Western District of Louisiana

LAFAYETTE, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that Tre’Vin R. Bob, 23, of Lafayette, Louisiana, was sentenced by United States District Judge Robert R. Summerhays to 63 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.

Tre’Vin R. Bob had outstanding arrest warrants from the 15th Judicial District Court and, on January 8, 2019, officers with the Lafayette Police Department observed him walking in a Lafayette neighborhood. When Bob saw the officers, he fled on foot and officers chased after him. He was thereafter apprehended and arrested. On January 9, 2019, law enforcement officers intercepted a call made by Bob from the jail to a family member wherein he admitted that, before he ran from officers the day prior, he hid a firearm in the backyard of a residence in that same neighborhood, and he described the location. In the call, Bob asked the family member to retrieve the firearm before it was found by law enforcement. Detectives with the Lafayette Police Department went to the location described by Bob and retrieved the loaded firearm.

Bob had previously been convicted of several felony offenses, including illegal possession of stolen things over $1,500, attempted simple burglary, theft of a firearm, and attempted possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and was therefore prohibited from possessing a firearm.

The ATF and Lafayette Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney J. Daniel Siefker, Jr. prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. PSN is part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime. To learn more about Project Safe Neighborhoods, go to www.justice.gov/psn.

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SHREVEPORT, La. - Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that two men have been sentenced by U.S. District Judge Elizabeth E. Foote for illegal possession of drugs and firearms. 

Charles David Dreesen, 33, of Woodlawn, Texas, was sentenced to 230 months (19 years, 2 months) in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking crime. Dreesen pleaded guilty to the charges on July 29, 2020.

Cody Harrison a/k/a “CJ,” 30, of Shreveport, Louisiana, was sentenced to 201 months (16 years, 9 months) in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking crime. Harrison pleaded guilty to the charges on June 16, 2020.

“The sentences imposed today send a clear message that using guns in furtherance of drug trafficking is a sure path to a long prison sentence when these cases are prosecuted in federal court,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Van Hook. “The United States Attorney’s Office and the DEA will continue to work with the Louisiana State Police, Caddo Parish Sheriff's Office, Greenwood Police Department, and our other local law enforcement partners to make our communities safer by taking dangerous drug dealers off the street.”

According to evidence introduced in court, in January 2020, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Task Force Officers received a tip from a source that Harrison and Dreesen would be returning to the Shreveport/Bossier City from Houston with a large amount of methamphetamine and the vehicle they were driving was described to them. Once Harrison and Dreesen entered into the Western District of Louisiana, law enforcement officers initiated a traffic stop but the vehicle began accelerating instead and a chase ensued. The chase involved several state law enforcement agencies and eventually the vehicle went back into Texas before running out of gas. Dreesen was the driver of the vehicle and Harrison a passenger. When the car stalled, both defendants attempted to flee from law enforcement agents but were apprehended shortly thereafter.

During the vehicle chase, officers observed several items being thrown from the window of the moving vehicle. A firearm and gun holster were later found at those locations. Both defendants admitted to possessing a firearm and Harrison admitted to having the firearm thrown from the window.

Both defendants are convicted felons. Dreesen has prior convictions for felony theft, possession of marijuana, and possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance. Harrison has a prior conviction for possession of a controlled substance. Individuals convicted of a felony are prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition.

The DEA, Louisiana State Police, Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office, Greenwood Police Department, and Harrison County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney J. Aaron Crawford prosecuted the case.

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SHREVEPORT, La. - Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that a federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging a local physician with illegally distributing controlled substances.

Larry Clyde Daniels, 65, of Keithville, Louisiana, was charged in the indictment with 82 counts of distribution of controlled substances outside the bounds of professional medical practice. Daniels is a licensed physician in the State of Louisiana and has held himself out to be a family practice physician since approximately March 1984.

The indictment alleges that from May 2016 through September 2017, Daniels knowingly and intentionally distributed, and aided and abetted the distribution of, mixtures and substances containing detectable amounts of Buprenorphine, Clonazepam, and Adderall, without a legitimate medical purpose and outside the usual course of professional practice, on 82 occasions. These alleged instances of illegal distribution of controlled substances, and aiding and abetting of the distribution of same, form the basis of the 82-count indictment against Daniels.

An indictment is merely an accusation and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

The Drug Enforcement Administration is conducting the investigation and Assistant U.S. Attorney Tennille M. Gilreath is prosecuting the case.

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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.

 

ALEXANDRIA, La.  - Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that Santiago Delfierro Anguiano, a/k/a “Shag,” age 50, a federal inmate, was sentenced today by United States District Judge Dee D. Drell for attempting to obtain contraband in prison.  Judge Drell sentenced Anguiano to 120 months (10 years) in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release. This sentence will run consecutive to the 30-month federal sentence he is currently serving for Illegal Re-entry of a Removed Alien.

Anguiano pled guilty to the charge on January 16, 2020. Evidence introduced at the hearing revealed that in March 2016 while serving as a federal inmate at the U.S. Penitentiary in Pollock, Louisiana, Anguiano conspired with others to attempt to obtain methamphetamine in FCC Pollock. Anguiano knew that the methamphetamine was an illegal substance and that he was prohibited from having it. The methamphetamine was seized in a vehicle driven by a co-defendant in this case during a traffic stop in Woodworth, Louisiana, on March 31, 2016 before making its way into the prison. The seized methamphetamine was tested at the DEA South Central Laboratory and found to be 97% pure.

The FBI and Louisiana State Police conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel J. McCoy prosecuted the case.

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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.

 

 

SHREVEPORT, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that two men from Las Vegas, Nevada, responsible for distributing large quantities of methamphetamine to the Shreveport/Bossier City area have been sentenced by United States District Judge S. Maurice Hicks, Jr.

Rodolfo Baires, a/k/a “Seiko,” 33, of Las Vegas, Nevada, was sentenced to 151 months (12 years, 7 months) in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine with intent to distribute.

James Lee Logan, 59, of Las Vegas, Nevada, was sentenced to 63 months (5 years, 3 months) in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute.

According to evidence introduced in Court, during the month of May 2017, agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration learned that an individual from Las Vegas with the nickname “Seiko” was planning to send a large quantity of methamphetamine to the Shreveport/Bossier City area sometime during that month. Law enforcement agents learned that someone named “James” would be delivering the narcotics, as well as a description of the vehicle he would be driving.

During the early morning hours of May 26, 2017, a Louisiana State Police Trooper conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle for a traffic violation. The vehicle was being driven by James Lee Logan. Logan advised law enforcement officers that he was traveling from Las Vegas to Shreveport. An open-air search was conducted by a K-9 officer which resulted in a positive indication of the presence of narcotics on a spare tire located in the rear of the vehicle. A search of the spare tire revealed eight packages of suspected methamphetamine wrapped in cellophane and brown tape, weighing 6,100 grams. The narcotics were sent to the DEA Crime Lab and tests confirmed that it was in fact methamphetamine.

Utilizing an informant after Logan’s arrest, agents received several recorded phone calls from “Seiko” inquiring as to the whereabouts of “James.” Agents were able to confirm that “Seiko” was in fact Rodolfo Baires and he was living in Las Vegas. Agents obtained a photo of Baires and a confidential source confirmed that Baires and “Seiko” were in fact one in the same and he was the individual responsible for sending 6,100 grams of methamphetamine that was seized from James Lee Logan in the Western District of Louisiana.

The DEA and Louisiana State Police conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon B. Brown prosecuted the case.

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ALEXANDRIA, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that Joe Louis Anderson, 53, of Winnfield, Louisiana was sentenced in federal court for stealing firearms from a local store.

United States District Judge Dee D. Drell sentenced Anderson to 42 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for theft of firearms from a federal firearms dealer. Anderson was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $5,000. Evidence introduced in court revealed that during the early morning hours of July 25, 2019, Anderson unlawfully entered the Governor’s Affair store and stole five firearms from the firearm display case. The store had surveillance video of Anderson stealing the firearms and leaving the store with them.

Anderson has a lengthy criminal history, with previous convictions for second degree burglary and possession of stolen vehicle (1991); possession of stolen vehicle and larceny (1992); second degree burglary and knowingly concealing stolen property (1995); larceny of an automobile (1997); and possession of contraband in penal institution (1998).

The ATF and Winnfield Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian C. Flanagan prosecuted the case.

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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.

 

SHREVEPORT, La. – Christopher M.K. Dumas, 29, of Shreveport, Louisiana, was sentenced today by United States District Judge S. Maurice Hicks, Jr. to 81 years in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release for his participation in five armed robberies in Shreveport and one in Marshall, Texas, announced Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook. 

“The sentence imposed today sends a crystal clear message that criminals who use guns and violence to terrorize the community will face severe consequences when they are prosecuted in federal court,” said Acting United States Attorney Van Hook.  “The United States Attorney’s Office, the ATF, and the FBI will continue to work with the Shreveport Police Department and our other local law enforcement partners to make our communities safer by taking dangerous felons like Mr. Dumas off the street.  Mr. Dumas’s long history of gun violence came to an end today.”

Dumas was convicted by a federal jury in March 2020 following a four-day trial in U.S. District Court. The evidence at trial established that between March 17, 2017 and April 15, 2017, Dumas robbed at gunpoint, a Metro PCS store, H&S Grocery and Liquor, Inc., Werner Park Grocery, and Rodeway Inn & Suites, all located in Shreveport, Louisiana, and a Boost Mobile store in Marshall, Texas.

On March 17, 2017 and March 20, 2017, Dumas entered a Metro PCS store waving a .38 Colt Army revolver, demanding the money from the register and safe. He told one employee to put the money in the bag or he would shoot him in the leg. On March 17, Dumas left with $2,568 and on March 20, with $400. Dumas held up an H&S Grocery and Liquor clerk at gunpoint on March 30, 3017, and told the clerk “give me all the money or I’ll shoot you.” The clerk gave Dumas all of the cash ($400) in the register.

On April 1, 2017, after having met with his parole officer earlier that morning, Dumas traveled to Marshall, Texas, where he robbed a Boost Mobile store. Dumas entered the store, leaped over the sales counter and pointed a.38 Colt revolver at the store clerk, demanding cash from the register. A neighboring business owner heard the store clerk scream and came to aid her. Dumas shot the business owner hitting him twice in the chest and then fled from the scene. A silver Nissan Versa with a dent on the driver’s side door was seen in the area before, during, and after the robbery and was captured on the surveillance cameras of the Greenwood Police Department traveling back to Shreveport.

On April 4, 2017, Dumas and his co-defendant Stafford King, robbed Werner Park Grocery at gunpoint. King put the revolver against the head of a store clerk and told the clerk to give him money. Dumas pointed his gun at another clerk’s head while also demanding money. Both defendants ran out of the store with an unknown amount of money and got into a silver car with a dent on the left side.

On April 15, 2017, Dumas pointed a gun at a Rodeway Inn employee and demanded the money from the register. The clerk complied with Dumas’ demands and Dumas got away with $554. On March 20 and April 15, Dumas was also seen getting into a silver car with damage on the left side. Each robbery was captured by video surveillance.

Later on April 25, 2017, a Shreveport police officer saw the silver Nissan Versa matching the description from the robberies and pulled it over after a traffic violation. King was driving and Dumas was in the passenger seat. Law enforcement officers recovered hoodies, bandanas, and gloves from the car that matched descriptions from the robberies. Police also located 9 millimeter ammunition, consistent with a TEC-9 semi-automatic pistol used in the Werner Park and Rodeway Inn robberies and three other weapons from the Nissan Versa.

