District of New Hampshire

           CONCORD –Ryder Winegar, 33, of Amherst was indicted by a federal grand jury on Monday and charged with six counts of  threatening members of Congress and one count of threatening a New Hampshire State Representative, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

           Winegar was arrested on January 11, 2021 and is being detained pending trial. 

           The original complaint filed in court alleges that on December 16 and 17, 2020, Winegar left voicemails at the offices of six members of the United States Congress in the District of Columbia.  In some of the messages, Winegar identified himself by name or identified his telephone number.  The voicemails threatened to hang the members of Congress if they did not “get behind Donald Trump.”  For example, in one message, Winegar allegedly said, “I got some advice for you.  Here’s the advice, Donald Trump is your president.  If you don’t get behind him, we’re going to hang you until you die.” According to the indictment, on December 14, 2020, Winegar also contacted a New Hampshire State Representative by email threatening to “pull him from his bed and hang him.” 

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

            The case was investigated by the U.S. Capitol Police with assistance from the United States Marshals Service, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Amherst Police Department, and the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Office.

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           CONCORD - James Coughlin, 38, of Sanbornville, pleaded guilty in federal court to drug trafficking charges and unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

           According to court documents and statements made in court, Coughlin conspired with individuals in California to have quantities of “ice” methamphetamine shipped to him at his Sanbornville residence.  He distributed a portion of the drugs to individuals in New Hampshire.  On September 17, 2019, he sold approximately 27 grams of “ice” methamphetamine to an individual who was cooperating with the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Drug Task Force.

           On January 14, 2020, federal and state law enforcement officers executed a federal search warrant at Coughlin’s residence and seized approximately 61 grams of “ice” methamphetamine, cash, firearms and ammunition.  Because he previously had been convicted of a felony, it was unlawful for Coughlin to possess the firearms and ammunition.

           Coughlin is scheduled to be sentenced on May 18, 2021.

           “Methamphetamine is a dangerous drug that is appearing with alarming frequency in New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “We are working with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute the drug dealers who bring this deadly substance into the Granite State.  I am grateful to the investigators whose work led to the arrest and prosecution of this armed methamphetamine trafficker.”

           “Today’s guilty plea is another important step toward holding Mr. Coughlin accountable for his interstate narcotics trafficking activities.” said William S. Walker, acting Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Boston.  “HSI will continue to prioritize the investigation of drug traffickers who pump illicit narcotics, like methamphetamines, into our communities.  These investigations are especially effective when we collaborate with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners in New Hampshire and beyond.”  

           This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the U.S. Marshals Service, the New Hampshire State Police Narcotics Investigation Unit and Mobile Enforcement Team, the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Drug Task Force the  Dover Police Department, the Portsmouth Police Department, the University of New Hampshire Police Department, the Somersworth Police Department, the Hampton Police Department, and the York, Maine Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Cole Davis.

           This investigation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

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           CONCORD - Philip Leo Campanirio, 54, of Westport, Massachusetts, pleaded guilty in federal court to bank robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

           According to court documents and statements made in court, on April 17, 2018, Campanirio entered a branch of Provident Bank in Hampton, New Hampshire, approached a teller and asked for $8,000.  He told the teller to “stay calm and no one gets hurt” and not to “make any sudden movements.”  He then put his hands in his pockets, making the teller believe he had a gun.  The teller gave Campanirio some money and he fled. 

           The robbery was captured by the bank’s video security system.  Shortly after the robbery, Hampton police officers located the grey baseball cap and blue hoodie Campanirio wore during the robbery.  A forensics lab confirmed Campanirio’s DNA was found on the sweatshirt. 

           Campanirio is scheduled to be sentenced on May 10, 2021.

           “I am grateful to the Hampton Police Department and the FBI for their work in bringing this defendant to justice,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Bank robberies can cause great distress to victims and subject everyone involved to potential physical harm. These crimes directly undermine public safety. Would-be bank robbers should expect to be arrested and brought before the U.S District Court to face judgment.”     

           “Any time an individual threatens a gun inside a financial institution with the intent to rob it, victims are traumatized and there is a potential for tragic consequences. As a result of today's guilty plea, Paul Campanirio faces significant prison time, thanks to the combined efforts of our local and federal law enforcement partners," said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division.           

            This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Hampton Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew T. Hunter and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Helen Fitzgibbons.

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            CONCORD – In a 22-page order issued today, United States Magistrate Judge Andrea K. Johnstone ordered that Ryder Winegar, 33, of Amherst be detained pending trial, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            Winegar was arrested on January 11, 2021.  He is charged in a complaint with threatening members of Congress.  The United States moved to detain the defendant, arguing that he presented a risk of flight and a danger to the community.  In the order issued today, Magistrate Judge Johnstone granted the government’s motion for detention.

            The complaint filed in court alleges that on December 16 and 17, 2020, Winegar left voicemails at the offices of six members of the United States Congress in the District of Columbia.  In some of the messages, Winegar identified himself by name or identified his telephone number.  The voicemails threatened to hang the members of Congress if they did not “get behind Donald Trump.”  For example, in one message, Winegar allegedly said, “I got some advice for you.  Here’s the advice, Donald Trump is your president.  If you don’t get behind him, we’re going to hang you until you die.”

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

            The case was investigated by the U.S. Capitol Police with assistance from the United States Marshals Service, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Amherst Police Department.

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             CONCORD - Charles Daye, 28, of Nashua, was sentenced to 35 months in federal prison on Monday for possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute and distribution of fentanyl, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

             According to court documents and statements made in court, on October 23, 2019, following a traffic stop, Nashua police officers located fentanyl and cash on Daye’s person.  Evidence located on his cellphone, as well as Daye’s admissions, confirmed that he was distributing fentanyl in Nashua.  Subsequently, on December 17, 2019, and January 16, 2020, a cooperating individual working with law enforcement officers made controlled purchases of fentanyl from Daye.

             Daye previously pleaded guilty on October 27, 2020.  

            “Fentanyl trafficking is a crime that can have deadly consequences,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “In order to protect public health and safety, Operation SOS is targeting the fentanyl dealers whose actions are damaging Nashua and other communities in Hillsborough County.  We are committed to working with our law enforcement partners to identify, prosecute, and incarcerate the drug dealers who are distributing fentanyl and other dangerous drugs in the Granite State.”

             This matter was investigated by the Nashua Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joachim H. Barth.

             This case is part of Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (S.O.S.).  In July of 2018, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the creation of S.O.S., which is being implemented in the District of New Hampshire and nine other federal districts.  The goal of S.O.S. is to combat the large number of overdoses and deaths associated with fentanyl and other synthetic opioids.   In New Hampshire, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is focusing its efforts on prosecuting synthetic opioid trafficking cases arising in Hillsborough County, which includes Manchester and Nashua. 

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            CONCORD - Joseph Taylor, 31, of Manchester, pleaded guilty in federal court on Thursday to possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

             According to court documents and statements made in court, on March 9, 2020, Manchester police officers stopped a car operated by Taylor after observing suspected drug activity and a motor vehicle violation.  Taylor agreed to speak with the detectives outside the car.  The detectives asked Taylor if he had anything illegal on him and he said he did not.  After he consented to a search of his person and car, detectives found over $1,800 and a loaded 9mm handgun hidden in an area behind the glove compartment.  Detectives later learned the firearm was stolen. 

            Taylor admitted he was a convicted felon and that he had the firearm for protection.  He explained it was hidden because he knew he could not possess a firearm as a convicted felon. 

            Taylor is scheduled to be sentenced on May 5, 2021.  

            “In order to reduce crime and maintain public safety, federal law prohibits convicted felons from possessing firearms,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Through Project Safe Neighborhoods, we are working with our law enforcement partners to identify armed criminals and bring them to justice in federal court.”

            This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from the Manchester Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Debra M. Walsh.

            The case is part of ATF’s Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative, which is a federally-funded program intended to reduce gun violence through law enforcement training, public education, and aggressive law enforcement efforts to investigate and prosecute gun-related crimes. 

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           CONCORD - Richard Stanton, 34, of Hope, Maine pleaded guilty in federal court on Thursday to multiple charges, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on March 18, 2019, New Hampshire State Troopers stopped a vehicle with a defective taillight.  The driver, Stanton, was seen reaching under the front passenger seat as they approached.  Due to safety concerns, a trooper asked Stanton to exit and walk to the rear of the vehicle.  Stanton initially provided false information about his identity to the officers.  Officers later determined his actual identity.  He was arrested after officers determined that he had a suspended driver’s license and that he was the subject of outstanding warrants in Maine

            Stanton told the officers there was no one to pick up the vehicle roadside.  Per their policy, the officers started to inventory the vehicle in anticipation of it being towed.  Various drug paraphernalia was located during the search.  Additionally, the officers observed an unlocked gun case in the rear seat containing a rifle and several rounds of ammunition.  Officers then stopped the search to apply for a search warrant.  The following day, pursuant to the search warrant, the vehicle was searched and officers discovered Stanton’s wallet hidden in a compartment along with over 118 grams of heroin secreted in the dashboard.  As a previously-convicted felon, Stanton is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition.

            On July 24, 2019, Stanton, an uninsured individual, checked into a medical center in Bangor, Maine.  Stanton signed a consent to treatment form using another individual’s identity who was a lawful recipient of Maine Care benefits.  Stanton received care and generated medical bills to be processed in the other individual’s name. 

            Stanton pleaded guilty to possession of heroin with intent to distribute, possession of a firearm and ammunition by a prohibited person, and making a false statement in connection with health care benefits.

