Western District of North Carolina

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – A registered sex offender was sentenced to 120 months in prison for possession of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) yesterday, announced Lawrence J. Cameron, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. Thomas Robert Boehm III, 36, of Charlotte, was also ordered to register, again, as a sex offender after his release from prison and to pay restitution to his victims.

Robert M. DeWitt, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Charlotte Division, and Chief Johnny Jennings of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD), join Acting U.S. Attorney Cameron in making this announcement.

According to court documents and court proceedings, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) referred a tip to law enforcement that a Dropbox account user had uploaded and maintained several video files containing CSAM.  Law enforcement determined that the Dropbox user was Boehm.  Law enforcement executed a search warrant for Boehm’s Dropbox account, and a forensic analysis of Boehm’s files revealed that Boehm possessed the equivalent of over 6,000 images depicting the sexual abuse of children, including children under the age of 12.  Some of the materials maintained by Boehm portrayed sadistic or masochistic conduct or other depictions of violence.  Court documents show that Boehm was a registered sex offender for state convictions related to taking indecent liberties with a child.

On February 22, 2024, Boehm pleaded guilty to possession and access with intent to view child pornography involving prepubescent minors.  Boehm remains in federal custody.  He will be transferred to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.

The FBI and CMPD investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine Armstrong with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Justice Department. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – This week, multiple defendants were sentenced in federal court in separate cases for violating federal firearms laws, announced Lawrence J. Cameron, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. Among the firearms recovered were a “ghost gun” fitted with a “Glock switch,” a machinegun, and other illegal firearms linked to several shootings.

“These sentences make one thing clear: if you violate federal gun laws, you will be held accountable. This office and our law enforcement partners are committed to getting illegal guns off the streets and out of the hands of criminals,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Cameron.

The following defendants were sentenced this week:

Omar Shariff Tobias, 46, of Charlotte, was sentenced to 13 years in prison followed by three years of supervised release for possession of a firearm by a felon. Between December 5th and 6th, 2022, Tobias held the victim hostage in the home they shared, took her phone and clothes, and physically assaulted her. When the victim ran out the front door to escape, Tobias shot her twice with a Smith and Wesson .38 caliber revolver he illegally possessed. After shooting her, Tobias dragged the bleeding victim into the house and refused to call 911 for nearly an hour, until he came up with a story to tell the authorities. Officers responding to the call for service determined that Tobias was not truthful about how the victim sustained injuries. The officers conducted a search of the residence, seizing the .38 revolver used to shoot the victim, two rifles, digital scales, marijuana, and other drug paraphernalia. As a result of the shooting, the victim sustained serious injuries and faces a lengthy recovery.

Marcus Kantrell Jennings, 35, of Charlotte, was sentenced to 10 years in prison followed by three years of supervised release for possession of a firearm by a felon. On September 1, 2022, Jennings illegally possessed a firearm he used to shoot at a security officer multiple times, after the defendant was escorted out of a nightclub.

Brandon Castro, 25, of Dallas, N.C., was sentenced 57 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for possession of a firearm by a felon. On August 27, 2022, Castro pointed a firearm with a laser scope at an off-duty Charlotte Mecklenburg police officer who was working at a local business before the defendant fled the scene. Law enforcement located and arrested Castro and recovered the firearm, which was loaded with a high-capacity magazine.

Jeconiah Amarie Davidson, 25, of Charlotte, was sentenced to 52 months in prison and three years of supervised release for being a felon in possession of a firearm. After having been previously convicted of a felony offense for illegally possessing a firearm, on June 24, 2023, Davidson was involved in two separate shootings. In the first incident, Davidson used an illegally possessed firearm to shoot into an occupied Waffle House restaurant following an altercation in the establishment. Hours later, Davidson used the same gun to shoot another person outside of a Popeyes restaurant. The victim in that shooting sustained injuries to his leg. Days later, Davidson was arrested in possession of a loaded 9mm semi-automatic pistol equipped with an extended magazine. The firearm was forensically examined and connected to the later shooting.

Tiquavion Davonta Ervin, 21, of Charlotte, was sentenced to 46 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for possession of a machinegun. On July 25, 2023, law enforcement attempted to conduct a traffic stop of Ervin’s vehicle. At first, Ervin appeared to comply but later fled at a high rate of speed. Law enforcement located the vehicle parked in the lot of an apartment complex. During a search of the area near the vehicle officers found a backpack that contained a loaded Polymer 80 handgun (also known as a “ghost gun”), fitted with a machinegun conversion device, or “Glock switch.” During the investigation, law enforcement determined that Ervin was using social media to sell firearms and Glock switches.

Geoffrey Quentin McLean, 34, of Charlotte, was sentenced to 30 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for possession of a firearm by convicted felon. On August 28, 2023, McLean was seen driving a vehicle with a fictitious license plate and in possession of a firearm. Law enforcement saw McLean park the vehicle in a hotel parking lot and observed McLean enter one of the hotel rooms. Subsequently, the officers searched the room and found inside a safe a 9mm firearm and an extended magazine that belonged to McLean.

Ronetae Antonion Degraffenreid, 40, of Charlotte, was sentenced to 24 months in prison followed by two years of supervised release for dealing in firearms without a license. According to court records, during a 2022 investigation, law enforcement determined that Degraffenreid was a recurring purchaser of firearms that were later recovered in the hands of individuals other than the defendant. Between 2018 and 2022, Degraffenreid purchased over 76 firearms, many of which were later found in the possession of prohibited persons or used to commit other crimes, including drug trafficking and a shooting.

Nehemiah Malik Harris, 27, of Charlotte, was sentenced to 18 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for possession of a firearm by felon. On December 6, 2026, law enforcement stopped Harris’s vehicle for a traffic violation. During the traffic stop, the officers found quantities of narcotics inside the vehicle and retrieved a firearm from Harris. The firearm was loaded with a round in the chamber and was later determined to be stolen.

The cases were prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), and in collaboration with federal, state, and local law enforcement, to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. For more information about PSN in the Western District, please visit our website.

The cases were prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte.

Federal law prohibits individuals from possessing a firearm if they fall into certain restricted categories, including convicted felons, fugitives from justice, illegal aliens, individuals convicted of domestic violence, and unlawful users of controlled substances. Additionally, it is illegal to possess a firearm in connection with a drug trafficking crime or a violent offense. Federal law also prohibits the straw purchase of a firearm, wherein a person who can lawfully purchase a firearm buys a gun, or attempts to do so, for a prohibited person. Federal law also requires that individuals who are engaged in the business of dealing in firearms be licensed by the ATF. For additional information and resources please visit www.atf.gov.visit www.atf.gov.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Jeannetta Blackmon, also known as Jeannetta Regan, 50, of Charlotte, was sentenced today to 30 months in prison followed by two years of supervised release for obtaining more than $1.5 million in fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Injury Relief Disaster Loan (EIDL) Program loans for her and her customers, announced Lawrence J. Cameron, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. Blackmon was also ordered to pay $1,549,737 in restitution.

Robert M. DeWitt, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in North Carolina joins Acting U.S. Attorney Cameron in making today’s announcement.

“Blackmon defrauded loan programs put in place to support businesses fighting to survive during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her scheme was not a lapse in judgment, but a pervasive and deceitful course of conduct. This Office stands ready to identify and prosecute those who exploit government assistance programs for personal gain,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Cameron.

“Not only did Blackmon prepare fraudulent loan applications for herself, she also charged others to fake their applications as well. The FBI will make every effort to ensure federal relief funds are used as intended,” said Special Agent in Charge DeWitt.  

According to court records, filed plea documents, and court proceedings, from April 2020 to November 2021, Blackmon executed a scheme to defraud the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and SBA-backed lenders by obtaining fraudulent COVID-19 disaster relief funds for her businesses, J Renee Enterprises, Jeannetta Renee Girls Talk, and Jrenee Investments. To obtain the relief funds, Blackmon submitted applications and supporting documents that contained false and fraudulent information regarding her businesses’ income, number of employees, gross revenues, and expenses. Blackmon also created and submitted fabricated bank statements and checks, in furtherance of the scheme. As a result of the fraudulent loan applications, Blackmon received more than $319,000 in disaster relief funds.

Blackmon also obtained over $300,000 in fees from customers who paid her to prepare and submit on their behalf fraudulent PPP and EIDL applications that contained false and fictitious information on employment data, business income, expenses, and tax information. Based on the fraudulent loan applications, Blackmon’s customers received more than $1.2 million in disaster relief funds. To avoid detection, Blackmon directed her customers to pay her loan preparation fees in checks or peer-to-peer payments.

On July 25, 2023, Blackmon pleaded guilty to wire fraud and money laundering. She is released on bond and will be ordered to report to the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.

The FBI handled the investigation.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Caryn Finley and Benjamin Bain-Creed prosecuted the case.

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 www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Chaiya Maley-Jackson 25, of Concord, N.C., appeared in federal court today, following her arrest on fraud charges for selling and transferring fake Social Security Cards, announced Lawrence J. Cameron, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. The indictment charges Maley-Jackson with two counts of social security number fraud and two counts of unlawful transfer of false identification documents.

Robert M. DeWitt, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Charlotte Division, joins Acting U.S. Attorney Cameron in making today’s announcement.

According to allegations in the indictment, between October 2023 and October 2024, Maley-Jackson earned more than $49,000 in fees from producing, selling, and transferring various types of fraudulent documents, including Social Security Cards. Maley-Jackson allegedly had a Facebook page under the name of Yaya Ling which advertised the sale of false and fraudulent documents. The indictment alleges that Maley-Jackson communicated with customers via email and messages to obtain the information needed to create the false documents, to provide updates and samples on their orders, and to send the finalized fake documents. Maley-Jackson allegedly produced the fake documents while she was serving a probationary sentence for a prior federal conviction for a similar scheme.

Maley-Jackson was released on bond. The charges of social security fraud and unlawful transfer of a false identification document both carry a maximum statutory penalty of 15 years in prison for each count in the indictment.

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

The FBI in Charlotte assisted by the U.S. Probation Office in the Middle District of North Carolina investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Caryn Finley and Special Assistant United States Attorney Eric Frick with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte are prosecuting the case.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Prescriptions Plus, a pharmacy in Gastonia, N.C., has agreed to pay $204,000 to resolve allegations that it violated the recordkeeping requirements of the Controlled Substances Act, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Lawrence J. Cameron.

The Controlled Substances Act was enacted to combat illegal distribution and abuse of controlled substances, including prescription medications. Pharmacies dispensing controlled substances must register with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and comply with the various requirements of the Controlled Substances Act, including to maintain complete and accurate records of all controlled substances received, sold, or otherwise disposed of. These recordkeeping requirements play a vital role in ensuring the appropriate handling, accounting, and distribution of controlled substances. Violations of the recordkeeping requirements subject pharmacies to civil monetary penalties.

The United States alleges that Prescriptions Plus did not adequately monitor the conduct of its staff pharmacist and failed to keep complete and accurate records regarding the receipt and distribution of controlled substances, including oxycodone and alprazolam. The United States contends that these violations negligently enabled the illegal distribution of oxycodone and alprazolam by its staff pharmacist.

Prescriptions Plus represents that it has taken steps to improve its compliance with the Controlled Substances Act, including by implementing new recordkeeping policies. As part of the resolution, Prescriptions Plus has entered into a Memorandum of Agreement with the DEA, addressing measures to ensure the pharmacy’s future compliance with the Controlled Substances Act.

“When pharmacies fail to comply with the Controlled Substances Act, they can put opioids and other prescription drugs at risk of abuse on the street, causing great harm to our communities,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Cameron. “Our Office is committed to working with the Drug Enforcement Administration to hold pharmacies accountable when they fail to take required steps to prevent unlawful drug distribution.”

“DEA investigators will continue to aggressively pursue the unlawful dispensing practices of pharmacists, as was the case with the pharmacist working at Prescriptions Plus. The DEA is committed to making sure healthcare providers are abiding by the law,” said Jae W. Chung, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Atlanta Field Division of the DEA, which oversees the Charlotte District Office.

This investigation was conducted by the DEA Charlotte District Office Tactical Diversion Squad with assistance from the Gastonia Police Department, DEA Greensboro Resident Office Diversion Group, DEA Columbia District Office Diversion Group, North Carolina Board of Pharmacy, and IRS Charlotte Criminal Investigation Division.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Holly H. Snow handled this affirmative civil enforcement matter on behalf of the Government.

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

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – A Charlotte man who illegally possessed a machinegun and a straw purchaser of firearms were sentenced today, announced Lawrence J. Cameron, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. Keon Deangelo Steele, 20, was sentenced to 41 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release. Steele’s girlfriend, Anna Micaiah Denise Mack, 22, also of Charlotte, was ordered to serve 24 months on probation under court supervision. 

Bennie Mims, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Charlotte Field Division, and Chief Johnny Jennings of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD), join Acting U.S. Attorney Cameron in making today’s announcement.

According to court documents and court proceedings, between May and June 2023, Steele sold multiple firearms to undercover officers. Specifically, on July 6, 2023, Steele communicated to an undercover officer that he had two firearms and two Glock switches for sale. A Glock switch is the common name for an illegal device that coverts a conventional firearm into a machinegun. Law enforcement arrived at the meeting location and observed Steele and Mack waiting inside a vehicle. The defendants were arrested and taken into custody. Law enforcement also searched the vehicle and found a backpack that contained a Glock 42, .40 caliber pistol outfitted with a Glock switch, and an additional Glock switch.

