District of Massachusetts

BOSTON – A Dominican national was sentenced on Wednesday, Sept. 22, 2021 in federal court in Boston for conspiring to distribute more than 40 grams of fentanyl and misusing a Social Security number.    

Bladimir Sanchez Soto, 29, formerly of Methuen, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Leo T. Sorokin to 30 months in prison and three years of supervised release. Sanchez Soto will be subject to deportation proceedings upon completion of his sentence. On March 30, 2021, Sanchez Soto pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and one count of false representation of a Social Security number.

In November 2019 and January 2020, Sanchez Soto helped arrange four sales of approximately 65 grams of fentanyl. In February 2020, Sanchez Soto and a co-defendant were arrested and additional fentanyl was seized. Sanchez Soto was previously indicted in the Western District of Michigan in connection with using a false name and Social Security number to obtain a Michigan driver’s license in November 2016. The matter was transferred to the District of Massachusetts for plea and sentencing.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell; United States Attorney Andrew B. Birge of the Western District of Michigan; Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; and Vance Callender, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Detroit, made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Theodore B. Heinrich of Mendell’s Narcotics and Money Laundering Unit prosecuted the case.

BOSTON – A North Carolina man pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court in Boston to firearms trafficking. 

Gabriel Gispert-Poe, 24, of Hope Mills, N.C., pleaded guilty to one count of engaging in the business of dealing in firearms without a license. U.S. Senior District Court Judge Douglas P. Woodlock scheduled sentencing for Jan. 25, 2022. Gispert-Poe was charged on Aug. 6, 2021.

At various times in 2019 and 2020, Gispert-Poe acquired firearms in North Carolina from straw buyers or other sources, and then sold these firearms to Chiweze Ihunwo at a profit. Ihunwo then transported the firearms he obtained from Gispert-Poe to Massachusetts and offered them for resale, including through social media. Gispert-Poe and Ihunwo communicated by phone regarding the proposed acquisition and subsequent resale of firearms.

On Aug. 18, 2021, Ihunwo pleaded guilty to firearms trafficking and is scheduled to be sentenced on Dec. 8, 2021.

The charge of dealing in firearms without a license provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell and James Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives made the announcement. Assistance was provided by the Randolph Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney William Abely, Chief of Mendell’s Criminal Division, is prosecuting the case

BOSTON – Two Dominican nationals previously residing in Lawrence pleaded guilty yesterday to conspiring to distribute hundreds of grams of fentanyl in Lawrence.

Jose Manuel Carmona-Mercedes, 32, and Gabriel Carmona-Pimentel, 36, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, distribution of fentanyl, and possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl. U.S. Senior District Court Judge Rya W. Zobel scheduled sentencing for Jan. 12, 2022. The brothers were indicted in December 2020.

In late 2019, law enforcement identified Carmona-Mercedes and Carmona-Pimentel as large-scale fentanyl dealers operating in Lawrence. On four occasions in January and February 2020, an undercover officer ordered fentanyl from Carmona-Mercedes. After the undercover officer ordered a quantity of fentanyl and negotiated the price, Carmona-Pimentel or Carmona-Mercedes, or both, would deliver the fentanyl to the undercover officer from a base of operations on Lexington Street in Lawrence. On Feb. 25, 2020, after Carmona-Pimentel delivered 220 grams of fentanyl to the undercover officer, Carmona-Mercedes and Carmona-Pimentel were arrested. A search of the Lexington Street location resulted in the seizure of 850 grams of fentanyl, 300 grams of cutting agents, documents in Carmona-Mercedes and Carmona-Pimentel’s names, plastic baggies commonly used to package drugs for street-level sales, blenders, suspected cut and digital scales.

The charge of conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl provides for a sentence of at least 10 years and up to life in prison, at least five years of supervised release and a fine of up to $10 million. The charge of distribution of fentanyl provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, at least three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $1 million. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell; Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigations, Boston Division; Colonel Christopher Mason, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; Lawrence Police Chief Roy Vasque; and Essex County District Attorney Jonathan W. Blodgett made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Pohl of Mendell’s Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit is prosecuting the case.

BOSTON – Two Brockton men pleaded guilty to their roles in a wide-ranging drug trafficking conspiracy reaching from Boston to Brockton to Cape Cod.

Cody Goncalves, 28, pleaded guilty yesterday to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, 400 grams or more of fentanyl, cocaine, cocaine base, oxycodone and marijuana; possession with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin; possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, cocaine, cocaine base and marijuana; being a felon in possession of ammunition; and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense. U.S. District Court Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton scheduled sentencing for Feb. 2, 2022.

Jermaine Gonsalves, 34, pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, 400 grams or more of fentanyl, cocaine, cocaine base, oxycodone and marijuana. Judge Gorton scheduled sentencing for Feb. 3, 2022.

According to court documents, in the fall of 2018, law enforcement began investigating a violent Brockton drug crew headed by Djuna Goncalves, Cody Goncalves’s brother. The investigation revealed that the Goncalves brothers worked with others, including Jermaine Gonsalves, to distribute large quantities of fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, cocaine base and marijuana throughout southeastern Massachusetts from a base of operations on Addison Avenue in Brockton. The investigation also targeted several Boston-based drug suppliers to the Goncalves brothers. Agents seized large quantities of heroin, fentanyl, cash and a loaded firearm from Cody Goncalves, who had previously been convicted of unlawful possession of a firearm and who had distributed drugs while on pre-trial release from a state drug charge. In addition, a loaded firearm and drugs were seized from a residence tied to Jermaine Gonsalves, who had previously been convicted in U.S. District Court in Boston of possession with intent to distribute cocaine base.

In December 2018, Cody Goncalves and Jermaine Gonsalves were indicted along with 15 others as part of the drug trafficking conspiracy. Of the 17 defendants charged in the indictment, nine have been sentenced. Cody Goncalves and Jermaine Gonsalves are the 12th and 13th defendants to plead guilty in the case, respectively.

The charges of possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, cocaine, cocaine base and marijuana, and possession with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, provide for a sentence of at least five years and up to 40 years in prison, at least four years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $5 million. The charge of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, 400 grams or more of fentanyl, cocaine, cocaine base, oxycodone and marijuana provides for a sentence of up to life in prison, at least four years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $10 million. The charge of being a felon in possession of ammunition provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime provides for a mandatory sentence of five years to be served consecutively to the sentence for the drug trafficking offense and up to life in prison, five years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell; Matthew B. Millhollin, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston; Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Division; and Colonel Christopher Mason, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police, made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher Pohl and Alathea E. Porter of Mendell’s Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit are prosecuting the case.

The operation was conducted by a multi-agency task force through the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF), a partnership between federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations, and those primarily responsible for the nation’s illegal drug supply. More information on the OCDETF program is available here: https://www.justice.gov/ocdetf/about-ocdetf.

The detailed contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

BOSTON – A California woman was sentenced yesterday for her role in a multi-million-dollar Medicare fraud scheme.

Stefanie Hirsch, 51, of Los Angeles, Calif., was sentenced by U.S. Senior District Court Judge George A. O’Toole Jr. to three years of probation. Hirsch was also ordered to pay a fine of $2,500. On Feb. 24, 2021, Hirsch pleaded guilty to violating the HIPAA statute.

Hirsch sold access to a Medicare eligibility tool that allowed Juan C. Perez Buitrago and Nathan LaParl to improperly access patients’ detailed personal, demographic, medical and insurance information. Hirsch owned EI Medical, Inc., a Medicare-enrolled wheelchair and scooter repair company that qualified for access to a health care clearinghouse that contains Medicare patients’ personal, medical and insurance information. Hirsch improperly gave Perez Buitrago and LaParl access to that clearinghouse and charged them about $0.25 per patient eligibility check. Using Hirsch’s credentials, LaParl accessed the personal and medical data of more than 350,000 patients and Perez Buitrago’s credentials were used for 150,000 patients. 

Perez Buitrago and LaParl pleaded guilty to federal health care crimes in October 2020 and January 2021, respectively.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell; Johnnie Sharp Jr., Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Birmingham Field Division; Phillip Coyne, Special Agent in Charge of the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Inspector General, Boston Division; and Joshua McCallister, Acting Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elysa Q. Wan of Mendell’s Health Care Fraud Unit prosecuted the case.

BOSTON – A Worcester woman pleaded guilty today to her participation in a scheme to defraud the Massachusetts Medicaid program, commonly known as MassHealth.

Robin Cronin, 58, of Worcester, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud and one count of health care fraud. U.S. District Court Judge Timothy S. Hillman scheduled sentencing for Jan. 21, 2022.

In January 2020, Cronin was indicted along with Dr. Anthony DiStefano III and Dr. Scott Cale, dentists practicing in Worcester, for their roles in the Medicaid Fraud scheme. 

According to the indictment, from 2014 to 2018, dental services that DiStefano personally delivered were billed to MassHealth using Cale’s provider identification credentials. The purpose of this arrangement was to deceive MassHealth into paying for dental services that were not reimbursable as DiStefano had previously been terminated from the MassHealth provider program over concerns regarding the quality of care he provided to patients. Cale then allegedly paid DiStefano a share of the money that MassHealth paid Cale. Cronin, DiStefano’s office manager, was aware of the arrangement and personally billed MassHealth for services that were not reimbursable, knowing that the claims were false.

DiStefano and Cale have pleaded not guilty and are considered innocent until proven guilty.

The charges of health care fraud and conspiracy to commit health care fraud provide for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell; Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey; Phillip Coyne, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Inspector General, Office of Investigations; and Joleen D. Simpson, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigations in Boston made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Evan Panich and Chris Looney of Mendell’s Office, as well as Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin Lownds, detailed from Healey’s Office, are prosecuting the case.

The details contained in the indictment are allegations. The remaining defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

BOSTON – Jasiel F. Correia II, the former Mayor of Fall River, Mass., was sentenced today in connection with a scheme to defraud investors and extorting and conspiring to extort marijuana vendors for hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Correia, 29, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Senior Judge Douglas P. Woodlock to six years in prison and three years of supervised release. The government recommended 11 years in prison. The judge reserved judgment on restitution and forfeiture for a later date.

