District of Nevada

RENO, Nev. — Richard Frank Roa Jr., 36, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Larry R. Hicks to 37 months in prison for assaulting a federal officer and causing bodily injury to the officer while he was engaged in official duties, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada.

“This case illustrates how law enforcement officers put themselves in harm’s way at a moment’s notice to protect vulnerable members of the community,” said U.S. Attorney Trutanich. “Our office is grateful to the women and men who serve on the front lines in their mission to keep our communities safe.”

Roa pleaded guilty March 3, 2020, to one count of assault on a federal officer. Roa was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service after today’s sentencing hearing.

According to court documents, on November 12, 2017, Roa’s father called the police to report that Roa was causing a disturbance and damaging a vehicle at his father’s house, located in Owyhee, Nevada. A Bureau of Indian Affairs officer responded to the call. When the officer arrived, Roa’s father told the officer that he wanted Roa removed from the house. The officer attempted to arrest Roa, but he resisted, and assaulted and caused injury to the officer.

The charges resulted from an investigation by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Penelope Brady prosecuted the case.

###

LAS VEGAS, Nev. – U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada announced today that the Department of Justice’s Office of Justice Programs has awarded nearly $11.6 million in grant funding to Nevada, including the City of Las Vegas, City of Reno, and Nevada Department of Public Safety.

“This funding will help Nevada respond to public safety challenges posed by COVID-19, including assisting agencies with meeting the needs of their officers and communities,” said U.S. Attorney Trutanich. “We appreciate OJP’s support in making these resources available to our state.”

The grants were recently awarded as part of the $850 million available under the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump. This program allowed eligible state, local and tribal governments to apply for funding. A list of all awards can be found at https://bja.ojp.gov/program/cesf/awards. Below are the awardees in Nevada:

Recipient

Award Amount

Nevada Department of Public Safety

$7,385,200

City of North Las Vegas $537,416 Washoe County  $36,862 City of Carson City $40,461 Henderson Police Department $128,895 City of Reno $376,434 Clark County $1,485,666

City of Las Vegas

$1,485,666

Sparks Police Department $99,236

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security, or CARES, Act gives jurisdictions considerable latitude in the use of funds for responding to the COVID-19 situation. Potential uses include hiring personnel, paying overtime, purchasing protective equipment and distributing resources to hard-hit areas. Funds may also be used to help correctional facilities cover costs related to COVID-19, including, but not limited to, sanitation, contagion prevention and measures designed to address the related medical needs of inmates, detainees and correctional personnel.

Agencies that were eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program were candidates for the emergency funding. A complete list of eligible jurisdictions and their allocations is available at https://bja.ojp.gov/program/fy20-cesf-allocations. For more information, please visit https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-18553.

###

LAS VEGAS, Nev. — Marco Cebrenos-Osuna, 29, of North Las Vegas, who is accused of distributing opioids resulting in the death of another person, made his initial court appearance today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Albregts, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada and Assistant Special Agent in Charge Daniel Neill for the DEA.

A federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Cebrenos-Osuna and Daniel Anguiano, 41, of Las Vegas, with one count of conspiracy to distribute oxycodone and one count of distribution of fentanyl and acetyl fentanyl. Cebrenos-Osuna was arrested on June 30, 2020, and Anguiano was arrested on May 27, 2020. A jury trial has been scheduled before U.S. District Judge Andrew Gordon on August 21, 2020.

As alleged in the indictment, Anguiano and Cebrenos-Osuna conspired to and distributed oxycodone, fentanyl, and acetyl fentanyl, resulting in the death of a man who obtained opioids from them. Oxycodone and fentanyl are classified as Schedule II controlled substances, and acetyl fentanyl is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance:

• Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid drug that is approximately 80-100 times more potent than morphine and 50 times more potent than heroin. Fentanyl poses a high risk of death not only to users, but to law enforcement since the drug may be ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin. A few milligrams of fentanyl, which is equivalent to a few grains of table salt, may be deadly.
• Acetyl fentanyl is an analog of fentanyl that is 10-15 times more potent than morphine. Acetyl fentanyl has never been approved for medical use and is not available by prescription.
• Oxycodone is a semi-synthetic opioid that is a common drug of abuse. It can be prescribed for managing moderate to severe pain when other treatments are not sufficient.

If convicted, Aguiano and Cebrenos-Osuna each face: (a) a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment and a $1,000,000 fine for the conspiracy to distribute oxycodone; and (b) a statutory maximum sentence of life imprisonment (with a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years imprisonment) and a $10,000,000 fine for distribution of fentanyl and acetyl fentanyl. In addition to imprisonment and fines, the defendants also each face a period of supervised release, restitution, and monetary penalties.

An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

This case is the product of an investigation by the DEA.

###

RENO, Nev. — Keith Leroy Moreno, 27, of Reno, made his initial court appearance today for allegedly destroying federal property on May 30, 2020, in Reno, following a protest relating to George Floyd’s death, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada, Special Agent in Charge Aaron C. Rouse for the FBI, and U.S. Marshal Gary Schofield for the U.S. Marshals Service.

“Our office is committed to protecting the First Amendment right to peacefully protest and demonstrate,” said U.S. Attorney Trutanich. “But violence, destruction, and vandalism, including damage to federal property such as courthouses, will not be tolerated.”

FBI Special Agent in Charge Rouse stated: “The FBI’s mission is to uphold the Constitution, which includes freedom of speech and the right to assemble. We will continue working with our federal, state and local partners to ensure individuals who destroy parts of our city will be held accountable.”

As alleged in court documents, in the late evening of May 30, 2020, Moreno threw a cigarette receptacle (weighing about 23 pounds) and two rocks through the first floor windows of the Bruce R. Thompson Federal Courthouse, located at 400 South Virginia Street in Reno. Moreno broke three of the courthouse’s windows.

Subsequently, Moreno allegedly boasted about having thrown the receptacle through a courthouse window on May 30. In addition, Moreno allegedly bragged that law enforcement was not smart enough to find him and claimed that, if there was further civil unrest or rioting, “I’d go right back to it.”

Moreno was arrested on Wednesday, July 1, and he had his initial appearance via video conference this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Deborah Barnes of the Eastern District of California.

If convicted, Moreno faces a statutory maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for destruction of government property. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes only. If convicted of any offense, the sentencing of a defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

A criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct for purposes of establishing probable cause, not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. 

This case was the product of an investigation by the FBI, the U.S. Marshals Service, and the Nevada Attorney General's Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Penelope Brady is prosecuting the case.

###

LAS VEGAS, Nev. – Douglas Haig, 57, of Mesa, Arizona, was sentenced today to 13 months in federal prison for manufacturing ammunition without a license, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Aaron C. Rouse of the FBI’s Las Vegas Division.

This case arose out of the investigation into the October 1, 2017 mass shooting at the Route 91 Harvest music festival in Las Vegas. In the hotel room from which the shooter staged his attack, investigators located a box with a shipping label setting forth Haig’s name and address.

According to court documents, from July 2016 to October 2017, Haig illegally manufactured various types of ammunition. Haig had operated “Specialized Military Ammunition,” an Internet business selling armor piercing (AP) ammunition, armor piercing incendiary (API), and high explosive armor piercing incendiary (HEAPI) ammunition. Business records showed that Haig sold such ammunition throughout the United States, including Nevada, Texas, Virginia, Wyoming, and South Carolina.

Beginning on October 2, 2017, agents from the FBI and ATF began a series of interviews with Haig, who admitted to meeting the October 1 shooter and selling him ammunition. Haig also admitted to traveling to gun shows to sell ammunition. Even though Haig’s website promoted his ability to “fabricate” and “manufacture” military style “mil spec” ammunition, including AP ammunition, API, and HEAPI ammunition, Haig told a witness to lie to the FBI and ATF agents about whether he sold the ammunition that he manufactured. Because Haig did not possess a federal firearms license, he was not authorized to manufacture ammunition.

On October 24, 2017, agents seized hundreds of pounds of ammunition and ammunition components when they executed a search warrant at Haig’s residence. Haig had ammunition or firearms-related equipment in nearly every room, and a workshop had been converted into a manufacturing operation for ammunition that he was in the process of automating.

A fingerprint examination established that Haig’s fingerprints were on two pieces of armor piercing ammunition removed from a magazine located in the October 1 shooter’s hotel room. A forensic firearms examination also revealed that armor piercing ammunition recovered inside of the shooter’s rooms had tool marks consistent with Haig’s reloading equipment.

Haig was indicted by a grand jury on August 22, 2018, and pleaded guilty to the illegally manufacturing ammunition charge on November 19, 2019. U.S. District Judge James Mahan ordered Haig to self-surrender to the Bureau of Prisons by October 2, 2020.

The investigation was conducted by the FBI with assistance from ATF and Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tony Lopez and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Burns prosecuted the case.

###

LAS VEGAS, Nev. — Tyree Walker, 23, Devarian Haynes, 23, and Ricardo Densmore, 24, all of Las Vegas, were arraigned in federal court today on an indictment charging them for conspiring to and setting fire to a Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department vehicle during a protest in Las Vegas three weeks ago, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada.

Walker, Haynes, and Densmore were each charged with two counts of conspiracy to commit arson and two counts of arson. The defendants made their initial appearance today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Cam Ferenbach who scheduled a jury trial for August 24, 2020, before U.S. District Judge Andrew Gordon.

According to allegations contained in court documents, on May 31, 2020, Walker, Haynes, and Densmore conspired with each other to damage a marked Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) patrol vehicle while protests relating to George Floyd’s death in Minneapolis were occurring in the vicinity. Shortly after midnight on May 31, Las Vegas Fire & Rescue responded to a fire involving a LVMPD patrol vehicle parked near the intersection of South Ninth St. and East Carson Avenue in downtown Las Vegas. A video posted to social media captured the event, leading LVMPD investigators to Walker, Haynes, and Densmore. The video, which was filmed by Densmore, showed Haynes pouring a flammable liquid from a gas can through a broken front passenger side window of the patrol vehicle. Walker lit an object to ignite the liquid, and then Haynes dropped the gas can into the patrol vehicle. All three defendants fled when they heard sirens from an approaching LVMPD vehicle.

If convicted, each defendant faces on each of the conspiracy and arson counts: (a) a mandatory minimum sentence of five years; (b) a mandatory maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; and (c) up to a $250,000 fine. The minimum and maximum statutory sentences are prescribed by Congress, and are provided here for informational purposes only. If convicted of any offense, the sentencing of a defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

This case was the product of an investigation by the ATF, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, Las Vegas Fire & Rescue, and the FBI-led Criminal Apprehension Team in conjunction with the Joint Terrorism Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lisa Cartier-Giroux and Stephanie Ihler are prosecuting the case.

###

LAS VEGAS, Nev. — Jesse Caine Brocius, 40, of Las Vegas, pleaded guilty today to devising a bank fraud and money laundering scheme through which he stole nearly $400,000, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada.

Brocius pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Jennifer A. Dorsey to an indictment charging him with one count of bank fraud and one count of money laundering. He is scheduled to be sentenced on September 21, 2020.

According to court documents and admissions that Brocius made in court, between January 12, 2015 and February 10, 2015, he obtained a stolen check made payable to a family trust, in the amount of $391,636. Before cashing the stolen check, Brocius had applied to the IRS for an employer identification number falsely claiming that he was a trustee of that family trust. He also created a false Living Trust Agreement identifying him as its trustee. On February 10, 2015, Brocius opened two bank accounts in the trust’s name, depositing the stolen check into those accounts. Within four months, Brocius depleted all of money he had stolen: between February 10, 2015 and June 8, 2015, he spent it on personal expenses, such as luxury hotels, or withdrew the funds as cash.

At sentencing, Brocius faces a maximum statutory penalty of 30 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine for bank fraud, and 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for money laundering. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.

This case was the product of an investigation by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tony Lopez is prosecuting the case.

###

 

A federal grand jury in Las Vegas, Nevada, returned an indictment today charging a Las Vegas dentist with failing to pay over payroll taxes, file a tax return, and pay income taxes, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada.