            Stanton is scheduled to be sentenced on March 19, 2021.  

            “Drug traffickers are involved in a risky business and often arm themselves for protection,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “The result is that they pose a greater danger to the public. Working with our law enforcement partners we will prosecute drug traffickers and keep guns out of the hands of criminals. This defendant’s illegal activities jeopardized public health and safety and led to a well-deserved federal prosecution.”

             This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Office of the Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services with assistance from the New Hampshire State Police.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Cole Davis.

            This investigation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

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           CONCORD - Leon Mandigo, 33, of Auburn, was sentenced on Thursday to 70 months in federal prison for drug trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

             According to court documents and statements made in court, during an ongoing drug trafficking investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration learned that Mandigo was obtaining fentanyl from a source located in Massachusetts.  On March 7, 2018, agents learned that Mandigo intended to travel to Massachusetts to purchase 200 grams of fentanyl and later observed him participate in a hand-to-hand exchange with a known drug trafficker. 

            After the transaction, the New Hampshire State Police stopped a vehicle in which Mandigo was a passenger.  During the stop, he pulled an orange bag from his pants and threw it on the ground where a trooper later picked it up.  The bag contained approximately 184 grams of fentanyl.  

            Mandigo previously pleaded guilty on September 16, 2020.

            “Drug traffickers who bring fentanyl into New Hampshire should expect to be arrested, prosecuted, and jailed” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “We are committed to working with our law enforcement partners to stop the flow of this deadly drug into our state.  We will not hesitate to prosecute and incarcerate the fentanyl dealers who peddle this dangerous substance in the Granite State.”

            “Fentanyl is causing deaths in record numbers and DEA’s top priority is to aggressively pursue anyone who distributes this poison,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle. “Illegal drug distribution ravages the very foundations of our families and communities so every time we take fentanyl off the streets, lives are saved.  This investigation demonstrates the strength and continued commitment of our local, state and federal law enforcement partners.”

             The case was a collaborative investigation that involved the DEA; the New Hampshire State Police; the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office; the Nashua Police Department; the Massachusetts State Police; the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office; the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Office; the Essex County District Attorney’s Office; the Internal Revenue Service; U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations; United States Customs and Border Protection Boston Field Office; the United States Marshals Service; the United States Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service; the Manchester Police Department; the Lisbon Police Department; the Littleton Police Department; the Seabrook Police Department; the Haverhill (MA) Police Department; the Methuen (MA) Police Department; the Lowell (MA) Police Department; and the Maine State Police.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Debra Walsh.

            Agencies participating in this investigation are part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF).  OCDETF was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and is the keystone of the Department of Justice’s drug reduction strategy.  Today, OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement.  The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations, and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.

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            CONCORD - Boaz BenMoshe, 58, of Israel, pleaded guilty in federal court on Wednesday to bail jumping, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

             According to court documents and statements made in court, in November 2006, a federal grand jury charged BenMoshe with conspiracy to launder monetary instruments and conspiracy to engage in unlicensed wholesale distribution of prescription drugs. After an initial appearance hearing on January 29, 2007, BenMoshe was released on conditions including his promise to notify the pretrial services officer of any plans to change his residence and to travel outside of the Central District of California and the District of New Hampshire. On January 9, 2009, BenMoshe pled guilty to conspiracy to engage in unlicensed wholesale distribution of prescription drugs. The Court accepted his guilty plea and permitted him to continue on the same conditions of release pending sentencing.  The sentencing hearing was scheduled for June 23, 2009. On or about April 29, 2009, in violation of his conditions of release, BenMoshe moved to Israel and failed to appear for his sentencing hearing on June 23, 2009.

            On December 16, 2009, a federal grand jury charged BenMoshe with bail jumping for his  failure to appear at his sentencing hearing.

            In August of 2020, BenMoshe was extradited from Israel to the United States to face the charges pending against him in New Hampshire.

            BenMoshe is scheduled to be sentenced in both cases on April 1, 2021.

            “This prosecution demonstrates that defendants cannot flee from the United States to escape responsibility for their crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “BenMoshe violated his promise to appear in court for sentencing and spent years avoiding the ultimate judicial reckoning for his crime.  Through hard work and diligence, the U.S. Marshals located this fugitive and he was extradited back to New Hampshire to face the consequences of his 2009 guilty plea and his flight from justice.  Other criminal defendants should take note that efforts to flee from justice will not succeed.”

            “The arrest and subsequent extradition of BenMoshe is a testament to the collaborative work of the US Marshals Service and the US Attorney’s Office for the District of New Hampshire,” said Nick Willard, U.S. Marshal for the District of New Hampshire.  “We are also grateful for the cooperation of the Israeli authorities who worked closely with the Deputy Marshals for a safe and professional transfer into our custody.”

             This matter was investigated by the United States Marshals Service.  The underlying criminal case was investigated by the Food and Drug Administration’s Office of Criminal Investigations, the Office of the Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and the Internal Revenue Service.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cam Le and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Hawkins.

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            CONCORD - Alexander Arsenault, 35, of Greenfield, pleaded guilty in federal court on Wednesday to possession of an unregistered firearm, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

             According to court documents and statements made in court, on December 1, 2018, a device exploded in an empty vehicle parked outside of a home in Greenfield, New Hampshire.  The vehicle was severely damaged and law enforcement recovered a match near the driveway of the home.  Investigators seized items believed to be from the device that damaged the vehicle and determined that a homemade bomb consisting of a low explosive main charge and a non-electrical fusing system was used for the explosion. 

            Upon further investigation, law enforcement learned that Arsenault had disputes with the owners of the vehicle and that he had previously purchased items consistent with the items found at the scene of the explosion.  A search of Arsenault’s home yielded a typed out document about how to answer law enforcement questions regarding the destruction of a vehicle.  A records search revealed that Arsenault has never registered a firearm as required under the National Firearms Act.

            Arsenault is scheduled to be sentenced on May 18, 2021.

           “By creating and detonating a homemade bomb, the defendant severely damaged a vehicle and jeopardized lives,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “I am grateful to the FBI and the law enforcement officers whose hard work identified the Mr. Arsenault and led to this prosecution.  We will always work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prevent threats to public safety.”      

           “Annoyed by what he believed to be excessive noise coming from his neighbor’s home, Alex Arsenault knowingly and willingly made a home-made explosive bomb, detonated it on their property, and put his fellow citizens in fear for their lives,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “The quick and decisive action by the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, and our partners at the Greenfield Police Department, averted an already hazardous situation from spiraling dangerously out of control.”

            This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Greenfield Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Krasinski.

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            CONCORD - David Bentley, 29, of Rutland, Vermont pleaded guilty in federal court on Tuesday to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on November 29, 2018, law enforcement officers conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle driven by Bentley.  He was arrested for operating a vehicle after suspension of his license.  After obtaining a search warrant for the vehicle, officers found a loaded firearm in the backseat.  Bentley is legally prohibited from possessing firearms by virtue of a felony conviction for burglary in 2010. 

            Bentley is scheduled to be sentenced on May 3, 2021.

            “In order to maintain public safety, it is vital to keep guns out of the hands of criminals,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute convicted felons who unlawfully possess guns.”

            This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the New Hampshire State Police Mobile Enforcement Team, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, New Hampshire Attorney General’s Drug Task Force, Claremont Police Department, Vermont State Police, and the Springfield, Vermont Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Krasinski.

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           CONCORD - Richard Black, 23, of Litchfield, pleaded guilty in federal court on Monday to distributing fentanyl and possessing fentanyl with intent to distribute, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

           According to court documents and statements made in court, in May, 2019 Nashua police learned that Black was distributing fentanyl in the Nashua area.  Between June 27, 2019 and July 18, 2019, an undercover officer made four purchases of fentanyl from Black.  After his arrest on July 22, 2019, officers searched Black’s residence pursuant to a warrant and recovered additional fentanyl.  Officers seized approximately 200 grams of fentanyl from the undercover purchases, the search of Black’s person incident to his arrest, and the search of Black’s residence.   

           Black is scheduled to be sentenced on May 12, 2021.

           “Fentanyl is a deadly drug that has caused substantial damage to Nashua and communities throughout our state,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Through Operation SOS, we are fighting back against the fentanyl dealers.  We will continue to work closely with the Nashua Police Department and our other law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute fentanyl traffickers who are doing business in the Granite State.”

            This matter was investigated by the Nashua Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joachim H. Barth.

            This case is part of Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (S.O.S.).  In July of 2018, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the creation of S.O.S., which is being implemented in the District of New Hampshire and nine other federal districts.  The goal of S.O.S. is to combat the large number of overdoses and deaths associated with fentanyl and other synthetic opioids.   In New Hampshire, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is focusing its efforts on prosecuting synthetic opioid trafficking cases arising in Hillsborough County, which includes Manchester and Nashua. 

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           CONCORD - Jonathan Santiago-Perez, 35, of Claremont, was sentenced to 37 months in federal prison for drug trafficking on Monday, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on three occasions between January and April of 2019, an individual who was cooperating with law enforcement officers purchased crack cocaine from Santiago-Perez. 

            Santiago-Perez previously pleaded guilty on February 20, 2020.  

           “Drug trafficking is a serious offense that undermines public health and safety,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “In order to safeguard our citizens, we will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute the dealers who sell dangerous drugs in the Granite State.”