On May 14, 2021, Correia was convicted by a federal jury of nine counts of wire fraud, four counts of filing false tax returns, four counts of extortion conspiracy and four counts of extortion. Judge Woodlock dismissed six counts of wire fraud and two counts of filing false tax returns, for which the jury convicted Correia.

In October 2018, Correia was indicted on charges of wire fraud and filing false tax returns. He was subsequently charged in a superseding indictment in September 2019 with, among other crimes, extortion conspiracy and extortion.

“Jasiel Correia was a corrupt and deceitful politician who could only be stopped by federal prosecution. Now he is a felon and will be a federal inmate,” said Nathaniel R. Mendell, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Massachusetts. “Mr. Correia lied to investors, sold his office, and has no remorse for his crimes. That warrants a significant prison term, which is why the government recommended an 11-year sentence.”

“Jasiel Correia’s conscious decision to fleece investors, extort hundreds of thousands of dollars in bribes, and cheat on his taxes has now cost him his freedom. He has proven to be a pervasive liar who has shown absolutely no remorse or empathy for his victims, and today he has been held accountable. Sadly, his actions have further eroded the public’s trust in government, and deeply hurt the citizens of Fall River,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division. “Let his sentence serve as a stark reminder that if you commit crimes, your status as an elected official will not protect you. The FBI is committed to rooting out public corruption and holding officials like him accountable.”

“As the Mayor of Fall River, Jasiel Correia held the public’s trust in his hands and was positioned to serve those individuals that elected him. Instead, he squandered that opportunity and was exposed as a corrupt politician,” said Joleen D. Simpson, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation Division, Boston Field Office. “It is a shame that an individual with such a bright future decided to misuse his elected office for personal gain.  Today’s sentencing sends a clear message that corrupt public officials will pay dearly for the choices they make.”

“Jasiel Correia abused the public trust,” said Massachusetts Inspector General Glenn A. Cunha. “His sentencing should serve as a reminder that the Massachusetts Inspector General and our federal partners will ensure that officials who enrich themselves at the public’s expense will pay a personal price.”

In 2012, Correia founded SnoOwl, an app designed to connect local businesses with their target consumer market. Seven individuals invested a total of approximately $360,000 in SnoOwl. Correia used approximately $230,000 – 64% of the money invested – to fund his own lavish lifestyle, burgeoning political career and other business ventures. Specifically, Correia used the investment funds to purchase tens of thousands of dollars of luxury items, including a Mercedes, jewelry and designer clothing; to pay for personal travel and entertainment, including tens of thousands of dollars on airfare, hotels, restaurants, casinos and adult entertainment; to pay down personal student loan debt; to fund his political campaign; and to make charitable donations in his own name.

To conceal his theft of funds from investors, Correia refused to provide the company’s financial records and gave false positive updates on SnoOwl’s status. Additionally, in May 2017, Correia instructed an accountant to file amended 2013 and 2014 personal tax returns in an effort to conceal his fraudulent activity from the IRS.

After taking office as Fall River Mayor in January 2016, Correia agreed to issue non-opposition letters to marijuana vendors in return for cash bribes and other payments. Under Massachusetts law, non-opposition letters from the head of local government are required in order to obtain a license to operate a marijuana business. Correia, as Mayor, was solely responsible for approving all non-opposition letters in Fall River. In addition, applicants seeking marijuana licenses are required to enter into host community agreements, between the marijuana company and the local government, stating that the company will give up to 3% of its gross sales to the local government.

Four marijuana vendors agreed to pay bribes ranging from over $75,000 up to $250,000 in cash, campaign contributions and mortgage discharges to Correia and his co-conspirators in return for non-opposition letters and host community agreements.

Acting U.S. Attorney Mendell; FBI Boston SAC Bonavolonta; IRS-CI SAC Simpson; Christina Scaringi, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General, Northeast Regional Office; and Massachusetts Inspector General Cunha made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zachary Hafer, David Tobin, Carol E. Head and Mark T. Quinlivan of Mendell’s Office prosecuted the case.

BOSTON – A Fitchburg man pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court in Worcester for his role in a wide-ranging fentanyl, heroin, crack and cocaine trafficking conspiracy.

Pablo Vidarte Hernandez, 48, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin, 400 grams or more of fentanyl, 280 grams or more of cocaine base (commonly known as crack cocaine) and 500 grams or more of cocaine. U.S. District Court Judge Timothy S. Hillman scheduled sentencing for Jan. 19, 2022. Vidarte Hernandez was charged along with 17 others in July 2020.

According to court documents, following a fatal fentanyl overdose in September 2018, law enforcement began an investigation into a drug trafficking organization (DTO) in the Fitchburg area led by co-conspirators Pedro Baez and Anthony Baez. Beginning in July 2019, electronic communications revealed that Vidarte Hernandez and others distributed a fentanyl and heroin mixture on a regular basis to individuals in the Fitchburg area, including to Pedro and Anthony Baez, who redistributed that mixture to others.

Over the course of the investigation, agents seized over 1.8 kilograms of a heroin and fentanyl mixture, over 3.6 kilograms of cocaine and over 50 grams of crack cocaine, as well as a stolen, loaded handgun, drug manufacturing equipment and over $376,000. Vidarte Hernandez was responsible for distributing over a kilogram of a fentanyl and heroin mixture. 

Vidarte Hernandez is the sixth defendant to plead guilty in the case. In December 2020, Anthony Baez was sentenced by Judge Hillman to 13 years in prison. Pedro Baez pleaded guilty on Feb. 3, 2021 and is scheduled to be sentenced on Jan. 18, 2022.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell; Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; Commissioner Carol Mici of the Massachusetts Department of Correction; and Colonel Christopher Mason, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alathea Porter of Mendell’s Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit is prosecuting the case.

The operation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations to disrupt and dismantle the most significant drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations. The Fitchburg Police Department, U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Lunenburg Police Department also provided valuable assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alathea Porter of Mendell’s Narcotics and Money Laundering Unit is prosecuting the case.

The details contained in the indictment are allegations. The remaining defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

BOSTON – A Dominican national was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for fentanyl trafficking in connection with the seizure of approximately 20 kilograms of heroin and 10 kilos of fentanyl. A firearm and $20,000 were also recovered. 

Joel Cortorreal, a/k/a Angel Javier Morell-Oneill, 33, a Dominican national previously residing in Methuen, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Leo T. Sorokin to 186 months in prison and five years of supervised release. Cortorreal will face deportation proceedings upon completion of his sentence. On April 29, 2021, Cortorreal pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, one count of unlawful reentry of a deported alien and one count of being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm and ammunition.

During a traffic stop in October 2018 in Methuen, officers seized two kilograms of fentanyl from the front passenger seat of the Cortorreal’s vehicle. A subsequent search of Cortorreal’s residence resulted in the seizure of approximately 20 kilos of heroin, over eight kilos of fentanyl, drug distribution paraphernalia and a loaded firearm.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell; Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; and Colonel Christopher Mason, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Somerville, Medford, Boston, Ipswich and Arlington Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Katherine Ferguson and Nadine Pellegrini of Mendell’s Narcotics and Money Laundering Unit prosecuted the case.

BOSTON – A New Bedford man pleaded guilty on Wednesday, Sept. 15, 2021, in connection with his role in a cocaine trafficking conspiracy. 

Orrin Guidry, 26, pleaded guilty before U.S. Senior District Court Judge Rya W. Zobel to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute cocaine. A sentencing date has not yet been scheduled.

In October 2020, Guidry was charged following an investigation into a drug trafficking organization led by co-conspirator Jason Valliere. According to the charging documents, Guidry and two other co-conspirators assisted Valliere in the coordination of a multi-kilogram drug deal with undercover agents. Guidry accepted cash payment in advance and agreed to wear a disguise for the anticipated drug deal. Guidry also agreed to serve as a lookout and armed manpower during any drug exchange. 

On Aug. 26, 2021, Valliere was sentenced by U.S. District Court Chief Judge F. Dennis Saylor IV to five years in prison and four years of supervised release. 

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell; Joseph R. Bonavolanta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; Colonel Christopher Mason, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; Suffolk County Sheriff Steven W. Tompkins; Bristol County Sheriff Thomas M. Hodgson; Boston Police Acting Commissioner Gregory Long; Brockton Police Chief Emanuel Gomes; Bridgewater Police Chief Christopher D. Delmonte; East Bridgewater Police Chief Paul O’Brien; and Westport Police Chief Keith Pelletier made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Fall River Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kaitlin O’Donnell of Mendell’s Organized Crime and Gang Unit is prosecuting the case.

The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

BOSTON – A Dominican national pleaded guilty today in federal court in Springfield in connection with using another individual’s identity to fraudulently obtain government benefits.

Andrea Perez, 48, pleaded guilty to false representation of a Social Security number and theft of government money. U.S. District Court Judge Mark G. Mastroianni scheduled sentencing for Dec. 21, 2021. Perez was indicted in February 2021.

Perez used the identity of a Puerto Rican citizen to apply for and obtain Housing Choice Voucher Program, commonly known as Section 8, housing assistance benefits as well as to receive disability benefits from the Social Security Administration. As a result, from April 2019 through February 2021, Perez fraudulently received $17,380 in Section 8 housing assistance benefits and, from August 2017 through August 2018, approximately $12,570 in fraudulent Social Security benefits.

The charge of false representation of a Social Security number provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater. The charge of theft of government money provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell; Jermaine Jack, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General, Boston Field Office; and Christina Scaringi, Special Agent in Charge of the Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General, made the announcement today. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Burzycki of Mendell’s Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.

BOSTON – A Brockton man pleaded guilty on Friday, Sept. 17, 2021 to illegally possessing a Smith & Wesson, .40 caliber pistol and ammunition.

David Dardy, 32, pleaded guilty to one count of possessing a firearm and ammunition while being a convicted felon. U.S. Chief District Court Judge F. Dennis Saylor IV scheduled sentencing for Feb. 7, 2022. Dardy was indicted in November 2020.