According to the indictment, Timothy Wilson owned and operated Starsmiles Children’s Dentistry LLC (Starsmiles), located in North Las Vegas, Nevada. From 2013 through 2014, Wilson withheld payroll taxes from his employees, but allegedly did not pay more than $85,000 in withheld taxes over to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Wilson also allegedly did not file a tax return for 2014 and did not pay more than $100,000 in taxes that he owed for 2013 through 2018.

If convicted, Wilson faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison for each count of failure to pay over payroll taxes and one year in prison for each count of failure to file a tax returns or pay taxes. Wilson also faces a period of supervised release, restitution, and monetary penalties.

An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and U.S. Attorney Trutanich commended special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, who investigated this case, and Trial Attorneys Valerie Preiss and J. Patrick Burns of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter Levitt, who are prosecuting this case.

Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found on the Division’s website.

LAS VEGAS, Nev. – A federal grand jury in Las Vegas, Nevada, returned an indictment today charging a Las Vegas dentist with failing to pay over payroll taxes, file a tax return, and pay income taxes, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division, U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada, and Special Agent in Charge Tara Sullivan for the IRS-Criminal Investigation.

According to the indictment, Timothy Wilson owned and operated Starsmiles Children’s Dentistry, LLC (Starsmiles), located in North Las Vegas, Nevada. From 2013 through 2014, Wilson withheld payroll taxes from his employees, but allegedly did not pay more than $85,000 in withheld taxes over to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Wilson also allegedly did not file a tax return for 2014 and did not pay more than $100,000 in taxes that he owed for 2013 through 2018.

If convicted, Wilson faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison for each count of failure to pay over payroll taxes and one year in prison for each count of failure to file a tax returns or pay taxes. Wilson also faces a period of supervised release, restitution, and monetary penalties.

An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman, U.S. Attorney Trutanich, and SAC Sullivan commended special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, who investigated this case, and Trial Attorneys Valerie Preiss and J. Patrick Burns of the Tax Division, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter Levitt, who are prosecuting this case.

Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found on the Division’s website.

###

 

 

LAS VEGAS, Nev. — A federal grand jury indicted Stephen T. Parshall, aka “Kiwi,” 35, Andrew Lynam, 23, and William L. Loomis, 40, all of Las Vegas, for violations of federal law for conspiracy to cause destruction during protests in Las Vegas and possession of an unregistered destructive device, specifically, a so-called “Molotov cocktail.”

U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada, Special Agent in Charge Aaron C. Rouse for the FBI, and Sheriff Joseph Lombardo of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department made the announcement.

According to allegations contained in the criminal complaint and indictment, Parshall, Lynam, and Loomis claimed to be members of the “Boogaloo” movement, a term used by extremists to signify a coming civil war and/or collapse of society. From April 2020 to May 30, 2020, the defendants conspired to damage and destroy — by fire and explosives — buildings and property owned by the U.S. Government, as well as a public utility installation. On May 30, the defendants possessed Molotov cocktails to throw at police in downtown Las Vegas, during a protest connected to George Floyd’s death.

Parshall, Lynam, and Loomis were all arrested on May 30, 2020, and have been ordered detained by U.S. Magistrate Judge Nancy J. Koppe.

If convicted, Parshall, Lynam, and Loomis each face a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for conspiracy to damage and destroy by fire and explosive; and ten years in prison and a $250,000 fine for possession of unregistered firearms. The maximum statutory sentences are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only. If convicted of any federal offense, the sentencing of a defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

An indictment alleges that crimes have been committed, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

In addition to the federal charges, the Clark County District Attorney’s office has filed state charges against the defendants, including one count of Assist, Solicit or Conspire Conspiracy to Commit an Act of Terrorism; one count of Provide Material Support for use in the Commission of an Act of Terrorism; one count of Conspiracy to Damage or Destroy a Building by Means of Explosives; and one count of Possession of Component of Explosive or Incendiary Device with Intent to Manufacture Explosive Incendiary Device.

The federal charges stem from an investigation led by the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF) in Las Vegas. JTTF members who participated in this investigation include the FBI, LVMPD, ATF, North Las Vegas Police Department, Henderson Police Department, Nye County Sheriff’s Office, City of Las Vegas Municipal Court Marshal’s Office, and the U.S. National Park Service. Each regional FBI JTTF brings together highly skilled investigators from federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to investigate and stop terrorism. As directed by Attorney General William P. Barr, law enforcement is using the existing network of 56 regional FBI JTTFs to identify and prosecute the violent criminal organizers and instigators who have taken over peaceful protests.

U.S. Attorney Nicholas D. Dickinson is prosecuting the federal case. Deputy District Attorney Michael Dickerson is prosecuting the state’s case.

###

 

LAS VEGAS, Nev. – On Tuesday, June 16, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada and FBI Las Vegas Field Office will participate in a statewide telephonic town hall hosted by AARP Nevada to discuss fraud schemes related to the COVID-19 pandemic, along with tips on how to avoid becoming a victim.

The June 16 event is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. PDT. During the town hall, U.S. Attorney Nicholas Trutanich and FBI Assistant Special Agent in Charge Ray Johnson will go over common scams and provide prevention tips. Following those presentations, callers may ask questions to a panel including an Assistant U.S. Attorney and Supervisory Special Agent.

Statistics collected by the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center show that victims of all ages lost over $3.5 billion to fraud in 2019, with victims over the age of 60 accounting for $835 million of those losses. So far this year, from January 1 through June 9, the Federal Trade Commission has received 67,805 reports about fraud related to COVID-19, corresponding to $49.43 million in losses.

AARP’s 340,000 members, and members of the community at large, may take part in the telephonic town hall on Tuesday morning. Instead of using a phone to dial into the town hall, AARP and community members can also participate online by going to the AARP Nevada Facebook page at facebook.com/aarpnv. 

During the current health crisis, federal investigators and prosecutors continue to fulfill their critical mission of protecting public safety. Federal officials have prioritized the disruption, investigation, and prosecution of crimes related to COVID-19, including fraudulent schemes, unapproved treatments, and scams related to stimulus money.

If you or someone you know have been the victim of COVID-19 related fraud, please make a report to the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline by calling 1-866-720-5721 or by the NCDF web complaint form at www.justice.gov/DisasterComplaintForm. You can also report it to the FBI at www.ic3.gov or call 1-800-CALL-FBI.

Nevadans can also call AARP’s Fraud Watch Network helpline at 1-877-908-3360 to report a scam. You can also find tip sheets and sign up for fraud alerts at the Fraud Watch Network site, www.aarp.org/fraud.

To find out more about Department of Justice resources and information, please visit: www.justic.gov/coronavirus. AARP has resources and information at www.aarp.org/coronavirus.

###

LAS VEGAS, Nev. – Today, U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada joins Attorney General William P. Barr and the Department of Justice in observing the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada echoes voices around the world condemning elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

“Elder Abuse Awareness Day reinforces the importance of not only prosecuting criminals who target seniors, but also conducting outreach to raise awareness and providing guidance to help recognize fraud schemes,” said U.S. Attorney Trutanich. “Our office looks forward to continue working with our law enforcement partners to bring to justice those who prey on the elderly.”

The COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for our country and the world, but our senior citizens are among those most severely affected by the threat of the novel virus. During this time, when seniors are most vulnerable and isolated from their families and loved ones by social distancing and quarantine restrictions, bad actors have exploited this international tragedy to prey on the elderly through a host of scam and fraud schemes. As the world takes this day to remember the elderly, the Department of Justice remains committed to preventing and prosecuting fraud on America’s seniors, including through its Elder Justice Initiative.

The Department of Justice will aggressively prosecute fraudsters exploiting the COVID-19 pandemic and targeting seniors by, among other things, offering fake testing kits and fake help to obtain stimulus and Paycheck Protection Program Funds. On this day dedicated to recognizing our seniors, the Department sends the message that it will continue the fight to keep seniors safe.

Earlier this year, Attorney General Barr declared “Prevention and Disruption of Transnational Elder Fraud” to be an Agency Priority Goal, making it one of the Department’s four top priorities. Major strides have already been made to that end:

• National Elder Fraud Hotline (833-FRAUD-11): Earlier this year Attorney General Barr launched a National Elder Fraud Hotline. Staffed by experienced case managers who provide personalized support to callers, the hotline serves to assist elders and caretakers who believe they have been a victim of fraud by reporting and providing appropriate services.

 

• Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force: Established in June 2019 to combat foreign elder fraud schemes, the Strike Force is composed of the Department’s Consumer Protection Branch and six U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along with FBI special agents, Postal Inspectors, and numerous other law enforcement personnel.  Since its inception, prosecutors in Strike Force districts brought cases against more than 140 sweep defendants.

​​​​​​​

• Annual Elder Justice Sweep: In March of this year, the Attorney General announced the largest coordinated sweep of elder fraud cases in department history. The Department, together with every U.S. Attorney’s office, charged more than 400 defendants, causing over $1 billion in loss through fraud schemes that largely affected seniors, including the following cases in the District of Nevada.
  • U.S. v. Castro, et al.: Six Las Vegas-area residents with running a fraudulent mass-mailing scheme that defrauded hundreds of thousands of consumers — many of whom were elderly — into paying more than $10 million in fees for falsely promised cash prizes.
  • U.S. v. Marcks, et al.: Five Las Vegas-area residents were charged in a 22-count indictment relating to an India-based telemarketing and email marketing conspiracy that targeted seniors. The defendants allegedly obtained over $2.4 million from victims residing throughout the United States.

 

• Money Mule Initiative: Since October 2018, the Department and its law enforcement partners began a concentrated effort across the country and around the world to disrupt, investigate, and prosecute money mule activity used to facilitate fraud schemes, especially those victimizing senior citizens. In 2019, the Money Mule Initiative halted the conduct of more than 600 domestic money mules, exceeding a similar effort against approximately 400 mules in the previous year.

 

• Holding foreign-based perpetrators and those that flee the United States accountable: Transnational criminal organizations are targeting our elder population in schemes including mass mailing fraud, grandparent scams, romance scams, lottery and sweepstakes scams, IRS and Social Security Administration imposter scams, and technical-support scams. For example, in 2019, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada charged four executives at PacNet Services Ltd, a payment processing company based in Vancouver, Canada, with engaging in a massive fraud scheme in which PacNet processed payments for companies that mailed fraudulent notifications to consumers (including many who were elderly or vulnerable) in the United States.

 

For more information on enforcement actions, training and resources, research, and victim services, please visit www.justice.gov/elderjustice.  

# # #

 

LAS VEGAS, Nev. — Phuong Tang, 40, of Las Vegas, pleaded guilty today to placing envelopes containing a white powdery substance on his coworkers’ desks at the Veterans Affairs Southern Nevada Healthcare System, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada.

Tang pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Kent J. Dawson to an indictment charging one count of false information and hoax related to purported biological and chemical weapons. Tang is scheduled to be sentenced on June 23, 2020.

According to court documents and admissions that Tang made in court, on July 12, 2019, two envelopes containing an unknown white powdery substance were discovered at the VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System. The North Las Vegas Police Department, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, a HAZMAT team, the ARMOR Section, and Counter-Terrorism teams responded and evacuated employees. A presumptive test determined that the white powder within the envelopes were non-hazardous.

During a search of Tang’s vehicle, white powder residue was present and visible. When interviewed by law enforcement, Tang admitted to putting the envelopes containing the white powder on two coworkers’ desks.

At sentencing, Tang faces a maximum statutory penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.

This case was the product of an investigation by the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General, the North Las Vegas Police Department, and the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Rachel Kent is prosecuting the case.

###

 

 

RENO, Nev. – Peter Lucas, 35, of Reno, pleaded guilty to stealing hundreds of surgical masks from a supply cart at the Ioannis A. Lougaris VA Medical Center in Reno, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada.

Lucas pleaded guilty Thursday before U.S. District Judge William G. Cobb to an information charging one count of theft in connection with health care. He is scheduled to be sentenced on September 9, 2020.

According to court documents and statements in open court, between March 19 and March 23, 2020, Lucas stole at least four boxes of surgical masks from the VA Medical Center. Officers of the Veterans Affairs Police Department obtained security footage that showed Lucas taking the boxes of surgical masks and concealing them under his clothes before exiting the building. Each box contained 50 masks. Lucas had been a compensated member of the Veteran Affairs’ work therapy program, which helps train, match, and support veterans for competitive jobs and to consult with business and industry regarding their specific employment needs.