During the investigation, law enforcement determined that, on June 13, 2023, Mack purchased two firearms, a Glock 22 and a Glock 48, from a federal firearms dealer in Gastonia. Mack completed ATF Form 4473 in connection with the firearms purchases. As Mack later admitted in court, she lied on the form, falsely representing that she was the actual transferee/buyer of the firearms when, in fact, she was buying the firearms for Steele. Court records show that Mack straw purchased at least seven firearms for Steele within a span of a few weeks.

On June 27, 2024, Steele pleaded guilty to possession of a machinegun. On April 4, 2024, Mack pleaded guilty to making a false statement during the purchase of a firearm.

Acting U.S. Attorney Cameron thanked the ATF and CMPD for leading the investigation.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon Boykin of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office reminds the public that purchasing a gun for someone who is prohibited by law from possessing one, or for someone who does not want his or her name associated with the transaction, is a “straw purchase,” a federal crime punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. For more information on what you can do to ensure that you do not knowingly or unknowingly participate in a straw purchase, contact your local ATF office or call 1-800-ATF-GUNS.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – A federal judge ordered Robert Garner Gambill, 91, of Sparta, N.C., to pay a $9,500 fine and turn in his firearm for killing a bald eagle in violation of the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (the Act), announced Lawrence J. Cameron, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. The Court further ordered that a portion of the fine be paid to two witnesses in the case who provided information that led to Gambill’s conviction, as required under provisions of the Act.

Douglas Ault, Special Agent in Charge with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Office of Law Enforcement (USFWS), Southeast Region, joins Acting U.S. Attorney Cameron in making today’s announcement.

According to information contained in plea documents and presented at the sentencing hearing, on June 5, 2024, Gambill set his firearm on a fencepost, and aimed, shot, and killed a bald eagle that was perched in a tree near the Farmers Fish Camp Road Bridge in Sparta. Gambill killed the federally protected bird with a Ruger M77 Mark 2 22-250 rifle with an attached Nikon Monarch MR31 4x16-42 scope. After killing the bald eagle, Gambill left the scene in his vehicle, abandoning the eagle carcass on the bank of the New River. The carcass was recovered with the assistance of two individuals who witnessed the incident and was subsequently taken into the custody of the USFWS. A necropsy performed by a USFWS forensic laboratory identified injuries suffered by the bald eagle that were consistent with a gunshot wound from a high-powered rifle. On October 11, 2024, Gambill pleaded guilty to the unlawful taking of a bald eagle.

In 1940 Congress enacted the Eagle Protection Act, predecessor to today’s Bald Eagle and Golden Eagle Protection Act (BGEPA), to protect the bald eagle from extinction. The BGEPA makes it a crime against the United States to hunt, take, capture, kill, possess, and to otherwise deal with the bald or golden eagle, or any part, nest or egg thereof, except as authorized by a valid permit issued by the U.S. Secretary of Interior.

Acting U.S. Attorney Cameron commended the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for the investigation of the case and thanked the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission and the Alleghany County Sheriff’s Office for their substantial assistance with the investigation.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine Armstrong of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case.

For immediate assistance with fishing or hunting violations, please contact the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission or local law enforcement. If you have information about any other wildlife crime, please follow the link https://www.fws.gov/wildlife-crime-tips, or call 1-844-397-8477. Please do not leave reports requesting assistance for injured wildlife/birds. Learn more about what to do with injured or orphaned wildlife here.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – A convicted sex offender was sentenced today to 37 years in prison and a lifetime of supervised release for producing child sexual abuse material (CSAM), announced Lawrence J. Cameron, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. Jesse Thomas Cunningham, 30, of Morven, N.C., was also ordered to register as a sex offender after he is released from prison.

Robert M. DeWitt, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Charlotte Division,  Cardell T. Morant, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in North Carolina and South Carolina, Roger “Chip” Hawley, Director of the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI), and Sheriff Scott Howell of the Anson County Sheriff’s Office, join Acting U.S. Attorney Cameron in making this announcement.

According to court documents and court proceedings, in 2021, Cunningham assumed the identity of a minor on Snapchat to communicate with an 11-year-old female. Court records show that Cunningham induced the minor to send him sexually explicit images and videos of herself via Snapchat. Over the course of his communications with the minor victim, Cunningham gained access to the victim’s Snapchat account and used it to persuade two other minor females to create and send him images and videos of themselves engaged in sexually explicit conduct.

According to court records, on December 7, 2021, law enforcement obtained a search warrant for Cunningham’s phone. A forensic examination of the phone revealed that Cunningham possessed CSAM, including images and videos of the three minor victims he had contacted via Snapchat. During the investigation, law enforcement also found evidence that Cunningham had coerced the minor victims, threatening to expose them publicly online if they did not comply with his demands for additional CSAM. Cunningham has prior criminal convictions of Possessing Obscenity With Intent to Disseminate, Attempting to Extort Another, Felony Secret Peeping, and Indecent Liberties with a Child.

On October 11, 2024, Cunningham pleaded guilty to producing CSAM. Cunningham will remain in federal custody until he is transferred to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons.

The FBI, HSI, SBI and the Anson County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Nick J. Miller with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Justice Department. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Alijah Kajuan Rollinson, 23, of Charlotte, was sentenced today to 57 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for the unlawful possession of a firearm, announced Lawrence J. Cameron, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.

Bennie Mims, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Charlotte Field Division, and Chief Johnny Jennings of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD), join Acting U.S. Attorney Cameron in making today’s announcement.

According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, on May 6, 2023, at around 11:00 p.m., CMPD responded to a shooting incident at the parking lot of an apartment complex. Witnesses on the scene told the officers that there had been an argument between Rollinson and another individual prior to the shooting. Court documents show that CMPD officers recovered multiple cartridge casings from the scene, including from the doorway of Rollinson’s apartment. A subsequent search of the apartment yielded two firearms, a rifle and a stolen pistol. The rifle was loaded with ammunition that matched the discharged casings found at the doorway. The pistol was also loaded with a round of ammunition in the chamber. Rollinson is not permitted to possess a firearm or ammunition based on his criminal history that includes convictions for Assault with a Deadly Weapon with Intent to Kill. and Discharge a Weapon Into Occupied Property.

On March 8, 2024, Rollinson pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. He is in federal custody until he is transferred to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.

In making today’s announcement, Acting U.S. Attorney Cameron thanked the ATF and CMPD for their investigation of the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brandon Boykin and Regina Pack of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case.

The case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. For more information about PSN in the Western District, please visit our website. 

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Bryan Torres, 24, of Cherryville, N.C., was sentenced today to 10 years in prison and four years of supervised release on drug and gun charges, announced Lawrence J. Cameron, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.

According to court documents and court proceedings, between October 2022 to January 2023, Torres engaged in drug trafficking in Gaston County. During the investigation, law enforcement conducted multiple controlled purchases of methamphetamine, over 250 fentanyl pills, powder fentanyl, heroin, and other substances from the defendant. Torres was armed during at least one drug transaction. On February 2, 2023, a search warrant was executed at Torres’s residence. Investigators seized from the residence five firearms and ammunition, and additional amounts of methamphetamine and fentanyl.

On February 29, 2024, Torres pleaded guilty to distribution of methamphetamine and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. He will remain in federal custody until he is transferred to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.

The investigation was jointly conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Homeland Security Investigations, the Cherryville Police Department, and the Gaston County Police Department.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case. 

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. For more information about PSN in the Western District, please visit our website.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – A pair of Charlotte businessmen were sentenced today in federal court for failing to account for and pay over to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) more than $150,000 in trust fund taxes over five quarters in 2016 and 2017, announced Lawrence J. Cameron, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.

Donald “Trey” Eakins, Special Agent in Charge of the IRS, Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), Charlotte Field Office, joins Acting U.S. Attorney Cameron in making todays’ announcement.

Richard Brasser, 58, and Gregory Gentner, 54, were sentenced to 12 months and 1 day in prison, respectively, followed by a one-year term of supervised release. In March 2024, a federal jury found Brasser and Gentner guilty of multiple counts of failing to account for and pay over trust funds taxes.

According to today’s sentencing hearing, evidence presented at trial, and other court documents, rFactr was a company with offices in Charlotte, that sold software that leveraged social media for sales platforms. Brasser was rFactr’s Chief Executive Officer and Gentner the Chief Operating Officer. Trial evidence established that from 2015 through 2017, Brasser and Gentner caused rFactr to collect more than $600,000 in trust fund taxes from the wages of its employees but did not account for the taxes by filing Forms 941 with the IRS. Moreover, the defendants did not pay over the withheld taxes to the IRS in a timely manner.

According to trial evidence, Brasser and Gentner had a history of noncompliance with rFactr’s employment tax obligations. Specifically, between 2013 and 2017, Brasser and Gentner failed to comply with rFactr’s employment tax obligations by failing to timely file rFactr’s employment tax returns and failing to timely pay over to the IRS rFactr’s employment taxes. In total, between 2015 and 2017, Brasser and Gentner caused rFactr to owe more than $1.1 million in employment taxes.

In making today’s announcement, Acting U.S. Attorney Cameron commended IRS-Criminal Investigation for their investigation of the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Caryn Finley and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Frick of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Stephanie L. Roberts, 55, of Gastonia, N.C., was sentenced today to 18 months in prison for stealing thousands of dollars from a non-profit corporation for cancer patients, announced Lawrence J. Cameron, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. In addition to the prison term imposed, Roberts was ordered to serve two years under court supervision, and to pay $157,722.69 in restitution to the non-profit victim and $62,612 to the Internal Revenue Service.

Acting U.S. Attorney Cameron is joined by Donald “Trey” Eakins, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, Charlotte Field Office (IRS-CI), Jason Krizmanich, Acting Inspector in Charge of the Atlanta Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), which oversees Charlotte, and Chief Trent Conard of the Gastonia Police Department in making today’s announcement.

“Roberts treated a nonprofit organization meant to support cancer patients as her personal piggy bank, stealing funds intended to help those in need of resources and services during a health crisis. Roberts will now be held accountable for her reprehensible actions,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Cameron. 

According to court documents and court proceedings, Roberts was the executive director of Cancer Services of Gaston County, a non-profit corporation that provides support and resources for cancer patients. Beginning no later than January 8, 2016, through January 21, 2022, Roberts embezzled more than $136,000 from the non-profit corporation. Roberts also admitted that she failed to pay more than $200,000 withheld from the paychecks of the non-profit corporation’s employees for federal income, Medicare, and Social Security taxes to the IRS. In addition to the embezzlement scheme, Roberts made and subscribed, under penalty of perjury, U.S. Income Tax Returns that falsely stated the amount of tax withheld from her wages, and falsely claimed that amount was paid to the IRS.

On March 22, 2024, Roberts pleaded guilty to theft in connection with health care; failure to truthfully account for and pay over trust fund taxes; and making and subscribing a false tax return. Roberts will be ordered to report to the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.

In making today’s announcement, Acting U.S. Attorney Cameron commended IRS-CI, USPIS, and the Gastonia Police Department for their investigation of the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael E. Savage of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Daniel Wood, 48, of Charlotte, was sentenced today to 48 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, announced Lawrence J. Cameron, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.

Bennie Mims, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Charlotte Field Division, and Chief Johnny Jennings of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) join Acting U.S. Attorney Cameron in making today’s announcement.

According to evidence presented at Wood’s trial, witness testimony, and filed court documents, on May 1, 2022, Wood attempted to enter a Charlotte nightclub with a loaded firearm in his pants pocket. The security of the nightclub found the firearm when they patted down Wood prior to entering the club. Security removed the firearm and turned it over to an off-duty CMPD officer. While the CMPD officer was in his patrol vehicle examining the firearm, Wood spoke to the officer and explained that he received the gun from someone else and that he had forgotten it was in the pocket of his pants. Court records show that Wood has prior felony convictions, and he is prohibited from possessing a firearm.

Wood will remain in federal custody until he is transferred to a facility designated by the Federal Bureau of Prison.

The ATF and CMPD investigated the case.

Special Assistant U.S. Attorney (SAUSA) William Wiseman and Assistant U.S. Attorney Regina Pack of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case. Mr. Wiseman is a state prosecutor with the office of the 26th Prosecutorial District and was assigned by District Attorney Spencer Merriweather to serve as a SAUSA with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte. Mr. Wiseman is sworn in both state and federal courts. The SAUSA position is a reflection of the partnership between the District Attorney’s Office and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

The case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. For more information about PSN in the Western District, please visit our website. 

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – A Lenoir, N.C. man was sentenced today to a total of 169 months in prison and a lifetime term of supervised release for possession and access with intent to view child sexual abuse material (CSAM) while on federal supervised release, announced Lawrence J. Cameron, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. Joshua Lynn Cook, 40, was also ordered to register as a sex offender after he is released from prison. The Court further ordered Cook to pay $17,000 in special assessments pursuant to the Amy, Vicky, and Andy Child Pornography Victim Assistance Act of 2018.