On or about Sept. 19, 2020, Dardy possessed a Smith & Wesson, .40 caliber pistol. The firearm was loaded with five rounds of .40 caliber “Federal 40 S&W” ammunition, five rounds of .40 caliber “Perfecta 40 S.W.” ammunition, two rounds of .40 caliber “PPU 40 S&W” ammunition and one round of .40 caliber “FC NR 40 S&W” ammunition.  

The charge of being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell; James Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Field Division; and Boston Police Acting Commissioner Gregory Long made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kaitlin R. O’Donnell of Mendell’s Organized Crime and Gang Unit is prosecuting the case.

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

BOSTON – A Boston man was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for his involvement in a drug trafficking conspiracy.

Sandro Pereira Cabral, 25, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Chief Judge F. Dennis Saylor IV to one year in prison and three years of supervised release. On May 19, 2021, Cabral pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and cocaine.

In October 2017, Cabral delivered approximately 4.95 grams of fentanyl to an undercover officer in Boston. Cabral was charged as part of an investigation into a drug trafficking organization distributing large quantities of fentanyl, cocaine and other controlled substances in the greater Boston area.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell; Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Boston Field Division; James Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Field Division; and Boston Police Acting Commissioner Gregory Long made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Corey Steinberg and John Mulcahy of Mendell’s Criminal Division prosecuted the case.

The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

BOSTON – A Lynn man was sentenced today for illegally possessing ammunition as a previously convicted felon.

Paul Votano, 38, was sentenced by U.S. Senior District Court Judge Mark L. Wolf to 78 months in prison and three years of supervised release. On May 13, 2021, Votano pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of ammunition.

In September 2019, Votano arranged the sale of a Romarm Cuguir, AK-47 rifle and over 300 rounds ammunition with a cooperating witness. Following the sale, agents observed Votano carry the ammunition and store it in a vehicle. Due to prior felony convictions, Votano is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell and James Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Field Division made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Philip A. Mallard of Mendell’s Organized Crime and Gang Unit prosecuted the case.

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

BOSTON – Fourteen Brazilian nationals were charged in a second superseding indictment by a federal grand jury in Boston this week in connection with a nationwide conspiracy to open fraudulent driver accounts with multiple rideshare and delivery service companies.

In May 2021, 19 defendants were indicted on one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud by using stolen identities and falsified documents to create fraudulent driver accounts for rent or sale to individuals who might not otherwise qualify to drive for the rideshare or delivery services. The defendants allegedly exploited referral bonus programs offered by the rideshare and delivery companies and used “bots” and GPS “spoofing” technology to increase the income earned from the companies. As a result of the scheme, Internal Revenue Service Forms 1099 were generated in victims’ names for income that conspirators earned from the rideshare and delivery companies.

The second superseding indictment also charges 14 of the defendants with aggravated identity theft related to their use of victims’ means of identification in connection with the conspiracy. According to the charging documents, the defendants allegedly used victims’ identifying information to apply for driver accounts with the rideshare and delivery companies, enabling defendants to pass those companies’ required background checks and create driver accounts in victims’ names. At times, defendants also edited victims’ driver’s license images to display photos of the drivers renting or buying the fraudulent accounts in order to circumvent facial recognition technology that the rideshare and delivery companies used as a security measure.  The defendants allegedly obtained victims’ names, dates of birth, driver’s license information, and or Social Security numbers from co-conspirators and other sources, including sites on the Dark Net. The defendants and co-conspirators also obtained driver’s license images directly from victims, by photographing victims’ licenses while completing an alcohol delivery through one of the services or while exchanging information with victims following vehicle accidents, some of which defendants or co-conspirators intentionally caused in order to obtain victims’ license information. 

The grand jury previously returned a superseding indictment charging two of the 19 defendants in the case with aggravated identity theft in June 2021. Sixteen of the defendants have been arrested in connection with the conspiracy and three remain at large. If you believe that you may be a victim of the allegations in this case, please visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ma/victim-and-witness-assistance-program/us-v-wemerson-dutra-aguiar-and-us-v-priscila-barbosa-et-al.

The following defendants were charged this week in the second superseding indictment with aggravated identity theft:

1. Wemerson Dutra Aguiar, 25, a Brazilian national formerly residing in Lynn and Woburn, Mass.;
2. Priscila Barbosa, 35, a Brazilian national residing in Saugus, Mass.;
3. Edvaldo Rocha Cabral, 41, a Brazilian national residing in Lowell, Mass.;
4. Clovis Kardekis Placido, 37, a Brazilian national residing in Citrus Heights, Cali.;
5. Bruna Peixoto Colaço Ramos, 31, a Brazilian national residing in Burlington, Mass.;
6. Thiago De Souza Prado, 37, a Brazilian national residing in Revere, Mass.;
7. Luiz Narciso Alves Neto, 36, a Brazilian national residing in Revere, Mass.;
8. Altacyr Dias Guimaraes Neto, 34, a Brazilian national residing in Kissimmee, Fla.;
9. Philipe Do Amaral Pereira, 37, a Brazilian national residing in Hercules, Calif.;
10. Bruno Proencio Abreu, 28, a Brazilian national residing in Saugus, Mass.;
11. Oliver Felipe Gomes De Oliveira, 33, a Brazilian national residing in Shrewsbury, Mass.;
12. Waldemy Jorge Lima Wanderley Junior, 32, a Brazilian national residing in Watertown, Mass.;
13. Saulo Aguiar Ponciano, 33, a Brazilian national residing in Wheeling, Ill.; and
14. Alessandro Felix Da Fonseca, 25, a Brazilian national residing in Revere, Mass.

The charge of aggravated identity theft provides for a sentence of at least two years in prison to be served consecutive to any other sentence imposed. The charge of conspiracy to commit wire fraud provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense, whichever is greater. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell and Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement. Significant assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police; Concord, Lexington, Plymouth, Wilmington, Marlborough and Village of Rye Brook (N.Y.) Police Departments; U.S. Customs and Border Protection; U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the National Crime Insurance Bureau. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kristen A. Kearney and David M. Holcomb of Mendell’s Securities, Financial & Cyber Fraud Unit are prosecuting the case.

The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

BOSTON – A Dudley man pleaded guilty today in connection with his involvement in a scheme to fraudulently obtain and misuse COVID-19-related unemployment assistance.

Norman Higgs, 34, pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud conspiracy. U.S. District Court Judge Patti B. Saris scheduled sentencing for Dec. 17, 2021. Higgs was charged in May 2021.

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) created a temporary federal unemployment insurance program called Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). PUA, administered by the Massachusetts Department of Unemployment Assistance, provides unemployment insurance benefits for individuals who are not eligible for other types of unemployment benefits (e.g., the self-employed, independent contractors or gig economy workers).

From April to June 2020, Higgs conspired with others to submit fraudulent PUA claims using stolen identifying information of other individuals. The PUA payments were directed into bank accounts controlled by Higgs and others who used the funds for their personal benefit, including to pay off credit card debt and to fund digital currency and online retail brokerage accounts. In total, Higgs and others obtained over $450,000 in proceeds from over 85 fraudulent PUA claims using stolen identities.

The charge of conspiracy to commit wire fraud provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell; Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; and Nikitas Splagounias, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General, Office of Investigations-Labor Racketeering and Fraud made the announcement. The Massachusetts Department of Unemployment Assistance provided assistance in the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher J. Markham of Mendell’s Securities, Financial & Cyber Fraud Unit is prosecuting the case.

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

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

BOSTON – An Auburn man was sentenced today in federal court in Worcester for filing a false personal tax return.

Stephen Hubley, 64, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Timothy S. Hillman to one year and one day in prison. Hubley was also ordered to pay restitution of $630,318. On May 27, 2021, Hubley pleaded guilty to one count of filing a false and fraudulent tax return.

Hubley admitted that he failed to report several hundreds of thousands of dollars in income on his 2019 personal tax return. Specifically, between 2016 and 2019, Hubley failed to report approximately $2.3 million in income from his personal tax returns, resulting in underpayment of taxes by $630,318. Hubley did so by conducting transactions that evaded the filing of currency transaction reports with the government. Currency transaction reports are required of financial institutions for cash transactions of greater than $10,000. 

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell and Joleen D. Simpson, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigations in Boston, made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney John T. Mulcahy of Mendell’s Criminal Division prosecuted the case.

BOSTON – A former Nantucket Bank employee was charged today and has agreed to plead guilty to her role in two fraud conspiracies.

Rushell Harris, 32, of Nantucket, agreed to plead guilty to two counts of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. A plea hearing has not yet been scheduled by the court.

According to charging documents, between approximately June 2014 and November 2018, Harris engaged in two separate wire fraud conspiracies. In the first conspiracy, Harris allegedly exploited her position at Nantucket Bank by obtaining personal identifiable information of a customer and surreptitiously taking photographs of the victim’s account information. It is alleged that Harris then shared that information with co-conspirators who attempted to transfer funds out of the customer’s bank account without authorization.

In the second conspiracy, Harris allegedly helped perpetuate a fraudulent lottery scheme targeting at least 13 victims. According to the charging documents, victims were contacted by co-conspirators via phone and were informed they won large prizes, and that in order to receive the funds they needed to pre-pay taxes on their winnings. In reality, no such prizes existed. After victims made an initial payment, they were advised that additional advance payments were required for expenses such as insurance, transportation or other international customs’ fees. It is alleged that Harris and her co-conspirators transferred proceeds of the scheme to associates in Jamaica and in the United States.

The charge of conspiracy to commit wire fraud provide for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell and Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Nantucket Police Department and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mackenzie A. Queenin of Mendell’s Securities, Financial & Cyber Fraud Unit is prosecuting the case.

The details contained in the court documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

BOSTON – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts announced an agreement today with PRTaylor Enterprises LLC, a company doing business as Father & Son Moving & Storage (Father & Son), to resolve allegations that it violated the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) by failing to obtain a court order before auctioning off the contents of a U.S. Air Force Technical Sergeant’s storage units while he was deployed overseas.

According to the complaint, the Technical Sergeant’s possessions sold by Father & Son included military gear and mementos that had belonged to a cousin killed in military action in Afghanistan, his grandfather’s military service medals and all of his household furnishings and personal photographs.

