Eastern District of Oklahoma

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Marco Ali Orduno, age 28, of Yuma, Arizona, entered a guilty plea to Possession With Intent To Distribute Fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A), punishable by not less than 10 years and not more than life imprisonment, a fine up to $10,000,000.00, or both. 

The Indictment alleged that on or about July 10, 2018, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant did knowingly and intentionally possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance. 

The charges arose from an investigation by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and the Drug Enforcement Administration.

The Honorable Kimberly E. West, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.    

Assistant United States Attorney Ryan Conway represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that John David Sanders, age 41, of Valliant, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 18 months’ imprisonment, and 5 years of supervised release for Failure To Register As Sex Offender, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2250(a)(1), 2250(a)(2)(B) and 2250(a)(3). The charges arose from an investigation by the Texas Department of Public Safety, the McCurtain County Sheriff’s Office, and the United States Marshals Service.

The Indictment alleged that from in or about March 2019, until about July 16, 2019, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, and elsewhere, the defendant, an individual required to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (“SORNA”), as a result of a conviction for Indecency with a Child, traveled in interstate and foreign commerce and knowingly failed to register and update his registration as required by SORNA.

Sex offender registration and notification programs are important for public safety purposes.  Sex offender registration is a system for monitoring and tracking sex offenders following their release into the community.  The registration provides important information about convicted sex offenders to local and federal authorities and the public, such as offender's name, current location and past offenses.
                
The Honorable Ronald A. White, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Sarah McAmis represented the United States. 

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Sterling Ross, IV, age 26, was sentenced to 54 months’ imprisonment, and 3 years of supervised release for Felon In Possession Of Firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2). The Indictment alleged that on or about February 3, 2019, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, knowingly possessed a Glock GMBH, Model 30, .45 ACP caliber semi-automatic pistol which had been shipped and transported in interstate and foreign commerce.

United States Attorney Brian J. Kuester said, “The Department of Justice is committed to working with law enforcement agencies to make the communities they serve safer. We are most effective at having a local impact on violent crime when federal law enforcement agencies have working relationships with the local officers because those officers have a front row seat to see the challenges their communities are facing. This case is a result of those kinds of working relationships.” 

The charges arose from an investigation by the Okmulgee Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation Safe Trails Task Force, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The Oklahoma Safe Trails Task Force is comprised of the FBI and nine partner agencies including: Muscogee Creek Nation Lighthorse Police, Okmulgee Police Department, Okmulgee Sheriff’s Office, Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, District 25 District Attorney’s Investigators, Cherokee Nation Police, Tahlequah Police Department, and Wagoner Police Department.  The task force is focused on combating and reducing crime related to tribal jurisdictions across Oklahoma.
                
The Honorable Ronald A. White, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Cameron Nathaniel Robinson, age 21, of Bella Vista, Arkansas, was sentenced to 120 months’ imprisonment, and 5 years of supervised release for Transportation Of A Minor With Intent To Engage In Criminal Sexual Activity, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2423(a). The charges arose from an investigation by the Westville Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

The Indictment alleged that from on or about April 2, 2019, to on or about April 3, 2019, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, and elsewhere, the defendant knowingly transported an individual who had not attained the age of 18 years, in interstate commerce, with the intent that such individual engage in sexual activity for which any person can be charged with a criminal offense.

“One of the most important responsibilities we have is to protect children from predators. The investigation in this case proved the defendant preyed upon the victim, a minor child, for his sexual desires. He began luring the victim through the use of internet applications and text messages, arranged to meet the victim in person, and then took her to his home in Arkansas,” said United States Attorney Brian J. Kuester.  “Child predators commonly use the internet and phones to communicate with, lure, groom, and arrange to meet their victims. Tragically, technology has given criminals potential access to children even when they aren’t in the same state. This is a reality we must always remember and take precautions against.”
                
The Honorable Ronald A. White, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Sarah McAmis represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced today that twelve defendants, primarily residents of Haskell and Pittsburg Counties, have been indicted for their roles in a conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and other controlled substances in the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere. Drug Conspiracy is punishable by not less than 10 years imprisonment, and up to a $10,000,000 fine or both. Eight of those defendants were also indicted for conspiracy to launder money and money laundering charges which are punishable by not more than 20 years imprisonment, a fine greater of $500,000 or two-times the amount of the transaction or both. The indictment also charges two defendants with firearm offenses carrying punishment of not more than 10 years imprisonment, and up to a $250,000 fine or both. A coordinated law enforcement operation to arrest the defendants charged in the indictment began this morning and is ongoing. A copy of the full indictment can be found online at https://go.usa.gov/xdYg4. 

The indictment alleges the defendants were involved in a drug trafficking organization that utilized the United States mail to transport controlled substances from California to Oklahoma for distribution in the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere.  The indictment also alleges defendants utilized bank accounts and various wire transfer entities to facilitate the unlawful activities and launder the proceeds of the drug trafficking organization.

Defendants indicted are Kimberly Diana Noel, age 52, of Desert Hot Springs, California; Early Willard Woodmore, III, age 32, of Quinton, Oklahoma; Calvin James Woodmore, age 31, of McAlester, Oklahoma; Amber Nicole Woodmore, age 29, of McAlester, Oklahoma; Valerie Nacole Adcock, age 36, of McAlester, Oklahoma; Dennis Clyde Marshall, Jr., age 36, of McAlester, Oklahoma; Prentice Roland Keith, age 48, of Kinta, Oklahoma; Jimmie Ray Stephens, age 65, of Lewisville, Oklahoma; Tiffany Ann Meeks-Davis, age 32, of McAlester, Oklahoma; Michael Dewane Hunt, age 54, of Kinta, Oklahoma; Choice Lynn Needham, age 45, of Quinton, Oklahoma; and Janet Sue Troutt, age 60, of Rogers, Arkansas.

The charges arose from a joint investigation led by the Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”), along with the Bureau of Indian Affairs (“BIA”), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (“ATF”), the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”), the United States Postal Inspection Service (“USPIS”), the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics (“OBN”), the National Guard Counterdrug Task Force, the Haskell County Sheriff’s Office, the District 18 District Attorney’s Drug Task Force, the Seminole Nation Lighthorse Police, the Choctaw Nation Tribal Police, the Pittsburg County Sheriff’s Office, the McAlester Police Department, and the Stigler Police Department. The investigation was part of and include members of the DEA High Intensity Drug Trafficking (“HIDTA”) Task Force.

“Methamphetamine continues to be the leading cause of death by overdose in Oklahoma. It is therefore imperative that the law enforcement community diligently investigate the drug trafficking organizations that push this poison into our communities,” said United States Attorney Brian J. Kuester. “I commend the DEA, its task force partners, and the many other agencies that assisted with this long term investigation. In rural Oklahoma this type of team work amongst federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies is key to our fight against the drug trade.”

“The arrest of Mr. Woodmore and his associates have undoubtedly made our communities safer and prevented the further destruction that methamphetamine can bring to neighborhoods in Eastern Oklahoma.  The DEA will continue to work hand in hand with our law enforcement partners across the state to ensure justice is served,” said Eduardo A. Chavez, Special Agent in Charge, Dallas Field Division.    

“Today’s arrests send a clear message to those who attempt to launder illegal drug proceeds.  IRS Criminal Investigation is committed to uncovering the profits earned from illegal activity and prosecuting the criminals who try to hide them,” said Kevin Caramucci, IRS Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the Dallas Field Office.  “We are pleased to join forces with our Federal, State and local law enforcement partners to aggressively pursue and crack down on drug dealing organizations in our communities.”