Dumas, a previously convicted felon, was on state parole for simple burglary and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon at the time of the robberies. He was released on parole in January 2017 and started robbing just two months later, in March.

Dumas’ co-defendant, Stafford King, 39, of Shreveport, pleaded guilty on August 12, 2019, to one violation each of the Hobbs Act and using of a firearm during a crime of violence. King was sentenced by United States District Judge S. Maurice Hicks, Jr. to 11 years, 8 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release for his participation in the robberies. 

The FBI, ATF, Shreveport Police Department, Marshall, Texas Police Department, and Greenwood Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cytheria D. Jernigan and Leon H. Whitten prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. PSN is part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime. To learn more about Project Safe Neighborhoods, go to www.justice.gov/psn.

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LAKE CHARLES, La. – Neguel Alfonso Morris, 40, of Laredo, Texas, was sentenced today on drug trafficking charges, Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced. United States District Judge James D. Cain, Jr. sentenced Morris to 57 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release for possession of heroin with intent to distribute. Morris pleaded guilty on July 16, 2020.

On August 24, 2018, Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s deputies were conducting a foot patrol in the parking lot of a truck stop in Sulphur, Louisiana when they observed a suspicious vehicle. Deputies approached the car and identified the driver of the vehicle as Neguel Alfonso Morris. Upon conducting a search of the vehicle, deputies found a clear glass pipe under the driver’s seat. Morris admitted that the pipe belonged to him and that he had just finished smoking crack in the pipe. After a further search of the vehicle, deputies discovered a package tightly taped in duct tape under the passenger seat. Morris was arrested and taken into custody. A crime lab analysis was conducted on the package found in Morris’ vehicle and it was confirmed that it contained 1,287.7 grams of heroin. Morris was traveling from San Antonio, Texas to New York when he was apprehended in Sulphur.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security–Homeland Security Investigations and Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Ayo prosecuted the case.

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LAFAYETTE, La. – Two men were sentenced today in United States District Court after an investigation into drug trafficking activities in the Ville Platte area, Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced. Judge Robert R. Summerhays sentenced the two defendants as follows:

John Kirk Ortego, a/k/a “Kirk,” 52, of Ville Platte, Louisiana, was sentenced to 57 months (4 years, 9 months) in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

Jared Reed, a/k/a “J-Rat,” 40, of Ville Platte, Louisiana, and a co-defendant of Ortego, was sentenced to 42 months (3 years, 6 months) in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

Ortego and Reed are co-defendants in this case. Ortego pled guilty to the charge on January 22, 2020 and Reed pled guilty on February 14, 2020. Evidence introduced in court revealed that from January through June 2019, Ortego and Reed each purchased methamphetamine from one of their co-defendants in this case. Reed arranged the purchases using his cell phone. Both Ortego and Reed purchased the methamphetamine so that they could resell it for profit.

This prosecution is part of a larger investigation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration through its Southwest Louisiana HIDTA Task Force and Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Forces. The Louisiana State Police Narcotics Division initiated the investigation, and Special Agents with DEA, as well as Task Force Officers assigned to the Southwest Louisiana HIDTA Task Force, completed the investigation. In addition to the above conviction and sentence, the investigation resulted in the dismantling of a drug trafficking organization in Ville Platte, Louisiana. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert C. Abendroth prosecuted the case.

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LAFAYETTE, La. - Kevin James Forestier, Jr., 26, of Scott, Louisiana, was sentenced today for possession of child pornography, Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced. United States District Judge Robert R. Summerhays sentenced Forestier to 34 months (2 years, 10 months) in prison followed by 6 years of supervised release. Forestier will also be required to register as a sex offender.

In July 2018, law enforcement agents with the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation’s Cyber Crime Unit received a Cybertip report from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) indicating a user had uploaded images containing child pornography through the internet to an account. An investigation revealed that Kevin James Forestier, Jr. was the suspected user and on September 11, 2018, law enforcement agents obtained a search warrant for his residence and cellular phone. Agents discovered child pornography containing images of a prepubescent minor who had not attained the age of 12 on Forestier’s cellular phone. Forestier admitted that he had in fact uploaded the images to his cellular phone from the internet. Forestier pleaded guilty to the charge on October 22, 2019.

The Department of Homeland Security – Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel J. Vermaelen prosecuted the case.

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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.

 

 

SHREVEPORT, La. - Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that Gregory Alan Smith, 58, of Shreveport, Louisiana, was sentenced today by United States District Judge S. Maurice Hicks, Jr. to 72 months (6 years) in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release for conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Smith was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $3,588,500, as well as a fine of $100,000.

Smith, formerly a financial investment advisor in Shreveport, persuaded multiple victims to invest approximately $3.5 million with his co-defendant, Kirbyjon H. Caldwell (“Caldwell”). According to evidence presented to the court, Smith began approaching existing clients, friends, and acquaintances in the spring of 2013 about an investment opportunity in historical chinese bonds. Smith told these potential investors that they would be obtaining a partial ownership interest in the bonds and that they would receive exponential returns on their investments in a short period of time. Smith neglected to tell these individuals that historical chinese bonds, bonds issued by the former Republic of China prior to losing power to the communist government in 1949, held no value. In fact, the bonds were considered by the Securities and Exchange Commission to be mere collectables with no value outside of the memorabilia market.

After Smith made the fraudulent pitch, victim-investors who believed and trusted Smith agreed to invest in these bonds. These victims were provided with a “participation agreement” indicating that if the sale of the bonds failed to occur within a certain number of days, the invested funds would be returned within a defined period of time. They were instructed to wire funds to various bank accounts held by or controlled by Caldwell or his representative. The funds were then divided between Smith, Caldwell, and others. Smith received $1.08 million of the total $3.5 million and used it to pay down loans, purchase two luxury sport utility vehicles, place a down payment on a vacation property, and maintain his lifestyle. The victims never received the promised returns from these chinese bonds.

“This case proves that even those you trust to have your best interest at heart sometimes may not. The victims in this case thought their trusted advisor and friend would never lead them astray but sadly, he was merely a con man who led them down an unwanted path,” stated Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook. “Our office will continue to be vigilant in holding defendants such as this accountable for their fraudulent actions.”

Sentencing for Smith’s co-defendant, Kirbyjon H. Caldwell, is scheduled for December 3, 2020 at 2:00 p.m.

The FBI conducted the investigation and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Seth D. Reeg and C. Mignonne Griffing prosecuted the case.

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SHREVEPORT / LAFAYETTE / ALEXANDRIA / LAKE CHARLES / MONROE, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook and the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Task Force announced the availability of approximately $154,931 in PSN grant funds for the Western District of Louisiana. The Department of Justice, the Office of Justice Programs and the Bureau of Justice Assistance is seeking applications for funding of a grant under the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program. At least 30% ($41,831) of the grant funds must be designated for grants under the PSN Program to fund new and/or current gang violence reduction strategies in the Western District. In addition, approximately $97,607 can be designated to fund both new and/or current comprehensive gun crime and gang violence reduction strategies within the Western District.   

PSN furthers the Department of Justice=s mission to reduce violent crime by providing support to state, local and tribal efforts to create safer neighborhoods through a sustained reduction in violent crime and gang violence committed with firearms utilizing prevention, enforcement and intervention methods. 

Various types of single or multi‑grantee grant proposals are welcome including those that address the following: 

• Gang violence and gun violence reduction, deterrence, prevention, community outreach and education; 
• Enforcement, adjudication and supervision programs; 
• Prisoner re-entry programs; or
• Other innovative related projects.

Grant proposals must be submitted to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, ATTN: PSN Grant Competition, 800 Lafayette Street, Suite 2200, Lafayette, LA 70501, no later than 5 p.m., Monday, November 16, 2020. 

The FY 2020 PSN Grant Announcement, OMB No. 1121-0329 can be found on the Western District of Louisiana U.S. Attorney’s Office website at: www.justice.gov/usao-wdla. More information about the program can be located at www.psn.gov or www.bja.gov/programs/psn. 

Interested applicants may also contact Assistant U.S. Attorney and PSN Coordinator Jamilla A. Bynog at (337) 262-6618 for additional information. 

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LAKE CHARLES, La. – Gerald Allen Beaudeaux, 32, of Vinton, Louisiana, was sentenced today for possession and receipt of child pornography, Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced. United States District Judge James D. Cain, Jr. sentenced Beaudeaux to 160 months (13 years, 4 months) in prison followed by 10 years of supervised release.

Evidence presented at the guilty plea hearing on August 13, 2020, revealed that law enforcement agents received a Cybertip report from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) in August 2018 indicating a Dropbox user had uploaded images and videos containing child pornography through the internet to an account. An investigation revealed that Gerald Allen Beaudeaux was the suspected user and owner of the Dropbox account and on December 19, 2018, law enforcement agents executed a search warrant for his residence and cellular phone. On Beaudeaux’s cellular phone, agents discovered over 600 images of child pornography, including images of prepubescent children who had not attained the age of 12 and infant children. Beaudeaux admitted that he had in fact uploaded the images to his the Dropbox account and used his cellular phone to view the child pornography.

The Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel J. Vermaelen prosecuted the case.

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LAKE CHARLES, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that Elton J. Richard, III, 44, of Church Point, Louisiana, was sentenced today. United States District Judge James D. Cain, Jr. sentenced Richard to 57 months (4 years, 9 months) in prison, followed by 2 years of supervised release, for possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance. Richard pleaded guilty on June 11, 2020.

During the early morning hours of September 22, 2018, a Lake Charles Police Department officer conducted a traffic stop of a tow truck being driven by Richard on Interstate 10. The officer’s K-9 partner conducted an open-air sniff around the tow truck and alerted to the odor of narcotics coming from the tow truck. A search of the vehicle revealed a suitcase in the backseat containing 27 large bundles wrapped with electric tape. The officer also observed a loose white powdery substance on the outside of some of the bundles and suspected it to be cocaine. Richard was arrested and taken into custody. Subsequent lab tests revealed that each of the 27 bundles contained one-kilogram each of cocaine.

The DEA and Lake Charles Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert C. Abendroth prosecuted the case.

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LAFAYETTE, La.  – Joseph Emery Menard, 44, of Rayne, Louisiana, was sentenced today on child pornography charges, Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced. United States District Judge S. Maurice Hicks, Jr. sentenced Menard to 360 months (30 years) in prison followed by 15 years of supervised release for receiving child pornography.

Evidence presented at Menard’s guilty plea hearing on May 5, 2020 and the sentencing hearing held today revealed that law enforcement officers received information that the defendant was sexually abusing two young prepubescent children. In order to obtain evidence of that crime, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Menard’s residence. During the search, they seized a computer from his residence. The computer was found to have over 600 images of child pornography, some of which were of prepubescent children. Further investigation revealed that the images were downloaded from the internet and received by Menard on November 6, 11, and 12, 2018 and he knew that the images contained child pornography.   

Menard was previously prosecuted in the 15th Judicial District Court for Lafayette Parish, Louisiana. On May 15, 2000, he pled guilty to two counts of molestation of a juvenile, an offense relating to abusive sexual conduct involving a young prepubescent minor.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigation conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney J. Luke Walker prosecuted the case.

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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.

 

SHREVEPORT, La. – Dennis Busch, 40, of Costa Mesa, California was sentenced today on federal wire fraud charges, Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced. Busch was sentenced by United States District Judge S. Maurice Hicks, Jr. to 72 months (6 years) in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release. In addition, he was ordered to pay $63,045 in restitution.

