District of New Hampshire

           CONCORD - Quinn Pollock, 31, of Manchester, pleaded guilty in federal court to aiding and abetting the distribution of controlled substances, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

           According to court documents and statements made in court, on June 24 and June 26, 2019, Pollock and her co-defendant participated in two drug transactions with confidential sources who were working with law enforcement.  These transactions involved methamphetamine and fentanyl.

           Pollock is scheduled to be sentenced on February 23, 2021.

           “The distribution of methamphetamine and fentanyl has been a scourge for New Hampshire communities” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Manchester has been especially hard hit.  Through Operation SOS, we are working with the Manchester Police Department to target and prosecute the drug dealers who threaten the health and safety of the hardworking people of the Queen City.”

           “Ms. Pollock’s criminal behavior will not be tolerated in the city of Manchester,” said Manchester Police Chief Allen Aldenberg.  “Her actions put others in danger and anytime we can take someone like that off the streets, we consider it a victory. The Manchester Police Department worked hard on this case and I am very pleased with this outcome.”

            This matter was investigated by the Manchester 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 - Juan Jose Gonzalez Ramirez, also known as Lucas Rios, 42, of the Dominican Republic, was sentenced on Monday to 144 months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute fentanyl in a seven-defendant drug trafficking case, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, between January of 2018 and January of 2019, Ramirez conspired with other persons to distribute fentanyl in the Manchester area and to collect the proceeds of fentanyl sales.  The proceeds were delivered to Ramirez, who was based in Lawrence, Massachusetts.  During that period, investigators made multiple controlled buys and seizures of fentanyl from Ramirez and his co-conspirators in the Manchester area.  Although he sometimes traveled to New Hampshire during the conspiracy, Ramirez typically remained in Massachusetts, took orders for drugs from his customers by telephone, and directed co-conspirators to meet his customers in New Hampshire, deliver fentanyl, and collect the proceeds. 

           Ramirez previously pleaded guilty on September 16, 2019.  After serving his sentence, he faces likely removal to the Dominican Republic.   

           Co-defendants Israel Perez, Abelino Morales-Padilla, Jose Hiram Martinez Rolon, Karina Reyes, Samuel Ramos, and Billy Damuel Maldonado Cancel previously pleaded guilty to fentanyl trafficking charges in the same case. Perez was sentenced to 168 months, Morales-Padilla was sentenced to 42 months, Rolon was sentenced to 30 months, Ramos was sentenced to 22 months and Cancel was sentenced to 33 months. Reyes received a time-served sentence. 

           “Distributing fentanyl in New Hampshire carries serious unpleasant consequences for those responsible” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “This 144-month sentence puts interstate drug dealers on notice that their illegal activities will lead to federal prison.  In order to stop the deadly flow of fentanyl into our cities and towns, federal, state and local law enforcement officers are working every day to disrupt criminal conspiracies such as this one.  Traffickers should expect that they will be brought to justice”. 

           “The worldwide pandemic has not slowed down the efforts of those who threaten our communities with the deadly scourge of fentanyl,” said David Magdycz, Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Boston. “The arrest and sentencing of this individual are the results of the tireless work and cooperation between New Hampshire State Police and our agents. The result is lives saved and a safer community.” 

            This matter was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the New Hampshire State Police.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John S. Davis.

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          CONCORD - James M. Nesbitt, 44, of Rochester, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison on Friday for participating in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl and possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, Nesbitt conspired with two other individuals to possess with the intent to distribute, and to distribute, fentanyl and crystal “ice” methamphetamine.  On November 7, 2018, the New Hampshire State Police (“NHSP”) conducted a vehicle stop of Nesbitt’s vehicle and seized fentanyl, methamphetamine, and other drugs. Later the same evening, the NHSP and the DEA searched Nesbitt’s hotel room in Ossipee and seized approximately 171 grams of methamphetamine, smaller quantities of fentanyl and other narcotics, and a semi-automatic handgun. On December 20, 2018, DEA agents arrested Nesbitt and a co-conspirator at their Rochester residence and seized fentanyl and four firearms and assorted ammunition.

             Nesbitt previously pleaded guilty on March 6, 2020.  Nesbitt’s co-conspirators Haley Hansler and William McKay both have pleaded guilty. Hansler was sentenced to 60 months on April 28, 2020 and McKay is awaiting sentencing.

             “Armed drug traffickers are a menace to everyone,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “The hazards posed by drug dealers are greatly enhanced when they carry guns while selling their dangerous wares.  In order to keep the Granite State safe, we will continue to work closely with all of our law enforcement partners to identify, prosecute, and incarcerate the armed drug dealers who jeopardize the health and safety of our citizens.”

             “Drugs and guns are a deadly combination,” said Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle.  “DEA is committed to bring to justice poly-drug traffickers like Mr. Nesbitt.  This investigation demonstrates the strength of collaborative law enforcement efforts in New Hampshire.” 

             This case was supported by the Department of Justice’s 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.

             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 was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Cole Davis.

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            CONCORD - David Campbell, 36, of Nashua, was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison for drug trafficking on Friday, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

               According to court documents and statements made in court, on April 16, 2019, three Nashua police officers were returning to the station from a patrol when they observed Campbell walking in a gas station parking lot. They paused to watch him.  He seemed to be impaired as he was at times staring off into the distance and walking aimlessly in the parking area.  During a consensual encounter, he was arrested after being found in possession of methamphetamine.  A subsequent search revealed distributable quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl.

               Campbell waived his Miranda rights and admitted to selling methamphetamine. He also acknowledged that he was working on a deal in the parking lot before the officers confronted him.

               Campbell previously pleaded guilty on July 24, 2020.  

               “Drug traffickers distribute illegal substances that undermine public health and safety,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “In order to combat their dangerous activities, we work closely with the Nashua Police Department and other law enforcement agencies to identify and prosecute the individuals who peddle lethal substances in the Granite State.”

               This matter was investigated by the Nashua Police Department.  The case was 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 - John Allen, 63, of Bedford, New Hampshire, pleaded guilty in federal court to wire fraud and money laundering, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, Allen was a New Hampshire attorney who provided legal services related to, among other things, commercial real estate acquisition and development and secured lending transactions.  As an attorney in New Hampshire who handled clients’ funds, Allen was required to maintain two Interest on Lawyer Trust Accounts (commonly known as IOLTA).  

               From approximately January of 2014 through October of 2019, Allen engaged in a scheme to defraud several of his clients of over $2.4 million.  Allen’s clients gave him funds to hold in escrow for specific purposes, including private lending, real estate transactions, and particular business deals.  Although Allen told his clients he would hold the funds in his IOLTA for these purposes, he transferred those funds between his IOLTAs and, without authority to do so, into another bank account he controlled.  He then spent the funds on his own personal expenses and for unrelated business expenses.  All the while, he misled these clients by representing that the funds were in one of his IOLTAs or were being used for their intended purposes.

               For example, Allen caused one client to invest more than $1.5 million in fraudulent promissory notes that Allen created using other persons’ identities.  Allen did not invest the money and instead kept it for himself.  Allen also stole nearly $1 million from other clients by transferring money they had provided for specific real estate transactions from his IOLTA to other accounts he controlled.  To hide the sources of the funds he stole from his clients, Allen comingled fraud proceeds and legitimate funds, made many transfers back and forth between accounts, and spent the funds in those accounts on unrelated business and personal expenses.  In total, Allen stole at least $2,426,258 from his clients.

                Allen is scheduled to be sentenced on February 25, 2021.   His license to practice law in New Hampshire was suspended in 2019.

               “When clients come to an attorney seeking assistance, they place their trust in that attorney,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “John Allen betrayed that trust, took advantage of his clients, and stole their money.  These are the actions of a white collar criminal rather than a dedicated counselor at law. Accordingly, John Allen is being prosecuted for wire fraud and money laundering.  To protect the public and seek justice for victims, we work closely with the FBI and all of our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute white collar criminals who steal money from clients.”

               “Today, John Allen finally accepted the blame for betraying his clients’ trust and lying to them, claiming he had more than $2.4 million of their hard-earned money safely tucked away, when in reality he was bleeding them dry to make up for his own bad business decisions,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “This is a teachable moment for anyone who thinks they can take advantage of their position for personal gain.  Don’t do it, because the FBI will do everything in our power to ensure you will be held accountable.”

                This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew T. Hunter.

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           CONCORD - Alex Stoltman, 23, of Manchester, 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 September 2, 2020, Stoltman entered a Citizens Bank branch in Manchester and handed a note to the bank teller that read, in part, “This is a robbery. Keep your hands where I can see them.  Do not look at anyone.  Do not think about hitting the alarm, I will blow your brains out.  Give me all the money I can reach.”  The victim bank teller gave Stoltman all of the money in the teller’s cash drawer. 

            Stoltman was arrested two days after the robbery.

            Stoltman is scheduled to be sentenced on February 10, 2021.

            “By entering a bank and threatening a teller, robbers endanger bank employees, as well as members of the public,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “In order to maintain public safety, we will work closely with the FBI, the Manchester Police Department, and all of our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who are responsible for bank robberies and other violent crimes.  Crimes such as this will not be tolerated in New Hampshire.”

            “In threatening an armed bank robbery, Alex Stoltman made it clear that he is a threat to public safety, and with today’s guilty plea, he has accepted responsibility for putting innocent people in fear for their lives,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “The FBI and our partners at the Manchester Police Department are committed to taking violent criminals like him off the street in order to make our communities safer.”

             “Dangerous individuals like Mr. Stoltman need to be held accountable for their actions,” said Manchester Police Chief Allen Aldenberg.  “We are pleased that this incident came to such a swift resolution.  It is a credit to the collaboration between Manchester Police and the FBI.”

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

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            CONCORD, N.H. – United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced that a federal jury found Stefan Gauthier, 34, of Tilton, guilty of two counts of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute after a three-day trial.