Robert M. DeWitt, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Charlotte Division, joins Acting U.S. Attorney Cameron in making today’s announcement.

“Despite prior convictions and strict court supervision, Cook broke the law once again and revictimized children by accessing and possessing horrific material depicting their sexual abuse,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Cameron. “Cook’s sentence reflects the consequences awaiting those who continue to ignore the law and harm vulnerable children.”

“This federal prison sentence reinforces the message; the FBI and our partners will not tolerate the victimization of children. We will continue to meticulously investigate these crimes, which cause irreparable harm and trauma to innocent victims,” said Special Agent in Charge DeWitt.

According to court documents, Cook was on federal supervised release for a 2016 federal conviction for transportation, receipt, and possession of CSAM. Under the terms of Cook’s federal supervision, he was not permitted to own an electronic device capable of accessing the internet, including a cell phone. Cook was also subject to periodic home inspections by the U.S. Probation Office (USPO) to ensure compliance with his probationary terms. Court records show that, on February 8, 2024, during a home inspection, USPO found Cook in possession of an unauthorized phone in his bedroom. Cook admitted to using the phone to access CSAM around the time that he first gained access to the phone, which was within one month of his release from prison. The phone and an SD card were seized and forensically examined by the FBI. The examination revealed that these devices contained images and videos depicting CSAM, including toddlers.  

On October 9, 2024, Cook pleaded guilty to possession and access with intent to view child pornography involving prepubescent minors. Today, the Court sentenced Cook to 151 months of incarceration for possession and access with intent to view CSAM, and 18 months, to run consecutive, for committing this offense while on federal supervised release, for a total of 169 months of incarceration. Cook will remain in federal custody until he is transferred to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons.

The FBI with the assistance of the USPO investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Cervantes with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Justice Department. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – David Christopher Ballard, 45, of Catawba, N.C., was sentenced today to 87 months in prison followed by two years of supervised release for possession of multiple illegal firearms including a machinegun, announced Lawrence J. Cameron, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.

Bennie Mims, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Charlotte Field Division, andSheriff Donald G. Brown II of the Catawba County Sheriff’s Office, join Acting U.S. Attorney Cameron in making today’s announcement.

According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, on December 27, 2022, deputies with the Catawba County Sheriff’s Office were attempting to serve Ballard with outstanding arrest warrants for domestic assault and communicating threats. Law enforcement located Ballard traveling in a vehicle on I-40, and Ballard was arrested without incident. During the investigation, law enforcement determined that when Ballard realized the vehicle was being pulled over by the police and he would be arrested, he contacted another individual with instructions to get rid of his machinegun.

Upon learning this information, deputies were dispatched to Ballard’s residence. When they arrived at the residence, deputies conducted a search and found numerous loaded firearms and ammunition including a machinegun, that being a Spikes Tactical ST-15 rifle, modified to shoot automatically more than one shot without manual reloading and loaded with 25 rounds of ammunition; a Smith and Wesson .38 caliber revolver loaded with five rounds; a Glock 22 .45 caliber pistol loaded with a 15-round magazine; a Bushmaster XM-15 riffle loaded with a 30-round magazine; a Mossberg 12 Gauge 500 shotgun loaded with an additional ammunition drum; a Surefire Suppressor; a Rugged Suppressor; a satchel with seven loaded magazines; .40 caliber and .45 caliber barrels; and additional loaded magazines. The investigation revealed that Ballard had threatened to shoot his ex-wife on multiple occasions and had held the Spikes Tactical rifle to her head.

During an interview with law enforcement, Ballard admitted that he possessed all the seized firearms and ammunition, and that he had converted the rifle into a fully automatic weapon. Court records show that Ballard has prior felony convictions and is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition.

Ballard remains in federal custody. He will be transferred to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.

In making today’s announcement, Acting U.S. Attorney Cameron thanked the ATF and the Catawba County Sheriff’s Office for their investigation of the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon Boykin of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case.

The case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. For more information about PSN in the Western District, please visit our website.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. –  A Charlotte man and his co-conspirator were sentenced to prison today for sex trafficking a minor, announced Lawrence J. Cameron, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.

Robert M. DeWitt, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in North Carolina joins Acting U.S. Attorney Cameron in making today’s announcement.

Tawaan Batten, 34, also known as “Slicc,” was sentenced to 34 years in prison followed by 30 years of supervised release. In December 2023, Batten was convicted at trial of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking of a minor, sex trafficking of a minor, and transportation of a minor with the intent to engage in commercial sexual activity. Batten’s co-conspirator, Kristi Heather King, 34, of Locust, N.C., was sentenced to 42 months in prison and a period of supervised release, after pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit sex trafficking of a minor.

“Batten and his then-girlfriend preyed on a vulnerable child and repeatedly subjected her to physical and psychological harm for their profit,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Cameron. “Today’s sentence sends a clear message: federal prosecutors and law enforcement are committed to ensuring that sex traffickers will face the full force of justice.”

“It is difficult to fathom that someone would sell a child for sex. But that is exactly what Batten and King did and now both of them will do federal prison for their crimes,” said Special Agent in Charge DeWitt. “The FBI works tirelessly to hold accountable those who carry out crimes against children, and we devote significant resources to help sex trafficking victims recover from the trauma they suffer.”

According to evidence presented at Batten’s trial, witness testimony, and court documents, from July 2021 to December 2021, Batten, at times assisted by King, sex trafficked a 15-year-old minor victim. Batten met the minor victim, who had run away from her home, in a hotel parking lot in Charlotte. Batten then introduced the minor victim to King, who was Batten’s girlfriend at the time. The minor victim began engaging in commercial sex transactions shortly after meeting Batten.

Trial evidence showed that Batten, at times assisted by King, created and posted advertisements of the minor victim on commercial sex websites and arranged for the minor victim to engage in sexual encounters with customers, usually multiple times a day. Most of these encounters took place in hotel rooms booked by Batten in North Carolina and South Carolina. Other times, Batten and King drove the minor victim to a customer’s location to engage in commercial sex. Batten kept the money the victim earned from these commercial sexual encounters and continued to have the victim work even when she was not feeling well.

According to testimony and evidence at Batten’s trial, Batten gave the minor victim drugs. Batten also controlled the minor victim through intimidation and manipulation, including branding the minor victim with tattoos. Batten also physically assaulted King multiple times.

Batten remains in federal custody pending placement to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility.

In making today’s announcement, Acting U.S. Attorney Cameron commended the FBI for leading this investigation and thanked the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department for their invaluable assistance.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephanie Spaugh and Daniel Cervantes of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case.

If you are the victim of human trafficking or may have information about a potential trafficking situation, please call the FBI, local law enforcement, or the National Human Trafficking Resource Center (NHTRC) at 1-888-373-7888.  NHTRC is a national, toll-free hotline, with specialists available to answer calls from anywhere in the country, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, every day of the year related to potential trafficking victims, suspicious behaviors, and/or locations where trafficking is suspected to occur. To submit a tip to the NHTRC online please visit https://humantraffickinghotline.org/report-trafficking.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – A federal grand jury in Charlotte returned a criminal bill of indictment charging Anil Dabydeen, 39, of Charlotte, with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon for allegedly shooting at vehicles on I-485, announced Lawrence J. Cameron, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.

Bennie Mims, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Charlotte Field Division, and Chief Johnny Jennings of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD), join Acting U.S. Attorney Cameron in making today’s announcement.

According to the indictment and a filed criminal complaint, on January 8, 2025, at 3:49 p.m., CMPD officers were dispatched to I-485 at the South Tryon Street exit for a reported shooting. Court documents allege that CMPD received several 911 calls describing a male operating a white Honda sedan on the highway who was shooting at passing vehicles. Law enforcement arrived on the scene and located two victims who had been struck by gunfire. The victims told the officers that they were traveling south on I-485 when their vehicle was struck by gunfire. While on the scene, the officers reviewed a video shot by a witness. It is alleged that the video showed a white sedan stopped on the side of the highway, and an individual, later identified as Dabydeen, walking around the vehicle brandishing a firearm and pointing it at passing vehicles.

According to allegations in court documents, while the officers were investigating the incident, they observed a white Honda sedan traveling south at a high rate of speed. The officers recognized the vehicle as the one observed during the shooting and began to pursue the vehicle. After a brief pursuit, Dabydeen stopped the vehicle, and he was taken into custody. It is alleged that, over the course of the arrest, officers recovered from Dabydeen a live round of 9mm ammunition, and a Taurus, Model G3c, 9mm pistol that had been reported stolen. It is further alleged that Dabydeen has a prior felony conviction for 1st Degree Manslaughter in New York, and he is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition.

Dabydeen is currently in custody. The charge of possession of a firearm by a felon carries a maximum prison sentence of 15 years.

The charges against Dabydeen are allegations, and the defendant is innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

In making today’s announcement, Acting U.S. Attorney Cameron thanked the ATF and CMPD for leading the investigation.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Alfredo De La Rosa of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte is prosecuting the case. 

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Five individuals have been charged in separate federal indictments this week for unlawful possession of firearms, announced Lawrence J. Cameron, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. One defendant is also facing a drug charge and a gun offense tied to drug trafficking.

The indictments are the result of an ongoing collaboration between the U.S. Attorney’s Office and federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Union County Sheriff’s Office, and the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), to combat crime, reduce violence, and remove illegal firearms from the hands of prohibited individuals and convicted felons.

“Protecting communities across Western North Carolina is one of our highest priorities,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Cameron. “We will continue to enforce federal firearms laws and partner with law enforcement to remove illegal guns from our streets and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.”

The five individuals indicted this week and the charges against them are:

• Jonathan Glendale Denton, 41, of Charlotte – charged with possession of a firearm by a felon, possession with intent to distribute cocaine base, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
• Rex Allen Hawkins, 53, of Traphill, N.C. – charged with possession of firearms by a felon, including a shotgun, a rifle, and ammunition seized from his residence during a probation search.
• Mitchell Clydero Patterson, 37, of Spring Lake, N.C. – charged with possession of a firearm by a felon.
• Anthony Dion Tribble, 27, of Charlotte – charged with possession of a firearm by a felon.
• Timothy Demetrius Williams, 34, of Charlotte – charged with possession of a firearm by a felon and possession of a stolen firearm.

The charges in the indictments are allegations and the defendants are innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

The cases are being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte.

Federal law prohibits individuals from possessing a firearm if they fall into certain restricted categories, including convicted felons, fugitives from justice, illegal aliens, individuals convicted of domestic violence, and unlawful users of controlled substances. Additionally, it is illegal to possess a firearm in connection with a drug trafficking crime or a violent offense. Federal law also prohibits the straw purchase of a firearm, wherein a person who can lawfully purchase a firearm buys a gun, or attempts to do so, for a prohibited person. Federal law also requires that individuals who are engaged in the business of dealing in firearms be licensed by the ATF. For additional information and resources please visit www.atf.gov.

These cases are part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. For more information about PSN in the Western District, please visit our website.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Ashley James Crouse, 53, of Granite Falls, N.C., was sentenced today to 120 months in prison and a lifetime of supervised release for possession and receipt of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), announced Lawrence J. Cameron, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. Crouse was also ordered to register as a sex offender after he is released from prison.

Robert M. DeWitt, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Charlotte Division, Roger “Chip” Hawley, Director of the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI), Sheriff Alan C. Jones of the Caldwell County Sheriff’s Office, and Chief Reed Baer of the Hickory Police Department, join Acting U.S. Attorney Cameron in making today’s announcement.

According to court documents and today’s sentencing hearing, in April 2023, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) referred a tip to law enforcement that a Dropbox account user had uploaded videos containing CSAM. Law enforcement determined that the Dropbox user was Crouse, who was a pastor at a church in Caldwell County. On November 3, 2023, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Crouse’s residence and the church. From Crouse’s office at the church, detectives seized a computer tower, an iPad, and two thumb drives.

Crouse admitted to law enforcement officers that he had been downloading and collecting child pornography for five to six years and that he viewed CSAM at the church while multi-tasking and completing church business. The investigation determined that Crouse routinely used his computer at the church to access, view, and download CSAM. A forensic examination of Crouse’s church computer and other digital devices revealed that Crouse shared child pornography and links to child pornography through the Telegram application and that he had used AI and a software program to make child and other pornography. In total, Crouse possessed over 1,200 videos and 450 images depicting the sexual abuse of children.

Also on the church computer, investigators found that Crouse maintained a book that outlines in detail how to sexually abuse children. The forensic examiner further found evidence that Crouse had installed an anti-forensic software program on his church computer which he used to permanently delete files and folders. 

On August 21, 2024, Crouse pleaded guilty to possession of child pornography that involved a minor who had not attained the age of 12 years, and receipt of child pornography. Crouse remains in federal custody. He will be transferred to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.

In making today’s announcement, Acting U.S. Attorney Cameron commended the FBI, the SBI, the Caldwell County Sheriff’s Office, and the Hickory Police Department for their investigation of the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimlani Ford of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Osco Lothario Jackson, 37, of Charlotte, was sentenced today to 64 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for illegal possession of a firearm, announced Lawrence J. Cameron, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.

Bennie Mims, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Charlotte Field Division, and Chief Johnny Jennings of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD), join Acting U.S. Attorney Cameron in making today’s announcement.