At the guilty plea hearing on July 7, 2020, Busch admitted to defrauding Capital One Financial Corporation (“Capital One”) of thousands of dollars in 2018 and 2019. Busch used altered, re-encoded Capital One debit cards to make cash withdrawals from ATMs located in the Western District of Louisiana by entering the account holder’s personal identification number and selecting a cash withdrawal from the bank account, without the account holder’s consent or knowledge.

In September and October 2018, Busch withdrew $33,838 from bank accounts of numerous Capital One account holders. In August 2019, Busch used the same manner and means to make unauthorized cash withdrawals in the amount of $28,607 from Capital One ATMs located in this district. He attempted to make numerous additional transactions, but those transactions were denied by the bank. In total, Busch made over 300 fraudulent ATM withdrawals from account holders residing in the Shreveport-Bossier City area. The investigation revealed that some of the account holders had previously responded to text messages that were part of a phishing scam, which compromised their banking information. Capital One reimbursed the account holders and ultimately sustained the loss.

The United States Secret Service conducted the investigation and Assistant U.S. Attorney Cadesby B. Cooper prosecuted the case.

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LAFAYETTE, La. – Holden James Matthews, 23, of Opelousas, Louisiana, was sentenced today to 300 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for intentionally setting fire to three African-American Baptist churches because of the religious character of those buildings, Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced. United States District Judge Robert R. Summerhays sentenced Matthews on three counts of violating the Church Arson Prevention Act, 18 U.S.C. § 247(a)(1)—one count for each church—as well as one count of using fire to commit a federal felony, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 844(h). The fires, which Matthews set over a ten-day period in March and April of 2019, completely destroyed each of the church buildings.  Matthews was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $590,246 to St. Mary Missionary Baptist Church, $970,213.30 to Greater Union Baptist Church, and $1,100,000 to Mt. Pleasant Missionary Baptist Church.

Matthews pled guilty to these charges on February 10, 2020. At his guilty plea hearing, Matthews admitted that between March 26 and April 4, 2019, he intentionally set fire to three Baptist churches with predominantly African-American congregations in the Opelousas, Louisiana area. First, on March 26, 2019, Matthews set fire to St. Mary Missionary Baptist Church in Port Barre, Louisiana. Next, on April 2, 2019, Matthews set fire to the Greater Union Baptist Church, in Opelousas, Louisiana. Then, on April 4, 2019, Matthews set fire to the Mt. Pleasant Missionary Baptist Church in Opelousas, Louisiana.  Matthews admitted to setting the fires because of the religious character of these buildings, in an effort to raise his profile as a “Black Metal” musician by copying similar crimes committed in Norway in the 1990s.  Matthews further admitted that, after setting the third fire, he posted photographs and videos on Facebook that showed the first two churches burning. Matthews admitted that he had taken these photographs and videos in real time on his cell phone, as he watched those churches burn, and that he had posted them to Facebook in an effort to promote himself in the Black Metal community.

“The members of St. Mary Missionary Baptist Church, Greater Union Baptist Church, and Mt. Pleasant Missionary Baptist Church are the ones who have suffered the most from these heinous crimes and have lost not only physical buildings, but sentimental items that cannot be replaced,” said Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook of the Western District of Louisiana. “The sentence handed down today will not bring their churches back but should send a clear message that there is a high price to pay for this type of destruction and violence and these type of crimes will not be tolerated by this office.” 

“These churches trace their origins to the post-Civil War Reconstruction period and, for generations, were a place for predominantly African American Christians to gather, pray, worship, and celebrate their faith,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband of the Civil Rights Division. “The churches survived for nearly 150 years but did not survive this defendant’s warped act of hatred. I extend my sympathy to the victims of this defendant’s arson spree, the congregants of St. Mary Baptist Church, Greater Union Baptist Church, and Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church. The Justice Department will continue vigorously to protect their right to worship and live in peace. The Justice Department stands against these acts of hate and the sentence handed down today reflects that. We will continue to protect the civil right of Americans to freedom of worship without fear of persecution.”

“ATF, working alongside our law enforcement partners, was able to bring our expertise and resources to investigate the arsons that threatened the well-being of St. Landry Parish,” said ATF New Orleans Field Division Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn. “That collaborative effort led to a successful investigation and today’s sentencing of Holden Matthews, and allows the residents of St. Landry Parish to continue to worship without fear of an arsonist in their midst.”

“A cornerstone of our Constitution is the Freedom of Religion and the right to practice your faith freely and without intimidation.  Mr. Matthews’ acts of threatening and intimidating an entire community by setting fire to three historically African American churches was unspeakable. We hope that today’s sentencing brings a level of comfort and satisfaction that justice has prevailed for the parishioners of St. Mary Baptist Church, Greater Union Baptist Church, and Mount Pleasant Baptist Church as well as for all of the citizens of St. Landry Parish affected by these heinous acts,” stated FBI New Orleans Special Agent in Charge Bryan Vorndran.

This case was investigated by the ATF’s National Response Team, Lafayette Satellite Office of the ATF’s New Orleans Field Division, Lafayette Resident Agency of the FBI’s New Orleans Field Office, Louisiana Office of State Fire Marshal, Louisiana State Police, Louisiana Bureau of Investigation’s Cyber Crimes Unit, St. Landry Parish Fire Department, and the St. Landry Parish Sheriff’s Office. 

The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney J. Luke Walker, of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana, and Trial Attorney Risa Berkower of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division.

# # #

LAFAYETTE, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that Damon Lechtenberg, 47, of Lake Charles, Louisiana, was sentenced today by United States District Judge Robert R. Summerhays for production of child pornography. Lechtenberg was sentenced to 180 months (15 years) in prison followed by 20 years of supervised release. Lechtenberg pleaded guilty on April 9, 2020.

According to information presented in court, it was reported to law enforcement in December 2019, that Lechtenberg had been filming a minor female using a hidden camera in the minor’s bedroom. Law enforcement officers obtained a search warrant of the minor’s bedroom and found the hidden camera. Lechtenberg admitted to filming the minor female and further investigation revealed that he had numerous videos containing images of her in sexually explicit poses.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security-Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation and Assistant U.S. Attorney J. Luke Walker prosecuted the case.

# # #

Holden Matthews, 23, was sentenced today in the Western District of Louisiana to 300 months imprisonment followed by three years of supervised release for intentionally setting fire to three African-American Baptist churches because of the religious character of those buildings. Matthews was also ordered to pay restitution of $590,246 to St. Mary Baptist Church, $970,213.30 to Greater Union Baptist Church, and $1,100,000 to Mount Pleasant Baptist Church.

Specifically, Matthews was sentenced on three counts of violating the Church Arson Prevention Act, 18 U.S.C. § 247(a)(1) — one count for each church — as well as one count of using fire to commit a federal felony, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 844(h). The fires, which Matthews set over a 10-day period in March and April of 2019, completely destroyed each of the church buildings. 

Matthews pled guilty to these charges on Feb. 10, 2020. At his plea hearing, Matthews admitted that, between March 26 and April 4, 2019, he intentionally set fire to three Baptist churches with predominantly African-American congregations in the Opelousas, Louisiana area.  First, on March 26, 2019, Matthews set fire to St. Mary Baptist Church in Port Barre, Louisiana. Next, on April 2, 2019, Matthews set fire to the Greater Union Baptist Church, in Opelousas, Louisiana. Then, on April 4, 2019, Matthews set fire to the Mount Pleasant Baptist Church in Opelousas, Louisiana. The fires Matthews set destroyed each of the church buildings. Matthews admitted to setting the fires because of the religious character of these buildings, in an effort to raise his profile as a “Black Metal” musician by copying similar crimes committed in Norway in the 1990s. Matthews further admitted that, after setting the third fire, he posted photographs and videos on Facebook that showed the first two churches burning. Matthews admitted that he had taken these photographs and videos in real time on his cell phone, as he watched those churches burn, and that he had posted them to Facebook in an effort to promote himself in the Black Metal community.

“These churches trace their origins to the post-Civil War Reconstruction period and, for generations, were a place for predominantly African American Christians to gather, pray, worship, and celebrate their faith,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband of the Civil Rights Division. “The churches survived for nearly 150 years but did not survive this defendant’s warped act of hatred. I extend my sympathy to the victims of this defendant’s arson spree, the congregants of Saint Mary Baptist Church, Greater Union Baptist Church, and Mount Pleasant Baptist Church. The Justice Department will continue vigorously to protect their right to worship and live in peace. The Justice Department stands against these acts of hate and the sentence handed down today reflects that. We will continue to protect the civil right of Americans to freedom of worship without fear of persecution.”

“The members of St. Mary Baptist Church, Greater Union Baptist Church, and Mount Pleasant Baptist Church are the ones who have suffered the most from these heinous crimes and have lost not only physical buildings, but sentimental items that cannot be replaced,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook of the Western District of Louisiana. “The sentence handed down today will not bring their churches back but should send a clear message that there is a high price to pay for this type of destruction and violence and these type of crimes will not be tolerated by this office.” 

“ATF, working alongside our law enforcement partners, was able to bring our expertise and resources to investigate the arsons that threatened the well-being of St. Landry Parish,” said Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) New Orleans Field Division Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn. “That collaborative effort led to a successful investigation and today’s sentencing of Holden Matthews, and allows the residents of St. Landry Parish to continue to worship without fear of an arsonist in their midst.”

“A cornerstone of our constitution is the Freedom of Religion and the right to practice your faith freely and without intimidation,” said FBI New Orleans Special Agent in Charge Bryan Vorndran. “Matthews’s acts of threatening and intimidating an entire community by setting fire to three historically African American churches were unspeakable. We hope that today’s sentencing brings a level of comfort and satisfaction that justice has prevailed for the parishioners of St. Mary Baptist Church, Greater Union Baptist Church, and Mount Pleasant Baptist Church as well as for all of the citizens of St. Landry Parish affected by these heinous acts.”

This case was investigated by the ATF’s National Response Team; the Lafayette Satellite Office of the ATF’s New Orleans Field Division; the Lafayette Resident Agency of the FBI’s New Orleans Field Office; the Louisiana Office of State Fire Marshal; the Louisiana State Police; the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation’s Cyber Crimes Unit; the St. Landry Parish Fire Department; and the St. Landry Parish Sheriff’s Office. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John Luke Walker, of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana, and Trial Attorney Risa Berkower, of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division.

Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced today that two Louisiana men have been sentenced on federal firearms charges.

SHREVEPORT, La. – John Jackson Harkey, 35, of Shreveport, was sentenced by United States District Judge Donald E. Walter to 70 months (5 years, 10 months) in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release for possessing an unregistered firearm. On or about February 21, 2019, Shreveport Police Department officers lawfully executed a search warrant at  Harkey’s residence. During the search, officers found an operable, short-barreled shotgun that was not registered to him in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. Harkey pleaded guilty to the charge on May 27, 2020. 

The ATF and Shreveport Police Department conducted the investigation and Assistant U.S. Attorney Mike Shannon prosecuted the case.

ALEXANDRIA, La. – Joseph Wilton, 28, of Alexandria, was sentenced by United States District Judge Dee D. Drell to 60 months (5 years) in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. Alexandria Police Department officers stopped the car Wilton was driving on February 17, 2018. During a search of the vehicle, officers recovered a firearm and ammunition. Wilton, who was a convicted felon, knew that it was unlawful to possess the firearm and ammunition and was subsequently arrested. Wilton pleaded guilty to the charge on July 16, 2020. 

The ATF and Alexandria Police Department conducted the investigation and Assistant U.S. Attorney Leon H. Whitten prosecuted the case.