            According to evidence presented during the trial, on November 1, 2018, Tilton police arrested Gauthier for driving after suspension of his license.  During a search of his person, police located a baggie containing a small amount of methamphetamine and $1375 in cash.  Police executed a search warrant for Gauthier’s vehicle.  Inside the vehicle, they found a handgun and a backpack that contained more than 350 grams of crystal methamphetamine, $1,500 in cash, a digital scale, ledgers, and other drug paraphernalia. 

            On December 2, 2018, while a warrant was pending for Gauthier’s arrest, Franklin police responded to a report of a man unconscious at the wheel of a vehicle.  After determining that the man was Gauthier, the police arrested him and transported him to a hospital.  Police then obtained a search warrant for the vehicle and found four clear plastic baggies containing more than 100 grams of crystal methamphetamine.  Police also found a scale, baggies, needles, and three mobile phones.    

            The jury also acquitted Gauthier of firearms charges related to the November 1, 2018, incident.

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

            “Methamphetamine is an extremely dangerous drug that poses a serious threat to public safety,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “I am grateful for the hard work of the Tilton and Franklin Police Departments and our other law enforcement partners.  Their efforts have brought a dangerous drug trafficker to justice.”

             This matter was investigated by the Tilton Police Department, the Franklin Police Department, the Alexandria Police Department, the New Hampshire State Police, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John S. Davis and Assistant U.S. Attorney Cam Le.

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            CONCORD – United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced that over eight tons of prescription drugs and other items were collected in New Hampshire during the Drug Enforcement Administration’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, October 24, 2020.

               During the event, approximately 16,840 pounds of unwanted prescription drugs and electronic vaping devices and cartridges were collected.  In all, the DEA in New England collected over 57 tons of drugs and other material. 

               “I am grateful for the efforts of Granite State citizens to dispose of unwanted drugs in a safe and responsible way,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “By participating in this event, the DEA and local law enforcement officers partnered with members of the community to remove unwanted drugs from medicine cabinets.  This type of common sense effort helps to prevent drugs from being misused or wrongfully distributed.”

              “Thanks to the public over 57 tons of unwanted, expired, unused, prescription drugs, electronic vaping devices and cartridges have now been taken out of harm’s way across New England,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle.  “Medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse and abuse.  These events are only made possible through the hard work of our law enforcement, coalitions and community partners and DEA thanks each and every one of them for their efforts in making this initiative a huge success.”      

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            CONCORD - Chad Francisco, 31, of Nashua, pleaded guilty in federal court to manufacturing child pornography, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

             According to court documents and statements made in court, a child endangerment investigation by the Nashua Police Department resulted in a criminal investigation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”).  During the investigation, HSI obtained a federal search warrant for Francisco’s cellular phone, which revealed visual depictions of sexually explicit conduct involving two children under the age of 10 years old.  Francisco created the visual depictions using his cellular phone and admitted to transmitting the photos to others through text messages.

            Francisco is scheduled to be sentenced on February 16, 2021.

            “Protecting children from abuse is among the highest priorities of law enforcement,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Those who exploit a child in order to create child pornography subject their victim to trauma that may have enduring consequences throughout the child’s lifetime. We work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who harm children by manufacturing child pornography.”

            ​”We’re gratified that a guilty plea has been achieved in this case, which involved not just the distribution but the creation of multiple disturbing images of child victims by this defendant,” said David Magdycz, acting Special Agent In Charge, Homeland Security Investigations, (HSI), Boston. “This case is testimony to the effectiveness of the close partnership that HSI and our law enforcement partners in the Nashua Police Department and the U.S. Attorney for New Hampshire have built and continue to strengthen in order to combat crimes against children in New Hampshire.”

            This matter was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the Nashua 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 - Charles Daye, 28, of Nashua, pleaded guilty in federal court on Tuesday to 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 is scheduled to be sentenced on February 1, 2021.

            “Fentanyl traffickers are damaging public health and safety by peddling a deadly substance,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Through Operation SOS, we are working with the Nashua Police Department and all our law enforcement partners in Hillsborough County to identify and prosecute the drug dealers who are endangering lives by selling fentanyl and other dangerous drugs.”  

             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, N.H. –United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced the establishment of an Election Day hotline in coordination with the U.S. Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day program for the general election on November 3, 2020.  The hotline number is (603) 230-2503.

            United States Attorney Murray has appointed Assistant United States Attorney Seth R. Aframe to serve as the District Election Officer for the District of New Hampshire.  In that capacity, AUSA Aframe is responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of complaints of election fraud and voting rights abuses in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.  He is also responsible for monitoring the Election Day hotline while the polls are open.  He can be reached by calling (603) 230-2503.

            "Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted fairly,” U.S. Attorney Murray said.  “The Department of Justice will always protect the integrity of the election process.”

            The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring election fraud and discrimination at the polls, and combating these violations whenever and wherever they occur.  The Department’s long-standing Election Day Program furthers these goals.  It also seeks to ensure public confidence in the integrity of the election process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible election fraud and voting rights violations while the polls are open on Election Day.

            Federal law protects against such crimes as intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input.  It also contains special protections for the rights of voters and provides that they can vote free from acts that intimidate or harass them.  For example, actions of persons designed to interrupt or intimidate voters at polling places by questioning or challenging them, or by photographing or videotaping them, under the pretext that these are actions to uncover illegal voting may violate federal voting rights law.  Further, federal law protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice.

            “The voting franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy,” U.S. Attorney Murray said.  “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the cooperation of the American electorate. It is imperative that those who have specific information about discrimination or election fraud make that information available immediately to my Office, the FBI, or the Civil Rights Division.”

            In addition to the hotline, the FBI will have Special Agents available in each Field Office and Resident Agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on Election Day.  The FBI in New Hampshire can be reached by the public at (603) 472-2224.

            Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws also can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division’s in Washington, DC by phone at 1-800-253-3931 or by using the complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/.

            Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, citizens should call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities.  State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.

            A Federal Election Fact Sheet that explains what triggers federal criminal jurisdiction in connection with elections and voting rights is posted on the United States Attorney’s website: www.justice.gov/usao-nh.

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           CONCORD – United States Attorney Scott W. Murray encourages the public to participate in the Drug Enforcement Administration’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, October 24, 2020.  This event will be held at collection sites around the country, including many here in New Hampshire.  This event is an important effort to rid homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs.

            “One of the simplest ways that all citizens of the Granite State can help to combat the opioid crisis is to ensure that unwanted medications do not fall into the wrong hands,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Far too many individuals started on the path to addiction by misusing prescription drugs.  During the pandemic, individuals spending time at home may be tempted to misuse medication that they find in their medicine cabinets.  I encourage everyone to take a few minutes to dispose of any prescription drugs that they no longer need in order to help protect their families and their communities.”

            “Our take-back events highlight the problems associated to prescription drug abuse and gives our citizens an opportunity to contribute to the solution,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle. “These efforts help remove unwanted, expired and unused prescription pills that can be abused, stolen or resold which helps our continued dedication to combat the prescription pill, fentanyl and heroin epidemic of substance abuse and addiction.”

             Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs.  Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet.

             Collection sites will adhere to local COVID-19 guidelines and regulations in order to maintain the safety of all participants and local law enforcement.

             Given the ongoing COVID-19 public health emergency, members of the public also should be aware of other ways they can dispose of unwanted prescription drugs without having to leave their homes. Both the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency have tips on how to safely dispose of drugs at home.

             In addition to DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, prescription drugs can be disposed of at any of the 11,000 DEA-authorized collectors at any time throughout the year. For more information, visit: https://apps2.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/pubdispsearch/spring/main?execution=e1s1.

             During the Take Back Day, DEA and its partners will collect tablets, capsules, patches, and other solid forms. DEA will also accept vape pens or other e-cigarette devices from individual consumers, only after the batteries are removed from the devices. If the battery cannot be removed, individual consumers can check with large electronic chain stores who may accept the vape pen or e-cigarette devices for proper disposal. Liquids, including intravenous solutions, syringes and other sharps, and illegal drugs cannot be dropped off. This service is free and anonymous, no questions asked.

             For more information on DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, and to find a collection site near you, visit www.deatakeback.com.

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            CONCORD - Shawn Goodine, 44, of Nashua, pleaded guilty in federal court to being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.  

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on October 25, 2019, members of the Nashua Police Department were called to a residence for a report of domestic violence. When Goodine saw the police arrive at the residence, he went inside the first floor apartment and refused to leave.  For the next 11 hours, he made several calls to friends and family, claiming that he had a firearm and that he would “not come out alive.”  Several people reported these calls to the police.  Officers also heard the defendant yelling, “This isn’t going to end well,” and “If they come in my house, I’m gonna light it up.”  Eventually, the police threw chemical munitions in the basement window which resulted in Goodine coming out.  Goodine later admitted that he possessed a firearm during the stand-off and the Nashua police recovered the firearm and ammunition in the basement of the residence.  Goodine is a convicted felon and prohibited from possessing a firearm and ammunition.

          Goodine is scheduled to be sentenced on January 27, 2021.

          “In order to keep our communities safe from violence, it is imperative to keep guns out of the hands of criminals,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Each day, we work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute criminals who endanger our citizens by unlawfully possessing firearms.  I am grateful to the Nashua Police Department and ATF for their work in protecting our citizens from potential violence.” 

         This matter was investigated by the Nashua Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.  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 - Kristina Coleman, 40, of Hudson, pleaded guilty in federal court to tampering with consumer products and unlawfully obtaining controlled substances, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.  