According to court documents and court proceedings, on September 6, 2023, Jackson, shot into a group of people that included a man and several teenagers. Jackson’s shot hit his intended target, the man, in the leg. Jackson has multiple prior convictions for violent and drug-related offenses including Assault on a Government Official/Employee, Possession With Intent to Deliver Cocaine, Assault with a Deadly Weapon Inflicting Serious Injury, and Conspiracy to Commit Robbery with a Dangerous Weapon, thus he is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition.

On June 26, 2024, Jackson pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm by a felon. He will remain in federal custody pending placement by the Federal Bureau of Prisons at a designated facility.

The ATF and CMPD investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimlani Ford of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case. 

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Taiji Group USA, Inc. (Taiji Group), a paper converter in Conover, N.C., has agreed to pay $460,395.09, to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by knowingly providing false information to apply for a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan to which the company was not entitled, announced Lawrence J. Cameron, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.

Congress created the PPP in March 2020 as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, to provide forgivable loans to small businesses struggling to pay employees and other expenses. In 2021, Congress offered a second round of forgivable PPP loans through the Economic Aid to Hard-Hit Small Businesses, Nonprofits, and Venues Act. When applying for PPP loans, borrowers were required to certify the truthfulness and accuracy of all information provided in their loan applications.

In March 2021, Taiji Group applied for a second round PPP loan and certified that it was eligible to receive the loan. Among other certifications, Taiji Group certified that no “entity created in or organized under the laws of the People’s Republic of China” owned or held 20 percent or more of the economic interest in Taiji Group. The company also certified that it did not retain, as a member of its board of directors, a person who was a resident of the People’s Republic of China. At the time of its application, however, both of these certifications were allegedly false. For this reason, Taiji Group was not eligible for the $271,165 second round PPP loan that it received. After receiving the PPP loan, Taiji Group sought and received forgiveness of the total amount of the loan.

“PPP loans were a lifeline for many businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Cameron. “Ineligible businesses that improperly obtained federal aid loans harmed the taxpayers who funded these programs and reduced the resources available for businesses that were eligible to receive assistance. Our office is committed to rooting out fraud and holding accountable businesses that wrongfully benefited from these federal programs.”

This matter arose from a lawsuit filed under the qui tam or whistleblower provision of the False Claims Act, which permits private parties, called relators, to file suit on behalf of the United States for false claims and share in a portion of the government’s recovery. The qui tam case is captioned United States of America ex rel. Sidesolve, LLC, v. Taiji Group USA, Inc., W.D.N.C. Case No. 5:24-cv-98.

The government was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth Johnson.

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 claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only. There has been no determination of liability. 

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Today, U.S. District Judge Kenneth D. Bell sentenced an armed cocaine trafficker to five years in prison, announced Lawrence J. Cameron, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. Cleveland Pegues, 40, of Charlotte, was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release after he is released from prison.

Bennie Mims, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Charlotte Field Division, and Chief Johnny Jennings of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD), join Acting U.S. Attorney Cameron in making today’s announcement.

According to court documents and court proceedings, on March 15, 2023, CMPD officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a black Honda Accord for a traffic violation. The driver of the vehicle initially pulled over, but as the officers exited their vehicle the driver took off at a high rate of speed. As the vehicle sped away, the officers observed a bag being thrown from the passenger window. Officers recovered the bag which contained quantities of marijuana and cocaine. The officers also conducted a search of the area where the vehicle had traveled and located a stolen and loaded firearm. During the investigation, the officers determined that the driver of the vehicle was Pegues.

According to filed documents, on March 29, 2023, while surveilling Pegues, officers observed the defendant walking toward a truck, carrying bags. When Pegues saw the officers, he attempted to flee on foot, but he was quickly taken into custody. Court records show that Pegues had been carrying a shopping bag and a satchel. Officers searched the satchel, where they found a Pietro Beretta, Model 96A1, .40 caliber pistol with one round in the chamber and 10 rounds in the magazine; a stolen Smith and Wesson, Model 66, 357 Magnum revolver loaded with six rounds; and a Beretta magazine loaded with six rounds of .40 caliber ammunition. Inside the shopping bag, officers found multiple plastic bags containing over 100 grams of cocaine packaged for distribution, quantities of MDMA and cocaine base, and more than half a kilogram of marijuana packaged in several bags. The officers also found digital scales and cash. Court documents show that law enforcement executed a search warrant at Pegues apartment, where they seized $7,000 in U.S. currency, ammunition, drug paraphernalia, and a money counter.

On August 29, 2024, Pegues pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute cocaine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Pegues will remain in federal custody pending placement by the Federal Bureau of Prisons at a designated facility.

In making today’s announcement, Acting U.S. Attorney Cameron thanked the ATF and CMPD for their investigation of the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Nick J. Miller of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case. 

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – United States Attorney Dena J. King announced that she will step down from her position as the Western District’s chief law enforcement officer effective today.

“It has been a tremendous honor to serve the people of the Western District of North Carolina,” said U.S. Attorney King. “I’ve had the privilege of working alongside some of the most talented public servants who are dedicated to serving our communities with integrity, distinction, and excellence. Our collective mission is to serve and protect the people of Western North Carolina. I stand proud of our accomplishments and our efforts to support law enforcement, build strong partnerships with our communities, and uphold justice.”

U.S. Attorney King is the first person of color to be appointed to the position in the Western District of North Carolina (WDNC). She was nominated by President Joseph R. Biden Jr. on September 28, 2021, and was confirmed by the United States Senate on November 19, 2021. U.S. Attorney King was officially sworn into the position on November 29, 2021.

During her tenure, U.S. Attorney King led an office of nearly 100 federal prosecutors and support personnel, serving a district that covers 32 counties across the western part of the state. The WDNC also includes half of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway. The Pisgah and Nantahala National Forests cover over one million acres of the Western District. The largest Native American Community in the eastern half of the United States, the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, is in WDNC.

As the chief federal law enforcement officer, U.S. Attorney King was in charge of all criminal and civil matters filed in the U.S. District Court in the Western District of North Carolina. Under U.S. Attorney King, the Office focused its efforts on the protection of civil rights; enhancing public safety; recovering taxpayer dollars; combatting health care fraud, financial fraud and COVID-19 fraud; disrupting drug trafficking and gun trafficking networks; uncovering public corruption and financial fraud schemes; protecting vulnerable populations from exploitation including older adults and children; prosecuting human traffickers and supporting victims; pursuing repeat offenders and drivers of violent criminal activity; and overseeing affirmative civil enforcement actions and all other civil litigations.

During her time in office, U.S. Attorney King formed WDNC’s first ever Civil Rights Team, to focus on the enforcement of civil rights laws, prosecute individuals who commit criminal civil rights violations, ensure equal access to justice and equal opportunities by pursuing civil enforcement actions, and protect voting rights and access and rights of the disabled. In addition to enforcement efforts, the Civil Rights Team has enhanced the Office’s engagement with the community to raise awareness and to encourage reporting of potential civil rights violations.

U.S. Attorney King also reconstituted the Western District’s Health Care Fraud Task Force, a multi-agency team that comprises federal and state law enforcement agencies and regulatory entities. The goal of the task force is to identify and prosecute those who defraud public and private insurers, jeopardize the integrity of the health care system and waste taxpayer dollars. The work of the task force has led to an increase in criminal and civil matters, and has secured settlements with corporations and individuals, including hospitals, telemedicine companies and providers, durable medical equipment suppliers, physicians, therapists, and affiliated health care professionals. In addition, the task force has recovered millions in restitution for the government-funded programs, including Medicare and Medicaid.  

U.S. Attorney King also prioritized the protection of vulnerable populations from exploitation and violence. Under her leadership, the Office successfully prosecuted numerous child predators, ensuring justice for victims and securing restitution for victims of sexual exploitation. The Office also took significant steps to protect older Americans from financial exploitation, by bringing to justice those who prey on the elderly and conducting educational and training events to raise public awareness about financial scams targeting older adults.

U.S. Attorney King remained committed to enhancing public safety by focusing on identifying and dismantling extensive drug trafficking networks, which are often drivers of violent criminal activity. The Office also increased its efforts to reduce gun-induced violence by identifying and disrupting gun trafficking pipelines, prosecuting repeat offenders and felons in possession of firearms, and those involved in the illegal sale or purchase of firearms.

Throughout U.S. Attorney King’s tenure, the Office also prioritized strengthening partnerships with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies and community stakeholders through training seminars on Department of Justice priorities and U.S. Attorney’s Office initiatives, as well as in response to community needs to include violent crime, civil rights, and human trafficking.

“Serving as U.S. Attorney has given me the privilege of working alongside our dedicated federal, state, and local law enforcement partners on prosecutions, crime prevention efforts, and outreach initiatives,” said U.S. Attorney King. “I am grateful for the support of these agencies, which will continue to serve and protect our communities long after my tenure. I also want to thank the countless agents, officers, and deputies whose commitment and extraordinary service enhance the safety of our communities and help bring offenders to justice.” 

In addition to overseeing federal cases and conducting trainings, U.S. Attorney King engaged in outreach and crime prevention efforts, including initiatives to enhance public safety and strengthen community engagement. Among them is Think Again, a campaign aimed at preventing illegal firearm purchases and reducing gun violence. U.S. Attorney King also prioritized the fight against hate crimes through the United Against Hate initiative, a Department of Justice-led effort designed to strengthen relationships between law enforcement and historically targeted communities.

A key focus of U.S. Attorney King during her tenure was engaging with young people to prevent youth violence and foster positive youth development. U.S. Attorney King’s Office partnered with Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS), Buncombe County and City of Asheville Schools, and Cherokee Central Schools to engage with students on important issues such as school violence, teen dating violence, effective leadership, and positive conflict resolution. U.S. Attorney King also participated in numerous public events and partnered with youth community organizations, where she spoke on topics of crime prevention, mentorship, and collaborating with law enforcement.

“As U.S. Attorney, I’ve had the privilege of meeting and interacting with countless members from communities throughout the Western District, including young people. I am extremely grateful to all our community partners for their collaboration and partnership. None of this work would be possible without the support of our community partners and the citizens who stand behind these efforts. I am deeply grateful for their support and for their commitment to our outreach initiatives, particularly those that focus on helping our young people navigate their challenges in a positive and constructive manner.”

In addition to serving as U.S. Attorney for WDNC, U.S. Attorney King served as Chair of the Civil Rights Subcommittee and Native American Issues Subcommittee of the Attorney General’s Advisory Committee (AGAC) of U.S. Attorneys, as well as the Juvenile Violence Subcommittee. “It’s been a privilege to serve as Chair on these two very important subcommittees and an incredible opportunity to provide input on key issues to Department of Justice leadership,” said U.S. Attorney King, who also served as a member of the AGAC’s subcommittees for Violent and Organized Crime; Law Enforcement, Victims and Community Relations; and Elder Justice. 

Since 2021, U.S. Attorney King successfully steered the office through significant challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and unprecedented budgetary cuts. In spite of these challenges, the Office maintained its ability to manage a large caseload and secure additional resources, including prosecutors and support personnel.

Before her appointment, U.S. Attorney King served as WDNC’s Deputy Criminal Chief, overseeing the Violent Crimes and Narcotics Section, and as Lead Task Force Attorney for the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force program. U.S. Attorney King’s extensive prosecutorial experience also includes serving as an Assistant U.S. Attorney for the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Eastern District of North Carolina, an enforcement attorney in the Securities Division of the North Carolina Department of the Secretary of State, and an Assistant District Attorney in Mecklenburg County.

“Being U.S. Attorney is an incredible job,” said U.S. Attorney King. “It’s been an honor and a privilege to have served in this role and I will always be incredibly thankful for the opportunity.”

Upon U.S. Attorney King’s departure, First Assistant U.S. Attorney Lawrence J. Cameron will serve as Acting U.S. Attorney until a replacement is named. 

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Robert Upchurch, 52, of Charlotte, was sentenced today to 54 months in prison and a lifetime of supervised release for possession of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. Upchurch was also ordered to pay a $17,000 special assessment for the Amy, Vicky, and Andy Child Pornography Victim Assistance Act of 2018.

Robert M. DeWitt, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Charlotte Division, and Chief Johnny Jennings of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD), join U.S. Attorney King in making today’s announcement.

According to court documents and today’s sentencing hearing, in July 2022, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) referred a tip to law enforcement that a Dropbox account user had uploaded numerous images containing suspected CSAM. Law enforcement identified Upchurch as the Dropbox account user. On December 8, 2022, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Upchurch’s residence, seizing the defendant’s cell phone, computers, and other electronic devices. A forensic analysis of the seized items revealed that they contained more than 5,800 images and 2,500 videos depicting the sexual abuse of children, including infants and toddlers, and files depicting sadistic or masochistic behavior or violence involving young children. During an interview with law enforcement, Upchurch first denied possessing CSAM, but later admitted to viewing child pornography.

On September 4, 2024, Upchurch pleaded guilty to possession and accessing with intent to view child pornography containing a minor who had not attained the age of 12 years.

The FBI and CMPD investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Nick J. Miller of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Jason Travis Shook, 42, of Conover, N.C., was sentenced today to 210 months in prison and five years of supervised release on drug and gun charges, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.