“It’s in our mission statement,” said Thomas Noyes, the Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Fort Worth Division, “to defend the U.S. Mail from being used to facilitate criminal activity in an effort to protect our communities. To this end, Postal Inspectors will spare no effort, and aggressively work towards dismantling criminal networks and seeking the maximum prosecution of offenders. We thank the U.S Attorney’s Office for their dedication, and are proud to be joined with the many federal, state and local agencies whose combined efforts brought this investigation to a successful resolution.”

Haskell County Sheriff Timothy Turner said, “This long-term investigation that began in Haskell County would not have been as great a success without the collaboration of local, state, tribal, and federal law enforcement agencies. I am thankful for those agencies that participated. As a result of our joint efforts, the citizens of Haskell County and Eastern Oklahoma are safer.”    

This case is part of the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program. The OCDETF program is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s drug supply reduction strategy. OCDETF was established to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations. Today, OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and those primarily responsible for the nation’s illicit drug supply.

A grand jury Indictment does not constitute evidence of guilt. A grand jury Indictment is a method of bringing formal charges against the defendant.  A defendant is presumed innocent of the charges and may not be found guilty unless evidence establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
 

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Glenn Randall Ferguson, age 48, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, was found guilty by a federal jury of Possession Of Certain Material Involving The Sexual Exploitation Of Minors, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2252(a)(4)(B) and 2252(b)(2). The jury trial began with testimony on Tuesday, January 7, 2020 and concluded on Friday, January 10, 2020 with the guilty verdict. 

Evidence presented at trial proved that between March 6, 2014 and April 16, 2014, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant knowingly possessed, attempted to possess and accessed with intent to view images and videos which contained visual depictions, the production of which involved the use of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. Those images and videos had been transported in interstate commerce by computer. The evidence included the seizure from the defendant’s computer of over 1,900 images and more than 50 videos of children, ranging in age from infants to pre-teens, engaged in sexually explicit conduct. 

The verdict was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Muskogee Police Department as part of Project Safe Childhood. Project Safe Childhood (“PSC”) is a Department of Justice initiative launched to combat the proliferation of technology facilitated crimes involving the sexual exploitation of children. Through a network of federal, state, local, and tribal enforcement agencies and advocacy organizations, PSC attempts to protect children by investigating and prosecuting offenders involved in child sexual exploitation.

The Honorable Ronald A. White, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the trial and ordered the completion of a presentence report. Sentencing will be scheduled following its completion. 

Assistant United States Attorney Sarah McAmis and Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Ethan Cole Endres, age 28, of Okmulgee, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 46 months’ imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release for Felon In Possession Of Firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2). The charges arose from an investigation by the Okmulgee County Sheriff’s Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation Safe Trails Task Force, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

The Indictment alleged that on April 11, 2019, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, who had been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, and knowing of said conviction, knowingly possessed in and affecting commerce, a firearm which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce.

United States Attorney Brian J. Kuester said, “This case is another success story resulting from agencies working together to maximize their efforts to reduce violent crime. Enforcing federal firearms laws against those who have a track record of lawlessness gives the federal law enforcement community the opportunity to work with local agencies as they work to keep their communities safe. We value and appreciate the strong working relationships the local, state, tribal, and federal law enforcement agencies have in the Eastern District.” 

The Oklahoma Safe Trails Task Force is comprised of the FBI and nine partner agencies including: Muscogee Creek Nation Lighthorse Police, Okmulgee Police Department, Okmulgee Sheriff’s Office, Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, District 25 District Attorney’s Investigators, Cherokee Nation Police, Tahlequah Police Department, and Wagoner Police Department.  The task force is focused on combating and reducing crime related to tribal jurisdictions across Oklahoma.

This case is consistent with the principles of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice's signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department's past successful programs to reduce gun violence. A key principle of Project Guardian is enhancing coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes to ensure that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information on Project Guardian, see the Attorney General’s memorandum at: https://www.justice.gov/ag/project-guardian-memo-2019/download.  
                 
The Honorable Ronald A. White, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Winford Lamont Henley, age 45, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment and 4 years of supervised release for Possession Of Firearm In Furtherance Of Drug Trafficking Crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c) and to 130 months imprisonment for Felon In Possession Of Firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(e)(2). The sentence on each count will be served consecutively. The charges arose from an investigation by the Eufaula Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. 

The Indictment alleged that on or about February 12, 2019, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant knowingly possessed a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime for which he may be prosecuted in a court of the United States. The Indictment further alleged the defendant, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, did knowingly possess in and affecting commerce, a firearm which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce.

United States Attorney Brian J. Kuester said, “Combatting violent crime, specifically violent crime involving firearms, is a priority for the Department of Justice. By enforcing federal firearms laws against those who have violent felony convictions and thus have demonstrated their violent and lawless tendencies, we are decreasing the number of firearms in the wrong hands in the communities we serve. This investigation and prosecution allowed us to do just that.” 

This case is consistent with the principles of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice's signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department's past successful programs to reduce gun violence. A key principle of Project Guardian is enhancing coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes to ensure that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information on Project Guardian, see the Attorney General’s memorandum at: https://www.justice.gov/ag/project-guardian-memo-2019/download.  

The Honorable Ronald A. White, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris represented the United States. 
 

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Reagan Sydney Clark, age 22, of Ada, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 3 years’ probation for False Statement In Acquisition Of A Firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(a)(6) and 924(a)(1)(A). The charges arose from an investigation by the Ada Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

The Indictment alleged that on November 30, 2018, the defendant knowingly made a false and fictitious statement intended and likely to deceive Gunrunners, a licensed dealer of firearms within the meaning of Chapter 44, Title 18, United States Code, as to a fact material to the lawfulness of the sale of a Walther, Model CCP, 9x19mm caliber semi-automatic pistol, serial number WK066579, a firearm under Chapter 44 of Title 18, in that the defendant represented she was the actual transferee/buyer of the firearm.

Cases like this are sometimes referred to as “lie and buy” or “straw purchase” cases. Investigating and prosecuting these crimes is consistent with the principles of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice's signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department's past successful programs to reduce gun violence. A key principle of Project Guardian is enhancing coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes to ensure that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information on Project Guardian, see the Attorney General’s memorandum at: https://www.justice.gov/ag/project-guardian-memo-2019/download. 

The Honorable Ronald A. White, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris represented the United States. 

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that David Neil Dunn a/k/a David Neil Dunn, Jr., age 20, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to Stealing A Firearm From A Federal Firearms Licensed Dealer, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 924(m), punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00, or both. 

The Indictment alleged that from on or about July 12, 2019, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, did knowingly steal from Mike’s Outdoors, a federal firearms licensed dealer, a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 924(m).

The charges arose from an investigation by the Muskogee Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. 

The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.   

Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris represented the United States. 

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced the sentencing of eleven defendants as a result of a multi-agency investigation referred to as “Operation Cesar’s Palace.” They were indicted on March 22, 2018, and were sentenced on various dates from April 2019 to October 2019 following their guilty pleas or jury verdicts and the completion of pre-sentence reports for each. 

Those sentenced were: Waylon Lee Williams, age 38, of Stilwell; Chassidy Dawn Burke, age 38, of Stilwell; Jesse Ryan Catron, age 39, of Stilwell; Evonnie Marie Simmons, age 38, of Stilwell; Josh Caleb Simmons, age 39, of Stilwell; Amber Rae Kirk, age 38, of Lincoln, Arkansas; Carl Alvin Cushing, age 61, of Westville;  Megan Charise Watkins, age 27, of Stilwell; Kris Lee Hall, age 41, of Stilwell; Sharon Eloise Davis, age 53, of Bunch; and Donnie Dean Burke, age 36, of Westville. A twelfth individual named in the indictment, Brianna Deanyae Smith, age 49, of Westville, was acquitted at a jury trial of the charge of Drug Conspiracy, on January 25, 2019.