            According to court documents and statements made in court, Coleman worked as a pharmacy technician for a retail pharmacy chain in Nashua.  In January 2019, she agreed to deliver two prescriptions to an elderly patient, which was not part of her ordinary job responsibilities.  After the delivery, the patient checked her bottles and discovered several pills were missing from her oxycodone prescription.  Further, some of the pills in the bottle were larger and had a different imprint than the others, and were later determined to be baclofen, a non-scheduled drug indicated as a muscle relaxant and anti-spasmodic agent. Coleman admitted to law enforcement officers that she replaced some of the oxycodone in the prescription bottle with the baclofen and gave the stolen oxycodone to a friend to sell, for which she received $80. 

            Additional investigation revealed that Coleman had been stealing Suboxone from the pharmacy for her personal use. Coleman admitted that she had stolen a strip a day for approximately one year.    

           Coleman is scheduled to be sentenced on January 28, 2021.           

            “Drug diversion and tampering with consumer products are serious crimes that can endanger the lives of patients,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “When criminals steal controlled substances and replace them with other drugs, patients are not only deprived of needed medicine but also may take a drug that they should not be taking.  In some circumstances, this can create serious medical risks.  In order to protect the health and safety of our citizens, we will not hesitate to pursue federal charges against health care workers who steal drugs from innocent victims.”

This matter was investigated by the Food and Drug Administration Office of Criminal Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration Diversion Control Division, and the Nashua Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles L. Rombeau.

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            CONCORD – U.S. Attorney Scott W. Murray today announced a $326,150 Department of Justice grant to Carroll County to support adult and juvenile justice initiatives to reduce crime and recidivism associated with mental illness and co-occurring disorders.

               “More and more people with mental illness are coming into contact with the criminal justice system, straining law enforcement resources and placing exceptional demands on our jails and prisons,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “By supporting partnerships between justice system professionals and treatment providers, we are making substantial investments in addressing the link between mental health and public safety.”

               Provided through the Justice Department’s Office of Justice Programs, the funding supports efforts that establish collaborative anti-recidivism comprehensive care before, during and after incarceration for persons with serious mental illness. The funding also supports training and technical assistance to law enforcement, other criminal justice agencies and their partner mental health and substance abuse authorities to improve outcomes for youth with mental illness or co-occurring mental health and substance abuse disorders.

               “Many individuals who enter the criminal justice system are suffering from mental health issues,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “It is imperative that these individuals be given access to appropriate treatment.  By addressing and treating the underlying mental health issues, we can reduce recurring contacts with police, decrease incarceration levels and promote public safety.”

                For a complete list of individual grant programs, award amounts, and jurisdictions that will receive funding, click here. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.

                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

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            CONCORD – United States Attorney Scott W. Murray is commemorating Domestic Violence Awareness Month with an important reminder about the federal law that prohibits domestic abusers from possessing guns. 

            Under federal law, individuals with domestic violence misdemeanor and felony convictions, as well as individuals subject to domestic violence protective orders, are prohibited from possessing firearms.  Those who possess firearms in violation of that prohibition face felony prosecution and the imposition of federal prison sentences.

            Offenders with domestic violence in their past pose a high risk of committing homicides. In fact, domestic violence abusers with a gun in the home are five times more likely to kill their partners.  Nearly half of female homicide victims in the United States are killed by a current or former male intimate partner.

            In New Hampshire, homicides are often closely associated with domestic violence.  Between 2009 and 2015, 58 percent of the homicides in the Granite State were linked with domestic violence.  Keeping firearms out of the hands of domestic abusers can save lives. Prevention of domestic abuse is even more critical in light of the pressures placed upon families and individuals by COVID-19.

            In an effort to raise awareness about these important laws and to improve coordination, the staff of the U.S. Attorney’s Office plans to meet with local police and prosecutors who handle domestic violence cases to provide them with additional information about federal firearms prohibitions.  The office also will be sending information to local police departments to remind them about these important federal laws.

            “Domestic violence destroys family life, scars victims and permanently damages the health and wellbeing of survivors.” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Domestic abusers often escalate the level of violence they direct at victims and the availability of firearms enhances the risk of fatal injury.  In order to reduce this risk, we are working closely with the ATF and all of our law enforcement partners to ensure that those involved in domestic violence do not gain access to firearms.  We will not hesitate to bring federal criminal charges against domestic abusers who violate federal law by possessing or seeking to obtain firearms.”

            “Domestic violence, more than any other crime, represents a heightened risk for escalated and lethal violence,” said Amanda Grady Sexton, Director of Public Affairs for the Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence.  “This is evident in the fact that domestic violence is the most deadly crime in New Hampshire. As experts we know that firearms are the most common weapon abusers use against their victims, and over the last two years firearms were the main cause of domestic violence homicides in our state. The data is undeniable; an abuser’s access to a firearm can be a death sentence for a victim.”

            “Domestic violence with the threat or use of a firearm is something we take very seriously,” said Kelly D. Brady, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Field Division.  “ATF will continue to partner with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our local, state and federal partners to arrest and prosecute the individuals who commit these violent acts.” 

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            CONCORD – U.S. Attorney Scott W. Murray today announced a $267,595 Department of Justice grant to prevent violence in the Franklin School District. The grant, awarded by the Department’s Office of Justice Programs, is part of more than $87 million in grants nationwide to bolster school security, support first responders who arrive on the scene of a school shooting or other violent incident, and conduct research on school safety.

            STOP School Violence, a program of OJP’s Bureau of Justice Assistance, improves school security by providing students and teachers with the tools they need to recognize, respond quickly to and help prevent acts of violence. In addition to STOP School Violence Act funding, OJP’s National Institute of Justice is investing in research on school violence.  

            “Only by removing the threat of violence from our schools can we expect our kids to reap the full benefits of their education, and only after making our places of learning safe can we ask our teachers to instruct and inspire as they are trained to do,” said OJP’s Principal Deputy Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “The Department of Justice is committed to securing our schools from danger and giving our kids the support they need to learn, grow and thrive.”

             “Students should be able to focus on their education without worrying about the risks of violence as they attend classes,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “It is absolutely critical that our schools be secure places of learning where everyone feels safe. These grant funds will promote learning by helping the Franklin School District to maintain the safety of its students, teachers, and parents.”

              For a complete list of individual grant programs, award amounts, and jurisdictions that will receive funding, click here. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.

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            CONCORD - Ashley Washington, 33, of Bronx, New York, pleaded guilty in federal court on Tuesday to bank fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, between approximately January 17, 2020, and February 28, 2020, Washington entered a number of different bank branches in New Hampshire and made withdrawals from other people’s bank accounts.  For each transaction, Washington used customers’ personal identification information, including their name, bank account numbers and false drivers’ licenses that contained the bank customers’ personal identifying information and Washington’s photograph.  In total, Washington withdrew over $18,000 and attempted to withdraw approximately $1,600 from other persons’ bank accounts.          

            Washington is scheduled to be sentenced on January 14, 2021.

            “Fraud crimes deprive victims of their money and are particularly troubling when personal identifying information is misused,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “We are committed to protecting the identity and finances of our citizens and will work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who come into the Granite State to commit fraud crimes.”

            This matter was investigated by the United States Postal Service with assistance from the Concord Police Department and Pembroke Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew T. Hunter.

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          CONCORD - Glen Lanchester, 53, of Manchester, 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, in November 2018, the Manchester Police Department executed a search warrant at the defendant’s residence. They seized various electronic devices that contained child pornography. The defendant later admitted that he had previously used spy cameras which he placed in the bathroom of his apartment to film minor girls using the bathroom and showering. He used these to create child pornography of at least two minor victims. Minor Victim #1, who is now an adult, viewed one of the images found on the defendant’s computer and identified herself as being approximately seven or eight years old at the time it was taken. The image of Minor Victim #1 constitutes child pornography.

             Lanchester is scheduled to be sentenced on January 18, 2021.

            “Child exploitation crimes are deeply troubling offenses that can cause tremendous trauma to their innocent victims,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Protecting children from harm is a very high priority of the law enforcement community in New Hampshire.  We will continue to work tirelessly alongside our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who commit child exploitation crimes in the Granite State.”

             “This conviction was only possible because of the close coordination built between local, state and federal law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorney for New Hampshire to combat child exploitation crimes in our region”, said Michael Shea, acting Special Agent In Charge, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Boston. “During these trying times, we remain more committed than ever to strengthening our partnerships in order to help bring to justice those who seek to exploit and harm children.”

            This matter was investigated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's Homeland Security Investigations and the Manchester Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Georgiana L. MacDonald.

            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 – Daniel Musso, 56, of Brentwood, was sentenced to 31 months in federal prison for unlawfully possessing fragmentation grenades and explosive material, U.S. Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today. He was further ordered to pay a $7,500 fine.

               At a week-long jury trial in August, Musso was found guilty of four counts of receiving and possessing unregistered firearms (fragmentation grenades) and one count of receiving explosive material.

               According to the evidence presented during the trial, beginning in the summer of 2015, Musso engaged in a series of efforts to obtain ammunition and military weapons and explosives, including military hand grenades.  After Musso told a firearms dealer about his desire to obtain these items, the FBI arranged for Musso to be introduced to an undercover agent who told Musso that he could obtain illegal hand grenades.  During two meetings with the undercover agent in January 2016, Musso reiterated his desire to obtain hand grenades and other illegal military weapons and explosives.  Musso explained that he was part of a group that was seeking to bring forth the “original constitution” and that he and his associates were seeking to obtain military weapons and explosives to “take our country back.”  Musso was arrested on January 27, 2016, after he purchased four military hand grenades from the undercover agent in Seabrook.

              Hand grenades are destructive devices that are unlawful to possess unless they are registered under the National Firearms Act.  Musso previously argued that the grenades were not destructive devices because the FBI had made their fuses inoperable for safety purposes in the undercover operation.  Although a district judge initially agreed with Musso, the United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit reversed that decision, clearing the way for this matter to be tried by a jury.

