Western District of New York

ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that a federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging Dylan Paul Costanza, 30, Tommy Lee Coburn, 29, Kyle Paul Edward Gibson, 33, all of Florida, and Heather Dierna, 30, of Rochester, NY, with conspiracy to commit mail fraud, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Some of the defendants are also facing additional charges of mail fraud and conspiracy to engage in money laundering.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard A. Resnick, who is handling the case, stated that according to the indictment, between October 2020, and January 2022, the defendants obtained the names and addresses of primarily large companies located throughout the United States, where they could mail what appeared to be a legitimate invoice for cleaner/degreaser products that the victim companies would believe they had previously ordered and received. Large companies were targeted because it was less likely during the COVID-19 pandemic that account payable departments in these companies would question whether cleaner/degreaser products listed on the fraudulent invoices were ordered and received. The defendants also targeted large companies because the relatively small amounts owed on the fraudulent invoices would be less likely to raise questions regarding the legitimacy of the invoices, and because the accounts payable departments do not order products for their companies, and would be less likely to question or be suspicious of the grossly inflated prices for the cleaner/degreaser products.

Fraudulent invoices were mailed from Florida in the names of Hi-Tech Industrial and Nationwide Chemical, both sham companies. Additional fraudulent invoices under the names North Atlantic Supply and Top Tier Chemicals, also sham companies, were mailed from Rochester. Intended to look like legitimate invoices, the defendants placed statements that the documents were merely “solicitations,” and that there was no obligation to pay the amounts listed on the fraudulent invoices, in hard-to-find places on page two of the invoice. The statements were inserted so that if the defendants were ever later questioned, they could falsely claim that the intended purpose of the documents was merely to “solicit” future business from the victim companies.

As a result of the conspiracy, approximately 4,640 victim companies were tricked into believing that they had received a legitimate invoice for cleaner/degreaser products, paying approximately $3,721,229.31 to the sham companies. After receiving payment, the defendants attempted to cover up their fraud by having inexpensive cleaner/degreaser products delivered to the victim companies. A total of 10 companies in the Western District of New York were victimized. The companies are located in Henrietta, Lakewood, Brockport, Andover, Rochester, Avon, Tonawanda, and Niagara Falls.

The indictment is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, under the direction of Inspector in Charge Ketty Larco-Ward, Boston Division, and the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Thomas M. Fattorusso.

The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.  

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ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Jordan Brodie, 37, of LeRoy, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with the receipt, distribution and possession of child pornography following a previous conviction for possession of child pornography. Brodie faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison, a maximum of 40 years, a lifetime period of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle P. Rossi, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, in May 2023, Brodie, a convicted sex offender who was under the active supervision of the Genesee County Probation Department, became involved in a chat application in which he and others traded child pornography. Brodie uploaded at least one of the images to a different social media platform, which then reported the image to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Investigation by the New York State Police determined that the upload took place from Brodie’s home in LeRoy. A subsequent search warrant resulted in the seizure of Brodie’s phone, and the contents of the social media account that uploaded the image, both of which revealed images of child pornography depicting children less than 12 years old.  The images included children, some as young as six-years-old, engaged in sexual conduct with adults. 

In May 2021, Brodie was convicted of child pornography charges in Genesee County and was on probation.

Brodie made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark W. Pedersen and was detained. 

The criminal complaint is the result of an investigation by the New York State Police, Lyons, under the direction of Major Miklos Szoczei II, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Child Exploitation Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia. 

The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.  

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BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that a federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging Ernest Green a/k/a Fire a/k/a Burn a/k/a Ern the Burn a/k/a Dread a/k/a B Love, 41, of North Tonawanda, NY, with distribution of fentanyl causing death, and conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 20 years in prison and a maximum of life.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Adler, who is handling the case, stated that according to the indictment, between  2019 and May 27, 2020, conspired with others to sell fentanyl and cocaine. The indictment also alleges that on May 27, 2020, Green sold fentanyl which resulted in the deaths of three individuals identified as J.Y., T.M., and D.R.

Green, who is currently serving a 120-month federal sentence following a 2022 conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm, was arraigned today before U.S Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer. 

“Fentanyl, cocaine, heroin, and other illegal narcotics are deadly poisons that are finding their way into our communities and onto our streets because of defendants like Ernest Green,” stated U.S. Attorney Ross. “Our office is working every day with our law enforcement partners at all levels to track down these defendants, whose actions show no regard for human lives. Ernest Green has been indicted on multiple charges, including selling fentanyl, cocaine, and causing the death of another person. This office will dedicate time and resources to the prosecution of all individuals who committee these types of crimes in our community.”

Green is the fifth defendant in the last six months to be accused of selling fentanyl and cocaine that resulted in a death or serious bodily injury. Other defendants include:

• Michael Paonessa is charged by criminal complaint with possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, fentanyl. According to the criminal complaint, Paonessa sold fentanyl and cocaine that led to the death of an individual identified as R.A.
• Darryl Sweat was indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of distribution of cocaine, fentanyl, and para-fluorofentanyl, causing death, possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, cocaine, fentanyl, and para-fluorofentanyl, and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. According to the indictment, Sweat sold cocaine and fentanyl, which resulted in the death of an individual identified as V.O.
• Lloyd Smith, Jr. was charged by criminal complaint with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine. Smith allegedly sold fentanyl and cocaine to two individuals who overdosed and had to be revived with multiple doses of Narcan.
• Rashaun Cruel was charged by criminal complaint with possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, fentanyl. Cruel allegedly sold fentanyl and cocaine which resulted in the deaths of two individuals.

Green’s indictment is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in Charge Frank Tarantino, III, New York Field Division, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge John B. DeVito, the North Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of Chief Keith Glass, and the Niagara County Drug Task Force, under the direction of Sheriff Michael Filicetti.

The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.  

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BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Joseph L. Crapsi, 29, of Cheektowaga, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with aiming a laser pointer at an aircraft, which carries a minimum penalty of five years in prison, and a $250,000 fine.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles M. Kruly, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, on March 1, 2024, at approximately 12:07 a.m., the pilot of a  Delta Airlines Flight reported to Buffalo Air Traffic Control that upon approach to the Buffalo Niagara International Airport, he witnessed a green laser being pointed at the aircraft. The pilot reported that the laser originated approximately one mile south of the approach and lasted between 60-90 seconds. Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority Police Department officers were dispatched to the surrounding areas of Genesee Street, Dick Road, and Cayuga Street in Cheektowaga to investigate but did not find anything. At approximately 12:30 a.m., NFTA officers learned that Cheektowaga Police officers were responding to a call of a laser being pointed inside of a house. NFTA and Cheektowaga officers went to a Nagel Drive residence, where Crapsi’s parents allowed officers to enter. Officers recovered a laser pointer in Crapsi’s bedroom. In addition, officers spoke with the neighbor who reported that a green laser was shining through his kitchen window blinding him. The neighbor told officers he viewed the laser for approximately 15 minutes, and witnessed it being pointed directly into the sky multiple times.