            This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration offices in New Hampshire as well as Springfield and Burlington, Vermont, with assistance from the New Hampshire State Police, Massachusetts State Police, United States Postal Inspection Service, New Hampshire Attorney General’s Drug Task Force, Vermont State Police Drug Task Force, Manchester Police Department, Claremont Police Department, Lebanon Police Department, Hartford, Vermont Police Department, and the Hampden County, Massachusetts Narcotics Task Force.   The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Krasinski.

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            CONCORD - Alberto Rosario, 30, of Methuen, was sentenced to 37 months in federal prison on Thursday for possessing controlled substances with intent to distribute, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on June 6, 2018, Nashua police officers conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle that was believed to be involved in drug trafficking activity.  Rosario was a passenger in the vehicle.  During the vehicle stop, officers found that Rosario had quantities of fentanyl and crack cocaine, as well as $800, in his possession.  A search of the vehicle later uncovered additional quantities of fentanyl and crack.  The driver of the vehicle later admitted to driving Rosario from Lowell, Massachusetts to Nashua and acknowledged that Rosario was distributing drugs.

            “Interstate drug traffickers cause grave damage in communities throughout New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “When drug traffickers come to New Hampshire to peddle fentanyl and other dangerous drugs, they should understand that they are committing a serious federal crime.  We will not hesitate to bring drug trafficking charges against those who are responsible for selling these deadly substances in the Granite State.”

            This case is part of Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (S.O.S.).  In July of 2018, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the creation of S.O.S., which is being implemented in the District of New Hampshire and nine other federal districts.  The goal of S.O.S. is to combat the large number of overdoses and deaths associated with fentanyl and other synthetic opioids.   In New Hampshire, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is focusing its efforts on prosecuting synthetic opioid trafficking cases arising in Hillsborough County, which includes Manchester and Nashua. 

            This matter was investigated by the Nashua Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cam Le.

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            CONCORD - Sasha Rand, 34, of Farmington, was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison on Thursday for fentanyl trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

             According to court documents and statements made in court, between late 2017 and December 18, 2018, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the New Hampshire State Police conducted an investigation of drug trafficking by Rand and her husband, Derek Rand, who used New Hampshire-based drug couriers to obtain fentanyl in Massachusetts and bring it to New Hampshire for distribution.  During the investigation, law enforcement officers seized over one kilogram of fentanyl from members of this drug trafficking organization.  Both Rands were arrested in December of 2018 as part of a DEA-led takedown of fentanyl traffickers in the Rochester, New Hampshire area. 

            Derek Rand was sentenced in December of 2019 to serve 90 months in federal prison.

            Sasha Rand previously pleaded guilty on September 11, 2020.

            “Interstate fentanyl traffickers are jeopardizing public health and safety by distributing this deadly drug in New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “In order to keep our community safe, we will work closely with our law enforcement partners to investigate, prosecute, and incarcerate those who responsible for selling fentanyl and other dangerous drugs.  Fentanyl traffickers who do business in the Granite State should understand that their unlawful conduct will lead to a substantial stay in federal prison.”

            “Fentanyl is causing great damage to our communities,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle.  “DEA will continue to use every resource available to identify traffickers, like Ms. Rand who distribute this poison to the citizens of New Hampshire.  Today’s sentence not only holds Ms. Rand accountable for her crimes but serves as a warning to those who are fueling the opioid epidemic.”

             This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

             This matter was investigated by the DEA, New Hampshire State Police, and the Dover Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Davis.

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            CONCORD - Thomas Hegarty, 26, of Rochester, was sentenced to 82 months for attempted bank robbery and robbery, and 12 months to run consecutively for violating his conditions of supervised release, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

             According to court documents and statements made in court, on April 9, 2020, at around 4:00 a.m., Hegarty entered a Circle K gas station in Rochester, showed the cashier a hammer, and stole cash from the register. Later that morning, Hegarty entered a bank in Dover, and passed the teller a note demanding money and indicating that he had a weapon. Tellers locked themselves in an office and called the police. Hegarty jumped over the teller counter and unsuccessfully attempted to open the teller drawers. He then fled the bank without taking any money. Investigators released surveillance photographs from the robberies to the public and identified and apprehended Hegarty later that day. At the time of the robberies, Hegarty was on federal supervised release.

            Hegarty previously pleaded guilty on October 5, 2020.

            “Robberies are violent crimes that jeopardize public safety and frighten innocent victims,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “In order to maintain the safety of our communities, we prioritize the prosecution of violent criminals. This 94-month sentence should serve as a warning to those who would be inclined to prey on their fellow citizens with acts of threat and violence. I am grateful to the FBI, the Dover and Rochester Police Departments, and members of the public whose efforts were instrumental in swiftly bringing this criminal to justice.”

            “While on supervised release, Mr. Hegarty orchestrated a violent crime spree that left many in the community in fear for their lives,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “We’d like to thank the concerned citizens who responded to our investigators’ call for assistance to identify him, and in doing so, helped us hold him accountable for his crimes while also making our communities safer.”

              This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Rochester Police Department and the Dover Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Georgiana L. MacDonald.

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            CONCORD - George Kuiper, 73, of Lawrenceville, Georgia pleaded guilty in federal court on Thursday to conspiracy to distribute unapproved drugs, distribution of unapproved drugs, and unlawful smuggling of goods into the United States, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

             According to court documents and statements made in court, from 2006 to 2020, Kuiper operated an internet pharmacy on various websites that he managed from his residence in Lawrenceville, Georgia. On his websites, Kuiper sold over 100 products, including prescription drugs and controlled substances which he obtained from foreign sources. Some of the substances were purchased by customers in New Hampshire. Kuiper’s best-selling product was modafinil, a Schedule IV controlled substance and prescription new drug not approved by the FDA. None of Kuiper’s websites were ever registered with the DEA to distribute controlled substances.

            Kuiper is scheduled to be sentenced on April 22, 2021.

            “Illegal internet pharmacies can mislead customers about the safety and legality of the products they are selling,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Customers who purchase unapproved drugs and drugs that have been smuggled into the United States may find themselves taking substances that do more harm than good.  In order to protect public health and safety, we will work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who seek to profit from selling unapproved or smuggled drugs.”

            “Selling smuggled drugs of potentially unknown origin and potentially dangerous ingredients puts consumers at risk,” Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey J. Ebersole, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations New York Field Office. “We will continue to investigate and bring to justice those who jeopardize the public health.”

             This matter was investigated by the Food and Drug Administration’s Office of Criminal Investigations with assistance from Homeland Security Investigations.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Georgiana L. MacDonald and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Hawkins.

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            CONCORD - Kyle Desroche, 37, of Brentwood, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison on Thursday for distributing child pornography, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

             According to court documents and statements made in court, on November 21, 2017, Dropbox, a cloud-based storage service, sent a CyberTip report to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) with 2,325 files of apparent child pornography images and videos loaded to an account belonging to Desroche from an IP address assigned to his residence in Brentwood.    

            On March 23, 2018, investigators executed a search warrant at Desroche’s residence.  During an interview, Desroche admitted using Dropbox and Kik, an online messaging application, on his iPhone and stated he may have received “young stuff” from Kik but claimed to have deleted those items.  As authorized by the search warrant, officer seized cellular phones, computer equipment, and other electronic devices.  Subsequent forensic examination of those items revealed that Desroche used the Dropbox and Kik applications on his iPhone to share child pornography with like-minded collectors. 

            On July 11, 2018, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant for Desroche’s Dropbox account. Officers identified approximately 5,942 still images and 2,092 video files of apparent child pornography.  NCMEC confirmed that 1,013 still images and 317 video files were of identified child victims. 

            “Child pornography crimes are serious offenses that exploit innocent children,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Those who distribute these horrific images are magnifying the damage to the young lives of these victims.  In order to stop the abuse and protect our children, we will continue to seek lengthy prison sentences for the criminals who commit crimes involving child pornography.”

            Desroche previously pleaded guilty on June 26, 2021.  In addition to his prison sentence, he was ordered to pay $45,000 in restitution and a $5,000 special assessment under the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act.

            This matter was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, with assistance from the Brentwood Police Department, Portsmouth Police Department, Exeter Police Department, Derry Police Department, and Chester Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cam Le.

            In February 2006, the Department of Justice introduced Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse.  Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices, 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 identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

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            CONCORD - Seamus Murphy, 38, formerly of Milford, was sentenced to 82 months for bank robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

             According to court documents and statements made in court, on January 8, 2020, Murphy entered the People’s United Bank in Derry and gave a note to the teller, indicating he had a gun and demanding money. The teller gave him $712 from the drawer. Police arrived on scene and saw Murphy running toward a nearby fast food store where they encountered him and recovered the $712. Murphy was on federal supervised release at the time of the robbery.

            Murphy previously pleaded guilty on October 6, 2020.   

            “Bank robberies are serious violent crimes that can jeopardize public safety and traumatize victims,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “I am grateful for the fast response of the Derry Police Department and the hard work of the FBI.  Their efforts allowed us to protect the public and get this dangerous criminal off the streets.”

            "This is not Seamus Murphy’s first robbery. When given a chance at rehabilitation, to do better and be better, he chose recidivism instead, and terrorized employees of a second bank by threatening to start shooting if his demands weren’t met,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “New Hampshire is safer with him behind bars, and we thank our law enforcement partners on the Derry Police Department for helping us hold this reckless criminal accountable.”

             This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Derry Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Georgiana L. MacDonald.