            “The defendant’s troubling scheme to obtain hand grenades could have resulted in a horrifying act of violence,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Thanks to the extraordinary efforts of the FBI supported by the ATF and Seabrook Police Department, Mr. Musso was stopped before he could take any action that would cause harm.  This case highlights the need for law enforcement as well as citizens to remain alert to emerging threats.  We will continue to work closely with the Joint Terrorism Task Force to prevent acts of violence that could jeopardize the lives of the people of New Hampshire.”

             “Because of a tip from a concerned citizen, our Joint Terrorism Task Force began a year-long investigation that thwarted Daniel Musso’s frightening plan to use violence to defend his version of what our government should be. Now, with today’s sentence, he has finally been held accountable for his crimes,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “However, this case should serve as a stark reminder of the challenges we face in stopping extreme acts of violence while underscoring the critical need for people with knowledge about plots like this to come forward before it’s too late.”

           This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Seabrook Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys John S. Davis and Matthew T. Hunter.

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            CONCORD - Seamus Murphy, 38, formerly of Milford, 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 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 is scheduled to be sentenced on January 14, 2021.   

            “Bank robberies endanger bank employees and the general public,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “These violent crimes will not be tolerated. We will work closely with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to keep the Granite State safe by investigating and prosecuting those who commit bank robberies and other violent offenses.”           

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

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            CONCORD - Thomas Hegarty, 26, of Rochester, pleaded guilty in federal court to attempted bank robbery and robbery charges, 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, New Hampshire, showed the teller a hammer, and stole cash from the register. Later that morning, Hegarty entered a bank in Dover, New Hampshire, 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 is scheduled to be sentenced on January 20, 2021.

            “Robberies of banks and other commercial establishments jeopardize the safety of our citizens and will not be tolerated,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Federal law provides substantial penalties for those who engage in these crimes and they are a high priority for federal prosecution.  We will continue to work closely with the FBI and all of our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute violent criminals in order to ensure that residents of New Hampshire can have confidence that their communities are safe.”    

            “Concerned citizens are among the FBI’s most valuable assets when it comes to apprehending potentially dangerous lawbreakers like Thomas Hegarty, whose criminal conduct escalated in the course of a single day from robbing a gas station with a hammer to attempting to rob a bank while threatening to be armed,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “We thank those who bravely stepped forward to identify him, and in doing so helped make today’s guilty pleas possible. This collaborative effort to address violent crimes within our communities is just one example of how we can really make a difference when we all work together.”

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

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          CONCORD – Eddil Ortez, 27, of Manchester, was sentenced to 57 months in federal prison for attempted possession of fentanyl and cocaine with intent to distribute, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today. 

          According to court documents and statements made in court, beginning around December of 2017, a drug organization in Lawrence, Massachusetts maintained a series of telephone numbers to receive orders and distribute controlled substances, primarily fentanyl and crack cocaine.  In early 2019, law enforcement officers began conducting judicially-authorized interception of communications occurring over a phone number used by the organization.   

          On June 19, 2019, law enforcement officers executed search warrants at locations known to be used by the organization, arrested the person believed to have been operating the phone, and seized the phone.  To further identify and arrest those who were distributing drugs, the officers, pretending to be members of the drug organization, used the seized phone to communicate with individuals who were obtaining drugs from the organization.

           During the evening of June 20, 2019, messages were exchanged between the seized phone and a phone belonging to Ortez.  Ortez attempted to order quantities of crack cocaine and fentanyl from the organization.  Ortez was directed to a parking lot in Nashua.  After he provided the description of his car and his clothing, he was told to leave the drug money in the center console of the car.  Investigating officers observed the car identified by Ortez arrive at the agreed-upon time for the deal.  Ortez then left the car and walked toward a retail store.  The officers sent a message to Ortez saying “you are all set.” Ortez returned to the car and was arrested.  Ortez was in possession of the telephone that was used to arrange the drug deal.

          Ortez previously pleaded guilty on June 25, 2020.

          “As a consequence of his drug trafficking activities, Mr. Ortez will be spending a substantial amount of time in federal prison,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “People who persist in distributing fentanyl and cocaine in New Hampshire should expect to suffer a similar fate. In order to deter this conduct, we will continue seek prison terms against those who are proven to be engaged in the distribution of dangerous illegal drugs.”                       

          “Opioid abuse is at epidemic levels in New Hampshire,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle.  “Let this sentence serve as an example to those who distribute fentanyl and crack cocaine to the citizens of the Granite State that DEA will aggressively pursue and hold you accountable.  This investigation demonstrates the strength of collaborative law enforcement efforts and our strong partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office.”

          This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from the Massachusetts State Police, Methuen Police Department, Andover, Massachusetts Police Department, Essex County Sheriff’s Office, New Hampshire State Police, Manchester Police Department, Nashua Police Department, Salem Police Department, Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office, Hudson Police Department, and the Goffstown Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth Aframe.

          This case was supported by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF).  The OCDETF program is a federal multi-agency, multi-jurisdictional task force that supplies supplemental federal funding to federal and state agencies involved in the identification, investigation, and prosecution of major drug trafficking organizations.                      

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             CONCORD – U.S. Attorney Scott W. Murray today announced that New Hampshire will receive a $628,472 Department of Justice grant to reduce recidivism among adults and juvenile offenders returning to their communities in New Hampshire after confinement. The grant, awarded by the Department’s Office of Justice Programs, is part of more than $92 million in funding to support reentry efforts throughout the United States.

             These awards represent President Trump’s commitment to assisting people in America’s prisons and detention facilities who have earned the opportunity to take their places back in society.

             “Former offenders are ultimately responsible for their own successes and failures, but our criminal and juvenile justice systems have an important role to play in preparing them for the obstacles that lie before them,” said OJP Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “I’m very pleased to make these resources available to help them get back on their feet and contribute to the prosperity of their communities and the betterment of our nation.”

             The reentry and recidivism reduction grants awarded will help communities develop and implement comprehensive strategies to address the challenges posed by reentry and recidivism; support reentry services for detained juveniles and incarcerated parents with children under the age of 18; and support research and evaluation programs to advance understanding about reoffending.

             “Those who are incarcerated for committing crimes must find ways to become productive members of society after they are released from prison,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Reentry programs can provide vital assistance to these offenders so that they can transition back into the community successfully and avoid further trouble with the law.”

              In New Hampshire, the state Department of Justice has been awarded $628,472 under the Second Chance Act Addressing the Needs of Incarcerated Parents with Minor Children Program.  This program supports the successful and safe transition of young fathers and mothers from confinement to their families and communities.

              For a complete list of individual grant programs, award amounts, and jurisdictions that will receive funding, visit: https://www.ojp.gov/sites/g/files/xyckuh241/files/media/document/reentryfactsheet.pdf   More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.

              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

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            CONCORD - Derrick McKenzie, 61, of Mount Vernon, New York, pleaded guilty in federal court to bank fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, between approximately May 10, 2018, and May 17, 2019, McKenzie entered a number of different bank branches in New Hampshire, New York, New Jersey, Maine, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania and made withdrawals from other people’s bank accounts.  For each transaction, McKenzie used customers’ personal identification information, including their name and bank account numbers and, for some withdrawals, false drivers’ licenses that contained the bank customers’ personal identifying information and McKenzie’s photograph.  In total, McKenzie withdrew approximately $111,000 and attempted to withdraw over $15,500 from other persons’ bank accounts.          

            McKenzie is scheduled to be sentenced on January 6, 2021.  

            “Fraud crimes deprive victims of their hard-earned money,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Those who engage in bank fraud drive up business costs and undermine public confidence in our financial system.  In order to protect our community, we will not hesitate to bring federal charges against fraudsters who come to New Hampshire to commit crimes.”

            “Defrauding financial institutions by using the stolen identities of victims creates significant financial losses and hardships for those involved,” said Inspector in Charge Joseph W. Cronin of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Boston Division. “The U.S. Postal Inspection Service will continue to conduct investigations of individuals who compromise the personal information of our customers and jeopardize the integrity the U.S. Mail.”  

            This matter was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service.  The following police departments also provided assistance:  the Dover, Hampstead, and North Hampton Police Departments in New Hampshire; the Andover, Burlington, Lexington, and Methuen Police Departments in Massachusetts; the Kennebunk Police Department in Maine; the New York City Police Department; and the Nutley Police Department in New Jersey.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew T. Hunter.

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           CONCORD – Edward Brown, 78, formerly of Plainfield, was sentenced to serve 300 months in federal prison at a resentencing hearing, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            In 2009, Brown was convicted of a series of offenses arising from his role in leading an armed standoff with the United Marshals Service after his conviction and sentencing for tax-related charges.  Brown was initially sentenced to 444 months of imprisonment for his role in the standoff.  Because of new legal precedent from the United States Supreme Court, one of Brown's convictions was no longer valid.  Brown was therefore entitled to resentencing. 

            At the resentencing hearing today, United States District Judge George Singal, the original trial judge, imposed a 300-month sentence.

            “We are grateful that the Court recognized the seriousness of this defendant’s crimes and chose to impose a substantial and appropriate sentence,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “This defendant’s armed standoff created a dangerous situation that could have resulted in bloodshed.  This 300-month sentence sends the clear message that such conduct is unacceptable and that those responsible will be held accountable.”

             This case was investigated by the United States Marshals Service with substantial assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Internal Revenue Service, the New Hampshire State Police, the Plainfield Police Department, the Lebanon Police Department, and the Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office.

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           CONCORD - Christopher Juneau, 36, 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, Juneau 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 Juneau.  The investigation revealed that Juneau worked with another drug trafficker and had sold drugs as part of a drug trafficking organization on numerous occasions.   

            Juneau is scheduled to be sentenced on January 11, 2021.  

            “Manchester and communities throughout New Hampshire have suffered greatly from the scourge of fentanyl trafficking,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “The distribution of this lethal drug undermines public health and safety throughout our state. In order to stop traffickers, we will closely coordinate with the FBI NH Safe Streets Gang Task Force and all of our law enforcement partners to bring the individuals responsible to justice.” 