The SCRA provides financial and housing protections and benefits to military members while they are in military service. One of the SCRA’s protections requires anyone holding a lien on the property of a servicemember to obtain a court order prior to auctioning off, selling or otherwise disposing of that property. Under the agreement, which must still be approved by the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts, Father & Son will pay the Technical Sergeant $60,000 in damages and the United States a $5,000 civil penalty. Father & Son must also implement certain new policies to prevent future SCRA violations.

“It is wrong to auction off the possessions of a servicemember who is serving our country overseas,” said Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell. “The law protects servicemembers from this kind of mistreatment – they have more important things to worry about when they are overseas risking their lives to protect our nation. We will enforce the rights of our military members aggressively and hold accountable people who violate the SCRA.”

“The Department of Justice is committed to vigorous enforcement of the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to protect the rights of those individuals who sacrifice so much for their country,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “This settlement should send a clear message to all storage facility operators that federal law prohibits them from auctioning off a servicemember’s possessions without a court order.”

Acting U.S. Attorney Mendell and AAG Clarke made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was also provided by the U.S. Department of Transportation, Office of Inspector General, Office of Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Torey B. Cummings of Mendell’s Civil Rights Unit and Trial Attorney Tanya Kirwan of the Housing and Civil Enforcement Section of the Civil Rights Division handled the matter. 

The Civil Rights Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office was established in 2016 with the mission of enhancing federal civil rights enforcement. For more information on the Office’s civil rights efforts, please visit www.justice.gov/usao-ma/civil-rights.

This lawsuit resulted from a referral to the Justice Department from the U.S. Air Force. The Department’s enforcement of the SCRA is conducted by the Civil Rights Division’s Housing and Civil Enforcement Section in partnership with the 93 U.S. Attorney’s Offices, including the District of Massachusetts. Since 2011, the Department has obtained over $474 million in monetary relief for over 120,000 servicemembers through its enforcement of the SCRA. For more information about the Department’s SCRA enforcement efforts, please visit www.servicemembers.gov.

Servicemembers and their dependents who believe that their rights under the SCRA may have been violated should contact the nearest Armed Forces Legal Assistance Program Office.  Office locations may be found at legalassistance.law.af.mil.

BOSTON – A Dominican national was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for false representation of a Social Security number and making a false statement relating to health care matters. 

Ronald Lara Pena, 35, a Dominican national previously residing in Lawrence, was sentenced by U.S. Senior District Court Judge Rya W. Zobel to 13 months in prison and three years of supervised release. Lara Pena will be subject to deportation proceedings upon completion of his sentence. On July 21, 2021, Lara Pena pleaded guilty to one count of false representation of a Social Security number and one count of making a false statement relating to health care matters.

Lara Pena used the identity of a Puerto Rican citizen to obtain Massachusetts driver’s licenses and identification cards and used the victim’s identity to apply for and fraudulently receive over $12,600 in federally funded MassHealth benefits between September 2015 and September 2020.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell; Jack Jermaine, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General, Boston Field Office; Matthew B. Millhollin, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston; Phillip M. Coyne, Special Agent in Charge of U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Office of the Inspector General, Office of Investigations, Boston Regional Office; and Suzanne M. Bump, State Auditor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts made the announcement today. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Burzycki of Mendell’s Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case.

BOSTON – A Dominican national pleaded guilty today to drug trafficking activities involving fentanyl.

Angel Aybar Carmona, 26, pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl. U.S. District Court Judge Denise J. Casper scheduled sentencing for Jan. 12, 2022. Carmona was indicted on Jan. 5, 2021.

In December 2020, Carmona provided a sample of fentanyl along with his phone number to an undercover law enforcement officer. In subsequent text message conversations with Carmona, the undercover officer arranged to purchase 120 grams of fentanyl inside a store in Lawrence. After completing the sale, Carmona was arrested. 

The charge of distribution and possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl provides for a sentence of at least five years and up to 40 years in prison, a least four years of supervised release and a fine of up to $5 million. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell and Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Lawrence Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Hassink of Mendell’s Narcotics and Money Laundering Unit is prosecuting the case.

BOSTON – A Connecticut man was sentenced today in federal court in Boston in connection with selling two “ghost guns.”

Brian McCarthy, 33, of Bridgeport, Conn., was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton to 30 months in prison and two years of supervised release. On May 14, 2021, McCarthy pleaded guilty to one count of dealing firearms without a federal license.

Between June 17 and July 31, 2020, McCarthy travelled to Massachusetts and sold an undercover officer two Glock-style Privately Made Firearms (PMF) he had personally fabricated. PMFs are firearms that are not made by firearm manufacturers; instead, firearm manufactures sell individual buyers firearm parts, and the buyer uses various firearm drilling tools to construct and assemble the parts into a functional firearm. PMFs are also known as “ghost guns” because they are not serialized. McCarthy was taken into custody following the sale.

A subsequent search of McCarthy’s apartment resulted in the seizure of two additional Glock-style PMFs, one AR15/M4-type rifle upper receiver, accessories for AR15/M4 rifles, multiple semi-automatic magazines, approximately 250 rounds of ammunition and various firearm construction and assembly tools.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell; James Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Field Division; Plymouth County District Attorney Timothy J. Cruz; and Bristol County District Attorney Thomas M. Quinn III made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Dawley of Mendell’s Organized Crime and Gang Unit prosecuted the case.

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

BOSTON – The owner of several Boston-based investment companies was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston for operating a Ponzi-like fraud scheme.

Tanmaya Kabra, 27, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Denise J. Casper to 21 months in prison and one year of supervised release. Kabra was also ordered to pay restitution of $1,842,106 and a fine of $15,000. On April 8, 2021, Kabra pleaded guilty to four counts of wire fraud.

Kabra conducted business through a company called LaunchByte.io LLC and several affiliated entities. He held himself out to investors as a successful serial entrepreneur, venture capitalist and angel investor in start-up companies. Offering lucrative and low or no-risk returns on investments, Kabra lured investors with representations that their funds would be used to foster the growth and development of start-up companies, in order to prepare those companies for sale or for other legitimate business opportunities. In reality, Kabra used the money that he received from investors to pay off existing debts to prior investors in his scheme and to fund his lavish personal expenses, including using more than $200,000 of fraudulently obtained funds to purchase a power boat.

Kabra admitted to victimizing more than 20 individuals who suffered more than $1.8 million in losses as a result of the scheme.  

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell and Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement. The Securities & Exchange Commission provided valuable assistance in the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher Looney and James D. Herbert of Mendell’s Criminal Division prosecuted the case.

BOSTON – A Boston man was sentenced today for his involvement in a drug trafficking conspiracy involving fentanyl and cocaine.

John Rodrigues, 27, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge F. Dennis Saylor IV to three months in prison, nine months of home confinement and three years of supervised release. On April 27, 2021, Rodrigues pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and cocaine.

On Nov. 1, 2017 Rodrigues sold approximately 9.8 grams of a mixture containing fentanyl and cocaine to an undercover officer. Rodrigues was charged as part of an investigation into a drug trafficking organization distributing large quantities of fentanyl, cocaine and other controlled substances in the greater Boston area.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell; Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Boston Field Division; James Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Field Division; and Boston Police Acting Commissioner Gregory Long made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Corey Steinberg and John Mulcahy of Mendell’s Criminal Division prosecuted the case.

The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

BOSTON – An alleged member of the Franklin Hill street gang in Boston was sentenced today on federal drug charges. 

Trevel Brewster, 27, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Denise J. Casper to five years in prison and four years of supervised release. On June 2, 2021, Brewster pleaded guilty to two counts of distribution and possession with intent to distribute cocaine base and one count of distribution and possession with intent to distribute over 28 grams of cocaine base.

According to the indictment, Brewster and his co-defendant distributed and possessed with intent to distribute cocaine base in Boston on Feb. 26, 2020 and March 2, 2020 and conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute over 28 grams of cocaine base.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell; Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; Boston Police Acting Commissioner Gregory Long; Colonel Christopher Mason, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; Suffolk County Sheriff Steven W. Tompkins; and Brockton Police Chief Emanuel Gomes made the announcement today. Mendell’s Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case.

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

The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

BOSTON – A Worcester man pleaded guilty today to fraudulently applying for business loans under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, and then spending the money on personal expenses.

Richard Oworae, 59, pleaded guilty to three counts of wire fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft. U.S. District Court Judge Timothy S. Hillman scheduled sentencing for Jan. 12, 2022. Oworae was arrested and charged on Jan. 21, 2021

Between late July 2020 and late August 2020, Oworae schemed to defraud the Small Business Administration (SBA) by submitting applications through SBA’s website for at least three Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) totaling approximately $194,700. Oworae fraudulently applied for EIDL, provided false statements on the loan applications using the stolen personal identification information of another person and misappropriated the loan funds for personal use. Oworae also created fictitious companies for the purpose of fraudulently applying for EIDL, and spent funds obtained from that fraud on unauthorized personal expenses and to make money transfers through a money-remitter business based in Tanzania to numerous individuals in Ghana.  

EIDL funds were available to eligible individuals and businesses pursuant to the CARES Act. The provisions of the CARES Act allowed for the SBA to offer EIDL funding to business owners negatively affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The provisions of the EIDL program require that loan proceeds only be used on certain permissible business expenses, which can include payment of fixed business debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other business-related expenses that could have been paid had the COVID-19 disaster not occurred.

The charges of wire fraud provide for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $1 million or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater. The charge of aggravated identity theft provides for a mandatory sentence of two years in prison, to be served consecutively to any sentence imposed for the wire fraud counts, up to one year of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell; Joshua McCallister, Acting Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service; and Matthew Modafferi, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Danial Bennett of Mendell’s Worcester Branch Office is prosecuting the case.

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

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

BOSTON – A Taunton man was indicted today by a federal grand jury in connection with sexual exploitation of children and distribution of child pornography.

Cody Mercure, 24, was charged with one count of sexual exploitation of children and one count of distribution of child pornography. Mercure is currently in state custody and will appear in federal court at a later date.