The defendant made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer and was released on conditions. 

The criminal complaint is the result of an investigation by the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority Police Department, under the direction of Chief Brian Patterson, the Cheektowaga Police Department, under the direction of Chief Brian Coons, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia. 

The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.  

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BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Corey Beasley, 38, of West Seneca, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer to receipt of child pornography, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of 20 years, and a fine of $250,000.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Caitlin M. Higgins, who is handling the case, stated that in June 2022, Beasley took sexually explicit photographs of himself and a minor female (Victim) with his cellphone. In January 2023, a West Seneca police officer received a report that the sexually explicit images were found on a tablet belonging to Beasley. Subsequently, search warrants were executed at Beasley’s residence, during which investigators seized multiple devices. A forensic review of Beasley’s cellphone recovered multiple sexually explicit images of the Victim. The forensic review also recovered other images of child pornography, which Beasley received and possessed.

The plea is the result of an investigation by the West Seneca Police Department, under the direction of Chief Edward Baker and Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino.

Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.      

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BUFFALO, N.Y. — U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Andrew Vallone, 47, of Tonawanda, NY, who was convicted of receipt of child pornography, was sentenced to serve 96 months in prison by U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr.

Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Rudroff, who handled the case, stated that an individual contacted the Town of Tonawanda Police Department after discovering a video depicting a child (Victim) wearing only a pair of underwear on a desktop computer belonging to Vallone. On January 23, 2021, the Tonawanda Police contacted the FBI and further investigation determined that Vallone had secreted a camera in a location which allowed him to surreptitiously film the Victim. The MicroSD card recovered from that hidden camera contained numerous images which depicted the Victim in various states of undress. In addition, forensic analysis of electronic devices seized from Vallone recovered numerous images and videos of child pornography.

The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, and the Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of James P. Stauffiger.

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ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Jonathan Woody, 30, of Rochester, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with enticement of a minor, which carries a minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, a maximum of life, and a $250,000 fine.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle P. Rossi, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, in January 2024, Woody engaged in sexually explicit online and text communications with a 13-year-old minor victim that he met online.  On January 2, 2024, Woody paid to transport the child to a hotel in Greece, NY, where he rented a room. While at the hotel, Woody provided alcohol and marijuana, and engaged in sexual acts with the minor victim. When the minor victim’s family realized that the child was missing from home, 911 was called to initiate a missing person investigation. The minor victim returned home on their own, at which time law enforcement learned of Woody’s interactions with the minor victim. Subsequent investigation led to the identification and arrest of Woody.        

The defendant made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark W. Pedersen and was detained. 

The criminal complaint is the result of an investigation by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter, the Greece Police Department, under the direction of Chief Michael Wood, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Child Exploitation Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia. 

The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.  

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BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Maurice London, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, was sentenced to serve 156 months in prison by U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. 

Assistant U.S. Attorney P. Richard Antoine, who is handling the case, stated that in April 2021, law enforcement began investigating London’s drug trafficking activities. Between April 29 and May 24, 2022, law enforcement conducted four controlled purchases of cocaine and fentanyl from London. On June 2, 2022, investigators executed a search warrant at London’s residence. During the search they recovered approximately $13,416 cash, drug paraphernalia, suspected Suboxone strips, 5.6 grams of THC, five cell phones, suspected marijuana, 144 grams of fentanyl, 30 grams of crack cocaine, 6 grams of methamphetamine, and 72 grams of lidocaine.

The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank Tarantino, III, New York Field Division.

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BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Matthew A. Steele, 53, of Elma, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with production and distribution of child pornography. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison and a maximum penalty of 30 years.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, in January 2023, the Department of Homeland Security Cyber Crimes Center received a referral from the Queensland Police Service in Australia, regarding media they had discovered that appeared to be newly produced and unidentified child exploitation material. The referral included 47 images depicting the sexual exploitation of an early pubescent female victim (Victim 1). In September 2023, HSI performed a visual analysis of images, which included  various areas of a home as well as distinct dermatological markings on Victim 1. A few of the images contained metadata, which helped to determine the type and serial number of the camera used and that the photos were created in March 2013. HSI was able to identify and locate Victim 1.

HSI agents executed a search warrant at Steele’s Elma residence, during which agents observed several photographs of Victim 1 as a child in several rooms. They also observed the layout and the décor of the residence, which matched some of the images from the from the Queensland Police Service. Agents also located the camera used to take the images.

Steele appeared at a detention hearing today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremiah J. McCarthy and was ordered detained.

The complaint is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino and the Great Falls, Montana Police Department, under the direction of Chief Jeff Newton.   

The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.     

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BUFFALO, NY - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that the Western District of New York collected $10,990,785.85 in criminal, civil and forfeiture actions in Fiscal Year 2023. Of this amount, $3,245,581.30 was collected in criminal actions, $4,374,170.95 was collected in civil actions, and $3,036,996 was collected in forfeiture actions. As a result, over $3,224,551.24 was given to victims of crime in the past year, while $1,712,236.00 was provided as aid to state and local law enforcement agency partners who worked with the United States Attorney’s Office on criminal cases.

In making the announcement, U.S. Attorney Ross specifically credited the work done by the Asset Recovery Division, under the leadership of Chief Kevin D. Robinson and Deputy Chief Grace Carducci. “My Office continues to focus on crime prevention, protecting the rights of all victims and collecting restitution and monetary penalties,” stated U.S. Attorney Ross. “We live in a time where victimization crimes against vulnerable people, including children and the elderly, are on the rise. With advancements in technology and the use of social media, my office has devoted considerable time and resources towards adjusting our efforts to stay ahead of the perpetrators. Our goal is to make sure that those committing crimes do not become unjustly enriched from their illegal actions and to make the victims whole.”

The U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, along with the department’s litigating divisions, are responsible for enforcing and collecting civil and criminal debts owed to the U.S. and criminal debts owed to federal crime victims. The law requires defendants to pay restitution to victims of certain federal crimes who have suffered a physical injury or financial loss. While restitution is paid to the victim, criminal fines and felony assessments are paid to the department’s Crime Victims Fund, which distributes the funds collected to federal and state victim compensation and victim assistance programs.

In addition to recovering funds, 27 dangerous firearms and 253 rounds of ammunition were forfeited in FY 2023 as instrumentalities of criminal conduct in drug and violent gang cases. Thirty-one computers and electronic media devices—most related to child exploitation cases—were also forfeited.

The following cases are examples of successful forfeiture and affirmative civil enforcement cases concluded this past year in the Western District of New York:

•  US v. 399 Whispering Pines Circle, Greece, NY - The USAO filed a verified civil forfeiture complaint against 399 Whispering Pines Circle, in Webster,  as property of value traceable to proceeds furnished in exchange for a controlled substance. The owner is alleged to have conspired with others known and unknown, to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute Schedule II controlled substances, specifically cocaine and fentanyl, in the greater Rochester area. As a result of a settlement agreement, the District Court ordered the forfeiture of the defendant real property to the Government. The net equity value of the real property is valued at approximately $119,000.