            “Christopher Juneau is a drug trafficker who saw lives entangled with addiction as an endless source of cash, and today he’s finally taking responsibility for polluting Manchester, NH with fentanyl and cocaine,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “The FBI NH Safe Streets Gang Task Force will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to get drug dealers like him, and the organizations they work for, off our streets for good.”

             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.

            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 – Christopher C. Cantwell, 39, of Keene, was found guilty by a jury in federal court of extortion and threat charges, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            During four days of trial testimony, the jury was presented with evidence that Cantwell maintained an active online presence, including operating a website and an internet call-in program.  Evidence at trial showed that Cantwell believed that members of an online group called the “Bowl Patrol” had been harassing him online.  Cantwell contacted the victim in this case seeking to obtain identifying information about the leader of the Bowl Patrol, an individual who used the name “Vic Mackey.”

            When the victim did not disclose the information Cantwell sought, on June 16, 2019, Cantwell sent an electronic message through the Telegram messaging application, stating, “So if you don’t want me to come and f*ck your wife in front of your kids, then you should make yourself scarce[.]  Give me Vic, it’s your only out.”

            Between June 15, 2019, and June 17, 2019, Cantwell also sent a series of messages to the victim in which he threatened to injure the victim’s reputation by posting identifying information about the victim online (commonly referred to as “doxing”) and reporting the victim to child protection authorities if he did not receive information about “Vic Mackey.”  Evidence presented at trial showed that Cantwell did “dox” the victim on June 17, 2019, by posting identifying information and photographs related to the victim and the victim’s family online.  Cantwell also called child protection authorities in Missouri and made a report about the victim.

            Cantwell was convicted of one count of transmitting extortionate communications and one count of threatening to injure property or reputation.  The jury found Cantwell not guilty of cyberstalking.   Cantwell, who has been in custody since his arrest on January 23, 2020, is scheduled to be sentenced on January 4, 2021.

            The jury began deliberating on Friday afternoon and returned its verdict this morning.

            “Sending threatening and extortionate messages over the internet can instill fear and emotional damage,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “I am grateful to the jury for weighing the evidence in this case and finding that this defendant’s disturbing conduct was unlawful.  I also want to express my appreciation to the FBI and our other law enforcement partners for their work investigating this case.  This conviction should send a message to all those who use the internet as a means to threaten others that their unlawful conduct will not be tolerated.”

            “Safeguarding the civil liberties every American is entitled to, regardless of their beliefs, is fundamental to the FBI’s mission.  But when freedom of speech is weaponized, and threats are made, a line must be drawn where individuals like Christopher Cantwell will not be allowed to cross,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “We thank the jury for its prudent verdicts, and for recognizing that it’s also our sworn responsibility to protect every citizen from harm.”

            This trial was the second federal jury trial to take place in the District of New Hampshire since the pandemic caused a temporary delay in federal court proceedings in New Hampshire.  The court conducted the trial using a variety of health and safety precautions.  For example, all participants in the trial wore masks and maintained social distancing.

            This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the New Hampshire State Police, Keene Police Department, and the Manchester Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys John S. Davis and Anna Krasinski.

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          Concord – In July 2018, the Department of Justice announced the launch of Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (S.O.S), a program aimed at reducing the supply of synthetic opioids in 10 high impact areas, including the District of New Hampshire and identifying wholesale distribution networks and international and domestic suppliers.

          Under Operation SOS, the United States Attorneys in 10 districts with some of the highest drug overdose death rates in the country each designated a county where they would focus on prosecuting every readily available case involving fentanyl, fentanyl analogues, and other synthetic opioids, regardless of the drug quantity.

         “The Justice Department’s commitment to fighting the opioids epidemic is stronger than ever, and we are using every tool in our arsenal to disrupt the supply of these drugs on our streets,” said Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey A. Rosen. “Operation SOS has had a significant positive impact on the communities where it is being employed. The Department will continue to build on these successes and work to stop the drug traffickers who so callously wreck lives.”

         “Since the initiation of Operation SOS in New Hampshire, approximately 93 separate defendants have been charged with drug trafficking offenses in federal court,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “By taking aggressive action against drug traffickers in Hillsborough County, Operation SOS is limiting the supply of fentanyl and other drugs in the community and helping to reduce the overdose death rate in that county.  We also are sending a message to drug dealers that their dangerous and unlawful conduct will not be tolerated.  We will continue to work with the Manchester and Nashua Police Departments, the Hillsborough County Attorney’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and all of our law enforcement partners in Hillsborough County to identify and prosecute the drug dealers who are damaging the quality of life in the Granite State.”

         Numerous significant drug traffickers have been prosecuted under Operation SOS, including the following:

• Jai Britt, 45, of Manchester was sentenced to ten years in federal prison for trafficking in fentanyl, cocaine, heroin, and crack cocaine.  Britt, who was selling drugs while on probation and wearing an ankle monitor, engaged in a hand-to-hand fentanyl transaction with a cooperating individual.  A search warrant of his residence later yielded over 135 grams of crack cocaine, 194 grams of cocaine, and 1.5 grams of heroin.
   
• Richard Rowell, 47, of Nashua was sentenced to nine years in federal prison for trafficking crack cocaine while he was on bail for a state offense.  Evidence in the case showed that Rowell, who had multiple prior drug trafficking convictions, also had been trafficking crack cocaine and fentanyl. 

            Several significant Operation SOS matters are pending trial, including the following:

• Jonathan Sargent, 37, of Manchester, has been charged with two counts of distributing fentanyl, one count of possessing methamphetamine and fentanyl with intent to distribute, possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking, and possession of firearms by a convicted felon. 
   
• Robert Audette, 30, of Manchester, has been charged with one count of distributing methamphetamine, two counts of distributing fentanyl, one count of possessing fentanyl with intent to distribute, one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. 

            Nationally, since 2018, Operation SOS has resulted in approximately 750 defendants being charged in federal court, with 384 of those defendants charged thus far in FY 20. Most importantly, the districts participating in the program have seen a decline in opioid overdoses. From 2017 to 2019, most SOS counties reported a decline of 14% to 24%. One notable success was in the Western District of Pennsylvania, where the opioid overdose rates declined by nearly 45%.

          The nine other participating districts and some of their successes are listed below:

• The Eastern District of California has reported 60 active Operation S.O.S. investigations. Recently, the USAO charged one sentence-enhanced “death resulting” prosecution.  In February 2020, another investigation resulted in the seizure of over 20,000 fentanyl-laced counterfeit oxycodone pills.
• The Eastern District of Kentucky reported that an SOS investigation led to a residential search warrant and seizure of more than 1,300 grams of fentanyl, more than 500 grams of methamphetamine, $15,000 cash, two firearms, and paraphernalia used to traffic narcotics including a device for pressing fentanyl into a brick-like shape
• The District of Maine reported a July 2020 arrest of a defendant on charges of distributing counterfeit fentanyl pills marked as Percocet, in connection with a fatal fentanyl overdose that occurred in May 2020. In addition, a Maine man was sentenced in February 2020 to five years in prison for two counts of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, in connection with an incident where the defendant was found in possession of fentanyl less than 24 hours after he was released on a state summons for possession of fentanyl.
• The Northern District of Ohio reported a 10-defendant wire case involving a drug trafficking organization (DTO) operating out of Elyria and Sandusky, Ohio.  The DTO purchased kilogram quantities of cocaine and oxycodone pills.  Co-conspirators would later cook the cocaine and sell it as crack to local dealers in Elyria.  During the conspiracy, agents seized approximately ½ kilo of cocaine, 100 grams of crack, oxycodone pills, and five firearms.
• The Southern District of Ohio reported the arrest of an individual who had previously served a nine-year state prison sentence for drug trafficking. On October 22, 2019, after law enforcement observed activity consistent with drug transactions, including the delivery of what appeared to be a kilogram of narcotics by a courier, members of the FBI Safe Streets Task Force executed a search warrant at a residence in Dayton, Ohio, where they located three firearms, 1,205 grams of methamphetamine, 1,716 grams of fentanyl, 305 grams of heroin, drug processing equipment, and 12 cellular telephones. One of the recovered cellular telephones contained photographs of multiple kilograms of fentanyl and communications with a narcotics supplier. Through subsequent investigation, law enforcement recovered an additional 19.5 kilograms of fentanyl/carfentanil.
• The Western District of Pennsylvania prosecuted 98 SOS cases thus far in FY 2020. Particularly noteworthy among them is the prosecution of Lynell Guyton. Guyton was convicted by a jury of conspiracy to distribute 100 grams or more of cyclopropyl fentanyl and other charges, including firearms and money laundering violations.  Guyton, who had been receiving shipments of fentanyl analogues from China, is both a Career Offender and an Armed Career Criminal. The case gained media attention when, during the execution of a search warrant in connection with the charges, the conspirators tipped over a table, sending cyclopropyl fentanyl into the air, sickening several law enforcement officers on the scene.
• The Eastern District of Tennessee reported multiple cases arising out of a single investigation involving a drug trafficking organization responsible for trafficking heroin and fentanyl from Michigan to various communities in the Eastern District of Tennessee. 29 defendants have been indicted on various charges, including drug trafficking conspiracy, overdose death enhancements, money-laundering conspiracy, and various firearms offenses.  More than 5.5 kilograms of heroin and/or fentanyl and 11 firearms were seized during the investigation. 
• The Northern District of West Virginia reported a July 21, 2020, forty-four count indictment against 12 defendants.  During the nearly yearlong investigation, law enforcement officers seized more than 280 grams of cocaine base and more than 40 grams of fentanyl from one of the defendant’s residences in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. Throughout the investigation, officers seized more than 280 grams of fentanyl, acetyl fentanyl, and heroin; more than 350 grams of cocaine base; more than one kilogram of liquid PCP; various amounts of cocaine; five firearms; and over $28,000.
• The Southern District of West Virginia reported that after a three-day trial, a jury convicted Steven McCallister of distribution of fentanyl, possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.  Officers conducted a 50-gram purchase of heroin from McCallister, which then led to the execution of a search warrant at McCallister’s home.  Officers seized over one kilogram of fentanyl and a firearm.            

