, KY. On this same date, Sturgeon possessed a different handgun after he had been convicted of a felony and possessed the handgun in furtherance of his drug trafficking.

Sturgeon is charged with two counts of Possession with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, two counts of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person, and two counts of Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking. If convicted, he faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison.  There is no parole in the federal system. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearm (ATF), made the announcement.

The ATF, Barren River Drug Task Force, and Bowling Green/Warren County Drug Task Force are investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark J. Yurchisin II of the Bowling Green U.S. Attorney’s Office 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.

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Bowling Green – A federal grand jury in Bowling Green returned an indictment today charging a Greenville, Kentucky man with the possession, receipt, distribution, and production of child pornography.

According to court documents, Corey Stephens, 29, of Greenville, Kentucky, possessed, received, distributed, and produced child pornography.  According to a previously filed criminal complaint, on May 16, 2021, a Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Special Agent acting in an undercover capacity encountered an individual on the KIK messenger application who posted an image of child pornography to a group.

HSI traced the message to Corey Stephens’s Greenville, Kentucky home, and HSI and Kentucky State Police executed a federal search warrant there on May 20, 2021. 

Stephens is charged with four counts:  possessing, receiving, distributing, and producing child pornography. If convicted at trial, Stephens faces not less than 15 years and not more than 90 years in prison for the crimes charged.  There is no parole in the federal system.  The case is next scheduled for arraignment on June 24, 2021, at 10 A.M. before U.S. Magistrate Judge H. Brent Brennenstuhl of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. 

Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky and Assistant Special Agent in Charge Harley R. Shuler of the Department of Homeland Security Investigations made the announcement.  

The Department of Homeland Security Investigations and the Kentucky State Police investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Madison Sewell, Branch Chief of the Bowling Green U.S. Attorney’s Office,  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.

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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 the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims.

 

PADUCAH – A Marshall County, Kentucky man pleaded guilty today to Conspiracy to Distribute U-47700, commonly known as U-4, a Schedule I controlled substance, and to Distributing, Possessing with the Intent to Distribute, and Importing U-4 from China. 

According to court documents, Jevan Sheppard, 29, of Marshall County, Kentucky, admitted to conspiring with others to distribute and to possess with the intent to distribute U-4, a Schedule I controlled substance over the period from November 14, 2016 to March 22, 2017.  Further, Sheppard admitted to distributing U-4 on or about March 13 and 14, 2017, and to possessing U-4 with the intent to distribute on or about March 22, 2017.  Sheppard also admitted to importing U-4 into the United States from China during the period from November 14, 2016, until March 22, 2017.  He will be sentenced September 23, 2021 at 10;00 a.m. CDT.

Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky and the Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Louisville Field Division Jeffrey T. Scott, made the announcement.

The DEA, Calvert City Police Department, Marshall County Sheriff’s Department, McCracken County Sheriff’s Department, Paducah Police Department, and United States Customs and Border Protection all investigated the case, with assistance from the Marshall County Attorney’s Office and the Commonwealth’s Attorney for Marshall County.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Seth A. Hancock and Raymond McGee of the Paducah, Kentucky United States Attorney’s Branch Office prosecuted the case.

LOUISVILLE, KY – A North Carolina man pleaded guilty today to making an interstate communication with intent to extort. 

According to court documents, Dino J. Gaudio, 64, of Mooresville, North Carolina, was arraigned and pleaded guilty to sending a text message through interstate commerce as part of an attempt to extort the University of Louisville men’s basketball program. 

During the plea hearing in federal court, Gaudio admitted that on March 17, 2021, after he was informed that his employment contract with the University of Louisville would not be renewed, he threatened to report to the media that the University of Louisville men’s basketball program had allegedly violated National College Athletic Association rules in its production of recruiting videos for prospective student-athletes and in its use of graduate assistants in practices, unless he was paid his salary of $25,000 a month for an additional 17 months, or received a lump sum payment of $425,000.  Later the same day, as a continuation of this threat, Gaudio sent a text message to University of Louisville personnel containing one of the recruiting videos he was threatening to send to the media.

The crime Gaudio pleaded guilty to carries a maximum sentence of two years imprisonment and a $250,000 fine.  Gaudio is scheduled to be sentenced on August 27th at 1:30 p.m.   

Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky and Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Louisville Field Office James Robert Brown, Jr. made the announcement.

The FBI and the University of Louisville Police Department are investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda E. Gregory is prosecuting the case.

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Louisville – A Louisville man was sentenced last week to 2 years of probation, including 8 months of home incarceration, for aiming a laser pointer at a Louisville Metro Police helicopter.

According to court documents, Manuel Martin Salazar-Leija, Jr., 26, of Louisville, aimed the beam of a laser pointer at an LMPD helicopter on September 25, 2020, during protests in the city.  Lasers can blind pilots and cause the aircraft to crash, and aiming a laser at an aircraft is a federal felony offense.  