Each defendant was sentenced for Drug Conspiracy pursuant to 21 United States Code Section 846. Williams was sentenced on October 8, 2019 to 125 months in prison and 5 years’ supervised release. Chassidy Dawn Burke was sentenced on June 26, 2019 to 21 months in prison and 3 years’ supervised release. Catron was sentenced on October 8, 2019 to 46 months in prison and 5 years’ supervised release. Evonnie Marie Simmons was sentenced on October 10, 2019 to 51 months in prison and 5 years’ supervised release. Josh Caleb Simmons was sentenced on August 14, 2019 to 51 months in prison and 5 years’ supervised release. Kirk was sentenced on May 15, 2019 to 21 months in prison and 3 years’ supervised release. Cushing was sentenced on October 9, 2019 to 180 months in prison and 10 years’ supervised release. Watkins was sentenced on June 27, 2019 to 33 months in prison and 3 years’ supervised release. Hall was sentenced on October 9, 2019 to 121 months in prison and 5 years’ supervised release. Davis was sentenced on April 17, 2019 to 15 months in prison and 3 years’ supervised release.  Donnie Dean Burke was sentenced on May 15, 2019 to 18 months in prison and 3 years’ supervised release. 

The law enforcement agencies involved in the investigation were the Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”), the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics (“OBN”), the National Guard Counterdrug Task Force, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Cherokee Nation Marshal Service, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, the District 27 District Attorney’s Drug Task Force, the Adair County Sheriff’s Office, the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office, the Stilwell Police Department, the Broken Arrow Police Department, the Tulsa Police Department., and the U.S. Attorney’s Office. The investigation was coordinated by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (“OCDETF”) of the Eastern District of Oklahoma. OCDETF is an initiative led and coordinated by the Office of the United States Attorney. 

“An investigation and prosecution of this magnitude cannot be accomplished without many cooperating law enforcement agencies. Much of the work by investigators and prosecutors alike did not happen during normal business hours. They worked late nights and weekends for months on end. Their dedication to this investigation and prosecution for the benefit of rural Oklahoma was inspiring,” said United States Attorney Brian J. Kuester. “We cannot lose sight of the fact that every year hundreds of Oklahomans die as a result of methamphetamine overdose. Drug trafficking organizations profit while communities deal with tragic outcomes caused by addiction. That is why investigations like this are so important.” 

John Scott, DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge Oklahoma City District Office said, “The remote location of targets and lack of law enforcement assets in rural Eastern Oklahoma allowed the Waylon Williams DTO to operate with impunity for many years. The combined efforts of federal, state, tribal, and local law enforcement resulted in the dismantlement of this organization, significantly impacting the distribution of methamphetamine in rural Eastern Oklahoma.  Let this case serve as a reminder to the criminals in our community, your illegal activity will be brought to light and justice will be served.”

The Honorable Ronald A. White, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over each of the sentencing hearings. The defendants will remain in custody pending transportation to the designated federal facility at which the non-parolable sentences will be served. Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Danny Joe Patrick, age 51, of Wilburton, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 30 months’ imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release for Felon In Possession Of Firearm & Ammunition, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2). The charges arose from an investigation by the Latimer County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

The Indictment alleged that on April 5, 2019, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, knowingly possessed in and affecting commerce, a firearm and ammunition which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce.

United States Attorney Brian J. Kuester said, “Enforcement of federal firearms statutes prohibiting felons from possessing firearms and ammunition is one way we help local law enforcement agencies and district attorneys combat violent crime. One of DOJ’s top priorities is combating and reducing violent crime, particularly crimes involving guns. I am thankful we have the opportunity to work alongside our state, local, tribal, and federal partners to make a positive impact in the Eastern District.”

This case is consistent with the principles of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice's signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department's past successful programs to reduce gun violence. A key principle of Project Guardian is enhancing coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes to ensure that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information on Project Guardian, see the Attorney General’s memorandum at: https://www.justice.gov/ag/project-guardian-memo-2019/download. 
                                 
The Honorable Ronald A. White, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Jasmine Lea Meikle, age 38, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 17 months’ imprisonment and 1 year of supervised release for Unlawful Use Of A Communication Facility, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 843(b). The charges arose from an investigation by the Tahlequah Police Department, the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, the Sequoyah County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

The Information alleged that on or about September 24, 2018, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant knowingly and intentionally used a communication facility, a cellular telephone, in facilitating the commission of Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, a felony under Title 21, United States Code 841(a)(1). 
 
The Honorable Ronald A. White, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States. 
 

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Johnny Scott Sadler, age 48, of Okmulgee, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment and 5 years of supervised release for Possession Of A Firearm In Furtherance Of A Drug Trafficking Crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A). The charges arose from an investigation by the Okmulgee County Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. 

The Indictment alleged that on February 23, 2019, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant knowingly possessed a Bushmaster Firearms Inc., Model BACR, Multi caliber semi-automatic rifle (.223 caliber barrel), a firearm, in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime for which he may be prosecuted in a court of the United States.

United States Attorney Brian J. Kuester said, “Firearms are tools of the trade for people involved in the business of drug dealing because violence is a characteristic of drug trafficking organizations. Every time we are able to investigate and prosecute a person who has used a weapon to further a drug trafficking crime, we have lessened the likelihood of violent crime in a community. That is one of DOJ’s top priorities.”
                                
The Honorable Ronald A. White, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States. 

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Raul Alexis Gamez-Garcia, age 26, of Hermosillo, Senora, Mexico, was sentenced to 111 months’ imprisonment and 5 years of supervised release for Possession With Intent To Distribute Methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A) and Title 18, United States Code, Section 2. The charges arose from an investigation by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and the Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”). 

The Indictment alleged that on or about January 7, 2019 within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant knowingly and intentionally possessed with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual), a Schedule II controlled substance.

United States Attorney Brian J. Kuester said, “This defendant chose to participate in the distribution of an illegal drug – methamphetamine – that has taken many lives. He will now be held accountable for the role he played for a drug trafficking organization. I am thankful for the continued diligence of the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and the DEA in their fight against drug trafficking.”
                                
The Honorable Ronald A. White, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States. 
 

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Joel Seth Hood, age 37, of Idabel, Oklahoma. was sentenced to 38 months’ imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release for Felon In Possession Of Firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2). The charges arose from an investigation by the McCurtain County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (“ATF”).

The Indictment alleged that on November 30, 2018, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, knowingly possessed in and affecting commerce, a firearm which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce.

United States Attorney Brian J. Kuester said, “This office received the investigation that led to the defendant’s prosecution as a result of collaboration and strong working relationships between the ATF, the McCurtain County Sheriff’s Office, and the District 17 District Attorney’s Office. Members of this office work hard to maintain open lines of communication with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies. When we all work together, the communities we serve are the beneficiaries.”
                                
The Honorable Ronald A. White, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Clay Compton represented the United States. 

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Lieutenant Skylare Holstick, age 37, of Birmingham, Alabama, was sentenced to 41 months’ imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release, and Shara Tyesha Cumins, age 29, of Opelika, Alabama, was sentenced to 18 months’ imprisonment, and 2 years of supervised release for Possession With Intent To Distribute Marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(D) and Title 18, United States Code, Section 2. The charges arose from an investigation by the Okmulgee County Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. 

The Indictment alleged that on or about December 22, 2018, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendants Lieutenant Skylare Holstick and Shara Tyesha Cumins knowingly and intentionally possessed with intent to distribute less than 50 kilograms of marijuana, a Schedule I controlled substance.

The investigation was initiated by an Okmulgee County Deputy on I-40 who stopped the defendants’ car due to erratic driving. The odor of Marijuana emanated from the car which was occupied by the defendants and their child. Following additional investigation, 94 bundles containing 95.7 lbs. of Marijuana were located in the trunk.