Jae W. Chung, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Atlanta Field Division of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), which oversees the Charlotte District Office, and Sheriff Donald G. Brown II of the Catawba County Sheriff’s Office, join U.S. Attorney King in making today’s announcement.

According to court documents and proceedings, in August 2022, officers with the Catawba County Sheriff’s Office learned that Shook was distributing large amounts of methamphetamine in the area. As part of the investigation into Shook, law enforcement began surveilling Shook’s property in Conover and his black Chevrolet Suburban vehicle. On August 25, 2022, officers observed Shook walking back and forth from his property to the Suburban, which had a white boat attached to it. Shook was seen carrying a backpack that he placed in the back seat of the Suburban before he drove away from the property. Law enforcement attempted to conduct a traffic stop of Shook’s vehicle for multiple traffic violations, including driving with a revoked license. Shook did not obey and instead he led law enforcement on a vehicle pursuit which ended with Shook crashing the Suburban and boat into a wooded area at the end of a road in Hickory. Shook then ran on foot and jumped into Lake Hickory. A short time later Shook was taken into custody.

According to filed court documents, law enforcement retrieved the backpack from the Suburban, which contained a clear plastic bag with a large amount of methamphetamine, $24,707 in cash, a clear plastic bag with approximately 7 grams of methamphetamine and over one gram of loose methamphetamine, digital scales, other drug paraphernalia, as well as two unspent 12-gauge shot gun shells. Law enforcement also searched Shook’s flight path and located a Ruger, model SR40C, .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol along the side of the road. The firearm contained one round of ammunition in the chamber and an additional round in the magazine. The seized methamphetamine was analyzed at the DEA Mid-Atlantic Laboratory and determined to be 368.99 grams of pure methamphetamine.

On August 8, 2024, Shook pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm by a felon. Shook has a prior criminal history that includes felony convictions for Assault with a Deadly Weapon Inflicting Serious Injury and Second-Degree Kidnapping, and he is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition. Shook will remain in federal custody until he is transferred to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.

In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney King thanked the DEA and the Catawba County Sheriff’s Office for their investigation of the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nick J. Miller, Brandon Boykin, and Regina Pack with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case. 

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – A U.S. Postal Service employee and a co-conspirator were sentenced to prison yesterday for a scheme involving stolen checks worth over $24 million, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. A third co-conspirator was previously sentenced for his role in the scheme.

Nakedra Shannon, 30, and Desiray Carter, 30, both of Charlotte, were sentenced to 60 months and 54 months in prison, respectively, followed by two years of supervised release. On July 18, 2024, Donell Gardner, 28, also of Charlotte, was sentenced to 54 months in prison and three years of supervised release. The defendants previously pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit financial institution fraud and theft of government property. The defendants were also ordered to pay $113,333.87 in restitution, jointly and severally.

According to court records, from March 2021 to July 2023, Shannon was employed by the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) as a mail processing clerk at a distribution center in Charlotte. As Shannon previously admitted in court, from April to July 2023, she conspired with Gardner and Carter to steal incoming and outgoing checks from the U.S. mail, which Gardner and Carter then sold to other individuals, including using the Telegram channel OG Glass House. The co-conspirators stole checks totaling more than $24 million, which includes over $12 million in stolen checks that were posted for sale on the Telegram channel OG Glass House, and more than $8 million in stolen U.S. Treasury checks. The defendants obtained hundreds of thousands of dollars in criminal proceeds of the mail theft scheme.

In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney King thanked U.S. Postal Service’s Office of the Inspector General, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, IRS-Criminal Investigation, the U.S. Department of Treasury Bureau of the Fiscal Service, and the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department for their investigation of the case.

Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Frick with the U.S. Attorney's Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case. 

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Ryan Rudy Elledge, 30, of Sherrills Ford, N.C., was sentenced today to 84 months in prison and four years of supervised release for distributing fentanyl, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.

Bennie Mims, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Charlotte Field Division, Sheriff Donald G. Brown II of the Catawba County Sheriff’s Office, and Chief Tyler Whisenant of the Maiden Police Department, join U.S. Attorney King in making today’s announcement.

According to court documents and proceedings, law enforcement began investigating Elledge in January 2023, for suspected fentanyl distribution in and around Catawba County. On February 17, 2023, officers executed a search warrant at Elledge’s residence, seizing more than 71 grams of fentanyl and over $21,000 in cash. In February 2024, law enforcement began a second investigation, after learning that Elledge was selling drugs again from his home in Newton, N.C. On February 22, 2024, a confidential informant purchased fentanyl and other narcotics from Elledge. The following day, officers executed a search warrant at Elledge’s residence, seizing fentanyl and methamphetamine. Court records show that Elledge admitted to distributing more than a kilogram of fentanyl and over 200 grams of methamphetamine.

On August 20, 2024, Elledge pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. He is currently in federal custody and will be transferred to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.

In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney King thanked the ATF, the Catawba County Sheriff’s Office, and the Maiden Police Department for their investigation of the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Alfredo De La Rosa with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case. 

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Today, U.S. District Judge Kenneth D. Bell sentenced Shakor Daniels, 26, of Charlotte, to 37 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and transfer of a machinegun, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.

Bennie Mims, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Charlotte Field Division, joins U.S. Attorney King in making today’s announcement.

According to court documents and court proceedings, on June 13, 2023, law enforcement stopped Daniels’s vehicle for a traffic violation. Over the course of the traffic stop, officers found two firearms inside the vehicle. Daniels admitted to possessing a firearm for protection.

Court documents show that, in the fall of 2023, law enforcement determined that Daniels was advertising Glock switches for sale on his social media account, which included the tag line “Go fed or go home.” A Glock switch is an illegal conversion device that enables a conventional semi-automatic pistol to function as a fully automatic firearm. According to court records, on several occasions, undercover ATF agents purchased multiple items from Daniels, including Glock switches for handguns and a rifle, and a 45-round drum magazine. On January 14, 2024, Daniels sent an image of a handgun to an undercover ATF agent that Daniels was selling. The undercover agent agreed to meet Daniels to purchase the firearm. On January 16, 2024, Daniels was arrested when he arrived to sell the firearm to the undercover agent. Daniels has prior criminal convictions, and he is prohibited from possessing firearms.

Daniels is currently in federal custody and will be transferred to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.

The ATF investigated the case with the assistance of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case. 

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Jesus Manual Hernandez, 33, of Charlotte, was sentenced today to 151 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release for trafficking methamphetamine, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.

According to court documents and court proceedings, from March 2021 to September 2022, Hernandez and his co-defendant, Wilber Guadalupe Baldenebro Medina, engaged in conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in the greater Charlotte area. Court documents show that during the investigation into Hernandez’s drug distribution activities, law enforcement utilized confidential human sources to purchase more than 2.2 kilograms of methamphetamine. In addition to distributing methamphetamine in Charlotte, court records indicate that Hernandez organized the distribution of 190 grams of fentanyl pills and 198 grams of powder fentanyl in Montgomery, Alabama.

On November 30, 2023, Hernandez pleaded guilty to methamphetamine trafficking conspiracy and distribution of methamphetamine. He remains in federal custody and will be transferred to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.

On September 27, 2023, Medina was sentenced to 15 years in prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to traffic methamphetamine and distribution of methamphetamine.

In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney King commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for their investigation of this Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (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.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Erik Lindahl of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Marc Weiss, 50, of Charlotte, was sentenced today to 40 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for embezzling approximately $1.6 million from two small businesses, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. In addition to the prison term imposed, Weiss was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $1,644,235.77.

Jason Byrnes, Special Agent in Charge of the United States Secret Service, Charlotte Field Office, and Sheriff Darren Campbell of the Iredell County Sheriff’s Office, join U.S. Attorney King in making today’s announcement.

According to filed court documents and the sentencing hearing, from 2016 to 2022, Weiss engaged in a scheme to defraud two Mooresville, N.C. small businesses that employed him as a bookkeeper. Over the course of the scheme, Weiss, who was a trusted employee, abused his position and access to the companies’ financial accounts to make more than 100 fraudulent transfers totaling $1.6 million from the companies’ accounts into bank accounts under Weiss’s control. Court documents show that Weiss began to embezzle from the second company while he was already stealing from the first one. To disguise the fraud, Weiss created fake entries in the victim companies’ books and records, categorizing the fraudulent transfers as payments to existing vendors for software development, and advertising and marketing expenses.

According to court records, Weiss used the embezzled funds, in part, to pay for his personal lifestyle, including rent payments for a luxury apartment uptown; payments for high-end vehicles, including an Audi and a Mercedes-Benz; purchases at luxury retail stores, including Luis Vuitton, Gucci, Neiman Marcus, and Tiffany, among others; and luxury vacations, including multiple stays in The Ritz Carlton hotel.

In October 2023, Weiss pleaded guilty to wire fraud. He will be ordered to report to the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.

In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney King thanked the U.S. Secret Service and the Iredell County Sheriff’s Office for their investigation of the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney William Bozin of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case. 

A federal judge in Charlotte, North Carolina, sentenced a Jamaican citizen yesterday to prison for operating a Jamaica-based fraudulent lottery scheme.

Antony Linton Stewart, 40, pleaded guilty on Aug. 3, 2023, to one count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, in the Western District of North Carolina.  On Jan. 27, U.S. District Court Judge Robert J. Conrad sentenced Stewart to 84 months in prison. Stewart was also ordered to pay $1,104,041.74 in restitution.

According to court documents, and as part of his plea, Stewart acknowledged that from approximately 2010 through at least August 2016, he led a fraudulent lottery fraud scheme in which he and his co-conspirators targeted victims in the United States. Stewart admitted that he contacted elderly Americans by phone and falsely told them that they had won money and other prizes in a sweepstakes or lottery.  Stewart told victims that they needed to send money to pay fees and taxes on their winnings.  He repeatedly contacted victims for as long as they could be persuaded to send additional money. No lottery existed and no victim ever received any winnings.

“Overseas lottery schemes are unfortunately a common means by which foreign criminals seek to target U.S. citizens, particularly elder Americans,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “Such schemes are unacceptable, and the Department will hold accountable those who participate in them.”

“Stealing money from elderly individuals is a despicable crime,” said U.S. Attorney Dena J. King for the Western District of North Carolina. “Today’s sentence sends a clear message that fraudsters who target and exploit older adults for financial gain will be brought to justice.”

This prosecution is part of the Justice Department’s effort to work with federal and foreign law enforcement to combat fraudulent lottery schemes in Jamaica that prey on U.S. citizens.

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service investigated the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs worked with law enforcement partners in Jamaica to secure the arrest and extradition of Stewart. The U.S. Marshals Service also provided significant assistance.

Trial Attorney Ryan E. Norman of the Justice Department’s Consumer Protection Branch prosecuted the case, with the assistance of Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Ryan for the Western District of North Carolina.

If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has been a victim of financial fraud, help is standing by at the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). This Justice Department hotline, managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, is staffed by experienced professionals who provide personalized support to callers by assessing the needs of the victim and identifying relevant next steps. Case managers will identify appropriate reporting agencies, provide information to callers to assist them in reporting, connect callers directly with appropriate agencies, and provide resources and referrals, on a case-by-case basis. Reporting is the first step. Reporting can help authorities identify those who commit fraud and reporting certain financial losses due to fraud as soon as possible can increase the likelihood of recovering losses. The hotline is staffed seven days a week from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. eastern time. English, Spanish, and other languages are available.

For more information about the Consumer Protection Branch, visit its website at www.justice.gov/civil/consumer-protection-branch. For more information about the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of North Carolina, visit their website at www.justice.gov/usao-wdnc. Information about the Justice Department’s Elder Fraud Initiative is available at www.justice.gov/elderjustice.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – A federal judge in Charlotte sentenced a Jamaican citizen to prison for operating a Jamaica-based fraudulent lottery scheme, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.

Antony Linton Stewart, 40, pleaded guilty on August 3, 2023, to one count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, in the Western District of North Carolina. On January 27, 2025, U.S. District Court Judge Robert J. Conrad sentenced Stewart to 84 months in prison. Stewart was also ordered to pay $1,104,041.74 in restitution.

According to court documents, and as part of his plea, Stewart acknowledged that from approximately 2010 through at least August 2016, he led a fraudulent lottery fraud scheme in which he and his co-conspirators targeted victims in the United States. Stewart admitted that he contacted elderly Americans by phone and falsely told them that they had won money and other prizes in a sweepstakes or lottery. Stewart told victims that they needed to send money to pay fees and taxes on their winnings. He repeatedly contacted victims for as long as they could be persuaded to send additional money. No lottery existed and no victim ever received any winnings.

“Overseas lottery schemes are unfortunately a common means by which foreign criminals seek to target United States citizens, particularly elder Americans,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “Such schemes are unacceptable, and the Department will hold accountable those who participate in them.”

“Stealing money from elderly individuals is a despicable crime,” said U.S. Attorney King. “Today’s sentence sends a clear message that fraudsters who target and exploit older adults for financial gain will be brought to justice.”

This prosecution is part of the Department of Justice’s effort to work with federal and foreign law enforcement to combat fraudulent lottery schemes in Jamaica that prey on U.S. citizens.