The maximum statutory penalty for theft in connection with health care is one year in prison and a $250,000 fine. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes only. If convicted of any offense, the sentencing of a defendant will be determined by the Court, based on the advisory Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

The case is a product of an investigation by the VA Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter Walkingshaw is prosecuting this case.

The public is urged to report suspected fraud schemes related to COVID-19 by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 1-866-720-5721 or via the NCDF web complaint form at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form. For information about the Department of Justice’s efforts to stop COVID-19 fraud, visit www.justice.gov/coronavirus.

For the most up-to-date information on COVID-19, you may visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and WHO websites.

 

###

 

LAS VEGAS, Nev. — Three men were arrested Wednesday and charged today for conspiring to and setting fire to a Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department patrol vehicle during a protest in Las Vegas, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada, Special Agent in Charge Patrick Gorman of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), and Special Agent in Charge Aaron C. Rouse of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

Tyree Walker (23), Devarian Haynes (23), and Ricardo Densmore (24), all of Las Vegas, were each charged in a federal criminal complaint with one count of conspiracy to commit arson and one count of arson. The defendants are scheduled to make their initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Brenda Weksler on June 5, 2020.

“Agitators who are using the camouflage of lawful protests to commit violence against law enforcement will be prosecuted,” said U.S. Attorney Trutanich. “Violence places protesters, first responders, and bystanders in danger, and steals focus away from the messages that peaceful protesters are striving to deliver.”

“Any individual that is engaging in an act of arson is engaging in extremely dangerous behavior,” said Special Agent in Charge Gorman for ATF. “In addition to the destruction of property, acts of arson put the lives of the public at great risk. ATF takes these acts of violence very seriously and is working alongside our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to protect the public and uphold the rule of law. We will continue to work diligently to ensure the safety of the community and prevent incidents like this from occurring.”

The criminal complaint alleges that, shortly after midnight on May 31, 2020, Las Vegas Fire & Rescue responded to a fire involving a Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) patrol vehicle. The patrol vehicle was parked near the intersection of South Ninth St. and East Carson Avenue, during protests relating to Mr. Floyd’s death. A social media video captured the event, leading LVMPD investigators to Walker, Haynes, and Densmore. The video, which was filmed by Densmore, showed Haynes pouring a flammable liquid from a gas can through a broken or missing front passenger side window of the patrol vehicle. Walker lit an object to ignite the liquid, and then Haynes dropped the gas can into the patrol vehicle. All three defendants fled when they heard sirens from an approaching LVMPD vehicle.

If convicted, Walker, Haynes, and Densmore each face: (a) a mandatory minimum sentence of five years; (b) a mandatory maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; and (c) up to a $250,000 fine. The minimum and maximum statutory sentences are prescribed by Congress, and are provided here for informational purposes only. If convicted of any offense, the sentencing of a defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

A criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct for purposes of establishing probable cause, not evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. 

This case was the product of an investigation by the ATF, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, Las Vegas Fire & Rescue, and the FBI-led Criminal Apprehension Team in conjunction with the Joint Terrorism Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lisa Cartier-Giroux and Stephanie Ihler are prosecuting the case.

###

LAS VEGAS, Nev. — U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada, Clark County District Attorney Steve Wolfson, Special Agent in Charge Aaron C. Rouse for the FBI, and Sheriff Joseph Lombardo of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department announced today that three alleged members of the “Boogaloo” movement — a term used by extremists to signify a coming civil war and/or collapse of society — have been charged with violations of federal and state law for conspiracy to cause destruction during protests in Las Vegas, and possession of an unregistered destructive device (specifically, an improvised incendiary device commonly known as a Molotov cocktail).

“Violent instigators have hijacked peaceful protests and demonstrations across the country, including Nevada, exploiting the real and legitimate outrage over Mr. Floyd’s death for their own radical agendas,” said U.S. Attorney Trutanich. “Law enforcement is focused on keeping violence and destruction from interfering with free public expression and threatening lives.”

Clark County District Attorney Steve Wolfson stated: “My office is committed to aggressively prosecuting those who make it their mission to create chaos and destruction with total disregard for the safety and well-being of our citizens and the law enforcement officers sworn to protect and serve our community. This type of planning and intent on causing mayhem is terroristic and will not be tolerated. Thankfully, the Joint Terrorism Task Force is able to identify and stop such actions. Now it’s my job to hold these men accountable.”

“This quick and decisive action by the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force underscores the exceptional partnership and professionalism of our diverse membership,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Aaron C. Rouse. “Federal, state, and local agencies committed to stopping acts of terrorism before they can occur. Citizens of Nevada can take comfort that the law enforcement partnerships in this state continue to work together every day to protect them no matter the circumstances.”

Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) Captain Chris Tomaino said: “The LVMPD worked together daily in the Joint Terrorism Task Force with the FBI, U.S. Attorney's Office, and Clark County District Attorney's Office in this investigation that helped protect Southern Nevada's citizens and officers from individuals looking to harm citizens for their own political ends.”

Stephen T. Parshall, aka “Kiwi,” 35, Andrew Lynam, 23, and William L. Loomis, 40, all of Las Vegas, were each charged in a federal criminal complaint with (a) one count of conspiracy to damage and destroy by fire and explosive; and (b) one count of possession of unregistered firearms, that is, a destructive device. A criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct for purposes of establishing probable cause, not evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. 

If convicted of federal charges, Parshall, Lynam, and Loomis each face a statutory maximum sentence of (a) 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for conspiracy to damage and destroy by fire and explosive; and (b) ten years in prison and a $250,000 fine for possession of unregistered firearms. The maximum statutory sentences are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only. If convicted of any federal offense, the sentencing of a defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Parshall, Lynam, and Loomis were all arrested in Las Vegas on May 30, 2020, and are currently in state custody. In addition to the federal charges listed above, the Clark County District Attorney’s office has filed a state criminal complaint charging the defendants with (a) one count Assist, Solicit or Conspire Conspiracy to Commit an Act of Terrorism (potential sentence of ten years to life in prison with the possibility of parole); (b) one count of Provide Material Support for use in the Commission of an Act of Terrorism (potential sentence of ten years to life in prison with the possibility of parole); (c) one count of Conspiracy to Damage or Destroy a Building by Means of Explosives (potential sentence of two to ten years in prison); and (d) one count of Possession of Component of Explosive or Incendiary Device with Intent to Manufacture Explosive Incendiary Device (potential sentence of one to six years in prison). 

The charges stem from an investigation led by the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF) in Las Vegas, which includes the FBI, LVMPD, ATF, North Las Vegas Police Department, and the U.S. National Park Service. Each regional FBI JTTF brings together highly skilled investigators from federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to investigate and stop terrorism. As directed by Attorney General William P. Barr, law enforcement is using the existing network of 56 regional FBI JTTFs to identify and prosecute the violent criminal organizers and instigators who have taken over peaceful protests.

U.S. Attorney Nicholas D. Dickinson is prosecuting the federal case. Deputy District Attorney Michael Dickerson, who is the primary counter-terrorism prosecutor for the Clark County District Attorney’s office, is prosecuting the state’s case.

 ###

LAS VEGAS, Nev. – The Department of Justice today announced $750,000 in funding was awarded to three law enforcement agencies in Nevada, as part of the Department’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services’ COPS Hiring Program (CHP). The Attorney General announced funding awards to 596 law enforcement agencies across the nation, which allows those agencies to hire 2,732 additional full-time law enforcement professionals. The awards are inclusive of the $51 million announced in May as part of Operation Relentless Pursuit.  

“The Department of Justice is committed to providing the police chiefs and sheriffs of our great nation with needed resources, tools, and support. The funding announced today will bolster their ranks and contribute to expanding community policing efforts nationwide,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “A law enforcement agency’s most valuable assets are the men and women who put their lives on the line every day in the name of protecting and serving their communities.”

“The District of Nevada is grateful to the Department of Justice for awarding funding to the North Las Vegas Police Department; University Police Services at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas; and the West Wendover Police Department,” said U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich. “These funds will help reduce crime in our communities, as police chiefs hire new officers to enhance their community policing efforts.”

The COPS Hiring Program is a competitive award program intended to reduce crime and advance public safety through community policing by providing direct funding for the hiring of career law enforcement officers. In addition to providing financial support for hiring, CHP provides funding to state, local, and tribal law enforcement to enhance local community policing strategies and tactics. In a changing economic climate, CHP funding helps law enforcement agencies maintain sufficient sworn personnel levels to promote safe communities. Funding through this program had been on hold since the spring of 2018 due to a nationwide injunction that was lifted earlier this year.

CHP applicants were required to identify a specific crime and disorder problem focus area and explain how the funding will be used to implement community policing approaches to that problem focus area. 43 percent of the awards announced today will focus on violent crime, while the remainder of the awards will focus on a variety of issues including school-based policing to fund school resource officer positions, building trust and respect, and opioid education, prevention, and intervention. The COPS Office received nearly 1,100 applications requesting more than 4,000 law enforcement positions. 

The complete list of awards can be found here. To learn more about CHP, please visit https://cops.usdoj.gov/chp. For additional information about the COPS Office, please visit www.cops.usdoj.gov.

###

RENO, Nev. – Brandon Eric Navarrete, 27, of Reno, was arraigned in federal court today on an indictment charging him for allegedly unlawfully possessing, receiving, and distributing approximately 17,000 images and videos of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada.

Navarrete was arrested Monday morning. He appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Carla L. Baldwin who scheduled a jury trial before Chief U.S. District Judge Miranda M. Du on July 14, 2020.

According to allegations presented in the indictment and during today’s court proceedings, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children received a CyberTip from SmugMug Inc. — a paid image sharing, image hosting service, and online video platform — regarding possible child pornography on its servers. On the basis of that tip, a search warrant was executed at Navarrete’s residence in Reno. A forensic analysis of the electronic devices that were seized revealed approximately 14,000 images of child pornography and approximately 300 video files depicting child pornography. The images and videos included children under 12 years old.

If convicted, Navarrete faces a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a $250,000.00 fine. In addition to imprisonment and fines, Navarrete also faces a period of supervised release following any term of imprisonment imposed, restitution, and monetary penalties. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes only. If convicted of an offense, the sentencing of a defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

This case is the product of a joint investigation by the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the FBI's Northern Nevada Child Exploitation & Human Trafficking Task Force, the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office, the Sparks Police Department, the Reno Police Department, and the Nevada Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Randolph St. Clair is prosecuting the case.

If you have information regarding possible child sexual exploitation, please make a report to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children by calling the 24-hour hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678) or by making a report at www.cybertipline.com.

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

###

LAS VEGAS, Nev. – Today, U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada and U.S. Marshal Gary G. Schofield for the U.S. Marshals Service announced that federal law enforcement will investigate, apprehend, and charge violent criminal instigators and organizers who have taken over peaceful protests and violated federal law.  

These actions are in accordance with the directive from Attorney General William P. Barr, to coordinate federal resources with state and local partners and the regional FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF) in Las Vegas. The intent is to protect the public, including those exercising their right to peaceful and legitimate protest, and uphold the rule of law.

“Last night, violence in Las Vegas resulted in the senseless shooting of a police officer while he was protecting our community,” said U.S. Attorney Trutanich. “Our thoughts are with the officer and his family. The right to peacefully protest and demonstrate is among the most fundamental rights held by all Americans. Violence and looting not only interferes with that right, but they also put lives at risk. Defying those peacefully exercising their First Amendment rights, and diverting focus away from the legitimate outrage over Mr. Floyd’s death, are unacceptable.”

U.S. Marshal Schofield said, “We have provided security to enforce federal laws and orders related to civil rights throughout our country’s history. After riots erupted over James Meredith's enrollment at Ole Miss in 1962, teams of Deputy U.S. Marshals protected him 24 hours a day for an entire year. In a similar circumstance, Ruby Bridges was also provided U.S. Marshals protection when she was one of the first students to integrate the New Orleans public schools. We continue to support peaceful protestors and reject what occurred after a peaceful protest over the death of Mr. Floyd last night. The violent criminal acts hijacked the message of the protest. We send our prayers to the officer and his family.”