           The charges and allegations contained in an indictment are simply an allegation.  All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

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            CONCORD – United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today that Miguel Vasquez, 26, of Roxbury, Massachusetts, was sentenced to 97 months in federal prison for participating in a drug trafficking conspiracy. 

            According to court documents and statements made in court, from at least January of 2017 through July of 2017, Vasquez and others made deliveries of heroin and fentanyl to customers of a drug organization working out of a residence on Water Street in Lawrence, Massachusetts.  Customers, including customers from New Hampshire, would call a telephone number to order drugs.  Vasquez and others would then drive to locations in Methuen, Massachusetts and elsewhere to deliver the drugs to the customers.

            Evidence in the case also indicated that the drugs distributed by this group resulted in at least one fatal fentanyl overdose in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.

            Vasquez previously pleaded guilty on April 11, 2018.  Two other members of the conspiracy were previously sentenced.  Miguel Arias-Velasquez was sentenced to 48 months on August 17, 2018.  Walker Manuel Moreta was sentenced to 96 months on November 25, 2019.

            Vasquez also faces pending fentanyl trafficking charges in Norfolk County, Massachusetts.

            “Interstate fentanyl and heroin trafficking continues to pose a significant threat to communities throughout New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Drug dealers have little regard for the lives they destroy by selling deadly substances like fentanyl and heroin.  To protect public health and safety, we will continue to work closely with all of our law enforcement colleagues to identify, prosecute, and incarcerate drug dealers who do business in the Granite State.”

            “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 Mr. Vasquez who come from out of state to distribute this poison to the citizens of New Hampshire. Today’s sentence not only holds Mr. Vasquez accountable for his crimes but serves as a warning to those who are fueling the opioid epidemic.”

            This matter was investigated by the DEA, with assistance from the Massachusetts State Police, the United States Marshals Service, the New Hampshire State Police, the Lawrence Police Department, the Portsmouth Police Department, the Dover Police Department, the Rockingham County Attorney’s Office, the Quincy, Massachusetts Police Department, and the Norfolk County District Attorney’s Office in Massachusetts.  The case was prosecuted by First Assistant U.S. Attorney John J. Farley.

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         CONCORD - Leonidas N. Mavrogenis, Jr., 62, of Salem, was sentenced to serve 60 months in federal prison for distribution of child pornography, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.  Mavrogenis was also ordered to pay $8,000 in restitution.

           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.  Between February 8, 2018, and March 23, 2018, law enforcement officers conducted downloads of child pornography from an I.P. address later found to belong to Mavrogenis. On August 1, 2018, law enforcement executed a search warrant at the defendant’s residence in Salem.  During the search, law enforcement seized computer equipment and electronic devices for forensic examination.  Subsequent forensic examination revealed thousands of still images and hundreds of video files containing child pornography, including videos and images downloaded by law enforcement during their investigation.

            “Those who distribute child pornography are sharing horrific images of young people who have been abused,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “In order to stop this savage exploitation of children, we will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to see that those responsible are held accountable in court. This serious crime will result in serious federal prison time.”

              “This sentence serves as a warning to any who diminish the seriousness of the sharing of such disturbing images.” said Michael Shea, acting Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Boston. “Together with our partners in the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, HSI Boston congratulates the U.S. Attorney’s office for their success in ensuring justice was done in this case. We hope today’s sentence brings some measure of restoration to the lives of those who are victimized by the actions of Mavrogenis and any others who spread this garbage online.”

              This matter was investigated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children 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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           CONCORD - Tyrone Morris-Janey, 30, of Winchester, pleaded guilty in federal court to making false statements during the acquisition of a firearm, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, ATF and Boston Police Department personnel recovered a Ruger model LCP, .380 caliber pistol with an obliterated serial number.  The BPD crime laboratory was able to recover the serial number and ATF traced the firearm to Morris Janey.  A further investigation revealed that from January 8, 2019, through July 31, 2019, Morris Janey purchased six firearms.  During the purchases of the firearms, Morris Janey claimed that he was the actual purchaser of the firearms which was not true. He later admitted that he purchased the firearms for another person.  In addition, during the purchase of three of the firearms, Morris Janey falsely claimed he lived at a New Hampshire address. 

            Morris-Janey is scheduled to be sentenced on January 24, 2021.

            “Lying to obtain firearms is a federal crime,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Criminal actors often have others purchase guns for them because they cannot lawfully purchase the guns themselves.  In order to maintain public safety, we will not hesitate to bring federal charges against those who make false statements in order to buy guns.”

            “Firearms trafficking continues to be a top priority for ATF and our law enforcement partners.  ATF is committed to identifying and disrupting the sources of illegal firearms which jeopardize the safety of our communities,” said Kelly D. Brady, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

             This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from the Boston Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Debra 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 - Jorge Rodriguez, 23, a citizen of the Dominican Republic most recently residing in Lawrence, Massachusetts, was sentenced on Thursday to 132 months in federal prison for fentanyl trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

             According to court documents and statements made in court, a drug trafficking organization, which was led by Sergio Martinez, employed Rodriguez and others to sell fentanyl to customers from various New England states, including New Hampshire. On each date that Rodriguez worked, the Martinez organization provided him with at least one 200-gram bag of fentanyl and expected him to sell it and return approximately $6,000 in proceeds.

            Rodriguez previously pleaded guilty on February 28, 2019.  He faces likely deportation to the Dominican Republic after serving his sentence.

            “This defendant worked for a drug trafficking enterprise that obtained fentanyl from a Mexican supplier in order to sell the drug to Granite Staters,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “These activities contributed to an opioid crisis that has had a devastating impact on the people of New Hampshire. In order to fight back, we are working with our law enforcement partners each day to stop the flow of fentanyl and prosecute dealers. The 132-month prison sentence imposed in this case should serve as a warning to those who choose to trade in this deadly drug.”

            “The state of New Hampshire is faced with an opioid crisis unlike ever before,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle.  “Fentanyl is causing great damage to our communities and DEA’s top priority is to aggressively pursue anyone who destroys lives by distributing this poison for profit.”

            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 United States Attorneys Georgiana L. MacDonald and Seth R. Aframe.  

            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 - Leon Mandigo, 33, of Auburn, pleaded guilty in federal court to 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 is scheduled to be sentenced on December 30, 2020.

            “The interstate transportation of fentanyl into New Hampshire endangers all of our citizens,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Public health and safety have been seriously undermined by the distribution of this drug.  In order to counteract this dangerous and illegal trade, we will continue to work tirelessly to identify and prosecute the traffickers who are responsible for fentanyl sales in the Granite State.”

            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 is being 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 - Sasha Rand, 34, of Farmington, 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, 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 2019 to serve 90 months in federal prison.

          Sasha Rand is scheduled to be sentenced on December 21st 2020.

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

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

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            CONCORD – Alex Stoltman, 23, of Manchester, was arrested today and charged with bank robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.  

            According to court documents, Stoltman is charged with robbing a Citizens Bank branch on Elm Street in Manchester on September 2, 2020.  Court documents show that the robber wore a hat and mask and handed a note to the teller threatening to use a gun if the teller did not comply with his demands.   

            Stoltman was taken into custody on September 4, 2020.  A court appearance is scheduled for 11 a.m. on Tuesday, September 8, 2020.

            This matter was investigated by the FBI and Manchester Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anna Krasinski and Charles Rombeau.

           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.

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            CONCORD - Ira Weeks, 40, of Greenfield, was sentenced to 85 months in federal prison for participating in a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

             According to court documents and statements made in court, Weeks conspired with others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute fentanyl.  Weeks obtained the fentanyl from a source of supply in Methuen, Massachusetts. As part of the investigation, in December 2017 the Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”) intercepted phone communications between Weeks and his co-conspirator wife in which the couple ordered quantities of fentanyl from their Methuen drug source.  DEA subsequently surveilled Weeks in Methuen meeting with the drug source on approximately four occasions.  The DEA and the New Hampshire State Police arranged to conduct motor vehicle stops on Week’s vehicle after observing him meet with his drug source.  These stops resulted in the seizure of over 175 grams of fentanyl.

             Weeks previously pleaded guilty on May 27, 2020.  His wife, Shelley Weeks, was also indicted in the conspiracy.  She pleaded guilty on March 26, 2020 and is awaiting sentencing. 

             “Interstate fentanyl traffickers make a deadly drug available for sale in our state,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “The results have been disastrous.  The substantial prison sentence imposed in this case should serve as a warning to those would choose to involve themselves in this dangerous business.”

             “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.”

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

             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 - Timothy L. Adjutant, 28, of North Stratford, was sentenced to 21 months in federal prison for distributing buprenorphine near a school, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, on November 14, 2018, in Colebrook, Adjutant sold buprenorphine, also known as Suboxone, to an individual who was cooperating with law enforcement officers.  At the time of the sale, Adjutant indicated he had more Suboxone for sale.  On December 4, 2018, Adjutant sold Suboxone to a cooperating individual in the parking lot of a drug store in Colebrook.  Both transactions occurred within 1,000 feet of the Colebrook Elementary School. 

            Suboxone is a controlled substance that is often prescribed as a treatment for opioid withdrawal symptoms.  As an opioid itself, however, it is still subject to abuse if injected or snorted and can produce a euphoria similar to other opioids like heroin and fentanyl.  

            Federal law provides that a person who distributes a controlled substance within 1000 feet of a school is subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of one year in prison. 

            Adjutant previously pleaded guilty on May 6, 2020.

            “Drug trafficking endangers public health and safety in small and large communities throughout New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “This is especially true with the illegal sales of opioids. In order to safeguard our citizens, we will continue to work closely with all of our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to identify, prosecute and incarcerate the criminals responsible for trafficking drugs.”