According to the indictment, between Dec. 29, 2020 and April 3, 2021, Mercure engaged in and recorded sexually explicit conduct with a toddler. On Jan. 16, 2021, Mercure allegedly distributed child pornography.

The charge of sexual exploitation of children provides a sentence of at least 15 years and up to 30 years in prison, at least five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of distribution of child pornography provides for a sentence of at least five years and up to 20 years in prison, at least five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell and Matthew B. Millhollin, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was also provided by the Rhode Island State Police and the Taunton Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elianna J. Nuzum of Mendell’s Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.

The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov/.

The details contained in the indictment are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

BOSTON – A Saugus man pleaded guilty yesterday to drug and firearm offenses.

Vinicius Teixeira, a/k/a “Vinny,” 31, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, including marijuana and psilocyn, and being a user of controlled substances in possession of a firearm and ammunition. U.S. District Court Chief Judge F. Dennis Saylor IV scheduled sentencing for Oct. 25, 2021. Teixeira was indicted in April 2019.

In March 2019, a search of Teixeira’s residence recovered at least one kilogram of marijuana, over 400 grams of mushrooms (dry) containing psilocyn, drug trafficking paraphernalia and an American Tactical 9mm semiautomatic pistol containing 11 rounds of 9mm ammunition.

The charge of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, at least three years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $1 million. The charge of being a user of controlled substances in possession of a firearm and ammunition provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell; Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; Matthew B. Millhollin, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston; and Colonel Christopher Mason, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police made the announcement. The Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department and the Revere, Everett and Chelsea Police Departments provided assistance with the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Corey Steinberg and Kaitlin R. O’Donnell of Mendell’s Organized Crime and Gang Unit are prosecuting the case. 

BOSTON – Former Massachusetts State Representative David M. Nangle was sentenced today for illegally using campaign funds to pay for his personal expenses, defrauding a bank to obtain loans to purchase his home and repay his personal debts, and collecting income that he failed to report to the Internal Revenue Service.

Nangle, 60, of Lowell, was sentenced by U.S. Senior District Court Judge Rya W. Zobel to 15 months in prison and two years of supervised release. Nangle was also ordered to pay restitution of $33,347 to the IRS and forfeiture of $15,650. On Feb. 24, 2021, Nangle pleaded guilty to 10 counts of wire fraud, four counts of bank fraud, four counts of making false statements to a bank and five counts of filing false tax returns.

“Former Representative Nangle was a 22-year veteran of the Massachusetts State House and former Chairman of the Ethics Committee when he illegally used campaign funds for private golf club dues, trips to casinos and expensive dinners,” said Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell. “He broke the law and violated his duty to the voters – as Chairman of the Ethics Committee, no less. This case is the latest proof that this office is intent on holding corrupt public officials accountable.”

“State lawmakers are elected by the people, to serve the people, not to serve their own financial interests like David Nangle did. Mr. Nangle betrayed his constituents’ trust and broke the law, knowing full well what he was doing was wrong. Today’s sentence shows there are serious consequences for corrupt public officials who try to undermine the integrity of our government,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigations, Boston Division. “Citizens expect and deserve their elected officials to serve them honestly, and the FBI will not hesitate to go after others like him who willfully and maliciously abuse their office.”

“As a state lawmaker, David Nangle was less concerned about his constituents and more interested in his own personal and financial gain,” said Joleen D. Simpson, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation Division. “Today’s sentencing sends a clear message that elected office is not for sale, and those who doubt this will be held accountable for their actions. Cases involving betrayal of the public’s trust are of utmost importance and IRS-CI will continue to be a partner in these efforts.”

From 1999 to 2020, Nangle was the elected member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives for the 17th Middlesex District. Nangle, who previously served as a House Ethics Committee Chairman, used his campaign committee’s debit card to make personal purchases, including thousands of dollars in gift cards for his personal use, among other things.

During the period of the charged offenses, Nangle was heavily in debt and gambled extensively at area casinos and online, and then used thousands of dollars in campaign funds to pay for various personal expenses such as dues at a local golf club, rental cars to travel to casinos, flowers for his girlfriend, gas, hotels and restaurants. Nangle knew that using campaign funds for personal use was prohibited and subject to oversight by an independent state agency and concealed his theft by filing false reports that disguised the personal nature of the spending.

In addition, from at least 2015 to 2018, Nangle devised a scheme to fraudulently obtain loans from a bank in order to finance the purchase of his home, fund his gambling activities and repay his personal debts. Nangle did so by making false statements on multiple loan applications, misstating his income and understating his debt.

Upon learning of the investigation into his embezzlement and fraud, Nangle also obstructed justice by entering into a sham consulting agreement with a local business owner designed to make payments he received appear legitimate. In reality, Nangle never provided any legitimate services in exchange for receiving $27,000 from that business owner. Instead, Nangle helped the business owner curry favor with an important client by sponsoring legislation that benefited the business owner’s client.

Separately, Nangle filed false tax returns for tax years 2014 to 2018 by reporting fictitious business deductions for purported “consulting” work that he did for a Billerica company. Nangle also double dipped on deductible expenses arising from his work as a state legislator, fraudulently claiming thousands of dollars in false deductions for alleged charitable donations and misleading his tax preparer. Further, Nangle concealed the income he received through goods and services from business owners and other sources. This included $7,000 in kitchen and bathroom work done in Nangle’s home and $7,000 in check payments from a contractor; gambling income from a Connecticut casino; and thousands of dollars that he stole from his campaign account.

Acting U.S. Attorney Mendell, FBI Boston SAC Bonavolonta and IRS-CI SAC Simpson made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Dustin Chao, Chief of Mendell’s Public Corruption & Special Prosecutions Unit, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kunal Pasricha prosecuted the case.

BOSTON – The former head coach of men and women’s tennis at Georgetown University has agreed to plead guilty in connection with soliciting and accepting bribes to facilitate the admission of prospective Georgetown applicants and failing to report a significant portion of those bribe payments on his federal income taxes.

Gordon Ernst, 54, of Chevy Chase, Md. and Falmouth, Mass., will plead guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit federal programs bribery, three counts of federal programs bribery and one count of filing a false tax return. A plea hearing has not yet been scheduled.

According to the terms of the plea agreement, the parties have agreed to a sentence of at least one year and up to four years in prison, two years of supervised release and forfeiture of $3,435,053.

As set forth in the charging document, Ernst solicited and received bribe payments from William “Rick” Singer and prospective Georgetown applicants to facilitate their admission to Georgetown as student athletes. Ernst then failed to report a significant portion of those bribe payments on his federal income tax returns.

The charge of federal programs bribery provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater. The charge of conspiracy to commit federal programs bribery provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater. The charge of filing a false tax return provides for a sentence of up to three years in prison, one year of supervised release and a fine of $100,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Case information, including the status of each defendant, charging documents, and plea agreements are available here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ma/investigations-college-admissions-and-testing-bribery-scheme.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell; Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; Joleen D. Simpson, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigations in Boston; and Mark Deckett, Resident Agent in Charge of the Department of Education, Office of Inspector General made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Leslie A. Wright, Kristen A. Kearney and Kriss Basil of Mendell’s Criminal Division are prosecuting the case.

The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

BOSTON – The former Chief Financial Officer of Alden Shoe Co. was sentenced today for embezzling approximately $30 million from the company as part of a long-running scheme. 

Richard Hajjar, 64, of Duxbury, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton to 70 months in prison and three years of supervised release. Hajjar was also ordered to pay restitution of $33,962,880 and forfeiture of $27,300,552. On May 5, 2021, Hajjar pleaded guilty to one count each of wire fraud, unlawful monetary transactions and filing a false tax return.

From at least 2011 through October 2019, when he was terminated by Alden Shoe Co., Hajjar embezzled money by writing checks to himself from company bank accounts and transferring funds from company accounts to his personal accounts and to another individual. In total, Hajjar embezzled approximately $30 million which he used to enrich himself and to buy gifts and luxury travel for others close to him, including private flights to the Caribbean and diamond jewelry.

In addition, between approximately 2014 and 2019, Hajjar failed to report the proceeds of his embezzlement as income on his tax returns, thereby failing to pay approximately $5,112,822 in taxes to the Internal Revenue Service.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell; Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; and Joleen D. Simpson, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigations made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mackenzie A. Queenin of Mendell’s Securities, Financial & Cyber Fraud Unit and Carol E. Head of Mendell’s Asset Recovery Unit prosecuted the case.

BOSTON – A Clinton man previously convicted in federal court of cocaine conspiracy was sentenced yesterday for cocaine offenses.   

Emmanuelli Rojas-Moraza, 40, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Timothy S. Hillman to 87 months in prison and four years of supervised release. On May 26, 2021, Rojas-Moraza pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and one count of use of a communications facility in connection with a narcotics offense.

In January 2020, agents seized approximately one kilogram of cocaine inside a package sent from Puerto Rico and addressed to Rojas-Moraza’s residence in Clinton. After picking up the package from the local post office, Rojas-Moraza was arrested and taken into federal custody. During a search of Rojas-Moraza’s residence following his arrest, agents recovered drug packaging tools and materials. In addition, in April 2019, agents seized another package addressed to the Rojas-Moraza that contained approximately one kilogram of cocaine.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell; Joshua McCallister, Acting Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service; Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Division; Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; and Clinton Police Chief Bryan W. Coyne made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney John T. Mulcahy of Mendell’s Narcotics and Money Laundering Unit prosecuted the case.

BOSTON – A Swampscott financial advisor was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for defrauding an elderly victim and her bank by stealing the victim’s retirement assets.

Felix Gorovodsky, 29, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Denise J. Casper to 33 months in prison and two years of supervised release. Gorovodsky was also ordered to pay restitution of $310,492. On May 11, 2021, Gorovodsky pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud.