In addition to 2 years of probation and 8 months of home incarceration, United States District Court Judge David Hale ordered Salazar-Leija, Jr., to pay a $2,500 fine and the costs of his home incarceration.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorney David Weiser prosecuted the case.

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LOUISVILLE, Ky. – A federal grand jury returned an indictment against Andrew Wade Dunn, age 35, of Jefferson County, Kentucky, on May 25, 2021, for stealing firearms from a licensed dealer and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon announced Acting United States Attorney Michael A. Bennett and ATF Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow.

Wade was arrested by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Louisville Field Division, with assistance from Jeffersontown and Oldham County, Kentucky Police Departments, on May 6, 2021, and charged via criminal complaint with federal firearms offenses. 

According to the Criminal Complaint filed in the case, surveillance video from Papa’s Guns, Ammo, and Archery, a federal firearms licensee located in Pewee Valley, Kentucky, showed Dunn allegedly shooting the glass front door at approximately 2:20 a.m., on May 3, 2021, which created an entry point.  Multiple individuals, not identified in the Criminal Complaint, were seen in the area waiting until approximately 5:30 a.m., when Dunn is seen squeezing through the security bars on the front door of the business.  Once inside, video shows Dunn breaking one display case and removing approximately 18 firearms from the case and wall.

On May 6, 2021, Jeffersontown Police were dispatched to the Mainstay Hotel, located on Commonwealth Drive in Louisville, on a report of a stolen 2017 Hyundai.  Dunn was in the driver’s seat of the stolen vehicle and when officers arrived, he fled to a commercial office building on Bluegrass Parkway.  Officers located Dunn by a dumpster where he was taken into custody along with a stolen Ruger EC9s 9-millimeter semi-automatic pistol.

On May 5th, ATF and the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), offered a combined $5,000 reward for the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the break-in and theft of firearms from Papa’s Guns, Ammo, and Archery.  The individual who provided information to ATF will remain anonymous.

Assistant United States Attorney Alicia Gomez is prosecuting this case. The ATF Louisville Division is investigating the case with assistance from the Oldham County and Jeffersontown Police Departments.

The indictment of a person by a grand jury is an accusation only and that person is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

BOWLING GREEN, KY. – A federal grand jury returned an indictment against Freddy Manuel Gonzalez and Xavior Caine Posey for the murder of Brian Russell on December 30, 2020, in Franklin, Kentucky, announced Acting United States Attorney Michael A. Bennett. 

As alleged in the Criminal Complaint filed in the case, over the course of 2020, Freddy Manuel Gonzalez, and Brian Russell both dated Russell’s ex-wife.  She ultimately broke up with Gonzalez in mid-December 2020.  Russell had told co-workers that Gonzalez had once threatened him with a gun. 

In the early morning on December 30, 2020, Franklin Police responded to a shots-fired complaint at Russell’s home and found that Russell had been shot three times.  Russell died later that day. 

Gonzalez and Posey were co-workers.  The Criminal Complaint alleges that December 29 and December 30 text messages between Gonzalez and Posey discuss the murder, and that Gonzalez offered to pay Posey to commit the murder.  

The federal grand jury sitting in Bowling Green returned a one count indictment against both Gonzalez and Posey on May 20, 2021, charging them with a violation of 18 United States Code, Section 1958, Murder for Hire.  Gonzalez and Posey are both now in federal custody. 

If convicted at trial, the maximum sentence is death and the minimum sentence is life in prison, and there is a maximum $250,000 fine.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Madison Sewell and David Weiser.  The investigation has been led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Franklin Police Department.  The Warren County Sheriff’s Office, the Logan County Sheriff’s Office, the Muhlenberg County Sheriff’s Office, the South Central Kentucky Drug Task Force, the Warren County Drug Task Force, the Kentucky State Police, the Russellville Police Department, the Bowling Green Police Department and the Simpson County Commonwealth Attorney’s Office also participated in the investigation.

The indictment of a person by a grand jury is an accusation only and that person is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

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OWENSBORO, KY. – An Owensboro, Kentucky, man was charged by a federal grand jury this week for illegally possessing and operating a pill press as part of a drug trafficking operation, announced Acting United States Attorney Michael A. Bennett.  

The grand jury returned a multiple count indictment against Sheridan Dowell, also known as Sheridan Green, 32, of Owensboro.  According to the indictment, Dowell is charged with possessing a tableting machine designed to manufacture a controlled substance, distributing fentanyl and alprazolam, and maintaining a drug-involved premises for the manufacture and distribution of heroin, fentanyl, and alprazolam, for events occurring between June 24, 2020, and March 3, 2021, in Daviess County, Kentucky.

If convicted at trial, the maximum sentence for Dowell is 20 years in prison, a $1,000,000 fine, and 3 years of supervised release. 

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank E. Dahl III.  The case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration Evansville Resident Office, Owensboro Police Department, and Daviess County Sheriff’s Office.

The indictment of a person by a grand jury is an accusation only and that person is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

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