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            CONCORD - Hallet Merrick, 34, of White River Junction, Vermont was sentenced to 36 months in federal prison for unlawfully possessing a firearm and fentanyl, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

             According to court documents and statements made in court, on November 20, 2019, Lebanon Police officers made contact with Merrick and arrested him on a warrant for failing to appear in Grafton County Superior Court.  During searches of his person incident to his arrest, officers discovered approximately six grams of fentanyl, which Merrick claimed was for personal use.  Officers also discovered a handgun in his sweatshirt pocket.  As a convicted felon, Merrick is legally prohibited from possessing firearms.

            Merrick previously pleaded guilty on August 28, 2020.

            “In order to protect the public, we work closely with our law enforcement partners to keep guns out of the hands of criminals,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Convicted felons who possess firearms are violating federal law and endangering our communities.  Armed criminals like Merrick should understand that possessing a gun will have serious consequences, including federal prison time.”

            This matter was investigated by the Lebanon Police Department, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joachim H. Barth.

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            CONCORD – Kyle Mehlhorn, 27, of Merrimack, was arrested on a federal complaint charging him with possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            The complaint filed in court, alleges that on October 27, 2020, Manchester Police officers conducted a traffic stop in which Mehlhorn was the driver of the vehicle.  After a records check revealed Mehlhorn’s license and registration privileges were suspended, he was placed under arrest.  The complaint further alleges that officers later obtained a search warrant for the vehicle and recovered firearms, over $14,000 in cash, over 37 grams of suspected fentanyl, over 214 grams of suspected methamphetamine, and other items commonly used in the packaging and distribution of controlled substances. 

            Mehlhorn was arrested on January 11, 2021, in Boston and is scheduled to appear before a federal magistrate today. 

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

            The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Manchester Police Department, Concord Police Department, Gorham Police Department, and the New Hampshire State Police were all instrumental in this investigation.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Charles Rombeau and Aaron Gingrande.

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            CONCORD – Ryder Winegar, 33, of Amherst, was arrested on a federal complaint charging him with threating members of Congress, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            The complaint filed in court alleges that on December 16 and 17, 2020, Winegar left voicemails at the offices of six members of the United States Congress in the District of Columbia.  In some of the messages, Winegar identified himself by name or identified his telephone number.  The voicemails threatened to hang the members of Congress if they did not “get behind Donald Trump.”  For example, in one message, Winegar allegedly said, “I got some advice for you.  Here’s the advice, Donald Trump is your president.  If you don’t get behind him, we’re going to hang you until you die.”

            Winegar was arrested on January 11, 2021, in Boston and is scheduled to appear before a federal magistrate judge later today. 

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

            The case was investigated by the U.S. Capitol Police with assistance from the United States Marshals Service, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and the Amherst Police Department.

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            CONCORD:  The events of January 6, 2021, in Washington, D.C. were deeply disturbing for all Americans. The attack on the U.S. Capitol struck at the very foundation of our Democracy.

            While the Constitution safeguards the right to demonstrate peacefully, it does not protect or justify mob violence, attacks on government institutions or efforts to damage federal property.  Neither does any Constitutional provision justify assaults or threats made against our elected representatives, federal administrative officials or police officers.  Those who engage in these behaviors commit serious crimes and will be held fully accountable before our courts.

            In the event that individuals from New Hampshire were involved in criminal activity in Washington, we will work closely with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to ensure that they are brought to justice. If we determine that federal charges can be brought in this District, we will proceed with our law enforcement partners to ensure that prosecutions are initiated.

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            CONCORD - Joseph Gaudreau, 25, of Somersworth, pleaded guilty in federal court on Thursday to possessing and distributing child pornography, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

             According to court documents and statements made in court, on April 26, 2017, the New Hampshire State Police (“NHSP”) received three tips previously submitted to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children by the online communications application Skype.  The tips reported that on three separate occasions on March 21, 2017, the same user account uploaded files to Skype that were identified as child sexual abuse images. NHSP investigators later determined that the Skype account was associated with Gaudreau.

            NHSP investigators spoke with Gaudreau at his residence in Somersworth on August 30, 2017. In a voluntary interview, Gaudreau admitted to possessing child pornography and sharing it with others on the internet using multiple applications, including Skype. He told law enforcement that he generally stored images in his Dropbox account, which he could access from any internet-capable device.

            Law enforcement officers next obtained a search warrant for the contents of any Dropbox account associated with the username or e-mail that Gaudreau voluntarily provided them during the interview.  The materials received from Dropbox included numerous video files and still images of child pornography.   

            Gaudreau is scheduled to be sentenced on April 20, 2021.

            “Those who possess and distribute child pornography are exploiting vulnerable and innocent children,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “In order to protect children from harm, we will continue to work closely with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute the perpetrators of child pornography crimes.”

            “Today’s conviction is one more step in the critical, ongoing fight against the illicit distribution of child exploitation images being shared online.” said William S. Walker, acting Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Boston. “Without the close coordination and tireless efforts of our partners in the New Hampshire State Police, the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and the U.S. Attorney for New Hampshire, this individual would not have been brought to justice and the children depicted would have been continually re-victimized each and every time these horrific images were shared.”

            This matter was investigated by the New Hampshire State Police, NH Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the Somersworth Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Dronzek.

            In February 2006, the Department of Justice introduced Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse.  Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices, 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 identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

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           CONCORD – Troy Cote, 52, of Manchester, pleaded guilty in federal court on Wednesday to fentanyl trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

             According to court documents and statements made in court, Cote was part of a drug trafficking organization that sold fentanyl and cocaine to customers in Manchester.  In July 2019, a cooperating individual purchased fentanyl from Cote.  The investigation revealed that Cote had sold drugs as part of a drug trafficking organization on numerous occasions.   

            Cote is scheduled to be sentenced on April 16, 2021.   Rosemarie Cote pleaded guilty on November 25, 2020 and awaits sentencing.  Christopher Juneau pleaded guilty on September 28, 2020 and awaits sentencing.  Two other defendants are scheduled to go to trial in March.

            “Criminal drug trafficking organizations make dangerous substances like fentanyl and cocaine available for purchase in New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Their illegal activities undermine public health and safety, diminishing the quality of life for all who are impacted. I am grateful for the strong enforcement action taken by the FBI Safe Streets Gang Task Force in this case. By facilitating cooperation between federal, state and local law enforcement agencies they make the Granite State a safer place.”

            “This group’s constant churn of drug transactions kept their customers in Manchester awash in deadly fentanyl and cocaine. Shutting them down makes the community safer, and with today’s guilty plea---Troy Cote is out of business,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “Investigations like this illustrate the continuing impact our Safe Streets Gang Task Force has on illegal drug trafficking organizations that prey on our communities amid the opioid epidemic.”

             This matter was investigated by the FBI NH Safe Streets Gang Task Force which is comprised of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, New Hampshire State Police, Dover Police Department, Portsmouth Police Department, and Nashua Police Department. The Manchester Police Department provided valuable assistance as well.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Georgiana L. MacDonald and Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Gingrande. 

             This investigation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

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           CONCORD - Robert Corleto, 43, of Hudson, pleaded guilty in federal court to sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

           According to court documents and statements made in court, Corleto used a social media account on KIK Messenger to entice and coerce a minor to take images of herself engaging in sexually explicit conduct.  Corleto sent at least one of those images to an undercover officer over KIK Messenger on March 18, 2019.  During the course of the investigation, officers obtained a warrant to search Corleto’s cell phone.  A forensic extraction of the device revealed that Corleto had between 10 and 150 images depicting the victim, as well as other minor children. 

           Corleto is scheduled to be sentenced on March 20, 2021.

           “The internet can be a dangerous place for children, affording anonymity to criminals who would seek to exploit their innocence,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Those who manipulate children into creating pornographic images are committing a serious federal crime and will be prosecuted.  Internet predators should be aware that law enforcement agencies are working around the clock to bring them to justice. It is imperative that we keep our children safe by targeting those who seek to exploit them online.”

            “Robert Corleto manipulated a 12-year-old girl into providing him with sexually explicit images and videos by using fear that their so-called mutual online friend would harm herself if the victim refused. The crime for which he has admitted guilt today is incredibly disturbing,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “This case is a prime example of how a child can be victimized in the safety of their own home. Parents, please talk to your children about the dangers of the internet, make it clear to them they are not to blame if they fall victim to a predator, and contact law enforcement immediately if you suspect something is wrong.”

            This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Hudson Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Krasinski.

            In February 2006, the Department of Justice introduced Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse.  Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices, 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 identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

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           CONCORD - Jon Daigle, Jr., 33, of Belmont, was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison for conspiracy to commit bank fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on December 12, 2019, the Belmont Police Department received a report that two people were using drugs in a parked car outside a convenience store.  Officers responded and identified Daigle and Monica Kemper as the occupants of the vehicle.  In plain view, they observed drug paraphernalia in the car. Officers seized the vehicle and applied for a search warrant, which was granted.  Later that day, officers searched the car and found suspected methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, mail addressed to various people in Laconia, Gilford, and Meredith, New Hampshire (including checks made out to people who were not occupants of the vehicle), a USPS mail tote, and a lock pick set.

            On January 15, 2020, the Bedford Police Department began an investigation of mail stolen from a community mailroom.  A surveillance camera in the mailroom showed that on January 12, 2020, Daigle was captured on video as he picked the lock to the mailroom, entered the room, rummaged through various packages, and left with a handful of mail.

            On various occasions between January and April of 2020, Daigle and Kemper altered stolen checks and cashed or attempted to cash them at various banks in New Hampshire. Some of the checks were stolen from the community mailroom in Bedford and also from mailboxes in Manchester. On April 1, 2020, Daigle and Kemper attempted to use a stolen driver’s license to cash a check at a credit union. 