Gorovodsky served as a financial advisor for the victim. In or about July 2019, the victim terminated that advisor relationship and revoked the power of attorney she had previously granted Gorovodsky. Approximately nine months later, Gorovodsky accessed and liquidated the victim’s bank account, transferring more than $250,000 into his own bank account. Gorovodsky then used the victim’s stolen retirement funds for personal expenses, including paying off more than $100,000 in federal student loans. As part of the scheme, Gorovodsky forged the victim’s signature on a purported “gift letter,” which he sent to the bank in an attempt to legitimize the fraudulent transfer.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell and Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement. The Department of Education, Office of Inspector General provided valuable assistance with the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ian J. Stearns and Mackenzie A. Queenin of Mendell’s Securities, Financial & Cyber Fraud Unit prosecuted the case.

BOSTON – Two former owners of massage parlors have been charged in connection with filing for and obtaining fraudulent pandemic-related loans under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act for their respective illicit businesses where workers engaged in commercial sex acts with customers.

Chynna Savath, 56, of Woonsocket, R.I., was charged with two counts of wire fraud.  Savath is the former owner of Thai Body Work, a massage parlor in Franklin.

According to the charging documents, in June 2020, Savath submitted fraudulent applications to the Small Business Administration (SBA) for COVID-19 relief through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) program under the CARES Act. In the applications, Savath falsely certified that the applicant was not engaged in any illegal activity, despite knowing that her employees at Thai Body Work engaged in prostitution with customers and collected a portion of fees paid by each customer. In total, Savath obtained $29,646 in fraudulent payments from the EIDL and PPP loan programs.   

Aticha Jittaphol, 32, of Brighton, was charged separately with two counts of making false statements in federal loan applications. Jittaphol is the former owner of Mantra Dhevi Spa in Brighton.

According to the charging documents, in March and April of 2020, Jittaphol submitted fraudulent applications for EIDL and PPP loans in which she falsely stated that the applicant was not engaged in any illegal activity. However, her employees at Mantra Dhevi Spa engaged in prostitution from which she collected a portion of fees paid by each customer. Jittaphol also actively promoted the prostitution by recruiting employees and attracting new customers. In total, Jittaphol obtained $7,066 in fraudulent payments from the EIDL and PPP loan programs.   

The charge of wire fraud provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of making false statements provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Acting U.S. Attorney Mendell; Matthew B. Millhollin, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston; Joshua McCallister, Acting Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service; and Boston Police Acting Commissioner Gregory Long made the announcement. Special assistance was provided by the Cambridge, Boston, Franklin and Lexington Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elysa Wan of Mendell’s Criminal Division and Suffolk County Assistant District Attorneys Alyssa Tochka and Luke Goldworm, who were appointed as Special Assistant U.S. Attorneys, are prosecuting the cases.

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

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

The details contained in the court documents are allegations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

BOSTON – A New Bedford man was sentenced on Friday, Sept. 10, 2021 in federal court in Boston for illegally possessing a Mustang .380 pistol and ammunition.

Victor Morales, 35, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Patti B. Saris to 70 months in prison and two years of supervised release. On June 8, 2021, Morales pleaded guilty to one count of possessing a firearm and ammunition while being a convicted felon.

On approximately July 20, 2020, Morales possessed a Colt MK IV Mustang .380 loaded pistol and 12 rounds of .380 caliber ammunition in his apartment. Federal law prohibits Morales from possessing a firearm or ammunition due to a prior felony conviction.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell; James Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Field Division; and New Bedford Police Chief Joseph C. Cordeiro made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kenneth G. Shine and Evan Gotlob of Mendell’s Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case. 

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

BOSTON – A former clerk for Boston Police Department’s (BPD) District A-1 Detectives Unit pleaded guilty today in connection with an investigation of overtime fraud at the Boston Police Department.

Marilyn Golisano, 68, pleaded guilty to one count of embezzlement from an agency receiving federal funds and six counts of wire fraud. U.S. District Court Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton scheduled sentencing for Jan. 12, 2022. Golisano was arrested and charged on Jan. 13, 2021.

Golisano, who handled the overtime paperwork for her unit, submitted dozens of false and fraudulent overtime slips in 2017 and 2018 claiming she had worked extra hours, with many of those slips bearing forged signatures of her supervisor. Although Golisano’s work was done primarily on the computer, Golisano never logged into the BPD computer system at all during many of the overtime shifts she claimed to have worked. Furthermore, on several occasions when Golisano was supposedly working overtime in downtown Boston, cellphone location information placed Golisano well outside the city. In total, Golisano stole $11,000 from BPD in 2017 and $18,000 in 2018 as a result of the fraud.

From 2016 through 2018, BPD received annual benefits from the U.S. Department of Transportation and U.S. Department of Justice in excess of $10,000, which were funded pursuant to numerous federal grants.

Pursuant to a plea agreement, the government and the defendant have agreed to recommend to the Court that Golisano serve a sentence of 90 days in prison, three years of supervised release with the first three months to be spent in home confinement and pay restitution of $29,000 to the City of Boston.  As part of the plea agreement, the government agreed to dismiss aggravated identity theft charges.  

The charge of theft of government funds provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The charge of wire fraud provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell; Russell W. Cunningham, Special Agent in Charge of the Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General, Washington Field Office; and Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Grady of Mendell’s Public Corruption & Special Prosecutions Unit is prosecuting the case.

BOSTON – A Boston woman was sentenced on Friday, Sept. 10, 2021 for her role in a marijuana delivery service that operated in Massachusetts from 2015 to 2018.

Tatiana Fridkes, a/k/a Sonya, 34, of Mattapan, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Timothy S. Hillman to time served and two years of supervised release. Fridkes was also ordered to pay restitution of $82,000. On Sept. 23, 2020, Fridkes pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring to distribute more than 100 kilograms of marijuana.

Fridkes and Deana Martin, 52, of Milton, were indicted in May 2019 in connection with their management of Northern Herb, a marijuana delivery service that operated in Massachusetts from 2015 to 2018. In May 2021, Martin pleaded guilty to one count of tax evasion, one count of conspiracy to distribute marijuana, one count of possession with intent to distribute marijuana and three counts of money laundering and is awaiting sentencing which is scheduled for Sept. 16, 2021.

Fridkes served as the office manager for Northern Herb. Fridkes coordinated with Martin on finances, marijuana suppliers, marijuana inventory, deliveries, workers and warehouse operations. Fridkes managed Northern Herb employees when Martin was not present, collected and organized cash from marijuana sales and paid cash wages to Northern Herb employees.

From May 2016 through July 2018, Northern Herb had total revenue exceeding $14 million. Northern Herb did not withhold or pay taxes on its millions of dollars in marijuana sales, did not remit or pay employment taxes in connection with its workforce and did not pay taxes on its profits. Northern Herb was not licensed by Massachusetts or any other governmental entity to sell or distribute marijuana. While Northern Herb purported to provide medical marijuana, it did not require a customer to provide proof of a medical marijuana card and would deliver marijuana to unattended locations (such as a front door or hallway) where unknown third parties might have access to it.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell; Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Division; and Joleen D. Simpson, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigations in Boston made the announcement. The United States Postal Inspection Service also provided valuable assistance with this investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys William Abely, Chief of Mendell’s Criminal Division, and John Mulcahy of Mendell’s Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit prosecuted the case.

BOSTON – On the eve of the 20th anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks, Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell, along with the Department of Justice, encourages members of the public to participate in the National Day of Service and Remembrance to honor those who lost their lives during, and as a result of, the unprecedented terrorist attacks on U.S. soil.

“Saturday marks the 20th anniversary of the attacks that cut short the lives of nearly 3,000 innocent Americans and transformed our nation,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Mendell. “Although two decades have now passed, the wounds from that day remain fresh, especially for the families of the victims and for those who responded courageously to the attacks – both in the United States and the men and women in uniform abroad. In remembrance of those killed and injured, first responders and those who continue to defend our nation’s freedom, I invite the public to join me in a day of service. Volunteerism is one small way to honor those we lost that tragic day and continue the spirit of unity and patriotism that this great nation is built upon. Service is also an important way to recognize the many courageous and selfless men and women who have spent the last 20 years defending our freedom and making the world a safer place. Their sacrifices were critical in the continued safety of our country and the world. I hope that you will do your part and join the National Day of Service and Remembrance.”

Acting U.S. Attorney Mendell said, “Standing on the Boston waterfront looking out at Logan Airport is a solemn and powerful reminder of the souls on American Airlines Flight 11 and United Airlines Flight 175 who departed from Boston bound for Los Angeles. We must continue to honor of the selflessness and bravery of those on the planes, as well as their families, friends and colleagues who we continue to remember and pray for.”    

To find and register for a volunteer opportunity, visit https://americorps.gov/911-day.

BOSTON – A Southbridge man pleaded guilty today in federal court in Worcester to methamphetamine distribution.

Christopher Williams, 33, pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine and one count of distribution of 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine. U.S. District Court Judge Timothy S. Hillman scheduled sentencing for Jan. 11, 2022. Williams was charged on March 9, 2021.

On two occasions in January 2021, Williams sold multiple ounces of methamphetamine to an undercover officer for $4,500 in Southbridge. 

The charge of distribution of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, at least three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $1 million. The charge of distribution of 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine provides for a sentence of at least five years and up to 40 years in prison, at least four years supervised release and a fine of up to $5 million. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell; Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Boston Field Division; Joshua McCallister, Acting Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service in Boston; and Southbridge Police Chief Shane Woodson made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Danial Bennett of Mendell’s Worcester Branch Office is prosecuting the case.

BOSTON – A Worcester man pleaded guilty today to civil disorder and possession of three Molotov cocktails during a demonstration in the City of Worcester over the death of George Floyd.

Vincent Eovacious, 19, pleaded guilty to one count of civil disorder and one count of possession of an unregistered firearm. U.S. District Court Judge Timothy S. Hillman scheduled sentencing for Jan. 6, 2022. Eovacious was indicted in October 2020.