# # #

SHREVEPORT, La. -  Charles Heath Thompson, 44, of Shreveport, was sentenced today for receipt of child pornography, Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced. United States District Judge S. Maurice Hicks, Jr. sentenced Thompson to 120 months (10 years) in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release. Thompson pleaded guilty to the charge on January 24, 2020.

In February 2015, federal agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) were monitoring a members-only, dark net website known as Playpen. The website was not accessible through traditional web browsers and the users had to utilize a specific website link and special browsers to access it. The Playpen website was identified as a website in which users would trade, possess, receive, and view child pornography.

According to information presented to the court, while monitoring the Playpen website, the FBI determined that a certain user had actively logged into the website on various days, including February 21, 2015. During their investigation, it was revealed that this particular user had logged into the Playpen website for approximately 11 hours and 23 minutes on that date and had downloaded and received child pornography images. The images reflected minors under the age of 12 years old being sexually abused. After further investigation, FBI agents learned that the user was Charles Heath Thompson and he had in fact received said images from this website on the internet.

The FBI and Bossier City Marshal’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys J. Luke Walker and Tennille Gilreath prosecuted the case.

# # #

The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.

 

LAFAYETTE, La. - A Ville Platte man was sentenced today by United States District Judge Robert R. Summerhays for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook.

Closton John Melvin, a/k/a “Git Money C,” a/k/a “C.J.,” 34, was sentenced to 127 months (10 years, 7 months) in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release. Melvin pled guilty to the charge on November 8, 2019. The charge stems from a multi-agency investigation into the drug trafficking activities of Melvin and 11 other co-defendants.

In November and December 2018, law enforcement agents made undercover purchases of methamphetamine and cocaine from Melvin. According to documents introduced in court, laboratory tests confirmed that the drugs sold by Melvin were 27.9 grams of cocaine and approximately 122 grams of methamphetamine. Law enforcement agents continued their investigation into the drug trafficking activities of Melvin and obtained authorization from the court to conduct a wiretap on Melvin’s cell phone that he used to organize narcotics transactions. During the interceptions, law enforcement agents intercepted calls wherein Melvin used his phone to coordinate methamphetamine distribution and he sold smaller amounts of other drugs including powder and crack cocaine.

This prosecution is part of a larger investigation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration through its Southwest Louisiana HIDTA Task Force and Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Forces. The Louisiana State Police Narcotics Division initiated the investigation, and Special Agents with DEA, as well as Task Force Officers assigned to the Southwest Louisiana HIDTA Task Force, completed the investigation. In addition to the above conviction and sentence, the investigation resulted in the dismantling of a drug trafficking organization in Ville Platte, Louisiana. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert C. Abendroth prosecuted the case.

# # #

LAFAYETTE, La. – Melvin Yovanni Maradiaga-Leinus a/k/a “Melvin Lainez,” 39, a native and citizen of Honduras, was sentenced for illegally possessing a firearm, Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced. United States District Judge Robert R. Summerhays sentenced Maradiaga-Leinus to 24 months in prison. Upon completion of his sentence, Maradiaga-Leinus will be remanded to the custody of the Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement for removal proceedings.

The charges stem from a complaint received by the Lafayette Police Department on February 8, 2020 about two Hispanic males discharging a firearm. As a Lafayette Police Department officer was searching the area on foot, he observed another individual walking down the street and requested that the individual walk toward him. The suspect removed his shirt and a black handgun fell out. The law enforcement officer drew his weapon and the suspect picked up the firearm, at which point the officer discharged four shots at him, all of which missed. The suspect, who was later identified as Maradiaga-Leinus, was ordered to lie on the pavement and he complied. Officers approached Maradiaga-Leinus and he was found to be extremely intoxicated. He was arrested for possession of the firearm. Under federal law, it is unlawful for a person who is illegally in the United States to possess a firearm.

The Department of Homeland Security – Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Lafayette Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Ayo prosecuted the case.

# # #

The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.

 

LAFAYETTE, La. – A Houston, Texas man was sentenced today by United States District Judge Robert R. Summerhays to 42 months (3 years, 6 months) in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release for his role in smuggling cocaine to the Opelousas and Eunice areas.

Kevin Robertson, 53, was charged in a June 19, 2019 indictment with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine. Robertson pled guilty to the charge on December 9, 2019. 

Louisiana State Police Troopers conducted a traffic stop of the vehicle that Robertson was driving on Interstate 20 near Lake Charles on April 20, 2019. According to information presented to the court, law enforcement officers conducted a search of Robertson’s vehicle and found seven ounces of crack cocaine, one kilogram of cocaine, and other controlled substances, and he was arrested.

This prosecution is part of a larger investigation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration through its Southwest Louisiana HIDTA Task Force and Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Forces. The Louisiana State Police Narcotics Division initiated the investigation, and Special Agents with DEA, as well as Task Force Officers assigned to the Southwest Louisiana HIDTA Task Force, completed the investigation. In addition to the above conviction and sentence, the investigation resulted in the dismantling of a drug trafficking organization in Ville Platte, Louisiana. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert C. Abendroth prosecuted the case.

# # #

LAFAYETTE, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that Jeremy Rubin, 32, of Lafayette, Louisiana, was sentenced today by United States District Judge Robert R. Summerhays to 52 months (4 years, 4 months) in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release. Rubin pleaded guilty on July 24, 2020 to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.

The charge stems from a domestic disturbance call that Lafayette City Police Department officers responded to on August 19, 2018. The caller advised that her boyfriend had threatened her, directed her into a bedroom, placed a handgun to her head and threatened her life. Law enforcement officers arrived at the residence where the call had been placed and questioned Jeremy Rubin about the incident. Rubin denied having a firearm and denied consent for law enforcement officers to search his vehicle. A search warrant was obtained and officers found the firearm and ammunition in a case bearing Rubin’s name in the vehicle. Further investigation by law enforcement officers revealed that the firearm had been reported stolen.

Rubin has a previous felony conviction for first degree robbery (2008). Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of a firearm or ammunition. 

The ATF and Lafayette City Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jamilla A. Bynog prosecuted the case.

# # #

SHREVEPORT, La.  – The Department of Justice is reminding members of the public to be vigilant against fraudsters who are using the COVID-19 pandemic to exploit American consumers and organizations and to cheat disaster relief programs, Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced.  In particular, the department is warning the public about scams perpetrated through websites, social media, emails, robocalls, and other means that peddle fake COVID-19 vaccines, tests, treatments, and protective equipment, and also about criminals that fabricate businesses and steal identities in order to defraud federal relief programs and state unemployment programs. 

At the direction of Attorney General William Barr on March 16, 2020, the Department of Justice mobilized to safeguard Americans from coronavirus-related fraud and other illegal activity.  On March 18, Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey A. Rosen instructed the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) to take coronavirus-related complaints from the public and facilitate information sharing among law enforcement partners and regulators, like the Federal Trade Commission and the Federal Drug Administration.  The Deputy Attorney General tasked U.S. Attorneys to appoint Coronavirus Fraud Coordinators in each judicial district, including the Western District of Louisiana, who has done that very thing. Our office, along with many other U.S. Attorney’s Offices, have also established a regional task force to improve federal, state, and local law enforcement coordination and these members are working diligently to track down any and all complaints that are received in connection with these type of crimes.  On March 24, following the President’s invocation of his authorities under the Defense Production Act, the Attorney General formed the DOJ Hoarding & Price Gouging Task Force, which is a nationwide effort to deter, detect, and prosecute hoarding and profiteering in the sale of health and medical resources essential to combatting the spread of COVID-19.  Memoranda from the Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General prescribing these measures may be found at www.usdoj.gov/coronavirus/DOJresponse.

To date, the NCDF has received more than 76,000 tips concerning COVID-19-related wrongdoing.  Similarly, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center has also received more than 20,000 tips regarding suspicious websites and media postings.  These tips, as well as reports made directly to the offices of U.S. Attorneys, FBI field offices, and other law enforcement agencies, have led to federal law enforcement opening hundreds of investigations.

The department charged its first COVID-19-related fraud case on March 25, and since then, the department has filed criminal charges in 33 cases across the country involving scam vaccines, treatments, or testing or price gouging in the sale of scarce medical supplies.  Additionally, the department has initiated civil actions in 11 cases to enjoin fraudulent coronavirus schemes targeting consumers, including cases against defendants marketing ozone gas, silver-ion solution, and bleach-based solution as treatments.

The department has also focused on prosecuting bad actors who have exploited federal relief programs enacted on March 27 under the CARES Act that are intended to assist hard-hit Americans and businesses.  In particular, the department has charged 65 defendants in 50 separate cases to date that relate to the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP).  The total intended loss to the PPP in those cases is more than $227 million.  The defendants in these cases include those brazen enough to submit PPP loan applications for fabricated businesses named after “Game of Thrones” characters and to spend PPP loan proceeds on exotic cars, boats, and expensive jewelry.  

The department has coordinated closely with the Department of Labor Office of Inspector General (DOL-OIG) and various other federal law enforcement agencies to stand up the U.S. Department of Justice National Unemployment Insurance Fraud Task Force. (See https://www.justice.gov/file/1319301/download.)  This task force is charged with investigating numerous fraud schemes targeting the unemployment insurance programs of state workforce agencies, which have been distributing additional Pandemic Unemployment Assistance funds provided for under the CARES Act.  To date, the department has charged fraud or money laundering in 12 cases relating to unemployment insurance, and has also been supporting DOL-OIG’s efforts to mitigate the threats that transnational criminal organizations and other identity thieves continue to pose to the important benefits programs on which unemployed Americans rely.  The department’s leadership has been crucial in organizing and focusing the whole of federal law enforcement on this important issue, including by leveraging the capabilities and resources of the International Organized Crime Intelligence and Operations Center and by hiring additional prosecutors to investigate and charge these schemes.

Moving forward, the department also is concerned about, and will aim to deter and prevent, attempts by wrongdoers to prey upon potential victims by leveraging news about anticipated approval of a COVID-19 vaccine or about the potential enactment of new disaster relief bills that extend or expand upon CARES Act relief.   

The department encourages the public to continue to report wrongdoing relating to the pandemic to the NCDF and to remain vigilant against bad actors looking to exploit this national emergency.  To report a scam relating to COVID-19, or if you have information on hoarding or price gouging of critical supplies necessary to respond to the spread of COVID-19, you can report it without leaving your home by calling the NCDF Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form, available at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.  You can also contact the local U.S. Attorney’s Office in Shreveport at 318-676-3600 or in Lafayette at 337-262-6618 to report any wrongdoing relating to the COVID-19 pandemic.

###

The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice.  Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.

 

Joshua B. Kimes, 36, of Bossier City, was sentenced to 120 months (10 years) in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Kimes pled guilty to the charge on October 30, 2019.

While conducting a narcotics investigation in 2018, law enforcement agents set up surveillance of Joshua B. Kimes and others who were known to be distributing large amounts of methamphetamine in the Shreveport/Bossier City area. Kimes and other co-conspirators were found to be arranging transactions to sell methamphetamine in various quantities. Between April and May 2018, agents observed Kimes traveling from the Western District of Louisiana to Waskom, Texas to purchase methamphetamine. According to information presented to the court, Kimes arranged purchases of methamphetamine from a co-defendant for eventual resale. 