            On April 23, 2020, Daigle and Kemper were arrested by Manchester Police officers after an extensive investigation.  Officers seized the vehicle and obtained a search warrant.  The vehicle contained over $16,000 in stolen checks, stolen credit cards, the stolen driver’s license used at the credit union on April 1, and various other pieces of stolen mail.

            Daigle previously pleaded guilty on August 6, 2020.   Kemper previously pleaded guilty and is scheduled to be sentenced on February 25, 2021.

            “Fraud crimes involving stolen mail can damage victims in a variety of ways,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “In order to protect the integrity of the mail and our financial system, we will work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute the criminals who attempt to profit by stealing mail and defrauding banks with stolen checks.”

            “The theft of mail in the furtherance of various fraud schemes has a significant financial and emotional impact on its victims,” says Manchester Chief Allen Aldenberg.  “Hopefully, this will serve as a warning to all would-be mail thieves that there are serious consequences for this type of activity."

             This matter was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Belmont Police Department, the Bedford Police Department, and the Manchester Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Georgiana L. MacDonald and Aaron Gingrande

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            CONCORD - Nicholas Snow, 26, of Merrimack, pleaded guilty in federal court to possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on February 1, 2020, Hudson patrol officers stopped a car in which Snow was a passenger. Both the driver and Snow had suspended licenses.  An officer later determined that Snow was in possession of a pouch containing fentanyl, a scale, packaging materials, and $655 in cash. In his post-arrest interview, Snow admitted to drug distribution activities in Hudson.  Snow’s cell phone also revealed communications about drug deals. 

            Snow is scheduled to be sentenced on March 22, 2021.

            “In order to protect public health and safety, we are working closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute fentanyl traffickers,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “We will not hesitate to pursue federal prosecutions of the fentanyl dealers who are endangering our communities by selling this deadly substance.”

             This matter was investigated by the Hudson Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joachim H. Barth.

             This case is part of Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (S.O.S.).  In July of 2018, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the creation of S.O.S., which is being implemented in the District of New Hampshire and nine other federal districts.  The goal of S.O.S. is to combat the large number of overdoses and deaths associated with fentanyl and other synthetic opioids.   In New Hampshire, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is focusing its efforts on prosecuting synthetic opioid trafficking cases arising in Hillsborough County, which includes Manchester and Nashua. 

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             CONCORD - Christopher Gelinas, 24, of Manchester, was sentenced to 96 months in federal prison for distributing methamphetamine, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

             According to court documents and statements made in court, Gelinas sold highly-pure methamphetamine to an individual who was cooperating with law enforcement officers on two occasions.  On October 23, 2019, a cooperating individual bought methamphetamine from Gelinas at a residence in Concord.  On November 18, 2019, a cooperating individual purchased methamphetamine from Gelinas in Boscawen.

            Gelinas previously pleaded guilty on August 31, 2020.

            “Even as we continue to struggle with the problems caused by opioids, methamphetamine continues to pose a serious danger to public health and safety in New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “The increasing presence of highly-pure methamphetamine in the Granite State is presenting yet another challenge for our communities.  We will continue to work closely with the DEA and all of our law enforcement partners to target the traffickers who sell this dangerous drug and to ensure that methamphetamine dealers are held accountable for their illegal conduct.”

            “DEA will do everything in our power to bring to justice those who distribute methamphetamine,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle.  “Today’s sentence not only holds Mr. Gelinas accountable for his crimes but serves as a warning that DEA and its local, state and federal partners will work diligently to keep this highly addictive drug off the streets of New Hampshire.”

             This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the New Hampshire State Police and the Concord Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John S. Davis.

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           CONCORD - Roland Farnsworth, 37, of Keene, pleaded guilty on Wednesday in federal court to conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, fentanyl and crack cocaine, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

           According to court documents and statements made in court, in June of 2019, the Keene Police Department began investigating a possible drug trafficking operation in the Keene area.  As part of their investigation, several cooperating individuals made controlled purchases of drugs, including fentanyl, from Farnsworth.  The purchases took place at or near Farnsworth’s residence.  In September, 2019, search warrants were obtained for Farnsworth’s residence, his cell phone, and a vehicle.  The contents of the cell phone, along with Farnsworth’s admissions, confirmed he was selling fentanyl and crack cocaine to numerous individuals in the Keene area.

           Farnsworth is scheduled to be sentenced on March 18, 2021.

           “Drug traffickers make dangerous substances available for sale in Cheshire County and throughout New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “In order to protect public health and safety, we will continue to bring criminal charges against the dealers who peddle illegal drugs to Granite Staters. Traffickers should expect that they will be arrested and brought before the federal court to face justice.”   

           “Those who deal in and distribute fentanyl and other poisons in our communities will be held accountable.” said David Magdycz, acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations, Boston. “We continue to work with our New Hampshire law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorney for New Hampshire to combat the crimes committed in our region.”

            This matter was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the Keene Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kasey Weiland.

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Department of Justice

Office of Public Affairs

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Wednesday, December 9, 2020

An individual, formerly a juvenile, pleaded guilty to committing acts of federal juvenile delinquency in relation to a cyberattack that caused massive disruption to the Internet in October 2016.

Acting Assistant Attorney General Brian C. Rabbitt of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Scott W. Murray of the District of New Hampshire, and Special Agent in Charge Joseph R. Bonavolonta of the FBI’s Boston Division made the announcement.

According to the plea agreement, the individual conspired to commit computer fraud and abuse by operating a botnet and by intentionally damaging a computer.  Because the individual was a juvenile at the time of the commission of the offense, the individual’s identity is being withheld pursuant to the Juvenile Delinquency Act, see 18 U.S.C. § 5031, et seq.  The guilty plea took place in a closed proceeding before Chief Judge Landya B. McCafferty in the District of New Hampshire.  Judge McCafferty scheduled the individual’s sentencing for Jan. 7, 2021.

According to unsealed court documents, from approximately 2015 until November of 2016, the individual conspired with others to create and operate one or more online botnets to launch cyberattacks against victim computers (specifically targeting those belonging to online gamers or gaming platforms) in order to take those computers offline altogether or otherwise significantly impair their functionality.  These attacks are often referred to as “Distributed Denial of Service” or “DDoS” attacks.

In general, a DDoS attack is a type of cyberattack in which a malicious actor directs a large volume of Internet traffic to a victim computer or network, overwhelming it and rendering it unable to function as intended.  Successful DDoS attacks can take individual computer users, websites, or entire computer networks offline altogether or otherwise slow their performance.  DDoS attacks are often conducted through the use of botnets (short for “robot networks”), that is, large numbers of compromised computers under the control of an individual or group of actors.

According to court documents, in September and October of 2016, the individual and others created a botnet, which was a variant of the so-called “Mirai” botnet, for use in launching DDoS attacks.  Mirai infected “Internet-of-Things” devices, such as Internet-connected video cameras and recorders, and turned them into bots to be used to launch DDoS attacks.

According to court documents, on Oct. 21, 2016, the individual and others used the botnet they created to launch several DDoS attacks in an effort to take the Sony PlayStation Network’s gaming platform offline for a sustained period.  The DDoS attacks impacted a domain name resolver, New Hampshire-based Dyn, Inc., which caused websites, including those pertaining to Sony, Twitter, Amazon, PayPal, Tumblr, Netflix, and Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), to become either completely inaccessible, or accessible only intermittently for several hours that day.  As a result of the individual’s DDoS attacks, Dyn, Sony, SNHU, and other entities and individuals suffered losses including lost advertising revenues and remediation costs. Sony estimated that its resultant losses included approximately $2.7 million in net revenue.

This case was investigated by the FBI with assistance from the National Crime Agency and Police Service of Northern Ireland.  The case is being prosecuted by Senior Trial Attorney Mona Sedky of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Georgiana MacDonald of the District of New Hampshire.  Former Assistant U.S. Attorney Arnold H. Huftalen provided substantial assistance.

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

            CONCORD - John William McMahon, 30, of Hampton, was sentenced on Wednesday to 84 months in federal prison for distribution of child pornography, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

             According to court documents and statements made in court, during an ongoing undercover investigation, a member of the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force accessed a peer-to-peer network to identify users who may be sharing images of child pornography. On various dates between December 14, 2017, and January 2, 2018, law enforcement  officers conducted single-source downloads of child pornography from a certain I.P. address. Agents identified the address used to distribute child pornography images during the undercover sessions.

            Through their investigation, agents identified McMahon as the person responsible for distributing child pornography images during the undercover sessions. In a consensual interview, the defendant admitted accessing wireless internet belonging to a neighboring apartment, and he further admitted downloading child pornography. Investigators later obtained a search warrant for McMahon’s laptop and other electronic media recovered from him. Subsequent forensic examination revealed approximately 1,410 images of suspected child pornography on McMahon’s laptop. The child pornography images and videos were sent to the National Center for Mission and Exploited Children, which confirmed that 500 still images and 6 videos were of identified child victims.

            “Crimes involving child pornography and child exploitation cause great harm to their very vulnerable young victims,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “In order to protect innocent children, we will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who distribute child pornography.” 

            “The distribution of child pornography is a serious crime.” said David Magdycz, acting Special Agent In Charge, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Boston. “HSI works daily with the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for New Hampshire to fight the spread of child pornography and to bring justice to the victims of these crimes.”