On June 1, 2020, crowds gathered at various locations in Worcester to protest the death of George Floyd, including South Main Street. At approximately 10:00 p.m., a large crowd blocked traffic and began throwing objects in the direction of the police. As officers on scene gathered into a line formation, one officer observed a man dressed in a trench coat standing on top of a building at 848 Main Street which is clearly marked, “No Trespassing.” The man, later identified as Eovacious, paced back and forth on the rooftop. The officer then observed Eovacious remove a bottle from his satchel that appeared to contain liquid and attempt to insert a rag into the bottle while holding a silver object that the officer believed to be a lighter. Minutes later, officers observed Eovacious walking in the area of May and Main Streets, still carrying the satchel, and stopped him. They searched the satchel and recovered three clear glass bottles with a slightly yellow liquid that smelled of gasoline, five white rags, one green lighter and one silver lighter. Eovacious stated that the liquid in the glass bottles was gasoline and that he was “with the anarchist group” and was “waiting for an opportunity.”

The charge of civil disorder provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine $250,000. The charge of unlawful possession of a firearm provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell; James Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Field Division; Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; and Worcester Police Chief Steven M. Sargent made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Danial Bennett of Mendell’s Worcester Branch Office is prosecuting the case. 

BOSTON – A Bronx, N.Y. man was sentenced today in connection with his role in a conspiracy to distribute a fentanyl in 2019.

Jason Jimenez, 27, was sentenced by U.S. Senior District Court Judge Rya W. Zobel to one year and one day in prison and three years of supervised release. On May 4, 2021, Jimenez pleaded guilty to one count of use of a communication facility to commit a felony under the controlled substances act.

On July 10, 2019, Jimenez was arrested after making admissions to investigators in connection with a fentanyl transaction which he facilitated using his phone. He was indicted in August 2019 as part of a coordinated enforcement operation in the Merrimack Valley dubbed “Operation Devil’s Highway.” The operation targeted the distribution of opioids, including fentanyl and heroin, and resulted in charges against a total of 40 people for federal drug offenses, with at least a dozen more individuals facing state charges.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell and Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Lawrence Police Department and North Andover Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Timothy Moran and Evan Panich of Mendell’s Office prosecuted the case.

BOSTON – A Lynn man was sentenced today for his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy.

Patrick Dunn, 30, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Chief Judge F. Dennis Saylor IV to three years of supervised release. The government recommended a sentence of eight months in prison. On March 26, 2021, Dunn pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and cocaine.

Dunn was charged as part of an investigation into a drug trafficking organization distributing large quantities of fentanyl, cocaine and other controlled substances in the greater Boston area. In September 2017, Dunn distributed cocaine and fentanyl to an undercover officer in Boston.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell; Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Boston Field Division; James Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Field Division; and Boston Police Acting Commissioner Gregory Long made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Corey Steinberg and John Mulcahy of Mendell’s Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit prosecuted the case.

The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

BOSTON – A Lawrence man pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston in connection with distributing fentanyl pills.

Ruben Mejia, 28, pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute and distribution of fentanyl and heroin, two counts of possession with intent to distribute and distribution of 40 grams or more of fentanyl and heroin and one count of possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and heroin. U.S. Senior District Court Judge William G. Young scheduled sentencing for Jan. 12, 2022. Mejia was arrested and charged in September 2020.

On Aug. 13, 2020, Mejia sold an estimated 500 fentanyl pills disguised as oxycodone pills for $4,000 ($8 per pill). Mejia sold the pills, which he stored in a baby diaper, in five bags containing approximately 100 pills each. On Aug. 26, 2020, Mejia sold another estimated 500 fentanyl pills for $4,000. Mejia was arrested on Sept. 11, 2020 after he was found in possession of an estimated 5,000 fentanyl pills, which he planned to sell for $40,000.

The charge of possession with intent to distribute and distribution of fentanyl and heroin provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, at least three years and up to life of supervised release and a fine of up to $1 million. The charge of possession with intent to distribute and distribution of 40 grams or more of fentanyl and heroin provides for a sentence of at least five years and up to 40 years in prison, at least four years and up to life of supervised release and a fine of up to $5 million. The charge of possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and heroin provides for a sentence of at least 10 years and up to life in prison, at least five years and up to life of supervised release and a fine of up to $10 million. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell; Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; and Lawrence Police Chief Roy Vasque made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig Estes of Mendell’s Narcotics and Money Laundering Unit is prosecuting the case.

BOSTON – A Florida man was sentenced yesterday in connection with a scheme to defraud his former employer, a Massachusetts-based uniform-supply company, by falsifying invoices.

Richard Ritz, 58, was sentenced by U.S. Senior District Court Judge Douglas P. Woodlock to 21 months in prison and two years of supervised release. Ritz was also ordered to pay restitution of $1,373,156 and forfeiture of $289,250. On June 3, 2021, Ritz pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud.

Between approximately 2000 and March 2019, Ritz and others defrauded the uniform-supply company by causing the company to pay fake invoices for products that were not actually delivered, and by diverting other products that they re-sold for their own benefit. Ritz’s co-conspirators also created a fake supply company, to which Ritz caused the uniform-supply company to pay more than $800,000 on fraudulent invoices.

Ritz is the first former employee of the uniform-supply company to be sentenced in connection with the conspiracy. Co-conspirator Keith Smedley pleaded guilty in June 2021 and is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 12, 2021. Co-conspirator Brian Halpern pleaded guilty in August 2021 and is scheduled to be sentenced on Dec. 16, 2021.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell and Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sara Miron Bloom and Ian Stearns of Mendell’s Securities Financial & Cyber Fraud Unit prosecuted the case.

BOSTON – A Chinese national was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston for illegally procuring and exporting more than $100,000 worth of U.S. origin goods to Northwestern Polytechnical University (NWPU), a Chinese military university that is heavily involved in military research and works closely with the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) on the advancement of its military capabilities.

Shuren Qin, 44, a Chinese national residing in Wellesley, who gained admittance into the United States through the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Visa Program in 2014, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Denise Casper to two years in prison, to be followed by two years of supervised release. Qin was also ordered to pay a fine of $20,000 and will face deportation proceedings upon completion of his sentence.

On April 28, 2021, Qin pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to unlawfully export items from the United States to NWPU without first obtaining the required export licenses; one count of visa fraud; two counts of making false statements to law enforcement agents regarding his customers and the types of parts he caused to be exported from the United States to the People’s Republic of China (PRC); four counts of money laundering; and two counts of smuggling hydrophones from the U.S. to the PRC.

Qin established LinkOcean Technologies, LTD., which he used to import goods and technology with underwater and marine applications into the PRC from the United States, Canada and Europe. NWPU has been involved in the development of unmanned aerial vehicles, autonomous underwater vehicles and missile proliferation projects. Since 2001, the U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC) has designated NWPU on its Entity List for national security reasons. Between approximately July 2015 and December 2016, Qin caused at least 60 hydrophones (devices used to detect and monitor sound underwater) to be exported from the United States to NWPU without obtaining the required export licenses from the DOC. Qin and his company, LinkOcean, did so by concealing from the U.S. manufacturer of the hydrophones that NWPU was the true end-user and by causing false end-user information to be filed with the U.S. government. In addition, on four occasions in connection with the export of hydrophones to NWPU, Qin transferred more than $100,000 from Chinese bank accounts to bank accounts located in the United States with the intent to promote and facilitate his unlawful export scheme.

Additionally, in July 2016, Qin engaged in visa fraud in connection with his application to remove conditions on his U.S. Permanent Resident Status by falsely certifying that he had not committed any crime for which he was not arrested since becoming a conditional permanent resident when, in fact, he had caused the illegal export of hydrophones from the United States to NWPU in December 2015.

Qin also made false statements to federal agents on two occasions regarding LinkOcean’s customers and its export activities. Specifically, during a November 2017 interview with Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Officers, Qin falsely stated that he only exported instruments that attach to a buoy. However, Qin had exported and caused the export of remotely-operated side scan sonar systems, unmanned underwater vehicles, unmanned surface vehicles, robotic boats and hydrophones. The items that Qin concealed from CBP during this interview have military applications and several of these items were delivered to military end-users in China. For instance, Qin exported a U.S.-manufactured remotely-operated side scan sonar system to a PLA Troop in November 2015. On or about July 21, 2018, Qin lied to investigators during an interview when he stated that he did not have any customers on the DOC’s Entity List. In fact, Qin had at least two such customers – NWPU and the National University of Defense Technology (NUDT). NUDT is involved in national defense research for the PLA and responsible for modernizing the PRC’s armed forces. Since 2015, it has been designated on DOC’s Entity List.  

Prior to entering his guilty plea in this case, Qin moved to suppress evidence seized from his laptop and iPhone and statements he made to CBP officers during a secondary inspection upon his return to the United States from the PRC at Logan Airport in November 2017. After eight days of evidentiary hearings, Judge Casper found that the “Chinese Navy” was one of Qin’s customers according to LinkOcean’s website. At the time of the search, agents testified that they were “concerned that Qin was involved [in] working on behalf of the Chinese Navy to procure items from the United States, export them to China so that they could be used or incorporated in systems the Chinese Navy or research institutes were developing to be used in electronic warfare, anti-submarine warfare.” Judge Casper further found that by the end of the summer of 2017, investigators had learned that Qin was interested in procuring both AUVs and sonobuoys, which raised concerns for the agents as they learned that Ultra Electronics was at that same time developing “an AUV that worked in conjunction with [a] sonobuoy … strictly for military use by the U.S. Navy.” Qin also lied when questioned about the types of parts he exported, concealing his “interest in procuring side scan sonar systems, AUVs and sonobuoys.”       

Acting U.S. Attorney Mendell; Acting Assistant Attorney General Mark J. Lesko for the Justice Department’s National Security Division; Matthew B. Millhollin, Special Agent in Charge of the Homeland Security Investigation, Boston Field Office; Patrick Hegarty, Special Agent in Charge of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, Northeast Field Office; William Higgins, Special Agent in Charge of the Department of Commerce, Office of Export Enforcement, Boston Field Office; Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; and Michael Wiest, Special Agent in Charge of the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, Northeast Field Office made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney B. Stephanie Siegmann, Chief of Mendell’s National Security Unit, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Casey, also of National Security Unit, prosecuted the case.

BOSTON – A Chicago man was sentenced today in federal court in Boston in connection with bank robberies in Massachusetts and Illinois.