United States Attorney Brian J. Kuester said, “These defendants were transporting a large quantity of Marijuana to profit from the unlawful distribution of a controlled drug. Because of erratic driving by Ms. Cumins and an alert Okmulgee County Deputy, they were stopped and their venture ended in Okmulgee with an arrest, a federal indictment, and a federal sentence.”
                                
The Honorable Ronald A. White, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearings. Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Duane Allyn Bundy, age 40, of McAlester, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 235 months’ imprisonment and 5 years of supervised release for Possession With Intent To Distribute Methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A). The charges arose from an investigation by the McAlester Police Department, the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs, the Oklahoma District 18 Drug & Violent Crime Task Force, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.

The Superseding Indictment alleged that on or about January 30, 2019, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant knowingly and intentionally possessed with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual), a Schedule II controlled substance.

This investigation began on January 30, 2019 when a McAlester police officer attempted to initiate a traffic stop. The defendant refused to stop, fleeing in his car and then running on foot, discarding his jacket as he ran. He was apprehended a short time later and his jacket was found to have methamphetamine in its pockets. He was arrested and indicted in federal court on February 13, 2019.

United States Attorney Brian J. Kuester said, “Methamphetamine has caused the death of countless lives in Oklahoma and across the country. People who choose to play a role in the trafficking of this deadly drug are profiting from addiction, destruction, and death. This investigation and prosecution gave us the opportunity to work with several agencies from different jurisdictions. Together we are able to maximize our efforts to combat drug trafficking and the violent crime that accompanies it.”
                                
The Honorable Ronald A. White, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. Special Assistant United States Attorney Courtney Jordan represented the United States. 
 

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Nichole Marie Schell-Loper, age 43, of Durant, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 5 years of supervised release for Embezzlement And Theft From Indian Tribal Organizations, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1163. In addition to the standard rules and conditions of probation, Loper was ordered to pay $20,000.00 in restitution to the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma in monthly installments beginning on December 20, 2019 and by surrendering 100% of any state and federal tax refunds.  Loper was also ordered to not incur any additional charges on credit and not to open any new lines of credit without the prior approval of her probation officer. 

The charges arose from an investigation by the Choctaw Nation Tribal Police. The Indictment alleged that from in or about January 2016, to in or about June 2018, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, stole, embezzled and knowingly and willfully converted to her own use monies in excess of $1,000.00 which had been entrusted to her custody and care as an employee of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, an Indian tribal organization.

United States Attorney Brian J. Kuester said, “The defendant enriched herself with funds entrusted to her that were intended for those facing financial hardship. This sort of abuse of position to benefit oneself deprives those in genuine need of assistance and lessens the impact the victimized organization could have on the community. This sentence holds the defendant accountable and requires her to repay the funds she embezzled.”
                                
The Honorable Ronald A. White, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Sarah McAmis represented the United States. 
 

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Joshua Dewayne Funburg, age 34, of Checotah, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 94 months’ imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release for Felon In Possession Of Firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2). The charges arose from an investigation by the Checotah Police Department, the McIntosh County Sheriff’s Office, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. 

The Indictment alleged that on or about February 10, 2019, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, knowingly possessed in and affecting commerce, a Kel-Tec CNC Industries Inc., Model P-32, .32 ACP caliber semi-automatic pistol, a firearm which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce.

United States Attorney Brian J. Kuester said, “The defendant has a significant criminal history including multiple felony convictions, yet he possessed a firearm. This office and our federal law enforcement partners will continue to utilize resources and federal law to assist state, local, and tribal agencies in their ongoing efforts to combat violent crime. Working together, we will reduce violent crime.”
                                
The Honorable Ronald A. White, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris represented the United States. 
 

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Mike Douglas Nolan, age 59, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, was sentenced to 30 months’ imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release for Wire Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343. Nolan was also ordered to pay total restitution of $130,000.00. The charges arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

The Superseding Indictment alleged that from in or about June 2011, and continuing until in or about May 2012, the defendant devised and intended to devise, executed and attempted to execute, a scheme to obtain money by means of materially false and fraudulent pretenses, representations and promises.

United States Attorney Brian J. Kuester said, “The defendant’s fraudulent scheme deprived his victims of their hard earned income and savings. Today more than ever we must all be on the lookout for scam artists. The schemes may not all look the same, but fraudsters’ goals are – to steal as much money as they can from unsuspecting victims. In this case, the defendant was caught, is being held accountable, and will pay restitution. Unfortunately, often times the scammer’s identity cannot be ascertained and justice is not obtained. Our best defense is awareness and exercising extreme caution when someone is asking for you to give money or personal information.”
                                
The Honorable Ronald A. White, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace represented the United States.
 

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Takila Shauntel Carpenter, age 34, of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, entered a guilty plea to Possession With Intent To Distribute Methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A), punishable by not less than 10 years and not more than life imprisonment, a fine up to $10,000,000.00, or both.

The Indictment alleged that on or about September 19, 2019, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, did knowingly and intentionally possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.

The charges arose from an investigation by the Sequoyah County Sheriff’s Office and Homeland Security Investigations.

The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.   

Assistant United States Attorney Ryan Conway represented the United States.

TULSA, Okla. – A Tulsa man was sentenced Wednesday in federal court for stealing $368,329.61 from his employer, announced U.S. Attorney Trent Shores.

Chief U.S. District Judge John E. Dowdell sentenced Ernest Everette Howard, 49, of Tulsa, to 15 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for wire fraud.  The court further ordered Howard to pay $368,329.61 in restitution.

“White collar crime corrupts the economic welfare of businesses and communities. Mr. Howard’s embezzlement scheme undermined the mission of his employer as he abused his position of trust. Now, he is headed to federal prison to account for his crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Trent Shores.

Howard was employed as a controller at the Tulsa offices of an international company from 2017 to his termination in January 2019.  As such, he oversaw the payroll process and, from January 2018 until his termination, fraudulently padded his own paychecks with unauthorized bonuses and automobile allowances.  In an effort to disguise his thefts, Howard attributed the illegal payments to cost of goods sold.  Howard used the funds for his personal benefit.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office Asset Forfeiture Section has secured assets from Howard in the approximate amount of $130,000, to be applied to the restitution owed to the victim company, and the Office’s Financial Litigation Unit will pursue the remaining restitution owed.

The FBI conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin C. Leitch prosecuted the case.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced Rafael Torres, age 35, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to Kidnapping, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1201(a)(1), punishable by imprisonment for any term of years up to life, a fine up to $250,000.00, or both; to Interference With Commerce By Robbery, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1951, punishable by not more than 20 years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00, or both; to Use, Carry, And Brandish A Firearm During And In Relation To A Crime Of Violence, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(ii), punishable by imprisonment for not less than 7 years consecutive to any other sentence imposed, a fine up to $250,000.00, or both; and to Felon In Possession Of Firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2), punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00, or both.

The Indictment alleged that on or about February 3, 2019, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, did unlawfully and willfully seize, confine, inveigle, kidnap, abduct and carry away J.S., and hold for the purpose of acquiring transportation, in committing or in furtherance of the commission of the offense, did willfully transport J.S. in interstate commerce from Oklahoma to Arkansas. 

The Indictment further alleged that on or about February 3, 2019, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, and elsewhere, the defendant, did unlawfully obstruct, delay and affect, and attempt to obstruct, delay and affect, commerce as that term is defined in Title 18, United States Code, Section 1951, and the movement of articles and commodities in such commerce, by robbery as that term is defined in Title 18, United States Code, Section 1951, in that the defendant, did unlawfully take and obtain personal property consisting of taking control of a motor vehicle owned by Morgan’s Towing and Recovery and operated by J.S. from J.S., against his will by means of actual and threatened force, violence, and fear of injury, immediate and future, to his person and property in his custody and possession. 