•  US v. Darnell Manning - The defendant conspired with others known and unknown, to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute Schedule II controlled substances, specifically cocaine and fentanyl, in the greater Rochester area. Manning pleaded guilty and agreed to forfeit over $447,824.00 in seized assets, including United States currency, jewelry, a vehicle, two firearms and rounds of seized ammunition. 

•  United States ex rel. DeGroat v. Beyond Reps, Inc. et al. - Beyond Reps, Inc. d/b/a IronRod Health and Cardiac Monitoring Services has agreed to pay $673,200.92 to resolve allegations arising under the False Claims Act that they submitted false claims to federal health care programs relating to remote cardiac monitoring services. IronRod is a healthcare solutions company with headquarters in Phoenix, Arizona. IronRod provides remote cardiac monitoring services, among other services. The Government alleged that between January 1, 2018 and April 30, 2021, IronRod utilized technicians who lacked required credentials to conduct remote cardiac monitoring readings. The government also alleged that between June 1, 2018 and August 20, 2018, IronRod misrepresented that it performed services in New York State in order to obtain higher reimbursements from Medicare for remote cardiac monitoring services.

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ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Preston Herbst, 27, of Canandaigua, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with distribution, receipt, and possession of child pornography, following a prior conviction for a federal child pornography offense. The charges carry a minimum penalty of 15 years in prison, a maximum penalty of 40 years, and a $250,000 fine. 

Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle P. Rossi, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, in January 2022, Herbst was serving a state probation sentence in Ontario County for Driving While Intoxicated and Assault. During a routine search of Herbst’s phone, Ontario County Probation Officers located images of child pornography and social media conversations, during which Herbst discussed trading child pornography with other individuals. A subsequent search by the FBI of his home and devices recovered approximately 81 images and 59 videos of child pornography, some of which depicted violence against children as young as 5-years-old. Herbst pleaded guilty to possession of child pornography and was sentenced to 36 months in prison. After his federal conviction and sentencing, but prior to self-surrendering to the Bureau of Prisons, investigators learned that Herbst uploaded child pornography to the Snapchat platform. The FBI executed new search warrants at Herbst’s Canandaigua home and on his Snapchat account, revealing that he had traded child pornography, using a prohibited device in violation of his release conditions.

Herbst made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark W. Pedersen and is being held without bail. 

The criminal complaint is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia.                

The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.  

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BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that a federal grand jury returned a nine-count indictment charging Max Yang Chen, 29, of San Jose, CA, with three counts of obtaining information from a protected computer, three counts of cyberstalking, and three counts of aggravated identity theft. The charges carry a maximum penalty of 36 years in prison.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jonathan P. Cantil and Douglas A.C. Penrose, who are handling the case, stated that according to the indictment, between March 2021, and June 2023, Chen accessed the computers of three separate victims, without authorization, to obtain information about the victims. Chen then used that information to harass and intimidate the victims. In addition, Chen unlawfully accessed the social media accounts of the victims, and then stole data from those accounts.

Chen made an initial appearance in the Northern District of California and was held pending a detention hearing on March 11, 2024. He will be returned to the Western District of New York at a later date.

The indictment is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia.   

The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.     

BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Jacob V. Schmidbauer, 43, of Lancaster, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer to receipt of child pornography, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of 20 years and a $250,000 fine.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango, who is handling the case, stated that on January 9, 2023, the Lancaster Police Department received a complaint that Schmidbauer had used a device to record a 13-year-old minor female (victim) while she was showering, and that the recordings were stored on an SD card possessed by Schmidbauer. During the course of the investigation, law enforcement seized a total of 22 electronic devices that belong to Schmidbauer as well as the SD card. A review of the SD card recovered 32 video clips, which included the sexually explicit video of the minor female victim.

The criminal plea is the result of an investigation by the Lancaster Police Department, under the direction of William Karn, Jr., and Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino.   

Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.

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BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Brian Graham, Jr., 34, of Olean, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer to possession of child pornography, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Franz M. Wright, who is handling the case, stated that in February 2021, Graham’s IP address was identified on a child pornography file sharing website. In June 2021, a search warrant was executed at Graham’s Olean residence, during which investigators seized various electronic devices. A forensic review recovered images and videos of child pornography on the devices. For instance, a USB hard drive contained at least 200 images and 300 videos of child pornography. Some of the child pornography included violence against children and the sexual abuse of an infant or toddler.

The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia.

Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.  

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ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Ian Milam, 38, of Pittsford, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Court Judge Charles J. Siragusa to receipt of child pornography, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of 20 years, and a $250,000 fine.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Meghan K. McGuire and Melissa M. Marangola, who are handling the case, stated that Milam was a math teacher at Cosgrove Middle School in the Spencerport, NY, School District. On January 29, 2023, Milam created the Snapchat accounts “matteckler” and “mikeywikey37,” and used these Snapchat accounts to pose as a 15-year-old male and engage in sexually explicit communications with a number of minor females, ages 11 to 15-years-old. During one of these conversations in May 2023, Milam persuaded a 12-year-old minor student to take and send him naked pictures of herself.

The plea is the result of an investigation by the Greece Police Department, under the direction of Chief Michael Wood, the FBI Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter.

Sentencing is scheduled for June 27, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. before Judge Siragusa.

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BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Julien Johnson, 35, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, was sentenced to serve 204 months in prison by U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Adler, who is handling the case, stated that on September 17, 2020, after receiving information that Johnson was in possession of controlled substances, law enforcement officers conducted a traffic stop of the vehicle he was driving. Johnson exited the vehicle at the request of officers, who then observed in plain view a large clear plastic bag containing several smaller bags of crystalline and powder substances lying on the floorboard of the driver’s seat. Inside the bag, officers seized suspected methamphetamine, a heroin/fentanyl compound, and $1,117.00 in cash. 

The sentencing is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino, and the Jamestown Metro Drug Task Force, under the direction of Jamestown Police Chief Timothy Jackson.

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BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Greg Hirliman, 48, of Olean, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with attempted production of child pornography and transfer of obscene material to a minor, which carry a minimum penalty of 15 years in prison, and a maximum of 30 years.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, in August 2021, the Olean Police Department received a report from a mother that her 12-year-old daughter (Victim 1) was contacted by Hirliman via text message, Facebook, and Facebook Messenger. Hirliman requested that Victim 1 send him naked photos of herself. In addition, Hirliman sent Victim 1 naked photos of himself, asked Victim 1 to meet him in person, and gave cigarettes to Victim 1. The Olean Police Department executed a search warrant for Facebook accounts associated with Victim 1 and Hirliman and requested assistance from Homeland Security Investigations to review the approximately 14,000 pages of data received from the execution of the search warrant. At the time, Hirliman was incarcerated in New York State on unrelated domestic violence charges. He was released on parole in January, 2024.

Hirliman made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer and was detained.

The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Olean Police Department, under the direction of Chief Ron Richardson, and Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino.