Eugene Davis, 54, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Leo T. Sorokin to 78 months in prison and three years of supervised release. On April 28, 2021, Davis pleaded guilty to two counts of bank robbery.

In July 2019, Davis was indicted for a Massachusetts bank robbery and in March 2021 he was charged in the Northern District of Illinois with an unrelated bank robbery. The Illinois case was transferred to Massachusetts for plea and sentencing purposes.

On June 3, 2019, Davis robbed a branch of the East Boston Savings Bank in South Boston. Davis walked into the bank, pulled out a suitcase and handed a handwritten demand note to the teller. The note said that there was a bomb in the bag, that everyone was going to die and to put all the money into Davis’s hand. The teller took $6,055 cash out of the teller drawer and gave it to Davis who placed it in his shirt and walked out of the bank. Davis was apprehended later that day and ultimately confessed to committing the bank robbery.

On May 22, 2019, Davis robbed a branch of Chase Bank in Chicago. Davis entered the bank, pulled out a suitcase and handed the teller a demand note stating that he had a bomb, demanded money and threatened that if dye packs were included, they would all die. The teller provided approximately $3,460 in cash to Davis who then left the bank with the money.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell; John R. Lausch, Jr., United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois; Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigations, Boston Division; Emmerson Buie, Jr., Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigations, Chicago Field Division; Colonel Christopher Mason, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; and Boston Police Acting Commissioner Gregory Long made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Suzanne Sullivan Jacobus of Mendell’s Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case.

BOSTON – A former member of the New Bedford Chapter of the Massachusetts Almighty Latin King and Queen Nation (Latin Kings) pleaded guilty today to drug charges.

Tanairy Ruiz, a/k/a “Queen Tanairy,” 34, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to manufacture, distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine and cocaine base. U.S. Senior District Court Judge Rya W. Zobel scheduled sentencing for Jan. 5, 2022.

The Latin Kings are a violent criminal enterprise comprised of thousands of members across the United States. The Latin Kings adhere to a national manifesto, employ an internal judiciary and use a sophisticated system of communication to maintain the hierarchy of the organization. As alleged in court documents, the gang uses drug distribution to generate revenue, and engages in violence against witnesses and rival gangs to further its influence and to protect its turf.

Ruiz admitted to conspiring with other Latin Kings members to manufacture and distribute cocaine base throughout the City of New Bedford. Ruiz resided in one of the many “trap houses” or multi-unit apartment buildings in New Bedford that were controlled by the Latin Kings. Ruiz’s apartment was used as a location where cocaine was “cooked” or manufactured into cocaine base.

In December 2019, a federal grand jury returned an indictment alleging racketeering conspiracy, drug conspiracy and firearms charges against dozens of leaders, members and associates of the Latin Kings. Ruiz is the 51st defendant to plead guilty in the case.

The charge of conspiracy to manufacture, distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine and cocaine base provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a minimum of three years and up to life of supervised release and a fine of $1 million. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell; Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; Commissioner Carol Mici of the Massachusetts Department of Correction; and New Bedford Police Chief Joseph C. Cordeiro made the announcement. Valuable assistance was also provided by the FBI North Shore Gang Task Force and the Bristol County and Suffolk County District Attorney’s Offices. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Philip A. Mallard and Lauren Graber of Mendell’s Criminal Division are prosecuting the case.

This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

BOSTON – A Boston man was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for possessing child pornography.

Paul Fest, 50, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Richard G. Stearns to 10 years in prison and five years of supervised release. On May 4, 2021, Fest pleaded guilty to one count of possession of child pornography.

On Dec. 15, 2020, a search of Fest’s Beacon Hill residence resulted in the seizure of a computer and multiple external storage devices. On one thumb drive, there were over 100 videos and more than 50 images of child pornography.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell; Matthew B. Millhollin, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston; and Boston Police Acting Commissioner Gregory Long made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Charles Dell’Anno and Kenneth G. Shine of Mendell’s Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case.

The case is brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov/.

BOSTON – A Boston gang associate pleaded guilty yesterday to his role in a cocaine trafficking conspiracy.

Renardo Williams, 44, of South Boston, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute cocaine and one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. U.S. District Court Judge Richard G. Stearns scheduled sentencing for Jan. 25, 2022.

Investigators identified Williams as a drug customer and distributor for co-defendant Kenji Drayton, the alleged leader of the drug-trafficking organization. In the hours preceding his arrest, investigators intercepted calls and conducted surveillance of Williams and Drayton, which allegedly indicated that Williams sought to purchase drugs from Drayton. At the time of his arrest, Williams was found in possession of approximately 125 grams of cocaine and a loaded firearm. Drayton pleaded not guilty and is pending trial.   

In June 2020, Williams was charged along with 23 others as part of Operation Snowfall.  According to the charging documents, beginning in November 2018, law enforcement conducted an investigation into drug trafficking activities by Boston-based street gang members and associates in the Commonwealth Development in Brighton, formerly known as Fidelis Way, a multi-apartment public housing development. It is alleged that the defendants, through their drug trafficking activities, assumed control over multiple apartments, where they stored, cooked, packaged and sold drugs. As a result, their activities caused a blight of the development and reduced the quality of life of the other residents.

The investigation also targeted large-scale drug suppliers and their associates. It is alleged that the targets continued to distribute cocaine and cocaine base throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and shutdown. Williams is the seventh defendant to plead guilty in the case.

Due to a prior felony drug offense, Williams faces a sentence of up to 30 years in prison, at least six years and up to life of supervised release and a fine of up to $2 million on the charge of conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute cocaine. The charge of possessing a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon provides for a sentence up to 10 years in person, three years supervised release and a fine of $250,000.  Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell; Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Boston Field Division; Douglas Bartlett, Acting U.S. Marshal for the District of Massachusetts; Colonel Christopher Mason, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; and Boston Police Acting Commissioner Gregory Long made the announcement. Assistance with the investigation was provided by the Braintree, Cambridge, Canton, Randolph and Weymouth Police Departments; Suffolk, Norfolk and Bristol County District Attorneys’ Offices; and the Suffolk, Plymouth and Norfolk County Sheriffs’ Offices. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kaitlin O’Donnell and Timothy Moran of Mendell’s Organized Crime and Gang Unit are prosecuting the case.

This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

BOSTON – A spinal device manufacturer based in Malden, Mass. and its Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) were arrested today and charged in connection with a kickback scheme to bribe surgeons to use company products in exchange for sham consulting fees.

Kingsley R. Chin, MD, 57, of Fort Lauderdale, Fla., the CEO and founder of SpineFrontier; Aditya Humad, 36, of Cambridge, Mass., the company’s CFO; and SpineFrontier, Inc., were indicted on one count of conspiracy to violate the Anti-Kickback Statute, six counts of violations of the Anti-Kickback Statute and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering. 

According to the indictment, SpineFrontier, Chin and Humad paid, and conspired to pay, millions of dollars in bribes to surgeons in the form of sham consulting fees for work they did not perform. The defendants allegedly bribed surgeons to use SpineFrontier’s products, and in turn, SpineFrontier received millions of dollars in revenue from surgeries the surgeons performed.

The defendants allegedly entered into contracts with surgeons, agreeing to pay the surgeons between $250 and $1,000 per hour for purported consulting for SpineFrontier. In reality, however, the defendants allegedly paid the surgeons for using SpineFrontier’s products. Although the surgeon-consulting program was purportedly directed at gathering technical feedback about SpineFrontier’s products, the indictment alleges that Chin and Humad designed and used the program, and the bribes they paid pursuant to that program, to induce surgeons to use SpineFrontier’s products in surgeries that were paid for by federal health care programs such as Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE and VHA. It is further alleged that the surgeons frequently spent only a small fraction of their reported time, if any at all, performing actual consulting. On numerous occasions the bribe amounts were determined following a review of the number of procedures a surgeon performed and the amount of revenue those procedures generated for SpineFrontier. The defendants allegedly paid each surgeon described in the indictment between $32,625 and $978,000 in bribes during the conspiracy.

“Kickback arrangements pollute federal health care programs and take advantage of patient needs for financial gains,” said Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell. “Medical device manufacturers must play by the rules and we will keep pursuing those who fail to do so, regardless of how their corruption is disguised.”

“Kickbacks paid to surgeons as sham medical consultants, as alleged in this case, cheat patients and taxpayers alike,” said Phillip M. Coyne, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General. “Working with our law enforcement partners, we will continue to investigate kickback schemes that threaten the integrity of our federal health care system, no matter how those schemes are disguised.”

“As alleged, Chin, Humad, and their medical device company SpineFrontier conspired to pay out millions of dollars in kickbacks in the form of sham consulting fees to surgeons across the country who sadly, prioritized these payoffs over their patients’ best interests. We believe they also cheated taxpayers who ultimately foot the bill for their medical procedures,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “Today’s arrests show that the FBI will not hesitate to go after those who try to undermine the integrity of the medical decision-making process to take advantage of patients for their own personal gain.”

This indictment follows two guilty pleas in related criminal prosecutions. In August 2020, Jason Montone, D.O., 45, of Lawson, Miss., pleaded guilty to conspiracy to violate the Anti-Kickback Statute and obstruction and John Balzer, 43, of Lenexa, Kan., pleaded guilty to conspiracy to violate the Anti-Kickback Statute and one count of witness tampering. Montone and Balzer are scheduled to be sentenced on March 22 and 23, 2022, respectively.    

The charge of conspiring to violate the Anti-Kickback Statute provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release, a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or gross loss resulting from the offense, whichever is greater, forfeiture and restitution. The charges of violating the Anti-Kickback Statute provide for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release, a fine of up to $100,000, forfeiture and restitution. The charge of conspiracy to commit money laundering provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release, a fine of $500,000 or twice the value of the property involved in the transaction, whichever is greater, forfeiture and restitution. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Acting U.S. Attorney Mendell, HHS-OIG SAC Coyne and FBI SAC Bonavolonta made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General, Northeast Field Office and the U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patrick M. Callahan, David J. Derusha, Abraham R. George and David G. Lazarus of Mendell’s Office are prosecuting the criminal case.

The details contained in the indictment are allegations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.