Acting Assistant Attorney General Shumate and U.S. Attorney King commended the efforts of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, who investigated the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs worked with law enforcement partners in Jamaica to secure the arrest and extradition of Stewart. The U.S. Marshals Service also provided significant assistance.

The case was prosecuted by Trial Attorney Ryan E. Norman of the Justice Department’s Consumer Protection Branch, with the assistance of Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Ryan of the Western District of North Carolina.

If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has been a victim of financial fraud, help is standing by at the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). This U.S. Department of Justice hotline, managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, is staffed by experienced professionals who provide personalized support to callers by assessing the needs of the victim and identifying relevant next steps. Case managers will identify appropriate reporting agencies, provide information to callers to assist them in reporting, connect callers directly with appropriate agencies, and provide resources and referrals, on a case-by-case basis. Reporting is the first step. Reporting can help authorities identify those who commit fraud and reporting certain financial losses due to fraud as soon as possible can increase the likelihood of recovering losses. The hotline is staffed seven days a week from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. eastern time. English, Spanish, and other languages are available.

For more information about the Consumer Protection Branch, visit its website at www.justice.gov/civil/consumer-protection-branch. For more information about the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of North Carolina visit their website at www.justice.gov/usao-wdnc. Information about the Department of Justice’s Elder Fraud Initiative is available at www.justice.gov/elderjustice.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – A federal grand jury in Charlotte has returned a criminal indictment against Alexander Josue Viatoro-Arita, 20, and Olver Anacleto Amador-Calderon, 24, both of Honduras, charging them with unlawful possession of a firearm by an alien, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.

Robert M. DeWitt, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Charlotte Division, Chief Johnny Jennings of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD), and Chief Trent Conard of the Gastonia Police Department join U.S. Attorney King in making today’s announcement.

According to allegations in the indictment and the criminal complaint filed in the case, over the course of an investigation law enforcement identified Viatoro-Arita and Amador-Calderon as individuals involved in suspected drug trafficking activities. On January 14, 2025, law enforcement arrived at the hotel where the defendants had been staying in Charlotte and made contact with the defendants. According to court records, over the course of the exchange, law enforcement conducted a frisk of the defendants for safety and allegedly found concealed firearms in the defendants’ waistbands. The defendants were taken into custody. It is alleged that Amador-Calderon possessed a .380 caliber Titan pistol, and Viatoro-Arita possessed a stolen 9mm Taurus pistol with a partially obliterated serial number. According to allegations in the indictment, both defendants were in the United States illegally, and both knowingly and unlawfully possessed firearms. It is further alleged in court documents that law enforcement also found in the hotel room a large quantity of U.S. currency and suspected narcotics.

The defendants are currently in federal custody. The charge of unlawful possession of a firearm by an alien carries a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison.

The charges against the defendants are allegations, and they are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

The FBI, CMPD, and the Gastonia Police Department are in charge of the investigation.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Alfredo De La Rosa of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte is prosecuting the case. 

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – A Charlotte man involved in two separate carjackings was sentenced to prison today, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. Kaionta Dabney, 28, of Charlotte, was sentenced to 84 months in prison for each carjacking offense, for a combined sentence of 14 years in prison. U.S. District Judge Michael F. Urbanski also ordered Dabney to serve two years under court supervision after he is released from prison.

Bennie Mims, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Charlotte Field Division, and Chief Johnny Jennings of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department join U.S. Attorney King in making today’s announcement.

According to court documents and court proceedings, on January 11, 2023, Dabney and his co-conspirator, Marcus Mayfield, were driving together when they began to follow a Dodge Hellcat vehicle, driven by R.P., who was the owner of the vehicle. When R.P. parked and exited his vehicle, Dabney and Mayfield approached the victim. Mayfield brandished a firearm and held R.P. at gunpoint, while Dabney took the victim’s key fob for the vehicle. Dabney and Mayfield then got into the vehicle and drove away. The victim reported that in addition to stealing the vehicle, Dabney and Mayfield took $2,000 in cash and a .40 caliber Glock 23 handgun which was in the vehicle.

Eleven days later, on January 22, 2023, court documents show that Dabney and another co-conspirator, Bobby Gene Valentine, followed a Chevrolet Camaro driven by G.P. After G.P. parked and exited his vehicle, Dabney approached G.P., pointed a firearm at him and demanded his car. The victim did not speak English and did not know what Dabney was saying. G.P. then tried to run away, and Dabney shot him multiple times using the firearm stolen from the previous carjacking. Dabney then got in the victim’s vehicle and sped away. The shooting inflicted serious bodily injury to the victim who required emergency surgery.

On June 12, 2024, Dabney pleaded guilty to possession and brandishing of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence for the first carjacking, and carjacking resulting in serious bodily injury for the second incident. He is in federal custody and will be transferred to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.

Valentine pleaded guilty to carjacking resulting in serious bodily injury and possession of a firearm by a felon and was sentenced today to 11 years in prison followed by two years of supervised release.

Mayfield has pleaded guilty to carjacking and is awaiting sentencing.

In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney King credited the ATF and CMPD for the investigation of the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy Sielaff of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte handled the prosecution.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Russell Javon Linney, 34, of Statesville, N.C. was sentenced today to 135 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release for trafficking methamphetamine, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.

Bennie Mims, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Charlotte Field Division, joins U.S. Attorney King in making today’s announcement.

According to court documents and court proceedings, in January 2023, the ATF initiated an investigation into Linney’s drug trafficking activities. During the investigation, court documents show that undercover ATF agents purchased methamphetamine from Linney multiple times. During one of the drug buys, Linney sold nearly a pound of methamphetamine to an undercover ATF agent in South Carolina. At the time, Linney was on federal supervised release for a firearms conviction in the Western District of North Carolina.

On August 8, 2024, Linney pleaded guilty to distribution of methamphetamine. He is in federal custody and will be transferred to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.

In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney King credited the ATF for the investigation of the case.

Special Assistant U.S. Attorney (SAUSA) William Wiseman prosecuted the cases. Mr. Wiseman is a state prosecutor with the office of the 26th Prosecutorial District and was assigned by District Attorney Spencer Merriweather to serve as a SAUSA with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte. Mr. Wiseman is sworn in both state and federal courts. The SAUSA position is a reflection of the partnership between the office of the 26th Prosecutorial District and the United 

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Four members of a theft ring that stole more than 100 high-end vehicles worth millions of dollars from dealerships located across the United States were sentenced in federal court late yesterday, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.

U.S. Attorney King is joined in making today’s announcement by Cardell T. Morant, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in North Carolina and South Carolina, Robert M. DeWitt, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in North Carolina, and Chief Johnny Jennings of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD).

The defendants pleaded guilty to conspiracy to transport, possess, and sell stolen vehicles in interstate commerce and were sentenced as follows:

• Dewanne Lamar White, 44, of Sumter, South Carolina, was sentenced to 108 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release. White also pleaded guilty to possession of a stolen motor vehicle.
• Kevin Ja’Coryen James Fields, 28, of Charlotte, was sentenced to 96 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release. Fields also pleaded guilty to interstate transportation of a stolen vehicle.
• Reginald Eugene Hill, 25, of Charlotte, was sentenced to 60 months in prison, followed by two years of supervised release.
• Garyka Vaughn Bost, 26, of Denver, North Carolina, was sentenced to 12 months and a day in prison followed by two years of supervised release.

According to court documents and court proceedings, from 2021 to 2023, the defendants engaged in a conspiracy to steal luxury vehicles worth millions of dollars from dealerships in North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Tennessee, Kentucky, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, and Arizona. To maximize profits, they targeted luxury vehicles made by Bentley, BMW, Cadillac, Land Rover, Porsche, and Mercedes-Benz, and other expensive models from Chevrolet, Dodge, Ford, and other manufacturers.

Court documents show that the defendants executed the thefts in a number of ways. In some instances, they visited dealerships posing as customers interested in purchasing the vehicles. After pretending to test drive or inspect the vehicles, the defendants would swap the vehicles’ key fobs with similar ones, and later use the stolen key fobs to steal the vehicles. Other times, they employed methods like “smash and grab” thefts, where they would break into dealerships and locate keys to the high-end models, or break open lockboxes containing keys to luxury vehicles, and then drive the vehicles off the lot. According to court records Bost, Fields, and Hill often served as drivers in the conspiracy, and White frequently paid them and other drivers for their work in the scheme. On several occasions the defendants and other co-conspirators stole multiple vehicles simultaneously, resulting in hundreds of thousands of dollars in losses.

According to court documents and the sentencing hearings, once the stolen vehicles were taken off the dealership lots, the defendants avoided law enforcement detection by removing the GPS navigation and tracking systems from the stolen vehicles, attaching fictitious dealer tags or stolen license plates on the vehicles, and replacing the vehicles’ authentic Vehicle Identification Numbers, among other things. The stolen vehicles were then transported back to Charlotte where they were sold locally at prices well below market value.

In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney King thanked HSI, FBI, and CMPD for their investigation of the case and recognized the contributions of the York County South Carolina Sheriff’s Office and many other state and local law enforcement partners that assisted with the investigation.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys William Bozin and Daniel Ryan of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte are prosecuting the case.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Adrian Arroyo-Trujillo, 32, of Mexico, was sentenced yesterday to 180 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and 24 months in prison for illegal re-entry by a deported alien, to be served concurrently, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.

According to filed court documents and court proceedings, in August 2022, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Union County Sheriff’s Office initiated an investigation into suspected drug trafficking by Trujillo and others. Using a number of investigative methods, including surveillance of Trujillo’s residence, law enforcement suspected that Trujillo was operating a methamphetamine conversion lab in his residence. On at least one occasion, Trujillo received liquid methamphetamine hidden in tires that were delivered to his residence.

According to filed court documents and court proceedings, on September 12, 2022, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle that Trujillo was driving. During a subsequent check of the vehicle, law enforcement found a bookbag that contained 12 identical bags of crystal methamphetamine, totaling 10.89 kilograms, on the rear driver-side floorboard. Officers also found several money order transfer receipts to destinations in Mexico, a customs receipt from Laredo, Texas, four cell phones, and a drug ledger. A forensic analysis of the cellphones revealed messages and photos consistent with drug trafficking activity.

On September 13, 2022, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Trujillo’s residence. Inside the residence they found a black Anderson AM-15 multi-caliber rifle, two magazines and ammunition. Law enforcement also found liquid methamphetamine, processed crystal methamphetamine, and other chemicals and items consistent with the operation of a clandestine methamphetamine conversion lab.

Over the course of the investigation, law enforcement also determined that Trujillo was an illegal alien previously deported from the United States.

In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney King commended the HSI and the Union County Sheriff’s Office for their investigation of the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas Kent and Kenny Smith of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the cases.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – David Williams, 45, of Charlotte, was sentenced today to 140 months in prison followed by a lifetime of supervised release for transporting of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. Williams was also ordered to register as a sex offender after he is released from prison.

Robert M. DeWitt, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Charlotte Division, and Chief Johnny Jennings of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department, join U.S. Attorney King in making today’s announcement.

“Williams possessed thousands of images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of children, yet his criminal conduct did not end there,” said U.S. Attorney King. “Williams produced a surreptitious recording of a prepubescent minor using the bathroom, and also used AI technology to modify and alter images of children he found on the internet to generate child sexual abuse material. This type of misuse of technology, and specifically generative AI, is at the forefront of our efforts to protect our children from this emerging threat and secure proper punishment for perpetrators.”

According to filed court documents and today’s sentencing hearing, law enforcement received information from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) that an individual was using the internet to upload CSAM. Law enforcement identified the individual as Williams. On September 14, 2021, law enforcement conducted an interview of Williams. The defendant denied having any CSAM, at first. He later admitted to having CSAM and turned over some of his electronic devices to law enforcement. A forensic examination of Williams’s devices revealed that the defendant possessed images and videos depicting children being sexually abused and that Williams did not provide all of the relevant electronics.

On September 16, 2021, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Williams’s residence, seizing additional electronics from the defendant. A forensic analysis of those electronics confirmed the presence of CSAM, including images and videos of children as young as toddlers being sexually abused. In total, Williams possessed over 4,000 videos and images of CSAM. Additionally, forensic analysis determined that Williams produced a surreptitious recording of a prepubescent minor using the bathroom.

Forensic analysis further determined that Williams used an online AI chatbot to generate realistic CSAM by morphing or modifying images of clothed minors he found on the internet.  

On June 12, 2023, Williams pleaded guilty to transportation of child pornography. He is currently in federal custody and will be transferred to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.

In announcing Williams’s sentence, U.S. District Judge Max O. Cogburn, Jr., emphasized that “this is a serious crime with serious consequences.”

The FBI and CMPD investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Cervantes of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – U.S. Attorney Dena J. King announced today that the United States and the State of North Carolina have filed a complaint against Benson I. Ejindu in the United States District Court for the Western District of North Carolina, alleging that Ejindu knowingly submitted or caused to be submitted false claims to North Carolina Medicaid for more expensive medical supplies than were actually provided to the Medicaid recipients, a practice known as upcoding.