The Indictment further alleged that on or about February 3, 2019, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, did knowingly brandish, carry and use a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence for which he may be prosecuted in a court of the United States, that is, Interference with Commerce by Robbery. 

The Indictment further alleged that on or about February 3, 2019, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, did knowingly possess in and affecting commerce, a firearm which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce. 

The charges arose from an investigation by the Morrilton Police Department (Arkansas) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  

The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.   

Assistant United States Attorney Sarah McAmis represented the United States. 

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office announced today the results of the November 2019 Federal Grand Jury.

The following named individuals have been charged with a federal crime or crimes by the return of an indictment by the Grand Jury.  A grand jury Indictment does not constitute evidence of guilt.  A grand jury Indictment is a method of bringing formal charges against the defendant.  A defendant is presumed innocent of the charges and may not be found guilty unless evidence establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.  United States Sentencing Guidelines may be considered, upon conviction, by the sentencing court.  Federal prison sentences are non-parolable.

 

TAKILA SHAUNTEL CARPENTER, age 34, of Murfreesboro, Tennessee

Possession With Intent To Distribute Methamphetamine

The Indictment alleges that on or about September 19, 2019, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, TAKILA SHAUNTEL CARPENTER, did knowingly and intentionally possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A), punishable by not less than 10 years and not more than life imprisonment, a fine up to $10,000,000.00, or both.

The charges arose from an investigation by the Sequoyah County Sheriff’s Office and Homeland Security Investigations.

Assistant United States Attorney Ryan Conway.  

CHARLES P. HENDRICKS, age 31, of McAlester, Oklahoma a/k/a "TUFFY"

Drug Conspiracy
Money Laundering Conspiracy

The Indictment alleges that from in or about April, 2017, the exact date being unknown to the Grand Jury, and continuing until on or about June 26, 2019, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, the Defendant, CHARLES P. HENDRICKS, a/k/a TUFFY, did knowingly and intentionally combine, conspire, confederate and agree with others, known and unknown to the Grand Jury, to commit offenses against the United States in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 841(a)(1) & 841(b)(1)(A), as follows: to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of Methamphetamine, a Schedule II Controlled Substance, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 846, punishable by not less than 10 years and not more than life imprisonment, a fine up to $10,000,000.00, or both.

The Indictment further alleges that from in or about April, 2017, the exact date being unknown to the Grand Jury, and continuing until on or about June 26, 2019, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, the defendant, CHARLES P. HENDRICKS, a/k/a TUFFY, did knowingly combine, conspire, confederate, and agree with others known and unknown to the Grand Jury, to commit offenses against the United States in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1956, as follows: to knowingly conduct and attempt to conduct financial transactions affecting interstate and foreign commerce, that is, deposited large sums of United States Currency into the Oklahoma Department of Corrections Offender Account of CHARLES P. HENDRICKS, a/k/a TUFFY, which transactions involved the proceeds of a specified unlawful activity, to wit: the felonious receiving, concealment, buying, selling, or otherwise dealing in methamphetamine, knowing that the transactions were designed in whole or in part to conceal and disguise the nature, location, source, ownership, and control of the proceeds of specified unlawful activity, and that while conducting and attempting to conduct such financial transactions, knew that the property involved in the financial transactions represented the proceeds of some form of unlawful activity, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1956(a)(1)(B)(i), all in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1956(h), punishable by not more than 20 years imprisonment, a fine up to $500,000.00, or both.

The charges arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson.  

ZACHARY GAGE PEBLEY, age 22, of Ardmore, Oklahoma

Bank Robbery
Use, Carry, And Brandish A Firearm During And In Relation To A Crime Of Violence

The Indictment alleges that on or about October 15, 2019, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, ZACHARY GAGE PEBLEY, by force, violence and intimidation did take from the person and presence of another, money belonging to and in the care, custody, control, management and possession of the Bank of the West of Ardmore, Oklahoma, the deposits of which were then insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, and in committing such offense, the defendant, ZACHARY GAGE PEBLEY, a/k/a ZACKARY GAGE PEBLEY, did assault and put in jeopardy the life of another person by the use of a dangerous weapon, that is a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2113(a) and 2113(d), punishable by not more than 25 years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00, or both. 

The Indictment further alleges that on or about October 15, 2019, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, ZACHARY GAGE PEBLEY, did knowingly use, carry, and brandish a firearm, to wit, one (1) .380 CALIBER Jimenez Arms JA 380 semi-automatic pistol, serial number 065803, during and in relation to a crime of violence for which he may be prosecuted in a court of the United States, that is, Bank Robbery, as alleged in Count One in the Indictment, in violation of Title 18 United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(ii), punishable by not less than 7 years consecutive to any other sentence imposed, a fine up to $250,000.00, or both. 

The charges arose from an investigation by the Ardmore Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Assistant United States Attorney Jarrod Leaman.  

BRIAN ALLEN HOUSTON, age 61, of Muskogee, Oklahoma

Felon In Possession Of Firearm And Ammunition

The Indictment alleges that on or about June 25, 2019, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, BRIAN ALLEN HOUSTON, having previously been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, and knowing of such conviction, did knowingly possess in and affecting commerce, a firearm and ammunition which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2), punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00, or both.

The charges arose from an investigation by the Muskogee Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

Assistant United States Attorney Ben Gifford.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that David Shane Northcutt, age 42, of Achille, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to Possession Of Stolen Firearms, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(j) and 924(a)(2), punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00, or both.

The Indictment alleged that on or about March 5, 2019, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, knowingly possessed stolen firearms which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce, knowing and having reasonable cause to believe the firearms were stolen. 

The charges arose from an investigation by the Achille Police Department, the Bryan County Sheriff’s Office, the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. 

The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.   

Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Eagletown, Oklahoma, residents Ricardo Martinez, age 46, and Carlos Medina–Tamayo, age 39, entered guilty pleas to Distribution Of Methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A); and to Possession With Intent To Distribute Methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A) and Title 18, United States Code, Section 2 respectively.  Both aforementioned charges are punishable by not less than 10 years and not more than life imprisonment, a fine up to $10.000,000.00, or both.

The Indictment alleged that on or about March 22, 2019, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, Ricardo Martinez, did knowingly and intentionally distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual), a Schedule II controlled substance. 

The Indictment further alleged that on or about May 17, 2019, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, Carlos Medina-Tamayo, did knowingly and intentionally possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance. 

The charges arose from an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration.  

The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.   

Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace represented the United States. 
 

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Randall Pete Loftis, age 41, of Seminole, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to Theft From Organization Receiving Federal Program Funds, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 666(a)(1)(A), punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00, or both.

The Information alleged that from on or about December 19, 2011, until on or about August 9, 2016, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, Randall Pete Loftis, being an agent, employee, and officer of Enviro Systems, Inc., an organization which received in excess of $10,000 in federal benefits in each one year period from 2011 through 2016, embezzled, stole, obtained by fraud, and without authority knowingly converted to the use of a person not the rightful owner, property of a value of $5,000 or more, owned by, under the care of, and under the control of Enviro Systems, Inc. 

The charges arose from an investigation by the Seminole Police Department and the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General - Defense Criminal Investigative Service. 

The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.   

Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace represented the United States. 
 

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Jacob Thomas Decker, age 28, of Dallas, Texas, entered a guilty plea to Possession With Intent To Distribute Methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C), punishable by not more than 20 years imprisonment, a fine up to $1,000,000.00, or both.

The Indictment alleged that on or about January 16, 2019, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, did knowingly and intentionally possess with intent to distribute a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.

The charges arose from an investigation by the Durant Police Department, the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. 

The Honorable Kimberly E. West, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.   

Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace represented the United States.
 

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – Today, Attorney General William P. Barr announced the launch of Project Guardian, a new initiative designed to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws across the country. Specifically, Project Guardian focuses on investigating, prosecuting, and preventing gun crimes.