###

LAS VEGAS, Nev. — Billy Joe West, 57, of Las Vegas, pleaded guilty today to misusing his position as a supervisor at a federally contracted drug testing facility to enrich himself by soliciting and accepting bribes from supervisees on federal supervision in exchange for concealing their positive and missed drug tests, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Aaron C. Rouse of the FBI.

West pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Jennifer A. Dorsey to an information charging one count of prevention of communication of supervised release and probation violation. He is scheduled to be sentenced on September 8, 2020.

According to court documents, West was a supervisor at WestCare Nevada, Inc., a federal contractor that conducted, among other services, court-ordered urinalysis drug testing of supervisees who are on federal probation and supervised release. His responsibilities included administering urinalysis drug testing.

West admitted that, between June 21, 2018, and March 19, 2020, he misled U.S. Probation Officers through a scheme to solicit and accept payments from supervisees in exchange for reporting a false negative drug test to the U.S. Probation Office. In one instance, in February 2020, in exchange for a $200 cash bribe, West falsely reported a negative drug test for a supervisee.

The scheme caused over 100 false reports to be made to the U.S. Probation Office. As a result of the false negative reports provided by West and other WestCare employees, the supervisees’ Probation Officers were deceived into believing that these supervisees were complying with court-ordered term of their supervised release. In fact, these supervisees had violated terms of their supervised release by either missing mandatory drug tests or testing positive for controlled substances.

West faces a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.

This case was the product of an investigation by the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica Oliva is prosecuting the case.

###

 

LAS VEGAS, Nev. — Eric Larsgaard, 29, of Las Vegas, was arraigned in federal court today on an indictment charging him for allegedly unlawfully possessing a firearm and deliberately setting fire in a hotel room, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Patrick Gorman for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

Larsgaard has two prior criminal convictions in Clark County, including ownership or possession of a firearm by a prohibited person and unlawful possession of a controlled substance. A jury trial has been scheduled before U.S. District Judge Jennifer Dorsey on July 16, 2020.

According to allegations contained in the criminal complaint and indictment, on March 4, 2020, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department officers responded to Sam’s Town Hotel and Gambling Hall after the fire alarm in Larsgaard’s hotel room was activated. Hotel security found that he had barricaded the door with a dresser and mattress. Guests staying in the hotel room next to Larsgaard’s room had also called hotel security to report that they heard three gunshots coming from his room. For safety reasons, officers evacuated all guests on the floor. After unsuccessfully attempting to make contact with Larsgaard for approximately four hours, responding law enforcement officers forced entry into the room and took Larsgaard into custody.

Officers executed a search warrant and located in Larsgaard’s room a Ruger handgun that previously had been reported stolen. The firearm’s safety was off, and the hammer was cocked in the firing position. Several bullet holes were located in the room. Further, an arson investigator with the Clark County Fire Investigation Division observed at least four different locations of deliberate ignition within the room. The arson investigator also noted that the smoke alarms had been tampered with and removed from the wall. 

If convicted, Larsgaard faces (a) a statutory maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for the charge of felon in possession of a firearm, and (b) between five to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for the charge of arson. In addition to imprisonment and fines, Larsgaard also faces a period of supervised release following any term of imprisonment imposed, restitution, and monetary penalties. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes only. If convicted of an offense, the sentencing of a defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

This case is the product of an investigation by ATF, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, and the Clark County Fire Investigation Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie N. Ihler is prosecuting the case.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a nationwide program by the Department of Justice that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority. In October 2017, as part of a series of actions to address this crime trend, the Department announced the reinvigoration of PSN. For more information about PSN, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-nv/project-safe-neighborhoods-project-guardian.

###

LAS VEGAS, Nev. — Ryan Sanchez, 20, of Las Vegas, was arraigned in federal court today on an indictment charging him for allegedly committing armed robberies of three restaurants in Henderson and Las Vegas, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada.

Sanchez is charged with three counts of interference with commerce by robbery and three counts of brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. A trial is scheduled for July 27, 2020.

According to allegations contained in the criminal complaint and indictment, from February 11, 2020 to April 14, 2020, Sanchez committed three armed robberies in Henderson and Las Vegas at three different sandwich shop locations. In the first robbery on February 11, Sanchez — brandishing a handgun and wearing a surgical mask — allegedly pointed a handgun at an employee and demanded money from the safe. Then on April 9, Sanchez allegedly entered a restaurant, climbed onto the counter while brandishing a handgun, and demanded money from the employee. Lastly, on April 14, Sanchez allegedly pointed a handgun at a restaurant employee and instructed the employee to open the cash register.

If convicted, Sanchez faces a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for each count of interference with commerce by robbery and a mandatory minimum sentence of not less than seven years imprisonment for each count of brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. In addition to imprisonment and fines, Sanchez also faces a period of supervised release, restitution, and monetary penalties.

An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

This case is the product of an investigation by the FBI, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, and the Henderson Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brett Ruff is prosecuting the case.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a nationwide program by the Department of Justice that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority. In October 2017, as part of a series of actions to address this crime trend, the Department announced the reinvigoration of PSN. For more information about PSN, visit www.justice.gov/usao-nv.

###

 

Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Eric Dreiband and U.S. Attorney for Nevada Nick Trutanich issued the following statement:

"We thank Governor Steve Sisolak for considering the concerns about religious liberty in Nevada, and commend him for extending religious freedom protections to people of faith as part of Phase 2 of the Nevada United: Roadmap to Recovery.  We look forward to continuing to work with the Governor as we work to balance civil liberties and public safety through the process of reopening. The Department of Justice will continue to prioritize Attorney General Barr’s Memorandum regarding Balancing Public Safety with the Preservation of Civil Rights."

LAS VEGAS, Nev. — Albert Raul Franco was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Andrew P. Gordon to three years in prison for illegally acquiring 11 firearms through a straw purchaser who made false statements on federal firearms transaction documents during the purchases, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Patrick Gorman for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

“Far too often, guns bought by straw purchasers end up in the hands of violent offenders and are recovered at crime scenes,” said U.S. Attorney Trutanich. “Together with the ATF, we will hold accountable individuals who lie on federal forms to buy guns illegally. Today’s sentence demonstrates our commitment to reducing gun violence, enforcing federal firearms laws through the Project Guardian initiative, and pursuing ‘Lie and Buy’ cases to make Nevada safer.”

Franco, 35, of Las Vegas, pleaded guilty in August 2019, to seven counts of illegal acquisition of a firearm. In addition to the prison term, Franco was sentenced to three years of supervised release.

According to court documents and admissions made in his plea agreement, on five separate occasions between July 28, 2017, and October 26, 2017, Franco directed co-defendant Tiffany Henderson to make false statements on the Firearms Transaction Record during the purchase of 11 handguns at different Federal Firearms Licensee businesses. On the Firearms Transaction Record, Henderson represented that she was the actual buyer of the firearms, when in fact these purchases were made on Franco’s behalf.

Franco, an admitted gang member and convicted felon, is prohibited from owning and possessing a firearm because of his prior convictions for multiple firearms and drug-related offenses and a conviction for assaulting a police officer. Franco’s pretrial release in this case was revoked after he failed to report an encounter with law enforcement during which he fled and was found to possess cocaine.

Co-defendant Henderson previously pleaded guilty to five counts of illegal acquisition of a firearm and aiding and abetting. She is scheduled to be sentenced on June 23, 2020.

The charges resulted from an investigation by the ATF. Assistant U.S. Attorney Simon Kung is prosecuting the case.

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

###

LAS VEGAS, Nev. – A Pennsylvania resident was indicted by a federal grand jury today for allegedly kidnapping a woman in Pennsylvania then driving her to Nevada and killing her in the desert, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Aaron C. Rouse for the FBI.

John Matthew Chapman, 40, is charged with one count of kidnapping which resulted in the death of the victim. He was previously charged by a criminal complaint on February 20, 2020. Chapman is currently in federal custody in Las Vegas, Nevada, where he awaits his initial court appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Albregts in U.S. District Court in Nevada on May 29, 2020.

According to allegations contained in the criminal complaint and indictment, on November 14, 2019, the Bethel Park Police Department in Pennsylvania conducted a welfare check on the victim at the request of a friend. During the welfare check, neighbors stated that they had not seen the victim in approximately two months, but they had observed a person whom they believed to be her boyfriend (Chapman) entering and leaving the victim’s residence. Inside the victim’s residence, officers found a fake CIA identification card with Chapman’s name and photograph, the victim’s cellular telephone, multiple zip ties, and a roll of duct tape.

A family member of the victim told investigators that she was communicating with the victim’s Facebook messenger account. Law enforcement determined that Chapman was pretending to be the victim, including responding to messages as the victim after her death.

On November 15, 2019, Chapman was arrested and interviewed by Bethel Park Police Department detectives. During the interview, Chapman admitted that in September 2019 he drove the victim from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania to Las Vegas, Nevada. He further admitted that he misled the victim to believe the trip was a vacation and they would potentially purchase a residence in Las Vegas. Chapman, however, had planned to kill the victim and had a “kill kit” ready before their departure to Nevada.

Chapman told investigators that he drove the victim out to the desert in Lincoln County, Nevada. Under the pretext of a photo shoot, the victim allowed Chapman to bind her hands and feet with plastic zip ties and affix her to a signpost. Chapman then applied duct tape to her mouth and nose, and watched her die from asphyxiation. The victim’s body was later discovered, and she was a “Jane Doe” unknown decedent until she was later positively identified by the Clark County Office of the Coroner/Medical Examiner through dental records.

The investigation revealed that Chapman returned to Pennsylvania afterwards, and continuously used the victim’s residence and money following her death and passed it off as his own.

If convicted, Chapman faces the maximum penalty of life in prison or death. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes only. If convicted of the offense, the sentencing of a defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

The case is the product of an investigation by the FBI, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bethel Park Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lisa Cartier-Giroux and Allison Reese are prosecuting the case.

###

 

LAS VEGAS, Nev. — A federal grand jury returned an indictment today charging Akila Chappell-Hersh, of Las Vegas, for allegedly possessing a firearm after prior felony convictions following a domestic violence incident call to law enforcement, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Patrick Gorman for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

“During the COVID-19 situation, domestic violence reports increased as many victims have been trapped with their abusers at home,” said U.S. Attorney Trutanich. “Our office has continued working with our law enforcement partners throughout the pandemic to execute the Department of Justice’s Project Guardian initiative, reducing gun violence and enforcing federal firearms laws — especially in cases involving a history of intimate partner violence.”

The indictment charges Chappell-Hersh, 26, with two counts of felon in possession of a firearm. He was charged in a criminal complaint in April 2020. Chappell-Hersh is scheduled to make his initial court appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Brenda Weksler on June 1, 2020.

According to the allegations in the complaint and indictment, on November 17, 2019, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department officers responded to a call in reference to a domestic violence incident. The caller reported hearing arguing and yelling from the apartment. A search warrant was served and a Sig Sauer P229, .40 caliber, was found under the mattress in the bedroom. Chappell-Hersh is prohibited from possessing a firearm after having convictions in Clark County for possession of a firearm by a prohibited person and possession of stolen property.

When Chappell-Hersh was located by Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department officers, he had a Glock 30S (a .45 caliber semi-automatic firearm) with a 26-round extended magazine on his person.

If convicted, Chappell-Hersh faces a statutory maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine as to each count. Chappell-Hersh also faces a period of supervised release, restitution, and monetary penalties. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes only. If convicted of the offense, the sentencing of a defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

This case is the product of an investigation by ATF. Assistant U.S. Attorney Linda Mott is prosecuting the case.

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

###

LAS VEGAS, Nev. — Louis Damato, 47, of Las Vegas, was indicted by a federal grand jury today for allegedly making threats to assault and murder a Nevada U.S. Representative, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Aaron C. Rouse for the FBI.

Damato was previously charged in a criminal complaint on March 27, 2020. His initial court appearance is scheduled before U.S. Magistrate Judge Brenda Weksler on June 1, 2020.