            This matter was investigated by the DEA, with assistance from the Colebrook Police Department, the Pittsburg Police Department, the New Hampshire State Police, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Coos County Sheriff’s Office, the New Hampshire Liquor Commission’s Division of Enforcement and Licensing, the Office of Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys John S. Davis and Charles L. Rombeau.

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            CONCORD - Edson Wilson, 43, of Augusta, Maine was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison for possession of heroin and fentanyl with intent to distribute, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

             According to court documents and statements made in court, on June 15, 2019, a New Hampshire State Police trooper pulled over a vehicle on I-95 north for a traffic violation.  Wilson was a passenger in the vehicle. While speaking with the occupants of the vehicle, the trooper noticed indicators of drug use.  After the occupants also gave conflicting stories about their destination and travel, they consented to a search of the vehicle.  The trooper located a vacuum- sealed package that contained approximately 198 grams of heroin and fentanyl under Wilson’s seat.  Wilson was placed under arrest and later admitted that he had purchased the drugs earlier that day and further stated that he intended to sell at least half of the drugs.

             Wilson previously pleaded guilty on May 6, 2020.

             “Interstate 95 is a conduit for illegal drugs being transported into Northern New England,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Thanks to alert enforcement action by New Hampshire State Police, this shipment was stopped before it could be distributed and the responsible party was brought to justice. This 60 month prison term should serve as a warning to traffickers who plan to transport heroin and fentanyl into New Hampshire and Maine.”

              This matter was investigated by the New Hampshire State Police with assistance from the Greenland Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles L. Rombeau.

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            CONCORD - Martin Sheehan, 28, of Nashua, was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison for fentanyl trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

             According to court documents and statements made in court, in October of 2018, Sheehan sold fentanyl on two occasions to a cooperating individual at locations in Nashua.  In February of 2019, law enforcement officers arrested Sheehan at a motel.  Officers recovered over 13 grams of fentanyl, which Sheehan admitted belonged to him. 

             Sheehan previously pleaded guilty on May 13, 2020.

             “Fentanyl has caused substantial damage throughout New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Through Operation S.O.S., we are fighting back against the drug dealers who peddle fentanyl and other opioids.  We will continue to work closely with Nashua Police Department and all of our law enforcement partners to identify, prosecute, and incarcerate the drug traffickers who have threatened public health and safety by selling these deadly drugs.”

             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 - Christopher Gelinas, 24, of Manchester, pleaded guilty in federal court to 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 is scheduled to be sentenced on December 10, 2020.

            “Highly-pure methamphetamine is now appearing in New Hampshire with alarming frequency,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Even as we continue to combat the opioid crisis, methamphetamine poses an additional serious threat to public health and safety.  Accordingly, we will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute the traffickers who are responsible for selling this highly dangerous drug in the Granite State.”

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

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            CONCORD - Hallet Merrick, 34, of White River Junction, pleaded guilty in federal court on Thursday to 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 is scheduled to be sentenced on December 10, 2020.

            “Federal law prohibits convicted felons from possessing firearms,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “This restriction is intended to reduce violent crime and thereby protect the public. To accomplish this goal, we will continue to work closely with ATF as well as state and local law enforcement agencies.”  

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

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            CONCORD - Leo Rush, 76, of Pelham, pleaded guilty in federal court to mail fraud, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

            According to court documents and statements made in court, Rush ran the Newport Insurance Company from his home office in Pelham.  As Rush knew, the Newport Insurance Company was not licensed to sell insurance in New Hampshire or any other state.  Rush also maintained a website for the company that listed a false address in Rhode Island.

            From 2012 through 2019, Rush sold fraudulent surety bonds through Newport Insurance Company for construction projects in several states.  Surety bonds are a form of insurance, subject to oversight by state insurance regulatory agencies.  For certain construction projects, contractors are required to purchase surety bonds from licensed insurance companies to ensure that workers and material suppliers are paid and to ensure that a contractor’s work is completed and performed according to a contract’s specifications.  Thus, if a contractor defaults on a contract, the owner of the construction project can trigger the surety’s obligation and receive payments required to complete the contract up to the value of the bond.

            Rush sold these surety bonds knowing that they were fraudulent.  He knew his company was not a licensed insurer and that it did not have the financial ability to make payments equal to the value of the bonds.  In fact, after the deposits were made in the Newport Insurance bank account, Rush used the proceeds for his personal benefit, leaving no money to make payments on claims made against surety bonds.

            From 2012 through 2019, Rush’s victims paid him over $633,000 for fraudulent surety bonds valued at over $23 million.

            Rush is scheduled to be sentenced on December 10, 2020.

            “Financial crimes cause serious harm to victims and deprive them of their hard-earned money,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Through this deceitful scheme, the defendant obtained over $600,000 from his victims, while subjecting them to the risk of major financial loss in the event that they needed to file a claim against his fraudulent surety bonds. To stop this type of criminal activity and seek justice for victims, we work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute fraudsters and other white collar criminals.”

            “Mr. Rush’s conduct is inexcusable. With today’s guilty plea, he is finally taking responsibility for deceiving and defrauding his clients out of hundreds of thousands of dollars by selling fake insurance policies that would have left them in serious trouble if claims were made, since he did not have the money to back them,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “Individuals like Mr. Rush who engage in this type of financial fraud should know they will not go undetected, and sooner or later, they will be brought to justice. We thank the New Hampshire Insurance Department for its partnership in this investigation.”

            This matter was investigated by the New Hampshire Insurance Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew T. Hunter and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Kinsella. 

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            Concord – United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced that Sergio Martinez, 30, of Lawrence, Massachusetts, was sentenced to 45 years in federal prison for leading a continuing criminal enterprise and participating in a money laundering conspiracy based upon his role in operating a Lawrence-based fentanyl trafficking organization.  Additionally, Martinez was ordered to forfeit $2,000,000 in cash, as well as three houses in Lawrence.

            Martinez pleaded guilty on the sixth day of a jury trial.  During the trial, which began on October 1, 2019, the government presented evidence that Martinez operated a fentanyl trafficking operation that employed numerous individuals to sell fentanyl to customers from various New England states, including New Hampshire. Testimony at trial showed that customers knew the Martinez organization by the name “Brian” and that most of the organization’s customers came from New Hampshire.  Distributors knew to identify customers on the streets of Lawrence by their New Hampshire license plates.

            Testimony at trial showed that the organization served three distinct sets of customers. The first group of customers, who ordered the smallest amounts of drugs, was served by various telephones (“small phones”) that were located in a specific residence and answered by dispatchers. This residence was referred to as “the base” and dispatchers staffed “the base” from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. daily.  Dispatchers took orders and directed customers to meet various distributors throughout the Merrimack Valley area, mostly in Lawrence or Haverhill, Massachusetts, but sometimes in Salem, New Hampshire.  These phones usually received hundreds of calls daily from customers placing fentanyl orders. Street-level distributors were provided with 200-gram bags of fentanyl, which they sold for $30 per gram, generating $6,000 per bag of fentanyl sold.  Distributors testified at trial that they sometimes had lines of 10 to 15 customers, most with New Hampshire license plates, waiting for them on the street.

            A second set of customers was serviced by the so-called “big phone.” The big phone was reserved for customers who typically purchased from ten grams to 200 grams of fentanyl at a time, quantities which the purchasers would then distribute themselves.  The defendant and his brother Raulin Martinez answered this telephone, took orders, and sent these customers to meet a different set of distributors.  They promised these customers better and faster service than they received if they called the small phones.  These phones received between approximately 50 and 100 calls daily. 

            A third, much smaller set of customers, who ordered particularly large quantities of fentanyl (usually one kilogram or more at a time) called the defendant directly to place orders. The organization would deliver directly to these individuals by sending a distributor, often in a taxi, to deliver to these customers at or near their residences.

            Trial testimony showed that Martinez managed numerous individuals including between five and ten runners working each day, people who staffed “the base” answering telephones, and people who mixed and packaged the drugs in milling operations he operated at different locations in Lawrence.  The jury was provided with evidence showing that investigators seized over 12 kilograms of fentanyl from the Martinez organization during the investigation.  During one telephone call intercepted over a court-authorized wiretap and played at trial, Martinez spoke to a man who identified himself as a fentanyl supplier located in Sinaloa, Mexico.  Martinez told him, “what I look for is quality for when I prepare it and give it to people.  Because I’m one of those people that’s moving a lot here.  I move between 15, to 30, to 35 kilos a month.”  In other intercepted telephone calls played at trial, Martinez acknowledged the dangerous nature of the drug he distributed, noting that “what we give out is poison.”

            Evidence at trial showed that Martinez received substantial income from his business and that he sent some of this money to the Dominican Republic.  Drug runners testified that they provided the defendant with between $30,000 and $35,000 per day based on aggregate drug sales.  On one occasion, the defendant was stopped by the police while transporting $400,494 in cash that he intended to send to the Dominican Republic.  This money was seized by the Drug Enforcement Administration.  The plea agreement includes a forfeiture of $2,000,000 including funds in two bank accounts in the Dominican Republic in Martinez’s name.

            Twenty four individuals have pleaded guilty and been sentenced in this conspiracy.  Five additional individuals are awaiting sentencing.  Three defendants remain fugitives.  One defendant is awaiting trial.

             In addition to these defendants, 13 New Hampshire-based individuals who obtained fentanyl from this organization have been charged with drug trafficking offenses.  Twelve of those individuals have pleaded guilty and one is still awaiting trial.

            “International fentanyl trafficking organizations have targeted New Hampshire as a profitable market for the sale of their deadly product,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “The result has been disastrous for our citizens. Mr. Martinez ran a criminal enterprise that exploited the substance abuse proclivities of Granite Staters in order to obtain huge profits. In doing so, he enriched himself and funneled portions of the profits to parties outside of the United States. This 45-year sentence should send a strong message to fentanyl traffickers that those who choose to do business in New Hampshire will be held accountable for their conduct.  I am grateful to the DEA and all of our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners whose hard work resulted in the successful prosecution of this high-level drug trafficker.”