Reducing gun violence and enforcing federal firearms laws have always been among the Department’s highest priorities. In order to develop a new and robust effort to promote and ensure public safety, the Department reviewed and adapted some of the successes of past strategies to curb gun violence. Project Guardian draws on the Department’s earlier achievements, such as the “Triggerlock” program, and it serves as a complementary effort to the success of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). In addition, the initiative emphasizes the importance of using all modern technologies available to law enforcement to promote gun crime intelligence.

“Gun crime remains a pervasive problem in too many communities across America. Today, the Department of Justice is redoubling its commitment to tackling this issue through the launch of Project Guardian,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “Building on the success of past programs like Triggerlock, Project Guardian will strengthen our efforts to reduce gun violence by allowing the federal government and our state and local partners to better target offenders who use guns in crimes and those who try to buy guns illegally.”

“Attorney General Barr’s emphasis on using federal resources to reduce gun violence will allow the United States Attorney’s Office and our federal law enforcement partners to further capitalize on the great working relationships we have with state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies,” said United States Attorney Brian J. Kuester. “The top priority of every law enforcement agency is to make communities safer. Project Guardian’s guiding principles will help us target those violent offenders who pose the greatest threat to the people we serve.”

“ATF has a long history of strong partnerships in the law enforcement community,” said Acting Director Regina Lombardo. “Make no mistake, the women and men of ATF remain steadfast to our core mission of getting crime guns off of our streets. ATF and U.S. Attorneys nationwide will leverage these partnerships even further through enhanced community outreach initiatives and coordination with local, state, and tribal law enforcement and prosecutors to cut the pipeline of crime guns from those violent individuals who seek to terrorize our communities. Project Guardian will enhance ATF’s Crime Gun Intelligence, to include identifying, investigating and prosecuting those involved in the straw purchases of firearms, lying on federal firearms transaction forms, and those subject to the mental health prohibition of possessing firearms.” 

Project Guardian’s implementation is based on five principles: 

1. Coordinated Prosecution.  Federal prosecutors and law enforcement will coordinate with state, local, and tribal law enforcement and prosecutors to consider potential federal prosecution for new cases involving a defendant who: a) was arrested in possession of a firearm; b) is believed to have used a firearm in committing a crime of violence or drug trafficking crime prosecutable in federal court; or c) is suspected of actively committing violent crime(s) in the community on behalf of a criminal organization. 
2. Enforcing the Background Check System.  United States Attorneys, in consultation with the Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) in their district, will create new, or review existing, guidelines for intake and prosecution of federal cases involving false statements (including lie-and-try, lie-and-buy, and straw purchasers) made during the acquisition or attempted acquisition of firearms from Federal Firearms Licensees.  Particular emphasis is placed on individuals convicted of violent felonies or misdemeanor crimes of domestic violence, individuals subject to protective orders, and individuals who are fugitives where the underlying offense is a felony or misdemeanor crime of domestic violence; individuals suspected of involvement in criminal organizations or of providing firearms to criminal organizations; and individuals involved in repeat denials. 
3. Improved Information Sharing.  On a regular basis, and as often as practicable given current technical limitations, ATF will provide to state law enforcement fusion centers a report listing individuals for whom the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) has issued denials, including the basis for the denial, so that state and local law enforcement can take appropriate steps under their laws.
4. Coordinated Response to Mental Health Denials.  Each United States Attorney will ensure that whenever there is federal case information regarding individuals who are prohibited from possessing a firearm under the mental health prohibition, such information continues to be entered timely and accurately into the United States Attorneys’ Offices’ case-management system for prompt submission to NICS. ATF should engage in additional outreach to state and local law enforcement on how to use this denial information to better assure public safety.  Additionally, United States Attorneys will consult with relevant district stakeholders to assess feasibility of adopting disruption of early engagement programs to address mental-health-prohibited individuals who attempt to acquire a firearm. United States Attorneys should consider, when appropriate, recommending court-ordered mental health treatment for any sentences issued to individuals prohibited based on mental health.
5. Crime Gun Intelligence Coordination.  Federal, state, local, and tribal prosecutors and law enforcement will work together to ensure effective use of the ATF’s Crime Gun Intelligence Centers (CGICs), and all related resources, to maximize the use of modern intelligence tools and technology. These tools can greatly enhance the speed and effectiveness in identifying trigger-pullers and finding their guns, but the success depends in large part on state, local, and tribal law enforcement partners sharing ballistic evidence and firearm recovery data with the ATF.

Federal law enforcement represents only about 15% of all law enforcement resources nationwide. Therefore, partnerships with state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the communities they serve are critical to addressing gun crime. The Department recognizes that sharing information with our state, local, and tribal law enforcement partners at every level will enhance public safety, and provide a greater depth of resources available to address gun crime on a national level. For more information on Project Guardian, see the Attorney General’s memorandum at: https://www.justice.gov/ag/project-guardian-memo-2019/download.
 

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that William Wayne Anderson, a/k/a "Buffalo", age 40, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 72 months’ imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release for two counts of Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C); and for Felon in Possession of Firearm and Ammunition, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2). The charges arose from an investigation by the Tahlequah Police Department, the District 27 Drug Task Force, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

The Indictment alleges that on November 9, 2018, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, William Wayne Anderson, knowingly and intentionally possessed with intent to distribute a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.

The Indictment also alleges that on November 9, 2018, the defendant, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, knowingly possessed in and affecting commerce, a firearm and ammunition which had been shipped and transported in interstate and foreign commerce. 

Additionally, the Indictment alleges that on February 17, 2019, the defendant knowingly and intentionally possessed with intent to distribute a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.

United States Attorney Brian J. Kuester said, “Each year hundreds of Oklahoman’s die as a result of methamphetamine overdose. People who sell methamphetamine are profiting from addiction which sometimes leads to death. They bear some responsibility for the tragic impact this drug has had on people, families, and communities. The defendant in this case is being held accountable for his role in a deadly business.”
                                
The Honorable Ronald A. White, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Jarrod Leaman represented the United States.
 

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Alexis Fernando Lopez, age 23, was sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment and 4 years of supervised release for Possession With Intent To Distribute Cocaine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B) and Title 18, United States Code, Section 2. The charges arose from an investigation by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and the Drug Enforcement Administration. 

The Indictment alleged that on November 28, 2018, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant knowingly and intentionally possessed with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance.

United States Attorney Brian J. Kuester said, “There are many different roles within a drug trafficking organization, including manufacturing, wholesale distributing, transporting, and street level distribution. Regardless of the role, the people who are involved in the distribution network are responsible for the tragedies that communities across this country have experienced as a result of drugs. I commend the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and the DEA for their work in this case and their commitment to identifying and investigating those who profit from addiction.”
                                
The Honorable Ronald A. White, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Jarrod Leaman represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Jose Sebastian-Bello, a/k/a Victor Antonio Martinez, a/k/a Anthony Casen, a/k/a Victor Martinez-Gonzalez, a/k/a Jose Antonio-Ignacio, a/k/a Lorenzo Castro Romero, a/k/a Mario Diago Diego, age 51, of Mexico, was sentenced to 30 months’ imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release for Illegal Reentry Of Previously Removed Alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Sections 1326(a) and 1326(b). The charges arose from an investigation by the Ardmore Police Department and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (“ICE”). 

The Indictment alleged that on or about October 1, 2018, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, an alien, was found to be knowingly in the United States after having been removed from the United States on or about June 10, 2015, at or near Laredo, Texas, and not having obtained the express consent of the Attorney General of the United States or the Secretary of Homeland Security to reapply for admission into the United States in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Sections 1326(a) and 1326(b).