As alleged in the complaint and indictment, on March 16, 2020, the office of U.S. Representative Dina Titus in Washington, D.C., received a threatening voicemail stating in pertinent part: “… I bought a f*cking gun ok I’m coming to DC to blow your f*cking head off!” Later that day, U.S. Capitol Police determined that the phone that left the threatening voicemail belonged to Damato. The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department located Damato at a hotel casino, where he was arrested and read his Miranda rights. Damato allegedly admitted that he had been calling Representative Titus’ office for several days, and that he left the threatening message on the morning of March 16, 2020.

If convicted, Damato faces a statutory maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for the threatening to assault and murder a public official charge and five years in prison and a $250,000 fine for the interstate threats charge.

The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes only. If convicted of the offense, the sentencing of a defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

An indictment merely alleges that a crime has been committed. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

This case was the product of an investigation by the U.S. Capitol Police, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas Dickinson is prosecuting the case.

###

 

LAS VEGAS, Nev. — In honor of National Police Week, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement. The week will be observed from Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020.

“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”

“This week, we celebrate the brave men and women who honorably serve their communities with courage, duty, and character,” said U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich. “Our office joins our colleagues in recognizing the law enforcement community’s service and sacrifices. In particular, we  pay tribute to the 307 fallen officers whose names will be added to National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. Thank you to our partners in blue and to their families.”

In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.   

Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year, the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.

Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019.

Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.

The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 pm (EDT).  The online event can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF.

To learn more about National Police Week and the virtual candlelight vigil, please visit www.policeweek.org.

# # #

LAS VEGAS, Nev. — Timothy Anthony, 38, a prior convicted felon residing in Henderson, was charged Thursday in a federal criminal complaint with unlawfully possessing firearms, including an AR-15 style rifle, ammunition, and a body armor vest, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada, Special Agent in Charge Patrick Gorman for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and City of Henderson Police Chief Thedrick Andres.

As alleged in the complaint, on April 22, 2020, Henderson Police Department detectives executed a search warrant on Anthony’s vehicle and found a loaded .45 caliber handgun; a .45 caliber handgun magazine loaded with ammunition; a Point Blank Enterprises body armor vest with rifle plates; an AR-15 style rifle with a 13 inch barrel; nine rifle magazines with rifle ammunition; and a silencer for a rifle. The .45 caliber handgun and AR-15 style rifle appear to have been manufactured outside the normal process and are not registered. The body armor vest was reported stolen from the San Diego Police Department.

Later that day, detectives executed a search warrant at Anthony’s residence in Henderson. During the search, detectives found a Magnum Research .45 caliber handgun; a Remington 870 shotgun loaded with 13 shells; an AR-style pistol with no serial number; an AR-10 rifle; a CAI SKS rifle; dozens of shotgun shells and ammunition; an O-Mega taser; miscellaneous gun and machine parts; and gun manufacturing supplies. The Remington 870 shotgun was reported stolen from the San Diego Police Department.

Anthony had previously been convicted of felon in possession of a firearm in San Diego County. He also had previously been convicted of exhibiting a deadly weapon to police officer to resist arrest and possession for sale of a controlled substance in Los Angeles County.

Anthony was arrested, and a preliminary hearing will be scheduled before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daniel Albregts on a later date.

If convicted, Anthony faces a statutory maximum sentence of 10 years in prison for possession of a firearm not registered in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Act; 10 years in prison for felon in possession of a firearm; 10 years in prison for felon in possession of ammunition; and three years in prison for violent felon in possession of body armor. The maximum statutory sentences are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only. If convicted of any offense, the sentencing of a defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

A criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct for purposes of establishing probable cause, not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. 

This case was the product of an investigation by the ATF and Henderson Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Melanee Smith is prosecuting the case.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a nationwide program by the Department of Justice that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority. In October 2017, as part of a series of actions to address this crime trend, the Department announced the reinvigoration of PSN. For more information about PSN, visit www.justice.gov/usao-nv.

###

LAS VEGAS, Nev. – U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada today announced that the Department of Justice’s Office of Justice Programs has awarded $7,385,200 in grant funding to the Nevada Department of Public Safety to respond to the public safety challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19.

The grant is among the most recent to be awarded through the $850 million available under the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump. This program allows eligible state, local and tribal governments to apply immediately for these critical funds. The Office of Justice Programs is moving quickly, aiming to have funds available for drawdown as soon as possible after receiving an application. In addition to statewide awards, many local jurisdictions within these states are eligible for direct awards. A list of all awards can be found at https://bja.ojp.gov/program/cesf/awards.

U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich stated: “We are thankful to the Office of Justice Programs for making over $7.3 million available to the Nevada Department of Public Safety. These funds will provide critical support and help ensure public safety throughout the state during this public health crisis.”

“The outbreak of COVID-19 and the public health emergency it created are sobering    reminders that even the most routine duties performed by our nation’s public safety officials carry potentially grave risks,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “These funds will provide hard-hit communities with critical resources to help mitigate the impact of this crisis and give added protection to the brave professionals charged with keeping citizens safe.”

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security, or CARES, Act gives jurisdictions considerable latitude in the use of funds for dealing with COVID-19. Potential uses include hiring personnel, paying overtime, purchasing protective equipment and distributing resources to hard-hit areas. Funds may also be used to help correctional facilities cover costs related to COVID-19, including, but not limited to, sanitation, contagion prevention and measures designed to address the related medical needs of inmates, detainees and correctional personnel.

The solicitation, posted by the Office of Justice Programs' Bureau of Justice Assistance, will remain open for at least 60 days. As a top priority, the Office of Justice Programs will fund successful applicants on a rolling basis as it receives applications. Grantees may apply the funds retroactively to January 20, 2020, subject to federal rules.

Agencies that were eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for the emergency funding. A complete list of eligible jurisdictions and their allocations is available at https://bja.ojp.gov/program/fy20-cesf-allocations. For more information, please visit https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-18553.

The Office of Justice Programs, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about the Office of Justice Programs and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.

###

LAS VEGAS, Nev. – U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich joins the Department of Justice and communities nationwide in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, celebrating victims’ rights, protections and services throughout the week. This year’s observance takes place April 19-25 and features the theme, “Seek Justice | Ensure Victims' Rights | Inspire Hope.”

“Every year, millions of Americans suffer the shock and trauma of criminal victimization, affecting their well-being and sense of security and dignity,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “To these victims, we affirm our unwavering commitment to supporting them in their hour of need. We also commend the thousands of victim advocates and public safety professionals who labor tirelessly to secure victims’ rights and support survivors.”

“Our office continues to work every day to fight on behalf of victims and prosecute criminals who harm them,” said U.S. Attorney Trutanich. “All victims deserve justice, and National Crime Victims’ Rights Week recognizes survivors of crime and their rights, as well as advocates who provide support and assistance to victims.”

“While we have made tremendous progress driving down crime and violence across the country, far too many Americans continue to suffer the pain and loss of criminal victimization,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General of the Office of Justice Programs. “This week, we stand by these survivors and their families, and we pledge our ongoing support to the countless men and women who serve them with such extraordinary skill and compassion.”

Ronald Reagan proclaimed the first Victims’ Rights Week in 1981, putting crime victims' rights, needs, and concerns in a prominent spot on the American agenda. He also established the President's Task Force on Victims of Crime, which laid the groundwork for a national network of services and legal safeguards for crime victims. President Trump and his administration have implemented historic levels of support for victim assistance and victim compensation.

Some 3.3 million Americans age 12 and older were victims of violent crime in 2018, according to the National Crime Victimization Survey. The Office for Victims of Crime (OVC), part of the Justice Department’s Office of Justice Programs, supports more than 7,000 local victim assistance programs and victim compensation programs in every state and U.S. territory. Funds for these programs come from the Crime Victims Fund, which is made up of federal criminal fines, penalties and bond forfeitures.

During National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, victim advocacy organizations, community groups and state, local and tribal agencies traditionally host rallies, candlelight vigils, and other events to raise awareness of victims’ rights and services. This year, many communities are organizing virtual gatherings and online public awareness campaigns.

This year’s commemoration began yesterday, 25 years to the day when a truck bomb exploded in front of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, taking the lives of 168 people, including 19 children, as well as injuring hundreds of others. The mass murder remains the worst act of domestic terrorism in our nation’s history and led to the establishment of the Antiterrorism Emergency Reserve, which is administered by OVC, and has been used to provide direct services to hundreds of victims of mass violence and terrorism.

“Crime victims deserve to know that they have the encouragement and support of the American people,” said OVC Director Jessica E. Hart. “I hope that citizens throughout the nation will take the opportunity this week to remember all victims of crime and their heroic stories of survival. I encourage everyone to also find meaningful ways to express their appreciation to the many committed and compassionate service providers across the country who work tirelessly supporting these survivors.”

This year, the annual National Crime Victims’ Service Awards Ceremony will be postponed until a time when we can honor this year’s award recipients in person. During the ceremony, OVC will present awards recognizing individuals and organizations from across the nation for their outstanding service on behalf of crime victims. The awardees will be selected from public nominations in 11 categories, including federal service, special courage, public policy, and victim services. Visit www.ovc.gov/gallery to learn more about past recipients.

For more information on how to create your own public campaigns to raise awareness about crime victims’ rights online and at events throughout the year, please visit: https://ovc.ncjrs.gov/ncvrw2020/overview.html.

# # #

LAS VEGAS, Nev. – Today, U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich and Nevada Attorney General Aaron D. Ford announced the formation of the Nevada COVID-19 Task Force. The Task Force is comprised of local, state and federal investigators and prosecutors with significant experience in handling complaints and cases related to general fraud, heath care fraud, Medicaid fraud, insurance fraud, workers’ compensation fraud and cybercrime, among others. Together, they will share information and resources to protect Nevadans from those using the COVID-19 pandemic to take advantage of consumers.

All participating agencies will take information, tips and complaints from the public, as well as other local law enforcement agencies seeking the Task Force’s assistance. The Task Force will share resources to monitor, identify and investigate misconduct most effectively and efficiently as possible.

“Our top priority is protecting Nevadans during this public health crisis,” said U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich. “I am committed to marshalling the full spectrum of capabilities my office and our federal law enforcement partners can bring to support the Task Force’s important mission of protecting our vulnerable populations from fraudsters. I urge citizens to contact the Task Force with information and tips.”

“Sadly, it is all too common for fraudsters to take advantage of the public during times of great distress and hardship,” said Attorney General Aaron D. Ford.  “From day one, I’ve focused on protecting Nevada families and consumers, and I’m proud that my office continues to be on the front lines of fighting fraud and helping Nevadans in need. With a united front, we’re showing fraudsters they have no business taking advantage of Nevadans.”

The U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Nevada Attorney General’s Office caution residents to be wary of potential scams such as these:

• Diagnosis Testing Scams: Scammers offer fake COVID-19 testing kits, particularly door-to-door.
• Treatment/Cure Scams: Scammers offer fake or unproven treatment regimens that are particularly dangerous because they have the potential to do more harm than good.
• Charity Scams: Virtually every time there is a disaster or emergency, scammers set up fake charities to solicit donations that they then spend on themselves.
• Overinflated prices: The Task Force will use every tool available to hold sellers accountable who unlawfully use the COVID-19 pandemic to unreasonably inflate prices.
• Investment Scams: Scammers make false claims about tests, cures and other matters related to COVID-19 in order to entice victims to make investment decisions based on those false claims that allow the scammer to steal money and assets from Nevadans.
• Cyber Scams: Scammers send victims emails related to COVID-19 that appear to be from the victims’ banks, health care providers, the World Health Organization, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and others for the purpose of obtaining the victims’ personal identifying information and exploiting it for the scammers’ own benefit.
• App Scams: Scammers are creating and manipulating mobile apps designed to track the spread of COVID-19 to insert malware that will compromise users’ devices and personal information.
• Insurance, Workers’ Compensation and Medicaid Fraud: Businesses and government agencies are not immune to scams. They should also be vigilant to ensure scammers do not take advantage of their businesses or customers during this pandemic.
• Economic Impact Payment (Stimulus Check):  Scammers pretend to be government officials offering false economic impact payments (stimulus checks) in order to obtain personal identifying information including social security and bank account numbers.