As alleged in the complaint, from at least May 19, 2017, through August 23, 2019, Ejindu, through a durable medical equipment business that he operated under different names, caused the submission of false claims to North Carolina Medicaid for high-reimbursing, specialized nutritional formula for individuals with rare, inherited metabolic disorders when Ejindu knew the Medicaid recipients actually received lower-reimbursing Ensure, PediaSure, Boost, and Glucerna drinks.

“Durable medical equipment providers that cause the government to pay more than it should for medical equipment and supplies waste taxpayers’ dollars and raise the cost of health care for everyone,” said U.S. Attorney King. “Our Office is committed to working with the North Carolina Attorney General’s Office and our law enforcement partners to put a stop to improper billing practices that exploit Medicaid, a taxpayer funded program that many people depend on to cover their health care needs.”

“Medical providers are required to comply with the law when billing Medicaid for services,” said Special Agent in Charge Kelly Blackmon of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “Together with our law enforcement partners, HHS-OIG is dedicated to investigating and addressing improper billing practices submitted to federally funded health care programs.”

“North Carolinians rely on Medicaid to pay for health care and medical supplies,” said North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson. “If businesses try to make an unlawful buck off of taxpayer dollars, we’ll hold them accountable. I’m grateful to U.S. Attorney King for working with us to stop health care fraud.”

This matter was investigated by the FBI, HHS-OIG, and the North Carolina Attorney General’s Medicaid Investigations Division. This matter is being handled by Special Assistant United States Attorney Matthew R. Petracca of the North Carolina Attorney General’s Office and Assistant United States Attorney Holly H. Snow of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte.

The claims asserted against the defendant are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – A Charlotte jury returned a guilty verdict today against Kendall Charles Alexander, Sr., 60, of Baltimore, Maryland, for the armed robbery of a Bank of America branch, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.

Robert M. DeWitt, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in North Carolina, and Chief Johnny Jennings of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department, join U.S. Attorney King in making today’s announcement.

According to filed court documents and evidence presented at trial, on October 15, 2021, at approximately 10 a.m., Alexander and his co-defendant, Derrius Fleming, robbed at gunpoint the Bank of America branch located at 212 Iverson Way in the Southend area of Charlotte. Trial evidence established that Alexander entered the bank holding a loaded semi-automatic rifle.  Fleming went directly to an unarmed security guard at the corner of the building and forced her inside at gunpoint with his loaded semi-automatic rifle. Once inside, Alexander and Fleming threatened to kill the employees and customers if they did not comply with their demands. The victims were ordered to the ground and Alexander ordered the manager to open the vault room and the vault. Alexander loaded a bag with the money from the vault while Fleming kept watch over the victims.

According to trial evidence, using GPS tracking, law enforcement tracked Alexander and Fleming who had met up with a third individual. Alexander and Fleming attempted to burn their getaway car and got into the car with the third man. Ultimately, the robbers crashed that vehicle, at which point Alexander and Fleming fled on foot across I-77. All of the stolen money was recovered from a bag dropped by Alexander.

The jury convicted Alexander of armed bank robbery with forced accompaniment, brandishing a rifle, including a short-barreled rifle, in furtherance of a crime of violence, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Alexander has prior convictions for attempted murder of a federal officer, use of a firearm in commission of a felony, possession and discharge of a firearm during a crime of violence, and armed bank robbery. He was also on federal supervised release for committing a bank robbery in Maryland. Because of his violent criminal history, Alexander faces a mandatory sentence of life in prison.

Alexander will remain in federal custody pending sentencing. A sentencing date has not been set.

Fleming has pleaded guilty to brandishing a short-barreled rifle in furtherance of a crime of violence and been sentenced to ten years in prison.

In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney King thanked the FBI and CMPD for their investigation of the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Erik Lindahl and David Kelly are 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 gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Christina Robinson, 52, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge David C. Keesler today, and pleaded guilty to wire fraud for embezzling nearly $1.2 million from her employer, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.

Robert M. DeWitt, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Charlotte Division, joins U.S. Attorney King in making today’s announcement.

According to filed plea documents and the hearing, from September 2013 to April 2023, Robinson engaged in a scheme to defraud a Charlotte-based company by abusing her position as the company’s controller to embezzle nearly $1.2 million in company funds. During the scheme, Robinson misused her position and access to the company’s bank accounts to carry out the scheme by moving the embezzled funds and withdrawing them in cash. To conceal the theft and to remain undetected, Robison made materially false and misleading accounting entries in the company’s books and records. As Robinson admitted in court today, she used some of the embezzled funds to pay for personal expenses, including more than $330,000 in purchases, over $324,000 in credit card payments, more than $80,000 in loan payments, over $40,000 in mortgage payments, and more than $35,000 in car payments.

Robinson was released on bond following the plea hearing. At sentencing, she faces up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for the wire fraud charge. A sentencing date has not been set.

The FBI investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney William Bozin of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte is prosecuting the case.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Peter Anthony Thomas, 63, formerly of Charlotte and now a resident of Miami, Florida, was sentenced today to 18 months in prison followed by two years of supervised release for a tax offense, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. Thomas was also ordered to pay $2,526,131.99 as restitution to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). On July 2, 2024, Thomas pleaded guilty to failing to account for and pay over to the trust fund taxes due and owing on behalf of the employees of PT Media, LLC for the quarter ending June 30, 2021.

Donald “Trey” Eakins, Special Agent in Charge of the IRS, Criminal Investigation, Charlotte Field Office (IRS-CI) joins U.S. Attorney King in making today’s announcement.

According to filed court documents and today’s sentencing hearing, Thomas was the owner of Club One CLT, LLC, Sports ONE, Inc., Sports ONE CLT LLC, and PT Media, LLC, (collectively “the Charlotte businesses”) which operated as sports-themed bar/restaurant/lounges in Charlotte. Thomas also owned several other bars, restaurants, and lounges in Florida and Maryland, including Bar One Miami Beach LLC and Bar One Baltimore LLC. Thomas exercised control over the Charlotte businesses’ financial and business affairs and was responsible for collecting trust fund taxes and accounting for employment taxes by filing Forms 941 with the IRS and paying over to the IRS the employment taxes for the Charlotte businesses’ employees.    

Between 2017 and 2022, Thomas caused the Charlotte businesses to collect more than $640,000 in trust fund taxes from the wages of their employees, but Thomas did not pay over these taxes to the IRS. In addition, between 2021 and 2023, Thomas caused Bar One Miami Beach LLC and Bar One Baltimore LLC to collect more than $1.1 million in trust fund taxes from the wages of their employees, but Thomas did not pay over these taxes to the IRS. In total, between 2017 and 2023, Thomas caused the Charlotte businesses, Bar One Miami Beach LLC, and Bar One Baltimore LLC to fail to pay over more than $2.5 million in employment taxes, including more than $1,740,000 in trust fund taxes from the wages of their employees.

Court documents show that instead of paying the trust fund taxes that were due on behalf of the Charlotte businesses, Thomas used the trust fund taxes for other purposes, including more than $2.5 million in cash withdrawals, $370,000 for travel, real estate purchases, and more than $250,000 in retail purchases, including on high-end purchases at Neiman Marcus, Prada, Louis Vuitton, and Givenchy. Thomas also caused more than $2.9 million to be transferred between the Charlotte businesses, Bar One Miami Beach, LLC, and Bar One Baltimore, LLC.

Thomas will be ordered to report to the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.

IRS-Criminal Investigation investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Caryn Finley and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Frick of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Antoine Durel Reid, 39, of Catawba, N.C., was sentenced to 10 years in prison followed by five years of supervised release today for trafficking fentanyl and methamphetamine, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.

Bennie Mims, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Charlotte Field Division, Sheriff Donald G. Brown, II, of the Catawba County Sheriff’s Office, and Chief Reed Baer of the Hickory Police Department, join U.S. Attorney King in making today’s announcement.

According to filed court documents and statements made in court, law enforcement were investigating Reid’s drug trafficking activities in Catawba County. On February 22, 2022, law enforcement conducting surveillance on Reid observed the defendant enter a vehicle with an expired license plate and proceeded to conduct a traffic stop. During a search of the vehicle, law enforcement found a black backpack that belonged to Reid. Inside the backpack, there was a Smith and Wesson SD9 VE 9mm silver and black pistol with 16 rounds of ammunition, almost half a kilogram of methamphetamine and over 260 grams of fentanyl packaged in Ziploc bags, and three digital scales. Reid also had $1,590 in his pockets.

According to court documents, on July 21, 2023, at about 11:15 p.m., officers responded to as service call at a gas station in Hickory in relation to an assault. Officers investigating the incident were informed that an assault had occurred where an individual had brandished a pistol. The officers reviewed video footage collected from the gas station. The officers recognized the assailant as Reid and obtained a warrant for his arrest. The following day, law enforcement went to Reid’s last known address to effectuate the arrest. When they arrived at the residence, they found Reid standing outside an SUV at the passenger door with another individual. Officers observed suspected drug paraphernalia and subsequently searched the vehicle. During the search, the officers located narcotics and a black Taurus G2C 9mm handgun, consistent with the firearm Reid was seen carrying on the gas station security footage. 

On August 8, 2024, Reid pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl. Reid is in federal custody and will be transferred to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.

In making today’s announcement U.S. Attorney King thanked the ATF, the Catawba County Sheriff’s Office, and the Hickory Police Department for their investigation of the case.

Assistant United States Attorney Alfredo De La Rosa of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case. 

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – James Matthew Johnson, 36, of Glade Valley, N.C., was sentenced to 22 years in prison and a lifetime of supervised release today for producing child sexual abuse material (CSAM), announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. Johnson was also ordered to register as a sex offender after he is released from prison.

Cardell T. Morant, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in North Carolina and South Carolina, and Chief Andy LeBeau of the Boone Police Department join U.S. Attorney King in making today’s announcement.

According to court documents and the sentencing hearing, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) received a tip that an individual later identified as Johnson was uploading CSAM to a cloud. Law enforcement initiated an investigation and identified the defendant. In June 2023, law enforcement obtained and executed a search warrant, seizing Johnson’s electronic devices. A forensic analysis of the devices revealed that Johnson possessed CSAM, including more than 200 images and 300 videos depicting the sexual abuse of children as young as toddlers. The cell phone analysis further revealed that Johnson had also produced CSAM of a minor victim that included images and videos where the minor victim appeared to be intoxicated. Court records show that, during an interview with law enforcement, Johnson admitted that the minor victim was unaware that Johnson was producing CSAM of the sexual abuse.

On March 22, 2024, Johnson pleaded guilty to production of child pornography. He is in federal custody and will be transferred to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.

In announcing Johnson’s sentence, U.S. District Judge Kenneth D. Bell said, “these offenses are serious, and the Court takes them seriously.”

The investigation was handled by HSI and the Boone Police Department.

Assistant United States Attorney Daniel Cervantes of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.

ASHEVILLE, N.C. – Raymond Tracy Mintz, III, 32, of Shelby, N.C., was sentenced today to 178 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release for the armed robberies of two local businesses, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.

Cardell T. Morant, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in North Carolina and South Carolina, and Chief Brad Fraser of the Shelby Police Department, join U.S. Attorney King in making today’s announcement.

According to court documents and the sentencing hearing, on November 10, 2022, Mintz entered the Vape and Brew store in Shelby. Mintz was armed with a firearm and was wearing gloves, a beanie, and a bandana over his mouth. He also wore black sweatpants with a small “Tasmanian Devil” cartoon character on one pant leg and sneaker-style shoes with distinct gold accents. Mintz brandished his firearm at two employees and threatened to shoot them. Court records show that Mintz then walked behind the counter and stole more than $1,600 before he fled the scene.

Officers located Mintz at an area hotel where he was staying two days later. Mintz was arrested and the pistol Mintz was suspected of using during the robbery was recovered. During the investigation, law enforcement reviewed the hotel’s video surveillance footage from the day of the robbery which showed Mintz walking towards the dumpster with a distinctly colored trash bag and then returning to his room without it. Law enforcement located the trash bag which contained the black sweatpants with a small “Tasmanian Devil” emblem and the sneaker shoes that Mintz wore during the Vape and Brew robbery.

According to filed court documents, the second armed robbery occurred on December 1, 2023. On that date, Mintz robbed the Curve View Express in Shelby. Court records show that Mintz entered the store, brandished a black handgun with an extended magazine at two store clerks, and fled on foot with $1,604, which he had placed in a black grocery-style bag. An officer found Mintz shortly after the robbery near the Curve View Express carrying the black grocery-style bag. Mintz ran from the officer when the officer attempted to speak to him. The officer caught up to Mintz who was now openly carrying a firearm down by his side. Mintz then threw the black handgun with an extended magazine into the nearby grass. Officers arrested Mintz and recovered the stolen $1,604 from the black bag, as well as the firearm that Mintz used during the robbery.

On August 14, 2024, Mintz pleaded guilty to Hobbs Act Robbery and possessing and brandishing of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. He is in federal custody and will be transferred to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.

The investigation was handled by HSI and the Shelby Police Department, with the assistance of the Kings Mountain Police Department.