On May 9, 2018, law enforcement agents intercepted phone communications wherein Kimes and a co-defendant made arrangements to travel from the Western District of Louisiana to Waskom, Texas to purchase methamphetamine. The next day, agents observed Kimes and the co-defendant travel from Shreveport to Waskom, Texas. Shortly after crossing the Louisiana state line back into the Western District of Louisiana, the vehicle driven by Kimes was stopped for a traffic violation. During the traffic stop, agents located and seized approximately 1.5 ounces of methamphetamine and Kimes and his co-defendant were arrested. The North Louisiana Criminalistics Laboratory confirmed the substance to be methamphetamine.

The DEA and Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon B. Brown prosecuted the case.

Illegal Possession of Firearm Leads to Federal Prison Sentence for Bossier City Man

Laterreon Daron Morrison, 24, of Bossier City, was sentenced to 78 months (6 years, 6 months) in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. Morrison pled guilty to the charge on February 4, 2020.

According to documents filed with the court, Morrison was involved in a hit and run accident at Hearne Avenue and Hilry Huckaby Boulevard in Shreveport on May 1, 2018. When Morrison fled the scene of the accident, the vehicle that he struck began to follow him. Shreveport Police officers were able to get behind Morrison’s vehicle with lights and sirens activated and he eventually stopped in the middle of Hilry Huckaby Boulevard, exited the vehicle and officers ordered him to the back of the car. While officers attempted to conduct a pat down, Morrison fled on foot. He was subdued and taken into custody. Officers found a pistol inside the vehicle while inventorying it for impound. Morrison, who was previously convicted of a felony charge of aggravated battery in Bossier Parish in 2014, is prohibited from possessing a firearm. Morrison also has prior state arrests for aggravated second degree battery and attempted armed robbery.

The ATF and Shreveport Police Department conducted the investigation and Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon B. Brown prosecuted the case.

# # #

The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.

 

SHREVEPORT, La. - Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that Tim Icenhower, 58, of Marshall, Texas, the Owner and President of Icenhower Oil and Gas, Inc. (IOG) in Bossier City, Louisiana, pled guilty today to unlawful employment of aliens. In addition, IOG pled guilty to one count of harboring aliens. The hearing was before United States District Judge Donald E. Walter.

According to information presented in court, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in Shreveport began receiving complaints in early 2016 that IOG was hiring undocumented individuals from Mexico. In March 2016, during their investigation of IOG, DHS requested employment documents from IOG to verify employees’ legal status and visited the IOG facility in Bossier City, Louisiana. DHS agents met with an IOG human resources official to inspect the documents and assess IOG’s employment verification process. DHS agents provided IOG officials with a handbook for employers that discussed the rules and regulations for employing individuals in the United States and other information about a free online program offered by DHS to employers so they can verify the legal status of potential employees.

On October 16, 2016, IOG officials issued a letter to DHS advising of the results of its internal investigation and audit. The letter identified 69 individuals that IOG terminated because they were “unauthorized.” The letter also identified 22 undocumented employees that IOG claimed it needed to retain because they were essential to fulfill certain pending contractual obligations.

On January 27, 2017, DHS agents visited the IOG facility in Bossier City again and conducted another audit and found that IOG still had undocumented employees that were not authorized to work there. DHS agents issued a Warning Notice to IOG that they were still in violation and advised that there would be a follow-up audit in six months.

DHS conducted a follow-up audit of IOG in June 2017 and identified at least 17 individuals who were still employed at IOG that had been identified in the October 2016 audit as undocumented and unauthorized employees. Neither Icenhower nor IOG terminated the employment of these individuals after learning that they were undocumented aliens.

Icenhower faces a maximum penalty of up to six months in prison, and his company, IOG, could be ordered to pay a fine of up to $500,000. Sentencing is scheduled for February 11, 2021.

The Department of Homeland Security conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Earl M. Campbell is prosecuting the case.

# # #

The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.

 

MONROE, La. – Robert A. Hebert, 60, of Monroe, Louisiana, has been sentenced for child exploitation, Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced. United States District Judge Terry A. Doughty sentenced Hebert to 360 months (30 years) in prison followed by supervised release for life for the crime. Hebert pleaded guilty to the charge June 15, 2020.

The federal charges in this case stem from a complaint received by the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office on May 16, 2019 that a four-year old male child was being sexually assaulted and molested. After further investigation, law enforcement agents learned that Hebert had sexually exploited the minor victim. A search of Hebert’s laptop and digital camera revealed inappropriate images of the defendant and the victim, as well as images of other prepubescent children, which Hebert had downloaded from the internet.

The FBI and the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Earl M. Campbell prosecuted the case.

# # #

The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.

 

SHREVEPORT, La.  – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook and United States Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”) Special Agent in Charge Brad L. Byerley announced today that 13 defendants have been arrested on federal charges and 27 defendants have been arrested on state charges following an investigation into drug trafficking activities in the Shreveport/Bossier City area that began in 2016.

This long-term investigation, dubbed Operation Hustle City, was conducted by the DEA’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (“OCDETF”) which is comprised of federal, state, and local law enforcement officers working jointly on drug trafficking cases in the Western District of Louisiana. The investigation has resulted in 4 separate indictments charging 13 individuals with federal drug charges. The prosecution of these defendants is also part of the Department of Justice’s ongoing effort to reduce violent crime in our community.

The indictments allege that these individuals conspired to distribute and possessed with intent to distribute methamphetamine and marijuana. The defendants named in the four separate indictments and their charges are as follows:

Defendant Name

Charges

Shamariay Duntae Locke, a/k/a “Shu,” a/k/a “Supa Shu,” 35, Haughton, LA

• Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and marijuana – one count
• Distribution of marijuana – two counts
• Distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine – one count

 

Jeremy Rechard Francis, a/k/a “Casper,” 37, Shreveport, LA

• Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and marijuana – one count
• Distribution of marijuana – two counts

 

Rico Deangelo Lawrence, 34,

Shreveport, LA

• Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and marijuana – one count
• Distribution of marijuana – one count
• Distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine – 4 counts
• Lawrence, who has a prior federal drug trafficking conviction, is also charged with a sentencing enhancement based on his criminal history

 

Robert Lynn Baulkman, a/k/a “Fridge,” 34, Shreveport, LA

• Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and marijuana – one count
• Distribution of marijuana – one count
• Distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine – one count

 

Danny Glen Roy Welch, 45, Shreveport, LA

• Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and marijuana – one count
• Distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine – one count

 

Frank Gilford Joshua, IV, a/k/a “Bubba,” 33, Shreveport, LA

• Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and marijuana – one count
• Distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine – 4 counts

 

 

 

Keynon Letray Frazier, IV, a/k/a “Green Eyes, 25, Shreveport, LA

• Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and marijuana – one count
• Distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine – 2 counts

 

Michael Shane Haynes, IV, 42,

Bossier City, LA

• Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and marijuana – one count
• Distribution of marijuana – one count
• Haynes also charged with a sentencing enhancement based upon his criminal history

 

 

Garrett Oshann Sudds, 38,

Bossier City, LA

• Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and marijuana – one count
• Distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine – 1 count

 

Henry A. Wright, a/k/a “Tweety,” 41, Shreveport, LA

• Distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine – 3 counts

 

Arnelius Danta Terrell, 32, Shreveport, LA

• Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and marijuana – one count
• Distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine – 2 counts

 

Ladarrell Cortrell Washington, 39,

Shreveport, LA

• Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine – one count
• Distribution of methamphetamine – 3 counts

 

Schyler Algernon Smith, 31, Shreveport, LA

• Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine – one count
• Distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine – 1 count
• Smith also charged with a sentencing enhancement based upon his criminal history

 

These defendants have been arraigned in federal court, with the exception of Schyler Algernon Smith, who is in custody and will be arraigned at a later date, and three men who are currently fugitives: Rico Deangelo Lawrence, Keynon Letray Frazier and Ladarrell Cortrell Washington.

Each of the defendant fugitives are aware that they are wanted and should be considered as armed and dangerous and should not be approached by non-law enforcement. Anyone with information concerning the whereabouts of any of these defendants, please contact Shreveport DEA Office at 571-362-4972 or the U.S. Marshal’s Service Violent Offender Task Force by using their online tip portal at: www.usmarshals.gov/tips.

In addition to the defendants who are facing federal charges, this joint law enforcement operation also resulted in the following individuals being arrested on state charges:

• Jeff Aldridge, 31, Many, LA;
• Williams Brooks, 58, Shreveport, LA;
• Deandre Brown, 24, Shreveport, LA;
• Timothy Colbert, 32, Dallas, TX;
• Marcus Davis, 41, Shreveport, LA;
• Mischa Early, 42, Shreveport, LA;
• Dallas Edwards, 18, Shreveport, LA;
• Jamarcus Edwards, age and city unknown;
• Chad Feazell, 42, Shreveport, LA;
• Eric Gilliam, age and city unknown;
• Robert Guyer, 22, Shreveport, LA;
• Ronnie Holden, age and city unknown;
• Dominique Jackson, 30, Bossier City, LA;
• Samyah James, 19, Las Vegas, NV;
• Ceazar Love, 27, Shreveport, LA;
• Tra Moore, 26, Houston, TX;
• Valerie Noble, 28, Wasco, CA;
• Corey Parker, 35, Bossier City, LA;
• Blake Perot, 32, Bossier City, LA;
• Toledo Prim, 52, Shreveport, LA;
• Kelvin Roberson, 37, Shreveport, LA;
• Iyana Rodgers, 23, Tomball, TX;
• Mykendrick Shandle, age and city unknown;
• Brandon Small, 36, Shreveport, LA;
• Jayson Smallwood, 22, Bossier City, LA;
• Brian Snider, 39, Haughton, LA; and
• Joey Steele, 44, Bossier City, LA.

“This operation serves as a model of what can be accomplished when federal, state, and local law enforcement join forces to target drug trafficking and other violent crime,” said Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook. “This investigation is ongoing and anyone who may have additional information about these defendants or their associates are asked to contact the DEA immediately.”

DEA Special Agent in Charge Brad L. Byerley said, “Drug dealing and violent crime often go hand in hand and spread fear and destruction in our communities.  These investigations and resulting arrests clearly demonstrate the combined strength that federal, state and local law enforcement agencies bring to bear in the battle against these drug traffickers and strike a significant blow to their drug trafficking organizations. We are leveraging our respective resources and expertise to achieve results that we could not accomplish on our own. Our combined, concentrated efforts are making communities safer by disrupting the flow of dangerous drugs to our neighborhoods.”

“We were happy to participate in this interdictive operation and look forward to further cooperative endeavors to make our community safer,” said Caddo Parish District Attorney James E. Stewart, Sr.

Shreveport Police Department Chief Ben Raymond added: “Local, state and federal law enforcement agencies are committed to reducing violence in our area.  Operation Hustle City is but one example of our ongoing efforts to reduce the criminal element; an element that contributes to violent crime and affects all of our residents.”

“I appreciate and applaud the difficult and dangerous work performed by each deputy, officer, and agent. Their dedication is the story, not the actions of a bunch of thugs,“ said Caddo Parish Sheriff Steve Prator.

An indictment is merely an accusation and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Federal agencies including DEA, Department of Homeland Security, ATF, FBI, U.S. Marshal’s Service and U.S. Postal Inspection Service, all are working jointly with the Louisiana State Police, Shreveport Police Department, Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office, Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office, Bossier City Police Department, Desoto Parish Sheriff’s Office, Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office, Ruston Police Department and Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office, in conducting this investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon B. Brown is prosecuting the federal cases.

# # #

MONROE, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that Ashton A’qumartez Thomas, 21, of West Monroe, Louisiana, was sentenced today. United States District Judge Terry A. Doughty sentenced Thomas to 30 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release for possession of stolen firearms. He was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $14,306.89. Thomas pled guilty on June 15, 2020.