The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 

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BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Chemere Barclay, 32, of Buffalo, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with possession with intent to distribute, and to distribute, a controlled substance. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Donna M. Duncan, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, between August 17 and September 11, 2023, New York State Police investigators conducted four controlled purchases of methamphetamine from Barclay. Independent of the investigation initiated by the New York State Police, the Lackawanna Police Department conducted their own investigation into the drug trafficking activities of Barclay. Between December 21, 2023, and January 5, 2024, Lackawanna Police investigators conducted three controlled purchases of methamphetamine from Barclay. 

Barclay made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer and was detained pending a detention hearing.

The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Lackawanna Police Department, under the direction of Chief Mark Packard, the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Eugene Staniszewski, and Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino.  

The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.   

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BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Demont Coston, 56, of Buffalo, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with threatening to blow up the VA Medical Centers in Buffalo, NY, and Washington, D.C. The charge carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew J. Henning and Charles M. Kruly, who are handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, on September 12, 2023, Coston called the Veterans Crisis Line  and made threats to blow up VA Medical Center in Buffalo. Coston made statements such as “If I can not get any help from the VA, no one can,” and “The VA won’t be here anymore.” Coston also stated, “he finally found the person that he wants to kill, and he planned to kill him tomorrow.” After investigators were unable to contact Coston, he was located at a family member’s house in Maryland. Subsequently, Coston made similar threats to blow up the VA Medical Center in Washington D.C.

The complaint is the result of an investigation by the VA Medical Center Police, under the direction of Chief Richard King and the VA Office of Inspector General, Criminal Investigations Division, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Christopher Algieri.

The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.  

BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Steven Iverson, 26, of Buffalo, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with resisting arrest causing bodily injury to a federal police officer. The charge carries a maximum penalty of eight years in prison.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew J. Henning, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, on February 7, 2024, Iverson assaulted two V.A. Medical Center Police Officers as they attempted to place him under arrest. Iverson was approached by the officers in the V.A. parking garage because of suspected smell of marijuana coming from his vehicle. Iverson became verbally resistant to officer commands and rolled up his window and locked himself inside the vehicle. He was ordered out of the vehicle multiple times and was told to open the vehicle door, or the window would be broken. Iverson eventually rolled down his window and an officer was able to get the vehicle door open. But as officers attempted to remove him, Iverson grabbed the steering wheel with both hands. He then turned his body and began kicking one officer in the right wrist and left knee. Iverson was eventually removed from the vehicle and taken into custody. One officer suffered right wrist and left knee sprains, while another officer suffered a chipped tooth.

The complaint is the result of an investigation by the VA Medical Center Police, under the direction of Chief Richard King and the VA Office of Inspector General, Criminal Investigations Division, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Christopher Algieri.

The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 

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BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that James Okolo, 61, of West Orange, New Jersey, who was convicted of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, was sentenced to 12 months in prison by U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr.

Assistant U.S. Attorney, Michael DiGiacomo, who handled the case, stated that Okolo and others devised a scheme to defraud the Small Business Administration out of over $700,000 in CARES Act money designated for businesses suffering the economic effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The scheme involved the submission of fraudulent Economic Injury Disaster loan applications under the names of various businesses. Okolo’s role in the scheme was to find a bank account where the fraudulent loan proceeds were to be deposited. 

The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia and the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Thomas M. Fattorusso.

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BUFFALO, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Damon Singleton-Spencer, 31, of Lockport, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with possession of child pornography, which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Rudroff, who is handling the case, stated that in September 2023, the New York State Police received a report that an individual had uploaded 184 files of suspected child pornography to a cloud storage application. Subsequent investigation traced the uploaded files to Singleton-Spencer, who was previously convicted in 2017 of Endangering the Welfare of a Child. On February 16, 2024, a search warrant was executed at Singleton-Spencer’s Lockport residence. During the search, investigators seized multiple devices including computers, hard drives, and cell phones. A preliminary review of one cell phone recovered multiple images and videos of child pornography. 

The complaint is the result of an investigation by the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Eugene Staniszewski, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia.

The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.     

BUFFALO, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Jose Perez, 39, of Celeron, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with attempted production of child pornography and possession of child pornography, which carry a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Rudroff, who is handling the case, stated that on September 3, 2022, Homeland Security Investigations received a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that Perez uploaded a file a suspected child pornography. On December 15, 2022, HSI executed a federal search warrant at Perez’s residence, seizing computers, a cellular telephone, and electronic storage devices, including a thumb drive, which contained two video files that appeared to be taken from a videocam located in Perez’s bathroom. One of the files included video of a naked minor victim who does not appear to be aware that the camera is present. In addition, the thumb drive contained 17,839 image files that appeared to be taken from the same bathroom videocam and included naked images of the minor victim. Images and videos of child pornography were also found on Perez’s cell phone.

The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff James Quattrone, and Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino.

The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.     

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BUFFALO, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Daniel Rodriguez, 40, of North Tonawanda, NY, who was convicted of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, was sentenced to serve 120 months in prison by Chief U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Evan K. Glaberson, who handled the case, stated that leading up to September 11, 2020, Rodriguez and co-defendant Adrienne Czosnyka resided together on Center Avenue in North Tonawanda. Rodriguez was a suspect in an investigation being conducted by the Town of Tonawanda Police Department. On September 11, 2020, investigators executed a search warrant at the Center Avenue residence and on a vehicle belonging to defendant Czosnyka. They recovered over 500 grams of cocaine, four digital scales, 10 cellular telephones, and over $4,700 in currency. Investigators also recovered a 12-gauge shotgun, and three rounds of ammunition. Rodriguez was previously convicted of felonies in 2001 and 2007, and is legally prohibited from possessing firearms.

Adrienne Czosnyka pleaded guilty to misdemeanor possession of cocaine and faces up to a year in prison when sentenced.

The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank Tarentino, III, New York Field Division; the Town of Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of Chief James Stauffiger; the North Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of Chief Keith T. Glass; and the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Eugene Staniszewski.

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ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Louis Carusone, 45, of Webster, NY, who was convicted of possession of child pornography involving prepubescent minors, was sentenced to serve 42 months in prison by Chief U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford. 

Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle P. Rossi, who handled the case, stated that on October 10, 2022, Carusone, who was a high school physics teacher in the Brighton Central School District at the time, shared a video and images containing child pornography in an online peer-to-peer file-sharing network, which were downloaded by an undercover law enforcement officer. The officer then downloaded more files containing child pornography that were shared from Carusone’s IP address over the next few days.

On October 21, 2022, investigators executed a search warrant at Carusone’s Webster residence and seized multiple devices including a cell phone and computer. A forensic analysis recovered more than 2,000 images and videos of child pornography, some of which depicted children as young as five-years-old, and children being subjected to violence and sexual abuse. The forensic analysis further revealed that Carusone surreptitiously recorded and photographed children in public, to include minor female students in his Brighton classroom, and a water park, where he recorded children in bathing suits.

The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Rochester Child Exploitation Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia.