Special Assistant United States Attorney Annabelle Chambers of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Asheville prosecuted the case. Ms. Chambers is a state prosecutor with the office of the 43rd Prosecutorial District and was assigned by District Attorney Ashley Welch to serve as SAUSA with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Asheville.  Ms. Chambers is sworn in both state and federal courts. The SAUSA position is a reflection of the partnership between the office of the 43rd Prosecutorial District and the United States Attorney’s Office. The SAUSA position helps ensure the effective and vigorous prosecution of federal court cases that impact the counties within the 43rd Prosecutorial District.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

ASHEVILLE, N.C. – Kailyn Leroy Flack, 29, of Rutherfordton, N.C., was sentenced today to 92 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for possession of a firearm by a felon, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.

According to court documents and court proceedings, on September 26, 2022, North Carolina probation officers were attempting to locate Flack, after the defendant, who was on state probation for a drug trafficking conviction, had removed his electronic ankle monitor. When the probation officers arrived at Flack’s residence, they observed Flack’s vehicle in the driveway with all the doors open. The probation officers drove to a nearby location and waited for back up. While they were waiting, Flack drove up to the probation officers and was subsequently placed under arrest. When law enforcement searched Flack, they found a handgun holster on his hip. Law enforcement then searched Flack’s vehicle, where they found multiple firearms, including a Smith & Wesson, model M&P, .40 caliber pistol, a Sig Sauer, model 516, 556/.223 caliber rifle loaded with a 30-round magazine, a Smith & Wesson, .38 special revolver, and a Taurus, model The Judge, .45/.410 caliber revolver. Three of the four recovered firearms had been reported stolen.

On June 27, 2024, Flack was found guilty of possession of a firearm by a felon following a bench trial. He is in federal custody and will be transferred to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.

The investigation was handled by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the North Carolina Department of Public Safety’s Division of Community Supervision, and the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Don Gast and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Annabelle Chambers of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Asheville prosecuted the case. Ms. Chambers is a state prosecutor with the office of the 43rd Prosecutorial District and was assigned by District Attorney Ashley Welch to serve as SAUSA with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Asheville.  Ms. Chambers is sworn in both state and federal courts. The SAUSA position is a reflection of the partnership between the office of the 43rd Prosecutorial District and the United States Attorney’s Office. The SAUSA position helps ensure the effective and vigorous prosecution of federal court cases that impact the counties within the 43rd Prosecutorial District.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – The alleged leader of a fentanyl pill trafficking operation appeared in federal court today before U.S. Magistrate Judge David C. Keesler, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. Rahkim T. Franklin, 31, of Charlotte, is charged with conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.

Bennie Mims, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Charlotte Field Division, Roger “Chip” Hawley, Director of the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI), and Sheriff Aaron Ellenburg of the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office join U.S. Attorney King in making today’s announcement.

According to allegations in the indictment and court proceedings, from November 2022 to March 2024, Franklin was the leader of a drug operation that manufactured and distributed large quantities of fentanyl pills in and around Mecklenburg county. Court documents and court proceedings show that the drug conspiracy utilized a house in Charlotte as the pill press operation. Investigators executed a federal search warrant at the house on March 7, 2024, where they seized an electric pill press, more than 500 grams of vacuum sealed fentanyl, nearly 1,000 fentanyl tablets, over 30 pounds of fentanyl mixed with suspected pill binder, and other material and paraphernalia consistent with the production of fentanyl pills. The investigation revealed that Franklin and his co-conspirators were manufacturing the fentanyl pills to appear to be prescription Oxycodone pills based on their color and imprint.

Following today’s court hearing, Franklin was remanded into custody. The drug conspiracy charge and the charge of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl each carry a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a maximum of up to life in prison.

The charges against Franklin are allegations, and the defendant is innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

The ATF, the SBI and the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lawrence Cameron and Tom Kent of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte are prosecuting the case.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – The U.S. Attorney’s Office is warning the public of a potential uptick in cyberscams during the holiday season and is cautioning everyone to remain alert against cybercriminals targeting online consumers, particularly older adults.

“The holiday season is a time for joy and generosity, but it’s also a time when cybercriminals seek to target unsuspecting consumers and exploit increased online activity,” said U.S. Attorney Dena J. King. “Whether you’re buying gifts, donating to charity, or searching for a seasonal job, staying vigilant against online scams is the best way to keep the spirit of the season merry and bright.”

2023 Holiday Scams

According to the FBI’s 2023 Internet Crimes Report (IC3) North Carolina ranked in the top 15 states for online financial fraud, both in filed complaints and monetary losses. The report indicates that last year $12.5 billion in financial losses were reported to the FBI. The report also indicates that IC3 received complaints about online shopping and “non-delivery” schemes, which generally spike during the holiday season.

Here are the most common scams that consumers may come across this time of the year:

Fake Online Stores or “Lookalike Stores.” Be on the lookout for online stores that are either entirely fake or made to look like legitimate stores. Watch out for red flags, such as deeply discounted prices especially for in-demand items, like electronics, jewelry, and clothing. Be particularly careful with social media ads that link to bogus online stores or product listings. These scams target shoppers looking to buy luxury or hard-to-find items at an affordable price. Consumers may end up with stolen credit card information or paying for an item that is never received.

Missed Delivery/Non-Delivery Notification. With the rise in online shopping, lots of packages arrive at our front door during the holiday season. Beware of fake delivery notification emails or text messages alerting you of a missed package delivery. Think twice before clicking on the link provided in a text or email, as it may direct you to a website designed to steal your information. Make sure you pay attention to the domain address of the link to ensure it is a reputable delivery site and be especially cautions with delivery websites that ask for your personal or payment information to complete a package delivery.

Gift Card Scams. Gift card scams involve either scamming consumers into buying fake gift cards or tricking consumers into using gift cards to pay for fraudulent goods or services. For example, avoid online stores or advertisements that purport to sell commercial gift cards at deeply discounted prices. While they may have you believe you are buying a gift card on sale, in fact you may end up receiving a gift card with zero money value. Instead, purchase gift cards from reputable retailers.

Fake Charities. During the holidays, cybercriminals seek to take advantage of consumers’ generosity through fraudulent charities, GoFundMe campaigns, and other charitable causes. These types of scams can be particularly difficult to decipher, so before donating money be extra cautious about selecting a charity. If donating online, research the charity thoroughly, check with the Better Business Bureau, and take a look at the charity’s URL and website for telltale signs of fraud, including misspellings, bad grammar, and no contact information. For GoFundMe type of donations research the organizer or the group behind the campaign making a donation.

Phishing Emails or Texts. Cybercriminals take advantage of the hustle and bustle of the holiday season to dupe consumers via phishing emails or texts that contain suspicious links. Be particularly mindful of purported communications from your bank or credit card company, warning you that your account has been compromised. These phishing emails or texts generally prompt you to click on the provided link to log into your account to update your compromised information, so scammers can steal your information. Also avoid clicking on emails that promise free giveaways, prompt you to claim a prize, or ask you to confirm a reservation or other booking. If you receive this type of communication do not use the provided link. For example, if it’s an email related to a compromised bank account, instead of using the link in the email, go to your bank’s main website to log into your account.

Fraudulent Seasonal Jobs. Employment scams tend to increase during the holiday season, as scammers prey on individuals seeking to make extra money. Be mindful of fake job ads, especially online job listings that offer really good money for very little work. Do not ever pay upfront for any equipment or training you need for a new job. Also, do not readily provide your personal identifying information (social security number, date of birth, address, etc.) or your financial and banking information without confirming the job is legitimate. Be particularly mindful of money mule schemes, in which a fake employer asks you to cash a check through your bank, keep a portion of the money, and then send the rest of the money back to the employer.

Scams Targeting Older Adults

The U.S. Attorney’s Office also cautions that older adults are particularly vulnerable of becoming victims of online fraud, not only during the holidays, but throughout the year. According to the FBI’s IC3 2023 report, adults 60 years and older reported the highest monetary losses, with a combined $3.4 billion lost to financial fraud.

As part of the ongoing efforts to educate older adults about online scams and financial fraud, today the U.S. Attorney’s Office co-hosted a scam alert seminar in Charlotte, during which participants received important information about financial fraud. Following the presentation, attendees participated in a game of “Fraud Bingo,” a fun activity designed to deliver information and practical tips on how to prevent the financial exploitation and victimization by scammers.

“Online scams targeting the elderly remain a growing concern in North Carolina,” said U.S. Attorney King. “It’s our duty to protect our vulnerable older population from financial fraud and prevent its devastating financial impact on seniors. Fraud Bingo is a fun and engaging way to deliver information that can help older adults understand how scammers operate, learn the tactics they use, and find out how to protect themselves from financial harm.”

Some examples of financial fraud targeting older Americans are:

• Lottery Phone Scams – in which the callers convince seniors that a large fee or taxes must be paid before they can receive lottery winnings.
• Grandparent Scams – which convince seniors that their grandchildren are in trouble and need money to make rent, repair a car, or even money for bail.
• Romance Scams – which lull victims to believe that their online paramour needs funds for a U.S. visit or some other purpose.
• Tech Support Scams – which convince victims to pay for non-existent problems with their computers.
• IRS Imposter Scams – which defraud victims by posing as IRS agents and claiming that victims owe back taxes.
• Sham Business Opportunities – which convince victims to invest in lucrative business opportunities or investments.

Here are some tips that can help avoid falling victim to a financial scam:

• Don’t share personal information with anyone you don’t know.
• Don’t pay a fee for a prize or lottery winning.
• Don’t click on pop-up ads or messages.
• Delete phishing emails and ignore harassing phone calls.
• Don’t send gift cards, checks, money orders, wire money, or give your bank account information to a stranger.
• Don’t fall for a high-pressure sales pitch or a lucrative business deal.
• If a scammer approaches you, take the time to talk to a trusted friend or family member.
• Keep in mind that if you send money once, you’ll be a target for life.
• Remember, it’s not rude to say, “NO.”
• A good rule of thumb is, if it’s too good to be true, it’s likely a scam.

To report elder fraud please call the Justice Department’s Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-FRAUD-11 (833-372-8311).

If you believe you are the victim of an online scam call the FBI and file a report with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at IC3.gov or contact local law enforcement. 

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – A federal grand jury in Charlotte has charged Trysten Anthony Cullon, 26, and Jade Ashlynn Stone, 25, both of South Carolina, with conspiracy to commit extortion, cyberstalking, and wire fraud for a scheme to defraud a vulnerable victim and his immediate family members using extortive and threatening text messages, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.

Robert M. DeWitt, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Charlotte Division, joins U.S. Attorney King in making today’s announcement.

According to allegations in the indictment, from September 5 to September 8, 2024, the defendants conspired to engage in an extortive and threatening text message conspiracy and a cyberstalking conspiracy that targeted a victim identified in court documents as C.T. The indictment alleges that C.T. had an intellectual disability and was classified as Educable Mentally Disabled. Because of his disability, C.T. was extensively supported by his immediate family and did not live on his own. C.T. was also employed at a fast-food restaurant chain in Charlotte.

The indictment alleges that Cullon and Stone used a stolen phone to send C.T.’s family members multiple harassing and intimidating text messages demanding money and threatened to provide derogatory and embarrassing information to C.T.’s employer, including salacious claims that C.T. was a pervert, that he harassed girls, and that he paid girls for sexual pictures, unless they were paid. Further, the indictment also alleges that Cullon and Stone conspired to defraud C.T. by stealing cellular telephones and other personal items and making and attempting to make transfers using C.T.’s CashApp and PayPal accounts. 

The indictment alleges that, as a result of the substantial emotional distress caused by the extortive and threatening text messages sent by the defendants, C.T. committed suicide.

The defendants are charged with conspiracy to commit extortion and wire fraud conspiracy, which carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for each offense. They are also charged with conspiracy to commit cyberstalking which carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison.

The charges against Cullon and Stone are allegations, and the defendants are innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

The FBI investigated the case, with substantial assistance from the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Caryn Finley of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte is prosecuting the case.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Jacob Elijah Kilgore, 29, of Boone, N.C., was sentenced to eight years in prison and a lifetime of supervised release today for using the dark web to transport child pornography, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. Kilgore was also ordered to register as a sex offender after he is released from prison.

Cardell T. Morant, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in North Carolina and South Carolina, and Chief Andy LeBeau of the Boone Police Department join U.S. Attorney King in making today’s announcement.

According to court documents and evidence presented at the sentencing hearing, in February 2023, law enforcement determined that Kilgore was using the dark web to share over 150 videos and images depicting the sexual abuse of children. On February 23, 2023, investigators executed a search warrant at Kilgore’s apartment, seizing a homemade laptop that contained 11 integrated hard drives. A forensic analysis of one of the seized hard drives revealed that it contained an extensive collection of videos and images of child pornography, with a running time of more than 66 hours for the video files, and approximately 55 gigabytes of storage space for the image files. Some of the videos and images in Kilgore’s library depicted children as young as infants and toddlers being sexually abused. During an interview with law enforcement, Kilgore admitted to accessing the dark web to download child pornography and using a peer-to-peer network to transfer child pornography to others. 

On December 8, 2023, Kilgore pleaded guilty to transportation of child pornography. He is in federal custody and will be transferred to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.

In announcing Kilgore’s sentence, U.S. District Judge Kenneth D. Bell said that the public should know that “this kind of conduct leads to long prison sentences.”

The investigation was handled by HSI and the Boone Police Department with the assistance of the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation.

Assistant United States Attorney Daniel Cervantes of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.