United States Attorney Brian J. Kuester said, “The defendant reentered the United States numerous times after having been removed. Following his most recent reentry he committed crimes and was convicted in state court using an alias. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers determined his true identity and he was prosecuted in federal court. Enforcing immigration laws in these circumstances is one way ICE and this office can help state and local law enforcement agencies remove violent offenders from the communities they inhabit.”
                                
The Honorable Ronald A. White, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. First Assistant United States Attorney Christopher Wilson represented the United States.
 

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Carlos Francisco Lainez, age 34, of Las Vegas, Nevada, was sentenced to 63 months’ imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release for Possession With Intent To Distribute Methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A). The charges arose from an investigation by the Sequoyah County Sheriff’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration.

The Indictment alleged that on February 3, 2019, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant knowingly and intentionally possessed with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.

United States Attorney Brian J. Kuester said, “The defendant was playing a key role in a drug trafficking organization – delivery. Fortunately the Sequoyah County Sheriff’s office stopped him before he reached his intended destination. As a result, thousands of dosage units of methamphetamine did not enter into the cities, towns, and communities they were intended for, and the defendant is being held accountable for participating in a business – drug dealing – that has taken many lives.”
                                
The Honorable Ronald A. White, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Jarrod Leaman represented the United States. 

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Tahlequah, Oklahoma, resident Haskell Doak Willis, age 65, was Indicted for Felon In Possession Of Firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2), punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000.00 fine, or both; and for Possession Of Methamphetamine (Misdemeanor), in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 844(a), punishable by not more than 1 year imprisonment, and/or up to a minimum $1,000.00 fine. 

The Indictment alleges that on or about August 26, 2019, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, and knowing of said conviction, did knowingly possess in and affecting commerce, a firearm which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce. 

The Indictment further alleges that on or about August 26, 2019, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, did knowingly and intentionally possess methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance. 

The Tahlequah Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives each participated in the investigation that lead to the Indictment. Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represents the United States. 

The above named individual has been charged with a federal crime, or crimes, by the return of an indictment by the Grand Jury.  A grand jury Indictment does not constitute evidence of guilt.  A grand jury Indictment is a method of bringing formal charges against the defendant.  A defendant is presumed innocent of the charges and may not be found guilty unless evidence establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.  United States Sentencing Guidelines may be considered, upon conviction, by the sentencing court.  Federal prison sentences are non-parolable. 

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Rance DeWayne Childs, age 36, of Broken Bow, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 38 months’ imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release for Felon In Possession Of Firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2). The charges arose from an investigation by the Seminole Nation Lighthorse Police and the Bureau of Indian Affairs (“BIA”). 

The Indictment alleged that on or about May 5, 2019, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the Defendant, having been convicted of crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, knowingly possessed in and affecting commerce, a firearm which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce.

United States Attorney Brian J. Kuester said, “Enforcing federal firearms statutes in Indian Country is an important component of the Department of Justice priority to reduce violent crime. The strong working relationships tribal police agencies, the BIA and other state and federal agencies have make the entire law enforcement community more effective and better able to fulfill our shared mission to serve and protect.”
                                
The Honorable Ronald A. White, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. Special Assistant United States Attorney Courtney Jordan represented the United States. 

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Rhett Steven Ragland, age 23, of Ada, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 33 months’ imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release for Felon In Possession Of Ammunition, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2). The charges arose from an investigation by the Pontotoc County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. 

The Indictment alleged that on October 30, 2018, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma the defendant, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, knowingly possessed in and affecting commerce, seven rounds of Giulio, Fiocchi and Lecco brand 9mm Luger caliber ammunition, which had been shipped and transported in interstate and foreign commerce.

United States Attorney Brian J. Kuester said, “Federal statutes prohibiting felons from possessing firearms and ammunition give us the opportunity to assist local agencies in their ongoing efforts to combat violent crime. Combatting and reducing violent crime is a top priority of the Department of Justice. Working with local agencies as they serve and protect their communities is one way we carry out that priority.”
                                
The Honorable Ronald A. White, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Sarah McAmis represented the United States. 

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Muskogee residents Derrick Christopher Segue, age 26, and Klawaun Lynell Sutton, a/k/a “O.G.G.”, age 38, were each found guilty by a federal jury of Conspiracy To Tamper With A Witness. The jury trial began with testimony on Tuesday, October 29, 2019 and concluded on Thursday, October 31, 2019 with the guilty verdicts. 

Evidence at trial proved that from on or about January 30, 2019, and continuing until on or about January 31, 2019, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendants, Klawaun Lynell Sutton, a/k/a “O.G.G.”, and Derrick Christopher Segue, did unlawfully, knowingly and intentionally combine, conspire, confederate and agree to commit the following offense against the United States, to wit: Tampering With a Witness, Victim, and Informant by conspiring to intimidate, threaten, and corruptly persuade another person with the intent to cause and induce any person to withhold testimony from an official proceeding. 

Sutton and a Segue were told by another inmate in the jail that one of the people housed with them in the Muskogee County Jail had assisted the Muskogee Police Department in getting a search warrant for the inmate’s home.  The search warrant had resulted in charges against the inmate.  The law enforcement action was a part of a broad FBI and DEA investigation into drug trafficking in Muskogee.  Sutton directed Segue to attack the person who had assisted in the search warrant.

“Attempting to subvert justice through the use of violence or threats against a witness is a crime against the witness and an attack on our justice system. Those who carry out the violence, direct it, or participate in planning it are subject to prosecution. This verdict should send a message to those who think they can avoid justice by tampering with a witness.” said United States Attorney Brian J. Kuester. “I would like to thank the jurors for giving their time and attention to this case. Jury duty can be an inconvenience, but it is essential to the American Justice System that members of the community willingly serve as jurors.”

The Honorable Ronald A. White, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the trial and ordered the completion of presentence reports for each defendant. Sentencings will be scheduled following the completion of the presentence reports. 

Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Tommy Blake McCary, age 67, of Idabel, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 16 months’ imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release for Tampering With A Witness, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1512(b)(2)(C). The charges arose from an investigation by the McCurtain County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

The Superseding Indictment alleges that between January 7, 2019 and February 9, 2019, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant knowingly attempted to corruptly persuade D.B. to avoid legal process by sending a communication as follows: “tell Ole Girl to make herself unavailable to be subpeoned to Trial.  It is set for March 5 2019 I want this done immediately”, with the intent to cause and induce D.B. to evade legal process summoning D.B. to appear as a witness in a jury trial.

United States Attorney Brian J. Kuester said, “Our justice system relies upon the truthful testimony of witnesses. Trying to avoid justice by preventing or trying to prevent a person from testifying is not a successful strategy to avoid prosecution. The defendant has learned that.”
                                
The Honorable Ronald A. White, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris represented the United States. 
 

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Billy Don Urango, age 27, of Ardmore, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 18 months’ imprisonment and 5 years of supervised release for Failure To Register As Sex Offender, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2250(a)(1), 2250(a)(2)(B) and 2250(a)(3). The charges arose from an investigation by the United States Marshals Service. Urango was deemed one of the Top 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders in Texas by the Texas Department of Public Safety. 

The Indictment alleges that from in or about June 2017, the exact date being unknown to the Grand Jury, until on or about January 3, 2018, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, and elsewhere, the defendant, an individual required to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, after having received felony convictions from the State of Texas, in Grayson County, on or about February 18, 2010, for two counts of Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child, one count of Indecency with a Child Exposes and one count of Indecency with a Child Sexual Contact, traveled in interstate and foreign commerce and knowingly failed to register and update his registration as required by the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.

The Honorable Ronald A. White, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Sarah McAmis represented the United States. 
 

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Jasmine Dazha McCoy, age 23, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to Tampering with a Witness in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1512(b)(1), punishable by not more than 20 years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00, or both. 