 

Fifteen agencies are a part of this Task Force including:

• U.S. Attorney’s Office
• Office of the Nevada Attorney General
• Federal Bureau of Investigation
• U.S. Secret Service
• Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation
• Drug Enforcement Administration
• U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Inspector General
• Department of Veterans Affairs’ Office of Inspector General
• Department of Education Office of Inspector General
• Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General
• U.S. Postal Inspection Service
• Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration
• Nevada’s Secretary of State’s Office
• Washoe County Sheriff’s Office
• Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department

 

For tips on how to avoid falling victim to these scams, click here.

If you are in danger or experiencing a true emergency, please call 911. If you have been victimized by any crime related to the COVID-19 pandemic, please report your experience to the Attorney General’s Office (ag.nv.gov/Complaints/File_Complaint/) and the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) hotline at 1-866-720-5721 or by e-mailing the NCDF at disaster@leo.gov. In your email, please provide the following information:

• Your full name and contact information;
• The dates on which you were victimized;
• The location of the incident (including city and state);
• A brief description of the crime; and
• The name(s) and contact information of the perpetrator(s) (if known).

###

RENO, Nev. – Peter Lucas, 35, of Reno, was arrested yesterday and appeared in court today for allegedly stealing hundreds of surgical masks from a supply cart at the Ioannis A. Lougaris VA Medical Center (VA Medical Center) in Reno, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada.

“Our military veterans served on the front lines to protect our country, and now our health professionals are doing the same in our fight against COVID-19,” said U.S. Attorney Trutanich. “We will not allow the theft of personal protective equipment to go undeterred, endangering the safety of doctors, nurses, and other health professionals protecting our communities.”

Lucas is charged with one count of theft of health care property. He made his initial appearance today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Carla L. Baldwin.

According to the complaint and affidavit, police surveillance cameras at the VA Medical Center depicted that, between March 19 and March 23, 2020, Lucas stole at least four boxes of surgical masks from supply carts in his care, then concealed the boxes under his jacket before exiting the hospital. Each box contained 50 masks.

If convicted, the maximum statutory penalty is one year in prison and a $100,000 fine. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes only. If convicted of any offense, the sentencing of a defendant will be determined by the Court, based on the advisory Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

A criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct for purposes of establishing probable cause, not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

The case is a product of an investigation by the VA Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter Walkingshaw is prosecuting this case.

The public is urged to report suspected fraud schemes related to COVID-19 by calling the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) hotline (1-866-720-5721) or by e-mailing the NCDF at disaster@leo.gov or directly to the U.S. Attorney’s Office at USANV.COVID19FRAUD@usdoj.gov. For information about the Department of Justice’s efforts to stop COVID-19 fraud, visit www.justice.gov/coronavirus.

For the most up-to-date information on COVID-19, you may visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and WHO websites.    

###

RENO, Nev. — George Wyatt Elms and Travis Klyn made their initial appearances today for allegedly conspiring to steal dozens of firearms from a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL), announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada and Acting Special Agent in Charge Frederic D. Winston for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

As alleged in the complaint, on February 19, 2020, Elms, 31, and Klyn, 39, both Winnemucca residents, conspired to steal 25 firearms from an FFL in Winnemucca. Surveillance footage from that day depicted an individual — wearing what appears to be a clown mask — pacing back and forth, and shining a flashlight through a warehouse. According to video surveillance, three individuals were able to gain entry to the warehouse by first removing a panel in the roof. They dropped down approximately ten feet onto a nearby staircase, and then broke through a door. On surveillance video, one individual used a pickaxe to break the glass of a gun case, and the others loaded firearms into their backpacks.

Elms and Klyn are charged with one count of conspiracy to steal, take, or carry away firearms from the premises of an FFL. Elms is also charged with one count of theft of firearms from the premises of an FFL. Elms and Klyn appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Carla Baldwin, who scheduled a preliminary hearing on April 16, 2020.

If convicted, the statutory maximum sentence for conspiracy to steal, take, or carry away firearms from the premises of an FFL is five years in prison and a $250,000 fine, and theft of firearms from the premises of an FFL is 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The maximum statutory sentences are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only. If convicted of any offense, the sentencing of a defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

A criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct for purposes of establishing probable cause, not evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. 

This case is the product of an investigation by the ATF and the Winnemucca Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Rachow is prosecuting the case.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a nationwide program by the Department of Justice that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority. In October 2017, as part of a series of actions to address this crime trend, the Department announced the reinvigoration of PSN. For more information about PSN, visit www.justice.gov/usao-nv.

###

LAS VEGAS, Nev. – U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada today announced that nearly $60 million in Department of Justice grants is available to help communities across the country address public safety by supporting successful reentry of adult and juvenile offenders into their communities.

“Our nation is facing difficult public safety challenges that demand strong and immediate action. The high rate of recidivism poses a dire threat to community safety and is being met with a robust response by this Administration,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “The Department of Justice is front and center in the fight to meet this persistent challenge. OJP is making historic amounts of grant funding available to ensure that our communities have access to innovative and diverse solutions.”

“These grant opportunities demonstrate the Department of Justice’s commitment to providing a successful pathway for adult and juvenile offenders returning to their communities,” said U.S. Attorney Trutanich. “We know that effective reentry means safer communities and, therefore, I encourage our law enforcement and community partners to apply.”

The funding is available through OJP, the federal government’s leading source of public safety funding and crime victim assistance in state, local and tribal jurisdictions. OJP’s programs support a wide array of activities and services, including adult and juvenile reentry initiatives and research projects designed to improve our knowledge of what works in reentry programming. 

A number of funding opportunities are currently open, with several more opening in the near future. 

• Correctional Adult Reentry Education, Employment, and Recidivism Reduction Strategies Program

https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17104

Total Available: $7.2 million                                      Deadline: 4/27/2020

• Improving Community Supervision Outcomes Through Swift, Certain, and Fair Responses

https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17096

Total Available: $3 million                                         Deadline: 4/28/2020

• Improving Reentry for People with Substance Use Disorders Program

https://bja.ojp.gov/SCASUD20

Total Available: $13.2 million                                    Deadline: 4/27/2020   

• Innovations in Reentry Initiative: Building System Capacity & Testing Strategies to Reduce Recidivism

https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17281

Total Available: $4 million                                         Deadline: 5/4/2020

• Research and Evaluation on Promising Reentry Initiatives

https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-17295

Total Available: $6 million                                        Deadline: 5/5/2020     

• Review and Validation of the First Step Act Risk Assessment Tool https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-fsa

Total Available: Determined after selection               Deadline: 4/10/2020

• Second Chance Act Community-Based Reentry Program

https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17110

Total Available: $13.5 million                                    Deadline: 5/4/2020

• Second Chance Act Evaluation Participation Support

https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17680

Total Available: $4 million                                        Deadline: 4/28/2020

• Second Chance Act Youth Offender Reentry Program

https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/sites/g/files/xyckuh176/files/media/document/ojjdp-2020-17350.pdf

Total Available: $7 million                                         Deadline: 4/28/2020

For more information regarding all OJP funding opportunities, visit https://www.ojp.gov/funding/explore/current-funding-opportunities

                                                                        ###

LAS VEGAS, Nev. – U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada today announced that more than $83 million in Department of Justice grants is available to help communities across the country improve school security and protect students, teachers and faculty from threats of violence.

“School violence is no longer an abstract threat but has become a tragic reality in too many of America’s communities. Moving to meet this challenge is among the Administration’s top domestic priorities,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “The Department of Justice is front and center in the fight to meet this challenge. OJP is making historic amounts of grant funding available to ensure that our communities have access to innovative and diverse solutions.”

“Through these grant opportunities, the Department of Justice is further expanding its efforts to reduce school violence,” said U.S. Attorney Trutanich. “This new funding will help protect children, teachers, and faculty throughout Nevada.”

The funding is available through OJP, the federal government’s leading source of public safety funding and crime victim assistance in state, local and tribal jurisdictions. OJP’s programs support a wide array of activities and services, including programs designed to tighten school security and improve the reporting of threats. 

A number of funding opportunities for school safety are currently open, with another opening in the near future: 

• Research and Evaluation on School Safety

https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-17308

Total Available: $5 million                                        Deadline: 4/13/2020

• STOP Act School Violence Program (FY20)

https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17312

Total Available: $71.5 million                                    Deadline: 6/9/2020

• Strategies to Support Children Exposed to Violence

https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17926

Total Available: $7 million                                        Deadline: 4/27/2020

For more information regarding all OJP funding opportunities, visit https://www.ojp.gov/funding/explore/current-funding-opportunities.  

###

LAS VEGAS, Nev. – U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada today announced that more than $163 million in Department of Justice grants is available to help communities address America’s addiction crisis.

“Our nation is facing the difficult challenge of curbing substance addiction, which threatens public safety and is among the Administration’s top domestic priorities,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “The Department of Justice is front and center in the fight to meet this challenge. OJP is making historic amounts of grant funding available to ensure that our communities have access to innovative and diverse solutions.”

“The cycle of addiction not only affects the individual and their loved ones, but also their community and public safety,” said U.S. Attorney Trutanich. “The OJP grant funds will provide assistance and needed resources to treatment providers, drug courts, and other organizations, serving as a lifeline to help stem the tide of substance addiction. These grants demonstrate the Department of Justice’s commitment to stopping the drug abuse and addiction cycle.”

The funding is available through OJP, the federal government’s leading source of public safety funding and crime victim assistance in state, local and tribal jurisdictions. OJP’s programs support a wide array of activities and services, including programs designed to prevent overdose deaths and break the cycle of addiction and crime. 

A number of funding opportunities that address the addiction crisis are currently open: 

• Adult Drug Court and Veterans Treatment Court Discretionary Grant Program

https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17098

Total Available: $1.75 million                                    Deadline: 5/14/2020   

• Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant, and Substance Abuse Site-based Program

https://bja.ojp.gov/COSSAP20

Total Available: $27 million                                       Deadline: 5/21/2020

• Enhancing Community Responses to America's Addiction Crisis: Serving Our Youngest Crime Victims

https://www.ovc.gov/grants/pdftxt/fy-2020-enhancing-community-responses-to-drug-crisis.pdf

Total Available: $19 million                                       Deadline: 5/4/2020

• Family Drug Court Program

https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17090

Total Available: $18.2 million                                    Deadline: 4/8/2020 (Extended)

• Harold Rogers Prescription Drug Monitoring Program

https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17754

Total Available: $28.1                                                Deadline: 5/5/2020

• Juvenile Drug Treatment Court Program

https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17051

Total Available: $7.2 million                                      Deadline: 4/13/2020 (Extended)

• Mentoring Opportunities for Youth Initiative

https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-16930

Total Available: $48 million                                       Deadline: 4/13/2020  

• Opioid Affected Youth Initiative

https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17352

Total Available: $9 million                                         Deadline: 4/20/2020

• Research and Evaluation on Drugs and Crime

https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-17275

Total Available: $1 million                                         Deadline: 4/20/2020                           

• Residential Substance Abuse Treatment for State Prisoners

https://bja.ojp.gov/RSAT20

Total Available: $4.5 million                                      Deadline: 4/6/2020

For more information regarding all OJP funding opportunities, visit https://www.ojp.gov/funding/explore/current-funding-opportunities

###

LAS VEGAS, Nev. – The Department of Justice today announced that it is making $850 million available to help public safety agencies respond to the challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19. The Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump, will allow eligible state, local and tribal governments to apply immediately for these critical funds. The department is moving quickly to make awards, with the goal of having funds available for drawdown within days of the award.

“This is an unprecedented moment in our nation’s history and an especially dangerous one for our front-line law enforcement officers, corrections officials, and public safety professionals,” said Office of Justice Programs Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “We are grateful to the Congress for making these resources available and for the show of support this program represents.”

U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich stated: “The Office of Justice has made over $7.3 million available to the Nevada Department of Public Safety to distribute throughout the state. Another nearly $4.2 million is available to Nevada municipal, county, and tribal agencies to be used to hire personnel, pay overtime costs, cover protective equipment and supplies, and other related activities. I encourage our partners to apply for this emergency funding, which will provide critical support as they tirelessly work to ensure public safety during this unprecedented time.”