According to information presented to the court, Thomas was involved in a burglary at TP Outdoors in West Monroe, Louisiana on August 27, 2018. The burglary committed on that date happened in the same fashion as a burglary at the same store on August 29, 2017. This led law enforcement agents to investigate Thomas, as he was the prime suspect in the 2017 burglary. Agents went to the residence of Thomas’ mother where he lived, and which is in close proximity to TP Outdoors. Upon arrival at the residence, officers learned that Thomas was not present but were given consent to search the residence. Agents recovered a hammer and pry bar from under Thomas’ bed. While searching the backyard of the residence, agents found a fresh pile of dirt, sticks and leaves. That portion of the yard was excavated and five of the stolen firearms from the 2018 burglary of TP Outdoors were recovered.

The ATF, West Monroe Police Department and the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon B. Brown prosecuted the case.

# # #

The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.

 

 

SHREVEPORT/LAFAYETTE/ALEXANDRIA/LAKE CHARLES/MONROE, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook and the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Task Force announced the availability of approximately $154,931 in PSN grant funds for the Western District of Louisiana. The Department of Justice, the Office of Justice Programs and the Bureau of Justice Assistance is seeking applications for funding of a grant under the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program. At least 30% ($41,831) of the grant funds must be designated for grants under the PSN Program to fund new and/or current gang violence reduction strategies in the Western District. In addition, approximately $97,607 can be designated to fund both new and/or current comprehensive gun crime and gang violence reduction strategies within the Western District.   

PSN furthers the Department of Justice=s mission to reduce violent crime by providing support to state, local and tribal efforts to create safer neighborhoods through a sustained reduction in violent crime and gang violence committed with firearms utilizing prevention, enforcement and intervention methods. 

Various types of single or multi‑grantee grant proposals are welcome including those that address the following: 

• Gang violence and gun violence reduction, deterrence, prevention, community outreach and education; 
• Enforcement, adjudication and supervision programs; 
• Prisoner re-entry programs; or
• Other innovative related projects.

Grant proposals must be submitted to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, ATTN: PSN Grant Competition, 800 Lafayette Street, Suite 2200, Lafayette, LA 70501, no later than 5 p.m. on Monday, October 30, 2020. 

The FY 2020 PSN Grant Announcement, OMB No. 1121-0329 can be found on the website for the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Western District of Louisiana at:  . More information about the program can be located at www.psn.gov or www.bja.gov/programs/psn. 

Interested applicants may also contact Assistant U.S. Attorney and PSN Coordinator Jamilla A. Bynog at (337) 262-6618 for additional information. 

# # #

MONROE, La. – George M. “Trey” Fluitt, III, 53, of Monroe, made his initial appearance in United States District Court today, Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced. Fluitt, the owner and operator of Specialty Drug Testing, LLC (“Specialty”) in Monroe, was indicted by a federal grand jury for paying bribes and kickbacks in violation of the Anti-Kickback Statute, resulting in improper billings to Medicare of approximately $117 million.

Fluitt was charged with one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States and to pay and receive health care kickbacks. In addition, the indictment charges Fluitt with two counts of offering and payment of kickbacks and bribes in connection with a federal health care program, specifically Medicare.

According to the indictment, Fluitt and Specialty conspired with other unnamed co-conspirators and companies to unlawfully enrich themselves and others by soliciting and paying kickbacks and bribes in return for patient DNA specimens and physicians’ orders for cancer genetic tests and pharmacogentic testing. The indictment alleges that Fluitt and two other co-conspirators created and transmitted invoices and spreadsheets reflecting the kickback and bribe payments owed by Specialty, and used email and other forms of communication to inform each other of Medicare reimbursements, the payment of kickbacks and bribes, and other matters related to the scheme to defraud. It is further alleged in the indictment that as a result of these false and fraudulent claims, Medicare paid to Specialty at least the approximate amount of $28,726,229.

If convicted, the defendant faces up to five years in prison for each count of conspiracy to defraud health care program.  Fluitt also faces 10 years in prison for illegal kickbacks.  The defendant faces up to 5 years of supervised release, a $250,000 fine, forfeiture and restitution.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, conducted the investigation.  U.S. Department of Justice, Criminal Division, Trial Attorneys Gary A. Winters, Justin M. Woodard, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth D. Reeg are prosecuting the case.

An indictment is merely an accusation and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

# # #

The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.

 

A Shreveport, Louisiana, business owner was sentenced to 40 months in prison on Sept. 30, 2020, for filing false tax returns, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Louisiana Alexander C. Van Hook.

According to documents and information provided to the court, Robert C. Poimboeuf was a part owner of D&G Holdings LLC, a medical laboratory in the Shreveport area. From 2011 through 2015, Poimboeuf filed false tax returns that underreported gross receipts earned from his business. Poimboeuf concealed from his tax return preparers at least two bank accounts reflecting income earned, and falsely characterized business receipts as non-taxable loans. As a result of these actions, Poimboeuf caused a tax loss of more than $1.9 million to the IRS.

In addition to the term of imprisonment, U.S. District Judge Maurice Hicks Jr., ordered Poimboeuf to serve 1 year of supervised release and to pay restitution to the IRS in the amount of $1,904,477.

Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and Acting U.S. Attorney Van Hook thanked special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, who conducted the investigation, and Trial Attorney Kevin Schneider of the Tax Division, who assisted Acting U.S. Attorney Van Hook in the prosecution of the case.

LAFAYETTE, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that Jesus Silverio Cervantes, 36, an illegal immigrant from Mexico who formerly lived in Abbeville, Louisiana, has been sentenced. United States District Judge Dee Drell sentenced Cervantes to 120 months (10 years) in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release for possession of heroin with intent to distribute.

Jesus Silverio Cervantes was indicted on May 12, 2011 and charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine and heroin. According to documents introduced in court, Cervantes and other co-conspirators operated a cocaine and heroin drug trafficking organization from a residence in Abbeville, Louisiana from on or about January 1, 2008 until March 1, 2011. Cervantes and other co-conspirators and members of the drug trafficking organization received not less than five kilograms of cocaine and not less than one kilogram of heroin at this residence for distribution in the Western District of Louisiana and elsewhere, including the greater Baton Rouge, Louisiana area. Before Cervantes was arraigned on these charges he disappeared and remained a fugitive until August 16, 2018, when he was arrested by law enforcement officers in Tacoma, Washington. Cervantes pled guilty to the charge on January 27, 2020.

In addition, as a result of being convicted on the charges above, Cervantes was in violation of his probation from a previous conviction in the Western District of Louisiana for being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm (2007). For this violation, Cervantes was sentenced to an additional 6 months in prison. This sentence will run consecutive to the sentence imposed for possession of heroin with intent to distribute.

The DEA and Department of Homeland Security - Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney J. Luke Walker prosecuted the case.

# # #

SHREVEPORT, La. – A Shreveport business owner was sentenced today to 40 months (3 years, 4 months) in prison for filing false tax returns, announced Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook and Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division.

According to documents and information provided to the court, Robert Clifton Poimboeuf, 58, was part owner of D&G Holdings, LLC, a medical laboratory in the Shreveport area. From 2011 through 2015, Poimboeuf filed false tax returns that underreported gross receipts earned from his business. Poimboeuf concealed from his tax return preparers at least two bank accounts reflecting income earned, and falsely characterized business receipts as non-taxable loans. As a result of these actions, Poimboeuf caused a tax loss of more than $1.9 million to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

In addition to the term of imprisonment, United States District Judge S. Maurice Hicks, Jr. ordered Poimboeuf to one year of supervised release and to pay restitution to the IRS in the amount of $1,904,477.

Acting United States Attorney Van Hook and Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman thanked special agents of the IRS-Criminal Investigation who conducted the investigation, and Trial Attorney Kevin Schneider of the Tax Division, who assisted Acting United States Attorney Van Hook in the prosecution of the case.

# # #

ALEXANDRIA, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that a United States Penitentiary Pollock inmate was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Dee Drell to 350 months (29 years, 2 months) in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release for killing another inmate. This sentence imposed will run consecutive to the federal sentence he is currently serving. Cortez pled guilty to the charge on March 4, 2020.

David Cortez, 36, a citizen of Mexico who is currently serving a federal sentence for drug trafficking, was sentenced on one count of second degree murder. According to information presented to the court, Cortez and another inmate stabbed a cellmate on June 18, 2014 while outside in the yard at the United States Penitentiary in Pollock, Louisiana, which is within the special maritime and territorial jurisdiction of the United States and located in the Western District of Louisiana.  The victim inmate sustained a number of stab wounds to his upper and lower back, chest, shoulders, arms, neck and head, and died as a result of the injuries. Cortez killed the victim inmate with malice aforethought.

The FBI and U.S. Bureau of Prisons conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary J. Mudrick prosecuted the case.

# # #

The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.

 

LAFAYETTE, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that Billy Louviere, 44, of Lafayette, Louisiana, was sentenced today. United States District Judge Michael J. Juneau sentenced Louviere to 55 months (4 years, 7 months) in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release for possession of heroin with intent to distribute. Louviere pled guilty to the charge on January 7, 2020.

Law enforcement agents received information that Louviere and other co-conspirators were buying and selling heroin in the Lafayette area. Agents obtained authorization to intercept wire and electronic communications for a cell phone utilized by a known heroin dealer in Lafayette. Beginning on January 29, 2019 and continuing thereafter, law enforcement agents intercepted communications between Louviere and other co-conspirators regarding transactions wherein a co-conspirator provided a supply of heroin to Louviere nearly every day. Louviere would use some of the heroin but would also redistribute the heroin to other people for profit. Louviere was supplied approximately 3.5 grams of heroin per transaction.

On February 22, 2019, law enforcement agents intercepted a communication between Louviere and the heroin dealer and afterwards, observed Louviere have a brief meeting with the dealer. Later, Lafayette Police Department officers stopped the vehicle Louviere was driving for a traffic violation. The Lafayette Police Department K-9 officer conducted an open-air sniff of the vehicle and alerted to narcotics in the vehicle. Officers searched the vehicle and found a scale, baggies, and a burnt spoon. Louviere admitted to purchasing the heroin earlier that day.

The FBI and Lafayette Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert C. Abendroth prosecuted the case.

# # #

The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.

 

The Justice Department announced today that a former correctional officer with the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office (RPSO), Detention Center 1, in Alexandria, Louisiana, was sentenced today in federal court for assaulting an inmate detained at the facility.

Dominic Davidson, 27, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Dee Drell to 11 months in federal prison, followed by one year of supervised release. Davidson previously pleaded guilty on June 11, 2020, to one misdemeanor count of violating the civil rights of an inmate in his custody.

“Physical, violent, and unjustified abuse by members of our law enforcement community is unlawful,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband for the Civil Rights Division. “The Justice Department is dedicated to ensuring that no one in this country is above the law and will continue to prosecute anyone who uses a position of power illegally to violate the civil rights of others.”

 “Correctional officers have a sworn duty to ensure that inmates are protected, rather than abused,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook for the Western District of Louisiana. “The abuse of authority by this law enforcement officer and the violation of the inmate’s civil rights will not be tolerated. We will continue to pursue cases where this type of abuse and indiscretion occurs”

“Along with our partners, the FBI will aggressively investigate allegations wherein correctional officers abuse their position of power and authority over prisoners to deny them their constitutional right to be free from cruel and unusual punishment,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Bryan Vorndran. “The law suffers the most when those in a position of trust abuses their power. The FBI is appreciative of its partnerships with the Rapides Sheriff's Office, the U.S. Attorney’s office of the Western District of Louisiana and the trial attorneys from the Department of Justice Civil Rights Division.” 