            “The New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force remains committed to pursuing those who victimize our children online,” said Lieutenant John Peracchi, Commander of the NH ICAC. “There is no safe haven on the internet for those who look to exploit minors and we will continue to hunt them down.”

            This matter was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, Boston and the New Hampshire ICAC Task Force.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cam Le.

            In February 2006, the Department of Justice introduced Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse.  Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices, 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 identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

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An individual, formerly a juvenile, pleaded guilty to committing acts of federal juvenile delinquency in relation to a cyberattack that caused massive disruption to the Internet in October 2016.

Acting Assistant Attorney General Brian C. Rabbitt of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Scott W. Murray of the District of New Hampshire, and Special Agent in Charge Joseph R. Bonavolonta of the FBI’s Boston Division made the announcement.

According to the plea agreement, the individual conspired to commit computer fraud and abuse by operating a botnet and by intentionally damaging a computer.  Because the individual was a juvenile at the time of the commission of the offense, the individual’s identity is being withheld pursuant to the Juvenile Delinquency Act, see 18 U.S.C. § 5031, et seq.  The guilty plea took place in a closed proceeding before Chief Judge Landya B. McCafferty in the District of New Hampshire.  Judge McCafferty scheduled the individual’s sentencing for Jan. 7, 2021.

According to unsealed court documents, from approximately 2015 until November of 2016, the individual conspired with others to create and operate one or more online botnets to launch cyberattacks against victim computers (specifically targeting those belonging to online gamers or gaming platforms) in order to take those computers offline altogether or otherwise significantly impair their functionality.  These attacks are often referred to as “Distributed Denial of Service” or “DDoS” attacks.

In general, a DDoS attack is a type of cyberattack in which a malicious actor directs a large volume of Internet traffic to a victim computer or network, overwhelming it and rendering it unable to function as intended.  Successful DDoS attacks can take individual computer users, websites, or entire computer networks offline altogether or otherwise slow their performance.  DDoS attacks are often conducted through the use of botnets (short for “robot networks”), that is, large numbers of compromised computers under the control of an individual or group of actors.

According to court documents, in September and October of 2016, the individual and others created a botnet, which was a variant of the so-called “Mirai” botnet, for use in launching DDoS attacks.  Mirai infected “Internet-of-Things” devices, such as Internet-connected video cameras and recorders, and turned them into bots to be used to launch DDoS attacks.

According to court documents, on Oct. 21, 2016, the individual and others used the botnet they created to launch several DDoS attacks in an effort to take the Sony PlayStation Network’s gaming platform offline for a sustained period.  The DDoS attacks impacted a domain name resolver, New Hampshire-based Dyn, Inc., which caused websites, including those pertaining to Sony, Twitter, Amazon, PayPal, Tumblr, Netflix, and Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), to become either completely inaccessible, or accessible only intermittently for several hours that day.  As a result of the individual’s DDoS attacks, Dyn, Sony, SNHU, and other entities and individuals suffered losses including lost advertising revenues and remediation costs. Sony estimated that its resultant losses included approximately $2.7 million in net revenue.

This case was investigated by the FBI with assistance from the National Crime Agency and Police Service of Northern Ireland.  The case is being prosecuted by Senior Trial Attorney Mona Sedky of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Georgiana MacDonald of the District of New Hampshire.  Former Assistant U.S. Attorney Arnold H. Huftalen provided substantial assistance.

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

           CONCORD - Thomas Deware, 56, of Belmont, was sentenced on Monday to 72 months in federal prison for distributing methamphetamine and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

           According to court documents and statements made in court, between June and September, 2019, Deware sold methamphetamine to an individual who was working with law enforcement officers.  During three of these purchases, Deware possessed a handgun in a chest holder. 

           On October 17, 2019, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Deware’s residence and recovered a .45 caliber handgun that was consistent with the firearm he possessed during three of the controlled drug purchases.     

           “Armed drug traffickers present a very serious threat to public health and safety,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “We are working closely with the FBI and our other law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute the dangerous drug dealers who use guns as part of their illegal activities.  As Mr. Deware has learned, drug traffickers who carry guns in the Granite State will face substantial federal prison sentences.”

            “Whether it’s a large-scale drug trafficking organization, or an individual like Thomas Deware distributing methamphetamine while possessing a firearm, rest assured disrupting and dismantling criminal drug trafficking operations is a critical part of our mission,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “The FBI will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to put drug traffickers like Deware permanently out of business and behind bars, as we fight violent crime and work to make our neighborhoods safer.”

            This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from Belmont Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cam Le and Joachim Barth.

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           CONCORD - Michael Briand, 29, of Bow, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison for fentanyl trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

           According to court documents and statements made in court, on August 27, 2019, a cooperating individual told Nashua Police Detectives that Briand and an accomplice were selling fentanyl in Nashua.  At the direction of detectives, the cooperator arranged to buy a quantity of fentanyl from Briand and his accomplice, Megan Judd.  They were transported to the transaction by Travis Dunn.  The deal took place in the bathroom of a fast food restaurant in Nashua and Briand took custody of the money in the transaction.  Following the sale, detectives arrested Briand, Judd, and Dunn.

           Briand previously pleaded guilty on August 5, 2020.  Judd and Dunn also have pleaded guilty.  Judd has already been sentenced and Dunn is scheduled to be sentenced on March 1, 2021.

           “Fentanyl traffickers sell a deadly substance that endangers the health and safety of their customers as well as the general public,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Through Operation SOS, we are working closely with the Nashua Police Department to target and prosecute the drug dealers who are engaged in this hazardous and illegal activity. Traffickers in Nashua who persist in selling fentanyl should understand that they are destined to spend time in federal prison.”

           This matter was investigated by the Nashua Police Department’s Narcotics Intelligence Division and Problem-Oriented Policing Unit.

           The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joachim H. Barth.

           This case is part of Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (S.O.S.).  In July of 2018, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the creation of S.O.S., which is being implemented in the District of New Hampshire and nine other federal districts.  The goal of S.O.S. is to combat the large number of overdoses and deaths associated with fentanyl and other synthetic opioids.   In New Hampshire, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is focusing its efforts on prosecuting synthetic opioid trafficking cases arising in Hillsborough County, which includes Manchester and Nashua. 

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            CONCORD - Joel Espinosa, 21, of Lawrence, pleaded guilty in federal court on Wednesday to distributing fentanyl, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, a cooperating individual and an undercover agent purchased nearly 80 grams of fentanyl from Espinosa and another man during two separate occasions in 2019.  One transaction occurred in Manchester and the other took place in Methuen, Massachusetts. 

            Espinosa is scheduled to be sentenced on March 15, 2021.

            “Drug traffickers who are involved in the sale of fentanyl to Granite Staters are causing grave damage to public health and safety,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “We will continue to coordinate our efforts with federal, state and local law enforcement agencies in order to stop the flow of this deadly drug.  Drug dealers should be aware that state lines will not prevent them from being brought to justice in federal court.”

             This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the Massachusetts State Police, New Hampshire State Police, and Manchester Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John S. Davis.

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           CONCORD - Phillip R. Andrews, 81, of Gilford, was sentenced on Tuesday to 84 months in federal prison for transportation of child pornography, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

           According to court documents and statements made in court, on or before June 13, 2016, Andrews used his cellular phone to produce sexually explicit images of a child.  These images were uploaded onto his social media accounts using the internet.

           Andrews previously pleaded guilty on January 15, 2020.

           “By transporting child pornography, the defendant was involved in the exploitation of a child,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Those who create, transport or distribute child pornography do grave harm to the victims who are portrayed in these images.  In order to safeguard our young people, we work closely with HSI and all of our federal, state and local law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute child exploitation and child pornography crimes.”

           This matter was investigated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the Gilford Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cam Le.

            In February 2006, the Department of Justice introduced Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse.  Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices, 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 identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

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           CONCORD - Terray Morrison, 31, of Nashua, pleaded guilty in federal court to conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, controlled substances, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

           According to court documents and statements made in court, Morrison was one of the leaders of a drug trafficking organization that distributed crack cocaine and other drugs to customers in the Nashua area.  During an investigation that included the use of wiretaps, Morrison took orders from customers and sent other members of the conspiracy to make drug deliveries on his behalf.  He and his co-conspirators operated two stash houses in Nashua and were responsible for the distribution of substantial quantities of crack cocaine.

           Morrison is one of eleven individuals charged with participating in this conspiracy.  Nine have pleaded guilty and two are awaiting trial.   Several members of the conspiracy have received substantial prison sentences.  Melvin Nooks, Jr. was sentenced on April 2, 2020, to 120 months. George Cruz was sentenced on July 30, 2020, to 63 months.  Mallory Nooks was sentenced on February 25, 2020, to 60 months.  Marvin Morrison was sentenced on May 13, 2020, to 15 months.  Don Johnson was sentenced on February 13, 2020, to 42 months.  Isaiah Kinard pleaded guilty on December 18, 2019, Lawrence Fortenberry pleaded guilty on January 7, 2020, and William Greenleaf pleaded guilty on January 14, 2020.  Kinard, Fortenberry and Greenleaf all await sentencing.  Arnetta Harris and Melvin Stanford are scheduled for trial in January of 2021. 

           Morrison is scheduled to be sentenced on March 10, 2021.

           “The distribution of crack cocaine undermines public health and safety and endangers all of our citizens,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “I commend the FBI agents and Nashua police officers who worked so well together to end this harmful criminal conspiracy.  Drug traffickers should know that law enforcement agencies at all levels of government are working together to bring them before the courts to face justice.”