The Information alleges that on or about the 31st day of January, 2019, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant did knowingly attempt to intimidate and corruptly persuade B.B. by providing confidential information identifying B.B. as the informant on a search warrant to the subject of the search warrant with the intent to influence, delay, and prevent the testimony of B.B. in an official proceeding, the criminal prosecution of the subject of the search warrant. 

The charges arose from a joint investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs, the Muskogee County Sheriff’s Office, and the Muskogee Police Department. Additionally, many different agencies that are members of the DEA High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas Task Force (“HIDTA”) and the FBI Safe Trails Task Force played important roles in the investigation. The investigation was coordinated by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (“OCDETF”) of the Eastern District of Oklahoma. OCDETF is an initiative led and coordinated by the Office of the United States Attorney.

The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.   

Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Alison Rachel Morgan, age 28, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to Tampering with a Witness in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1512(b)(1), punishable by not more than 20 years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00, or both. 

The Information alleges that on or about the 31st day of January, 2019, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant did knowingly attempt to intimidate and corruptly persuade B.B. by providing confidential information identifying B.B. as the informant on a search warrant to the subject of the search warrant with the intent to influence, delay, and prevent the testimony of B.B. in an official proceeding, the criminal prosecution of the  subject of the search warrant. 

The charges arose from a joint investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs, the Muskogee County Sheriff’s Office, and the Muskogee Police Department. Additionally, many different agencies that are members of the DEA High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas Task Force (“HIDTA”) and the FBI Safe Trails Task Force played important roles in the investigation. The investigation was coordinated by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (“OCDETF”) of the Eastern District of Oklahoma. OCDETF is an initiative led and coordinated by the Office of the United States Attorney.

The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.   

Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Drew Alexander Ragsdale, a/k/a “Drew Down”, age 21, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to Felon In Possession Of Firearm And Ammunition, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2), punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00, or both. 

The Superseding Indictment alleges that on or about August 18, 2018, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, having previously been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, and knowing of such conviction, did knowingly possess in and affecting commerce, a firearm and ammunition which had been shipped and transported in interstate and foreign commerce. 

The charges arose from a joint investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs, the Muskogee County Sheriff’s Office, and the Muskogee Police Department. Additionally, many different agencies that are members of the DEA High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas Task Force (“HIDTA”) and the FBI Safe Trails Task Force played important roles in the investigation. The investigation was coordinated by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (“OCDETF”) of the Eastern District of Oklahoma. OCDETF is an initiative led and coordinated by the Office of the United States Attorney.

The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.   

Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Cornelious Joshua Jones, a/k/a “Corn”, age 30, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to Possession With Intent To Distribute Methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B), punishable by not less than 5 and not more than 40 years imprisonment, a fine up to $5,000,000.00, or both; and to Felon In Possession Of Firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2), punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00, or both. 

The Superseding Indictment alleges that on or about January 21, 2019, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant did knowingly and intentionally possess with intent to distribute 5 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine (actual), a Schedule II controlled substance. 

The Superseding Indictment further alleges that on or about January 21, 2019, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, having previously been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, and knowing of such conviction, did knowingly possess in and affecting commerce, a firearm which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce. 

The charges arose from a joint investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs, the Muskogee County Sheriff’s Office, and the Muskogee Police Department. Additionally, many different agencies that are members of the DEA High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas Task Force (“HIDTA”) and the FBI Safe Trails Task Force played important roles in the investigation. The investigation was coordinated by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (“OCDETF”) of the Eastern District of Oklahoma. OCDETF is an initiative led and coordinated by the Office of the United States Attorney.

The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.   

Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Torrell Dshaun Bogar, a/k/a “T Real”, age 21, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to Possession With Intent To Distribute Methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B), punishable by not less than 5 and not more than 40 years imprisonment, a fine up to $5,000,000.00, or both.  

The Information alleges that Between on or about August 4, 2018, and on or about August 15, 2018, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, defendant, Torrell Dshaun Bogar, a/k/a “T-Real”, did knowingly and intentionally possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance. 

The charges arose from a joint investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs, the Muskogee County Sheriff’s Office, and the Muskogee Police Department. Additionally, many different agencies that are members of the DEA High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas Task Force (“HIDTA”) and the FBI Safe Trails Task Force played important roles in the investigation. The investigation was coordinated by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (“OCDETF”) of the Eastern District of Oklahoma. OCDETF is an initiative led and coordinated by the Office of the United States Attorney.

The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.   

Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Christopher Michael Whitaker, Sr., a/k/a “Unc”, age 44, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to Possession With Intent To Distribute Methamphetamine in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B), punishable by not less than 5 and not more than 40 years imprisonment, a fine up to $5,000,000.00, or both. 

The Information alleges that between on or about July 24, 2018, and on or about August 20, 2018, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, defendant, Christopher Michael Whitaker, Sr., a/k/a “Unc”, did knowingly and intentionally possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance. 

The charges arose from a joint investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs, the Muskogee County Sheriff’s Office, and the Muskogee Police Department. Additionally, many different agencies that are members of the DEA High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas Task Force (“HIDTA”) and the FBI Safe Trails Task Force played important roles in the investigation. The investigation was coordinated by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (“OCDETF”) of the Eastern District of Oklahoma. OCDETF is an initiative led and coordinated by the Office of the United States Attorney.

The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.   

Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced Yanexy Ricardo Garcia, age 33, of Miami, Florida, entered a guilty plea to Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343, punishable by not more than 30 years imprisonment, a fine up to $1,000,000.00, or both. 

The Superseding Indictment alleges that in or about November 2017, to on or about March 27, 2018, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, the defendant, knowingly and willfully combined, conspired, confederated and agreed with other persons, known and unknown to the Grand Jury, to commit an offense of Wire Fraud. 

The charges arose from an investigation by the Lighthorse Police Department and the United States Secret Service.  

The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.   

Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Henson represented the United States.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Darron Ray Aldridge, age 41, of McAlester, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to Distribution Of Heroin in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C) and Title 18, United States Code, Section 2, punishable by imprisonment for not more than 20 years.

The Information alleges that on or about December 16, 2018, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, Darron Ray Aldridge, did knowingly and intentionally distribute a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance. As a part of its case, the Government presented evidence that the defendant distributed the heroin to A.B. and that A.B. died after ingesting the heroin.  

The charges arose from an investigation by the McAlester Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration.   

The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.   

Assistant United States Attorney Sarah McAmis represented the United States. 

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Michael Lewis Killin, age 46, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release for Possession Of Firearm In Furtherance Of a Drug Trafficking Crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c). The charges arose from an investigation by the Tahlequah Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), and the FBI Safe Trails Task Force. 

The Superseding Indictment alleges that on or about November 7, 2018, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant knowingly possessed a Strum, Ruger, and Co., Model LC9, 9mm Luger caliber semi-automatic pistol, a firearm he used in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime for which he may be prosecuted in a court of the United States.

United States Attorney Brian J. Kuester said, “Guns are tools of the trade and violence a characteristic of drug trafficking organizations. A top priority of the Department of Justice is to work with state, local, and tribal agencies to reduce violent crime. Enforcing federal firearms statutes gives us the opportunity to partner with those agencies as they serve and protect their communities.” 
 
The Honorable Ronald A. White, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Jarrod Leaman represented the United States. 

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Robert Leroy Dennington, age 36, of Wagoner, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to Conspiracy, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371, punishable by not more than 5 years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00, or both. 

The Indictment alleges that beginning on or about April 12, 2019, and continuing until on or about April 13, 2019, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant did knowingly and intentionally conspire, confederate and agree with others both known and unknown to the grand jury, to commit offenses against the United States in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 472, namely, Uttering Counterfeit Obligations of the United States. 

The charges arose from an investigation by the Wagoner Police Department and the United States Secret Service. 

The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.   

Assistant United States Attorney Clay Compton represented the United States.