According to plea documents and information presented in court, on June 14, 2018, while on duty as a correctional officer, Davidson entered the locked holding cell of pretrial detainee K.F. and began punching K.F. repeatedly in the face and body. Prior to Davidson entering the cell, K.F., who was completely naked and locked securely inside his cell, had been banging on the door in an attempt to get officers’ attention. In response to the banging, Davidson put on a pair of rubber gloves, unlocked and entered K.F.’s cell, pushed K.F. to the ground, and struck K.F. numerous times in the head and body. At no point before, during, or after the assault did K.F. pose a threat to himself or others.

This case was investigated by the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Mudrick of the Western District of Louisiana and Trial Attorneys Katherine DeVar and Thomas Johnson of the Civil Rights Division are prosecuting the case.

ALEXANDRIA, La. – A former correctional officer with the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office (RPSO), Detention Center 1, in Alexandria, Louisiana, was sentenced today in federal court for assaulting an inmate detained at the facility, Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced.

Dominic Davidson, 27, was sentenced by United States District Judge Dee Drell to 11 months in federal prison, followed by one year of supervised release. Davidson previously pleaded guilty on June 11, 2020, to one misdemeanor count of violating the civil rights of an inmate in his custody.

According to plea documents and information presented in court, on June 14, 2018, while on duty as a correctional officer, Davidson entered the locked holding cell of pretrial detainee K.F. and began punching K.F. repeatedly in the face and body.  Prior to Davidson entering the cell, K.F., who was completely naked and locked securely inside his cell, had been banging on the door in an attempt to get officers’ attention.  In response to the banging, Davidson put on a pair of rubber gloves, unlocked and entered K.F.’s cell, pushed K.F. to the ground, and struck K.F. numerous times in the head and body. At no point before, during, or after the assault did K.F. pose a threat to himself or others.

“Physical, violent, and unjustified abuse by members of our law enforcement community is unlawful,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband for the Civil Rights Division. “The Justice Department is dedicated to ensuring that no one in this country is above the law and will continue to prosecute anyone who uses a position of power illegally to violate the civil rights of others.”

“Correctional officers have a sworn duty to ensure that inmates are protected, rather than abused. The abuse of authority by this law enforcement officer and the violation of the inmate’s civil rights will not be tolerated. We will continue to pursue cases where this type of abuse and indiscretion occurs,” stated Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook.

SAC Bryan Vorndran stated, "Along with our partners, the FBI will aggressively investigate allegations wherein correctional officers abuse their position of power and authority over prisoners to deny them their constitutional right to be free from cruel and unusual punishment.  The law suffers the most when those in a position of trust abuses their power. The FBI is appreciative of its partnerships with the Rapides Sheriff's Office, the US Attorney’s office of the Western District of Louisiana and the trial attorneys from the Department of Justice Civil Rights Division.” 

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Mary Mudrick of the Western District of Louisiana and Trial Attorneys Katherine DeVar and Thomas Johnson of the Civil Rights Division prosecuted the case.

# # #

SHREVEPORT, La. – A federal grand jury returned indictments yesterday charging two former United States Postal Service employees, Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced.  

Shinice Jordan, 32, of Shreveport, Louisiana, has been charged with one count of theft of mail matter and one count of delay or destruction of mail. According to the indictment, on July 23, 2019, Jordan, who worked as a Letter Carrier with the U.S. Postal Service, stole a Walmart gift card from a letter which had been entrusted to her to deliver. It is further alleged that on that same date, Jordan delayed the opening of the letter which was intended to be delivered by her as an employee of the U.S. Postal Service.

Sedarius Howard, 33, of Shreveport, Louisiana, has been charged with one count of delay or destruction of mail. The indictment alleges that on March 16, 2020, while working as a Letter Carrier with the U.S. Postal Service, Howard destroyed or delayed delivery of mail that was his duty as an employee to deliver.

If convicted, both Jordan and Howard face up to 5 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both.

The United States Postal Service-Office of Inspector General conducted the investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert F. Moody is prosecuting the cases.

An indictment is merely an accusation and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

# # #

            The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.

 

ALEXANDRIA/LAFAYETTE/SHREVEPORT, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that three convicted felons have been sentenced in United States District Court for illegal possession of firearms.

Breaux Bridge Man with Lengthy Criminal History Sentenced for Illegally Possessing Firearm

Nacorvrick Green a/k/a “G-Nate,” 41, of Breaux Bridge, Louisiana, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Dee D. Drell to 180 months (15 years) in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. Green previously pled guilty to the charge on December 2, 2019.

Lafayette Police Department officers conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle Green was driving on June 13, 2018.  Officers found a loaded semi-automatic pistol in the vehicle and arrested Green, who is a convicted felon. Prior to his arrest, Green had seven felony convictions for drug trafficking. Under federal law, it is it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of a firearm or ammunition.

The ATF, Lafayette Police Department and Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel J. Vermaelen and Jamilla A. Bynog prosecuted the case.

Shreveport Man Sentenced for Drug and Firearms Crimes

Jerrick Stephenson, 28, of Shreveport, Louisiana, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge S. Maurice Hicks, Jr. to 78 months (6 years, 6 months) in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for possession with intent to distribute marijuana and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Stephenson pled guilty to the charge on September 6, 2019.

Stephenson was stopped by Shreveport Police Department officers for a traffic infraction on July 28, 2018. Stephenson attempted to flee on foot from law enforcement officers but was apprehended a short distance away and arrested. Officers found a pistol and two loaded magazines under the driver’s seat of the vehicle he was operating. Also inside the vehicle were 130 grams of marijuana and a digital scale with marijuana residue.  Stephenson was previously convicted of possession of controlled dangerous substances in 2014 and knew that he was prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition because of his prior felony conviction.

The ATF and the Shreveport Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cadesby B. Cooper prosecuted the case.

Alexandria Man Sentenced on Federal Firearms Charges

Malcolm Xavier Williams, 29, of Alexandria, Louisiana, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Dee D. Drell to 15 months in prison, followed by 2 years of supervised release, for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Williams was also ordered to pay a $7,000 fine. He pled guilty to the charge on March 5, 2020.

On February 21, 2019, Alexandria Police Department officers responded to a call on Aguillard Lane in Alexandria. Upon their arrival, officers found Williams, who had outstanding active warrants, and placed him under arrest. During a search incident to the arrest, officers found the key to a vehicle that was parked and running nearby in Williams’ pocket. Inside that vehicle, officers found a loaded black handgun on the driver’s side floorboard. Before his arrest on February 21, 2019, Williams, a convicted felon, was prohibited from possessing firearms because of a prior conviction for illegally carrying a weapon in 2017. At the time of arrest, Williams knew his status as a convicted felon.

The ATF and the Alexandria Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney J. Aaron Crawford prosecuted the case.

Each of these cases was brought as part of Project Guardian and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), programs that have been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone. To learn more about Project Safe Neighborhoods, go to www.justice.gov/psn.

# # #

The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.

SHREVEPORT, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that a federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging William Earl Maddox, 72, of Haynesville, Louisiana, with selling and misbranding illegal supplements online and in stores. Maddox has been charged with two counts of mail fraud, three counts of misbranding of a drug with intent to defraud or deceive, and seven counts of wire fraud.

According to the indictment, from around January 1, 2015 and continuing until about December 31, 2018, Maddox, the elected Constable in Claiborne Parish, Louisiana, sold supplements in capsules in stores and on eBay and websites that he operated, advertising them to be all-natural herbal supplements to treat impotence.  

The indictment alleges that Maddox obtained green capsules in unlabeled blister packs in the mail from foreign countries, including China, which contained sildenafil, the active ingredient in the prescription drug Viagra; tadalafil, the active ingredient in the prescription drug Cialis; and testosterone propinionate, an anabolic steroid and a Schedule III controlled dangerous substance. It is alleged that Maddox had the capsules repackaged and advertised them to contain all natural ingredients but the labeling did not reveal that the capsules contained sildenafil, tadalifil, or testosterone propinionate.

The indictment further alleges that when customers purchased these products, payment was made to the PayPal business account for Middle Marketing, LLC, which was Maddox’s company. Maddox would then ship the capsules to customers via the United States Postal Service and transfer the funds generated from the sale of the products from the PayPal account to his Middle Marketing bank account.

If convicted, the defendant faces up to 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both, on the mail and wire fraud counts and up to 3 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both, on the misbranding of a drug with intent to defraud or deceive counts in the indictment.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jessica D. Cassidy and Earl M. Campbell are prosecuting the case.

An indictment is merely an accusation and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

# # #

            The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.

 

SHREVEPORT, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that Brien Keith Powell, 51, of Shreveport, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Donald E. Walter. Powell was sentenced to 168 months for Possession of Crack Cocaine, and 60 months for Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking Crime, for a total of 228 months in prison (19 years), followed by 5 years of supervised release. Powell pleaded guilty to the charges on January 10, 2020.

On March 28, 2018, officers with the Caddo/Shreveport Narcotics Task Force obtained a search warrant of Brien Keith Powell’s residence and property. Upon execution of the search warrant, officers found drug paraphernalia and a revolver in the residence. Officers also found powder and crack cocaine, ecstasy, a digital scale, another handgun and ammunition in Powell’s vehicle. Powell had over $1,500 in cash in his pocket.

After Powell was arrested by officers, he admitted that all of the narcotics and firearms belonged to him and that he was selling the narcotics to make a living. Further investigation by law enforcement revealed that the firearms had both been reported stolen. The North Louisiana Criminalistics Laboratory analyzed the narcotics and determined the drugs to be 38.34 grams of cocaine base, crack cocaine.

Powell has a lengthy criminal history, having been convicted of aggravated battery with a dangerous weapon (1986 and 1990), possession of narcotics (1990), Second Degree Kidnapping (1994), Armed Robbery (1995), Felon in Possession of Firearm (2000), Possession of a Controlled Substance (2007) and Possession of Counterfeit (2014).

The ATF and Caddo/Shreveport Narcotics Task Force conducted the investigation and Assistant United States Attorney Tennille Gilreath prosecuted the case.

# # #

SHREVEPORT, La. – The Northwest Louisiana Human Trafficking Task Force is comprised of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies and non-governmental organizations, and was formed in an effort to promote enhanced collaboration between all agencies involved in combatting human trafficking cases in our area. This Task Force has launched a campaign to fight sexual predator cases called “Project R.I.S.K.,” Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced.

Members of the Task Force have noticed a disturbing trend in the rise of sexual predator cases in the Western District of Louisiana. Because of this trend, the Task Force has launched “Project R.I.S.K.” (Reliable Internet Safety for Kids).

Since March 2020, the coronavirus pandemic has pushed our youth to be on the internet more than ever before. Today, the internet not only entertains and connects our youth with their peers, but a vast majority of them are using the internet for virtual schooling. The Louisiana Attorney General’s Office has reported a 200% increase in online sexual predator cases since the beginning of the pandemic. This increase in internet activity allows more opportunity for predators to interact with our youth. As we see in all cases, predators will also adapt to their changing environments.

The Task Force has created a Public Service Announcement (PSA) to launch Project R.I.S.K. and contains messages from leaders of area law enforcement agencies providing advice to help prevent predators from victimizing children.

Leaders advise all guardians, including parents, teachers, and custodians, to place ALL devices such as computers, laptops, tablets, and smart phones in common areas. Smart phones, even those with no service, allow the same access to predators as a computer or other device. Guardians need to know what apps are on these devices and also know their children’s passwords. Project R.I.S.K. also encourages all guardians to engage in their children’s activities.