           “For years, Terray Morrison was a leader in a crack cocaine distribution ring that plagued the city of Nashua, endangering the health and safety of those around him, without any fear of repercussion. Now he has finally come to the realization that what he did was wrong,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “The FBI New Hampshire Safe Streets Task Force will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to prevent criminal enterprises like this one from inflicting more pain and damage to our community.”

            This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Nashua Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Georgiana MacDonald and Anna Krasinski.

            This investigation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

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           CONCORD - Shane Thompson, 46, of Rumney, pleaded guilty in federal court to unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

           According to court documents and statements made in court, on September 4, 2019, law enforcement officers went to Thompson’s home to arrest him on outstanding warrants.  Officers encountered Thompson as he was fleeing from them in the woods by his home.  When officers arrested him, they found a handgun in his pocket.  Officers obtained a warrant to search Thompson’s home and seized large quantities of ammunition as well as a .40 caliber magazine.  As a convicted felon, Thompson is legally prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition.

           Thompson is scheduled to be sentenced on March 8, 2021.

           “In order to protect the public from violent crime, we need to keep guns out of the hands of criminals,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “We will continue to work closely with ATF, New Hampshire State Police and all of our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who violate federal law by illegally possessing firearms.”

           This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the New Hampshire State Police.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Krasinski.

           The case is part of ATF’s Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative, which is a federally-funded program intended to reduce gun violence through law enforcement training, public education, and aggressive law enforcement efforts to investigate and prosecute gun-related crimes. 

           This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice's signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws.  Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department's past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities.

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            CONCORD – Rosemarie Cote, 45, of Manchester, pleaded guilty in federal court to fentanyl trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, Cote was part of a drug trafficking organization that sold fentanyl and cocaine to customers in Manchester.  In July 2019, a cooperating individual purchased fentanyl from Cote.  The investigation revealed that Cote worked with another drug trafficker and had sold drugs as part of a drug trafficking organization on numerous occasions.   

            Cote is scheduled to be sentenced on March 11, 2021.  

            “Fentanyl trafficking has caused serious damage to Manchester and communities throughout New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “We are committed to working with the FBI and all of our state and local law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute the fentanyl dealers who are jeopardizing public health and safety.  Those who choose to sell this deadly drug will find themselves facing potential federal prison time.”

            “Today, Rosemarie Cote finally accepted responsibility for her role in a drug trafficking organization that ran several drug distribution houses throughout the city of Manchester that profited from those struggling with addiction,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “Disrupting and dismantling drug trafficking organizations like this one is a critical part of the FBI’s mission, and we will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to stem the flow of illegal narcotics that are making their way into our neighborhoods.”

             This matter was investigated by the FBI NH Safe Streets Gang Task Force which is comprised of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, New Hampshire State Police, Dover Police Department, Portsmouth Police Department, and Nashua Police Department. The Manchester Police Department provided valuable assistance as well.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Georgiana L. MacDonald and Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Gingrande. 

             This investigation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

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           CONCORD - Robert Severance, 61, of Manchester, pleaded guilty in federal court on Monday to distributing and possessing child pornography, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on July 15, 2019, the Manchester Police Department (“MPD”) received a tip previously submitted to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children by the social media website Instagram.  The tip reported that on June 6, 2019 a file uploaded to Instagram was identified as a Child Sexual Abuse Image. MPD investigators later determined that the Instagram account was associated with Severance, who was a registered sex offender in Manchester, New Hampshire.

            MPD investigators spoke with Severance at his residence in Manchester on July 22, 2019. He voluntarily went to the MPD and consented to an interview.  Severance admitted to creating the Instagram account and explained that he portrayed himself as a 15-year-old female in order to talk with other young females.  He stated that he had a laptop at home and admitted to receiving thousands of pictures and/or videos of child pornography via email.

           A search warrant executed at Severance’s home the following day resulted in the seizure of numerous electronic devices and other media items.  Forensic review of all items seized from the defendant revealed thousands of images and over one hundred videos of child pornography.    

           Severance is scheduled to be sentenced on March 1, 2021.

          “Few missions of law enforcement are more important than protecting our children,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “We are committed to working closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute all of those who are involved in the exploitation of children.  In order to keep Granite State children safe, we will not hesitate to bring federal criminal charges against those who distribute child pornography.”

          “The NH ICAC continues to remain committed in the fight against child sexual exploitation on the internet,” said Lieutenant John Peracchi, Commander of the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (“NH ICAC”),   “The NH ICAC would like to remind parents to remain vigilant, especially during these unprecedented times with COVID-19 where the NH ICAC continues to see a rise in the number of cases reported.”

          “Mr. Severance’s blatant disregard for the wellbeing of some of our most vulnerable citizens, is extremely concerning,” said Manchester Police Chief Allen Aldenberg. “His actions are disturbing and intolerable. Manchester police detectives dedicated a great deal of effort into this investigation and for that they should be commended.  As a result of their efforts this matter has been resolved and should serve as a deterrent to others who choose to engage in such criminal behavior.”

           This matter was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the NH Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the Manchester Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kasey Weiland.

           In February 2006, the Department of Justice introduced Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse.  Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices, 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 identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

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             CONCORD - Travis Dunn, 31, of Chichester, pleaded guilty in federal court on Thursday to distribution of fentanyl, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

             According to court documents and statements made in court, on August 27, 2019, Dunn aided and abetted two co-defendants by driving them to Lawrence, Massachusetts to pick up drugs for redistribution in New Hampshire.  On the return trip, the co-defendants sold fentanyl to an individual who was cooperating with Nashua Police detectives.  Immediately following the drug deal, detectives arrested Dunn and the co-defendants.    

             Dunn is scheduled to be sentenced on March 1, 2021.

            “Massachusetts fentanyl distributors continue to work through New Hampshire dealers to amass profits,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “The resulting fentanyl sales undermine the health and safety of our fellow citizens.  Through Operation SOS, we are targeting the dealers who peddle fentanyl and other deadly drugs in Hillsborough County.  By working closely with the Nashua Police Department, we are putting the drug dealers out of business and improving the quality of life in Nashua.” 

            This matter was investigated by the Nashua Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joachim H. Barth.

            This case is part of Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (S.O.S.).  In July of 2018, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the creation of S.O.S., which is being implemented in the District of New Hampshire and nine other federal districts.  The goal of S.O.S. is to combat the large number of overdoses and deaths associated with fentanyl and other synthetic opioids.   In New Hampshire, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is focusing its efforts on prosecuting synthetic opioid trafficking cases arising in Hillsborough County, which includes Manchester and Nashua. 

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            CONCORD - Monica Kemper, 36, of Laconia, pleaded guilty in federal court on Wednesday to conspiracy to commit bank fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

             According to court documents and statements made in court, on various occasions between January and April of 2020, Kemper and her partner, John Daigle, altered stolen checks and cashed or attempted to cash them at various banks in New Hampshire. Some of the checks were stolen from a community mailroom in Bedford and others from mailboxes in Manchester. On April 1, 2020, Kemper and Daigle attempted to use a stolen driver’s license to cash a check at a credit union. 

            On April 23, 2020, Kemper and Daigle were arrested by Manchester Police officers.  Officers searched a vehicle they had been driving and found over $16,000 in stolen checks, stolen credit cards, the stolen driver’s license used at the credit union on April 1, and various other pieces of stolen mail.

            Daigle previously pleaded guilty on August 6, 2020 and is awaiting sentencing.

            Kemper is scheduled to be sentenced on February 25, 2021.  

            “Fraud crimes involving stolen mail can damage victims in a variety of ways,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “In order to protect the integrity of the mail and our financial system, we will work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute the criminals who attempt to profit by stealing mail and defrauding banks with stolen checks.”

            “The theft of mail in the furtherance of various fraud schemes has a significant financial and emotional impact on its victims,” says Chief Allen Aldenberg.  “Hopefully, the charges that both Mr. Daigle and Ms. Kemper now face will serve as a warning to all would-be mail thieves that there are serious consequences for this type of activity."

             This matter was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service in cooperation with the Manchester Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Georgiana L. MacDonald.

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            CONCORD - Preston Elliott, 25, of Dover, pleaded guilty in federal court to possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on December 6, 2019, a New Hampshire State Police trooper conducted a motor vehicle stop in North Hampton.  In addition to the driver, Elliott was the sole passenger in the back seat of the vehicle.  After the driver consented to a search of the vehicle, the trooper found over 503 grams of fentanyl in a bag at the Elliott’s feet.  Elliott also had $1,065 in cash.    

            Elliott is scheduled to be sentenced on February 25, 2021.

            “Fentanyl traffickers are jeopardizing public health and safety by distributing a potent and deadly drug,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “The large quantity of fentanyl involved in this case could have led to many overdoses and deaths.  I am grateful to the New Hampshire State Police and the DEA for their efforts to prevent this significant amount of fentanyl from being distributed in the Granite State.”   

            This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the New Hampshire State Police.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Cole Davis.

            This investigation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

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            CONCORD – Luis Angel Polanco Huma, 24, a citizen of the Dominican Republic most recently residing in Lawrence, Massachusetts, was sentenced to 78 months in federal prison for participating in a fentanyl trafficking conspiracy, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, Polanco Huma participated in a drug trafficking organization that was led by Sergio Martinez.  Martinez employed numerous individuals to sell fentanyl to customers from various New England states, including New Hampshire. Polanco Huma assisted Martinez with distribution of bags of fentanyl to distributors serving the Martinez phone banks. He then collected cash proceeds from the sales and delivered them to the leaders of the organization.  From June to December, 2017, Polanco Huma was primarily responsible for delivering all 200-gram bags for distributors, which investigators would prove totaled over 36 kilograms of fentanyl.  