            “The State of New Hampshire is faced with a fentanyl 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.  Today’s significant sentence not only holds Mr. Martinez accountable for his crimes but serves as a warning to those traffickers 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.”

             “Today’s sentencing sends a strong message: The Diplomatic Security Service is committed to making sure that those who are responsible for trafficking in deadly drugs face consequences for their criminal actions,” said Brian Papanu, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the Boston Field Office of the U.S. Department of State's Diplomatic Security Service. “Diplomatic Security’s strong relationship with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force continues to be essential in the pursuit of justice.”

            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.

            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 United States Attorneys Georgiana L. Konesky and Seth R. Aframe.  

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            CONCORD - Michael Baez, 40, of Pelham, was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison for distributing cocaine, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

             According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2019, Baez sold cocaine to a cooperating individual on multiple occasions.  One transaction took place in a parking lot in Nashua.  Additional deals occurred at the defendant’s residence in Pelham, New Hampshire.  In total, Baez sold over 420 grams of cocaine to the cooperating individual.

             Baez previously pled guilty on May 11, 2020.    

             “Federal, state and local law enforcement agencies worked together to bring this defendant to justice,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Drug dealers who choose to do business in New Hampshire should understand that they will be identified, arrested and prosecuted.  Federal prison sentences await those who persist in peddling illegal drugs.”

              “When law enforcement agencies partner together in a task force environment, as in this case, we can leverage all of our resources in removing illegal narcotics, and the criminals like Michael Baez who deal them, from the streets,” 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 New Hampshire State Police, Nashua Police Department, Manchester Police Department, Dover Police Department, and Portsmouth Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Krasinski.                   

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           CONCORD – Daniel Musso, age 56, of Brentwood, was found guilty on Friday of four counts of receiving and possessing unregistered firearms (fragmentation grenades) and one count of receiving explosive material after a week-long federal jury trial, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

             According to the evidence presented during the trial, beginning in the summer of 2015, Musso engaged in a series of efforts to obtain ammunition and military weapons and explosives, including military hand grenades.  After Musso told a firearms dealer about his desire to obtain these items, the FBI arranged for Musso to be introduced to an undercover agent who told Musso that he could obtain illegal hand grenades.  During two meetings with the undercover agent in January 2016, Musso reiterated his desire to obtain hand grenades and other illegal military weapons and explosives.  Musso explained that he was part of a group that was seeking to bring forth the “original constitution” and that he and his associates were seeking to obtain military weapons and explosives to “take our country back.”  Musso was arrested on January 27, 2016, after he purchased four military hand grenades from the undercover agent in Seabrook.

            Hand grenades are destructive devices that are unlawful to possess unless they are registered under the National Firearms Act.  Musso previously argued that the grenades were not destructive devices because the FBI had made their fuses inoperable for safety purposes in the undercover operation.  Although a district judge initially agreed with Musso, the United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit reversed that decision, clearing the way for this matter to be tried by a jury.

            Musso was taken into custody after the verdict.  A sentencing date has not yet been set. 

            This trial was the first jury trial conducted in the United States District Court for the District of New Hampshire since court operations were limited in response to the pandemic in March.  The court adopted a series of health and safety protocols for the jury and all other participants in the trial.  Those in the courtroom wore masks, maintained social distancing, and took other steps to limit the risk of virus exposure and transmission.

            “I am grateful to the members of the jury who agreed to perform their important civic duty during this challenging time,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “The jury’s dedication to justice ensured that this defendant received a fair trial despite the difficulties presented by the current pandemic.  The defendant’s frightening efforts to obtain military hand grenades posed a substantial risk to public safety.  Thanks to the excellent investigative work of the FBI, this dangerous scheme was thwarted and the public was protected from potential violence.”

             “Daniel Musso bought four grenades and asked our undercover agent to illegally sell him additional military grade weapons and explosives as part of a frightening plan to defend his version of what our government should be. If it were not for the concerned citizen who caught wind of his plan and came forward to the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, these deadly weapons could have ended up in the wrong hands,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “This case is a true testament that the adage, ‘if you see something, say something,’ really does work.”

            “This arrest demonstrates the outstanding partnership between the Seabrook Police Department, FBI and the ATF. It demonstrates the commitment we share together to interdict these dangerous hand grenades which are an instrument of extreme violence and the criminals that compromise the safety of our communities” ATF Special Agent in Charge Kelly. D. Brady.

            This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Seabrook Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys John S. Davis and Matthew T. Hunter.

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            CONCORD - John William McMahon, 30, of Hampton, pleaded guilty in federal court to 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 the defendant, John William 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 (NCMEC), which confirmed that 500 still images and 6 videos were of identified child victims.

            McMahon’s sentencing date has not yet been scheduled.  

           “Child pornography crimes involve the distribution of images of children who have been the victims of terrible abuse,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “Those who distribute these images are committing a serious federal crime and will be prosecuted aggressively.  I am grateful for the efforts of the law enforcement officers whose dedicated work led to this successful prosecution.”

          ​ “Every conviction of an individual who distributes child pornography is a victory in our fight against the sharing of these sickening images,” said Michael Shea, acting Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Boston. “We applaud the tireless work of our partners in the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and the U.S. Attorney for New Hampshire for their commitment to fighting for justice for the victims of these disturbing crimes.”

            This matter was investigated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.  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 - Nadine Jacques, 46, of Pembroke, pleaded guilty in federal court on Friday to methamphetamine trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

           According to court documents and statements made in court, in February and March of 2020, a cooperating individual made four controlled purchases of methamphetamine from Jacques in Suncook, Concord, and Dover, New Hampshire. 

           Agents conducting surveillance at the final purchase on March 4, 2020, witnessed Jacques obtaining the drugs from her source in Dover.  Agents arrested Jacques and the source and recovered over 111 grams of methamphetamine. 

           Jacques is scheduled to be sentenced on November 17, 2020.

           “Methamphetamine is a dangerous drug that continues to cause significant damage to communities throughout New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “We will not hesitate to bring federal charges against the dealers who are responsible for distributing this dangerous substance in the Granite State.”

            This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; and the New Hampshire State Police.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John S. Davis.

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CONCORD - Geraldo De La Cruz Cabral Pena, 45, of the Dominican Republic, was sentenced on Thursday to 108 months in federal prison and a $30,000 fine for conspiring to distribute heroin, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.  

          According to court documents and statements made in court, from 2013 to 2016, Cabral Pena facilitated an international heroin distribution conspiracy with connections to Colombia, Guatemala, and Mexico. Multi-kilogram loads of heroin were smuggled into the United States from Mexico.  Cabral Pena then facilitated deliveries of the heroin to numerous regional drug trafficking organizations along a route from Texas to Massachusetts. Heroin arriving in Lawrence, Massachusetts would then be distributed by a local drug trafficking organization to sub-distributors in New Hampshire and the rest of northern New England.  Cabral Pena also collected payment from the regional drug trafficking organizations through multiple means including bulk cash smuggling.

          Pena was arrested by Dominican Republic authorities in March 2018 at the request of the United States government, and he was extradited to the United States to face these charges on August 16, 2018.

          Cabral Pena previously pleaded guilty on April 1, 2019.  He faces likely removal to the Dominican Republic after serving his sentence.

          “This case demonstrates the international scope of the heroin distribution network that has had such a damaging impact on New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “It also demonstrates that we will not hesitate to reach into foreign countries to extradite criminals who are responsible for shipping illegal drugs into the Granite State.  We will continue to aggressively pursue, prosecute, and incarcerate responsible parties regardless of where they are found.” 

          “DEA is committed to investigating and bringing to justice Drug Trafficking Organizations and individuals like Mr. Cabral Pena who are responsible for distributing lethal drugs like heroin to the citizens of New Hampshire,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle.  “Today’s substantial sentence not only holds Mr. Cabral Pena accountable for his crimes but serves as a warning to those traffickers who are fueling the opioid epidemic with deadly drugs in order to profit and destroy people’s lives.  DEA’s top priority is combatting the opioid epidemic by working with our local, county, state and federal law enforcement partners.”

          This investigation was conducted by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). The OCDETF program is a federal multi-agency, multi-jurisdictional task force that supplies supplemental federal funding to federal and state agencies involved in the identification, investigation, and prosecution of major drug trafficking organizations.

          The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration; U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations; the Massachusetts State Police; the Haverhill Police Department; the United States Marshals Service; the New Hampshire State Police; the Manchester Police Department; the Lawrence Police Department; the Lowell Police Department, the Methuen Police Department, and the Hillsborough County Drug Task Force.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John S. Davis.

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CONCORD - Jon Daigle, Jr., 33, of Belmont, pleaded guilty in federal court on Thursday to 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 another individual 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 his co-conspirator 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 a co-conspirator attempted to use a stolen driver’s license to cash a check at a credit union. 

           On April 23, 2020, Daigle and a co-conspirator were arrested by Manchester Police Officers.  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 is scheduled to be sentenced on November 17, 2020.

         “Bank fraud causes real harm to individuals as well as financial institutions,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.  “The harm is compounded when criminals interfere with the U.S. Mail to facilitate their schemes. We will continue to work closely with U.S. Postal Inspection Service and all of our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who engage in this type of criminal activity”

         “The U.S. Postal Inspection Service actively conducts investigations with our counterparts to combat mail theft in our communities,” said Inspector in Charge Joseph W. Cronin of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Boston Division.  “The U.S. Mail remains one of the most secure means of transmitting personal information and our Postal Inspectors work diligently to preserve the integrity of the U.S. Mail.”

          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. Attorney Georgiana L. Konesky.                       

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