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BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Willis Bowles, 36, of Geneva, NY, pleaded guilty before Chief U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford to being a felon in possession of a firearm, which carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Everardo A. Rodriguez, who is handling the case, stated that on June 23, 2023, the Ontario County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant at Bowles’ Geneva residence. During the search, investigators seized a loaded Smith and Wesson rifle. A high capacity 30 round magazine, containing 22 rounds of ammunition was also seized. In 2006 and 2007, Bowles was convicted of gun felonies in the State of Florida and is legally prohibited from possessing a firearm.

The plea is the result of an investigation by the Ontario County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff David Cirencione, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge John B. DeVito, New York Field Division, and the Geneva Police Department, under the direction of Chief Matt Colton.

Sentencing is scheduled for June 10, 2024, before Judge Wolford.     

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BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Romane Toumani, 29, of Ontario, Canada, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with assaulting a federal officer, which carries a maximum penalty of eight years in prison.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew J. Henning, who is handling the case, stated that on February 8, 2024, at approximately 12:00 p.m., Homeland Security Investigations received a report of a Customs and Border Protection Officer being assaulted by Toumani at the Peace Bridge Port of Entry. According to the complaint, Toumani and her sister were traveling in an UBER vehicle, when the UBER driver was referred for immigration inspection at the Peace Bridge and then told that he would have to return to Canada for insufficient travel documents. The Toumani’s were told to retrieve their baggage from the vehicle and advised that CBP would be examining their luggage, which the sisters stated that CBP had no authority to do. As CBP officers attempted to return the Toumani’s to the immigration inspection area, Romane Toumani forcefully bit the arm of an officer and resisted efforts multiple attempts to place her in handcuffs.

Toumani made an appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer and was released on conditions.

The complaint is the result of an investigation by Customs and Border Protection, under the direction of Rose Brophy, Director of Field Operations, and Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino.

The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.     

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ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Rasheem “Coop” Sullivan, 31, of Rochester, NY, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and being a felon in possession of a firearm, before U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr.  The charges carry a minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of life in prison and a $250,000 fine.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas E. Gregory, who is handling the case, stated that Sullivan is a member of the nationally recognized Bloods Gang, and the self-proclaimed leader of a local subset known as the Immortal Stone Gorilla Gang. In December 2022, following a lengthy investigation into narcotics trafficking, weapons possession, and associated violence, Sullivan and several of his fellow Blood Gang members were arrested. On December 14, 2022, several locations associated with Sullivan’s enterprise were searched, during which investigators recovered narcotics, cash, and numerous firearms.  Inside Sullivan’s residence, a Glock 10 mm pistol loaded with 16 rounds of ammunition was recovered.   

The investigation began in the aftermath of the murder of Rochester Police Department Investigator Anthony Mazurkewicz and the assault of Investigator Sino Seng in July 2022. It's alleged that individuals associated with Sullivan were engaged in a violent feud with another group led by Brandon “B-Mack” Washington. In September 2022, Washington and several associates were charged with federal drug and weapons offenses.  

The plea is the result of an investigation by the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief David Smith, the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank A. Tarentino III, New York Field Division, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge John B. DeVito, New York Field Division. 

Sentencing is scheduled for May 21, 2024, before Judge Geraci.

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BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Zachary Feeterman, 29, of Tonawanda, NY, who was convicted of possession of child pornography was sentenced to serve 10 years imprisonment and 30 years supervised release by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango, who handled the case, stated that in March 2016, Feeterman was convicted of attempted possession of a sexual performance by a child less than 16 years of age in New York State Court. On August 8, 2019, Erie County Probation Officers conducted a home inspection at Feeterman’s residence and found an unauthorized cell phone in his possession. A forensic analysis recovered approximately 375 images of child pornography on the cell phone, and 4,670 images and videos of child pornography in a cloud storage account. Some images depicted prepubescent minors as well as violence against children.

The sentencing is the result of an investigation by members the Erie County Probation Department, under the direction of Commissioner Michelle Olszowy; the FBI's Child Exploitation Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia; and the Town of Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of Chief James P. Stauffiger. 

BUFFALO, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Frank E. Noeson III, 46, of Holland, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer to receipt of child pornography, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of 20 years in prison, and a $250,000 fine.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango, who is handling the case, stated that Noeson, who was then a 5th grade teacher at a local elementary school, engaged in sexual communications with a minor female (Victim) using Snapchat. The Victim was 16 years old when the communications began. During the communications, Noeson persuaded the Victim to create sexually explicit images and videos and send them to him. Noeson also  engaged in sexual communications with another minor female victim, who was 15 years-old, using Snapchat. During these communications, the victim sent numerous images and videos of child pornography.

The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Buffalo Office Child Exploitation Human Trafficking Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, the FBI Miami Field Office, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Jeffrey Veltri, and the Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of Chief James Stauffiger.     

Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.      

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ROCHESTER, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Darnell Manning a/k/a D-Man, 40, of Greece, NY, who was convicted of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, 400 grams or more of fentanyl and five kilograms or more of cocaine, and being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition, was sentenced to serve  170 months in prison U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr. Manning was also ordered to forfeit $91,899.00 in cash, jewelry appraised at approximately $246,000, a 2022 Infiniti QX55 SUV, two firearms and ammunition. In addition, Manning paid $50,000 cash to the government in lieu of forfeiting his residence in Greece, NY.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert A. Marangola, who handled the case, stated that between March 2021, and March 29, 2023, Manning conspired with others to sell fentanyl and cocaine in the Rochester area. On March 9, 2023, investigators searched numerous locations in Rochester maintained by Manning and utilized for distributing narcotics. During the searches, they seized approximately 2.6 kilograms of cocaine, approximately 123 grams of crack cocaine, 803 fentanyl tablets, two loaded firearms, ammunition, $87,290 in cash, jewelry with an appraised value of $246,000, and drug paraphernalia. On March 29, 2023, Manning was arrested at a residence in Niagara Falls, NY, at which time investigators also seized $4,620 in cash, marijuana, and multiple cell phones.

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

The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank A. Tarentino, III, New York Field Division.

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BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Jariel Cobb a/k/a Doobie a/k/a Black, 52, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of narcotics conspiracy, conspiracy to obstruct justice, use of fire to commit a felony, and conspiracy to damage and destroy a vehicle used in interstate commerce by fire, was sentenced to serve 20 years in prison by Chief U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Adler, Maeve E. Huggins, and Joseph M. Tripi, who handled the case, stated that beginning in 2014, Cobb, and others, began receiving and selling marijuana, heroin, and cocaine. Cobb, and his co-conspirators utilized 973 Fillmore Avenue to store, package, and sell the illegal narcotics. In furtherance of the narcotics conspiracy, on September 15, 2019, Cobb arranged a purchase of a kilogram of cocaine from Miguel Anthony Valentin-Colon and Dhamyl Roman-Audiffred, who served as Cobb’s sources of supply. Valentin-Colon, along with his wife. Nicole Marie Merced-Plaud, their minor son, and Roman-Audiffred, arrived in their vehicle, a white minivan, at a residence on Roebling Avenue, as directed by Cobb. Roman-Audiffred exited the van and entered the residence’s kitchen, at which time a co-defendant hit her in the head with a blunt object and she fell to the floor. The co-defendant then went outside and shot and killed both Valentin-Colon and Merced Plaud, in the presence of their minor son, who was seated in a child’s car seat. The co-defendant then drove the minivan and parked it on Scajaquada Street near Kilhoffer Street in Buffalo.