            Polanco Huma previously pleaded guilty on August 14, 2019.  He will likely face deportation after he has served his sentence. 

            “Interstate fentanyl traffickers profit from peddling a deadly drug in New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Sales of their product have caused incalculable damage to communities throughout our state. The successful investigation and prosecution of the Martinez organization is an example of what can be achieved by law enforcement agencies working collaboratively across territorial and jurisdictional lines. Those who distribute fentanyl should be aware that these agencies are working together every day to dismantle their operations and bring them before the court to face justice.”

            “The state of New Hampshire is faced with an opioid crisis unlike ever before,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle.  “Those responsible for distributing lethal drugs like fentanyl to the citizens of New Hampshire need to be held accountable for their actions.  DEA will aggressively pursue Drug Trafficking Organizations and individuals who are coming from out of state to distribute this poison in order to profit and destroy people’s lives.  This investigation demonstrates the strength and continued commitment of our local, state and federal law enforcement partners.”

            The case was a collaborative investigation that involved the DEA; the New Hampshire State Police; the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office; the Nashua Police Department; the Massachusetts State Police; the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office; the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Office; the Essex County District Attorney’s Office; the Internal Revenue Service; Homeland Security Investigations; United States Customs and Border Protection Boston Field Office; the United States Marshals Service; the United States Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service; the Manchester Police Department; the Lisbon Police Department; the Littleton Police Department; the Seabrook Police Department; the Haverhill (MA) Police Department; the Methuen (MA) Police Department; the Lowell (MA) Police Department; and the Maine State Police.

            The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Georgiana L. MacDonald and Seth R. Aframe.

            This investigation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

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            CONCORD - Thomas Fall, 44, of Rochester, pleaded guilty in federal court to participating in a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, Fall conspired with others to distribute fentanyl in 2018 and 2019.  In July and August of 2019, an individual who was cooperating with the DEA participated in four controlled drug purchases from Fall and another individual at their Rochester, New Hampshire residence.  In total, the transactions involved approximately 100 grams of fentanyl.

            On January 14, 2020, the DEA and other law enforcement agencies arrested Fall.  In his post-arrest interview, Fall admitted to participating in the drug conspiracy and stated that for a period of three to six months in 2018 and 2019, he and another individual purchased fentanyl from a Massachusetts-based source and then distributed some of the fentanyl to New Hampshire-based drug customers. 

            Fall is scheduled to be sentenced on February 25, 2021.  

           “Massachusetts fentanyl distributors continue to reach into New Hampshire in search of profits” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “In this case, the potentially lethal drugs were sold in Rochester.  In order to disrupt the interstate drug pipeline, it is essential to arrest and prosecute those who make the sales and secure the profits.  Drug dealers should be aware that the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the DEA, the Strafford County Task Force and a wide variety of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies are working every day to put them out of business.”

            This case was investigated by the DEA’s Tactical Diversion Squad, the New Hampshire State Police, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Strafford County Drug Task Force. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Cole Davis.

            This operation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

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            CONCORD - Spencer Katsohis, 28, of Nashua, pleaded guilty in federal court on Tuesday to possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on June 17, 2020, Nashua Police officers responded to a motor vehicle accident precipitated by Katsohis suffering an apparent opiate overdose while driving.  During a subsequent search of his person and vehicle, officers discovered approximately 130 grams of fentanyl.  Evidence discovered on Katsohis’ phone showed that he was distributing the drugs.

            Katsohis is scheduled to be sentenced on March 3, 2021.

            “Fentanyl traffickers are causing tremendous damage in Nashua and communities throughout New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “In order to protect public health and safety, we work closely with the Nashua Police Department and all of our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute the drug dealers who are responsible for distributing fentanyl and other deadly drugs in the Granite State.”

            This matter was investigated by the Nashua Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joachim Barth.

            This case is part of Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (S.O.S.).  In July of 2018, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the creation of S.O.S., which is being implemented in the District of New Hampshire and nine other federal districts.  The goal of S.O.S. is to combat the large number of overdoses and deaths associated with fentanyl and other synthetic opioids.   In New Hampshire, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is focusing its efforts on prosecuting synthetic opioid trafficking cases arising in Hillsborough County, which includes Manchester and Nashua. 

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            CONCORD - Jared Woodman, 39, of Manchester, pleaded guilty in federal court to distributing controlled substances, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on two occasions in February of 2019, an individual working with law enforcement officers participated in controlled purchases of fentanyl and crack cocaine from Woodman. 

            Woodman is scheduled to be sentenced on March 2, 2021.

            “Drug trafficking impacts the health and safety of the citizens of Manchester,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Through Operation SOS, we are partnering with the Manchester Police Department to target drug dealers in Manchester for federal prosecution in order to improve the quality of life in the Queen City.”

            This matter was investigated by the Manchester Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joachim H. Barth.

            This case is part of Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (S.O.S.).  In July of 2018, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the creation of S.O.S., which is being implemented in the District of New Hampshire and nine other federal districts.  The goal of S.O.S. is to combat the large number of overdoses and deaths associated with fentanyl and other synthetic opioids.   In New Hampshire, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is focusing its efforts on prosecuting synthetic opioid trafficking cases arising in Hillsborough County, which includes Manchester and Nashua. 

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            CONCORD - Wayne Kenney, 31, of Hooksett, pleaded guilty in federal court to unauthorized access to a computer and damage to protected computers, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, in early 2015, Kenney was arrested by a police officer with the Auburn Police Department (hereafter referred to as “John Doe 1” to protect his identity) for possession of heroin, for which he received a suspended sentence and was required to attend drug counseling sessions at the Farnum Center, an addiction treatment center located in Manchester. Thereafter, Kenney engaged in a retributive course of action that involved hacking into various computers of the Auburn Police Department, the Town Offices of Auburn, and the Farnum Center.

            From February 2015 through July 2015, Kenney hacked into Auburn Police Department and Town of Auburn computers and deployed malicious “keylogging” software that he created, and stole employees’ log-in credentials.  He then hacked into, deleted files from, and defaced employees’ online accounts. In addition, Kenney deployed malicious software that caused pop up messages to appear that stated “I pray for the death of [John Doe 1].” 

            Also according to court documents, on or about July 1, 2015, Kenney hacked into the website for the Farnum Center and took control of the site.  He disabled a link that would have provided website visitors access to information about alcohol and drug treatment assistance. He also changed their 24-hour emergency drug hotline phone number so that anyone calling for help would be re-routed to a number associated with adult entertainment services and would be unable to reach the Farnum Center’s emergency services.

            Kenney is scheduled to be sentenced on March 2, 2021.

            “The defendant’s vindictive scheme damaged the operations of the Town of Auburn and its Police Department and also impeded individuals from accessing emergency substance abuse treatment services,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Computer hacking schemes like this are serious offenses that have real victims and serious consequences.  We will work closely with the FBI and our other law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute computer hackers whose actions target the residents of the Granite State.”

            “With the stroke of a few keys, Wayne Kenney Jr. orchestrated a series of cyberattacks on the town of Auburn, New Hampshire, targeting, among others, a police officer who once arrested him. He also hacked into and defaced the website for the substance abuse center that treated him for his heroin addiction. By pleading guilty today, he has finally accepted responsibility for his vindictive crimes,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “But no matter how clever hackers like him think they are, they should know the FBI will stop at nothing to impose risks and consequences on the perpetrators behind these criminal acts.”

             This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  The case is being prosecuted by Senior Trial Attorney Mona Sedky of the Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Georgiana L. MacDonald of the District of New Hampshire.  Former Assistant U.S. Attorney Arnold H. Huftalen previously worked on this matter.

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            CONCORD - Frailin Manuel Gomez-Gil, 29, a citizen of the Dominican Republic most recently residing in Lawrence, Massachusetts, pleaded guilty in federal court to participating in a fentanyl trafficking conspiracy, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, Gomez-Gil participated in a drug trafficking organization that was led by Sergio Martinez.  Martinez employed numerous individuals to sell fentanyl to customers from various New England states, including New Hampshire. Gomez-Gil assisted Martinez with testing, diluting, and packaging the drugs for sale.

            Gomez-Gil is scheduled to be sentenced on February 25, 2021.  

            “Interstate fentanyl traffickers seek to profit by selling a deadly drug to the citizens of New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “The successful investigation and prosecution of the Martinez organization was made possible by close cooperation between the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the DEA, and many other law enforcement partners in New Hampshire, Maine, and Massachusetts. Working together, we were able to disrupt and dismantle a major drug trafficking organization that endangered the health and safety of thousands of Granite Staters.” 

             The case was a collaborative investigation that involved the DEA; the New Hampshire State Police; the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office; the Nashua Police Department; the Massachusetts State Police; the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office; the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Office; the Essex County District Attorney’s Office; the Internal Revenue Service; Homeland Security Investigations; United States Customs and Border Protection Boston Field Office; the United States Marshals Service; the United States Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service; the Manchester Police Department; the Lisbon Police Department; the Littleton Police Department; the Seabrook Police Department; the Haverhill (MA) Police Department; the Methuen (MA) Police Department; the Lowell (MA) Police Department; and the Maine State Police.

             The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Georgiana L. MacDonald and Seth R. Aframe.

             This investigation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

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