The solicitation, posted by the Bureau of Justice Assistance in the Justice Department’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP), will remain open for at least 60 days and be extended as necessary. OJP will fund successful applicants as a top priority on a rolling basis as applications are received. Funds may be used to hire personnel, pay overtime costs, cover protective equipment and supplies, address correctional inmates’ medical needs and defray expenses related to the distribution of resources to hard-hit areas, among other activities. Grant funds may be applied retroactively to Jan. 20, 2020, subject to federal supplanting rules.

Agencies that were eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for this emergency funding. A complete list of eligible jurisdictions and their allocations can be found at https://bja.ojp.gov/program/fy20-cesf-allocations.

For more information about the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, please visit https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-18553. For more information about the Office of Justice Programs, please visit https://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.

###

LAS VEGAS, Nev. — Louis Damato, 47, of Las Vegas, made his initial appearance today in connection with federal charges for allegedly making threats to assault and murder a Nevada U.S. Representative, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Aaron C. Rouse for the FBI.

As alleged in the complaint, on March 16, 2020, the office of U.S. Representative Dina Titus in Washington, D.C., received a threatening voicemail stating in pertinent part: “… I bought a f*cking gun ok I’m coming to DC to blow your f*cking head off!” Later that day, U.S. Capitol Police determined that the phone that left the threatening voicemail belonged to Damato. The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department located Damato at a hotel casino, where he was arrested and read his Miranda rights. Damato allegedly admitted that he had been calling Representative Titus’ office for several days, and that he left the threatening message on the morning of March 16, 2020.

A preliminary hearing has been scheduled before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Albregts on April 17, 2020.

If convicted, Damato faces a statutory maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for the threatening to assault and murder a public official charge and five years in prison and a $250,000 fine for the interstate threats charge.

The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes only. If convicted of the offense, the sentencing of a defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

A criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct for purposes of establishing probable cause, not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. 

This case was the product of an investigation by the U.S. Capitol Police, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas Dickinson is prosecuting the case.

###

 

LAS VEGAS, Nev. — Billy Joe West, 57, of Las Vegas, made his initial appearance Monday on a federal charge alleging that he misused his position as an employee at a federally contracted drug testing facility to solicit and accept bribes from individuals on federal probation, in exchange for concealing their positive and missed drug tests, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Aaron C. Rouse of the FBI.

“Employees of federal contractors must put the public interest over their own self interests,” said U.S. Attorney Trutanich. “Our law enforcement partners and our office will continue to investigate violations of the public trust.”

“Obstructing justice by accepting bribes in exchange for false reporting is unacceptable,” said Special Agent in Charge Rouse. “The FBI will use every resource available to assist our law enforcement partners in holding individuals accountable for their actions.”

According to the complaint, West was an employee at WestCare Nevada, Inc., a federal contractor that conducted, among other services, court-ordered urinalysis drug testing of supervisees (on federal probation and supervised release). West’s responsibilities included administering that drug testing.

The complaint alleges that West devised a scheme to solicit and accept payments from supervisees in exchange for reporting a false negative drug test to the U.S. Probation Office. During January and February 2020, in exchange for cash bribes, West helped an individual falsify drug testing results on at least three occasions. On the first two occasions, West received $400 in exchange for reporting a negative drug test even though the individual was not tested.

A preliminary hearing has been scheduled before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Albregts on April 13, 2020.

If convicted, West faces a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for the honest services wire fraud charge. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes only. If convicted of any offense, the sentencing of a defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

A criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct for purposes of establishing probable cause, not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. 

This case was the product of an investigation by the FBI.

###

LAS VEGAS, Nev. — Today, U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Aaron C. Rouse for the FBI warned of several new fraud schemes seeking to exploit the evolving coronavirus public health emergency.

Scammers have already devised numerous methods for defrauding people in connection with COVID-19. They are setting up websites, contacting people by phone and email, and posting disinformation on social media platforms. Some examples of scams linked to COVID-19 include:

• Testing scams: Scammers are selling fake at-home test kits or going door-to-door performing fake tests for money.

• Treatment scams: Scammers are offering to sell fake cures, vaccines, and advice on unproven treatments for COVID-19.

• Supply scams: Scammers are creating fake shops, websites, social media accounts, and email addresses claiming to sell medical supplies currently in high demand, such as surgical masks. When consumers attempt to purchase supplies through these channels, fraudsters pocket the money and never provide the promised supplies.

• Provider scams: Scammers are contacting people by phone and email, pretending to be doctors and hospitals that have treated a friend or relative for COVID-19, and demanding payment for that treatment.

• Charity scams: Scammers are soliciting donations for individuals, groups, and areas affected by COVID-19.

• Phishing scams: Scammers posing as national and global health authorities, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), are sending phishing emails designed to trick recipients into downloading malware or providing personal identifying and financial information.

• App scams: Scammers are creating and manipulating mobile apps designed to track the spread of COVID-19 to insert malware that will compromise users’ devices and personal information.

• Investment scams: Scammers are offering online promotions on various platforms, including social media, claiming that the products or services of publicly traded companies can prevent, detect, or cure COVID-19, and that the stock of these companies will dramatically increase in value as a result. These promotions are often styled as “research reports,” make predictions of a specific “target price,” and relate to microcap stocks, or low-priced stocks issued by the smallest of companies with limited publicly available information.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office and FBI urge Nevadans to take the following precautionary measures to protect themselves from known and emerging scams:

• Independently verify the identity of any company, charity, or individual that contacts you regarding COVID-19.

• Check the websites and email addresses offering information, products, or services related to COVID-19. Be aware that scammers often employ addresses that differ only slightly from those belonging to the entities they are impersonating. For example, they might use “cdc.com” or “cdc.org” instead of “cdc.gov.”

• Be wary of unsolicited emails offering information, supplies, or treatment for COVID-19 or requesting your personal information for medical purposes. Legitimate health authorities will not contact the general public this way.

• Do not click on links or open email attachments from unknown or unverified sources. Doing so could download malware or a virus onto your computer or device.

• Make sure the anti-malware and anti-virus software on your computer is operating and up to date.

• Ignore unsolicited offers for a COVID-19 vaccine, cure, or treatment. Remember, if there is a medical breakthrough, you won’t hear about it for the first time through an email, online ad, or unsolicited sales pitch.

• Check online reviews of any company offering COVID-19 products or supplies.  Avoid companies whose customers have complained about not receiving items.

• Research any charities or crowdfunding sites soliciting donations in connection with COVID-19 before giving. Remember, an organization may not be legitimate even if it uses words like “CDC” or “government” in its name or has seals or logos on its materials. For online resources on donating wisely, visit the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) website.

• Be wary of any business, charity, or individual requesting payments or donations in cash, by wire transfer, gift card, or through the mail. Don’t send money through any of these channels.

• Be cautious of “investment opportunities” tied to COVID-19, especially those based on claims that a small company’s products or services can help stop the virus. If you decide to invest, carefully research the investment beforehand.  For information on how to avoid investment fraud, visit the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) website.

• For the most up-to-date information on COVID-19, visit the CDC and WHO websites.

On March 18, 2020, U.S. Attorney Trutanich announced the appointment of a COVID-19 fraud coordinator to lead investigations into known and suspected occurrences of financial fraud related to the nation’s ongoing public health emergency.

If you or someone you know believe you’ve been the target or victim of an outbreak-related fraud scheme, please contact the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) by visiting www.IC3.gov.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office COVID-19 fraud coordinator will be notified of tips submitted via the above reporting method.

###

 

LAS VEGAS, Nev. – U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada today announced that more than $65 million in Department of Justice grants is available to help communities combat human trafficking and serve victims of trafficking operations.

“Our nation is facing difficult challenges, none more pressing than the scourge of human trafficking. Human traffickers pose a dire threat to public safety and countering this threat remains one of the Administration’s top domestic priorities,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “The Department of Justice is front and center in the fight against this insidious crime. OJP is making historic amounts of grant funding available to ensure that our communities have access to innovative and diverse solutions.”

“On behalf of the District of Nevada, we are grateful for the Department of Justice’s support in bringing human traffickers to justice and helping victims in our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Trutanich. “Together with our law enforcement partners, the U.S. Attorney’s Office looks forward to effectively and creatively deploying the resources possible through this new grant funding.”

The funding is available through OJP, the federal government’s leading source of public safety funding and crime victim assistance in state, local and tribal jurisdictions. OJP’s programs support a wide array of activities and services, including programs that support human trafficking task forces and services for human trafficking survivors. 

A number of funding opportunities are currently open, with several more opportunities opening this week. 

• Missing and Exploited Children Training and Technical Assistance Program

https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17351

Total Available: $1.8 million                            Deadline: 4/6/2020

• Multidisciplinary Task Force Program to Combat Human Trafficking

Total Available: $22 million                             Opens week of 3/16/2020

• Preventing Trafficking of Girls

Total Available: $1.7 million                            Opens week of 3/16/2020

• Research and Evaluation on Trafficking in Persons

https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-17324

Total Available: $2.5 million                             Deadline: 4/20/2020

• Services for Victims of Human Trafficking

Total Available: $16.5 million                           Opens week of 3/16/2020

• Specialized Training and Technical Assistance on Housing for Victims of Human Trafficking

Total Available: $2 million                                Opens week of 3/16/2020

• Human Trafficking Training and Technical Assistance Program

Total Available: $5 million                                Opens week of 3/16/2020

• Improving Outcomes for Child and Youth Victims of Human Trafficking  

Total Available: $6 million                                Opens week of 3/16/2020

• Integrated Services for Minor Victims of Labor Trafficking

Total Available: $8 million                                Opens week of 3/16/2020

 

For more information regarding all OJP funding opportunities, please visit https://www.ojp.gov/funding/explore/current-funding-opportunities

###

 

LAS VEGAS, Nev. – U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada today announced the appointment of a COVID-19 Fraud Coordinator to lead investigations and prosecutions of fraud related to the pandemic, and to work with our partners to develop strategies to detect and prevent fraud schemes.

“Wrongdoers seeking to take advantage of individuals – through fraud or force – during this health crisis are now on notice,” U.S. Attorney Trutanich stated. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office COVID-19 Fraud Coordinator will be working with law enforcement at all levels to investigate and prosecute those who exploit the fears of Nevadans for personal gain. This conduct will not be tolerated in Nevada.”

As the State of Nevada and this nation face the spread of COVID-19, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada wants to reinforce to the citizens of Nevada that law enforcement functions and our federal justice system continue to operate effectively during the crisis. The U.S. Attorney’s Office and our partners are committed to upholding the rule of law and protecting the safety and security of Nevadans.

As this is an emerging, rapidly evolving situation, we have adapted operations for the health and safety of our personnel. We are executing on the guidance of the U.S. Attorney General, which makes clear that the critical mission of the Department of Justice — protecting the public — will continue. We are also working closely with the court and other stakeholders on appropriate precautions to protect the health of those who practice in and come before the court.

In addition to ensuring that the federal justice system continues to function, the U.S. Attorney’s Office remains vigilant in detecting, investigating, and prosecuting wrongdoing arising from the crisis. The U.S. Attorney’s Office has made a priority all criminal conduct related to the current pandemic. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will protect Nevadans from fraudsters and criminals who seek to exploit this crisis for their profit and personal advantage. We stand ready to hold accountable wrongdoers who take advantage of emergency response efforts and violate the public safety and other laws of the United States in connection with the manufacturing, distribution, or sale of public health products such as face masks, respirators, and diagnostics. 

Nevadans are reminded that the best source of information for prevention and treatment of COVID-19 remains the CDC's website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/indcx.html.

###

LAS VEGAS, Nev. – Jason Demko, a Canadian national currently residing in Las Vegas, and Michael Guariglia, of Buffalo Valley, Tennessee, were sentenced today to 46 months in prison and five years of probation, respectively, for defrauding small business owners of nearly 12 million dollars, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Aaron C. Rouse of the FBI.

“Small businesses are an important part of all communities in Nevada and across the country,” said U.S. Attorney Trutanich. “Among other things, they create meaningful jobs, support local neighborhoods, and provide opportunities for entrepreneurs. We appreciate the opportunity to partner with the FBI in bringing these defendants, who targeted small business owners, to justice.”