A short time later, Cobb and a co-defendant moved the body of Dhamyl Roman-Audiffred from the kitchen into the residence’s basement, where they dismembered her body. Cobb placed the body parts into multiple trash bags and placed them into the trunk of his vehicle, and then drove to a residence on Box Avenue, removed the trash bags, and placed them into a burning fire in a fire pit area in the backyard.

The following day, during the early morning hours of September 16, 2019, Cobb and another co-defendant retrieved the minivan from Scajaquada Street, with the bodies of Miguel Valentin-Colon and Nicole Marie Merced-Plaud still inside, as well as their minor son. Cobb and the co-defendant drove the minivan into the yard of a residence on Tonawanda Street and doused the vehicle and the bodies with gasoline, lighting the vehicle and bodies on fire. They took the minor child and left him on a stranger’s porch on Potomac Avenue in Buffalo.

The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia; the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia; the Erie County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff John Garcia; the Erie County Central Police Services Forensic Laboratory, under the direction of Commissioner James Jancewicz. Additional assistance was provided by the Erie County District Attorney’s Office, under the direction of District Attorney John Flynn.

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BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Norman Kelly, 66, of Albion, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with production of child pornography, which carries a minimum penalty of 15 years in prison and a maximum of 30 years.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan P. Cantil, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, on October 20, 2023, Kelly arrived at the Port of Detroit Metropolitan Airport in Romulus, Michigan, on a flight from Incheon, South Korea. During an inspection of his baggage, Kelly removed a cellular phone from his pocket, and had a computer bag, which contained a laptop computer, and four USB thumb drives. Due to a lack of eye contact during questioning, inconsistencies in his travel story, and nervous behavior, the devices were authorized to be examined. A Customs and Border Protection officer examined the cell phone, laptop and one of the thumb drives and discovered what appeared to be suspected child pornography. The phone, laptop and thumb drives were seized, and a subsequent forensic review recovered 530 image files and six video files of child pornography.

Kelly made an initial appearance before U.S. District Judge Michael J. Roemer and was held pending a detention hearing.

The complaint is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino. Additional assistance was provided by Customs and Border Protection and Homeland Security Investigations in Detroit, Michigan.

The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.     

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ROCHESTER, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Treshon Alexander, 31, of Rochester, NY, who was convicted of possession with intent to distribute 400 grams of more of fentanyl, was sentenced to serve 15 years in prison and 10 years supervised release by U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr. 

Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert A. Marangola, who handled the case, stated that in February 2015, Alexander was convicted on federal charges of conspiracy to manufacture, possess with intent to distribute, and distribute 280 grams or more of crack cocaine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Alexander was sentenced to serve 108 months in prison and five years’ supervised release. On February 16, 2023, while on supervised release, Alexander was arrested at his Apollo Drive residence in Greece, when members of the U.S. Probation Office conducted a search there and at a Chippendale Road residence, which Alexander used to store narcotics. During the searches, investigators seized $6,654.00 in U.S. currency, multiple cell phones, materials for processing and packaging narcotics for distribution, over 2000 rounds of ammunition, a money counter, and vacuum sealer. In addition, approximately 1,394 grams of fentanyl and 504 grams of cocaine were also seized.

The sentencing was the culmination of an investigation by the U.S. Probation Office, under the direction of Chief Probation Officer Timothy Englert, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge John B. DeVito. Additional assistance was provided by the New York State Attorney General’s Office, under the direction of Attorney General Letitia James.

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Rochester, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Eugene R. Criss, Jr., 55, of Elmira, NY, who was convicted of possession of child pornography by an individual with a prior sex offense conviction, was sentenced to serve 120 months in prison  by U.S. District Judge Charles J. Siragusa.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan K. McGuire, who handled the case, stated that in July 2013, Criss was convicted of Criminal Sex Act – 1st Degree – Victim Less Than 11 Years Old. On April 5, 2023, Criss possessed a cellphone, a thumb drive, a tablet, and a laptop, which contained over 1,000 images and videos of child pornography, some of which depicted prepubescent children engaged in sexually explicit conduct and violence or the sexual abuse of an infant or toddler.

The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Child Exploitation Human Trafficking Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia.

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ROCHESTER, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Brandon Hall, 23, of Rochester, NY, was charged by criminal complaint with possessing 15 or more unauthorized access devices. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles M. Kruly, who is handling the case, stated that since August 2018, the FBI has been investigating an illicit online marketplace known as Genesis Market, whose operators compile stolen data, such as computer and mobile device identifiers, email addresses, usernames, and passwords, from malware-infected computers around the globe and package it for sale on the market. Purchases made through Genesis Market are conducted using virtual currency, such as bitcoin.

According to the complaint, between November 2019, and February 2021, Hall purchased 12 packages on Genesis Market that included approximately 1,100 stolen account credentials. The stolen credentials included accounts for Citi Bank, AT&T, Venmo, Twitter, Netflix, LinkedIn, Spotify, Hulu, Google, Paypal, Microsoft, Yahoo, Walmart, Target, and Amazon accounts. In May 2023, investigators executed a search warrant and seized Hall’s cell phone. An analysis of the phone recovered information regarding Hall’s activity on Genesis Market.

Hall will make an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark W. Pedersen on February 7, 2024, at 2:15 p.m.

The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia.

The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.     

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BUFFALO, NY – U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that the U.S. Attorney’s Office has reached a settlement with a Williamsville, NY, nail salon to resolve allegations that the salon discriminated against an individual with a disability in violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA).

Under the settlement, Le Petit Nails & Spa Inc. will not discriminate against any individual on the basis of disability, including individuals who use a service animal; Le Petit will post signs which clearly state “NOTICE: SERVICE ANIMALS WELCOME;” Le Petit will adopt a nondiscrimination policy, provide the policy to all current and future employees, and enforce the policy; and Le Petit will pay $1,000 to the complainant in this case.

The Department of Justice’s enforcement efforts under the ADA seek equal opportunity and dignity in all aspects of life, including access to public accommodations such as nail salons.  This settlement agreement is the sixth agreement that the Department of Justice has reached with a nail salon through its U.S. Attorney Program for ADA Enforcement, and the first in the Western District of New York.