All agencies in this Task Force share a united front to eliminate all human trafficking type cases; however, to be more successful, they need assistance from the public. Many parents and guardians want to protect their children but may not know where to look for reliable internet safety information. Project R.I.S.K. is designed to assist with that. The Project R.I.S.K. PSA will provide reliable information and the law enforcement agencies involved in this Task Force can help as well. Members of the Task Force will be available to meet with citizens, local government officials, community organizations, school boards, churches, and other groups to discuss Project R.I.S.K. and internet safety. 

The members of the Northwest Louisiana Human Trafficking Task Force are:

Law Enforcement Members

Bossier City Marshal’s Office

Bossier City Police Department

Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office

Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office

Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force (FBI-Shreveport Field Office)

Claiborne Parish Sheriff’s Office

DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office

Federal Bureau of Investigations, Shreveport Field Office

Greenwood Police Department

Homeland Security Investigations, Shreveport Field Office

Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force

Louisiana Alcohol Tobacco Commission

Louisiana State Police

Office of Special Investigations, Barksdale Air Force Base

Sabine Parish Sherriff’s Office

Shreveport Police Department

United States Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General

United States Department of State

United States Marshal Service, Western District of Louisiana

Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office    

Prosecutorial Members

United States Attorney’s Office (Western District of Louisiana)

Caddo Parish District Attorney’s Office

Bossier/Webster Parish District Attorney’s Office

For further information regarding Project R.I.S.K., contact any of the members above or Assistant United States Attorney Earl Campbell at 318-676-3600.

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SHREVEPORT, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that Kelvin Broadway, 26, of Shreveport, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Donald E. Walter for Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. Broadway was sentenced to 57 months (4 years, 9 months) in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release. Broadway pleaded guilty to the charge on April 24, 2020.

On January 6, 2019, Shreveport Police Department officers conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle in which Broadway was a front-seat passenger. Law enforcement officers found two loaded handguns inside a shopping bag that Broadway had possessed between his feet. Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of a firearm or ammunition.

Broadway has prior felony convictions in Caddo Parish, Louisiana, for felony theft (2011), possession of a controlled substance (2012), and illegally carrying of weapons while in possession of a controlled substance (2013).

The ATF and Shreveport Police Department conducted the investigation and Assistant United States Attorneys Mike Shannon and Tennille Gilreath prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone. To learn more about Project Safe Neighborhoods, go to www.justice.gov/psn.

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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.

 

SHREVEPORT, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook, along with Caddo Parish District Attorney James E. Stewart, Shreveport Police Chief Ben Raymond and Caddo Parish Sheriff Steve Prator, and agents from the ATF, FBI and DEA, held a press conference today to discuss their efforts to increase the investigation and prosecution of cases against violent criminals in the City of Shreveport.

In November 2019, U.S. Attorney General William Barr announced the launch of Project Guardian, a nationwide strategic plan to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws across the country. Reducing gun violence and enforcing federal firearms laws have always been among the Department’s highest priorities. Project Guardian emphasizes the importance of using all modern technologies available to law enforcement to promote gun crime intelligence.

Another federal partnership initiative with local law enforcement to address the rise in violent crimes in our nation has also been introduced and named, Operation Legend. This operation honors the memory of four-year old LeGend Taliferro, who was shot and killed while asleep in bed early in the morning of June 29 in Kansas City, Missouri. Operation Legend began in the larger cities of our nation which have seen a spike in violent crime, including Kansas City, Missouri, St. Louis, Albuquerque, Chicago, Cleveland, Detroit, Memphis, Milwaukee and Indianapolis. These gun crimes are not just a problem in our larger cities, but also here in the Western District of Louisiana.

The Project Guardian program, along with Operation Legend, encourages joint efforts between federal and local law enforcement agencies. Because of these programs and joint efforts of the agencies that are represented here today and other law enforcement partners, we have brought over 386 federal firearm prosecutions in the Western District of Louisiana since 2017 and our efforts are increasing. Below are some statistics:

• FY17 through FY19, the U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted approximately 285 firearm related offenses, including felons and drug dealers in possession of firearms, in the entire Western District of Louisiana, with 113 defendants being in the Shreveport Division alone.
• These prosecutions represent approximately three times the number of such cases than have been brought in previous years.
• On average, that is 82 cases per year being prosecuted in our district.

These numbers show that we have been committed to prosecuting federal firearm cases and getting dangerous criminals off the streets of our city and pledge to work even harder to bring these offenders to justice. Cooperation with our state and local law enforcement partners in bringing these federal firearms indictments allows our state and local partners to concentrate on other crimes in our district.

Too many lives have been tragically lost and too many people have been senselessly injured due to gun violence in our city– including most recently this past weekend when a 2-year-old was shot in the abdomen during an exchange of gunfire between multiple people. This innocent toddler is now fighting for his life. Since May 2020, there have been shootings in Shreveport where at least ten innocent children have been shot and some killed. Our organized efforts are in honor of these and the many other victims who suffered at the hands of these dangerous criminals. Many Shreveport neighborhoods are filled with gun shots being fired randomly. Local community leaders and officials have held prayer vigils and rallies to try to bring awareness to this situation and encourage individuals in our community to stop the gun violence.

“The aim of Project Guardian and Operation Legend is to provide safe neighborhoods in Shreveport and surrounding areas where the people can safely live, work and raise their families by removing the most violent and dangerous offenders from our streets,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook. “This is a challenging situation for the Shreveport area but we are committed to working with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners to address the crime surge in Shreveport. Individuals who take another’s life by pulling a trigger without a second thought must stop. We will not be deterred, and we will continue to step up the pressure on these bad actors. The message is clear, if you threaten the safety and security of innocent people in our communities, you will face the consequences.”

Caddo Parish Sheriff Steve Prator also stated: “Sadly our community is experiencing a proliferation of gun violence. The common thread is the illegal possession of guns by gangsters, many of which are supplying illicit drugs to our young people. We MUST cut this thread by aggressive law enforcement and prosecution of these thugs.”

Shreveport Police Chief Ben Raymond stated: “The Shreveport Police Department values the relationships we have with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Caddo Parish District Attorney’s Office, Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office, and numerous other agencies in our combined efforts to decrease violent crime. It takes a unified effort to address violence in our community and working together toward that goal is key to our success.”

If you have any information related to individuals committing crimes of violence in Shreveport, please contact Shreveport Police at 318-673-7300 #3, 318-673-6955 or Crime Stoppers at 318-673-7373.

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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.

 

SHREVEPORT, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that Shreveport Prosthetics, Inc. (“SPI”) has agreed to pay $1.6 million, plus interest, to the federal government to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act for false supplier billings to the Medicare program.

SPI is a Louisiana corporation that provides upper and lower extremity prosthetics to patients in North Louisiana. The civil settlement resolves allegations that when SPI’s supplier number was deactivated, SPI funneled its claims to Medicare through a supplier in Texas for services that were rendered by SPI in Louisiana. SPI also routinely waived patient coinsurance amounts over a three year period, resulting in Medicare being overcharged for the billed services. This lawsuit was initiated by former office administrator/billing specialist Kimberly Throgmorton under the qui tam, or whistleblower provisions, of the False Claims Act.  Under the False Claims Act, private citizens can bring suit on behalf of the United States and share in any recovery.  Ms. Throgmorton will receive over a quarter of a million as her share of the government’s recovery.

“The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to investigating and aggressively pursuing healthcare providers who seek public funds through unlawful means. This settlement should send a message to all healthcare providers and suppliers in the Western District of Louisiana that violations of the False Claims Act will continue to receive this office’s full attention and resources,” said Alexander C. Van Hook, Acting U.S. Attorney.

“We remain focused on investigating healthcare providers who seek to enrich themselves by engaging in illegal activities,” said Miranda L. Bennett, Special Agent in Charge for the Office of Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. “We will continue working with our law enforcement partners to investigate these types of insidious schemes, which are designed to bypass important protections for Medicare beneficiaries.”

As part of the settlement, SPI agreed to a three-year Integrity Agreement (IA) with the Office of Inspector General (OIG). The IA promotes compliance with the statutes, regulations, program requirements, and written directives of Medicare and all other federal health care programs.  Among other compliance obligations, the IA requires that SPI must establish and maintain a compliance program, engage an Independent Review Organization to perform quarterly claims reviews, and routinely report on these obligations to OIG.

This resolution is part of the government’s emphasis on combating health care fraud. The Department of Justice and the Department of Health and Human Services work in partnership to reduce and prevent Medicare and Medicaid financial fraud through enhanced cooperation. One of the most powerful tools in that effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement, can be reported to the Department of Health and Human Services at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).

The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.

The case is docketed as United States ex rel. Throgmorton v. Shreveport Prosthetics, Inc., et al., No. 17-881 (W.D. La.).

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, conducted the investigation of this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen J. King prosecuted the case.

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LAFAYETTE, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that Skyland Washington, 32, of New Iberia, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge S. Maurice Hicks, Jr. for Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. Washington was sentenced to 36 months (3 years) in prison, followed by 2 years of supervised release. Washington previously pled guilty to the charge in United States District Court on February 13, 2020.

An Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Deputy and Louisiana State Police Trooper were dispatched to the scene of a single vehicle traffic accident in New Iberia on June 12, 2017. When law enforcement officers arrived, they made contact with the driver of the vehicle, Skyland Washington. Officers noticed a handgun in the vehicle at Washington’s feet and after further investigation, learned that the handgun had been reported stolen. Officers learned that Washington had previously been convicted of a felony and an arrest warrant was obtained for his arrest.

Washington has previous felony convictions in Iberia Parish, Louisiana, for simple burglary and possession of cocaine (2009). Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of a firearm or ammunition.

The ATF, Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Office and Louisiana State Police conducted the investigation and Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Ayo prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone. To learn more about Project Safe Neighborhoods, go to www.justice.gov/psn.

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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.

 

LAFAYETTE, La. –  Pedro Aguirre-Nunez, 39, a Duson, Louisiana resident, was sentenced in United States District Court for Production of Child Pornography, Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced. United States District Judge S. Maurice Hicks, Jr. sentenced Aguirre-Nunez to spend 224 months (18 years, 8 months) in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release.

On March 29, 2019, Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a report of indecent behavior with a juvenile at a residence in Duson, Louisiana. Law enforcement officers learned that videos of Aguirre-Nunez molesting a minor girl had been discovered on the cloud account associated with his phone. Officers obtained a search warrant for the cloud account and found three videos. The videos were taken on a smart phone and synched with the cloud account associated with that phone.

A forensic review determined that the videos had been taken a few months prior to the discovery of them. All three of the videos were taken while the minor child was asleep. On October 17, 2019, Aguirre-Nunez admitted that he did in fact produce the visual depictions of conduct with the minor child by using his smart phone and pled guilty to Production of Child Pornography in federal court.

Aguirre-Nunez is a citizen and national of Mexico and did not have legal status in the United States on the dates these crimes were committed.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security-Homeland Security Investigations and the Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Ayo prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a U.S. Department of Justice nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood combines federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) also encourage the public to report suspected child predators and any suspicious activity through its toll-free hotline at (866) 347-2423.  Investigators are available at all hours to answer hotline calls. Tips or other information can also be submitted to ICE online by visiting their website at www.ice.gov/exec/forms/hsi-tips/tips.asp or through the Operation Predator smartphone application www.ice.gov/predator/smartphone-app. Tips may be submitted anonymously.

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            The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.