“The FBI will pursue those who plan, scheme and defraud innocent people for their own personal gain,” said Special Agent in Charge Rouse. “I'd like to thank the men and women of the FBI who work hard every day to identify and apprehend those responsible for taking advantage of trusting citizens; in this case small business owners."

Demko, 43, pleaded guilty on February 14, 2018, and Guariglia, 53, pleaded guilty on March 20, 2018. In addition to the prison term, U.S. District Judge Kent J. Dawson ordered both men to pay restitution (jointly and severally) in the amount of $11,509,087. Demko was also ordered to pay a criminal forfeiture money judgment in the amount of $307,060, and Guariglia was ordered to pay a criminal forfeiture money judgment in the amount of $68,666.

According to court documents, from about December 2009 to February 2014, Demko, Guariglia, their co-defendants, and others operated a telemarketing scam commonly known as the “grant-fee scam” targeting small business owners. In the grant-fee scam, criminals contact small business owners claiming to act as a broker for corporations, charitable foundations, or government agencies looking to give money away. The criminals ask the victims about their businesses, then claim to have found high dollar grants matching the victims’ businesses. For a substantial fee, the criminals offer to file the paperwork needed to obtain the grants, promising that the cost of their services will be covered by the grants the victims will assuredly receive. In reality, no such grants exist. The criminals simply take the victims’ money.

Often, criminals carrying out grant-fee scams then embark on a campaign of “lulling” and “reloading.” Lulling is a series of excuses and distractions designed to make the victims believe that the promised grants are imminent, if only this bit of paperwork or that action were completed. The main purpose of lulling is to delay the victims’ actions to recover the funds and delay the victims’ reports of the crime to law enforcement. Lulling is often done hand-in-hand with reloading, thus scamming more money from victims to pay additional sums for “unanticipated” documents or tax charges to obtain the promised grants. In reality, no such documents or tax charges are needed because no grants exist. Again, the criminals simply take the victims’ money.  

Demko, sometimes using the alias Jeff Ross, together with Guariglia, their co-defendants, and others, defrauded hundreds of individuals and families out of nearly 12 million dollars. To carry out their scheme, Demko, Guariglia, their co-defendants, and others made false representations and promises to small business owners to persuade and induce them to pay initial fees, usually between $2,500 and $5,000, for goods and services the victims thought would help them obtain grants for their businesses. The small business owners were told that the total cost for obtaining a grant was between $10,000 and $15,000, depending on the total amount of funding requested, and that the remaining fees would not be charged until the owners received 100 percent of the grant funding. Among other things, Demko, Guariglia, and their co-defendants falsely stated that they had obtained grants for other clients, when in fact they had not done so. The defendants also re-solicited clients for additional fees, including fees for business plans, when they knew that the plans were not going to assist the clients in obtaining any grants. They knew that the true purpose of their solicitations was to obtain funds to personally enrich themselves.

Demko, Guariglia, and their co-defendants operated their scam under JCD Business Services; Foundation Processing Center; Summit Business Consultants, Inc.; Inner Circle Corp., LLC; Sierra Investment Group, Inc.; Valley Business Development;  Quid Corp.; Interlan Charitable Foundation; Interlan Financial Corporation; Compass National, LLC; Compass National, Inc.; Direct Business Company, Inc.; Goldcom LLC; and Company Planning LLC.

Co-defendants Lorraine Riddiough (Demko’s mother, a Canadian national residing in Las Vegas who also goes by the name Lorraine Ann Mader) and Lissette Alvarez (a Las Vegas resident) have pleaded guilty. Alvarez was sentenced to three years probation. Riddiough is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Dawson on March 19, 2020.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office and the FBI urge the public to be alert to potential scams. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. The Federal Trade Commission posts alerts describing many different types of scams on its website at https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/scam-alerts. If you or someone you know has been the victim of a scam, please contact law enforcement without delay.

The case is a result of an investigation by the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel Cowhig and Kimberly Frayn prosecuted the case.

###

 

LAS VEGAS, Nev. – A federal grand jury indicted two Elko residents for allegedly conspiring to vandalize U.S. government property, including an archaeological site, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada and Bureau of Land Management (BLM)-Nevada State Director Jon Raby.

Daniel Plata, 25, and Jonathan Pavon, 25, were each charged with one count of conspiracy, one count of destruction of government property, and one count of unauthorized damage, alteration or defacement of archaeological resources. The defendants made their initial court appearance on March 6, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Carla Baldwin in Reno.

“This case reinforces the importance of law enforcement working together to maintain Nevada’s landscape, natural resources, and cultural artifacts for everyone to enjoy,” said U.S. Attorney Trutanich.

"I would like to thank all of our inter-agency partners for their continued efforts to protect the archaeological resources on public lands that are so critically important to our tribal nations and the American public, including the efforts to prosecute those who vandalize and destroy these important sites," said State Director Raby. 

According to allegations contained in the indictment, on September 19, 2019, Pavon posted a video on his Instagram page showing Plata vandalizing: (a) property near the Schelbourne rest stop in White Pine County, Nevada; (b) property in McGill and Lund, Nevada; and (c) rock formations within the White River Narrows Archeological District in the Basin and Range National Monument. The indictment alleges that Pavon acted as a lookout while Plata spray-painted on rock formations that contained petroglyphs.

An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

The case is a product of an investigation by the BLM. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Rachel Kent is prosecuting the case.

To report natural resources crimes on BLM-managed public lands, please call the BLM tip line at (833) 660-5771 or email TRFOtipline@blm.gov.

###

 

LAS VEGAS, Nev. — Jose Manuel Mendez-Ayala and Jordan Raymundo Torres were sentenced this week to 19 months and 12 months and a day in prison, respectively, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for their roles in cultivating marijuana in the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada. A third codefendant, Eustacio Piedra-Robledo, was sentenced in November 2019 to 33 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release, for his involvement in the same marijuana grow operation.

Mendez-Ayala, 32, and Torres, 28, both of California, pleaded guilty in October 2019, to one count of manufacture of a controlled substance. U.S. District Judge Kent J. Dawson presided over the sentencing hearings and remanded the defendants to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

According to court documents, on July 18, 2018, a U.S. Forest Service employee conducting fieldwork in the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest near Round Mountain, Nevada, came across an apparent large marijuana growing operation. An investigation revealed an active marijuana cultivation site in the area of Peavine Canyon. The cultivation site consisted of two plots that were each approximately two acres. Law enforcement seized about 8,300 marijuana plants from the cultivation site. Mendez-Ayala and Torres were arrested by law enforcement in September 2018.

The charges resulted from an investigation by the U.S. Forest Service.

###

RENO, Nev. – Daniel A. Parkhurst made his initial court appearance today related to a federal charge for abusive sexual contact during a flight from Seattle to Las Vegas, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Aaron C. Rouse for the FBI.

“Sexual assault aboard an aircraft is when unwelcome inappropriate touching without consent occurs,” said Special Agent in Charge Rouse. “If you think you are a victim of sexual assault aboard an aircraft or you have witnessed an incident, report it to your flight crew and contact the FBI. Try to take note of what has happened to better inform the responding agent or officer at the airport upon landing.”

Parkhurst, 38, of Gardnerville, Nevada, was charged with one count of interference with flight crew members and attendants and one count of abusive sexual conduct. He was arrested without incident Thursday afternoon in Gardnerville. United States Magistrate Judge Carla Baldwin scheduled a trial on May 5, 2020.

According to the indictment, on October 31, 2019, Parkhurst intimidated flight crew members and flight attendants on a Southwest Airlines flight from Seattle to Las Vegas. He allegedly touched another person on the upper inner thigh without the person’s consent. As alleged, he created a disturbance by engaging in abusive sexual conduct and interfered with the performance of duties of the flight crew. As a result, the aircraft was diverted from its flight to Las Vegas and landed in Reno.

The total maximum statutory sentence is 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Parkhurst also faces a period of supervised release, restitution, and monetary penalties.

An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

The case is a product of an investigation by the FBI, the Reno-Tahoe International Airport Police Department, and the Office of the Nevada Attorney General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Randy St. Clair is prosecuting the case.

If you think you are a victim of sexual assault aboard an aircraft, report the incident to your flight crew and to the FBI at tips.fbi.gov or call 1-800-CALL-FBI, or contact your local FBI office.

###

RENO, Nev. – A Reno resident was sentenced today to 18 months in prison and three years of supervised release for making phone calls in which he threatened to shoot a bank manager, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada.

In November 2019, a jury convicted Robert Liesse of two counts of interstate communications containing a threat to injure another person. U.S. District Judge Howard D. McKibben presided over the three-day jury trial and today’s sentencing hearing.

According to court documents, Liesse, 54, made two phone calls to Bank of America call centers on July 26 and 27, 2018, threatening to shoot a bank manager. Liesse, who was adamant that he was not joking, told the manager specific details of how and when he planned to carry out his threats. For example, Lisesse repeatedly made threats such as: “I want the money available tomorrow or that guy is not going to see his family. I’m telling you right now. I have a nine millimeter, sixteen rounds in it.” Further, he slipped threatening and derogatory notes under a bank door and threatened three different bank call center operators. He also took a BB gun resembling a real pistol to the bank and pointed it toward security cameras.

The case is a product of an investigation by the FBI and the Reno Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andolyn Johnson and James Keller prosecuted the case.

###

A Las Vegas resident was sentenced to 65 months in prison today for his role in a stolen identity tax fraud, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada.

According to court documents and statements made in court, Josiah Ntekume engaged in a scheme to file false tax returns using stolen identities in order to obtain tax refunds. Coconspirators provided Ntekume with names, addresses, dates of birth, and social security numbers, and Ntekume used these stolen identities to establish prepaid debit card accounts. The coconspirators then caused refunds fraudulently obtained from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to be deposited into those accounts.

When Ntekume was arrested on March 13, 2012, he had in his backpack approximately 250 prepaid debit cards in the names of other individuals, on which more than more than $200,000 in fraudulent refunds had been loaded. The backpack also contained stolen identities for nearly 200 other individuals that were used either to file false returns or to establish additional prepaid debit cards. 

On Dec. 4, 2019, Ntekume pleaded guilty to aggravated identity theft, wire fraud, theft of government property, and fraud in connection with access devices.

In addition to the term of imprisonment, U.S. District Judge James C. Mahan ordered Ntekume to serve three years of supervised release and to pay approximately $221,599 in restitution to the United States.

Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and U.S. Attorney Trutanich thanked special agents of IRS Criminal Investigation, who conducted the investigation, and Tax Division Trial Attorneys Thomas W. Flynn, Stephen K. Moulton, and Arthur Ewenczyk, who are prosecuting the case.

Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found on the division’s website.

LAS VEGAS, Nev. – A Las Vegas resident was sentenced to 65 months in prison today for his role in a stolen identity tax fraud, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division, U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada, and Special Agent in Charge Tara Sullivan for the IRS Criminal Investigation.

According to court documents and statements made in court, Josiah O. Ntekume engaged in a scheme to file false tax returns using stolen identities in order to obtain tax refunds. Co-conspirators provided Ntekume with names, addresses, dates of birth, and social security numbers, and Ntekume used these stolen identities to establish prepaid debit card accounts. The co-conspirators then caused refunds fraudulently obtained from the IRS to be deposited into those accounts.

When Ntekume was arrested on March 13, 2012, he had in his backpack approximately 250 prepaid debit cards in the names of other individuals, on which more than more than $200,000 in fraudulent refunds had been loaded. The backpack also contained stolen identities for nearly 200 other individuals that were used either to file false returns or to establish additional prepaid debit cards. 

On December 4, 2019, Ntekume pleaded guilty to aggravated identity theft, wire fraud, theft of government property, and fraud in connection with access devices.

In addition to the term of imprisonment, U.S. District Judge James C. Mahan ordered Ntekume to serve three years of supervised release and to pay approximately $221,599 in restitution to the United States.

Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and U.S. Attorney Trutanich thanked special agents of IRS Criminal Investigation, who conducted the investigation, and Tax Division Trial Attorneys Thomas W. Flynn, Stephen K. Moulton, and Arthur Ewenczyk, who are prosecuting the case.

Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found on the division’s website.

###