• In June 2021, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of North Carolina entered a settlement agreement resolving an allegation that a nail salon in Durham, North Carolina, refused to provide services to an individual with HIV.
• In June 2022, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana reached a settlement agreement with a nail salon in Harahan, Louisiana, to resolve an allegation that an individual was refused services because of the inability to transfer out of their wheelchair.
• In February 2023, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey entered a settlement agreement with a nail salon in Ocean County, New Jersey, to resolve allegations that the salon discriminates against individuals with mobility impairments.
• In June 2023, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Arizona reached a settlement agreement with a nail salon in SunTan Valley, Arizona, to resolve allegations that the nail salon discriminated against a customer with paraplegia because she uses a wheelchair and does not have complete hand function.
• In October 2023, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Kansas entered a settlement agreement with a nail salon in Kansas City, Kansas, to resolve allegations that the salon refused nail services to a woman with cerebral palsy who used a motorized wheelchair.

Individuals who believe they may have been victims of discrimination may contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at  (716) 843-5700 or file a complaint with the Department of Justice Civil Rights Division at: https://civilrights.justice.gov/report/. Additional information about the ADA can be found at www.ada.gov, or by calling the Department of Justice’s toll-free information line at (800) 514-0301 and (800) 514-0383 (TDD).

The government is represented by the Civil Rights Coordinator James E. B. Bobseine of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Buffalo, New York.

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ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Frederick Trevitt, 63, of Newark, NY, who was convicted of possession of child pornography involving a prepubescent minor, was sentenced to serve 144 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Charles J. Siragusa.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan K. McGuire, who handled the case, stated that on January 4, 2023, Trivett possessed a laptop, which contained 368 images and 26 videos of child pornography. Some of the images and videos depicted prepubescent minors and included violence or the sexual abuse of an infant or toddler. Trevitt also admits that he engaged in a pattern of activity involving the sexual abuse of a minor for approximately seven years.

The sentencing is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino and the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Miklos Szoczei II. Additional assistance was provided by the Wayne County District Attorney’s Office.   

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ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that that Randall Seeley, Jr., 45, of Lyons, NY, pleaded guilty to receipt of child pornography before U.S. District Judge Charles J. Siragusa. The charge carries a minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of 20 years and a $250,000 fine.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle P. Rossi, who is handling the case, stated that in July 2023, the New York State Police received a report that Seeley had been involved in sexually explicit online communications with a 13 to 14-year-old minor. During an investigation, Seeley admitted knowing the minor and engaging in sexual communications, during which he solicited and received explicit images and videos of the minor. A review of the minor’s social media accounts revealed the sexually explicit communications with Seeley, going back as far as July 2022. A search warrant was executed at Seeley’s residence, during which his electronic devices were seized. A preliminary forensic analysis of the devices uncovered hundreds of images and videos of child pornography depicting the known minor and other, unknown minors. 

The plea is the result of an investigation by the New York State Police, Lyons, under the direction of Major Miklos Szoczei II, and Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino.

Sentencing is scheduled for May 23, 2024, at 9:15 a.m. before Judge Siragusa.    

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ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Dennis L. Jones, 33, of Fort Lauderdale, FL, who was convicted of bank fraud, was sentenced to serve 57 months in prison, by U.S. District Judge David L. Larimer. Jones is the final defendant in a series of “smash and grab” car robberies to be sentenced.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Melissa M. Marangola, who handled the case, stated that between December 2021, and March 2022, Jones and three others drove up the East Coast from Florida to Rochester, NY, for the purpose of stealing purses from unoccupied vehicles in gym parking lots, retail parking lots, hiking trails and residential neighborhoods.  The defendants used stolen driver’s licenses to cash stolen checks totaling $55,310 at local banks. Over 20 victims were identified in the Rochester Area, as well as additional victims along the East Coast.

In addition, defendant Liza J. Freiman, 33, of Boston, MA, was sentenced to serve 12 months in prison; defendant Allen Clark, 34, of Fort Lauderdale, FL, was sentenced to 84 months in prison; and defendant Ja’Cari Robinson, 22, also of Fort Lauderdale, FL, was sentenced to six months in prison. 

The sentencing is the culmination of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia.

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BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Stacey Beardsley aka Stacey J. Peterson, 37, of Jamestown, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Michael J. Roemer to misprision of felony, which carries a maximum penalty of three years in prison.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua A. Violanti, who handled the case, stated that between late 2018, and March 2020, Beardsley’s husband, Rocco Beardsley, was involved in a drug trafficking conspiracy. Rocco Beardsley purchased and distributed large quantities of heroin, fentanyl, methamphetamine, and other controlled substances in the Jamestown area. Stacey Beardsley knew of these drug trafficking activities, financially benefited from his activities, and actively concealed and assisted in his drug trafficking activities. Following an arrest in May 2019, Rocco Beardsley called Stacey Beardsley from jail and asked her to go to Erie, PA, to get his “stuff.” She failed to notify any authority about the request, and instead drove to Erie, PA, as requested to pick up Rocco Beardsley’s stuff, including drugs. On her way back to Jamestown, Stacey Beardsley was stopped by law enforcement and a search of her vehicle recovered quantities of methamphetamine and heroin. In January 2020, two controlled purchases of drugs from Rocco Beardsley took place at the residence he shared with Stacey Beardsley, who failed to notify any authority of the federal felony conduct. Charges are pending against Rocco Beardsley.

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

The plea is the result of an investigation by the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff James Quattrone, the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Jamestown Police Chief Timothy Jackson, and the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank A. Tarentino III, New York Field Division. OCDETF.

Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.

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BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that a federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging Javonte Holloway, 23, of Buffalo, NY, with distribution of controlled substances causing death and trafficking in counterfeit drugs causing death. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 20 years in prison and a maximum of life.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua A. Violanti, who is handling the case, stated that according to the indictment, on December 2, 2022, Holloway distributed fentanyl, which  caused the death of a toddler. In addition, Holloway sold counterfeit M-30 oxycodone hydrochloride pills containing fentanyl and acetyl fentanyl.

The indictment is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank A. Tarentino, III, New York Field Division, the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office, and the Niagara County Drug Task Force, under the direction of Sheriff Michael Filicetti, and the Lockport Police Department, under the direction of Chief Steven Abbott.

The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 

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BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Ivan Morales, 48, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and being a felon in possession of firearms, was sentenced to serve 120 months in prison by U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra. Jr.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Louis A. Testani and Casey Chalbeck, who handled the case, stated that on October 13, 2022, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Morales’s Ideal Street residence and seized suspected marijuana, a digital scale, and approximately $2,546.00 in U.S. currency. They also searched a Shanley Street apartment associated with Morales and seized approximately 1.5 kilograms of cocaine, 12 clear bags containing cocaine, suspected MDMA pills, eight firearms, numerous magazines and ammunition, drug paraphernalia, and 250 $100 bills, for a total of $25,000.00 in U.S. currency. In 1998, 2004, 2006, and 2020, Morales was convicted of felonies in state and federal court and is legally prohibited from possessing firearms.

The sentencing is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino and the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia.

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ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Stephen Nicot, 61, of Rochester, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr. to receipt of child pornography, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of 20 years, and a $250,000 fine.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan K. McGuire, who is handling the case, stated that between 2012 and 2014, Nicot hid a camera in the bathroom of a church located in the Western District of New York. Nicot positioned the camera so that it would capture video and images of naked individuals using the shower in the church bathroom. He did this knowing some of the individuals would be under the age of 18 and he planned to display the video of the minors. On July 21, 2022, law enforcement executed a warrant at the Nicot’s residence and recovered a memory card and USB drive, which contained videos and images of at least five minor victims using the church bathroom and shower. Two cell phones were also seized, which contained naked images of a minor victim that were recorded by a camera hidden in a bathroom of Nicot’s residence.

The plea is the result of an investigation by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter and the Federal Bureau of Investigation Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, under the direction Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia.

Sentencing is scheduled for May 6, 2024, before Judge Geraci.     

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BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Angel Flores, 36, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of conspiracy to deal in the business of dealing firearms without a license, was sentenced to serve 18 months in prison by Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Louis A. Testani, who is handling the case, stated that on October 27, 2022, Customs and Border Protection officers intercepted a parcel, sent from China, at the FedEx facility at the Memphis International Airport in Memphis, Tennessee. The parcel contained parts for several Machine Gun Conversion Devices (MCDs), which were concealed in a bag comingled among black plastic drawstring clips. The parcel, addressed to a residence on Sweet Avenue in Buffalo, was seized and turned over to Homeland Security Investigations. Subsequent investigation determined Flores resides at the Sweet Street address. On November 9, 2022, an investigator delivered the parcel, without the MCDs, to the front steps of the Sweet Avenue residence. A short time later, Flores took the parcel inside before exiting the residence, at which time he was taken into custody.

The sentencing is the result of an investigation by Customs and Border Protection, under the direction of Director of Field Operations Rose Brophy, Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge John B. DeVito, New York Field Division.

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ROCHESTER, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Ebony Shine, 37, of Rochester, NY, who was convicted of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, 400 grams or more of fentanyl, was sentenced to serve 120 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Charles J. Siragusa. 

Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert A. Marangola, who handled the case, stated that Shine was arrested on November 15, 2022, after investigators executed federal search warrants at her residence on Post Avenue in Rochester and several other locations. During the search of Shine’s residence, approximately $4,506.00 in U.S. currency, drug paraphernalia, three firearms, and over 100 rounds of ammunition, were recovered. On 12 occasions between October 2021, and November 15, 2022, at locations in Medina and Rochester, Shine sold over 440 grams of fentanyl, 119 grams of cocaine, and a 9mm pistol to an individual working with law enforcement. Shine supervised the distribution of quantities of fentanyl by her sons and co-conspirators, Emmanual Taylor, and Nasir Shine. Taylor and Nasir Shine were previously convicted and are awaiting sentencing.

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

The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Orleans County Major Felony Crime Task Force, under the direction of the Orleans County District Attorney’s Office and District Attorney Joseph Cardone, Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino, the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank A. Tarentino III, New York Field Division, the Orleans County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Christopher Bourke, the Medina Police Department, under the direction of Chief Todd Draper, the Niagara County Drug Task Force, under the direction of Sheriff Michael Filicetti, and the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief David Smith.

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BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Curtis Snyder, 51, of Jamestown, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, heroin, fentanyl, and methamphetamine, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua A. Violanti, who is handling the case, state that according to the complaint, Snyder utilized Facebook to communicate and facilitate his drug trafficking activities with Rocco Beardsley. During the investigation, investigators recovered communications between Snyder and Beardsley during which Snyder offered to distribute drugs for Beardsley. Snyder and Beardsley also discussed heroin and fentanyl transactions. Beardsley is also charged in the drug conspiracy.

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

The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Jamestown Police Chief Timothy Jackson, and the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank A. Tarentino III, New York Field Division.

The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.  

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ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Marlene Cruz, 40, of Rochester, NY, pleaded guilty to theft of mail matter by officer or employee, before U.S. District Judge Charles J. Siragusa. The charge carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle P. Rossi, who is handling the case, stated that in January 2022, the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) received complaints from individuals stating that their mail had been tampered with in late 2021. Subsequent investigation determined that Cruz, a full-time Mail Carrier, worked the mail route involving the complaints. Further investigation determined that between January 2022, and November 2023, Cruz routinely opened envelopes and parcels, removing items such as ticket stubs, documents, cash, lottery tickets, and gift cards, on dozens of occasions.

In May and November 2023, investigators conducted mail integrity tests, placing greeting cards containing cash and gift cards in the mail to be delivered by Cruz. On November 2, 2023, at the end of her shift, investigators detained Cruz and executed a warrant for her person and personal belongings. During the search, they recovered a gift card from one of the mail integrity test greeting cards inside Cruz’ personal duffle bag.

The plea is the result of an investigation by the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Matthew Modafferi, Special Agent-in-Charge Northeast Field Office.

Sentencing is scheduled for May 9, 2023, at 9:15 a.m. before Judge Siragusa. 

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ROCHESTER, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Jacob Brewer, 31, of Elmira, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with attempted enticement of a minor, attempted receipt of child pornography, and attempted possession of child pornography, which carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum of 20 years. 

Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan K. McGuire, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, on August 19, 2024, a parent reported to the Elmira Police Department that his 16-year-old daughter (Minor) was contacted on Facebook and Instagram by a 31-year-old male, who he believed to be Brewer. The parent stated that Brewer provided his phone number to the Minor and asked her to text him. In response, the parent sent text messages to Brewer posing as the Minor. During this conversation, Brewer attempted to arrange a meeting to engage in sexual activity with the Minor and sent sexually explicit photos and videos of himself. The parent then provided the messages exchanged with Brewer to the Elmira Police. The messages were subsequently turned over to the New York State Police (NYSP).

A NYSP investigator began exchanging messages with Brewer, posing as the Minor. They exchanged over 1,500 messages. During that time, Brewer sent over 60 pictures, videos, and files, many sexually explicit in nature. On October 1, 2024, Brewer and “the Minor” made plans to meet the following day to engage in sexual activity at Brewer’s residence. Brewer told “the Minor” to look “like ur 18.” On October 2, 2024, investigators executed a search warrant and took Brewer into custody. Investigators seized the cell phone Brewer used to communicate with the Minor. A search of the cell phone also recovered multiple conversations via several messaging applications between Brewer and various females, including suspected minors. Many of the conversations were sexual in nature.

The complaint is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan, the New York State Police, under the direction of Acting Major Kevin Sucher, and the Elmira Police Department, under the direction of Chief Kristen Thorne.

The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

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ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that John Buckley, 61, of Wayland, NY, who was convicted of possession of child pornography, was sentenced to serve 10 years in prison by Chief U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle P. Rossi, who handled the case, stated that between August and December 2021, Buckley used his cellphone to take sexually explicit photos of a minor female. On August 30, 2022, the FBI executed a federal search warrant on the cellphone and recovered 31 images containing child pornography, including images of the minor female.  

The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia. Additional assistance was provided by the FBI Chicago Field Office and the Joliet, Illinois Police Department.

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